bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A QRS Detection and R Point Recognition Method for Wearable Single-Lead ECG Devices
Authors: Chen Chieh-Li , Chuang Chun-Te
Published: August 2017

In the new-generation wearable Electrocardiogram (ECG) system, signal processing with low power consumption is required to transmit data when detecting dangerous rhythms and to record signals when detecting abnormal rhythms. The QRS complex is a combination of three of the graphic deflection seen on a typical ECG. This study proposes a real-time QRS detection and R point recognition method with low computational complexity while maintaining a high accuracy. The enhancement of QRS segments and restraining of P and T waves are carried out by the proposed ECG signal transformation, which also leads to the elimination of baseline wandering. In this study, the QRS fiducial point is determined based on the detected crests and troughs of the transformed signal. Subsequently, the R point can be recognized based on four QRS waveform templates and preliminary heart rhythm classification can be also achieved at the same time. The performance of the proposed approach is demonstrated using the benchmark of the MIT-BIH Arrhythmia Database, where the QRS detected sensitivity (Se) and positive prediction (+P) are 99.82% and 99.81%, respectively. The result reveals the approach’s advantage of low computational complexity, as well as the feasibility of the real-time application on a mobile phone and an embedded system.
Method for Estimating Three-Dimensional Knee Rotations Using Two Inertial Measurement Units: Validation with a Coordinate Measurement Machine
Authors: Vitali Rachel , Cain Stephen , McGinnis Ryan , Zaferiou Antonia , Ojeda Lauro , Davidson Steven , Perkins Noel
Published: August 2017

Three-dimensional rotations across the human knee serve as important markers of knee health and performance in multiple contexts including human mobility, worker safety and health, athletic performance, and warfighter performance. While knee rotations can be estimated using optical motion capture, that method is largely limited to the laboratory and small capture volumes. These limitations may be overcome by deploying wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs). The objective of this study is to present a new IMU-based method for estimating 3D knee rotations and to benchmark the accuracy of the results using an instrumented mechanical linkage. The method employs data from shank- and thigh-mounted IMUs and a vector constraint for the medial-lateral axis of the knee during periods when the knee joint functions predominantly as a hinge. The method is carefully validated using data from high precision optical encoders in a mechanism that replicates 3D knee rotations spanning (1) pure flexion/extension, (2) pure internal/external rotation, (3) pure abduction/adduction, and (4) combinations of all three rotations. Regardless of the movement type, the IMU-derived estimates of 3D knee rotations replicate the truth data with high confidence (RMS error < 4 ° and correlation coefficient r ≥ 0.94 ).
A Time-Space Domain Information Fusion Method for Specific Emitter Identification Based on Dempster–Shafer Evidence Theory
Authors: Jiang Wen , Cao Ying , Yang Lin , He Zichang
Published: August 2017

Specific emitter identification plays an important role in contemporary military affairs. However, most of the existing specific emitter identification methods haven’t taken into account the processing of uncertain information. Therefore, this paper proposes a time–space domain information fusion method based on Dempster–Shafer evidence theory, which has the ability to deal with uncertain information in the process of specific emitter identification. In this paper, radars will generate a group of evidence respectively based on the information they obtained, and our main task is to fuse the multiple groups of evidence to get a reasonable result. Within the framework of recursive centralized fusion model, the proposed method incorporates a correlation coefficient, which measures the relevance between evidence and a quantum mechanical approach, which is based on the parameters of radar itself. The simulation results of an illustrative example demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively deal with uncertain information and get a reasonable recognition result.
A T-Type Capacitive Sensor Capable of Measuring5-DOF Error Motions of Precision Spindles
Authors: Xiang Kui , Wang Wen , Qiu Rongbo , Mei Deqing , Chen Zichen
Published: August 2017

The precision spindle is a core component of high-precision machine tools, and the accurate measurement of its error motions is important for improving its rotation accuracy as well as the work performance of the machine. This paper presents a T-type capacitive sensor (T-type CS) with an integrated structure. The proposed sensor can measure the 5-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) error motions of a spindle in-situ and simultaneously by integrating electrode groups in the cylindrical bore of the stator and the outer end face of its flange, respectively. Simulation analysis and experimental results show that the sensing electrode groups with differential measurement configuration have near-linear output for the different types of rotor displacements. What’s more, the additional capacitance generated by fringe effects has been reduced about 90% with the sensing electrode groups fabricated based on flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) and related processing technologies. The improved signal processing circuit has also been increased one times in the measuring performance and makes the measured differential output capacitance up to 93% of the theoretical values.
Effect of Land-Use Change on the Urban Heat Island in the Fukuoka–Kitakyushu Metropolitan Area, Japan
Authors: Kawamoto Yoichi
Published: August 2017

In coastal cities, the effect of the sea breeze in mitigating the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon has attracted attention. This study targeted the Fukuoka–Kitakyushu metropolitan area, the fourth largest metropolitan area in Japan which is also coastal. Doppler Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) observations were conducted in the summer of 2015 to clarify the transition of the wind field over the targeted area. To investigate the effects on the UHI of land-use change related to urbanization, the National Land Numerical Information (NLNI) land-use datasets for Japan in 1976 (NLNI-76) and 2009 (NLNI-09) were used in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. The results of the simulation showed that most of the northern part of the Kyushu region became warmer, with an average increase of +0.236 °C for the whole simulation period. Comparing the two simulations and the Doppler LiDAR observations, the simulation results with the NLNI-09 dataset (for the year closest to the study period in 2015) showed closer conformity with the observations. The results of the simulation using NLNI-76 showed faster sea breeze penetration and higher wind velocity than the observations. These results suggest that the land-use change related to urbanization weakened the sea breeze penetration in this area.
Uncertainty Analysis of a GHG Emission Model Output Using the Block Bootstrap and Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: LEE Min , LEE Jong , LEE Joo , KIM Yoon , PARK Yoo , LEE Kun
Published: August 2017

Uncertainty analysis of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is becoming increasingly necessary in order to obtain a more accurate estimation of their quantities. The Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) and non-parametric block bootstrap (BB) methods were tested to estimate the uncertainty of GHG emissions from the consumption of feedstuffs and energy by dairy cows. In addition, the contribution to variance (CTV) approach was used to identify significant input variables for the uncertainty analysis. The results demonstrated that the application of the non-parametric BB method to the uncertainty analysis, provides a narrower confidence interval (CI) width, with a smaller percentage uncertainty (U) value of the GHG emission model compared to the MCS method. The CTV approach can reduce the number of input variables needed to collect the expanded number of data points. Future studies can expand on these results by treating the emission factors (EFs) as random variables.
Influencing Factors of the Adoption of Agricultural Irrigation Technologies and the Economic Returns: A Case Study in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand
Authors: Chuchird Ratchaneewan , Sasaki Nophea , Abe Issei
Published: August 2017

This empirical research investigates the factors influencing the adoption of three irrigation technologies using a probit statistical model: water wheel (WW), water pump (WP), and weir (WR) irrigation technologies as well as their economic returns per unit of rice cultivated area. The influencing factors were categorized into demographic, socioeconomic, topographical, institutional, and attitudinal factor groups by 207 rice-growers in the Chaiyaphum province in northeastern Thailand. The results revealed that the land holding size, farm income, and water use association (WUA) membership factors were highly positively associated with the WW adoption. Meanwhile, age, farm income, skills training, and WUA membership were negatively correlated with the WP adoption. Nevertheless, proximity to a water source and upstream farmland location were positively correlated with the WP adoption. The WR adoption was positively associated with age but negatively correlated with the land holding size, upstream farmland location, and group participation factors. The cost–benefit analysis indicated that the WW irrigation scheme generated the highest economic return with the benefit-to-cost ratio schemes. The findings suggest that the WW irrigation technology would be deployed in the water management of other agricultural areas in the region to overcome the unfavorable geography and alleviate the local farmers’ disadvantageous economic conditions.
Sustainability Reporting at a New Zealand Public University: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: An Yi , Davey Howard , Harun Harun
Published: August 2017

This study examines the case of sustainability reporting by a New Zealand public university from a longitudinal perspective. Content analysis of the sustainability report for a five-year period is the primary research method. We observe that sustainability reporting by the case university excessively focuses on environmental reporting with a near absence of economic and social disclosures. Also, the results reveal that there is a generally upward trend for the reporting in the period, albeit the overall level is still low without any monetary disclosures in the report. Moreover, we find that the university does not follow any guidelines in its reporting. Based upon the results and findings, we provide some suggestions for universities to improve their sustainability reporting. This study contributes to the limited research with regard to sustainability reporting in the higher education sector, particularly from a longitudinal perspective. It is expected that this research would have some implications for academics and university sustainability policy makers.
Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility Dimensions on Firm Value: Some Evidence from Hong Kong and China
Authors: Singh Prakash , Sethuraman Kannan , Lam Jocelin
Published: August 2017

There has been significant interest and debate on the impact that a firm’s investments in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and initiatives have on its market value. In this paper, we target an area that is relatively under-researched: the relevance of CSR practices and initiatives for firms in the emerging economic region of mainland China and Hong Kong, where market development and the institutional environment lag that of developed economies. Using independent CSR assessment data on a sample of large mainland Chinese and Hong Kong firms listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, we evaluate the impact of six CSR dimensions on the firms’ adjusted stock market value over a three-year period. We found support for the influence of only two of the six dimensions considered, namely, the CSR practices and initiatives focused on community investment through philanthropy and, to a lesser extent, the CSR practices and initiatives focused on enhancing workplace quality, to be significant predictors of firm value. This suggests that social and people-centric dimensions of CSR are more relevant than technical and process-centric dimensions of CSR for mainland Chinese and Hong Kong firms. Furthermore, we found support for the hypothesis that the impact of CSR practices and initiatives on firm value follows an inverted U-shaped relationship over time, suggesting that the effect of these initiatives on firm value steadily increases during the initial years after their adoption to reach a maximum and then gradually fades away in subsequent years. To this end, this study advances our knowledge of the specific CSR dimensions that contribute to firm value and their relevance for Chinese and Hong Kong firms.
Are We Prepared in Case of a Possible Smallpox-Like Disease Emergence?
Authors: Olson Victoria , Shchelkunov Sergei
Published: August 2017

Smallpox was the first human disease to be eradicated, through a concerted vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization. Since its eradication, routine vaccination against smallpox has ceased, leaving the world population susceptible to disease caused by orthopoxviruses. In recent decades, reports of human disease from zoonotic orthopoxviruses have increased. Furthermore, multiple reports of newly identified poxviruses capable of causing human disease have occurred. These facts raise concerns regarding both the opportunity for these zoonotic orthopoxviruses to evolve and become a more severe public health issue, as well as the risk of Variola virus (the causative agent of smallpox) to be utilized as a bioterrorist weapon. The eradication of smallpox occurred prior to the development of the majority of modern virological and molecular biological techniques. Therefore, there is a considerable amount that is not understood regarding how this solely human pathogen interacts with its host. This paper briefly recounts the history and current status of diagnostic tools, vaccines, and anti-viral therapeutics for treatment of smallpox disease. The authors discuss the importance of further research to prepare the global community should a smallpox-like virus emerge.
PEPSO: Reducing Electricity Usage and Associated Pollution Emissions of Water Pumps
Authors: Sadatiyan A. S. , Miller Carol
Published: August 2017

Using metaheuristic optimization methods has enabled researchers to reduce the electricity consumption cost of small water distribution systems (WDSs). However, dealing with complicated WDSs and reducing their environmental footprint remains a challenge. In this study a multi-objective version of Pollution Emission Pump Station Optimization tool (PEPSO) is introduced that can reduce the electricity cost and pollution emissions (associated with the energy consumption) of pumps of WDSs. PEPSO includes a user-friendly graphical interface and a customized version of the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm. A measure that is called “Undesirability Index” (UI) is defined to assist the search for a promising optimization path. The UI also ensures that the final results are desirable and practical. The various features of PEPSO are tested under six scenarios for optimizing the WDS of Monroe City, MI, and Richmond, UK. The test results indicate that in a reasonable amount of time, PEPSO can optimize and provide practical results for both WDSs.
Hourly Water Level Forecasting at Tributary Affected by Main River Condition
Authors: Sung Ji , Lee Jeongwoo , Chung Il-Moon , Heo Jun-Haeng
Published: August 2017

This study develops hourly water level forecasting models with lead-times of 1 to 3 h using an artificial neural network (ANN) for Anyangcheon stream, one of the major tributaries of the Han River, South Korea. To consider the backwater effect from this river, an enhanced tributary water level forecasting model is proposed by adding multiple water level data on the main river as input variables into the conventional ANN structure which often uses rainfall and upstream water level data. Four types of ANN models per each lead-time are built with increasing complexity of the input vector, and their performances are compared. The results indicate that the inclusion of multiple water level data on the main river to the network provides water level forecasts with greater accuracy at the Ogeumgyo gauging station of interest. The final best ANN models for water level forecasts with lead-times of 1 to 2 h show good performance with root mean square errors (RMSE) below 0.06 m and 0.12 m, respectively. However, the final best ANN model for forecasting 3 h ahead was unsatisfactory, showing underestimation at many rising parts of the hydrograph.
Evaluation of preparation methods for suspended nano-objects on substrates for dimensional measurements by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Fiala Petra , Göhler Daniel , Wessely Benno , Stintz Michael , Lazzerini Giovanni Mattia , Yacoot Andrew
Published: August 2017

Dimensional measurements on nano-objects by atomic force microscopy (AFM) require samples of safely fixed and well individualized particles with a suitable surface-specific particle number on flat and clean substrates. Several known and proven particle preparation methods, i.e., membrane filtration, drying, rinsing, dip coating as well as electrostatic and thermal precipitation, were performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to examine their suitability for preparing samples for dimensional AFM measurements. Different suspensions of nano-objects (with varying material, size and shape) stabilized in aqueous solutions were prepared therefore on different flat substrates. The drop-drying method was found to be the most suitable one for the analysed suspensions, because it does not require expensive dedicated equipment and led to a uniform local distribution of individualized nano-objects. Traceable AFM measurements based on Si and SiO2 coated substrates confirmed the suitability of this technique.
PREDICTING CUSTOMER LIFETIME VALUE FOR HYPERMARKET PRIVATE LABEL PRODUCTS
Authors: LIN Hsin-Hui , LI Hsien-Ta , WANG Yi-Shun , TSENG Timmy H. , KAO Ya-Ling , WU Min-Yi
Published: August 2017

This study develops a model to predict customer lifetime value for hypermarket private label products. It examines the relationships among store awareness, store image variables (i.e., service quality, price/value, convenience, and product quality), private label image, repurchase intention, and customer lifetime value and investigates the moderating role of image fit. The originality of this study lies in filling the gap of previous research on antecedents of private label customers’ behavior by considering store awareness, image fit, and customer lifetime value. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to analyze data. The results indicate the following. Store image variables (except product quality) and store awareness affect repurchase intention directly or indirectly through private label image. Image fit moderates the relationships between store image variables (except product quality) and private label image. Private label image facilitates customer lifetime value. This study provides several theoretical and practical implications for hypermarket private label product developments.
NEW GROUP DECISION-MAKING ARCAS APPROACH BASED ON THE INTEGRATION OF THE SWARA AND THE ARAS METHODS ADAPTED FOR NEGOTIATIONS
Authors: STANUJKIC Dragisa , ZAVADSKAS Edmundas Kazimieras , KARABASEVIC Darjan , TURSKIS Zenonas , KERŠULIENĖ Violeta
Published: August 2017

Groups are generally considered to be more effective as compared to single individuals. The practical implementation of Operation Research methods in group negotiations needs simple contexts and clear cause-and-effect relationships easily discernible by everyone. This paper proposes a multi-criteria group decision-making approach allowing decision makers/experts involved in a negotiation process to better express and defend their preferences in the selection of the best alternative. In the proposed approach, the most appropriate alternative is the alternative with the largest number of appearances in the first position or in ranking lists, or the one determined based on negotiations of decision makers/experts. The proposed ARCAS approach is based on the use of the ARAS method, a new normalization procedure, and the SWARA method. In the proposed approach, each decision maker/expert involved in evaluation has an opportunity to set the preferred level of rating for each criterion used in such evaluation. Finally, a case study is presented in order to highlight the proposed approach. The obtained results confirm the usability and efficiency of the proposed approach.
SCALED AND STABLE MEAN-VARIANCE-EVAR PORTFOLIO SELECTION STRATEGY WITH PROPORTIONAL TRANSACTION COSTS
Authors: ATTA MILLS Ebenezer Fiifi Emire , YU Bo , YU Jie
Published: August 2017

This paper studies a portfolio optimization problem with variance and Entropic Value-at-Risk (evar) as risk measures. As the variance measures the deviation around the expected return, the introduction of evar in the mean-variance framework helps to control the downside risk of portfolio returns. This study utilized the squared l2-norm to alleviate estimation risk problems arising from the mean estimate of random returns. To adequately represent the variance-evar risk measure of the resulting portfolio, this study pursues rescaling by the capital accessible after payment of transaction costs. The results of this paper extend the classical Markowitz model to the case of proportional transaction costs and enhance the efficiency of portfolio selection by alleviating estimation risk and controlling the downside risk of portfolio returns. The model seeks to meet the requirements of regulators and fund managers as it represents a balance between short tails and variance. The practical implications of the findings of this study are that the model when applied, will increase the amount of capital for investment, lower transaction cost and minimize risk associated with the deviation around the expected return at the expense of a small additional risk in short tails.
EFFECT OF SUPPLY CHAIN STRUCTURE AND POWER DYNAMICS ON R&D AND MARKET PERFORMANCES
Authors: Yoo Seung Ho , Sea Yong Won
Published: August 2017

"Corrigendum." Journal of Business Economics and Management, 18(4), p. 801
A review of the occurrence and diversity of the sphragis in butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea)
Authors: Carvalho Ana Paula S. , Orr Albert G. , Kawahara Akito Y.
Published: August 2017

Males of many butterfly species secrete long-lasting mating plugs to prevent their mates from copulating with other males, thus ensuring their sperm will fertilize all future eggs laid. Certain species have further developed a greatly enlarged, often spectacular, externalized plug, termed a sphragis. This distinctive structure results from complex adaptations in both male and female genitalia and is qualitatively distinct from the amorphous, internal mating plugs of other species. Intermediate conditions between internal plug and external sphragis are rare. The term sphragis has often been misunderstood in recent years, hence we provide a formal definition based on accepted usage throughout most of the last century. Despite it being a highly apparent trait, neither the incidence nor diversity of the sphragis has been systematically documented. We record a sphragis or related structure in 273 butterfly species, representing 72 species of Papilionidae in 13 genera, and 201 species of Nymphalidae in 9 genera. These figures represent respectively, 13% of Papilionidae, 3% of Nymphalidae, and 1% of known butterfly species. A well-formed sphragis evolved independently in at least five butterfly subfamilies, with a rudimentary structure also occurring in an additional subfamily. The sphragis is probably the plesiomorphic condition in groups such as Parnassius (Papilionidae: Parnassiinae) and many Acraeini (Nymphalidae: Heliconiinae). Some butterflies, such as those belonging to theParnassius simogroup, have apparently lost the structure secondarily. The material cost of producing the sphragis is considerable. It is typically offset by production of a smaller spermatophore, thus reducing the amount of male-derived nutrients donated to the female during mating for use in oogenesis and/or somatic maintenance. The sphragis potentially represents one of the clearest examples of mate conflict known. Investigating its biology should yield testable hypotheses to further our understanding of the selective processes at play in an ‘arms race’ between the sexes. This paper provides an overview, which will inform future study.
Mobile Assisted Vocabulary Acquisition and Wikis to Enhance Writing Skills
Authors: Vurdien Ruby
Published: August 2017

This project examined how a group of advanced-level EFL students read articles on their smartphone to acquire new vocabulary which they later inserted in their essays on wikis. The aim of the study was (a) to explore the students' perceptions regarding learning vocabulary from their smartphone followed by the use of wikis to improve their writing skills; (b) to analyse how peer editing and feedback can help students towards grammar and vocabulary accuracy with a view to enhancing their writing skills. The twenty-one participants used a Google application on their smartphone to perform reading and vocabulary exercises before writing essays on the wikis, followed by peer editing and feedback. Data were gathered from two questionnaires, interviews and 168 essays. The findings suggested that positive learning took place throughout the development of the study. The smartphone was considered a convenient tool for reading and performing vocabulary exercises. Peer editing and feedback were deemed crucial towards grammar and vocabulary accuracy to enhance writing skills.
Blogging Effect on English as a Foreign Language Writing Motivation
Authors: Özdemir Emrah , Aydin Selami
Published: August 2017

Not many studies have been present on the effects of blogging, particularly with respect to English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing motivation. Those studies did not focus on the effect of the use of blogs on Turkish EFL learners' writing motivation. Thus, this study aims to examine how the use of blogs affects EFL writing motivation among EFL learners in a Turkish EFL learning context. A questionnaire interrogating demographic information, a pre-test and a post-tests measuring writing achievement were administered to a group of participants including 48 language learners. According to results, blogging on its own does not increase motivation; however, the process-based writing instruction mainly has positive influences on EFL learners' motivation in both traditional pen-paper and blog environments. Thus, EFL teachers need to know that the use of blogs does not increase motivation among Turkish EFL learners. To increase their motivation level, it is also recommended that teachers should use a writing environment where their students are encouraged to write in the target language.
An Iterative Method for 3D Body Registration Using a Single RGB-D Sensor
Authors: Villena-Martinez Victor , Fuster-Guillo Andres , Saval-Calvo Marcelo , Azorin-Lopez Jorge
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the problem of 3D body registration using a single RGB-D sensor is approached. It has been guided by three main requirements: low-cost, unconstrained movement and accuracy. In order to fit them, an iterative registration method for accurately aligning data from single RGB-D sensor is proposed. The data is acquired while a person rotates in front of the camera, without the need of any external marker or constraint about its pose. The articulated alignment is carried out in a model-free approach in order to be more consistent with the real data. The iterative method is divided in stages, contributing to each other by the refinement of a specific part of the acquired data. The exploratory results validate the proposed method that is able to feed on itself in each iteration improving the final result by a progressive iteration, with the required precision under the conditions of affordability and unconstrained movement acquisition.
Incremental Distributed Learning with JavaScript Agents for Earthquake and Disaster Monitoring
Authors: Bosse Stefan
Published: August 2017

Ubiquitous computing and The Internet-of-Things (IoT) grow rapidly in today's life and evolving to Self-organizing systems (SoS). A unified and scalable information processing and communication methodology is required. In this work, mobile agents are used to merge the IoT with Mobile and Cloud environments seamless. A portable and scalable Agent Processing Platform (APP) provides an enabling technology that is central for the deployment of Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) in strong heterogeneous networks including the Internet. A large-scale use-case deploying Multi-agent systems in a distributed heterogeneous seismic sensor and geodetic network is used to demonstrate the suitability of the MAS and platform approach. The MAS is used for earthquake monitoring based on a new incremental distributed learning algorithm applied to seismic station data, which can be extended by ubiquitous sensing devices like smart phones. Different (mobile) agents perform sensor sensing, aggregation, local learning and prediction, global voting and decision making, and the application.
Factors Influencing Non-native Parents to Use Educational e-Services
Authors: Thangavel Gomathi , Rostami Elham , Islam M. Sirajul
Published: August 2017

Educational e-services in schools help to bridge the gap between parents and teachers by sharing information about the children's school activities in a collaborative way. However, there is a lack of research explaining how effectively this collaboration takes place and the challenges that inhibit as well as promote such collaboration in a multicultural context. This paper investigates the factors which influence non-native parents to use educational e-services in the context of preschools (förskola) in Sweden. This is an interpretive case study based on interviewing non-native parents through structured as well as semi-structured questionnaires and literature review. The findings show that apart from some ‘internal factors', creating ‘awareness' and providing ‘motivation' are the two important successful factors that should be taken care of by the school management in order to influence non-native residents in a country to use educational e-services.
Exploring the Use of Cloud Computing Systems in Tertiary Education
Authors: Adjei Joseph Kwame
Published: August 2017

Research on cloud computing systems has largely focused on the technology and security issues at the expense of understanding users' experiences with the technology. Through a phenomenological approach, this study explored the lived experiences of faculty members of tertiary institutions with respect to their use of cloud computing systems. We carried out an in-depth phenomenological interview among faculty members of selected tertiary institutions in Ghana. We explored their lived experiences on the use of cloud computing systems for academic activities. The results point to tensions between faculty members' identity and information privacy on one hand, and the requirement to effectively execute their academic and professional responsibilities. We conclude that while cloud computing systems enhance the reach and richness of academic information dissemination and academic interactions, faculty members must establish personal and professional boundaries in order to derive meaningful benefits from the use of such systems
A Framework of Key E-Services Issues
Authors: Alshouiby Abdulaziz , Bakry Saad Haj
Published: August 2017

E-services are becoming of increasing importance for government and for business services. They provide benefits to all parties concerned, including: service providers, users, and the society at large. This paper presents a framework of key issues that an e-service should enjoy. The framework is based on three main domains: the e-service strategy; its architecture; and its performance. Each of these domains is structured in three groups of issues, which are associated with: management; targeted features, and the people concerned. Per this structure, the framework considers “45” key e-services issues; and these issues are derived from the available literature and from previous experience. A survey using the framework is conducted to assess the level of awareness of IT staff, working in the field, in the importance of these key issues, as this awareness reflects their practices in e-services. The outcome shows that further awareness is needed, in various key issues, to improve future e-service practices.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Al-Jenaibi Badreya
Published: August 2017

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a western concept that is penetrating Middle Eastern countries, and the UAE is the most appropriate region to offer insights into CSR because other Middle Eastern countries are not adopting the concept quite as quickly as the UAE. One indication of CSR in UAE is its transparent firms. This paper explores the current stage of CSR implementation in Arab countries, with special attention given to the UAE. An in-depth study was conducted to explore CSR implementation among local managers. Primary data from 198 questionnaires and case studies were analyzed to obtain valuable insights into the current state of CSR in the UAE. Key concepts are highlighted regarding the definition and practice of CSR in the UAE. Secondary data from both western and eastern cultures were also analyzed to examine the extent of adoption and adaptation of CSR and corporate philanthropy from multiple perspectives. Findings suggest all organizations, both local and multinational, must consider environmental and stakeholder interests in order to become global. Some confusion appears to exist between the concept of philanthropy and CSR. Some CSR highlighted by firms includes following regulations effectively and efficiently, adopting environmentally friendly business processes, organizing seminars, and creating awareness of the concept among peers. Although CSR is maturing in the Middle East, UAE firms need to improve CSR to compete with the practices that have become the CSR standard in western countries. In the last few years, governments and local organizations have strictly enforced business ethics and environmental regulations to support the growth of CSR in the country.
Enhancement of “Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution” Approach for Evaluating the Web Sources to Select as External Source for Web Warehousing
Authors: Sinha Hari Om Sharan
Published: August 2017

The main concern of this paper is to evaluate the web sources, which are to be selected as external data sources for web warehousing. In order to identify the web sources, they are evaluated on the ground of their multiple features. For it, Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) approach has been used. Here, among all the MCDM approach, the focus is on “Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution” (TOPSIS) approach and proposing an enhancement in this method. The conventional TOPSIS approach uses Euclidean Distance to measure the similarity. Here, Jeffrey Divergence has been proposed to measure the similarity instead of Euclidean Distance which includes all the symmetric distances during computation. The Euclidean Distance only measures unidirectional distance whereas the Jeffrey Divergence includes multidirectional distances. Unidirectional distance includes only distance in one dimension but multidirectional distances includes differences, so more relevant in web sources evaluation. Experimental analysis for both the variations of TOPSIS approach have been conducted and the result shows the enhancement in the selection of web sources.
Shopping via Instagram
Authors: Apiraksattayakul Chayada , Papagiannidis Savvas , Alamanos Eleftherios
Published: August 2017

This study presents an empirical investigation as to the key determinants of purchase intention towards clothing on Instagram. A conceptual model has been created, based upon the relevant literature and research questions of this study, which has subsequently been evaluated through a quantitative methodology. A convenience sample of 200 Thai customers was selected in order to complete the questionnaire. The accumulated data was analysed via multiple regression in order to test the study's hypotheses. The results suggest that four aspects contribute positively towards customer purchase intentions (perceived social value, perceived price value, perceived quality value and perceived benefits) while, in contrast, risk perceptions have been found to adversely impact upon customer purchase intentions. Two other aspects, perceived emotional value and electronic word of mouth, have been found to have no significant influence upon purchase intentions.
The Influence of Assortment Satisfaction on Customer Loyalty
Authors: Verma Pranay , Sharma Anil Kumar
Published: August 2017

This study investigates how assortment satisfaction is predicted for purchase of online footwear and its consequences. This research is interplay of product display, customer loyalty, perceived risk and price comparison to ascertain their relationships. It examines the association between intrinsic cues and assortment satisfaction. This article also probes the well-established relationship between satisfaction and loyalty by way of assortment satisfaction and customer loyalty. The impact of product display, customer loyalty and price comparison on assortment satisfaction has been empirically verified by exploratory factor analysis and tested by structural equation modeling. The findings prove that price comparison is the most important factor influencing assortment satisfaction. Assortment satisfaction leads to customer loyalty. The authors develop a model that jointly optimizes assortment satisfaction for product display and price comparison and builds customer loyalty.
Assessment of e-Business Mode of Selected Private Universities in the Philippines and Pakistan
Authors: Talaue Gilbert M. , Iqbal Tahir
Published: August 2017

The purpose of the study is to assess the e-business mode of the private universities in Pangasinan, Philippines and Karachi City, Pakistan. Specifically, it sought to find out the following: the profile of the websites of the private universities in Pangasinan, Philippines and Karachi, Pakistan in terms of technical aspects, services offered and website contents and its features; the level of e-business mode of these universities; and what can be evolved to address their stakeholders' needs for a more effective online business transaction. Descriptive method of research was utilized in this study. With the use of a documents and data analysis as data gathering tools, this study identified the e-business mode of the selected universities and suggested that these universities should level-up to assimilating mode to better serve their stakeholders. Based on the findings made, the followings conclusions were drawn: the status of e-business mode of private universities in Pangasinan and Karachi in terms of technical aspects is of the same level; when it comes to services offered, the ten universities offered the same services; in terms of website contents and features, it varies, but the basic features are present to the ten universities. In general, it can be concluded that the e-business mode of private universities in Pangasinan and Karachi falls under the same level, supporting mode level. It is recommended that the selected universities in Pangasinan and Karachi should upgrade their e-business mode to assimilating mode to better serve their stakeholders.
Position and Tilt Control of Two-Wheeled Robot (TWR)
Authors: Kharola Ashwani , Patil Pravin P.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a fuzzy based adaptive control approach for stabilization of Two wheeled robot (TWR) system. The TWR consists of a robot chassis mounted on two movable wheels. The objective is to stabilize the proposed system within desired time, minimum overshoot and at desired location. The data samples collected from simulation results of fuzzy controllers were used for training, tuning and optimisation of an adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system(ANFIS) controller. A Matlab Simulink model of the system has been built using Newton's second law of motion. The effect of shape and number of membership functions on training error of ANFIS has also been analysed. The designing of fuzzy rules for both fuzzy and ANFIS controller were carried out using gbell shape memberships. Simulations were performed which compared and validated the performance of both the controllers.
Organization Communiqué Effect on Job Satisfaction and Commitment in Namibia
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: August 2017

Contemporary organizations, consider human resources to be the most strategic assets. Further to realize these assets to optimum, communication is crucial. With technology driven economies effective communication not only enhances organizational outcomes but also plays a dynamic role for ensuring employee commitment. In spite of this awareness, there is limited research conducted on identification and understanding the significance of organizational communication, especially in the Namibian context. Thus, the aim of this research is to address this research gap. Adopting an empirical survey research design, the population is department of the Inland Revenue employees countrywide. With sample of 150 respondents from 900, randomly selected the response rate was 66.67%. Data has been analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics. Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression was used as inferential statistics to assess the hypotheses and achieve the objectives of the study.
A CRM Process Model for Agent-Based Simulation
Authors: Badsi Hichem Benaissa Anouar , Rdess Ghomari Abdessamed , Zemmouchi-Ghomari Leila
Published: August 2017

To simulate the value generated by information and communication technologies, there is a need to design a suitable model. This article focuses on the little-used technology of ontologies, particularly Business Model Ontologies. Ontologies allow the representation of very abstract concepts, such as Business Models. The concept consists of four pillars, one of which, the “customer interface” is related to Customer Relationship Management (CRM). This paper proposes a modeling approach and a generic CRM model for the simulation of the value generated by information and communication technologies. The model must have a sufficient level of accuracy to achieve meaningful and helpful results, while maintaining a sufficiently generic level of abstraction to allow rapid implementation.
E-Commerce Decision Model Based on Auto-Learning
Authors: Tian Xin , Huang Yubei , Cai Lu , Fang Hai
Published: August 2017

The proposed model utilizes the information implied in the history of E-commerce negotiation to automatically mark the data to form the training samples, and apply the clues binary decision tree to automatically learn the samples to obtain the estimate of the opponent difference function. Then, an incremental decision-making problem is constituted through the combination of its own and the opponent's difference functions; and the dispersion algorithm is adopted to solve the optimization problem. The experimental results show that, the model still demonstrates relatively high efficiency and effectiveness under the condition of information confidentiality and no priori knowledge.
Drug-Nanoparticle Composites
Authors: Sizochenko Natalia , Leszczynski Jerzy
Published: August 2017

Polymeric nanoparticles represent attractive targets for the controlled delivery of therapeutic drugs. Drug-nanoparticle conjugates are convenient targets to enhance solubility and membrane permeability of drugs, prolong circulation time and minimize non-specific uptake. The behavior of drugs-loaded nanoparticles is governed by various factors. Understanding of these effects is very important for design of drug-nanoparticle systems, that could be suitable for treating the particular diseases. The aim of the current study is a complementary molecular docking followed by quantitative structure-activity relationships modeling for drugs payload on polymeric nanoparticles. Twenty-one approved drugs were considered. Docking of drugs was performed towards a simplified polymeric surface. Binding energies agreed well with the observed mass loading. Quantitative structure-activity relationships model supported this data. Effects of electronegativity and hydrophobicity were discussed. Developed model may contribute to the development of other useful nano-sized polymeric drug carriers to deliver a spectrum of therapeutic and imaging agents for medical purposes.
Exploring Simple, Interpretable, and Predictive QSPR Model of Fullerene C60 Solubility in Organic Solvents
Authors: Petrosyan Lyudvig S. , Kar Supratik , Leszczynski Jerzy , Rasulev Bakhtiyor
Published: August 2017

Buckminsterfullerene (C60) and its derivatives have currently been used as promising nanomaterial for diagnostic and therapeutic agents. They are applied in pharmaceutical industry due to their nanostructure characteristics, stability and hydrophobic character. Due to its sparingly soluble nature, the solubility of C60 has been of enormous attention among carbon nanostructure investigators owing to its fundamental importance and practical interest in nanotechnology and medical industry. In order to study the diverse role of C60 and its derivatives the dependence of fullerene's solubility on molecular structure of the solvent must be understood. Current study was dedicated to the exploration of the solubility of fullerene C60 in 156 organic solvents using simple, interpretable and predictive 1D and 2D descriptors employing quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) technique. The authors employed genetic algorithm followed by multiple linear regression analysis (GA-MLR) to generate the correlation models. The best performance is accomplished by the four-variable MLR model with internal and external prediction coefficient of Q2 = 0.86 and R2pred = 0.89. The study identified vital properties and structural fragments, particularly valuable for guiding future synthetic as well as prediction efforts. The model generated with the highest number of organic solvents to date with simple descriptors can be reproduced in no time to predict the solubility of C60 in any new or existing organic solvents. This approach can be used as an efficient predictor for fullerenes' solubility in various organic solvents.
Apresentação
Authors: Galuch Maria Terezinha Bellanda , Oliveira Terezinha
Published: August 2017

Apresentação da edição
Comprehensive Care for Bariatric Surgery Patients
Authors: Petcu Aura
Published: August 2017

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic, and those suffering from obesity have increased morbidity and mortality rates. There are various causes of obesity and many treatment options for patients suffering from obesity, including nonsurgical treatments. However, bariatric surgery is often the best choice for optimal weight loss and the attenuation of comorbidities. Currently, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is the most common type of bariatric surgery in the United States due to its technical simplicity, feasibility, and overall positive outcomes. This article discusses bariatric surgical criteria and selection, expected perioperative course, potential complications after surgery, and nursing implications for the care of bariatric patients. A case report is used to exemplify stages of surgical care and follow-up treatment for patients who undergo laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.