Albion College

About: Albion College is a education organization based out in Albion, Michigan, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Higher education. The organization has 485 authors who have published 754 publications receiving 20907 citations.

Single photon detector comparison in a quantum key distribution test

Abstract: We provide a direct comparison between the InGaAs avalanche photodiode (APD) and the NbN superconducting single photon detector (SSPD) for applications in fiber-based quantum cryptography. The quantum efficiency and dark count rate were measured for each detector, and used to calculate the quantum bit error rate (QBER) and shared key rate for a QKD link. The results indicate that, despite low quantum efficiency, the speed of the SSPD makes it a superior detector for quantum information applications. Finally, we present results of an initial integration of an SSPD into a receiver node of the DARPA quantum network to perform quantum key distribution.

Engaging students using a simple electronic daily response journal

Abstract: This paper describes and analyzes a simple mechanism designed to enhance learning by encouraging meaningful class attendance, engaging students inside the classroom, and encouraging critical thinking outside the classroom. A web-based method for a simple journal system is presented that solves some of the logistical problems that occur with paper journals. Each day after class students respond to course material by submitting two important lecture points and one unresolved question via a web form. A simple CGI script ensures a valid submission and places it into a course specific text file with other student responses. Prior to the next class, a processing script is run to convert the responses into a web page accessible to all students. The responses are reviewed anonymously in the following class, providing rapid feedback on important concepts. The daily response journal encourages students to think critically and reflect about their questions, and it promotes discussion that better includes introverted and reflective students. This review time also serves as a focused review of the previous class and provides a nice transition between course topics. Daily responses are posted and available throughout the semester for student reference and review. Students from three courses were given a questionnaire related to the effectiveness of the daily response journal. The results indicate students found the daily response helpful overall. In particular, this format improved clarification and feedback on difficult concepts, facilitated classroom discussion, fostered an inquisitive attitude, gave them a voice in class, made it easier to ask questions, and stimulated their thinking outside the classroom. This method can be easily employed in a wide variety of settings to promote student engagement in the learning process.

Rediscovery of Ossaea alloeotricha, an endemic of the high-elevation Massif de la Hotte, Haiti, and its transfer to Miconia (Melastomataceae: Miconieae)

Abstract: Rediscovery of Ossaea alloeotricha, an endemic of the high-elevation Massif de la Hotte, Haiti, and its transfer to Miconia (Melastomataceae: Miconieae). Brittonia 56: 159–165. 2004.—Ossaea alloeotricha, described by Urban on the basis of material with very immature flowers, has been re-collected (in flower and fruit) in the cloud forests and moist forests dominated by Pinus occidentalis in the vicinity of Pic le Ciel, 2150 m, on Morne Formon of the Massif de la Hotte (western group), Haiti. The mature flowers of this species have broadly elliptic to suborbicular petals with rounded, asymmetrically notched apices, clearly indicating a placement in Miconia, not Ossaea or Leandra (which have acute to acuminate petals); the species is here transferred to Miconia (sect. Cremanium). Miconia alloeotricha is provided with an expanded description and compared with M. desportesii, M. monciona, M. sphagnicola, and M. tetrandra, the other species of Miconia sect. Cremanium occurring in Hispaniola (Dominican...

Reproducibility of the Veterans Physical Activity Questionnaire in an elderly population.

Abstract: Background: Quantifying lifetime physical activity using self-reported measures is challenging due to reliance on recall, especially in older populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the 1-year reproducibility of the Veterans Physical Activity Questionnaire (VAPAQ) in a cohort of patients with documented abdominal aortic aneurysm disease (AAA). Methods: Subjects included men (n = 52) and women (n = 3) enrolled in AAA STOP, a randomized trial designed to test the ability of supervised exercise training to modify AAA biology and early disease progression. Results: The overall correlation coefficient for lifetime recreational energy expenditure between the 2 examinations was 0.93 (P < .001), with an overall difference of 26 kcal/week, a typical error (standard deviation of the differences) of 171 kcals/week, and a coefficient of variation (CV) of 15.5%. Conclusions: The VAPAQ is a reproducible tool to quantify lifetime energy expenditure in older adults with documented vascular disease.

The Nature of Plants

Abstract: The “Nature of Plants” provides a general overview of the unique structure, function, and evolution of plants and serves as a general introduction to the larger textbook. The chapter begins discussing the importance of pigments that provide the ability to harvest light via photosynthesis, leading the way for producing anabolic compounds necessary for growth. This chapter contains information that identifies other important aspects of plants such as cell walls, plant life cycles, meristematic growth, and fruit dispersal that is limited to the angiosperms. A general discussion of plant evolution, organs, and plant diversity is included. The chapter concludes by clarifying the importance of scale in understanding plant structures and by identifying the many ways that the terms, primary and secondary, are associated with plant development and anatomy.