bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Participation in Schools: A Survey of Occupational Therapy Practitioners
Authors: Leigers Kelly , Myers Christine , Schneck Colleen
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE. We sought to identify strategies and practices that school-based occupational therapy practitioners use in addressing social participation, their perceptions of competence, and factors influencing their strategies and practices.

METHOD. Surveys were sent to 500 randomly selected members of the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Early Intervention and School Special Interest Section; 112 usable surveys were received from 36 states.

RESULTS. Respondents reported focusing on internal client factors when addressing social participation. Fewer than half (46.5%) indicated that they understood their role (mean [M] = 4.23, standard deviation [SD] = 1.22), and 57.1% desired greater understanding or ability (M = 4.64, SD = 1.29). Differences were found based on years of experience, service delivery model used, and services provided by diagnosis category.

CONCLUSION. School-based occupational therapy practitioners may need to expand their current practices in addressing student social participation. Findings may be used to develop interventions to address this area of practice.
Health-Promoting Physical Activity of Children Who Use Assistive Mobility Devices: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jirikowic Tracy L. , Kerfeld Cheryl I.
Published: August 2016

Children with physical disabilities who use assistive mobility devices (AMDs) are at risk for obesity and other secondary health conditions. Habitual physical activity is one lifestyle factor that may prevent obesity and contribute to overall health, and an active lifestyle in childhood improves prospects for lifelong healthy behaviors. Child, family, and environmental facilitators and barriers influence health-promoting physical activity (HPPA) for children without disabilities, but comparable models and levels of understanding for children who use AMDs are lacking. In this scoping review, we identified a similar set of child, family, and environmental facilitators and barriers relevant to HPPA participation among children who use AMDs. Noted gaps in the literature included limited reporting of AMD use, inconsistent HPPA definitions, and inadequate measurement tools for children who are nonambulatory. The identified child, family, and environmental factors provide a framework for occupational therapy practitioners and interprofessional teams to develop HPPA opportunities and interventions for an underserved population.
Occupational Therapy Home Modification Assessment and Intervention
Authors: Somerville Emily , Smallfield Stacy , Stark Susan , Seibert Carol , Arbesman Marian , Lieberman Deborah
Published: August 2016

Evidence Connection articles describe a clinical application of a systematic review developed in conjunction with the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Project. This Evidence Connection provides a case report of a client referred to occupational therapy for home modification assessment and intervention, applying the evidence from the systematic review of home modifications conducted in conjunction with the EBP Project. The client received in-home occupational therapy after side effects of liver disease resulted in increased falls within her home.
Freshening of the Labrador Sea as a trigger for Little Ice Age development
Authors: Alonso-Garcia Montserrat , Kleiven Helga F. , McManus Jerry F. , Moffa-Sanchez Paola , Broecker Wallace , Flower Benjamin P.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Arctic freshwater discharges to the Labrador Sea from melting glaciers and sea-ice can have a deep impact on ocean circulation dynamics in the North Atlantic modifying climate and deep water formation in this region. In this study, we present for the first time a high resolution record of ice-rafting in the Labrador Sea over the last millennium to assess the effects of freshwater discharges in this region on ocean circulation and climate. The occurrence of ice-rafted debris (IRD) in the Labrador Sea was studied using sediments from Site GS06-144-03 (57.29° N, 48.37° W, 3432 m water depth). IRD from the fraction 63–150 µm show higher concentration during the intervals: ~ 1000–1100, ~ 1150–1250, ~ 1400–1450, ~ 1650–1700 and ~ 1750–1800 yr AD. The first two intervals occurred during the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA), whereas the others took place within the Little Ice Age (LIA). Mineralogical identification indicates that the main IRD source during the MCA was SE Greenland. In contrast, the concentration and relative abundance of hematite-stained grains (HSG) reflects an increase in the contribution of Arctic ice during the LIA. The comparison of our Labrador Sea IRD records with other climate proxies from the subpolar North Atlantic allowed us to propose a sequence of processes that led to the cooling events during the LIA, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. This study reveals that the warm climate of the MCA may have enhanced iceberg calving along the SE Greenland coast and, as a result, freshened the subpolar gyre (SPG). Consequently, SPG circulation switched to a weaker mode through internal feedbacks that reduced convection in the Labrador Sea decreasing its contribution to the Atlantic Meridional overturning circulation and, thus, the amount of heat transported to high latitudes. This mechanism very likely preconditioned the North Atlantic inducing a state in which external forcings (e.g. solar irradiance and volcanic input) could easily drive periods of severe cold conditions in Europe and the North Atlantic like the LIA. The outcomes of this work indicate that a freshening of the SPG may play a crucial role in the development of cold events during the Holocene, which may be of key importance for predictions about future climate.
Global 7-km mesh nonhydrostatic Model Intercomparison Project for improving TYphoon forecast (TYMIP-G7): Experimental design and preliminary results
Authors: Nakano Masuo , Wada Akiyoshi , Sawada Masahiro , Yoshimura Hiromasa , Onishi Ryo , Kawahara Shintaro , Sasaki Wataru , Nasuno Tomoe , Yamaguchi Munehiko , Iriguchi Takeshi , Sugi Masato , Takeuchi Yoshiaki
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Recent advances in high-performance computers facilitate operational numerical weather prediction by global hydrostatic atmospheric models with horizontal resolution ~ 10 km. Given further advances in such computers and the fact that the hydrostatic balance approximation becomes invalid for spatial scales
Lightning risk assessment at a high spatial resolution using the resident sub-district scale: A case study in Beijing metropolitan areas
Authors: Hu Hai Bo , Li Jing Xiao
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Lightning risk indexes identifying the potential number of dangerous lightning events (NDLEs) and ground sensitivity to lightning in resident sub-districts of Beijing metropolitan areas have been unprecedentedly estimated on a 5 m resolution grid. The gridded cloud to ground (CG) lightning stroke density was used in the NDLE calculation, on account of multiple contacts formed by CG lightning flash multiplicity. Meanwhile, in the NDLE estimates, the critical CG stroke gridded densities derived from the lightning location system (LLS) data were corrected for network detection efficiency (DE). This case study on resident sub-district indicates that the site-specific sensitivity to lightning, which is determined by the terrain factors related to lightning attachment, as well as lightning rod effects induced by nearby structures, differs greatly across types of underlying ground areas. The discrepancy of the NDLE which is the numerical product of sensitivity and CG stroke density, is predominated by the sensitivity on account of the relatively stationary CG stroke density in a resident sub-district scale. Conclusively, the visualization of lightning risk sensitivity and NDLE discrepancy in parts of a resident sub-district at high spatial resolution makes it convenient in risk reduction and risk control for lightning risk management.
The cost of search and evaluation in online problem-solving social networks with financial and non-financial incentives
Authors: Farenzena Daniel Scain , Lamb Luís da Cunha , Araújo Ricardo Matsumura
Published: August 2016

Online networks of individuals have been used to solve a number of problems on a scale that would not be possible if not within a connected, virtual and social environment such as the Internet. In this paper, we show that when solving tasks with small duration (under five minutes), also known as microtasks, individuals decision making will be strongly biased by costs of searching (and evaluating) options rather than financial or non-financial incentives. Indeed, we are able to show that we can influence individuals decisions, when solving problems, by rearranging elements visually to modify an individual search sequence, be it by designing the virtual work environment or manipulating which options are first shown in non-controlled environments, such as the Amazon Mechanical Turk labor market. We performed almost 50 experiments in online networks where individuals were invited to work on tasks with varying degrees of difficulty within three settings: mathematical games with objective truth (Sudoku and SAT instances); surveys with subjective evaluation (public policy polling); and labor markets (Amazon Mechanical Turk).
Factors predicting mortality of elderly patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Thongbai Thirada , Thanapirom Kessarin , Ridtitid Wiriyaporn , Rerknimitr Rungsun , Thungsuk Rattikorn , Noophun Phadet , Wongjitrat Chatchawan , Luangjaru Somchai , Vedkijkul Padet , Lertkupinit Comson , Poonsab Swangphong , Ratanachu-ek Thawee , Hansomburana Piyathida , Pornthisarn Bubpha , Mahachai Varocha , Treeprasertsuk Sombat
Published: August 2016

Background

Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common gastrointestinal disease emergency and a cause of morbidity and mortality.

Objectives

To assess the clinical outcomes and explore predictive factors for mortality of elderly patients with acute UGIB.

Methods

During the study period from January 2010 to September 2011, we prospectively enrolled 981 patients presenting with UGIB from 11 hospitals (mean age ± standard deviation (SD), 59.4 ± 14.9 years; range, 17–94 years; including 661 men). Of these 981 patients, 499 (50.9%) were elderly. Basic demographic data and clinical findings, and Rockall scores were collected and calculated.

Results

We studied 499 elderly patients. Their mean age ± SD was 71.63 ± 7.65 years. The 30-day mortality rate was 9% and rebleeding was just 1%. Regression analysis showed a pulse rate >100 beats per min at first visit, red blood in a nasogastric aspiration, comorbidity with coronary artery disease, and creatinine >1.5 mg/dL were independent predictive factors of 30-day mortality.

Conclusions

Peptic ulcer bleeding is a major cause of acute UGBI in the elderly. We recommend patients with predictive factors of mortality, pulse rate >100 beats per min at first visit, red blood in nasogastric aspiration, comorbidity with coronary artery disease, and creatinine >1.5 mg/dL be closely monitored and treated promptly. Reducing mortality from peptic ulcer bleeding should focus on preventing peptic ulcer occurrence as a result of ulcerogenic medications.
Serum microRNA-34a is potential biomarker for inflammation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Muangpaisarn Puth , Jampoka Kanisa , Payungporn Sunchai , Wisedopas Naruemon , Bunchorntavakul Chalermrat , Tangkijvanich Pisit , Treeprasertsuk Sombat
Published: August 2016

Background

MicroRNA-34a (miR-34a) contributes to liver injury through an apoptosis pathway.

Objective

To determine the correlation between serum miR-34a and liver inflammation as assessed by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (NAS).

Method

We included a cross-selectional study of 50 patients with NAFLD in this observational study and confirmed diagnosis by liver biopsy, with NAS grading. A control group comprised 23 healthy individuals without chronic liver disease. Serum miR-34a was assayed using a real-time quantitative PCR (Applied Biosystems).

Result

The mean age of NAFLD patients was 46.0 ± 13.7 years, and 52% were female. Metabolic syndrome was found in 76%. Liver histopathology showed that 54% of patients had NAS ≥4 and significant fibrosis (≥2) was found in 22%. Serum levels of miR-34a were significantly correlated with NAS (r = 0.39, P = 0.005), and the degree of steatosis (r = 0.28, P = 0.049), ballooning (r = 0.30, P = 0.034), and fibrosis (r = 0.39, P = 0.005). Serum miR-34a in patients with NAS ≥4 was significantly higher than in those with NAS <4 (P = 0.011) and controls (P < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between serum miR-34a and other variables. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve for serum miR-34a comparing patients with NAS ≥4 and with NAS <4 was 0.67 (95% CI 0.52, 0.82).

Conclusion

Serum level of miR-34a has a significant fair to good correlation with NAS and may serve as a biomarker of liver inflammation and fibrosis in patients with NAFLD.
A KöMaL problem in a new view
Authors: Dályay Pál Péter
Published: August 2016

The object of this paper is finding the general solution f : R^3 → R of the system of functional equations (1) valid for all x, y, z, t ϵ R. First f is expressed by a function of one variable which satisfies a system of two functional equations.This system is resolved by using an algebraic reformulation of the problem in terms of orbits and transversals. Finally the general solution of (1) is obtained.
Interactive web portals in mathematics
Authors: Vajda Róbert , Kovács Zoltán
Published: August 2016

Many of the recent problems in higher education (less contact seminars, the heterogeneity and the increasing number of our students) call for new instructional methods. At University of Szeged we have developed a mathematical web portal which can offer a solution for such problems among the changing circumstances. This freely available, easy-to-use web-surface supports interactive mathematical problem-solving and student self assessment. Our computer program cooperates with a lot of free software (computer algebra systems, formula parsers, converters, word processors). WebMathematics Interactive has been available for the public since June 2002 on its web page http://wmi.math.u-szeged.hu.
Experiences using CAS and multimedia int teaching vectorcalculus
Authors: Perjési-Hámori Ildikó
Published: August 2016

The development of informatics brings new opportunities that need reevaluating of the teaching concepts. For this reason we have performed a comprehensive educational development for engineering students. Our main goals were to work out a new educational strategy, to develop the needed package of the subject material, to introduce the strategy in the practice, to analyze and evaluate the experiences. In the developed and adapted teaching-learning strategy the teacher is the organizer, designer and the manager of the process. In this paper we summarize the concepts, the results and experiences of the 3-years-long development.
An Amplitude-Based Modeling Method and its Application on the Impedance Inversion in Heterogeneous Paleokarst Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Yuanyin , Sun Zandong , Jin Zhijun , Dong Ning , Chen Yequan , Liu Xiwu
Published: August 2016

For the modeling of complex reservoirs with strong heterogeneity, for instance the deeply buried paleokarst reservoirs in the Tarim Basin, the traditional method by lateral interpolation and extrapolation of measured logs between well locations with the guiding of interpreted seismic horizons is driven by distance and often leads to non-geologic solutions, while the past improvements via adding seismic velocities or attributes information are still not accurate due to the resolution limitation or AVO (amplitude versus offset) effects contamination. In this paper, we present an amplitude-based modeling method by utilizing the heterogeneous information from seismic data to guide the geological model construction, based on the inverted pure P-wave data which have removed the AVO effects. The proposed method is applied in the impedance inversion of the paleokarst carbonate reservoirs in the Tarim Basin, where the reservoirs are characterized by substantial heterogeneity. Both the constructed Low frequency model (LFM) and the inverted impedance results of proposed method are more correlative with drilling data than that of traditional method. This method is more beneficial for strong heterogeneous reservoirs description especially in well insufficient or absent areas, suggested by the comparisons with traditional methods in the ZG8 area.
“Teacher” from the Children’s Perspective: A Study by Metaphors
Authors: Arslan Cansever Belgin , Aslan Nese
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study is to determine the perception of teachers by 10 year-old primary school childrens by the metaphors they developed. The sample covers totally 441 children [224 females (50.8%) and 217 males (49.2%)] living in Izmir, Turkey. Participants were asked to complete the prompt “Teacher is like…, because…’’. In identifying their perceptions, the qualitative research model (Holloway & Wheeler, 2002) was utilized, which contributes to the investigation of the individual’s perceptions, feelings, and experiences within the framework of Phenomenological design. At the end of the research female students produced 52 metaphors, and males did 44 for teacher images. However, 7 metaphors were commonly created by both genders. They were categorized in 8 conceptual themes. The children’s perceptions of “teacher” were clustered especially in the conceptual theme of Family Member (25%) and Warm-hearted Person (8%), with emotional and relational feelings which can be explained by the children’s attachment relations (Sabol & Pianta, 2012), that are similar for their families and their teachers. Gender was found to be significantly related with the images of teachers.
Three-Step Parameters Tuning Model for Time-Constrained Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Ramadan Saleem , Barghash Mahmoud
Published: August 2016

In this paper a three-step parameters tuning model for time-constrained Genetic Algorithms (GAs) was presented. The first step involved modeling the objective function using multiple regression model where the fitness value was the response variable and the GA parameters were the regressors. The second step involved constraint modeling using the objective function found in the first step and using the upper and lower limits of the GA parameters along with an upper limit on the execution time as constraints. The third step involved optimizing the constraint model found in the second step using a suitable deterministic optimization method to determine the optimal GA parameters taking into consideration four aspects that affect the GA performance. These aspects were: the problem under consideration, the GA parameters used, the execution time, and the power of the computer used.The validation of this model was demonstrated using two capacitated lot sizing problems. The model was able to predict the fitness values and the optimal parameters of the GA for these problems to a high degree of precision. Moreover, the results showed that tuning the GA parameters using multiple regression along with a suitable deterministic optimization method was an effective and robust method that enhanced the performance of the GA. The statistical analysis showed that in order to do a proper tuning for a certain GA, the designer of the GA must take into consideration not only the type of problem but also the size of the problem, the allowable execution time, and the hardware used in executing the GA. Furthermore, the results agreed with the "No Free Lunch" theorem.
World City Network in China: A Network Analysis of Air Transportation Network
Authors: Li Zeyun , Dawood Sharifah Rohayah Sheikh
Published: August 2016

World city network formation is one of the most robust trends in the context of globalization. The unprecedented economic transformation and infrastructure restructuring enable China to integrate in world city network overwhelmingly. The purpose of this paper is aiming to conduct a network analysis of Chinese air transportation network based upon large-scale collected data of inter-city air passengers’ volume thereby identifying the world city network of Chinese cities, as well as the internal cooperative relationship and hierarchical structure of these articulations in the network. There are 80 sample cities are enclosed in this air transportation network model using UCINET, which is pioneering social network analytical software. Clearly, UCINET is applied to manipulate the matrix of inter-city air passengers flows in order to elaborate analyze of density of the whole network, to calculate multiple centrality of each node cities, which strives to identify the dominance of each cities’ hierarchical power and positions. In addition, NetDraw program in UCINET is designed to visualize the whole network whereas CONCOR program is operationalized to classify major subgroups within national air transportation network of China. Based on the analysis, we can find that Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou play a dominant role in this network, and it is evident that there exist some robust cooperative relationships within and between subgroups arisen from overall air transportation network. Overall, these findings consolidate a concrete cornerstone of Chinese world city network formation.
Evapotranspiration and Yield of Eggplant under Salinity and Water Deficit: A Comparison between Greenhouse and Outdoor Cultivation
Authors: Ghaemi Ali Asghar , Rafiee Mohammad Rafie
Published: August 2016

Cultivation environment can be effective on the degree of limitations in crop evapotranspiration and yield, as a result of water shortage and salinity. The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the impact of different irrigation regimes (daily, weekly and every two weeks) combined with different water salinities (0.8, 2.5, 5.0 and, 7.0 dS m-1) on eggplant yield (Y) and evapotranspiration (ETc) in outdoor and greenhouse cultivation. Daily ETc values were measured by diurnal weighting of microlysimeters throughout the growing season (from May 19th to September 5th, 2012 and June 1st to September 22nd, 2013) placed in a plastic greenhouse and outdoor basins. Measurements showed apparent variations between different irrigation regimes×water salinity treatments, during the early growing season in both years. Both water deficit and salinity factors had significant effects on ETc, ECe, Y, fruit diameter and shoot dry weight in both environments. The applicability of Doorenbos-Kassam linear crop-water production function along with Maas-Hoffman salt tolerance model was investigated in the greenhouse and outdoor conditions. The Ky coefficient obtained for outdoor and greenhouse eggplants treatments were 0.97 and 1.03 in the first year and 0.91 and 0.93 in the second year, respectively. Higher sensitivity of greenhouse eggplants to salinity was later demonstrated for both years, obtaining higher values of b and lower values of ECethreshold in the greenhouse eggplants.
Study the Impact of Employing Action Research on Middle School Teachers' Performance
Authors: Rahmanimehr Hourieh , Sharifi Asghar
Published: August 2016

This research aims to study the impact of employing action research on middle school teachers' performance in district 3 education of Tehran in 2015 educational year. With regard to its aim, this study can be considered as an applied research and regarding the data collection method, it is a descriptive(ex post facto) research. The population of this study includes middle school teachers working in district 3 education of Tehran in 1394 educational year. A study sample of 100 individuals was selected through random stratified sampling method and divided into two groups of 50 teachers. Research tool was the organizational performance questionnaire by Hersey and Goldsmith (2003). This questionnaire was set up as a 5-point scale questionnaire and includes seven sub-scales(ability, clarity, assistance, encouragement, evaluation, validity and environment). Validity of instrument was determined by Goldsmith through content method and in this research content validity was used as well. In addition, reliability factor of the questionnaire is 87% which is calculated by Cronbach’s alpha. Data collected from questionaries was analyzed using independent T-tests and Manova   in two different levels of descriptive and Inferential statistics. The results of the current research indicate that in general deploying action research affects performance of middle school teachers in district 3 education of Tehran. In secondary hypotheses using action research is effective considering ability, clarity, assistance, encouragement, evaluation, validity and environment while it has no effect on examining teachers’ performance. Besides, analyzing lateral findings of multivariate analysis of variance claims that in sample group's view, there is no significant difference between teacher’s performance divided by years of experience or levels of education.
Simulation and Control of Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) Used in Wind Turbines by Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Chamani Faraz , Satkin Mohammad
Published: August 2016

Wind energy is one of the extraordinary sources of renewable energy due to its clean character and free availability. With increase in wind power penetration, the wind farms are directly influencing the power systems. The majority of wind farms are using variable speed wind turbines equipped with doubly fed induction generators (DFIG) due to their advantages over other wind turbine generators (WTGs). Therefore, the analysis of wind power dynamics with the DFIG wind turbines has become a very important research issue, especially during transient faults. In this article, a controller is provided to control the active and reactive power of a wind system equipped with doubly fed induction generator. The generator is connected to the grid by a back to back converter that gets benefit from control system known as single periodic controller. Grid and generator side converters respectively control the generator speed and reactive power using proposed controller. In order to increase the accuracy of controller, we optimized its PI parameters using genetic optimization algorithm. Finally, simulation results conducted by the MATLAB software are shown. The results of simulation gained through this system, show the capability of proposed controller under error conditions for controlling active and reactive power and also elimination of harmonics caused by non-linear load.
Rotating Disk Apparatus: Types, Developments and Future Applications
Authors: Rashed Musaab K. , Abdulbari Hayder A. , Salleh Mohamad Amran Mohd , Ismail M. Halim Shah
Published: August 2016

Power consumption reduction investigations attracted the attention of enormous numbers of researchers in the past few decades due to its high academic and economic impacts. The pumping power losses during the transportation of crude oils are considered as one of the main power consuming applications due to the turbulent mode of transportation. Investigating the possible solutions for this problem is expensive and time consuming due to the large apparatuses needed to simulate the flow in real pipelines. Rotating disk apparatus (RDA) is an instrument mainly comprising a rotating disk and an electrical motor to rotate the disk, which was implemented as an efficient and economical path to simulate what can be done in pipelines through generating a controlled degree of turbulence. This technique was also used in many other scientific applications due to its dynamic mode of operation. For example, a rotating disk electrode was used in electrodeposition processes and to characterize deposition film thickness and uniformity. The rotating disk reactor was employed to investigate the reaction rate between fluids and solid surfaces. The present work evaluates the RDA from different prospective and applications in order to introduce it as an efficient research tools for future dynamic investigations.
Study of the Mediating Role of Organizational Citizenship Behavior in the Relationship of Workplace Spirituality with Customer Loyalty and Service Quality in Saman Bank
Authors: Kiyanzad Mohammad Hossein , Kandelousi Nader Sh. , Kandelousi Nader Sh. , Sardar Soheila , Sardar Soheila
Published: August 2016

In today highly competitive banking industry, customer loyalty and customer satisfaction with banking services are among the important preconditions for survival and growth of banks. In this context, the relationship between customers and employees providing services is of significant importance and in general it can be said that frontline employees may attract customers and gain their satisfaction and loyalty by providing services beyond their role requirements. Present research aims to study the role played by workplace spirituality in organizational citizenship behavior, service quality and customer satisfaction. In present applied research, a survey methodology was employed and questionnaire copies were distributed to the sample derived from a statistical population comprising of all staff and customers of north Tehran branches of Saman Bank. Random stratified sampling procedure was used to obtain the appropriate sample for present study. As a result of it, 230 questionnaires (equal to the total number of employees) and 341 questionnaires (according to a sample based on Krejcie & Morgan table with an estimated statistical population of 3000) were respectively distributed to employees and customers. Structural equation modelling (SEM) and LISREL software were used to study the relationships. Research findings confirmed all hypothesized relationships between the studied concepts.
Urban Growth Structure and Travel Behavior in Tehran City
Authors: Shoorcheh Mahmood , Varesi Hamidreza , Mohammadi Jamal , Litman Todd
Published: August 2016

This paper investigates major characteristics of Tehran’s urban growth structure, how various land use factors such as “density”, “diversity”, “design” and “accessibility” affect travel behavior, population growth and land use development, and future travel demands. Tehran city is currently developing in ways that are likely to increase sprawl and automobile-dependency, which increase problems including traffic and parking congestion, consumer costs, traffic accidents, pollution emissions and inadequate mobility for non-drivers. This analysis indicates that the growth management policies in Tehran’s Comprehensive Plan can significantly reduce vehicle travel and associated problems, resulting in a more sustainable urban development path. This information is useful for evaluating the ability of policies such as Smart Growth, New Urbanism and Accessibility Management to help achieve transport-land use planning objectives.
Determining the Best Insertion Site of Fluid Viscous Dampers to Optimize and Reduce Incurredcosts in Adjacent Buildings
Authors: Solmazyaghobzadeh Solmazyaghobzadeh
Published: August 2016

In the past decade, researchers developed the idea of connecting buildings with intelligent activated, semi-active and inactivated damper systemsreduce adjacent buildings response to wind and earthquake. One of the most important damper devices in non-active control is fluid viscous damper.Fluid dampers due to viscous fluidsshow high resistance. High resistance of viscous fluidsagainst the flow is the basicfunctionof fluid viscous dampers. Deformation speed a fluid viscous damper is proportional to the acted forces. Therefore the aim of this paper is to determine the insertion site of fluid viscous dampersto optimize and reduce the consuming costs in adjacent buildings. For this purpose, four different models of connected adjacent buildings with common and different shear stiffness in the software SAP 2000 has been modeled. This study shows that it is not necessarytwo adjacent buildings connected by a damper on all floors, but the less damper in appropriate selected locations can help reduce the earthquake response. And by placing the fluid viscous dampers in selected certainfloors provides more useful structural system for reducing the effects of earthquakes.
Developing a Framework for Electronic Health Record of Students: A Case Study of West Azerbaijan Province Schools
Authors: Peyman Rezaei Hachesu , Kaveh Honarmand , Azad Paknejad
Published: August 2016

Background: In order to obtain information on the health status of students and a healthy community, having access to health information is critical. Most health information systems designed for adults have data recording limitations for children. The presents study develops the Electronic Health Record of students.Method: The present study is a descriptive - cross sectional study performed in 2015 in primary schools in West Azerbaijan Province. The research tools included the questionnaire and checklist completed 25 school health educators and 5 school health volunteers of health networks. The data elements were presented to the school health educators and three pediatricians. The content validity was determined and its reliability index was measured by Cronbach's alpha test with SPSS version 22.Results: Students’ Personal Health Record is a booklet called “Health Certificate” that includes 100% of the demographic information, screening data and students’ immunization but it lacked sequence and integrity required to obtain the health information. The school care data and the results of initial admission were documented in none of the schools. Due to low security and privacy of paper information, the reports were unreliable. According to the minor role of the school health educators in the process of documentation of health information, data recording process was reviewed. The revised data elements were approved by 100% without any opposite opinion.Conclusion: Low security and confidentiality of students’ health information indicates the need to create electronic systems. Designing electronic health records can be a major step in creating a database with the ability to communicate and exchange electronic health records.
Studying of the Factors Affecting on the Mutual Fund by Individual Investor in Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and US
Authors: Amiri Haniyeh , Gil-Lafuente Ana Maria
Published: August 2016

This study examines the main criteria of domestic investors in mutual funds selection behavior and evaluates their performance and with a survey method and using a questionnaire, the behavior of domestic investors in selection of mutual fund was evaluated. Factor analysis along with Multinomial Logistic Regression was used to test the hypotheses of the research. The Findings of the study indicate that there are 7 major factors that influence different types of investors in mutual funds selection behavior. These include: inherent characteristics of the fund, image reputation of fund, flexibility to facilitate the investment, performance, popularity, transparency and non-cash benefits. Another important aspect of this study is analysis impressibility the different groups of investors (professional, ambitious, moderate, conservative and cautious) towards these seven factors. The results of this analysis give us what is different between professional investors and other kinds of investors in the selecting of mutual funds.
One Method to Reduce Data Classification Using Weighting Technique in SVM +
Authors: Delavar Arash Ghorban Niya , Jafari Zahra
Published: August 2016

SVM, a learning algorithm to analyze data and recognize patterns is used. But there is an important issue, replicate data as well as its real-time processing has not been correctly calculated. For this reason, in this paper we have provided a method DCSVM+ to reduce data classification using weighting technique in SVM +. The proposed method with regard to the parameters to SVM + has the optimum response time. By observing the parameter of data volume and their density, we abled to classify the size of interval as case that this classification to investigated case study reduces the running time of algorithm SVM +. Also by providing objective function of the proposed method, we abled to reduce replicate data to SVM + by integrating parameters and data classification and finally we provided threshold detector (TD) for method of DCSVM + to with respect to the competency function, we reduce the processing time as well as increase data processing speed. Finally proposed algorithm with weighting technique of function to SVM + is optimized in terms of efficiency.
Growth behavior of hexagonal GaN on Si(100) and Si(111) substrates prepared by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Wang Wei-Kai , Jiang Ming-Chien
Published: August 2016

In this study, we investigated the microstructure and optical properties of hexagonal GaN (h-GaN) films grown by high-temperature pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on Si(100) and Si(111) substrates. The growth mechanism, crystallization, and surface morphology of h-GaN deposition on both Si(100) and Si(111) substrates were monitored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy at various times in the growth process. Our results indicated that the h-GaN grown on Si(111) has better crystalline structure and optical properties than that on Si(100) owing to the smaller mismatch of the orientations of the Si(111) substrate and h-GaN film. On the Si(100) substrate, the growth principles of PLD and N2 plasma nitridation are the main contributions to the conversion of the cubic GaN into h-GaN. Moreover, no significant Ga–Si meltback etching was observed on the GaN/Si surface with the PLD operation temperature of 1000 °C. The TEM images also revealed that an abrupt GaN/Si interface can be obtained because of the suppression of substrate–film interfacial reactions in PLD.
Competition and fixation of cohorts of adaptive mutations under Fisher geometrical model
Authors: Moura de Sousa Jorge A. , Alpedrinha João , Campos Paulo R.A. , Gordo Isabel
Published: August 2016

One of the simplest models of adaptation to a new environment is Fisher’s Geometric Model (FGM), in which populations move on a multidimensional landscape defined by the traits under selection. The predictions of this model have been found to be consistent with current observations of patterns of fitness increase in experimentally evolved populations. Recent studies investigated the dynamics of allele frequency change along adaptation of microbes to simple laboratory conditions and unveiled a dramatic pattern of competition between cohorts of mutations, i.e., multiple mutations simultaneously segregating and ultimately reaching fixation. Here, using simulations, we study the dynamics of phenotypic and genetic change as asexual populations under clonal interference climb a Fisherian landscape, and ask about the conditions under which FGM can display the simultaneous increase and fixation of multiple mutations—mutation cohorts—along the adaptive walk. We find that FGM under clonal interference, and with varying levels of pleiotropy, can reproduce the experimentally observed competition between different cohorts of mutations, some of which have a high probability of fixation along the adaptive walk. Overall, our results show that the surprising dynamics of mutation cohorts recently observed during experimental adaptation of microbial populations can be expected under one of the oldest and simplest theoretical models of adaptation—FGM.
Stable isotopes in bivalves as indicators of nutrient source in coastal waters in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, Panama
Authors: Graniero Lauren E. , Grossman Ethan L. , O’Dea Aaron
Published: August 2016

To examine N-isotope ratios (15N/14N) in tissues and shell organic matrix of bivalves as a proxy for natural and anthropogenic nutrient fluxes in coastal environments,Pinctada imbricata,Isognomon alatus, andBrachidontes exustusbivalves were live-collected and analyzed from eight sites in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Sites represent a variety of coastal environments, including more urbanized, uninhabited, riverine, and oceanic sites. Growth under differing environmental conditions is confirmed byδ18O values, with open ocean Escudo de Veraguas shells yielding the highest averageδ18O (−1.0‰) value and freshwater endmember Rio Guarumo the lowest (−1.7‰). At all sites there is no single dominant source of organic matter contributing to bivalveδ15N andδ13C values. Bivalveδ15N andδ13C values likely represent a mixture of mangrove and seagrass N and C, although terrestrial sources cannot be ruled out. Despite hydrographic differences between end-members, we see minimalδ15N andδ13C difference between bivalves from the river-influenced Rio Guarumo site and those from the oceanic Escudo de Veraguas site, with no evidence for N from open-ocean phytoplankton in the latter. Populated sites yield relative15N enrichments suggestive of anthropogenic nutrient input, but lowδ15N values overall make this interpretation equivocal. Lastly,δ15N values of tissue and shell organic matrix correlate significantly for pterioideansP. imbricataandI. alatus. Thus for these species, N isotope studies of historical and fossil shells should provide records of ecology of past environments.
Greater aerial moisture transport distances with warming amplify interbasin salinity contrasts
Authors: Singh Hansi K. A. , Donohoe Aaron , Bitz Cecilia M. , Nusbaumer Jesse , Noone David C.
Published: August 2016

The distance atmospheric moisture travels is fundamental to Earth's hydrologic cycle, governing how much evaporation is exported versus precipitated locally. The present‐day tropical Atlantic is one region that exports much locally evaporated moisture away, leading to more saline surface waters in the Atlantic compared to the Indo‐Pacific at similar latitudes. Here we use a state‐of‐the‐art global climate model equipped with numerical water tracers to show that over half of the atmospheric freshwater exported from the Atlantic originates as evaporation in the northern Atlantic subtropics, primarily between 10°N and 20°N, and is transported across Central America via prevailing easterlies into the equatorial Pacific. We find enhanced moisture export from the Atlantic to Pacific with warming is due to greater distances between moisture source and sink regions, which increases moisture export from the Atlantic at the expense of local precipitation. Distance traveled increases due to longer moisture residence times, not simply Clausius‐Clapeyron scaling.
Climate impacts of geoengineering in a delayed mitigation scenario
Authors: Tilmes S. , Sanderson B. M. , O'Neill B. C.
Published: August 2016

Decarbonization in the immediate future is required to limit global mean temperature (GMT) increase to 2°C relative to preindustrial conditions, if geoengineering is not considered. Here we use the Community Earth System Model (CESM) to investigate climate outcomes if no mitigation is undertaken until GMT has reached 2°C. We find that late decarbonization in CESM without applying stratospheric sulfur injection (SSI) leads to a peak temperature increase of 3°C and GMT remains above 2° for 160 years. An additional gradual increase and then decrease of SSI over this period reaching about 1.5 times the aerosol burden resulting from the Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1992 would limit the increase in GMT to 2.0° for the specific pathway and model. SSI produces mean and extreme temperatures in CESM comparable to an early decarbonization pathway, but aridity is not mitigated to the same extent.
The effects of increasing humidity on heat transport by extratropical waves
Authors: Geen Ruth , Czaja Arnaud , Haigh Joanna D.
Published: August 2016

This study emphasizes the separate contributions of the warm and cold sectors of extratropical cyclones to poleward heat transport. Aquaplanet simulations are performed with an intermediate complexity climate model in which the response of the atmosphere to a range of values of saturation vapor pressure is assessed. These simulations reveal stronger poleward transport of latent heat in the warm sector as saturation vapor pressure is increased and an unexpected increase in poleward sensible heat transport in the cold sector. The latter results nearly equally from changes in the background stability of the atmosphere at low levels and changes in the temporal correlation between wind and temperature fields throughout the troposphere. Increased stability at low level reduces the likelihood that movement of cooler air over warmer water results in an absolutely unstable temperature profile, leading to less asymmetric damping of temperature and meridional velocity anomalies in cold and warm sectors.
Validation of Writing Assessment
Authors: Knoch Ute
Published: August 2016

The validation of writing assessments is conducted through research investigating how appropriate an assessment is for its intended uses. Validation research occurs in a variety of contexts in which writing assessments are used. The most widely published validation activities often center around high‐stakes writing assessments such as the Internet‐based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Validation work is often routinely conducted for other high‐stakes assessments too, for example national school‐leaving examinations or language assessments used for professional certification. However, validity evidence should also be gathered in contexts where the assessments are less formal and less standardized, as is the case with classroom‐based writing assessments. While the stakes associated with score use and score‐based interpretations are usually lower and rest more on local contexts and a shared understanding of the required standards and curricula by teachers and students, validation processes should nevertheless be undertaken and communicated to stakeholders. This entry describes the type of validation research that is usually conducted on large‐scale assessment systems and organizes it within an argument‐based approach to validation. The entry concludes with some directions for future research.
Relationship Between Process of Care and a Subsequent Increase in Damage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yelin Edward , Yazdany Jinoos , Trupin Laura
Published: August 2016

Objective

To evaluate whether low ratings of interactions with providers and health plans in 2013 were associated with increased systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) damage in 2015.

Methods

Data were derived from the Lupus Outcomes Study (LOS) annual surveys and include items from the Consumer Assessment of Health Plans and Interpersonal Processes of Care Scale measuring dimensions of health care interactions. We used ordinary least squares regression to model the change in disease damage over a 2‐year period, 2013–2015, as a function of ratings of multiple dimensions of interactions with providers and health plans, with and without adjustment for demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and SLE and overall health status, and logistic regression to estimate the effect of the same matrix of variables on the probability of experiencing a minimum clinically important increase in damage.

Results

There were 566 LOS respondents who were followed from 2013–2015 and who rated their providers and health plans in 2013. After adjustment, persons with SLE rating their providers poorly in patient–provider communication experienced a significantly greater accrual of disease damage (odds ratio [OR] 0.23 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.09–0.38]) and were more likely to experience a minimum clinically important increase in damage (OR 2.35 [95% CI 1.25–4.39]). After adjustment, those rating their health plan poorly on care coordination experienced a significantly greater accrual of disease damage (OR 0.19 [95% CI 0.03–0.35]) and were more likely to experience a minimum clinically important increase in damage (OR 2.20 [95% CI 1.12–4.34]).

Conclusion

Poor patient–provider communication and care coordination may result in increased disease damage.