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Costs associated with escalated fighting may be minimized where individuals are able to gather information regarding the likely outcome of conflicts. In particular, the ability to assess resource-holding potential (RHP) has been shown to be important in determining the dynamics of animal contests. While assessment rules have been investigated in contests in a range of species, little is known about the potential for assessment in contests between species. We examined the role of assessment in usurpation contests between the paper wasp Polistes dominulus and the social parasite Polistes semenowi. First, we investigated whether parasite clypeal patterns function as signals of RHP by staging contests with parasites in which the clypeal pattern was concealed with paint. Second, we examined the importance of body size as a determinant of RHP. Finally, we explored whether individuals use information about their own RHP, and that of their rivals, in deciding when to withdraw. We found no evidence that parasite clypeal patterns act to signal RHP to hosts: initial fights were neither longer nor more intense when the patterns were concealed. We also found no evidence for RHP assessment during contests: although body size predicted contest outcome, fight duration and intensity were not significantly related to either winner or loser size. We suggest that the high value of the nest to both parties, combined with the potential for ‘divisive’ asymmetries in RHP between hosts and parasites, may result in selection for escalated conflict over rival assessment during usurpation fights. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The lunar crescent visibility criterion study is one of the most nontrivial discussions in the field of astronomy. A lunar crescent visibility criterion is used for calendrical determination, and a different lunar crescent visibility criterion results in different dates of calendar. This paper endeavors to provide an assessment for modern lunar crescent visibility criterion using swarm plot analysis, contradiction rate analysis, and regression analysis, based on 8290 collected data of lunar crescent sighting. The result analysis provides new comparative insight on modern lunar crescent visibility criterion, and suggest a new criterion based on the data of lunar crescent sighting. • This study compares lunar crescent visibility criteria, revealing limitations, successes, and proposing alternatives for discussion based on 8290 data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined how restoration of riparian vegetation has been implemented and evaluated in the scientific literature during the past 25 years. A total of 169 papers were read systematically to extract information about the following: 1) restoration strategies applied, 2) scale of monitoring and use of reference sites, 3) metrics used for evaluation, and 4) drivers of success. Hydro-geomorphic approaches (e.g., dam operations, controlled floods, landform reconfiguration) were the most frequent, followed by active plant introduction, exotic species control, natural floodplain conversion and grazing and herbivory control. Our review revealed noteworthy limitations in the spatio-temporal approaches chosen for evaluation. Evaluations were mostly from one single project and frequently ignored the multi-dimensional nature of rivers: landscape spatial patterns were rarely assessed, and most projects were assessed locally (i.e., ≤meander scale). Monitoring rarely lasted for more than six years and the projects evaluated were usually not more than six years old. The impact of the restoration was most often (43%) assessed by tracking change over time rather than by comparing restored sites to unrestored and reference sites (12%), and few projects (30%) did both. Among the ways which restoration success was evaluated, vegetation structure (e.g., abundance, density, etc.) was assessed more often (152 papers) than vegetation processes (e.g., biomass accumulation, survival, etc.) (112 papers) and vegetation diversity (78 papers). Success was attributed to hydro-geomorphic factors in 63% of the projects. Future evaluations would benefit from incorporating emerging concepts in ecology such as functional traits to assess recovery of functionality, more rigorous experimental designs, enhanced comparisons among projects, longer term monitoring and reporting failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper examines two neglected critical issues of the effective utilization of Computer Algebra System (CAS). By using a number of examples from an upper secondary mathematics education, these issues deal with the instrumentalization of CAS, and support to students when solving tasks by CAS (i.e. CAS-based task design). Regarding this instrumentalization, the paper considers the extent to which it can be done with CAS tools at present, and discusses several critical issues in doing so with respect to tool, task and designer (learner). Concerning this support, the paper calls for a detailed task design that also includes the issues of acceptable solutions and scaffolding offered, which should be, in some detail, clarified and given in examination materials. Several challenges relating to the two critical issues are considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Softwareʼs reliability in distributed systems has always been a major concern for all stake holders especially for applicationʼs vendors and its users. Various models have been produced to assess or predict reliability of large scale distributed applications including e-government, e-commerce, multimedia services, and end-to-end automotive solutions, but reliability issues with these systems still exists. Ensuring distributed systemʼs reliability in turns requires examining reliability of each individual component or factors involved in enterprise distributed applications before predicting or assessing reliability of whole system, and Implementing transparent fault detection and fault recovery scheme to provide seamless interaction to end users. For this reason we have analyzed in detail existing reliability methodologies from viewpoint of examining reliability of individual component and explained why we still need a comprehensive reliability model for applications running in distributed system. In this paper we have described detailed technical overview of research done in recent years in analyzing and predicting reliability of large scale distributed applications in four parts. We first described some pragmatic requirements for highly reliable systems and highlighted significance and various issues of reliability in different computing environment such as Cloud Computing, Grid Computing, and Service Oriented Architecture. Then we elucidated certain possible factors and various challenges that are nontrivial for highly reliable distributed systems, including fault detection, recovery and removal through testing or various replication techniques. Later we scrutinize various research models which synthesize significant solutions to tackle possible factors and various challenges in predicting as well as measuring reliability of software applications in distributed systems. At the end of this paper we have discussed limitations of existing models and proposed future work for predicting and analyzing reliability of distributed applications in real environment in the light of our analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To accurately evaluate the development level of ecological civilization in coastal cities, this paper proposes an evaluation algorithm of coastal city ecological civilization development based on Improved BP neural network, constructs the evaluation index system, and establishes the BP neural network-based evaluation model. By collecting the relevant data of 30 cities in China Line standardization, as the input learning matrix, entropy and coefficient of variation are used to evaluate the development level of ecological civilization. Through 5000 training times, the error accuracy is close to 10–7, and the cities with low ecological civilization level and less cultivated land resources per capita are found out. Based on the improved BP neural network method, according to the development level of coastal cities, the ecological culture of coastal cities is put forward as a whole. The countermeasures and suggestions of construction are given. • In this study, the ecological civilization development level of the coastal cities in Jiangsu was evaluated. • The evaluation results showed the overall development level of ecological civilization. • In the assessment, the comprehensive level of the secondary indexes is better than that of Donghai and Guanyun. • Jiangsu coastal cities have higher ecological civilization development levels, and Donghai and Guanyun is relatively low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Neuropsychology plays a vital role in the treatment of epilepsy, providing information on the effects of seizures on higher cortical functions through the measurement of behavioral abilities and disabilities. This is accomplished through the design, administration and interpretation of neuropsychological tests, including those used in functional neuroimaging or cortical mapping and in intracarotid anesthetic procedures. The objective of this paper is to define and summarize in some detail the role and methods of neuropsychologists in specialized epilepsy centers. Included are information and recommendations regarding basic ingredients of a thorough neuropsychological assessment in the epilepsy setting, as well as suggestions for an abbreviated alternative exam when needed, with emphasis on functions associated with specific brain regions. The paper is intended for novice and experienced neuropsychologists to enable them to develop or evaluate their current practices, and also for other clinicians, who seek a better understanding of the methodology underlying the neuropsychological input to their work. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The self allows us to reflect on our own behavior and to imagine what others think of us. Clinical experience suggests that these abilities may be impaired in people with personality disorders. They do not recognize the impact that their behavior has on others, and they have difficulty understanding how they are seen by others. We collected information regarding pathological personality traits—using both self and peer report measures—from groups of people who knew each other well (at the end of basic military training). In previous papers, we have reported that agreement between self-report and peer-report is only modest. In this paper, we address the question: Do people know that others disagree with their own perceptions of themselves? We found that expected peer scores predicted variability in peer report over and above self-report for all 10 diagnostic traits. People do have some incremental knowledge of how they are viewed by others, but they do not tell you about it unless you ask them to do so; the knowledge is not reflected in ordinary self-report data. Among participants who expect their peers to describe them as narcissistic, those who agree with this assessment are viewed as being less narcissistic by their peers than those who deny being narcissistic. It therefore appears that insight into how one is viewed by others can moderate negative impressions fostered by PD traits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Five distinct writing profiles were identified among 4th and 5th graders using theory-aligned measures. • Profiles were distinguished not only by level of performance on writing-related skills, but also knowledge about writing and writing motivation. • Profile membership predicted students' performance on three genre-based writing tasks. • Grade, gender, and disability status significantly influenced the probability of being classified as a member of the globally proficient group versus the other groups. Our goal in this study is to expand the limited research on writer profile using the advantageous model-based approach of latent profile analysis and independent tasks to evaluate aspects of individual knowledge, motivation, and cognitive processes that align with Hayes' (1996) writing framework, which has received empirical support. We address three research questions. First, what latent profile are observed for late elementary writers using measures aligned with an empirically validated model of writing? Second, do student sociodemographic characteristics—namely grade, gender, race, English learner status, and special education status—influence latent profile membership? Third, how does student performance on narrative, opinion, and informative writing tasks, determined by quality of writing, vary by latent profile? A five-profile model had the best fit statistics and classified student writers as Globally Weak, At Risk, Average Motivated, Average Unmotivated, and Globally Proficient. Overall, fifth graders, female students, White students, native English speakers, and students without disabilities had greater odds of being in the Globally Proficient group of writers. For all three genres, other latent profile were significantly inversely related to the average quality of papers written by students who were classified as Globally Proficient; however, the Globally Weak and At Risk writers were not significantly different in their writing quality, and the Average Motivated and Average Unmotivated writers did not significantly differ from each other with respect to quality. These findings indicate upper elementary students exhibit distinct patterns of writing-related strengths and weaknesses that necessitate comprehensive yet differentiated instruction to address skills, knowledge, and motivation to yield desirable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main challenges in teaching and learning activities is the assessment: it allows teachers and learners to improve the future activities on the basis of the previous ones. It allows a deep analysis and understanding of the whole learning process. This is particularly difficult in virtual learning environments where a general overview is not always available. In the latest years, Learning Analytics are becoming the most popular methods to analyze the data collected in the learning environments in order to support teachers and learners in the complex process of learning. If they are properly integrated in learning activities, indeed, they can supply useful information to adapt the activities on the basis of student’s needs. In this context, the paper presents a solution for the digitally enhanced assessment. Two different Learning Dashboards have been designed in order to represent the most interesting Learning Analytics aiming at providing teachers and learners with easy understandable view of learning data in virtual learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to synthetic mineral fibres (SMF) may occur in a number of workplace scenarios. To protect worker health, a number of different organisations worldwide have assessed the health risk of these materials and established workplace exposure limits. This paper outlines the basic principles of risk assessment and the scientific methods used to derive valid (justifiable) occupational exposure limits (OELs) and goes on to show how, for SMF, and particularly for refractory ceramic fibre (otherwise known as aluminosilicate wool, RCF/ASW), the methods used and the associated outcomes differ widely. It is argued that the resulting differences in established OELs prevent consistent and appropriate risk management of SMF worldwide, and that development of a transparent and harmonised approach to fibre risk assessment and limit-setting is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid increase in the empirical literature on ethnic–racial socialization has led to the development of numerous assessments that capture various aspects of the ethnic–racial socialization process. To examine the methodological advances, this paper uses the Process Model of Ethnic–Racial Socialization (PMERS) to systematically review the assessment of ethnic–racial socialization among ethnic minority families in order to review how existing measures assess differential processes of ethnic–racial socialization. Using PsycINFO, ERIC, IngentaConnect, and JSTOR databases, 41 measures were identified that report information on the ethnic–racial socialization process. Findings suggest that existing measures largely consist of explicit assessments of parental and/or youth beliefs and verbal behaviors as measures of the ethnic–racial socialization process. Few measures have captured the behavioral and affective domains of the ethnic–racial socialization process and the implicit and subtle transmission of messages regarding race and ethnicity. Further, methodological approaches in the assessment of ethnic–racial socialization have largely used self-report surveys, suggesting the need for integration of other methods. Areas for future development are discussed using the PMERS framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topic-sensitive and multidimensional nature of epistemic thinking makes the assessment of how people think about epistemic matters an ongoing challenge. This paper reports the development and validation of a scenario-based assessment of epistemic thinking that is based on the conceptualization of epistemic development proposed by Kuhn and her colleagues. The objectives of developing the instrument were to improve the validity and reliability of the assessment of epistemic perspectives described by the model, to better represent the multidimensionality of these perspectives, and to better account for their topic-specific aspects. The multi-phase development process included cognitive interviewing, a pilot study, and a large-scale administration. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses generally supported the expected structure of three main epistemic perspectives (absolutism, multiplism, and evaluativism). However, validity and reliability were better in a biology scenario than in a history scenario. The results suggested that epistemic perspectives include the epistemic dimensions of certainty and source/justification as lower-order factors. Comparison of the biology and history scenarios revealed meaningful similarities and differences in epistemic thinking regarding the two problems. The theoretical and methodological implications of the proposed assessment approach are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Considers latent factors among 61 direct and proxy resilience assessments. • Four main factors: recovery, sustainability, adaptability, and social cohesion. • Measurement invariance across broad groups for gender, age, and ethnicity. • Suggests a 'mixed model' of resilience summarising over 30 years of research. The current paper establishes the latent factors of many direct or proxy trait resilience assessments. Study 1 (n = 849) demonstrates four latent factors (recovery, sustainability, adaptability, and social cohesion) among 61 direct and proxy assessments of resilience. Three of these four factors are best described within a three-factor model of ecological resilience, with an additional social-orientated resilience factor. Study 2 (n = 340) replicates the factors using indicators of the factors found in Study 1. A bifactor model of the four factors provides the best fit of the data, with measurement invariance across broad groups for gender, age, and ethnicity. The findings suggest a 'mixed model' of resilience summarising over 30 years of research using direct and proxy assessments of resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been recent calls for a shift to an evidence-based paradigm in environmental management, grounded in systematic monitoring and evaluation, but achieving this will be complex and difficult. Evaluating the educational components of environmental initiatives presents particular challenges, because these programs often have multiple concurrent goals and may value 'human outcomes', such as value change, which are intangible and difficult to quantify. This paper describes a fresh approach based on co-creating an entirely new values-based assessment framework with expert practitioners worldwide. We first discuss the development of a generic framework of 'Proto-Indicators' (reference criteria constituting prototypes for measurable indicators), and then demonstrate its application within a reforestation project in Mexico where indicators and assessment tools were localized to enhance context-relevance. Rigorously derived using unitary validity, with an emphasis on relevance, practicability and logical consistency from user perspectives, this framework represents a step-wise advance in the evaluation of non-formal EE/ESD programs. This article also highlights three important principles with broader implications for evaluation, valuation and assessment processes within environmental management: namely peer-elicitation, localizability, and an explicit focus on ethical values. We discuss these principles in relation to the development of sustainability indicators at local and global levels, especially in relation to post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Over the past 20 years, the use of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) has helped with the teaching of mathematics in engineering schools. However the traditional use of CAS only in math labs has led to a narrow view by the student: the CAS is an additional work, not included in the learning process. The didactic guidelines of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) propose a new teaching–learning model based on competencies. We suggest the use of the CAS be adapted to the new rules. In this paper, we present a model for the integrated use of the CAS, and we describe and analyze two experiments carried out in the academic year 2011–2012. Our analysis suggests that the use of CAS in all learning and assessment activities has the potential to positively influence the development of competencies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents a modeling assessment of storm surge in the Salish Sea—a large and complex estuarine system in the Pacific Northwest that is exposed to extratropical cyclones. A method was developed to systematically identify storm surge events in the Salish Sea based on water level records at four representative tidal gauges in the Salish Sea. The maximum storm surge distribution in the Salish Sea was calculated based on model simulations of 34 major historical storm events from 1980 to 2016. The model simulations were validated by field observations of water level and velocity using a suite of model performance metrics. Model results suggest that the maximum storm surge in the Salish Sea is generally in the range of 0.8 m–1.03 m and is heterogeneous in space. The model results also show a strong north-south gradient with larger surge magnitudes occurring in the north that is primarily caused by the southerly wind in winter months. The sensitivity analysis of wind forcing suggested that storm surge in the Salish Sea is dominated by the remote surge from the Pacific Ocean, and the local wind contributes up to approximately 20% of the surge variability. This paper systematically elucidates storm surge characteristics and potential risk in the Salish Sea. • Distribution of maximum storm surge height in the Salish Sea was mapped based on 34 storm surge simulations. • Storm surge in the Salish Sea is dominated by remote surge off the coast, and local wind plays a secondary role. • Storm surge height can be amplified in the sub-basins of Puget Sound because of interaction with complex geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A wide range of controversial definitions and dynamic components surround the multi-dimensional concept of consciousness, with important reflections on the phenomenological description of ictal states relevant to epileptic seizures. The inadequacies of terminology, the insufficient emphasis on the subjective nature of consciousness, as well as the intrinsic limitations of the simple versus complex dichotomy for partial seizures, are to be considered in view of a modern definition of consciousness. In this paper, we review the difficulties encountered by clinicians in assessing the ictal conscious state in patients with epilepsy, and illustrate how a more sophisticated bi-dimensional model of consciousness can prove a valuable conceptual tool for the clinical assessment of ictal consciousness and the categorization of seizures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Policymakers and managers have a very different philosophy and approach to achieving healthy coastal and marine ecosystems than scientists. In this paper we discuss the evolution of the assessment of the chemical status in the aquatic environment and the growing rift between the political intention (precautionary principle) and scientific developments (adaptive and evidence-based management) in the context of the pitfalls and practicalities confronting the current Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The conclusion is that policymakers and water managers should move with the times and take on board new techniques that scientists are using to assess chemical status and apply new scientific developments in assessment studies of the chemical status. These new techniques, such as bioassays, are cheaper than the classic approach of checking whether concentrations of certain individual priority compounds comply with permissible thresholds. Additionally, they give more insight into the real impacts of chemical compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the test–retest reliability of a short computerized assessment of young children''s fruit (F) and vegetable (V) preferences, and to compare children''s responses with their parents’ responses. A paper-and-pencil F and V preference and F and V food frequency questionnaire was completed by 194 parents. Data on 139 preschoolers was available for test and retest of F preferences and data on 135 children for V. F and V preference scales were computed, including the ten most commonly consumed F and the ten most commonly consumed V. Alpha reliabilities were good (F=0.78; V=0.76) and test–retest intraclass correlations were high (ICC for F=0.74; V=0.75). Agreement between parents’ and children''s reports was moderate (F: ICC=0.48, V: ICC=0.41). Children reported more often to have never consumed an item, and less often the midcategory “not yummy, not yucky but ok”. Covariance analysis indicated differences in agreement by school and mothers’ education level with a lower agreement for those of lower social status. A weak, but significant association was found between children''s reported preferences and children''s consumption (F: r =0.19, V: r =0.25). The results are promising, but additional validation is needed in a representative sample and should further explore the sources of disagreements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The characterization and evaluation of the impact that an industry is likely to have on the surrounding ozone levels is one of many problems confronting air quality managers and should be taken into consideration when authorizing its installation. The correct management of an environment, in terms of monitoring existing industries and planning new activities, requires adequate knowledge of the processes sustained by the industrial emissions therein. This paper explores the improvements in air quality management arising from taking into account the uncertainties involved in the photochemical modeling of the impact of an industry on surface ozone levels. For this, we evaluate the impact on ozone levels of a power plant located in an industrial area of southwestern Spain (Huelva). The evaluation takes into account the effects of both emissions' uncertainty and the non-linear chemistry between ozone and its precursors, thus providing a probable range of increase over the normative values (hourly and 8-hourly maximums) defined in the European Directive. The proposed methodology is easily applicable by air quality managers. Advanced modeling techniques were used for the power plant assessment, MM5 atmospheric modeling system, and air quality model CAMx. The results from meteorology and ozone forecasts have shown acceptable agreement with the observations. The spatial distribution of the impact is found to be strongly determined by mesoscale meteorological processes, which are reinforced by the local orography; there is also a marked temporal evolution. The industrial plume is observed to induce a decrease (or maintenance) of the ozone levels near the emission source (0–10km), and an increase in the ozone concentrations farther away (with maximums between 10 and 50km). In fact, in the meteorological episodes with a predominance of local breeze circulations, impacts have been detected at distances of more than 100km from the emission source. Sensitivity of the power plant impact to variations in ozone precursor emissions is described, and the scenarios and the points in the domain presenting higher sensitivity and registering larger impacts are also identified. The results show that the largest impacts take place in emission scenarios where the NO x has been reduced with respect to the base case scenario. In contrast, in scenarios where the VOC emissions are reduced with respect to the base case scenario, the impact is smaller or remains unchanged. This is important in areas like the study case, where there is a high percentage of biogenic VOC emissions and the industrial areas are close to natural protected areas and agricultural fields. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper describes the creation and initial validation of new self-report measures of the psychopathic traits of Fearless Dominance and Impulsive Antisociality. In Study 1 we created new measures of these traits from the item content of three existing personality inventories: the IPIP-NEO [Johnson, J. A. (2000). Developing a short form of the IPIP-NEO: A report to HGW Consulting. Unpublished manuscript. Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, DuBois, PA.], NEO PI-R [Costa, P. T., Jr., & McCrae, R. R. (1992). Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI-R) and NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) professional manual. Odessa, FL: Psychological Assessment Resources.], and HEXACO PI-R [Lee, K., & Ashton, M. C. (2004). Psychometric properties of the HEXACO personality inventory. Multivariate Behavioral Research, 39, 329–358.]. Study 2 used confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate convergence across these new measures. Study 3 examined how strongly the HEXACO PI-R and IPIP-NEO measures converged with the Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised [Lilienfeld, S. O. & Widows, M. R. (2005). Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised: Professional manual. Lutz, Fl: Psychological Assessment Resources.]. Finally, Study 4 assessed self-other convergence and associations with observable aggressive responses for the IPIP-NEO scales. These studies provide important information about the assessment of these psychopathic traits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There is a growing requirement for techniques to assess land susceptibility to wind erosion, i.e. land erodibility, over large geographic areas (>104 km2). This requirement stems from a lack of wind erosion research between the field (101 km2) and regional scales, and a need to evaluate the performance of spatially explicit wind erosion models across these scales. This paper addresses this issue by presenting a methodology for monitoring land erodibility at the landscape scale (103 km2). First, we define criteria suitable for evaluating land erodibility based on empirical relationships between soil texture, vegetation cover, geomorphology, and wind erosion. The criteria were used to visually assess land erodibility over long distances (103 km) using vehicle-based transects run through the rangelands of western Queensland, Australia. Application of the data for testing the performance of a spatially explicit land erodibility model (AUSLEM) is then demonstrated by comparing the visual assessments of land erodibility with the model output. The model performed best in the west of the study area in the open rangelands. In regions with higher woody shrub and tree cover the model performance decreases. This highlights the need for research to better parameterise controls on erodibility in semi-arid landscapes consisting of forested and rangeland mosaics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Over one hundred wetland specialists and Earth Observation experts from around the world gathered at the European Space Agency's ‘GlobWetland Symposium: Looking at wetlands from space’ in Frascati, Italy, from 19 to 20 October, 2006. The aim of the Symposium was to stimulate discussion between the two communities by reviewing the latest developments in Earth Observation (EO) for the inventory, assessment and monitoring of wetlands and identify key scientific, technical and policy-relevant challenges for the future. The results provide an overview of the key areas of current research in the use of EO for mapping and managing wetlands, while also pointing out gaps that could hinder global inventory, assessment and monitoring of wetlands. This paper provides a summary of the main outputs with a focus on the role of EO technologies in supporting the implementation of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. The summary contains a qualitative analysis of the state of the art and considers possible directions and priorities for future research, development and application of EO-based technologies in wetland management. In this context we: 1) highlight those applications where EO technologies are ready for wider uptake by wetland managers, and provide suggestions for supporting such uptake; 2) indicate where EO technologies and applications currently in the research and development stages could potentially be useful in wetland management; and 3) provide recommendations for new research and development of EO technologies, that can be utilized to address aspects of wetland management not covered by the range of current EO applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A speaker independent dysarthria speech assessment system for automatic speech intelligibility scoring system. • Assessment technique exploits the raw output of an end-to-end speech to alphabet recognition engine. • Predict's intelligibility scores that are highly correlated to the perceptual intelligibility scores understood by human. • Automatic selection of optimal number of words, using a cost minimization approach, for intelligibility assessment. • Patient friendly; a small set of words need to be uttered by the patient unlike what is available in the literature. • Visual speech to determine the effort required to utter a word; used in the cost function to find optimal set of words. Dysarthria is a condition which hampers the ability of an individual to control the muscles that play a major role in speech delivery. The loss of fine control over muscles that assist the movement of lips, vocal chords, tongue and diaphragm results in abnormal speech delivery. One can assess the severity level of dysarthria by analyzing the intelligibility of speech spoken by an individual. Continuous intelligibility assessment helps speech language pathologists not only study the impact of medication but also allows them to plan personalized therapy. It helps the clinicians immensely if the intelligibility assessment system is reliable, automatic, simple for (a) patients to undergo and (b) clinicians to interpret. Lack of availability of dysarthric data has resulted in development of speaker dependent automatic intelligibility assessment systems which requires patients to speak a large number of utterances. In this paper, we propose (a) a cost minimization procedure to select an optimal (small) number of utterances that need to be spoken by the dysarthric patient, (b) four different speaker independent intelligibility assessment systems which require the patient to speak a small number of words, and (c) the assessment score is close to the perceptual score that the Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) can relate to. The need for small number of utterances to be spoken by the patient and the score being relatable to the SLP benefits both the dysarthric patient and the clinician from usability perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Network latency is an adverse factor for computations performed across the network. Overlapping computation with communication is an important technique for hiding latency. It has been shown that network latency cannot be effectively hidden without considering the order of sending data [C.-C. Lin, Strategies for achieving high performance incremental computing on a network environment, in: Proc.18th Int’l Conf. on Advanced Information Networking and Applications 1, 2004, pp. 113–118]. However, finding a data-sending order for the input to a task which minimizes the remote execution time for any network traffic pattern is NP-hard [C.-C. Lin, D.-W. Wang, T.-S. Hsu, Bounds on the client-server incremental computing, IEICE Trans. Fundamentals E89-A (5) (2006) 1198–1206]. Thus, heuristic algorithms are often employed to search an optimal input stream. The performance of algorithms relies on an effective mechanism for guiding the search toward a promising direction. In this paper, the computation-progress graph is proposed for transforming an input stream of a task to its corresponding pattern of progressive computations. Then, the assessing function is defined for assigning scores to the found input streams based on the computation-progress graph. Based on the scores, the promising search directions can be determined. Finally, the effectiveness of our assessing function is also demonstrated by the search of the optimal orders for computing the product of two polynomials, matrix multiplication and FFT. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Animals often perform displays, not only in agonistic contexts, but also in nonagonistic contexts such as greeting and courtship. How have such cross-contextual displays evolved? Here I analyse the Hawk–Assessor game to examine this issue. In this game, Hawks attack other players when they meet them, beginning a fight. In contrast, Assessors first perform a display and subsequently decide whether to fight. The Assessor strategy is the only evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) in the classic Hawk–Assessor game, which assumes that Hawks do not attack displaying Assessors. In this paper, first I point out that, when that assumption is not made, Hawk is also an ESS. Then, I consider the cost of inappropriate attacks on nonopponents. Animals in the real world encounter not only opponents but also nonopponents, such as partners and potential mates. They might attack nonopponents inappropriately because of uncertainty of social recognition or overly aggressive motivation. Assessors might avoid inappropriate attacks because they start encounters with conspecifics using a display and thereby gain time to verify the social recognition or reduce their aggressive motivation. In this case, the Assessor strategy can be the only ESS again and the display of Assessors becomes a cross-contextual display. According to this model, one can predict that, for species performing cross-contextual displays, there is a risk of inappropriate attack. One can also predict that the species without risk will start agonistic interactions by attacking immediately. Empirical examples are consistent with the predictions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Learner-generated drawing is a strategy that can improve learning from expository text. In this paper, a model of drawing construction is proposed and the experimental design tests hypotheses derived from this model. Fourth and sixth grade participants used drawing under three experimental conditions with two conditions including varying degrees of support. On a problem solving posttest, both supported drawing groups scored higher than the non-drawing Control group. Although the grade by condition interaction was not significant, there was a strong trend in this direction. When sixth grade participants were considered independently, participants in the most supported drawing condition also obtained higher problem solving scores than those who drew without support. There were no significant condition effects for fourth grade nor were there any significant effects on a multiple-choice recognition posttest. Results were consistent with hypotheses and are discussed in light of the proposed theoretical framework. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Decision-making is a complex process that comprises the assessment of a situation, the selection of an action, and the evaluation of an outcome. Distinct neural systems may contribute differentially during various stages within a decision-making situation. This study investigated whether neural activation during assessment or action selection is critically dependent on previous outcomes or actions. Twelve healthy, right-handed subjects (6 females) played a Rock Paper Scissors (RPS) computer game during functional magnetic resonance imaging. Bilateral insula and medial prefrontal cortex (including the anterior cingulate) were specifically engaged during the assessment and action selection stages of decision-making, whereas bilateral superior frontal gyrus and right inferior parietal lobule activated more during the outcome. Two regions of activation within the bilateral superior temporal gyrus activated only when the previous outcome was a win. Moreover, right insula and superior temporal gyrus were active more when the subject switched responses relative to staying with the same choice made on the previous trial. These findings support the hypothesis that distinct neural systems underlie different stages of the decision-making process. Furthermore, the superior temporal gyrus may play an important role in integrating previous actions and successful outcomes into one''s decision-making strategy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Since its introduction in the early 1960s, the EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has demonstrated a capacity to adapt and change in the face of new challenges. The reformed CAP, under AGENDA 2000, encourages more environmentally friendly farming practices. In the context of their rural development plans, Member States are required to link policies on agriculture with protection of the environment and to ensure that farmers meet environmental standards. Additionally, Member States should maintain and restore the quality of both their aquatic and adjacent terrestrial ecosystems according to the Directive 2000/60/EU, ‘Establishing a framework for Community Action in the field of Water Policy’. Within this framework, agri-environmental indicators play an important role in planning and implementing CAP guidelines. However, selection and use of the proper indicators remains unresolved, considering that ecosystem processes are complex and interactions in most cases not obvious.This paper proposes a methodology for assessing the environmental state and impacts of current land use and management when implementing agri-environmental measures of CAP. The proposed methodology includes a modified Driving forces-Pressures-Impacts-Responses (DPSIR) framework, identification of Zones of Specific Functional Interest (ZSFI), and criteria for selecting agri-environmental indicators, which assess the functional performance of each zone and meet existing legislation.The Mygdonia Watershed (Greece) is an example where through use of both the appropriate Minimum Data Set of agri-environmental indicators at the identified zones and the proposed modified DPSIR, the functioning performance of each ZSFI can be assessed to evaluate the applied agri-environmental measures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Our previous studies have indicated that depression and declined cognition have been involved in some neurodegenerative diseases including Stroke, Parkinson's diseases and Vascular Parkinsonism. Post-stroke depression (PSD) is the most common psychiatric disorder following a stroke and has high morbidity and mortality. Studies on PSD are increasingly common, but the specific mechanisms remain unknown. Current research mainly includes clinical and animal aspects. Questionnaires and peripheral blood examination are two of the most common methods used to study clinical PSD. The results of questionnaires are influenced by multiple factors such as disease history, education background, occupation, economic status, family relationships and social support. There are certain limitations to blood sample testing; for example, it is influenced by cerebrovascular diseases and some other disruptions of the internal environment. It is difficult for either method to fully clarify the pathophysiological mechanism of PSD. Animal models provide alternative methods to further understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of PSD, such as the involvement of neuronal circuits and cytokines. More than ten animal models of PSD have been developed, and new models are constantly being introduced. Therefore, it is important to choose the appropriate model for any given study. In this paper, we will discuss the characteristics of the different models of PSD and comment on the advantages and disadvantages of each model, drawing from research on model innovation. Finally, we briefly describe the current assessment methods for the core symptoms of PSD models, point out the shortcomings, and present the improved sucrose preference test as a rational evaluation of anhedonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]