bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of METRIC in estimating hourly and daily
evapotranspiration fluxes over an irrigated field in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Madugundu Rangaswamy , Al-Gaadi Khalid A. , Tola ElKamil , Hassaballa Abdalhaleem A. , Patil Virupakshagouda C.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Accurate estimation of evapotranspiration (ET) is essential for hydrological modelling and efficient crop water management in hyper-arid climates, like the one in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Therefore, a study was designed to apply the METRIC algorithm on Landsat-8 images, acquired from June to October 2013, for the development of ET maps for a 50-ha center pivot irrigated alfalfa field. The METRIC estimated energy balance components and ET were evaluated against the data provided by an Eddy Covariance (EC) flux tower installed in the field. Results indicated that the METRIC algorithm provided accurate ET estimates over the study area, with RMSE values of 0.09 mm h−1 and 0.38 mm d−1. The METRIC algorithm was observed to perform a relatively better in full canopy conditions compared to that in partial canopy conditions. On the average, the METRIC algorithm overestimated the hourly ET by 6.6 % in comparison to the EC measurements; however, the daily ET was underestimated by 4.2 %.
Scaling properties reveal regulation of river flows in the Amazon
through a forest reservoir
Authors: Salazar Juan F. , Villegas Juan Camilo , Rendón Angela M. , Rodríguez Estiven , Hoyos Isabel , Mercado-Bettín Daniel , Poveda Germán
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Many natural and social phenomena depend on river flow regimes that are being altered by global change. Understanding the mechanisms behind such alterations is crucial for predicting river flow regimes in a changing environment. Here we introduce a novel physical interpretation of the scaling properties of river flows, and show that it leads to a parsimonious characterization of the flow regime of any river basin. This allows to classify river basins as regulated or unregulated, and to identify a critical threshold between these states. We applied this framework to the Amazon river basin and found both states among its main tributaries. Then we introduce the forest reservoir concept to explain how forest loss can force the Amazonian river basins from regulated to unregulated states. Our results provide theoretical and applied foundations for predicting hydrological impacts of global change, including the detection of early-warning signals for critical transitions in river basins.
Exploring spatial-temporal dynamics of fire regime features at mainland Spain
Authors: Jiménez-Ruano Adrián , Rodrigues Mimbrero Marcos , de la Riva Fernández Juan
Published: May 2017

Abstract. This paper explores spatial-temporal dynamics in fire regime features, such as fire frequency, burnt area, large fires, and natural- and human-caused fires, as an essential part of fire regime characterisation. Changes in fire features are analysed at different spatial–regional and provincial/NUTS3 levels, together with summer and winter temporal scales, using historical fire data from Spain for the period 1974–2013. Temporal shifts in fire features are investigated by means of change point detection procedures – Pettitt test, AMOC (At Most One Change), PELT (Pruned Exact Linear Time) and BinSeg (Binary Segmentation) – at regional level to identify changes in the time series of the features. A trend analysis was conducted using the Mann–Kendall and Sen's slope tests at both regional and NUTS3 level. Finally, we applied a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Varimax Rotation to trend outputs – mainly Sen's slope values – to summarize overall temporal behaviour, also to explore potential links in the evolution of fire features. Our results suggest that most fire features show remarkable shifts between the late 1980s and the first half of the 1990s. Mann–Kendall outputs revealed negative trends in the Mediterranean region. Results from Sen's slope suggest high spatial and intra-annual variability across the study area. Fire activity related to human sources seems to be experiencing an overall decrease in the north-west provinces, particularly pronounced during summer. Conversely, the hinterlands and the Mediterranean coast are gradually becoming less fire-affected. Finally, PCA enabled trends to be synthesized into four main components: winter fire frequency (PC1), summer burnt area (PC2), large fires (PC3) and natural fires (PC4).
Non-hydrostatic effects in the Dead Sea
Authors: Padon Oded , Ashkenazy Yosef
Published: May 2017

Abstract. The Dead Sea is the saltiest and lowest terminal lake in the world. Currently, the Dead Sea’s water level is dropping by more than 1 m per year, due to excessive use of the water that previously flowed into it. The Dead Sea constitutes a unique environment and is important from economic, environmental, and touristic points of view. The winter deep convection of the Dead Sea and its deep and narrow basin suggest that non-hydrostatic effects may significantly affect its circulation. Despite these factors, the expected non-hydrostatic effects on the circulation of the Dead Sea have not been investigated. Here we perform high resolution (100 m) ocean general circulation model (the MITgcm) simulations of the Dead Sea and show that the non-hydrostatic results are very different from the hydrostatic ones. Specifically, we show that the winter non-hydrostatic simulations resulted in a layer of dense water overlaying slightly lighter water during the several last hours of the night; this convection process involved plumes of heavier sinking water and the entrainment of the plumes. We also studied the effect of the wind stress’s diurnal variability and found it to be important, especially during the summer when the wind’s variability drastically increased the surface kinetic energy; however, it did not alter the depth density profile. The results presented here may be important for the Dead Sea’s potash industry and for the planned Red Sea-Dead Sea canal that aims to stop and, possibly, to increase the level of the Dead Sea using the Red Sea’s water.
Relative dispersion in the South Western Mediterranean as derived from satellite-tracked surface drifting buoys
Authors: Bouzaiene Maher , Menna Milena , Poulain Pierre-Marie , Elhmaidi Dalila
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Relative dispersion (D2) in the South Western Mediterranean is analyzed using surface drifter pairs deployed during the period from 1986 to 2016. The results show the existence of four well-known regimes. The first regime, characterized by an exponential increment of the relative dispersion (Lundgren or exponential regime), corresponds to the chaotic advection at small scales and small separation distances, lasts for a few days. In the second regime, extending from 1.5 to roughly 7 days, for scales between 25 and 57 km and 1–3 km of initial distance, D2 increases as time cubed (Richardson regime). The third regime occurs for initial distances of 5–10 km and times of 1.5–13 days; D2 increases quadratically with time (Ballistic regime). The forth regime corresponds to time scales larger than 34 days for initial distances of 1–3 km and to 23 days for 35–40 km with a linear increase in time of D2 (Rayleigh or diffusive regime). The relative diffusivity and characteristic dispersion time exhibit three different phases based on the initial pair separations and corresponding with Lundgren, Richardson and Rayleigh regimes, respectively. In the first phase (enstrophy cascade range) the diffusivity is ~ D2 for distances smaller than 15 km and initial separation distances between 5 km and 10 km, and also for distances smaller than 40 km for initial separation distances between 35 km and 40 km; characteristic dispersion time is constant. In the second phase (inverse energy cascade), the diffusivity and characteristic dispersion time increase with growing distances following the 4/3 and 2/3 power laws, respectively, for scale ranging between 3 and 15 km and for initial distances smaller than 3 km. The third phase occurs for distance larger than 55 km, all pair velocities are uncorrelated and both relative diffusivity and characteristic dispersion time are approximately constants.
Local soil quality assessment of north-central Namibia: integrating farmers' and technical knowledge
Authors: Prudat Brice , Bloemertz Lena , Kuhn Nikolaus J.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Soil degradation is a major threat for farmers of semi-arid north-central Namibia. Soil conservation practices can be promoted by the development of soil quality (SQ) evaluation toolboxes that provide ways to evaluate soil degradation. However, such toolboxes must be adapted to local conditions to reach farmers. Based on qualitative (interviews and soil descriptions) and quantitative (laboratory analyses) data, we developed a set of SQ indicators relevant for our study area that integrate farmers' field experiences (FFE) and technical knowledge. We suggest using participatory mapping to delineate soil units (Oshikwanyama Soil Units, KwSUs) based on FFE, which highlight mostly soil properties that integrate long-term productivity and soil hydrological characteristics (i.e. internal SQ). The actual SQ of a location depends on the KwSU described and is thereafter assessed by field soil texture evaluation (i.e. chemical fertility potential) and by soil colour shade (i.e. SOC status). The resulting information includes internal SQ (KwSU), chemical fertility potential (sand content) and the soil organic carbon content status (colour shade). This three-level information reveals SQ improvement potential and aims to help farmers, rural development planners and researchers from all fields of studies understanding SQ issues in north-central Namibia. This SQ toolbox is adapted to a restricted area of north-central Namibia but similar tools could be developed in most areas where small-scale agriculture prevails.
Wave-induced stress and breaking of sea ice in a coupled
hydrodynamic–discrete-element wave–ice model
Authors: Herman Agnieszka
Published: May 2017

Abstract. In this paper, a coupled sea ice–wave model is developed and used to analyze the variability of wave-induced stress and breaking in sea ice. The sea ice module is a discrete-element bonded-particle model, in which ice is represented as cuboid "grains" floating on the water surface that can be connected to their neighbors by elastic "joints". The joints may break if instantaneous stresses acting on them exceed their strength. The wave part is based on an open-source version of the Non-Hydrostatic WAVE model (NHWAVE). The two parts are coupled with proper boundary conditions for pressure and velocity, exchanged at every time step. In the present version, the model operates in two dimensions (one vertical and one horizontal) and is suitable for simulating compact ice in which heave and pitch motion dominates over surge. In a series of simulations with varying sea ice properties and incoming wavelength it is shown that wave-induced stress reaches maximum values at a certain distance from the ice edge. The value of maximum stress depends on both ice properties and characteristics of incoming waves, but, crucially for ice breaking, the location at which the maximum occurs does not change with the incoming wavelength. Consequently, both regular and random (Jonswap spectrum) waves break the ice into floes with almost identical sizes. The width of the zone of broken ice depends on ice strength and wave attenuation rates in the ice.
Efectos de la crisis económica en la contratación en defensa
Authors: Fonfría Antonio , Martín Fernando
Published: May 2017

La contratación en el ámbito de la defensa posee una especial importancia debido a que es uno de los ministerios con mayor volumen de gasto e inversión. Los efectos de la crisis económica, en sus primeros años, se dejaron notar especialmente a través de importantes reducciones presupuestarias que conllevaron cambios de calado en las formas de contratación y en su orientación tecnológica. Este artículo analiza más de 3.000 contratos en 2008 y 2011, mostrando los aspectos en los cuales se han centrado los principales cambios en este ámbito.
¿Es Europa estratégicamente autónoma en defensa?
Authors: Martí Carlos
Published: May 2017

Este artículo analiza si Europa dispone de las instituciones, los recursos, los medios y las infraestructuras para ser autónoma en la ejecución de las misiones militares destinadas a proporcionar seguridad y defensa. En particular, se examinan los aspectos clave relacionados con la obtención de capacidades militares, la generación de fuerzas para realizar dichas misiones y las capacidades tecnológicas e industriales para suministrar los medios que requieren esas capacidades, sin tener que depender para ello de otras naciones, en especial de los EE.UU. El análisis sugiere que a Europa le queda un largo y tortuoso camino para alcanzar dicha autonomía.
Actitudes hacia la igualdad de género en una muestra de estudiantes de Murcia
Authors: Azorín Abellán Cecilia María
Published: May 2017

El análisis de las actitudes que tienen los estudiantes hacia la igualdad de género resulta de utilidad para la prevención, la detección y la atención de posibles conductas sexistas en la población adolescente. El propósito general de este artículo es conocer las actitudes hacia la igualdad de género en una muestra de 316 estudiantes de Educación Primaria y Secundaria que están escolarizados en centros educativos de Murcia. El instrumento utilizado para la recogida de datos ha sido la escala de García-Pérez et al (2010). Los datos cuantitativos derivados de la escala han sido analizados con el paquete estadístico SPSS 22.0. Los resultados muestran actitudes poco favorables hacia la igualdad. En este sentido, se perciben diferencias significativas entre chicos y chicas y entre etapas. Globalmente, los niveles más altos de sexismo se concentran en el plano relacional y personal. En esta línea, las puntuaciones alcanzadas ubican a los estudiantes de ambas etapas en una actitud sexista, a excepción del plano sociocultural en el que el alumnado de Educación Primaria se encuentra en una actitud adaptativa. Por perfiles, los estudiantes se sitúan en una actitud sexista mayoritaria (82,9%) seguida de una postura adaptativa (16,1%) y en último lugar igualitaria (0,9%). Finalmente, a la vista de los resultados, se estima necesaria la puesta en marcha de medidas con carácter urgente que permitan invertir estos datos.
Mejora del aprendizaje en las organizaciones a través de comunidades virtuales
Authors: Redondo Duarte Sara , Navarro Asencio Enrique , Gutiérrez Vega Sandra , Iglesias Ortega Ion Imanol
Published: May 2017

Cada vez son más las empresas que ponen a disposición de sus empleados una plataforma tecnológica que permita la gestión de su conocimiento, con el objetivo de transferirlo al puesto de trabajo y generar un auténtico aprendizaje organizacional. En este trabajo se muestran los resultados de un estudio de investigación educativa realizado sobre el servicio “e-campus social learning”, uno de los módulos de la solución e-learning de la empresa Indra, con el que se promueve la generación de conocimiento compartido a través de redes y su transferencia al puesto de trabajo. El estudio se ha basado en el análisis de la solución integral de formación y gestión del talento de Indra, Compartiendo Conocimiento, que ofrece formación a cerca de 40.000 profesionales de Indra en todo el mundo. Como instrumentos de recogida de datos se aplicaron encuestas de satisfacción con la plataforma a los empleados de Indra y se llevaron a cabo entrevistas en profundidad con community managers y usuarios reputados. Por último, se diseñó y aplicó una herramienta que permitía evaluar las diferentes comunidades virtuales. Con respecto a si la plataforma Compartiendo Conocimiento fomenta la transferencia del aprendizaje al puesto de trabajo, el acuerdo afirmativo entre los encuestados y entrevistados parece generalizado, aunque para aprovechar al máximo su potencial sería necesaria una mayor participación de los empleados. Del análisis realizado en cada comunidad virtual se deduce que el resultado de cada una de ellas está en gran parte mediado por la labor de los responsables de su dinamización. Existen una serie de herramientas que son valoradas en mayor medida por los usuarios, como el calendario, los contenidos destacados y el buscador. En conclusión, esta plataforma puede considerarse un valioso instrumento para alcanzar los objetivos de la organización, y dar soporte a procesos de cambio y transformación.
Cooperativismo 2.0: presencia en Internet y desarrollo del comercio electrónico en las cooperativas oleícolas de Cataluña
Authors: Cristóbal Fransi Eduard , Montegut Salla Yolanda , Daries Ramon Natalia
Published: May 2017

El papel de las TIC en la gestión empresarial constituye actualmente un tema de creciente interés tanto para académicos como para profesionales. La Web 2.0 se ha revelado como una importante fuente de innovación que contribuye al desempeño organizacional y a la mejora de la competitividad de las empresas del sector agrario. A pesar de ello, se han encontrado evidencias que revelan las dificultades para la entrada de estas tecnologías en las empresas del sector agroindustrial y su aplicación para un efectivo comercio electrónico. De acuerdo con lo anterior, la presente investigación busca conocer si los sitios Web de las cooperativas oleícolas facilitan una comunicación eficaz con sus públicos objetivo y están adaptadas al comercio electrónico. Para ello, se propone y aplica en primer lugar un modelo para el análisis de las páginas Web de las cooperativas de aceite, basado en la técnica de análisis de contenido, considerando las dimensiones de Información, Comunicación, Comercio electrónico y Funciones Adicionales. En segundo lugar se aplica la metodología eMICA (Extended Model of Internet Commerce Adoption), para identificar las oportunidades derivadas del uso de las herramientas Web 2.0 y mejorar las carencias detectadas para conseguir una gestión más competitiva. De los resultados podemos extraer que todavía queda mucho margen de mejora en la adopción del comercio electrónico por parte de cooperativas catalanas del sector oleícola. El hecho de que únicamente el 5,8% de los sitios Web hayan alcanzado la fase 3 en el modelo eMica, indica el escaso grado de madurez funcional alcanzado por las cooperativas en el desarrollo de sus sitios Web. Los resultados del análisis del contenido web corroboran estas afirmaciones.
Uma proposta de arquitetura de segurança para a detecção e reação a ameaças em redes SDN
Authors: Campos Maxli Barroso , Martins Joberto
Published: May 2017

As Redes Definidas por Software (Software Defined Network – SDN) desacoplam o controle do encaminhamento de dados, oferecendo alta programabilidade e uma visão global da rede. A adoção dessa abordagem é crescente em redes empresariais, centros de dados e infraestruturas críticas como as redes elétricas inteligentes. No entanto, constitui-se um desafio não só prover segurança nessas redes de nova geração como também permitir que um ataque à rede seja suscetível a um procedimento de tratamento de incidentes e perícia forense. Desta forma, esse artigo propõe uma arquitetura de rede explorando os novos paradigmas das redes SDN com mecanismos implementados de detecção e reação a ameaças de segurança, capaz de fornecer recursos para realização de análises de intrusão e de ataques. De maneira geral, a arquitetura de segurança de rede proposta implementa mecanismos de proteção usando técnicas de Hardening e detecção e reação a ameaças de segurança usando tecnologia de detecção de intrusão por meio de IDS (Intrusion Detecction System), explorando as novas abordagens empregadas pela tecnologia das redes SDN e fornecendo recursos para realização de análise de intrusão e de ataques.
Comentario. Aleluya a la mentira. Dalton, Retamar y la campaña mediática contra Cuba
Authors: Alonso-Grau Alpidio
Published: May 2017

Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.126, 2010: 699-706
Luces y sombras del poema de Parménides en la historia de la filosofía
Authors: Mazón Manuel
Published: May 2017

No hay resúmenes disponiblesRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 127, 2011: 109-131
Mitos y lecciones de la dolarización. El caso ecuatoriano, once años después
Authors: De la Torre Muñoz Carlos
Published: May 2017

La dolarización en el Ecuador fue producto de una situación económica particularmente difícil en la historia del país, la que se complementó con un entorno político favorable para que se tome una decisión de esta naturaleza. Una década y un año después de este quiebre estructural en el ámbito monetario nacional, a la vista de los acontecimientos y el afianzamiento del uso del dólar como moneda de curso legal, muchas de las expectativas, temores y percepciones que se tenían al asumirse este esquema monetario, no han correspondido con los hechos. Por eso, este documento procura aclarar algunos de estos elementos que incluso, por la forma en que siguen siendo percibidos, son en algunos casos todavía mitos, y en otros, son las lecciones aprendidas.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.128, 2011: 195-207
La crisis del crédito hipotecario subprime: una revisión
Authors: Salgado Melissa
Published: May 2017

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo la aplicación de determinados conceptos y aportes teóricos de diversos autores, para explicar de forma científica la crisis hipotecaria subprime que ha afectado, en la actualidad, a los sectores financieros de las principales potencias económicas del mundo.Para el presente trabajo, se utilizarán las contribuciones teóricas de: Karl Marx, Nicolai D. Kondratiev, Joseph Schumpeter, Ernest Mandel y Kindleberger, para dar lectura a este acontecimiento de alcance mundial.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.128, 2011: 243-260
Riesgos ambientales y desarrollo en la zona rural
Authors: Alfaro Salvador Orlando
Published: May 2017

Este trabajo presenta un estudio de una comunidad rural del oriente de El Salvador para examinar la vulnerabilidad al cambio y a la variabilidad climáticos, y otros problemas socio-ambientales, a fin de lograr una comprensión de la relación entre desarrollo y vulnerabilidad ambiental. En este ensayo también se discuten temas relacionados con el tipo de marco contextual que se requiere para asegurar un proceso de adaptación a los riesgos ambientales; también se explora hasta qué punto las prácticas sostenibles a escala local pueden conducir un proceso de reducción de la vulnerabilidad y cómo la reducción de la vulnerabilidad puede tener un impacto positivo en el desarrollo y la sostenibilidad. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 129, 2011: 355-373
El Salvador en la ARENA neoliberal
Authors: Villacorta Zuluaga Carmen Elena
Published: May 2017

El artículo analiza las cuatro administraciones del partido ARENA en El Salvador, desde su arribo al poder en 1989 hasta 2009, año en el que fue derrotado electoralmente por el FMLN. Durante esas dos décadas, ARENA consideró al neoliberalismo como la única vía hacia el desarrollo del país y sus gobiernos, encabezados por Alfredo Cristiani (1989-1994), Armando Calderón Sol (1994-1999), Francisco Flores (1999-2004) y Antonio Saca (2004-2009), aplicaron juiciosamente las medidas sugeridas por el Fondo Monetario Internacional, el Banco Mundial y el Consenso de Washington. Este proyecto económico fue puesto en marcha al margen de las políticas de reconstrucción nacional desarrolladas durante la posguerra, lo cual repercutió en la agudización de la polarización socioeconómica y en el incremento de los índices de pobreza. La premisa básica de la autora es que el predominio de la hegemonía neoliberal arenera se vincula íntimamente con el predominio de la hegemonía neoliberal a escala mundial, tras la caída de la Unión Soviética y el triunfo del capitalismo como único modelo de desarrollo.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 129, 2011: 405-442
La libertad en el horizonte de la filosofía de la acción
Authors: Beorlegui Carlos
Published: May 2017

En el estudio de la libertad y de las demás características de la mente humana han convergido dos estrategias diferentes: la de primera persona, basada en la introspección subjetiva, y la de tercera persona, centrada en la observación externa de la conducta. La primera es la que ha seguido tradicionalmente la filosofía, especialmente desde Descartes. La segunda es la defendida por el conductismo y muchas de las posturas dentro de la denominada filosofía de la mente. El déficit de esas dos estrategias extremas contrapuestas consiste en no poder mostrar ninguna de ellas una visión unitaria sino parcelada del ser humano. Este trabajo propone un modo de superar estas deficiencias que consiste en atender al estudio de la acción humana advirtiendo su peculiar estructura y significado, pudiéndose desde su estudio acometer también varias aproximaciones complementarias.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.147, 2016: 3-44
Narrativas Mediáticas: La ideología a través de la publicidad y las representaciones de género.
Authors: Guzmán Velasco Nathaly
Published: May 2017

El propósito de este artículo es describir y analizar las relaciones sociales y los modelos de vida cotidiana que la publicidad pretende sugerir a partir de determinados productos, actitudes estereotipadas, comportamientos y rutinas de consumo asociados con la feminidad. La industria de la publicidad no sólo vende objetos, sino que establece y reproduce representaciones de género ligadas a ideologías y estilos de vida determinados. Este estudio analiza el ideal de imagen femenina que usualmente presenta la publicidad y el proceso a través del cual la industria publicitaria indica cómo materializar las aspiraciones personales y los sueños.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.147, 2016: 101-113
Compatibility of organic farming treatments against Monosteira unicostata with non-target arthropod fauna of almond trees canopy
Authors: Sánchez-Ramos Ismael , Marcotegui Aránzazu , Pascual Susana , Fernández Cristina E. , Cobos Guillermo , González-Núñez Manuel
Published: May 2017

Field trials had shown that 1-2 applications of kaolin and potassium salts of fatty acids combined with thyme essential oil (PSTEO) reduced the abundance of the lace bug Monosteira unicostata (Mulsant & Rey) (Hemiptera: Tingidae), an important pest of almond trees in the Mediterranean region. These products could be useful for the control of this pest in organic production of almonds, but higher number of applications could be necessary. However, the possible detrimental effects on the almond orchard ecosystem should be evaluated. In the present work, the effects observed on the non-target arthropod fauna of the almond trees canopy in those field assays are shown. First, a comprehensive report of the non-target arthropod fauna of the almond tree is provided. Regarding natural enemies, most of the predatory arthropods captured were spiders belonging to different families like Salticidae, Thomisidae, Philodromidae, Theridiidae, Araneidae or Oxyopidae. Other predatory families that appeared in significant numbers were Chrysopidae, Anthocoridae, Aeolothripidae, Coccinellidae, Phytoseiidae, Erythraeidae or Forficulidae. Among parasitoids, the most abundant families were Eulophidae, Scelionidae and Dryinidae. Kaolin reduced the abundance of natural enemies and other non-target arthropods as well as their diversity and number of species. On the contrary, PSTEO only produced a slight reduction in the number of natural enemies, whereas no effect was found on the diversity and species richness. These effects were observed despite the reduced number of applications, so greater effect is expected if its frequency is increased in order to achieve an efficient control of M. unicostata.
Beckett’s Optimistic Heroine
Authors: Mohammed Mustafa Ahmad
Published: May 2017

Happy Days was written in English in 1960 and translated into French by Beckett as Oh les beaux. This play has been regarded as being savagely ironic and the irony which was classified as metaphysical or cosmic in its presentation of the loneliness of Man in the face of indifferent universe. Happy Days is considered a milestone in Beckett’s writings because it is for the first time a well preserved blonde woman in her fifties is the main character of the play. Winnie is unlike Hamm, the main character in Endgame, she blinks at suffering with rare mixture of cheer and indifference. This paper is an attempt to investigate Winnie’s reaction against The Absurd as an optimistic heroine in the Beckettian Drama.
Factors Associated and Response to Needle Stick Injuries among Nursing Officers in District General Hospitals of Sri Lanka
Authors: Priyangani Yapa M. M. , Dharmaratne Gamaralalage S. K. , Sridharan Sathasivam
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION: This study was carried out to find out the existing prevalence rates of the Needle Stick Injuries (NSIs) among nursing officers in Sri Lankan health delivery system and to identify the factors associated with NSIs including the level of knowledge, attitude and practice on prevention.METHODS: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in three District General Hospitals. Five routine working units identified from each hospital. Proportional allocations were made with a final step of simple random sampling to select the sample. Self- administered questionnaire was used for data collection.RESULTS: Response rate was 95% and the prevalence of NSIs was 43%. IV cannulation was the most risky procedure (51%). Re-capping was seen in 24% of the exposed group. Medical wards accounted for 78% of the NSIs. There was a significant difference in NSIs seen in maturity in age (p=0.015) and increase working experience (p=0.044) but no difference was found with increased work load (no. of patients seen per day, p=0.765, increase number of working hours per week, p=0.204) and participation in in-service training programs (p=0.592). Pre exposure Hepatitis B immunization was seen in only 64%. A significant 49% did not report the injury and the main reason was assumed less risk (46%).CONCLUSION: Prevalence of NSIs was still high and ignorance and neglect are the main causes. Health education and in-service training should be mainly directed at inculcating knowledge into practice and changing attitudes towards safe practices. Hepatitis B immunization should be provided as early as possible.
Subjective Experiences and Meaning Associated with Drug Use and Addiction in Nigeria: A Mixed Method Approach
Authors: Adekeye Olujide A. , Odukoya Jonathan A. , Chenube Olufunke , Igbokwe David O. , Igbinoba Angie , Olowookere Elizabeth I.
Published: May 2017

PURPOSE: Nigeria is experiencing increased rate of drug use among young people. Studies have shown a very high rate of drug use and addiction among university undergraduates and this study was aimed at examining the experiences and meanings associated with drug abuse and addiction among university students while also identifying the causative factors of the use of psychoactive substances.METHODS: The study which is a mixed method made use of an adapted and validated version of the drug abuse screening test (DAST-10) scale to measure drug use and emotional intelligence questionnaire was used to measure an aspect of psychosocial functioning and interviews were used to explore the subjective experiences of six participants. Both the purposive and snowballing sampling techniques were employed. The quantitative data generated were coded and entered into the statistical package for social sciences and results were presented using descriptive tables.RESULTS: The results showed no significant relationship and a negative correlation between drug abuse and emotional intelligence (r = -0.229, p> 0.05). The qualitative data was transcribed and coded using thematic coding where themes are extracted from each transcript. The most commonly used substances were codeine (85%), alcohol (75%), cannabis (70%), tramadol (65%), rohypnol (65%), and tobacco (50%). Qualitative data shows that the participants exercised some sort of willpower over the use of psychoactive substances and the major reason for use was to seek a new experience.CONCLUSION: This study brought to the fore the evidence that personal meanings and experiences come into play in taking decisions on drinking or substance use and this should be considered when interventions are planned.
Developing Learning Model Based on Local Culture and Instrument for Mathematical Higher Order Thinking Ability
Authors: Saragih Sahat , Napitupulu E. Elvis , Fauzi Amin
Published: May 2017

This research aims to develop a student-centered learning model based on local culture and instrument of mathematical higher order thinking of junior high school students in the frame of the 2013-Curriculum in North Sumatra, Indonesia. The subjects of the research are seventh graders which are taken proportionally random consisted of three public junior high schools with 86 students and two private schools with 40 students. As a Developmental Research, the work is done within three stages. The results obtained in the second stage, both learning tools (books of students, teachers, and students’ activities sheet) and research instruments are valid with minor revisions, and the results of the trial showed that the reliability scores of the tests comprising of Comparison (MAT-1), Social Arithmetic (MAT-2), Triangle (MAT-3), Quadrilateral (MAT-4), and Transformation (MAT-5) respectively 0.835, 0.588, 0.438, 0.833, and 0.908. The findings showed that the student-centered learning based on local culture model and the instrument for higher order mathematical thinking ability are valid and effective to use in teaching mathematics for junior high school.
Modern Standard Arabic and Rural Palestinian Dialect: Patterns of the Active Participle
Authors: Mohaidat Mohammed Mahmoud Talal
Published: May 2017

This paper was mainly concerned with analyzing the processes of active participle formation in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). It also aimed to examine the Rural Palestinian Dialect (RPD) in order to reveal the derivation of the active participle in this dialect and to describe any patterns that might vary from MSA. The study was based on the traditional notions of root and pattern which characterize Arabic morphology. The data for this study were collected from various sources. These sources are not researchers but they are people originated from Palestine. Then the data were analyzed in terms of morphology.
Rethinking What Is Entrepreneurship Education: A Macro Integrative Perspective
Authors: Wu Hongyun , Gu Jibao
Published: May 2017

Research on entrepreneurship education (EE) has encountered confusing ontological and methodological issues, such as definitional controversy, gaps between research and practice, and lack of theoretical foundations. These are factors holding back the further development of the research and practice in this field. This paper presents a whole picture of EE by exploring key factors involved in EE programs such as objective, audience, content and method, and assessment with a macro integrative perspective. In this way, it points out the disintegrated micro perspectives employed in prior studies is the source of inadequate understanding of EE, which causes issues and confusions in present EE research. The macro integrative perspective offered by this paper provides an innovative way to tackle these issues and hence is expected to contribute to the further improvement of EE research and practice.
Sources of Writing Anxiety: A Study on French Language Teaching Students
Authors: YETIS Veda ASLIM
Published: May 2017

Conducted on French Language Teaching students, this research aims to determine the causes of writing anxiety. Designed in accordance with the mixed method, a writing anxiety inventory, a language proficiency exam, a retrospective composing-process questionnaire, a writing attitude scale and semi-structured interviews were used. After identifying anxiety levels of 22 Turkish students attending French Writing Activities, course, proficiency levels, attitudes towards writing, and the composing-process have been found as possible sources of writing anxiety. Data obtained via semi-structured interviews held with students have not only confirmed these results, but also revealed new findings as to other causes of writing anxiety: classmates, time pressure on writing activities, and teacher’s attitudes towards students.
Determining Drivers of Destination Attractiveness: The Case of Nature-Based Tourism of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Saiful , Hossain MD. Kaium , Noor Mahboob Elahi
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study is to identify the most important drivers for developing destination competitiveness of Bangladesh nature-based tourism by evaluating tourists’ perception. A nationwide structured questionnaire survey of total 432 Bangladeshi tourists is carried out by dividing the whole country into two parts for equal representation. Based on this data, a profile of the tourists is constructed before ranking of attributes from most important to least important on a five-point Likert scale. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has been conducted finally to identify the most important factors from 24 selected attributes related to nature-based tourism of Bangladesh. The key findings indicate that seven attributes are more important to respondents than others as all these has average importance value more than 4 out of 5 while only two is least important. From the EFA of these attributes, supported by a parallel analysis, four major factors are extracted namely, tourism infrastructure; historical and cultural attractors; natural attractors; and communication facilities and lifestyle similarities. Thus, this study will help both policy makers to develop long term destination policy focusing on natural attractors and service providers to customize their services according to tourists’ expectation. Consequently, this paper conceptualizes the importance of focusing on specific sectors of tourism and the way of developing competitiveness of nature-based tourism of Bangladesh. However further studies can be conducted to match tourists’ evaluation of attributes on importance and performance and/or evaluating same perception from service providers rather than tourists.
A Fuzzy-stochastic Approach for Binary Linear Programming under Uncertainties
Authors: Peng Wei , Mayorga Rene V.
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an innovative Fuzzy-Stochastic Approach (FSA) to solve Binary Linear Programming (BLP) problems under uncertainties. An Interval-coefficient Fuzzy Binary Linear Programming (IFBLP) model is applied here to reflect two different types of uncertainty in a BLP problem. In the proposed IFBLP model the interval coefficient is used to reflect parameter uncertainty, and the fuzzy goal & fuzzy constraints are used to represent model structure uncertainty. The proposed FSA would de-fuzzify the fuzzy constraints in an IFBLP model by considering its fuzzy goal; and then derive two linear BLPs with extreme crisp-coefficients from the IFBLP model, which here are called as a best optimum BLP and a worst optimum BLP. The results of the two-extreme linear BLPs are used to bound the outcome distribution of the IFBLP model. The proposed FSA is applied into a long-term traffic noise control planning to present its applicability.
E-Cash management System in the Public Sector in Sri Lanka: With Special Reference to the Ministry of Public Administration & Home Affairs
Authors: Liyanapathirana Tharaka , Ranjani R. P. C.
Published: May 2017

E-cash Management System enhances cash management in the private sector and the public sector in a fast pace of organizational environment change. Though it has not a universal framework for e-cash management, the public sector in many countries has provided its usefulness by dint of their results of application. Concurrently, the public sector in Sri Lanka has also initiated e-cash management at ministerial and departmental levels parallel to the existing setup. Despite many attempts made in improving e-cash management system in the public sector, little progress has been made. However, there is a lack of research on e-cash management in the public sector in Sri Lanka. Thus, this study focuses to fill the gap in this regard. This study seeks to contribute knowledge in this area by addressing related questions. The first research question is as follows: Despite many reformsmade in the administration system in the public sector, whydo the issues in respect of e-cash management system abide or persist or prevail to be addressed? Secondly, what are the factors that have adversely affected the progress of e-cash management? Hence the study was carried out to elite answer to the aforementioned questions.Combinations of Qualitative and Quantitative research strategies were applied in the research process which is commonly known as mixed method research. Random sampling method was applied. Samples of 500 managers in the public sector were selected and only 317 responded. Data were collected by self-administered Questionnaire and interviewed concurrently. Using the data from the survey analyses was completed. The results of the study revealed that the existing level of e-cash management owing to administrative reforms and implementations have not effectively addressed the deep-rooted social, political and cultural issues which pose as crucial barriers for the success of e-cash management.
The Inter Business Index Developing a Tool for Measurement and Comparability of Holistic Sustainability in Businesses
Authors: Hallin Johanna , Sandberg Michelle , Mantel Nathalie Ahlstedt
Published: May 2017

The scope of sustainable development is undoubtedly growing, and becoming increasingly more important due to the process of globalization, amounting in complex environmental, societal and economic issues. Although the subject of business sustainability has been gaining traction and resulted in increased knowledge in the field, the business sustainability discourse is still at a young stage, where the different streams of approaches, definitions, systems and measures are fragmented and challenged. Today’s global challenges are so large and complex that they require a new kind of problem-solving and way of doing business. Identifying solutions requires a diversity of perspectives, approaches and capabilities, and the business sector plays a critical role. The integrated approach has been examined to some extent, proposing a holistic manner of moving on to true business sustainability, and a sustainable development on a global scale. This article presents the concept of Inter Business and the Inter Business Index, a tool for measurement and comparability of holistic sustainability in businesses. The Inter Business framework consists of four key-components that describe the skills needed for future-preparedness. In our research, we have analysed the 50 biggest corporations in Sweden and identified purpose, empathy, system approach and transformation as components that respond to the hypothesis that interconnection and integration are key for companies to survive and thrive, whilst contributing to society at large.
Analytic Validation of Immunohistochemistry Assays: New Benchmark Data From a Survey of 1085 Laboratories
Authors: Stuart Lauren N. , Volmar Keith E. , Nowak Jan A. , Fatheree Lisa A. , Souers Rhona J. , Fitzgibbons Patrick L. , Goldsmith Jeffrey D. , Astles J. Rex , Nakhleh Raouf E.
Published: May 2017

Context.—

A cooperative agreement between the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was undertaken to measure laboratories' awareness and implementation of an evidence-based laboratory practice guideline (LPG) on immunohistochemical (IHC) validation practices published in 2014.

Objective.—

To establish new benchmark data on IHC laboratory practices.

Design.—

A 2015 survey on IHC assay validation practices was sent to laboratories subscribed to specific CAP proficiency testing programs and to additional nonsubscribing laboratories that perform IHC testing. Specific questions were designed to capture laboratory practices not addressed in a 2010 survey.

Results.—

The analysis was based on responses from 1085 laboratories that perform IHC staining. Ninety-six percent (809 of 844) always documented validation of IHC assays. Sixty percent (648 of 1078) had separate procedures for predictive and nonpredictive markers, 42.7% (220 of 515) had procedures for laboratory-developed tests, 50% (349 of 697) had procedures for testing cytologic specimens, and 46.2% (363 of 785) had procedures for testing decalcified specimens. Minimum case numbers were specified by 85.9% (720 of 838) of laboratories for nonpredictive markers and 76% (584 of 768) for predictive markers. Median concordance requirements were 95% for both types. For initial validation, 75.4% (538 of 714) of laboratories adopted the 20-case minimum for nonpredictive markers and 45.9% (266 of 579) adopted the 40-case minimum for predictive markers as outlined in the 2014 LPG. The most common method for validation was correlation with morphology and expected results. Laboratories also reported which assay changes necessitated revalidation and their minimum case requirements.

Conclusions.—

Benchmark data on current IHC validation practices and procedures may help laboratories understand the issues and influence further refinement of LPG recommendations.
Judging Books by Their Covers: Managing the Tensions between Paperback and Clothbound Purchases in Academic Libraries
Authors: Aldrich Alan W.
Published: May 2017

Book purchases are a significant portion of an academic library's budget. Selecting paperback rather than hardback editions can stretch collection development dollars. This study examines the collection development statements of forty-six academic libraries regarding the selection of paperback editions. Some libraries provide vague guidance, while others identify specific price differentials between the costs of paperback and hardback editions as a decision criterion. A new method of using price difference ratios is proposed and tested using four academic disciplines. The results suggest that libraries using such ratios can achieve greater control over costs while meeting collection development goals.
Think Locally, Act Globally: Understanding Home Institution Library Engagement among Study-Abroad Students
Authors: Kutner Laurie
Published: May 2017

This study focuses on developing an understanding of U.S. study-abroad students’ knowledge and confidence levels in using their home institution libraries from abroad. Data from a questionnaire survey administered to students at the time of active engagement in ten different study-abroad programs in Costa Rica are presented; the data reveal relative uncertainty by the students about the possibilities of interfacing with their home institution libraries while abroad. Further consideration of this distinct user group is warranted, and the article includes data-driven recommendations for better serving our study-abroad students.
The Role of Academic Libraries in Mentored Undergraduate Research: A Model of Engagement in the Academic Community
Authors: Stamatoplos Anthony
Published: May 2017

Mentored undergraduate research is an emergent pedagogy in higher education. It differs fundamentally from course-related student research and is largely independent of the curriculum. Academic libraries should engage formally with the undergraduate research community. To do so, librarians will need to think and work beyond traditional models of library service, most notably in information literacy programs. The intent of this article is to raise awareness about opportunities for library involvement with undergraduate researchers and programs. Lessons from one university, including a formal partnership between a library and an undergraduate research center, suggest some general strategies that academic libraries might explore.