Application of long-range order to predict unfolding rates of two-state proteins.

PubMed

Harihar, B; Selvaraj, S

2011-03-01

Predicting the experimental unfolding rates of two-state proteins and models describing the unfolding rates of these proteins is quite limited because of the complexity present in the unfolding mechanism and the lack of experimental unfolding data compared with folding data. In this work, 25 two-state proteins characterized by Maxwell et al. (Protein Sci 2005;14:602–616) using a consensus set of experimental conditions were taken, and the parameter long-range order (LRO) derived from their three-dimensional structures were related with their experimental unfolding rates ln(k(u)). From the total data set of 30 proteins used by Maxwell et al. (Protein Sci 2005;14:602–616), five slow-unfolding proteins with very low unfolding rates were considered to be outliers and were not included in our data set. Except all beta structural class, LRO of both the all-alpha and mixed-class proteins showed a strong inverse correlation of r = -0.99 and -0.88, respectively, with experimental ln(k(u)). LRO shows a correlation of -0.62 with experimental ln(k(u)) for all-beta proteins. For predicting the unfolding rates, a simple statistical method has been used and linear regression equations were developed for individual structural classes of proteins using LRO, and the results obtained showed a better agreement with experimental results. Copyright © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Expanding Geographic Understanding in Grade 8 Social Studies Classes through Integration of Geography, Music, and History: A Quasi-Experimental Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Richardson, Ronald Craig

2009-01-01

This study took place in a high-achieving, suburban middle school and compared learning as a result of nine Grade 8 social studies workshops. Three classes (N=84) were the control group and four classes (N=131) were the treatment. As much as possible, classes were balanced in terms of gender, ethnicity, and proficiency in English. The key question…

TTWand NHT in problem solving

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anthycamurty, R. C. C.; Mardiyana; Saputro, D. R. S.

2018-05-01

This research aims to analyze and determine effect of the model on problem solving. Subjects in this research are students of class X SMK in Purworejo. The learning model used in this research was TTW in class experimental 1 and NHT class experiment 2. This research used quasi experiment. Data analysis technique in this research used ANOVA two way. Data collection techniques in this research used tests to measure student problem solving and GEFT to measure students' cognitive style. The results of this research indicate that there are differences in problem solving between experimental classes used TTW and NHT. The impact of this research is that students are able to remind problem solving used learning model and to know cognitive style of the students.

Using Student Peer Review of Experiment Reports in an Undergraduate Physics Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moran, Timothy; Van Hook, Stephen J.

2006-01-01

A class centered on student design of experiments and peer review of the resulting reports is described. Thirteen students in an honors seminar section of an introductory physics class designed experiments to test various types of paranormal phenomena. Each experimental report was evaluated and ranked by several other students. To give them…

Experimental Estimates of the Impacts of Class Size on Test Scores: Robustness and Heterogeneity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ding, Weili; Lehrer, Steven F.

2011-01-01

Proponents of class size reductions (CSRs) draw heavily on the results from Project Student/Teacher Achievement Ratio to support their initiatives. Adding to the political appeal of these initiative are reports that minority and economically disadvantaged students received the largest benefits from smaller classes. We extend this research in two…

76 FR 71087 - Market Test of Experimental Product: “First-Class Tracer”

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-16

... POSTAL SERVICE Market Test of Experimental Product: ``First-Class Tracer'' AGENCY: Postal Service \\TM\\. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Postal Service gives notice of a market test of an experimental... ``First-Class Tracer'' experimental product on or after December 7, 2011. The Postal Service has filed...

Epistemology and expectations survey about experimental physics: Development and initial results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zwickl, Benjamin M.; Hirokawa, Takako; Finkelstein, Noah; Lewandowski, H. J.

2014-06-01

In response to national calls to better align physics laboratory courses with the way physicists engage in research, we have developed an epistemology and expectations survey to assess how students perceive the nature of physics experiments in the contexts of laboratory courses and the professional research laboratory. The Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS) evaluates students' epistemology at the beginning and end of a semester. Students respond to paired questions about how they personally perceive doing experiments in laboratory courses and how they perceive an experimental physicist might respond regarding their research. Also, at the end of the semester, the E-CLASS assesses a third dimension of laboratory instruction, students' reflections on their course's expectations for earning a good grade. By basing survey statements on widely embraced learning goals and common critiques of teaching labs, the E-CLASS serves as an assessment tool for lab courses across the undergraduate curriculum and as a tool for physics education research. We present the development, evidence of validation, and initial formative assessment results from a sample that includes 45 classes at 20 institutions. We also discuss feedback from instructors and reflect on the challenges of large-scale online administration and distribution of results.

Imbalanced Learning for Functional State Assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Feng; McKenzie, Frederick; Li, Jiang; Zhang, Guangfan; Xu, Roger; Richey, Carl; Schnell, Tom

2011-01-01

This paper presents results of several imbalanced learning techniques applied to operator functional state assessment where the data is highly imbalanced, i.e., some function states (majority classes) have much more training samples than other states (minority classes). Conventional machine learning techniques usually tend to classify all data samples into majority classes and perform poorly for minority classes. In this study, we implemented five imbalanced learning techniques, including random undersampling, random over-sampling, synthetic minority over-sampling technique (SMOTE), borderline-SMOTE and adaptive synthetic sampling (ADASYN) to solve this problem. Experimental results on a benchmark driving lest dataset show thai accuracies for minority classes could be improved dramatically with a cost of slight performance degradations for majority classes,

Experimental analysis and constitutive modelling of steel of A-IIIN strength class

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruszka, Leopold; Janiszewski, Jacek

2015-09-01

Fundamentally important is the better understanding of behaviour of new building steels under impact loadings, including plastic deformations. Results of the experimental analysis in wide range of strain rates in compression at room temperature, as well as constitutive modelling for and B500SP structural steels of new A-IIIN Polish strength class, examined dynamically by split Hopkinson pressure bar technique at high strain rates, are presented in table and graphic forms. Dynamic mechanical characteristics of compressive strength for tested building structural steel are determined as well as dynamic mechanical properties of this material are compared with 18G2-b steel of A-II strength class, including effects of the shape of tested specimens, i.e. their slenderness. The paper focuses the attention on those experimental tests, their interpretation, and constitutive semi-empirical modelling of the behaviour of tested steels based on Johnson-Cook's model. Obtained results of analyses presented here are used for designing and numerical simulations of reinforced concrete protective structures.

Skeletal pattern in subjects with temporomandibular joint disorders

PubMed Central

Almăşan, Oana Cristina; Almăşan, Horea Artimoniu; Bran, Simion; Lascu, Liana; Iancu, Mihaela; Băciuţ, Grigore

2013-01-01

Introduction To establish the skeletal pattern in subjects with malocclusions and temporomandibular disorders (TMD); to assess the relationship between craniofacial skeletal structures and TMD in subjects with malocclusions. Material and methods Sixty-four subjects with malocclusions, over 18 years of age, were included in the study. Temporomandibular disorders were clinically assessed according to the Helkimo Anamnestic Index. Subjects underwent a lateral cephalogram. Subjects were grouped according to the sagittal skeletal pattern (ANB angle) into class I, II and III. Parametric Student tests with equal or unequal variations were used (variations were previously tested with Levene test). Results Twenty-four patients with TMD (experimental sample); 40 patients without TMD (control group); interincisal angle was higher in class I and II (p < 0.05) experimental subjects; overjet was larger in experimental subjects; midline shift and Wits appraisal were broader in the experimental group in all three classes. In class III subjects, the SNB angle was higher in the experimental group (p = 0.01). Joint noises followed by reduced mandible mobility, muscular pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain were the most frequent symptoms in subjects with TMD and malocclusions. Conclusions Temporomandibular joint status is an important factor to consider when planning orthodontic treatment in patients with severe malocclusions; midline shift, large overjet and deep overbite have been associated with signs and symptoms of TMD. PMID:23515361

GeoGebra Assist Discovery Learning Model for Problem Solving Ability and Attitude toward Mathematics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murni, V.; Sariyasa, S.; Ardana, I. M.

2017-09-01

This study aims to describe the effet of GeoGebra utilization in the discovery learning model on mathematical problem solving ability and students’ attitude toward mathematics. This research was quasi experimental and post-test only control group design was used in this study. The population in this study was 181 of students. The sampling technique used was cluster random sampling, so the sample in this study was 120 students divided into 4 classes, 2 classes for the experimental class and 2 classes for the control class. Data were analyzed by using one way MANOVA. The results of data analysis showed that the utilization of GeoGebra in discovery learning can lead to solving problems and attitudes towards mathematics are better. This is because the presentation of problems using geogebra can assist students in identifying and solving problems and attracting students’ interest because geogebra provides an immediate response process to students. The results of the research are the utilization of geogebra in the discovery learning can be applied in learning and teaching wider subject matter, beside subject matter in this study.

Classification of conductance traces with recurrent neural networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lauritzen, Kasper P.; Magyarkuti, András; Balogh, Zoltán; Halbritter, András; Solomon, Gemma C.

2018-02-01

We present a new automated method for structural classification of the traces obtained in break junction experiments. Using recurrent neural networks trained on the traces of minimal cross-sectional area in molecular dynamics simulations, we successfully separate the traces into two classes: point contact or nanowire. This is done without any assumptions about the expected features of each class. The trained neural network is applied to experimental break junction conductance traces, and it separates the classes as well as the previously used experimental methods. The effect of using partial conductance traces is explored, and we show that the method performs equally well using full or partial traces (as long as the trace just prior to breaking is included). When only the initial part of the trace is included, the results are still better than random chance. Finally, we show that the neural network classification method can be used to classify experimental conductance traces without using simulated results for training, but instead training the network on a few representative experimental traces. This offers a tool to recognize some characteristic motifs of the traces, which can be hard to find by simple data selection algorithms.

An Investigation of Effectiveness of Conceptual Change Text-oriented Instruction on Students' Understanding of Solution Concepts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinarbaşi; , Tacettin; Canpolat, Nurtaç; Bayrakçeken, Samih; Geban, Ömer

2006-12-01

This study investigated the effect of conceptual change text-oriented instruction over traditional instruction on students' understanding of solution concepts (e.g., dissolving, solubility, factors affecting solubility, concentrations of solutions, types of solutions, physical properties of solutions) and their attitudes towards chemistry. The sample of this study consisted of 87 undergraduate students from two classes enrolled in an introductory chemistry course. One of the classes was assigned randomly to the control group, and the other class were assigned randomly to the experimental group. During teaching the topic of solution concepts in the chemistry curriculum, a conceptual change text-oriented instruction was applied in the experimental group whereas traditional instruction was followed in the control group. The results showed that the students in the experimental group performed better with respect to solution concepts. In addition, it has been found that there was no significant difference between the attitudes of students in the experimental and control groups towards chemistry.

Major histocompatibility complex class I expression on neurons in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and experimental subacute measles encephalitis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gogate, N.; Yamabe, Toshio; Verma, L.

1996-04-01

Lack of major histocompatibility class I antigens on neurons has been implicated as a possible mechanism for viral persistence in the brain since these antigens are required for cytotoxic T-lymphocyte recognition of infected cells. In subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), measles virus (MV) persists in neurons, resulting in a fatal chronic infection. MHC class I mRNA expression was examined in formalin-fixed brain tissue from 6 SSPE patients by in situ hybridization. In addition MHC class I protein expression in MV-infected neurons was examined in experimental Subacute Measles Encephalitis (SME) by double immunohistochemistry. MHC class I mRNA expression was found to bemore » upregulated in SSPE tissues studied, and in 5 out of 6 cases the expression was definitively seen on neurons. The percentage of neurons expressing MHC class I mRNA ranged between 20 to 84% in infected areas. There was no correlation between the degree of infection and expression of MHC class I molecules on neurons. Importantly, the number of neurons co-expressing MHC class I and MV antigens was markedly low, varying between 2 to 8%. Similar results were obtained in SME where 20 to 30% of the neurons expressed MHC class I but < 8% co-expressed MHC class I and MV antigens. Perivascular infiltrating cells in the infected regions in SME expressed IFN{gamma} immunoreactivity. The results suggest that MV may not be directly involved in the induction of MHC class I on neurons and that cytokines such as IFN{gamma} may play an important role. Furthermore, the paucity of neurons co-expressing MHC class I and MV antigens in SSPE and SME suggests that such cells are either rapidly cleared by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), or, alternatively, lack of co-expression of MHC class I on MV infected neurons favors MV persistence in these cells by escaping CTL recognition. 33 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.« less

Effects of Teaching a Library Usage Unit to Seventh Graders.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gifford, Vernon; Gifford, Jean

This document reports the results of a study undertaken to determine if teaching a 2-week unit on library usage to 7th graders would increase their use of the library. From three non-ability grouped 7th grade classes, two classes of 26 students each were randomly selected for the study. One class was randomly assigned as the experimental group and…

Using Class Blogs in 1:1 Schools-Searching for Unexplored Opportunities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Andersson, Annika; Räisänen, Kalle

2014-01-01

This article focuses on class blogs and presents results from 1:1 schools in Sweden. While Swedish schools are increasingly using Web 2.0 technologies (e.g., wikis and blogs), most of this use is still at an experimental stage. To further the understanding of how blogs are and can be used, we compare class blogs used in practice with the…

The Effects of Conceptual Understanding Procedures (CUPs) Towards Critical Thinking Skills of Senior High School Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sukaesih, S.; Sutrisno

2017-04-01

The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of the application of Conceptual Understanding Procedures (CUPs) learning to the students’ critical thinking skills in the matter of categorisaed in SMA Negeri 1 Larangan. This study was quasi-experimental design using nonequivalent control group design. The population in this study was entire class X. The samples that were taken by convenience sampling were class X MIA 1 and X MIA 2. Primary data in the study was the student’s critical thinking skills, which was supported by student activity, the level of adherence to the CUPs learning model, student opinion and teacher opinion. N-gain test results showed that the students’ critical thinking skills of experimental class increased by 89.32%, while the control group increased by 57.14%. Activity grade of experimental class with an average value of 72.37 was better than that of the control class with an average of only 22.69 student and teacher opinions to the learning were excellegoodnt. Based on this study concluded that the model of Conceptual Understanding Procedures (CUPs) had an effect on the student’s critical thinking skills in the matter of protest in SMA Negeri 1 Larangan.

Practice and effectiveness of web-based problem-based learning approach in a large class-size system: A comparative study.

PubMed

Ding, Yongxia; Zhang, Peili

2018-06-12

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an effective and highly efficient teaching approach that is extensively applied in education systems across a variety of countries. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of web-based PBL teaching pedagogies in large classes. The cluster sampling method was used to separate two college-level nursing student classes (graduating class of 2013) into two groups. The experimental group (n = 162) was taught using a web-based PBL teaching approach, while the control group (n = 166) was taught using conventional teaching methods. We subsequently assessed the satisfaction of the experimental group in relation to the web-based PBL teaching mode. This assessment was performed following comparison of teaching activity outcomes pertaining to exams and self-learning capacity between the two groups. When compared with the control group, the examination scores and self-learning capabilities were significantly higher in the experimental group (P < 0.01) compared with the control group. In addition, 92.6% of students in the experimental group expressed satisfaction with the new web-based PBL teaching approach. In a large class-size teaching environment, the web-based PBL teaching approach appears to be more optimal than traditional teaching methods. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of web-based teaching technologies in problem-based learning. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

A neural networks application for the study of the influence of transport conditions on the working performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anghel, D.-C.; Ene, A.; Ştirbu, C.; Sicoe, G.

2017-10-01

This paper presents a study about the factors that influence the working performances of workers in the automotive industry. These factors regard mainly the transportations conditions, taking into account the fact that a large number of workers live in places that are far away of the enterprise. The quantitative data obtained from this study will be generalized by using a neural network, software simulated. The neural network is able to estimate the performance of workers even for the combinations of input factors that had been not recorded by the study. The experimental data obtained from the study will be divided in two classes. The first class that contains approximately 80% of data will be used by the Java software for the training of the neural network. The weights resulted from the training process will be saved in a text file. The other class that contains the rest of the 20% of experimental data will be used to validate the neural network. The training and the validation of the networks are performed in a Java software (TrainAndValidate java class). We designed another java class, Test.java that will be used with new input data, for new situations. The experimental data collected from the study. The software that simulated the neural network. The software that estimates the working performance, when new situations are met. This application is useful for human resources department of an enterprise. The output results are not quantitative. They are qualitative (from low performance to high performance, divided in five classes).

Teaching Writing and Critical Thinking in Large Political Science Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Franklin, Daniel; Weinberg, Joseph; Reifler, Jason

2014-01-01

In the interest of developing a combination of teaching techniques designed to maximize efficiency "and" quality of instruction, we have experimentally tested three separate and relatively common teaching techniques in three large introductory political science classes at a large urban public university. Our results indicate that the…

The Uses of Teaching Games in Game Theory Classes and Some Experimental Games.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shubik, Martin

2002-01-01

Discusses the use of lightly controlled games, primarily in classes in game theory. Considers the value of such games from the viewpoint of both teaching and experimentation and discusses context; control; pros and cons of games in teaching; experimental games; and games in class, including cooperative game theory. (Author/LRW)

Electroencephalography (EEG) in the Study of Equivalence Class Formation. An Explorative Study.

PubMed

Arntzen, Erik; Steingrimsdottir, Hanna S

2017-01-01

Teaching arbitrary conditional discriminations and testing for derived relations may be essential for understanding changes in cognitive skills. Such conditional discrimination procedures are often used within stimulus equivalence research. For example, the participant is taught AB and BC relations and tested if emergent relations as BA, CB, AC and CA occur. The purpose of the current explorative experiment was to study stimulus equivalence class formation in older adults with electroencephalography (EEG) recordings as an additional measure. The EEG was used to learn about whether there was an indication of cognitive changes such as those observed in neurocognitive disorders (NCD). The present study included four participants who did conditional discrimination training and testing. The experimental design employed pre-class formation sorting and post-class formation sorting of the stimuli used in the experiment. EEG recordings were conducted before training, after training and after testing. The results showed that two participants formed equivalence classes, one participant failed in one of the three test relations, and one participant failed in two of the three test relations. This fourth participant also failed to sort the stimuli in accordance with the experimenter-defined stimulus equivalence classes during post-class formation sorting. The EEG indicated no cognitive decline in the first three participants but possible mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the fourth participant. The results suggest that equivalence class formation may provide information about cognitive impairments such as those that are likely to occur in the early stages of NCD. The study recommends replications with broader samples.

Development of 24GHz Rectenna for Receiving and Rectifying Modulated Waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinohara, Naoki; Hatano, Ken

2014-11-01

In this paper, we show experimental results of RF-DC conversion with modulated 24GHz waves. We have already developed class-F MMIC rectenna with resonators for higher harmonics at no modulated 24GHz microwave for RF energy transfer. Dimensions of the MMIC rectifying circuit is 1 mm × 3 mm on GaAs. Maximum RF-DC conversion efficiency is measured 47.9% for a 210 mW microwave input of 24 GHz with a 120 Ω load. The class-F rectenna is based on a single shunt full-wave rectifier. For future application of a simultaneous energy and information transfer system or an energy harvesting from broadcasting waves, input microwave will be modulated. In this paper, we show an experimental result of RF-DC conversion of the class-F rectenna with 24GHz waves modulated by 16QAM as 1st modulation and OFDM as 2nd modulation.

Expressive writing promotes self-reported physical, social and psychological health among Chinese undergraduates.

PubMed

Yang, Zhihan; Tang, Xiaoqing; Duan, Wenjie; Zhang, Yonghong

2015-03-01

The present study examines the efficacy of expressive writing among Chinese undergraduates. The sample comprised of 74 undergraduates enrolled in a 9-week intervention (35 in experimental class vs. 39 in control class). The writing exercises were well-embedded in an elective course for the two classes. The 46-item simplified Chinese Self-Rated Health Measurement Scale, which assesses psychological, physical and social health, was adopted to measure the outcome of this study. Baseline (second week) and post-test (ninth week) scores were obtained during the classes. After the intervention on the eighth week, the self-reported psychological, social and physical health of the experimental class improved. Psychological health obtained the maximum degree of improvement, followed by social and physical health. Furthermore, female participants gained more psychological improvement than males. These results demonstrated that the expressive writing approach could improve the physical, social and psychological health of Chinese undergraduates, and the method can be applied in university psychological consulting settings in Mainland China. © 2014 International Union of Psychological Science.

The effectiveness of module based on guided inquiry method to improve students’ logical thinking ability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ash-Shiddieqy, M. H.; Suparmi, A.; Sunarno, W.

2018-04-01

The purpose of this research is to understand the effectiveness of module based on guided inquiry method to improve students’ logical thinking ability. This research only evaluate the students’ logical ability after follows the learning activities that used developed physics module based on guided inquiry method. After the learning activities, students This research method uses a test instrument that adapts TOLT instrument. There are samples of 68 students of grade XI taken from SMA Negeri 4 Surakarta.Based on the results of the research can be seen that in the experimental class and control class, the posttest value aspect of probabilistic reasoning has the highest value than other aspects, whereas the posttest value of the proportional reasoning aspect has the lowest value. The average value of N-gain in the experimental class is 0.39, while in the control class is 0.30. Nevertheless, the N-gain values obtained in the experimental class are larger than the control class, so the guided inquiry-based module is considered more effective for improving students’ logical thinking. Based on the data obtained from the research shows the modules available to help teachers and students in learning activities. The developed Physics module is integrated with every syntax present in guided inquiry method, so it can be used to improve students’ logical thinking ability.

Modeling and Experimental Evaluation of Bending Behavior of Soft Pneumatic Actuators Made of Discrete Actuation Chambers.

PubMed

Alici, Gursel; Canty, Taylor; Mutlu, Rahim; Hu, Weiping; Sencadas, Vitor

2018-02-01

In this article, we have established an analytical model to estimate the quasi-static bending displacement (i.e., angle) of the pneumatic actuators made of two different elastomeric silicones (Elastosil M4601 with a bulk modulus of elasticity of 262 kPa and Translucent Soft silicone with a bulk modulus of elasticity of 48 kPa-both experimentally determined) and of discrete chambers, partially separated from each other with a gap in between the chambers to increase the magnitude of their bending angle. The numerical bending angle results from the proposed gray-box model, and the corresponding experimental results match well that the model is accurate enough to predict the bending behavior of this class of pneumatic soft actuators. Further, by using the experimental bending angle results and blocking force results, the effective modulus of elasticity of the actuators is estimated from a blocking force model. The numerical and experimental results presented show that the bending angle and blocking force models are valid for this class of pneumatic actuators. Another contribution of this study is to incorporate a bistable flexible thin metal typified by a tape measure into the topology of the actuators to prevent the deflection of the actuators under their own weight when operating in the vertical plane.

Effectiveness of Student Learning during Experimental Work in Primary School.

PubMed

Logar, Ana; Peklaj, Cirila; Ferk Savec, Vesna

2017-09-01

The aim of the research was to optimize the effectiveness of student learning based on experimental work in chemistry classes in Slovenian primary schools. To obtain evidence about how experimental work is implemented during regular chemistry classes, experimental work was videotaped during 19 units of chemistry lessons at 12 Slovenian primary schools from the pool of randomly selected schools. Altogether 332 eight-grade students were involved in the investigation, with an average age of 14.2 years. Students were videotaped during chemistry lessons, and their worksheets were collected afterward. The 12 chemistry teachers, who conducted lessons in these schools, were interviewed before the lessons; their teaching plans were also collected. The collected data was analyzed using qualitative methods. The results indicate that many teachers in Slovenian primary schools are not fully aware of the potential of experimental work integrated into chemistry lessons for the development of students' experimental competence. Further research of the value of different kinds of training to support teachers for the use of experimental work in chemistry teaching is needed.

Prediction/discussion-based learning cycle versus conceptual change text: comparative effects on students' understanding of genetics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

khawaldeh, Salem A. Al

2013-07-01

Background and purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the comparative effects of a prediction/discussion-based learning cycle (HPD-LC), conceptual change text (CCT) and traditional instruction on 10th grade students' understanding of genetics concepts. Sample: Participants were 112 10th basic grade male students in three classes of the same school located in an urban area. The three classes taught by the same biology teacher were randomly assigned as a prediction/discussion-based learning cycle class (n = 39), conceptual change text class (n = 37) and traditional class (n = 36). Design and method: A quasi-experimental research design of pre-test-post-test non-equivalent control group was adopted. Participants completed the Genetics Concept Test as pre-test-post-test, to examine the effects of instructional strategies on their genetics understanding. Pre-test scores and Test of Logical Thinking scores were used as covariates. Results: The analysis of covariance showed a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the favor of experimental groups after treatment. However, no statistically significant difference between the experimental groups (HPD-LC versus CCT instruction) was found. Conclusions: Overall, the findings of this study support the use of the prediction/discussion-based learning cycle and conceptual change text in both research and teaching. The findings may be useful for improving classroom practices in teaching science concepts and for the development of suitable materials promoting students' understanding of science.

The effectiveness of research-based physics learning module with predict-observe-explain strategies to improve the student’s competence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usmeldi

2018-05-01

The preliminary study shows that many students are difficult to master the concept of physics. There are still many students who have not mastery learning physics. Teachers and students still use textbooks. Students rarely do experiments in the laboratory. One model of learning that can improve students’ competence is a research-based learning with Predict- Observe-Explain (POE) strategies. To implement this learning, research-based physics learning modules with POE strategy are used. The research aims to find out the effectiveness of implementation of research-based physics learning modules with POE strategy to improving the students’ competence. The research used a quasi-experimental with pretest-posttest group control design. Data were collected using observation sheets, achievement test, skill assessment sheets, questionnaire of attitude and student responses to learning implementation. The results of research showed that research-based physics learning modules with POE strategy was effective to improve the students’ competence, in the case of (1) mastery learning of physics has been achieved by majority of students, (2) improving the students competency of experimental class including high category, (3) there is a significant difference between the average score of students’ competence of experimental class and the control class, (4) the average score of the students competency of experimental class is higher than the control class, (5) the average score of the students’ responses to the learning implementation is very good category, this means that most students can implement research-based learning with POE strategies.

A Formal Construction of Term Classes. Technical Report No. TR73-18.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yu, Clement T.

The computational complexity of a formal process for the construction of term classes for information retrieval is examined. While the process is proven to be difficult computationally, heuristic methods are applied. Experimental results are obtained to illustrate the maximum possible improvement in system performance of retrieval using the formal…

Integrating Reading Instruction into Vocational Agriculture Classes. Miscellaneous Publication 586. Contribution Number 3813.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sullivan, Dorothy D.; Cardozier, V.R.

An experiment was conducted to determine whether special reading instruction integrated with agricultural instruction would result in improved reading ability and increased achievement in subject matter. random assignment was made of vocational agriculture classes in 12 Maryland schools to experimental and control groups. Units on soil sampling…

Experimental validation of an integrated controls-structures design methodology for a class of flexible space structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maghami, Peiman G.; Gupta, Sandeep; Elliott, Kenny B.; Joshi, Suresh M.; Walz, Joseph E.

1994-01-01

This paper describes the first experimental validation of an optimization-based integrated controls-structures design methodology for a class of flexible space structures. The Controls-Structures-Interaction (CSI) Evolutionary Model, a laboratory test bed at Langley, is redesigned based on the integrated design methodology with two different dissipative control strategies. The redesigned structure is fabricated, assembled in the laboratory, and experimentally compared with the original test structure. Design guides are proposed and used in the integrated design process to ensure that the resulting structure can be fabricated. Experimental results indicate that the integrated design requires greater than 60 percent less average control power (by thruster actuators) than the conventional control-optimized design while maintaining the required line-of-sight performance, thereby confirming the analytical findings about the superiority of the integrated design methodology. Amenability of the integrated design structure to other control strategies is considered and evaluated analytically and experimentally. This work also demonstrates the capabilities of the Langley-developed design tool CSI DESIGN which provides a unified environment for structural and control design.

Multi-class Mode of Action Classification of Toxic Compounds Using Logic Based Kernel Methods.

PubMed

Lodhi, Huma; Muggleton, Stephen; Sternberg, Mike J E

2010-09-17

Toxicity prediction is essential for drug design and development of effective therapeutics. In this paper we present an in silico strategy, to identify the mode of action of toxic compounds, that is based on the use of a novel logic based kernel method. The technique uses support vector machines in conjunction with the kernels constructed from first order rules induced by an Inductive Logic Programming system. It constructs multi-class models by using a divide and conquer reduction strategy that splits multi-classes into binary groups and solves each individual problem recursively hence generating an underlying decision list structure. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the approach for chemoinformatics problems like predictive toxicology, we apply it to toxicity classification in aquatic systems. The method is used to identify and classify 442 compounds with respect to the mode of action. The experimental results show that the technique successfully classifies toxic compounds and can be useful in assessing environmental risks. Experimental comparison of the performance of the proposed multi-class scheme with the standard multi-class Inductive Logic Programming algorithm and multi-class Support Vector Machine yields statistically significant results and demonstrates the potential power and benefits of the approach in identifying compounds of various toxic mechanisms. Copyright © 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Probabilistic cluster labeling of imagery data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chittineni, C. B. (Principal Investigator)

1980-01-01

The problem of obtaining the probabilities of class labels for the clusters using spectral and spatial information from a given set of labeled patterns and their neighbors is considered. A relationship is developed between class and clusters conditional densities in terms of probabilities of class labels for the clusters. Expressions are presented for updating the a posteriori probabilities of the classes of a pixel using information from its local neighborhood. Fixed-point iteration schemes are developed for obtaining the optimal probabilities of class labels for the clusters. These schemes utilize spatial information and also the probabilities of label imperfections. Experimental results from the processing of remotely sensed multispectral scanner imagery data are presented.

Electroencephalography (EEG) in the Study of Equivalence Class Formation. An Explorative Study

PubMed Central

Arntzen, Erik; Steingrimsdottir, Hanna S.

2017-01-01

Teaching arbitrary conditional discriminations and testing for derived relations may be essential for understanding changes in cognitive skills. Such conditional discrimination procedures are often used within stimulus equivalence research. For example, the participant is taught AB and BC relations and tested if emergent relations as BA, CB, AC and CA occur. The purpose of the current explorative experiment was to study stimulus equivalence class formation in older adults with electroencephalography (EEG) recordings as an additional measure. The EEG was used to learn about whether there was an indication of cognitive changes such as those observed in neurocognitive disorders (NCD). The present study included four participants who did conditional discrimination training and testing. The experimental design employed pre-class formation sorting and post-class formation sorting of the stimuli used in the experiment. EEG recordings were conducted before training, after training and after testing. The results showed that two participants formed equivalence classes, one participant failed in one of the three test relations, and one participant failed in two of the three test relations. This fourth participant also failed to sort the stimuli in accordance with the experimenter-defined stimulus equivalence classes during post-class formation sorting. The EEG indicated no cognitive decline in the first three participants but possible mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the fourth participant. The results suggest that equivalence class formation may provide information about cognitive impairments such as those that are likely to occur in the early stages of NCD. The study recommends replications with broader samples. PMID:28377704

Candidate materials for advanced fire-resistant photovoltaic modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sugimura, R. S.; Otth, D. H.; Ross, R. G., Jr.; Arnett, J. C.; Samuelson, G.

1985-01-01

A cooperative, cost-sharing research effort to develop a technology base required to construct fire-ratable photovoltaic modules has resulted in the identification of several high-temperature, back-surface candidate materials capable of raising the fire-resistance of modules using hydrocarbon encapsulants to Class A and B levels. Advanced experimental module configurations have been developed using back surfaces consisting of Kapton, Tedlar laminates, metal-foils, and fiberglass materials with high-temperature coatings. Test results (October 1984; March 1985; May 1985; and October 1985) indicate that several of these advanced module configurations are capable of achieving Class B fire-resistance levels, while a few configurations can achieve Class A levels. The paper summarizes activities to date, discussing flammability failure mechanisms, time-temperature profiles, and results of Block V environmental exposure tests of a candidate material suitable for both Class B and Class A fire-resistance levels.

Improvement and Evaluation of Copper Oxidation Experimental Procedure for the Introduction of the Law of Definite Proportion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yamashita, Shuichi; Kashiwaguma, Yasuyuki; Hayashi, Hideko; Pietzner, Verena

2017-01-01

In science classes, students usually learn about the law of definite proportions by the oxidation of copper. However, common procedures usually do not lead to proper results. This leads to confusion among the students because their experimental results do not fit to the theoretical values. Therefore, we invented a new procedure for this experiment…

Enhanced equivalence class formation by the delay and relational functions of meaningful stimuli.

PubMed

Arntzen, Erik; Nartey, Richard K; Fields, Lanny

2015-05-01

Undergraduates in six groups of 10 attempted to form three 3-node 5-member equivalence classes (A → B → C → D → E) under the simultaneous protocol. In five of six groups, all stimuli were abstract shapes; in the PIC group, C stimuli were pictures with the remainder being abstract shapes. Before class formation, participants in the Identity-S and Identity-D groups were given preliminary training to form identity conditional discriminations with the C stimuli using simultaneous and 6 s delayed matching-to-sample procedures, respectively. In the Arbitrary-S and Arbitrary-D groups, before class formation, arbitrary conditional discriminations were formed between C and X stimuli using simultaneous and 6 s delayed matching-to-sample procedures, respectively. With no preliminary training, classes in the PIC and ABS groups were formed by 80% and 0% of participants, respectively. After preliminary training, class formation (yield) increased with delay, regardless of relational type. For each of the two delays, yield was slightly greater after forming arbitrary- instead of identity-relations. Yield was greatest, however, when a class contained a meaningful stimulus (PIC). During failed class formation, probes produced experimenter-defined relations, participant-defined relations, and unsystematic responding; delay, but not the relation type in preliminary training influenced relational and indeterminate responding. These results suggest how meaningful stimuli enhance equivalence class formation. © Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

Navier-Stokes simulations of unsteady transonic flow phenomena

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atwood, C. A.

1992-01-01

Numerical simulations of two classes of unsteady flows are obtained via the Navier-Stokes equations: a blast-wave/target interaction problem class and a transonic cavity flow problem class. The method developed for the viscous blast-wave/target interaction problem assumes a laminar, perfect gas implemented in a structured finite-volume framework. The approximately factored implicit scheme uses Newton subiterations to obtain the spatially and temporally second-order accurate time history of the blast-waves with stationary targets. The inviscid flux is evaluated using either of two upwind techniques, while the full viscous terms are computed by central differencing. Comparisons of unsteady numerical, analytical, and experimental results are made in two- and three-dimensions for Couette flows, a starting shock-tunnel, and a shock-tube blockage study. The results show accurate wave speed resolution and nonoscillatory discontinuity capturing of the predominantly inviscid flows. Viscous effects were increasingly significant at large post-interaction times. While the blast-wave/target interaction problem benefits from high-resolution methods applied to the Euler terms, the transonic cavity flow problem requires the use of an efficient scheme implemented in a geometrically flexible overset mesh environment. Hence, the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations implemented in a diagonal form are applied to the cavity flow class of problems. Comparisons between numerical and experimental results are made in two-dimensions for free shear layers and both rectangular and quieted cavities, and in three-dimensions for Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) geometries. The acoustic behavior of the rectangular and three-dimensional cavity flows compare well with experiment in terms of frequency, magnitude, and quieting trends. However, there is a more rapid decrease in computed acoustic energy with frequency than observed experimentally owing to numerical dissipation. In addition, optical phase distortion due to the time-varying density field is modelled using geometrical constructs. The computed optical distortion trends compare with the experimentally inferred result, but underpredicts the fluctuating phase difference magnitude.

The impact of rigorous mathematical thinking as learning method toward geometry understanding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugraheni, Z.; Budiyono, B.; Slamet, I.

2018-05-01

To reach higher order thinking skill, needed to be mastered the conceptual understanding. RMT is a unique realization of the cognitive conceptual construction approach based on Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) theory by Feurstein and Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory. This was quasi experimental research which was comparing the experimental class that was given Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) as learning method and control class that was given Direct Learning (DL) as the conventional learning activity. This study examined whether there was different effect of two learning method toward conceptual understanding of Junior High School students. The data was analyzed by using Independent t-test and obtained a significant difference of mean value between experimental and control class on geometry conceptual understanding. Further, by semi-structure interview known that students taught by RMT had deeper conceptual understanding than students who were taught by conventional way. By these result known that Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) as learning method have positive impact toward Geometry conceptual understanding.

Experimental evidence of the spatial coherence moiré and the filtering of classes of radiator pairs.

PubMed

Castaneda, Roman; Usuga-Castaneda, Mario; Herrera-Ramírez, Jorge

2007-08-01

Evidence of the physical existence of the spatial coherence moiré is obtained by confronting numerical results with experimental results of spatially partial interference. Although it was performed for two particular cases, the results reveal a general behavior of the optical fields in any state of spatial coherence. Moreover, the study of the spatial coherence moiré deals with a new type of filtering, named filtering of classes of radiator pairs, which allows changing the power spectrum at the observation plane by modulating the complex degree of spatial coherence, without altering the power distribution at the aperture plane or introducing conventional spatial filters. This new procedure can optimize some technological applications of actual interest, as the beam shaping for instance.

Upgrading geometry conceptual understanding and strategic competence through implementing rigorous mathematical thinking (RMT)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugraheni, Z.; Budiyono, B.; Slamet, I.

2018-03-01

To reach higher order thinking skill, needed to be mastered the conceptual understanding and strategic competence as they are two basic parts of high order thinking skill (HOTS). RMT is a unique realization of the cognitive conceptual construction approach based on Feurstein with his theory of Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) and Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory. This was quasi-experimental research which compared the experimental class that was given Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) as learning method and the control class that was given Direct Learning (DL) as the conventional learning activity. This study examined whether there was different effect of two learning model toward conceptual understanding and strategic competence of Junior High School Students. The data was analyzed by using Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) and obtained a significant difference between experimental and control class when considered jointly on the mathematics conceptual understanding and strategic competence (shown by Wilk’s Λ = 0.84). Further, by independent t-test is known that there was significant difference between two classes both on mathematical conceptual understanding and strategic competence. By this result is known that Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) had positive impact toward Mathematics conceptual understanding and strategic competence.

Comparative evaluation of guided tissue regeneration with use of collagen-based barrier freeze-dried dura mater allograft for mandibular class 2 furcation defects (a comparative controlled clinical study).

PubMed

Patel, Sandeep; Kubavat, Ajay; Ruparelia, Brijesh; Agarwal, Arvind; Panda, Anup

2012-01-01

The aim of periodontal surgery is complete regeneration. The present study was designed to evaluate and compare clinically soft tissue changes in form of probing pocket depth, gingival shrinkage, attachment level and hard tissue changes in form of horizontal and vertical bone level using resorbable membranes. Twelve subjects with bilateral class 2 furcation defects were selected. After initial phase one treatment, open debridement was performed in control site while freezedried dura mater allograft was used in experimental site. Soft and hard tissue parameters were registered intrasurgically. Nine months reentry ensured better understanding and evaluation of the final outcome of the study. Guided tissue regeneration is a predictable treatment modality for class 2 furcation defect. There was statistically significant reduction in pocket depth as compared to control (p < 0.01). There is statistically significant increase in periodontal attachment level within control and experimental sites showed better results (p < 0.01). For hard tissue parameter, significant defect fill resulted in experimental group, while in control group, less significant defect fill was found in horizontal direction and nonsignificant defect fill was found in vertical direction. The results showed statistically significant improvement in soft and hard tissue parameters and less gingival shrinkage in experimental sites compared to control site. The use of FDDMA in furcation defects helps us to achieve predictable results. This cross-linked collagen membrane has better handling properties and ease of procurement as well as economic viability making it a logical material to be used in regenerative surgeries.

The role of visual representation in physics learning: dynamic versus static visualization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suyatna, Agus; Anggraini, Dian; Agustina, Dina; Widyastuti, Dini

2017-11-01

This study aims to examine the role of visual representation in physics learning and to compare the learning outcomes of using dynamic and static visualization media. The study was conducted using quasi-experiment with Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design. The samples of this research are students of six classes at State Senior High School in Lampung Province. The experimental class received a learning using dynamic visualization and control class using static visualization media. Both classes are given pre-test and post-test with the same instruments. Data were tested with N-gain analysis, normality test, homogeneity test and mean difference test. The results showed that there was a significant increase of mean (N-Gain) learning outcomes (p <0.05) in both experimental and control classes. The averages of students’ learning outcomes who are using dynamic visualization media are significantly higher than the class that obtains learning by using static visualization media. It can be seen from the characteristics of visual representation; each visualization provides different understanding support for the students. Dynamic visual media is more suitable for explaining material related to movement or describing a process, whereas static visual media is appropriately used for non-moving physical phenomena and requires long-term observation.

The effect of conceptual metaphors through guided inquiry on student's conceptual change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Menia, Meli; Mudzakir, Ahmad; Rochintaniawati, Diana

2017-05-01

The purpose of this study was to identify student's conceptual change of global warming after integrated science learning based guided inquiry through conceptual metaphors. This study used a quasi-experimental with a nonequivalent control group design. The subject was students of two classes of one of MTsN Salido. Data was collected using conceptual change test (pretest and posttest), observation sheet to observe the learning processes, questionnaire sheet to identify students responses, and interview to identifyteacher'srespons of science learning with conceptual metaphors. The results showed that science learning based guided inquiry with conceptual metaphors is better than science learning without conceptual metaphors. The average of posttest experimental class was 79,40 and control class was 66,09. The student's conceptual change for two classes changed significantly byusing mann whitney U testwith P= 0,003(P less than sig. value, P< 0,05). This means that there was differenceson student's conceptual changebeetwen integrated science learning based guided inquiry with conceptual metaphors class and integrated science learning without conceptual metaphors class. The study also showed that teachers and studentsgive positive responsesto implementation of integrated science learning based guided inquiry with conceptual metaphors.

Beating the numbers through strategic intervention materials (SIMs): Innovative science teaching for large classes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alboruto, Venus M.

2017-05-01

The study aimed to find out the effectiveness of using Strategic Intervention Materials (SIMs) as an innovative teaching practice in managing large Grade Eight Science classes to raise the performance of the students in terms of science process skills development and mastery of science concepts. Utilizing experimental research design with two groups of participants, which were purposefully chosen, it was obtained that there existed a significant difference in the performance of the experimental and control groups based on actual class observation and written tests on science process skills with a p-value of 0.0360 in favor of the experimental class. Further, results of written pre-test and post-test on science concepts showed that the experimental group with the mean of 24.325 (SD =3.82) performed better than the control group with the mean of 20.58 (SD =4.94), with a registered p-value of 0.00039. Therefore, the use of SIMs significantly contributed to the mastery of science concepts and the development of science process skills. Based on the findings, the following recommendations are offered: 1. that grade eight science teachers should use or adopt the SIMs used in this study to improve their students' performance; 2. training-workshop on developing SIMs must be conducted to help teachers develop SIMs to be used in their classes; 3. school administrators must allocate funds for the development and reproduction of SIMs to be used by the students in their school; and 4. every division should have a repository of SIMs for easy access of the teachers in the entire division.

Improving Middle School Students’ Quantitative Literacy through Inquiry Lab and Group Investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aisya, N. S. M.; Supriatno, B.; Saefudin; Anggraeni, S.

2017-02-01

The purpose of this study was to analyze the application of metacognitive strategies learning based Vee Diagram through Inquiry Lab and Group Investigation toward students’ quantitative literacy. This study compared two treatments on learning activity in middle school. The metacognitive strategies have applied to the content of environmental pollution at 7th grade. This study used a quantitative approach with quasi-experimental method. The research sample were the 7th grade students, involves 27 students in the experimental through Inquiry Lab and 27 students in the experimental through Group Investigation. The instruments that used in this research were pretest and posttest quantitative literacy skills, learning step observation sheets, and the questionnaire of teachers and students responses. As the result, N-gain average of pretest and posttest increased in both experimental groups. The average of posttest score was 61,11 for the Inquiry Lab and 54,01 to the Group Investigation. The average score of N-gain quantitative literacy skill of Inquiry Lab class was 0,492 and Group Investigation class was 0,426. Both classes of experiments showed an average N-gain in the medium category. The data has been analyzed statistically by using SPSS ver.23 and the results showed that although both the learning model can develop quantitative literacy, but there is not significantly different of improving students’ quantitative literacy between Inquiry Lab and Group Investigation in environmental pollution material.

ECOSAR model performance with a large test set of industrial chemicals.

PubMed

Reuschenbach, Peter; Silvani, Maurizio; Dammann, Martina; Warnecke, Dietmar; Knacker, Thomas

2008-05-01

The widely used ECOSAR computer programme for QSAR prediction of chemical toxicity towards aquatic organisms was evaluated by using large data sets of industrial chemicals with varying molecular structures. Experimentally derived toxicity data covering acute effects on fish, Daphnia and green algae growth inhibition of in total more than 1,000 randomly selected substances were compared to the prediction results of the ECOSAR programme in order (1) to assess the capability of ECOSAR to correctly classify the chemicals into defined classes of aquatic toxicity according to rules of EU regulation and (2) to determine the number of correct predictions within tolerance factors from 2 to 1,000. Regarding ecotoxicity classification, 65% (fish), 52% (Daphnia) and 49% (algae) of the substances were correctly predicted into the classes "not harmful", "harmful", "toxic" and "very toxic". At all trophic levels about 20% of the chemicals were underestimated in their toxicity. The class of "not harmful" substances (experimental LC/EC(50)>100 mg l(-1)) represents nearly half of the whole data set. The percentages for correct predictions of toxic effects on fish, Daphnia and algae growth inhibition were 69%, 64% and 60%, respectively, when a tolerance factor of 10 was allowed. Focussing on those experimental results which were verified by analytically measured concentrations, the predictability for Daphnia and algae toxicity was improved by approximately three percentage points, whereas for fish no improvement was determined. The calculated correlation coefficients demonstrated poor correlation when the complete data set was taken, but showed good results for some of the ECOSAR chemical classes. The results are discussed in the context of literature data on the performance of ECOSAR and other QSAR models.

Enhancement of Self Efficacy of Vocational School Students in Buffer Solution Topics through Guided Inquiry Learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

M, Ardiany; W, Wahyu; A, Supriatna

2017-09-01

The more students who feel less confident in learning, so doing things that are less responsible, such as brawl, drunkenness and others. So researchers need to do research related to student self efficacy in learning, in order to reduce unwanted things. This study aims to determine the effect of guided inquiry learning on improving self-efficacy of learners in the buffer solution topics. The method used is the mixed method which is the two group pretest postest design. The subjects of the study are 60 students of class XI AK in one of the SMKN in Bandung, consisting of 30 experimental class students and 30 control class students. The instruments used in this study mix method consist of self-efficacy questionnaire of pretest and posttest learners, interview guides, and observation sheet. Data analysis using t test with significant α = 0,05. Based on the result of inquiry of guided inquiry study, there is a significant improvement in self efficacy aspect of students in the topic of buffer solution. Data of pretest and posttest interview, observation, questionnaire showed significant result, that is improvement of experimental class with conventionally guided inquiry learning. The mean of self-efficacy of student learning there is significant difference of experiment class than control class equal to 0,047. There is a significant relationship between guided inquiry learning with self efficacy and guided inquiry learning. Each correlation value is 0.737. The learning process with guided inquiry is fun and challenging so that students can expose their ideas and opinions without being forced. From the results of questionnaires students showed an attitude of interest, sincerity and a good response of learning. While the results of questionnaires teachers showed that guided inquiry learning can make students learn actively, increased self-efficacy.

Integrated argument-based inquiry with multiple representation approach to promote scientific argumentation skill

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suminar, Iin; Muslim, Liliawati, Winny

2017-05-01

The purpose of this research was to identify student's written argument embedded in scientific inqury investigation and argumentation skill using integrated argument-based inquiry with multiple representation approach. This research was using quasi experimental method with the nonequivalent pretest-posttest control group design. Sample ot this research was 10th grade students at one of High School in Bandung using two classes, they were 26 students of experiment class and 26 students of control class. Experiment class using integrated argument-based inquiry with multiple representation approach, while control class using argument-based inquiry. This study was using argumentation worksheet and argumentation test. Argumentation worksheet encouraged students to formulate research questions, design experiment, observe experiment and explain the data as evidence, construct claim, warrant, embedded multiple modus representation and reflection. Argumentation testinclude problem which asks students to explain evidence, warrants, and backings support of each claim. The result of this research show experiment class students's argumentation skill performed better than control class students that of experiment class was 0.47 and control class was 0.31. The results of unequal variance t-test for independent means show that students'sargumentationskill of experiment class performed better significantly than students'sargumentationskill of control class.

Merging separately established stimulus classes with outcome-specific reinforcement.

PubMed

Johnson, Cammarie; Meleshkevich, Olga; Dube, William V

2014-01-01

This study extended previous research on equivalence relations established with outcome-specific reinforcers to include the merger of separately established stimulus classes. Participants were four adults. Conditional discriminations AC and BC were trained first. Correct selections of C1 (C2, or C3) in the presence of A1 or B1 (A2 or B2, or A3 or B3) were followed by red (blue, or white) tokens; tokens were exchanged for value added to three participant-selected gift cards. Outcomes on equivalence tests for three-member classes ABC were positive. DF and EF were trained with the same reinforcing consequences, and tests were positive for three-member classes DEF. Results of class merger tests with combinations of stimuli from the ABC and DEF classes (AD, FB, etc.) were immediately positive for two participants, demonstrating six-member classes ABCDEF with reinforcers as nodes. Merger tests for a third participant were initially negative but became positive after brief exposure to unreinforced probe trials with reinforcers as comparison stimuli. Following class merger, tests for matching the reinforcers to samples and comparisons were also positive. Class-merger test results were negative for a fourth participant. The results provide the first demonstration of eight-member equivalence classes including two outcome-specific conditioned reinforcing stimuli. © Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

A new class of halogen bonds that avoids the σ-hole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yu; Ma, Ning; Wang, Weizhou

2012-04-01

A new class of halogen bonds of the type X = Hal⋯Y has been investigated by using the density functional theory calculations. The strength of this new class of halogen bonds is in the range of 90-120 kcal/mol, which is greatly larger than that of the conventional halogen bond of the type X-Hal⋯Y. The geometry of this new class of halogen bonds is not determined by the halogen's positive σ-hole. Natural bond orbital analysis shows it is the n → π∗ interaction that determines the geometry of this new class of halogen bonds. Experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions.

Quantum State Tomography via Reduced Density Matrices.

PubMed

Xin, Tao; Lu, Dawei; Klassen, Joel; Yu, Nengkun; Ji, Zhengfeng; Chen, Jianxin; Ma, Xian; Long, Guilu; Zeng, Bei; Laflamme, Raymond

2017-01-13

Quantum state tomography via local measurements is an efficient tool for characterizing quantum states. However, it requires that the original global state be uniquely determined (UD) by its local reduced density matrices (RDMs). In this work, we demonstrate for the first time a class of states that are UD by their RDMs under the assumption that the global state is pure, but fail to be UD in the absence of that assumption. This discovery allows us to classify quantum states according to their UD properties, with the requirement that each class be treated distinctly in the practice of simplifying quantum state tomography. Additionally, we experimentally test the feasibility and stability of performing quantum state tomography via the measurement of local RDMs for each class. These theoretical and experimental results demonstrate the advantages and possible pitfalls of quantum state tomography with local measurements.

Learning English with an Invisible Teacher: An Experimental Video Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenstein, Miriam; And Others

1987-01-01

Reports on an experimental teaching approach, based on an innovative video series, used in an English-as-a-second-language (ESL) class for beginning learners. The tapes, which focused on students as they learned (with the viewers learning along with them), showed generally favorable results for ESL students. (Author/CB)

Tech versus the Human Touch: Teacher Affect Is More Effective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perry, Alan

2003-01-01

An experimental group studied Macbeth in an independent, constructivist setting using multimedia; the control group studied traditionally. Eleven of 23 experimental students and 2 of 21 in the traditional class failed. In an experiment with Hamlet, the results were reversed. Students were most successful when the teacher was actively involved,…

On the role of cost-sensitive learning in multi-class brain-computer interfaces.

PubMed

Devlaminck, Dieter; Waegeman, Willem; Wyns, Bart; Otte, Georges; Santens, Patrick

2010-06-01

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) present an alternative way of communication for people with severe disabilities. One of the shortcomings in current BCI systems, recently put forward in the fourth BCI competition, is the asynchronous detection of motor imagery versus resting state. We investigated this extension to the three-class case, in which the resting state is considered virtually lying between two motor classes, resulting in a large penalty when one motor task is misclassified into the other motor class. We particularly focus on the behavior of different machine-learning techniques and on the role of multi-class cost-sensitive learning in such a context. To this end, four different kernel methods are empirically compared, namely pairwise multi-class support vector machines (SVMs), two cost-sensitive multi-class SVMs and kernel-based ordinal regression. The experimental results illustrate that ordinal regression performs better than the other three approaches when a cost-sensitive performance measure such as the mean-squared error is considered. By contrast, multi-class cost-sensitive learning enables us to control the number of large errors made between two motor tasks.

A Study of Coordination Between Mathematics and Chemistry in the Pre-Technical Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Loiseau, Roger A.

This research was undertaken to determine whether the mathematics course offered to students taking courses in chemical technology was adequate. Students in a regular class and an experimental class were given mathematics and chemistry pretests and posttests. The experimental class was taught using a syllabus designed to maximize the coherence…

Attenders versus Slackers: A Classroom Demonstration of Quasi-Experimentation and Self-Selecting Samples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stellmack, Mark A.

2013-01-01

Studies of the effects of class attendance on class performance typically are quasi-experimental because students choose whether or not to attend class; that is, the samples are self-selecting. The lack of random assignment prevents one from establishing a causal relationship between attendance and performance. Relating attendance to performance…

Effects of an education program on the health and illness profile of rural breast-fed babies.

PubMed

Nakao, R M

1988-01-01

In the Philippines, researchers followed 135 babies born between August 1985-January 1986 to determine the effects of health education on infant health. Mothers in the experimental group learned about infant care, frequent nursing, personal hygiene, waiting until 4-6 months to begin supplementary foods, and the importance of the colostrum. Those in the control group received no such education. Both groups of mothers breast fed. 65% of the babies in the control group were healthy after 1 month, 48% after 4 months, 64% after 6 months, and 25% at 1 year while 57% of those from the experimental group were healthy after 1 month, 52% after 2 months, 3% after 5 months, and non at 1 year. There was a statistical difference in mean weights between the experimental and control groups at birth, 8 and 11 months. The average weights for babies in the experimental group were in the Class II category (weight for age 25th percentile and or = 50% percentile) while the average weight for those in the control group were in the Class I category (weight for age or = 25% percentile). Babies of multigravida mothers were more likely to be in Class III and IV (both classes 50th percentile) categories than those of primigravida mothers. No experimental group 5-7 month old babies had gastroenteritis while 6.1% 5 month olds, 16.1% 6 month olds, and 17.1% 7 months old in the control group had gastroenteritis. The incidence of respiratory infections was higher among control babies than experimental babies, except at 9 months. The incidence of fever was basically the same in both groups, except 9 and 12 month old experimental babies did not have any fever. Results of this study indicate that health education on infant health contributes to a lower incidence of gastroenteritis and respiratory infections and to higher weight gains.

Immersion Classes in an English Setting: One Way for les Anglais to Learn French. Working Papers on Bilingualism, No. 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barik, Henri; And Others

The results of the evaluation of the French immersion program at a school in a unilingual English environment are described. A battery of tests was administered to a random sample of children from the kindergarten and grade one experimental French immersion classes and to a comparison group composed of children following the regular English…

The impact of problem solving strategy with online feedback on students’ conceptual understanding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pratiwi, H. Y.; Winarko, W.; Ayu, H. D.

2018-04-01

The study aimed to determine the impact of the implementation of problem solving strategy with online feedback towards the students’ concept understanding. This study used quasi experimental design with post-test only control design. The participants were all Physics Education students of Kanjuruhan University year 2015. Then, they were divided into two different groups; 30 students belong to experiment class and the remaining 30 students belong to class of control. The students’ concept understanding was measured by the concept understanding test on multiple integral lesson. The result of the concept understanding test was analyzed by prerequisite test and stated to be normal and homogenic distributed, then the hypothesis was examined by T-test. The result of the study shows that there is difference in the concept understanding between experiment class and control class. Next, the result also shows that the students’ concept understanding which was taught using problem solving strategy with online feedback was higher than those using conventional learning; with average score of 72,10 for experiment class and 52,27 for control class.

Early integration of the individual student in academic activities: a novel classroom concept for graduate education in molecular biophysics and structural biology

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background A key challenge in interdisciplinary research is choosing the best approach from a large number of techniques derived from different disciplines and their interfaces. Results To address this challenge in the area of Biophysics and Structural Biology, we have designed a graduate level course to teach students insightful use of experimental biophysical approaches in relationship to addressing biological questions related to biomolecular interactions and dynamics. A weekly seminar and data and literature club are used to compliment the training in class. The course contains wet-laboratory experimental demonstration and real-data analysis as well as lectures, grant proposal preparation and assessment, and student presentation components. Active student participation is mandatory in all aspects of the class. Students prepare materials for the class receiving individual and iterative feedback from course directors and local experts generating high quality classroom presentations. Conclusions The ultimate goal of the course is to teach students the skills needed to weigh different experimental approaches against each other in addressing a specific biological question by thinking and executing academic tasks like faculty. PMID:25132964

The 21st century skills with model eliciting activities on linear program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handajani, Septriana; Pratiwi, Hasih; Mardiyana

2018-04-01

Human resources in the 21st century are required to master various forms of skills, including critical thinking skills and problem solving. The teaching of the 21st century is a teaching that integrates literacy skills, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and mastery of ICT. This study aims to determine whether there are differences in the effect of applying Model Elliciting Activities (MEAs) that integrates 21st century skills, namely 4C and conventional learning to learning outcomes. This research was conducted at Vocational High School in the odd semester of 2017 and uses the experimental method. The experimental class is treated MEAs that integrates 4C skills and the control class is given conventional learning. Methods of data collection in this study using the method of documentation and test methods. The data analysis uses Z-test. Data obtained from experiment class and control class. The result of this study showed there are differences in the effect of applying MEAs that integrates 4C skills and conventional learning to learning outcomes. Classes with MEAs that integrates 4C skills give better learning outcomes than the ones in conventional learning classes. This happens because MEAs that integrates 4C skills can improved creativity skills, communication skills, collaboration skills, and problem-solving skills.

A summary of research-based assessment of students' beliefs about the nature of experimental physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2018-03-01

Within the undergraduate physics curriculum, students' primary exposure to experimental physics comes from laboratory courses. Thus, as experimentation is a core component of physics as a discipline, lab courses can be gateways in terms of both recruiting and retaining students within the physics major. Physics lab courses have a wide variety of explicit and/or implicit goals for lab courses, including helping students to develop expert-like beliefs about the nature and importance of experimental physics. To assess students' beliefs, attitudes, and expectations about the nature of experimental physics, there is currently one research-based assessment instrument available—the Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS). Since its development, the E-CLASS has been the subject of multiple research studies aimed at understanding and evaluating the effectiveness of various laboratory learning environments. This paper presents a description of the E-CLASS assessment and a summary of the research that has been done using E-CLASS data with a particular emphasis on the aspects of this work that are most relevant for instructors.

Results of Using the Take-Away Technique on Students' Achievements and Attitudes in High School Physics and Physical Science Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carifio, James; Doherty, Michael

2012-01-01

The Take-away Technique was used in High School Physics and Physical Science courses for the unit on Newtonian mechanics in a teacher (6) by grade level (4) partially crossed design (N = 272). All classes received the same IE instructional treatment. The experimental group (classrooms) did a short Take-away after each class summarizing the key…

A Validation of Object-Oriented Design Metrics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Basili, Victor R.; Briand, Lionel; Melo, Walcelio L.

1995-01-01

This paper presents the results of a study conducted at the University of Maryland in which we experimentally investigated the suite of Object-Oriented (00) design metrics introduced by [Chidamber and Kemerer, 1994]. In order to do this, we assessed these metrics as predictors of fault-prone classes. This study is complementary to [Lieand Henry, 1993] where the same suite of metrics had been used to assess frequencies of maintenance changes to classes. To perform our validation accurately, we collected data on the development of eight medium-sized information management systems based on identical requirements. All eight projects were developed using a sequential life cycle model, a well-known 00 analysis/design method and the C++ programming language. Based on experimental results, the advantages and drawbacks of these 00 metrics are discussed and suggestions for improvement are provided. Several of Chidamber and Kemerer's 00 metrics appear to be adequate to predict class fault-proneness during the early phases of the life-cycle. We also showed that they are, on our data set, better predictors than "traditional" code metrics, which can only be collected at a later phase of the software development processes.

Membership-degree preserving discriminant analysis with applications to face recognition.

PubMed

Yang, Zhangjing; Liu, Chuancai; Huang, Pu; Qian, Jianjun

2013-01-01

In pattern recognition, feature extraction techniques have been widely employed to reduce the dimensionality of high-dimensional data. In this paper, we propose a novel feature extraction algorithm called membership-degree preserving discriminant analysis (MPDA) based on the fisher criterion and fuzzy set theory for face recognition. In the proposed algorithm, the membership degree of each sample to particular classes is firstly calculated by the fuzzy k-nearest neighbor (FKNN) algorithm to characterize the similarity between each sample and class centers, and then the membership degree is incorporated into the definition of the between-class scatter and the within-class scatter. The feature extraction criterion via maximizing the ratio of the between-class scatter to the within-class scatter is applied. Experimental results on the ORL, Yale, and FERET face databases demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.

Development of Experience-based Visible-type Electromagnetic Teaching Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Masayoshi; Shima, Kenzou

Electromagnetism is the base of electrical engineering, however, it is one of the most difficult subjects to learn. The small experiments which show the principles of electricity visibly are useful technique to promote these comprehension. For classroom experimental materials to learn basic electromagnetism, we developed rotating magnetic field visualizer, gravity-use generators, simple motors, and electric-field visualizer. We report how we visualized the principles of motors and generators in classroom experiments. In particular, we discuss in detail how to visualize the mechanism of very simple motors. We have been demonstrating the motors in children science classes conducted all over Japan. We developed these experimental materials, and we achieved remarkable results using these materials in the electromagnetism class.

Image classification at low light levels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wernick, Miles N.; Morris, G. Michael

1986-12-01

An imaging photon-counting detector is used to achieve automatic sorting of two image classes. The classification decision is formed on the basis of the cross correlation between a photon-limited input image and a reference function stored in computer memory. Expressions for the statistical parameters of the low-light-level correlation signal are given and are verified experimentally. To obtain a correlation-based system for two-class sorting, it is necessary to construct a reference function that produces useful information for class discrimination. An expression for such a reference function is derived using maximum-likelihood decision theory. Theoretically predicted results are used to compare on the basis of performance the maximum-likelihood reference function with Fukunaga-Koontz basis vectors and average filters. For each method, good class discrimination is found to result in milliseconds from a sparse sampling of the input image.

Comparison between project-based learning and discovery learning toward students' metacognitive strategies on global warming concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tumewu, Widya Anjelia; Wulan, Ana Ratna; Sanjaya, Yayan

2017-05-01

The purpose of this study was to know comparing the effectiveness of learning using Project-based learning (PjBL) and Discovery Learning (DL) toward students metacognitive strategies on global warming concept. A quasi-experimental research design with a The Matching-Only Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design was used in this study. The subjects were students of two classes 7th grade of one of junior high school in Bandung City, West Java of 2015/2016 academic year. The study was conducted on two experimental class, that were project-based learning treatment on the experimental class I and discovery learning treatment was done on the experimental class II. The data was collected through questionnaire to know students metacognitive strategies. The statistical analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences in students metacognitive strategies between project-based learning and discovery learning.

Using an Animal Group Vigilance Practical Session to Give Learners a "Heads-Up" to Problems in Experimental Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rands, Sean A.

2011-01-01

The design of experimental ecological fieldwork is difficult to teach to classes, particularly when protocols for data collection are normally carefully controlled by the class organiser. Normally, reinforcement of the some problems of experimental design such as the avoidance of pseudoreplication and appropriate sampling techniques does not occur…

Experimental verification of Pyragas-Schöll-Fiedler control.

PubMed

von Loewenich, Clemens; Benner, Hartmut; Just, Wolfram

2010-09-01

We present an experimental realization of time-delayed feedback control proposed by Schöll and Fiedler. The scheme enables us to stabilize torsion-free periodic orbits in autonomous systems, and to overcome the so-called odd number limitation. The experimental control performance is in quantitative agreement with the bifurcation analysis of simple model systems. The results uncover some general features of the control scheme which are deemed to be relevant for a large class of setups.

The Effect of Guided-Inquiry Instruction on 6th Grade Turkish Students' Achievement, Science Process Skills, and Attitudes Toward Science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koksal, Ela Ayse; Berberoglu, Giray

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of guided-inquiry approach in science classes over existing science and technology curriculum in developing content-based science achievement, science process skills, and attitude toward science of grade level 6 students in Turkey. Non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental design was used to investigate the treatment effect. There were 162 students in the experimental group and 142 students in the control group. Both the experimental and control group students took the Achievement Test in Reproduction, Development, and Growth in Living Things (RDGLT), Science Process Skills Test, and Attitudes Toward Science Questionnaire, as pre-test and post-test. Repeated analysis of variance design was used in analyzing the data. Both the experimental and control group students were taught in RDGLT units for 22 class hours. The results indicated the positive effect of guided-inquiry approach on the Turkish students' cognitive as well as affective characteristics. The guided inquiry enhanced the experimental group students' understandings of the science concepts as well as the inquiry skills more than the control group students. Similarly, the experimental group students improved their attitudes toward science more than the control group students as a result of treatment. The guided inquiry seems a transition between traditional teaching method and student-centred activities in the Turkish schools.

Convex Optimization over Classes of Multiparticle Entanglement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Jiangwei; Gühne, Otfried

2018-02-01

A well-known strategy to characterize multiparticle entanglement utilizes the notion of stochastic local operations and classical communication (SLOCC), but characterizing the resulting entanglement classes is difficult. Given a multiparticle quantum state, we first show that Gilbert's algorithm can be adapted to prove separability or membership in a certain entanglement class. We then present two algorithms for convex optimization over SLOCC classes. The first algorithm uses a simple gradient approach, while the other one employs the accelerated projected-gradient method. For demonstration, the algorithms are applied to the likelihood-ratio test using experimental data on bound entanglement of a noisy four-photon Smolin state [Phys. Rev. Lett. 105, 130501 (2010), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.105.130501].

Face recognition based on two-dimensional discriminant sparse preserving projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dawei; Zhu, Shanan

2018-04-01

In this paper, a supervised dimensionality reduction algorithm named two-dimensional discriminant sparse preserving projection (2DDSPP) is proposed for face recognition. In order to accurately model manifold structure of data, 2DDSPP constructs within-class affinity graph and between-class affinity graph by the constrained least squares (LS) and l1 norm minimization problem, respectively. Based on directly operating on image matrix, 2DDSPP integrates graph embedding (GE) with Fisher criterion. The obtained projection subspace preserves within-class neighborhood geometry structure of samples, while keeping away samples from different classes. The experimental results on the PIE and AR face databases show that 2DDSPP can achieve better recognition performance.

Vocational High School Students’ Profile and their English Achievement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liando, N. V. F.; Ratu, D. M.; Sahentombage, V.

2018-02-01

Vocational education has been given more attention in Indonesian education in the recent years. There have been many projects for vocational education since Jokowi Widodo took his presidential office in October 2014. In supporting government actions, vocational high school students need to improve their profile. Living in the global worlds requires the ability to interact with people from all over the world. The ability to communicate using English as the lingua franca is important. The purpose of the research reported here is, to prove whether the direct method is effective in improving vocational high school students’ English pronunciation or not. This research design is a true experimental using post-test only. The population is students from one vocational high school in North Sulawesi. Sample of this research was year 11 students consisting of two classes class A (27 students) and class B (27 students). The instrument used in collecting data is tests. The results showed that the mean of the experimental group (36.99) statistically describes the students’ improvement in pronouncing English words in which have been compared by result of the tobserved (2.897) exceed tcritical (1.943) at the level of significance 0.05. It means that there is a significant difference between the mean score of experimental group and control group regarding students’ English pronunciation. This then supports the claim that ‘rejects’ Ho and ‘accept’ Ha. Based on the result, it could be concluded that the direct method is considered effective in improving students’ English pronunciation.

Daily online testing in large classes: boosting college performance while reducing achievement gaps.

PubMed

Pennebaker, James W; Gosling, Samuel D; Ferrell, Jason D

2013-01-01

An in-class computer-based system, that included daily online testing, was introduced to two large university classes. We examined subsequent improvements in academic performance and reductions in the achievement gaps between lower- and upper-middle class students in academic performance. Students (N = 901) brought laptop computers to classes and took daily quizzes that provided immediate and personalized feedback. Student performance was compared with the same data for traditional classes taught previously by the same instructors (N = 935). Exam performance was approximately half a letter grade above previous semesters, based on comparisons of identical questions asked from earlier years. Students in the experimental classes performed better in other classes, both in the semester they took the course and in subsequent semester classes. The new system resulted in a 50% reduction in the achievement gap as measured by grades among students of different social classes. These findings suggest that frequent consequential quizzing should be used routinely in large lecture courses to improve performance in class and in other concurrent and subsequent courses.

A Simple Laboratory Class Using a "Pseudomonas aeruginosa" Auxotroph to Illustrate UV-Mutagenic Killing, DNA Photorepair and Mutagenic DNA Repair

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sobrero, Patricio; Valverde, Claudio

2013-01-01

A simple and cheap laboratory class is proposed to illustrate the lethal effect of UV radiation on bacteria and the operation of different DNA repair mechanisms. The class is divided into two sessions, an initial 3-hour experimental session and a second 2-hour analytical session. The experimental session involves two separate experiments: one…

Learning Strategies and Hypermedia Instruction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartley, Kendall

2001-01-01

Investigated the potential of incorporating learning strategy instruction into hypermedia learning materials in a high school computer class. Discusses results of a six-week intervention where the experimental group participated in learning strategy training in conjunction with hypermedia computer networking lessons and reports results of pre- and…

[Fast discrimination of edible vegetable oil based on Raman spectroscopy].

PubMed

Zhou, Xiu-Jun; Dai, Lian-Kui; Li, Sheng

2012-07-01

A novel method to fast discriminate edible vegetable oils by Raman spectroscopy is presented. The training set is composed of different edible vegetable oils with known classes. Based on their original Raman spectra, baseline correction and normalization were applied to obtain standard spectra. Two characteristic peaks describing the unsaturated degree of vegetable oil were selected as feature vectors; then the centers of all classes were calculated. For an edible vegetable oil with unknown class, the same pretreatment and feature extraction methods were used. The Euclidian distances between the feature vector of the unknown sample and the center of each class were calculated, and the class of the unknown sample was finally determined by the minimum distance. For 43 edible vegetable oil samples from seven different classes, experimental results show that the clustering effect of each class was more obvious and the class distance was much larger with the new feature extraction method compared with PCA. The above classification model can be applied to discriminate unknown edible vegetable oils rapidly and accurately.

The Effectiveness of Using Interactive Multimedia in Improving the Concept of Fashion Design and Its Application in The Making of Digital Fashion Design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiana, W.

2018-02-01

This research is related to the effort to design a more representative learning system to improve the learning result of digital fashion design, through the development of interactive multimedia based on motion graphic. This research is aimed to know the effect of interactive multimedia application based on motion graphic to increase the mastery of the concept and skill of the students to making fashion designing in digital format. The research method used is quasi experiment with research design of Non-equivalent Control Group Design. The lectures are conducted in two different classes, namely class A as the Experimental Class and class B as the Control Class. From the calculation result after interpreted using Normalize Gain, there is an increase of higher learning result in student with interactive learning based on motion graphic, compared with student achievement on conventional learning. In this research, interactive multimedia learning based on motion graphic is effective toward the improvement of student learning in concept mastering indicator and on the aspect of making fashion design in digital format.

NetCTLpan: pan-specific MHC class I pathway epitope predictions

PubMed Central

Larsen, Mette Voldby; Lundegaard, Claus; Nielsen, Morten

2010-01-01

Reliable predictions of immunogenic peptides are essential in rational vaccine design and can minimize the experimental effort needed to identify epitopes. In this work, we describe a pan-specific major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I epitope predictor, NetCTLpan. The method integrates predictions of proteasomal cleavage, transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP) transport efficiency, and MHC class I binding affinity into a MHC class I pathway likelihood score and is an improved and extended version of NetCTL. The NetCTLpan method performs predictions for all MHC class I molecules with known protein sequence and allows predictions for 8-, 9-, 10-, and 11-mer peptides. In order to meet the need for a low false positive rate, the method is optimized to achieve high specificity. The method was trained and validated on large datasets of experimentally identified MHC class I ligands and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes. It has been reported that MHC molecules are differentially dependent on TAP transport and proteasomal cleavage. Here, we did not find any consistent signs of such MHC dependencies, and the NetCTLpan method is implemented with fixed weights for proteasomal cleavage and TAP transport for all MHC molecules. The predictive performance of the NetCTLpan method was shown to outperform other state-of-the-art CTL epitope prediction methods. Our results further confirm the importance of using full-type human leukocyte antigen restriction information when identifying MHC class I epitopes. Using the NetCTLpan method, the experimental effort to identify 90% of new epitopes can be reduced by 15% and 40%, respectively, when compared to the NetMHCpan and NetCTL methods. The method and benchmark datasets are available at http://www.cbs.dtu.dk/services/NetCTLpan/. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00251-010-0441-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users. PMID:20379710

Design and performance of an analysis-by-synthesis class of predictive speech coders

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rose, Richard C.; Barnwell, Thomas P., III

1990-01-01

The performance of a broad class of analysis-by-synthesis linear predictive speech coders is quantified experimentally. The class of coders includes a number of well-known techniques as well as a very large number of speech coders which have not been named or studied. A general formulation for deriving the parametric representation used in all of the coders in the class is presented. A new coder, named the self-excited vocoder, is discussed because of its good performance with low complexity, and because of the insight this coder gives to analysis-by-synthesis coders in general. The results of a study comparing the performances of different members of this class are presented. The study takes the form of a series of formal subjective and objective speech quality tests performed on selected coders. The results of this study lead to some interesting and important observations concerning the controlling parameters for analysis-by-synthesis speech coders.

Cultivating engineering innovation ability based on optoelectronic experimental platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Dangjuan; Wu, Shenjiang

2017-08-01

As the supporting experimental platform of the Xi'an Technological University education reform experimental class, "optical technological innovation experimental platform" integrated the design and comprehensive experiments of the optical multi-class courses. On the basis of summing up the past two years teaching experience, platform pilot projects were improve. It has played a good role by making the use of an open teaching model in the cultivating engineering innovation spirit and scientific thinking of the students.

New fuzzy support vector machine for the class imbalance problem in medical datasets classification.

PubMed

Gu, Xiaoqing; Ni, Tongguang; Wang, Hongyuan

2014-01-01

In medical datasets classification, support vector machine (SVM) is considered to be one of the most successful methods. However, most of the real-world medical datasets usually contain some outliers/noise and data often have class imbalance problems. In this paper, a fuzzy support machine (FSVM) for the class imbalance problem (called FSVM-CIP) is presented, which can be seen as a modified class of FSVM by extending manifold regularization and assigning two misclassification costs for two classes. The proposed FSVM-CIP can be used to handle the class imbalance problem in the presence of outliers/noise, and enhance the locality maximum margin. Five real-world medical datasets, breast, heart, hepatitis, BUPA liver, and pima diabetes, from the UCI medical database are employed to illustrate the method presented in this paper. Experimental results on these datasets show the outperformed or comparable effectiveness of FSVM-CIP.

To Click or Not to Click

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abramzon, Nina; Sadaghiani, Homeyra

2009-03-01

A comparison of clickers v. flashcards in a controlled setting was done to test a) whether clickers show an improvement over flashcards in students learning the following concepts: i) Coulomb's force law and ii) magnetic fields caused by currents, and b) if students using clickers are more open towards conceptual questions and the peer instruction method compared to students using flashcards. Two classes taught concurrently by the same instructor were taught identically, except that in one class the collection of answers to concept questions was done using clickers, and in the other using flashcards. To test which students learned the concepts better, a few multiple choice questions from a standard exam used in physics education were included in the final exam of both classes, and the performance of the two classes was compared. In addition, a questionnaire was given to each class to evaluate students' opinions about the benefits of lectures including conceptual TPS questions and the use of related conceptual questions on exams. The results of the survey were compared between the two classes. The experimental design and results of the study will be presented.

THE EFFECTS ON ACHIEVEMENT TEST RESULTS OF VARYING CONDITIONS OF EXPERIMENTAL ATMOSPHERE, NOTICE OF TEST, TEST ADMINISTRATION, AND TEST SCORING.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

GOODWIN, WILLIAM L.; AND OTHERS

NULL HYPOTHESES WERE TESTED TO DETERMINE THE DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF (1) EXPERIMENTAL ATMOSPHERE AND ABSENCE OF SAME, (2) NOTICE OF TEST (10 SCHOOL DAYS) AND NO NOTICE (1 SCHOOL DAY), (3) TEACHER ADMINISTRATION AND OUTSIDE ADMINISTRATION OF TESTS, AND (4) TEACHER SCORING AND OUTSIDE SCORING OF TESTS. SIXTH-GRADE CLASSES (N=64), EACH FROM A…

The Use of Behavior Modification Techniques with a Special Classroom for Children with Behavior Problems. Monograph No. 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hotchkiss, James M.

The use of operant conditioning techniques in a classroom for educationally handicapped children was studied to determine if it would result in a reduction of maladaptive behavior. The subjects consisted of an experimental and a control group of elementary school children, with an IQ range in the experimental class of 88 to 119. The experimental…

Preliminary investigation of power flow and electrode phenomena in a multi-megawatt coaxial plasma thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoenberg, Kurt; Gerwin, Richard; Henins, Ivars; Mayo, Robert; Scheuer, Jay; Nurden, Glen

1993-01-01

This paper summarizes preliminary experimental and theoretical research that was directed towards the study of quasisteady-state power flow in a large, un-optimized, multi-megawatt coaxial plasma thruster. The report addresses large coaxial thruster operation and includes evaluation and interpretation of the experimental results with a view to the development of efficient, steady-state megawatt-class magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters.

[Cephalometric analysis in individuals with Class II/2 malocclusions].

PubMed

Rak, D

1990-06-01

Various orthodontic anomalies class II/2, classified into several experimental groups, and eugnathic occlusion serving as controls, were studied by roentgencephalometry. The objective of the study was to detect possible distinctions in the quantitative values of the chosen variables and to select those which discriminate the group of class II/2 orthodontic anomalies most significantly. Attempts were made to ascertain whether or not there were sex-related differences. The teleroentgenograma of 241 examines, aged 10 to 18 years, of both sexes, were analyzed. The experimental group consisted of 61 examinees class II/2 orthodontic anomalies. The control group consisted of 180 examinees with eugnathic occlusion. Latero-lateral skull roentgenograms were taken according to the rules of roentgencephalometry. Using acetate paper, the drawings of profile teleroentgenograms were elaborated and the reference points and lineas were entered. A total of 38 variables were analyzed, of which 10 were linear, 19 angular, 8 variables were obtained by mathematical calculations, and the age variable was also analyzed. For statistical analyses and electronic computer was used. The results are presented in tables and graphs. The results obtained have shown: that, when compared to the findings in the control group, the subjects in the experimental groups manifested significant changes in the following craniofacial characteristics: retroposition and retroinclination of the upper incisors; increased difference of the position of the apical basis of the jaw; marked convexity of the osseous profile; mandibular retrognathism and increased proportion of the maxillary compared to mandibular base; that, with regard to the sex of the examines, only linear variables of significantly discriminating character were selected. Thus it could be concluded that there were no significant sex differences among the morphological characteristics of the viscerocranium.

[Cephalometric analysis in cases with Class III malocclusions].

PubMed

Rak, D

1989-01-01

Various orthodontic class III anomalies, classified into several experimental groups, and eugnathic occlusions serving as controls were studied by roentgencephalometry. The objective of the study was to detect possible distinctions in the quantitative values of two variables chosen and to select the variables which most significantly discriminate the group of class III orthodontic anomalies. Attempts were made to ascertain whether or not there were sex-related differences. The teleroentgenograms of 269 examines, aged 10-18 years, of both sexes were analyzed. The experimental group consisted of 89 examinees class III orthodontic anomalies. The control group consisted of 180 examines with eugnathic occlusion. Latero-lateral skull roentgenograms were taken observing the rules of roentgenocephalometry. Using acetate paper, the drawings of profile teleroentgenograms were elaborated and the reference points and lines were entered. A total of 38 variables were analyzed, of which there were 10 linear, 19 angular, and 8 variables were obtained by mathematical calculation; the age variable was also analyzed. In statistical analyses an electronic computer was used. The results are presented in tables and graphs. The results obtained showed that: --compared to the findings in the control group, the subjects in the experimental group displayed significant changes in the following craniofacial characteristics a negative difference in the position of the apical base of the jaw, manifest concavity of the osseous profile and diminished convexity of the profile of soft parts, retroinclination of the lower incisors, mandibular prognathism, increased mandibular angle and increased mandibular proportion compared to maxillary and the anterior cranial base; --with regard to the sex of the examinees, only four linear variables of significantly discriminating character were selected, so that in can be concluded that there were no significant sex differences among the morphological characteristics of the viscerocranium.

40 CFR 146.81 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... INJECTION CONTROL PROGRAM: CRITERIA AND STANDARDS Criteria and Standards Applicable to Class VI Wells § 146... control programs to regulate any Class VI carbon dioxide geologic sequestration injection wells. (b) This...-authorized Class I, Class II, or Class V experimental carbon dioxide injection projects who seek to apply for...

40 CFR 146.81 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... INJECTION CONTROL PROGRAM: CRITERIA AND STANDARDS Criteria and Standards Applicable to Class VI Wells § 146... control programs to regulate any Class VI carbon dioxide geologic sequestration injection wells. (b) This...-authorized Class I, Class II, or Class V experimental carbon dioxide injection projects who seek to apply for...

40 CFR 146.81 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... INJECTION CONTROL PROGRAM: CRITERIA AND STANDARDS Criteria and Standards Applicable to Class VI Wells § 146... control programs to regulate any Class VI carbon dioxide geologic sequestration injection wells. (b) This...-authorized Class I, Class II, or Class V experimental carbon dioxide injection projects who seek to apply for...

40 CFR 146.81 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... INJECTION CONTROL PROGRAM: CRITERIA AND STANDARDS Criteria and Standards Applicable to Class VI Wells § 146... control programs to regulate any Class VI carbon dioxide geologic sequestration injection wells. (b) This...-authorized Class I, Class II, or Class V experimental carbon dioxide injection projects who seek to apply for...

The effectivenes of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurniawati, Arifah Putri; Prasetyo, Zuhdan Kun; Wilujeng, Insih; Suryadarma, I. Gusti Putu

2017-08-01

This research aimed to determine the significant effect of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency toward science process skills. The research method used was a quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control group design. The population of this research was all students of class VII SMP Negeri 1 Muntilan. The sample of this research was selected through cluster random sampling, namely class VII B as an experiment class (24 students) and class VII C as a control class (24 students). This research used a test instrument that was adapted from Agus Dwianto's research. The aspect of science process skills in this research was observation, classification, interpretation and communication. The analysis of data used the one factor anova at 0,05 significance level and normalized gain score. The significance level result of science process skills with one factor anova is 0,000. It shows that the significance level < alpha (0,05). It means that there was significant effect of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency toward science learning process skills. The results of analysis show that the normalized gain score are 0,29 (low category) in control class and 0,67 (medium category) in experiment class.

Influence of surface roughness on the elastic-light scattering patterns of micron-sized aerosol particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auger, J.-C.; Fernandes, G. E.; Aptowicz, K. B.; Pan, Y.-L.; Chang, R. K.

2010-04-01

The relation between the surface roughness of aerosol particles and the appearance of island-like features in their angle-resolved elastic-light scattering patterns is investigated both experimentally and with numerical simulation. Elastic scattering patterns of polystyrene spheres, Bacillus subtilis spores and cells, and NaCl crystals are measured and statistical properties of the island-like intensity features in their patterns are presented. The island-like features for each class of particle are found to be similar; however, principal-component analysis applied to extracted features is able to differentiate between some of the particle classes. Numerically calculated scattering patterns of Chebyshev particles and aggregates of spheres are analyzed and show qualitative agreement with experimental results.

Opto-Electronic Oscillator and its Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yao, X. S.; Maleki, L.

1996-01-01

We present the theoretical and experimental results of a new class of microwave oscillators called opto-electronic oscillators (OEO). We discuss techniques of achieving high stability single mode operation and demonstrate the applications of OEO in photonic communication systems.

Asynchronous Transfer Mode Quality-of-Service Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivancic, William D.

1998-01-01

In support of satellite-ATM interoperability, researchers at the NASA Lewis Research Center performed asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) quality-of-service experiments using MPEG-2 (ATM application layer 5, AAL5) over ATM over an emulated satellite link. The purpose of these experiments was to determine the free-space link quality necessary to use the ATM protocol to transmit high-quality multimedia information. The experimental results have been submitted to various International Telecommunications Union (ITU) study groups in order to improve and modify current standards and recommendations for the telecommunications industry. Quality-of-service parameters for Class I, stringent class requirements for ITU-T I.356 are currently being debated. The experimental results presented will help to establish these quality-of-service thresholds. This material will also be useful in the development of the ITU-R WP-4B's Draft Preliminary New Recommendation on the Transmission of Asynchronous Transfer Mode Traffic via Satellite (Rec. S.atm).

Lead-Testing Service to Elementary and Secondary Schools Using Anodic Stripping Voltammetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goebel, Amanda; Vos, Tracy; Louwagie, Anne; Lundbohm, Laura; Brown, Jay H.

2004-02-01

This article outlines a successful community service project that involved members of our undergraduate chemistry club and area elementary schools. Elementary school students from various science classes throughout the region collected drinking water samples and mailed them to the university for analysis. Chemistry club members analyzed the water samples for possible lead contamination using anodic stripping voltammetry. The results and experimental data were returned to the science teachers for use in a variety of class projects. Chemistry club members presented their work during our annual Environmental Chemistry Conference. All participating science classes were invited to the conference. Over the years, participation in this project has steadily increased to its current enrollment of 28 science classes throughout the region.

Longitudinal analysis of student performance in a dental hygiene distance education program.

PubMed

Olmsted, Jodi L

2002-09-01

The purpose of the study was to determine if learners who receive face-to-face instruction in an educational program performed statistically better on established benchmark assessments (GPA, course averages, and NBDHE) than learners at a distance from the didactic course instructor. A comparative, quasi-experimental, ex-post facto study was conducted. The treatment variable was program type: face-to-face vs. distance. The performance of five consecutive classes was analyzed, from 1997 to 2001. These five classes consisted of 221 learners, 105 of them at the host site and 115 using distance learning. The experimental groups were divided based upon location--host or cooperating college (distance) site learners. Study results identified no significant difference between host and distance learner performance for the entire educational program. The use of interactive television (ITV) for delivery of an educational program using distance education technology provided acceptable results in learner didactic performance. Learners at both the host and cooperating college (distance) sites performed equally well. The results were used to document program outcomes.

The effect of online collaborative learning on middle school student science literacy and sense of community

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wendt, Jillian Leigh

This study examines the effects of online collaborative learning on middle school students' science literacy and sense of community. A quantitative, quasi-experimental pretest/posttest control group design was used. Following IRB approval and district superintendent approval, students at a public middle school in central Virginia completed a pretest consisting of the Misconceptions-Oriented Standards-Based Assessment Resources for Teachers (MOSART) Physical Science assessment and the Classroom Community Scale. Students in the control group received in-class assignments that were completed collaboratively in a face-to-face manner. Students in the experimental group received in-class assignments that were completed online collaboratively through the Edmodo educational platform. Both groups were members of intact, traditional face-to-face classrooms. The students were then post tested. Results pertaining to the MOSART assessment were statistically analyzed through ANCOVA analysis while results pertaining to the Classroom Community Scale were analyzed through MANOVA analysis. Results are reported and suggestions for future research are provided.

Pattern recognition of native plant communities: Manitou Colorado test site

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Driscoll, R. S.

1972-01-01

Optimum channel selection among 12 channels of multispectral scanner imagery identified six as providing the best information about 11 vegetation classes and two nonvegetation classes at the Manitou Experimental Forest. Intensive preprocessing of the scanner signals was required to eliminate a serious scan angle effect. Final processing of the normalized data provided acceptable recognition results of generalized plant community types. Serious errors occurred with attempts to classify specific community types within upland grassland areas. The consideration of the convex mixtures concept (effects of amounts of live plant cover, exposed soil, and plant litter cover on apparent scene radiances) significantly improved the classification of some of the grassland classes.

The effect of trade books on the environmental literacy of 11th and 12th graders in aquatic science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, Ann S.

The purpose of this study was to compare the environmental literacy of 11th and 12th graders who participated in an eighteen-week environmental education program using trade books versus 11 th- and 12th-graders who participated in an eighteen-week, traditional environmental education program without the use of trade books. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental research technique. Four high school aquatic science classes at two suburban high schools were used in the research. One teacher at each high school taught one control class and one experimental class of aquatic science. In the experimental classes, four trade books were read to the classes during the eighteen-week semester. These four books were selected by the participating teachers before the semester began. The books used were A Home by the Sea, Sea Otter Rescue, There's a Hair in My Dirt, and The Missing Gator of Gumbo Limbo. The instrument used to measure environmental literacy was the Children's Environmental Attitude and Knowledge Scale. This test was given at the beginning of the semester and at the end of the semester. The scores at the end of the semester were analyzed by 2 x 2 mixed model ANOVA with the teacher as the random effect and the condition (trade books) as the fixed effect. The statistical analysis of this study showed that the students in the experimental classes did not score higher than the control classes on the Children's Environmental Attitude and Knowledge Scale or on a subset of "water" questions. Several limitations were placed on this research. These limitations included the following: (1) a small number of classes and a small number of teachers, (2) change from the original plan of using environmental science classes to aquatic science classes, (3) possible indifference of the students, and (4) restrictive teaching strategies of the teachers.

Issues on machine learning for prediction of classes among molecular sequences of plants and animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stehlik, Milan; Pant, Bhasker; Pant, Kumud; Pardasani, K. R.

2012-09-01

Nowadays major laboratories of the world are turning towards in-silico experimentation due to their ease, reproducibility and accuracy. The ethical issues concerning wet lab experimentations are also minimal in in-silico experimentations. But before we turn fully towards dry lab simulations it is necessary to understand the discrepancies and bottle necks involved with dry lab experimentations. It is necessary before reporting any result using dry lab simulations to perform in-depth statistical analysis of the data. Keeping same in mind here we are presenting a collaborative effort to correlate findings and results of various machine learning algorithms and checking underlying regressions and mutual dependencies so as to develop an optimal classifier and predictors.

Effects of Web-Based Instruction on Math Anxiety, the Sense of Mastery, and Global Self-Esteem: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Undergraduate Statistics Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Gundy, Karen; Morton, Beth A.; Liu, Hope Q.; Kline, Jennifer

2006-01-01

To explore the effects of web-based instruction (WBI) on math anxiety, the sense of mastery, and global self-esteem, we use quasi-experimental data from undergraduate statistics students in classes assigned to three study conditions, each with varied access to, and incentive for, the use of online technologies. Results suggest that when statistics…

Attendance Policies, Student Attendance, and Instructor Verbal Aggressiveness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Snyder, Jason; Forbus, Robert; Cistulli, Mark

2012-01-01

The authors utilized an experimental design across six sections of a managerial communications course (N = 173) to test the impact of instructor verbal aggressiveness and class attendance policies on student class attendance. The experimental group received a policy based on the principle of social proof (R. B. Cialdini, 2001), which indicated…

Qualitative Investigation of Students' Views about Experimental Physics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hu, Dehui; Zwickl, Benjamin M.; Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2017-01-01

This study examines students' reasoning surrounding seemingly contradictory Likert-scale responses within five items in the Colorado Learning Attitudes About Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS). We administered the E-CLASS with embedded open-ended prompts, which asked students to provide explanations after making a Likert-scale…

Results of design studies and wind tunnel tests of an advanced high lift system for an Energy Efficient Transport

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliver, W. R.

1980-01-01

The development of an advanced technology high lift system for an energy efficient transport incorporating a high aspect ratio supercritical wing is described. This development is based on the results of trade studies to select the high lift system, analysis techniques utilized to design the high lift system, and results of a wind tunnel test program. The program included the first experimental low speed, high Reynolds number wind tunnel test for this class of aircraft. The experimental results include the effects on low speed aerodynamic characteristics of various leading and trailing edge devices, nacelles and pylons, aileron, spoilers, and Mach and Reynolds numbers. Results are discussed and compared with the experimental data and the various aerodynamic characteristics are estimated.

The effect of homogeneous and heterogeneous review pairs on student achievement and attitude when utilizing computer-assisted instruction in middle-level Earth science classes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyon, Ellen Beth

1998-09-01

This research project investigated the influence of homogeneous (like-ability) review pairs coupled with heterogeneous (mixed-ability) cooperative learning groups using computer-assisted instruction (CAI) on academic achievement and attitude toward science in eighth grade Earth science students. Subjects were placed into academic quartiles (Hi, Med-Hi, Med-Lo, and Lo) based on achievement. Cooperative learning groups of four (one student from each academic quartile) were formed in all classes, within which students completed CAI through a software package entitled Geoscience Education Through Interactive Technology, or GETITspTM. Each day, when computer activities were completed, students in the experimental classes were divided into homogeneous review pairs to review their work. The students in the control classes were divided into heterogeneous review pairs to review their work. The effects of the experimental treatment were measured by pretest, posttest, and delayed posttest measures, by pre- and post-student attitude scales, and by evaluation of amendments students made to their work during the time spent in review pairs. Results showed that student achievement was not significantly influenced by placement in homogeneous or heterogeneous review pairs, regardless of academic quartile assignment. Student attitude toward science as a school subject did not change significantly due to experimental treatment. Achievement retention of students in experimental and control groups within each quartile showed no significant difference. Notebook amendment patterns showed some significant differences in a few categories. For the Hi quartile, there were significant differences in numbers of deletion amendments and substitution amendments between the experimental and the control group. In both cases, subjects in the experimental group (homogeneous review pairs) made greater number of amendments then those in the control group (heterogeneous review pairs). For the Lo quartile, there was a significant difference in the number of grammar/usage/mechanics (GUM) amendments between the experimental and control groups. The experimental group made far more GUM amendments than the control group. This research highlights the fact that many factors may influence a successful learning environment in which CAI is successfully implemented. Educational research projects should be designed and used to help teachers create learning environments in which CAI is maximized.

Similarity-balanced discriminant neighbor embedding and its application to cancer classification based on gene expression data.

PubMed

Zhang, Li; Qian, Liqiang; Ding, Chuntao; Zhou, Weida; Li, Fanzhang

2015-09-01

The family of discriminant neighborhood embedding (DNE) methods is typical graph-based methods for dimension reduction, and has been successfully applied to face recognition. This paper proposes a new variant of DNE, called similarity-balanced discriminant neighborhood embedding (SBDNE) and applies it to cancer classification using gene expression data. By introducing a novel similarity function, SBDNE deals with two data points in the same class and the different classes with different ways. The homogeneous and heterogeneous neighbors are selected according to the new similarity function instead of the Euclidean distance. SBDNE constructs two adjacent graphs, or between-class adjacent graph and within-class adjacent graph, using the new similarity function. According to these two adjacent graphs, we can generate the local between-class scatter and the local within-class scatter, respectively. Thus, SBDNE can maximize the between-class scatter and simultaneously minimize the within-class scatter to find the optimal projection matrix. Experimental results on six microarray datasets show that SBDNE is a promising method for cancer classification. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A second order derivative scheme based on Bregman algorithm class

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campagna, Rosanna; Crisci, Serena; Cuomo, Salvatore; Galletti, Ardelio; Marcellino, Livia

2016-10-01

The algorithms based on the Bregman iterative regularization are known for efficiently solving convex constraint optimization problems. In this paper, we introduce a second order derivative scheme for the class of Bregman algorithms. Its properties of convergence and stability are investigated by means of numerical evidences. Moreover, we apply the proposed scheme to an isotropic Total Variation (TV) problem arising out of the Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) denoising. Experimental results confirm that our algorithm has good performance in terms of denoising quality, effectiveness and robustness.

Inter-class competition in stage-structured populations: effects of adult density on life-history traits of adult and juvenile common lizards.

PubMed

San-Jose, Luis M; Peñalver-Alcázar, Miguel; Huyghe, Katleen; Breedveld, Merel C; Fitze, Patrick S

2016-12-01

Ecological and evolutionary processes in natural populations are largely influenced by the population's stage-structure. Commonly, different classes have different competitive abilities, e.g., due to differences in body size, suggesting that inter-class competition may be important and largely asymmetric. However, experimental evidence states that inter-class competition, which is important, is rare and restricted to marine fish. Here, we manipulated the adult density in six semi-natural populations of the European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, while holding juvenile density constant. Adult density affected juveniles, but not adults, in line with inter-class competition. High adult density led to lower juvenile survival and growth before hibernation. In contrast, juvenile survival after hibernation was higher in populations with high adult density, pointing to relaxed inter-class competition. As a result, annual survival was not affected by adult density, showing that differences in pre- and post-hibernation survival balanced each other out. The intensity of inter-class competition affected reproduction, performance, and body size in juveniles. Path analyses unravelled direct treatment effects on early growth (pre-hibernation) and no direct treatment effects on the parameters measured after hibernation. This points to allometry of treatment-induced differences in early growth, and it suggests that inter-class competition mainly affects the early growth of the competitively inferior class and thereby their future performance and reproduction. These results are in contrast with previous findings and, together with results in marine fish, suggest that the strength and direction of density dependence may depend on the degree of inter-class competition, and thus on the availability of resources used by the competing classes.

40 CFR 146.82 - Required Class VI permit information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., Class II, or Class V experimental wells, certain maps, cross-sections, tabulations of wells within the.../facies changes based on field data which may include geologic cores, outcrop data, seismic surveys, well...

40 CFR 146.82 - Required Class VI permit information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., Class II, or Class V experimental wells, certain maps, cross-sections, tabulations of wells within the.../facies changes based on field data which may include geologic cores, outcrop data, seismic surveys, well...

40 CFR 146.82 - Required Class VI permit information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., Class II, or Class V experimental wells, certain maps, cross-sections, tabulations of wells within the.../facies changes based on field data which may include geologic cores, outcrop data, seismic surveys, well...

40 CFR 146.82 - Required Class VI permit information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., Class II, or Class V experimental wells, certain maps, cross-sections, tabulations of wells within the.../facies changes based on field data which may include geologic cores, outcrop data, seismic surveys, well...

Genomic analysis of bifunctional Class C-Class D β-lactamases in environmental bacteria.

PubMed

Silveira, Melise Chaves; Catanho, Marcos; Miranda, Antônio Basílio de

2018-01-01

β-lactamases, which are found in several bacterial species and environments, are the main cause of resistance to β-lactams in Gram-negative bacteria. In 2009, a protein (LRA-13) with two β-lactamase domains (one class C domain and one class D domain) was experimentally characterised, and an extended action spectrum against β-lactams consistent with two functional domains was found. Here, we present the results of searches in the non-redundant NCBI protein database that revealed the existence of a group of homologous bifunctional β-lactamases in the genomes of environmental bacteria. These findings suggest that bifunctional β-lactamases are widespread in nature; these findings also raise concern that bifunctional β-lactamases may be transferred to bacteria of clinical importance through lateral gene transfer mechanisms.

Using multimedia learning modules in a hybrid-online course in electricity and magnetism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadaghiani, Homeyra R.

2011-06-01

We have been piloting web-based multimedia learning modules (MLMs), developed by the Physics Education Research Group at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (UIUC), as a “prelecture assignment” in several introductory physics courses at California State Polytechnic University at Pomona. In this study, we report the results from a controlled study utilizing modules on electricity and magnetism as a part of a blended hybrid-online course. We asked students in the experimental section to view the MLMs prior to attending the face-to-face class, and to make sure this would not result in additional instructional time, we reduced the weekly class time by one-third. We found that despite reduced class time, student-learning outcomes were not hindered; in fact, the implementation of the UIUC MLMs resulted in a positive effect on student performance on conceptual tests and classroom discussion questions.

Pilot study on infant swimming classes and early motor development.

PubMed

Dias, Jorge A B de S; Manoel, Edison de J; Dias, Roberta B de M; Okazaki, Victor H A

2013-12-01

Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) scores were examined before and after four months of swimming classes in 12 babies (ages 7 to 9 mo.) assigned to Experimental (n = 6) and Control (n = 6) groups matched on age and developmental status. Infants from both groups improved their developmental status from pre- to post-test; the Experimental group improved on mean percentile rank. The sample size and the discriminative power of the AIMS do not allow conclusive judgments on these group differences, hence on the effect of infant swimming classes. Nevertheless, a number of recommendations are made for future studies on the effect of swimming classes on infant motor development.

Inhibitory control efficiency in a Piaget-like class-inclusion task in school-age children and adults: a developmental negative priming study.

PubMed

Borst, G; Poirel, N; Pineau, A; Cassotti, M; Houdé, O

2013-07-01

Most children under 7 years of age presented with 10 daisies and 2 roses fail to indicate that there are more flowers than daisies. Instead of the appropriate comparison of the relative numerosities of the superordinate class (flowers) to its subordinate class (daisies), they perform a direct perceptual comparison of the extensions of the 2 subordinate classes (daisies vs. roses). In our experiment, we investigated whether increasing efficiency in solving the Piagetian class-inclusion task is related to increasing efficiency in the ability to resist (inhibit) this direct comparison of the subordinate classes' extensions. Ten-year-old and young adult participants performed a computerized priming version of a Piaget-like class-inclusion task. The experimental design was such that the misleading perceptual strategy to inhibit on the prime (in which a superordinate class had to be compared with a subordinate class) became a congruent strategy to activate on the probe (in which the two subordinate classes' extensions were directly compared). We found a negative priming effect of 291 ms in children and 129 ms in adults. These results provide evidence for the first time (a) that adults still need to inhibit the comparison of the subordinate classes' extensions in class-inclusion tasks and (b) that the ability to inhibit this heuristic increases with age (resulting in a lower executive cost). Taken together, these findings provide additional support for the neo-Piagetian approach of cognitive development that suggests that the acquisition of increasingly complex knowledge is based on the ability to resist (inhibit) heuristics and previously acquired knowledge.

A Game Plan for Teaching Logic.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woloshin, Phyllis Lerman

An experiment using game-theory to teach a unit on "fallacies" in logic was conducted at Oakton Community College. One experimental and two control group lecture-style classes were taught by three teachers using the same text and final test. The experimental class, after an introductory segment presented in lecture style, were involved in a…

Effectiveness of Case-Based Learning Instruction on Epistemological Beliefs and Attitudes Toward Chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Çam, Aylin; Geban, Ömer

2011-02-01

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of case-based learning instruction over traditionally designed chemistry instruction on eleventh grade students' epistemological beliefs and their attitudes toward chemistry as a school subject. The subjects of this study consisted of 63 eleventh grade students from two intact classes of an urban high school instructed with same teacher. Each teaching method was randomly assigned to one class. The experimental group received case-based learning and the control group received traditional instruction. At the experimental group, life cases were presented with small group format; at the control group, lecturing and discussion was carried out. The results showed that there was a significant difference between the experimental and control group with respect to their epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward chemistry as a school subject in favor of case-based learning method group. Thus, case base learning is helpful for development of students' epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward chemistry.

Robust Framework to Combine Diverse Classifiers Assigning Distributed Confidence to Individual Classifiers at Class Level

PubMed Central

Arshad, Sannia; Rho, Seungmin

2014-01-01

We have presented a classification framework that combines multiple heterogeneous classifiers in the presence of class label noise. An extension of m-Mediods based modeling is presented that generates model of various classes whilst identifying and filtering noisy training data. This noise free data is further used to learn model for other classifiers such as GMM and SVM. A weight learning method is then introduced to learn weights on each class for different classifiers to construct an ensemble. For this purpose, we applied genetic algorithm to search for an optimal weight vector on which classifier ensemble is expected to give the best accuracy. The proposed approach is evaluated on variety of real life datasets. It is also compared with existing standard ensemble techniques such as Adaboost, Bagging, and Random Subspace Methods. Experimental results show the superiority of proposed ensemble method as compared to its competitors, especially in the presence of class label noise and imbalance classes. PMID:25295302

Robust framework to combine diverse classifiers assigning distributed confidence to individual classifiers at class level.

PubMed

Khalid, Shehzad; Arshad, Sannia; Jabbar, Sohail; Rho, Seungmin

2014-01-01

We have presented a classification framework that combines multiple heterogeneous classifiers in the presence of class label noise. An extension of m-Mediods based modeling is presented that generates model of various classes whilst identifying and filtering noisy training data. This noise free data is further used to learn model for other classifiers such as GMM and SVM. A weight learning method is then introduced to learn weights on each class for different classifiers to construct an ensemble. For this purpose, we applied genetic algorithm to search for an optimal weight vector on which classifier ensemble is expected to give the best accuracy. The proposed approach is evaluated on variety of real life datasets. It is also compared with existing standard ensemble techniques such as Adaboost, Bagging, and Random Subspace Methods. Experimental results show the superiority of proposed ensemble method as compared to its competitors, especially in the presence of class label noise and imbalance classes.

Argumentation Practices in Classroom: Pre-service teachers' conceptual understanding of chemical equilibrium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaya, Ebru

2013-05-01

This study examines the impact of argumentation practices on pre-service teachers' understanding of chemical equilibrium. The sample consisted of 100 pre-service teachers in two classes of a public university. One of these classes was assigned as experimental and the other as control group, randomly. In the experimental group, the subject of chemical equilibrium was taught by using argumentative practices and the participants were encouraged to participate in the lessons actively. However, the instructor taught the same subject by using the lecturing method without engaging argumentative activities in the control group. The Chemical Equilibrium Concept Test and Written Argumentation Survey were administered to all participants to assess their conceptual understanding and the quality of their arguments, respectively. The analysis of covariance results indicate that argumentation practices significantly improved conceptual understanding of the experimental group when compared to the control group. Furthermore, the results show that the pre-service teachers exposed to argumentative practices constructed more quality arguments than those in the control group after the instruction. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the instruction based on argumentative practices is effective in concept teaching in science education. Therefore, argumentation should be explicitly taught in teacher education besides elementary and secondary education.

Effects of Peer Instruction on State College Student Achievement in an Introductory Biology Unit in Genetics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKnight, Holly Nicole

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Peer Instruction (PI) in a state college biology classroom. Students discussed biological concepts in the area of genetics among their peers during class time. Conceptual questions were delivered to the student in the form of ConcepTests, conceptual questions designed to uncover students' misconceptions in the material. Students first answered a question projected from the computer to an overhead screen on their own. Depending on the percentage of students that answered correctly, students then discussed their answers with their peers (PI). These discussions allowed students to uncover their misunderstandings in the material by asking them to think about what they know and what they don't know. Students' initial and secondary responses to the related questions gave the instructor a real time instant view of the collective class' conceptual understanding of concepts being covered. This study was a quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest, control group design. The sample consisted of 134 students enrolled in General Biology (BSCC 1010) a Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) in Palm Bay, Florida. Both control N = 62 and experimental groups N = 72 were comprised of whole intact classes during the Fall 2014 semester. The control groups received traditional lecture content during the course of the study. They had access to conceptual questions but they were not used in a Peer Instruction format during class time. A statistical analysis was conducted after the completion of pre-tests and posttests during the Fall 2014 semester. Although there was an increase in test scores in the experimental group compared to the control, the results were not significant with p = 0.0687 at an alpha level of .05. No significant difference was found in retention p= 0.5954, gender p = 0.4487 or past science coursework p = 0.6695 between classes that engaged in PI and classes that were taught in traditional lecture-based classes. There were, however, significant differences in correct answers on the individual ConcepTests between the first and second time they answered questions after participating in Peer Instruction, p = .0008.

Research on same-gender grouping in eighth-grade science classrooms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friend, Jennifer Ingrid

This study examined two hypotheses related to same-gender grouping of eighth-grade science classes in a public middle-school setting in suburban Kansas City. The first hypothesis, male and female students enrolled in same-gender eighth-grade science classes demonstrate more positive science academic achievement than their male and female peers enrolled in mixed-gender science classes. The second hypothesis, same-gender grouping of students in eighth-grade science has a positive effect on classroom climate. The participants in this study were randomly assigned to class sections of eighth-grade science. The first experimental group was an eighth-grade science class of all-male students (n = 20) taught by a male science teacher. The control group used for comparison to the male same-gender class consisted of the male students (n = 42) in the coeducational eighth-grade science classes taught by the same male teacher. The second experimental group was an eighth-grade science class of all-female students (n = 23) taught by a female science teacher. The control group for the female same-gender class consisted of female students (n = 61) in the coeducational eighth-grade science classes taught by the same female teacher. The male teacher and the female teacher did not vary instruction for the same-gender and mixed-gender classes. Science academic achievement was measured for both groups through a quantitative analysis using grades on science classroom assessment and overall science course grades. Classroom climate was measured through qualitative observations and through qualitative and quantitative analysis of a twenty-question student survey administered at the end of each trimester grading period. The results of this study did not indicate support for either hypothesis. Data led to the conclusions that same-gender grouping did not produce significant differences in student science academic achievement, and that same-gender classes did not create a more positive classroom climate for male or female students. There is evidence in the literature to support further investigations in gender differences in science education to address the unique needs of male and female students in order to create gains in student science achievement and to encourage positive attitudes toward science.

The effect of class imbalance on case selection for case-based classifiers: An empirical study in the context of medical decision support

PubMed Central

Malof, Jordan M.; Mazurowski, Maciej A.; Tourassi, Georgia D.

2013-01-01

Case selection is a useful approach for increasing the efficiency and performance of case-based classifiers. Multiple techniques have been designed to perform case selection. This paper empirically investigates how class imbalance in the available set of training cases can impact the performance of the resulting classifier as well as properties of the selected set. In this study, the experiments are performed using a dataset for the problem of detecting breast masses in screening mammograms. The classification problem was binary and we used a k-nearest neighbor classifier. The classifier’s performance was evaluated using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) measure. The experimental results indicate that although class imbalance reduces the performance of the derived classifier and the effectiveness of selection at improving overall classifier performance, case selection can still be beneficial, regardless of the level of class imbalance. PMID:21820273

Experimental verification of a new Bell-type inequality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jia-Qiang; Cao, Lian-Zhen; Yang, Yang; Li, Ying-De; Lu, Huai-Xin

2018-05-01

Arpan Das et al. proposed a set of new Bell inequalities (Das et al., 2017 [16]) for a three-qubit system and claimed that each inequality within this set is violated by all generalized Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GGHZ) states. We investigate experimentally the new inequalities in the three-photon GGHZ class states. Since the inequalities are symmetric under the identical particles system, we chose one Bell-type inequality from the set arbitrarily. The experimental data well verified the theoretical prediction. Moreover, the experimental results show that the amount of violation of the new Bell inequality against locality realism increases monotonically following the increase of the tangle of the GGHZ state. The most profound physical essence revealed by the results is that the nonlocality of GGHZ state correlate with three tangles directly.

Vitality and Interest-Enjoyment as a Function of Class-to-Class Variation in Need-Supportive Teaching and Pupils' Autonomous Motivation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mouratidis, Athanasios A.; Vansteenkiste, Maarten; Sideridis, Georgios; Lens, Willy

2011-01-01

In 2 quasi-experimental field studies in a real-life physical education (PE) setting, the authors investigated whether the interest-enjoyment and vitality of Greek pupils (age range, 10-12 years) varied from class to class as a function of the class-to-class variation in the manipulated motivational environment (Studies 1 and 2) and pupils'…

The Microscale Synthesis and Electrochemistry of Low-Valent Mononuclear Complexes (h3-C3H5)Fe(CO)3 X (X = I, Br, Cl)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mocellin, Enrico; Russell, Richard; Ravera, Mauro

1998-06-01

The experimental content of this paper will appeal to pedagogues and students who might be looking for new ideas that have an element of challenge. By combining experimental procedures which place microscale, chemical synthesis, and an inclusive, unified, product characterization in perspective, we have afforded the student the scope to obtain progressive, disciplined results and the opportunity to discuss these in the subsequent reporting. By this process, it is our experience that the students often identify with the practical work that is being undertaken, and they develop considerable empathy during their contribution to the "discovery" process that this laboratory program offers. The experimental work can be abbreviated to a single compound, subdivided into synthesis or electrochemistry, or extended to macroscale and other instrumental techniques of characterization, thus offering opportunities to accommodate time constraints, class results combination and discussion, and individual student enthusiasm. We believe that having to accept and/or constructively criticize sequential experimental results, collected by fellow students, mimics more realistically the practice of chemistry at the workplace and can build enthusiasm and elicit contagious fellowship from the class. All of these aspects can simply be achieved by utilizing the listed journals and references therein. Most importantly, it affords the students the opportunity to extricate themselves as innocent bystanders from the conventional "single experiment" practical laboratory to a path of practice and achievement in the scientific method.

[The effect of a scenario-based simulation communication course on improving the communication skills of nurses].

PubMed

Huang, Ya-Hsuan; Hsieh, Suh-Ing; Hsu, Li-Ling

2014-04-01

Limited disease knowledge is frequently the cause of disease-related anxiety in myocardial infarction patients. The ability to communicate effectively serves multiple purposes in the professional nursing practice. By communicating effectively with myocardial infarction patients, nurses may help reduce their anxiety by keeping them well informed about their disease and teaching them self-care strategies. This research evaluates the communication skills of nurses following scenario-based simulation education in the context of communication with myocardial infarction patients. This study used an experimental design and an educational intervention. The target population comprised nurses of medicine (clinical qualified level N to N2 for nursing) working at a municipal hospital in Taipei City, Taiwan. A total 122 participants were enrolled. Stratified block randomization divided participants into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received clinical scenario-based simulation education for communication. The control group received traditional class-based education for communication. Both groups received a pre-test and a Communication Skills Checklist post-test assessment. Results were analyzed using SPSS 17.0 for Windows software. A t-test showed significant increases in communication skills (p < .001) in the experimental group and ANCOVA results identified significant between-group differences (p < .001) in communication skills following the education intervention. The results indicate that clinical scenario-based simulation education for communication is significantly more effective than traditional class-based education in enhancing the ability of nurses to communicate effectively with myocardial infarction patients.

Enhancing students' science literacy using solar cell learning multimedia containing science and nano technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eliyawati, Sunarya, Yayan; Mudzakir, Ahmad

2017-05-01

This research attempts to enhance students' science literacy in the aspects of students' science content, application context, process, and students' attitude using solar cell learning multimedia containing science and nano technology. The quasi-experimental method with pre-post test design was used to achieve these objectives. Seventy-two students of class XII at a high school were employed as research's subject. Thirty-six students were in control class and another thirty-six were in experiment class. Variance test (t-test) was performed on the average level of 95% to identify the differences of students' science literacy in both classes. As the result, there were significant different of learning outcomes between experiment class and control class. Almost half of students (41.67%) in experiment class are categorized as high. Therefore, the learning using solar cell learning multimedia can improve students' science literacy, especially in the students' science content, application context, and process aspects with n-gain(%) 59.19 (medium), 63.04 (medium), and 52.98 (medium). This study can be used to develop learning multimedia in other science context.

Prediction of the binding affinities of peptides to class II MHC using a regularized thermodynamic model

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background The binding of peptide fragments of extracellular peptides to class II MHC is a crucial event in the adaptive immune response. Each MHC allotype generally binds a distinct subset of peptides and the enormous number of possible peptide epitopes prevents their complete experimental characterization. Computational methods can utilize the limited experimental data to predict the binding affinities of peptides to class II MHC. Results We have developed the Regularized Thermodynamic Average, or RTA, method for predicting the affinities of peptides binding to class II MHC. RTA accounts for all possible peptide binding conformations using a thermodynamic average and includes a parameter constraint for regularization to improve accuracy on novel data. RTA was shown to achieve higher accuracy, as measured by AUC, than SMM-align on the same data for all 17 MHC allotypes examined. RTA also gave the highest accuracy on all but three allotypes when compared with results from 9 different prediction methods applied to the same data. In addition, the method correctly predicted the peptide binding register of 17 out of 18 peptide-MHC complexes. Finally, we found that suboptimal peptide binding registers, which are often ignored in other prediction methods, made significant contributions of at least 50% of the total binding energy for approximately 20% of the peptides. Conclusions The RTA method accurately predicts peptide binding affinities to class II MHC and accounts for multiple peptide binding registers while reducing overfitting through regularization. The method has potential applications in vaccine design and in understanding autoimmune disorders. A web server implementing the RTA prediction method is available at http://bordnerlab.org/RTA/. PMID:20089173

Argumentation Practices in Classroom: Pre-Service Teachers' Conceptual Understanding of Chemical Equilibrium

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaya, Ebru

2013-01-01

This study examines the impact of argumentation practices on pre-service teachers' understanding of chemical equilibrium. The sample consisted of 100 pre-service teachers in two classes of a public university. One of these classes was assigned as experimental and the other as control group, randomly. In the experimental group, the subject of…

Demonstration Technique to Improve Vocabulary and Grammar Element in Teaching Speaking at EFL Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Husnu, Muhammad

2018-01-01

This study aimed at examining the effectiveness of demonstration technique to improve vocabulary and grammar element in teaching speaking at EFL learners. This research applied true-experimental design. The respondents of the study were 32 students (class IIA) as experimental group and 32 students (class IIB) as control group from the second…

Metal Oxide Gas Sensor Drift Compensation Using a Two-Dimensional Classifier Ensemble

PubMed Central

Liu, Hang; Chu, Renzhi; Tang, Zhenan

2015-01-01

Sensor drift is the most challenging problem in gas sensing at present. We propose a novel two-dimensional classifier ensemble strategy to solve the gas discrimination problem, regardless of the gas concentration, with high accuracy over extended periods of time. This strategy is appropriate for multi-class classifiers that consist of combinations of pairwise classifiers, such as support vector machines. We compare the performance of the strategy with those of competing methods in an experiment based on a public dataset that was compiled over a period of three years. The experimental results demonstrate that the two-dimensional ensemble outperforms the other methods considered. Furthermore, we propose a pre-aging process inspired by that applied to the sensors to improve the stability of the classifier ensemble. The experimental results demonstrate that the weight of each multi-class classifier model in the ensemble remains fairly static before and after the addition of new classifier models to the ensemble, when a pre-aging procedure is applied. PMID:25942640

The Teacher as Researcher: An Experimental Approach toward Teaching in the College Classroom and Beyond.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeMarie, Darlene

Noting that there are far too many variables ever to have the same teaching results with different people in different classes in different historical times and places, this paper describes methods for helping educational psychology students to learn to assess systematically the results of teaching. First, making one's thinking overt helps…

The Effects of Incorporating Web-assisted Learning with Team Teaching in Seventh-grade Science Classes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, Syh-Jong

2006-05-01

Due to the implementation of a 9-year integrated curriculum scheme in Taiwan, research on team teaching and web-based technology appears to be urgent. The purpose of this study was incorporated web-assisted learning with team teaching in seventh-grade science classes. The specific research question concerned student performance and attitudes about the teaching method. Two certified science teachers and four classes of the seventh graders participated in this study. It used a mixed methods design, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The main data included students’ scores, questionnaires, teachers’ self-reflections, and the researcher’s interviews with teachers. The results showed that the average final examination scores of students experiencing the experimental teaching method were higher than that of those receiving traditional teaching. The two teaching methods showed significant difference in respect of students’ achievement. The research had limitations because of students’ abilities of data collection, computer use, and discussion, but more than one-half of the students preferred the experimental method to traditional teaching. However, team teachers would encounter the problems of technology ability, time constraints, and entrance examination pressure.

Project Clarion: Three Years of Science Instruction in Title I Schools among K-Third Grade Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kyung Hee; VanTassel-Baska, Joyce; Bracken, Bruce A.; Feng, Annie; Stambaugh, Tamra; Bland, Lori

2012-10-01

The purpose of the study was to measure the effects of higher level, inquiry-based science curricula on students at primary level in Title I schools. Approximately 3,300 K-3 students from six schools were assigned to experimental or control classes ( N = 115 total) on a random basis according to class. Experimental students were exposed to concept-based science curriculum that emphasized `deep learning' though concept mastery and investigation, whereas control classes learned science from traditional school-based curricula. Two ability measures, the Bracken Basic Concept Scale-Revised (BBCS-R, Bracken 1998) and the Naglieri Nonverbal Intelligence Test (NNAT, Naglieri 1991), were used for baseline information. Additionally, a standardized measure of student achievement in science (the MAT-8 science subtest), a standardized measure of critical thinking, and a measure for observing teachers' classroom behaviors were used to assess learning outcomes. Results indicated that all ability groups of students benefited from the science inquiry-based approach to learning that emphasized science concepts, and that there was a positive achievement effect for low socio-economic young children who were exposed to such a curriculum.

The effect of creative problem solving on students’ mathematical adaptive reasoning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muin, A.; Hanifah, S. H.; Diwidian, F.

2018-01-01

This research was conducted to analyse the effect of creative problem solving (CPS) learning model on the students’ mathematical adaptive reasoning. The method used in this study was a quasi-experimental with randomized post-test only control group design. Samples were taken as many as two classes by cluster random sampling technique consisting of experimental class (CPS) as many as 40 students and control class (conventional) as many as 40 students. Based on the result of hypothesis testing with the t-test at the significance level of 5%, it was obtained that significance level of 0.0000 is less than α = 0.05. This shows that the students’ mathematical adaptive reasoning skills who were taught by CPS model were higher than the students’ mathematical adaptive reasoning skills of those who were taught by conventional model. The result of this research showed that the most prominent aspect of adaptive reasoning that could be developed through a CPS was inductive intuitive. Two aspects of adaptive reasoning, which were inductive intuitive and deductive intuitive, were mostly balanced. The different between inductive intuitive and deductive intuitive aspect was not too big. CPS model can develop student mathematical adaptive reasoning skills. CPS model can facilitate development of mathematical adaptive reasoning skills thoroughly.

Experimental Divergences in the Visual Cognition of Birds and Mammals

PubMed Central

Qadri, Muhammad A. J.; Cook, Robert G.

2015-01-01

The comparative analysis of visual cognition across classes of animals yields important information regarding underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms involved with this foundational aspect of behavior. Birds, and pigeons specifically, have been an important source and model for this comparison, especially in relation to mammals. During these investigations, an extensive number of experiments have found divergent results in how pigeons and humans process visual information. Four areas of these divergences are collected, reviewed, and analyzed. We examine the potential contribution and limitations of experimental, spatial, and attentional factors in the interpretation of these findings and their implications for mechanisms of visual cognition in birds and mammals. Recommendations are made to help advance these comparisons in service of understanding the general principles by which different classes and species generate representations of the visual world. PMID:26207154

The Effects of Class Size in Online College Courses: Experimental Evidence. CEPA Working Paper No. 15-14

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bettinger, Eric; Doss, Christopher; Loeb, Susanna; Taylor, Eric

2015-01-01

Class size is a first-order consideration in the study of education production and education costs. How larger or smaller classes affect student outcomes is especially relevant to the growth and design of online classes. We study a field experiment in which college students were quasi-randomly assigned to either a large or a small class. All…

The signaling petri net-based simulator: a non-parametric strategy for characterizing the dynamics of cell-specific signaling networks.

PubMed

Ruths, Derek; Muller, Melissa; Tseng, Jen-Te; Nakhleh, Luay; Ram, Prahlad T

2008-02-29

Reconstructing cellular signaling networks and understanding how they work are major endeavors in cell biology. The scale and complexity of these networks, however, render their analysis using experimental biology approaches alone very challenging. As a result, computational methods have been developed and combined with experimental biology approaches, producing powerful tools for the analysis of these networks. These computational methods mostly fall on either end of a spectrum of model parameterization. On one end is a class of structural network analysis methods; these typically use the network connectivity alone to generate hypotheses about global properties. On the other end is a class of dynamic network analysis methods; these use, in addition to the connectivity, kinetic parameters of the biochemical reactions to predict the network's dynamic behavior. These predictions provide detailed insights into the properties that determine aspects of the network's structure and behavior. However, the difficulty of obtaining numerical values of kinetic parameters is widely recognized to limit the applicability of this latter class of methods. Several researchers have observed that the connectivity of a network alone can provide significant insights into its dynamics. Motivated by this fundamental observation, we present the signaling Petri net, a non-parametric model of cellular signaling networks, and the signaling Petri net-based simulator, a Petri net execution strategy for characterizing the dynamics of signal flow through a signaling network using token distribution and sampling. The result is a very fast method, which can analyze large-scale networks, and provide insights into the trends of molecules' activity-levels in response to an external stimulus, based solely on the network's connectivity. We have implemented the signaling Petri net-based simulator in the PathwayOracle toolkit, which is publicly available at http://bioinfo.cs.rice.edu/pathwayoracle. Using this method, we studied a MAPK1,2 and AKT signaling network downstream from EGFR in two breast tumor cell lines. We analyzed, both experimentally and computationally, the activity level of several molecules in response to a targeted manipulation of TSC2 and mTOR-Raptor. The results from our method agreed with experimental results in greater than 90% of the cases considered, and in those where they did not agree, our approach provided valuable insights into discrepancies between known network connectivities and experimental observations.

The Signaling Petri Net-Based Simulator: A Non-Parametric Strategy for Characterizing the Dynamics of Cell-Specific Signaling Networks

PubMed Central

Ruths, Derek; Muller, Melissa; Tseng, Jen-Te; Nakhleh, Luay; Ram, Prahlad T.

2008-01-01

Reconstructing cellular signaling networks and understanding how they work are major endeavors in cell biology. The scale and complexity of these networks, however, render their analysis using experimental biology approaches alone very challenging. As a result, computational methods have been developed and combined with experimental biology approaches, producing powerful tools for the analysis of these networks. These computational methods mostly fall on either end of a spectrum of model parameterization. On one end is a class of structural network analysis methods; these typically use the network connectivity alone to generate hypotheses about global properties. On the other end is a class of dynamic network analysis methods; these use, in addition to the connectivity, kinetic parameters of the biochemical reactions to predict the network's dynamic behavior. These predictions provide detailed insights into the properties that determine aspects of the network's structure and behavior. However, the difficulty of obtaining numerical values of kinetic parameters is widely recognized to limit the applicability of this latter class of methods. Several researchers have observed that the connectivity of a network alone can provide significant insights into its dynamics. Motivated by this fundamental observation, we present the signaling Petri net, a non-parametric model of cellular signaling networks, and the signaling Petri net-based simulator, a Petri net execution strategy for characterizing the dynamics of signal flow through a signaling network using token distribution and sampling. The result is a very fast method, which can analyze large-scale networks, and provide insights into the trends of molecules' activity-levels in response to an external stimulus, based solely on the network's connectivity. We have implemented the signaling Petri net-based simulator in the PathwayOracle toolkit, which is publicly available at http://bioinfo.cs.rice.edu/pathwayoracle. Using this method, we studied a MAPK1,2 and AKT signaling network downstream from EGFR in two breast tumor cell lines. We analyzed, both experimentally and computationally, the activity level of several molecules in response to a targeted manipulation of TSC2 and mTOR-Raptor. The results from our method agreed with experimental results in greater than 90% of the cases considered, and in those where they did not agree, our approach provided valuable insights into discrepancies between known network connectivities and experimental observations. PMID:18463702

A Comparison of a Traditional Lecture-Based and Online Supplemental Video and Lecture-Based Approach in an Engineering Statics Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halupa, Colleen M.; Caldwell, Benjamin W.

2015-01-01

This quasi-experimental research study evaluated two intact undergraduate engineering statics classes at a private university in Texas. Students in the control group received traditional lecture, readings and homework assignments. Those in the experimental group also were given access to a complete set of online video lectures and videos…

[Experimental Course in Elementary Number Theory, Cambridge Conference on School Mathematics Feasibility Study No. 35.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatch, Mary Jacqueline

In the winter of 1965, an experimental course in Elementary Number Theory was presented to a 6th grade class in the Hosmer School, Watertown, Massachusetts. Prior to the introduction of the present material, students had been exposed in class to such topics from the University of Illinois Arithmetic Project as lattices, number lines, frame…

Development of a Test for an Experimental Research Program in Creative Problem Solving. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miles, David T.

The purpose of this first phase of a continuing research program was the development of a test of creative problem solving in general design. A design class of 186 members was divided into an experimental and control group; a non-design control group (an educational psychology class) of 45 was also tested. Multivariate interpretation of creative…

A REPORT ON EXPERIMENTATION IN THE TEACHING OF THE FIRST COURSE IN ALGEBRA AT EL CAMINO COLLEGE.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MANSFIELD, HENRY, JR.

AN INITIAL ATTEMPT TO EVALUATE PROGRAMED INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL IN ALGEBRA CLASSES LED TO FURTHER EXPERIMENTATION WITH A VARIETY OF PROCEDURES. IN 1964-65, NO SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES WERE FOUND IN THE PERCENT OF STUDENTS SUCCEEDING IN PROGRAMED AND CONVENTIONAL CLASSES, THOUGH STUDENTS IN PROGRAMED SECTIONS DID NOT SEEM MOTIVATED TO WORK AT THEIR…

Accelerating Mathematics Achievement Using Heterogeneous Grouping

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burris, Carol Corbett; Heubert, Jay P.; Levin, Henry M.

2006-01-01

This longitudinal study examined the effects of providing an accelerated mathematics curriculum in heterogeneously grouped middle school classes in a diverse suburban school district. A quasi-experimental cohort design was used to evaluate subsequent completion of advanced high school math courses as well as academic achievement. Results showed…

Integration of a Community Pharmacy Simulation Program into a Therapeutics Course.

PubMed

Shin, Jaekyu; Tabatabai, Daryush; Boscardin, Christy; Ferrone, Marcus; Brock, Tina

2018-02-01

Objective. To demonstrate the feasibility of integrating the computer simulation, MyDispense, into a therapeutics course and to measure its effects on student perception and learning. Methods. We conducted a prospective study with an experimental phase and an implementation phase. In the first phase, students were randomized to complete a therapeutics case using MyDispense or traditional paper methods in class. In the second phase, all students completed two therapeutic cases using MyDispense in class with the option to complete four additional outside-of-class cases using MyDispense. Students completed pre- and post-tests in class and three surveys. Results. In the experimental phase, mean test scores increased from pre- to post-test for both MyDispense and traditional paper groups, but the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. Students in the traditional paper group reported statistically significant gains in confidence compared to the MyDispense group. In the implementation phase, mean test scores again increased, however, student perception of the use of MyDispense for therapeutics was negative. Completing the optional outside-of-class cases, however, was positively and significantly correlated with the midterm and final examination scores. Conclusion. Implementation of MyDispense in therapeutics may be feasible and has positive effects (eg, correlation with exam scores, capacity for immediate feedback, and potential for effective self-study). With short-term use and in the absence of assessment methods that also require seeking information from patients, students prefer to learn via traditional paper cases.

The Relationship between Sex-Role Stereotyping in TV Programming and Children's Autonomy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olsen, Judith E.

Six classes with 20 students per class participated in a study to determine the effects of television programing's stereotyped images on children's autonomy (independence of thought and action). Classes of first and second grade students and two classes of fifth grade students were the experimental groups, while the third and sixth grade classes…

An Experiment Comparing HBSE Graduate Social Work Classes: Face-to-Face and at a Distance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woehle, Ralph; Quinn, Andrew

2009-01-01

This article describes a quasi-experimental comparison of two master's level social work classes delivering content on human behavior in the social environment. One class, delivered face-to-face, was largely synchronous. The other class, delivered using distance technologies, was more asynchronous than the first. The authors hypothesized that…

NASA Lewis 1969 Apprentice Class Graduates

NASA Image and Video Library

1969-11-21

The 1969 class of graduating apprentices pose for a group photograph during a rehearsal ceremony at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. The 35 men completed four years of classroom and hands-on training in various aerospace research trades. Center Director Bruce Lundin and President of Cuyahoga Community College Dr. Bernard Silk addressed the graduates at the ceremony. The Ohio State Apprenticeship Council officially accredited them as journeymen. The journeymen specialized in one of the following fields: aerospace laboratory mechanic, aerospace service operator, experimental electronic equipment mechanic, experimental facilities electrician, experimental metal modelmaker, experimental metal worker, research equipment mechanic, research instrumentation mechanic, or utilities mechanic.

Pedestal cleaning for high laser pulse contrast ratio with a 100 TW class laser system.

PubMed

Fourmaux, S; Payeur, S; Buffechoux, S; Lassonde, P; St-Pierre, C; Martin, F; Kieffer, J C

2011-04-25

Laser matter interaction at relativistic intensities using 100 TW class laser systems or higher is becoming more and more widespread. One of the critical issues of such laser systems is to let the laser pulse interact at high intensity with the solid target and avoid any pre-plasma. Thus, a high Laser Pulse Contrast Ratio (LPCR) parameter is of prime importance. We present the LPCR characterization of a high repetition 100 TW class laser system. We demonstrate that the generated Amplified Spontaneous Emission (ASE) degrades the overall LPCR performance. We propose a simple way to clean the pulse after the first amplification stage by introducing a solid state saturable absorber which results in a LPCR improvement to better than 10(10) with only a 30% energy loss at a 10 Hz repetition rate. We finally correlated this cleaning method with experimental results.

An improved SRC method based on virtual samples for face recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Lijun; Chen, Deyun; Lin, Kezheng; Li, Ao

2018-07-01

The sparse representation classifier (SRC) performs classification by evaluating which class leads to the minimum representation error. However, in real world, the number of available training samples is limited due to noise interference, training samples cannot accurately represent the test sample linearly. Therefore, in this paper, we first produce virtual samples by exploiting original training samples at the aim of increasing the number of training samples. Then, we take the intra-class difference as data representation of partial noise, and utilize the intra-class differences and training samples simultaneously to represent the test sample in a linear way according to the theory of SRC algorithm. Using weighted score level fusion, the respective representation scores of the virtual samples and the original training samples are fused together to obtain the final classification results. The experimental results on multiple face databases show that our proposed method has a very satisfactory classification performance.

Method for simulating discontinuous physical systems

DOEpatents

Baty, Roy S.; Vaughn, Mark R.

2001-01-01

The mathematical foundations of conventional numerical simulation of physical systems provide no consistent description of the behavior of such systems when subjected to discontinuous physical influences. As a result, the numerical simulation of such problems requires ad hoc encoding of specific experimental results in order to address the behavior of such discontinuous physical systems. In the present invention, these foundations are replaced by a new combination of generalized function theory and nonstandard analysis. The result is a class of new approaches to the numerical simulation of physical systems which allows the accurate and well-behaved simulation of discontinuous and other difficult physical systems, as well as simpler physical systems. Applications of this new class of numerical simulation techniques to process control, robotics, and apparatus design are outlined.

Recent Advances in Experimental Whole Genome Haplotyping Methods

PubMed Central

Huang, Mengting; Lu, Zuhong

2017-01-01

Haplotype plays a vital role in diverse fields; however, the sequencing technologies cannot resolve haplotype directly. Pioneers demonstrated several approaches to resolve haplotype in the early years, which was extensively reviewed. Since then, numerous methods have been developed recently that have significantly improved phasing performance. Here, we review experimental methods that have emerged mainly over the past five years, and categorize them into five classes according to their maximum scale of contiguity: (i) encapsulation, (ii) 3D structure capture and construction, (iii) compartmentalization, (iv) fluorography, (v) long-read sequencing. Several subsections of certain methods are attached to each class as instances. We also discuss the relative advantages and disadvantages of different classes and make comparisons among representative methods of each class. PMID:28891974

Application of experiential learning model using simple physical kit to increase attitude toward physics student senior high school in fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johari, A. H.; Muslim

2018-05-01

Experiential learning model using simple physics kit has been implemented to get a picture of improving attitude toward physics senior high school students on Fluid. This study aims to obtain a description of the increase attitudes toward physics senior high school students. The research method used was quasi experiment with non-equivalent pretest -posttest control group design. Two class of tenth grade were involved in this research 28, 26 students respectively experiment class and control class. Increased Attitude toward physics of senior high school students is calculated using an attitude scale consisting of 18 questions. Based on the experimental class test average of 86.5% with the criteria of almost all students there is an increase and in the control class of 53.75% with the criteria of half students. This result shows that the influence of experiential learning model using simple physics kit can improve attitude toward physics compared to experiential learning without using simple physics kit.

Improving students’ understanding of mathematical concept using maple

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ningsih, Y. L.; Paradesa, R.

2018-01-01

This study aimed to improve students’ understanding of mathematical concept ability through implementation of using Maple in learning and expository learning. This study used a quasi-experimental research with pretest-posttest control group design. The sample on this study was 61 students in the second semester of Mathematics Education of Universitas PGRI Palembang, South Sumatera in academic year 2016/2017. The sample was divided into two classes, one class as the experiment class who using Maple in learning and the other class as a control class who received expository learning. Data were collective through the test of mathematical initial ability and mathematical concept understanding ability. Data were analyzed by t-test and two ways ANOVA. The results of this study showed (1) the improvement of students’ mathematical concept understanding ability who using Maple in learning is better than those who using expository learning; (2) there is no interaction between learning model and students’ mathematical initial ability toward the improvement of students’ understanding of mathematical concept ability.

Estimation of proportions in mixed pixels through their region characterization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chittineni, C. B. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

A region of mixed pixels can be characterized through the probability density function of proportions of classes in the pixels. Using information from the spectral vectors of a given set of pixels from the mixed pixel region, expressions are developed for obtaining the maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters of probability density functions of proportions. The proportions of classes in the mixed pixels can then be estimated. If the mixed pixels contain objects of two classes, the computation can be reduced by transforming the spectral vectors using a transformation matrix that simultaneously diagonalizes the covariance matrices of the two classes. If the proportions of the classes of a set of mixed pixels from the region are given, then expressions are developed for obtaining the estmates of the parameters of the probability density function of the proportions of mixed pixels. Development of these expressions is based on the criterion of the minimum sum of squares of errors. Experimental results from the processing of remotely sensed agricultural multispectral imagery data are presented.

A Cooperative Learning Classroom Intervention for Increasing Peer's Acceptance of Children With ADHD.

PubMed

Capodieci, Agnese; Rivetti, Thomas; Cornoldi, Cesare

2016-08-31

The hypothesis behind this study was that trained teachers using cooperative learning procedures with children in their classroom (aged from 6 to 10 years) can influence the social skills of children with ADHD symptoms and their acceptance by their peers. The study involved 30 children with ADHD symptoms attending 12 different classes, where cooperative learning was adopted in some, and standard practices in others. ADHD children's symptoms, social skills, and cooperative behavior were assessed by means of a teacher's questionnaire, and the social preferences of the children in their class were collected. Changes emerged in teachers' assessments of the children's cooperative behavior in the experimental classes. Improvements in the sociometric status of children with ADHD symptoms were only seen in the cooperative learning classes. These results show the importance of well-structured intervention in classes that include children with ADHD symptoms. Implications of these findings for future intervention are discussed. © The Author(s) 2016.

[Analysis of motivational orientation of young people for systematic tutoring improving sports].

PubMed

Yvashchenko, S N

2011-01-01

This article examines the results of core and additional motivation which define the content of motivational orientation of young persons in regular classes recreational physical culture and sports. To determine the nature and capacity-building incentive used experimental method of calculating the integral coefficient of incentive tension.

Connecting Theory to Practice: Evaluating a Brain-Based Writing Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffee, Dale T.

2007-01-01

This 10 week longitudinal evaluation study evaluated a brain-based learning curriculum proposed by Smilkstein (2003) by comparing student performance in a traditional basic writing curriculum with NHLP-oriented basic writing curriculum. The study included two classes each of experimental and traditional methods. Results of the data, gathered by…

Using SimCPU in Cooperative Learning Laboratories.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Janet Mei-Chuen; Wu, Cheng-Chih; Liu, Hsi-Jen

1999-01-01

Reports research findings of an experimental design in which cooperative-learning strategies were applied to closed-lab instruction of computing concepts. SimCPU, a software package specially designed for closed-lab usage was used by 171 high school students of four classes. Results showed that collaboration enhanced learning and that blending…

Educational Programming for Pupils with Neurologically Based Language Disorders. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zedler, Empress Y.

To investigate procedures whereby schools may achieve maximal results with otherwise normal underachieving pupils with neurologically based language-learning disorders, 100 such subjects were studied over a 2-year period. Fifty experimental subjects remained in regular classes in school and received individualized teaching outside of school hours…

Pupils' Cognitive Activity Stimulation by Means of Physical Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nekhoroshkov, Anatolij V.

2016-01-01

The article presents the research results of the physical activity influence on the intellectual performance of high school students. The methods of experiments and standardized observation were used. The efficiency of the cognitive activity was assessed by "Proof test" technique of B. Burdon. Within the experimental class, the program…

Writing To Facilitate Learning in Microbiology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fisher, Linda E.

This paper describes a microbiology course that utilizes writing to facilitate learning of complex concepts, for communicating experimental results, and as a diagnostic tool for the instructor in monitoring the students' understanding of material on an on-going basis. In-class writing assignments that summarize subject units are accompanied by a…

A Stochastic Kinematic Model of Class Averaging in Single-Particle Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Park, Wooram; Midgett, Charles R.; Madden, Dean R.; Chirikjian, Gregory S.

2011-01-01

Single-particle electron microscopy is an experimental technique that is used to determine the 3D structure of biological macromolecules and the complexes that they form. In general, image processing techniques and reconstruction algorithms are applied to micrographs, which are two-dimensional (2D) images taken by electron microscopes. Each of these planar images can be thought of as a projection of the macromolecular structure of interest from an a priori unknown direction. A class is defined as a collection of projection images with a high degree of similarity, presumably resulting from taking projections along similar directions. In practice, micrographs are very noisy and those in each class are aligned and averaged in order to reduce the background noise. Errors in the alignment process are inevitable due to noise in the electron micrographs. This error results in blurry averaged images. In this paper, we investigate how blurring parameters are related to the properties of the background noise in the case when the alignment is achieved by matching the mass centers and the principal axes of the experimental images. We observe that the background noise in micrographs can be treated as Gaussian. Using the mean and variance of the background Gaussian noise, we derive equations for the mean and variance of translational and rotational misalignments in the class averaging process. This defines a Gaussian probability density on the Euclidean motion group of the plane. Our formulation is validated by convolving the derived blurring function representing the stochasticity of the image alignments with the underlying noiseless projection and comparing with the original blurry image. PMID:21660125

Project Clarion: Three Years of Science Instruction in Title I Schools among K-Third Grade Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Kyung Hee; VanTassel-Baska, Joyce; Bracken, Bruce A.; Feng, Annie; Stambaugh, Tamra; Bland, Lori

2012-01-01

The purpose of the study was to measure the effects of higher level, inquiry-based science curricula on students at primary level in Title I schools. Approximately 3,300 K-3 students from six schools were assigned to experimental or control classes (N = 115 total) on a random basis according to class. Experimental students were exposed to…

Pedagogical experimentations about participating science, in a european class, in France.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burgio, Marion

2015-04-01

A european class is, in France, a class in which we teach a subject in a foreign language, for example science in English. I led, in my European class, during a seven weeks session, group work activities about different participating science actions. There were groups composed of three or four 16 years old students. Each group chose one type of participating science activity among : - Leading a visioconference with an IODP mission on board the Joides Resolution. - Being part of a "science songs community" with Tom Mc Fadden They divided the work and some of them studied the websites and contacted the actors to present the pedagogical or scientific background of their subject. Others had a concrete production like the organization of a visioconference with the Joides Resolution or the creation of a pedagogical song about geology. I will present some results of their work and explain the students motivation linked to this active learning method.

Improving urban land use and land cover classification from high-spatial-resolution hyperspectral imagery using contextual information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, He; Ma, Ben; Du, Qian; Yang, Chenghai

2010-08-01

In this paper, we propose approaches to improve the pixel-based support vector machine (SVM) classification for urban land use and land cover (LULC) mapping from airborne hyperspectral imagery with high spatial resolution. Class spatial neighborhood relationship is used to correct the misclassified class pairs, such as roof and trail, road and roof. These classes may be difficult to be separated because they may have similar spectral signatures and their spatial features are not distinct enough to help their discrimination. In addition, misclassification incurred from within-class trivial spectral variation can be corrected by using pixel connectivity information in a local window so that spectrally homogeneous regions can be well preserved. Our experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approaches in classification accuracy improvement. The overall performance is competitive to the object-based SVM classification.

The Value of Supplementing Science Education with Outdoor Instruction for Sixth Grade Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jackson, Devin Joseph Guilford

Science education is moving away from memorization of facts to inquiry based learning. Adding outdoor instruction can be an effective way to promote this exploratory method of learning. The limited number of empirical studies available have shown significant increase in attitudes and learning with outdoor science instruction. An eight-week quasi-experimental teacher research study was conducted to further this research and assess the value of schoolyard science instruction on student engagement and learning. Participants were 60 students in two sixth grade middle school Earth Science classes. A crossover study design was used with two classes alternating as experimental and control groups. NASA Global Precipitation Measurement mission curriculum was used (NASA/GPM, 2011). While the results did not show a clear increase in student engagement and content knowledge, the study adds to the body of knowledge on outdoor instruction and identifies limitations to consider in future studies.

Two-Particle Dispersion in Isotropic Turbulent Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salazar, Juan P. L. C.; Collins, Lance R.

2009-01-01

Two-particle dispersion is of central importance to a wide range of natural and industrial applications. It has been an active area of research since Richardson's (1926) seminal paper. This review emphasizes recent results from experiments, high-end direct numerical simulations, and modern theoretical discussions. Our approach is complementary to Sawford's (2001), whose review focused primarily on stochastic models of pair dispersion. We begin by reviewing the theoretical foundations of relative dispersion, followed by experimental and numerical findings for the dissipation subrange and inertial subrange. We discuss the findings in the context of the relevant theory for each regime. We conclude by providing a critical analysis of our current understanding and by suggesting paths toward further progress that take full advantage of exciting developments in modern experimental methods and peta-scale supercomputing.

PD-L1 and HLA Class I Antigen Expression and Clinical Course of the Disease in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

PubMed Central

Sabbatino, Francesco; Villani, Vincenzo; Yearley, Jennifer H.; Deshpande, Vikram; Cai, Lei; Konstantinidis, Ioannis T.; Moon, Christina; Nota, Sjoerd; Wang, Yangyang; Al-Sukaini, Ahmad; Zhu, Andrew X.; Goyal, Lipika; Ting, David T.; Bardeesy, Nabeel; Hong, Theodore S.; Castillo, Carlos Fernandez-del; Tanabe, Kenneth K.; Lillemoe, Keith D.; Ferrone, Soldano; Ferrone, Cristina R.

2017-01-01

Purpose More effective therapy is needed for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). The encouraging clinical results obtained with checkpoint molecule-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have prompted us to investigate whether this type of immunotherapy may be applicable to ICC. The aims of this study were to determine whether (i) patients mount a T-cell immune response to their ICC, (ii) checkpoint molecules are expressed on both T cells and tumor cells, and (iii) tumor cells are susceptible to recognition by cognate T cells. Experimental Design Twenty-seven ICC tumors were analyzed for (i) lymphocyte infiltrate, (ii) HLA class I and HLA class II expression, and (iii) PD-1 and PD-L1 expression by T cells and ICC cells, respectively. The results of this analysis were correlated with the clinicopathologic characteristics of the patients investigated. Results Lymphocyte infiltrates were identified in all tumors. PD-L1 expression and HLA class I antigen expression by ICC cells was observed in 8 and 11, respectively, of the 27 tumors analyzed. HLA class I antigen expression correlated with CD8+ T-cell infiltrate. Furthermore, positive HLA class I antigen expression in combination with negative/rare PD-L1 expression was associated with favorable clinical course of the disease. Conclusions ICC patients are likely to mount a T-cell immune response against their own tumors. Defects in HLA class I antigen expression in combination with PD-L1 expression by ICC cells provide them with an immune escape mechanism. This mechanism justifies the implementation of immunotherapy with checkpoint molecule-specific mAbs in patients bearing ICC tumors without defects in HLA class I antigen expression. PMID:26373575

Perceptions and attitudes of formative assessments in middle-school science classes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chauncey, Penny Denyse

No Child Left Behind mandates utilizing summative assessment to measure schools' effectiveness. The problem is that summative assessment measures students' knowledge without depth of understanding. The goal of public education, however, is to prepare students to think critically at higher levels. The purpose of this study was to examine any difference between formative assessment incorporated in instruction as opposed to the usual, more summative methods in terms of attitudes and academic achievement of middle-school science students. Maslow's theory emphasizes that individuals must have basic needs met before they can advance to higher levels. Formative assessment enables students to master one level at a time. The research questions focused on whether statistically significant differences existed between classrooms using these two types of assessments on academic tests and an attitude survey. Using a quantitative quasi-experimental control-group design, data were obtained from a sample of 430 middle-school science students in 6 classes. One control and 2 experimental classes were assigned to each teacher. Results of the independent t tests revealed academic achievement was significantly greater for groups that utilized formative assessment. No significant difference in attitudes was noted. Recommendations include incorporating formative assessment results with the summative results. Findings from this study could contribute to positive social change by prompting educational stakeholders to examine local and state policies on curriculum as well as funding based on summative scores alone. Use of formative assessment can lead to improved academic success.

Developing skills versus reinforcing concepts in physics labs: Insight from a survey of students' beliefs about experimental physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2017-06-01

Physics laboratory courses have been generally acknowledged as an important component of the undergraduate curriculum, particularly with respect to developing students' interest in, and understanding of, experimental physics. There are a number of possible learning goals for these courses including reinforcing physics concepts, developing laboratory skills, and promoting expertlike beliefs about the nature of experimental physics. However, there is little consensus among instructors and researchers interested in the laboratory learning environment as to the relative importance of these various learning goals. Here, we contribute data to this debate through the analysis of students' responses to the laboratory-focused assessment known as the Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS). Using a large, national data set of students' responses, we compare students' E-CLASS performance in classes in which the instructor self-reported focusing on developing skills, reinforcing concepts, or both. As the classification of courses was based on instructor self-report, we also provide additional description of these courses with respect to how often students engage in particular activities in the lab. We find that courses that focus specifically on developing lab skills have more expertlike postinstruction E-CLASS responses than courses that focus either on reinforcing physics concepts or on both goals. Within first-year courses, this effect is larger for women. Moreover, these findings hold when controlling for the variance in postinstruction scores that is associated with preinstruction E-CLASS scores, student major, and student gender.

Pan-Cancer Molecular Classes Transcending Tumor Lineage Across 32 Cancer Types, Multiple Data Platforms, and over 10,000 Cases.

PubMed

Chen, Fengju; Zhang, Yiqun; Gibbons, Don L; Deneen, Benjamin; Kwiatkowski, David J; Ittmann, Michael; Creighton, Chad J

2018-05-01

Purpose: The Cancer Genome Atlas data resources represent an opportunity to explore commonalities across cancer types involving multiple molecular levels, but tumor lineage and histology can represent a barrier in moving beyond differences related to cancer type. Experimental Design: On the basis of gene expression data, we classified 10,224 cancers, representing 32 major types, into 10 molecular-based "classes." Molecular patterns representing tissue or histologic dominant effects were first removed computationally, with the resulting classes representing emergent themes across tumor lineages. Results: Key differences involving mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins, and DNA methylation underscored the pan-cancer classes. One class expressing neuroendocrine and cancer-testis antigen markers represented ∼4% of cancers surveyed. Basal-like breast cancers segregated into an exclusive class, distinct from all other cancers. Immune checkpoint pathway markers and molecular signatures of immune infiltrates were most strongly manifested within a class representing ∼13% of cancers. Pathway-level differences involving hypoxia, NRF2-ARE, Wnt, and Notch were manifested in two additional classes enriched for mesenchymal markers and miR200 silencing. Conclusions: All pan-cancer molecular classes uncovered here, with the important exception of the basal-like breast cancer class, involve a wide range of cancer types and would facilitate understanding the molecular underpinnings of cancers beyond tissue-oriented domains. Numerous biological processes associated with cancer in the laboratory setting were found here to be coordinately manifested across large subsets of human cancers. The number of cancers manifesting features of neuroendocrine tumors may be much higher than previously thought, which disease is known to occur in many different tissues. Clin Cancer Res; 24(9); 2182-93. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

A dual-mode highly efficient class-E stimulator controlled by a low-Q class-E power amplifier through duty cycle.

PubMed

Chiu, Hung-Wei; Lu, Chien-Chi; Chuang, Jia-min; Lin, Wei-Tso; Lin, Chii-Wann; Kao, Ming-Chien; Lin, Mu-Lien

2013-06-01

This paper presents the design flow of two high-efficiency class-E amplifiers for the implantable electrical stimulation system. The implantable stimulator is a high-Q class-E driver that delivers a sine-wave pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation, which was verified to have a superior efficacy in pain relief to a square wave. The proposed duty-cycle-controlled class-E PRF driver designed with a high-Q factor has two operational modes that are able to achieve 100% DC-AC conversion, and involves only one switched series inductor and an unchanged parallel capacitor. The measured output amplitude under low-voltage (LV) mode using a 22% duty cycle was 0.98 V with 91% efficiency, and under high-voltage (HV) mode using a 47% duty cycle was 2.95 V with 92% efficiency. These modes were inductively controlled by a duty-cycle detector, which can detect the duty-cycle modulated signal generated from the external complementary low-Q class-E power amplifier (PA). The design methodology of the low-Q inductive interface for a non-50% duty cycle is presented. The experimental results exhibits that the 1.5-V PA that consumes DC power of 14.21 mW was able to deliver a 2.9-V sine wave to a 500 Ω load. The optimal 60% drain efficiency of the system from the PA to the load was obtained at a 10-mm coupling distance.

Compilation of Class Size Findings: Grade Level, School, and District.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller-Whitehead, Marie

This study provides an overview of class size research, examples of various class size and pupil-teacher-ratio (PTR) configurations commonly used by practitioners, and the most recent findings of scientifically controlled experimental Tennessee STAR studies. The learning environment is hierarchical in nature, with student-level data influenced by…

Effect of Higher Order Thinking Laboratory on the Improvement of Critical and Creative Thinking Skills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Setiawan, A.; Malik, A.; Suhandi, A.; Permanasari, A.

2018-02-01

This research was based on the need for improving critical and creative thinking skills of student in the 21 -st century. In this research, we have implemented HOT-Lab model for topic of force. The model was characterized by problem solving and higher order thinking development through real laboratory activities. This research used a quasy experiment method with pre-test post-test control group design. Samples of this research were 60 students of Physics Education Program of Teacher Educatuon Institution in Bandung. The samples were divided into 2 classes, experiment class (HOT-lab model) and control class (verification lab model). Research instruments were essay tests for creative and critical thinking skills measurements. The results revealed that both the models have improved student’s creative and critical thinking skills. However, the improvement of the experiment class was significantly higher than that of the control class, as indicated by the average of normalized gains (N-gain) for critical thinking skills of 60.18 and 29.30 and for creative thinking skills of 70.71 and 29.40, respectively for the experimental class and the control class. In addition, there is no significant correlation between the improvement of critical thinking skills and creative thinking skills in both the classes.

The Bacillus subtilis ywjI (glpX) gene encodes a class II fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, functionally equivalent to the class III Fbp enzyme.

PubMed

Jules, Matthieu; Le Chat, Ludovic; Aymerich, Stéphane; Le Coq, Dominique

2009-05-01

We present here experimental evidence that the Bacillus subtilis ywjI gene encodes a class II fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, functionally equivalent to the fbp-encoded class III enzyme, and constitutes with the upstream gene, murAB, an operon transcribed at the same level under glycolytic or gluconeogenic conditions.

The Bacillus subtilis ywjI (glpX) Gene Encodes a Class II Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphatase, Functionally Equivalent to the Class III Fbp Enzyme▿

PubMed Central

Jules, Matthieu; Le Chat, Ludovic; Aymerich, Stéphane; Le Coq, Dominique

2009-01-01

We present here experimental evidence that the Bacillus subtilis ywjI gene encodes a class II fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, functionally equivalent to the fbp-encoded class III enzyme, and constitutes with the upstream gene, murAB, an operon transcribed at the same level under glycolytic or gluconeogenic conditions. PMID:19270101

Laser Ranging for Effective and Accurate Tracking of Space Debris in Low Earth Orbits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanchet, Guillaume; Haag, Herve; Hennegrave, Laurent; Assemat, Francois; Vial, Sophie; Samain, Etienne

2013-08-01

The paper presents the results of preliminary design options for an operational laser ranging system adapted to the measurement of the distance of space debris. Thorough analysis of the operational parameters is provided with identification of performance drivers and assessment of enabling design options. Results from performance simulation demonstrate how the range measurement enables improvement of the orbit determination when combined with astrometry. Besides, experimental results on rocket-stage class debris in LEO were obtained by Astrium beginning of 2012, in collaboration with the Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur (OCA), by operating an experimental laser ranging system supported by the MéO (Métrologie Optique) telescope.

Simulations of electron avalanches in an ultra-low-background proportional counter

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Robinson, John W.; Aalseth, Craig; Dion, Michael P.

2016-02-01

New classes have been added to the simulation package Garfield++ to import the potential and electric field solutions generated by ANSYS R MaxwellTM v.16. Using these tools we report results on the simulation of electron avalanches and induced signal waveforms in comparison to experimental data of the ultra-lowbackground gas proportional counters being developed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Furthermore, an improved mesh search algorithm based on Delaunay triangulation was implemented and provided at least a three order of magnitude time savings when compared to the built-in point-location search class of Garfield++.

Biowaiver or Bioequivalence: Ambiguity in Sildenafil Citrate BCS Classification.

PubMed

Miranda, Claudia; Pérez-Rodríguez, Zenia; Hernández-Armengol, Rosario; Quiñones-García, Yaidel; Betancourt-Purón, Tania; Cabrera-Pérez, Miguel Ángel

2018-05-01

The aim of the present study is to contribute to the scientific characterization of sildenafil citrate according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System, following the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for biowaivers. The solubility and intestinal permeability data of sildenafil citrate were collected from literature; however, the experimental solubility studies are inconclusive and its "high permeability" suggests an API in the borderline of BCS Class I and Class II. The pH-solubility profile was determined using the saturation shake-flask method over the pH range of 1.2-6.8 at a temperature of 37 °C in aqueous media. The intestinal permeability was determined in rat by a closed-loop in situ perfusion method (the Doluisio technique). The solubility of sildenafil citrate is pH-dependent and at pH 6.8 the dose/solubility ratio obtained does not meet the WHO criteria for "high solubility." The high permeability values obtained by in situ intestinal perfusion in rat reinforce the published permeability data for sildenafil citrate. The experimental results obtained and the data available in the literature suggest that sildenafil citrate is clearly a Class II of BCS, according to the current biopharmaceutics classification system and WHO guidance.

The effect on prospective teachers of the learning environment supported by dynamic statistics software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koparan, Timur

2016-02-01

In this study, the effect on the achievement and attitudes of prospective teachers is examined. With this aim ahead, achievement test, attitude scale for statistics and interviews were used as data collection tools. The achievement test comprises 8 problems based on statistical data, and the attitude scale comprises 13 Likert-type items. The study was carried out in 2014-2015 academic year fall semester at a university in Turkey. The study, which employed the pre-test-post-test control group design of quasi-experimental research method, was carried out on a group of 80 prospective teachers, 40 in the control group and 40 in the experimental group. Both groups had four-hour classes about descriptive statistics. The classes with the control group were carried out through traditional methods while dynamic statistics software was used in the experimental group. Five prospective teachers from the experimental group were interviewed clinically after the application for a deeper examination of their views about application. Qualitative data gained are presented under various themes. At the end of the study, it was found that there is a significant difference in favour of the experimental group in terms of achievement and attitudes, the prospective teachers have affirmative approach to the use of dynamic software and see it as an effective tool to enrich maths classes. In accordance with the findings of the study, it is suggested that dynamic software, which offers unique opportunities, be used in classes by teachers and students.

Open-ended versus guided laboratory activities:Impact on students' beliefs about experimental physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2016-12-01

Improving students' understanding of the nature of experimental physics is often an explicit or implicit goal of undergraduate laboratory physics courses. However, lab activities in traditional lab courses are typically characterized by highly structured, guided labs that often do not require or encourage students to engage authentically in the process of experimental physics. Alternatively, open-ended laboratory activities can provide a more authentic learning environment by, for example, allowing students to exercise greater autonomy in what and how physical phenomena are investigated. Engaging in authentic practices may be a critical part of improving students' beliefs around the nature of experimental physics. Here, we investigate the impact of open-ended activities in undergraduate lab courses on students' epistemologies and expectations about the nature of experimental physics, as well as their confidence and affect, as measured by the Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS). Using a national data set of student responses to the E-CLASS, we find that the inclusion of some open-ended lab activities in a lab course correlates with more expertlike postinstruction responses relative to courses that include only traditional guided lab activities. This finding holds when examining postinstruction E-CLASS scores while controlling for the variance associated with preinstruction scores, course level, student major, and student gender.

Verbal and visual learning of science terminology by high school biology students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grant, Andrew Morton

The purpose of this study is to determine whether scientific terms with multiple meanings are more easily learned when taught pictorially or when taught verbally. The question of interference from previously known colloquial meanings is addressed as well. In carrying out this study, an experimental group of 30 students was taught pictorially and a control group of 30 students was taught verbally. Each group was made up of male and female students from the dominant culture (Caucasian) and from alternate cultures (mainly African American and Asian). The age of the participants was between 14 and 17. Students were selected as class groups. There were four class groups in the study. Class groups were assigned to the experimental or control group by random selection. Results were compared by use of a pre-test and post-test procedure. Students were asked to verbally describe 41 terms having scientific and colloquial meanings; they were to give the scientific meaning, if known, the colloquial if not, or leave a question mark if the term was unknown. They were then asked to draw a picture of the meaning of the term, if known. The same instructions were given to both groups. A series of seven hypotheses were identified. These hypotheses considered learning outcomes related to instructional mode as well as outcomes related to gender and cultural differences. An attempt was made to determine the similarity of the experimental and control groups. Student profiles, a learning styles inventory, and an imbedded image test all showed an initial similarity of the two groups. Once the pretest and posttest were given, data were analyzed by the use of the Chi-square of Association, the McNemar Chi-square, and Z scores (at.05 significance level). Results indicated significant differences in outcomes between the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group showed more science vocabulary learning than the control group and experienced more interference from the colloquial meanings of the terms used. Gender and cultural relationships were tested both between groups and within groups. Significant gender differences were found between groups. The patterns of response described in the experimental group were attributed to the method of pictorial instruction given this group.

Multistage classification of multispectral Earth observational data: The design approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, M. E. (Principal Investigator); Muasher, M. J.; Landgrebe, D. A.

1981-01-01

An algorithm is proposed which predicts the optimal features at every node in a binary tree procedure. The algorithm estimates the probability of error by approximating the area under the likelihood ratio function for two classes and taking into account the number of training samples used in estimating each of these two classes. Some results on feature selection techniques, particularly in the presence of a very limited set of training samples, are presented. Results comparing probabilities of error predicted by the proposed algorithm as a function of dimensionality as compared to experimental observations are shown for aircraft and LANDSAT data. Results are obtained for both real and simulated data. Finally, two binary tree examples which use the algorithm are presented to illustrate the usefulness of the procedure.

Semantic segmentation of 3D textured meshes for urban scene analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rouhani, Mohammad; Lafarge, Florent; Alliez, Pierre

2017-01-01

Classifying 3D measurement data has become a core problem in photogrammetry and 3D computer vision, since the rise of modern multiview geometry techniques, combined with affordable range sensors. We introduce a Markov Random Field-based approach for segmenting textured meshes generated via multi-view stereo into urban classes of interest. The input mesh is first partitioned into small clusters, referred to as superfacets, from which geometric and photometric features are computed. A random forest is then trained to predict the class of each superfacet as well as its similarity with the neighboring superfacets. Similarity is used to assign the weights of the Markov Random Field pairwise-potential and to account for contextual information between the classes. The experimental results illustrate the efficacy and accuracy of the proposed framework.

Online 3D Ear Recognition by Combining Global and Local Features.

PubMed

Liu, Yahui; Zhang, Bob; Lu, Guangming; Zhang, David

2016-01-01

The three-dimensional shape of the ear has been proven to be a stable candidate for biometric authentication because of its desirable properties such as universality, uniqueness, and permanence. In this paper, a special laser scanner designed for online three-dimensional ear acquisition was described. Based on the dataset collected by our scanner, two novel feature classes were defined from a three-dimensional ear image: the global feature class (empty centers and angles) and local feature class (points, lines, and areas). These features are extracted and combined in an optimal way for three-dimensional ear recognition. Using a large dataset consisting of 2,000 samples, the experimental results illustrate the effectiveness of fusing global and local features, obtaining an equal error rate of 2.2%.

Online 3D Ear Recognition by Combining Global and Local Features

PubMed Central

Liu, Yahui; Zhang, Bob; Lu, Guangming; Zhang, David

2016-01-01

The three-dimensional shape of the ear has been proven to be a stable candidate for biometric authentication because of its desirable properties such as universality, uniqueness, and permanence. In this paper, a special laser scanner designed for online three-dimensional ear acquisition was described. Based on the dataset collected by our scanner, two novel feature classes were defined from a three-dimensional ear image: the global feature class (empty centers and angles) and local feature class (points, lines, and areas). These features are extracted and combined in an optimal way for three-dimensional ear recognition. Using a large dataset consisting of 2,000 samples, the experimental results illustrate the effectiveness of fusing global and local features, obtaining an equal error rate of 2.2%. PMID:27935955

Embedded feature ranking for ensemble MLP classifiers.

PubMed

Windeatt, Terry; Duangsoithong, Rakkrit; Smith, Raymond

2011-06-01

A feature ranking scheme for multilayer perceptron (MLP) ensembles is proposed, along with a stopping criterion based upon the out-of-bootstrap estimate. To solve multi-class problems feature ranking is combined with modified error-correcting output coding. Experimental results on benchmark data demonstrate the versatility of the MLP base classifier in removing irrelevant features.

Return to Our Roots: Raising Radishes To Teach Experimental Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stallings, William M.

To provide practice in making design decisions, collecting and analyzing data, and writing and documenting results, a professor of statistics has his graduate students in statistics and research methodology classes design and perform an experiment on the effects of fertilizers on the growth of radishes. This project has been required of students…

Implementing Mapping the Beat in the 8th Grade

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Richardson, Ronald Craig

2010-01-01

This article is based on a doctoral dissertation study, "Expanding Geographic Understanding in Grade 8 Social Studies Classes through Integration of Geography, Music, and History: A QuasiExperimental Study" that took place in a high-achieving, suburban middle school in Southern California. The study compared learning as a result of nine…

First in the Class? Age and the Education Production Function

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cascio, Elizabeth U.; Schanzenbach, Diane Whitmore

2016-01-01

We estimate the effects of relative age in kindergarten using data from an experiment where children of the same age were randomly assigned to different kindergarten classmates. We exploit the resulting experimental variation in relative age in conjunction with variation in expected kindergarten entry age based on birth date to account for…

Effect of Focused Vocabulary Instruction on 7th Graders' Reading Comprehension

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horn, Mary; Feng, Jianhua

2012-01-01

This study reports an investigation on the effects of directed vocabulary and whole class instruction on improving students' vocabulary acquisition and reading comprehension. Fifty-eight seventh grade students participated in the study, and a pre-test/post-test experimental design was employed. The results did not indicate any statistically…

Functional Literacy and Continuing Education by Television

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paiva e Souza, Alfredina de

1970-01-01

As a result of a pilot project (in Rio de Janeiro) of functional literacy for adolescents and adults by television, 90 percent of the students in experimental tele-classes" became literate with 36 broadcasts of 20 minutes each, distributed over three months three times each week, supported by 50 minutes of discussion and other activities…

Follow Through Classroom Process Measurement and Pupil Growth (1970-71). Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Soar, Robert S.

This study presents results from the last year of a three-year adjunctive evaluation of classroom process measurement and pupil growth. A total of 289 classrooms involving eight experimental programs, ranging from open classrooms to contingency management classes, along with a comparison sample, were observed. Four observation instruments were…

Conservation of Mechanical and Electric Energy: Simple Experimental Verification

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ponikvar, D.; Planinsic, G.

2009-01-01

Two similar experiments on conservation of energy and transformation of mechanical into electrical energy are presented. Both can be used in classes, as they offer numerous possibilities for discussion with students and are simple to perform. Results are presented and are precise within 20% for the version of the experiment where measured values…

Systematic study of rapidity dispersion parameter in high energy nucleus-nucleus interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharyya, Swarnapratim; Haiduc, Maria; Neagu, Alina Tania; Firu, Elena

2014-03-01

A systematic study of rapidity dispersion parameter as a quantitative measure of clustering of particles has been carried out in the interactions of 16O, 28Si and 32S projectiles at 4.5 A GeV/c with heavy (AgBr) and light (CNO) groups of targets present in the nuclear emulsion. For all the interactions, the total ensemble of events has been divided into four overlapping multiplicity classes depending on the number of shower particles. For all the interactions and for each multiplicity class, the rapidity dispersion parameter values indicate the occurrence of clusterization during the multiparticle production at Dubna energy. The measured rapidity dispersion parameter values are found to decrease with the increase of average multiplicity for all the interactions. The dependence of rapidity dispersion parameter on the average multiplicity can be successfully described by a relation D(η) = a + b + c2. The experimental results have been compared with the results obtained from the analysis of Monte Carlo simulated (MC-RAND) events. MC-RAND events show weaker clusterization among the pions in comparison to the experimental data.

On the geometrically nonlinear elastic response of class θ = 1 tensegrity prisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mascolo, Ida; Amendola, Ada; Zuccaro, Giulio; Feo, Luciano; Fraternali, Fernando

2018-03-01

The present work studies the geometrically nonlinear response of class ϑ=1 tensegrity prisms modeled as a collection of elastic springs reacting in tension (strings or cables) or compression (bars), under uniform uniaxial loading. The incremental equilibrium equations of the structure are numerically solved through a path-following procedure, with the aim of modeling the mechanical behavior of the structure in the large displacement regime. Several numerical results are presented with reference to a variety of physical models, which use two different materials for the cables and the bars, and show different aspect ratios associated with either 'standard' or 'expanded' configurations. An experimental validation of the predicted constitutive response is conducted with reference to a 'thick' and a 'slender' model, observing rather good theory vs. experiment matching. The given numerical and experimental results highlight that the elastic response of the examined structures may switch from stiffening to softening, depending on the geometry of the system, the magnitude of the external load, and the applied prestress. The outcomes of the current study confirm previous literature results on the elastic response of minimal tensegrity prisms, and pave the way to the use of tensegrity systems as nonlinear spring units forming tunable mechanical metamaterials.

Assisting at-risk community college students' acquisition of critical thinking learning strategies in human anatomy and physiology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arburn, Theresa Morkovsky

1998-11-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether learning thinking strategies within the context of a community college course in Human Anatomy and Physiology would result in increased academic performance and the incidence of critical thinking skills. Included in the study sample were 68 community college students, many of whom would be categorized as "at-risk," who were enrolled in four sections of a Human Anatomy and Physiology class. Two of the class sections served as the experimental group and two sections served as the control group. During the course of one semester, members of the experimental group participated in the use of a student-generated questioning technique in conjunction with lecture presentations, while members of the control group did not. All students were pretested using the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) and the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). Posttesting was completed using these same instruments and an end-of-course comprehensive examination. Analysis of data revealed no significant differences between the experimental and control groups with regard to their overall achievement, their ability to process information, or their demonstration of critical thinking. It was interesting to note, however, that members of the experimental group did exhibit a change in their ability to select main ideas, apply deductive reasoning, and use inference. While the use of thinking strategies within the context of the course did not effect a significant change in academic achievement or critical thinking among at-risk community college students, it should be noted that application of a non-lecture method of class participation had no negative impact on student performance. Whether more abstruse changes have occurred with regard to the acquisition of cognitive skills remains to be elucidated.

Assessing the development & implementation of a student-centered, "flipped" secondary physics curriculum in which IO-lab digital sensors are issued to students on a 1-to-1 basis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cunnings, Christopher P.

This teacher-driven, action research dissertation study chronicles the development and implementation of a transformative, two-pronged, student-centered secondary physics education curriculum. From an instructional perspective, the curriculum was situated in the "flipped classroom" teaching approach, which minimizes in-class lecturing and instead predicates classroom learning on collaborative, hands-on, and activity-based lessons. Additionally, all students were issued IO-Lab digital sensors--learning tools developed by professors at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign capable of collecting a vast array of real-time physical data-- on a 1-to-1, 24/7 basis for both in-class and at-home use. In-class, students participated in predominantly activity-based learning, with a sizeable portion of in-class activities incorporating IO-Labs for experimental data collection. Outside of class, students designed real-world research projects using their IO-Labs to study the physics underlying their everyday experiences, and all projects were video recorded, uploaded to YouTube, and then watched in-class to simulate a "mock science conference" in which students provided constructive feedback to each other on their experimental methods and results. The synergistic blending of a) flipped physics instruction, and b) perpetual access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, the two prongs forming the basis of this research study, inspired the curriculum title "Flipped IO-Lab," or "F-IO" curriculum. This dissertation study will provide a comprehensive assessment of the benefits and challenges that emerged while designing and implementing the F-IO curriculum from a practitioner's perspective. The assessment of the F-IO curriculum came about through a mixed-methods research methodology during kinematics and dynamics instruction. Specifically, this study includes "Force Concept Inventory" (FCI) pretest/posttest analysis to gauge changes in students' conceptual understanding of physics, as well as "Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey" (CLASS) pre/post data to monitor students' shifts in scientific attitudes throughout the study. The aforementioned pre/post data will be triangulated with field notes and web-based "course opinion survey questions" to provide a comprehensive view of the F-IO curriculum. Significant analysis of the development of the course, as well as the relevant benefits, challenges, and considerations for "flipping" physics instruction, is also contained in this dissertation. The results of the research study include an FCI normalized gain of 0.74 (a "high gain" course), which indicates significant improvement in students' conceptual understanding of Newtonian Mechanics. Additionally, CLASS results indicate significant shifts in student attitudes from generally novice initial scientific perspectives to predominantly expert scientific perspectives by the conclusion of the research study. Of particular interest was students' acknowledgement and appreciation of the real-world implications of what they learned in physics class, as evidenced by CLASS survey data, real-world video challenge projects, and student comments before, during, and after class sessions. However, even despite all of the positive results that emerged throughout the study, a variety of challenges and concerns also materialized with regards to the utilization of F-IO curriculum principles, with the most pronounced being a subset of students whom remained unwilling to embrace web-based and/or flipped instructional teaching methods, preferring instead a more traditional instructional approach. The results and implications of this research study may not only be of interest to physics instructors, but also STEM educators, secondary curriculum designers, digital learning tool designers and researchers, and educational researchers.

Student Achievement in Large-Lecture Remedial Math Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Monte, Brent M.

2011-01-01

Due to the increase in students seeking remedial math classes at the community college level, coupled with declining revenues to the community colleges and a lack of classroom availability, the need to consider increasing class size has become a relevant and timely issue. This study is a mixed-method, quasi-experimental study testing effects of…

The Effects of Videoconferencing, Class Size, and Learner Characteristics on Training Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Kenneth G.; Rietz, Thomas A.; Sugrue, Brenda

2005-01-01

We examined direct and interaction effects of learners' characteristics (cognitive ability, prior knowledge, prior experience, and motivation to learn) and classroom characteristics (videoconferencing and class size) on learning from a 16-week course. A 2x2 quasi-experimental design varied the class size between large (approximately 60 students)…

Assessment and Treatment of Deviant Behavior in Children - Section Six: Single Subject Experiments Generated by Application of the Treatment Model in the Experimental Class Setting. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walker, Hill M.; Buckley, Nancy K.

The studies in section six (of a six part report on the assessment and treatment of deviant behavior in children)investigated questions generated by the application of the treatment model in the experimental class setting (EC 032 210). The first experiment, on attending behavior, was designed to measure the conditionability of attending behavior…

The Mental Representation of Polysemy across Word Classes

PubMed Central

Lopukhina, Anastasiya; Laurinavichyute, Anna; Lopukhin, Konstantin; Dragoy, Olga

2018-01-01

Experimental studies on polysemy have come to contradictory conclusions on whether words with multiple senses are stored as separate or shared mental representations. The present study examined the semantic relatedness and semantic similarity of literal and non-literal (metonymic and metaphorical) senses of three word classes: nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Two methods were used: a psycholinguistic experiment and a distributional analysis of corpus data. In the experiment, participants were presented with 6–12 short phrases containing a polysemous word in literal, metonymic, or metaphorical senses and were asked to classify them so that phrases with the same perceived sense were grouped together. To investigate the impact of professional background on their decisions, participants were controlled for linguistic vs. non-linguistic education. For nouns and verbs, all participants preferred to group together phrases with literal and metonymic senses, but not any other pairs of senses. For adjectives, two pairs of senses were often grouped together: literal with metonymic, and metonymic with metaphorical. Participants with a linguistic background were more accurate than participants with non-linguistic backgrounds, although both groups shared principal patterns of sense classification. For the distributional analysis of corpus data, we used a semantic vector approach to quantify the similarity of phrases with literal, metonymic, and metaphorical senses in the corpora. We found that phrases with literal and metonymic senses had the highest degree of similarity for the three word classes, and that metonymic and metaphorical senses of adjectives had the highest degree of similarity among all word classes. These findings are in line with the experimental results. Overall, the results suggest that the mental representation of a polysemous word depends on its word class. In nouns and verbs, literal and metonymic senses are stored together, while metaphorical senses are stored separately; in adjectives, metonymic senses significantly overlap with both literal and metaphorical senses. PMID:29515502

Computational and experimental study of the interactions between ionic liquids and volatile organic compounds.

PubMed

Gao, Tingting; Andino, Jean M; Alvarez-Idaboy, J Raul

2010-09-07

Computational chemistry calculations were performed to investigate the interactions of ionic liquids with different classes of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and aromatic compounds. At least one VOC was studied to represent each class. Initially, 1-butyl-3-methylimindazolium chloride (abbreviated as C(4)mimCl) was used as the test ionic liquid compound. Calculated interaction lengths between atoms in the ionic liquid and the VOC tested as well as thermodynamic data suggest that C(4)mimCl preferentially interacts with alcohols as compared to other classes of volatile organic compounds. The interactions of methanol with different kinds of ionic liquids, specifically 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromine (C(4)mimBr) and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (C(4)mimBF(4)) were also studied. In comparing C(4)mimCl, C(4)mimBr, and C(4)mimBF(4), the computational results suggest that C(4)mimCl is more likely to interact with methanol. Laboratory experiments were performed to provide further evidence for the interaction between C(4)mimCl and different classes of VOCs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to probe the ionic liquid surface before and after exposure to the VOCs that were tested. New spectral features were detected after exposure of C(4)mimCl to various alcohols. The new features are characteristic of the alcohols tested. No new IR features were detected after exposure of the C(4)mimCl to the aldehyde, ketone, alkane, alkene, alkyne or aromatic compounds studied. In addition, after exposing the C(4)mimCl to a multi-component mixture of various classes of compounds (including an alcohol), the only new peaks that were detected were characteristic of the alcohol that was tested. These experimental results demonstrated that C(4)mimCl is selective to alcohols, even in complex mixtures. The findings in this work provide information for future gas-phase alcohol sensor design.

The Mental Representation of Polysemy across Word Classes.

PubMed

Lopukhina, Anastasiya; Laurinavichyute, Anna; Lopukhin, Konstantin; Dragoy, Olga

2018-01-01

Experimental studies on polysemy have come to contradictory conclusions on whether words with multiple senses are stored as separate or shared mental representations. The present study examined the semantic relatedness and semantic similarity of literal and non-literal (metonymic and metaphorical) senses of three word classes: nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Two methods were used: a psycholinguistic experiment and a distributional analysis of corpus data. In the experiment, participants were presented with 6-12 short phrases containing a polysemous word in literal, metonymic, or metaphorical senses and were asked to classify them so that phrases with the same perceived sense were grouped together. To investigate the impact of professional background on their decisions, participants were controlled for linguistic vs. non-linguistic education. For nouns and verbs, all participants preferred to group together phrases with literal and metonymic senses, but not any other pairs of senses. For adjectives, two pairs of senses were often grouped together: literal with metonymic, and metonymic with metaphorical. Participants with a linguistic background were more accurate than participants with non-linguistic backgrounds, although both groups shared principal patterns of sense classification. For the distributional analysis of corpus data, we used a semantic vector approach to quantify the similarity of phrases with literal, metonymic, and metaphorical senses in the corpora. We found that phrases with literal and metonymic senses had the highest degree of similarity for the three word classes, and that metonymic and metaphorical senses of adjectives had the highest degree of similarity among all word classes. These findings are in line with the experimental results. Overall, the results suggest that the mental representation of a polysemous word depends on its word class. In nouns and verbs, literal and metonymic senses are stored together, while metaphorical senses are stored separately; in adjectives, metonymic senses significantly overlap with both literal and metaphorical senses.

In silico prediction of drug dissolution and absorption with variation in intestinal pH for BCS class II weak acid drugs: ibuprofen and ketoprofen.

PubMed

Tsume, Yasuhiro; Langguth, Peter; Garcia-Arieta, Alfredo; Amidon, Gordon L

2012-10-01

The FDA Biopharmaceutical Classification System guidance allows waivers for in vivo bioavailability and bioequivalence studies for immediate-release solid oral dosage forms only for BCS class I. Extensions of the in vivo biowaiver for a number of drugs in BCS class III and BCS class II have been proposed, in particular, BCS class II weak acids. However, a discrepancy between the in vivo BE results and in vitro dissolution results for BCS class II acids was recently observed. The objectives of this study were to determine the oral absorption of BCS class II weak acids via simulation software and to determine if the in vitro dissolution test with various dissolution media could be sufficient for in vitro bioequivalence studies of ibuprofen and ketoprofen as models of carboxylic acid drugs. The oral absorption of these BCS class II acids from the gastrointestinal tract was predicted by GastroPlus™. Ibuprofen did not satisfy the bioequivalence criteria at lower settings of intestinal pH of 6.0. Further the experimental dissolution of ibuprofen tablets in a low concentration phosphate buffer at pH 6.0 (the average buffer capacity 2.2 mmol l (-1) /pH) was dramatically reduced compared with the dissolution in SIF (the average buffer capacity 12.6 mmol l (-1) /pH). Thus these predictions for the oral absorption of BCS class II acids indicate that the absorption patterns depend largely on the intestinal pH and buffer strength and must be considered carefully for a bioequivalence test. Simulation software may be a very useful tool to aid the selection of dissolution media that may be useful in setting an in vitro bioequivalence dissolution standard. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

In Silico Prediction of Drug Dissolution and Absorption with variation in Intestinal pH for BCS Class II Weak Acid Drugs: Ibuprofen and Ketoprofen§

PubMed Central

Tsume, Yasuhiro; Langguth, Peter; Garcia-Arieta, Alfredo; Amidon, Gordon L.

2012-01-01

The FDA Biopharmaceutical Classification System guidance allows waivers for in vivo bioavailability and bioequivalence studies for immediate-release solid oral dosage forms only for BCS class I. Extensions of the in vivo biowaiver for a number of drugs in BCS Class III and BCS class II have been proposed, particularly, BCS class II weak acids. However, a discrepancy between the in vivo- BE results and in vitro- dissolution results for a BCS class II acids was recently observed. The objectives of this study were to determine the oral absorption of BCS class II weak acids via simulation software and to determine if the in vitro dissolution test with various dissolution media could be sufficient for in vitro bioequivalence studies of ibuprofen and ketoprofen as models of carboxylic acid drugs. The oral absorption of these BCS class II acids from the gastrointestinal tract was predicted by GastroPlus™. Ibuprofen did not satisfy the bioequivalence criteria at lower settings of intestinal pH=6.0. Further the experimental dissolution of ibuprofen tablets in the low concentration phosphate buffer at pH 6.0 (the average buffer capacity 2.2 mmol L-1/pH) was dramatically reduced compared to the dissolution in SIF (the average buffer capacity 12.6 mmol L -1/pH). Thus these predictions for oral absorption of BCS class II acids indicate that the absorption patterns largely depend on the intestinal pH and buffer strength and must be carefully considered for a bioequivalence test. Simulation software may be very useful tool to aid the selection of dissolution media that may be useful in setting an in vitro bioequivalence dissolution standard. PMID:22815122

Experimental Validation of an Integrated Controls-Structures Design Methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maghami, Peiman G.; Gupta, Sandeep; Elliot, Kenny B.; Walz, Joseph E.

1996-01-01

The first experimental validation of an integrated controls-structures design methodology for a class of large order, flexible space structures is described. Integrated redesign of the controls-structures-interaction evolutionary model, a laboratory testbed at NASA Langley, was described earlier. The redesigned structure was fabricated, assembled in the laboratory, and experimentally tested against the original structure. Experimental results indicate that the structure redesigned using the integrated design methodology requires significantly less average control power than the nominal structure with control-optimized designs, while maintaining the required line-of-sight pointing performance. Thus, the superiority of the integrated design methodology over the conventional design approach is experimentally demonstrated. Furthermore, amenability of the integrated design structure to other control strategies is evaluated, both analytically and experimentally. Using Linear-Quadratic-Guassian optimal dissipative controllers, it is observed that the redesigned structure leads to significantly improved performance with alternate controllers as well.

Segments and segmental properties in cross-language perception: Korean perception of English obstruents in various prosodic locations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Jong, Kenneth; Silbert, Noah; Park, Hanyong

2004-05-01

Experimental models of cross-language perception and second-language acquisition (such as PAM and SLM) typically treat language differences in terms of whether the two languages share phonological segmental categories. Linguistic models, by contrast, generally examine properties which cross classify segments, such as features, rules, or prosodic constraints. Such models predict that perceptual patterns found for one segment will generalize to other segments of the same class. This paper presents perceptual identifications of Korean listeners to a set of voiced and voiceless English stops and fricatives in various prosodic locations to determine the extent to which such generality occurs. Results show some class-general effects; for example, voicing identification patterns generalize from stops, which occur in Korean, to nonsibilant fricatives, which are new to Korean listeners. However, when identification is poor, there are clear differences between segments within the same class. For example, in identifying stops and fricatives, both point of articulation and prosodic position bias perceptions; coronals are more often labeled fricatives, and syllable initial obstruents are more often labeled stops. These results suggest that class-general perceptual patterns are not a simple consequence of the structure of the perceptual system, but need to be acquired by factoring out within-class differences.

Performance of a docking/molecular dynamics protocol for virtual screening of nutlin-class inhibitors of Mdmx.

PubMed

Bharatham, Nagakumar; Finch, Kristin E; Min, Jaeki; Mayasundari, Anand; Dyer, Michael A; Guy, R Kiplin; Bashford, Donald

2017-06-01

A virtual screening protocol involving docking and molecular dynamics has been tested against the results of fluorescence polarization assays testing the potency of a series of compounds of the nutlin class for inhibition of the interaction between p53 and Mdmx, an interaction identified as a driver of certain cancers. The protocol uses a standard docking method (AutoDock) with a cutoff based on the AutoDock score (ADscore), followed by molecular dynamics simulation with a cutoff based on root-mean-square-deviation (RMSD) from the docked pose. An analysis of the experimental and computational results shows modest performance of ADscore alone, but dramatically improved performance when RMSD is also used. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Experimental problem solving: An instructional improvement field experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ross, John A.; Maynes, Florence J.

An instructional program based on expert-novice differences in experimental problem-solving performance was taught to grade 6 students (N = 265). Classes of students were randomly assigned to conditions in a delayed treatment design. Performance was assessed with multiple-choice and open-ended measures of specific transfer. Between group comparisons using pretest scores as a covariate showed that treatment condition students consistently outperformed controls; similar results were revealed in the within group comparisons. The achievement of the early treatment group did not decline in tests administered one month after the posttest.

Comparative evaluation of microleakage in Class II restorations using open vs. closed centripetal build-up techniques with different lining materials

PubMed Central

Sawani, Shefali; Arora, Vipin; Jaiswal, Shikha; Nikhil, Vineeta

2014-01-01

Background: Evaluation of microleakage is important for assessing the success of new restorative materials and methods. Aim and Objectives: Comparative evaluation of microleakage in Class II restorations using open vs. closed centripetal build-up techniques with different lining materials. Materials and Methods: Standardized mesi-occlusal (MO) and distoocclusal (DO) Class II tooth preparations were preparedon 53 molars and samples were randomly divided into six experimental groups and one control group for restorations. Group 1: Open-Sandwich technique (OST) with flowable composite at the gingival seat. Group 2: OST with resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) at the gingival seat. Group 3: Closed-Sandwich technique (CST) with flowable composite at the pulpal floor and axial wall. Group 4: CST with RMGIC at the pulpal floor and axial wall. Group 5: OST with flowable composite at the pulpal floor, axial wall, and gingival seat. Group 6: OST with RMGIC at the pulpal floor, axial wall, and gingival seat. Group 7: Control — no lining material, centripetal technique only. After restorations and thermocycling, apices were sealed and samples were immersed in 0.5% basic fuchsin dye. Sectioning was followed by stereomicroscopic evaluation. Results: Results were analyzed using Post Hoc Bonferroni test (statistics is not a form of tabulation). Cervical scores of control were more than the exprimental groups (P < 0.05). Less microleakage was observed in CST than OST in all experimental groups (P < 0.05). However, insignificant differences were observed among occlusal scores of different groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Class II composite restorations with centripetal build-up alone or when placed with CST reduces the cervical microleakage when compared to OST. PMID:25125847

The influence of the guided constructivist instructional model on attitudes toward secondary-level physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dallal, Kamel Salim

The effect of guided constructivism (bridging analogies) and expository instructional methods on the attitudes of students toward physics was investigated. A nonrandomize nonequivalent pretest-posttest control group quasi- experimental design was employed. The sample consisted of 127 eleventh-grade and twelfth-grade students from five selected classes from two private high schools in Beirut, Lebanon. Two intact classes were assigned to the control group and three classes to the experimental group. The experimental group was exposed to the bridging analogies instructional method, and the control group was taught using the traditional expository method. A Likert-type instrument, the Physics Attitude Index, was used to measure attitudes on four dimensions. The 40-item Physics Attitude Index (PAI) is a questionnaire using a five response scale. Performance in the assigned topics in physics, cognitive developmental levels, and gender were used as covariants and to examine interaction effects. The experimental groups had significantly higher means than the control groups on all criterion variables. A significant interaction was found between groups and performance levels in the following cases: (a) criterion variable of attitude toward physics; (b) views toward physics learning; and (c) enjoyment of physics. This result indicated that the low performing students among the experimental group had greater gain in attitude toward physics than the high performing students in same group. On the other hand, no interaction occurred between treatment groups and gender, which shows that in this study gender has no significant effect on attitude toward physics. Significant interactions between the treatment groups and cognitive levels were found on the criterion variable of beliefs about physics as a process of learning and enjoyment of physics. In both cases, the difference between the group means were widely different among students at the concrete and transitional levels, but narrowly different among students at the formal level.

Classification with asymmetric label noise: Consistency and maximal denoising

DOE PAGES

Blanchard, Gilles; Flaska, Marek; Handy, Gregory; ...

2016-09-20

In many real-world classification problems, the labels of training examples are randomly corrupted. Most previous theoretical work on classification with label noise assumes that the two classes are separable, that the label noise is independent of the true class label, or that the noise proportions for each class are known. In this work, we give conditions that are necessary and sufficient for the true class-conditional distributions to be identifiable. These conditions are weaker than those analyzed previously, and allow for the classes to be nonseparable and the noise levels to be asymmetric and unknown. The conditions essentially state that amore » majority of the observed labels are correct and that the true class-conditional distributions are “mutually irreducible,” a concept we introduce that limits the similarity of the two distributions. For any label noise problem, there is a unique pair of true class-conditional distributions satisfying the proposed conditions, and we argue that this pair corresponds in a certain sense to maximal denoising of the observed distributions. Our results are facilitated by a connection to “mixture proportion estimation,” which is the problem of estimating the maximal proportion of one distribution that is present in another. We establish a novel rate of convergence result for mixture proportion estimation, and apply this to obtain consistency of a discrimination rule based on surrogate loss minimization. Experimental results on benchmark data and a nuclear particle classification problem demonstrate the efficacy of our approach. MSC 2010 subject classifications: Primary 62H30; secondary 68T10. Keywords and phrases: Classification, label noise, mixture proportion estimation, surrogate loss, consistency.« less

Classification with asymmetric label noise: Consistency and maximal denoising

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blanchard, Gilles; Flaska, Marek; Handy, Gregory

In many real-world classification problems, the labels of training examples are randomly corrupted. Most previous theoretical work on classification with label noise assumes that the two classes are separable, that the label noise is independent of the true class label, or that the noise proportions for each class are known. In this work, we give conditions that are necessary and sufficient for the true class-conditional distributions to be identifiable. These conditions are weaker than those analyzed previously, and allow for the classes to be nonseparable and the noise levels to be asymmetric and unknown. The conditions essentially state that amore » majority of the observed labels are correct and that the true class-conditional distributions are “mutually irreducible,” a concept we introduce that limits the similarity of the two distributions. For any label noise problem, there is a unique pair of true class-conditional distributions satisfying the proposed conditions, and we argue that this pair corresponds in a certain sense to maximal denoising of the observed distributions. Our results are facilitated by a connection to “mixture proportion estimation,” which is the problem of estimating the maximal proportion of one distribution that is present in another. We establish a novel rate of convergence result for mixture proportion estimation, and apply this to obtain consistency of a discrimination rule based on surrogate loss minimization. Experimental results on benchmark data and a nuclear particle classification problem demonstrate the efficacy of our approach. MSC 2010 subject classifications: Primary 62H30; secondary 68T10. Keywords and phrases: Classification, label noise, mixture proportion estimation, surrogate loss, consistency.« less

Statistical Analyses of Femur Parameters for Designing Anatomical Plates.

PubMed

Wang, Lin; He, Kunjin; Chen, Zhengming

2016-01-01

Femur parameters are key prerequisites for scientifically designing anatomical plates. Meanwhile, individual differences in femurs present a challenge to design well-fitting anatomical plates. Therefore, to design anatomical plates more scientifically, analyses of femur parameters with statistical methods were performed in this study. The specific steps were as follows. First, taking eight anatomical femur parameters as variables, 100 femur samples were classified into three classes with factor analysis and Q-type cluster analysis. Second, based on the mean parameter values of the three classes of femurs, three sizes of average anatomical plates corresponding to the three classes of femurs were designed. Finally, based on Bayes discriminant analysis, a new femur could be assigned to the proper class. Thereafter, the average anatomical plate suitable for that new femur was selected from the three available sizes of plates. Experimental results showed that the classification of femurs was quite reasonable based on the anatomical aspects of the femurs. For instance, three sizes of condylar buttress plates were designed. Meanwhile, 20 new femurs are judged to which classes the femurs belong. Thereafter, suitable condylar buttress plates were determined and selected.

Phytoplasma-conserved phyllogen proteins induce phyllody across the Plantae by degrading floral MADS domain proteins.

PubMed

Kitazawa, Yugo; Iwabuchi, Nozomu; Himeno, Misako; Sasano, Momoka; Koinuma, Hiroaki; Nijo, Takamichi; Tomomitsu, Tatsuya; Yoshida, Tetsuya; Okano, Yukari; Yoshikawa, Nobuyuki; Maejima, Kensaku; Oshima, Kenro; Namba, Shigetou

2017-05-17

ABCE-class MADS domain transcription factors (MTFs) are key regulators of floral organ development in angiosperms. Aberrant expression of these genes can result in abnormal floral traits such as phyllody. Phyllogen is a virulence factor conserved in phytoplasmas, plant pathogenic bacteria of the class Mollicutes. It triggers phyllody in Arabidopsis thaliana by inducing degradation of A- and E-class MTFs. However, it is still unknown whether phyllogen can induce phyllody in plants other than A. thaliana, although phytoplasma-associated phyllody symptoms are observed in a broad range of angiosperms. In this study, phyllogen was shown to cause phyllody phenotypes in several eudicot species belonging to three different families. Moreover, phyllogen can interact with MTFs of not only angiosperm species including eudicots and monocots but also gymnosperms and a fern, and induce their degradation. These results suggest that phyllogen induces phyllody in angiosperms and inhibits MTF function in diverse plant species. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Experimental Biology.

Maximized Inter-Class Weighted Mean for Fast and Accurate Mitosis Cells Detection in Breast Cancer Histopathology Images.

PubMed

Nateghi, Ramin; Danyali, Habibollah; Helfroush, Mohammad Sadegh

2017-08-14

Based on the Nottingham criteria, the number of mitosis cells in histopathological slides is an important factor in diagnosis and grading of breast cancer. For manual grading of mitosis cells, histopathology slides of the tissue are examined by pathologists at 40× magnification for each patient. This task is very difficult and time-consuming even for experts. In this paper, a fully automated method is presented for accurate detection of mitosis cells in histopathology slide images. First a method based on maximum-likelihood is employed for segmentation and extraction of mitosis cell. Then a novel Maximized Inter-class Weighted Mean (MIWM) method is proposed that aims at reducing the number of extracted non-mitosis candidates that results in reducing the false positive mitosis detection rate. Finally, segmented candidates are classified into mitosis and non-mitosis classes by using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier. Experimental results demonstrate a significant improvement in accuracy of mitosis cells detection in different grades of breast cancer histopathological images.

Higher social class predicts increased unethical behavior.

PubMed

Piff, Paul K; Stancato, Daniel M; Côté, Stéphane; Mendoza-Denton, Rodolfo; Keltner, Dacher

2012-03-13

Seven studies using experimental and naturalistic methods reveal that upper-class individuals behave more unethically than lower-class individuals. In studies 1 and 2, upper-class individuals were more likely to break the law while driving, relative to lower-class individuals. In follow-up laboratory studies, upper-class individuals were more likely to exhibit unethical decision-making tendencies (study 3), take valued goods from others (study 4), lie in a negotiation (study 5), cheat to increase their chances of winning a prize (study 6), and endorse unethical behavior at work (study 7) than were lower-class individuals. Mediator and moderator data demonstrated that upper-class individuals' unethical tendencies are accounted for, in part, by their more favorable attitudes toward greed.

The Effectiveness of Guided Inquiry Learning for Comparison Topics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asnidar; Khabibah, S.; Sulaiman, R.

2018-01-01

This research aims at producing a good quality learning device using guided inquiry for comparison topics and describing the effectiveness of guided inquiry learning for comparison topics. This research is a developmental research using 4-D model. The result is learning device consisting of lesson plan, student’s worksheet, and achievement test. The subjects of the study were class VII students, each of which has 46 students. Based on the result in the experimental class, the learning device using guided inquiry for comparison topics has good quality. The learning device has met the valid, practical, and effective aspects. The result, especially in the implementation class, showed that the learning process with guided inquiry has fulfilled the effectiveness indicators. The ability of the teacher to manage the learning process has fulfilled the criteria good. In addition, the students’ activity has fulfilled the criteria of, at least, good. Moreover, the students’ responses to the learning device and the learning activities were positive, and the students were able to complete the classical learning. Based on the result of this research, it is expected that the learning device resulted can be used as an alternative learning device for teachers in implementing mathematic learning for comparison topics.

Non-Linear System Identification for Aeroelastic Systems with Application to Experimental Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kukreja, Sunil L.

2008-01-01

Representation and identification of a non-linear aeroelastic pitch-plunge system as a model of the NARMAX class is considered. A non-linear difference equation describing this aircraft model is derived theoretically and shown to be of the NARMAX form. Identification methods for NARMAX models are applied to aeroelastic dynamics and its properties demonstrated via continuous-time simulations of experimental conditions. Simulation results show that (i) the outputs of the NARMAX model match closely those generated using continuous-time methods and (ii) NARMAX identification methods applied to aeroelastic dynamics provide accurate discrete-time parameter estimates. Application of NARMAX identification to experimental pitch-plunge dynamics data gives a high percent fit for cross-validated data.

Experimental test of nonlocal realistic theories without the rotational symmetry assumption.

PubMed

Paterek, Tomasz; Fedrizzi, Alessandro; Gröblacher, Simon; Jennewein, Thomas; Zukowski, Marek; Aspelmeyer, Markus; Zeilinger, Anton

2007-11-23

We analyze the class of nonlocal realistic theories that was originally considered by Leggett [Found. Phys. 33, 1469 (2003)10.1023/A:1026096313729] and tested by us in a recent experiment [Nature (London) 446, 871 (2007)10.1038/nature05677]. We derive an incompatibility theorem that works for finite numbers of polarizer settings and that does not require the previously assumed rotational symmetry of the two-particle correlation functions. The experimentally measured case involves seven different measurement settings. Using polarization-entangled photon pairs, we exclude this broader class of nonlocal realistic models by experimentally violating a new Leggett-type inequality by 80 standard deviations.

Experimental observation of four-photon entangled Dicke state with high fidelity.

PubMed

Kiesel, N; Schmid, C; Tóth, G; Solano, E; Weinfurter, H

2007-02-09

We present the experimental observation of the symmetric four-photon entangled Dicke state with two excitations |D_{4};{(2)}. A simple experimental setup allowed quantum state tomography yielding a fidelity as high as 0.844+/-0.008. We study the entanglement persistency of the state using novel witness operators and focus on the demonstration of a remarkable property: depending on the orientation of a measurement on one photon, the remaining three photons are projected into both inequivalent classes of genuine tripartite entanglement, the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger and W class. Furthermore, we discuss possible applications of |D_{4};{(2)} in quantum communication.

Instructional Technology and the Post-Test Results of College Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pagan-Melendez, Juan

2012-01-01

The problem in the present quasi-experimental research design was the poor English communication skills of college students enrolled in first-year English as a second language (ESL) courses in Puerto Rico. The purpose of this quantitative study was to compare learning outcomes between a first-year English as a second class taught with the…

Should Physical Activity Be Included in Nutrition Education? A Comparison of Nutrition Outcomes with and without In-Class Activities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Palmer-Keenan, Debra M.; Corda, Kirsten

2014-01-01

Limited-resource adults' dietary intakes and nutrition behaviors improve as a result of Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) participation; however, physical activity education is needed for improved health. The experimental study reported here assessed if spending time…

Randomized Controlled Trial of Teaching Methods: Do Classroom Experiments Improve Economic Education in High Schools?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenkopf, Gerald; Sulser, Pascal A.

2016-01-01

The authors present results from a comprehensive field experiment at Swiss high schools in which they compare the effectiveness of teaching methods in economics. They randomly assigned classes into an experimental and a conventional teaching group, or a control group that received no specific instruction. Both teaching treatments improve economic…

A PSYCHOLINGUISTIC EXPERIMENT IN FOREIGN-LANGUAGE TEACHING. MCGRAW-HILL SERIES IN PSYCHOLOGY.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

SCHERER, GEORGE A.C.; WERTHEIMER, MICHAEL

A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A LARGE SCALE, TWO-YEAR EXPERIMENTAL STUDY COMPARING AN AUDIOLINGUAL WITH A TRADITIONAL GRAMMAR-TRANSLATION METHOD OF TEACHING FOREIGN LANGUAGES IS PRESENTED. THIS EXPERIMENT WAS CARRIED OUT WITH STUDENTS IN FIRST- AND SECOND-YEAR GERMAN CLASSES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO FROM 1960 TO 1962. RESULTS OF TESTS SEEM TO…

Counting Blessings in Early Adolescents: An Experimental Study of Gratitude and Subjective Well-Being

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Froh, Jeffery J.; Sefick, William J.; Emmons, Robert A.

2008-01-01

The development and manifestation of gratitude in youth is unclear. We examined the effects of a grateful outlook on subjective well-being and other outcomes of positive psychological functioning in 221 early adolescents. Eleven classes were randomly assigned to either a gratitude, hassles, or control condition. Results indicated that counting…

Attitude Change Toward Trainable Mentally Retarded: "Mainstreaming in Reverse".

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cronk, Mildred S.

An assessment was made of change in attitude toward trainable mentally retarded (TMR) students of 42 adults (members of the PTA Board and teachers of the experimental groups) and 127 children (in first, third, and sixth grades) as a result of special instruction and an integrated program. Regular class students in small groups were systematically…

Increasing Performance by Differentiated Teaching? Experimental Evidence of the Student Benefits of Digital Differentiation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haelermans, Carla; Ghysels, Joris; Prince, Fernao

2015-01-01

This paper explores the effect of digital differentiation on student performance using a randomized experiment. The experiment is conducted in a second year biology class among 115 prevocational students in the Netherlands. Differentiation allowed students in the treatment group to work at three different levels. The results show that there is a…

The Integration of Visual Expression in Music Education for Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roels, Johanna Maria; Van Petegem, Peter

2014-01-01

This study is the result of a two-year experimental collaboration with children from my piano class. Together, the children and I designed a method that uses visual expression as a starting point for composing and visualising music-theoretical concepts. In this method various dimensions of musicality such as listening, creating, noting down and…

The Effects of Cooperative and Individualistic Learning Structures on Achievement in a College-Level Computer-Aided Drafting Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swab, A. Geoffrey

2012-01-01

This study of cooperative learning in post-secondary engineering education investigated achievement of engineering students enrolled in two intact sections of a computer-aided drafting (CAD) course. Quasi-experimental and qualitative methods were employed in comparing student achievement resulting from out-of-class cooperative and individualistic…

The use of concrete learning objects taken from the history of mathematics in mathematics education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bütüner, Suphi Önder

2016-11-01

This study aimed to reveal the effects of teaching with concrete learning objects taken from the history of mathematics on student achievement. Being a quasi-experimental study, it was conducted with two grade 8 classes in a secondary school located in Trabzon. The experimental group consisted of 27 students and the control group consisted of 25. Data were collected by using worksheets, an achievement exam and written opinion forms. The data from the achievement exam were analysed by using the Mann-Whitney U-test while the data from written opinion forms were analysed through content analysis. The Mann-Whitney U-test results showed a significant difference between the mean ranks of the experimental and control groups in favour of the former. Findings from the written opinion forms suggested that the students found the activities to be instructive and fun, enjoyed using concrete models in their classes, and learned from discovering the rules. It was also found that students had previously not engaged in similar activities and had only experienced the history of mathematics through the life stories and works of mathematicians and the representation of ancient numbers at the beginning of each unit.

Effectiveness of Conceptual Change Text-oriented Instruction on Students' Understanding of Energy in Chemical Reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taştan, Özgecan; Yalçınkaya, Eylem; Boz, Yezdan

2008-10-01

The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of conceptual change text instruction (CCT) in the context of energy in chemical reactions. The subjects of the study were 60, 10th grade students at a high school, who were in two different classes and taught by the same teacher. One of the classes was randomly selected as the experimental group in which CCT instruction was applied, and the other as the control group in which traditional teaching method was used. The data were obtained through the use of Energy Concept Test (ECT), the Attitude Scale towards Chemistry (ASC) and Science Process Skill Test (SPST). In order to find out the effect of the conceptual change text on students' learning of energy concept, independent sample t-tests, ANCOVA (analysis of covariance) and ANOVA (analysis of variance) were used. Results revealed that there was a statistically significant mean difference between the experimental and control group in terms of students' ECT total mean scores; however, there was no statistically significant difference between the experimental and control group in terms of students' attitude towards chemistry. These findings suggest that conceptual change text instruction enhances the understanding and achievement.

Inter-class sparsity based discriminative least square regression.

PubMed

Wen, Jie; Xu, Yong; Li, Zuoyong; Ma, Zhongli; Xu, Yuanrong

2018-06-01

Least square regression is a very popular supervised classification method. However, two main issues greatly limit its performance. The first one is that it only focuses on fitting the input features to the corresponding output labels while ignoring the correlations among samples. The second one is that the used label matrix, i.e., zero-one label matrix is inappropriate for classification. To solve these problems and improve the performance, this paper presents a novel method, i.e., inter-class sparsity based discriminative least square regression (ICS_DLSR), for multi-class classification. Different from other methods, the proposed method pursues that the transformed samples have a common sparsity structure in each class. For this goal, an inter-class sparsity constraint is introduced to the least square regression model such that the margins of samples from the same class can be greatly reduced while those of samples from different classes can be enlarged. In addition, an error term with row-sparsity constraint is introduced to relax the strict zero-one label matrix, which allows the method to be more flexible in learning the discriminative transformation matrix. These factors encourage the method to learn a more compact and discriminative transformation for regression and thus has the potential to perform better than other methods. Extensive experimental results show that the proposed method achieves the best performance in comparison with other methods for multi-class classification. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A new class of boron nitride fibers with tunable properties by combining an electrospinning process and the polymer-derived ceramics route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salles, Vincent; Bernard, Samuel; Brioude, Arnaud; Cornu, David; Miele, Philippe

2010-02-01

Novel boron nitride (BN) fibers have been developed with diameters ranging from the nano- to microscale by thermal conversion of as-electrospun fibers from polyacrylonitrile and poly[B-(methylamino)borazine] blend solutions. Such a new class of ceramic fibers is seen as potential candidate for thermal management applications and filtration systems in harsh environments.Novel boron nitride (BN) fibers have been developed with diameters ranging from the nano- to microscale by thermal conversion of as-electrospun fibers from polyacrylonitrile and poly[B-(methylamino)borazine] blend solutions. Such a new class of ceramic fibers is seen as potential candidate for thermal management applications and filtration systems in harsh environments. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental details and EDX results. See DOI: 10.1039/b9nr00185a

Natural scene logo recognition by joint boosting feature selection in salient regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Wei; Sun, Jun; Naoi, Satoshi; Minagawa, Akihiro; Hotta, Yoshinobu

2011-01-01

Logos are considered valuable intellectual properties and a key component of the goodwill of a business. In this paper, we propose a natural scene logo recognition method which is segmentation-free and capable of processing images extremely rapidly and achieving high recognition rates. The classifiers for each logo are trained jointly, rather than independently. In this way, common features can be shared across multiple classes for better generalization. To deal with large range of aspect ratio of different logos, a set of salient regions of interest (ROI) are extracted to describe each class. We ensure the selected ROIs to be both individually informative and two-by-two weakly dependant by a Class Conditional Entropy Maximization criteria. Experimental results on a large logo database demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of our proposed method.

Role of dispersion corrected hybrid GGA class in accurately calculating the bond dissociation energy of carbon halogen bond: A benchmark study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosar, Naveen; Mahmood, Tariq; Ayub, Khurshid

2017-12-01

Benchmark study has been carried out to find a cost effective and accurate method for bond dissociation energy (BDE) of carbon halogen (Csbnd X) bond. BDE of C-X bond plays a vital role in chemical reactions, particularly for kinetic barrier and thermochemistry etc. The compounds (1-16, Fig. 1) with Csbnd X bond used for current benchmark study are important reactants in organic, inorganic and bioorganic chemistry. Experimental data of Csbnd X bond dissociation energy is compared with theoretical results. The statistical analysis tools such as root mean square deviation (RMSD), standard deviation (SD), Pearson's correlation (R) and mean absolute error (MAE) are used for comparison. Overall, thirty-one density functionals from eight different classes of density functional theory (DFT) along with Pople and Dunning basis sets are evaluated. Among different classes of DFT, the dispersion corrected range separated hybrid GGA class along with 6-31G(d), 6-311G(d), aug-cc-pVDZ and aug-cc-pVTZ basis sets performed best for bond dissociation energy calculation of C-X bond. ωB97XD show the best performance with less deviations (RMSD, SD), mean absolute error (MAE) and a significant Pearson's correlation (R) when compared to experimental data. ωB97XD along with Pople basis set 6-311g(d) has RMSD, SD, R and MAE of 3.14 kcal mol-1, 3.05 kcal mol-1, 0.97 and -1.07 kcal mol-1, respectively.

Putting the person back into psychopathology: an intervention to reduce mental illness stigma in the classroom.

PubMed

Mann, Caroline E; Himelein, Melissa J

2008-07-01

This research aims to compare the effectiveness of two methods of teaching psychopathology in reducing stigma toward mental illness. Based on previous stigma research, a first-person, narrative approach was contrasted with traditional, diagnosis-centered education. STUDY 1 Participants consisted of 53 undergraduates at a small, public university enrolled in two introductory psychology classes. During six hours of class time focused on psychopathology, one class received the experimental pedagogy while the other served as a control, receiving traditional instruction. Stigma was assessed pre- and post-intervention using a social distance scale and vignette design. Statistical analyses compared means and change scores between the two classes. STUDY 1 Students in the experimental classroom showed a significant decrease in stigma following the intervention, whereas those in the control group showed no change. STUDY 2 A follow-up study was conducted to replicate the promising effects demonstrated in Study 1. Two additional classrooms (n = 48) were both exposed to the first-person, narrative pedagogy, and their stigma monitored pre- and post- intervention. STUDY 2 Students reported a significant decrease in stigma following the intervention. Together, these studies suggest that traditional methods of teaching psychopathology do not lessen mental illness stigma, a serious concern that can potentially be reconciled by incorporating more person-centered instructional methods. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for the way psychopathology is taught throughout the mental health field, as well as the practical application of stigma interventions woven into the curriculum.

Evidence of a Critical Phase Transition in Purely Temporal Dynamics with Long-Delayed Feedback

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faggian, Marco; Ginelli, Francesco; Marino, Francesco; Giacomelli, Giovanni

2018-04-01

Experimental evidence of an absorbing phase transition, so far associated with spatiotemporal dynamics, is provided in a purely temporal optical system. A bistable semiconductor laser, with long-delayed optoelectronic feedback and multiplicative noise, shows the peculiar features of a critical phenomenon belonging to the directed percolation universality class. The numerical study of a simple, effective model provides accurate estimates of the transition critical exponents, in agreement with both theory and our experiment. This result pushes forward a hard equivalence of nontrivial stochastic, long-delayed systems with spatiotemporal ones and opens a new avenue for studying out-of-equilibrium universality classes in purely temporal dynamics.

Sample-space-based feature extraction and class preserving projection for gene expression data.

PubMed

Wang, Wenjun

2013-01-01

In order to overcome the problems of high computational complexity and serious matrix singularity for feature extraction using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Fisher's Linear Discrinimant Analysis (LDA) in high-dimensional data, sample-space-based feature extraction is presented, which transforms the computation procedure of feature extraction from gene space to sample space by representing the optimal transformation vector with the weighted sum of samples. The technique is used in the implementation of PCA, LDA, Class Preserving Projection (CPP) which is a new method for discriminant feature extraction proposed, and the experimental results on gene expression data demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.

Recognition of multiple imbalanced cancer types based on DNA microarray data using ensemble classifiers.

PubMed

Yu, Hualong; Hong, Shufang; Yang, Xibei; Ni, Jun; Dan, Yuanyuan; Qin, Bin

2013-01-01

DNA microarray technology can measure the activities of tens of thousands of genes simultaneously, which provides an efficient way to diagnose cancer at the molecular level. Although this strategy has attracted significant research attention, most studies neglect an important problem, namely, that most DNA microarray datasets are skewed, which causes traditional learning algorithms to produce inaccurate results. Some studies have considered this problem, yet they merely focus on binary-class problem. In this paper, we dealt with multiclass imbalanced classification problem, as encountered in cancer DNA microarray, by using ensemble learning. We utilized one-against-all coding strategy to transform multiclass to multiple binary classes, each of them carrying out feature subspace, which is an evolving version of random subspace that generates multiple diverse training subsets. Next, we introduced one of two different correction technologies, namely, decision threshold adjustment or random undersampling, into each training subset to alleviate the damage of class imbalance. Specifically, support vector machine was used as base classifier, and a novel voting rule called counter voting was presented for making a final decision. Experimental results on eight skewed multiclass cancer microarray datasets indicate that unlike many traditional classification approaches, our methods are insensitive to class imbalance.

Divergence of Scientific Heuristic Method and Direct Algebraic Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calucag, Lina S.

2016-01-01

This is an experimental study, made used of the non-randomized experimental and control groups, pretest-posttest designs. The experimental and control groups were two separate intact classes in Algebra. For a period of twelve sessions, the experimental group was subjected to the scientific heuristic method, but the control group instead was given…

Long-range transport and universality classes in in vitro viral infection spread

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manrubia, S. C.; García-Arriaza, J.; Domingo, E.; Escarmís, C.

2006-05-01

Dispersal mechanisms play a main role in the dynamics of infection spread. Recent experimental results with in vitro infections of foot-and-mouth disease virus reveal that the time needed for the virus to kill a cellular monolayer depends qualitatively on the number of viral particles required to initiate infection in a susceptible cell. A two-dimensional susceptible-infected-removed (SIR) model based on the experimental setting agrees with the observations only when viral particles are subject to long-range transport. Numerical and analytical results show that this long-range transport plays a role when a single particle causes infection, while it is inefficient when complementation between two or more particles is necessary.

Implementation of cooperative learning model type STAD with RME approach to understanding of mathematical concept student state junior high school in Pekanbaru

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nurhayati, Dian Mita; Hartono

2017-05-01

This study aims to determine whether there is a difference in the ability of understanding the concept of mathematics between students who use cooperative learning model Student Teams Achievement Division type with Realistic Mathematic Education approach and students who use regular learning in seventh grade SMPN 35 Pekanbaru. This study was quasi experiments with Posttest-only Control Design. The populations in this research were all the seventh grade students in one of state junior high school in Pekanbaru. The samples were a class that is used as the experimental class and one other as the control class. The process of sampling is using purposive sampling technique. Retrieval of data in this study using the documentation, observation sheets, and test. The test use t-test formula to determine whether there is a difference in student's understanding of mathematical concepts. Before the t-test, should be used to test the homogeneity and normality. Based in the analysis of these data with t0 = 2.9 there is a difference in student's understanding of mathematical concepts between experimental and control class. Percentage of students experimental class with score more than 65 was 76.9% and 56.4% of students control class. Thus be concluded, the ability of understanding mathematical concepts students who use the cooperative learning model type STAD with RME approach better than students using the regular learning. So that cooperative learning model type STAD with RME approach is well used in learning process.

Deblurring of Class-Averaged Images in Single-Particle Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Park, Wooram; Madden, Dean R; Rockmore, Daniel N; Chirikjian, Gregory S

2010-03-01

This paper proposes a method for deblurring of class-averaged images in single-particle electron microscopy (EM). Since EM images of biological samples are very noisy, the images which are nominally identical projection images are often grouped, aligned and averaged in order to cancel or reduce the background noise. However, the noise in the individual EM images generates errors in the alignment process, which creates an inherent limit on the accuracy of the resulting class averages. This inaccurate class average due to the alignment errors can be viewed as the result of a convolution of an underlying clear image with a blurring function. In this work, we develop a deconvolution method that gives an estimate for the underlying clear image from a blurred class-averaged image using precomputed statistics of misalignment. Since this convolution is over the group of rigid body motions of the plane, SE(2), we use the Fourier transform for SE(2) in order to convert the convolution into a matrix multiplication in the corresponding Fourier space. For practical implementation we use a Hermite-function-based image modeling technique, because Hermite expansions enable lossless Cartesian-polar coordinate conversion using the Laguerre-Fourier expansions, and Hermite expansion and Laguerre-Fourier expansion retain their structures under the Fourier transform. Based on these mathematical properties, we can obtain the deconvolution of the blurred class average using simple matrix multiplication. Tests of the proposed deconvolution method using synthetic and experimental EM images confirm the performance of our method.

Experiment of Enzyme Kinetics Using Guided Inquiry Model for Enhancing Generic Science Skills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amida, N.; Supriyanti, F. M. T.; Liliasari

2017-02-01

This study aims to enhance generic science skills of students using guided inquiry model through experiments of enzyme kinetics. This study used quasi-experimental methods, with pretest-posttestnonequivalent control group design. Subjects of this study were chemistry students enrolled in biochemistry lab course, consisted of 18 students in experimental class and 19 students in control class. Instrument in this study were essay test that involves 5 indicators of generic science skills (i.e. direct observation, causality, symbolic language, mathematical modeling, and concepts formation) and also student worksheets. The results showed that the experiments of kinetics enzyme using guided inquiry model have been enhance generic science skills in high category with a value of average of 0.77. Four indicators classified in the high category are direct observation, causality, symbolic language, and mathematical modeling with the value of 0,73 0,70; 0,96; dan 0,85. Meanwhile, indicator of concepts formation in the medium category with a value of 0.62

Investigation of a 4.5-Inch-Mean-Diameter Two-Stage Axial-Flow Turbine Suitable for Auxiliary Power Drives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, Robert Y.; Monroe, Daniel E.

1959-01-01

The design and experimental investigation of a 4.5-inch-mean-diameter two-stage turbine are presented herein and used to study the effect of size on the efficiency of turbines in the auxiliary power drive class. The results of the experimental investigation indicated that design specific work was obtained at design speed at a total-to-static efficiency of 0.639. At design pressure ratio, design static-pressure distribution through the turbine was obtained with an equivalent specific work output of 33.2 Btu per pound and an efficiency of 0.656. It was found that, in the design of turbines in the auxiliary power drive class, Reynolds number plays an important part in the selection of the design efficiency. Comparison with theoretical efficiencies based on a loss coefficient and velocity diagrams are presented. Close agreement was obtained between theory and experiment when the loss coefficient was adjusted for changes in Reynolds number to the -1/5 power.

The Impact of Internet Virtual Physics Laboratory Instruction on the Achievement in Physics, Science Process Skills and Computer Attitudes of 10th-Grade Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kun-Yuan; Heh, Jia-Sheng

2007-10-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the impact of Internet Virtual Physics Laboratory (IVPL) instruction with traditional laboratory instruction in physics academic achievement, performance of science process skills, and computer attitudes of tenth grade students. One-hundred and fifty students from four classes at one private senior high school in Taoyuan Country, Taiwan, R.O.C. were sampled. All four classes contained 75 students who were equally divided into an experimental group and a control group. The pre-test results indicated that the students' entry-level physics academic achievement, science process skills, and computer attitudes were equal for both groups. On the post-test, the experimental group achieved significantly higher mean scores in physics academic achievement and science process skills. There was no significant difference in computer attitudes between the groups. We concluded that the IVPL had potential to help tenth graders improve their physics academic achievement and science process skills.

The Effect of Corpus-Based Activities on Verb-Noun Collocations in EFL Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ucar, Serpil; Yükselir, Ceyhun

2015-01-01

This current study sought to reveal the impacts of corpus-based activities on verb-noun collocation learning in EFL classes. This study was carried out on two groups--experimental and control groups- each of which consists of 15 students. The students were preparatory class students at School of Foreign Languages, Osmaniye Korkut Ata University.…

Word Class Distinctions in Second Language Acquisition: An Experimental Study of L2 Spanish

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zyzik, Eve; Azevedo, Clara

2009-01-01

Although the problem of word class has been explored in numerous first language studies, relatively little is known about this process in SLA. The present study measures second language (L2) learners' knowledge of word class distinctions (e.g., noun vs. adjective) in a variety of syntactic contexts. English-speaking learners of Spanish from…

Comparative Outcomes of Two Instructional Models for Students with Learning Disabilities: Inclusion with Co-Teaching and Solo-Taught Special Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tremblay, Philippe

2013-01-01

We compared two instructional models (co-teaching inclusion and solo-taught special education) for students with learning disabilities (LD) with regard to their effect on academic achievement and class attendance. Twelve inclusive classes (experimental group) and 13 special education classes (control group) participated in the study. In grade 1,…

Kernel Partial Least Squares for Nonlinear Regression and Discrimination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosipal, Roman; Clancy, Daniel (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This paper summarizes recent results on applying the method of partial least squares (PLS) in a reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS). A previously proposed kernel PLS regression model was proven to be competitive with other regularized regression methods in RKHS. The family of nonlinear kernel-based PLS models is extended by considering the kernel PLS method for discrimination. Theoretical and experimental results on a two-class discrimination problem indicate usefulness of the method.

The Effects of Using Concept Mapping for Improving Advanced Level Biology Students' Lower- and Higher-Order Cognitive Skills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bramwell-Lalor, Sharon; Rainford, Marcia

2014-03-01

This paper reports on teachers' use of concept mapping as an alternative assessment strategy in advanced level biology classes and its effects on students' cognitive skills on selected biology concepts. Using a mixed methods approach, the study employed a pre-test/post-test quasi-experimental design involving 156 students and 8 teachers from intact classes. A researcher-constructed Biology Cognitive Skills Test was used to collect the quantitative data. Qualitative data were collected through interviews and students' personal documents. The data showed that the participants utilized concept mapping in various ways and they described positive experiences while being engaged in its use. The main challenge cited by teachers was the limited time available for more consistent use. The results showed that the use of concept mapping in advanced level biology can lead to learning gains that exceed those achieved in classes where mainly traditional methods are used. The students in the concept mapping experimental groups performed significantly better than their peers in the control group on both the lower-order (F(1) = 21.508; p < .001) and higher-order (F(1) = 42.842, p < .001) cognitive items of the biology test. A mean effect size of .56 was calculated representing the contribution of treatment to the students' performance on the test items.

Fast Low-Rank Shared Dictionary Learning for Image Classification.

PubMed

Tiep Huu Vu; Monga, Vishal

2017-11-01

Despite the fact that different objects possess distinct class-specific features, they also usually share common patterns. This observation has been exploited partially in a recently proposed dictionary learning framework by separating the particularity and the commonality (COPAR). Inspired by this, we propose a novel method to explicitly and simultaneously learn a set of common patterns as well as class-specific features for classification with more intuitive constraints. Our dictionary learning framework is hence characterized by both a shared dictionary and particular (class-specific) dictionaries. For the shared dictionary, we enforce a low-rank constraint, i.e., claim that its spanning subspace should have low dimension and the coefficients corresponding to this dictionary should be similar. For the particular dictionaries, we impose on them the well-known constraints stated in the Fisher discrimination dictionary learning (FDDL). Furthermore, we develop new fast and accurate algorithms to solve the subproblems in the learning step, accelerating its convergence. The said algorithms could also be applied to FDDL and its extensions. The efficiencies of these algorithms are theoretically and experimentally verified by comparing their complexities and running time with those of other well-known dictionary learning methods. Experimental results on widely used image data sets establish the advantages of our method over the state-of-the-art dictionary learning methods.

Fast Low-Rank Shared Dictionary Learning for Image Classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vu, Tiep Huu; Monga, Vishal

2017-11-01

Despite the fact that different objects possess distinct class-specific features, they also usually share common patterns. This observation has been exploited partially in a recently proposed dictionary learning framework by separating the particularity and the commonality (COPAR). Inspired by this, we propose a novel method to explicitly and simultaneously learn a set of common patterns as well as class-specific features for classification with more intuitive constraints. Our dictionary learning framework is hence characterized by both a shared dictionary and particular (class-specific) dictionaries. For the shared dictionary, we enforce a low-rank constraint, i.e. claim that its spanning subspace should have low dimension and the coefficients corresponding to this dictionary should be similar. For the particular dictionaries, we impose on them the well-known constraints stated in the Fisher discrimination dictionary learning (FDDL). Further, we develop new fast and accurate algorithms to solve the subproblems in the learning step, accelerating its convergence. The said algorithms could also be applied to FDDL and its extensions. The efficiencies of these algorithms are theoretically and experimentally verified by comparing their complexities and running time with those of other well-known dictionary learning methods. Experimental results on widely used image datasets establish the advantages of our method over state-of-the-art dictionary learning methods.

Higher social class predicts increased unethical behavior

PubMed Central

Piff, Paul K.; Stancato, Daniel M.; Côté, Stéphane; Mendoza-Denton, Rodolfo; Keltner, Dacher

2012-01-01

Seven studies using experimental and naturalistic methods reveal that upper-class individuals behave more unethically than lower-class individuals. In studies 1 and 2, upper-class individuals were more likely to break the law while driving, relative to lower-class individuals. In follow-up laboratory studies, upper-class individuals were more likely to exhibit unethical decision-making tendencies (study 3), take valued goods from others (study 4), lie in a negotiation (study 5), cheat to increase their chances of winning a prize (study 6), and endorse unethical behavior at work (study 7) than were lower-class individuals. Mediator and moderator data demonstrated that upper-class individuals’ unethical tendencies are accounted for, in part, by their more favorable attitudes toward greed. PMID:22371585

Dental and skeletal components of Class II open bite treatment with a modified Thurow appliance

PubMed Central

Jacob, Helder Baldi; dos Santos-Pinto, Ary; Buschang, Peter H.

2014-01-01

Introduction Due to the lack of studies that distinguish between dentoalveolar and basal changes caused by the Thurow appliance, this clinical study, carried out by the School of Dentistry - State University of São Paulo/Araraquara, aimed at assessing the dental and skeletal changes induced by modified Thurow appliance. Methods The sample included an experimental group comprising 13 subjects aged between 7 and 10 years old, with Class II malocclusion and anterior open bite, and a control group comprising 22 subjects similar in age, sex and mandibular plane angle. Maxillary/mandibular, horizontal/vertical, dental/skeletal movements (ANS, PNS, U1, U6, Co, Go, Pog, L1, L6) were assessed, based on 14 landmarks, 8 angles (S-N-ANS, SNA, PPA, S-N-Pog, SNB, MPA, PP/MPA, ANB) and 3 linear measures (N-Me, ANS-Me, S-Go). Results Treatment caused significantly greater angle decrease between the palatal and the mandibular plane of the experimental group, primarily due to an increase in the palatal plane angle. ANB, SNA and S-N-ANS angles significantly decreased more in patients from the experimental group. PNS was superiorly remodeled. Lower face height (ANS-Me) decreased in the experimental group and increased in the control group. Conclusions The modified Thurow appliance controlled vertical and horizontal displacements of the maxilla, rotated the maxilla and improved open bite malocclusion, decreasing lower facial height. PMID:24713556

Structure-Based Sequence Alignment of the Transmembrane Domains of All Human GPCRs: Phylogenetic, Structural and Functional Implications

PubMed Central

Cvicek, Vaclav; Goddard, William A.; Abrol, Ravinder

2016-01-01

The understanding of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) is undergoing a revolution due to increased information about their signaling and the experimental determination of structures for more than 25 receptors. The availability of at least one receptor structure for each of the GPCR classes, well separated in sequence space, enables an integrated superfamily-wide analysis to identify signatures involving the role of conserved residues, conserved contacts, and downstream signaling in the context of receptor structures. In this study, we align the transmembrane (TM) domains of all experimental GPCR structures to maximize the conserved inter-helical contacts. The resulting superfamily-wide GpcR Sequence-Structure (GRoSS) alignment of the TM domains for all human GPCR sequences is sufficient to generate a phylogenetic tree that correctly distinguishes all different GPCR classes, suggesting that the class-level differences in the GPCR superfamily are encoded at least partly in the TM domains. The inter-helical contacts conserved across all GPCR classes describe the evolutionarily conserved GPCR structural fold. The corresponding structural alignment of the inactive and active conformations, available for a few GPCRs, identifies activation hot-spot residues in the TM domains that get rewired upon activation. Many GPCR mutations, known to alter receptor signaling and cause disease, are located at these conserved contact and activation hot-spot residue positions. The GRoSS alignment places the chemosensory receptor subfamilies for bitter taste (TAS2R) and pheromones (Vomeronasal, VN1R) in the rhodopsin family, known to contain the chemosensory olfactory receptor subfamily. The GRoSS alignment also enables the quantification of the structural variability in the TM regions of experimental structures, useful for homology modeling and structure prediction of receptors. Furthermore, this alignment identifies structurally and functionally important residues in all human GPCRs. These residues can be used to make testable hypotheses about the structural basis of receptor function and about the molecular basis of disease-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms. PMID:27028541

Experimental simulations of sulfide formation in the solar nebula.

PubMed

Lauretta, D S; Lodders, K; Fegley, B

1997-07-18

Sulfurization of meteoritic metal in H2S-H2 gas produced three different sulfides: monosulfide solid solution [(Fe,Ni)1-xS], pentlandite [(Fe,Ni)9-xS8], and a phosphorus-rich sulfide. The composition of the remnant metal was unchanged. These results are contrary to theoretical predictions that sulfide formation in the solar nebula produced troilite (FeS) and enriched the remaining metal in nickel. The experimental sulfides are chemically and morphologically similar to sulfide grains in the matrix of the Alais (class CI) carbonaceous chondrite, suggesting that these meteoritic sulfides may be condensates from the solar nebula.

Advanced Reservoir Characterization and Evaluation of CO2 Gravity Drainage in the Naturally Fractured Spraberry Trend Area, Class III

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Knight, Bill; Schechter, David S.

The goal of this project was to assess the economic feasibility of CO2 flooding the naturally fractured Spraberry Trend Area in west Texas. This objective was accomplished through research in four areas: (1) extensive characterization of the reservoirs, (2) experimental studies of crude oil/brine/rock (COBR) interactions in the reservoirs, (3) reservoir performance analysis, and (4) experimental investigations on CO2 gravity drainage in Spraberry whole cores. This provides results of the final year of the six-year project for each of the four areas.

Public Disclosure to Improve Physical Education in an Urban School District: Results from a 2-year Quasi-Experimental Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Hannah R.; Vittinghoff, Eric; Linchey, Jennifer K.; Madsen, Kristine A.

2015-01-01

Background: Many elementary schools have policies requiring a minimum amount of physical education (PE). However, few schools comply with local/state PE policy and little is known about how to improve adherence. We evaluated changes in PE among fifth-grade classes, following participatory action research efforts to improve PE quantity and policy…

AN EVALUATION OF HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS PROGRAMMED TEXTS WHEN USED WITH DEAF STUDENTS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

BORNSTEIN, HARRY

A COMPARISON WAS MADE OF THE RATE AND LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT OF 150 DEAF STUDENTS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF PROGRAMED TEXTS AS AGAINST THE USUAL LECTURE METHODS IN HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS. EACH OF FOUR MATHEMATICS TEACHERS HAD TWO COMPARABLE CLASSES. THE CONTROL GROUP RECEIVED INFORMATION BY SIMULTANEOUS LECTURE AND THE EXPERIMENTAL GROUPS USED THE…

The Effect of Google Earth and Wiki Models on Oral Presentation Skills of University EFL Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Awada, Ghada; Diab, Hassan B.

2018-01-01

This article reports the results of an experimental study that investigated the effectiveness of Google Earth and Wiki tools in improving the oral presentation skills of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners and boosting their motivation for learning. The participants (n =81) are enrolled in writing classes at two English-medium…

The Impact of Resource Programs Upon the Self-Concept and Peer Acceptance of Learning Disabled Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sheare, Joseph B.

1978-01-01

Experimental group consisted of learning disabled children in regular classes with resource room interventions. Control group consisted of non-learning disabled children stratified by sex and classrooms. The resource based program did not result in significant changes in either self-concept or peer acceptance after one year for the LD group.…

The Effect of Playing a Logic Game on Student Learning in Physics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parsons, Ralph

The effect of playing a logic game, Master Mind, on student learning in physics was examined in this study. An experimental group of 16 Electronics Engineering Technology students played the game during class one hour per week for seven weeks. A control group of nineteen students took the course without playing the logic game. Results showed that…

Annelid L-Ornithine Carbamoyltransferase: A Class Project Using Substrate Analogues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teal, A. R.; Alcock, R. S.

1980-01-01

Describes a biochemistry class project which allows students to investigate independently the separate aspects of a common complex problem. The basic experimental procedure is detailed for obtaining information about the structure and geometry of L-ornithine carbamoyltransferase. (CS)

Mathematics Learning Assisted Geogebra using Technologically Aligned Classroom (TAC) to Improve Communication Skills of Vocasional High School Student

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuliardi, R.; Nurjanah

2017-09-01

The purpose of this study to analyze mathematical communication skill’s student to resolve geometry transformation problems through computer Assisted Geogebra using Technologically Aligned Classroom (TAC). The population in this study were students from one of Vocasional High School Student in West Java. Selection of sample by purposed random sampling, the experimental class is taught Technologically Aligned Classroom (TAC) with GeoGebra, while the control class is taught by conventional learning. This study was quasi-experimental with pretest and posttest control group design. Based on the results; (1) The enhancement of student mathematical communication skills through TAC was higher than the conventional learning; (2) based on gender, there were no differences of mathematical communication skilss student who exposed with TAC and conventional learning; (3) based on KAM test, there was significant enhancement of students’ communication skills among ability of high, middle, and low KAM. The differences occur between high KAM and middle KAM, and also between high KAM and low KAM. Based on this result, mathematics learning Assisted Geogebra using Technologically Aligned Classroom (TAC) can be applied in the process of Mathematics Learning in Vocasional High School.

Critical Thinking Skills of Students through Mathematics Learning with ASSURE Model Assisted by Software Autograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kristianti, Y.; Prabawanto, S.; Suhendra, S.

2017-09-01

This study aims to examine the ability of critical thinking and students who attain learning mathematics with learning model ASSURE assisted Autograph software. The design of this study was experimental group with pre-test and post-test control group. The experimental group obtained a mathematics learning with ASSURE-assisted model Autograph software and the control group acquired the mathematics learning with the conventional model. The data are obtained from the research results through critical thinking skills tests. This research was conducted at junior high school level with research population in one of junior high school student in Subang Regency of Lesson Year 2016/2017 and research sample of class VIII student in one of junior high school in Subang Regency for 2 classes. Analysis of research data is administered quantitatively. Quantitative data analysis was performed on the normalized gain level between the two sample groups using a one-way anova test. The results show that mathematics learning with ASSURE assisted model Autograph software can improve the critical thinking ability of junior high school students. Mathematical learning using ASSURE-assisted model Autograph software is significantly better in improving the critical thinking skills of junior high school students compared with conventional models.

Electric explosion of fine wires: Three groups of materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Romanova, V. M., E-mail: vmr@inbox.ru; Ivanenkov, G. V.; Mingaleev, A. R.

2015-08-15

Experimental data demonstrating differences in the structures of channels formed during nanosecond discharges through fine wires made of different materials are presented. In addition to the traditional two classes of metals and alloys (the copper and tungsten groups), a new class is proposed to which materials of the nickel type belong. Their properties combine the characteristic properties of the two traditional groups, due to which they occupy an intermediate position between the latter. This manifests itself in the unstable character of explosion, the type of which can change drastically when changing the ambient medium or other conditions. Most of themore » reported results were obtained at a small setup with maximum values of the current and voltage of 10 kA and 20 kV, respectively, the current rise time being about 300 ns. An attempt is made to construct a scenario of the development of a nanosecond explosion that would make it possible to qualitatively describe the formation of the discharge channel structure. The analysis is based on the recent experimental results indicating that the cores formed in the course of the discharge have a tubular structure.« less

Expression and clinical value of the soluble major histocompatibility complex class I-related chain A molecule in the serum of patients with renal tumors.

PubMed

Zhao, Y-K; Jia, C-M; Yuan, G-J; Liu, W; Qiu, Y; Zhu, Q-G

2015-06-29

We investigated the expression and clinical value of the soluble major histocompatibility complex class I-related chain A (sMICA) molecule in the serum of patients with renal tumors. Sixty patients diagnosed with renal tumors were enrolled in the experimental group, whereas 20 healthy volunteers served as the control group. The sMICA levels were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the results were analyzed in combination with data from pathol-ogy examination. The experimental group had a statistically significant higher sMICA level (P < 0.05) than the control group. The sMICA level was higher in patients with malignant tumors than in those with be-nign tumors. We also observed a positive relationship among different tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) pathological stages with more advanced diseases exhibiting higher sMICA levels. As a tumor-associated antigen, MICA has a close relationship with renal tumorigenesis and immune es-cape. Our results indicated that sMICA levels were related to tumor pathol-ogy, TNM stage, and metastasis. Therefore, sMICA might be a potential marker for tumor characteristics, prognosis, and recurrence prediction.

Reasons for Marijuana Use Among Young Adults and Long-Term Associations With Marijuana Use and Problems

PubMed Central

Patrick, Megan E.; Bray, Bethany C.; Berglund, Patricia A.

2016-01-01

Objective: This study examines reasons for marijuana use among young adults age 19/20 in the United States and the extent to which patterns of reasons are associated with marijuana use and problems 15 years later. Method: The national Monitoring the Future study provided data on marijuana users at age 19/20 who were also surveyed at age 35 (n = 2,288; 50% women; 83% White). Latent class analysis was used to identify distinct patterns of reasons for marijuana use, which were then used as predictors of later marijuana use and problems. Results: Five latent classes described the following patterns of reasons for marijuana use at age 19/20: Experimental, Get High + Relax, Typical, Typical + Escape, and Coping + Drug Use. Highest risk for later marijuana use and problems was found for people with Coping + Drug Use and Get High + Relax reasons in young adulthood; those with Experimental reasons were at lowest risk for later use or problems. Conclusions: Coping and getting high emerged as strong predictors of later marijuana use and problems. Results support the predictive value of self-reported reasons for using marijuana among young adults. PMID:27797689

Scaffolded Instruction Improves Student Understanding of the Scientific Method & Experimental Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

D'Costa, Allison R.; Schlueter, Mark A.

2013-01-01

Implementation of a guided-inquiry lab in introductory biology classes, along with scaffolded instruction, improved students' understanding of the scientific method, their ability to design an experiment, and their identification of experimental variables. Pre- and postassessments from experimental versus control sections over three semesters…

The effects of an integrated Algebra 1/physical science curriculum on student achievement in Algebra 1, proportional reasoning and graphing abilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lawrence, Lettie Carol

1997-08-01

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if an integrated curriculum in algebra 1/physical science facilitates acquisition of proportional reasoning and graphing abilities better than a non-integrated, traditional, algebra 1 curriculum. Also, this study was to ascertain if the integrated algebra 1/physical science curriculum resulted in greater student achievement in algebra 1. The curriculum used in the experimental class was SAM 9 (Science and Mathematics 9), an investigation-based curriculum that was written to integrate physical science and basic algebra content. The experiment was conducted over one school year. The subjects in the study were 61 ninth grade students. The experimental group consisted of one class taught concurrently by a mathematics teacher and a physical science teacher. The control group consisted of three classes of algebra 1 students taught by one mathematics teacher and taking physical science with other teachers in the school who were not participating in the SAM 9 program. This study utilized a quasi-experimental non-randomized control group pretest-posttest design. The investigator obtained end-of-algebra 1 scores from student records. The written open-ended graphing instruments and the proportional reasoning instrument were administered to both groups as pretests and posttests. The graphing instruments were also administered as a midtest. A two sample t-test for independent means was used to determine significant differences in achievement on the end-of-course algebra 1 test. Quantitative data from the proportional reasoning and graphing instruments were analyzed using a repeated measures analysis of variance to determine differences in scores over time for the experimental and control groups. The findings indicate no significant difference between the experimental and control groups on the end-of-course algebra 1 test. Results also indicate no significant differences in proportional reasoning and graphing abilities between the two groups over time. However, all subjects (experimental and control groups) made significant improvement in graphing abilities over one school year. In this study, students participating in an investigation-based curriculum integrating algebra 1 and physical science performed as well on the instruments as the students in the traditional curriculum. Therefore, an argument can be made that instruction using an integrated curriculum (algebra l/physical science) is a viable alternative to instruction using a more traditional algebra 1 curriculum. Finally, the integrated curriculum adheres to the constructivist theoretical perspective (Krupnik-Gotlieb, 1995) and is more consistent with recommendations in the NCTM Standards (1992) than the traditional curriculum.

A Fitness Intervention Program within a Physical Education Class on Cardiovascular Endurance among Malaysia Secondary School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rengasamy, Shabeshan; Raju, Subramaniam; Lee, Wee Akina Sia Seng; Roa, Ramachandran

2014-01-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of a physical fitness intervention program within a physical education class on cardiovascular endurance of Malaysian secondary school boys and girls. A quasi experimental design was adopted for the study. Two schools in a district were randomly selected. In each school, two classes were randomly…

Equivalence classes of Fibonacci lattices and their similarity properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lo Gullo, N.; Vittadello, L.; Bazzan, M.; Dell'Anna, L.

2016-08-01

We investigate, theoretically and experimentally, the properties of Fibonacci lattices with arbitrary spacings. Different from periodic structures, the reciprocal lattice and the dynamical properties of Fibonacci lattices depend strongly on the lengths of their lattice parameters, even if the sequence of long and short segment, the Fibonacci string, is the same. In this work we show that by exploiting a self-similarity property of Fibonacci strings under a suitable composition rule, it is possible to define equivalence classes of Fibonacci lattices. We show that the diffraction patterns generated by Fibonacci lattices belonging to the same equivalence class can be rescaled to a common pattern of strong diffraction peaks thus giving to this classification a precise meaning. Furthermore we show that, through the gap labeling theorem, gaps in the energy spectra of Fibonacci crystals belonging to the same class can be labeled by the same momenta (up to a proper rescaling) and that the larger gaps correspond to the strong peaks of the diffraction spectra. This observation makes the definition of equivalence classes meaningful also for the spectral and therefore dynamical and thermodynamical properties of quasicrystals. Our results apply to the more general class of quasiperiodic lattices for which similarity under a suitable deflation rule is in order.

Nonlinear System Identification for Aeroelastic Systems with Application to Experimental Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kukreja, Sunil L.

2008-01-01

Representation and identification of a nonlinear aeroelastic pitch-plunge system as a model of the Nonlinear AutoRegressive, Moving Average eXogenous (NARMAX) class is considered. A nonlinear difference equation describing this aircraft model is derived theoretically and shown to be of the NARMAX form. Identification methods for NARMAX models are applied to aeroelastic dynamics and its properties demonstrated via continuous-time simulations of experimental conditions. Simulation results show that (1) the outputs of the NARMAX model closely match those generated using continuous-time methods, and (2) NARMAX identification methods applied to aeroelastic dynamics provide accurate discrete-time parameter estimates. Application of NARMAX identification to experimental pitch-plunge dynamics data gives a high percent fit for cross-validated data.

Experimental study on synchronization of three coupled mechanical metronomes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Qiang; Liu, Weiqing; Yang, Hujiang; Xiao, Jinghua; Qian, Xiaolan

2013-03-01

In this paper, a CCD acquisition system is set up to explore the dynamics of three coupled mechanical metronomes in order to compensate for the defects of visual observation. The facility is efficient to observe rich dynamics in an experiment, such as phase synchronization, partial phase synchronization and quasi-periodical oscillation, by accurately recording the trajectory of three coupled metronomes. The parameters, e.g., pendulum length and rolling friction are deemed to significantly influence the dynamics of three coupled mechanical metronomes judging from the experimental phenomena. The experimental results are confirmed by the numerical simulation based on the model with different intrinsic frequencies between three metronomes. The metronome and CCD acquisition systems are excellent demonstration apparatuses for a class and an undergraduate physics laboratory.

The interaction of heme with plakortin and a synthetic endoperoxide analogue: new insights into the heme-activated antimalarial mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Persico, Marco; Fattorusso, Roberto; Taglialatela-Scafati, Orazio; Chianese, Giuseppina; de Paola, Ivan; Zaccaro, Laura; Rondinelli, Francesca; Lombardo, Marco; Quintavalla, Arianna; Trombini, Claudio; Fattorusso, Ernesto; Fattorusso, Caterina; Farina, Biancamaria

2017-04-01

In the present work we performed a combined experimental and computational study on the interaction of the natural antimalarial endoperoxide plakortin and its synthetic analogue 4a with heme. Obtained results indicate that the studied compounds produce reactive carbon radical species after being reductively activated by heme. In particular, similarly to artemisinin, the formation of radicals prone to inter-molecular reactions should represent the key event responsible for Plasmodium death. To our knowledge this is the first experimental investigation on the reductive activation of simple antimalarial endoperoxides (1,2-dioxanes) by heme and results were compared to the ones previously obtained from the reaction with FeCl2. The obtained experimental data and the calculated molecular interaction models represent crucial tools for the rational optimization of our promising class of low-cost synthetic antimalarial endoperoxides.

Regularization of the double period method for experimental data processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belov, A. A.; Kalitkin, N. N.

2017-11-01

In physical and technical applications, an important task is to process experimental curves measured with large errors. Such problems are solved by applying regularization methods, in which success depends on the mathematician's intuition. We propose an approximation based on the double period method developed for smooth nonperiodic functions. Tikhonov's stabilizer with a squared second derivative is used for regularization. As a result, the spurious oscillations are suppressed and the shape of an experimental curve is accurately represented. This approach offers a universal strategy for solving a broad class of problems. The method is illustrated by approximating cross sections of nuclear reactions important for controlled thermonuclear fusion. Tables recommended as reference data are obtained. These results are used to calculate the reaction rates, which are approximated in a way convenient for gasdynamic codes. These approximations are superior to previously known formulas in the covered temperature range and accuracy.

Effect of the hydration temperature on the microstructure of Class G cement: C-S-H composition and density

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bahafid, Sara; Ghabezloo, Siavash; Duc, Myriam

Curing temperature has a significant influence on cement paste microstructure and the properties of its principal hydrate C-S-H. In this paper, the effect of the hydration temperature in the range of 7 °C to 90 °C on the microstructure of a class G oil-well cement is studied. This is done by combining various experimental methods, including X-ray diffraction associated with the Rietveld analysis, thermo-gravimetric analysis, mercury intrusion porosimetry and porosity evaluation by drying. The experimental results show an increase of the capillary porosity and a decrease of the gel porosity by increasing the hydration temperature. This is attributed to amore » decrease of the C-S-H intrinsic porosity and a corresponding increase of the C-S-H density for higher curing temperatures. The experimental results are used in a simple analysis method to evaluate the density of C-S-H, as well as its C/S ratio and H/S ratio in dry and saturated conditions. The evaluated C-S-H density varies from 1.88 g/cm{sup 3} at 7 °C to 2.10 g/cm{sup 3} at 90 °C. The results also show a decrease of molar C/S ratio with increasing hydration temperature from 1.93 at 7 °C to 1.71 at 90 °C and of the H/S ratio from 5.1 at 7 °C to 2.66 at 90 °C.« less

Understanding Mathematic Concept in Relation and Function Method through Active Learning Type Group to Group Distributed LKS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudri, F.; Rahmi, R.; Haryono, Y.

2018-04-01

This research is motivated by the lack of understanding of mathematical concepts students and teachers have not familiarize students discussed in groups. This researchaims to determine whether an understanding of mathematical concepts junior class VIII SMPN 2 in Ranah Batahan Kabupaten Pasaman Barat by applying active learning strategy group to group types with LKS better than conventional learning. The type of research is experimental the design of randomized trials on the subject. The population in the study were all students VIII SMPN 2 Ranah Batahan Kabupaten Pasaman Barat in year 2012/2013 which consists of our class room experiment to determine the grade and control class with do nerandomly, so that classes VIII1 elected as a experiment class and class VIII4 as a control class. The instruments used in the test empirically understanding mathematical concepts are shaped by the essay with rt=0,82 greater than rt=0,468 means reliable tests used. The data analysis technique used is the test with the help of MINITAB. Based on the results of the data analisis known that both of the sample are normal and homogenity in real rate α = 0,05, so the hypothesis of this research is received. So, it can be concluded students’ understanding mathematical concept applied the active Group to Group learning strategy with LKS is better than the students’ understanding mathematical concept with Conventional Learning.

Finding Specification Pages from the Web

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshinaga, Naoki; Torisawa, Kentaro

This paper presents a method of finding a specification page on the Web for a given object (e.g., ``Ch. d'Yquem'') and its class label (e.g., ``wine''). A specification page for an object is a Web page which gives concise attribute-value information about the object (e.g., ``county''-``Sauternes'') in well formatted structures. A simple unsupervised method using layout and symbolic decoration cues was applied to a large number of the Web pages to acquire candidate attributes for each class (e.g., ``county'' for a class ``wine''). We then filter out irrelevant words from the putative attributes through an author-aware scoring function that we called site frequency. We used the acquired attributes to select a representative specification page for a given object from the Web pages retrieved by a normal search engine. Experimental results revealed that our system greatly outperformed the normal search engine in terms of this specification retrieval.

Deep neural network-based domain adaptation for classification of remote sensing images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Li; Song, Jiazhen

2017-10-01

We investigate the effectiveness of deep neural network for cross-domain classification of remote sensing images in this paper. In the network, class centroid alignment is utilized as a domain adaptation strategy, making the network able to transfer knowledge from the source domain to target domain on a per-class basis. Since predicted labels of target data should be used to estimate the centroid of each class, we use overall centroid alignment as a coarse domain adaptation method to improve the estimation accuracy. In addition, rectified linear unit is used as the activation function to produce sparse features, which may improve the separation capability. The proposed network can provide both aligned features and an adaptive classifier, as well as obtain label-free classification of target domain data. The experimental results using Hyperion, NCALM, and WorldView-2 remote sensing images demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Can the Arts Get Under the Skin? Arts and Cortisol for Economically Disadvantaged Children.

PubMed

Brown, Eleanor D; Garnett, Mallory L; Anderson, Kate E; Laurenceau, Jean-Philippe

2017-07-01

This within-subjects experimental study investigated the influence of the arts on cortisol for economically disadvantaged children. Participants were 310 children, ages 3-5 years, who attended a Head Start preschool and were randomly assigned to participate in different schedules of arts and homeroom classes on different days of the week. Cortisol was sampled at morning baseline and after arts and homeroom classes on two different days at start, middle, and end of the year. For music, dance, and visual arts, grouped and separately, results of piecewise hierarchical linear modeling with time-varying predictors suggested cortisol was lower after an arts versus homeroom class at middle and end of the year but not start of the year. Implications concern the impact of arts on cortisol for children facing poverty risks. © 2016 The Authors. Child Development © 2016 Society for Research in Child Development, Inc.

Automated Solar Flare Detection and Feature Extraction in High-Resolution and Full-Disk Hα Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Meng; Tian, Yu; Liu, Yangyi; Rao, Changhui

2018-05-01

In this article, an automated solar flare detection method applied to both full-disk and local high-resolution Hα images is proposed. An adaptive gray threshold and an area threshold are used to segment the flare region. Features of each detected flare event are extracted, e.g. the start, peak, and end time, the importance class, and the brightness class. Experimental results have verified that the proposed method can obtain more stable and accurate segmentation results than previous works on full-disk images from Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO) and Kanzelhöhe Observatory for Solar and Environmental Research (KSO), and satisfying segmentation results on high-resolution images from the Goode Solar Telescope (GST). Moreover, the extracted flare features correlate well with the data given by KSO. The method may be able to implement a more complicated statistical analysis of Hα solar flares.

Multiple Spectral-Spatial Classification Approach for Hyperspectral Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tarabalka, Yuliya; Benediktsson, Jon Atli; Chanussot, Jocelyn; Tilton, James C.

2010-01-01

A .new multiple classifier approach for spectral-spatial classification of hyperspectral images is proposed. Several classifiers are used independently to classify an image. For every pixel, if all the classifiers have assigned this pixel to the same class, the pixel is kept as a marker, i.e., a seed of the spatial region, with the corresponding class label. We propose to use spectral-spatial classifiers at the preliminary step of the marker selection procedure, each of them combining the results of a pixel-wise classification and a segmentation map. Different segmentation methods based on dissimilar principles lead to different classification results. Furthermore, a minimum spanning forest is built, where each tree is rooted on a classification -driven marker and forms a region in the spectral -spatial classification: map. Experimental results are presented for two hyperspectral airborne images. The proposed method significantly improves classification accuracies, when compared to previously proposed classification techniques.

Plasma Heating in Solar Microflares: Statistics and Analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kirichenko, A. S.; Bogachev, S. A.

2017-05-01

In this paper we present the results of an analysis of 481 weak solar flares, from A0.01 class flares to the B GOES class, that were observed during the period of extremely low solar activity from 2009 April to July. For all flares we measured the temperature of the plasma in the isothermal and two-temperature approximations and tried to fit its relationship with the X-ray class using exponential and power-law functions. We found that the whole temperature distribution in the range from A0.01 to X-class cannot be fit by one exponential function. The fitting for weak flares below A1.0 ismore » significantly steeper than that for medium and large flares. The power-law approximation seems to be more reliable: the corresponding functions were found to be in good agreement with experimental data both for microflares and for normal flares. Our study predicts that evidence of plasma heating can be found in flares starting from the A0.0002 X-ray class. Weaker events presumably cannot heat the surrounding plasma. We also estimated emission measures for all flares studied and the thermal energy for 113 events.« less

Improving students’ mathematical representational ability through RME-based progressive mathematization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warsito; Darhim; Herman, T.

2018-01-01

This study aims to determine the differences in the improving of mathematical representation ability based on progressive mathematization with realistic mathematics education (PMR-MP) with conventional learning approach (PB). The method of research is quasi-experiments with non-equivalent control group designs. The study population is all students of class VIII SMPN 2 Tangerang consisting of 6 classes, while the sample was taken two classes with purposive sampling technique. The experimental class is treated with PMR-MP while the control class is treated with PB. The instruments used are test of mathematical representation ability. Data analysis was done by t-test, ANOVA test, post hoc test, and descriptive analysis. The result of analysis can be concluded that: 1) there are differences of mathematical representation ability improvement between students treated by PMR-MP and PB, 2) no interaction between learning approach (PMR-MP, PB) and prior mathematics knowledge (PAM) to improve students’ mathematical representation; 3) Students’ mathematical representation improvement in the level of higher PAM is better than medium, and low PAM students. Thus, based on the process of mathematization, it is very important when the learning direction of PMR-MP emphasizes on the process of building mathematics through a mathematical model.

The effects of instruction on French achievements in the sciences and technology on qualitative measures of attitude and motivation in French classrooms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giudicelli Bachelder, Francoise Dominique

1997-09-01

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the element of motivation in a second language classroom. The participants in this study were college students who participated voluntarily. A questionnaire on motivation (AMTB) created by Robert Gardner (1985) was given to the students as a pre-test/post-test in order to obtain quantitative measures. Also, a researcher was present during the computer laboratory sessions and a group discussion was conducted at the end of the study to collect qualitative samples. Four classes consisting of a total of 143 students participated in this study. The second language was French and the level was 103, a level intended for students who already had taken French in high school. French 103 reviews in one semester the material that is covered by students in French 101 and French 102 during two semesters. The four classes were divided into two groups, an experimental group and a control group. The study was conducted in a computer laboratory, where each of the four classes attended once a week. The experiment was conducted over an eight-week period at the beginning of the Spring semester 1997, from January 14 to March 4. Both classes from the control group, one arriving at 9:30 a.m. and the other at 1:30 p.m., were exposed to regular classroom material; nothing was done to modify the procedure of the classes' activities. The two experimental classes, one at 8:30 a.m. and the other at 11:30 a.m., both received a treatment of ten minutes at the end of the computer class period. The statistical results of the study did not support the hypothesis that the use of a different cultural input would increase the students' motivation, but the qualitative part of the study provided a fountain of information. Information which demanded reflection. Information which contributed to my personal development as a researcher, as an observer, and, most importantly, as a teacher.

Assessing Students' Experimentation Processes in Guided Inquiry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Emden, Markus; Sumfleth, Elke

2016-01-01

In recent science education, experimentation features ever more strongly as a method of inquiry in science classes rather than as a means to illustrate phenomena. Ideas and materials to teach inquiry abound. Yet, tools for assessing students' achievement in their processes of experimentation are lacking. The present study assumes a basal,…

Evaluation of microleakage of class II dental composite resin restorations cured with LED or QTH dental curing light; Blind, Cluster Randomized, In vitro cross sectional study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The aim of this study is to compare the microleakage of Class II dental composite resin restorations which have been cured by three different LED (light emitting diode) light curing modes compared to control samples cured by QTH (quartz tungsten halogen) light curing units (LCUs), to determine the most effective light curing unit and mode of curing. Results In this experimental study, class II cavities were prepared on 100 sound human premolars which have been extracted for orthodontic treatment. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups; three experimental and one control group of 25 teeth each. Experimental groups were cured by either conventional, pulse-delay, or ramped curing modes of LED. The control group was cured for 20 seconds by QTH. The restorations were thermocycled (1000 times, between 5 and 55°C, for 5 seconds dwell time), dyed, sectioned mesio-distally and viewed under stereo-microscope (40×) magnification. Teeth were then scored on a 0 to 4 scale based on the amount of microleakage. The data were analyzed by Chi-square test. No significant difference was demonstrated between the different LCUs (light curing units), or modes of curing, at the enamel side (p > 0.05). At the dentin side, all modes of LED curing could significantly reduce microleakage (p < 0.05). The results suggest that slow start curing improves marginal integrity and seal. High intense curing endangers those aims. Conclusions Comparison between the three LED mode cured composite resin restorations and QTH curing showed LED curing in all modes is more effective than QTH for reducing microleakage. Both LED and QTH almost completely eliminate the microleakage on the enamel side, however none of them absolutely eliminated microleakage on the dentin side. PMID:24990296

Qualitative investigation of students' views about experimental physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Dehui; Zwickl, Benjamin M.; Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2017-12-01

This study examines students' reasoning surrounding seemingly contradictory Likert-scale responses within five items in the Colorado Learning Attitudes About Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS). We administered the E-CLASS with embedded open-ended prompts, which asked students to provide explanations after making a Likert-scale selection. The quantitative scores on those items showed that our sample of the 216 students enrolled in first year and beyond first year physics courses demonstrated the same trends as previous national data. A qualitative analysis of students' open-ended responses was used to examine common reasoning patterns related to particular Likert-scale responses. When explaining responses to items regarding the role of experiments in confirming known results and also contributing to the growth of scientific knowledge, a common reasoning pattern suggested that confirming known results in a classroom experiment can help with understanding concepts. Thus, physics experiments contribute to students' personal scientific knowledge growth, while also confirming widely known results. Many students agreed that having correct formatting and making well-reasoned conclusions are the main goal for communicating experimental results. Students who focused on sections and formatting emphasized how it enables clear and efficient communication. However, very few students discussed the link between well-reasoned conclusions and effective scientific communication. Lastly, many students argued it was possible to complete experiments without understanding equations and physics concepts. The most common justification was that they could simply follow instructions to finish the lab without understanding. The findings suggest several implications for teaching physics laboratory courses, for example, incorporating some lab activities with outcomes that are unknown to the students might have a significant impact on students' understanding of experiments as an important approach for developing scientific knowledge.

Effects of designed learning strategies to enhance biology students' understanding of the nature of science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reeves, Carolyn T.

This research attempted to test the effectiveness of strategies designed for teaching the nature of science to Biology I students and to examine the effects of frequency of use of the strategies. Some strategies were designed to identify misconceptions about the nature of science; others were designed to correct misconceptions or provide correct concepts about the nature of science. This research commenced during the 3rd week of the 2001--2002 school year after obtaining IRB approval and permissions from school officials. The study ended after the 15th week. All participating students were given a pretest and a posttest of the Nature of Scientific Knowledge Scale Enhanced (NSKSE) test. Part I, 48 items, consisted of the NSKS test by Rubba & Anderson (1978). Part II, 10 items, consisted of a test constructed by the researcher. Part I contained questions about 6 tenets of the nature of science. Part II contained questions about how science works. The strategies were tested in two Biology I experimental classes, n = 41, and compared with two Biology I control classes, n = 34, by means of an analysis of covariance with the pretest scores used as the covariate. The overall mean posttest scores of the experimental and the control group were not found to be significantly different on either Part I, F(1,72) = 1.059, p = .307, or Part II, F(1,72) = 3.136, p = .081, of the test instrument. The number of times a strategy was used in each experimental classroom was determined. It was found that strategies were used almost twice as often in one classroom than in the other. A second set of ANCOVA analyses compared mean scores between Experimental Class A, Experimental Class B, and the control group. There was no significant difference between the groups on Part I, F(2,71) = .921, p = .403, but the difference between groups on Part II, F(2,71) = 5.769, p = .005, was significant. A post hoc Scheffe analysis showed that the class using strategies most often differed significantly with the control group, p = .009, but the other class did not, p = .929. This study suggests that frequent use of the designed strategies was effective in helping Biology I students understand some aspects of the nature of science. It also suggests that minimal use of the strategies was not effective.

Predictors of co-occurring risk behavior trajectories among economically disadvantaged African-American youth: contextual and individual factors.

PubMed

Sterrett, Emma M; Dymnicki, Allison B; Henry, David; Byck, Gayle R; Bolland, John; Mustanski, Brian

2014-09-01

African-American youth, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, evidence high rates of negative outcomes associated with three problem behaviors, conduct problems, risky sexual behavior, and substance use. This study used a contextually tailored version of problem behavior theory (PBT) to examine predictors of the simultaneous development of problem behaviors in this specific cultural group. Sociocontextual and individual variables representing four PBT predictor categories, controls protection, support protection, models risk, and vulnerability risk, were examined as predictors of co-occurring problem behaviors among economically disadvantaged African-American adolescents (n = 949). Specifically, the likelihood of following three classes of multiple problem behavior trajectories spanning ages 12-18, labeled the "early experimenters," "increasing high risk-takers," and "adolescent-limited" classes, as opposed to a "normative" class, was examined. Among other findings, controls protection in the form of a more stringent household curfew at age 12 was related to a lower likelihood of being in the "early experimenters" and "increasing high risk-takers" classes. Conversely, vulnerability risk manifested as stronger attitudes of violence inevitability was associated with a higher likelihood of being in the "early experimenters" class. However, the PBT category of support protection was not associated with risk trajectory class. More distal neighborhood-level manifestations of PBT categories also did not predict co-occurring behavior problems. Guided by an incorporation of contextually salient processes into PBT, prevention programs aiming to decrease co-occurring problem behaviors among low-income African-American adolescents would do well to target both proximal systems and psychological constructs related to perceived security throughout adolescence. Copyright © 2014 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Design of a hybrid model for cardiac arrhythmia classification based on Daubechies wavelet transform.

PubMed

Rajagopal, Rekha; Ranganathan, Vidhyapriya

2018-06-05

Automation in cardiac arrhythmia classification helps medical professionals make accurate decisions about the patient's health. The aim of this work was to design a hybrid classification model to classify cardiac arrhythmias. The design phase of the classification model comprises the following stages: preprocessing of the cardiac signal by eliminating detail coefficients that contain noise, feature extraction through Daubechies wavelet transform, and arrhythmia classification using a collaborative decision from the K nearest neighbor classifier (KNN) and a support vector machine (SVM). The proposed model is able to classify 5 arrhythmia classes as per the ANSI/AAMI EC57: 1998 classification standard. Level 1 of the proposed model involves classification using the KNN and the classifier is trained with examples from all classes. Level 2 involves classification using an SVM and is trained specifically to classify overlapped classes. The final classification of a test heartbeat pertaining to a particular class is done using the proposed KNN/SVM hybrid model. The experimental results demonstrated that the average sensitivity of the proposed model was 92.56%, the average specificity 99.35%, the average positive predictive value 98.13%, the average F-score 94.5%, and the average accuracy 99.78%. The results obtained using the proposed model were compared with the results of discriminant, tree, and KNN classifiers. The proposed model is able to achieve a high classification accuracy.

Effects of online games on student performance in undergraduate physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadiq, Irfan

The present state of physics teaching and learning is a reflection of the difficulty of the subject matter which has resulted in students' low motivation toward physics as well as lack of meaningful and deeper learning experiences. In light of an overall decline in interest in physics, an investigation of alternate teaching and learning methods and tools was appropriate. The research posed the following question: To what extent do online games about kinematics and two-dimensional motion impact student performance in undergraduate general physics as measured by a unit posttest? Two intact classes of 20 students each were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group. Only the experimental group received the treatment of using online games. The duration of topics covered in the game content was identical to the lecture on kinematics and two-dimensional motion. Instructors for the experimental group incorporated online games in their regular classroom teaching, whereas those in the control group continued with their previously used curriculum without games. This study was conducted in three weekly sessions. Although students were not selected using random sampling, existing classes were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group. There were 20 students in the experimental group and 20 students in the control group. The independent samples t test was conducted to compare the means of two independently sampled experimental and control groups. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine if the two groups were significantly different with regard to their general physics performance on the posttest while controlling for the pretest scores. Analysis of posttest and pretest scores revealed that game-based learning did not significantly impact student performance.

Classification with spatio-temporal interpixel class dependency contexts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeon, Byeungwoo; Landgrebe, David A.

1992-01-01

A contextual classifier which can utilize both spatial and temporal interpixel dependency contexts is investigated. After spatial and temporal neighbors are defined, a general form of maximum a posterior spatiotemporal contextual classifier is derived. This contextual classifier is simplified under several assumptions. Joint prior probabilities of the classes of each pixel and its spatial neighbors are modeled by the Gibbs random field. The classification is performed in a recursive manner to allow a computationally efficient contextual classification. Experimental results with bitemporal TM data show significant improvement of classification accuracy over noncontextual pixelwise classifiers. This spatiotemporal contextual classifier should find use in many applications of remote sensing, especially when the classification accuracy is important.

Stable orthogonal local discriminant embedding for linear dimensionality reduction.

PubMed

Gao, Quanxue; Ma, Jingjie; Zhang, Hailin; Gao, Xinbo; Liu, Yamin

2013-07-01

Manifold learning is widely used in machine learning and pattern recognition. However, manifold learning only considers the similarity of samples belonging to the same class and ignores the within-class variation of data, which will impair the generalization and stableness of the algorithms. For this purpose, we construct an adjacency graph to model the intraclass variation that characterizes the most important properties, such as diversity of patterns, and then incorporate the diversity into the discriminant objective function for linear dimensionality reduction. Finally, we introduce the orthogonal constraint for the basis vectors and propose an orthogonal algorithm called stable orthogonal local discriminate embedding. Experimental results on several standard image databases demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed dimensionality reduction approach.

Real-Time Parameter Estimation Method Applied to a MIMO Process and its Comparison with an Offline Identification Method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaplanoglu, Erkan; Safak, Koray K.; Varol, H. Selcuk

2009-01-12

An experiment based method is proposed for parameter estimation of a class of linear multivariable systems. The method was applied to a pressure-level control process. Experimental time domain input/output data was utilized in a gray-box modeling approach. Prior knowledge of the form of the system transfer function matrix elements is assumed to be known. Continuous-time system transfer function matrix parameters were estimated in real-time by the least-squares method. Simulation results of experimentally determined system transfer function matrix compare very well with the experimental results. For comparison and as an alternative to the proposed real-time estimation method, we also implemented anmore » offline identification method using artificial neural networks and obtained fairly good results. The proposed methods can be implemented conveniently on a desktop PC equipped with a data acquisition board for parameter estimation of moderately complex linear multivariable systems.« less

Predicting the Unpredictable: 75 Years of Experimental Evidence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radin, Dean I.

2011-11-01

From time immemorial, people have reported foreknowledge of future events. To determine whether such experiences are best understood via conventional explanations, or whether a retrocausal phenomenon might be involved in some instances, researchers have conducted hundreds of controlled laboratory experiments over the past 75 years. These studies fall into four general classes, and each class has generated repeatable evidence consistent with retrocausation. The statistical results for a class of forced-choice studies is associated with odds against chance of about 1024; for a class of free-response studies, odds about 1020; for psychophysiological-based studies, odds about 1017; and for implicit decision studies, odds about 1010. Effect sizes observed in the latter three classes are nearly identical, indicating replication of similar underlying effects. These effects are also in close agreement with the average effect size across 25,000 conventional social psychology experiments conducted over the last century, suggesting that retrocausal phenomena may not be especially unique, at least not in terms of the magnitude of effect. Bayesian analyses of the most recent classes of experiments confirm that the evidence is strongly in favor of a genuine effect, with Bayes Factors ranging from 13,669 to 1 for implicit decision experiments, to 2.9×1013 to 1 for psychophysiological designs. For the two most recent classes of studies examining retrocausal effects via unconscious physiological or behavioral measures, 85 of 101 studies (84%) reported by 25 different laboratories from the United States, Italy, Spain, Holland, Austria, Sweden, England, Scotland, Iran, Japan, and Australia, have produced results in the direction predicted by a retrocausal effect (odds against chance = 1.3×1012, via a sign test). Assessment of the methodologies used in these studies has not identified plausible conventional alternatives for the observed outcomes, suggesting the existence of a genuine retrocausal phenomenon.

Subduction indices in Calabro-Sicilian arc : Training for Experimental Skills Testing and collaborative work for students in scientific terminal class in high school.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gendron, Faustine; Bollori, Lucas; Villeneuve, Felix

2017-04-01

In France, at the end of the last year in high school, students of the scientific terminal class have written exams in all subjects they are studying, and in "Life and Earth's Sciences", they also have an Experimental Skills Testing in order to rate them in scientific approach. This one-hour evaluation is made of four steps: - During the first evaluation, students have to show that they are able to propose a scientific strategy connected to a scientific problem. - During the second evaluation, they have to experiment. - During the third evaluation, they have to introduce their results. - During the last evaluation, they have to deduce and conclude. The final testing take place at the end of May, but during all the school year, teachers have to train their students, and it's impossible to make them work on real subjects. Therefore, it's necessary to produce new subjects every year. Linked to a fall school in Sicily last October, my colleagues and I have decided to create a new Experimental Skills Test to use new examples and illustrate subduction in the Mediterranean Sea with Aeolian Islands. We would like to make our pupils understand what the Aeolian volcanism is due to, by using information, equipment and software, etc. we have in our classrooms in our high school. Since we have found several ways for our students to prove that the Aeolian Islands are linked to a subduction zone, we have decided, following our research, to divide the new experimental skills testing in three different tests, in order to make students train on most of the equipment and then to share their results to produce a collaborative final work.

The determination of density and molecular weight distributions of lipoproteins by sedimentation equilibrium.

PubMed

Jeffrey, P D; Nichol, L W; Smith, G D

1975-01-25

A method is presented by which an experimental record of total concentration as a function of radial distance, obtained in a sedimentation equilibrium experiment conducted with a noninteracting mixture in the absence of a density gradient, may be analyzed to obtain the unimodal distributions of molecular weight and of partial molar volume when these vary concomitantly and continuously. Particular attention is given to the caracterization of classes of lipoproteins exhibiting Gaussian distributions of these quantities, although the analysis is applicable to other types of unimodal distribution. Equations are also formulated permitting the definition of the corresponding distributions of partial specific volume and of density. The analysis procedure is based on a method (employing Laplace transforms) developed previously, but differs from it in that it avoids the necessity of differentiating experimental results, which introduces error. The method offers certain advantages over other procedures used to characterize and compare lipoprotein samples (exhibiting unimodal distributions) with regard to the duration of the experiment, economy of the sample, and, particularly, the ability to define in principle all of the relevant distributions from one sedimentation equilibrium experiment and an external measurement of the weight average partial specific volume. These points and the steps in the analysis procedure are illustrated with experimental results obtained in the sedimentation equilibrium of a sample of human serum low density lipoprotein. The experimental parameters (such as solution density, column height, and angular velocity) used in the conduction of these experiments were selected on the basis of computer-simulated examples, which are also presented. These provide a guide for other workers interested in characterizing lipoproteins of this class.

An overview of the crash dynamics failure behavior of metal and composite aircraft structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carden, Huey D.; Boitnott, Richard L.; Fasanella, Edwin L.; Jones, Lisa E.

1991-01-01

An overview of failure behavior results is presented from some of the crash dynamics research conducted with concepts of aircraft elements and substructure not necessarily designed or optimized for energy absorption or crash loading considerations. Experimental and analytical data are presented that indicate some general trends in the failure behavior of a class of composite structures that includes fuselage panels, individual fuselage sections, fuselage frames, skeleton subfloors with stringers and floor beams without skin covering, and subfloors with skin added to the frame stringer structure. Although the behavior is complex, a strong similarity in the static/dynamic failure behavior among these structures is illustrated through photographs of the experimental results and through analytical data of generic composite structural models.

Identification d’une Classe de Processus de Poisson Filtres (Identification of a Class of Filtered Poisson Processes).

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-20

Poisson processes is introduced: the amplitude has a law which is spherically invariant and the filter is real, linear and causal. It is shown how such a model can be identified from experimental data. (Author)

Facilitating the Critique of Racism and Classism: An Experimental Model for Euro-American Middle-Class Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cohen, Lorraine

1995-01-01

Maintains that, during the 1980s, it was difficult to find classroom approaches that effectively challenged racial and class stereotypes. Describes a college community service project designed to teach students about racial, social, and gender discrimination. (CFR)

Effects on Aesthetic Sensitivity of Developing Perception of Musical Expressiveness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Standifer, James A.

1970-01-01

An experimental group and control group were exposed to an innovative program of music education. The former group was composed of lower class children and the latter of middle class children. The greater success was achieved in working with the first group. (CK)

The Effect of Fermi Questions in the Development of Science Processes Skills in Physics among Jordanian Ninth Graders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barahmeh, Haytham Mousa; Hamad, Adwan Mohammad Bani; Barahmeh, Nabeel Mousa

2017-01-01

This study aimed at exploring the effect of Fermi question on the development of science process skills in the physics subject at ninth Grade students. The sample of the study consisted of (2) classes for males and (2) classes for females, which were randomly divided into (2) groups: An experimental group of (41) students divided into a class of…

The Effects of Cardio-Syntactic Analysis Instruction on Writing Scores in a 11th Grade High School Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kariuki, Patrick N.; Blair, Paul W.

2015-01-01

The purpose of this research was to determine the effects of Cardio-Syntactic Analysis instruction on writing scores in an 11th grade English class. The sample consisted of 35 students enrolled in an Honor's English 11 class at Volunteer high School, in Church Hill, TN. The class was randomly assigned into an experimental group of 17 students and…

Determining Effects of Non-synonymous SNPs on Protein-Protein Interactions using Supervised and Semi-supervised Learning

PubMed Central

Zhao, Nan; Han, Jing Ginger; Shyu, Chi-Ren; Korkin, Dmitry

2014-01-01

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are among the most common types of genetic variation in complex genetic disorders. A growing number of studies link the functional role of SNPs with the networks and pathways mediated by the disease-associated genes. For example, many non-synonymous missense SNPs (nsSNPs) have been found near or inside the protein-protein interaction (PPI) interfaces. Determining whether such nsSNP will disrupt or preserve a PPI is a challenging task to address, both experimentally and computationally. Here, we present this task as three related classification problems, and develop a new computational method, called the SNP-IN tool (non-synonymous SNP INteraction effect predictor). Our method predicts the effects of nsSNPs on PPIs, given the interaction's structure. It leverages supervised and semi-supervised feature-based classifiers, including our new Random Forest self-learning protocol. The classifiers are trained based on a dataset of comprehensive mutagenesis studies for 151 PPI complexes, with experimentally determined binding affinities of the mutant and wild-type interactions. Three classification problems were considered: (1) a 2-class problem (strengthening/weakening PPI mutations), (2) another 2-class problem (mutations that disrupt/preserve a PPI), and (3) a 3-class classification (detrimental/neutral/beneficial mutation effects). In total, 11 different supervised and semi-supervised classifiers were trained and assessed resulting in a promising performance, with the weighted f-measure ranging from 0.87 for Problem 1 to 0.70 for the most challenging Problem 3. By integrating prediction results of the 2-class classifiers into the 3-class classifier, we further improved its performance for Problem 3. To demonstrate the utility of SNP-IN tool, it was applied to study the nsSNP-induced rewiring of two disease-centered networks. The accurate and balanced performance of SNP-IN tool makes it readily available to study the rewiring of large-scale protein-protein interaction networks, and can be useful for functional annotation of disease-associated SNPs. SNIP-IN tool is freely accessible as a web-server at http://korkinlab.org/snpintool/. PMID:24784581

On the role of perception in shaping phonological assimilation rules.

PubMed

Hura, S L; Lindblom, B; Diehl, R L

1992-01-01

Assimilation of nasals to the place of articulation of following consonants is a common and natural process among the world's languages. Recent phonological theory attributes this naturalness to the postulated geometry of articulatory features and the notion of spreading (McCarthy, 1988). Others view assimilation as a result of perception (Ohala, 1990), or as perceptually tolerated articulatory simplification (Kohler, 1990). Kohler notes that certain consonant classes (such as nasals and stops) are more likely than other classes (such as fricatives) to undergo place assimilation to a following consonant. To explain this pattern, he proposes that assimilation tends not to occur when the members of a consonant class are relatively distinctive perceptually, such that their articulatory reduction would be particularly salient. This explanation, of course, presupposes that the stops and nasals which undergo place assimilation are less distinctive than fricatives, which tend not to assimilate. We report experimental results that confirm Kohler's perceptual assumption: In the context of a following word initial stop, fricatives were less confusable than nasals or unreleased stops. We conclude, in agreement with Ohala and Kohler, that perceptual factors are likely to shape phonological assimilation rules.

Form and Objective of the Decision Rule in Absolute Identification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balakrishnan, J. D.

1997-01-01

In several conditions of a line length identification experiment, the subjects' decision making strategies were systematically biased against the responses on the edges of the stimulus range. When the range and number of the stimuli were small, the bias caused the percentage of correct responses to be highest in the center and lowest on the extremes of the range. Two general classes of decision rules that would explain these results are considered. The first class assumes that subjects intend to adopt an optimal decision rule, but systematically misrepresent one or more parameters of the decision making context. The second class assumes that subjects use a different measure of performance than the one assumed by the experimenter: instead of maximizing the chances of a correct response, the subject attempts to minimize the expected size of the response error (a "fidelity criterion"). In a second experiment, extended experience and feedback did not diminish the bias effect, but explicitly penalizing all response errors equally, regardless of their size, did reduce or eliminate it in some subjects. Both results favor the fidelity criterion over the optimal rule.

Atlantic salmon eggs favour sperm in competition that have similar major histocompatibility alleles.

PubMed

Yeates, Sarah E; Einum, Sigurd; Fleming, Ian A; Megens, Hendrik-Jan; Stet, René J M; Hindar, Kjetil; Holt, William V; Van Look, Katrien J W; Gage, Matthew J G

2009-02-07

Polyandry and post-copulatory sexual selection provide opportunities for the evolution of female differential sperm selection. Here, we examined the influence of variation in major histocompatibility (MH) class I allelic composition upon sperm competition dynamics in Atlantic salmon. We ran in vitro fertilization competitions that mimicked the gametic microenvironment, and replicated a paired-male experimental design that allowed us to compare differences in sperm competition success among males when their sperm compete for eggs from females that were genetically either similar or dissimilar at the MH class I locus. Concurrently, we measured variation in spermatozoal traits that are known to influence relative fertilization success under these conditions. Contrary to the findings demonstrating mechanisms that promote MH complex heterozygosity, our results showed that males won significantly greater relative fertilization success when competing for eggs from genetically similar females at the MH class I. This result also showed covariation with the known influences of sperm velocity on relative fertilization success. We discuss these unexpected findings in relation to sperm-egg recognition and hybridization avoidance mechanisms based upon immunogenetic variation.

Parallel halftoning technique using dot diffusion optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molina-Garcia, Javier; Ponomaryov, Volodymyr I.; Reyes-Reyes, Rogelio; Cruz-Ramos, Clara

2017-05-01

In this paper, a novel approach for halftone images is proposed and implemented for images that are obtained by the Dot Diffusion (DD) method. Designed technique is based on an optimization of the so-called class matrix used in DD algorithm and it consists of generation new versions of class matrix, which has no baron and near-baron in order to minimize inconsistencies during the distribution of the error. Proposed class matrix has different properties and each is designed for two different applications: applications where the inverse-halftoning is necessary, and applications where this method is not required. The proposed method has been implemented in GPU (NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti), multicore processors (AMD FX(tm)-6300 Six-Core Processor and in Intel core i5-4200U), using CUDA and OpenCV over a PC with linux. Experimental results have shown that novel framework generates a good quality of the halftone images and the inverse halftone images obtained. The simulation results using parallel architectures have demonstrated the efficiency of the novel technique when it is implemented in real-time processing.

Unsupervised background-constrained tank segmentation of infrared images in complex background based on the Otsu method.

PubMed

Zhou, Yulong; Gao, Min; Fang, Dan; Zhang, Baoquan

2016-01-01

In an effort to implement fast and effective tank segmentation from infrared images in complex background, the threshold of the maximum between-class variance method (i.e., the Otsu method) is analyzed and the working mechanism of the Otsu method is discussed. Subsequently, a fast and effective method for tank segmentation from infrared images in complex background is proposed based on the Otsu method via constraining the complex background of the image. Considering the complexity of background, the original image is firstly divided into three classes of target region, middle background and lower background via maximizing the sum of their between-class variances. Then, the unsupervised background constraint is implemented based on the within-class variance of target region and hence the original image can be simplified. Finally, the Otsu method is applied to simplified image for threshold selection. Experimental results on a variety of tank infrared images (880 × 480 pixels) in complex background demonstrate that the proposed method enjoys better segmentation performance and even could be comparative with the manual segmentation in segmented results. In addition, its average running time is only 9.22 ms, implying the new method with good performance in real time processing.

Learn before Lecture: A Strategy That Improves Learning Outcomes in a Large Introductory Biology Class

PubMed Central

Moravec, Marin; Williams, Adrienne; Aguilar-Roca, Nancy

2010-01-01

Actively engaging students in lecture has been shown to increase learning gains. To create time for active learning without displacing content we used two strategies for introducing material before class in a large introductory biology course. Four to five slides from 2007/8 were removed from each of three lectures in 2009 and the information introduced in preclass worksheets or narrated PowerPoint videos. In class, time created by shifting lecture material to learn before lecture (LBL) assignments was used to engage students in application of their new knowledge. Learning was evaluated by comparing student performance in 2009 versus 2007/8 on LBL-related question pairs, matched by level and format. The percentage of students who correctly answered five of six LBL-related exam questions was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in 2009 versus 2007/8. The mean increase in performance was 21% across the six LBL-related questions compared with <3% on all non-LBL exam questions. The worksheet and video LBL formats were equally effective based on a cross-over experimental design. These results demonstrate that LBLs combined with interactive exercises can be implemented incrementally and result in significant increases in learning gains in large introductory biology classes. PMID:21123694

Classification of ECG signal with Support Vector Machine Method for Arrhythmia Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnip, Arjon; Ilham Rizqywan, M.; Kusumandari, Dwi E.; Turnip, Mardi; Sihombing, Poltak

2018-03-01

An electrocardiogram is a potential bioelectric record that occurs as a result of cardiac activity. QRS Detection with zero crossing calculation is one method that can precisely determine peak R of QRS wave as part of arrhythmia detection. In this paper, two experimental scheme (2 minutes duration with different activities: relaxed and, typing) were conducted. From the two experiments it were obtained: accuracy, sensitivity, and positive predictivity about 100% each for the first experiment and about 79%, 93%, 83% for the second experiment, respectively. Furthermore, the feature set of MIT-BIH arrhythmia using the support vector machine (SVM) method on the WEKA software is evaluated. By combining the available attributes on the WEKA algorithm, the result is constant since all classes of SVM goes to the normal class with average 88.49% accuracy.

Research Methods Tutor: evaluation of a dialogue-based tutoring system in the classroom.

PubMed

Arnott, Elizabeth; Hastings, Peter; Allbritton, David

2008-08-01

Research Methods Tutor (RMT) is a dialogue-based intelligent tutoring system for use in conjunction with undergraduate psychology research methods courses. RMT includes five topics that correspond to the curriculum of introductory research methods courses: ethics, variables, reliability, validity, and experimental design. We evaluated the effectiveness of the RMT system in the classroom using a nonequivalent control group design. Students in three classes (n = 83) used RMT, and students in two classes (n = 53) did not use RMT. Results indicated that the use of RMT yieldedstrong learning gains of 0.75 standard deviations above classroom instruction alone. Further, the dialogue-based tutoring condition of the system resulted in higher gains than did the textbook-style condition (CAI version) of the system. Future directions for RMT include the addition of new topics and tutoring elements.

Experimental analysis of bidirectional reflectance distribution function cross section conversion term in direction cosine space.

PubMed

Butler, Samuel D; Nauyoks, Stephen E; Marciniak, Michael A

2015-06-01

Of the many classes of bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) models, two popular classes of models are the microfacet model and the linear systems diffraction model. The microfacet model has the benefit of speed and simplicity, as it uses geometric optics approximations, while linear systems theory uses a diffraction approach to compute the BRDF, at the expense of greater computational complexity. In this Letter, nongrazing BRDF measurements of rough and polished surface-reflecting materials at multiple incident angles are scaled by the microfacet cross section conversion term, but in the linear systems direction cosine space, resulting in great alignment of BRDF data at various incident angles in this space. This results in a predictive BRDF model for surface-reflecting materials at nongrazing angles, while avoiding some of the computational complexities in the linear systems diffraction model.

Robust Control Design for Uncertain Nonlinear Dynamic Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kenny, Sean P.; Crespo, Luis G.; Andrews, Lindsey; Giesy, Daniel P.

2012-01-01

Robustness to parametric uncertainty is fundamental to successful control system design and as such it has been at the core of many design methods developed over the decades. Despite its prominence, most of the work on robust control design has focused on linear models and uncertainties that are non-probabilistic in nature. Recently, researchers have acknowledged this disparity and have been developing theory to address a broader class of uncertainties. This paper presents an experimental application of robust control design for a hybrid class of probabilistic and non-probabilistic parametric uncertainties. The experimental apparatus is based upon the classic inverted pendulum on a cart. The physical uncertainty is realized by a known additional lumped mass at an unknown location on the pendulum. This unknown location has the effect of substantially altering the nominal frequency and controllability of the nonlinear system, and in the limit has the capability to make the system neutrally stable and uncontrollable. Another uncertainty to be considered is a direct current motor parameter. The control design objective is to design a controller that satisfies stability, tracking error, control power, and transient behavior requirements for the largest range of parametric uncertainties. This paper presents an overview of the theory behind the robust control design methodology and the experimental results.

A Teaching Model for Scaffolding 4th Grade Students' Scientific Explanation Writing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hsiu-Ting; Wang, Kuo-Hua

2014-08-01

Improving students scientific explanations is one major goal of science education. Both writing activities and concept mapping are reported as effective strategies for enhancing student learning of science. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a teaching model, named the DCI model, which integrates a Descriptive explanation writing activity, Concept mapping, and an Interpretive explanation writing activity, is introduced in a 4th grade science class to see if it would improve students' scientific explanations and understanding. A quasi-experimental design, including a non-randomized comparison group and a pre- and post-test design, was adopted for this study. An experimental group of 25 students were taught using the DCI teaching model, while a comparison group received a traditional lecture teaching. A rubric and content analysis was used to assess students' scientific explanations. The independent sample t test was used to measure difference in conceptual understanding between the two groups, before and after instruction. Then, the paired t test analysis was used to understand the promotion of the DCI teaching model. The results showed that students in the experimental group performed better than students in the comparison group, both in scientific concept understanding and explanation. Suggestions for using concept mapping and writing activities (the DCI teaching model) in science classes are provided in this study.

Effect of Formative and Ability Test Results on Early Learning of Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kadir, Abdul; Ardi, Muhammad; Nurhayati, B.; Dirawan, Gufran Darma

2016-01-01

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship of formative tests to early learning ability of students in the science learning style. This research used an experimental method with a 2 x 2 factorial design. The participants comprised all the students in class VII of the Islamic Junior High School State of Kolaka, a total of 343…

Teaching through Interactive Multi-Media Programming. A New Philosophy of the Social Sciences and a New Epistemology of Creativity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riskin, Steve R.

This paper discusses the results of an experimental, non-traditional university class in sociology in which students produced an interactive multimedia module in a social science subject area using a computer system that allowed instant access to film, sound, television, images, and text. There were no constraints on the selection of media, or the…

Harmonic generation with an ultra-strongly coupled cavity polariton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crescimanno, Michael; Singer, Kenneth; Liu, Bin; McMaster, Michael

2017-04-01

The large dipole density in a new class of glassy organic dyes results in ultrastrong exciton-cavity field coupling leading to polariton splittings of over an eV. We describe the theoretical model and experimental protocol used to understand third harmonic generation (THG) in this system. We quantify the THG enhancement at the polariton branches through its dependence on coupling, cavity-exciton detuning and cavity finesse.

Miniaturized dielectric waveguide filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandhu, Muhammad Y.; Hunter, Ian C.

2016-10-01

Design techniques for a new class of integrated monolithic high-permittivity ceramic waveguide filters are presented. These filters enable a size reduction of 50% compared to air-filled transverse electromagnetic filters with the same unloaded Q-factor. Designs for Chebyshev and asymmetric generalised Chebyshev filter and a diplexer are presented with experimental results for an 1800 MHz Chebyshev filter and a 1700 MHz generalised Chebyshev filter showing excellent agreement with theory.

The Effect of Social and Token Economy Reinforcements on Academic Achievement of Students with Intellectual Disabilities

PubMed Central

Ashoori, Mohammad; Sereshki, Narges Adib

2011-01-01

Objective This study investigates the effect of social and token economy reinforcements on academic achievement of 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in an experimental science class in Tehran Province. Method The method used for this study was experimental by pre-test, post- test with a control group. The boy students with intellectual disabilities from three junior high schools participated in this study. The sample consisted of thirty, 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in the selected schools; the schools were chosen by the multi-stage cluster method. To measure the progress of students in the science class, a teacher made test and the Wechsler intelligence test for matching the groups for IQ were used. To ensure validity, the content validity criteria depended tests calculated by the Lashe method and teachers' perspective were used. The reliability coefficient was obtained by the reliability coefficient of related tests; the percent agreement method and the obtained data were analyzed using one-way variance analysis and Shefe prosecution test. Results The results showed that there was a significant increase in academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities when using token economy than using social reinforcements compared with the control group. Also, when using social reinforcements, the academic achievement of students was more than the control group. Conclusion Token economy and social reinforcements increased the academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities in the science class; and also the effect of token economy reinforcements was more than social reinforcements on the subjects. PMID:22952517

Ensemble of One-Class Classifiers for Personal Risk Detection Based on Wearable Sensor Data.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Jorge; Barrera-Animas, Ari Y; Trejo, Luis A; Medina-Pérez, Miguel Angel; Monroy, Raúl

2016-09-29

This study introduces the One-Class K-means with Randomly-projected features Algorithm (OCKRA). OCKRA is an ensemble of one-class classifiers built over multiple projections of a dataset according to random feature subsets. Algorithms found in the literature spread over a wide range of applications where ensembles of one-class classifiers have been satisfactorily applied; however, none is oriented to the area under our study: personal risk detection. OCKRA has been designed with the aim of improving the detection performance in the problem posed by the Personal RIsk DEtection(PRIDE) dataset. PRIDE was built based on 23 test subjects, where the data for each user were captured using a set of sensors embedded in a wearable band. The performance of OCKRA was compared against support vector machine and three versions of the Parzen window classifier. On average, experimental results show that OCKRA outperformed the other classifiers for at least 0.53% of the area under the curve (AUC). In addition, OCKRA achieved an AUC above 90% for more than 57% of the users.

Ensemble of One-Class Classifiers for Personal Risk Detection Based on Wearable Sensor Data

PubMed Central

Rodríguez, Jorge; Barrera-Animas, Ari Y.; Trejo, Luis A.; Medina-Pérez, Miguel Angel; Monroy, Raúl

2016-01-01

This study introduces the One-Class K-means with Randomly-projected features Algorithm (OCKRA). OCKRA is an ensemble of one-class classifiers built over multiple projections of a dataset according to random feature subsets. Algorithms found in the literature spread over a wide range of applications where ensembles of one-class classifiers have been satisfactorily applied; however, none is oriented to the area under our study: personal risk detection. OCKRA has been designed with the aim of improving the detection performance in the problem posed by the Personal RIsk DEtection(PRIDE) dataset. PRIDE was built based on 23 test subjects, where the data for each user were captured using a set of sensors embedded in a wearable band. The performance of OCKRA was compared against support vector machine and three versions of the Parzen window classifier. On average, experimental results show that OCKRA outperformed the other classifiers for at least 0.53% of the area under the curve (AUC). In addition, OCKRA achieved an AUC above 90% for more than 57% of the users. PMID:27690054

Reach a nonlinear consensus for MAS via doubly stochastic quadratic operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdulghafor, Rawad; Turaev, Sherzod; Zeki, Akram; Al-Shaikhli, Imad

2018-06-01

This technical note addresses the new nonlinear protocol class of doubly stochastic quadratic operators (DSQOs) for coordination of consensus problem in multi-agent systems (MAS). We derive the conditions for ensuring that every agent reaches consensus on a desired rate of the group's decision where the group decision value in its agent's initial statuses varies. Besides that, we investigate a nonlinear protocol sub-class of extreme DSQO (EDSQO) to reach a consensus for MAS to a common value with nonlinear low-complexity rules and fast time convergence if the interactions for each agent are not selfish. In addition, to extend the results to reach a consensus and to avoid the selfish case we specify a general class of DSQO for reaching a consensus under any given case of initial states. The case that MAS reach a consensus by DSQO is if each member of the agent group has positive interactions of DSQO (PDSQO) with the others. The convergence of both EDSQO and PDSQO classes is found to be directed towards the centre point. Finally, experimental simulations are given to support the analysis from theoretical aspect.

Parental Smoking Exposure and Adolescent Smoking Trajectories

PubMed Central

Gilman, Stephen E.; Rende, Richard; Luta, George; Tercyak, Kenneth P.; Niaura, Raymond S.

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE: In a multigenerational study of smoking risk, the objective was to investigate the intergenerational transmission of smoking by examining if exposure to parental smoking and nicotine dependence predicts prospective smoking trajectories among adolescent offspring. METHODS: Adolescents (n = 406) ages 12 to 17 and a parent completed baseline interviews (2001–2004), and adolescents completed up to 2 follow-up interviews 1 and 5 years later. Baseline interviews gathered detailed information on parental smoking history, including timing and duration, current smoking, and nicotine dependence. Adolescent smoking and nicotine dependence were assessed at each time point. Latent Class Growth Analysis identified prospective smoking trajectory classes from adolescence into young adulthood. Logistic regression was used to examine relationships between parental smoking and adolescent smoking trajectories. RESULTS: Four adolescent smoking trajectory classes were identified: early regular smokers (6%), early experimenters (23%), late experimenters (41%), and nonsmokers (30%). Adolescents with parents who were nicotine-dependent smokers at baseline were more likely to be early regular smokers (odds ratio 1.18, 95% confidence interval 1.05–1.33) and early experimenters (odds ratio 1.04, 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.25) with each additional year of previous exposure to parental smoking. Parents’ current non-nicotine–dependent and former smoking were not associated with adolescent smoking trajectories. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to parental nicotine dependence is a critical factor influencing intergenerational transmission of smoking. Adolescents with nicotine-dependent parents are susceptible to more intense smoking patterns and this risk increases with longer duration of exposure. Research is needed to optimize interventions to help nicotine-dependent parents quit smoking early in their children’s lifetime to reduce these risks. PMID:24819567

The effects of concept and vee mappings under three learning modes on Jamaican eighth graders' knowledge of nutrition and plant reproduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ugwu, Okechukwu; Soyibo, Kola

2004-01-01

The first objective of this study was to investigate if the experimental students' post-test knowledge of nutrition and plant reproduction would be improved more significantly than that of their control group counterparts based on their treatment, attitudes to science, self-esteem, gender and socio-economic background. Treatment involved teaching the experimental students under three learning modes--pure cooperative, cooperative-competitive and individualistic whole class interpersonal competitive condition--using concept and vee mappings and the lecture method. The control groups received the same treatment but were not exposed to concept and vee mappings. This study's second objective was to determine which of the three learning modes would produce the highest post-test mean gain in the subjects' knowledge of the two biology concepts. The study's sample comprised 932 eighth graders (12-13-year-olds) in 14 co-educational comprehensive high schools randomly selected from two Jamaican parishes. An integrated science performance test, an attitudes to science questionnaire and a self-esteem questionnaire were used to collect data. The results indicated that the experimental students (a) under the three learning modes, (b) with high, moderate, and low attitudes to science, and (c) with high, moderate, and low self-esteem, performed significantly better than their control group counterparts. The individualist whole class learning mode engendered the highest mean gain on the experimental students' knowledge, while the cooperative-competitive learning mode generated the highest mean gain for the control group students.

Early integration of the individual student in academic activities: a novel classroom concept for graduate education in molecular biophysics and structural biology.

PubMed

Leuba, Sanford H; Carney, Sean M; Dahlburg, Elizabeth M; Eells, Rebecca J; Ghodke, Harshad; Yanamala, Naveena; Schauer, Grant; Klein-Seetharaman, Judith

2014-01-01

A key challenge in interdisciplinary research is choosing the best approach from a large number of techniques derived from different disciplines and their interfaces. To address this challenge in the area of Biophysics and Structural Biology, we have designed a graduate level course to teach students insightful use of experimental biophysical approaches in relationship to addressing biological questions related to biomolecular interactions and dynamics. A weekly seminar and data and literature club are used to compliment the training in class. The course contains wet-laboratory experimental demonstration and real-data analysis as well as lectures, grant proposal preparation and assessment, and student presentation components. Active student participation is mandatory in all aspects of the class. Students prepare materials for the class receiving individual and iterative feedback from course directors and local experts generating high quality classroom presentations. The ultimate goal of the course is to teach students the skills needed to weigh different experimental approaches against each other in addressing a specific biological question by thinking and executing academic tasks like faculty.

Modeling urban expansion in Yangon, Myanmar using Landsat time-series and stereo GeoEye Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sritarapipat, Tanakorn; Takeuchi, Wataru

2016-06-01

This research proposed a methodology to model the urban expansion based dynamic statistical model using Landsat and GeoEye Images. Landsat Time-Series from 1978 to 2010 have been applied to extract land covers from the past to the present. Stereo GeoEye Images have been employed to obtain the height of the building. The class translation was obtained by observing land cover from the past to the present. The height of the building can be used to detect the center of the urban area (mainly commercial area). It was assumed that the class translation and the distance of multi-centers of the urban area also the distance of the roads affect the urban growth. The urban expansion model based on the dynamic statistical model was defined to refer to three factors; (1) the class translation, (2) the distance of the multicenters of the urban areas, and (3) the distance from the roads. Estimation and prediction of urban expansion by using our model were formulated and expressed in this research. The experimental area was set up in Yangon, Myanmar. Since it is the major of country's economic with more than five million population and the urban areas have rapidly increased. The experimental results indicated that our model of urban expansion estimated urban growth in both estimation and prediction steps in efficiency.

Experimental Quantum Coin Tossing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molina-Terriza, G.; Vaziri, A.; Ursin, R.; Zeilinger, A.

2005-01-01

In this Letter we present the first implementation of a quantum coin-tossing protocol. This protocol belongs to a class of “two-party” cryptographic problems, where the communication partners distrust each other. As with a number of such two-party protocols, the best implementation of the quantum coin tossing requires qutrits, resulting in a higher security than using qubits. In this way, we have also performed the first complete quantum communication protocol with qutrits. In our experiment the two partners succeeded to remotely toss a row of coins using photons entangled in the orbital angular momentum. We also show the experimental bounds of a possible cheater and the ways of detecting him.

Bullying prevention in schools by targeting cognitions, emotions, and behavior: Evaluating the effectiveness of the REBE-ViSC program.

PubMed

Trip, Simona; Bora, Carmen; Sipos-Gug, Sebastian; Tocai, Ioana; Gradinger, Petra; Yanagida, Takuya; Strohmeier, Dagmar

2015-10-01

The effectiveness of a class-based antibullying prevention program on cognitions, emotions, and behaviors was investigated. The program consists of a cognitive-behavioral (Rational Emotive Behavioral Education; REBE) and a behavioral (Viennese Social Competence; ViSC) component. The REBE program is based on rational emotive behavioral theory and contains 9 student lessons. The ViSC program is based on social learning theory and comprises 10 student lessons. The order of the programs was experimentally manipulated. The REBE-ViSC program was implemented in 5 schools (14 classes), the ViSC-REBE program was implemented in 3 schools (9 classes), and 3 schools (11 classes) served as an untreated control group. Data were collected during 1 school year at pretest, midpoint, and posttest. Emotions (overt and internalizing anger), cognitions (learning and entitlement), and behaviors (bullying perpetration and bullying victimization) were measured with self-assessments. To examine the effectiveness of the REBE-ViSC/ViSC-REBE program, multilevel growth models were applied (time points at Level 1, individuals at Level 2, and classes at Level 3). The analyses revealed that the program effects differed depending on the order of the programs. The REBE-ViSC condition was more effective in changing negative emotions than the ViSC-REBE condition; both experimental conditions were effective in reducing dysfunctional cognitions, whereas no behavioral change was found in the 2 experimental groups when compared with the control group. To improve program effectiveness regarding behavioral changes, a multilevel whole-school approach including a teacher component is recommended. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Validation of Laser-Induced Fluorescent Photogrammetric Targets on Membrane Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Thomas W.; Dorrington, Adrian A.; Shortis, Mark R.; Hendricks, Aron R.

2004-01-01

The need for static and dynamic characterization of a new generation of inflatable space structures requires the advancement of classical metrology techniques. A new photogrammetric-based method for non-contact ranging and surface profiling has been developed at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) to support modal analyses and structural validation of this class of space structures. This full field measurement method, known as Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) photogrammetry, has previously yielded promising experimental results. However, data indicating the achievable measurement precision had not been published. This paper provides experimental results that indicate the LIF-photogrammetry measurement precision for three different target types used on a reflective membrane structure. The target types were: (1) non-contact targets generated using LIF, (2) surface attached retro-reflective targets, and (3) surface attached diffuse targets. Results from both static and dynamic investigations are included.

Multimedia Interactive eBooks in Laboratory Bioscience Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morris, Neil P.; Lambe, James

2017-01-01

Bioscience students in the UK higher education system are making increasing use of technology to support their learning within taught classes and during private study. This experimental study was designed to assess the role for multimedia interactive eBooks in bioscience laboratory classes, delivered using a blended learning approach. Thirty-nine…

Teachers' Response to Conflict in Selected Milwaukee Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, Ian M.

This report summarizes a study carried out during the 1993-1994 academic year that evaluated peace education curricula in selected Milwaukee (Wisconsin) public schools. Experimental and control sample populations were established with eight different classrooms, including two classes at a Montessori school and two classes at a neighborhood…

In vitro and in vivo experimental data for pyrethroid pharmacokinetic models: the case of bifenthrin

EPA Science Inventory

Pyrethroids are a class of neurotoxic synthetic pesticides. Exposure to pyrethroids has increased due to declining use of other classes of pesticides. Our studies are focused on generating in vitro and in vivo data for the development of pharmacokinetic models for pyrethroids. Us...

Integrating Study Skills and Problem Solving into Remedial Mathematics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cornick, Jonathan; Guy, G. Michael; Beckford, Ian

2015-01-01

Students at a large urban community college enrolled in seven classes of an experimental remedial algebra programme, which integrated study skills instruction and collaborative problem solving. A control group of seven classes was taught in a traditional lecture format without study skills instruction. Student performance in the course was…

Phenomenology of stochastic exponential growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pirjol, Dan; Jafarpour, Farshid; Iyer-Biswas, Srividya

2017-06-01

Stochastic exponential growth is observed in a variety of contexts, including molecular autocatalysis, nuclear fission, population growth, inflation of the universe, viral social media posts, and financial markets. Yet literature on modeling the phenomenology of these stochastic dynamics has predominantly focused on one model, geometric Brownian motion (GBM), which can be described as the solution of a Langevin equation with linear drift and linear multiplicative noise. Using recent experimental results on stochastic exponential growth of individual bacterial cell sizes, we motivate the need for a more general class of phenomenological models of stochastic exponential growth, which are consistent with the observation that the mean-rescaled distributions are approximately stationary at long times. We show that this behavior is not consistent with GBM, instead it is consistent with power-law multiplicative noise with positive fractional powers. Therefore, we consider this general class of phenomenological models for stochastic exponential growth, provide analytical solutions, and identify the important dimensionless combination of model parameters, which determines the shape of the mean-rescaled distribution. We also provide a prescription for robustly inferring model parameters from experimentally observed stochastic growth trajectories.

Application of multimedia-based exercise programmes focused on improvement of the schoolgirls' musculoskeletal system during breaks between classes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bendíková, Elena

2017-11-01

This pilot study presents theoretical basis related to the purpose and methodology of the presented research the aim of which is to point to the importance of multimedia-based physical activity (exercise programme) done during breaks between classes. The purpose of this programme is to prevent occurrence of functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system among schoolchildren. The experimental and control groups were composed of the female students of the third grade at one secondary school in the town of L. Mikuláš. We obtained the data by means of standardized methods used for assessment of the musculoskeletal system in medical and physical education practice. The obtained qualitative and quantitative data were processed by means of the chi-squared test and the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results significantly (p<0.01) proved a positive effect of the multimedia-based exercise programme on the experimental group (Mwwtest=8.639, p<0.01), especially the positive and significant (p<0.01, p<0.05) effect on the functional status of the muscular system.

Immunosuppression for in vivo research: state-of-the-art protocols and experimental approaches

PubMed Central

Diehl, Rita; Ferrara, Fabienne; Müller, Claudia; Dreyer, Antje Y; McLeod, Damian D; Fricke, Stephan; Boltze, Johannes

2017-01-01

Almost every experimental treatment strategy using non-autologous cell, tissue or organ transplantation is tested in small and large animal models before clinical translation. Because these strategies require immunosuppression in most cases, immunosuppressive protocols are a key element in transplantation experiments. However, standard immunosuppressive protocols are often applied without detailed knowledge regarding their efficacy within the particular experimental setting and in the chosen model species. Optimization of such protocols is pertinent to the translation of experimental results to human patients and thus warrants further investigation. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding immunosuppressive drug classes as well as their dosages and application regimens with consideration of species-specific drug metabolization and side effects. It also summarizes contemporary knowledge of novel immunomodulatory strategies, such as the use of mesenchymal stem cells or antibodies. Thus, this review is intended to serve as a state-of-the-art compendium for researchers to refine applied experimental immunosuppression and immunomodulation strategies to enhance the predictive value of preclinical transplantation studies. PMID:27721455

Transfer of conflict and cooperation from experienced games to new games: a connectionist model of learning

PubMed Central

Spiliopoulos, Leonidas

2015-01-01

The question of whether, and if so how, learning can be transfered from previously experienced games to novel games has recently attracted the attention of the experimental game theory literature. Existing research presumes that learning operates over actions, beliefs or decision rules. This study instead uses a connectionist approach that learns a direct mapping from game payoffs to a probability distribution over own actions. Learning is operationalized as a backpropagation rule that adjusts the weights of feedforward neural networks in the direction of increasing the probability of an agent playing a myopic best response to the last game played. One advantage of this approach is that it expands the scope of the model to any possible n × n normal-form game allowing for a comprehensive model of transfer of learning. Agents are exposed to games drawn from one of seven classes of games with significantly different strategic characteristics and then forced to play games from previously unseen classes. I find significant transfer of learning, i.e., behavior that is path-dependent, or conditional on the previously seen games. Cooperation is more pronounced in new games when agents are previously exposed to games where the incentive to cooperate is stronger than the incentive to compete, i.e., when individual incentives are aligned. Prior exposure to Prisoner's dilemma, zero-sum and discoordination games led to a significant decrease in realized payoffs for all the game classes under investigation. A distinction is made between superficial and deep transfer of learning both—the former is driven by superficial payoff similarities between games, the latter by differences in the incentive structures or strategic implications of the games. I examine whether agents learn to play the Nash equilibria of games, how they select amongst multiple equilibria, and whether they transfer Nash equilibrium behavior to unseen games. Sufficient exposure to a strategically heterogeneous set of games is found to be a necessary condition for deep learning (and transfer) across game classes. Paradoxically, superficial transfer of learning is shown to lead to better outcomes than deep transfer for a wide range of game classes. The simulation results corroborate important experimental findings with human subjects, and make several novel predictions that can be tested experimentally. PMID:25873855

Contextual control using a go/no-go procedure with compound abstract stimuli.

PubMed

Modenesi, Rafael Diego; Debert, Paula

2015-05-01

Contextual control has been described as (1) a five-term contingency, in which the contextual stimulus exerts conditional control over conditional discriminations, and (2) allowing one stimulus to be a member of different equivalence classes without merging them into one. Matching-to-sample is the most commonly employed procedure to produce and study contextual control. The present study evaluated whether the go/no-go procedure with compound stimuli produces equivalence classes that share stimuli. This procedure does not allow the identification of specific stimulus functions (e.g., contextual, conditional, or discriminative functions). If equivalence classes were established with this procedure, then only the latter part of the contextual control definition (2) would be met. Six undergraduate students participated in the present study. In the training phases, responses to AC, BD, and XY compounds with stimuli from the same classes were reinforced, and responses to AC, BD, and XY compounds with stimuli from different classes were not. In addition, responses to X1A1B1, X1A2B2, X2A1B2, and X2A2B1 compounds were reinforced and responses to the other combinations were not. During the tests, the participants had to respond to new combinations of stimuli compounds YCD to indicate the formation of four equivalence classes that share stimuli: X1A1B1Y1C1D1, X1A2B2Y1C2D2, X2A1B2Y2C1D2, and X2A2B1Y2C2D1. Four of the six participants showed the establishment of these classes. These results indicate that establishing contextual stimulus functions is unnecessary to produce equivalence classes that share stimuli. Therefore, these results are inconsistent with the first part of the definition of contextual control. © Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

A Multi-modal, Discriminative and Spatially Invariant CNN for RGB-D Object Labeling.

PubMed

Asif, Umar; Bennamoun, Mohammed; Sohel, Ferdous

2017-08-30

While deep convolutional neural networks have shown a remarkable success in image classification, the problems of inter-class similarities, intra-class variances, the effective combination of multimodal data, and the spatial variability in images of objects remain to be major challenges. To address these problems, this paper proposes a novel framework to learn a discriminative and spatially invariant classification model for object and indoor scene recognition using multimodal RGB-D imagery. This is achieved through three postulates: 1) spatial invariance - this is achieved by combining a spatial transformer network with a deep convolutional neural network to learn features which are invariant to spatial translations, rotations, and scale changes, 2) high discriminative capability - this is achieved by introducing Fisher encoding within the CNN architecture to learn features which have small inter-class similarities and large intra-class compactness, and 3) multimodal hierarchical fusion - this is achieved through the regularization of semantic segmentation to a multi-modal CNN architecture, where class probabilities are estimated at different hierarchical levels (i.e., imageand pixel-levels), and fused into a Conditional Random Field (CRF)- based inference hypothesis, the optimization of which produces consistent class labels in RGB-D images. Extensive experimental evaluations on RGB-D object and scene datasets, and live video streams (acquired from Kinect) show that our framework produces superior object and scene classification results compared to the state-of-the-art methods.

Post-boosting of classification boundary for imbalanced data using geometric mean.

PubMed

Du, Jie; Vong, Chi-Man; Pun, Chi-Man; Wong, Pak-Kin; Ip, Weng-Fai

2017-12-01

In this paper, a novel imbalance learning method for binary classes is proposed, named as Post-Boosting of classification boundary for Imbalanced data (PBI), which can significantly improve the performance of any trained neural networks (NN) classification boundary. The procedure of PBI simply consists of two steps: an (imbalanced) NN learning method is first applied to produce a classification boundary, which is then adjusted by PBI under the geometric mean (G-mean). For data imbalance, the geometric mean of the accuracies of both minority and majority classes is considered, that is statistically more suitable than the common metric accuracy. PBI also has the following advantages over traditional imbalance methods: (i) PBI can significantly improve the classification accuracy on minority class while improving or keeping that on majority class as well; (ii) PBI is suitable for large data even with high imbalance ratio (up to 0.001). For evaluation of (i), a new metric called Majority loss/Minority advance ratio (MMR) is proposed that evaluates the loss ratio of majority class to minority class. Experiments have been conducted for PBI and several imbalance learning methods over benchmark datasets of different sizes, different imbalance ratios, and different dimensionalities. By analyzing the experimental results, PBI is shown to outperform other imbalance learning methods on almost all datasets. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Risk and culture: variations in dioxin risk perceptions, behavioral preferences among social groups in South Korea.

PubMed

Park, Seohyun; Kim, Jong Guk

2014-01-01

This study examined variations in the perceptions of dioxin risk among social groups defined by geographical living location, environmental education, and occupation. Dioxin risk perceptions were analyzed according to values, risk awareness, knowledge, and behavioral preferences. A quasi-experimental survey was designed and conducted on individuals from seven experimental groups in Jeonju city, South Korea, including: people living near incineration facilities; people living far from incineration facilities; governmental experts; nongovernmental organization members; office workers in developmental institutes or banks; students who were enrolled in environmental-related classes; and students who were enrolled in business-related classes. The results show variations among groups in values, awareness and behavioral preferences. Particular attention should be given to the result that groups with higher connectedness- to-nature values show higher willingness-to-act (WTA) for risk reduction. Result s can be summarized as follows. First, awareness is associated with one's geographical setting. Second, values and WTA behaviors are related to one's environmental-related education and occupation. Third, values are significantly related to WTA behaviors. Different cultures, in terms of values or worldview, among groups influence their perceptions of dioxin risk and choices of risk reduction behaviors. It is important to consider values in communicating complicated long-term risk management involving public participation. Further research should be continuously conducted on the effects of multiple dimensions of values on one's WTA for risk reduction behaviors.

Online and offline peer led models against bullying and cyberbullying.

PubMed

Palladino, Benedetta Emanuela; Nocentini, Annalaura; Menesini, Ersilia

2012-11-01

The aim of the present study is to describe and evaluate an ongoing peer-led model against bullying and cyberbullying carried out with Italian adolescents. The evaluation of the project was made through an experimental design consisting of a pre-test and a post-test. Participants in the study were 375 adolescents (20.3% males), enrolled in 9th to 13th grades. The experimental group involved 231 students with 42 peer educators, and the control group involved 144 students. Results showed a significant decrease in the experimental group as compared to the control group for all the variables except for cyberbullying. Besides, in the experimental group we found a significant increase in adaptive coping strategies like problem solving and a significant decrease in maladaptive coping strategies like avoidance: these changes mediate the changes in the behavioural variables. In particular, the decrease in avoidance predicts the decrease in victimization and cybervictimization for peer educators and for the other students in the experimental classes whereas the increase in problem solving predicts the decrease in cyberbullying only in the peer educators group. Results are discussed following recent reviews on evidence based efficacy of peer led models.

The Effects of a Physical Education Intervention to Support the Satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs on the Motivation and Intentions to be Physically Active.

PubMed

Franco, Evelia; Coterón, Javier

2017-10-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of an intervention to support the basic psychological needs on the satisfaction of these needs, intrinsic motivation, intention to be physically active and some enjoyment-related outcomes in Physical Education. The present study incorporated strategies presented by Standage and Ryan (2012) in a previous study. A quasi-experimental study was conducted with two groups (n experimental = 30; n control = 23) of 2nd year Secondary Education students aged between 13 and 15 (M = 13.35, SD = .62) by delivering 24 physical education classes. The teacher in the experimental group underwent prior and continual training. The results revealed that the students from the experimental group showed a significant increase in the perception of autonomy and competence. Furthermore, the experimental group showed a greater perception than the control group in the enjoyment related to learning and contents. These results provide information about the efficacy of an intervention programme based on the strategies presented by Standage and Ryan (2012) to foster satisfaction of basic psychological needs and facilitate support for basic psychological needs to promote the development of positive learning-related outcomes.

Experimental Study of an Advanced Concept of Moderate-resolution Holographic Spectrographs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muslimov, Eduard; Valyavin, Gennady; Fabrika, Sergei; Musaev, Faig; Galazutdinov, Gazinur; Pavlycheva, Nadezhda; Emelianov, Eduard

2018-07-01

We present the results of an experimental study of an advanced moderate-resolution spectrograph based on a cascade of narrow-band holographic gratings. The main goal of the project is to achieve a moderately high spectral resolution with R up to 5000 simultaneously in the 4300–6800 Å visible spectral range on a single standard CCD, together with an increased throughput. The experimental study consisted of (1) resolution and image quality tests performed using the solar spectrum, and (2) a total throughput test performed for a number of wavelengths using a calibrated lab monochromator. The measured spectral resolving power reaches values over R > 4000 while the experimental throughput is as high as 55%, which agrees well with the modeling results. Comparing the obtained characteristics of the spectrograph under consideration with the best existing spectrographs, we conclude that the used concept can be considered as a very competitive and cheap alternative to the existing spectrographs of the given class. We propose several astrophysical applications for the instrument and discuss the prospect of creating its full-scale version.

Experimental and theoretical investigation of the first-order hyperpolarizability of a class of triarylamine derivatives

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Silva, Daniel L., E-mail: dlsilva.physics@gmail.com, E-mail: deboni@ifsc.usp.br; Instituto de Física, Universidade de São Paulo, CP 66318, 05314-970 São Paulo, SP; Fonseca, Ruben D.

2015-02-14

This paper reports on the static and dynamic first-order hyperpolarizabilities of a class of push-pull octupolar triarylamine derivatives dissolved in toluene. We have combined hyper-Rayleigh scattering experiment and the coupled perturbed Hartree-Fock method implemented at the Density Functional Theory (DFT) level of theory to determine the static and dynamic (at 1064 nm) first-order hyperpolarizability (β{sub HRS}) of nine triarylamine derivatives with distinct electron-withdrawing groups. In four of these derivatives, an azoaromatic unit is inserted and a pronounceable increase of the first-order hyperpolarizability is reported. Based on the theoretical results, the dipolar/octupolar character of the derivatives is determined. By using amore » polarizable continuum model in combination with the DFT calculations, it was found that although solvated in an aprotic and low dielectric constant solvent, due to solvent-induced polarization and the frequency dispersion effect, the environment substantially affects the first-order hyperpolarizability of all derivatives investigated. This statement is supported due to the solvent effects to be essential for the better agreement between theoretical results and experimental data concerning the dynamic first-order hyperpolarizability of the derivatives. The first-order hyperpolarizability of the derivatives was also modeled using the two- and three-level models, where the relationship between static and dynamic first hyperpolarizabilities is given by a frequency dispersion model. Using this approach, it was verified that the dynamic first hyperpolarizability of the derivatives is satisfactorily reproduced by the two-level model and that, in the case of the derivatives with an azoaromatic unit, the use of a damped few-level model is essential for, considering also the molecular size of such derivatives, a good quantitative agreement between theoretical results and experimental data to be observed.« less

Sound wood residue left after experimental cuttings in old-growth redwood

Treesearch

Kenneth N. Boe

1967-01-01

An estimate was made of the sound wood logging residue remaining after three different experimental cuttings on the Redwood Experimental Forest, north coastal California. The statistics on volume, size, and soundness classes are indicators of what to expect where similar volumes are harvested. The information can be useful to those planning use of logging residues,...

Assessing the Relationship between Different Types of Student Feedback and the Quality of Revised Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diab, Nuwar Mawlawi

2011-01-01

This paper reports on a quasi-experimental study comparing the effects of peer-editing to self-editing on improving students' revised drafts. The study involved two intact classes (experimental and control groups) of an English course. The experimental group practiced peer-editing while the control group engaged in self-editing. After receiving…

AN EXPERIMENTAL CURRICULUM FOR YOUNG MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN. TC SERIES IN SPECIAL EDUCATION.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

CONNOR, FRANCES P.; TALBOT, MABEL E.

THIS CURRICULUM REPORT IS A DESCRIPTION OF A SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR PRESCHOOL EDUCABLE MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN, TOGETHER WITH AN ACCOUNT OF ITS DEVELOPMENT IN EXPERIMENTAL CLASSES IN NEW YORK CITY. THE EXPERIMENTAL CURRICULUM WAS THE INDEPENDENT VARIABLE OF A RESEARCH PROJECT TO STUDY THE EFFECTS OF GROUP EXPERIENCE UPON YOUNG…

Exploring the Impact of Online Peer-Editing Using Google Docs on EFL Learners' Academic Writing Skills: A Mixed Methods Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ebadi, Saman; Rahimi, Masoud

2017-01-01

This article reports the results of a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach to explore the impact of online peer-editing using Google Docs and peer-editing in a face-to-face classroom on EFL learners' academic writing skills. As the study adopted a quasi-experimental design, two intact classes, each with ten EFL learners, attending an…

Spectral-Spatial Classification of Hyperspectral Images Using Hierarchical Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tarabalka, Yuliya; Tilton, James C.

2011-01-01

A new spectral-spatial method for hyperspectral data classification is proposed. For a given hyperspectral image, probabilistic pixelwise classification is first applied. Then, hierarchical step-wise optimization algorithm is performed, by iteratively merging neighboring regions with the smallest Dissimilarity Criterion (DC) and recomputing class labels for new regions. The DC is computed by comparing region mean vectors, class labels and a number of pixels in the two regions under consideration. The algorithm is converged when all the pixels get involved in the region merging procedure. Experimental results are presented on two remote sensing hyperspectral images acquired by the AVIRIS and ROSIS sensors. The proposed approach improves classification accuracies and provides maps with more homogeneous regions, when compared to previously proposed classification techniques.

Airplane detection in remote sensing images using convolutional neural networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ouyang, Chao; Chen, Zhong; Zhang, Feng; Zhang, Yifei

2018-03-01

Airplane detection in remote sensing images remains a challenging problem and has also been taking a great interest to researchers. In this paper we propose an effective method to detect airplanes in remote sensing images using convolutional neural networks. Deep learning methods show greater advantages than the traditional methods with the rise of deep neural networks in target detection, and we give an explanation why this happens. To improve the performance on detection of airplane, we combine a region proposal algorithm with convolutional neural networks. And in the training phase, we divide the background into multi classes rather than one class, which can reduce false alarms. Our experimental results show that the proposed method is effective and robust in detecting airplane.

Measuring the academic, social, and psychological effects of academic service learning on middle school students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giacalone, Valarie A.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an academic service learning project on ninth-grade students' science achievement and attitudes. A quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design was used with four classes of one teacher in a rural school. The treatment was an Energy Fair service project. Two treatment classes that were chosen by random assignment (n = 58) were compared to two control classes (n = 64), who performed an alternative assignment. The Energy Fair was conducted for the elementary school students and on a limited basis for fellow students (peers). The academic effect was measured by a teacher-designed end-of-unit ecology test, with a subset of the questions on energy use. Psychological effects were measured by a self-esteem questionnaire, which measured both self-esteem and the satisfaction felt about one's self-esteem. Social effects were measured by three semantic differentials, one each for "adults," "peers," and "elementary students." The teacher was interviewed regarding her observations about the project. Written reflections from both the treatment and control groups were coded and analyzed. Pretest results were divided into thirds of high, medium, and low for all variables to search for the possibility of an attribute-treatment interaction. Analysis of covariance was used to reduce the possibility of pretest bias, to test for significant effects, and to test for a level by treatment interaction. Although the posttest means favored the experimental group, no statistically significant difference was found for academic results. No significant effect was found for either of the psychological measures. No change was found for the social results regarding "adults." A statistically significant effect was found for social results in the categories of "elementary students" and "peers." No statistically significant level by treatment interaction was found. Further research on the effects of academic service learning projects is needed at the middle school level, in all disciplines, and containing service of a longer duration and intensity.

Unique versus cumulative effects of physical and sexual assault on patterns of adolescent substance use.

PubMed

Charak, Ruby; Koot, Hans M; Dvorak, Robert D; Elklit, Ask; Elhai, Jon D

2015-12-30

The present study assessed the unique versus cumulative effects of physical and sexual assault, on patterns of substance-use in adolescents. It was hypothesized that experiencing a single assault (physical or sexual) when compared with exposure to both physical and sexual assault would be more strongly related to membership of polysubstance use classes. From the National Survey of Adolescents-1995 (N= 4023) 918 adolescents (age range=12-17 years, M=14.92, 49.6% female) with reports of physical assault and/or sexual assault were selected. Using information on alcohol-use, cigarette-smoking, chewing tobacco, non-prescribed use of medicines, and drug-use, latent class analysis indicated a three class solution for substance-use, namely, Experimental use, Light polysubstance-use, and Polysubstance-use. Multinomial logistic regression analyses indicated that as compared to adolescents exposed to a single type of assault those exposed to both physical and sexual assault were two-to-three times more likely to be in the heavier polysubstance-use class. Females were more likely to be members of the polysubstance-use class than of the experimental use class. Gender did not emerge as a significant moderator. It was concluded that assessing for single type or co-occurring assault can facilitate identification of adolescents at elevated risk for polysubstance-use. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Failure behavior of generic metallic and composite aircraft structural components under crash loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carden, Huey D.; Robinson, Martha P.

1990-01-01

Failure behavior results are presented from crash dynamics research using concepts of aircraft elements and substructure not necessarily designed or optimized for energy absorption or crash loading considerations. To achieve desired new designs incorporating improved energy absorption capabilities often requires an understanding of how more conventional designs behave under crash loadings. Experimental and analytical data are presented which indicate some general trends in the failure behavior of a class of composite structures including individual fuselage frames, skeleton subfloors with stringers and floor beams without skin covering, and subfloors with skin added to the frame-stringer arrangement. Although the behavior is complex, a strong similarity in the static/dynamic failure behavior among these structures is illustrated through photographs of the experimental results and through analytical data of generic composite structural models.

Trail impacts in Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park, Nepal: a logistic regression analysis.

PubMed

Nepal, S K

2003-09-01

A trail study was conducted in the Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park, Nepal, during 1997-1998. Based on that study, this paper examines the spatial variability of trail conditions and analyzes factors that influence trail conditions. Logistic regression (multinomial logit model) is applied to examine the influence of use and environmental factors on trail conditions. The assessment of trail conditions is based on a four-class rating system: (class I, very little damaged; class II, moderately damaged, class III, heavily damaged; and class IV, severely damaged). Wald statistics and a model classification table have been used for data interpretation. Results indicate that altitude, trail gradient, hazard potential, and vegetation type are positively associated with trail condition. Trails are more degraded at higher altitude, on steep gradients, in areas with natural hazard potential, and within shrub/grassland zones. Strong correlations between high levels of trail degradation and higher frequencies of visitors and lodges were found. A detailed analysis of environmental and use factors could provide valuable information to park managers in their decisions about trail design, layout and maintenance, and efficient and effective visitor management strategies. Comparable studies on high alpine environments are needed to predict precisely the effects of topographic and climatic extremes. More refined approaches and experimental methods are necessary to control the effects of environmental factors.

A Dynamic Ensemble Framework for Mining Textual Streams with Class Imbalance

PubMed Central

Song, Ge

2014-01-01

Textual stream classification has become a realistic and challenging issue since large-scale, high-dimensional, and non-stationary streams with class imbalance have been widely used in various real-life applications. According to the characters of textual streams, it is technically difficult to deal with the classification of textual stream, especially in imbalanced environment. In this paper, we propose a new ensemble framework, clustering forest, for learning from the textual imbalanced stream with concept drift (CFIM). The CFIM is based on ensemble learning by integrating a set of clustering trees (CTs). An adaptive selection method, which flexibly chooses the useful CTs by the property of the stream, is presented in CFIM. In particular, to deal with the problem of class imbalance, we collect and reuse both rare-class instances and misclassified instances from the historical chunks. Compared to most existing approaches, it is worth pointing out that our approach assumes that both majority class and rareclass may suffer from concept drift. Thus the distribution of resampled instances is similar to the current concept. The effectiveness of CFIM is examined in five real-world textual streams under an imbalanced nonstationary environment. Experimental results demonstrate that CFIM achieves better performance than four state-of-the-art ensemble models. PMID:24982961

Comprehensive missile aerodynamics programs for preliminary design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dillenius, M. F. E.; Hemsch, M. J.; Sawyer, W. C.; Allen, J. M.; Blair, A. B., Jr.

1982-01-01

Two different classes of missile aeroprediction programs have been recently developed. The first class of programs provides rapid engineering predictions and includes MISSILE1 and MISSILE2 applicable to missile configurations with axisymmetric bodies. The second class of programs consists of the DEMON series, including a simplified version NSWCDM, designed to calculate detailed loadings acting on supersonic missiles which may have non-circular body cross sections. Both classes account for high angles of attack and track vortices from canard or wing section to the tail section. Extensive comparisons with experimental data are presented including nonlinear effects of canard control.

Enrichment analysis in high-throughput genomics - accounting for dependency in the NULL.

PubMed

Gold, David L; Coombes, Kevin R; Wang, Jing; Mallick, Bani

2007-03-01

Translating the overwhelming amount of data generated in high-throughput genomics experiments into biologically meaningful evidence, which may for example point to a series of biomarkers or hint at a relevant pathway, is a matter of great interest in bioinformatics these days. Genes showing similar experimental profiles, it is hypothesized, share biological mechanisms that if understood could provide clues to the molecular processes leading to pathological events. It is the topic of further study to learn if or how a priori information about the known genes may serve to explain coexpression. One popular method of knowledge discovery in high-throughput genomics experiments, enrichment analysis (EA), seeks to infer if an interesting collection of genes is 'enriched' for a Consortium particular set of a priori Gene Ontology Consortium (GO) classes. For the purposes of statistical testing, the conventional methods offered in EA software implicitly assume independence between the GO classes. Genes may be annotated for more than one biological classification, and therefore the resulting test statistics of enrichment between GO classes can be highly dependent if the overlapping gene sets are relatively large. There is a need to formally determine if conventional EA results are robust to the independence assumption. We derive the exact null distribution for testing enrichment of GO classes by relaxing the independence assumption using well-known statistical theory. In applications with publicly available data sets, our test results are similar to the conventional approach which assumes independence. We argue that the independence assumption is not detrimental.

Contrasting epidemic histories reveal pathogen-mediated balancing selection on class II MHC diversity in a wild songbird.

PubMed

Hawley, Dana M; Fleischer, Robert C

2012-01-01

The extent to which pathogens maintain the extraordinary polymorphism at vertebrate Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes via balancing selection has intrigued evolutionary biologists for over half a century, but direct tests remain challenging. Here we examine whether a well-characterized epidemic of Mycoplasmal conjunctivitis resulted in balancing selection on class II MHC in a wild songbird host, the house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus). First, we confirmed the potential for pathogen-mediated balancing selection by experimentally demonstrating that house finches with intermediate to high multi-locus MHC diversity are more resistant to challenge with Mycoplasma gallisepticum. Second, we documented sequence and diversity-based signatures of pathogen-mediated balancing selection at class II MHC in exposed host populations that were absent in unexposed, control populations across an equivalent time period. Multi-locus MHC diversity significantly increased in exposed host populations following the epidemic despite initial compromised diversity levels from a recent introduction bottleneck in the exposed host range. We did not observe equivalent changes in allelic diversity or heterozygosity across eight neutral microsatellite loci, suggesting that the observations reflect selection rather than neutral demographic processes. Our results indicate that a virulent pathogen can exert sufficient balancing selection on class II MHC to rescue compromised levels of genetic variation for host resistance in a recently bottlenecked population. These results provide evidence for Haldane's long-standing hypothesis that pathogens directly contribute to the maintenance of the tremendous levels of genetic variation detected in natural populations of vertebrates.

Bringing PW-class lasers to XFELs (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomizawa, Hiromitsu

2017-06-01

Experimental researches using high power optical lasers combined with free electron lasers (FELs) open new frontiers in high energy density (HED) sciences. Probing and pumping capabilities are dramatically improved due to the brightness of the XFEL pulses with ultrafast duration. Besides, the peak intensities of Ti:sapphire laser Chirped Pulse Amplification (CPA) systems reach petawatt (PW)-class with operating in few tens of fs and commercially available at a few Hz of repetition rate. We have been developing an experimental platform for HED sciences using high power, high intensity optical lasers at the XFEL facility, SACLA.Currently, an experimental platform with a dual 0.5 PW Ti:Sapphire laser system is under beam commissioning for experiments combined with the SACLA's x-ray beam for research objectives that require more peak power in the optical laser pulses with a few tens of fs. The optical laser system is designed to deliver two laser beams simultaneously with the maximum power of 0.5 PW in each into a target chamber located in an experimental hutch 6 (EH6) at BL2, which was recently commissioned as a SACLA's 2nd hard x-ray beamline. A focusing capability using sets of compound refractive lenses will be applied to increase the x-ray fluence on the target sample. One of the most key issues for the integrated experimental platform is development of diagnostics that meets requirements both from the high power laser (e.g. resistance to harsh environments) and from the XFEL (e.g. adaptation to the available data acquisition system). The status and future perspective of the development including automatic laser alignment systems will be reported in the presentation. We will discuss the most promising and important new physics experiments that will be enabled by the combination of PW-class lasers and the world-class FEL's x-ray beam.

Local connected fractal dimension analysis in gill of fish experimentally exposed to toxicants.

PubMed

Manera, Maurizio; Giari, Luisa; De Pasquale, Joseph A; Sayyaf Dezfuli, Bahram

2016-06-01

An operator-neutral method was implemented to objectively assess European seabass, Dicentrarchus labrax (Linnaeus, 1758) gill pathology after experimental exposure to cadmium (Cd) and terbuthylazine (TBA) for 24 and 48h. An algorithm-derived local connected fractal dimension (LCFD) frequency measure was used in this comparative analysis. Canonical variates (CVA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used to evaluate the discrimination power of the method among exposure classes (unexposed, Cd exposed, TBA exposed). Misclassification, sensitivity and specificity, both with original and cross-validated cases, were determined. LCFDs frequencies enhanced the differences among classes which were visually selected after their means, respective variances and the differences between Cd and TBA exposed means, with respect to unexposed mean, were analyzed by scatter plots. Selected frequencies were then scanned by means of LDA, stepwise analysis, and Mahalanobis distance to detect the most discriminative frequencies out of ten originally selected. Discrimination resulted in 91.7% of cross-validated cases correctly classified (22 out of 24 total cases), with sensitivity and specificity, respectively, of 95.5% (1 false negative with respect to 21 really positive cases) and 75% (1 false positive with respect to 3 really negative cases). CVA with convex hull polygons ensured prompt, visually intuitive discrimination among exposure classes and graphically supported the false positive case. The combined use of semithin sections, which enhanced the visual evaluation of the overall lamellar structure; of LCFD analysis, which objectively detected local variation in complexity, without the possible bias connected to human personnel; and of CVA/LDA, could be an objective, sensitive and specific approach to study fish gill lamellar pathology. Furthermore this approach enabled discrimination with sufficient confidence between exposure classes or pathological states and avoided misdiagnosis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Provisional in-silico biopharmaceutics classification (BCS) to guide oral drug product development

PubMed Central

Wolk, Omri; Agbaria, Riad; Dahan, Arik

2014-01-01

The main objective of this work was to investigate in-silico predictions of physicochemical properties, in order to guide oral drug development by provisional biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS). Four in-silico methods were used to estimate LogP: group contribution (CLogP) using two different software programs, atom contribution (ALogP), and element contribution (KLogP). The correlations (r2) of CLogP, ALogP and KLogP versus measured LogP data were 0.97, 0.82, and 0.71, respectively. The classification of drugs with reported intestinal permeability in humans was correct for 64.3%–72.4% of the 29 drugs on the dataset, and for 81.82%–90.91% of the 22 drugs that are passively absorbed using the different in-silico algorithms. Similar permeability classification was obtained with the various in-silico methods. The in-silico calculations, along with experimental melting points, were then incorporated into a thermodynamic equation for solubility estimations that largely matched the reference solubility values. It was revealed that the effect of melting point on the solubility is minor compared to the partition coefficient, and an average melting point (162.7°C) could replace the experimental values, with similar results. The in-silico methods classified 20.76% (±3.07%) as Class 1, 41.51% (±3.32%) as Class 2, 30.49% (±4.47%) as Class 3, and 6.27% (±4.39%) as Class 4. In conclusion, in-silico methods can be used for BCS classification of drugs in early development, from merely their molecular formula and without foreknowledge of their chemical structure, which will allow for the improved selection, engineering, and developability of candidates. These in-silico methods could enhance success rates, reduce costs, and accelerate oral drug products development. PMID:25284986

Generic Science Skills Enhancement of Students through Implementation of IDEAL Problem Solving Model on Genetic Information Course

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zirconia, A.; Supriyanti, F. M. T.; Supriatna, A.

2018-04-01

This study aims to determine generic science skills enhancement of students through implementation of IDEAL problem-solving model on genetic information course. Method of this research was mixed method, with pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. Subjects of this study were chemistry students enrolled in biochemistry course, consisted of 22 students in the experimental class and 19 students in control class. The instrument in this study was essayed involves 6 indicators generic science skills such as indirect observation, causality thinking, logical frame, self-consistent thinking, symbolic language, and developing concept. The results showed that genetic information course using IDEAL problem-solving model have been enhancing generic science skills in low category with of 20,93%. Based on result for each indicator, showed that there are indicators of generic science skills classified in the high category.

Reaction pathways of model compounds of biomass-derived oxygenates on Fe/Ni bimetallic surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Weiting; Chen, Jingguang G.

2015-10-01

Controlling the activity and selectivity of converting biomass-derivatives to fuels and valuable chemicals is critical for the utilization of biomass feedstocks. There are primarily three classes of non-food competing biomass, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. In the current work, glycolaldehyde, furfural and acetaldehyde are studied as model compounds of the three classes of biomass-derivatives. Monometallic Ni(111) and monolayer (ML) Fe/Ni(111) bimetallic surfaces are studied for the reaction pathways of the three biomass surrogates. The ML Fe/Ni(111) surface is identified as an efficient surface for the conversion of biomass-derivatives from the combined results of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) experiments. A correlation is also established between the optimized adsorption geometry and experimental reaction pathways. These results should provide helpful insights in catalyst design for the upgrading and conversion of biomass.

A novel algorithm of super-resolution image reconstruction based on multi-class dictionaries for natural scene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Wei; Zhao, Dewei; Zhang, Huan

2015-12-01

Super-resolution image reconstruction is an effective method to improve the image quality. It has important research significance in the field of image processing. However, the choice of the dictionary directly affects the efficiency of image reconstruction. A sparse representation theory is introduced into the problem of the nearest neighbor selection. Based on the sparse representation of super-resolution image reconstruction method, a super-resolution image reconstruction algorithm based on multi-class dictionary is analyzed. This method avoids the redundancy problem of only training a hyper complete dictionary, and makes the sub-dictionary more representatives, and then replaces the traditional Euclidean distance computing method to improve the quality of the whole image reconstruction. In addition, the ill-posed problem is introduced into non-local self-similarity regularization. Experimental results show that the algorithm is much better results than state-of-the-art algorithm in terms of both PSNR and visual perception.

Investigations of gain redshift in high peak power Ti:sapphire laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Fenxiang; Yu, Linpeng; Zhang, Zongxin; Li, Wenkai; Yang, Xiaojun; Wu, Yuanfeng; Li, Shuai; Wang, Cheng; Liu, Yanqi; Lu, Xiaoming; Xu, Yi; Leng, Yuxin

2018-07-01

Gain redshift in high peak power Ti:sapphire laser systems can result in narrowband spectral output and hence lengthen the compressed pulse duration. In order to realize broadband spectral output in 10 PW-class Ti:sapphire lasers, the influence on gain redshift induced by spectral pre-shaping, gain distribution of cascaded amplifiers and Extraction During Pumping (EDP) technique have been investigated. The theoretical and experimental results show that the redshift of output spectrum is sensitive to the spectral pre-shaping and the gain distribution of cascaded amplifiers, while insensitive to the pumping scheme with or without EDP. Moreover, the output spectrum from our future 10 PW Ti:sapphire laser is theoretically analyzed based on the investigations above, which indicates that a Fourier-transform limited (FTL) pulse duration of 21 fs can be achieved just by optimizing the spectral pre-shaping and gain distribution in 10 PW-class Ti:sapphire lasers.

Design of an adaptive super-twisting decoupled terminal sliding mode control scheme for a class of fourth-order systems.

PubMed

Ashtiani Haghighi, Donya; Mobayen, Saleh

2018-04-01

This paper proposes an adaptive super-twisting decoupled terminal sliding mode control technique for a class of fourth-order systems. The adaptive-tuning law eliminates the requirement of the knowledge about the upper bounds of external perturbations. Using the proposed control procedure, the state variables of cart-pole system are converged to decoupled terminal sliding surfaces and their equilibrium points in the finite time. Moreover, via the super-twisting algorithm, the chattering phenomenon is avoided without affecting the control performance. The numerical results demonstrate the high stabilization accuracy and lower performance indices values of the suggested method over the other ones. The simulation results on the cart-pole system as well as experimental validations demonstrate that the proposed control technique exhibits a reasonable performance in comparison with the other methods. Copyright © 2018 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Classification of cancerous cells based on the one-class problem approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murshed, Nabeel A.; Bortolozzi, Flavio; Sabourin, Robert

1996-03-01

One of the most important factors in reducing the effect of cancerous diseases is the early diagnosis, which requires a good and a robust method. With the advancement of computer technologies and digital image processing, the development of a computer-based system has become feasible. In this paper, we introduce a new approach for the detection of cancerous cells. This approach is based on the one-class problem approach, through which the classification system need only be trained with patterns of cancerous cells. This reduces the burden of the training task by about 50%. Based on this approach, a computer-based classification system is developed, based on the Fuzzy ARTMAP neural networks. Experimental results were performed using a set of 542 patterns taken from a sample of breast cancer. Results of the experiment show 98% correct identification of cancerous cells and 95% correct identification of non-cancerous cells.

Changes in blood glucose among trained normoglycemic adults during a mini-trampoline exercise session.

PubMed

Martins Cunha, Raphael; Raiana Bentes, Mariana; Araújo, Victor H; DA Costa Souza, Mayara C; Vasconcelos Noleto, Marcelo; Azevedo Soares, Ademar; Machado Lehnen, Alexandre

2016-12-01

Blood glucose changes response during and after exercise are modulated by the postabsorptive state, intensity and duration of exercise, and the level of physical fitness as well. This study focused on the idea that high-intensity interval exercise, as mini-trampoline class, can reduce blood glucose. Thus, we examined acute changes in blood glucose among trained normoglycemic adults during a mini-trampoline exercise session. Twenty-four normoglycemic adult subjects were enrolled in the study. After physical assessment they were randomly assigned to either the experimental (N.=12) or the control group (N.=12). The experimental group performed a 50-minute session of moderate-to-high intensity (70 to 85% HRmax) exercise on a mini-trampoline commonly used in fitness classes. The control group did not perform any exercise, and all procedures were otherwise similar to the experimental group. Capillary blood glucose was measured before and every 15 minutes during the exercise session. The effects of exercise on blood glucose levels (group; time; and group interaction) were estimated using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc Test (P<0.05). The experimental group showed a decrease in blood glucose levels from baseline (108.7 mg/dL): 26.1% reduction (15 min; P<0.001), 24.2% (30 min; P<0.001), and 15.7% (45 min; P<0.001). Compared to the control group, blood glucose levels in the experimental group were reduced by 18.8% (15 min; P<0.001), 14.3% (30 min; P<0.001) and 6.9% (45 min; P=0.025). The study results provide good evidence that a prescribed exercise program on a mini-trampoline can be used for reducing blood glucose levels and thus can potentially control blood glucose.

Mechanical characterization of a short fiber-reinforced polymer at room temperature: experimental setups evaluated by an optical measurement system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Röhrig, C.; Scheffer, T.; Diebels, S.

2017-09-01

Composite materials are of great interest for industrial applications because of their outstanding properties. Each composite material has its own characteristics due to the large number of possible combinations of matrix and filler. As a result of their compounding, composites usually show a complex material behavior. This work is focused on the experimental testing of a short fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite at room temperature. The characteristic behavior of this material class is often based on a superposition of typical material effects. The predicted characteristic material properties such as elasto-plasticity, damage and anisotropy of the investigated material are obtained from results of cyclic uniaxial tensile tests at constant strain rate. Concerning the manufacturing process as well as industrial applications, the experimental investigations are extended to multiaxial loading situations. Therefore, the composite material is examined with a setup close to a deep-drawing process, the Nakajima test (Nakazima et al. in Study on the formability of steel sheets. Yawate Technical Report No. 264, pp 8517-8530, 1968). The evaluation of the experimental investigations is provided by an optical analysis system using a digital image correlation software. Finally, based on the results of the uniaxial tensile tests, a one-dimensional macroscopic model is introduced and first results of the simulation are provided.

Group Investigation Teaching Technique in Turkish Primary Science Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aksoy, Gokhan; Gurbuz, Fatih

2013-01-01

This study examined the effectiveness of group investigation teaching technique in teaching "Light" unit 7th grade primary science education level. This study was carried out in two different classes in the Primary school during the 2011-2012 academic year in Erzurum, Turkey. One of the classes was the Experimental Group (group…

Gaming via Computer Simulation Techniques for Junior College Economics Education. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Fred A.

A study designed to answer the need for more attractive and effective economics education involved the teaching of one junior college economics class by the conventional (lecture) method and an experimental class by computer simulation techniques. Econometric models approximating the "real world" were computer programed to enable the experimental…

Factors Predicting the Choice of an Online versus a Traditional Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robinson, Ryan P.; Doverspike, Dennis

2006-01-01

Universities sometimes offer students the choice of an online course as an alternative to the traditional classroom. We employed the theory of planned behavior (Azjen, 1991) to examine an individual's intention to enroll in an online experimental psychology class versus a traditional class. General attitudes and subjective norms significantly…

Film Study: "Nothing But a Man."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manchel, Frank

1967-01-01

To examine new approaches to film study, "Nothing But a Man," which portrays the difficulties encountered by a young Negro in the South, was taught experimentally in three 11th-grade English classes at Cheshire High School, Connecticut. A different method of approaching the movie was used in each class to determine effective teaching methods for…

Applying Sensors to Investigate Gender Differences in Beginning Tennis Players

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yu, Chih-Hung; Wang, Jye-Shyan; Wu, Cheng-Chih

2017-01-01

This study utilized sensors to investigate how females and males might perform and reflect differently on their tennis skills in a beginner class. A quasi-experimental design was conducted in this study to investigate the learning outcome of using tennis sensors. Two classes of students enrolled in a college physical education course participated…

Introducing Science Experiments to Rote-Learning Classes in Pakistani Middle Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pell, Anthony William; Iqbal, Hafiz Muhammad; Sohail, Shahida

2010-01-01

A mixed-methods sequential research design has been used to test the effect of introducing teacher science demonstrations to a traditional book-learning sample of 384 Grade 7 boys and girls from five schools in Lahore, Pakistan. In the quasi-experimental quantitative study, the eight classes of comparable ability were designated either…

A DNA Melting Exercise for a Large Laboratory Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levine, Lauren A.; Junker, Matthew; Stark, Myranda; Greenleaf, Dustin

2015-01-01

A simple and economical experimental setup is described that enables multiple individuals or groups within a laboratory class to measure the thermal melting of double stranded DNA simultaneously. The setup utilizes a basic spectrophotometer capable of measuring absorbance at 260 nm, UV plastic cuvettes, and a stirring hot plate. Students measure…

The TRIPSE: A Process-Oriented Exam for Large Undergraduate Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nastos, Stash; Rangachari, P. K.

2013-01-01

The TRIPSE (tri-partite problem solving exercise), a process-oriented exam that mimics the scientific process, was used previously in small classes (15-25). Provided limited data, students frame explanations and design experimental tests that they later revise with additional information. Our 6-year experience using it with larger numbers…

Enhancing the Introductory Astronomical Experience with the Use of a Tablet and Telescope

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gill, Robert M.; Burin, Michael J.

2013-01-01

College and university general education (GE) classes are designed to broaden the understanding of all college and university students in areas outside their major interest. However, most GE classes are lecture type and do not facilitate hands-on experimental or observational activities related to the specific subject matter. Utilizing astronomy…

Hey, I Got Sump'n To Tell You, An' It Cool! A Class for Children with Severe Language Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Monaco, Joan L.; Zaslow, Elinor L.

Discussed is an experimental demonstration class for children exhibiting severe language disabilities. Staff includes teacher-therapist, classroom aide, psychologist, audiologist, speech and language pathologists, and occupational therapist. A theoretical framework is provided through discussion of phonological, semantic and syntactic aspects of…

The Role of Multiple Solution Tasks in Developing Knowledge and Creativity in Geometry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levav-Waynberg, Anat; Leikin, Roza

2012-01-01

This paper describes changes in students' geometrical knowledge and their creativity associated with implementation of Multiple Solution Tasks (MSTs) in school geometry courses. Three hundred and three students from 14 geometry classes participated in the study, of whom 229 students from 11 classes learned in an experimental environment that…

The Effects of Teachers' In-Class Motivational Intervention on Learners' EFL Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alrabai, Fakieh

2016-01-01

This article reports the findings of a controlled quasi-experimental study investigating the effects of motivational strategies on learner motivation and achievement in English language classes in Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, the most important motivational strategies were identified. In the second…

Exploring the Impacts of Cognitive and Metacognitive Prompting on Students' Scientific Inquiry Practices Within an E-Learning Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wen-Xin; Hsu, Ying-Shao; Wang, Chia-Yu; Ho, Yu-Ting

2015-02-01

This study explores the effects of metacognitive and cognitive prompting on the scientific inquiry practices of students with various levels of initial metacognition. Two junior high school classes participated in this study. One class, the experimental group (n = 26), which received an inquiry-based curriculum with a combination of cognitive and metacognitive prompts, was compared to the other class, the comparison group (n = 25), which received only cognitive prompts in the same curriculum. Data sources included a test of inquiry practices, a questionnaire of metacognition, and worksheets. The results showed that the mixed cognitive and metacognitive prompts had significant impacts on the students' inquiry practices, especially their planning and analyzing abilities. Furthermore, the mixed prompts appeared to have a differential effect on those students with lower level metacognition, who showed significant improvement in their inquiry abilities. A combination of cognitive and metacognitive prompts during an inquiry cycle was found to promote students' inquiry practices.

Segmentation of thalamus from MR images via task-driven dictionary learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Luoluo; Glaister, Jeffrey; Sun, Xiaoxia; Carass, Aaron; Tran, Trac D.; Prince, Jerry L.

2016-03-01

Automatic thalamus segmentation is useful to track changes in thalamic volume over time. In this work, we introduce a task-driven dictionary learning framework to find the optimal dictionary given a set of eleven features obtained from T1-weighted MRI and diffusion tensor imaging. In this dictionary learning framework, a linear classifier is designed concurrently to classify voxels as belonging to the thalamus or non-thalamus class. Morphological post-processing is applied to produce the final thalamus segmentation. Due to the uneven size of the training data samples for the non-thalamus and thalamus classes, a non-uniform sampling scheme is pro- posed to train the classifier to better discriminate between the two classes around the boundary of the thalamus. Experiments are conducted on data collected from 22 subjects with manually delineated ground truth. The experimental results are promising in terms of improvements in the Dice coefficient of the thalamus segmentation overstate-of-the-art atlas-based thalamus segmentation algorithms.

Students’ Mathematical Creative Thinking through Problem Posing Learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulfah, U.; Prabawanto, S.; Jupri, A.

2017-09-01

The research aims to investigate the differences in enhancement of students’ mathematical creative thinking ability of those who received problem posing approach assisted by manipulative media and students who received problem posing approach without manipulative media. This study was a quasi experimental research with non-equivalent control group design. Population of this research was third-grade students of a primary school in Bandung city in 2016/2017 academic year. Sample of this research was two classes as experiment class and control class. The instrument used is a test of mathematical creative thinking ability. Based on the results of the research, it is known that the enhancement of the students’ mathematical creative thinking ability of those who received problem posing approach with manipulative media aid is higher than the ability of those who received problem posing approach without manipulative media aid. Students who get learning problem posing learning accustomed in arranging mathematical sentence become matter of story so it can facilitate students to comprehend about story

Segmentation of Thalamus from MR images via Task-Driven Dictionary Learning.

PubMed

Liu, Luoluo; Glaister, Jeffrey; Sun, Xiaoxia; Carass, Aaron; Tran, Trac D; Prince, Jerry L

2016-02-27

Automatic thalamus segmentation is useful to track changes in thalamic volume over time. In this work, we introduce a task-driven dictionary learning framework to find the optimal dictionary given a set of eleven features obtained from T1-weighted MRI and diffusion tensor imaging. In this dictionary learning framework, a linear classifier is designed concurrently to classify voxels as belonging to the thalamus or non-thalamus class. Morphological post-processing is applied to produce the final thalamus segmentation. Due to the uneven size of the training data samples for the non-thalamus and thalamus classes, a non-uniform sampling scheme is proposed to train the classifier to better discriminate between the two classes around the boundary of the thalamus. Experiments are conducted on data collected from 22 subjects with manually delineated ground truth. The experimental results are promising in terms of improvements in the Dice coefficient of the thalamus segmentation over state-of-the-art atlas-based thalamus segmentation algorithms.

The effectiveness of snow cube throwing learning model based on exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sari, Nenden Mutiara

2017-08-01

This study aimed to know the effectiveness of Snow Cube Throwing (SCT) and Cooperative Model in Exploration-Based Math Learning in terms of the time required to complete the teaching materials and student engagement. This study was quasi-experimental research was conducted at SMPN 5 Cimahi, Indonesia. All student in grade VIII SMPN 5 Cimahi which consists of 382 students is used as population. The sample consists of two classes which had been chosen randomly with purposive sampling. First experiment class consists of 38 students and the second experiment class consists of 38 students. Observation sheet was used to observe the time required to complete the teaching materials and record the number of students involved in each meeting. The data obtained was analyzed by independent sample-t test and used the chart. The results of this study: SCT learning model based on exploration are more effective than cooperative learning models based on exploration in terms of the time required to complete teaching materials based on exploration and student engagement.

Electric thruster research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaufman, H. R.; Robinson, R. S.

1981-01-01

The multipole discharge chamber of an electrostatic ion thruster is discussed. No reductions in discharge losses were obtained, despite repeated demonstration of anode potentials more positive than the bulk of the discharge plasma. The penalty associated with biased anode operation was reduced as the magnetic integral above the biased anodes was increased. The hollow cathode is discussed. The experimental configuration of the Hall current thruster had a uniform field throughout the ion generation and acceleration regions. To obtain reliable ion generation, it was necessary to reduce the magnetic field strength, to the point where excessive electron backflow was required to establish ion acceleration. The theoretical study of ion acceleration with closed electron drift paths resulted in two classes of solutions. One class has the continuous potential variation in the acceleration region that is normally associated with a Hall current accelerator. The other class has an almost discontinuous potential step near the anode end of the acceleration region. This step includes a significant fraction of the total acceleration potential difference.

Interoperability between biomedical ontologies through relation expansion, upper-level ontologies and automatic reasoning.

PubMed

Hoehndorf, Robert; Dumontier, Michel; Oellrich, Anika; Rebholz-Schuhmann, Dietrich; Schofield, Paul N; Gkoutos, Georgios V

2011-01-01

Researchers design ontologies as a means to accurately annotate and integrate experimental data across heterogeneous and disparate data- and knowledge bases. Formal ontologies make the semantics of terms and relations explicit such that automated reasoning can be used to verify the consistency of knowledge. However, many biomedical ontologies do not sufficiently formalize the semantics of their relations and are therefore limited with respect to automated reasoning for large scale data integration and knowledge discovery. We describe a method to improve automated reasoning over biomedical ontologies and identify several thousand contradictory class definitions. Our approach aligns terms in biomedical ontologies with foundational classes in a top-level ontology and formalizes composite relations as class expressions. We describe the semi-automated repair of contradictions and demonstrate expressive queries over interoperable ontologies. Our work forms an important cornerstone for data integration, automatic inference and knowledge discovery based on formal representations of knowledge. Our results and analysis software are available at http://bioonto.de/pmwiki.php/Main/ReasonableOntologies.

Development and Effectiveness of an Educational Card Game as Supplementary Material in Understanding Selected Topics in Biology

PubMed Central

Gutierrez, Arnel F.

2014-01-01

The complex concepts and vocabulary of biology classes discourage many students. In this study, a pretest–posttest model was used to test the effectiveness of an educational card game in reinforcing biological concepts in comparison with traditional teaching methods. The subjects of this study were two biology classes at Bulacan State University–Sarmiento Campus. Both classes received conventional instruction; however, the experimental group's instruction was supplemented with the card game, while the control group's instruction was reinforced with traditional exercises and assignments. The score increases from pretest to posttest showed that both methods effectively reinforced biological concepts, but a t test showed that the card game is more effective than traditional teaching methods. Additionally, students from the experimental group evaluated the card game using five criteria: goals, design, organization, playability, and usefulness. The students rated the material very satisfactory. PMID:24591506

Development and effectiveness of an educational card game as supplementary material in understanding selected topics in biology.

PubMed

Gutierrez, Arnel F

2014-01-01

The complex concepts and vocabulary of biology classes discourage many students. In this study, a pretest-posttest model was used to test the effectiveness of an educational card game in reinforcing biological concepts in comparison with traditional teaching methods. The subjects of this study were two biology classes at Bulacan State University-Sarmiento Campus. Both classes received conventional instruction; however, the experimental group's instruction was supplemented with the card game, while the control group's instruction was reinforced with traditional exercises and assignments. The score increases from pretest to posttest showed that both methods effectively reinforced biological concepts, but a t test showed that the card game is more effective than traditional teaching methods. Additionally, students from the experimental group evaluated the card game using five criteria: goals, design, organization, playability, and usefulness. The students rated the material very satisfactory.

Improvement or selection? A longitudinal analysis of students' views about experimental physics in their lab courses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilcox, Bethany R.; Lewandowski, H. J.

2017-12-01

Laboratory courses represent a unique and potentially important component of the undergraduate physics curriculum, which can be designed to allow students to authentically engage with the process of experimental physics. Among other possible benefits, participation in these courses throughout the undergraduate physics curriculum presents an opportunity to develop students' understanding of the nature and importance of experimental physics within the discipline as a whole. Here, we present and compare both a longitudinal and pseudolongitudinal analysis of students' responses to a research-based assessment targeting students' views about experimental physics—the Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey for Experimental Physics (E-CLASS)—across multiple, required lab courses at a single institution. We find that, while pseudolongitudinal averages showed increases in students' E-CLASS scores in each consecutive course, analysis of longitudinal data indicates that this increase was not driven by a cumulative impact of laboratory instruction. Rather, the increase was driven by a selection effect in which students who persisted into higher-level lab courses already had more expertlike beliefs, attitudes, and expectations than their peers when they started the lower-level courses.

The effects of an urban renewal project on health and health inequalities: a quasi-experimental study in Barcelona.

PubMed

Mehdipanah, Roshanak; Rodríguez-Sanz, Maica; Malmusi, Davide; Muntaner, Carles; Díez, Elia; Bartoll, Xavier; Borrell, Carme

2014-09-01

In the last decade, the Neighbourhoods Law in Catalonia (Spain) funded municipalities that presented urban renewal projects within disadvantaged neighbourhoods focusing on physical, social and economic improvements. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of this law on the health and health inequalities of residents in the intervened neighbourhoods in the city of Barcelona. A quasi-experimental predesign and postdesign was used to compare adult residents in five intervened neighbourhoods with eight non-intervened comparison neighbourhoods with similar socioeconomic characteristics. The Barcelona Health Survey was used for studying self-rated and mental health in pre (2001, 2006) and post (2011) years. Poisson regression models stratified by sex were used to compute prevalence ratios comparing 2011 with 2006, and later stratified by social class, to study health inequalities. The intervened neighbourhoods had a significant decrease in poor self-rated health in both sexes while no significant changes occurred in the comparison group. When stratified by social class, a significant improvement was observed in poor self-rated health in the manual group of the intervened neighbourhoods in both sexes, resulting in a decrease in self-rated health inequalities. Similar results were observed in poor mental health of women, while in men, poor mental health worsens in both neighbourhood groups but mostly in the comparison group. The Neighbourhoods Law had a positive effect on self-rated health and seems to prevent poor mental health increases in both sexes and especially among manual social classes. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Camouflage treatment of skeletal Class III malocclusion with multiloop edgewise arch wire and modified Class III elastics by maxillary mini-implant anchorage.

PubMed

He, Shushu; Gao, Jinhui; Wamalwa, Peter; Wang, Yunji; Zou, Shujuan; Chen, Song

2013-07-01

To evaluate the effect of the multiloop edgewise arch wire (MEAW) technique with maxillary mini-implants in the camouflage treatment of skeletal Class III malocclusion. Twenty patients were treated with the MEAW technique and modified Class III elastics from the maxillary mini-implants. Twenty-four patients were treated with MEAW and long Class III elastics from the upper second molars as control. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were obtained and analyzed before and after treatment, and 1 year after retention. Satisfactory occlusion was established in both groups. Through principal component analysis, it could be concluded the anterior-posterior dental position, skeletal sagittal and vertical position, and upper molar vertical position changed within groups and between groups; vertical lower teeth position and Wits distance changed in the experimental group and between groups. In the experimental group, the lower incisors tipped lingually 2.7 mm and extruded 2.4 mm. The lingual inclination of the lower incisors increased 3.5°. The mandibular first molars tipped distally 9.1° and intruded 0.4 mm. Their cusps moved 3.4 mm distally. In the control group, the upper incisors proclined 3°, and the upper first molar extruded 2 mm. SN-MP increased 1.6° and S-Go/N-ME decreased 1. The MEAW technique combined with modified Class III elastics by maxillary mini-implants can effectively tip the mandibular molars distally without any extrusion and tip the lower incisors lingually with extrusion to camouflage skeletal Class III malocclusions. Clockwise rotation of the mandible and further proclination of upper incisors can be avoided. The MEAW technique and modified Class III elastics provided an appropriate treatment strategy especially for patients with high angle and open bite tendency.

A novel class sensitive hashing technique for large-scale content-based remote sensing image retrieval

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reato, Thomas; Demir, Begüm; Bruzzone, Lorenzo

2017-10-01

This paper presents a novel class sensitive hashing technique in the framework of large-scale content-based remote sensing (RS) image retrieval. The proposed technique aims at representing each image with multi-hash codes, each of which corresponds to a primitive (i.e., land cover class) present in the image. To this end, the proposed method consists of a three-steps algorithm. The first step is devoted to characterize each image by primitive class descriptors. These descriptors are obtained through a supervised approach, which initially extracts the image regions and their descriptors that are then associated with primitives present in the images. This step requires a set of annotated training regions to define primitive classes. A correspondence between the regions of an image and the primitive classes is built based on the probability of each primitive class to be present at each region. All the regions belonging to the specific primitive class with a probability higher than a given threshold are highly representative of that class. Thus, the average value of the descriptors of these regions is used to characterize that primitive. In the second step, the descriptors of primitive classes are transformed into multi-hash codes to represent each image. This is achieved by adapting the kernel-based supervised locality sensitive hashing method to multi-code hashing problems. The first two steps of the proposed technique, unlike the standard hashing methods, allow one to represent each image by a set of primitive class sensitive descriptors and their hash codes. Then, in the last step, the images in the archive that are very similar to a query image are retrieved based on a multi-hash-code-matching scheme. Experimental results obtained on an archive of aerial images confirm the effectiveness of the proposed technique in terms of retrieval accuracy when compared to the standard hashing methods.

A comparision of Twin-block and Forsus (FRD) functional appliance--a cephalometric study.

PubMed

Mahamad, Irfanulla Khan; Neela, Praveen Kumar; Mascarenhas, Rohan; Husain, Akhter

2012-01-01

The aim was to compare the effects of Twin-block & Forsus (FRD) functional appliances in the correction of Angles Class II division 1 malocclusions. Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who underwent treatment with twin block for the correction of class II div 1 were compared with 25 patients who underwent treatment with Forsus appliance. These were again compared with the pre follow up and post follow up lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who have not undergone any treatment during this period. All the 3 group patients were compared for skeletal, dental and soft tissue parameters. Cephalometric analysis revealed that both Twin-block & Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device (FRD) appliances stimulated mandibular growth. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were found. Twin-block patients showed statistically very high significant (p < 0.001) increase in mandibular length (6.02 mm) whereas Forsus appliance patients showed significant (p < 0.05) increase in mandibular length (1.6 mm) when compared with control group (0.3 mm). No significant restriction of maxillary growth was found in either of the two experimental groups when compared to control group. Significant increase in lower anterior facial height & posterior facial height was observed in both experimental groups in relation to control group. Significant reduction of overjet and overbite was observed in both experimental groups. Class I molar relationship and improvement in the soft tissue profile were achieved in both treatment groups compared with control group. Both Twin Block and Forsus were effective in the treatment of Class II Div 1 malocclusion. Class II correction with Twin-block is more due to mandibular skeletal and dentoalveolar changes whereas in Forsus, it is more due to dentoalveolar changes and less skeletal changes.

Improper ferroelectricity: A theoretical and experimental investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardy, J. R.; Ullman, F. G.

1984-02-01

A combined theoretical and experimental study has been made of the origins and properties of the improper ferroelectricity associated with structural modulations of non-zero wavelengths. Two classes of materials have been studied: rare earth molybdates (specifically, gadolinium molybdate: GMO), and potassium selenate and its isomorphs. In the former, the modulation is produced by a zone boundary phonon instability, and in the latter by the instability of a phonon of wave vector approximately two-thirds of the way to the zone-boundary. In the second case the initial result is a modulated structure whose repeat distance is not a rational multiple of the basic lattice repeat distance. This result is a modulated polarization which, when the basic modulation locks in to a rational multiple of the lattice spacing, becomes uniform, and improper ferroelectricity results. The origins of these effects have been elucidated by theoretical studies, initially semi-empirical, but subsequently from first-principles. These complemented the experimental work, which primarily used inelastic light scattering, uniaxial stress, and hydrostatic pressure, to probe the balance between the interionic forces through the effects on the phonons and dielectric properties.

Pure-quartic solitons

PubMed Central

Blanco-Redondo, Andrea; Martijn, de Sterke C.; Sipe, J.E.; Krauss, Thomas F.; Eggleton, Benjamin J.; Husko, Chad

2016-01-01

Temporal optical solitons have been the subject of intense research due to their intriguing physics and applications in ultrafast optics and supercontinuum generation. Conventional bright optical solitons result from the interaction of anomalous group-velocity dispersion and self-phase modulation. Here we experimentally demonstrate a class of bright soliton arising purely from the interaction of negative fourth-order dispersion and self-phase modulation, which can occur even for normal group-velocity dispersion. We provide experimental and numerical evidence of shape-preserving propagation and flat temporal phase for the fundamental pure-quartic soliton and periodically modulated propagation for the higher-order pure-quartic solitons. We derive the approximate shape of the fundamental pure-quartic soliton and discover that is surprisingly Gaussian, exhibiting excellent agreement with our experimental observations. Our discovery, enabled by precise dispersion engineering, could find applications in communications, frequency combs and ultrafast lasers. PMID:26822758

Learning styles: The learning methods of air traffic control students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jackson, Dontae L.

In the world of aviation, air traffic controllers are an integral part in the overall level of safety that is provided. With a number of controllers reaching retirement age, the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) was created to provide a stronger candidate pool. However, AT-CTI Instructors have found that a number of AT-CTI students are unable to memorize types of aircraft effectively. This study focused on the basic learning styles (auditory, visual, and kinesthetic) of students and created a teaching method to try to increase memorization in AT-CTI students. The participants were asked to take a questionnaire to determine their learning style. Upon knowing their learning styles, participants attended two classroom sessions. The participants were given a presentation in the first class, and divided into a control and experimental group for the second class. The control group was given the same presentation from the first classroom session while the experimental group had a group discussion and utilized Middle Tennessee State University's Air Traffic Control simulator to learn the aircraft types. Participants took a quiz and filled out a survey, which tested the new teaching method. An appropriate statistical analysis was applied to determine if there was a significant difference between the control and experimental groups. The results showed that even though the participants felt that the method increased their learning, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

Applying ``intelligent`` materials for materials education: The Labless Lab{trademark}

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Andrade, J.D.; Scheer, R.

1994-12-31

A very large number of science and engineering courses taught in colleges and universities today do not involve laboratories. Although good instructors incorporate class demonstrations, hands on homework, and various teaching aids, including computer simulations, the fact is that students in such courses often accept key concepts and experimental results without discovering them for themselves. The only partial solution to this problem has been increasing use of class demonstrations and computer simulations. The authors feel strongly that many complex concepts can be observed and assimilated through experimentation with properly designed materials. They propose the development of materials and specimens designedmore » specifically for education purposes. Intelligent and communicative materials are ideal for this purpose. Specimens which respond in an observable fashion to new environments and situations provided by the students/experimenter provide a far more effective materials science and engineering experience than readouts and data generated by complex and expensive machines, particularly in an introductory course. Modern materials can be designed to literally communicate with the observer. The authors embarked on a project to develop a series of Labless Labs{trademark} utilizing various degrees and levels of intelligence in materials. It is expected that such Labless Labs{trademark} would be complementary to textbooks and computer simulations and to be used to provide a reality for students in courses and other learning situations where access to a laboratory is non-existent or limited.« less

Gasoline conservation: a procedure for measuring and reducing the driving of college students

PubMed Central

Foxx, R. M.; Hake, D. F.

1977-01-01

The study sought to motivate college students to reduce the number of miles they drove each day and thus save gasoline. Students in two psychology classes were divided by class into two groups. The experimental group was offered various combinations of prizes such as cash, a tour of a mental-health facility, car servicing, and a university parking sticker for reducing driving. The value of the prize received was scaled in terms of per cent reduction in driving. The contrast group received no inducements. The condition in which the experimental group's mileage reduction was reinforced was counterbalanced by two baseline conditions. Several special recording procedures were used to reduce and detect the possibility of subjects altering their odometers, the source of the driving data. Experimental subjects reduced their average daily mileage by 20% relative to the initial baseline; the contrast group did not change. During the one-month reinforcement condition, the 12 experimental subjects saved some 170 gallons (worth $102) of gasoline. PMID:16795548

Multiple discrete encephalitogenic epitopes of the autoantigen myelin basic protein include a determinant for I-E class II-restricted T cells

PubMed Central

1988-01-01

Immunization with the autoantigen myelin basic protein (MBP) causes experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE). Initial investigations indicated that encephalitogenic murine determinants of MBP were located only within MBP 1-37 and MBP 89-169. Encephalitogenic T cell epitopes within these fragments have been identified. Each epitope is recognized by T cells in association with separate allelic I-A molecules. A hybrid I-E-restricted T cell clone that recognizes intact mouse (self) MBP has been examined. The epitope recognized by this clone includes MBP residues 35-47. When tested in vivo, p35-47 causes EAE. T cell recognition of p35-47 occurs only in association with I-E molecules. These results provide the first clear example that antigen-specific T cells restricted by I-E class II molecules participate in murine autoimmune disease. Furthermore, it is clear that there are multiple (at least three) discrete encephalitogenic T cell epitopes of this autoantigen, each recognized in association with separate allelic class II molecules. These results may be relevant to human autoimmune diseases whose susceptibility is associated with more than one HLA-D molecule. PMID:2459291

Common lines modeling for reference free Ab-initio reconstruction in cryo-EM.

PubMed

Greenberg, Ido; Shkolnisky, Yoel

2017-11-01

We consider the problem of estimating an unbiased and reference-free ab initio model for non-symmetric molecules from images generated by single-particle cryo-electron microscopy. The proposed algorithm finds the globally optimal assignment of orientations that simultaneously respects all common lines between all images. The contribution of each common line to the estimated orientations is weighted according to a statistical model for common lines' detection errors. The key property of the proposed algorithm is that it finds the global optimum for the orientations given the common lines. In particular, any local optima in the common lines energy landscape do not affect the proposed algorithm. As a result, it is applicable to thousands of images at once, very robust to noise, completely reference free, and not biased towards any initial model. A byproduct of the algorithm is a set of measures that allow to asses the reliability of the obtained ab initio model. We demonstrate the algorithm using class averages from two experimental data sets, resulting in ab initio models with resolutions of 20Å or better, even from class averages consisting of as few as three raw images per class. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Botulinum toxin as a therapeutic agent to prevent relapse in deep bite patients.

PubMed

Mücke, Thomas; Löffel, Anja; Kanatas, Anastasios; Karnezi, Sandy; Rana, Majeed; Fichter, Andreas; Haarmann, Stephan; Wolff, Klaus-Dietrich; Loeffelbein, Denys John

2016-05-01

The etiology of deep bite is multifactorial. One of the causes is increased muscular activity. This makes the treatment of deep bite malocclusions difficult and often results in relapse in many cases. In this work we compared patients with surgical orthognathic treatment only and surgical orthognathic treatment with additional injections of botulinum toxin after mandibular advancement for class II division 2 malocclusion. This is a prospective study. Adult patients were assessed pretreatment (T1), posttreatment (T2), and long-term after 1 year (T3). In total, 32 patients (mean age, 30.7 years; 23 women and 9 men) reached the study end point (T3); 24 patients were treated without botulinum toxin and 8 patients received preoperative injections of botulinum toxin. Significant differences between both groups were observed, with a more stable result for the experimental group treated with botulinum toxin. In a selective group of adult patients with a class II division II incisor relationship and with a class II skeletal base, botulinum toxin injections can effectively prevent relapse. This may present an alternative to a conventional myotomy. Copyright © 2016 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Degradation of the Herbicide (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid) Using a Photoreactor with Exciplex Lamps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vershinin, N. O.; Sokolova, I. V.; Tchaikovskaya, O. N.

2013-09-01

We present the results of tests of a compact flow-through reactor for neutralization of a broad class of persistent toxic compounds. As the toxicant we used the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, and we used exciplex lamps with different emission wave lengths (λ ~ 222 nm and 172 nm). We show the experimental decrease in the amount of organic compounds vs. irradiation time as obtained from the absorption spectra.

Opto-electronic oscillator and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, X. S.; Maleki, Lute

1997-04-01

We review the properties of a new class of microwave oscillators called opto-electronic oscillators (OEO). We present theoretical and experimental results of a multi-loop technique for single mode selection. We then describe a new development called coupled OEO (COEO) in which the electrical oscillation is directly coupled with the optical oscillation, producing an OEO that generates stable optical pulses and single mode microwave oscillation simultaneously. Finally we discuss various applications of OEO.

Investigating compression failure mechanisms in composite laminates with a transparent fiberglass-epoxy birefringent materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shuart, M. J.; Williams, J. G.

1984-01-01

The response and failure of a + or - 45s class laminate was studied by transparent fiberglass epoxy composite birefringent material. The birefringency property allows the laminate stress distribution to be observed during the test and also after the test if permanent residual stresses occur. The location of initial laminate failure and of the subsequent failure propagation are observed through its transparency characteristics. Experimental results are presented.

A New Approach in Time-Frequency Analysis with Applications to Experimental High Range Resolution Radar Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-11-01

Distributions In contrast to the linear time-frequency transforms such as the short-time Fourier transform, the Wigner - Ville distribution ( WVD ) is...23 9 Results of nine TFDs: (a) Wigner - Ville distribution , (b) Born-Jordan distribution , (c) Choi-Williams distribution , (d) bilinear TFD...are applied in the Wigner - Ville class of time-frequency transforms and the reassignment methods, which are applied to any time-frequency distribution

Does Gender Make a Difference? Results from the German "Tandem Study" on the Pedagogical Activity of Female and Male ECE Workers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandes, Holger; Andrä, Markus; Röseler, Wenke; Schneider-Andrich, Petra

2015-01-01

Based on an everyday quasi-experimental situation with multiple materials, the behavior of male and female early childhood education (ECE) workers is recorded and compared. The research is based on a sample of 41 female and 41 male ECE workers, who in each case work together in tandem in a kindergarten class, as well as a control group of 12…

Study of Residual Stresses and Distortion in Structural Weldments in High-Strength Steels.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-11-30

02139 II. CONTROLLING OFFICE NAME AND ADDRESS 12. REPORT DATE Department of the Navy November 30, 1982 Office of Naval Research 13. NUMBER OF PAGES...Arlington, Virginia 22217 14. MONITORING AGENCY NAME & ADDRESS(if different from Controlling Office) 15. SECURITY CLASS. (of this report) Unclassified 15a...a residual stress field were calculated. Finally, results from all of the afLrementioned analyses were compared with data obtained from experimental

Transfer of SIMNET Training in the Armor Officer Basic Course

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

group correctly performed more tasks in the posttest , but the difference was not statistically significant for these small samples. Gains from pretest ...to posttest were not compared statistically, but the field-trained group showed little average gain. Based on these results and other supporting data...that serve as a control group , and (b) SIMNET classes after the change that serve as a treatment group . The comparison is termed quasi - experimental

Network-Based Analysis of Software Change Propagation

PubMed Central

Wang, Rongcun; Qu, Binbin

2014-01-01

The object-oriented software systems frequently evolve to meet new change requirements. Understanding the characteristics of changes aids testers and system designers to improve the quality of softwares. Identifying important modules becomes a key issue in the process of evolution. In this context, a novel network-based approach is proposed to comprehensively investigate change distributions and the correlation between centrality measures and the scope of change propagation. First, software dependency networks are constructed at class level. And then, the number of times of cochanges among classes is minded from software repositories. According to the dependency relationships and the number of times of cochanges among classes, the scope of change propagation is calculated. Using Spearman rank correlation analyzes the correlation between centrality measures and the scope of change propagation. Three case studies on java open source software projects Findbugs, Hibernate, and Spring are conducted to research the characteristics of change propagation. Experimental results show that (i) change distribution is very uneven; (ii) PageRank, Degree, and CIRank are significantly correlated to the scope of change propagation. Particularly, CIRank shows higher correlation coefficient, which suggests it can be a more useful indicator for measuring the scope of change propagation of classes in object-oriented software system. PMID:24790557

Network-based analysis of software change propagation.

PubMed

Wang, Rongcun; Huang, Rubing; Qu, Binbin

2014-01-01

The object-oriented software systems frequently evolve to meet new change requirements. Understanding the characteristics of changes aids testers and system designers to improve the quality of softwares. Identifying important modules becomes a key issue in the process of evolution. In this context, a novel network-based approach is proposed to comprehensively investigate change distributions and the correlation between centrality measures and the scope of change propagation. First, software dependency networks are constructed at class level. And then, the number of times of cochanges among classes is minded from software repositories. According to the dependency relationships and the number of times of cochanges among classes, the scope of change propagation is calculated. Using Spearman rank correlation analyzes the correlation between centrality measures and the scope of change propagation. Three case studies on java open source software projects Findbugs, Hibernate, and Spring are conducted to research the characteristics of change propagation. Experimental results show that (i) change distribution is very uneven; (ii) PageRank, Degree, and CIRank are significantly correlated to the scope of change propagation. Particularly, CIRank shows higher correlation coefficient, which suggests it can be a more useful indicator for measuring the scope of change propagation of classes in object-oriented software system.

Shape Comparison Between 0.4–2.0 and 20–60 lm Cement Particles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Holzer, L.; Flatt, R; Erdogan, S

Portland cement powder, ground from much larger clinker particles, has a particle size distribution from about 0.1 to 100 {micro}m. An important question is then: does particle shape depend on particle size? For the same cement, X-ray computed tomography has been used to examine the 3-D shape of particles in the 20-60 {micro}m sieve range, and focused ion beam nanotomography has been used to examine the 3-D shape of cement particles found in the 0.4-2.0 {micro}m sieve range. By comparing various kinds of computed particle shape data for each size class, the conclusion is made that, within experimental uncertainty, bothmore » size classes are prolate, but the smaller size class particles, 0.4-2.0 {micro}m, tend to be somewhat more prolate than the 20-60 {micro}m size class. The practical effect of this shape difference on the set-point was assessed using the Virtual Cement and Concrete Testing Laboratory to simulate the hydration of five cement powders. Results indicate that nonspherical aspect ratio is more important in determining the set-point than are the actual shape details.« less

Discriminative Dictionary Learning With Two-Level Low Rank and Group Sparse Decomposition for Image Classification.

PubMed

Wen, Zaidao; Hou, Zaidao; Jiao, Licheng

2017-11-01

Discriminative dictionary learning (DDL) framework has been widely used in image classification which aims to learn some class-specific feature vectors as well as a representative dictionary according to a set of labeled training samples. However, interclass similarities and intraclass variances among input samples and learned features will generally weaken the representability of dictionary and the discrimination of feature vectors so as to degrade the classification performance. Therefore, how to explicitly represent them becomes an important issue. In this paper, we present a novel DDL framework with two-level low rank and group sparse decomposition model. In the first level, we learn a class-shared and several class-specific dictionaries, where a low rank and a group sparse regularization are, respectively, imposed on the corresponding feature matrices. In the second level, the class-specific feature matrix will be further decomposed into a low rank and a sparse matrix so that intraclass variances can be separated to concentrate the corresponding feature vectors. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our model. Compared with the other state-of-the-arts on several popular image databases, our model can achieve a competitive or better performance in terms of the classification accuracy.

The Effect of Concept Attainment Model on Mathematically Critical Thinking Ability of The University Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angraini, L. M.; Kartasasmita, B.; Dasari, D.

2017-02-01

This study examined the university students’ mathematically critical thinking ability through Concept Attainment Model learning. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Levene test, t test, ANOVA one and two ways were used to analyse the data. The results of this study showed that (1) there is no difference grade on the student’s mathematical critical thinking ability between experimental group and conventional group as a whole, (2) there is no difference on the students’ mathematical critical thinking ability of experimental classes based on their mathematical early ability (3) there is no interaction between the learning that is used with the students’ mathematical early ability on the students’ mathematical critical thinking ability.

GPS-MBA: Computational Analysis of MHC Class II Epitopes in Type 1 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Ren, Jian; Ma, Chuang; Gao, Tianshun; Zhou, Yanhong; Yang, Qing; Xue, Yu

2012-01-01

As a severe chronic metabolic disease and autoimmune disorder, type 1 diabetes (T1D) affects millions of people world-wide. Recent advances in antigen-based immunotherapy have provided a great opportunity for further treating T1D with a high degree of selectivity. It is reported that MHC class II I-Ag7 in the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse and human HLA-DQ8 are strongly linked to susceptibility to T1D. Thus, the identification of new I-Ag7 and HLA-DQ8 epitopes would be of great help to further experimental and biomedical manipulation efforts. In this study, a novel GPS-MBA (MHC Binding Analyzer) software package was developed for the prediction of I-Ag7 and HLA-DQ8 epitopes. Using experimentally identified epitopes as the training data sets, a previously developed GPS (Group-based Prediction System) algorithm was adopted and improved. By extensive evaluation and comparison, the GPS-MBA performance was found to be much better than other tools of this type. With this powerful tool, we predicted a number of potentially new I-Ag7 and HLA-DQ8 epitopes. Furthermore, we designed a T1D epitope database (TEDB) for all of the experimentally identified and predicted T1D-associated epitopes. Taken together, this computational prediction result and analysis provides a starting point for further experimental considerations, and GPS-MBA is demonstrated to be a useful tool for generating starting information for experimentalists. The GPS-MBA is freely accessible for academic researchers at: http://mba.biocuckoo.org. PMID:22479466

HD-MTL: Hierarchical Deep Multi-Task Learning for Large-Scale Visual Recognition.

PubMed

Fan, Jianping; Zhao, Tianyi; Kuang, Zhenzhong; Zheng, Yu; Zhang, Ji; Yu, Jun; Peng, Jinye

2017-02-09

In this paper, a hierarchical deep multi-task learning (HD-MTL) algorithm is developed to support large-scale visual recognition (e.g., recognizing thousands or even tens of thousands of atomic object classes automatically). First, multiple sets of multi-level deep features are extracted from different layers of deep convolutional neural networks (deep CNNs), and they are used to achieve more effective accomplishment of the coarseto- fine tasks for hierarchical visual recognition. A visual tree is then learned by assigning the visually-similar atomic object classes with similar learning complexities into the same group, which can provide a good environment for determining the interrelated learning tasks automatically. By leveraging the inter-task relatedness (inter-class similarities) to learn more discriminative group-specific deep representations, our deep multi-task learning algorithm can train more discriminative node classifiers for distinguishing the visually-similar atomic object classes effectively. Our hierarchical deep multi-task learning (HD-MTL) algorithm can integrate two discriminative regularization terms to control the inter-level error propagation effectively, and it can provide an end-to-end approach for jointly learning more representative deep CNNs (for image representation) and more discriminative tree classifier (for large-scale visual recognition) and updating them simultaneously. Our incremental deep learning algorithms can effectively adapt both the deep CNNs and the tree classifier to the new training images and the new object classes. Our experimental results have demonstrated that our HD-MTL algorithm can achieve very competitive results on improving the accuracy rates for large-scale visual recognition.

Independent sources of anisotropy in visual orientation representation: a visual and a cognitive oblique effect.

PubMed

Balikou, Panagiota; Gourtzelidis, Pavlos; Mantas, Asimakis; Moutoussis, Konstantinos; Evdokimidis, Ioannis; Smyrnis, Nikolaos

2015-11-01

The representation of visual orientation is more accurate for cardinal orientations compared to oblique, and this anisotropy has been hypothesized to reflect a low-level visual process (visual, "class 1" oblique effect). The reproduction of directional and orientation information also leads to a mean error away from cardinal orientations or directions. This anisotropy has been hypothesized to reflect a high-level cognitive process of space categorization (cognitive, "class 2," oblique effect). This space categorization process would be more prominent when the visual representation of orientation degrades such as in the case of working memory with increasing cognitive load, leading to increasing magnitude of the "class 2" oblique effect, while the "class 1" oblique effect would remain unchanged. Two experiments were performed in which an array of orientation stimuli (1-4 items) was presented and then subjects had to realign a probe stimulus within the previously presented array. In the first experiment, the delay between stimulus presentation and probe varied, while in the second experiment, the stimulus presentation time varied. The variable error was larger for oblique compared to cardinal orientations in both experiments reproducing the visual "class 1" oblique effect. The mean error also reproduced the tendency away from cardinal and toward the oblique orientations in both experiments (cognitive "class 2" oblique effect). The accuracy or the reproduced orientation degraded (increasing variable error) and the cognitive "class 2" oblique effect increased with increasing memory load (number of items) in both experiments and presentation time in the second experiment. In contrast, the visual "class 1" oblique effect was not significantly modulated by any one of these experimental factors. These results confirmed the theoretical predictions for the two anisotropies in visual orientation reproduction and provided support for models proposing the categorization of orientation in visual working memory.

The effect of social and token economy reinforcements on academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities.

PubMed

Mirzamani, S Mahmood; Ashoori, Mohammad; Sereshki, Narges Adib

2011-01-01

This study investigates the effect of social and token economy reinforcements on academic achievement of 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in an experimental science class in Tehran Province. The method used for this study was experimental by pre-test, post- test with a control group. The boy students with intellectual disabilities from three junior high schools participated in this study. The sample consisted of thirty, 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in the selected schools; the schools were chosen by the multi-stage cluster method. To measure the progress of students in the science class, a teacher made test and the Wechsler intelligence test for matching the groups for IQ were used. To ensure validity, the content validity criteria depended tests calculated by the Lashe method and teachers' perspective were used. The reliability coefficient was obtained by the reliability coefficient of related tests; the percent agreement method and the obtained data were analyzed using one-way variance analysis and Shefe prosecution test. The results showed that there was a significant increase in academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities when using token economy than using social reinforcements compared with the control group. Also, when using social reinforcements, the academic achievement of students was more than the control group. Token economy and social reinforcements increased the academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities in the science class; and also the effect of token economy reinforcements was more than social reinforcements on the subjects.

The use of scientific direct instruction model with video learning of ethnoscience to improve students’ critical thinking skills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sudarmin, S.; Mursiti, S.; Asih, A. G.

2018-04-01

In this disruption era, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and important cultural conservation characters. Student's thinking skill in chemistry learning has not been developed because learning chemistry in schools still uses teacher-centered, lecture method, is less interesting and does not utilize local culture as a learning resource. The purpose of this research is to know the influence of the application of direct Instruction (DI) model with video learning of ethnoscience on the improvement of students’ critical thinking skills. This study was experimental research. The population was the students from class XI MIPA MA Negeri Gombong with the sample chosen by purposive random sampling. The material of local wisdom as the study of ethnosciences which was the focus of the research was the production of genting, dawet, lanting, and sempor reservoirs which is integrated with colloidal chemical contents. The learning video of ethnoscience before being applied was validated by experts. Students’ critical thinking skills were revealed through the concept of conceptualizing test instruments. The data analysis technique used was the test of proportion and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. The results of this study suggested that the experimental class that was treated by scientific direct instruction model with the learning video of ethnoscience shows cognitive learning and critical thinking which were better than the control class. Besides, the students indicated their interest in the application of scientific direct instruction model with ethnoscience learning video.

Teaching Grade 5 Life Science with a Case Study Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olgun, Ozlem Sila; Adali, Belgin

2008-01-01

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a case study approach on students' achievement and attitudes towards viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protista. Fifth-grade students (N = 88) from two different classes were involved in the study. One intact class was assigned as the experimental group, whereas the other intact class…

Working on the Work Framework for Engagement: Impacting Students' Perceived Learning, Attitudes toward School, and Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Forehand, Michael Joshua

2014-01-01

A quasi-experimental, pre-test post-test nonequivalent control group study was utilized to determine the difference in students' perceived learning, attitudes toward school, and achievement when participating in classes utilizing engagement design qualities as compared to students in classes not utilizing engagement design qualities. To inform the…

Instructional Design, Active Learning, and Student Performance: Using a Trading Room to Teach Strategy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Alice C.; Houghton, Susan M.; Rogers, Patrick R.

2012-01-01

This research used a quasi-experimental design with two conditions to test the impact of active learning in the context of integrated instructional design. The control condition was a traditional approach to teaching an undergraduate strategy capstone class. The intervention condition was an undergraduate strategy capstone class that was designed…

Total Immersion Language Program: A New Approach to Foreign Language Instruction. Technical Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morel, Stefano

A three-year experimental program established in 1966 in Spanish language instruction at the secondary level is reported in this study. Students at Commack High School North, New York, participated in a total immersion language program in Spanish, taking two to four classes of instruction in the target language per day. Classes included regular…

Relationship between Class Size and Students' Opportunity to Learn Writing in Middle School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tienken, Christopher H.; Achilles, Charles M.

2009-01-01

Class-size reduction (CSR) initiatives have demonstrated positive short- and long-term effects in elementary grades. Less is known about CSR influence on achievement in middle grades. Thus, we conducted a non-experimental, longitudinal, explanatory study of CSR influence on writing achievement of 3 independent cohorts of students (n = 123) in…

Enhancing a Face-to-Face Course with Online Lectures: Instructional and Pedagogical Issues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keefe, Thomas

Since 1999, and as part of an Ameritech grant, the author has systematically investigated use of streaming media to enhance face-to-face classes. Technology invites experimentation but raises questions about such things as student acceptance, student use, academic performance, and what to do with class time when lectures are put online. Students…

Implementation of Structured Inquiry Based Model Learning toward Students' Understanding of Geometry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salim, Kalbin; Tiawa, Dayang Hjh

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study is implementation of a structured inquiry learning model in instruction of geometry. The model used is a model with a quasi-experimental study amounted to two classes of samples selected from the population of the ten classes with cluster random sampling technique. Data collection tool consists of a test item…

Teaching the Structure of Immunoglobulins by Molecular Visualization and SDS-PAGE Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rižner, Tea Lanišnik

2014-01-01

This laboratory class combines molecular visualization and laboratory experimentation to teach the structure of the immunoglobulins (Ig). In the first part of the class, the three-dimensional structures of the human IgG and IgM molecules available through the RCSB PDB database are visualized using freely available software. In the second part, IgG…

Incorporating Meaningful Gamification in a Blended Learning Research Methods Class: Examining Student Learning, Engagement, and Affective Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tan, Meng; Hew, Khe Foon

2016-01-01

In this study, we investigated how the use of meaningful gamification affects student learning, engagement, and affective outcomes in a short, 3-day blended learning research methods class using a combination of experimental and qualitative research methods. Twenty-two postgraduates were randomly split into two groups taught by the same…

"We're Learning a Lot of New Words": Encountering New L2 Vocabulary outside of Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eskildsen, Soren Wind

2018-01-01

This article presents empirical evidence that the Interaction Hypothesis (Long, 1996), especially key concepts in Negotiation for Meaning, bears little relevance for language learning outside of class ("in the wild," cf. Hellermann, Eskildsen, et al., 2018; Wagner, 2015) but seems to be epiphenomenal to experimentally elicited data.…

Kindness in the Kindergarten: A Multidimensional Program for Facilitating Altruism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murray, John P.; Ahammer, Inge M.

This study compares the effectiveness of four experimental training programs designed to foster altruism in kindergarten children. Subjects were 97 children 4-5 years of age in six preschool classes. The children were assigned as a class to one of the six training and control conditions. The four training conditions were: (1) role playing; (2)…

Can Personalized Nudges Improve Learning in Hybrid Classes? Experimental Evidence from an Introductory Undergraduate Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Connell, Stephen D.; Lang, Guido

2018-01-01

A field experiment was conducted to investigate whether personalized e-mail reminders can improve study consistency and learning outcomes in an introductory-level undergraduate course. By randomly assigning whether nearly 300 students would receive occasional e-mail messages encouraging out-of-class study, we find that these reminders increased…

SRA Economics Materials in Grades One and Two. Evaluation Reports.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shaver, James P.; Larkins, A. Guy

A class of first graders and a class of second graders in four Salt Lake City schools comprised the experimental sample in a study whose objectives were (1) to develop a test for assessing learning with "Our Working World" materials, published by Science Research Associate (SRA), and (2) to determine if students using the materials made…

Evidential analysis of difference images for change detection of multitemporal remote sensing images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yin; Peng, Lijuan; Cremers, Armin B.

2018-03-01

In this article, we develop two methods for unsupervised change detection in multitemporal remote sensing images based on Dempster-Shafer's theory of evidence (DST). In most unsupervised change detection methods, the probability of difference image is assumed to be characterized by mixture models, whose parameters are estimated by the expectation maximization (EM) method. However, the main drawback of the EM method is that it does not consider spatial contextual information, which may entail rather noisy detection results with numerous spurious alarms. To remedy this, we firstly develop an evidence theory based EM method (EEM) which incorporates spatial contextual information in EM by iteratively fusing the belief assignments of neighboring pixels to the central pixel. Secondly, an evidential labeling method in the sense of maximizing a posteriori probability (MAP) is proposed in order to further enhance the detection result. It first uses the parameters estimated by EEM to initialize the class labels of a difference image. Then it iteratively fuses class conditional information and spatial contextual information, and updates labels and class parameters. Finally it converges to a fixed state which gives the detection result. A simulated image set and two real remote sensing data sets are used to evaluate the two evidential change detection methods. Experimental results show that the new evidential methods are comparable to other prevalent methods in terms of total error rate.

Machine learning for the automatic detection of anomalous events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher, Wendy D.

In this dissertation, we describe our research contributions for a novel approach to the application of machine learning for the automatic detection of anomalous events. We work in two different domains to ensure a robust data-driven workflow that could be generalized for monitoring other systems. Specifically, in our first domain, we begin with the identification of internal erosion events in earth dams and levees (EDLs) using geophysical data collected from sensors located on the surface of the levee. As EDLs across the globe reach the end of their design lives, effectively monitoring their structural integrity is of critical importance. The second domain of interest is related to mobile telecommunications, where we investigate a system for automatically detecting non-commercial base station routers (BSRs) operating in protected frequency space. The presence of non-commercial BSRs can disrupt the connectivity of end users, cause service issues for the commercial providers, and introduce significant security concerns. We provide our motivation, experimentation, and results from investigating a generalized novel data-driven workflow using several machine learning techniques. In Chapter 2, we present results from our performance study that uses popular unsupervised clustering algorithms to gain insights to our real-world problems, and evaluate our results using internal and external validation techniques. Using EDL passive seismic data from an experimental laboratory earth embankment, results consistently show a clear separation of events from non-events in four of the five clustering algorithms applied. Chapter 3 uses a multivariate Gaussian machine learning model to identify anomalies in our experimental data sets. For the EDL work, we used experimental data from two different laboratory earth embankments. Additionally, we explore five wavelet transform methods for signal denoising. The best performance is achieved with the Haar wavelets. We achieve up to 97.3% overall accuracy and less than 1.4% false negatives in anomaly detection. In Chapter 4, we research using two-class and one-class support vector machines (SVMs) for an effective anomaly detection system. We again use the two different EDL data sets from experimental laboratory earth embankments (each having approximately 80% normal and 20% anomalies) to ensure our workflow is robust enough to work with multiple data sets and different types of anomalous events (e.g., cracks and piping). We apply Haar wavelet-denoising techniques and extract nine spectral features from decomposed segments of the time series data. The two-class SVM with 10-fold cross validation achieved over 94% overall accuracy and 96% F1-score. Our approach provides a means for automatically identifying anomalous events using various machine learning techniques. Detecting internal erosion events in aging EDLs, earlier than is currently possible, can allow more time to prevent or mitigate catastrophic failures. Results show that we can successfully separate normal from anomalous data observations in passive seismic data, and provide a step towards techniques for continuous real-time monitoring of EDL health. Our lightweight non-commercial BSR detection system also has promise in separating commercial from non-commercial BSR scans without the need for prior geographic location information, extensive time-lapse surveys, or a database of known commercial carriers. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.).

Modified kernel-based nonlinear feature extraction.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ma, J.; Perkins, S. J.; Theiler, J. P.

2002-01-01

Feature Extraction (FE) techniques are widely used in many applications to pre-process data in order to reduce the complexity of subsequent processes. A group of Kernel-based nonlinear FE ( H E ) algorithms has attracted much attention due to their high performance. However, a serious limitation that is inherent in these algorithms -- the maximal number of features extracted by them is limited by the number of classes involved -- dramatically degrades their flexibility. Here we propose a modified version of those KFE algorithms (MKFE), This algorithm is developed from a special form of scatter-matrix, whose rank is not determinedmore » by the number of classes involved, and thus breaks the inherent limitation in those KFE algorithms. Experimental results suggest that MKFE algorithm is .especially useful when the training set is small.« less

How should we understand non-equilibrium many-body steady states?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maghrebi, Mohammad; Gorshkov, Alexey

: Many-body systems with both coherent dynamics and dissipation constitute a rich class of models which are nevertheless much less explored than their dissipationless counterparts. The advent of numerous experimental platforms that simulate such dynamics poses an immediate challenge to systematically understand and classify these models. In particular, nontrivial many-body states emerge as steady states under non-equilibrium dynamics. In this talk, I use a field-theoretic approach based on the Keldysh formalism to study nonequilibrium phases and phase transitions in such models. I show that an effective temperature generically emerges as a result of dissipation, and the universal behavior including the dynamics near the steady state is described by a thermodynamic universality class. In the end, I will also discuss possibilities that go beyond the paradigm of an effective thermodynamic behavior.

The Effect of Online Collaboration on Adolescent Sense of Community in Eighth-Grade Physical Science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wendt, Jillian L.; Rockinson-Szapkiw, Amanda J.

2015-10-01

Using a quasi-experimental, nonequivalent pretest/posttest control group design, the researchers examined the effects of online collaborative learning on eighth-grade student's sense of community in a physical science class. For a 9-week period, students in the control group participated in collaborative activities in a face-to-face learning environment, whereas students in the experimental group participated in online collaborative activities using the Edmodo educational platform in a hybrid learning environment. Students completed the Classroom Community Scale survey as a pretest and posttest. Results indicated that the students who participated in the face-to-face classroom had higher overall sense of community and learning community than students who participated in collaborative activities in the online environment. Results and implications are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided.

Cooperative expression of atomic chirality in inorganic nanostructures.

PubMed

Wang, Peng-Peng; Yu, Shang-Jie; Govorov, Alexander O; Ouyang, Min

2017-02-02

Cooperative chirality phenomena extensively exist in biomolecular and organic systems via intra- and inter-molecular interactions, but study of inorganic materials has been lacking. Here we report, experimentally and theoretically, cooperative chirality in colloidal cinnabar mercury sulfide nanocrystals that originates from chirality interplay between the crystallographic lattice and geometric morphology at different length scales. A two-step synthetic scheme is developed to allow control of critical parameters of these two types of handedness, resulting in different chiral interplays expressed as observables through materials engineering. Furthermore, we adopt an electromagnetic model with the finite element method to elucidate cooperative chirality in inorganic systems, showing excellent agreement with experimental results. Our study enables an emerging class of nanostructures with tailored cooperative chirality that is vital for fundamental understanding of nanoscale chirality as well as technology applications based on new chiroptical building blocks.

Cooperative expression of atomic chirality in inorganic nanostructures

PubMed Central

Wang, Peng-peng; Yu, Shang-Jie; Govorov, Alexander O; Ouyang, Min

2017-01-01

Cooperative chirality phenomena extensively exist in biomolecular and organic systems via intra- and inter-molecular interactions, but study of inorganic materials has been lacking. Here we report, experimentally and theoretically, cooperative chirality in colloidal cinnabar mercury sulfide nanocrystals that originates from chirality interplay between the crystallographic lattice and geometric morphology at different length scales. A two-step synthetic scheme is developed to allow control of critical parameters of these two types of handedness, resulting in different chiral interplays expressed as observables through materials engineering. Furthermore, we adopt an electromagnetic model with the finite element method to elucidate cooperative chirality in inorganic systems, showing excellent agreement with experimental results. Our study enables an emerging class of nanostructures with tailored cooperative chirality that is vital for fundamental understanding of nanoscale chirality as well as technology applications based on new chiroptical building blocks. PMID:28148957

Grain dynamics and plastic properties of highly refined materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lagos, Miguel; Retamal, César

2010-12-01

It has been shown that a grain boundary may undergo two competing classes of elastic instability when the in-plane shear stress exceeds the proper critical values. It may buckle acquiring a sinusoidal shape or may develop a periodic series of fissures, separating bands with a sigmoidal profile. The two instabilities lead to grain sliding, but the corresponding expressions relating the relative velocity between adjacent grains with stress do differ. The plastic properties for small strains were calculated for the two force laws, which we called force models A and B. A comparison of the theoretical results with published experimental data shows that model A, while giving predictions within the experimental uncertainties for a series of superplastic aluminium and titanium alloys, fails for Avesta 2304 steel. However, excellent results are obtained when model B is applied for this steel.

The major histocompatibility complex of tassel-eared squirrels. II. Genetic diversity associated with Abert squirrels.

PubMed

Wettstein, P J; States, J S

1986-01-01

The extent of polymorphism and the rate of divergence of class I and class II sequences mapping to the mammalian major histocompatibility complex (MHC) have been the subject of experimentation and speculation. To provide further insight into the evolution of the MHC we have initiated the analysis of two geographically isolated subspecies of tassel-eared squirrels. In the preceding communication we described the number and polymorphism of TSLA class I and class II sequences in Kaibab squirrels (S. aberti kaibabensis), which live north of the Grand Canyon. In this report we present a parallel analysis of Abert squirrels (S. aberti aberti), which live south of the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona. Genomic DNA from 12 Abert squirrels was digested with restriction enzymes, electrophoresed, blotted, and hybridized with DR alpha, DR beta, DQ alpha, DQ beta, and HLA-B7 probes. The results of these hybridizations were remarkably similar to those obtained in Kaibab squirrels. The majority of class I and class II bands were identical in size and number, suggesting that Abert and Kaibab squirrels have not significantly diverged in the TSLA complex despite their geographical separation. Relative polymorphism of class II sequences was similar to that observed with Kaibab squirrels: beta sequences exhibited higher polymorphism than alpha sequences. As in Kaibab squirrels, a number of alpha and beta sequences were apparently carried on the same fragments. In comparison to class II beta sequences, there was limited polymorphism in class I sequences, although a diverse number of class I genotypes were observed. Attempts to identify segregating TSLA haplotypes were futile in that the only families of sequences with concordant distributions were DQ alpha and DQ beta. These observations and those obtained with Kaibab squirrels suggest that the present-day TSLA haplotypes of both subspecies are derived from a limited number of common, progenitor haplotypes through repeated intra-TSLA recombination.

Changes in hydration status of elite Olympic class sailors in different climates and the effects of different fluid replacement beverages

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Olympic class sailing poses physiological challenges similar to other endurance sports such as cycling or running, with sport specific challenges of limited access to nutrition and hydration during competition. As changes in hydration status can impair sports performance, examining fluid consumption patterns and fluid/electrolyte requirements of Olympic class sailors is necessary to develop specific recommendations for these elite athletes. The purpose of this study was to examine if Olympic class sailors could maintain hydration status with self-regulated fluid consumption in cold conditions and the effect of fixed fluid intake on hydration status in warm conditions. Methods In our cold condition study (CCS), 11 elite Olympic class sailors were provided ad libitum access to three different drinks. Crystal Light (control, C); Gatorade (experimental control, G); and customized sailing-specific Infinit (experimental, IN) (1.0:0.22 CHO:PRO), were provided on three separate training days in cold 7.1°C [4.2 – 11.3]. Our warm condition study (WCS) examined the effect of fixed fluid intake (11.5 mL.kg.-1.h-1) of C, G and heat-specific experimental Infinit (INW)(1.0:0.074 CHO:PRO) on the hydration status of eight elite Olympic Laser class sailors in 19.5°C [17.0 - 23.3]. Both studies used a completely random design. Results In CCS, participants consumed 802 ± 91, 924 ± 137 and 707 ± 152 mL of fluid in each group respectively. This did not change urine specific gravity, but did lead to a main effect for time for body mass (p < 0.001), blood sodium, potassium and chloride with all groups lower post-training (p < 0.05). In WCS, fixed fluid intake increased participant’s body mass post-training in all groups (p < 0.01) and decreased urine specific gravity post-training (p < 0.01). There was a main effect for time for blood sodium, potassium and chloride concentration, with lower values observed post-training (p < 0.05). C blood sodium concentrations were lower than the INW group post-training (p = 0.031) with a trend towards significance in the G group (p = 0.069). Conclusion Ad libitum fluid consumption in cold conditions was insufficient in preventing a decrease in body mass and blood electrolyte concentration post-training. However, when a fixed volume of 11.5 mL.kg.-1.h-1 was consumed during warm condition training, hydration status was maintained by preventing changes in body mass and urine specific gravity. PMID:23432855

A comprehensive evaluation of the toxicology of cigarette ingredients: carbohydrates and natural products.

PubMed

Coggins, Christopher R E; Wagner, Karl A; Werley, Michael S; Oldham, Michael J

2011-06-01

Eleven carbohydrates and natural product ingredients were added individually to experimental cigarettes. A battery of tests was used to compare toxicity of mainstream smoke from these experimental cigarettes to matched control cigarettes without test ingredients. Smoke fractions from each cigarette type were evaluated using analytical chemistry; in vitro cytotoxicity (neutral red uptake) and in vitro bacterial (Salmonella) mutagenicity (five strains) testing. For 10 ingredients (β-cyclodextrin, cleargum, D-sorbitol, high fructose corn syrup, honey, invert sugar, maltodextrin, molasses, raisin juice concentrate, and sucrose), 90-day nose-only smoke inhalation studies using rats were also performed. In general, addition of each ingredient in experimental cigarettes resulted in minimal changes in smoke chemistry; the exceptions were D-sorbitol and sucrose, where reductions in amount of 60% to 80% of control values for some smoke constituents were noted. Additionally, each ingredient resulted in small increases in smoke formaldehyde concentrations. Except for a reduction in cytotoxicity by inclusion of maltodextrin and an increase by inclusion of plum juice concentrate, the cytotoxicity and mutagenicity results were unaffected by addition of the other ingredients in experimental cigarettes. There were also very few statistically significant differences within any of the 10 inhalation studies, and when present, the differences were largely sporadic and inconsistent between sexes. The carbohydrates and natural products tested here as ingredients in experimental cigarettes as a class increased formaldehyde, but resulted in minimal toxicological responses, even at high inclusion levels compared with the levels used in commercial cigarette products.

Experimental adaptive quantum tomography of two-qubit states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Struchalin, G. I.; Pogorelov, I. A.; Straupe, S. S.; Kravtsov, K. S.; Radchenko, I. V.; Kulik, S. P.

2016-01-01

We report an experimental realization of adaptive Bayesian quantum state tomography for two-qubit states. Our implementation is based on the adaptive experimental design strategy proposed in the work by Huszár and Houlsby [F. Huszár and N. M. T. Houlsby, Phys. Rev. A 85, 052120 (2012)., 10.1103/PhysRevA.85.052120] and provides an optimal measurement approach in terms of the information gain. We address the practical questions which one faces in any experimental application: the influence of technical noise and the behavior of the tomographic algorithm for an easy-to-implement class of factorized measurements. In an experiment with polarization states of entangled photon pairs, we observe a lower instrumental noise floor and superior reconstruction accuracy for nearly pure states of the adaptive protocol compared to a nonadaptive protocol. At the same time, we show that for the mixed states, the restriction to factorized measurements results in no advantage for adaptive measurements, so general measurements have to be used.

A SVM-based quantitative fMRI method for resting-state functional network detection.

PubMed

Song, Xiaomu; Chen, Nan-kuei

2014-09-01

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) aims to measure baseline neuronal connectivity independent of specific functional tasks and to capture changes in the connectivity due to neurological diseases. Most existing network detection methods rely on a fixed threshold to identify functionally connected voxels under the resting state. Due to fMRI non-stationarity, the threshold cannot adapt to variation of data characteristics across sessions and subjects, and generates unreliable mapping results. In this study, a new method is presented for resting-state fMRI data analysis. Specifically, the resting-state network mapping is formulated as an outlier detection process that is implemented using one-class support vector machine (SVM). The results are refined by using a spatial-feature domain prototype selection method and two-class SVM reclassification. The final decision on each voxel is made by comparing its probabilities of functionally connected and unconnected instead of a threshold. Multiple features for resting-state analysis were extracted and examined using an SVM-based feature selection method, and the most representative features were identified. The proposed method was evaluated using synthetic and experimental fMRI data. A comparison study was also performed with independent component analysis (ICA) and correlation analysis. The experimental results show that the proposed method can provide comparable or better network detection performance than ICA and correlation analysis. The method is potentially applicable to various resting-state quantitative fMRI studies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A study of preservice elementary teachers enrolled in a discrepant-event-based physical science class

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lilly, James Edward

This research evaluated the POWERFUL IDEAS IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE (PIiPS) curriculum model used to develop a physical science course taken by preservice elementary teachers. The focus was on the evaluation of discrepant events used to induce conceptual change in relation to students' ideas concerning heat, temperature, and specific heat. Both quantitative and qualitative methodologies were used for the analysis. Data was collected during the 1998 Fall semester using two classes of physical science for elementary school teachers. The traditionally taught class served as the control group and the class using the PIiPS curriculum model was the experimental group. The PIiPS curriculum model was evaluated quantitatively for its influence on students' attitude toward science, anxiety towards teaching science, self efficacy toward teaching science, and content knowledge. An analysis of covariance was performed on the quantitative data to test for significant differences between the means of the posttests for the control and experimental groups while controlling for pretest. It was found that there were no significant differences between the means of the control and experimental groups with respect to changes in their attitude toward science, anxiety toward teaching science and self efficacy toward teaching science. A significant difference between the means of the content examination was found (F(1,28) = 14.202 and p = 0.001), however, the result is questionable. The heat and energy module was the target for qualitative scrutiny. Coding for discrepant events was adapted from Appleton's 1996 work on student's responses to discrepant event science lessons. The following qualitative questions were posed for the investigation: (1) what were the ideas of the preservice elementary students prior to entering the classroom regarding heat and energy, (2) how effective were the discrepant events as presented in the PIiPS heat and energy module, and (3) how much does the "risk taking factor" associated with not telling the students the answer right away, affect the learning of the material. It was found that preservice elementary teachers harbor similar preconceptions as the general population according to the literature. The discrepant events used in this module of the PIiPS curriculum model met with varied results. It appeared that those students who had not successfully confronted their preconceptions were less likely to accept the new concepts that were to be developed using the discrepant events. Lastly, students had shown great improvement in content understanding and developed the ability to ask deep and probing questions.

Student Involvement in Learning and School Achievement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Lorin W.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between selected student characteristics, student involvement in learning, and achievement. Both naturalistic (n = 28, 27) and experimental studies were conducted. In the experimental study, two classes (n = 29, 26) learned a sequence of matrix arithmetic by mastery learning strategies.…

Infusing Mathematics Content into a Methods Course: Impacting Content Knowledge for Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burton, Megan; Daane, C. J.; Giesen, Judy

2008-01-01

This study compared content knowledge for teaching mathematics differences between elementary pre-service teachers in a traditional versus an experimental mathematics methods course. The experimental course replaced 20 minutes of traditional methods, each class, with an intervention of elementary mathematics content. The difference between groups…

"The Advance Guard of a New Motion Picture Art": Experimental Cinema, 1930-1933.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandon, Thomas

1978-01-01

Ninety-eight articles from the five issues of "Experimental Cinema" are annotated. The magazine appeared from 1930 to 1933 and is credited with stimulating the emergence of world cinema culture in the United States, while demonstrating perceptions of working class interests and even revolutionary projections. (JMF)

EVALUATION OF EXPERIMENTAL PRESCHOOL PROGRAM FOR EDUCATIONALLY DEPRIVED CHILDREN (1964).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

STEWART, LUCILLE M.

THE AIM OF AN EXPERIMENTAL PRESCHOOL PROGRAM FOR EDUCATIONALLY DEPRIVED CHILDREN WAS TO PREPARE THEM FOR REGULAR KINDERGARTEN CLASSES. ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES WERE PROVIDED WHICH HELPED THE CHILDREN EXPRESS THEMSELVES VERBALLY AND BECOME AWARE OF THEIR ENVIRONMENT. THE BUDGET FOR A 6-WEEK PROGRAM, INCLUDING STAFF, PROGRAM SUPPLIES, AND…

The Effect of Instructional Gaming upon Absenteeism: The First Step.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Allen, Layman E.; Main, Dana B.

This study focuses on the affective dimension of learning as influenced by a learning environment organized around instructional gaming. Experimental and control classes of seventh- and eighth-grade students taught by the same teachers for both semesters participated in the 1972-73 study. The experimental learning environment contained three…

AdOn HDP-HMM: An Adaptive Online Model for Segmentation and Classification of Sequential Data.

PubMed

Bargi, Ava; Xu, Richard Yi Da; Piccardi, Massimo

2017-09-21

Recent years have witnessed an increasing need for the automated classification of sequential data, such as activities of daily living, social media interactions, financial series, and others. With the continuous flow of new data, it is critical to classify the observations on-the-fly and without being limited by a predetermined number of classes. In addition, a model should be able to update its parameters in response to a possible evolution in the distributions of the classes. This compelling problem, however, does not seem to have been adequately addressed in the literature, since most studies focus on offline classification over predefined class sets. In this paper, we present a principled solution for this problem based on an adaptive online system leveraging Markov switching models and hierarchical Dirichlet process priors. This adaptive online approach is capable of classifying the sequential data over an unlimited number of classes while meeting the memory and delay constraints typical of streaming contexts. In this paper, we introduce an adaptive ''learning rate'' that is responsible for balancing the extent to which the model retains its previous parameters or adapts to new observations. Experimental results on stationary and evolving synthetic data and two video data sets, TUM Assistive Kitchen and collated Weizmann, show a remarkable performance in terms of segmentation and classification, particularly for sequences from evolutionary distributions and/or those containing previously unseen classes.

Geometric mean for subspace selection.

PubMed

Tao, Dacheng; Li, Xuelong; Wu, Xindong; Maybank, Stephen J

2009-02-01

Subspace selection approaches are powerful tools in pattern classification and data visualization. One of the most important subspace approaches is the linear dimensionality reduction step in the Fisher's linear discriminant analysis (FLDA), which has been successfully employed in many fields such as biometrics, bioinformatics, and multimedia information management. However, the linear dimensionality reduction step in FLDA has a critical drawback: for a classification task with c classes, if the dimension of the projected subspace is strictly lower than c - 1, the projection to a subspace tends to merge those classes, which are close together in the original feature space. If separate classes are sampled from Gaussian distributions, all with identical covariance matrices, then the linear dimensionality reduction step in FLDA maximizes the mean value of the Kullback-Leibler (KL) divergences between different classes. Based on this viewpoint, the geometric mean for subspace selection is studied in this paper. Three criteria are analyzed: 1) maximization of the geometric mean of the KL divergences, 2) maximization of the geometric mean of the normalized KL divergences, and 3) the combination of 1 and 2. Preliminary experimental results based on synthetic data, UCI Machine Learning Repository, and handwriting digits show that the third criterion is a potential discriminative subspace selection method, which significantly reduces the class separation problem in comparing with the linear dimensionality reduction step in FLDA and its several representative extensions.

Cyber bullying prevention: intervention in Taiwan.

PubMed

Lee, Ming-Shinn; Zi-Pei, Wu; Svanström, Leif; Dalal, Koustuv

2013-01-01

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of the cyber bullying prevention WebQuest course implementation. The study adopted the quasi-experimental design with two classes made up of a total of 61 junior high school students of seventh grade. The study subjects comprised of 30 students from the experimental group and 31 students from the control group. The experimental group received eight sessions (total 360 minutes) of the teaching intervention for four consecutive weeks, while the control group did not engage in any related courses. The self-compiled questionnaire for the student's knowledge, attitudes, and intentions toward cyber bullying prevention was adopted. Data were analysed through generalized estimating equations to understand the immediate results on the student's knowledge, attitudes, and intentions after the intervention. The results show that the WebQuest course immediately and effectively enhanced the knowledge of cyber bullying, reduced the intentions, and retained the effects after the learning. But it produced no significant impact on the attitude toward cyber bullying. The intervention through this pilot study was effective and positive for cyber bulling prevention. It was with small number of students. Therefore, studies with large number of students and long experimental times, in different areas and countries are warranted.

Mixed-ligand cobalt(II) complexes of bioinorganic and medicinal relevance, involving dehydroacetic acid and β-diketones: Their synthesis, hyphenated experimental-DFT, thermal and bactericidal facets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maurya, R. C.; Malik, B. A.; Mir, J. M.; Vishwakarma, P. K.; Rajak, D. K.; Jain, N.

2015-11-01

The present report pertains to synthesis and combined experimental-DFT studies of a series of four novel mixed-ligand complexes of cobalt(II) of the general composition [Co(dha)(L)(H2O)2], where dhaH = dehydroacetic acid, LH = β-ketoenolates viz., o-acetoacetotoluidide (o-aatdH), o-acetoacetanisidide (o-aansH), acetylacetone (acacH) or 1-benzoylacetone (1-bac). The resulting complexes were formulated based on elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic measurements, mass spectrometric, IR, electronic, electron spin resonance and cyclic voltammetric studies. The TGA based thermal behavior of one representative complex was evaluated. Molecular geometry optimizations and vibrational frequency calculations have been performed with Gaussian 09 software package by using density functional theory (DFT) methods with B3LYP/LANL2MB combination for dhaH and one of its complexes, [Co(dha)(1-bac)(H2O)2]. Theoretical data has been found in an excellent agreement with the experimental results. Based on experimental and theoretical data, suitable trans-octahedral structure has been proposed for the present class of complexes. Moreover, the complexes also showed a satisfactory antibacterial activity.

The Kramers-Kronig relations for usual and anomalous Poisson-Nernst-Planck models.

PubMed

Evangelista, Luiz Roberto; Lenzi, Ervin Kaminski; Barbero, Giovanni

2013-11-20

The consistency of the frequency response predicted by a class of electrochemical impedance expressions is analytically checked by invoking the Kramers-Kronig (KK) relations. These expressions are obtained in the context of Poisson-Nernst-Planck usual or anomalous diffusional models that satisfy Poisson's equation in a finite length situation. The theoretical results, besides being successful in interpreting experimental data, are also shown to obey the KK relations when these relations are modified accordingly.

Transonic flow analysis for rotors. Part 1: Three-dimensional quasi-steady, full-potential calculation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, I. C.

1984-01-01

A new computer program is presented for calculating the quasi-steady transonic flow past a helicopter rotor blade in hover as well as in forward flight. The program is based on the full potential equations in a blade attached frame of reference and is capable of treating a very general class of rotor blade geometries. Computed results show good agreement with available experimental data for both straight and swept tip blade geometries.

Event-by-event pseudo-rapidity fluctuations in high energy nucleus-nucleus interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharyya, Swarnapratim; Haiduc, Maria; Neagu, Alina Tania; Firu, Elena

2013-10-01

A detailed study of event-by-event pseudo-rapidity fluctuations in relativistic heavy-ion collisions in terms of the Φ measure and its multiplicity and target dependence has been carried out for heavy (AgBr) and light (CNO) groups of targets present in the nuclear emulsion using O16 (at an incident momentum of 4.5 A GeV/c), Ne22 (at an incident momentum of 4.1 A GeV/c), Si28 (at an incident momentum of 4.5 A GeV/c) and S32 (at an incident momentum of 4.5 A GeV/c) projectiles. For all the interactions, the total ensemble of events has been divided into three overlapping multiplicity classes depending on the number of shower particles. For all the interactions and for each multiplicity class, the Φ values are found to be greater than zero indicating the presence of strong correlation in the multiparticle production at Dubna energy. The measured Φ values are found to decrease with the increase of average multiplicity for all the interactions. The Φ values for the AgBr target are found to be greater than that for the CNO target for all the projectiles. This observation indicates the presence of stronger correlation for heavier projectiles. The experimental results have been compared with the modified FRITIOF model. It has been seen that the modified FRITIOF model cannot reproduce the experimental results.

The Effects of Learning-Style Based Activities on Students' Reading Comprehension Skills and Self-Efficacy Perceptions in English Foreign Language Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balci, Özgül

2017-01-01

This study investigated the effects of learning-style based activities on students' reading comprehension skills and self-efficacy perceptions in English foreign language classes. A quasi-experimental, matching-only pretest-posttest control group design was utilized. The study was conducted with freshmen university students majoring in Elementary…

Mathematics Through Science, Part III: An Experimental Approach to Functions. Teacher's Commentary. Revised Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bolduc, Elroy J., Jr.; And Others

The purpose of this project is to teach learning and understanding of mathematics at the ninth grade level through the use of science experiments. This part of the program contains significant amounts of material normally found in a beginning algebra class. The material should be found useful for classes in general mathematics as a preparation for…

The Effects of Teaching Songs during Foreign Language Classes on Students' Foreign Language Anxiety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dolean, Dacian Dorin

2016-01-01

Foreign language classroom anxiety (FLCA) has been the subject of several studies aimed to optimize learning of a foreign language in the classroom. However, few studies provide specific curriculum-based methodological strategies to be used in the classroom in order to lower the anxiety level. In this article, two experimental classes of 8th-grade…

Seventy years of understory development by elevation class in a New Hampshire mixed forest: management implications

Treesearch

William B. Leak

2009-01-01

New England forest managers are faced with numerous environmental issues, such as global warming, nutrient depletion, and species declines that could influence the choice of appropriate silvicultural techniques and objectives. On the Bartlett Experimental Forest, New Hampshire, 70 years of change on more than 400 remeasured cruise plots by elevation classes ranging...

Mutation Accumulation, Soft Selection and the Middle-Class Neighborhood

PubMed Central

Moorad, Jacob A.; Hall, David W.

2009-01-01

The “middle-class neighborhood” is a breeding design intended to allow new mutations to accumulate by lessening the effects of purifying selection through the elimination of among-line fitness variation. We show that this design effectively applies soft selection to the experimental population, potentially causing biased estimates of mutational effects if social effects contribute to fitness. PMID:19448272

Exploring the Impacts of Cognitive and Metacognitive Prompting on Students' Scientific Inquiry Practices within an E-Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Wen-Xin; Hsu, Ying-Shao; Wang, Chia-Yu; Ho, Yu-Ting

2015-01-01

This study explores the effects of metacognitive and cognitive prompting on the scientific inquiry practices of students with various levels of initial metacognition. Two junior high school classes participated in this study. One class, the experimental group (n?=?26), which received an inquiry-based curriculum with a combination of cognitive and…