bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology, Learning, and Innovation in Textile Arts: Integrating Archaeological and Ethnographic Perspectives
Authors: Jolie Edward A.
Published: October 2014

Extensive archaeological basketry and textile assemblages recovered from throughout western North America have facilitated development of some of the longest and most well-dated chronologies for these crafts in the world. This situation provides a unique opportunity to study continuity and change in these dynamic but highly perishable craft traditions over many millennia. Drawing on the archaeological database and ethnographic literature, this contribution considers factors that affect the spread of, and innovation in, textile techniques and forms through time and space. Social learning emerges as an important concept that allows us to contextualize craft conservatism and change, and also provides a key bridging concept for the study of past social boundaries and identities. Improving our knowledge of the social learning context of textile production will be crucial to future research, but enhancing this understanding will require directed technological, experimental, and ethnoarchaeological research.
Perishable Fiber Artifacts and Paleoindians: New Implications
Authors: Adovasio J. M. , Soffer O. , Illingworth J. S. , Hyland D. C.
Published: October 2014

Recent research demonstrates that perishable industries—notably including the manufacture of textiles, basketry, cordage, netting, and sandals—were a well-established, integral component of the Upper Paleolithic technological milieu in many parts of the Old World. Moreover, extant data suggest that these technologies played a vital and, hitherto, utterly unappreciated role in the ecological success of late Pleistocene populations, including the first Americans. This article explores the varied roles of early fiber technology in the New World and specifically examines the adaptive qualities, impact on social organization, and alteration to food procurement strategies implicit in this innovative and intensive series of interrelated industries. It is suggested that the manufacture of perishable fiber-derived artifacts was far more important in the successful colonization of this hemisphere than any of the more durable artifact classes, particularly stone.
The question is whether intake of folic acid from diet alone during pregnancy is sufficient
Authors: Banjari Ines , Matokovic Vlatka , Skoro Vedrana
Published: October 2014

Pregnancy and Folic Acid. Pregnancy is the most important period in life of
every woman, partially for the number of physiological adaptations she is
going through, partially for the expectance of new life. In addition,
pregnancy is the ?critical window? for development later in childhood, as a
period of foetal programming during which nutrition plays one of crucial
roles. Despite the general belief that nutrition through pregnancy is
adequate and characterized by better nutritional habits, a number of studies
do not corroborate this belief. Role of Folic Acid. An adequate folate blood
level is necessary for normal cell growth, synthesis of several compounds
including deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid, proper brain and
neurologic functions; it is included in the regulation of homocysteine level,
and closely related to the vitamin B12 metabolism. Folate deficiency in
pregnancy is related to neural tube defects, other neurological disorders,
preterm delivery and low birth weight. Food sources. A correlation between
folate and the prevention of broad spectrum of chronic diseases has been
confirmed. Emerging evidence from the epigenetic studies is now bringing even
more light on the level of significance of folic acid. A wide range of plant
and animal foods are the natural sources of folate; liver, yeast, mushrooms,
and green leafy vegetables being the most significant. Different ways of food
preparation influence the folate stability and its bioavailability varies
from 25 to 50% from foods, 85% from enriched foods or 100% from supplements.
Conclusion. A great amount of scientific results has led to official
recommendations for folic acid supplementation in pregnant women as well as
in a number of obligatory or voluntary fortification programmes in order to
prevent the folate deficiency on the level of different population groups.
Nevertheless, there must be a certain level of precaution for elderly because
folate can mask the vitamin B12 deficiency with possible fatal outcomes.
Effect of Stochastics of Dimensional Parameters of Hauling Laminated Bushless Chain Elements of Improved Structure on Their Bearing Strength
Authors: Kryvyi Petro , Lyashuk Oleg , Kryvins‘kyi Petro , Korenko Maroš
Published: October 2014

The distribution densities of dimensional parameters of a hauling laminated bushless chain of improved structure were investigated in this paper. The authors suggest calculating the non-uniform load of internal and external links plates by probability coefcient Km
, for which the minimum, the most probable and the maximum values were determined. The formula for Km
determination depending on plate size variety due to a gap random value Δ and plate elastic deformation value under permitted payload was obtained. The efect of stochastics of dimensional parameters of hauling laminated bushless chain elements on their bearing strength is proved.
Calculation of Failure Probability of Constantly Loaded Cantilever Beam by Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Páleš Dušan , Balková Milada , Karandušovská Ingrid
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we demonstrate a probabilistic approach to the design of structures on a cantilever beam with constant load. Individual variables in the mathematical model are not represented deterministically by their specifc values but randomly by probability distributions. Normal distribution is used for all random variables. The resulting probability of failure is calculated using a simple Monte Carlo method, for which a brief overview is also provided in this article. Such a probabilistic proposal is the subject matter of newly emerging feld Reliability of Structures.
Assessing the Technical Condition of Inspected Vehicles in Reporting Period
Authors: Angelovič Michal , Szabó Mário , Majdan Radoslav , Polonec Tomáš
Published: October 2014

Vehicle emissions inspection represents a fast, relatively efective in terms of time and cost, and mainly comprehensive estimation of vehicle emissions. Procedurally, emissions inspection includes those inspection operations that focus not only on analysing exhaust gases but also on detecting the functionality and tightness of other engine components directly afecting the ecological friendliness of inspected vehicle‘s engine. Our study describes the results of vehicles inspected at an emissions inspection station for the reporting period. Based on the analysis of information obtained from the National Transport Authority of the Slovak Republic concerning the evaluation of vehicles according to individual categories, it can be alleged that the technical condition of vehicles of M1 and N1 categories is gradually improving.
Identification and Molecular Characterization of a Chitin-Binding Protein from the Beet Webworm, Loxostege sticticalis L.
Authors: Yin Jiao , Yang Shuang , Li Kebin , Guo Wei , Cao Yazhong
Published: October 2014

As the first crucial barrier in the midgut of insects, the peritrophic membrane (PM) plays an important role in preventing external invasion. PM proteins, as the major components of the PM, determine the structure and function of this membrane. A new PM protein, named LstiCBP, from the PM of Loxostege sticticalis larvae was identified using cDNA library screening. The full cDNA of LstiCBP is 2606 bp in length and contains a 2403 bp ORF that encodes an 808-amino acid preprotein with a 15-amino acid as signal peptide. The deduced protein sequence of the cDNA contains 8 cysteine-rich chitin-binding domains (CBDs). Recombinant LstiCBP was successfully expressed in BL21 cells using recombinant plasmid DNA and showed high chitin-binding activity. LstiCBP expression was detected in the midgut at both the transcriptional and translational levels; however, the biochemical and physiological functions of LstiCBP in L. sticticalis require further investigation.
Culinary Herbs and Spices: Their Bioactive Properties, the Contribution of Polyphenols and the Challenges in Deducing Their True Health Benefits
Authors: Opara Elizabeth , Chohan Magali
Published: October 2014

Herbs and spices have been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. Over the last decade, research into their role as contributors of dietary polyphenols, known to possess a number of properties associated with reducing the risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases, has increased. However, bearing in mind how these foods are consumed, normally in small quantities and in combination with other foods, it is unclear what their true benefit is from a health perspective. The aim of this review is to use the literature to discuss how preparative and digestive processes, bioavailability and interactions between foods may influence the bioactive properties of these foods, and whether or not polyphenols are responsible for these properties. Furthermore, this review aims to highlight the challenges that need to be addressed so as to determine the true benefits of these foods and the mechanisms of action that underpin their purported efficacy.
Comparative Study on the Hypoglycemic and Antioxidative Effects of Fermented Paste (Doenjang) Prepared from Soybean and Brown Rice Mixed with Rice Bran or Red Ginseng Marc in Mice Fed with High Fat Diet
Authors: Chung Soo , Rico Catherine , Kang Mi
Published: October 2014

The effects of fermented paste made from soybean, brown rice, or brown rice in combination with rice bran or red ginseng marc on the glucose metabolism and antioxidative defense system in high fat-fed mice were investigated. The mice were given experimental diets for eight weeks: Normal control, high fat, and high fat supplemented with soybean fermented paste, brown rice fermented paste, brown rice-rice bran fermented paste, or brown rice-red ginseng marc fermented paste. The high fat group showed markedly higher blood glucose level and erythrocyte lipid peroxidation than the normal control group. Diet supplementation of fermented paste inhibited the high fat-induced hyperglycemia and oxidative stress via regulation of the glucose-regulating and antioxidant enzymes activities. The soybean and brown rice-red ginseng marc fermented pastes were the most effective in improving the glucose metabolism and antioxidant defense status in mice under high fat diet condition. These findings illustrate that brown rice, in combination with red ginseng marc, may be useful in the development of fermented paste with strong hypoglycemic and antioxidative activities.
Fused-Thiophene Based Materials for Organic Photovoltaics and Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kumaresan Prabakaran , Vegiraju Sureshraju , Ezhumalai Yamuna , Yau Shueh , Kim Choongik , Lee Wen-Hsi , Chen Ming-Chou
Published: October 2014

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have drawn great interest from both academics and industry, due to the possibility of low-cost conversion of photovoltaic energy at reasonable efficiencies. This review focuses on recent progress in molecular engineering and technological aspects of fused-thiophene-based organic dye molecules for applications in solar cells. Particular attention has been paid to the design principles and stability of these dye molecules, as well as on the effects of various electrolyte systems for DSSCs. Importantly, it has been found that incorporation of a fused-thiophene unit into the sensitizer has several advantages, such as red-shift of the intramolecular charge transfer band, tuning of the frontier molecular energy level, and improvements in both photovoltaic performance and stability. This work also examines the correlation between the physical properties and placement of fused-thiophene in the molecular structure with regard to their performance in OPVs and DSSCs.
Influence of the Lift-Off Effect on the Cut-Off Frequency of the EMAT-Generated Rayleigh Wave Signal
Authors: Yi Pengxing , Zhang Kang , Li Yahui , Zhang Xuming
Published: October 2014

The electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT), a non-contact NDT tool with large lift-off, is becoming an attractive method for detecting the cracks in the metal parts. However, the lift-off of the transducer has a direct effect on the feature that is used to characterize the defects. A detailed investigation on the relationship between the feature and the lift-off of the EMAT is crucial in the detection process. This paper investigates the lift-off effect on the feature, cut-off frequency of EMAT in the Rayleigh wave. The study can be divided into two parts. Firstly, with a multi-field coupling environment, 2-D electromagnetic and wave generation EMAT models are built to simulate the interaction of the Rayleigh wave with the surface crack. Then, the lift-off effect on the cut-off frequency is investigated through simulation and experiment. Compared to the previous studies, it is found that lift-off would cause a negative result when the lift-off varies in the testing process. Besides, the calibration obtained from the tests at a random lift-off value can be used in other tests with any different lift off value provided that the lift-off is kept as a constant during the detection process.
Recent Advances in the Field of Bionanotechnology: An Insight into Optoelectric Bacteriorhodopsin, Quantum Dots, and Noble Metal Nanoclusters
Authors: Knoblauch Christopher , Griep Mark , Friedrich Craig
Published: October 2014

Molecular sensors and molecular electronics are a major component of a recent research area known as bionanotechnology, which merges biology with nanotechnology. This new class of biosensors and bioelectronics has been a subject of intense research over the past decade and has found application in a wide variety of fields. The unique characteristics of these biomolecular transduction systems has been utilized in applications ranging from solar cells and single-electron transistors (SETs) to fluorescent sensors capable of sensitive and selective detection of a wide variety of targets, both organic and inorganic. This review will discuss three major systems in the area of molecular sensors and electronics and their application in unique technological innovations. Firstly, the synthesis of optoelectric bacteriorhodopsin (bR) and its application in the field of molecular sensors and electronics will be discussed. Next, this article will discuss recent advances in the synthesis and application of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). Finally, this article will conclude with a review of the new and exciting field of noble metal nanoclusters and their application in the creation of a new class of fluorescent sensors.
Bt Toxin Modification for Enhanced Efficacy
Authors: Deist Benjamin , Rausch Michael , Fernandez-Luna Maria , Adang Michael , Bonning Bryony
Published: October 2014

Insect-specific toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) provide a valuable resource for pest suppression. Here we review the different strategies that have been employed to enhance toxicity against specific target species including those that have evolved resistance to Bt, or to modify the host range of Bt crystal (Cry) and cytolytic (Cyt) toxins. These strategies include toxin truncation, modification of protease cleavage sites, domain swapping, site-directed mutagenesis, peptide addition, and phage display screens for mutated toxins with enhanced activity. Toxin optimization provides a useful approach to extend the utility of these proteins for suppression of pests that exhibit low susceptibility to native Bt toxins, and to overcome field resistance.
Le poids économique direct de la culture en 2013
Authors: Jauneau Yves , Niel Xavier
Published: October 2014

En 2013, le poids économique direct de la culture, c’est-à-dire la valeur ajoutée de l’ensemble des branches culturelles est de 44 milliards d’euros. Il ne prend pas en compte les retombées économiques indirectes ou induites par la culture comme le tourisme, par exemple. Cela correspond à une part de la culture dans l’ensemble de l’économie de 2,3 %, en légère baisse par rapport à 2012. Contribue à cette baisse relative en 2013 le recul du volume de l’activité dans les branches fortement exposées à la concurrence (architecture, agences de publicité, audiovisuel) ainsi que dans les branches de la presse et du livre. Inversement, la part des branches à forte composante non marchande augmente (spectacle vivant, patrimoine), surtout du fait de la hausse de leurs prix. Parmi les branches les plus touchées par la crise en 2013, les branches de l’audiovisuel et les agences de publicité connaissent un retour à la croissance de leur chiffre d’affaires début 2014, contrairement à celles de l’architecture ou des activités photographiques. Par ailleurs, le retournement à la hausse des prix à la production des entreprises d’édition de livres et de revues se confirme.
Soins palliatifs, misère, ignorance : un témoignage
Authors: Pfister Jacques-Antoine
Published: October 2014

Soins palliatifs, misère, ignorance : un témoignage – Les buts des soins palliatifs sont bien connus mais leur mise en pratique reste hélas utopique dans de nombreux pays du monde. Dans la pratique il apparaît que l’intérêt prioritaire se porte sur les aspects techniques au détriment des besoins cliniques et thérapeutiques. Rien n’est par ailleurs prévu en pour des affections non oncologiques. L’ampleur du défi semble faire oublier aux décideurs que des hommes, des femmes et des enfants finissent par mourir dans leurs souffrances physiques, dans les souffrances morales que la culture ne permet pas d’exprimer, dans un abandon progressif de la part des proches dont la loyauté est élimée par l’impuissance à aider.
La parole fondement d'une démarche éthique ?
Authors: Louvel Jean-Philippe , Jousselin Charles
Published: October 2014

La parole fondement d’une démarche éthique ? – Chacun existe au travers de sa propre parole. Lorsque celle des professionnels prenant en charge un patient en sons palliatifs est partagée et respectée elle permettra de faire exister la parole du malade et de ses proches. La vigilance vis-à-vis du respect de la parole de chacun permet de fonder une démarche éthique et d’éviter des dérives, toujours possibles.
« Les citoyens tant soit peu notables »
Authors: Coutelle Antoine
Published: October 2014

Au XVII e siècle, Poitiers est une capitale de province de taille moyenne, amoindrie par les exigences accrues de la monarchie centralisatrice. L’élite locale est composée majoritairement d’officiers de rang moyen, issus du Présidial. Ces magistrats cohabitent au Corps de ville avec les Trésoriers de France, les docteurs régents de l’université et les autres détenteurs d’offices inférieurs. Dans le territoire délimité de la cité, espace à la fois politique, social et symbolique, ces appartenances multiples dessinent une configuration instable. Si l’intérêt commun est la défense des franchises urbaines et le maintien de la prééminence sociale, les stratégies individuelles et familiales suscitent aussi des conflits. Cette tension entre la compagnie officière et l’individu révèle les multiples modalités de résolution des problèmes soulevés par les appartenances multiples.
Coopérer pour compenser
Authors: Trauzettel Holger , Demont Vincent
Published: October 2014

En application des traités de Westphalie, l’archevêché de Magdebourg, et la ville de résidence de Halle, échurent en 1680 à la dynastie des Hohenzollern comme fief héréditaire. L’intégration territoriale de Halle au nouvel ensemble est ici examinée tant au plan social qu’au plan politique. Le regard ne porte pas seulement sur les changements de la constitution urbaine au bénéfice de l’autorité territoriale, mais aussi sur les négociations entre les partis urbains et les commissions princières comme sur la démonstration des nouveaux rapports de pouvoir lors des cérémonies d’hommage. À travers une large saisie prosopographique des dynasties municipales de Halle se révèlent également des stratégies collectives de compensation : les personnes liées au conseil de Halle coopérèrent de diverses manières avec l’autorité territoriale, et servirent de plus en plus la ville et les princes si bien qu’en se plaçant au niveau des acteurs du politique, il devient peu plausible d’opposer l’État et la ville.
Du marchand-bourgeois à l'élite commerçante
Authors: Hoock Jochen
Published: October 2014

L’émergence d’une nouvelle élite commerçante s’inscrit à la fin du 17 e siècle et au début du 18 e siècle dans un processus de différenciation économique et sociale qui touche aussi bien la société urbaine dans son ensemble que son environnement régional et interrégional. L’article décrit l’évolution du milieu marchand dans la ville de Rouen en s’appuyant pour l’essentiel sur la documentation notariale et municipale ainsi que sur les registres de la communauté des marchands. En affirmant sa position active sur les marchés mondiaux tout en s’assurant le contrôle du marché régional les marchands et négociants rouennais réussirent à renforcer en même temps leur position politique dans la société urbaine à côté de la noblesse locale et de la robe.
Passer de l'élite économique à l'élite politique grâce à l'action diplomatique
Authors: Félicité Indravati
Published: October 2014

Si le personnage du « juif de cour » et son importance pour le développement de l’administration des principautés allemandes au XVIII e siècle a fait l’objet de nombreuses études, on connaît moins, en revanche, le rôle joué par les Juifs séfarades dans la diplomatie des États de l’Empire. Parmi eux, une communauté se distingue : celle des Juifs « portugais » venus s’installer au début du XVII e siècle dans la ville de Hambourg. Les Judéoportugais devinrent les représentants diplomatiques des rois de Suède, de Danemark, de Pologne, et servirent occasionnellement la France. L’article étudie à travers le parcours deux membres de la communauté judéoportugaise de Hambourg, Jacob Abensur et Diego Teixeira, les possibilités d’accession à l’élite urbaine que leur offrait le service diplomatique ainsi que les résistances que cette ascension a pu susciter, dans le contexte d’une crise d’identité et d’une crise sociale des élites et du gouvernement de la ville hanséatique au tournant du XVIII e siècle.
Les suites judiciaires de la mort d'Abdelkader Bouziane
Authors: Cosse Emmanuelle
Published: October 2014

Résumé Dammarie, lieu de mémoire. Celle, cuisante, des non-lieux (affaire Bouziane). Celle, méfiante, de la désinformation, d’où l’enjeu de l’image (collectif POIS). Celle du deuil, familière jusqu’au rituel (Xavier Dem, un enterrement politique). Le 17 décembre 1997, peu après 23 heures, Abdelkader Bouziane (16 ans) part au volant de la Volkswagen Golf blanche de sa mère, de Dammarie-lès-Lys vers Nemours, accompagné de son cousin Djamel Bouchareb (19 ans). Ils sont très vite pris en chasse par la Brigade (...)
couleur jardin gris
Authors: Bertrand Anne
Published: October 2014

Résumé les couleurs de l’art
retours
Authors: Grelet Stany , Chottin Ariane , Hasse Laurent
Published: October 2014

Résumé un documentaire à la première personne sur une l’agonie d’une vallée industrielle
Grounded Theory and Market Research
Authors: Ghorbani Ali , Moridsadat Hosein , Jafarzadeh Fatemeh
Published: October 2014

One of the important issues in marketing research studies is the quality of them, especially qualitative researches. Considering some conditions lead to the achievement of high-quality qualitative researches (such as Grounded Theory), the objective of this chapter is to identify major criteria in the quality assessment of studies done on Grounded Theory. Within the current research study, the definitions of Grounded Theory, the validity of Grounded Theory, and the levels of studies on it are addressed. Furthermore, the way to operationalize Grounded Theory in marketing research studies is dealt with. Next, the major elements in the quality of studies done on Grounded Theory and the duties of marketing researchers against qualitative research studies are discussed. Finally, the unique characteristics of Grounded Theory are introduced, and the studies done in this regard are summed up.
The Observation
Authors: Ferrer Gemma García
Published: October 2014

This chapter discusses the observational technique as a scientific method that includes a broad spectrum of techniques, which could be classified in several ways. On the basis of the observation concept, its characteristics, advantages, and inconveniences are described. A quick run-through of the deployment of observation in other social sciences such as psychology, sociology, and anthropology is made, noticing to what extent market research has leveraged the latest advances in these areas, most specifically in psychology. It analyzes how to run the sampling in observation and also presents the registry and coding process. After the description and classification of the different observation types, a special mention is made to ethical aspects. Throughout this chapter the authors expose real research cases in which observation has being applied.
Pedagogical Strategies to Develop Business Graduate Competences
Authors: Olivares Silvia Olivares
Published: October 2014

This chapter provides examples of pedagogical strategies to business schools and business faculty to promote and develop specific competences in business education graduates. In so doing, the chapter recommends understanding the adult learning theory of Knowles, Holton, and Swanson (2011), which emphasizes the role of teachers and adult needs for learning. Teachers should facilitate the learning process and system and must engage students in a process of mutual inquiry. Even though there are different pedagogical strategies available for academic institutions to pursue in order to develop competences of different levels and types in students as described in the previous chapter (Chapter 3), it is concluded that in the learning process the learner must take center stage. Academic institutions and faculty should be creative in designing learning and teaching activities as well as diverse and implementable pedagogical strategies.
Business Management Education in African Context
Authors: Okon Edet E.
Published: October 2014

The search for means of attaining a height in development by African countries and possibly be enlisted among the committee of developed nations of the world remains an unending task. Most African countries have therefore adopted education as a veritable instrument for influencing the anticipated development, especially in the wake of global economic trends. In compliance with these economic trends and emerging needs, emphasis is laid on Vocational Technical Education (VTE), also referred to as Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), within the domain of business education. This chapter examines the environment of business education and business education pedagogy in Africa. The author adopts both historical and analytical approaches and attempts a critique of business education in Africa, with corresponding strategies for improvement.
Business School Management
Authors: Okon Edet E.
Published: October 2014

This chapter studies diverse issues concerning business management education in the African context such as business school management within the university system, leadership qualities required from the school administrators, the role of government and voluntary agencies, academic operational issues, curriculum development, academic program evaluation, market value of graduates, the role of information technology, culture and education, and ethical issues in business schools. The chapter concludes that given all those technological development and the availability of information via multiple sources the role of faculty and faculty development is essential and should be an important component of the school strategic management.
A Lessons Framework for Civil-Military-Police Conflict and Disaster Management
Authors: Bowers Mellisa , Cherne Gwen
Published: October 2014

International conflict and disaster response operations incorporate a diverse, multi-layered series of activities and actors working in the same space, and in contested environments. Differences in organizational culture, language, processes, and behavior can either inhibit or enhance understanding and cooperation. This chapter looks at how the Australian Civil-Military Centre (ACMC) has developed, facilitated, and tested education and training programs, preparedness exercises, and targeted research to enhance understanding and cooperation. These activities provide the foundation for a holistic civil-military-police lessons framework that is being developed. They provide Australian government agencies, military, police, and the aid community with a guide to successfully maintain and contribute their technical expertise and perspectives to respond to conflict and disaster management. Through the continued refinement of training programs, preparedness exercises, and targeted research, this framework looks not only at lessons collection but also at implementation of these lessons in future practice.
Common Pitfalls and Shortcomings of Lessons Learned Programs
Authors: Fry Ian
Published: October 2014

While many organizations attempt to implement a Lessons Learned program, very few reach a state of becoming a “Learning Organization.” Surveys conducted by Knoco show that when asked how effective the program was, the average self-assessed score is 48%. Much of the problem is a lack of sufficient skilled and appropriate people, assessment and implementation processes, technology and governance; but even when these are in place, the single most common problem is that lessons are treated as observations and rarely used to drive lasting change. In addition, we find issues such as a lack of governance around the lesson-learning process, the lessons database is seen as a repository not a lessons management system, quality control is needed at the input stage, and ensuring sufficient evaluation. This chapter describes these problems and outlines some mitigation strategies to shift observations and knowledge capture to a more applied implementation level.
Open Innovation
Authors: Carroll Noel
Published: October 2014

Software engineering is largely concerned with the methodical, systematic production of quality software. Despite significant advances in technology over the last decade, software engineering still heavily relies on human efforts and human interaction to generate economic contributions. In more recent years, the question of software service complexity has become central to Global Software Development (GSD). However, few efforts have surfaced to challenge the complexity of the relational infrastructure of software teams that support the development of software architecture. This is important in order to sustain and support lean software development organisational structures particularly in an open service innovation environment. However, from a socio-economic perspective, there are few theoretical efforts that attempt to introduce new insights on how the human factors contribute towards a GSD value co-creation. The objective of this chapter is to examine the application of Social Network Analysis (SNA) and i* (i star) modelling techniques to examine how we could model the economic impact of software relational structures. The chapter explores how i* models leverage SNA concepts to model GSD. This chapter also offers a discussion on the theoretical development of the socio-economics of GSD in an “open innovation” context.
The Games People Play
Authors: Virkar Shefali
Published: October 2014

Much has been written about e-government within a growing stream of literature on ICT for development, generating countervailing perspectives where optimistic, technocratic approaches are countered by far more sceptical standpoints on technological innovation. This chapter seeks to, through the use of a case study, unravel the social dynamics shaping e-government projects used to reform public sector institutions. In particular, the research analyzes actor behaviour, motivations, and interactions surrounding the conception and maintenance of software platforms facilitating these transformations. The value of such an approach is based on a review of existing ICT and software development literature, which tends to be overly systems-rational in its approach and, as a consequence, often fails to recognise the degree to which project failure (viz. the general inability of the project design to meet stated goals and resolve both predicted and emerging problems) is symptomatic of a broader, much more complex set of interrelated inequalities, unresolved problems, and lopsided power-relationships both within the adopting organisation and in the surrounding environmental context.
Managing Differences in Situational Awareness Due to Roles in the Design-Use Process of Complex Systems
Authors: Alfredson Jens
Published: October 2014

This chapter describes how Situational Awareness (SA) can differ between roles in the design-use process. SA is not traditionally used to describe awareness between roles in the design-use process. However, SA between individuals or groups having various roles in the design-use process could be described, assessed, and used as a tool for improving a design process.
A Semantic Approach for Multi-Agent System Design
Authors: Girardi Rosario , Leite Adriana
Published: October 2014

Automating software engineering tasks is crucial to achieve better productivity of software development and quality of software products. Knowledge engineering approaches this challenge by supporting the representation and reuse of knowledge of how and when to perform a development task. Therefore, knowledge tools for software engineering can turn more effective the software development process by automating and controlling consistency of modeling tasks and code generation. This chapter introduces the description of the domain and application design phases of MADAE-Pro, an ontology-driven process for agent-oriented development, along with how reuse is performed between these sub-processes. Two case studies have been conducted to evaluate MADAE-Pro from which some examples of the domain and application design phases have been extracted and presented in this chapter. The first case study assesses the Multi-Agent Domain Design sub-process of MADAE-Pro through the design of a multi-agent system family of recommender systems supporting alternative (collaborative, content-based, and hybrid) filtering techniques. The second one evaluates the Multi-Agent Application Design sub-process of MADAE-Pro through the design of InfoTrib, a Tax Law recommender system that provides recommendations based on new tax law information items using a content-based filtering technique.
Role of Usability in E-Learning System
Authors: Amin Muhammad Ahmad , Saeed Saqib
Published: October 2014

Amongst open-source e-learning systems, WebGoat, a progression of OWASP, provides some room for teaching the penetration testing techniques. Yet, it is a major concern of its learners as to whether the WebGoat interface is user-friendly enough to help them acquaint themselves of the desired Web application security knowledge. This chapter encompasses a heuristic evaluation of this application to acquire the usability of contemporary version of WebGoat. In this context of evaluation, the in-house formal lab testing of WebGoat was conducted by the authors. The results highlight some important issues and usability problems that frequently pop-up in the contemporary version. The research results would be pivotal to the embedding of an operational as well as user-friendly interface for its future version.
Supply Chain Risk Management
Authors: Gupta Sumeet , Goh Mark , De-Souza Robert , Meng Fanwen , Garg Miti
Published: October 2014

Increasing globalization of the supply chains is making them increasingly vulnerable to various supply chain risks. Effective management of these risks is essential to prevent minor as well as major risks that may occur in day-to-day operations of the firm. In this paper an attempt is made to bring out a schema for analyzing supply chain risks faced by the firm and develop a risk management action framework that would serve as a guide for practitioners to identify the level at which their firms are operating and the strategies they need to employ to combat or prevent supply chain risks. The data is collected by means of an online as well as an event survey from logistics managers of various supply chain firms. Indeed Singaporean firms need to properly document these supply chain risks. Moreover, there are gaps in specific areas where Singaporean firms can improve themselves and thus become globally effective corporations.
Guidance Performance Benchmarking for Autonomous Rotorcraft
Authors: Mettler Bérénice , Kong Zhaodan , Goerzen Chad , Whalley Matthew
Published: October 2014

This paper describes a framework for performance evaluation of autonomous guidance systems. The elements of the framework consist of a set of spatial geometries, flight tasks, performance metrics, a flightdynamic model, and baseline solutions. The spatial benchmarks consist of six tasks
in simple geometrical environments and 10 tasks in more complex urban environments based on a real digital terrain elevation map. The framework also includes a set of performance metrics used to compare trajectories. The performance baselines used in the proposed framework are near-optimal
solutions computed using one of two trajectory optimization methods: numerical optimization based on nonlinear programming for the simple geometric environments and a motion primitive automaton for problems involving the urban environments. The paper concludes with a demonstration of the benchmarking
framework using the Obstacle Field Navigation system developed by the Army Aeroflightdynamics Directorate.
On a number theoretic conjecture on positive integral points in a 5-dimensional tetrahedron and a sharp estimate of the Dickman–De Bruijn function
Authors: Lin Ke-Pao , Luo Xue , Yau Stephen S.-T. , Zuo Huaiqing
Published: October 2014

It is well known that getting the estimate of integral points in right-angled simplices is equivalent to getting the estimate of Dickman-De Bruijn function

\psi(x,y)

which is the number of positive integers

\leq x

and free of prime factors

>y

. Motivating from the Yau Geometry Conjecture, the third author formulated the Number Theoretic Conjecture which gives a sharp polynomial upper estimate that counts the number of positive integral points in n-dimensional (

n\geq3

) real right-angled simplices. In this paper, we prove this Number Theoretic Conjecture for

n=5

. As an application, we give a sharp estimate of Dickman-De Bruijn function

\psi(x,y)

for

5\leq y<13

.
Spectral statistics for random Schrödinger operators in the localized regime
Authors: Germinet François , Klopp Frédéric
Published: October 2014

We study various statistics related to the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of random Hamiltonians in the localized regime. Consider a random Hamiltonian at an energy E in the localized phase. Assume the density of states function is not too flat near E. Restrict it to some large cube . Consider now I, a small energy interval centered at E that asymptotically contains infintely many eigenvalues when the volume of the cube grows to infinity. We prove that, with probability one in the large volume limit, the eigenvalues of the random Hamiltonian restricted to the cube inside the interval are given by independent identically distributed random variables, up to an error of size an arbitrary power of the volume of the cube. As a consequence, we derive

• uniform Poisson behavior of the locally unfolded eigenvalues,

• a.s. Poisson behavior of the joint distibutions of the unfolded energies and unfolded localization centers in a large range of scales,

• the distribution of the unfolded level spacings, locally and globally,

• the distribution of the unfolded localization centers, locally and globally.
Non-symmetrizable Quantum Groups: Defining Ideals and Specialization
Authors: Fang Xin
Published: October 2014

Two generating sets of the defining ideal of a Nichols algebra of diagonal type were proposed, which are then applied to study the bar involution and the specialization problem for quantum groups associated to non-symmetrizable generalized Cartan matrices.
Variability of the infrared complex refractive index of African mineral dust: experimental estimation and implications for radiative transfer and satellite remote sensing
Authors: Di Biagio C. , Boucher H. , Caquineau S. , Chevaillier S. , Cuesta J. , Formenti P.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Experimental estimations of the infrared refractive index of African mineral dust have been retrieved from laboratory measurements of particle transmission spectra in the wavelength range 2.5–25 μm. Five dust samples collected at Banizoumbou (Niger) and Tamanrasset (Algeria) during dust events originated from different Western Saharan and Sahelian areas have been investigated. The real (n) and imaginary (k) parts of the refractive index obtained for the different dust samples vary in the range 1.1–2.7 and 0.05–1.0, respectively, and are strongly sensitive to the mineralogical composition of the particles, especially in the 8–12 and 17–25 μm spectral intervals. Dust absorption is controlled mainly by clays (kaolinite, illite, smectite) and, to a lesser extent, by quartz and calcium-rich minerals (e.g. calcite, gypsum). Significant differences are obtained when comparing our results with existing experimental estimations available in the literature, and with the values of the OPAC (Optical Properties of Aerosols and Clouds) database. The different data sets appear comparable in magnitude, with our values of n and k falling within the range of variability of past studies. However, literature data fail in accurately reproducing the spectral signatures of the main minerals, in particular clays, and they significantly overestimate the contribution of quartz. Furthermore, the real and the imaginary parts of the refractive index from some literature studies are found not to verify the Kramers–Kronig relations, thus being theoretically incorrect. The comparison between our results, from western Africa, and literature data, from different locations in Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean, nonetheless, confirms the expected large variability of the dust infrared refractive index. This highlights the necessity for an extended systematic investigation of dust properties at infrared wavelengths. For the five analysed dust samples, aerosol intensive optical properties relevant to radiative transfer (mass extinction efficiency, kext, single scattering albedo, ω, and asymmetry factor, g) have been calculated, by using the Mie theory, based on the estimated refractive index and measured particle size distribution. The optical properties show a large sample-to-sample variability, with kext, ω, and g varying in the range 0.05–0.35, 0.25–1.0, and 0.05–0.75. This variability is expected to significantly impact satellite retrievals of atmospheric and surface parameters (e.g. from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer, IASI) and estimates of the dust radiative forcing.
How much is particulate matter near the ground influenced by upper level processes within and above the PBL? A summertime case study in Milan (Italy)
Authors: Curci G. , Ferrero L. , Tuccella P. , Barnaba F. , Angelini F. , Bolzacchini E. , Carbone C. , Denier van der Gon H. A. C. , Facchini M. C. , Gobbi G. P. , Kuenen J. P. P. , Landi T. C. , Perrino C. , Perrone M. G. , Sangiorgi G. , Stocchi P.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Chemical and dynamical processes yield to the formation of aerosol layers in the upper planetary boundary layer (PBL) and above it. Through vertical mixing and entrainment into the PBL these layers may contribute to the ground-level particulate matter (PM), but a quantitative assessment of such contribution is still missing. This study investigates this aspect combining chemical and physical aerosol measurements with WRF/Chem model simulations. The observations were collected in the Milan urban area (Northern Italy) during summer of 2007. The period coincided with the passage of a meteorological perturbation that cleansed the lower atmosphere, followed by a high pressure period that favoured pollutant accumulation. Lidar observations reveal the formation of elevated aerosol layers and show evidences of their entrainment into the PBL. We analyze the budget of ground-level PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm with the help of the online meteorology-chemistry WRF/Chem model, with particular focus on the contribution of upper level processes. We find that an important player in determining the upper PBL aerosol layer is particulate nitrate, which may reach higher values in the upper PBL (up to 30% of the aerosol mass) than the lower. The nitrate formation process is predicted to be largely driven by the relative humidity vertical profile, that may trigger efficient aqueous nitrate formation when exceeding the ammonium nitrate deliquescence point. Secondary PM2.5 produced in the upper half of the PBL may contribute up to 7–8 μg m−3 (or 25%) to ground level concentrations on hourly basis. A large potential role is also found to be played by the residual aerosol layer above the PBL, which may occasionally contribute up to 10–12 μg m−3 (or 40%) to hourly ground level PM2.5 concentrations during the morning. This study highlights the importance of considering the interplay between chemical and dynamical processes occurring within and above the PBL when interpreting ground level aerosol observations.
Frequency of new particle formation events in the urban Mediterranean climate
Authors: Brines M. , Dall'Osto M. , Beddows D. C. S. , Harrison R. M. , Gómez-Moreno F. , Núñez L. , Artíñano B. , Costabile F. , Gobbi G. P. , Salimi F. , Morawska L. , Sioutas C. , Querol X.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Road traffic emissions are often considered the main source of ultrafine particles (UFP, diameter smaller than 100 nm) in urban environments. However, recent studies have shown that – in southern European urban regions at least – new particle formation events can also contribute to UFP. In order to quantify such events we systematically studied four cities with a Mediterranean climate: Barcelona, Madrid, Rome and Los Angeles. The city of Brisbane is also included in our study due to its similar climate. Five long term datasets (from 3 months to 2 years) of fine and ultrafine particle number size distributions (measured by SMPS, Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer) were analysed. By applying k-Means clustering analysis, we categorized the collected aerosol size distributions in four main classes: "Traffic" (prevailing 41–63% of the time), "Background Pollution" (6–53%), "Nucleation" (6–33%) and "Specific case" (7–20%) the latter being site specific. The daily variation of the average UFP concentrations for a typical nucleation day at each site revealed a similar pattern for all cities, with three distinct particle bursts. A morning and an evening spike reflected traffic rush hours, whereas a third one at midday showed new particle formation events. This work shows that the average occurrence of particle size spectra dominated by new particle formation events was 18% of the time, showing the importance of this process as a source of UFP in the Mediterranean urban atmosphere. Furthermore, in a number of the studied cities, particle number concentration averaged daily profiles for the whole study periods clearly showed the same three particle bursts. This reveals nucleation events as a relevant contributor to the average daily urban exposure to UFP in Mediterranean urban environments.