bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Results of the use of Kahoot! gamification tool in a course of Chemistry
Authors: Bernal José , Ares Ana María , Bernal Jorge , Nozal María Jesús , Sánchez Francisco Javier
Published: July 2018

The present study examines the use of Kahoot! as a gamification tool to explore mixed learning strategies. We analyze its use in two different groups of a theoretical subject of the third course of the Degree in Chemistry. An empirical-analytical methodology was used using Kahoot! in two different groups of students, with different frequencies. The academic results of these two group of students were compared between them and with those obtained in the previous course, in which Kahoot! was not employed, with the aim of measuring the evolution in the students´ knowledge. The results showed, in all cases, that the use of Kahoot! has led to a significant increase in the overall marks, and in the number of students who passed the subject. Moreover, some differences were also observed in students´ academic performance according to the group. Finally, it can be concluded that the use of a gamification tool (Kahoot!) in a university classroom had generally improved students´ learning and marks, and that this improvement is more prevalent in those students who have achieved a better Kahoot! performance.
Engineering Graphics Concept Inventory: Instrument Development and Item Selection
Authors: Nabutola Kaloki , Steinhauer Heidi , Nozaki Steven , Study Nancy , Sadowski Mary
Published: July 2018

More reliable instruments need to be developed to assess curricula and measure student learning. It is important to ensure that students properly understand fundamental concepts, as scaffolding learning on a poor foundation can have a negative cascading effect. A concept inventory is an example of an instrument that aims to assess student learning and identifying their misconceptions. Such an instrument is typically comprised of an assessment whose items are prudently chosen to test understanding of a single concept per item. The result of this careful selection of items for the Engineering Graphics Concept Inventory resulted in a 30-question multiple choice instrument that can be used to identify deep-seated misconceptions and to assess course outcomes. This paper will outline the development of the Engineering Graphics Concept Inventory, focusing specifically on developing distractors and the selection process for the items in the instrument. The instrument will provide a means to assess and streamline curricula for engineering graphics educators.
Initiating a Translational Bio-Mathematics Research Seminar for Undergraduate Students
Authors: Turian Emma , Filus Lidia
Published: July 2018

The aim of this paper is to illustrate the benefits and the drawbacks of an experimental process on how to develop and teach an interdisciplinary applied math course. The analysis comes from our experience gained during the development and teaching of a temporary seminar called: Mathematical Modeling for Cancer Risk Assessment, implemented at our University. The need for the initiation of such an interdisciplinary course came from an increasing national effort started by Mathematical Association of America’s “Curriculum Foundations Project: Voices of the Partner Disciplines”. Their study found that research in biology and health-related fields has become more quantitatively oriented than in the past, therefore mathematical curricula should incorporate interdisciplinary modulation. Our seminar instruction included: writing and mathematical software skills, content lecture, project development and presentation. Results showed that students best interact with each other if work is performed during class time; mainly if a large project with possible variations is developed in class, so students or groups of students follow using the same pace. Implementing such interdisciplinary course that provided students with appropriate tools and methodologies, contributed to student retention, and increased students’ enthusiasm towards future research programs, carriers, and graduate schools.
Comparative analysis of career choices by students in Latvia and the UK
Authors: Bikse Veronika , Lūsēna - Ezera Inese , Libkovska Una , Rivža Baiba
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this research study is to examine theoretical findings and, based on them, to identify the career choice factors that affect Latvian and UK secondary school students’ occupational interests. The research was based on the theoretical concepts of the occupational interests, and the data gained from a survey of Latvian and UK secondary school students. The results of the research indicate that the most essential factors that help individuals to choose a career is to understand their own interests and explore their own capabilities. Also, learning experience and parents' advice is important for them. The occupational interests of the students, who were interviewed, are not harmonized with the demand in the economy.
Use of Software Tools for Real-time Monitoring of Learning Processes: Application to Compilers subject.
Authors: Sánchez Francisco Javier , Bernal Jorge
Published: July 2018

The effective implementation of the Higher European Education Area has meant a change regarding the focus of the learning process, being now the student at its very center. This shift of focus requires a strong involvement and fluent communication between teachers and students to succeed. Considering the difficulties associated to motivate students to take a more active role in the learning process, we explore how the use of a software tool can help both actors to improve the learning experience. We present a tool that can help students to obtain instantaneous feedback with respect to their progress in the subject as well as providing teachers with useful information about the evolution of knowledge acquisition with respect to each of the subject areas. We compare the performance achieved by students in two academic years: results show an improvement in overall performance which, after observing graphs provided by our tool, can be associated to an increase in students interest in the subject.
Study-related Use of Instructional Videos by Undergraduate Engineering Students
Authors: Hennig Markus , Mertsching Bärbel
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a questionnaire-based survey on the use of online videos by undergraduate engineering students for study-related purposes is presented. Over the last few years, a large number of instructional videos has been uploaded to websites such as YouTube. Due to the widespread distribution of high-speed internet connections and (mobile) devices, such as smartphones or laptops, which are nowadays routinely used by students, online videos are also frequently used in higher education. While much research on this subject focuses on Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) or flipped classroom approaches, this survey examines use of videos for self-study, complementary to traditional face-to-face courses. Furthermore, we analyze the acceptance of a characteristic video production style, which uses specific 3D animations to clarify complex connections between technical and mathematical aspects. The results indicate extensive use of short videos which address subjects that are particularly difficult for the students. This survey can help educators to develop an impression of current video use by undergraduate engineering students. In this paper, a questionnaire-based survey on the use of online videos by undergraduate engineering students for study-related purposes is presented. Especially over the last few years, a large number of instructional videos has been uploaded to websites such as YouTube. Due to the widespread distribution of high-speed internet connections and (mobile) devices, such as smartphones or laptops, which are nowadays routinely used by students, online videos are also frequently used in higher education. While much research on this subject focuses on Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) or flipped classroom approaches, this survey examines usage behavior concerning the apparently much more common use of videos for self-study, complementary to traditional face-to-face courses. Furthermore, we analyze the acceptance of a characteristic video production style using specific 3D animations to clarify complex connections between technical and mathematical aspects. The results indicate that short videos addressing subjects that are particularly difficult for the students are extensively used. Additionally, this survey can help educators to develop a realistic understanding of current video use by undergraduate engineering students.
International academic mobility: the attraction factors of Brazilians students in Spain
Authors: Kingeski Luciano , Olivella Nadal Jordi
Published: July 2018

The mobility of university students abroad is a phenomenon of great importance in the context of globalization and internationalization of higher education. Certain factors, such as the image of the institution, the country, the city, the evaluation of the study program, the cost, selection processes and even personal resources can determine the destination country. This article seeks to identify the attraction factors for which Brazilian university students choose Spanish universities to carry out their higher education. An exploratory study of a qualitative nature was conducted, a semi-structured questionnaire applied to twenty-eight Brazilian students of official rank: graduation, master's degree and doctorate. Data analysis was based on the assessment of attraction factors. The results indicate that the language, the tradition of the Spanish universities, the scholarships of the country of origin and the more flexible selection processes are important factors in the decision of these subjects. Spain is an option for many international students and the flow of Brazilian students to this country is significant, the authors also consider that these flows may be much larger in the future.
Realignment Course in Mathematics: design of an online valuable experience for students
Authors: Barana Alice , Bogino Alessandro , Fioravera Michele , Floris Francesco , Marchisio Marina
Published: July 2018

Supporting students in the transition from secondary school to university is an important action to be taken in order to increase the number of people with tertiary education degrees; it has positive consequences on the citizens’ working perspective and on the national economic growth. To this purpose, in the academic year 2014/2015 the University of Turin started the Project Orient@mente, a platform of self-paced open online courses aimed to guide students in the choice of a scientific university program.  This paper focuses on the design of the Realignment Course in Mathematics, provided by the platform and aimed at the self-paced review and integration of knowledge that students are required to acquire during secondary school. Materials are created and structured according to the User Experience Design for Learning, with the aim of providing a valuable learning experience to students. Contents are delivered through an accessible learning management system integrated with an advanced computing environment and an automatic assessment system. Data from the usage of the activities and from the results of the online tests are analyzed in order to validate the design choices and the coherent structure of the course.
Dyslexic students: from language learning to language testing
Authors: Pelleriti Margherita
Published: July 2018

This paper will focus on the delicate issue of assessing the language proficiency of dyslexic students in a foreign language, namely English. These learners are usually considered a sub-group of test takers because of their specific learning differences. An overview of dyslexia will be presented, shedding light on the difficulties encountered by dyslexic students during their learning process. Some of the accommodations used during the learning process will be illustrated, along with the accommodations and/or modifications allowed during language testing. Attention will also be paid to fairness and validity represented by accommodations. Moreover, the special requirements allowed by international examination boards during their high-stakes tests will be analysed. Finally, this paper will illustrate what the Italian Law takes into account for dyslexic students and how it is applied at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy.Keywords: dyslexia; SpLDs; language testing; learning differences; accommodations; testing validity.
Azerbaijan Education System: Transition from Traditional to Modern Teaching and Learning Strategies. A Review of Literature
Authors: Mammadova Samira , Musayeva Aygun , Jafarov Elchin , Badalov Bakhtiyar
Published: July 2018

Education plays important role in the society and in the everyday lives of plenty of people. Education influences people in different ways, and the significance of high quality education is indisputable. Particularly, innovation in education is a light that shows the humankind the right direction to surge. The advancement of the society directly dependent on the development of education and its quality. The fact is that, technological progress and innovative technologies application in education system bring new tools for struggling with complicated obligations in education systems. People get opportunities to express themselves, communicate and interact with other peoples in local, national and global context by using innovative technologies in education. The main purpose of study is to examine traditional and modern, innovative methods of teaching and learning, to explore the impact of these methods on educational environment and specifically discuss different teaching and learning methods regarding Azerbaijan education system.
Editorial
Authors: Sankaran Shankar
Published: July 2018

Dear readersWelcome to the first issue of the Journal of Project, Program & Portfolio Management....
The program management process with sustainability considerations
Authors: Tam Gilman
Published: July 2018

Program management has been widely accepted as an effective tool for making strategic and tactical changes. A brief review of the program management process showed that the ambiguity-reduction learning loop together with the uncertainty-reduction performance loop would make program management a feasible sustainability-oriented management tool for addressing the needs of a sustainable society. The requirements and impacts of sustainability are becoming important considerations in formulating a program; however, not much related literature can be found within the project management body of knowledge. This paper aims to facilitate the understanding of “Sustainability in Program Management”. Sustainability considerations adopting a three pillars approach is proposed. A “Program Sustainability Assessment Framework” is constructed to help the program manager incorporate sustainability considerations into program management practices. The key factors for aligning program sustainability to corporate sustainability strategy are also discussed.
Discussion forum rubrics: Using rubrics to enhance and increase project management students' participation in online discussions
Authors: Lee Margaret Ruth , Carstens Deborah S , Malone Linda C
Published: July 2018

This paper examines the impact of using a discussion forum grading rubric to encourage and enhance discussions (posts) in an online introduction to project management course. The study consists of 53 Master of Business Administration (MBA) students enrolled in three sections of the course from October 2010 to May 2011. A control group of 20 students was compared to two experimental groups of 16 and 17 students respectively. The two experimental groups were given the specific grading rubric and instructions designed to encourage online conversation; the control group was not. The results indicate that there was a statistical difference in average postings per student between the two experimental groups and the control group but no statistical difference between the two experimental groups. The results suggest that the use of a rubric specifically designed to engage the student and expand the student's learning experience can increase online classroom participation and, as a consequence, enhance the educational experience for the online project management student and strengthen the university's MBA program.
Editorial
Authors: Pasian Beverly , Sankaran Shankar
Published: July 2018

The main purpose of this special issue is to provide a forum to explore how the possibility for online delivery of education was being embraced by the project management community. I was interested in the answers to several questions. How were online delivery opportunities being explored by project management educators? Was the design of the project management  curriculum being affected by the possibilities for online delivery? What was the actual impact of online delivery for the development of project managers’ skills and knowledge?
Editorial - Special Issue: Organisational Project Management
Authors: Williams Nigel , Pasian Beverly
Published: July 2018

Organisational Project Management (OPM) is an emergent paradigm that examines the nature of project, program and portfolio (PPP) activities within the context of an enterprise. This view incorporates the three roles for which PPP’s are formulated and deployed: execution, adaptation and transformation. This special issue has been designed to showcase researchers and project managers whose work highlights each of these roles.
Choosing the appropriate project management structure, project financing, land acquisition and contractual process for Indian railway mega-projects: a case study of the Dedicated Freight Corridor project
Authors: Nag Bodhibrata , Singh Jeetendra , Tiwari Ved Mani
Published: July 2018

A large number of railway mega-projects are planned or are under implementation for capacity augmentation, for serving the needs of trade, specific regions or industry sectors. Since transport capacity is one of the main levers of economic progress, it is essential that augmentation of transport capacity is not held up. It is therefore essential to choose the appropriate project management structure, project financing, land acquisition and contractual process to ensure design, construction and commissioning of projects without cost and time overruns. These choices have to be made keeping in view the context of the organisational technical capacity, financial capability, contractor capacity, and industry and trade growth pattern. This paper examines the various project management structures, methods of project financing, land acquisition and contractual processes along with their advantages and disadvantages. The paper takes the specific case of the Dedicated Freight Corridor project to examine the appropriateness of options.
Editorial
Authors: Adler Daniel , Sankaran Shankar
Published: July 2018

Dear Readers Welcome to the sixth issue of the Journal of Project, Program & Portfolio Management. This issue is late for very good reasons. We started out with a call to emerging researchers in project management to submit a paper and offered them guidance as well. We thank all the reviewers who spent more time than they normally would have to provide detailed comments and suggestions to the authors to get the papers into shape. We also achieved one more aim of the journal by being able to publish papers from authors from around the world. Thus we have articles from Poland, Brazil and India and a case study form India as well. The first paper in this issue is by Beata Jalocha, who has recently completed her PhD from Jagellionian University, Poland. She has reflected on the concept of projectification and its impact on public organisations in Poland. Her research concludes that while European Union-funded projects are successfully completed in Poland they are still falling behind in creating the value expected by the communities they were intended to benefit. The second paper from four researchers in Brazil proposes that knowledge management can contribute to project management by helping in project integration and thus contributing to corporate sustainability. The third paper from India by Shah and Janardhanan addresses an important concern that educational institutions offering programs in project management are faced with — how to provide superior student experiences to students both with and without experience to acquire leadership competencies that require hard and soft skills. The case study by Nag, Singh and Tiwary addresses the issue of the contribution of transport capacity as an economic lever by examining a dedicated freight corridor conceived by Indian Railways. Enjoy! Daniel Adler & Shankar Sankaran
Cost–benefit analysis of a staff recreation centre project: build or lease? – A Case Study
Authors: Singhania Monica
Published: July 2018

This case study aims at comprehensively assessing a decision by XYZ Ltd (name withheld due to confidentiality), New Delhi, on whether to build or to lease a recreation centre for its rank-and-file employees. Based on a cost–benefit analysis, we concluded that the centre should be built since the company would recover its investment within 11 years. Apart from the financial considerations, the recreation centre could be considered a long-term investment in employee morale, as it would lead to a better quality of life for the staff and their families, and is likely to enhance their sense of belonging and improve productivity. To date, what little space there is available for hosting family functions is reserved for the use of the officers, and only officers and their families are invited to most company functions. Thus, the other employees feel neglected by the management. Hiring a community centre external to the organisation for a function would involve spending a lot of money as the company is located in a prime real estate area where the cost of land and rentals is huge, and sometimes even availability is an issue. Most of the staff cannot afford such places and are generally under a lot of stress whenever they have a family function. This, in turn, tends to affect their productivity.
Critical analysis of existing business process reengineering models: towards the development of a comprehensive integrated model
Authors: Hussein Bassam , Bazzi Hassan , Dayekh Ayman , Hassan Walid
Published: July 2018

Over the past two decades, business process reengineering (BPR) has been one of the most popular approaches to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of an organisation. However, a review of the relevant literature reveals that available BPR models that have been widely in use have some serious limitations and fail to take into consideration the human factor and change management. The theoretical gap identified in academic research is also reflected in industrial practice. This article analyses existing BPR models in order to set the stage for the development of a comprehensive integrated model to address their theoretical deficiencies. The article will provide an overview of the main issues, limitations and challenges of existing BPR models. The limitations will then be itemised, described and analysed to provide evidence for the need of a more systematic model that would help organisations to successfully carry out BPR initiatives and projects.
Editorial
Authors: Dwivedula Ravikiran
Published: July 2018

Editorial For Vol 4 No 1.
Role and impact of social relationships and networks in a software project team environment – a conceptual framework
Authors: Leonard Awie
Published: July 2018

The establishment of social relationships between information technology (IT) project team members is a phenomenon all IT professionals are exposed to and, in many cases, involved in. Furthermore, these relationships are used by IT project team members for personal as well as professional purposes. The question is what positive or negative contributions do these kinds of relationships have on the project itself? Past studies have placed little focus on these social relationships and networks, and have failed to take cognisance of their importance in the IT project environment. This paper demonstrates that social relationships and networks in the IT project environment play a significant role in project teams and should be managed in such a way that the team members and the project as a whole can benefit from them. A partial grounded theory (GT) research approach was followed. Interpretive patterns from GT enabled inferences to be drawn about the role and impact of social relationships and networks in IT project teams. The research findings provide practical considerations and highlight potential problem areas. A conceptual framework is proposed to support management in decision making and to give them a better understanding of the complexities involved in such relationships.
Multi-year statistical and modeling analysis of submicrometer aerosol number size distributions at a rain forest site in Amazonia
Authors: Varanda Rizzo Luciana , Roldin Pontus , Brito Joel , Backman John , Swietlicki Erik , Krejci Radovan , Tunved Peter , Petäjä Tukka , Kulmala Markku , Artaxo Paulo
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The Amazon Basin is a unique region to study atmospheric aerosols, given
their relevance for the regional hydrological cycle and the large uncertainty of
their sources. Multi-year datasets are crucial when contrasting periods of
natural conditions and periods influenced by anthropogenic emissions. In the
wet season, biogenic sources and processes prevail, and the Amazonian
atmospheric composition resembles preindustrial conditions. In the dry
season, the basin is influenced by widespread biomass burning emissions. This
work reports multi-year observations of high time resolution submicrometer
(10–600 nm) particle number size distributions at a rain forest site in
Amazonia (TT34 tower, 60 km NW from Manaus city), between 2008 and 2010 and
2012 and 2014. The median particle number concentration was 403 cm−3 in the wet
season and 1254 cm−3 in the dry season. The Aitken mode
(∼ 30–100 nm in diameter) was prominent during the wet season, while the accumulation mode
(∼ 100–600 nm in diameter) dominated the particle size spectra during
the dry season. Cluster analysis identified groups of aerosol number size
distributions influenced by convective downdrafts, nucleation events and fresh
biomass burning emissions. New particle formation and subsequent growth was
rarely observed during the 749 days of observations, similar to previous
observations in the Amazon Basin. A stationary 1-D column model (ADCHEM –
Aerosol Dynamics, gas and particle phase CHEMistry and radiative transfer
model) was used to assess the importance of the processes behind the observed diurnal
particle size distribution trends. Three major particle source types are
required in the model to reproduce the observations: (i) a surface source of
particles in the evening, possibly related to primary biological emissions;
(ii) entrainment of accumulation mode aerosols in the morning; and (iii)
convective downdrafts transporting Aitken mode particles into the boundary
layer mostly during the afternoon. The latter process has the largest
influence on the modeled particle number size distributions. However,
convective downdrafts are often associated with rain and, thus, act as both a
source of Aitken mode particles and a sink of accumulation mode
particles, causing a net reduction in the median total particle number
concentrations in the surface layer. Our study shows that the combination of
the three mentioned particle sources is essential to sustain particle number
concentrations in Amazonia.
Reduction in black carbon light absorption due to multi-pollutant emission control during APEC China 2014
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Li Xin , Li Meng , Zheng Yixuan , Geng Guannan , Hong Chaopeng , Li Haiyan , Tong Dan , Zhang Xin , Cheng Yafang , Su Hang , He Kebin , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Reducing black carbon (BC) emissions has been recognized as an
efficient way to simultaneously improve air quality and mitigate climate
change. However, the benefits of BC emission controls are not well
quantified,
partly due to a lack of understanding of the changes in BC light absorption
as a result of emission reductions. In this work, we discuss the effects of
multi-pollutant emission reductions on BC light absorption based on a
field campaign study conducted before, during and after the 2014 APEC
(Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) meeting in Beijing, China. When emission
restrictions were in place during APEC, we found that the reduction in the
light absorption of BC-containing particles was driven by both the decrease
in BC mass concentration and the weakened light-absorption capability of BC.
Compared with that before and after APEC, the daytime light absorption of
BC-containing particles during APEC was reduced by ∼56 %, of which
∼48% was contributed by the decrease in BC mass concentration and the
remaining ∼8 % was contributed by a weakening of light-absorption
capability for BC. Based on single-particle soot photometer (SP2)
measurements
and Mie calculations, we estimated that the light-absorption capability of
BC-containing particles with ∼80–200 nm refractory BC (rBC) cores in
daytime during APEC was reduced by ∼6–15 % and ∼10–20 %
compared with those before and after APEC, respectively. The decrease in BC
light-absorption capability could be attributed to less coating material on
BC surfaces as a result of the decreased chemical production of secondary
aerosols. Compared with that before and after APEC, the mass ratio between
the coating materials and rBC core (∼80–200 nm) during APEC decreased
by ∼10–30 % and ∼31–53 %, respectively, due to reductions in
coating precursor emissions, e.g., SO2 and NO2. The
results reveal the benefits of emission control on BC light absorption by
simultaneously reducing the mass concentration and light-absorption
capability of BC, implying that synergetic reduction in multiple-pollutant
emissions could benefit both air quality and climate.
EuBrewNet – A European Brewer network (COST Action ES1207), an overview
Authors: Rimmer John S. , Redondas Alberto , Karppinen Tomi
Published: July 2018

Abstract. COST Action ES1207, EuBrewNet, was proposed to coordinate Brewer spectrophotometer measurements of ozone, spectral UV and aerosol optical depth (AOD-UV) in the UV within Europe, and unite the ozone, UV and AOD communities, through a formally managed European Brewer Network capable of delivering a consistent, spatially homogeneous European data resource. With emphasis on the ozone measurements, an overview is given of new calibration and instrument characterization procedures, which are then incorporated into new algorithms for the determination of total column ozone taking account of non-linearities and stray light effects within the spectrometer. A new near real time database is described where all raw data are processed centrally and subjected to the same quality control criteria. Data products are produced in levels that reflect the stages of quality control applied from initial near real time to final archive quality for trend analysis. Work is ongoing to complete similar procedures for the UV and AOD-UV data products. Governance of the new network, which has already expanded beyond the boundaries of Europe, will be overseen directly by the WMO Scientific Advisory Groups.
Characterisation of biofluorescent aerosol emissions over winter and summer periods in the United Kingdom
Authors: Forde Elizabeth , Gallagher Martin , Foot Virginia , Sarda-Esteve Roland , Crawford Ian , Kaye Paul , Stanley Warren , Topping David
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Primary biological aerosol particles (PBAP) are an abundant subset of atmospheric aerosol particles which comprise viruses, bacteria, fungal spores, pollen, and fragments such as plant and animal debris. The abundance and diversity of these particles remain poorly constrained, causing significant uncertainties for modelling scenarios and for understanding the potential implications of these particles in different environments. PBAP concentrations were studied at four different sites in the United Kingdom (Weybourne, Davidstow, Capel Dewi, and Chilbolton) using an ultra-violet light induced fluorescence (UV-LIF) instrument, the Wideband Integrated Bioaerosol Spectrometer (WIBS), versions 3 and 4. Using hierarchical agglomerative cluster (HAC) analysis, particles were statistically discriminated between. Fluorescent particles and clusters were then analysed by assessing their diurnal variation and their relationship to the meteorological variables, temperature and relative humidity, and wind speed and direction. Using local land cover types, sources of the suspected fluorescent particles and clusters were then identified. Most sites exhibited a wet discharged fungal spore dominance, with the exception of one site, Davidstow, which had higher concentrations of bacteria, suggested to result from the presence of a local dairy factory. Differences were identified as to the sources of wet discharged fungal spores, with particles originating from arable and horticultural land at Chilbolton, and improved grassland areas at Weybourne. Total fluorescent particles at Capel Dewi were inferred to comprise two sources, with bacteria originating from the broadleaf and coniferous woodland and wet discharged fungal spores from nearby improved grassland areas, similar to Weybourne. The use of HAC and a higher fluorescence threshold (9SD) produced clusters which were considered to be biological following the complete analysis. More knowledge of the reaction of speciated biological particles to differences in meteorology, such as relative humidity and temperature would aid characterisation studies such as this.
Probabilistic short term wind power forecasts using deep neural networks with discrete target classes
Authors: Felder Martin , Sehnke Frank , Ohnmeiß Kay , Schröder Leon , Junk Constantin , Kaifel Anton
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Usually, neural networks trained on historical feed-in time series
of wind turbines deterministically predict power output over the next hours
to days. Here, the training goal is to minimise a scalar cost function, often
the root mean square error (RMSE) between network output and target values.
Yet similar to the analog ensemble (AnEn) method, the training algorithm can
also be adapted to analyse the uncertainty of the power output from the
spread of possible targets found in the historical data for a certain
meteorological situation. In this study, the uncertainty estimate is achieved
by discretising the continuous time series of power targets into several bins
(classes). For each forecast horizon, a neural network then predicts the
probability of power output falling into each of the bins, resulting in an
empirical probability distribution. Similiar to the AnEn method, the proposed
method avoids the use of costly numerical weather prediction (NWP) ensemble
runs, although a selection of several deterministic NWP forecasts as input is
helpful. Using state-of-the-art deep learning technology, we applied our
method to a large region and a single wind farm. MAE scores of the
50-percentile were on par with or better than comparable deterministic
forecasts. The corresponding Continuous Ranked Probability Score (CRPS) was
even lower. Future work will investigate the overdispersiveness sometimes
observed, and extend the method to solar power forecasts.
Abyssal plain hills and internal wave turbulence
Authors: van Haren Hans
Published: July 2018

Abstract. A 400 m long array with 201 high-resolution NIOZ temperature
sensors was deployed above a north-east equatorial Pacific hilly abyssal
plain for 2.5 months. The sensors sampled at a rate of 1 Hz. The lowest
sensor was at 7 m above the bottom (m a.b.). The aim was to study internal
waves and turbulent overturning away from large-scale ocean topography.
Topography consisted of moderately elevated hills (a few hundred metres),
providing a mean bottom slope of one-third of that found at the Mid-Atlantic
Ridge (on 2 km horizontal scales). In contrast with observations over
large-scale topography like guyots, ridges and continental slopes, the
present data showed a well-defined near-homogeneous “bottom boundary
layer”. However, its thickness varied strongly with time between < 7 and
100 m a.b. with a mean around 65 m a.b. The average thickness exceeded
tidal current bottom-frictional heights so that internal wave breaking
dominated over bottom friction. Near-bottom fronts also varied in time (and
thus space). Occasional coupling was observed between the interior internal
wave breaking and the near-bottom overturning, with varying up- and down-
phase propagation. In contrast with currents that were dominated by the
semidiurnal tide, 200 m shear was dominant at (sub-)inertial frequencies.
The shear was so large that it provided a background of marginal stability
for the straining high-frequency internal wave field in the interior. Daily
averaged turbulence dissipation rate estimates were between 10−10 and
10−9 m2 s−3, increasing with depth, while eddy diffusivities
were of the order of 10−4 m2 s−1. This most intense
“near-bottom” internal-wave-induced turbulence will affect the resuspension
of sediments.
Sensitivity of young water fractions to hydro-climatic forcing and landscape properties across 22 Swiss catchments
Authors: von Freyberg Jana , Allen Scott T. , Seeger Stefan , Weiler Markus , Kirchner James W.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The young water fraction Fyw, defined as the proportion of
catchment outflow younger than approximately 2–3 months, can be estimated
directly from the amplitudes of seasonal cycles of stable water isotopes in
precipitation and streamflow. Thus, Fyw may be a useful metric in
catchment inter-comparison studies that investigate landscape and
hydro-climatic controls on streamflow generation. Here, we explore how
Fyw varies with catchment characteristics and climatic forcing,
using an extensive isotope data set from 22 small- to medium-sized
(0.7–351 km2) Swiss catchments. We find that flow-weighting the tracer
concentrations in streamwater resulted in roughly 26 % larger young water
fractions compared to the corresponding unweighted values, reflecting the
fact that young water fractions tend to be larger when catchments are wet and
discharge is correspondingly higher. However, flow-weighted and unweighted
young water fractions are strongly correlated with each other among the
catchments. They also correlate with terrain, soil, and land-use indices, as
well as with mean precipitation and measures of hydrologic response. Within
individual catchments, young water fractions increase with discharge,
indicating an increase in the proportional contribution of faster flow paths
at higher flows. We present a new method to quantify the discharge
sensitivity of Fyw, which we estimate as the linear slope of the
relationship between the young water fraction and flow. Among the
22 catchments, discharge sensitivities of Fyw are highly variable
and only weakly correlated with Fyw itself, implying that these
two measures reflect catchment behaviour differently. Based on strong
correlations between the discharge sensitivity of Fyw and several
catchment characteristics, we suggest that low discharge sensitivities imply
greater persistence in the proportions of fast and slow runoff flow paths as
catchment wetness changes. In contrast, high discharge sensitivities
imply the activation of different dominant flow paths during precipitation
events, such as when subsurface water tables rise into more permeable layers
and/or the river network expands further into the landscape.
Integrating Drone Technology with GPS Data Collection to Enhance Forestry Students Interactive Hands-On Field Experiences
Authors: Unger Daniel , Hung I-Kuai , Zhang Yanli , Kulhavy David
Published: July 2018

Undergraduate students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) within the Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture (ATCOFA) attend an intensive 6-week hands-on instruction in applied field methods. The second week of field station is focused on land measurement activities to introduce students to practical, hands-on, and technology based ways to survey forest boundaries. On Monday of the second week students are introduced to the concepts of how to use a handheld compass to navigate from point to point, use a consumer-grade handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) unit for collecting the geographic coordinates of given locations, use a GPS unit to calculate the area of a forest opening, use a GPS unit to walk and record a forest hiking trail, and evaluate the accuracy of their GPS derived locations via a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) analysis. RMSE analysis between a students collected geographic coordinates and the instructors collected geographic coordinates indicated that the students were sufficient in correctly recording the geographic coordinates of point, line, and polygon features identified in the field. Grades on the student submitted reports summarizing Monday’s activities resulted in 33 of 56 students (59.0%) receiving a high A, 14 of 56 students (25.0%) receiving a low A, and 9 of 56 students (16.0%) receiving a high B indicating that the interactive hands-on nature of ATCOFA’s field station is effective at providing students with real-world applications whereby they will be ready to make a difference the day after graduation. Interactive drone imagery and video integrated into the daily activities in the field to enhance a student’s understanding of their specific objectives provided the students in the field with a bird’s eye perspective of the landscape to aid their understanding and planning of the field tasks assigned. In conclusion, employers can have confidence that when hiring recent BSF graduates from ATCOFA that the students have been introduced to geospatial technologies within a proven one-on-one instruction methodology designed to increase cognitive retention and can traverse from location to location accurately and record the geographic coordinates of earth surface features correctly.
Status-quo and Development of Cutting-tool Industry in Taiwan and China
Authors: Chen Jui-Lung
Published: July 2018

Cutting plays a very important role in the manufacturing industry. The global industries of general machinery, automobile, aviation and aerospace, energy, medical, rail transit, mold and machine tools, etc. cannot do without cutting-tool equipment. Modern efficient cutting-tools focus on high accuracy, high efficiency, high reliability and customization. The type numbers and varieties of cutting-tools produced in Taiwan and China are becoming rich day by day. Therefore, this research explored the cutting-tool industry in Taiwan and China, and employed expert interview, five forces analysis, and PEST analysis to analyze the industry. This study offered conclusions based on the research results and provide specific, substantial business improvement, policy formulation and other related recommendations for relevant industry, government-related units and academic research.
The immediate effect of
masseter trigger points
compression on masticatory
muscle activity
Authors: Ginszt Michał , Berger Marcin , Gawda Piotr , Bożyk Andrzej , Gawda Joanna , Szkutnik Jacek , Suwała Marta , Majcher Piotr , Kapelan Michał
Published: July 2018

Masticatory muscle pain (MMP) is the most prevalent source
of pain related to temporomandibular disorders. Some
authors suggest that MMP may be related to the presence
of myofascial trigger points (TrPs). Aim. The aim of the
present study was to evaluate the immediate effect of
masseter (MM) trigger point compressions technique on
masticatory muscle activity and pressure pain thresholds
(PPT). Material and methods. The participants were 15
healthy adults (10 women and 5 men; mean age 23.1±3.6).
All participants included into the study had unilateral latent
trigger points (TrPs) in the masseter muscle. Compression
technique (CoT) of the latent TrPs in the masseter muscle
was performed by pressing with index finger using constant,
calibrated pressure of 2 kg/cm2 on the TrPs for 90 seconds.
The electrical activity of the examined muscles and pressure
pain thresholds for masseter muscles were recorded prior
and after CoT. Results. Mean surface electrical activity of
the MM muscle with TrPs and both sides of digastric muscle
(DA) during resting mandibular position after CoT was
significantly lower than before CoT (mean differences: MM
1=-0.783, p=0.001; DA 1=-0.312, p=0.01; DA 2=-0.229,
p=0.025). Mean PPT of the MM muscles with TrPs after CoT
was significantly higher comparing to baseline (1.819
vs.1.529 kg, respectively; p=0.001). Conclusions. CoT of the
TrPs in masseter muscle reduces masticatory muscles resting
activity. The use of CoT applied to the TrPs in masseter
muscle increases pain pressure threshold. CoT may be
effective in the management of MMP. (Ginszt M, Berger M,
Gawda P, Bożyk A, Gawda J, Szkutnik J, Suwała M, Majcher
P, Kapelan M. The immediate effect of masseter trigger
points compression on masticatory muscle activity.
Orthod Forum 2017; 13: 79-88).
Even Worse Than It Seems
Authors: Capps John ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2018

Laurie Paul has recently proposed that transformative experiences are a distinct challenge to our ability to make rational decisions about our futures. In response, many have claimed that the situation is not as bad as it seems and that it is possible to rationally choose to undergo a transformative experience. Here I argue that the situation is actually worse because the current debate has so far only been framed in terms of comparing a transformative experience to the familiar status quo. If we instead consider choices among transformative experiences—what I call a transformative selection—then transformative experiences continue to pose a significant challenge to our rational decision-making.
Successful treatment of a bowel fistula in the open abdomen by perforator flaps and an aponeurosis plug
Authors: Sashida Yasunori , Kayo Munefumi , Hachiman Hironobu , Hori Kazuki , Kanda Yukihiro , Nagoya Akihiro
Published: July 2018

In this report, we present a case of successful treatment of a bowel fistula in the open abdomen by perforator flaps and an aponeurosis plug. A 70-year-old man underwent total gastrectomy and developed anastomotic leakage and dehiscence of the abdominal wound a week later. He was dependent upon extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, continuous hemodiafiltration, and a respirator. Bowel fluids contaminated the open abdomen. Two months after the gastric operation, a plastic surgery team, in consultation with general surgeons, performed perforator flaps on both sides and constructed, as it were, a bridge of skin sealing the orifice of the fistula. The aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle was elevated with the flap to be used as a plug. The perforators of the flaps were identified on preoperative and intraoperative ultrasonography. This modality allowed us to locate the perforators precisely and to evaluate the perforators by assessing their diameters and performing a waveform analysis. The contamination decreased dramatically afterwards. The bare areas were gradually covered by skin grafts. The fistula was closed completely 18 days after the perforator flap. An ultrasoundguided perforator flap with an aponeurosis plug can be an option for patients suffering from an open abdomen with a bowel fistula.