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Copyright of Revista de Saúde Pública is the property of Faculdade de Educacao da Universidade de Sao Paulo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Mathematical modelling competencies have become a prominent construct in research on the teaching and learning of mathematical modelling and its applications in recent decades; however, current research is diverse, proposing different theoretical frameworks and a variety of research designs for the measurement and fostering of modelling competencies. The study described in this paper was a systematic literature review of the literature on modelling competencies published over the past two decades. Based on a full-text analysis of 75 peer-reviewed studies indexed in renowned databases and published in English, the study revealed the dominance of an analytical, bottom-up approach for conceptualizing modelling competencies and distinguishing a variety of sub-competencies. Furthermore, the analysis showed the great richness of methods for measuring modelling competencies, although a focus on (non-standardized) tests prevailed. Concerning design and offering for fostering modelling competencies, the majority of the papers reported training strategies for modelling courses. Overall, the current literature review pointed out the necessity for further theoretical work on conceptualizing mathematical modelling competencies while highlighting the richness of developed empirical approaches and their implementation at various educational levels.

Transfer functions are convenient representations to analyse cause-and-effect relationships of linear time-invariant dynamic systems. Traditionally, transfer functions are introduced using the Laplace transform. In this paper, we argue that the Laplace transform method is not a necessary prerequisite to understanding the topic 'transfer functions'. We offer an inquiry-based learning method to represent transfer functions without formally using the full machinery of Laplace transforms. The method is used in an introductory engineering course on system modelling and simulation at Aalborg University, Denmark. The paper also presents an initial assessment of the students' understanding of transfer functions without knowledge of Laplace transforms and the experiences gained from implementing inquiry-based learning in the course. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the impact of CAS tools on mathematics and engineering science teaching and learning.

This paper introduces a course design for a post-Calculus undergraduate course on mathematical modeling for the life sciences. The course includes differential equations, discrete, and cellular automata approaches (among others) to modeling questions in the life sciences, as well as a variety of biological topics. The course focuses on model set-up and revision for these different scenarios and approaches as well as contemporary science approaches. Changes in student ranking of biology and math as well as student feedback are included. This paper may be of interest to any faculty member designing or revising a similar course or inserting modules on these topics into any related course.

South Africa's basic education system is dysfunctional. It scores last or close to last in a myriad of metrics and delivers learners with some of the worst literacy and numeracy competencies worldwide. A bimodal distribution in the results exists when learners from the richest socioeconomic quintile are performing adequately well, while learners from the poorest quintiles are failing. This paper presents a system dynamics simulation model to describe the causal linkages between improved early childhood and pre-school learning practices on the education system as a whole. The paper investigates the difference in performance between rich and poor communities. Three interventions explore the research question of whether it is the number of enrolments into early childhood development programs that increases a cohort's school readiness, or rather the quality of the early childhood development programs into which they were enrolled. The results answer the research question for the Western Cape province by showing that increasing the quality of the formal ECD programs leads to a greater percentage of school-ready five year olds than increasing the percentage of enrolled children, but that decreasing community poverty leads to better results than either intervention. The results show the simulation model to be a powerful tool to assist with policy setting and intervention testing for any other province or country by simply changing the input data and calibration.

In this paper, we discuss mathematical modeling opportunities that can be included in an introductory Differential Equations course. In particular, we focus on the development of and extensions to the single salty tank model. Typically, salty tank models are included in course materials with matter-of-fact explanations. These explanations miss the opportunity for students to develop rate of change equations for themselves. In this paper, we highlight an open-ended single salty tank task that provides the foundation for more complicated salty tank models that we also detail herein. Furthermore, we discuss instructional implementation techniques that instructors can use in their classes to meet their specific learning goals.

Mathematics modelling is a vital competency for students of all ages. In this study, we aim to fill the research gap about valid and reliable tools for assessing and grading mathematical modeling problems, particularly those reflecting multiple steps of the modelling cycle. We present in this paper the design of a reliable and valid assessment tool aimed at gauging the level of mathematical modelling associated with real-world modeling problems in a scientific-engineering context. The study defines and bases the central modelling processes on the proficiency levels identified in PISA Mathematics. A two-dimensional rubric was developed, reflecting the combined assessment of the type and level of a modelling process. We identified criteria that enable a clear comparison and differentiation among the different levels across each of the modelling processes. These criteria allow for concrete theoretical definitions for the various modelling processes, introducing a well-defined mathematical modelling framework from a didactical viewpoint, which can potentially contribute to promoting modelling competencies or the understanding of modelling by teachers and students. Theoretical, methodological and practical implications are discussed.

The theoretical reflection on the nature of school algebra and the development of algebraic thinking from the first educational levels is a relevant topic in mathematics education. In this paper, we first summarize and clarify the positions held on this topic by two theoretical frameworks: the Theory of Objectification and the Onto-semiotic Approach. We identify concordances and complementarities in the respective conceptions of algebra and of the processes of developing algebraic thinking, as a result of applying these frameworks to analyse some students' responses to a task on numerical patterns. We also analyse and compare the didactic models proposed in both theoretical frameworks for developing algebraic thinking. The analysis of the algebraic thinking and learning episodes is also used to illustrate a general discussion on the identity and boundaries of these theoretical frameworks and the possibilities of coordination and integration.

Part of the dewatering in a paper machine takes place via vacuum suction boxes situated below the moving web. In addition to the removal of liquid water, considerable amounts of air are sucked through the paper. The air flow that accompanies dewatering is a crucial parameter for the electricity consumption of a vacuum system. The present study models this air flow, combining differential conservation equations with fiber characterization. Measured air flow rates for different vacuum levels, basis weights, and pulp types are compared to model predictions. More than 70% of the data agree within the range of experimental error. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We present a novel appearance model for paper. Based on our appearance measurements for matte and glossy paper, we find that paper exhibits a combination of subsurface scattering, specular reflection, retroreflection, and surface sheen. Classic microfacet and simple diffuse reflection models cannot simulate the double-sided appearance of a thin layer. Our novel BSDF model matches our measurements for paper and accounts for both reflection and transmission properties. At the core of the BSDF model is a method for converting a multi-layer subsurface scattering model (BSSRDF) into a BSDF, which allows us to retain physically-based absorption and scattering parameters obtained from the measurements. We also introduce a method for computing the amount of light available for subsurface scattering due to transmission through a rough dielectric surface. Our final model accounts for multiple scattering, single scattering, and surface reflection and is capable of rendering paper with varying levels of roughness and glossiness on both sides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A lot of work has been done in the field of multi-valued model checking home and abroad. But some research works are not perfect. Some problems in the semantic definitions of temporal operators and corresponding model checking algorithms are found in the paper “Model Checking Using Partial Kripke Structure with 3-Valued Temporal Logic”. Some counterexamples are given to show these errors. On the basis of the discussion, some sound semantic definitions of temporal operators and correct algorithms of model checking for some temporal operators are given. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Single-period inventory models with uncertain demand are very well known in the business analytics community. Typically, such models are rule-based functions, or sets of functions, of one decision variable (order quantity) and one random variable (demand). In academics, the models are taught selectively and usually not completely. Students are exposed to applications of selected models and solution aspects usually within the Inventory Control or similar topics. This learning-case oriented paper attempts to provide a fuller coverage of the solution process, starting with mathematical model building, following with calculus-based solution development and ending with an alternative approach through simulation. A special emphasis is dedicated to the learning processes, providing students with a variety of tools selected from Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Statistics and Spreadsheet Technology. The students are expected to benefit from studying this paper to better understand business solving processes. All computational operations are implemented in a spreadsheet program.

Computational Thinking (CT) is pervasive in our daily lives and is useful for problem-solving. Decision-making is a crucial part of problem-solving. In the extant literature, problem-solving strategies in educational settings are often conveniently attributed to intuition; however, it is well documented that computer programmers might even have difficulty describing about their intuitive insights during problem-solving using natural language (such as English), and subsequently convert what has been described using words into software code. Hence, a more analytical approach using mathematical equations and descriptions of CT is offered in this paper as a potential form of rudimentary scaffolding, which might be useful to facilitators and learners of CT-related activities. In the present paper, the decision-making processes during an unplugged CT activity are delineated via Grey-based mathematical equations, which is useful for informing educators who may wish to explain to their learners about the various aspects of CT which are involved in the unplugged activity and simultaneously use these mathematical equations as scaffolds between the unplugged activity and computer code programming. This theoretical manuscript may serve as a base for learners, should the facilitator ask them to embark on a software programming activity that is closely associated to the unplugged CT activity.

Abstract  In this paper it is shown that the well known special orthotropy of paper, explained by micromechanical models of complex bodies, actually corresponds to a special case of orthotropy of a plane elastic body. The existence of this special orthotropy was predicted by the author in a previous work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disrupting chemical used in a wide range of consumer products including photoactive dyes used in thermal paper. Recent studies have shown that dermal absorption of BPA can occur when handling these papers. Yet, regulatory agencies have largely dismissed thermal paper as a major source of BPA exposure. Exposure estimates provided by agencies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) are based on assumptions about how humans interact with this material, stating that ‘typical’ exposures for adults involve only one handling per day for short periods of time (<1 minute), with limited exposure surfaces (three fingertips). The objective of this study was to determine how individuals handle thermal paper in one common setting: a cafeteria providing short-order meals. We observed thermal paper handling in a college-aged population (n = 698 subjects) at the University of Massachusetts’ dining facility. We find that in this setting, individuals handle receipts for an average of 11.5 min, that >30% of individuals hold thermal paper with more than three fingertips, and >60% allow the paper to touch their palm. Only 11% of the participants we observed were consistent with the EFSA model for time of contact and dermal surface area. Mathematical modeling based on handling times we measured and previously published transfer coefficients, concentrations of BPA in paper, and absorption factors indicate the most conservative estimated intake from handling thermal paper in this population is 51.1 ng/kg/day, similar to EFSA’s estimates of 59 ng/kg/day from dermal exposures. Less conservative estimates, using published data on concentrations in thermal paper and transfer rates to skin, indicate that exposures are likely significantly higher. Based on our observational data, we propose that the current models for estimating dermal BPA exposures are not consistent with normal human behavior and should be reevaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Eastern-European Journal of Enterprise Technologies is the property of PC TECHNOLOGY CENTER and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The psychometric properties of the paper–pencil and online versions of the Beliefs Toward Mental Illness Scale (BTMI) were examined in two studies with Latina/o individuals. In Study 1, 316 Latina/o participants completed the BTMI in a paper–pencil mode. The original three-factor model was found to be a poor fit model for the sample. Subsequent exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses identified a four-factor model as the best fitting model for the sample. The identified factors were Dangerousness, Social Dysfunction, Incurability, and Embarrassment. In Study 2, the identified best fit model was tested with 280 Latina/o participants who completed the BTMI online. The four-factor model had adequate fit. A series of measurement invariance tests on the fit model supported equal factor loadings, but rejected equivalent intercepts across paper–pencil and online administration methods, though partially equivalent intercepts and residuals were found. Consequently, modality-specific norms are recommended, depending on whether paper–pencil or online venues are utilized for administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of bleaching-effluent from pulp and paper industry was investigated in a batch electrocoagulation (EC) reactor using aluminium as sacrificial electrodes. The response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate the individual and interactive effects of four independent parameters viz., current density (j: 5-25 mA/cm2), initial pH (pHo: 5-9), electrolyte (NaCl) concentration (c: 0-2 g/L) and electrolysis time (t: 10-30 min) on Colour, COD and BOD removal efficiency. The results were analyzed using Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA). Based on RSM analysis, a second-order polynomial regression model was developed and found to be good fit with experimental results. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the unpredictable effect of context familiarity when students solve real-world problems, this work aims to analyse how certain contexts can be used by pre-service mathematics teachers in the representation and real-world verification of a first-order mathematical model in the classroom in the subject of Ordinary Differential Equations. Specifically, this paper reports a classroom experience in which pre-service mathematics teachers compared the solution of a first-order ordinary differential equations (ODE) with a real-world experimental model. Using documentary records (i.e., students' hand-written solutions and field notes) and a questionnaire on students' perceptions on this classroom experience, qualitative results indicated that the pre-service mathematics teachers' familiarity with an authentic context was a fundamental factor they chose a real-world model to represent the solution of a first-order ODE. Our analysis of the results highlights the importance of integrating familiar real-world contexts for pre-service mathematics teachers to model a first-order ODE, which is one of the fundamental principles of STEM disciplines.

The need to develop consistent theoretical frameworks for the teaching and learning of discrete mathematics, specifically of graph theory, has attracted the attention of the researchers in mathematics education. Responding to this demand, the scope of the Van Hiele model has been extended to the field of graphs through a proposal of four levels of reasoning whose descriptors need to be validated according to the structure of this model. In this paper, the validity of these descriptors has been approached with a theoretical analysis that is organized by means of the so-called processes of reasoning, which are different mathematics abilities that students activate when solving graph theory problems: recognition, use and formulation of definitions, classification, and proof. The analysis gives support to the internal validity of the levels of reasoning in graph theory as the properties of the Van Hiele levels have been verified: fixed sequence, adjacency, distinction, and separation. Moreover, the external validity of the levels has been supported by providing evidence of their coherence with the levels of geometrical reasoning from which they originally emerge. The results thus point to the suitability of applying the Van Hiele model in the teaching and learning of graph theory.

This paper presents an application of the Kalman filter in signal processing in instrumentation systems when the conditions of the environment generate a large amount of interference for the acquisition of signals from measurement systems. The unwanted interferences make important use of the instrumentation system resources and do not represent useful information under any aspect. A simulation is presented using the Matlab tool, which remarkably facilitates the information processing so that the corresponding actions are taken according to the information obtained, taking advantage of the current resources offered by the embedded systems and the required measurements are obtained with enough accuracy.

In the paper, the authors propose a variant of the mathematical model for justifying the optimal ratio of researchers of different categories to conduct scientific research of the highest possible quality in conditions of limited resources. The discrepancy is formulated between the quality of scientific research and the restriction on financial resources, that is, the problem of resource allocation is solved. The relationship between the quality of scientific research and the number of researchers is proposed to be reflected by the canonical parabola equation. A mathematical model is formulated that reflects the essence of the question under study. The problem is solved using the method of Lagrange multipliers. The results of the study are confirmed by a numerical experiment. Resource constraints have always existed. This is especially true now for the development of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and increasing their combat and mobilisation readiness, which result in the country's defence capability as a whole. Limited funding also takes place in military science. It is very difficult to introduce new full-time positions and divisions. Previously, the number of researchers was justified following regulatory documents when creating scientific institutions and divisions, or by analogy with similar scientific institutions. In other words, the problem was solved empirically or situationally. This scientific study concerns substantiating the number of scientific personnel in conditions of limited resources, taking into account the work that is now performed and will be performed in the future.

This study adopts a holistic single-case design to explain the task design processes of mathematics student teachers (MSTs) regarding History, Theory, Technology, and Modeling (HTTM). A criterion sampling method was used to select nine MSTs who had successfully completed "algorithms and programming" course. Video analyses, written answer sheets, scratch papers, and GeoGebra files were used to obtain data, including the views of MSTs on HTTM task design. Data analysis was performed using a content analysis method based on the theoretical framework of HTTM learning. The results revealed that HTTM design processes included task, focus/origin, problem, design (prototype), results, and approved reports. Furthermore, the mental steps that connected these basic components were found to be investigating, exploring, designing, evaluating, revising, and reporting. One of the key challenges experienced by the MSTs was found to be spending a great amount of time especially while determining a focus. The study has been finalised with a set of suggestions for future designs.

This paper presents a didactic proposal designed through the active methodology of collaborative learning to analyse the effect of the use of numerical simulation of a mathematical model on the learning of differential equations in engineering students. A mathematical model of a vibrating string was used, and the Octave Online platform was used for the numerical simulation. The analysis and assessment of this proposal were carried out in a hybrid, quantitative and qualitative manner, through the design of observation and measurement instruments. The results indicate that, in science, technology, engineering and mathematics programmes, the use of numerical simulation in a collaborative learning environment strengthens student learning and fosters the development of disciplinary and soft skills.

High requirements for professional training of Defence Specialists were and remain the main guarantee of successful functioning of any military structure. Continuous improvement of the educational process in higher military educational institutions is the basis for its transformation to the conditions of the current situation in the world. In the paper, the authors offer an option to determine the number of classroom hours. This project describes approaches to creating a new, modern system of classroom hours, which ensures the continuity of improving the level of professional competence of higher military educational institutions using the nonlinear mathematical model of Weibull-Gnedenko. Organisational and methodological problems were analysed. Because of the analysis of methodological literature, the points of view of teachers and methodologists are compared on the modern methodological work, and a mathematical model was used that established the relationship between the training level of students and the number of academic hours. The proposed model divides the educational process into initial and main periods. The learning process strengthens in the main period. There is a slowdown at the beginning and end.

The research presented in this article is a systematic review of the literature on the assessment of mathematical modeling in the setting of mathematics education published in the previous five years. This research has compiled the current best information from around the world to offer an overview of the assessment of mathematical modeling for pre-service mathematics teachers or mathematics teachers. We followed the approach used in Joklitschke et al. (2021), which involved 10 steps in systematic literature review (SLR). We accessed using Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, and mathematics education journals that are ranked 1-10. Based on a full-text analysis of 18 peer-reviewed papers published in English, most of the research was conducted among pre-service mathematics teacher and most of the studies were conducted in Turkey, United States, and Germany. The future trends and opportunities were also discussed. We also found that most test types employed for measuring modeling competency were project, cognitive dimension, holistic approach, and the tests utilized more qualitative approach.

The importance of mathematical problem posing has been acknowledged by many researchers. In this theoretical paper, we want to capture different meanings and aspects of problem posing by approaching it from three different levels: (1) by comparing definitions, (2) by relating it to other constructs, and (3) by referring to research and teaching settings. The first level is an attempt to organise existing definitions of problem posing. The result of this analysis are five categories, which shows that there is no consensus regarding the conceptualisations of problem posing. In the second level, we examine how problem posing is conceived by the research community compared to other mathematical constructs, such as problem solving, mathematical creativity, or modelling. Finally, in the third level, we summarise possible ways of implementing problem posing in research and teaching settings as they are depicted in the relevant literature. Given this broad variance regarding the conceptualisations of problem posing, we attempt to provide some arguments as to whether there is a need for consensus on a commonly accepted concept of problem posing.

Abstract: Anaerobic digestion of pulp and paper sludge (PPS) and monosodium glutamate waste liquor (MGWL) was studied in completely stirred tank reactors (CSTR) at 37 ± 2 °C. This work focused on the effect of increased organic loading rate (OLR) on the methane production in long-term experiments. For OLR in the range of (1.5–5.0) kg m−3 d−1 based on VS fed, VFA and SCOD concentrations decreased for the first 10 days and then kept stable at about 2.3 kg m−3 and 4.0 kg m−3 respectively until to the critical OLR of 5.0 kg m−3 d−1; and the methane generation rate enhanced to 0.838 m3 m−3 d−1 during this period until to the reactor failure. Additionally, reaction rate constant k and sludge retention time (SRT) are described on the basis of a mass balance in a CSTR followed a first order kinetic equation. In the present study, values for ym and k were obtained as 0.733 m3 kg−1 of removed VS and 0.07 d−1, respectively. The simple model can apply for dimensioning a CSTR digesting of organic wastes from pulp and paper industries, food processing industries, sewage treatment plants or biogas crops. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have developed a semi-empirical model to relate the tensile energy absorption (TEA) of paper sheets formed from high-consistency refined pulp to pulp properties, including water retention value (WRV), fibre length, and fibre curl. TEA is shown to be related to the normalized stretch (ratio of stretch to tensile strength) and the tensile strength of the pulp. Normalized stretch appears to be a function of fibre curl, whereas tensile strength for a given pulp is a function of the fibre length, fibre curl, and WRV. The manner in which these three pulp properties develop in a given refining operation determines the development of TEA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper gives an overview of the new methods and the last trends considering actuarial mathematics. Based on a few papers that we consider relevant to our topic, we picked the information that is interesting to review. We will discuss different mathematical models and their use in the actuarial calculations for life insurance and non-life insurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic cellular automata for rock-paper-scissors games are related to Lotka-Volterra model. Simulations are usually performed by two methods local and global interactions. It is well known that the population dynamics with local interaction is stable, where all species coexist. In contrast, global interaction leads to extinction. So far, theories such as mean-field theory and pair approximation have been presented, but they never explained the stable dynamics in local simulation. In the present article, we apply effective medium approximation (EMA) which has been developed in Physics. The effective medium is determined in a self-consistent way. The EMA theory well predicts the stability of population dynamics. Moreover, it fairly explains the aggregation of each species observed in the stationary state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health education goes a long way in changing people's behavior towards health matters. One of the major roles of health education is the creation of awareness on the "dos" and "don'ts" that pertains to health matters. In northern Nigeria ("north"), many people, particularly in the rural areas, engage in the use of Sakkiya in the treatment of their body swellings. Sakkiya care has been reported repeatedly in the literature to have associated lethal risks on the health of those treated with it. Sakkiya is an act of using a hot pointed metallic tip to puncture a body swelling, with the purpose of achieving a cure. Furthermore, studies had recommended the need for the introduction of community Sakkiya education programs in northern Nigeria to enlightened people on the risks associated with Sakkiya and also inform them about better treatment options. This paper proposes a systematic approach to adopt in organizing an effective community Sakkiya education in the "north". The approach devised in this study was adapted from the Community Action Model (CAM) developed by the Brazilian educationist named Paulo Freire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of shredded paper fire experiments were conducted by means of a calorimeter. The mass loss rate and heat release rate were measured. The flame spread process was recorded, which shows that the flame spread process can be divided into four typical stages, and the mean spread rates along different directions were obtained from the observed combustion process. Based on the mean flame spread rate, a mathematical model for predicting the burning surface as a function of time during the four stages is established. Combining this model with the effective heat of combustion calculated from measured mass loss rate and heat release rate, an improved model to predict the heat release rate as a function of time was developed. In this model, the linear relationship between heat release rate and burning surface is found, and the predicted result agrees well with the measured heat release rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revue Française de Sociologie is the property of Presses de Sciences Po and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: We investigate a population of individuals who play the Rock–Paper–Scissors (RPS) game. The players choose strategies not only by optimizing their payoffs, but also taking into account the popularity of the strategies. For the standard RPS game, we find an asymptotically stable polymorphism with coexistence of all strategies. For the general RPS game we find the limit cycles. Their stability depends exclusively on two model parameters: the sum of the entries of the RPS payoff matrix, and a sensitivity parameter which characterizes the personality of the players. Apart from the supercritical Hopf bifurcation, we found the subcritical bifurcation numerically for some intervals of the parameters of the model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although the scale invariance is a main feature of growing networks, evidence from a few modelled networks show that the finite-size effect of network at a fixed time cannot be ignored. We propose a concept of time-dependent scale-free networks, and prove the criteria for the stability and scale-free of growing networks by the degree-growing Markov chain. Our results show the importance of rigorous theoretical analysis for the network science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses two aspects of integrating mathematics education with engineering education that may address persistence of engineering majors (and STEM majors more broadly): an emphasis on modeling as a vehicle for more authentic learning activity (Niss et al. 2007), and the need for measures that can support academic units' efforts to collect local data about student attainment of program goals. In this paper, we contribute: (1) a measure for modeling self-efficacy and its corresponding design process; (2) a measure for modeling competency and its corresponding design process; and (3) a preliminary analysis of the relationship between modeling competency and self-efficacy. We argue that such instruments address a genuine need of engineering departments (as well as STEM education researchers) to have a means for collecting local data on students' modeling self-efficacy and competency.

This study examined a cohort of middle school pre-service mathematics teachers' understanding of the rate of change as they engaged in a model development sequence. By adopting a design-based research perspective, a model development sequence on the concept of rate of change has been designed and implemented as part of a mathematical modeling course for pre-service teachers. The data were collected from twenty senior year middle school pre-service mathematics teachers (PSTs) through questionnaires, modeling activities, reflection papers, and semi-structured interviews. The data analysis showed that PSTs have difficulties conceptualizing the rate of change and conceiving it as a multiplicative comparison of changes in two covarying quantities. As they frequently employed its percentage interpretation, PSTs experienced additional difficulty conceiving the conventional meaning of rate of change in a population growth context. PSTs generally used motion context as a reference while explaining the rate of change in different non-motion contexts. In general, PSTs developed their conception of the additive rate of change throughout the model development sequence. However, for some PSTs, difficulty in ratio-based reasoning on the rate of change in different non-motion contexts prevailed. We provided some arguments concerning the teaching and learning of rate of change.

Mathematical modelling emphasizes the connection between mathematics and reality -- still, tasks are often exclusively introduced inside the classroom. The paper examines the potential of different task settings for mathematical modelling with real objects: outdoors at the real object itself, with photographs and with a 3D model representation. It is the aim of the study to analyze how far the mathematical modelling steps of students solving the tasks differ in comparison to the settings and representations. In a qualitative study, 19 lower secondary school students worked on tasks of all three settings in a Latin square design. Their working processes in the settings are compared with a special focus on the modelling steps Simplifying and Structuring, as well as Mathematizing. The analysis by means of activity diagrams and a qualitative content analysis shows that both steps are particularly relevant when students work with real objects -- independent from the three settings. Still, differences in the actual activities could be observed in the students' discussion on the appropriateness of a model and in dealing with inaccuracies at the real object. In addition, the process of data collection shows different procedures depending on the setting which presents each of them as an enrichment for the acquisition of modelling skills.

This paper aims at showing a new methodology to assess student learning in virtual spaces supported by Information and Communications Technology-ICT. The methodology is based on the Conceptual Pedagogy Theory, and is supported both on knowledge instruments (KI) and intelectual operations (IO). KI are made up of teaching materials embedded in the virtual environment. The student carries out IO in his/her virtual formation process based on KI. Both instruments of knowledge and intellectual operations can be mathematically modelled by using functions of increasing complexity order. These functions represent the student's learning change. This paper's main contribution is to show that these functions let the student go from a concrete thinking to a formal one in his/her virtual learning process. The research showed that 47% of the students moved from a concrete thinking level to the formal thinking level.

The article combines a theoretical approach to structuring knowledge that is based on the integrated use of fuzzy semantic network theory predicates, Boolean functions, theory of complexity of network structures and some practical aspects to be considered in the distance learning at the university. The paper proposes a methodological approach that takes into account these features. The paper deals with the structuring of project management programs of academic mobility. The features of these projects show their impact on the progress and results of the implementation. It is shown that traditional approaches to solving the problems of academic mobility management applications to integrate the process of setting objectives and planning projects. But due to the complexity of academic mobility programs to solve these problems effectively without decomposing it into components can be managed quite difficult. Therefore, the main idea of this paper is that an increasing the efficiency of the university on the basis of a possible application of rational structuring of academic mobility programs. The features of these projects shows their impact on the progress and results of their implementation and the ways of construction of project management Digital learning systems. The experience of universities of many countries shows that an effective tool to overcome these obstacles is Digital learning, which allows to get all necessary knowledge at any time and in any place. The identity of urgency takes in terms of academic mobility when students and teachers work in another country. The paper presents the analyse of the structure of scientific and methodological basis of project management systems. The model determines the effect of academic mobility project management tools through knowledge of business administration at the progress of the educational projects. In this structure are identified two parts: creation tool to identify knowledge users and how they change, and the creation of information tools effect on these people.

The paper argues that mathematical modeling is the essence of computational thinking. Learning a computer language is a valuable assistance in learning logical thinking but of less assistance when learning problem-solving skills. The paper is third in a series and presents some examples of mathematical modeling using spreadsheets at an advanced level such as high school or early college.

This paper deals with the problem of moisture in the transformer insulation system. The author proposed that apart from the temperature, the uneven aging of cellulose insulation may have a substantial effect on moisture distribution. The main goal of the research was to check the influence of the degree of aging of winding paper on moisture distribution by taking into account temperature distribution. New paper and paper at three different stages of aging were tested. The obtained results confirmed the hypothesis it was proven that the uneven aging of insulation may enhance moisture distribution in the insulation system. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aim A discussion of the concepts of leadership and emotional intelligence in nursing and midwifery education and practice. Background The need for emotionally intelligent leadership in the health professions is acknowledged internationally throughout the nursing and midwifery literature. The concepts of emotional intelligence and emotional-social intelligence have emerged as important factors for effective leadership in the healthcare professions and require further exploration and discussion. This paper will explore these concepts and discuss their importance in the healthcare setting with reference to current practices in the UK, Ireland and internationally. Design Discussion paper. Data sources A search of published evidence from 1990-2015 using key words (as outlined below) was undertaken from which relevant sources were selected to build an informed discussion. Implications for nursing/midwifery Fostering emotionally intelligent leadership in nursing and midwifery supports the provision of high quality and compassionate care. Globally, leadership has important implications for all stakeholders in the healthcare professions with responsibility for maintaining high standards of care. This includes all grades of nurses and midwives, students entering the professions, managerial staff, academics and policy makers. Conclusion This paper discusses the conceptual models of leadership and emotional intelligence and demonstrates an important link between the two. Further robust studies are required for ongoing evaluation of the different models of emotional intelligence and their link with effective leadership behaviour in the healthcare field internationally. This is of particular significance for professional undergraduate education to promote ongoing compassionate, safe and high quality standards of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Buck converter is a commonly used voltage regulator (VR) structure that supplies power to the load devices and responds to load transients. In most of the applications, the VR is controlled by voltage or current mode control, and some nonlinear approaches are used to improve the transient response which brings more complexities to the closed loop design. To achieve a fast transient response without over-regulation under a load step transient, this paper proposes a digital single-cycle regulation (SCCR) controller, which comprised a fast path, a slow path, and a neutralization path. Unlike the conventional PID control, the neutralization path of the SCCR controller is used to offset the excessive energy change in the first cycle after a load step occurs, which makes the inductor current reach its new static condition in a shorter period of time. The mathematical model of the SCCR control is established in this paper and a scanning algorithm is proposed for the design of the compensator parameters. Experimental results are presented to verify the improvement of the transient response when compared to the conventional and nonlinear PID control, the recovery time is decreased by 64.3% and 43% for load step-up and step-down when compared with nonlinear PID control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]