2,437 research outputs found

    A recipe for an unpredictable random number generator

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    In this work we present a model for computation of random processes in digital computers which solves the problem of periodic sequences and hidden errors produced by correlations. We show that systems with non-invertible non-linearities can produce unpredictable sequences of independent random numbers. We illustrate our result with some numerical calculations related with random walks simulations.Comment: 8 pages, 5 figures, Proceedings Mochima spring school in theoretial physic

    The Coding Manual for Qualitative Research: A Review

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    This book review comments on the second edition of Saldaña\u27s (2013) Coding Manual for Qualitative Research. This review discusses the benefits of using this text as a qualitative coding guide and also discusses some perceived limitations. This review is intended to help researchers who are in the process of selecting qualitative coding reference texts

    The Untapped Potential of Commuters: Engaging Faculty and Staff to Foster a Commuter-Inclusive Space and Student Interest at the University of San Diego

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    The commuter student population faces many challenges in getting involved on campus. Taking an asset-based approach, this study aimed to enhance first-year commuter engagement and support their sense of belonging at a private, faith-based university. By modifying McNiff and Whitehead’s model of reflect-plan-act-exhibit, students were invited to engage in several identity, community, and leadership activities throughout the academic year. Results suggest first-year commuters need role modeling or mentorship that is challenging and supportive, the support of creating a ‘third space’ away from home and school, and the development of authentic and genuine connections among peers and staff. It is recommended that practitioners acknowledge and embrace students’ commuter identity and work to increase the visibility and accessibility of commuter-targeted programming. Additionally, staff must build a community among commuter students through dedicated spaces and peer mentoring programs to strengthen and enhance first-year commuter cocurricular engagement

    Quantifying the effect of aerial imagery resolution in automated hydromorphological river characterisation

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    Existing regulatory frameworks aiming to improve the quality of rivers place hydromorphology as a key factor in the assessment of hydrology, morphology and river continuity. The majority of available methods for hydromorphological characterisation rely on the identification of homogeneous areas (i.e., features) of flow, vegetation and substrate. For that purpose, aerial imagery is used to identify existing features through either visual observation or automated classification techniques. There is evidence to believe that the success in feature identification relies on the resolution of the imagery used. However, little effort has yet been made to quantify the uncertainty in feature identification associated with the resolution of the aerial imagery. This paper contributes to address this gap in knowledge by contrasting results in automated hydromorphological feature identification from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) aerial imagery captured at three resolutions (2.5 cm, 5 cm and 10 cm) along a 1.4 km river reach. The results show that resolution plays a key role in the accuracy and variety of features identified, with larger identification errors observed for riffles and side bars. This in turn has an impact on the ecological characterisation of the river reach. The research shows that UAV technology could be essential for unbiased hydromorphological assessment

    Automated identification of river hydromorphological features using UAV high resolution aerial imagery

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    European legislation is driving the development of methods for river ecosystem protection in light of concerns over water quality and ecology. Key to their success is the accurate and rapid characterisation of physical features (i.e., hydromorphology) along the river. Image pattern recognition techniques have been successfully used for this purpose. The reliability of the methodology depends on both the quality of the aerial imagery and the pattern recognition technique used. Recent studies have proved the potential of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to increase the quality of the imagery by capturing high resolution photography. Similarly, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) have been shown to be a high precision tool for automated recognition of environmental patterns. This paper presents a UAV based framework for the identification of hydromorphological features from high resolution RGB aerial imagery using a novel classification technique based on ANNs. The framework is developed for a 1.4 km river reach along the river Dee in Wales, United Kingdom. For this purpose, a Falcon 8 octocopter was used to gather 2.5 cm resolution imagery. The results show that the accuracy of the framework is above 81%, performing particularly well at recognising vegetation. These results leverage the use of UAVs for environmental policy implementation and demonstrate the potential of ANNs and RGB imagery for high precision river monitoring and river management

    In the Space Between Action and Reaction Individuals Have Choice: Romeo and Juliet and the Consequences of Choice [8th-9th grade]

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    Middle school students struggle with the internalization that choices have consequences. Adolescence is a time in their life when, perhaps for the first time, their choices have lasting ramifications. At the same time, students are acutely aware that life is full of contradiction; certain events in life are indeed beyond their control. The choices they make in these situations may determine their direction into adulthood. The purpose of this unit is to allow students to examine the consequences of choices made in a world that is controlled by adults. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet serves as the vehicle toward understanding the consequences of choices. At the heart of tragedy is the real world lesson that choices made by characters seal their fate. Through purposeful analysis of characterization and the elements of tragedy, students will experience how theatre exposes that the individual still has choice. Student analysis of language and sentence construction within Romeo and Juliet will also help students to understand the effects of word choice and sentence construction. Shakespeare used grammar to illuminate the personality of characters, to provide rhythm, and to engage his audience. Students will have the opportunity to both practice and utilize sentence manipulation and word choice to exhibit their understanding of the role grammar plays in the author’s ability to effectively communicate his message. The unit culminates in student creation and performance of an original piece of work incorporating the elements of tragedy. The final product will also incorporate the manipulation of sentence structure and word choice in the revisions process to allow students the opportunity to reveal a unique message through his/her own perspective. Through the writing and performance process, students will communicate the central message, “In the space between an action and reaction you have choice.” - Steven Cove

    Gender Leadership Imbalance in Sport Organizations in Latin America

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    The purpose of the study was to examine gender imbalance at the leadership level of sport administration at National Olympic Committees (NOC), National Paralympic Committees (NPC), and National Sport Organizations (NSF) of countries members of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO). Specifically, this study examined how social and human capital, socio-cultural aspects of each country, and power-based discourses affect the advancement of women’s careers at the micro, meso, and macro levels of analysis. A total of 12 participants were selected to participate in this study. Participants were all female sport administrators holding the position of president, vice-president, or secretary-general of a NOC, NPC, or NSF representing sport organizations in seven countries. The majority were married, were former athletes, self-described as white, of European descent, and being of middle and upper-class. All 12 participants have undergraduate level degrees and most of them hold master’s degrees. Semi-structured interviews were used to examine how similar experiences defined the careers of women in the sport industry, with thematic analysis and a Feminist Critical approach being used as the primary method for data analysis. Findings of this investigation show that participation barriers that prevent women’s access to sport leadership roles are more prevalent at the meso-level, being influenced by both endemic sexist discourses of the sport culture as a male-dominated industry and by the socio-cultural factors that prevail in the region. Results also revealed that social class and status provide not only women with better education opportunities but also access to advance a career in sport. Thus, lack of training in sport administration and command of the English language are perceived as barriers that primarily affect women minorities. Participants prefer the merits of the female leader instead of filling quotas. Finally, participants perceived that despite the effects of the machista culture in most Latin American sport organizations, a generational change is occurring in the leadership of these organizations. The new generation of sport leaders seems to be more empathetic and show more positive attitudes toward women leading sport organizations

    Grammar is a Source of Power: Bridging the Gap to Empower the Writer

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    Helping students tap into the power of grammar as a tool to empower their writing is the central goal of this unit. Students often see grammar as a list of rules and regulations that must be followed to avoid losing points on an assignment. It is our goal to help them see grammar as an avenue to communicate effectively and gain credibility from their audience. Furthermore, students often struggle when transitioning from middle school to high schools. This unit is written to be taught and modified by an eighth grade and ninth grade English teacher. Because we teach at an independent school, the majority of our students will experience this unit both in 8th grade English and in 9th grade English (with modification). By designing and teaching the same unit together, students experience consistency in skill development. Additionally, teachers may discuss the concepts students master and the concepts students need further practice with throughout and after the unit. In this unit students will study the power of grammar as it is structured to reflect education, social power, and purpose. Additionally, they will study the parts of the sentence and how writers modify or add to sentences to add clarity, meaning, style and sophistication
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