bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Street Wise
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

When walking down the street with the children, ask them to look at the doors of the houses you pass and locate each house number. Starting at the lowest, ask them to say which numbers they recognise. Are there any numbers missing?
Ten tricks with paint
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Card works better than paper for this activity, as it is less likely to wrinkle when the paint dries. You will also need the largest sheets you can find. To make a dribble painting, simply dribble readymixed paint directly from a squeezy bottle to create lines of paint. The larger sized bottles may be too heavy for the children, particularly if they are full. Either make sure they are only a third full, or decant the paint into smaller bottles. Show the children how to squeeze the sides of the bottle so that the paint comes out. As they get the idea, encourage them to move the bottle around to create wiggly lines, zigzags and simple shapes. This is a good activity to do outdoors, in case anyone ‘dribbles’ off the edge of the paper!
On the right track
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

Encouraging children’s social and emotional development helps them to learn academically, and promoting positive behaviour is an essential part of this process, writes Rachel Goodchild.
Ten tricks with wax and chalk
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Wax crayons and chalk sticks can be found in most art and craft boxes. They are great for making colourful pictures – but you can do a lot more with them than just draw.
Books have birthdays too!
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Children will love celebrating the special ‘birthdays’ of their favourite picture book characters, writes Viv Hampshire, and it is a fun way to introduce them to some new books, too.
Fostering friendships
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Developing the social skills that foster friendships is a key part of preparing young children to start school, writes Stephanie Thornton. In the following article she suggests how to go about this.
Let's Twist and Shout
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire's series turn to the 1960s. Develop children's understanding of the world with activities exploring the first spaceships, wiggly dancing, black and white clothes… and supermarket shopping.
Time for intelligent thinking
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

Thinking about different types of intelligence – emotional literacy, attitude quotient and spiritual quotient – in conjunction with cognitive ability can help you reflect on your practice and children's development.
Setting the standard
Authors: Doherty Mary
Published: May 2014

The Training and Development Agency for Schools is inviting every teacher in England to take part in its consultation on standards for classroom teachers and career progression. Mary Doherty explains why clear standards are important for classroom teacher
Under lock and key
Authors: Ward Gary
Published: May 2014

When exam papers are stolen or there are accusations of cheating, the security of Britain's exam system comes under scrutiny. Gary Ward explains how exam board Edexcel keeps its examination process secure
All together now
Authors: Adams Carol
Published: May 2014

The Children Act has brought the many professionals who work with children closer together. Carol Adams explains what the General Teaching Council for England has been doing
Personal development
Authors: Struthers Dot
Published: May 2014

How do we differentiate between the personal and professional elements of teaching? Dot Struthers offers some advice
Learning to read with the big boys
Authors: Petersen Lorraine
Published: May 2014

At a time when half of the male prison population has reading difficulties, literacy levels in the UK need to be addressed. Lorraine Petersen, from the National Association for Special Educational Needs, looks at how secondary teachers can support struggle.
Leadership and BSF
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

Gerald Haigh offers his 10 key points for school leaders facing BSF
Raising Standards?
Authors: Whitehouse Phil
Published: May 2014

Deputy head Phil Whitehouse remembers what it was like to be in special measures, so surely he must have been over the moon by a recent glowing Ofsted inspection?
Recipe for success
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Nick Smurthwaite talks to Masterchef star Gregg Wallace about his time at school
Destination Beijing
Authors: Wallace Sister Brenda
Published: May 2014

Headteacher Sister Brenda Wallace explains her school's involvement in the Towards the Olympics project
The missing connections
Authors: Brookes Geoff
Published: May 2014

Before half-term, SecEd reported on research showing that children with dyspraxia often underachieve and struggle to find employment when they leave education. Our article was particularly poignant for deputy head Geoff Brookes
Are you on the wrong track?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

You have got your first years of teaching under your belt and your thoughts are turning to your future development. However, But what if you are worried that you are on the wrong CPD track. Margaret Adams advises
National Careers Week
Authors: Newman Nick
Published: May 2014

With the burden and cost of providing face-to-face career advice passing to schools, National Careers Week in March looks set to offer some support. Nick Newman explains.
Helping young carers
Authors: Bostock Amanda
Published: May 2014

Amanda Bostock discusses how her school has changed its practices to ensure that it offers full support to its young carers.
Redesigning DT
Authors: Campbell Emily
Published: May 2014

When she was asked to redraft the design technology programme for her chain of academies, experienced designer Emily Campbell went back to basics.
Stand Against Violence
Authors: Sanders Katie
Published: May 2014

With a significant number of pupils being suspended for violence, Adam Fouracre – who lost his brother to street violence – is working with schools to combat this growing problem. Katie Sanders explains.
Twelve governing top tips
Authors: Carter Karina
Published: May 2014

Karina Carter, a chair of governors and a National Leader of Governance, offers her 12 tips for governing excellence.
Funding building refurbishments
Authors: King Vincent , Shaw Andy
Published: May 2014

The axing of the Building Schools for the Future left many schools in limbo, with poor buildings but no funding to replace them. Vincent King looks at funding refurbishments in a post-BSF world, while Andy Shaw offers some money-saving tips.
The Chinese revolution
Authors: McClure Judith
Published: May 2014

An understanding of Chinese history, culture and language will be increasingly crucial for our younger generations. Dr Judith McClure introduces the Scotland-China Education Network, including its new student ambassadors scheme.
Tips for flipping your classroom
Authors: Kramer Earnie
Published: May 2014

Flipped classrooms – what are they and how do they work? Earnie Kramer offers some advice.
School data – Getting back to basics
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

The collection and use of data is vital in schools today, but it is not the whole story. Former head Gerald Haigh visits three schools to find out how they use data and its place in school improvement strategies.
Strategies for stretching your most able students
Authors: Grainger Laura
Published: May 2014

Senior leader Laura Grainger discusses her project to improve the attainment of high-ability students, including a specific focus on year 11 and encouraging every child to aim for an A grade in at least one GCSE.
Ten coding and programming apps
Authors: Smith Justin
Published: May 2014

Our latest apps advice focuses on free and cheap apps to help engage students with coding and programming. Justin Smith gives us 10 of his favourites.
Assisted feeding in rabbits
Authors: Hamlin Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Rabbits are herbivores with an efficient digestive process. During periods of fasting, the rabbit's gastrointestinal health can be severely compromised. Recovery from gut stasis is difficult and not always successful, frequently resulting in devastating consequences to the animal's health. As such, it is vitally important to maintain good intestinal functioning in rabbits that are unwell and this often requires assisted feeding for animals unwilling or unable to eat. The success of assisted feeding plans are highly dependent on the feeding route, frequency of feedings, and the quality of the diet fed. There are a number of quality critical care diets that can be fed to small herbivores in these cases. Supreme Recovery is one such diet that will be investigated in this article.
How to manage wound drains
Authors: Carne Hayley
Published: May 2014

Wound drains play an important role in the management of wounds that arise in small animal practice. These wounds may result from trauma or following surgical intervention and the employment of drains may be used to improve healing by removing any fluid or air accumulation within tissues and reducing ‘dead space’ both of which are known to prolong wound healing and are associated with increased wound infection and wound dehiscence. Wound drains can be divided by their method of action as either passive or active, the selection of which drain type is suitable is dependent on the nature of the wound, its origin and its position. Correct management of wound drains in situ is a vital component of wound care and incorrect management of these drains can adversely affect wound healing and be detrimental to the patient and their recovery.
Establishing quality online presence for veterinary practices
Authors: Hamlin Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Digital marketing is a modern concept, and there is no doubt that developing online presence is becoming more important for businesses to maintain success. The effectiveness and affordability of digital marketing makes it more accessible than ever before, enabling even small businesses to begin interacting with a wider array of potential clients. With improved web traffic comes increased public scrutiny, and businesses need to have strategies in place to respond to all feedback and listen to what potential customers want; only then will digital marketing lead to loyal clients in the long term. Digital marketing plays an important role, and with only a few small steps any business can improve online presence using a number of simple marketing methods, including design and development, digital marketing, reputation management and investing in the future.
A preliminary evaluation of surface electromyography as a tool to measure muscle fatigue in the National Hunt racehorse
Authors: Williams J. , Gundry P. , Richards J. , Protheroe L.
Published: May 2014

Background: Within equestrian sports, training is commonly based on historic and anecdotal good practice. Telemetric surface electromyography (sEMG) systems facilitate assessment of muscle recruitment including mean motor unit action potential (mM-UAP). Mean EMG frequency (mEMGF) provides an objective measure of fitness levels while a shift in the median EMG frequency (MeEMGF) over time can illustrate fatigue.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate if sEMG could be used in the field to evaluate muscle activity of the Gluteus superficialis in a cohort of National Hunt racehorses during one canter interval training session.

Method: Sensors were secured bilaterally to horses' Gluteal superficialis prior to exercise and data were collected over a standardised 10 metre interval. A repeated measure ANOVA assessed differences in mEMGF between runs across the cohort and between runs for individual horses. A Pearson's correlation identified if mEMGF was related to perceived fitness level as assessed by the trainer. mEMGF and MeEMGF for individual horses were plotted over time (0.25 second intervals) to assess fitness and fatigue.

Results: Individual horses exhibited a wide variety of mMUAP values. No differences were found between runs for the overall cohort (p>0.05) however significant differences were found between runs within some individual horses (p<0.01). No relationship between fitness level and mEMGF was found (p>0.05), mEMGF varied throughout runs and MeEMGF for most horses remained consistent indicative of a lack of fatigue.

Conclusion: The results suggest that this technology exhibits potential to be used to aid analysis of efficacy of training programmes for individual horses.
Etnoictiologia dos pescadores artesanais da Resex Marinha Caeté- Taperaçu, Pará: aspectos relacionados com etologia, usos de hábitat e migração de peixes da família Sciaenidae
Authors: Barboza Roberta Sá Leitão , Pezzuti Juarez Carlos Brito
Published: May 2014

O propósito deste estudo é descrever o conhecimento de pescadores artesanais da vila dos Pescadores e vilaBonifácio (Ajuruteua – Pará) acerca do comportamento, usos de hábitat e migração de peixes da família Sciaenidae. Osresultados apresentados revelam o saber acurado e detalhado dos pescadores de Ajuruteua sobre aspectos do comportamentodos peixes relacionados com fisiologia, reprodução, parasitismo e comensalismo. Os pescadores indicaram também asprincipais unidades espaciais ocupadas pelos peixes e prováveis razões (bióticas e abióticas) para o deslocamento entreessas unidades. Desta forma, é destacado no presente trabalho o papel fundamental da etnobiologia na obtenção de dadosplausíveis para o manejo da pesca a partir do conhecimento de pescadores.
Forestación peridoméstica en Patagonia y conocimiento ecológico tradicional: un estudio de caso
Authors: Cardoso M. Betina , Ladio Ana Haydeé
Published: May 2014

La estepa patagónica constituye un paisaje cultural que es recreado permanentemente por la acción humana.En este estudio de caso, se analizó la forestación peri-domiciliaria con especies arbóreas en una pequeña comunidadincluyendo la riqueza de plantas que son utilizadas y las motivaciones asociadas a su uso. En la población Mapuche dePilkiniyeu del Limay (“Cañadón de las ardillas”) en la provincia de Río Negro, se realizaron entrevistas semi-estructurasy libres a 28 informantes. Los datos fueron analizados con métodos uni y multivariados. Los principales resultadosindican que se utilizan nueve especies de origen exótico. Dichas forestaciones constituyen un espacio vital de alto caráctersocial dado que es un lugar de reuniones y de esparcimiento. Las principales motivaciones para la forestación entre loshabitantes es la de tener materiales para la construcción de cercos (96%), el reparo del viento y el frío (86%), el uso leñatero(43%) y el forraje para el ganado (11%). Asimismo, el MSD mostró un sistema compartido de valoraciones acerca de laforestación. El conocimiento ecológico tradicional que utilizan los pobladores a la hora de usar y seleccionar especiescombustibles no parece influir en las motivaciones para forestar en sus casas. Este hecho podría ser interpretado como quela forestación es una práctica generalista que está fuertemente arraigada e influenciada por la transmisión oblicua llevada acabo por técnicos externos de promoción agropecuaria que visitan y asisten a esta comunidad.
Avifauna silvestre como recurso alimentar em áreas de semiárido no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil
Authors: Bezerra Dandara Monalisa Mariz , De Araujo Helder Farias Pereira , Alves Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega
Published: May 2014

Esta pesquisa foi desenvolvida junto aos moradores locais dos municípios de Caicó e São João do Sabugi,situados no Semiárido do estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Nordeste do Brasil. Teve por objetivo inventariar as avesutilizadas como recurso alimentar e caracterizar suas respectivas técnicas de captura. A pesquisa de campo foi realizadaentre os meses de janeiro e fevereiro de 2010. Foram entrevistados 60 moradores locais que utilizavam ou interagiam comaves silvestres. A obtenção das informações ocorreu por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas aplicadas individualmente.Foram registradas 13 espécies de aves silvestres distribuídas em seis ordens e seis famílias, sendo que a família Columbidaefoi a mais representativa em número de espécies. A espécie Zenaida auriculata foi a que apresentou maior número decitações. As aves citadas são capturadas através de cinco técnicas: arapuca, espera, sangra, fôjo e rede, sendo a espera atécnica mais citada. O uso de aves silvestres na alimentação aliado à escassez de estudos da situação populacional deespécies cinegéticas e associado a outros problemas ambientais podem afetar direta ou indiretamente suas populações.Diante desse contexto, faz-se necessário a realização de mais estudos sobre essas temáticas, pois somente assim, poderse-á implantar de forma mais adequada programas de manejo e conservação interligados ao contexto sociocultural da região.
Similaridade morfológica entre turdídeos sintópicos em um parque urbano na Região Sul do Brasil
Authors: Vogel Huilquer Francisco , Miranda João Marcelo Deliberador , Zawadzki Cláudio Henrique , Metri Rafael
Published: May 2014

Morphological overlap is an important attribute to understand processes of interspecific competition. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the degree of morphological overlap between five syntopic thrushes species (Turdus rufiventris, T. albicollis, T. leucomelas, T. amaurochalinus and T. subalaris) in an urban fragment of Araucaria Forest in Guarapuava, central-southern region of Paraná State. Birds were captured through mist-nets. Biometric measurements were performed in the birds and subsequently analyses of similarity and multivariate ordinations were also performed. The MANOVA analysis indicated separation among species F (24, 482) = 17.8, P < 0.0001. However, post hoc test showed no statistical separation between T. albicollis and T. subalaris. The similarity index results indicated that the most similar species that integrate the taxocenose are T. leucomelas and T. rufiventris (0.987). Turdus subalaris and T. albicollis also showed high similarity values (0.983). Although the species are morphologically very similar, there are indications of ecological mechanisms that allow their coexistence, such as distinct patterns of occurrence and differential use of habitat.
La mejor mujer de la colonia: imágenes femeninas de la Villa Imperial de Potosí
Authors: Santos Susana
Published: May 2014

Bartolomé Arzanz y Vela, autor de Historia de la Villa Imperial de Potosí, iniciada en 1736 y escrita durante treinta y cinco años, definió a la rica Villa Imperial como «la mujer» en la «pareja originaria y soberana del mundo»; su hombre es el Cerro Rico. El edificio emblemático de la Villa, la Real Casa de Moneda, adquiere en las páginas de Brocha Gorda (Julio Lucas Jaimes) la caracterización de la casa natal donde la figura central es la madre (la Villa). En la reciente literatura de Argentina, país receptor de migrantes bolivianos, la dama potosina reaparece en las novelas Bolivia Construcciones (2006) y Grandeza Boliviana (2010) de Bruno Morales.
Apuntes para un mapa intelectual de Chile durante el Centenario: 1900-1925
Authors: Pinedo F. Javier
Published: May 2014

Se intenta mostrar los principales conceptos utilizados por un grupo de pensadores chilenos que escribieron en los primeros 25 años del siglo XX y cuya fecha central es el primer Centenario de la Independencia, celebrado en 1910. Un periodo histórico que se inicia con el siglo y se cierra con la promulgación de una nueva Constitución política en 1925, la cual marcó una diferencia respecto a la época anterior en cuestiones sociales (el progresivo reemplazo de la antigua oligarquía por sectores de clase media), políticas (la aceptación de un sistema presidencialista y de leyes que incorporan a los nuevos sujetos sociales) y las expresiones culturales y literarias.
Rosabetty Muñoz: entre el agua y la furia
Authors: Pérez López María Ángeles
Published: May 2014

En el presente artículo se analizan los poemarios Hijos (1991), Ratada (2005) y En nombre de ninguna (2008) de Rosabetty Muñoz (Ancud, 1960) para señalar los elementos que conforman el carácter distópico de su obra y la atraviesan como si fuera un cuerpo: el cuerpo físico del país –la geografía de Chiloé y su cultura depredada–; el cuerpo de la mujer que es sujeto del poema y en su condición de madre engendra el agua y la furia, pues será convertida por el poema en archipiélago y dará lugar a una desazonada revisión del mito materno dentro de lo que he llamado poética de la culpa; y por último, el cuerpo del poema como espacio horadado en el que los tres libros propuestos entran sin temor en las zonas del tabú o lo siniestro y sorprenden y conmocionan por su violencia verbal.
Early-onset diabetes mellitus and neurodevelopmental retardation: the first Greek case of Wolcott-Rallison syndrome
Authors: Triantafyllou Panagiota , Vargiami Euthymia , Vagianou Isidora , Badouraki Maria , Julier Cecile , Zafeiriou Dimitrios I.
Published: May 2014

Wolcott-Rallison syndrome (WRS) is a very rare genetic disorder, which is transmitted by autosomal recessive inheritance and results from mutations in the gene encoding the eukaryotic initiation factor 2-α kinase-3 (EIF2AK3). The cardinal features of the syndrome include early-onset insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, multiple epiphyseal dysplasia, and growth retardation. We present the case of a 13-year-old Greek boy with a known history of infancy-onset diabetes mellitus and was found to have WRS at the age of 4 years. He presented with acute liver and renal insufficiency in addition to skeletal dysplasia and neurodevelopmental retardation. The clinical suspicion of WRS was confirmed by molecular analysis of the EIF2AK3 gene. The patient was found to be a compound heterozygote with two different novel mutations (c.2776C>T, p.R902X and c.3038A>G, p.Y989C). The current patient is one of the longer survivors.
Removal of Graffiti from Morelia’s Quarry Stone by High Power Diode Laser
Authors: Sánchez-Castillo A. , Quintero F. , Espinosa-Medina M. A. , Carbajal-De la Torre G. , Pou-Saracho J. M. , Lusquiños-Rodríguez F. , Ortiz-Ruiz M. , Martínez-Valencia A. B.
Published: May 2014

The historical monuments such as cathedrals, public buildings and so on, are a fundamental part of artistic heritage of a country. They reflect, ultimately, much of its culture and history. For several decades, their aspect has been seriously changed by graffiti, which clearly endangers their preservation state and causes loss of their esthetic appearance and historic value. This damages seriously the self-esteem of residents who witness the continued and strong degradation of their cultural heritage. The aim of this work is to study the removal of graffiti from a characteristic stone which is used in Morelia (México) as the raw material for architectural monuments, using a high power diode laser treatment. We concluded that continuous wave regime leads to better results than modulated wave regime; additionally, a two laser passes process demonstrated a high performance.
Nanodiamond Converted Hollow Graphene Spheres as Electrodes for Supercapacitors
Authors: Li J. L. , Su S. , Li J. , Ye H.
Published: May 2014

A porous composite formed of hollow graphene spheres with opens in them and amorphous carbon containing nitrogen and oxygenated groups has been fabricated by annealing the mixture of nanodiamond and polyacrylonitrile (PAN). Electrochemical tests on the electrode made of this material show that it may be a promising electrode material for supercapacitors. The relatively high capacitance is mainly attributed to the small inner electrical resistance, the huge specific surface area and the remaining nitrogen and oxygenated groups from the PAN.
Encapsulation of graphene interconnects with 2D Layered Insulator for improved performance
Authors: Jain Nikhil , Yu Bin
Published: May 2014

The key material behavior of graphene, a single layer of carbon lattice, is extremely sensitive to its dielectric environment. We demonstrate improvement in electronic performance of graphene nanowire interconnects with full encapsulation by lattice-matching, chemically inert, 2D layered insulator hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN). A novel layer-based transfer technique is developed to construct the h-BN/MLG/h-BN heterostructures. The encapsulated graphene wires are characterized and compared with that on SiO2 or h-BN substrate without top passivating h-BN layer. Significant improvements in maximum current-carrying density, breakdown threshold, and maximum power density in encapsulated graphene wires are observed. These critical improvements are achieved without compromising the carrier transport characteristics in graphene. Furthermore, graphene wires exhibit electrical behavior much less insensitive to ambient conditions, as compared with the non-passivated ones. Overall, h-BN/graphene/h-BN heterostructure presents a robust material platform towards the implementation of high-performance carbon-based interconnects.
Novel Solution Process for Fabricating Ultra-Thin-Film Absorber Layers in Fe2SiS4 and Fe2GeS4 Photovoltaics
Authors: Orefuwa Samuel A. , Lai Cheng-Yu , Dobson Kevin , Ni Chaoying , Radu Daniela
Published: May 2014

Fe2SiS4 and Fe2GeS4 crystalline materials posses direct bandgaps of ∼1.55 and ∼1.4 eV respectively and an absorption coefficient larger than 105 cm–1; their theoretical potential as solar photovoltaic absorbers has been demonstrated. However, no solar devices that employ either Fe2SiS4 or Fe2GeS4 have been reported to date. In the presented work, nanoprecursors to Fe2SiS4 and Fe2GeS4 have been fabricated and employed to build ultra-thin-film layers via spray coating and rod coating methods. Temperature-dependent X-Ray diffraction analyses of nanoprecursors coatings show an unprecedented low temperature for forming crystalline Fe2SiS4 and Fe2GeS4. Fabricating of ultra-thin-film photovoltaic devices utilizing Fe2SiS4 and Fe2GeS4 as solar absorber material is presented.
Novel Hydrogel Actuator Based on Biomimetic Chemistry
Authors: Lee Bruce P. , Liu Yuan , Konst Shari
Published: May 2014

Hydrogel actuators were prepared by combining ionoprinting technique with reversible metal ion coordination chemistry found in mussel adhesive proteins. Hydrogels were formulated with biomimetic dopamine moiety, which contains a catechol side chain that is capable of forming mono-, bis-, and tris-complexes with ferric (Fe3+) ions with increasing pH. Catechol-Fe3+ complexation increased local crosslinking density, which induced hydrogel bending at the site of Fe3+ ionoprinting. The effect of pH on the dynamic response of hydrogel actuation was tracked by following the radius of curvature at the ionoprinting site. Both the rate of change and the maximum radius of curvature increased when the pH with increasing pH (2.5-9.5), indicating that pH can be used to modulate hydrogel actuation. Additionally, hydrogels containing Fe3+ demonstrated higher extent of deswelling when equilibrated at a basic pH. Similarly, dynamic mechanical analysis in the compression mode revealed that both the storage and loss modulus values for Fe3+-containing hydrogels increased with increasing pH. These results indicated that bis- and tris-complexes formed at an elevated pH level contributed to a faster rate of actuation and a more condensed network architecture. Hydrogel actuation and deswelling were also observed at pH of 3.5 although to a lesser degree, potentially due to a stronger affinity between network-bound catechol and Fe3+ ions as compared to complexes formed in a dilute solution.
Noninvasive Estimation of Water Retention Parameters by Observing the Capillary Fringe with Magnetic Resonance Sounding
Authors: Costabel Stephan , Günther Thomas
Published: May 2014

The magnetic resonance sounding (MRS) method is usually applied for delineation and characterization of aquifer system stratification. Its unique property, distinct from other hydrogeophysical methods, is the direct sensitivity to water content in the subsurface. The inversion of MRS data yields the subsurface water content distribution without need of a petrophysical model. Recent developments in instrumentation, i.e., decreased instrumental dead times and advanced noise cancellation strategies, enable the use of this method for investigating the vadose zone. A possible way to interpret MRS measurements with focus on water retention (WR) parameters is an inversion approach that directly provides WR parameters by modeling the capillary fringe (CF inversion). We have developed this kind of inversion further to account for different WR models and present a sensitivity study based on both synthetic and real field data. To assess the general applicability of the CF inversion, we analyzed the resolution properties for different measurement layouts and the parameter uncertainties for different realistic scenarios. Under moderate noise conditions and if the water table position is known, all WR parameters except the residual water content can be reliably estimated. The relative accuracy of the estimated pore distribution index estimation is better for larger CF. Small measurement loops of 5‐m diameter achieve the best resolution for shallow investigation depths of <10 m.
Support for Learning from Multimedia Explanations. A Comparison of Prompting, Signaling, and Questioning
Authors: García-Rodicio Héctor
Published: May 2014

In one experiment 97 undergraduate students learned about plate tectonics from a multimedia presentation involving narrated animations and support in one of four forms. Support in the prompting condition included hints inducing participants to self-explain critical information. The signaling condition included overviews recapping critical information. The questioning condition included questions about critical information and feedback on participants' answers. The control condition included no support. Participants in the questioning condition outperformed those in the rest of conditions in retention and transfer. This means that questioning is a very powerful technique for promoting multimedia learning.
Interactive Computer-Supported Learning in Mathematics: A Comparison of Three Learning Programs on Trigonometry
Authors: Sander Elisabeth , Heiß Andrea
Published: May 2014

Three different versions of a learning program on trigonometry were compared, a program controlled, non-interactive version (CG), an interactive, conflict inducing version (EG 1), and an interactive one which was supposed to reduce the occurrence of a cognitive conflict regarding the central problem solution (EG 2). Pupils ( N = 101) of a “Realschule” all aged 16 or 17, took part in the study. The pupils were assigned to the three groups by chance. Before the learning session, the pupils' prior knowledge and numeric processing capacity was tested. During the learning session (about 45 minutes) each pupil was working with one of the programs. Immediately after the learning session a post-test, testing the pupils' learning performance, and an affect scale were applied. Six weeks later a follow-up testing the learning performance was carried out. In the post-test, the subjects of the EG 1 achieved better results than the other two groups; nevertheless, the difference was not significant. There was a significant interaction effect: the pupils of the EG 1 with high prior knowledge showed a significantly better performance than those with low prior knowledge. Six weeks later the EG 1 achieved significantly better results than the other two groups. There was no longer an interaction effect. The emotions remembered by the three groups were significantly different. The high interest of the pupils of EG 1 was not responsible for the superiority of this group. The results are discussed in regard to classroom instruction and further research studies.
Measuring Reading Behavior: Examining the Predictive Validity of Print-Exposure Checklists
Authors: Rain Marina , Mar Raymond A.
Published: May 2014

Print-exposure checklists offer an indirect index of reading behavior. The present study examined whether performance on a print-exposure checklist could predict reading-related behavior in the form of online shopping intentions. A total of 232 participants completed a print-exposure checklist and an online shopping task, creating a “wishlist” of desired items. Individuals who wished to purchase fiction books scored higher on fiction print-exposure than those who did not. There was little difference in nonfiction printexposure between those who wished to purchase nonfiction books and those who did not. This study provides some evidence for the validity of genre-specific checklist measures of print-exposure by demonstrating an association with shopping intentions, but more work is needed to further explore the lack of association observed for nonfiction print-exposure.
Evaluation Of Different Probing Systems Used In Articulated Arm Coordinate Measuring Machines
Authors: Brau Agustín , Valenzuela Margarita , Santolaria Jorge , Aguilar Juan José
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a comparison of different techniques to capture nominal data for its use in later verification and kinematic parameter identification procedures for articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMM). By using four different probing systems (passive spherical probe, active spherical probe, self-centering passive probe and self-centering active probe) the accuracy and repeatability of captured points has been evaluated by comparing these points to nominal points materialized by a ball-bar gauge distributed in several positions of the measurement volume. Then, by comparing these systems it is possible to characterize the influence of the force over the final results for each of the gauge and probing system configurations. The results with each of the systems studied show the advantages and original accuracy obtained by active probes, and thus their suitability in verification (active probes) and kinematic parameter identification (self-centering active probes) procedures.
An On-Site Calibration System for Electronic Instrument Transformers Based on Labview
Authors: Zhang Ming , Li Kaicheng , Wang Jun , He Shunfan
Published: May 2014

Electronic voltage transformers (EVT) and electronic current transformers (ECT) are important instruments in a digital substation. For simple, rapid and convenient development, the paper proposed an on-site calibration system for electronic instrument transformers based on LabVIEW. In the system, analog signal sampling precision and dynamic range are guaranteed by the Agilent 3458A digital multimeter, and data synchronization is also achieved based on a self-developed PCI synchronization card. To improve the measurement accuracy, an error correction algorithm based on the Hanning window interpolation FFT has good suppression of frequency fluctuation and inter-harmonics interference. The human-computer interface and analysis algorithm are designed based on LabVIEW, and the adaptive communication technology is designed based on IEC61850 9-1/2. The calibration system can take into account pairs of digital output and analog output of the electronic voltage/current transformer calibration. The results of system tests show that the calibration system can meet the requirements of 0.2 class calibration accuracy, and the actual type test and on-site calibration also show that the system is easy to operate with convenience and satisfactory stability.
Local attractivity in nonautonomous semilinear evolution equations
Authors: Blot Joël , Buşe Constantin , Cieutat Philippe
Published: May 2014

We study the local attractivity of mild solutions of equations in the form u’(t) = A(t)u(t) + f (t, u(t)), where A(t) are (possible) unbounded linear operators in a Banach space and where f is a (possible) nonlinear mapping. Under conditions of exponential stability of the linear part, we establish the local attractivity of various kinds of mild solutions. To obtain these results we provide several results on the Nemytskii operators on the space of the functions which converge to zero at infinity
GIS-based examination of peats and soils in Surfers Paradise, Australia
Authors: Al-Ani Haider , Oh Erwin , Chai Gary
Published: May 2014

The subsoil conditions of Surfers Paradise in Southeast Queensland of Australia have been examined in terms of soil stiffness by using geographic information system (GIS). Peat is a highly organic and compressible material. Surfers Paradise (as a study area) has problematic peat layer due to its high water content, high compressibility, and low shear strength. This layer has various thicknesses at different locations ranging between R.L. . 10 to R.L. -19.6 m. Buildings in Surfers Paradise are using piled foundations to avoid the high compressibility and low shear strength peat layer. Spatial Analyst extension in the GIS ArcMap10 has been utilised to develop zonation maps for different depths in the study area. Each depth has been interpolated as a surface to create Standard Penetration Test SPT-N value GIS-based zonation maps for each depth. In addition, 8 interpolation techniques have been examined to evaluate which technique gives better representation for the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) data. Inverse Distance weighing (IDW) method in Spatial Analyst extension gives better representation for the utilised data with certain parameters. Two different cross sections have been performed in the core of the study area to determine the extent and the depth of the peat layer underneath already erected buildings. Physical and engineering properties of the Surfers Paradise peat have been obtained and showed that this peat falls within the category of tropical peat.
A low-cost, sustainable, second generation system for surveillance of people living with HIV in Spain: 10-year trends in behavioural and clinical indicators, 2002 to 2011
Authors: Diez M , Diaz A , Garriga C , Pons M , Ten A , Marcos H , Gutiérrez G , Moreno S , González-García J , Barrios A M , Arponen S , García M T , Royo M C , Toledo J , González G , Aranguren R , Izquierdo A , Viloria L J , Elizalde L , Martínez E , Castrillejo D , López I , Redondo C , Cano A , the Hospital Survey Study Group collective
Published: May 2014

A second-generation surveillance system of people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been implemented in Spain. Behavioural and clinical data were collected between 2002 and 2011 through an annual one-day, cross-sectional survey in public hospitals, including all in- and outpatients receiving HIV-related care on the survey day. Mean age increased over time (from 38.7 years in 2002 to 43.8 years in 2011) and 68.4% of the 7,205 subjects were male. The proportion of migrants increased from 6.1% to 15.9%, while people who inject or used to inject drugs (PWID and Ex-PWID) decreased and men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexuals increased. Unprotected intercourse at last sex increased among MSM and PWID/Ex-PWID. Patients receiving antiretroviral treatment increased significantly from 76.0% to 88.2% as did those with CD4 T-cell counts ≥350 (from 48.2% to 66.9%) and viral copies <200 (from 47.0% to 85.2%). HIV-infected people with hepatitis C virus RNA decreased from 36.0% in 2004 to 29.9% in 2011, while those with HBsAg remained stable at around 4.4%. Implementation of a low-cost, sustainable system for second-generation surveillance in people living with HIV is feasible. In Spain, the information obtained has helped to define and refine public health policy and document treatment effectiveness.
The Use of Multimedia Technology in English Language Teaching: A Global Perspective
Authors: Pun Min
Published: May 2014

This paper aims to analyze the use of technology to English language teaching in the non-native speaking countries and to bring out the problems faced by both teachers and learners of English. The rapid development of science and technology such as multimedia technology has offered a better tool to explore the new teaching method. In fact, multimedia technology has played an important role in English language teaching, especially, in the non-native speaking of English situations. It also aims to make non-native speakers of English as language teachers aware of the strategies to use it in an effective manner. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ctbijis.v1i1.10466   Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Vol.1(1) 2013; 29-38
Evolutionary Implications of Metal Binding Features in Different Species’ Prion Protein: An Inorganic Point of View
Authors: La Mendola Diego , Rizzarelli Enrico
Published: May 2014

Prion disorders are a group of fatal neurodegenerative conditions of mammals. The key molecular event in the pathogenesis of such diseases is the conformational conversion of prion protein, PrPC, into a misfolded form rich in β-sheet structure, PrPSc, but the detailed mechanistic aspects of prion protein conversion remain enigmatic. There is uncertainty on the precise physiological function of PrPC in healthy individuals. Several evidences support the notion of its role in copper homeostasis. PrPC binds Cu2+ mainly through a domain composed by four to five repeats of eight amino acids. In addition to mammals, PrP homologues have also been identified in birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. The globular domain of protein is retained in the different species, suggesting that the protein carries out an essential common function. However, the comparison of amino acid sequences indicates that prion protein has evolved differently in each vertebrate class. The primary sequences are strongly conserved in each group, but these exhibit a low similarity with those of mammals. The N-terminal domain of different prions shows tandem amino acid repeats with an increasing amount of histidine residues going from amphibians to mammals. The difference in the sequence affects the number of copper binding sites, the affinity and the coordination environment of metal ions, suggesting that the involvement of prion in metal homeostasis may be a specific characteristic of mammalian prion protein. In this review, we describe the similarities and the differences in the metal binding of different species’ prion protein, as revealed by studies carried out on the entire protein and related peptide fragments.
Breaking the Gingival Epithelial Barrier: Role of the Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Cytolethal Distending Toxin in Oral Infectious Disease
Authors: DiRienzo Joseph
Published: May 2014

The Gram-negative bacterium Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is part of the HACEK group that causes infective endocarditis, a constituent of the oral flora that promotes some forms of periodontal disease and a member of the family of species that secrete a cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt). The family of bacteria that express the cdt genes participate in diseases that involve the disruption of a mucosal or epithelial layer. In vitro studies have shown that human gingival epithelial cells (HGEC) are native targets of the Cdt that typically induces DNA damage that signals growth arrest at the G2/M interphase of the cell cycle. The gingival epithelium is an early line of defense in the oral cavity against microbial assault. When damaged, bacteria collectively gain entry into the underlying connective tissue where microbial products can affect processes and pathways in infiltrating inflammatory cells culminating in the destruction of the attachment apparatus of the tooth. One approach has been the use of an ex vivo gingival explant model to assess the effects of the Cdt on the morphology and integrity of the tissue. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of these studies and to critically examine the potential contribution of the Cdt to the breakdown of the protective gingival barrier.
Keratoacanthoma Pathobiology in Mouse Models
Authors: Gibson-Corley Katherine , Rogers Laura , Goeken Adam , Dupuy Adam , Meyerholz David
Published: May 2014

Recently we described skin tumors driven by skin-specific expression of Zmiz1 and here we define keratoacanthoma pathobiology in this mouse model. Similar to human keratoacanthoma development, we were able to segregate murine keratoacanthomas into three developmental phases: growth, maturation, and regression. These tumors had areas with cellular atypia, high mitotic rate, and minor local invasion in the growth phase, but with development they transitioned to maturation and regression phases with evidence of resolution. The early aggressive appearance could easily be misdiagnosed as a malignant change if the natural pathobiology was not well-defined in the model. To corroborate these findings in the Zmiz1 model, we examined squamous skin tumors from another tumor study in aging mice, and these tumors followed a similar biological progression. Lastly, we were able to evaluate the utility of the model to assess immune cell infiltration (F4/80, B220 Granzyme B, CD3 cells, arginase-1) in the regression phase; however, because inflammation was present at all phases of development, a more comprehensive approach will be needed in future investigations. Our study of keratoacanthomas in selected murine models suggests that these squamous tumors can appear histologically aggressive during early development, but with time will enter a regression phase indicating a benign biology. Importantly, studies of squamous skin tumor models should be cautious in tumor diagnosis as the early growth distinction between malignant versus benign based solely on histopathology may not be easily discerned without longitudinal studies to confirm the tumor pathobiology.
Reviewing Microgrids from a Multi-Agent Systems Perspective
Authors: Gomez-Sanz Jorge , Garcia-Rodriguez Sandra , Cuartero-Soler Nuria , Hernandez-Callejo Luis
Published: May 2014

The construction of Smart Grids leads to the main question of what kind of intelligence such grids require and how to build it. Some authors choose an agent based solution to realize this intelligence. However, there may be some misunderstandings in the way this technology is being applied. This paper exposes some considerations of this subject, focusing on the Microgrid level, and shows a practical example through INGENIAS methodology, which is a methodology for the development of Agent Oriented systems that applies Model Driven Development techniques to produce fully functional Multi-Agent Systems.
Determining the Maximum Depth of Hydrothermal Circulation Using Geothermal Mapping and Seismicity to Delineate the Depth to Brittle-Plastic Transition in Northern Honshu, Japan
Authors: Suzuki Yota , Ioka Seiichiro , Muraoka Hirofumi
Published: May 2014

This paper defines the maximum possible vertical extent of hydrothermal circulation in granitic crust, and thus the maximum depth within which geothermal reservoirs can be encountered. To evaluate prospective geothermal fields we constructed a geothermal database in northern Honshu, Japan that includes 571 points of thermal data of existing wells and hot springs. Depth-temperature curves were normalized by the Activity Index for three-dimensional extrapolation and a depth contour map of the 380 °C isotherm was plotted as an assumed brittle-plastic transition for granitic crust. Shallower-depth anomalies of the brittle-plastic transition on this map are closely coincident with the Quaternary volcanoes and their prospective geothermal fields. It should be noted that the bottom of the spatial distribution of seismicity in the volcanic fields shows strong correlation to the 380 °C isotherm. This result indicates reliability of the subsurface three-dimensional thermal map and suggests that the 380 °C isotherm strongly constrains the bottom surface of seismicity, fracturing and hydrothermal convection in granitic crust.