bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nickel-Silicon Related Color Center Formed in Nanodiamond Grains under CVD Growth
Authors: Tóth Sára , Himics László , Koós Margit
Published: December 2015

Formation of optical centers in nanodiamond grains with narrow, near-infrared emission at room temperature is one of the most important challenges nowadays. Our aim was to form a metal-related color center through the CVD growth process of nanodiamond. Previously undocumented photoluminescence (PL) system with 865 nm zero-phonon line (ZPL) and 2 nm full width at half maximum (FWHM) was successfully created in nanodiamond grains. According to the detailed analysis of the spectral features of the ZPL and quasilocal modes of the vibronic sideband, a complex center containing Ni and Si atoms could be accounted for these PL features. The inclusion of Ni and Si impurity atoms in the complex optical center was strengthened by micro-Raman spectroscopy performed in the frequency range due to quasilocal vibrations of the vibronic sideband.
High Range Resolution Profile Construction Exploiting Modified Fractional Fourier Transformation
Authors: Wang Feng , Jiang Defu , Chen Huawei
Published: December 2015

This paper addresses the discrimination of closely spaced high speed group targets with radar transmitting linear frequency modulation (LFM) pulses. The high speed target motion leads to range migration and target dispersion and thereby the discriminating capability of the high range resolution profile (HRRP) deteriorating significantly. An effective processing approach composed of stretch processing (SP), modified fractional Fourier transform (FrFT), and multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm is proposed to deal with this problem. Firstly, SP is adopted to transform the received LFM with Doppler distortions into narrow band LFM signals. Secondly, based on the two-dimensional range/velocity plane constructed by the modified FrFT, the velocity of the high speed group target is estimated and compensated with just one single pulse. After the compensation of range migration and target dispersion simultaneously, the resolution of the HRRP achieved by single pulse transmission improves significantly in the high speed group targets scenarios. Finally, MUSIC algorithm with superresolution capability is utilized to make a more explicit discrimination between the scatterers in comparison with the conventional SP method. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Prediction of Protein Structural Classes for Low-Similarity Sequences Based on Consensus Sequence and Segmented PSSM
Authors: Liang Yunyun , Liu Sanyang , Zhang Shengli
Published: December 2015

Prediction of protein structural classes for low-similarity sequences is useful for understanding fold patterns, regulation, functions, and interactions of proteins. It is well known that feature extraction is significant to prediction of protein structural class and it mainly uses protein primary sequence, predicted secondary structure sequence, and position-specific scoring matrix (PSSM). Currently, prediction solely based on the PSSM has played a key role in improving the prediction accuracy. In this paper, we propose a novel method called CSP-SegPseP-SegACP by fusing consensus sequence (CS), segmented PsePSSM, and segmented autocovariance transformation (ACT) based on PSSM. Three widely used low-similarity datasets (1189, 25PDB, and 640) are adopted in this paper. Then a 700-dimensional (700D) feature vector is constructed and the dimension is decreased to 224D by using principal component analysis (PCA). To verify the performance of our method, rigorous jackknife cross-validation tests are performed on 1189, 25PDB, and 640 datasets. Comparison of our results with the existing PSSM-based methods demonstrates that our method achieves the favorable and competitive performance. This will offer an important complementary to other PSSM-based methods for prediction of protein structural classes for low-similarity sequences.
Longest Path Reroute to Optimize the Optical Multicast Routing in Sparse Splitting WDM Networks
Authors: Liu Huanlin , Dai Hongyue , Zhai Fei , Chen Yong , Wei Chengying
Published: December 2015

Limited by the sparse light-splitting capability in WDM networks, some nodes need to reroute the optical packet to different destination nodes with the high cost of routing for reducing packet loss possibility. In the paper, the longest path reroute optimization algorithm is put forward to jointly optimize the multicast routing cost and wavelength channel assignment cost for sparse splitting WDM networks. Based on heuristic algorithms, the longest path reroute routing algorithm calls multiple longest paths in existing multicast tree to reroute the path passing from the nodes which are violating the light-splitting constraint to the nodes which are not violating light-splitting constraint with few wavelength channels and low rerouting cost. And a wavelength cost control factor is designed to select the reroute path with the lowest cost by comparing the multicast rerouting path cost increment with the equivalent wavelength channel required cost increment. By adjusting wavelength cost control factor, we can usually get the optimized multicast routing according to the actual network available wavelength conversion cost. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can get the low-cost multicast tree and reduce the required number of wavelength channels.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Thiolated Chitosan Nanoparticles Obtained by Ionic Gelation Method
Authors: Esquivel Reynaldo , Juárez Josué , Almada Mario , Ibarra Jaime , Valdez Miguel A.
Published: December 2015

We derivatized low molecular weight chitosan (LMWC) with 3-mercaptopropanoic acid (3-MPA) by a coupling reaction. The chemical modification of LMWC was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance,1HNMR. We researched the influence of 3-MPA on the nanoparticles formation by ionic gelation method using sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as cross-linker reagent. In order to optimize the nanoparticles formation, we studied the effect of the pH solution and molar ratio on nanoparticles stability. Analyses of particle size, morphology, and surface charge were determined by dynamic light scattering, Atomic Force Microscopy, and zeta potential, respectively. It was found that formation of semispherical and stable nanoparticles was improved due to the chemical modification of chitosan. Optimized semispherical nanoparticles of thiolated chitosan were synthesized with the parameters (pH 4.7, molar ratios 1 : 106). Additionally, we reported the thermodynamic profile of the nanoparticles formation determined by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The aggregation process achieved to form nanoparticles of thiolated and nonmodified chitosan consisted of two stages, considering one binding site model. Gibbs free energy(ΔG)and binding constant (Ka) describe the aggregation process of thiolated chitosan/TPP, which is an initial reaction and followed by an endothermic stage. These results are promising for the possible application of these nanoparticles as nanocarriers and delivery systems.
Study on the Similarity Laws for Local Damage Effects in a Concrete Target under the Impact of Projectiles
Authors: Wang Mingyang , Liu Zheng , Qiu Yanyu , Shi Cuncheng
Published: December 2015

The local destruction and deformation characteristics of a concrete target impacted by a rigid projectile were analyzed, and the similarity laws for local damage effects in the concrete target were studied utilizing the rigid-plastic, internal friction, and modified hydrodynamic models. For a thin target, the impact factor is the only factor controlling the low-velocity impact process. For a thick target impacted by a projectile at intermediate velocity, internal friction is the main factor contributing to the energy dissipation. The impact factor, the toughness factor, and the dynamic factor together determine the penetration process. However, for a thick target impacted at high velocity, the impact factor and hardness factor together determine the penetration process. The penetration depth shows a 2/3 power relationship with impact velocity. For thick targets, similarity laws change along with impact velocity. The radii ratio between the projectile and penetration tunnel is proportional to the projectile’s diameter for intermediate velocity impact and only shows a relationship with the impact velocity for high velocity penetration.
Cooperative Optimization QoS Cloud Routing Protocol Based on Bacterial Opportunistic Foraging and Chemotaxis Perception for Mobile Internet
Authors: Wang Shujuan , He Long , Cheng Guiru
Published: December 2015

In order to strengthen the mobile Internet mobility management and cloud platform resources utilization, optimizing the cloud routing efficiency is established, based on opportunistic bacterial foraging bionics, and puts forward a chemotaxis perception of collaborative optimization QoS (Quality of Services) cloud routing mechanism. The cloud routing mechanism is based on bacterial opportunity to feed and bacterial motility and to establish the data transmission and forwarding of the bacterial population behavior characteristics. This mechanism is based on the characteristics of drug resistance of bacteria and the structure of the field, and through many iterations of the individual behavior and population behavior the bacteria can be spread to the food gathering area with a certain probability. Finally, QoS cloud routing path would be selected and optimized based on bacterial bionic optimization and hedge mapping relationship between mobile Internet node and bacterial population evolution iterations. Experimental results show that, compared with the standard dynamic routing schemes, the proposed scheme has shorter transmission delay, lower packet error ratio, QoS cloud routing loading, and QoS cloud route request overhead.
Sound Radiation from an Elastically Restrained Plate Covered by an Acoustic Decoupling Layer
Authors: Wang Gang , Li Wan-You , Li Wen Long , Du Jingtao
Published: December 2015

The sound radiation from elastically restrained plates covered by a decoupling layer is studied using the Spectrogeometric Method (SGM), which is a meshless and parametric modeling technique. By adopting the Rayleigh-Ritz procedure and the Rayleigh integral, a vibroacoustic coupling system is established. This model studies the situation when the plate is immersed in heavy fluid, such as water, in which the strong coupling between the structure and sound field should be fully considered. The influence of the boundary conditions on the radiated sound power and sound reduction provided by the decoupling layer based on the locally reacting model is studied. The nonuniform distributed decoupling layer is also studied to analyze the sound reduction effect. The sound intensity on the outer surface of the decoupling layer is investigated and tends to be uniform along the plate scale with increasing thickness of the decoupling layer.
Knowledge, Practice, and Associated Factors towards Prevention of Surgical Site Infection among Nurses Working in Amhara Regional State Referral Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Teshager Freahiywot Aklew , Engeda Eshetu Haileselassie , Worku Workie Zemene
Published: December 2015

Knowledge and practice of nurses about surgical site infections (SSIs) are not well studied in Ethiopia. This paper contains findings about Northwest Ethiopian nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding the prevention of SSIs. The main objective of the study was to assess knowledge, practice, and associated factors of nurses towards the prevention of SSIs. The study was done using a questionnaire survey on randomly selected 423 nurses who were working in referral hospitals during the study period. The study showed that more than half of the nurses who participated in the survey had inadequate knowledge about the prevention of SSIs. Moreover, more than half of them were practicing inappropriately. The most important associated factors include lack of training on evidence based guidelines and sociodemographic variables (age, year of service, educational status, etc.). Training of nurses with the up-to-date SSIs guidelines is recommended.
Mesoporous Silica Supported Au Nanoparticles with Controlled Size as Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Chu Xuefeng , Wang Chao , Guo Liang , Chi Yaodan , Gao Xiaohong , Yang Xiaotian
Published: December 2015

A series of Au catalysts with different sizes were synthesized and employed on amine group functionalized ordered mesoporous silica solid supports as catalyst for the aerobic oxidation of various alcohols. The mesoporous silica of MCM-41 supported Au nanoparticles (Au-1) exhibited the smallest particle size at ~1.8 nm with superior catalytic activities owing to the confinement effect of the mesoporous channels. Au-1 catalyst is also very stable and reusable under aerobic condition. Therefore, this presented work would obviously provide us a platform for synthesizing more size-controlled metal catalysts to improve the catalytic performances.
Primary Small Cell Carcinoma in Urinary Bladder: A Rare Case
Authors: Çamtosun Ahmet , Çelik Huseyin , Altıntaş Ramazan , Akpolat Nusret
Published: December 2015

Small cell carcinoma of bladder, which does not have a common and accepted treatment protocol, is a rare and highly aggressive tumor. It is mostly pulmonary originated; however, it can rarely be seen in extrapulmonary sites. We presented an interesting and uncommon case, in which the transitional cell tumor was found in the transurethral resection specimen, but the small cell carcinoma was detected in the final radical cystectomy material.
Gene Expressing and sRNA Sequencing Show That Gene Differentiation Associates with a YellowAcer palmatumMutant Leaf in Different Light Conditions
Authors: Li Shu-Shun , Li Qian-Zhong , Rong Li-Ping , Tang Ling , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2015

Acer palmatumThunb., like other maples, is a widely ornamental-use small woody tree for leaf shapes and colors. Interestingly, we found a yellow-leaves mutant “Jingling Huangfeng” turned to green when grown in shade or low-density light condition. In order to study the potential mechanism, we performed high-throughput sequencing and obtained 1,082 DEGs in leaves grown in different light conditions that result inA. palmatumsignificant morphological and physiological changes. A total of 989 DEGs were annotated and clustered, of which many DEGs were found associating with the photosynthesis activity and pigment synthesis. The expression of CHS and FDR gene was higher while the expression of FLS gene was lower in full-sunlight condition; this may cause more colorful substance like chalcone and anthocyanin that were produced in full-light condition, thus turning the foliage to yellow. Moreover, this is the first available miRNA collection which contains 67 miRNAs ofA. palmatum, including 46 conserved miRNAs and 21 novel miRNAs. To get better understanding of which pathways these miRNAs involved, 102 Unigenes were found to be potential targets of them. These results will provide valuable genetic resources for further study on the molecular mechanisms ofAcer palmatumleaf coloration.
Simplified Analytical Method for Optimized Initial Shape Analysis of Self-Anchored Suspension Bridges and Its Verification
Authors: Jung Myung-Rag , Min Dong-Ju , Kim Moon-Young
Published: December 2015

A simplified analytical method providing accurate unstrained lengths of all structural elements is proposed to find the optimized initial state of self-anchored suspension bridges under dead loads. For this, equilibrium equations of the main girder and the main cable system are derived and solved by evaluating the self-weights of cable members using unstrained cable lengths and iteratively updating both the horizontal tension component and the vertical profile of the main cable. Furthermore, to demonstrate the validity of the simplified analytical method, the unstrained element length method (ULM) is applied to suspension bridge models based on the unstressed lengths of both cable and frame members calculated from the analytical method. Through numerical examples, it is demonstrated that the proposed analytical method can indeed provide an optimized initial solution by showing that both the simplified method and the nonlinear FE procedure lead to practically identical initial configurations with only localized small bending moment distributions.
Industrial versus Laboratory Clinker Processing Using Grinding Aids (Scale Effect)
Authors: Assaad Joseph Jean
Published: December 2015

The evaluation of grinding aid (GA) effect on clinker processing in laboratory grinding mills is relatively simple. Yet, the results obtained cannot be directly transposed to industrial mills, given the fundamentally different operational modes and grinding parameters. This paper seeks to evaluate the scale effect by comparing the results obtained from a closed-circuit tube mill operating at 90 ton/hr to those determined using a 50-liter laboratory mill. Tests results have shown that the decrease in specific energy consumption (Ec) due to glycol or amine-based GA can be evaluated under laboratory conditions. However, such tests underestimate the actual performance that could be achieved in real-scale mills; the Ec reduction due to GA is around twofold higher when grinding is performed in real-scale mill. Compared to industrial tests, the cement particle size distribution curves widened and shifted towards higher diameters when grinding was performed under laboratory conditions, particularly with GA additions. This led to remarkable changes in water demand, setting time, and 1- and 28-day compressive strengths.
Singapore General Hospital Experience on Ethnicity and the Incidence of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting after Elective Orthopaedic Surgeries
Authors: Leong Xin Yu Adeline , Kwa Xian Wen Charlene , Ng Shu Hui Elizabeth , Koh Liang Khai Darren
Published: December 2015

Introduction. We explored how ethnicity affects the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and established the correlation of suggested risk factors of PONV in the multiethnic population of Singapore. Methods. 785 patients who underwent orthopaedic surgery were recruited. These comprised 619 Chinese (78.9%), 76 Malay (9.7%), 68 Indian (8.7%), and 22 other (2.8%) cases. The presence of possible risk factors of PONV and nausea and/or vomiting within 24 h after surgery was studied. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results. The incidence of PONV was 33.2% (261 patients). There was no statistically significant difference of PONV incidence between Chinese, Malay, and Indian cases (34.6% versus 34.2% versus 29.4%, p=0.695). Indian females younger than 50 years were found to have a higher incidence of vomiting (p=0.02). The significant risk factors for this population include females, use of nitrous oxide, and a history of PONV. Conclusion. In the groups studied, ethnicity is not a significant risk factor for PONV except for young Indian females who have a higher risk of postoperative vomiting. We suggest the selective usage of antiemetic for young Indian females as prophylaxis and avoiding nitrous oxide use in high-risk patients.
A Novel Edge Feature Description Method for Blur Detection in Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Lin Tsun-Kuo
Published: December 2015

A novel inspection sensor by using an edge feature description (EFD) algorithm based on a support vector machine (SVM) is proposed for industrial inspection of images. This method detects and adaptively segments blurred images by using the proposed algorithm, which uses EFD to effectively classify blurred samples and improve the conventional methods of inspecting blurred objects; the algorithm selects and optimally tunes suitable features. The proposed sensor applies a suitable feature-extraction strategy on the basis of the sensing results. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the existing methods.
A Method for Selecting Optimal Number of Sensors to Improve the Credibility
Authors: Chen Yi , Yu Jun , He Aixiang , Tang Zhen-an
Published: December 2015

With the development of sensors, it is possible to embed many sensors within a certain space, which makes the monitor and alarm system with multisensor possible. There are two important parameters in a monitor and alarm system, namely, the false alarm rate and the missed alarm rate. In this work, a method for selecting optimal number of sensors in the sensor array is presented to improve the credibility. The influence factors of the weights and the false alarm rate and the missed alarm rate of one sensor and total number of sensors are discussed. An experimental setup was developed. The monitoring methods of common strategies and the proposed optimal number of sensors strategy are compared graphically by the receiver operating characteristic curves and the area under receiver operating characteristic curve values. The receiver operating characteristic curves graphically prove that the optimal number of sensors’ method presents the best performance, and it is shown that the optimal number of sensors’ method has the highest area under receiver operating characteristic value (0.9631). This method may aid future users of the monitor and alarm system by providing an optimal number of sensors strategy for high credibility.
Enumeration and Molecular Characterization of Tumor Cells in Lung Cancer Patients Using a Novel In Vivo Device for Capturing Circulating Tumor Cells
Authors: Gorges Tobias M. , Penkalla Nicole , Schalk Thomas , Joosse Simon A. , Riethdorf Sabine , Tucholski Johannes , Lücke Klaus , Wikman Harriet , Jackson Stephen , Brychta Nora , von Ahsen Oliver , Schumann Christian , Krahn Thomas , Pantel Klaus
Published: December 2015

Purpose: The use of circulating tumor cells (CTC) as “liquid biopsy” is limited by the very low yield of CTCs available for subsequent analyses. Most in vitro approaches rely on small sample volumes (5–10 mL).

Experimental Design: Here, we used a novel approach, the GILUPI CellCollector, which enables an in vivo isolation of CTCs from peripheral blood. In total, 50 lung cancer patients were screened in two subsequent device applications before and after therapy (n = 185 applications).

Results: By in vivo isolation, 58% (108/185) of the patients were positive for ≥1 CTC (median, 5 CTCs; range, 1–56 cells) as compared with 27% (23/84; range, 1–300 cells) using the FDA-cleared CellSearch system. Furthermore, we could show that treatment response during therapy was associated with significant decreases in CTC counts (P = 0.001). By dPCR, mutations in the KRAS and EGFR genes relevant for treatment decisions could be detected in CTCs captured by in vivo isolation and confirmed in the primary tumors of the same patients.

Conclusions: In vivo isolation of CTCs overcomes blood volume limitations of other approaches, which might help to implement CTC-based “liquid biopsies” into clinical decision making. Clin Cancer Res; 22(9); 2197–206. ©2015 AACR.
Factors Associated with Tremor Changes during Sedation with Dexmedetomidine in Parkinson's Disease Surgery
Authors: Honorato-Cia Cristina , Martínez-Simón Antonio , Alegre Manuel , Guridi Jorge , Cacho-Asenjo Elena , Panadero Alfredo , Núñez-Córdoba Jorge M.
Published: December 2015

Introduction: Dexmedetomidine is an α2-agonist recently proposed as a potentially ideal drug for sedation during the surgical treatment of Parkinsonʼs disease (PD). This report documents the incidence of changes in motor symptoms (especially tremor) in PD patients sedated with dexmedetomidine for deep brain stimulation or ablation procedures. Methods: We reviewed a retrospective cohort of 22 patients who underwent surgery for PD with dexmedetomidine sedation at a single institution from 2010 to 2014. A logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze possible confounding factors. Results: 14 cases of tremor reduction or suppression were recorded (cumulative incidence: 63.6%; 95% CI: 40.7-82.8). No association could be identified between loading dose, β-blocker use and preoperative total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III, with tremor changes. The maintenance dose of dexmedetomidine was higher in patients who did not experience changes [median and range for patients with and without tremor alteration 0.75 (0.2-1.0) and 1.0 µg × kg-1 × h-1 (0.7-1.4), respectively; p = 0.021]. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine provides adequate sedation during surgery for PD, but it might affect motor signs making intraoperative testing difficult or even impossible. Dosage appears not to be the determining factor in motor changes, whose cause remains unclear.
Long-Term Outcome With Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients With Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Santangeli Pasquale , Zado Erica S. , Supple Gregory E. , Haqqani Haris M. , Garcia Fermin C. , Tschabrunn Cory M. , Callans David J. , Lin David , Dixit Sanjay , Hutchinson Mathew D. , Riley Michael P. , Marchlinski Francis E.
Published: December 2015

Background—

Catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy improves short-term VT-free survival. We sought to determine the long-term outcomes of VT control and need for antiarrhythmic drug therapy after endocardial (ENDO) and adjuvant epicardial (EPI) substrate modification in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

We examined 62 consecutive patients with Task Force criteria for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy referred for VT ablation with a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Catheter ablation was guided by activation/entrainment mapping for tolerated VT and pacemapping/targeting of abnormal substrate for unmappable VT. Adjuvant EPI ablation was performed when recurrent VT or persistent inducibility after ENDO-only ablation. Endocardial plus adjuvant EPI ablation was performed in 39 (63%) patients, including 13 who crossed over to ENDO–EPI after VT recurrence during follow-up, after ENDO-only ablation. Before ablation, 54 of 62 patients failed a mean of 2.4 antiarrhythmic drugs, including amiodarone in 29 (47%) patients. During follow-up of 56±44 months after the last ablation, VT-free survival was 71% with only a single VT episode in additional 9 patients (15%). At last follow-up, 39 (64%) patients were only on β-blockers or no treatment, 21 were on class 1 or 3 antiarrhythmic drugs (11 for atrial arrhythmias), and 2 were on amiodarone as a bridge to heart transplantation.

Conclusions—

The long-term outcome after ENDO and adjuvant EPI substrate ablation of VT in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is good. Most patients have complete VT control without amiodarone therapy and limited need for antiarrhythmic drugs.
The Holy Spirit and Sanctification in Romans 8.1-17
Authors: Adewuya J. Ayodeji
Published: December 2015

There is a strong connection between the Holy Spirit and Paul’s ethics, particularly sanctification. a connection that has oftentimes been unclearly stated, insufficiently emphasized or sometimes completely obliterated by both Pentecostals and Wesleyans. While on the one hand Pentecostals have stressed the importance of the Spirit (baptism) without the ’holy’, the Wesleyans on the other have focused on the ’holyness’ without the Spirit. Thus, holiness and Spirit-filled living are seen as mutually exclusive realities. This writer argues that Paul’s understanding of holiness and Spirit-filled living, especially in Romans 8.1-17 strongly suggests otherwise.
Did E.N. Bell Convert to the ’New Issue’ in 1915?
Authors: Fudge Thomas A.
Published: December 2015

Excoriated on charges of theological weakness, indecisiveness and compromise from 1915 right down to the present, E.N. Bell remains one of the controversial and contested figures within early American Pentecostalism. The point of contention was Bell’s rebaptism in 1915 and alleged adherence to the ’new issue’. Trinitarian Pentecostals thought Bell had defected while Oneness Pentecostals continue to view Bell as a backslider from the truth. An analysis of the documentary evidence concludes that both perspectives were, and are, incorrect.
Expected Future Runoff of the Upper Jordan River Simulated with a CORDEX Climate Data Ensemble
Authors: Smiatek Gerhard , Kunstmann Harald
Published: December 2015

Data from five different RCMs run in two experiments from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) are applied together with the Water Flow and Balance Simulation Model (WaSiM) to assess the future availability of water in the upper Jordan River. Simulation results for 1976–2000 show that the modeling system was able to reasonably reproduce the observed discharge rates in the partially karstic complex terrain without bias correction of the precipitation input. For the future climate in the area, the applied CORDEX models indicate an increasing annual mean temperature for 2031–60 by 1.8 K above the 1971–2000 mean and by 2.6 K for 2071–2100. The simulated ensemble mean precipitation is predicted to decrease by 16.3% in the first period and 22.1% at the end of the century. In relation to the mean for 1976–2000, the discharge of the upper Jordan River is simulated to decrease by 7.4% until 2060 and by 17.5% until 2100, together with a reduction of high river flow years.
From Silent to Salient Stakeholders: A Study of a Coffee Cooperative and the Dynamic of Social Relationships
Authors: Davila Anabella , Molina Christiane
Published: December 2015

Theoretical and empirical research on stakeholder behavior tends to focus on specific actions or responses in the context of the organization–stakeholder relationship. Despite increased efforts to look beyond the dyadic organization–stakeholder relationship, research still favors the perspective of the focal organization. The taken-for-granted assumption of the organization–stakeholder relationship may limit our understanding of how organization–stakeholder linkages are formed and evolve over time. By adopting the perspective of the stakeholder, this article examines organization–stakeholder relationship formation and tracks changes in the salience of stakeholder groups otherwise considered to be nonstakeholders. This research draws from a case study of small coffee producers in Southern Mexico who formed a cooperative and developed salience within their stakeholder network after a long history of diverse individual, organizational, and institutional arrangements. The findings suggest that the replacement of bureaucratic stakeholder relationships (i.e., those based on inequality, transactions, and hierarchy) with relationships characterized by strong moral commitment to stakeholders’ claims (in this case, the improvement of the community’s economic and social welfare) enabled independent farmers to transform into an integrated, solid, and worldwide competitive group of coffee producers.
Evaluating Rater Accuracy in Rater-Mediated Assessments Using an Unfolding Model
Authors: Wang Jue , Engelhard George , Wolfe Edward W.
Published: December 2015

The number of performance assessments continues to increase around the world, and it is important to explore new methods for evaluating the quality of ratings obtained from raters. This study describes an unfolding model for examining rater accuracy. Accuracy is defined as the difference between observed and expert ratings. Dichotomous accuracy ratings (0 = inaccurate, 1 = accurate) are unfolded into three latent categories: inaccurate below expert ratings, accurate ratings, and inaccurate above expert ratings. The hyperbolic cosine model (HCM) is used to examine dichotomous accuracy ratings from a statewide writing assessment. This study suggests that HCM is a promising approach for examining rater accuracy, and that the HCM can provide a useful interpretive framework for evaluating the quality of ratings obtained within the context of rater-mediated assessments.
“Context-Specific” Teacher Preparation for New York City
Authors: Hammerness Karen , Craig Elizabeth
Published: December 2015

In this article, we examine a residency program that was developed to prepare teachers specifically for New York City schools—the Bard College Master of Arts in Teaching Urban Teacher Residency program. This focused preparation on the particular urban context of New York City provides us with a unique opportunity to examine the nature of preparation—how such targeted preparation is conceptualized and organized, what it offers, and what might be missing and need to be strengthened. We also describe the development of a yearlong course aimed at preparing teachers for New York, which emerged from this study.
Tourism Destination Image
Authors: Lai Kun , Li Xiang (Robert)
Published: December 2015

Although tourism destination image (TDI) has been extensively studied, the nature and scope of TDI remain vague. This study aims to address this conceptual problem from a modernist perspective. Forty-five representative TDI definitions are analyzed, and a new definition is proposed by adopting a “seven-step” procedure derived from definition theory in logic studies. Results show that (1) currently TDI is defined mainly as the mental/total impressions/perceptions held by tourists pertaining to a destination, (2) such definitions are quasi-theoretical in type and created by roughly following the connotative definition technique, (3) the quality of these definitions is generally low, and (4) the new definition proposed in this study better captures the essence of TDI and considerably reduces TDI’s internal and external vagueness. In defining a key tourism concept, this study has notable implications for advancing TDI research and defining tourism concepts more rigorously.
Integrating Cross-case Analyses and Process Tracing in Set-Theoretic Research
Authors: Beach Derek , Rohlfing Ingo
Published: December 2015

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the combination of two methods on the basis of set theory. In our introduction and this special issue, we focus on two variants of cross-case set-theoretic methods— qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) and typological theory (TT)—and their combination with process tracing (PT). Our goal is to broaden and deepen set-theoretic empirical research and equip scholars with guidance on how to implement it in multimethod research (MMR). At first glance, set-theoretic cross-case methods and PT seem to be highly compatible when causal relationships are conceptualized in terms of set theory. However, multiple issues have not so far been thoroughly addressed. Our article builds on the emerging MMR literature and seeks to enhance it in four ways. First, we offer a comprehensive and coherent elaboration of the two sequences in which case studies can be combined with a cross-case method. Second, we expand the perspective and discuss QCA and TT as two alternative methods for the cross-case analysis. Third, based on the idea of analytical priority, we introduce the distinction between a condition-centered and a mechanism-centered variant of set-theoretic MMR. Fourth, we point attention to the challenges of theorizing and analyzing arrangements of conditions and mechanisms associated with sufficient conjunctions.
The Use of Mobile Apps to Enhance Student Learning in Introduction to Psychology
Authors: Diliberto-Macaluso Kristen , Hughes Alan
Published: December 2015

The current study examined the impact of mobile applications or apps on student learning in an introduction to psychology course. Students were assigned to complete a learner-centered worksheet activity on the brain and central nervous system using either an interactive 3-D Brain app or their online course textbook. We measured student learning based on the change in performance from pretest to posttest separately on labeling and multiple-choice items and then from a composite (labeling + multiple choice) score. There was a significant increase in performance from pretest to posttest for the app group on all measures, however, there was only a significant increase in the labeling measure for the text group. The app group answered more items correctly than the text group on the multiple choice and composite measures, but there was no difference in the labeling measure. Also, there was no difference in self-reported ratings of enjoyableness between the app and the text conditions on the worksheet activity. The results demonstrate one way in which mobile devices, in general, and mobile apps, specifically, can be effectively integrated in an introduction to psychology class to enhance student learning.
Rapid Growth of Psychology Programs in Turkey
Authors: Sümer Nebi
Published: December 2015

Similar to the other developing countries, undergraduate psychology programs in Turkish universities have rapidly grown in the last two decades. Although this sharp increment signifies the need for psychologists, it has also caused a number of challenges for effective teaching of psychology. The department chairs ( N = 42) were interviewed with an online survey, and the course catalogs of 56 psychology departments were reviewed to assess the state of the undergraduate curriculum and the major challenges in teaching of psychology in Turkey. Results indicated that the most commonly offered undergraduate courses in Turkey are similar to the ones in the United States, with the exception of certain capstone courses. The shortage of faculty members seems to be the major challenge for teaching of psychology in Turkey. Although developing countries, such as Turkey, have strong potential to internalize psychology, there is a need for establishing accreditation systems and quality benchmarks.
Chinese College Students’ Perceptions of Excellent Teachers Across Three Disciplines
Authors: Liu Shujie , Keeley Jared , Buskist William
Published: December 2015

Researchers have found that students from different academic disciplines tend to value different qualities in their teachers, and cultural differences play a role in which qualities students appreciate in their professors. The present/current study employed the Teacher Behavior Checklist as an operationalization of teaching qualities in a comparative investigation among psychology, chemical engineering, and education students in China. Chinese college students’ perceptions of excellent teachers’ qualities differed across the three disciplines. We offer some contextual and cultural explanations for the differences and conclude that student evaluations of instruction should always be interpreted within the context of the evaluation.
Study Abroad in Psychology
Authors: Earnest David R. , Rosenbusch Katherine , Wallace-Williams Devin , Keim Alaina C.
Published: December 2015

Despite the prominence of study abroad programs, few are offered in the field of psychology. The current study sought to investigate the impact of study abroad programs in psychology through a comparison of study abroad and domestic student cultural competencies. Participants included 104 undergraduate students enrolled in either a psychology study abroad program or domestic psychology courses who completed pre–post Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory measures. Results indicated greater emotional resilience, perceptual acuity, and cultural adjustment in study abroad students when compared to domestic students. Results suggest that by incorporating the experiential learning of study abroad with psychology’s focus on human behavior, faculty can create high-impact learning environments that foster student cultural competencies.
Affective Forecasting
Authors: Kurtz Jaime L.
Published: December 2015

All students, from college freshmen to advanced graduate students, have asked themselves, “Will this decision make me happy?” The vast majority of them have been wrong. Affective forecasting, the process of predicting future feelings, is a topic of great interest to students due to its applicable and highly relatable nature. This article discusses the basic principles behind affective forecasting, explains common errors in forecasting, describes some specific applications derived from the forecasting literature, discusses and explains the connections between forecasting and happiness. It also discussed areas of application across the curriculum, particularly in the context of research methods, and considers the benefits and challenges of teaching this topic.
Using a Community of Practice to Support Technology Integration in Speech-Language Pathologist Instruction
Authors: Courduff Jennifer , Szapkiw Amanda
Published: December 2015

Technology tools are in the beginning stages of integration into instructional practices of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of SLPs, as they learned to use a matrix connecting curriculum tasks to technology tools through participation in a community of practice (CoP). The theoretical framework for the study was based on situated learning theory. The study utilized design-based research methods to explore how using the matrix and participating in a CoP affected perceived knowledge, skill levels, and technology integration toward instructional synthesis for a purposeful sample of SLP teachers in the southwestern United States. Field notes, focus group sessions, and communication via e-mail and Facebook™ transcriptions were open coded, then axial-coded for emerging themes and changes in attitude and depth of technology usage. Survey data were analyzed. Overall, findings indicated qualitative changes in teaching practices were due to raised awareness about technology tools and applications through exposure to the matrix and collaboration within the CoP. Implications provide insight on how educators and researchers can improve professional development for technology integration within the SLP teaching environment.
Universal Design for Learning
Authors: Vitelli Edward M.
Published: December 2015

Students with disabilities are increasingly educated in inclusive settings. Despite this shift, general education teachers typically do not receive adequate preparation for meeting their learning needs. Such deficiencies in preparation have lasting negative postsecondary consequences for students with disabilities. Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a framework of principles for curriculum development that seeks to provide all students with an opportunity to learn, is commonly cited as an educational approach that facilitates inclusive settings. Research suggests that UDL-based instruction fosters improved learning outcomes for students with and without disabilities. The purpose of this study is to examine the incorporation of UDL into preservice general education teacher preparation programs. An online survey was administered to general education faculty members in programs participating in Teacher Quality Enhancement (TQP) grants. TQP participants are expected to prepare educators to understand teaching practices and research that are consistent with UDL. The data collected indicate that UDL is being taught in a wider range of programs and states than previously documented. However, the depth of this penetration appears limited; the survey results suggest that awareness and instruction of the framework were modest for programs with TQP grants. Among faculty who do teach UDL, nearly all address all three UDL principles. At least two thirds provide instruction on seven of the nine associated guidelines. Several barriers to instruction were identified, including a lack of awareness and—among those aware of it—insufficient knowledge of the framework. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Toddlers’ Differential Susceptibility to the Effects of Coparenting on Social–Emotional Adjustment
Authors: Altenburger Lauren E. , Lang Sarah N. , Schoppe-Sullivan Sarah J. , Kamp Dush Claire M. , Johnson Susan
Published: December 2015

The paper reports on a study which tested whether infants high in negative affectivity are differentially susceptible to observed coparenting behavior in relation to their subsequent social–emotional development. Data came from a longitudinal study of 182 US dual-earner, primiparous couples and their infant children. At nine-months postpartum, child negative affectivity was reported by mothers and fathers and supportive and undermining coparenting behavior were assessed from mother-father-infant observations. At 27-months mothers reported on toddlers’ externalizing behavior and dysregulation using a clinical assessment tool designed to identify competencies and areas of concern in toddlers’ social–emotional development. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed partial support for the differential susceptibility hypothesis. Specifically, infants high in negative affectivity had lower levels of dysregulation when embedded in a more supportive coparenting context, and higher levels of dysregulation when embedded in a less supportive coparenting context. In contrast, supportive coparenting behavior was not relevant for the dysregulation of infants initially low in negative affectivity.
Contact frequencies with nieces and nephews in Finland
Authors: Tanskanen Antti O. , Danielsbacka Mirkka
Published: December 2015

Based on maternity certainty and paternity uncertainty, one can predict that individuals will channel investment in their kin according to more genetically certain investment options. According to the preferential investment in more certain kin theory, if aunts and uncles have the option to invest in either their sisters’ or their brothers’ children they would prefer to invest in their sisters’ children. However, this question has not been previously explored in contemporary societies with nationally representative data from two generations of aunts and uncles. In our study, we have used data gathered in the Generational Transmissions in Finland project in 2012. The respondents represent older adults (born between 1945 and 1950, n = 1,604) and younger adults (born between 1962 and 1993, n = 1,159). We find that when aunts and uncles have nieces and nephews via both sisters and brothers, they have more contacts with their sisters’ children than their brothers’ children. Thus, the results are in accordance with the preferential investment theory.
L1 frequency in foreign language acquisition: Recurrent word combinations in French and Spanish EFL learner writing
Authors: Paquot Magali
Published: December 2015

This study investigated French and Spanish EFL (English as a foreign language) learners’ preferred use of three-word lexical bundles with discourse or stance-oriented function with a view to exploring the role of first language (L1) frequency effects in foreign language acquisition. Word combinations were extracted from learner performance data (i.e. argumentative essays), and the frequency of their translation equivalent forms was analysed on the basis of French and Spanish L1 corpora. Strong and positive monotonic correlations were found between the frequency of a lexical bundle in the EFL learners’ written productions and the frequency of its equivalent form in the learners’ first language. Results also suggest that different patterns of use across the two L1 learner populations may be explained by frequency differences in L1 French and Spanish. Overall, the study calls for a more systematic investigation of L1 frequency effects within usage-based perspectives on second language acquisition.