bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of EMG during passive stretching and shortening phases of each muscle for the investigation of parkinsonian rigidity
Authors: Kwon Yuri , Kim Ji-Won , Kim Ji-Sun , Koh Seong-Beom , Eom Gwang-Moon , Lim Tae-Hong
Published: August 2015

Abstract

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis in the literature that torque resistance of parkinsonian rigidity is the difference between the independent contributions of stretched and shortened muscles. The hypothesis was tested using muscle-specific stretch-shortening (MSSS) EMG ratio in this study. Nineteen patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD) and 18 healthy subjects (the mean age comparable to that of patients) participated in this study. The EMG activity was measured in the four muscles involved in wrist joint movement, i.e. flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi radialis and extensor carpi ulnaris. The passive flexion-extension movement with a range of [Formula: see text] was applied at wrist joint. Root mean squared (RMS) mean was calculated from the envelope of the EMG for each of stretching and shortening phases. MSSS EMG ratio was defined as the ratio of RMS EMG of stretching phase and RMS EMG of shortening phase of a single muscle, and it was calculated for each muscle. MSSS EMG ratios were smaller than one in all muscles. These results indicate that all wrist muscles generate greater mean EMG during shortening than during stretching. Therefore, the torque resistance of parkinsonian rigidity cannot be explained as the simple summation of independent antagonistic torque pair.
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the free fatty acids in serum obtained from patients with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cui Yu , Chen Xiaobei , Liu Liyan , Xie Wei , Wu Yue , Wu Qunhong , Wang Decai
Published: August 2015

Abstract

As the worldwide elderly population has grown, the incidence and prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has steadily increased. The differential lifelong exposure of populations to dietary fatty acids has raised concerns about the potential links between cognitive impairments and nutrition. However, few studies have addressed the levels of free fatty acids (FFAs) in AD patient serum. In this study, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to determine the levels of 15 serum FFAs in 31 AD patients and 33 healthy controls. The optimized methodology entailed the formation of methyl esters using 10% v/v H2SO4/CH3OH at 62°C for 2 hours. The linear range was 0.55–300 μg/mL, the range of recovery was 85.1–104.3%, and the detection limit was 0.03–0.08 μg/mL. Several FFAs in the AD patient significantly decreased when compared to the control, including three saturated fatty acids (C14:0, C16:0, and C18:0) and six unsaturated fatty acids (C16:1, C18:1, C18:2, γ-C18:3, C20:2, and C22:6). The serum level of C18:3 was significantly higher in the AD patients. The FFA profiles of the AD patients differed significantly from those of controls. The method effectively determined the FFA levels and could facilitate future studies regarding the relationship between AD and the metabolism of FFAs.
Discrete virus infection model of hepatitis B virus
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Min Lequan , Pian Jianwei
Published: August 2015

Abstract

In 1996 Nowak and his colleagues proposed a differential equation virus infection model, which has been widely applied in the study for the dynamics of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Biological dynamics may be described more practically by discrete events rather than continuous ones. Using discrete systems to describe biological dynamics should be reasonable. Based on one revised Nowak et al’s virus infection model, this study introduces a discrete virus infection model (DVIM). Two equilibriums of this model, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], represents infection free and infection persistent, respectively. Similar to the case of the basic virus infection model, this study deduces a basic virus reproductive number R0 independing on the number of total cells of an infected target organ. A proposed theorem proves that if the basic virus reproductive number [Formula: see text] then the virus free equilibrium [Formula: see text] is locally stable. The DVIM is more reasonable than an abstract discrete susceptible-infected-recovered model (SIRS) whose basic virus reproductive number [Formula: see text] is relevant to the number of total cells of the infected target organ. As an application, this study models the clinic HBV DNA data of a patient who was accepted via anti-HBV infection therapy with drug lamivudine. The results show that the numerical simulation is good in agreement with the clinic data.
Development of SPR biosensor for simultaneous detection of multiplex respiratory viruses
Authors: Shi Lei , Sun Qiuxiang , He Jian’an , Xu Hua , Liu Chunxiao , Zhao Chunzhong , Xu Yunqing , Wu Changlin , Xiang Junjian , Gu Dayong , Long Jun , Lan Hekui
Published: August 2015

Abstract

A surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based biosensor was developed for specific detection of nine common respiratory virus, including influenza A and influenza B, H1N1, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza virus 1-3 (PIV1, 2, 3), adenovirus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS). The SPR biosensor was developed by immobilizing nine respiratory virus-specific oligonucleotides in an SPR chip. To increase the biosensor sensitivity, biotin was used to label the PCR primer and further amplify the signal by introducing streptavidin after hybridization. Throat swab specimens representing nine common respiratory viruses were tested by the innovative SPR-based biosensor to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility of this method. Results suggest that this biosensor has the potential to simultaneously identify common respiratory viruses.
Quantitative detection of methylation of FHIT and BRCA1 promoters in the serum of ductal breast cancer patients
Authors: Liu Limei , Sun Liyuan , Li Chunhe , Li Xinyang , Zhang Yuhong , Yu Yun , Xia Wei
Published: August 2015

Abstract

The development of carcinoma has been found to be associated with epigenetic modifications. The aim of this study was to estimate the methylation levels of FHIT and BRCA1 promoters using the bisulphite sequencing method (BSP) and high-resolution melting curve analysis (HRM) in the serum of patients with ductal breast carcinoma as a biomarker for the possible application of early diagnosis of breast cancer. The results showed that the methylation levels of both BRCA1 and FHIT promoters were higher in the serum of the breast ductal carcinoma group (BDC group) than those of the breast fibroadenoma group (BFA group), and the healthy individuals group (HI group). However, the methylation levels of the BRCA1 promoters were very low in all three groups compared to the levels of FHIT. The advanced quantitative detection of the samples with HRM showed that the FHIT promoter methylation level of the cfDNA in each serum was also very high in the BDC group compared to the HI group. The methylation level of FHIT was found to be significantly associated with breast cancer (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the methylation quantitative detection of FHIT promoter in serum may be useful for the early diagnosis of ductal breast carcinoma.
Proteomic pilot study of tuberculosis pleural effusion
Authors: Zhang Jiaqiang , Fang Li-Zhou , Liu Ling , Zhang Jianqing , Fu Weiping , Dai Luming
Published: August 2015

Abstract

To discuss the differences in protein expression among tuberculosis pleural effusion (TBPE), malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and transudative pleural effusion (TSPE). We recruited 50 patients with pleural effusion, including 20 TBPEs, 17 MPEs and 13 TSPEs. Using the two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), we acquired the peptide mass finger printings (PMFs) of featured proteins. Then, we identified characteristic proteins by searching in the protein databank of the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and assessed their diagnostic significance. We found five characteristic proteins: C1-inhibitor (C1-INH), transthyretin (TTR), human complement fragment 3b (C3b), human ceruloplasmin (CP), and Z34c protein fragment Fc (Z34c-Fc). C1-INH shows a high expression in TBPE and a low expression in MPE while TTR and C3 show low expression in TBPE and high expressions in MPE. Z34c-Fc and CP have a higher expression in TBPE than in TSPE. No common characteristic protein was found between MPE and TSPE. Statistic analysis consisted of paired t-tests and the difference between them is significance ([Formula: see text]). C1-inhibitor (C1-INH), transthyretin (TTR), human Complement fragment 3b (C3b), human Ceruloplasmin (CP) and Z34c protein fragment Fc (Z34c-Fc) may provide an additional perspective in the differential diagnosis of PE.
Identification of dual active agents targeting 5-HT1A and SERT by combinatorial virtual screening methods
Authors: Wang Panpan , Yang Fengyuan , Yang Hong , Xu Xiaofei , Liu Duo , Xue Weiwei , Zhu Feng
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are most adopted therapeutics marketed for major depression, and the efficacy of which are greatly reduced by their delayed onset of action and undesirable side effects. 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist and SERT inhibitor (SPARI) was proposed as a novel strategy to overcome the shortage of efficacy by a negative feedback control of 5-HT1A receptor. However, only one SPARI (vilazodone) has been approved for clinical use, and none is currently in clinical trial, which demonstrates a strong need for searching more novel SPARIs to facilitate antidepressants discovery. This work applied a combinatorial virtual screening method (CVSM) by integrating multiple tools. Statistic analysis reveals that CVSM surpasses single virtual screening methods in terms of hit rates and enrichment factors. By adopting optimized CVSM, 91 promising dual target leads form 15 scaffolds were identified, and 40% of these scaffolds have already been reported to show antidepressant related therapeutic effects. In sum, CVSM is capable in identifying novel SPARIs from large chemical libraries with extremely low false hit rate.
An empirical review: Characteristics of plant microsatellite markers that confer higher levels of genetic variation
Authors: Merritt Benjamin J. , Culley Theresa M. , Avanesyan Alina , Stokes Richard , Brzyski Jessica
Published: August 2015

During microsatellite marker development, researchers must choose from a pool of possible primer pairs to further test in their species of interest. In many cases, the goal is maximizing detectable levels of genetic variation. To guide researchers and determine which markers are associated with higher levels of genetic variation, we conducted a literature review based on 6782 genomic microsatellite markers published from 1997–2012. We examined relationships between heterozygosity (HeorHo) or allele number (A) with the following marker characteristics: repeat type, motif length, motif region, repeat frequency, and microsatellite size. Variation across taxonomic groups was also analyzed. There were significant differences between imperfect and perfect repeat types inAandHe. Dinucleotide motifs exhibited significantly higherA, He, andHothan most other motifs. Repeat frequency and motif region were positively correlated withA, He, andHo, but correlations with microsatellite size were minimal. Higher taxonomic groups were disproportionately represented in the literature and showed little consistency. In conclusion, researchers should carefully consider marker characteristics so they can be tailored to the desired application. If researchers aim to target high genetic variation, dinucleotide motif lengths with large repeat frequencies may be best.
Microsatellite markers for the Pilosella alpicola group (Hieraciinae, Asteraceae) and their cross‐amplification in other Hieraciinae genera
Authors: Vít Petr , Šingliarová Barbora , Zozomová‐Lihová Judita , Marhold Karol , Krak Karol
Published: August 2015

Premise of the study:

Microsatellite markers were developed for the Pilosella alpicola group (Asteraceae), comprising four closely related species distributed in subalpine areas of Europe. These species are believed to have diverged recently, but display contrasting cytogeographic patterns and variation in breeding systems, representing a promising model system for studying plant speciation, adaptation, and recent polyploidization.

Methods and Results:

We developed 17 microsatellite markers for the P. alpicola group using 454 sequencing. Sixteen markers were polymorphic, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from seven to 16 and observed and expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.45 to 0.84 and 0.72 to 0.92, respectively. Ten and five loci amplified in the related species, P. echioides and P. officinarum, respectively, but only two in Andryala and one in Hieracium s. str.

Conclusions:

The developed microsatellite markers have high potential to become useful tools to study microevolutionary processes in the P. alpicola group and related Pilosella species.
Synthesis and spectroscopic properties of β-triazoloporphyrin–xanthone dyads
Authors: Singh Dileep Kumar , Nath Mahendra
Published: August 2015

A novel series of β-triazoloporphyrin–xanthone conjugates and xanthone-bridged β-triazoloporphyrin dyads has been synthesized in moderate to good yields through Cu(I)-catalyzed Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of copper(II) 2-azido-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin or zinc(II) 2-azidomethyl-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin with various alkyne derivatives of xanthones in DMF containing CuSO4 and ascorbic acid at 80 °C. Furthermore, these metalloporphyrins underwent demetalation under acidic conditions to afford the corresponding free-base porphyrins in good to excellent yields. After successful spectroscopic characterization, these porphyrins have been evaluated for their photophysical properties. The preliminary results revealed a bathochromic shift in the UV–vis and fluorescence spectra of these porphyrin–xanthone dyads.
A general methodology for collecting and preserving xystodesmid and other large millipedes for biodiversity research
Authors: Means Jackson , Francis Elizabeth , Lane Avery , Marek Paul
Published: August 2015

With an estimated 80% of species remaining undescribed (but see Brewer et al. 2012), millipede taxonomy offers the opportunity to discover new species and explore biodiversity. The lack of basic alpha taxonomic information regarding millipedes belies their significant ecological role and potential as premier models in ecological and evolutionary studies. The group possesses many fascinating biological properties (e.g., bioluminescence, mimicry, and complex chemical secretions) that have been the focus of several recent studies and are emerging avenues of future investigation.

Here we summarize a methodology for large-bodied millipede collection, curation, and preservation for genetic analyses with the hope that sharing these techniques will stimulate interest in these charismatic detritivores.
Intelligent Fighter Pilot Support for Distributed Unmanned and Manned Decision Making
Authors: Alfredson Jens , Ohlander Ulrika
Published: August 2015

This chapter highlights important aspects of an intelligent fighter pilot support for distributed unmanned and manned decision making. First the background is described including current trends within the domain, and characteristics of a decision support system are discussed. After that a scenario and example situations are presented. The chapter also includes reflections of an intelligent fighter pilot support for distributed unmanned and manned decision making from the joint cognitive systems view, regarding human interoperability, and function allocation.
Driverless Metro Train with Automatic Crowd Control System
Authors: Goswami Saurav , Mehjabin Semina , Kashyap Parismita A.
Published: August 2015

This chapter discusses about a prototype of Driverless Train Operation (DTO) mode. In DTO, driving is controlled and monitored automatically, without human assistance. A train attendant can intervene in emergencies. The automatic driving system takes care of the departure, the movement between two stations, and the automatic and precision stopping of the train and opening of the doors. If required, the door is automatically opened again. When passenger volume is high, additional trains are automatically sent into operation straight from the depot at the push of a button. The driverless metro train in our work is basically an embedded system based framework, which is designed to provide solutions for smooth a human machine interface while controlling high speed metro train using automated actuation and regulation mechanisms. In this work, the modeling of the metro train is done in a more precise way using an AVR microcontroller.
Design of a Power Aware Systolic Array based Support Vector Machine Classifier
Authors: Mandal Bhaswati , Sarma Manash Pratim , Sarma Kandarpa Kumar
Published: August 2015

This chapter presents a method for generating binary and multiclass Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier with multiplierless kernel function. This design provides reduced power, area and reduced cost due to the use of multiplierless kernel operation. Binary SVM classifier classifies two groups of linearly or nonlinearly separable data while the multiclass classification provides classification of three nonlinearly separable data. Here, at first SVM classifier is trained for different classification problems and then the extracted training parameters are used in the testing phase of the same. The dataflow from all the processing elements (PEs) are parallely supported by systolic array. This systolic array architecture provides faster processing of the whole system design.
Eye Ball Detection Using Labview and Application for Design of Obstacle Detector
Authors: Swargiary Devkant , Paul Joydeep , Amin Ruhul , Bordoloi Hemashree
Published: August 2015

Eye ball detection can be used for controlling certain applications. In this chapter, we describe the formulation of an eye ball detection system for design of an obstacle detection and avoidance technique. The obstacle detector is used with a vehicle and works by determining the location of an obstacle in the vicinity of a test object. The obstacle's distance is gauged from the test object in terms of corresponding voltages. The system uses image processing to detect the eye of the driver. If the eye of the driver is closed for a longer period than the threshold period then the image processing block sends a signal to the sensor which automatically takes control of the test vehicle.
Acoustic Modeling of Speech Signal using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Sarma Mousmita , Sarma Kandarpa Kumar
Published: August 2015

Acoustic modeling of the sound unit is a crucial component of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) system. This is the process of establishing statistical representations for the feature vector sequences for a particular sound unit so that a classifier for the entire sound unit used in the ASR system can be designed. Current ASR systems use Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to deal with temporal variability and Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) for acoustic modeling. Recently machine learning paradigms have been explored for application in speech recognition domain. In this regard, Multi Layer Perception (MLP), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) etc. are extensively used. Artificial Neural Network (ANN)s are trained by back propagating the error derivatives and therefore have the potential to learn much better models of nonlinear data. Recently, Deep Neural Network (DNN)s with many hidden layer have been up voted by the researchers and have been accepted to be suitable for speech signal modeling. In this chapter various techniques and works on the ANN based acoustic modeling are described.
Exploiting Power Line for Communication Purpose
Authors: Tiru Banty
Published: August 2015

Power Line Communication (PLC) uses the available power line as a communication medium. The purpose of this chapter is to present the salient features, current trend and future scope of PLC with emphasis in the Indian context. Unlike other channels available, power lines are harsh media for data transfer and require efficient modeling and simulation techniques to propose and implement suitable mitigation schemes for achieving acceptable performance. Designed equipments have to adhere to strict mandates at the national and international levels to account for issues related to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). In spite of this, PLC is expected to occupy an important place in the networking market in applications of smart grid and as a component of heterogeneous/hybrid communication system. The chapter is also backed by results from experiments carried on a typical power line in a test site with a presentation of noise, transfer characteristics, modeling and an estimate of the channel capacity.
Annotating Abstract Vocabulary Using Multimedia
Authors: Xu Jing
Published: August 2015

This chapter reports a research study that investigated the effectiveness of multimedia vocabulary annotations (MVAs) in facilitating acquisition of second language (L2) abstract vocabulary. Twenty-one collegiate L2 students read a hypermedia passage that contained marginal MVAs for eighteen unknown abstract words. Their knowledge of these words was assessed immediately after the reading activity and twelve days afterwards. The quantitative data from vocabulary assessments indicated that these students neither acquired more vocabulary knowledge nor retained this knowledge better by using MVAs than using traditional text-only annotations. The qualitative data collected from two questionnaires suggested that the participants had applied various strategies for assessing MVAs and they had encountered certain difficulties in understanding the visuals. The results are interpreted based on multimedia learning and visual perception theories. The implications of the results for designing multimedia L2 reading and listening materials are discussed.
Design of Multimedia Listening Software
Authors: Turel Vehbi , McKenna Peter
Published: August 2015

In this chapter, the principles and guidelines that should be borne in mind when designing and developing some digital elements such as ‘instructions', ‘tasks', ‘(reading) texts' and ‘self-assessment tests' in interactive multimedia listening software (MLS) for second/foreign language learning (SLL/FLL) are focused on. The stages of software design and development are categorized into six separate stages: (1) feasibility, (2) setting up a team of experts, (3) designing, (4) programming, (5) testing and (6) evaluating (Turel & McKenna, 2013, pp.188-190). Each stage as well as each digital element of interactive MLS is vitally important in the design and development process of cost effective applications. A wide range of principles and guidelines need to be taken into account at each stage as well as in the design and development of each element so that we can design and develop every single digital element of interactive MLS efficiently. As a whole, all of these can enable us to design ideal and customised/adapted MLS for SLL/FLL.
Interactive Multimedia and Listening
Authors: Vo Yen (Ingrid)
Published: August 2015

The topic of this chapter is concerned with the use of interactive multimedia in teaching listening skills to English language learners. The chapter starts with the difference between listening and hearing, the definition of interactive multimedia, and interactive multimedia listening environments. Explanation is then given to why listening is so important. The chapter also addresses main types of listening, active listening process, and obstacles to listening. This chapter additionally shows the benefits of and rationales for listening using interactive multimedia resources in comparison with audio-only listening materials regarding visual support, authentic content, comprehensible input, vocabulary acquisition, and student motivation. The chapter concludes by suggesting some Internet sources and materials for listening practice as a part of learning English as a foreign or second language.
Google Search Applications in Foreign Language Classes at Tertiary Level
Authors: Zengin Buğra , Kaçar Işıl Günseli
Published: August 2015

Given that it is challenging for EFL teachers to create an input-rich learning environment with ample learning and practice/production opportunities, the integration of online resources into language classes has gained importance recently. Although the effective use of technology in educational settings is viewed as a 21st century skill, the issue of providing EFL learners with systematic training in the use of online search techniques in educational settings has not been explored sufficiently and many learners are not yet aware of how to utilize technological resources for educational purposes. Hence, this chapter aims to investigate how EFL majors in an English preparatory program at a public state university in the west of Turkey use Google searching skills receptively and productively in pedagogical tasks, to highlight how Google search tasks can be used to raise language awareness and to offer suggestions for effective integration of search techniques into teaching EFL at the tertiary level.
Turkish EFL Pre-Service Teachers' Attitudes towards Multi-Media Enhanced Wiki-Mediated Blended Learning Environments
Authors: Kaçar Işıl Günseli
Published: August 2015

With a variety of changes taking place in the role of learners and teachers in the 21st century, learners are expected to be active participants in the learning process through interaction and collaboration, while teachers act as facilitators, creating learning opportunities for the former and monitoring the learning process. This chapter aims to highlight perceptions of Turkish pre-service teachers' of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) concerning a wiki project in a freshman contextual grammar course. Considering the limited research on wiki use in the Turkish teacher education context, this mixed method case study aimed to explore perceptions of pre-service English teachers' wiki learning experiences and investigate their critical appraisal of the project at a state university. The results indicated mainly favourable perceptions, pointing out the enhanced impact of wikis on group dynamics, pre-service EFL teachers' learning process, their creativity and autonomy, while revealing varying degrees of level of and satisfaction with collaborative work, and technical aspects.
Consumers as Producers
Authors: Kaur Sandeep
Published: August 2015

The present study investigates the decomposition caused by an information catastrophe in the electronic era where an array of information has become extremely easier and cheaper to construct, maneuver and systematize through a qualitative theoretical underpinning from distinguished theoreticians in the field. Quoting a few user generated sites such as the Wikipedia (Online Encyclopedia) that anyone can edit, this chapter highlights critical apprehension over the generation of over-abundant content by unidentified multiple sources over this open sharing model. Recommendations and suggestions on effectual inquiry of published content over user generated sites for scholars around the world to rely on shape the finishing fraction of this chapter.
Understanding Educational Potential and Value of Affective Computing
Authors: Akbiyik Cenk
Published: August 2015

Educational systems have met information and communication technologies many years ago. Although many years of effort and vast investments, the integration of ICT with educational systems is still weak. Besides many others, lack of interactivity and emotionality in current technologies can be seen as obstacles in front of this integration. We know that learning is associated not only with our cognitive abilities but also with our emotions and affective states. Affective computing is an interdisciplinary branch that is interested in design of systems and devices that can recognize, interpret, process and respond to users' affective states. Affective computing may contribute to interactivity and emotionality of human-computer interaction. Within the scope of this book chapter, related scientific literature was reviewed in order to investigate educational value and potential of affective computing.
Effect of Mobile Phone SMS on M-Health
Authors: Shareef Mahmud Akhter , Ahmed Jashim Uddin , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Uma
Published: August 2015

This chapter is engaged in identifying consumer perceptions regarding short message service (SMS) of the mobile phone as an alternative service delivery channel for Mobile-health (M-health) and studying the cultural impact of this change. In this connection, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was used as the theoretical base to perceive consumer perceptions about M-health. The authors have performed an empirical study of diabetic patients in Bangladesh and Canada. Path analysis was conducted on the results of both samples. Analysis results confirmed that the UTAUT model fits quite nicely in predicting consumer perceptions of M-health-driven mobile technology. It also acknowledged that differences in cultural traits have an impact on consumer behavior.
Culture of Use of Moodle in Higher Education
Authors: Haneef M. Shuaib Mohamed
Published: August 2015

In this chapter, the use of Moodle, an open source Learning Management System (LMS), by the Department of Electronic Media and Mass Communication in Pondicherry University, as a means to supplement classroom teaching has been examined drawing on Actor Network Theory (ANT). This chapter reveals that the use of Moodle gives rise to a new digital culture which is inscribed on the prior cultural template that students, instructors and institutions bring to have a bearing on their teaching and learning activities. However, the rise of such a digital culture is due to the human and material assemblages constituted by how students and instructors inscribe their manifestoes on Moodle and how Moodle inscribes its manifestations on them. Further, the performative potential of Moodle is explained by its networked interaction with other social, human and non-human actors such as the culture of using technology for learning, digital literacy skills, emergent digital divide, access issues among students and teachers, educational and economic background and institutional media ecology among others.
Mobile Phone Revolution and its Dimensional Social and Economic Impacts in Nigeria's Context
Authors: Lawal-Adebowale Okanlade Adesokan
Published: August 2015

The emergence of mobile phone telecommunication in the last thirteen years in Nigeria has greatly revolutionized the dynamics of information exchange and usage by group of individuals in the country. Unlike the past years before 2001 whereby physical contacts and/or letter writing were the major means of interaction between individuals that are farther apart on geospatial dimension, spatial interaction is now the order of the day as a result of institutionalisation of the mobile telephony services in the country. By virtue of the telecom sector deregulation in 2001 and competition for dominance by the four major mobile phone network providers in the country, namely Airtel, MTN, Globacom and Etisalat, as much as 162, 719, 517 lines were actively connected in the country with a teledensity of 94.4 as at July 2014. Based on this, exploitation of the communication tools by Nigerian has effected a transformed social and economic condition of the country in terms of attraction of investors into the telecom sector, generation of income for the Nigerian Government, creation of employment opportunities, ease of business and financial transactions as economic impacts. The social impacts of the mobile phone revolution in the country include facilitation of prompt interactive linkages and exchange of information, entertainment and social networking. Other forms of impacts include its influence on educational and health services in the country. Despite the transformation impact of the mobile phone revolution in the country, exploitation of the communication tool for social vices by unscrupulous individuals was too obvious to be underplayed. The negative impacts arising from nefarious acts-mediated mobile phone usage include loss of hard earned income by unsuspecting individuals to swindlers, road accidents as a result of usage of phone while on the wheel and provision of deceptive information by one person to the other while on phone. This notwithstanding, the telecom sector has proven to be of great value to most Nigerian's as it enabled them to readily interact with one another, facilitate business and financial transactions thereby enhancing their social and economic wellbeing.
Overview of Electronic Payment System
Authors: Roy Sanghita
Published: August 2015

The emergence of e-commerce has created new financial needs that in many cases cannot be effectively fulfilled by the traditional payment systems. The advent of the Electronic commerce has prompted the invention of several payment tools to facilitate the completion of business transactions over the Internet. There are different methods to pay electronically. Recognizing this, virtually all interested parties are exploring various types of electronic payment system and issues surrounding electronic payment system and digital currency. Broadly electronic payment systems can be classified into four categories: Online Credit Card Payment System, Online Electronic Cash System, Electronic Cheque System and Smart Cards based Electronic Payment System. Each payment system has its advantages and disadvantages for the customers and merchants. These payment systems have numbers of requirements: e.g. security, acceptability, convenience, cost, anonymity, control, and traceability. Therefore, instead of focusing on the technological specifications of various electronic payment systems, the researcher has distinguished electronic payment systems based on what is being transmitted over the network; and analyzed the difference of each electronic payment system by evaluating their requirements, characteristics and assessed the applicability of each system. To sustain in the competition more banks are following e-commerce and especially using e-payment mechanism. Though Indian economy is basically cash driven, still India is not far behind in adopting E-payment services in retail and banking sector.
Information Societies to Interactive Societies
Authors: Dissanayeke Uvasara , Wickramasuriya H.V.A.
Published: August 2015

Information is crucial for the development of any sector, including agriculture where information needs to be exchanged with farmers and other stakeholders quickly. Thus, efficient linkages for information sharing are essential. ICT innovations enable the shaping and reshaping of communication and interaction. Many of the technology driven information dissemination methods have been initiated by government, private, non-profit making bodies and independent research groups. This chapter explains the integration of ICT within Sri Lankan agriculture communities and how the focus is changing from information dissemination towards facilitating interactions among the stakeholders. The present status of agriculture information dissemination, including the ICT interventions is given. Prevailing issues and limitations in these ICT-based information dissemination approaches initiated by the different entities is explained, giving due recognition to various factors that have contributed to the adoption of ICT initiatives. The chapter ends outlining the possibilities for future focus on ICT activities in an agriculture information society.
ICT: A Magic Wand for Social Change in Rural India
Authors: Mahaldar Orance , Bhadra Kinkini
Published: August 2015

The concept of automation was first seeded worldwide by Industrial Revolution. Liberalization and privatization has contributed much in the welcome of updated and upgraded technology in India. World Wide Web being the core connector of earth rightly supports Mc Luhan's concept of the ‘Global Village'. ICT- Information and Communication Technology is an initiative cum phenomenon that is taken on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in order to build a bridge between the two sections of the society (technology haves and have nots) so that it is accessible to all. e-Governance, e-Health and e-Commerce are some of its applications. India has witnessed a number of successful E- Projects. Nonetheless, the argument of social exclusion, questions on technology support communication and information dissemination is still on. The article intends to throw light on various aspects keeping in line with the ICT projects in India, the type of ICT usage and a comparison between the already established communication models.
An Investigation on Cultural Cuisine of Mainland China
Authors: Camillo Angelo , Di Pietro Loredana
Published: August 2015

This chapter investigates the determining factors of the popularity of Italian cuisine in mainland China and attitude of restaurant patrons toward Italian cuisine. Published literature suggests that Italian cuisine abroad was first made familiar by Italian national who immigrated to countries in Europe, the Americas and Oceania. The growing popularity of Italian cuisine around the world today continues to shape the global evolution of ethnic cuisines because of its taste and simplicity of food preparation. Chinese patrons support this theory however; they find that Italian restaurants in China have expensively priced menus, and that they doubt the authenticity of Italian food preparation and question originality of Italian ingredients being used. These perceived negative factors identified could hamper this world-renowned cuisine from sustaining its popularity in China. The study used an online survey methodology and applied statistical analysis techniques to determine the factors relative to the popularity of Italian cuisine in mainland China and to the attitude of Chinese restaurant patrons. The results will contribute to the body of knowledge of hospitality marketing and tourism related studies and will help hospitality operators and future investors of new restaurant ventures in the decision making process whether to invest and operate an Italian restaurant in mainland China.
Advancing the Global Perspective of Tourism by Examining Core and Peripheral Destinations
Authors: Cassidy Frances , Hume Margee
Published: August 2015

Core and peripheral destinations are very significant to island tourism because of core and peripheral islands. Peripheral locations may be disadvantaged as they are isolated from the core or economic centers and from the main population. This chapter reviews literature on the complexity of core and peripheral destinations, their development, planning, marketing and management together with local resident's perceptions of tourists and the tourist's expectations. The South Pacific is defined and it's Colonial past discussed together with tourist motivations. It is becoming increasingly difficult for all stakeholders to agree on programs and tourism practices and that various South Pacific countries have different ways of collecting statistical data resulting in few generic standards to adhere to.
The Role of Destination Management Organizations in Exploiting Global Opportunities of Tourism Destinations
Authors: Barbini Francesco Maria , Presutti Manuela
Published: August 2015

The aim of this chapter is to study the cooperation between Destination Management Organizations and hospitality stakeholders. The following research questions are addressed in this research: 1. What is the stakeholders' attitude toward cooperation with DMOs in a new destination and in a mass-tourism destination? 2. In DMOs' perspective, what are the most effective strategies to foster cooperation within the destination? 3. What is the level of commitment of hospitality stakeholders with respect to cooperation with DMOs? In order to discuss these points we provide an analysis of two Italian destinations. Specifically we examine an established mass-tourism destination and a new destination. By investigating this relationship we also analyze how cooperation has developed during the years within two destinations, and if actually hospitality stakeholders are interested in cooperating with DMOs, in achieving the destinations' common goals.
The Impact of Exchange Rate on Tourism Industry
Authors: Samirkaş Meryem , Samirkaş Mustafa Can
Published: August 2015

Tourism sector that is increasingly important in the world economy, developing rapidly in Turkey and provides a serious contributions to country's economy because Turkey consistently has a current account deficit, tourism is an important source of income. There are many factors affecting tourism; it is clear that the industry can be affected by changes in macroeconomic variables, just like any other economic focus. In this context, it is possible that the foreign exchange rate and changes in the value of various currencies can affect tourism, especially with regards to the demands of the tourists themselves. By using the Johansen cointegration and Granger causality tests, this chapter focused on identifying the relationship between currency exchange rates and the demand for tourism in Turkey.
Local Resources to Compete in the Global Business
Authors: Tani Mario , Papaluca Ornella
Published: August 2015

This chapter analyzes the role of local area resources in the global hospitality market as a way for small and medium enterprises to create a portfolio of distinctive resources to reach a sustainable competitive advantage position in the international markets. After a brief introduction on the tourism industry and its main change factors the chapter adopts a resource base and market-driven approach in order to identify resources role in shaping competitive advantages. The chapter discuss a case-study on a successful example of diffused hotel in Abruzzo, Italy, identifying the core resources and those needed to support them in creating a successful tourism product.
Marketing Global Luxury Spa and Wellness Trends, Experiences, and Challenges
Authors: Lin Ingrid Y.
Published: August 2015

Luxury hotel and resort spas have been perceived and criticized for their similarities and for not having a true authentic or culturally thematic identity, and for losing their original intention of a spa experience due to rapid commercialization. Empirical research relating to spa management is also limited. The purposes of this chapter are (1) to highlight some of the important global market trends that force all sectors of the travel industry to gear towards a healthy, wellness-minded concept in designing their products and services; (2) to define wellness tourism and the meaning of spa; (3) to address several under-researched variables that account for a crucial role in differentiating or characterizing a spa's identity and customers' preferences or perceived authenticity of a spa. Relevant literature is reviewed. Theories from multiple fields are applied. Future research and managerial implications will also be discussed in the content of this chapter.
The Impact of Food Trends on Menu Innovation
Authors: Mifli Mazalan , Hashim Rahmat , Zainal Artinah
Published: August 2015

The search for the right ‘pedigree' of innovative menus is endless. As the consumer foodservice markets are converging to one global market, increasingly demand for new menus is evitable. In today's global foodservice markets, the fast changing trend of consumers' preferences and acceptances poses a huge challenge for restaurateurs in managing their new menu innovation. Empirically, little is known the trendsetting in managing menu innovation amid facing market uncertainty. While there are several attributes that have been known to impact menu innovation, this chapter specifically aims to provide empirical evidence of the moderating effect of food trends on the link between innovation orientations and new menu development (NMD) process in a recently concluded research study of chain restaurants in Malaysia.
Risk Management Strategies and Management Implication of Cultural Difference for a P2P Virtual Enterprise
Authors: Jeong Sunny
Published: August 2015

This chapter examines and compares closely two virtual travel enterprises, Couchsurfing.org (CS, USA) and Gilbut.net (Gilbut, Korea). These platforms allow people to offer free travel resources including information, accommodation and transportation. Both organizations have become a mission driven enterprises similar to a not for profit model, and are run without receiving any advertising funds from the private sector. Their different cultural orientation provides interesting insights that emphasize same core strategies to create a critical mass of highly motivated contributors. At the same time, cultural differences suggest that technical features and core designs should be customized according to the cultural preferences such as the degree of individual visibilities and strong/weak group identity. Comparison of both networks provides an invaluable insight to understand how critical it is to set up strategic online features in order to promote reciprocity and a certain degree of anonymity.
An Analysis of Hospitality and Tourism Research
Authors: Calhoun Jennifer , Douglas Alecia
Published: August 2015

Learning organizations (LOs) have been identified as an innovative practice essential for global businesses to not only effectively compete in today's dynamic environment but also to achieve and maintain a sustainable competitive advantage and increase overall firm performance. The objective of this chapter is to examine the current body of knowledge on LOs and their impact on sustainability practices in an effort to identify what is being done by organizations, where knowledge is applied, and, how systems are created to influence sustainability practices. In the context of hospitality and tourism businesses, the literature examining LOs is limited though a wealth of studies have been conducted in the mainstream. Using a qualitative approach, a content analysis was conducted to investigate its impact on sustainability practices in hospitality and tourism organizations. The results indicate that destinations in particular have adopted this approach to compete globally and to address triple-bottom line sustainability.
Challenges in Modelling Healthcare Services
Authors: Jamil George Leal , Jamil Liliane Carvalho , Vieira Augusto Alves Pinho , Xavier Antônio José Daniel
Published: August 2015

Information architecture and business models design have potential relationships when planning how one organization will plan and execute its operations. This relationship of these two conceptual constructs was the main objective of this chapter, analyzing how it can happen in healthcare services (HS) units. Understood as complex service units where data, information and knowledge are intensively produced and consumed, HS units are challenging contexts to observe this association, as several conditions and forces emerge to conform business models. Finally, motivations and considerations for managers and researchers were announced, allowing the continuity of this research, aiming to reach a strategic level for information and knowledge management for practical, service-oriented organizations.