bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantization of total fumonisins produced by Fusarium verticillioides strains in some maize and sorghum genotypes by ELISA
Authors: Rahdzu Vahid , Parcamijan Marjam , Feizbas Tagi , Zamani Majid
Published: January 2012

Fusarium verticillioides is one of the most prevalent Fusarium species on
maize and sorghum, causing Fusarium ear rot and sorghum grain mold in warm
and humid regions of Iran. The pathogen produces potent mycotoxins known as
fumonisins. In order to determine mycotoxin (fumonisins) production on
different maize and sorghum genotypes, a field trial was carried out based on
a randomized complete block design with 10 treatments and three replications
for each crop at Gorgan station in 2010. The ears of corn plants were
inoculated by spore suspension of the mixture of some virulent F.
verticillioides isolates using an ear inoculation method (Nail Punch). The
sorghum panicles were also inoculated by spraying of spore suspension
isolates at f lowering stage. All infected kernels were evaluated by ELISA
kits (AgraQuant Fumonisin Kit; Romer Labs, Austria) for their total
fumonisins production at the physiological maturing stage. All genotypes
showed statistically significant difference in their fumonisin production in
Gorgan. The results of fumonisins analysis obtained from ELISA test showed
that lines 1 (Resistant) and 3 (Susceptible) with 2.4 ppm and 13.7 ppm had
the least and highest amount of total fumonisins respectively among all maize
genotypes. Also among all sorghum genotypes, genotypes 10 and 6 with 0.2 ppm
and 4.8 ppm had the least and the highest amount of total fumonisins
respectively. The results of this experiment demonstrated that fumonisin
production level in maize kernels (maybe as maize kernels are the main host
of this fungus) was significantly higher than sorghum kernels in Gorgan
region.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Korean Women
Authors: Kwak Soo Heon , Kim Sung-Hoon , Cho Young Min , Go Min Jin , Cho Yoon Shin , Choi Sung Hee , Moon Min Kyong , Jung Hye Seung , Shin Hyoung Doo , Kang Hyun Min , Cho Nam H. , Lee In Kyu , Kim Seong Yeon , Han Bok-Ghee , Jang Hak C. , Park Kyong Soo
Published: January 2012

Knowledge regarding the genetic risk loci for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is still limited. In this study, we performed a two-stage genome-wide association analysis in Korean women. In the stage 1 genome scan, 468 women with GDM and 1,242 nondiabetic control women were compared using 2.19 million genotyped or imputed markers. We selected 11 loci for further genotyping in stage 2 samples of 931 case and 783 control subjects. The joint effect of stage 1 plus stage 2 studies was analyzed by meta-analysis. We also investigated the effect of known type 2 diabetes variants in GDM. Two loci known to be associated with type 2 diabetes had a genome-wide significant association with GDM in the joint analysis. rs7754840, a variant in CDKAL1, had the strongest association with GDM (odds ratio 1.518; P = 6.65 × 10−16). A variant near MTNR1B, rs10830962, was also significantly associated with the risk of GDM (1.454; P = 2.49 × 10−13). We found that there is an excess of association between known type 2 diabetes variants and GDM above what is expected under the null hypothesis. In conclusion, we have confirmed that genetic variants in CDKAL1 and near MTNR1B are strongly associated with GDM in Korean women. There seems to be a shared genetic basis between GDM and type 2 diabetes.
Path and path deviation equations for p-branes
Authors: Pavšič Matej , Kahil Magd
Published: January 2012

Path and path deviation equations for neutral, charged, spinning and spinning charged test particles, using a modified Bazanski Lagrangian, are derived. We extend this approach to strings and branes. We show how the Bazanski Lagrangian for charged point particles and charged branes arises à la Kaluza-Klein from the Bazanski Lagrangian in 5-dimensions.
Power Smart In-door Optical Wireless Link Design
Authors: Marraccini P. J. , Riza N. A.
Published: January 2012

Presented for the first time, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the design of a power smart in-door optical wireless link that provides lossless beam propagation between Transmitter (T) and Receiver (R) for changing link distances. Each T/R unit uses a combination of fixed and variable focal length optics to smartly adjust the laser beam propagation parameters of minimum beam waist size and its location to produce the optimal zero propagation loss coupling condition at the R for that link distance. An Electronically Controlled Variable Focus Lens (ECVFL) is used to form the wide field-of-view search beam and change the beam size at R to form a low loss beam. The T/R unit can also deploy camera optics and thermal energy harvesting electronics to improve link operational smartness and efficiency. To demonstrate the principles of the beam conditioned low loss indoor link, a visible 633 nm laser link using an electro-wetting technology liquid ECVFL is demonstrated for a variable 1 to 4 m link range. Measurements indicate a 53% improvement over an unconditioned laser link at 4 m. Applications for this power efficient wireless link includes mobile computer platform communications and agile server rack interconnections in data centres.
Three-dimensional imaging and force characterization of multiple trapped particles in low NA counterpropagating optical traps
Authors: Lindballe T. B. , Kristensen M. V. , Kylling A. P. , Palima D. Z. , Glückstad J. , Keiding S. R. , Stapelfeldt H.
Published: January 2012

An experimental characterization of the three-dimensional (3D) position and force constants, acting on one or multiple trapped polystyrene beads in a weak counterpropagating beams geometry is reported. The 3D position of the trapped particles is tracked by imaging with two synchronized CMOS cameras from two orthogonal views and used to determine the stiffness along all three spatial directions through power spectrum analysis and the equipartition method. For the case of three trapped beads we measure the dependence of the force constants on the counterpropagating beams waist separation. The maximal transverse stiffnesses, is about 0.1 pN/µm per mW at a beam waist separation of 67 µm whereas the longitudinal stiffness is approximately 20 times lower. The experimental findings are in reasonable agreement with a recent physical-geometric optics calculation.
Fish antifreeze proteins: Computational analysis and physicochemical characterization
Authors: Hossain Md Musharaf
Published: January 2012

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) protect organisms from freezing and shows great diversity in structure, and they have been found in a variety of organisms. In this study, a total of 15 antifreeze proteins of fish were selected where they represent distinct physicochemical and structural features. The present paper uses bioinformatics approach to describe the physiochemical, functional and structural properties of Antifreeze proteins. Several Physico-chemical properties such as pI, EC, AI, GRAVY and instability index are computed and provide data about these proteins and their properties. The result of primary structure analysis infers that, fish antifreeze proteins are mostly hydrophobic. Disulfide bridges and secondary structures were analyzed using CYS_REC and SOPMA respectively. The three dimensional structure of Antifreeze proteins is predicted by using three homology modeling server Geno3D, Swiss-model and CPHmodels. The model was evaluated with PROCHECK, WHAT IF, and ProSA programs. Model visualization and analysis was done with Pymol. These structures will provide a good foundation for functional analysis of experimentally derived crystal structures.Key Words: Antifreeze Proteins; Computational tools; hydrophobicity; homology modeling; isoelectric point.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v1i2.9412International Current Pharmaceutical Journal 2012, 1(2): 18-26
The Potential of a Surfactant/Polymer Flood in a Middle Eastern Reservoir
Authors: Gharbi Ridha , Alajmi Abdullah , Algharaib Meshal
Published: January 2012

An integrated full-field reservoir simulation study has been performed to determine the reservoir management and production strategies in a mature sandstone reservoir. The reservoir is a candidate for an enhanced oil recovery process or otherwise subject to abandonment. Based on its charateristics, the reservoir was found to be most suited for a surfactant/polymer (SP) flood. The study started with a large data gathering and the building of a full-field three-dimensional geological model. Subsequently, a full field simulation model was built and used to history match the water flood. The history match of the water flood emphasizes the areas with remaining high oil saturations, establishes the initial condition of the reservoir for an SP flood, and generates a forecast of reserves for continued water flood operations. A sector model was constructed from the full field model and then used to study different design parameters to maximize the project profitability from the SP flood. An economic model, based on the estimated recovery, residual oil in-place, oil price, and operating costs, has been implemented in order to optimize the project profitability. The study resulted in the selection of surfactant and polymer concentrations and slug size that yielded the best economic returns when applied in this reservoir. The study shows that, in today’s oil prices, surfactant/polymer flood when applied in this reservoir has increased the ultimate oil recovery and provide a significant financial returns.
Molecular Modeling Study of Chiral Separation and Recognition Mechanism of β-Adrenergic Antagonists by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Li Wuhong , Liu Changhai , Tan Guangguo , Zhang Xinrong , Zhu Zhenyu , Chai Yifeng
Published: January 2012

Chiral separations of five β-adrenergic antagonists (propranolol, esmolol, atenolol, metoprolol, and bisoprolol) were studied by capillary electrophoresis using six cyclodextrins (CDs) as the chiral selectors. Carboxymethylated-β-cyclodextrin (CM-β-CD) exhibited a higher enantioselectivity power compared to the other tested CDs. The influences of the concentration of CM-β-CD, buffer pH, buffer concentration, temperature, and applied voltage were investigated. The good chiral separation of five β-adrenergic antagonists was achieved using 50 mM Tris buffer at pH 4.0 containing 8 mM CM-β-CD with an applied voltage of 24 kV at 20 °C. In order to understand possible chiral recognition mechanisms of these racemates with CM-β-CD, host-guest binding procedures of CM-β-CD and these racemates were studied using the molecular docking software Autodock. The binding free energy was calculated using the Autodock semi-empirical binding free energy function. The results showed that the phenyl or naphthyl ring inserted in the hydrophobic cavity of CM-β-CD and the side chain was found to point out of the cyclodextrin rim. Hydrogen bonding between CM-β-CD and these racemates played an important role in the process of enantionseparation and a model of the hydrogen bonding interaction positions was constructed. The difference in hydrogen bonding formed with the –OH next to the chiral center of the analytes may help to increase chiral discrimination and gave rise to a bigger separation factor. In addition, the longer side chain in the hydrophobic phenyl ring of the enantiomer was not beneficial for enantioseparation and the chiral selectivity factor was found to correspond to the difference in binding free energy.
Controlled Fabrication of Flower-like Nickel Oxide Hierarchical Structures and Their Application in Water Treatment
Authors: Tao Feifei , Shen Yongmiao , Wang Linxia
Published: January 2012

Flower-like NiO hierarchical structures with 2–5 μm diameter assembled from nanosheet building blocks have been successfully fabricated via a wet-chemical method combined with thermodecomposition technology. The template-free method is facile and effective in preparing flower-like NiO superstructures in high yield. The intermediate product and final hierarchical structures are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform IR (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The effects of growth temperature and reaction time on the morphologies of the as-prepared structures were investigated by SEM characterization and a possible mechanism for the formation of flower-like NiO is proposed. Based on the nitrogen adsorption and desorption measurements, the BET surface area of the as-obtained sample is 55.7 m2/g and the pore-size distribution plot indicates a bimodal mesopore distribution, with pore sizes of ca. 2.6 nm and 7.4 nm, respectively. In comparison with sphere-like and rod-like structures, the flower-like NiO hierarchical structures show an excellent ability to rapidly remove various pollutants when used as adsorbent and photocatalyst in waste-water treatment, which may be attributed to its unique hierarchical and porous surface structures.
KULTŪRINIŲ ARCHETIPŲ RECEPCIJA PLANUOJANT URBANISTINĘ RENOVACIJĄ
Authors: Petrušonis Vytautas
Published: January 2012

In the planning of urban renovation, interests, intentions and potentials of a large variety of actors of an urban environment must be taken into account. In urban regulations, statements should be formulated on the groundwork of collective psychology rather than on the basis of categories of individual psychology. This can strengthen consensual basis, which is important for effective communication to all actual actors of urban renovation. In this aspect, the role of cultural archetypes is especially important. Thanks to the cultural archetypes, the cultural context – that can encourage more adequate and reasonable comprehension of the meaning of urban environment elements in a renovation process – can be better actualized. The article provides the analysis on the extent the cultural archetypes are reflected in statements of documents fulfilling the regulative function. The critical analysis and evaluation of the conceptual basis of the urban renewal process allow concluding that the reception of cultural archetypes essentially does not occur for the reason of domination of descriptive narratives, which emerge from mythological narratives for the purpose of a creative process required to present and disclose the pre-logic existential experience, which is usually very important. Therefore, chances to achieve consensus with the society on urban renovation based on such regulations are very thin. Alternative approaches for statement formulation to be used in regulative documents are also introduced in the presented article. Santrauka Planuojant urbanistinę renovaciją turi būti atsižvelgta į daugybės subjektų, darančių įtaką miesto aplinkos tvarkymui, interesus, intencijas ir galimybes. Konsensinį pagrindą gali sustiprinti projektavimo eigą veikiančių „teiginių“ formulavimas neapsiribojant individo psichologijos kategorijomis, o tokių informacinių vienetų formavimo procese didesnį dėmesį skiriant kolektyvinės psichologijos plotmei. Būtent tai gali atlikti kultūriniai archetipai, kurie praplečia kultūrinį kontekstą ir paskatina adekvatesnį bei motyvuotesnį renovuojamos urbanistinės aplinkos elementų reikšmės suvokimą. Nagrinėjama, kokiu laipsniu urbanistinę renovaciją veikiančiuose reglamentiniuose teiginiuose atspindima su kultūriniais archetipais susijusi plotmė. Kritiškai išanalizavus ir įvertinus urbanistinės renovacijos proceso idėjinius pagrindus, nustatyta, kad kultūrinių archetipų recepcija iš esmės nepasireiškia, nes dominuoja deskriptyvieji naratyvai, užgožiantys mitologinius naratyvus, labai svarbius egzistencinei ikirefleksinei patirčiai prezentuoti kūrybiniame procese. Aptariami alternatyviniai renovacijos planavimo reglamentavimo būdai.
Utility of an interferon-gamma release assay as a potential diagnostic aid for active pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Taki-Eddin Lynn , Monem Fawza
Published: January 2012

Introduction: Sensitivity, specificity, early confirmation and obtaining an optimal specimen are challenging problems in active tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) is a good indicator for latent TB but can it be useful as a diagnostic tool for active TB? This study was designed to address these challenges and assess the potential of IGRA as a diagnostic indicator of active pulmonary TB by comparing it with other MT diagnostic conventional methods and molecular methods.Methodology: The study was conducted on 91 patients with suspicion of pulmonary active TB. QuantiFERON-TB-Gold In-Tube, a commercial IFN-gamma assay, was compared with Ziehl Neelsen (ZN) smear, Lowenstein Jensen's (LJ) egg-based culture, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The final clinical diagnosis was the standard comparator of the study.Results: Active pulmonary TB was confirmed in 48/91 (52.7%) patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predicted value (PPV), and negative predicted value (NPV) were 72.9%, 100%, 100%, 76.78% for ZN smear, 77.1%, 97.67%, 97.36%, 79.24% for LJ culture, 89.9%, 67.4%, 75.4%, 85.3% for IGRA, and 66.6%, 95.3%, 94.1%, 71.9% for real-time PCR, respectively.  Conclusion: Albeit confounding in the case of latent TB infected patients presenting with non-TB pulmonary disease, IGRA was more sensitive than the other conventional and molecular methods, so it may improve diagnostic accuracy when used in combination with other standard methods. High NPV of IGRA for the diagnosis of active TB proposed an additional role of this test to exclude the infection with active TB.
Performance of QuantiFERON TB in a student population at low risk of tuberculosis
Authors: Molicotti Paola , Bua Alessandra , Zanetti Stefania
Published: January 2012

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Comment les dirigeants des organisations peuvent tuer l'innovation ?
Authors: Alter Norbert
Published: January 2012

Résumé L’innovation qui s’appuie sur un processus créateur doit faire appel aux apprentissages des employés et à leur capacité à coopérer ensemble. En effet, ce sont les véritables apprentissages organisationnels et culturels, ainsi que des actions de personnes transgressant l’ordre établi, engagées pendant la mise en œuvre d’une nouveauté dans les structures de travail, qui permettent l’innovation. Cet article explique comment le fait, pour les décideurs, de ne pas savoir reconnaître la capacité innovatrice des employés risque de conduire ces derniers au conformisme, à la démobilisation et à l’adoption de l’utilitarisme.
L'accès à l'excédent de ressources comme préalable au succès des initiatives intrapreneuriales : les leçons tirées du projet Snowblade de Salomon
Authors: Bueno Merino Pascale , Grandval Samuel , Ronteau Sébastien
Published: January 2012

Résumé S’appuyant sur l’analyse du projet Snowblade au sein de la société de fabrication de skis Salomon, un projet innovant qui s’est avéré un succès, les auteurs montrent l’importance pour les intrapreneurs de pouvoir détourner des ressources en excédent dans l’organisation et d’obtenir le soutien des cadres intermédiaires et, ultimement, celui de la direction générale. En effet, le succès des projets intrapreneuriaux émergents, et donc la réussite des organisations, repose sur la mobilisation des ressources excédentaires sur les plans financier, humain, matériel, informationnel, physique et temporel. Les auteurs formulent de nombreuses recommandations à l’intention des intrapreneurs, des cadres intermédiaires et des dirigeants afin que tous puissent reconnaître et mieux assumer leurs rôles dans le processus de développement et d’implantation des innovations au sein des organisations.
Entrevue avec Camille Carrier et Sylvie Gélinas auteures du livre : Créativité et gestion. Les idées au service de l'innovation
Authors: Filion Louis Jacques
Published: January 2012

Résumé Cette entrevue avec Camille Carrier et Sylvie Gélinas porte sur la publication de leur livre visant à aider les entreprises à revitaliser la créativité de leur personnel. Selon les auteures, la créativité, la production de nouvelles idées, est une question de leadership, lequel doit s’appuyer sur l’équipe, qui est l’unité de travail naturelle. En outre, la performance en créativité demande qu’on prenne du temps pour explorer différentes avenues. Et cela va parfois à l’encontre des notions traditionnelles d’efficacité et de performance que privilégient certains gestionnaires, deux approches qui sont pourtant axées sur l’obtention de résultats et qui visent la rentabilité de l’entreprise. L’entrevue se termine par des conseils que donnent les auteures aux personnes qui veulent devenir plus créatives ainsi qu’aux dirigeants qui désirent implanter une culture de la créativité dans leur entreprise.
Caracterización de la brisa de mar en el balneario de Monte Hermoso, Argentina
Authors: Huamantinco Cisneros María Andrea , Piccolo M. Cintia
Published: January 2012

[es] Las brisas marinas son fenómenos meteorológicos a escala local que ejercen su influencia sobre la costa durante todo el año, sin embargo son escasos los trabajos realizados en la costa argentina. El objetivo de la presente investigación es caracterizar y determinar la ocurrencia de las brisas de mar en Monte Hermoso, balneario ubicado en el suroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (61º15’55’’W, 38º59’33’’S). El periodo analizado abarca desde diciembre de 2007 a julio de 2010. Se aplicó la metodología propuesta por Zubillaga y Piccolo (1977/78a) y García y Piccolo (2004) para la identificación de la brisa marina. Se analizaron datos meteorológicos de temperatura, humedad y viento obtenidos de la estación ubicada en el balneario. Se complementó el estudio con el análisis de mapas sinópticos e imágenes satelitales. Se identificaron 40 días con brisas de mar cuya mayor frecuencia se evidenció durante el verano con 18 casos. El mes de julio no presentó brisas durante el periodo analizado. Las brisas marinas predominaron del sector ESE y SE. Su duración promedio fue de dos horas y media. La velocidad media de las brisas marinas fue 4.5 m s-1.

[fr] Les brises marines sont phénomènes météorologiques à l’échelle locale qu’ils exercent son influence sur la côte pendant toute l’année, cependant ils sont peu abondants, les travaux réalisés sur la côte argentine. L’objectif de la recherche présente est de caractériser et de déterminer la circonstance des brises de mer dans Monte Hermoso, la station balnéaire placée dans le sud-ouest de la Province du Buenos Aires (61º15‘55“W, 38º59‘3”S). La période analysée comprend du décembre 2007 à un juillet 2010. Elle s’est appliquée, la méthodologie proposée par Zubillaga et Piccolo (1977/78a) et García et Piccolo (2004) pour l’identification de la brise marine. On a analysé des données météorologiques de température, d’humidité et de vent obtenues de la station placée dans la station balnéaire. L’étude s’est complétée avec l’analyse de cartes synoptiques et d’images satelitales. Ils se sont identifiés 40 jours aux brises de mer dont la plus grande fréquence a été manifeste durant l’été avec 18 cas. Un juillet il n’a pas présenté de brises durant la période analysée. Les brises marines ont prédominé du secteur c’et. Sa durée milieu a été de deux heures et demie. La vitesse moyenne des brises marines a été 4.5 m s-1.
Valparaíso: la ciudad-puerto más importante de Chile y la vulnerabilidad de su patrimonio arquitectónico a los riesgos sísmicos
Authors: Sánchez M. Alfredo , Jiménez V. Cecilia
Published: January 2012

Los procesos históricos, las condiciones geográficas de la ciudad y la condición sísmica del país, son los factores que han incidido directamente en la permanencia del patrimonio arquitectónico existente en la ciudad de Valparaíso, cuya Área Histórica ha sido incluida por UNESCO en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial. Los cíclicos y frecuentes fenómenos naturales (sismos y tsunamis) han configurado una geografía que revela una vulnerabilidad que afecta el paisaje y en lo humano pone en permanente riesgos el patrimonio cultural y la vida de su población.
Dispersión urbana en el Suelo No Urbanizable del País Vasco: la distorsión del planeamiento en la Reserva de la Biosfera de Urdaibai
Authors: Ainz Ibarrondo M. José , Bilbao Uribarri Aitor , Torres Elizburu Roberto
Published: January 2012

[es] En este artículo se analiza el proceso de urbanización que está registrando el Suelo No Urbanizable en el País Vasco. Apoyado territorialmente en el tradicional hábitat rural disperso y amparado jurídicamente por la figura urbanística Núcleo Rural que contempla la [es]Legislación vasca, el urban sprawl amenaza al conjunto del territorio vasco, incluyendo sus espacios protegidos. El análisis se centra en el desarrollo del fenómeno en la Reserva de la Biosfera de Urdaibai, transcurrido un decenio desde la incorporación del Núcleo Rural al planeamiento urbanístico.

[fr] Cet article analyse le processus d’urbanisation qui se déroule sur les terres classées comme “terrain non constructible” dans le Pays Basque. Territorialement tenue à la traditionnelle habitat rural et protégée par la figure urbanistique “Núcleo Rural”, etabliée par la loi basque, l’urban sprawl menace tout le Pays Basque, y compris ses aires protégées. L’analyse se concentre sur le développement du phénomène dans la Réserve de Biosphère d’Urdaibai, après une décennie depuis l’introduction de la figure “Núcleo Rural” à la planification urbaine.
From the defective to the effective: exploiting fortuitous errors in non-native speakers’ written productions
Authors: Cooke Ray , Birch-Becaas Susan
Published: January 2012

Les auteurs décrivent une approche dans laquelle certaines erreurs écrites commises par des chercheurs francophones confirmés sont exploitées dans un programme de rédaction scientifique destiné aux doctorants francophones. De plus, ils avancent que le discours écrit des uns peut même servir de modèle pour celui des autres.
Le « washback » et les tests intégrés
Authors: Charnock Ross
Published: January 2012

Les systèmes traditionnels utilisés pour l'évaluation des compétences linguistiques chez les spécialistes des autres disciplines sont peu satisfaisants, de plusieurs points de vue. Les tests fondés sur des questions ponctuelles ont un taux de validité très bas, alors que les tests fondés sur l'expression libre sont peu fiables. En revanche, les tests intégrés, fondés sur le discours continu, comme la procédure cloze, le C-test, la lecture des épreuves, la dictée, et peut-être la lecture à haute voix, semblent cumuler les avantages des deux types de tests, tout en en évitant les défauts. En outre, ils semblent plus utiles du point de vue pédagogique, leurs effets en retour favorables justifiant ainsi leur utilisation en cours.
Factors Affecting KM Implementation in the Chinese Community
Authors: Lin Yang , Dalkir Kimiz
Published: January 2012

This paper reviews past research on KM to identify key factors affecting Chinese KM implementation. It begins with a chronological overview of 76 KM related publications, followed by two separate discussions of socio-cultural and non-socio-cultural factors affecting KM implementation within the Chinese community. A preliminary typology of these factors is proposed. In addition to individual factors that have direct impact on how people behave in the process of KM implementation, specific factors that strongly influence Chinese KM implementation are: (1) relationship networks and collectivist thinking, (2) competitiveness and knowledge hoarding, (3) management involvement and support, and (4) organizational culture that encourages knowledge sharing and learning and that minimizes knowledge hoarding. Several directions for future research are also presented.
Critical Success Factors and Outcomes of Market Knowledge Management
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan Subramanian , Delbaere Marjorie , Zhang David , Bruning Edward
Published: January 2012

In this paper, the authors examine critical success factors and outcomes of market knowledge management, which is the management of knowledge pertaining to a firm’s customers, competitors, and suppliers. Using data collected from 307 managers in 105 businesses across Canada, the authors show that a firm’s extent of information technology adoption, its analytical capabilities, and market orientation are critical success factors for the firm’s market knowledge management. An important outcome of market knowledge management is the organization’s financial performance, mediated by customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. Results of this study indicate that superior business performance depends not only on the effective management of knowledge, but also on what type of knowledge is managed. Finally, implications of results and avenues for future research are discussed.
A Knowledge Framework for Development
Authors: Sharma Ravi S. , Chandrasekar Ganesh , Vaitheeswaran Bharathkumar
Published: January 2012

In this article, the authors investigate the diverse dimensions of a knowledge society. First, the relevant literature on post industrial societies is reviewed to identify the key constituents of successful growth and development. The authors then propose a 10-dimension framework within political, economic, social and technological parameters that describe the state of evolution of a given knowledge society. Knowledge assessment scores, human development indices, technology readiness scores and competitiveness scores are selected as composite indicators of knowledge societies. Proxy indicators are assigned for the dimensions, and secondary data was gathered from reputed international sources. Partial Pearson Correlation Analysis was done between the proxy indicators and the composite scales to determine the direction and strength of relationships. Hygiene factors and competitive factors of a knowledge society are distilled from the empirical results and recommendations are suggested to address some areas of concern when pursuing policies for knowledge based development.
Situated Learning and Activity Theory-Based Approach to Designing Integrated Knowledge and Learning Management Systems
Authors: Yoon Seung Won , Ardichvili Alexandre
Published: January 2012

Current Knowledge Management (KM) design approaches recognize the importance of integrating codification, personalization, and collaboration strategies. Incorporating various database systems, search functions, managerial support, performance appraisal, personalized widgets, and case summaries into seamless functions are exemplary efforts. However, KM is rarely integrated with organizational learning and development systems. In this article, the authors use concepts from the situated learning literature, Vygotskian cultural-historical theory of cognition, and a holistic learning and performance architecture to signify the integration of KM and organizational learning systems.
Infrastructure for Survey Data Processing in Urban and Planning Studies
Authors: Olsen Randall J.
Published: January 2012

Applied social science research has increasingly come to rely on surveys to generate detailed data, especially on firms, persons, and households, needed to study social phenomena. The methods used to collect survey data have changed substantially in the past quarter century and appear on the cusp of changing again with the rise of Web-based technologies. These changes can be best implemented by adopting computational methods designed for relational databases. This is true not only for survey data, but also administrative data that government agencies collect, store, and use. In this chapter, the author explains how these changes are best accommodated and how new telecommunications technologies, including Voice over Internet and smart phones, fit into this new paradigm. These techniques dominate survey data collection for urban studies and other fields.
Search Conferences and Future Search Conferences
Authors: Hurworth Rosalind
Published: January 2012

This chapter examines the potential of the Search Conference (SC) and a later version, the Future Search Conference (FS), as useful participatory methods that contribute to urban and other types of planning. An unusual feature of these approaches is that participants are expected to contribute to the implementation of any action recommended. The chapter begins with a definition and history of these conferences before outlining how traditional, face-to-face conferences are implemented. As an illustration, the Future Search Conference ‘Bendigo +25’ (carried out in a regional Australian city to determine ways forward for the next 25 years) is discussed. The same case study is then re-examined in the context of attempting to run such an exercise in a Web-based environment. Both advantages and challenges of this mode of delivery are considered.
Monitoring Pedestrian Spatio-Temporal Behaviour using Semi-Automated Shadowing
Authors: Millonig Alexandra , Ray Markus , Schrom-Feiertag Helmut
Published: January 2012

Mobility and orientation behaviour research often requires the monitoring of pedestrian spatio-temporal behaviour. A number of different empirical methods have been developed to investigate specific aspects of pedestrian behaviour. However, each method has certain drawbacks, which aggravate the collection and analysis of relevant data. This chapter describes a new method which combines the advantages of simple observation and technological data collection. Pedestrian trajectories are collected by observing and annotating spatio-temporal tracks using a semi-automated shadowing tool. In this chapter, the authors describe the background and related work in pedestrian spatio-temporal behaviour research as well as most commonly applied methods and their respective advantages and drawbacks. The authors then present a shadowing approach with specific characteristics and implementation. Additionally, three case studies are described to illustrate potential fields of application. Finally, ongoing efforts to enhance the method through the use of additional sensors and features, as well as potential future developments, are described.
Ask and You Will Receive
Authors: Arning Katrin , Ziefle Martina
Published: January 2012

Even though the effective usage of mobile devices has become a mandatory requirement in many professional and private areas, inexperienced users face especially great difficulties in acquiring computer skills. Based on the assumptions of constructivist learning theories, the effect of asking questions and repeated practice on PDA skill acquisition in adults (n = 36) was examined. Learners had the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers during the learning process. One learner group additionally received a manual with basic PDA-operating-principles; a control group received no instructional support at all. As dependent variables task effectiveness, efficiency, subjective ratings of perceived ease of use as well as number and content of questions were assessed. Findings showed that asking questions and repeated practice considerably enhanced PDA-performance in adult novice learners, but not perceived ease of use. Furthermore, the content-analysis of learner questions gave valuable insights into information needs, cognitive barriers and mental models of adult learners, which can contribute to the design of interfaces and computer-based tutors.
The Challenge of a Future Slotted Standard for Vehicular Ad-Hoc Networks
Authors: Scopigno Riccardo Maria , Cozzetti Hector Agustin
Published: January 2012

This chapter is about alternative MAC solutions for VANETs, based on a synchronous, slotted philosophy. After highlighting the limitation of the incumbent CSMA/CA solution, the chapter explains the rationale for a slotted standard and briefly introduces the three solutions found in literature (namely MS-Aloha, D-TDMA and STDMA). In particular, one of them, MS-Aloha, seems particularly rich in functionalities and solves several open issues, in particular in terms of scalability. Its characteristics are presented and discussed, also by means of simulations and quantitative metrics. The comparative analysis between CSMA/CA and MS-Aloha performances permits to gain a deeper insight and draw conclusions on possible perspectives.
Talent Management
Authors: Luna-Arocas Roberto
Published: January 2012

Talent management is a new concept in the scientific literature, but not in the practitioner arena. In this sense, this chapter underlines the powerful perspective of talent management integrating practices from organizations and providing a scientific approach. Some previous results from different research are expressed in relation to strategy and organizational performance. Talent Management is clearly a concept close to high performance work system, with the difference of a more strategic approach. More than practices are goals for the organization to achieve excellence at work. So Talent Management is clearly linked with a strategic approach to the organization in order to attract, develop, evaluate, and retain professionals with high capacities.
The Importance of Psychological Contracts in Human Resource Management within the New Global Economy
Authors: Martínez-León Inocencia M.
Published: January 2012

Human resources are considered the company’s most valuable resource. For that reason, organizations require a Human Resource Management (HRM) that provides the adequate work force within the new global economy. The psychological contract includes solid agreements between company and its employees, beyond the written contract, specifying their contributions, expectations, beliefs, promises, and obligations between both parties. Their management requires the definition of the concept of psychological contract, the analysis of its main characteristics and contents; and the identification of its stages of development. Electronic Human Resource Management (e-HRM) introduces a way of implementing HRM strategies through Web-based tools, improving the psychological contract management. Information phase, Intranet, and internal electronic mail have an important role in socialization stage. The consolidation of psychological contract (maintenance phase) is favoured by Intranet, business-to-employees, internal electronic mail, database, videoconference, and groupware. Finally, in breach phase, intranet, electronic mail, database, videoconference, and groupware are important E-HRM.
The Role of Internal Communication in Commitment Management
Authors: Carazo José Antonio
Published: January 2012

The economic situation in the last few years has forced companies to adjust their workforces and reduce hierarchical levels. They have also had to undertake overhead cost and expense adjustment programmes, including salary freeze and the reduction of training budgets, amongst others; all of it within an environment where human capital has acquired special relevance. It has been shown that individuals represent enterprises’ main asset, the element that can generate sustainable competitive advantages over time. Power has changed hands; it no longer lies in the traditional means of production, but in knowledge. And knowledge resides in people. Knowledge and people are the new engines of economy. The management of individuals, which is nothing but the management of their intangibles and the need to attract and retain talent, becomes especially important in this context. Commitment management is one of the most effective policies to achieve this aim. Managers must implement policies to commit employees to not only retain them, but also encourage them to do their best. The best tool to achieve this necessary commitment is internal communication. This chapter aims to offer a conceptual reflection on commitment management and analyses the state of internal communication in Spanish companies. The purpose is to establish a link between the emphasis placed by companies on achieving their employees’ commitment and internal communication as a tool that can help to reach that goal.
Waking Up the Neighborhood
Authors: Hakala-Ausperk Catherine
Published: January 2012

With competition for customers, funding, and success at a premium these days, libraries must find ways to throw in their lot with neighboring organizations and businesses in order to best serve their shared constituencies. This chapter examines success stories born from collaborations showing that all libraries can share in this type of success—no matter how big or little their community may be—and partner with local companies, businesses, social, and non-profits groups in ways that are not only cost-effective, but can also result in innovative revenue streams for all parties involved.
A Furry Partnership
Authors: Hall Mary L.
Published: January 2012

This case study describes the partnership between the Bedford Public Library and an elementary school. This partnership consists of a program designed to assist grade school children with literacy skills. Third grade students read aloud to a Pet Partners team made up of a therapy dog and a handler who is a professional public librarian. The team visits the school weekly with books selected from the public library’s collection to provide animal assisted therapy. School staff and teachers collect and provide assessment data on students to create goals and track progress for the students. The librarian, teachers, and school staff work together to create new methods of assessing progress attributed to reading to the dog. During the summer months, the Pet Partners team visits a local Summer Meals site to help address the problem of summer reading loss. Children of all ages are invited to read aloud to the team to participate in animal assisted activities.
Delay in Diagnosis of Influenza Virus in an Elderly Hospitalized Patient: A Fatal Outcome
Authors: Haber Nicole , Khelili Djamal , Martineau Delphine , Dekimeche Siham , Szekely Carol , Lebon Pierre
Published: January 2012

Influenza is a well established cause of seasonal hospitalizations and deaths among older persons. However, influenza is frequently underdiagnosed by physicians, because its clinical presentations are often complex, particularly in elderly patients. We report the case of a 78-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department in January 2008 with fever, vomiting, and a history of asthenia and falls in the preceding three days. Diagnosis of influenza at admission was missed. Influenza was diagnosed by direct fluorescent antibody in a sputum specimen four days later, but the evolution was rapidly unfavorable with fatal respiratory distress syndrome. This case illustrates that, during the influenza season, influenza should be suspected in elderly patients admitted to hospital even if they do not present with classical symptoms. Immunofluorescence testing on sputum specimens can provide a rapid diagnosis and merits further evaluation.
Treatment Options in Cushing's Disease
Authors: Rizk Ahmed , Honegger Juergen , Milian Monika , Psaras Tsambika
Published: January 2012

Endogenous Cushing's syndrome is a grave disease that requires a multidisciplinary and individualized treatment approach for each patient. Approximately 80% of all patients harbour a corticotroph pituitary adenoma (Cushing's disease) with excessive secretion of adrenocorticotropin-hormone (ACTH) and, consecutively, cortisol. The goals of treatment include normalization of hormone excess, long-term disease control and the reversal of comorbidities caused by the underlying pathology. The treatment of choice is neurosurgical tumour removal of the pituitary adenoma. Second-line treatments include medical therapy, bilateral adrenalectomy and radiation therapy. Drug treatment modalities target at the hypothalamic/pituitary level, the adrenal gland and at the glucocorticoid receptor level and are commonly used in patients in whom surgery has failed. Bilateral adrenalectomy is the second-line treatment for persistent hypercortisolism that offers immediate control of hypercortisolism. However, this treatment option requires a careful individualized evaluation, since it has the disadvantage of permanent hypoadrenalism which requires lifelong glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy and bears the risk of developing Nelson's syndrome. Although there are some very promising medical therapy options it clearly remains a second-line treatment option. However, there are numerous circumstances where medical management of CD is indicated. Medical therapy is frequently used in cases with severe hypercortisolism before surgery in order to control the metabolic effects and help reduce the anestesiological risk. Additionally, it can help to bridge the time gap until radiotherapy takes effect. The aim of this review is to analyze and present current treatment options in Cushing's disease.
Micrometeorological measurement of hexachlorobenzene and polychlorinated biphenyl compound air-water gas exchange in Lake Superior and comparison to model predictions
Authors: Rowe M. D. , Perlinger J. A.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Air-water exchange fluxes of persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) substances are frequently estimated using the Whitman two-film (W2F) method, but micrometeorological flux measurements of these compounds over water are rarely attempted. We measured air-water exchange fluxes of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on 14 July 2006 in Lake Superior using the modified Bowen ratio (MBR) method. Measured fluxes were compared to estimates using the W2F method, and to estimates from an Internal Boundary Layer Transport and Exchange (IBLTE) model that implements the NOAA COARE bulk flux algorithm and gas transfer model. We reveal an inaccuracy in the estimate of water vapor transfer velocity that is commonly used with the W2F method for PBT flux estimation, and demonstrate the effect of use of an improved estimation method. Flux measurements were conducted at three stations with increasing fetch in offshore flow (15, 30, and 60 km) in southeastern Lake Superior. This sampling strategy enabled comparison of measured and predicted flux, as well as modification in near-surface atmospheric concentration with fetch, using the IBLTE model. Fluxes estimated using the W2F model were compared to fluxes measured by MBR. In five of seven cases in which the MBR flux was significantly greater than zero, concentration increased with fetch at 1-m height, which is qualitatively consistent with the measured volatilization flux. As far as we are aware, these are the first reported micrometeorological air-water exchange flux measurements of PCBs.