bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Patient-Centered Environment Program on Behavioral and Emotional Problems in Home-Dwelling Patients With Dementia
Authors: Park Heeok , Chun Youngmi , Gang Min Suk
Published: November 2015

The current pilot study examined the effects of the Patient-Centered Environment Program (PCEP) on agitation, cognition, stress, pain, sleep, and activities of daily living for home-dwelling patients with dementia. Nine individuals participated in the study. The PCEP included visual, auditory, olfactory, and tactile areas based on participants' preferences. PCEP sessions were held for 30 minutes twice per week and a total of 16 sessions were performed at participants' homes. Findings showed that agitation and pain improved with the PCEP (
t
= 2.91,
p
< 0.02;
t
= 4.51,
p
< 0.002, respectively). Findings suggested that a better study design, repeated with a reasonable sample size, must be considered for participants' health statuses to meet the PCEP contents. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 41
(12), 40–48.]
La automatización de los servicios bibliotecarios de la Biblioteca Nacional de España: antecedentes, situación actual y perspectivas de futuro
Authors: Martínez Serrano Lucía , Vázquez Pedrazuela María José
Published: November 2015

Partiendo de la historia de la automatización de los servicios bibliotecarios de la Biblioteca Nacional de España, se detallan las tareas desarrolladas por el Servicio de Bases de Datos Bibliográficas y el Servicio de Proyectos Bibliográficos, encargados de la administración, configuración y mantenimiento del actual sistema integrado de gestión bibliotecaria de esta institución. Se enumeran las mejoras introducidas para adaptar un software comercial a las necesidades específicas de la propia biblioteca. Se analizan las perspectivas de futuro de los SIGB y su capacidad de adecuación a los profundos cambios en los esquemas tradicionales de demandas de información y servicios bibliotecarios, como consecuencia de la revolución tecnológica, y las dificultades que conlleva compaginar la atención de los usuarios presenciales y los, en constante crecimiento, usuarios remotos de servicios web.
Localized Discrete Modelling of Contact Interfaces to Predict the Dynamic Behaviour of Assembled Structures under Random Excitation
Authors: Sharma Anuj , Mueller-Hirsch Wolfgang , Herold Sven , Melz Tobias
Published: November 2015

Joints used to fasten different parts are the source of local non-linearity with predominance of contact damping in comparison to inherent material damping. The conventional numerical models can predict the dynamic behaviour to a good accuracy, but their implementation for the large system under real time dynamic excitations - like random vibration are encountered with problems of numerical convergence and high computational cost. This paper proposes an approach to model the contact interfaces using discrete elements, with a non-homogeneous definition for the equivalent contact stiffness and damping over the contact interface. The non-homogeneous definition captures the non-linear effects and the local linearisation provides the capability to perform the frequency domain analysis for non-deterministic excitations. The proposed model is validated with experimental results for a test structure excited with random white noise base excitation.
Uncertainty of Additive Manufactured Ti-6Al-4V: Chemistry, Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Greitemeier Daniel , Dalle Donne Claudio , Schoberth Achim , Jürgens Michael , Eufinger Jens , Melz Tobias
Published: November 2015

Ti-6Al-4V is the most common used titanium alloy in aerospace. Parts are therefore often machined from wrought material with high buy-to-fly ratios. Additive manufacturing, however, allows to build parts rapidly and directly from computer-aided design information, offering better material utilisation and lead time reduction. Despite the high potential for aerospace applications, the reliability of the mechanical properties is still at an early stage. This work should give a first overview by determining and comparing DMLS, EBM and DMD Ti-6Al-4V material. Each process is compared based on standardised post treatments, specimen geometries and test methods.It can be seen that the chemistry, the microstructure, and the defect formation differs between the processes, which leads to a scatter in the experimentally determined static tensile, axial fatigue, and crack growth properties.
Multicriterial Optimization of Technical Systems Considering Multiple Load and Availability Scenarios
Authors: Altherr Lena C. , Ederer Thorsten , Pöttgen Philipp , Lorenz Ulf , Pelz Peter F.
Published: November 2015

Cheap does not imply cost-effective -- this is rule number one of zeitgeisty system design. The initial investment accounts only for a small portion of the lifecycle costs of a technical system. In fluid systems, about ninety percent of the total costs are caused by other factors like power consumption and maintenance. With modern optimization methods, it is already possible to plan an optimal technical system considering multiple objectives. In this paper, we focus on an often neglected contribution to the lifecycle costs: downtime costs due to spontaneous failures. Consequently, availability becomes an issue.
Fluid-Structure Interaction Simulation of an Aortic Phantom with Uncertain Young's Modulus Using the Polynomial Chaos Expansion
Authors: Kratzke Jonas , Schick Michael , Heuveline Vincent
Published: November 2015

To add reliability to numerical simulations, Uncertainty Quantification is considered to be a crucial tool for clinical decision making. This especially holds for risk assessment of cardiovascular surgery, for which threshold parameters computed by numerical simulations are currently being discussed. A corresponding biomechanical model includes blood flow, soft tissue deformation, as well as fluid-structure coupling. Thereby, structural material parameters have a strong impact on the dynamic behavior. In practice, however, particularly the value of the Young's modulus is rarely known in a precise way, and therefore, it reflects a natural level of uncertainty. In this work we introduce a stochastic model for representing variations in the Young's modulus and quantify its effect on the wall sheer stress and von Mises stress by means of the Polynomial Chaos method. We demonstrate the use of uncertainty quantification in this context and provide numerical results based on an aortic phantom benchmark model.
Uncertainty Scaling – Motivation, Method and Example Application to Aload Carrying Structure
Authors: Vergé Angela , Lotz Julian , Kloberdanz Hermann , Pelz Peter F.
Published: November 2015

Scaling methods allow the estimation of the impact of changes in individual parameters on system performance. In the technical context, physical similarity is the focus. This paper demonstrates the extension of scaling methods to include uncertainty scaling. The advantages of using scaling uncertainty for the development of scaled products and the contribution of extended scaling methods to the analysis and assessment of uncertainty are illustrated. Uncertainty scaling based on dimensional analysis and complete similarity is derived. The potential of this method is demonstrated using a load carrying structure - a buckling beam.
Correlation between Carbon Fibres/Carbon Nanotubes Fillers and Wear Behaviour of Poly(ether-ether-ketone) Composite
Authors: Trufasu Dan Catalin , Besnea Maria Aida Cristina , Cotet Adrian , Andrei Gabriel
Published: November 2015

The wear behaviour of poly (ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) composite was investigated according to the load and test speed. Three types of materials were studied: first, neat PEEK, PEEK with 30 wt. % carbon fiber (PEEK CF30), and third, PEEK with carbon nanotubes (PEEK ELS NANO). Tribological tests were performed on the universal tribometer UMT-2, using a pin-on-disc device. The friction coefficient and wear rate for the composites studied were analysed. Tests carried out have allowed the examination of the influence of load and speed on the friction coefficient and wear rate under dry sliding regime. Also, structural changes were noticed by optical and SE microscopy, and wear types of surface were discussed. As a result of experimental tests, it was established that PEEK composite with carbon fiber/carbon nanotubes exhibit good wear behaviour under operating conditions.
Effect of Laminates Orientation on Impact Properties of Fiberglass and Kevlar Composite Panels
Authors: Croitoru Emilian Ionut , Oancea Gheorghe
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the study of the effect of laminates angle on impact properties of a composite panel made of glass and Kevlar fibers using finite element modelling. In this research, the composite panel consists of a skin panel, specifically the front left wing, from an automotive vehicle having multiple configurations. A distributed pressure on the composite package represents the loading on the selected panel modelled as one uniform distributed abuse loading case and the stress variation within the composite panel for each configuration is determined. The results of these analyses are used for the determination of mathematical models for tensions, longitudinal and shear tensions, as functions of laminate angle for each configuration.
Experimental and Theoretic Research Regarding Extrusion Optimization for Reinforced Polyamide (PA 6.6 – 10 % GF)
Authors: Popescu Adrian , Hancu Liana Livia , Bere Paul , Miron-Borzan Cristina Ștefana
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the possibility of extrusion optimization using Design Expert software for statistical analyze and also for the recommendation of some manufacturing data. Mechanical characteristics are determined on samples from extruded tubes. On these samples, ANOVA (Analysis of variance) software is used, in order to determine the optimal values of the temperatures in different zones. The material is polyamide 6.6, reinforced with 10 % glass fiber (PA 6.6 – 10 % GF). The authors want to present the influence of the reinforcement degree upon some mechanical characteristics of the products made by extrusion. Considering the homogeneity of the polymeric melt the product’s quality will be analyzed. During the extrusion process a series of parameters (extrusion speed, the pellets feed, processing temperature etc.) are involved and they must be taken into account to achieve calibrated and qualitative products.
Mold Design for Polystyrene Plastic Anchor
Authors: Neamtu Calin , Bere Paul , Dobocan Corina , Ghinea Rares , Solcan Sergiu
Published: November 2015

The paper presents the entire process of designing and optimizing an injection mold for a polystyrene plastic anchor. The design process begins with a comprehensive market study of the polystyrene plastic anchors available on the Romanian market, and the results of this study are then used for the creation of a new model of anchor. After this first stage of design, the resulted model is optimized in terms of the injection process using the simulation software Autodesk Moldflow Adviser. After establishing the final form of the polystyrene plastic anchor, the mold is designed in Catia V5 using a series of standardized components. Manufacturing set-up is done in Catia V5 and Cimatron. In the end, the validation of the mold is performed using the injection machine Haitian Mars 2-2500.
Using Simulation to Improve the Quality of the Metallic Industrial Components Made by Rapid Casting
Authors: Popan Alina , Bâlc Nicolae , Popan Alexandru , Panc Nicolae , Borzan Cristina Stefana
Published: November 2015

Industrial parts with complex shapes are characterized by thin sections and complex geometries. Rapid vacuum casting is an ideal technology to manufacture complicated parts in small series production or prototypes. Contributions regarding simulation and analyzing of the parts made by rapid vacuum casting technology are presented in this study. Using dedicated software for simulating the casting process was analyzed and optimized the time of casting, the complete filling with material and also reducing the surface defects.
Research on Improving the Outer Surface Quality of the Parts Made by SLM
Authors: Bâlc Nicolae , Cosma Sorin Cosmin , Kessler Julia , Mager Voicu
Published: November 2015

The paper presents an application of the ANOVA method within the Selective Laser Melting (SLM) process. A new mathematical model was developed, to calculate the surface roughness of the SLM parts made from titanium powder, as function of the important SLM parameters: point distance, exposure time and laser power. Preliminary experiments were undertaken according to the Design Experts work plan and the new mathematical formula was tested by further experimental research, to validate the optimized SLM parameters.
Daylight for Spaces Defined by Movable Walls
Authors: Banyai Daniel , Dragomir Mihai , Bodi Ştefan
Published: November 2015

The present article deals with the designing proper interior spaces in a reconfigurable manner while at the same time ensuring the much needed daylight for people spending a considerable amount of times indoors. The necessity for this study has appeared as part of a design effort of a furniture start-up company interested in producing movable walls for office and conference spaces, when it became apparent that many times the spaces obtained in this way are devoid of natural sunlight. 3D modeling software was used for creating the desired configuration and a specialized lighting simulation software, DIALux, was employed to study the possibilities of improving lighting conditions. The paper presents an approach that can be used to design and configure hybrid lighting systems, obtaining improvements in lighting costs of up to 30% for interior spaces defined by movable walls.
Studies Regarding Redesign and Optimization of the Main Shaft of a Naval Winch
Authors: Sarca Adina , Leordean Dan , Vilău Cristian
Published: November 2015

This article presents the results of a study regarding the structural optimization of the main shaft of a naval winch and its manufacturing technology. Throughout this paper, its design will also be changed and improved. The main purpose of the research here described is to reduce the mass of the shaft from an initial weight of 23 kg. The drum responsible for releasing the boats in the water is placed on the first section of the spindle. The maximum embarkation is 2141 kg (21kN), meaning the safe working load of the davit, consisting in a boat fully equiped with 10 people in it. Moreover, this value of 2141 kg, is multiplied with the safety factor of a minimum 4.5, specific for the maritime industry, in the proceeded analyzes. The other objectives of the study take into consideration the fulfiling of the functional role without having a major intervention upon the other components of the winch, the reduction of costs and the decreasing in manufacturing time. Therefore, starting from a hollow byproduct, through the processes of optimization, redesign and simulation using finite element analysis, the achieved results show a 45% reduction in the weight of the shaft and a significant shortage of the manufacturing time. In this entire proceess, only one component needs technological changes by repositioning its 4 holes. From the economical point of view, by using a tube instead of a bar, it is possible a reduction of almost 6000 USD for a batch of 1000 shafts.
Utilization of CAD/CAM System Edgecam in Programming of CNC Milling Machine
Authors: Čuboňová Nadežda
Published: November 2015

Today's modern production already not does without sophisticated CAD/CAM system. The present CAD/CAM systems integrate part modelling and engineering design, proposal of technological documentation in the form of NC programs and operational management of production within a one computer system. Their utilization allows the programmer to create machining technology, to define the tool paths and to generate NC programs for very complex shape parts. The article focuses on the use of CAD/CAM system Edgecam, in the formation of the machining process for a milling Machine Emco Concept Mill (CM) 105. It describes the creation of postprocessor for Sinumerik 840D control system and its application and verifying in the production of specific components.
The Geometry Equations for Multiple Kinematic Structures Using Direct Geometry
Authors: Beldean Calin , Vuşcan Ioan , Kacso Kalman , Panc Nicolae
Published: November 2015

In this paper are presented two kinematic structures able to move/rotate along/around tree axis each simultaneous. These two structures are restricted on a common fix bed and have the possibility perform a translational motion first and then to rotate along or around each axis. The equation used to describe the position and orientation of the first structure in relation to the second are then presented. Furthermore a reduction of the general case is made to prove the general mathematical model on a structure similar to a five axis turning and milling machine.
Ways of Increasing the Productivity in a Job-Shop Production Company
Authors: Dodun Oana , Merticaru Vasile , Slătineanu Laurenţiu , Nagîț Gheorghe , Neamtu Constantin
Published: November 2015

The necessity of increasing the products competitiveness is one of the main requests valid for the small and medium enterprises. A better adaptation of the companies to the needs of a market in a continuous change determined the enterprises to search and apply new technological and managerial solutions. Thus, a decrease of the manufacturing costs by diminishing the operational times due to the use of a better disposal of the machine tools in the mechanical workshop could be considered. The analysis led to the conclusion that distinct methods could be applied in order to establish an improved disposal of the machine tools, so that a higher flexibility and adaptability of the production to the requests of manufacturing of various parts is ensured. An optimization method based on the analysis of operation times on each of machine tools was appreciated as able to fulfill the needs of increase the work productivity. By taking into consideration empirical concerns some calculus for total durations of technological operations and some distinct ways of wokpieces movements in the mechanical workshop was approached. Thus, in a case study, a new disposal of the machine tools within workshop was proposed and analyzed.
Manufacturing of Precision Seamless Steel Tubes Using Cold Drawing Technology: Simulation and Experiment
Authors: Ridzoň Martin , Buček Pavol , Necpal Martin , Parilák Ľudovít
Published: November 2015

This paper deals with precision seamless tube drawing process in Železiarne Podbrezová, considering a three-pass drawing technology without the intermediate annealing. The material chosen was the E235 steel grade, cold-drawn from the initial dimension of ∅ 70 x 6.3 mm to the final dimension of ∅ 44 x 3.0 mm. Strength and deformation analyses for each drawing pass were made, based on simulation results in numerical modelling software DEFORM 2D. The deformations calculated for all passes served as a guideline for further process optimization. Furthermore, the effect of a particular reduction on mechanical properties was investigated (yield pointRe, ultimate tensile strengthRm, ductilityA, and hardnessHV). The research shown here is a part of the Research Project No. 3-2014/ŽPVVC “TUMIFORM – Optimization of precision tube drawing technology considering dislocation theory, microstructure, and plasticity limit“, being solved at ŽP VVC s.r.o. in Podbrezová, Slovakia. This project deals with the optimization of tube drawing technology utilizing the multi-pass drawing approach. This approach allows for skipping the intermediate annealing between each two successive draws.
Characterizing Cancer-Specific Networks by Integrating TCGA Data
Authors: Xu Yanxun , Zhu Yitan , Müller Peter , Mitra Riten , Ji Yuan
Published: November 2015

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) generates comprehensive genomic data for thousands of patients over more than 20 cancer types. TCGA data are typically whole-genome measurements of multiple genomic features, such as DNA copy numbers, DNA methylation, and gene expression, providing unique opportunities for investigating cancer mechanism from multiple molecular and regulatory layers. We propose a Bayesian graphical model to systemically integrate multi-platform TCGA data for inference of the interactions between different genomic features either within a gene or between multiple genes. The presence or absence of edges in the graph indicates the presence or absence of conditional dependence between genomic features. The inference is restricted to genes within a known biological network, but can be extended to any sets of genes. Applying the model to the same genes using patient samples in two different cancer types, we identify network components that are common as well as different between cancer types. The examples and codes are available at https://www.ma.utexas.edu/users/yxu/software.html .
Piecewise Polynomial Mapping Method and Corresponding WENO Scheme with Improved Resolution
Authors: Li Qin , Liu Pengxin , Zhang Hanxin
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The method of mapping function was first proposed by Henrick et al. [J. Comput. Phys. 207:542-547 (2005)] to adjust nonlinear weights in [0,1] for the fifth order WENO scheme, and through which the requirement of convergence order is satisfied and the performance of the scheme is improved. Different from Henrick’s method, a concept of piecewise polynomial function is proposed in this study and corresponding WENO schemes are obtained. The advantage of the new method is that the function can have a gentle profile at the location of the linear weight (or the mapped nonlinear weight can be close to its linear counterpart), and therefore is favorable for the resolution enhancement. Besides, the function also has the flexibility of quick convergence to identity mapping near two endpoints of [0,1], which is favorable for improved numerical stability. The fourth-, fifth- and sixth-order polynomial functions are constructed correspondingly with different emphasis on aforementioned flatness and convergence. Among them, the fifth-order version has the flattest profile. To check the performance of the methods, the 1-D Shu-Osher problem, the 2-D Riemann problem and the double Mach reflection are tested with the comparison of WENO-M, WENO-Z and WENO-NS. The proposed new methods show the best resolution for describing shear-layer instability of the Riemann problem, and they also indicate high resolution in computations of double Mach reflection, where only these proposed schemes successfully resolved the vortex-pairing phenomenon. Other investigations have shown that the single polynomial mapping function has no advantage over the proposed piecewise one, and it is of no evident benefit to use the proposed method for the symmetric fifth-order WENO. Overall, the fifth-order piecewise polynomial and corresponding WENO scheme are suggested for resolution improvement.
Bilateral anatomical variation in branching pattern of external carotid artery in a male cadaver - a case report
Authors: Khanal L. , Baral P. , Yadav P. , Pandeya A. , Shah S. , Koirala S.
Published: November 2015

Developmental anomalies in the origin and branching pattern of the external carotid artery are not common. The level of the bifurcation of the common carotid artery and also the variations in the origin/branching pattern of the external carotid artery are well known and documented. During a routine dissection of middle aged male cadaver in department of Anatomy in BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) The clinically-relevant variations to be noted were the high origin and anomalous course of the facial artery, superior thyroid artery arising as a branch of Common Carotid artery, high origin of ascending pharyngeal artery, posterior auricular artery and direct glandular branches to the Submandibular gland. Such anatomical variations of external carotid artery are important for surgeons in surgeries of head and neck region and also for radiologists in the image interpretation of the face and neck region.
Tribute to the dissected corpses: the anatomic symbol - a review of the anatomic symbol
Authors: Fontes E. , Precht B. , Babinski M. , Cisne R.
Published: November 2015

Introduction: The anatomical science has many stages in its history and different origins that makes it hard to define a universal symbol among anatomists. Discussion: Many anatomical schools have adopted the Leonardo Da Vinci's drawing called “Vitruvian Man” as the symbol of the modern anatomy. However, this draw brings a symmetric view of the body within the mathematical proportions of the segments. Nevertheless, the anatomical study element is not symmetric and has a single architecture with beautiful harmony among its components. This element, the cadaver is the biggest treasure of the anatomical science and depository of all truths. Conclusion: This current work represents a tribute to the dissected cadaver, concerning it immeasurable value to the anatomist and the traditional use of it in anatomy department pointing to the new perspectives for academic and artistic conceptions of the human body.
A reproducible differential blood cell count without a cytometer or specific markers
Authors: Tozetti P. , Pinto F. , Pereira Neto E. , Andrade T. , Endringer D. , Lenz D.
Published: November 2015

Introduction: A differential blood cell count represents a substantial component of the daily clinical routine. The aim of this study was to conduct automated high-throughput analyses of light microscopy images of leukocytes with unspecific staining (hematoxylin-eosin, HE) and to classify the resulting subgroups (lymphocytes, monocytes and neutrophils). Materials and Method: The software package CellProfiler was used for the image analysis and cell classification. The results were compared to those from hematological laboratories that analyzed the same samples. Results: There was a high similarity between the results obtained by image analysis and those from the hematological laboratories, with an r2=0.95 for the differential count and an r2=0.89 for the total count. Conclusion: Differential blood cell count using light microscopy, nonspecific dyes and advanced image analysis is accurate, reproducible, and less expensive compared to other techniques. The results also showed a strong correlation when compared to traditional methods.
Calibration and evaluation of the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index (FWI) System for improved wildland fire danger rating in the UK
Authors: De Jong M. C. , Wooster M. J. , Kitchen K. , Manley C. , Gazzard R.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Wildfires in the United Kingdom (UK) can pose a threat to people, infrastructure and the natural environment (e.g. to the carbon in peat soils), and their simultaneous occurrence within and across UK regions can periodically place considerable stress upon the resources of Fire and Rescue Services. "Fire danger" rating systems (FDRS) attempt to anticipate periods of heightened fire risk, primarily for early-warning purposes. The UK FDRS, termed the Met Office Fire Severity Index (MOFSI) is based on the Fire Weather Index (FWI) component of the Canadian Forest FWI System. MOFSI currently provides operational mapping of landscape fire danger across England and Wales using a simple thresholding of the final FWI component of the Canadian System. Here we explore a climatology of the full set of FWI System components across the entire UK (i.e. extending to Scotland and Northern Ireland), calculated from daily 2 km gridded numerical weather prediction data, supplemented by meteorological station observations. We used this to develop a percentile-based calibration of the FWI System optimised for UK conditions. We find the calibration to be well justified, since for example the values of the "raw" uncalibrated FWI components corresponding to a very "extreme" (99th percentile) fire danger situation can vary by up to an order of magnitude across UK regions. Therefore, simple thresholding of the uncalibrated component values (as is currently applied) may be prone to large errors of omission and commission with respect to identifying periods of significantly elevated fire danger compared to "routine" variability. We evaluate our calibrated approach to UK fire danger rating against records of wildfire occurrence, and find that the Fine Fuel Moisture Code (FFMC), Initial Spread Index (ISI) and final FWI component of the FWI system generally have the greatest predictive skill for landscape fires in Great Britain, with performance varying seasonally and by land cover type. At the height of the most recent severe wildfire period in the UK (2 May 2011), 50 % of all wildfires occurred in areas where the FWI component exceeded the 99th percentile, and for each of the ten most serious wildfire events that occurred in the 2010–2012 period, at least one FWI component per event was found to surpass the 95th percentile. Overall, we demonstrate the significant advantages of using a calibrated, percentile-based approach for classifying UK fire danger, and believe our findings provide useful insights for any future redevelopment of the current operational UK FDRS.
Analyzing the Integration of Human Rights into Social Work Education
Authors: Henry Paulette Andrea
Published: November 2015

The understanding of human rights are important to social work education and practice especially since the global definition of social work highlights the dual role of social work as a practice based profession and academic discipline emphasizing the principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversity. Concomitantly, social work education must ensure that students know and understand human rights laws especially since human rights are inherent to all human beings and are often expressed and guaranteed by international law which Governments are expected to uphold. Social workers have a commitment as duty bearers in supporting governments in the upholding of those agreements pertinent to the wellbeing of the people. Using the University of Guyana as a frame of reference this paper examined students’ knowledge on international agreements prior to leaving the University since these laws not only speak to nation states but to universal practices and many social work issues transcend borders. This paper utilized a mixed method approach to ascertain students’ awareness of international human rights laws and their perceptions on the applicability to practice. The findings show that there is limited knowledge amongst social work students on human rights covenants and conventions. This assessment is instructive to social work educators locally and internationally pointing to the need for integration into the curricula. It is imperative that generalist practitioners leave the University with a clear understanding of these laws as many practice issues are transnational. There will be the need for international social work to be a taught course for undergraduates training to become generalist practitioners.
The Case for Adding Randomness to the Nature-Nurture Debate
Authors: Rice Stephen , Trafimow David , Mehta Rian
Published: November 2015

People dramatically underestimate the role that randomness plays in almost every aspect of human behavior. We show that the typical belief is that a combination of genetic inheritance and environment accounts for all of human behavior. However, in contrast to this belief, we review literature from the tradition of potential performance theory that shows that much human behavior, in a wide variety of domains, is due to randomness. The fact that randomness has been demonstrated to be an important contributor to human behavior, in many domains, suggests that psychologists should take it more seriously. Instead of attempting to account for human behavior solely with genetic and environmental influences, we argue that randomness should be included too. Thus, it is the interaction of genetics, environment, and randomness that produces human behavior, and behavioral researchers should recognize this and adjust their research programs accordingly. 
The Neoclassical Twain
Authors: Seybold Matt
Published: November 2015

“The Neoclassical Twain” tracks the tendency of Twain to be appropriated as a commentator on economic theory, history, and policy. I show that it has been particularly common for economists and economic journalists to cast Twain as an anticapitalist muckraker. The basis for such characterization is generally The Gilded Age, as well as some of his pre-1873 journalism. In this essay, however, I trace Twain's evolving positions on political economy through the two sequels to The Gilded Age, “Colonel Sellers as a Scientist” (1883) and The American Claimant (1892). In these later works, Twain actually contrasts the economic positions common to canonical novelists of the Progressive era. He shows considerable appreciation for the neoclassical economic theory of the marginalists and even anticipates the hegemonic celebration of free enterprise in the late twentieth century.
(Not) Wanted Dead or Alive
Authors: Ryan Ann M.
Published: November 2015

One of the lesser-known bodies in Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is the dead white man in “Jim's Ghost Story,” an excised section of the novel. Twain inverts the paradigm that conceives of black bodies as fodder for white gothic narratives. Instead, in “Jim's Ghost Story,” the fears of an enslaved black man imagine and construct what's monstrous. Jim's anger represents the deeper rage of the black community at the end of the nineteenth century. While Twain sympathizes with the cultural exorcism this narrative promises—where white monsters are punished for crimes against black bodies—he will nonetheless cut it from the text. Later in his career, Twain describes Pudd'nhead Wilson as being the product of a “literary Caesarian operation,” bringing to light some new fictional hybrid; in the case of “Jim's Ghost Story,” he performs a literary autopsy instead, killing a text that will never see the light of day.
Fikra Forum: Online Engagement between the West and the Middle East
Authors: Pollock David , Wenig Gilad , Raydan Noam , Barnhard Gavi
Published: November 2015

This article introduces Fikra Forum, an ongoing experiment in online engagement that attempts to help fill a serious gap in communication and mutual understanding in both the virtual and the real worlds. It offers a platform for activists, experts, and concerned citizens throughout the Middle East to share their ideas and experiences directly with an interested American audience—and with each other. The focus is on issues of democracy, reform, religious tolerance, and countering violent extremism in the region, all broadly defined.
Short-term debt and long-term debt determinants in small and medium-sized hospitality firms
Authors: Nunes Paulo Maçãs , Serrasqueiro Zélia
Published: November 2015

In this article, based on a sample of 177 hotel small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the period 2004–2012, our objective is to test the applicability of trade-off theory and pecking order theory (POT) to the capital structure decisions of hotel SMEs, focusing on analysis of short-term and long-term debt. The multiple empirical evidence obtained here allows us to conclude that the applicability of trade-off theory to hotel SMEs’ capital structure decisions is much greater in relation to long-term debt than short-term debt and, on the contrary, the applicability of POT is much greater in relation to short-term debt than long-term debt. The empirical evidence obtained allows us to make suggestions for the owners/managers of hotel SMEs.
Educación mediática 2.0
Authors: Soriano Rodríguez Ana María
Published: November 2015

Este artículo aborda al tema de Educación Mediática. Dicha temática, que ha sido poco estudiada en El Salvador, se desarrolla desde la perspectiva que sugiere la UNESCO; es decir, una educación que genere competencias críticas, selectivas y creativas ante los medios de comunicación e información: Por tanto, este análisis se inicia con un referente histórico, las acepciones del término y la opción teórica. Además, se expone la necesidad de tener una mayor incidencia como educadores en el desafiante mundo de las tecnologías de la comunicación e información, no solamente como usuarios y consumidores de éstas, sino como formadores de agentes activos que promueven cambios a través de un uso creativo y responsable.Diá-logos 12, 17-43.
Experiencia educativa con Kodu en El Salvador
Authors: Aguirre Hugo A
Published: November 2015

Esta es la sistematización de la experiencia de usar Kodu, un programa 3-D de diseño de videos para desarrollar habilidades computacionales en los estudiantes de primaria en escuelas de EL Salvador. La experiencia se desarrolló como una competencia en todo el país y entre sus resultados están el desarrollo precisamente de producciones de video y niveles altos de competencias computacionales a través del uso de Kodu.Diálogos 12, 67-75.
No inviertes en educación, pagas las consecuencias
Authors: Martínez Reyes Nelson Rubén
Published: November 2015

Diá-logos 13, 3-5.
Alberto Masferrer y la Educación Vitalista en El Salvador
Authors: Guerra Reyes Víctor Manuel
Published: November 2015

Este artículo trata sobre los principios fundamentales de la Educación Vitalista que propuso Alberto Masferrer a la sociedad salvadoreña de principios del siglo XX. Este pensador sostenía que todo ciudadano que supiera leer y escribir debía enseñar a quien no supiera y que los gobiernos de turno debían diseñar y organizar las políticas educativas en función de la vida de los salvadoreños. Además mostró que la Educación necesariamente está vinculada al ámbito de la justicia social de los pueblos que se educan.Diá-logos 13, 7-18.
Triangle Relationships among Ownership Structure, Dividend Policy and Firm Performance: An Empirical Study in Vietnamese Companies
Authors: Nguyen Hue Thi Minh , Giang Thao Thi Minh
Published: November 2015

This paper studies the triangle relationships among ownership structure, dividend policy and firm performance by investigating 34 Vietnamese companies in Construction and Construction Material industries which are listed on Hanoi Stock Exchange, Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange, and UPCOM Stock Exchange over the period from 2011-2013. The paper studies ownership concentration, dividend payout ratio, and two measures of firm performance, namely Price to Earnings (P/E) ratio and Return on Asset (ROA). Pooled Ordinary Least Squares Model and Fixed Effect Model were used to examine three relationships between: (i) ownership concentration and dividend policy, (ii) dividend policy and firm performance, and (iii) ownership concentration and firm performance. Ownership concentration is found to increase the level of dividend payout. Dividends are positively correlated with both P/E ratio and ROA. Finally, ownership concentration is found to have negative impacts on P/E ratio but no significant impacts on ROA.
Patterns on the Embroidered Textiles Unearthed from the Silk Road I: Animal Pattern
Authors: Kuang Yanghua , Cui Rongrong
Published: November 2015

Based on the archaeological evidences from the Silk Road, this paper reviews animal pattern on the embroidered textiles of the Han and Tang dynasties (2ndC BC- 9thC AD). The evidences show that animal pattern is widely found on the embroidered textiles unearthed from the graveyards or ancient sites along the Silk Road and particularly rich in variety. Generally, animals on the embroideries from the Silk Road can be categorized into animals of the real world and animals of the imaginary world. The first group consists of a range of real animals, including birds and butterflies which are usually flying in the sky or among the flowers, herbivorous animals like horses, antelopes, deer (especially reindeers) and yaks and carnivorous animals like tigers which are regular seen on the grasslands and aquatic animals like fish and turtles. The second group includes imaginary animals which play an important role in Chinese mythology like phoenixes, dragons and suanni etc. and significant legendary creature in Central Asian mythology like griffins. Besides, historical documents provide more information about animal pattern adopted by embroidered textiles than we have seen on archaeological evidences.
Analysis of Victory Index at Telecommunications companies in Vietnam
Authors: Hai Do Huu , Trung Ngo Sy , Tuan Pham Van , Ngoc Ho Sy
Published: November 2015

This work is sponsored by a Vietnam National University Scientist Links (VNU – VSL project, entitled: “Analysis of Victory Index at Telecommunications companies in Vietnam” under the Grant Number QKHCN.15.0.
Currently, Vietnam telecoms market has dramatically shifted from the proprietary field to competitive one with all economic sectors, including with ones of foreign enterprises. The concentration on technology and services together with comprehensively international economic integration requires that each element of the market should have particular policies and strategies to maintain and improve market share for sustainability in the market economy. Hurwitz & Associates’ (2011) analysis methodology of victory index is used to analyze and evaluate current status, vision and development of influential corporations providing telecommunications services in Vietnam at present for giving objective assessments to consumers as well as a positive tool to providers to learn, research, maintain the competitiveness of each organization.
Strengthening Competitiveness of Multinationals through Relocation of Production to Asia
Authors: Feyerlein Daniel
Published: November 2015

This article asks whether a strategic opportunity exists for a company producing products with the label ‘Made in Germany’ to relocate production to Asia while retaining German engineering. This article focuses on the prevailing market situations of several multinational corporations based in Germany, which are encountering growing competition from Asia due to disadvantages in product price, delivery costs and transportation time that are related to a non-adapted and non-future oriented sourcing concept. Through an empirical research study, respondents from Asia were asked about their willingness to accept the price of a ‘Made in Germany’ product, the importance of price, their opinion about delivery issues, and their acceptance of local production in Asia. Total responses of N = 636 (100.0%) were collected, including n = 108 (17.0%) responses from Asia. The results are addressed to strategic management for German companies that can gain competitiveness through a relocation of production to Asia while considering long-term requirements. The results of the study suggest that the fundamental strategy of pairing German engineering with local production in Asia is worth pursuing in which the market conditions of tomorrow are considered.
The Degree of Cooperation in International Strategic Alliances and Value Creation Outcomes: Empirical Study on Service Firms in Yemen
Authors: Nik Abdullah Nik Ab Halim
Published: November 2015

International strategic alliances (ISAs) are one of the partnership options that may be used by firms in achieving their goals. It is an inter-firm cooperation where firms commit some of their resources and capabilities towards the alliance to create a competitive advantage. Yemeni services industry need to improve its competitiveness and the quality of services it provides to the people and therefore, forming a strategic alliances with foreign partners is considered one of the best strategies. Although the involvement of Yemeni’s service firms in ISAs are evidence, but there is no previous study conducted to determine whether these alliances do create value to the firms or not. Therefore, this study is conducted with the objectives of determining whether Yemeni’s service firms’ involvement in ISAs do create value to the firms or not and what kind of value creation outcomes are created by this ISAs. Alliances may also come in various forms with different degree of cooperation. This study will also look at the influence of the degree of cooperation is ISAs on the value creation outcomes. Survey of 214 service firms’ managers revealed that ISAs do create value to the organization with financial value top the list. Improvement in customer service and better return on investment (ROI) are among the most important advantage gain by these service firms from their involvement in ISAs. This study also posits a significant positive relationship between the degree of cooperation in ISAs and the value creation outcome.
Bloggers and Deliberative Democracy in Indonesia's Blogosphere
Authors: Jacky M.
Published: November 2015

The study of the relationship between the Internet and democracy has produced two main debates. Some studies have said that the Internet has significantly contributed to democracy while others disagree. This study challenged the thesis of Habermas (2006) about the relationship between the Internet and Deliberative Democracy. This study was built on the following propositions: that the Internet causes bloggers to become parasitic, fragmented, and isolated; that it is effective in breaking down authoritarian regimes to create an egalitarian relationship, but it fails as a deliberative medium. This study used the concept of the public sphere and Habermas’ Deliberative Democracy (2006). It also explored the use of 2.0 qualitative methods with a hacking analysis perspective. Moreover, it gained data from the Internet by using the latest version of 2.0 Web and a virtual community. It focused on both discursive and non-discursive construction. The results of this study support only one of Habermas’ three propositions: that the Internet creates egalitarianism. Thus, this study rejects Habermas’ thesis apart from this one proposition. Furthermore, this study recommends that further research be done using the same propositions but on Twitter instead of the Internet.
Spinning the Web of Hate Online: A Critical Review from the Malaysian Laws
Authors: Abdul Shukor Dr. Syahirah , Abdul Manap Associate Professor Dr. Nazura
Published: November 2015

In a multi-cultural society, living in peace and tolerance are keys to development and sustainable economy. Undeniably, the efforts taken by all stakeholders are essential in materializing the future and dream of a peaceful country. Since its independence, Malaysia has been struggling to maintain the unity and integration of the three main ethnics, the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians. Matters pertaining to media especially publications of printed presses are strictly supervised by the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, with the inception of the Internet, regulating content of the Internet might be impossible for the law makers. This paper examines how the emergence of social networking website such as Facebook, MySpace and even Tweeting have been misused by irresponsible Internet users in Malaysia. Spinning the web of hate online is like spreading virus to the netizens and yet, its impact if it is not well tackled by members of society, it might spark serious problem to the unity and harmony of ethnics in Malaysia. Next, this paper examines how law responds to problems arose on the Internet. Finally, this paper suggests that supervision and monitoring content of the Internet which promote hate might be challenging but such problem need to be tackled by the authorities with extra vigilant and full coordination with all authorities.