bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bus Operations Scheduling Subject to Resource Constraints Using Evolutionary Optimization
Authors: Gkiotsalitis Konstantinos , Kumar Rahul
Published: February 2018

In public transport operations, vehicles tend to bunch together due to the instability of passenger demand and traffic conditions. Fluctuation of the expected waiting times of passengers at bus stops due to bus bunching is perceived as service unreliability and degrades the overall quality of service. For assessing the performance of high-frequency bus services, transportation authorities monitor the daily operations via Transit Management Systems (TMS) that collect vehicle positioning information in near real-time. This work explores the potential of using Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) data from the running vehicles for generating bus schedules that improve the service reliability and conform to various regulatory constraints. The computer-aided generation of optimal bus schedules is a tedious task due to the nonlinear and multi-variable nature of the bus scheduling problem. For this reason, this work develops a two-level approach where (i) the regulatory constraints are satisfied and (ii) the waiting times of passengers are optimized with the introduction of an evolutionary algorithm. This work also discusses the experimental results from the implementation of such an approach in a bi-directional bus line operated by a major bus operator in northern Europe.
Frequency-Domain Joint Motion and Disparity Estimation Using Steerable Filters
Authors: Alexiadis Dimitrios , Mitianoudis Nikolaos , Stathaki Tania
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the problem of joint disparity and motion estimation from stereo image sequences is formulated in the spatiotemporal frequency domain, and a novel steerable filter-based approach is proposed. Our rationale behind coupling the two problems is that according to experimental evidence in the literature, the biological visual mechanisms for depth and motion are not independent of each other. Furthermore, our motivation to study the problem in the frequency domain and search for a filter-based solution is based on the fact that, according to early experimental studies, the biological visual mechanisms can be modelled based on frequency-domain or filter-based considerations, for both the perception of depth and the perception of motion. The proposed framework constitutes the first attempt to solve the joint estimation problem through a filter-based solution, based on frequency-domain considerations. Thus, the presented ideas provide a new direction of work and could be the basis for further developments. From an algorithmic point of view, we additionally extend state-of-the-art ideas from the disparity estimation literature to handle the joint disparity-motion estimation problem and formulate an algorithm that is evaluated through a number of experimental results. Comparisons with state-of-the-art-methods demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed approach.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Investigations of Naphthalene-Based 1,2,3-Triazole Systems for Anion Sensing
Authors: Aiken Karelle , Bunn Jessica , Sutton Steven , Christianson Matthew , Winder Domonique , Freeman Christian , Padgett Clifford , McMillen Colin , Ghosh Debanjana , Landge Shainaz
Published: February 2018

Detailed Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy investigations on a novel naphthalene-substituted 1,2,3-triazole-based fluorescence sensor provided evidence for the “turn-on” detection of anions. The one-step, facile synthesis of the sensors was implemented using the “Click chemistry” approach in good yield. When investigated for selectivity and sensitivity against a series of anions (F−, Cl−, Br−, I−, H2PO4−, ClO4−, OAc−, and BF4−), the sensor displayed the strongest fluorometric response for the fluoride anion. NMR and fluorescence spectroscopic studies validate a 1:1 binding stoichiometry between the sensor and the fluoride anion. Single crystal X-ray diffraction evidence revealed the structure of the sensor in the solid state.
Seroprevalence of transfusion transmissible infections among blood donors by chemiluminescent assay in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Raja , Arunagiri Ramesh , Ganesan Vithiya , Perumal Sethuammal , Tiruvanamalai Rajendran , Charles Jhansi
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Blood transfusion is a life saving measure, but also carries risk of transfusion transmitted infections (TTIs). In spite of improved donor screening, risk of transmission of TTIs still remains a major concern. Stringent screening of blood not only ensures safe supply of blood and blood products, but also gives us an idea about prevalence of TTIs among general population.

Methodology: Blood donors (voluntary and replacement), fulfilling national and regional blood bank criteria, attended our blood bank, during Jan 2015-Dec 2016 (included). Retrospective data analysis was performed by a structured database. After obtaining informed consent, venous blood was collected and analysed for HBsAg, anti-HCV and Anti-HIV1&2 (Chemiluminescent assay -OrthoVitrosECi/ECiQ), Malaria (ICT–pf/pan-Alere) and Syphilis (RPR-Labcare Dignotics).

Results: A total of 9027 donors were screened; Males and females were 99.23% and 0.76% respectively with the mean age of 27.4 ± 2years (19-58years). Voluntary donors were 68.7%; replacement donors 31.3%. Voluntary donation increased by 3% in 2016 (69.7%) vs 2015 (67.1%). TTI prevalence was 1.12% (102/9027). Surprisingly prevalence was higher among voluntary donors, females and 21-30 years. Seroprevalence of HBV (0.42%), HIV (0.13%), and Malaria (0.01%), in our region was relatively inferior than other parts of country. Nonetheless, HCV (0.56%) infections were on the rise. No syphilis case was reported. Low seropositivity rate is believed to be attributed to improved counselling of blood donors, adherence to standard donor selection criteria and rational use of blood.

Conclusion: Even though low prevalence, effective control strategies including stringent screening, implementation of more sensitive tests and health education are urgently needed to prevent those TTIs.
Sol-Gel Synthesis of SnO2-TiO2 System - Morphologic, Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Zukuls Anzelms , Mežinskis Gundars , Reinis Aigars , Skadins Ingus , Kroica Juta , Durena Ramona
Published: February 2018

SnO2-TiO2 sol-gel coatings on soda-lime silicate glass heat treated at 500 °C and xerogel specimens also heat treated at 500 °C were investigated in this study. The morphology of 1, 3, 5 and 7 mol% SnO2 doped titanium oxide coatings were evaluated with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), an atomic force microscope (AFM) and an UV-VIS light spectrophotometer, whilst xerogel structure was analysed with X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). The physicochemical properties of the TiO2-SnO2 systems depended mainly on the Sn-to-Ti ratio. The surface morphology of the layer was compact and homogeneous with no visible cracks. Anatase and rutile phase was found in the tested 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 mol% SnO2 doped and heat treated xerogel specimens. Rutile phase content in the heat treated xerogel was reduced, if Sn4+ content was increased. Photocatalytic activity and antibacterial properties were evaluated as well.
A Study on Solid State Welding of Aerospace Materials
Authors: Lee Ho Sung , Yoon Jong Hoon , Yoo Joon Tae
Published: February 2018

Since solid state welding is formed from an intimate contact between two metals at temperatures below the melting point of the base materials, the structural integrity of welded zone is maintained without presence of foreign materials or temporary liquid phase. This paper provides some of examples for solid state joining of aerospace materials. Diffusion bonding process was developed for a titanium alloy for lightweight sandwich panels. Diffusion bonding of copper and stainless steel was also demonstrated to manufacture a combustion chamber. HIP (Hot Isostatic Press) bonding and friction stir welding process of aluminum alloy was developed in order to study possible application for a large launcher fuel tank. It is shown that solid state joining processes can be successfully applied to various aerospace materials and provide innovative solution for lightweight structures.
Etanercept prevents histopathological damage after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Hasturk Askin , Baran Cagdas , Yilmaz Erdal , Arikan Murat , Togral Guray , Hayirli Nazli , Erguder Berrin , Evirgen Oya
Published: February 2018

Background: The aim of our study is to assess the neuroprotective effects of the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor etanercept (ETA) on histopathological and biochemical changes following spinal cord injury (SCI). Patients and Methods: Fifty-four male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into three main groups: The sham, trauma, and ETA group (n = 18 per group). Each of these groups was further divided into three subgroups (n = 6 per subgroup) based on the different tissue sampling times postinjury: 1 h, 6 h, and 24 h. Clip compression model was used for SCI. Rats in the ETA group were treated with 5 mg/kg of ETA immediately after the clip was removed. After 1, 6, and 24 h, the spinal cord was totally removed between the levels T8–T10. Sample tissue was immediately harvested and fixed for histopathological and electron microscopic examination and were analyzed for TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), superoxide dismutase (SOD), adenosine deaminase, catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde levels in both the tissue and serum. Results: The serum and tissue levels of cytokines and enzymes were seen to change after SCI between hyperacute, acute, and subacute stages. Treatment with ETA selectively inhibited TNF-α, and IL-1β expression together with increased levels of antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT). Conclusion: Early administration of ETA after SCI may remarkably attenuate neuronal injury by decreasing tissue and serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels, while increasing antioxidative enzymes such as SOD and CAT in subacute and acute stages, respectively.
Significant effect of anti-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (Gefitinib) on overall survival of the glioblastoma multiforme patients in the backdrop of mutational status of epidermal growth factor receptor and PTEN Genes
Authors: Arif Sajad , Pandith Arshad , Tabasum Rehana , Ramzan Altaf , Singh Sarabjeet , Siddiqi Mushtaq , Bhat Abdul
Published: February 2018

Introduction: We aimed to assess the effect of anti-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) (gefitinib) in overall survival (OS) of the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients in the backdrop of mutational status of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and PTEN genes. Materials and Methods: All the patients subjected to resection or biopsies were put on gefitinib, and radiotherapy was delivered as per the hospital protocol. EGFR and PTEN mutational spectrum was performed by single-strand conformation polymorphism followed by DNA sequencing. Results: In total, 50% GBM tumors had mutation either in EGFR or PTEN. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and OS observed in patients with EGFR +ve/PTEN −ve were significantly favorable (P < 0.05) which aggregated to 9(7, 11) months and 20 (16, 24) months, respectively, than 6 (4, 8) months and 13 (7, 19) months in patients with PTEN +ve/EGFR −ve. Patients positive for both EGFR/PTEN had lower disease-free survival and OS of 6 and 9 months as compared to 6 (5, 7) and 14 (12, 24) months for those negative for both EGFR/PTEN. Conclusions: We conclude that EGFR gene alterations with wild-type PTEN are associated with significantly better PFS and OS in patients treated with anti-TKIs (gefitinib). Combined EGFR and PTEN gene mutation is associated with significantly poor response to gefitinib in terms of median OS.
Kinetics of Passive Film Growth on 304 Stainless Steel in H2SO4 Pickling Solution under Chemical Oxidation
Authors: Yue Yingying , Liu Chengjun , Asselin Edouard , Shi Peiyang , Jiang Maofa
Published: February 2018

H2SO4-H2O2 mixtures are a promising and environmentally friendly passivation medium for the stainless-steel pickling process. The corrosion behavior of stainless steel is highly dependent on the kinetics of passive film growth. Long-term electrochemical measurements, including polarization resistance, open circuit potential (OCP), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were performed to investigate the evolution of the passive state of 304 stainless steel. According to the OCP results, an active-passive transition takes place in 10 ks in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution containing 0.005 M to 0.3 M H2O2. Polarization resistance results indicate that the passive film thickness keeps growing after OCP stabilization in the presence of H2O2. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results confirmed that the growth of the passive film in H2SO4-H2O2 solutions takes about 9 h. Additionally, according to the Point Defect Model (PDM) and Mott–Schottky analysis, the semiconductor properties of the passive film on 304 stainless steel in H2SO4-H2O2 solution were studied. The results indicate that the passive film is an n-type semiconductor. The donor density is in the range of 1.6 × 10−21 cm−3 to 24 and decreases exponentially with increasing film formation potential (this potential coincides with the final OCP in the corresponding H2SO4-H2O2 solutions). By postulating that most donors are oxygen vacancies, the point defect properties including diffusivity and electrical field strength are obtained.
DIREITO AUTORAL NA CIBERCULTURA: UMA ANÁLISE DO ACESSO AOS BENS IMATERIAIS A PARTIR DAS LICENÇAS CREATIVE COMMONS 4.0
Authors: Rebouças Gabriela Maia , Santos Fernanda Oliveira
Published: February 2018

Este artigo analisa os movimentos de acesso aos bens imateriais que ocorrem através do compartilhamento de arquivos na internet, no intuito de compreender em que medida os bens culturais na sociedade da informação estão à disposição de uma cultura de Direitos Humanos. Partindo da hipótese de que há na rede mundial de computadores uma ampliação do acesso à produção cultural, a qual é fomentada por movimentos como o Creative Commons, Copyleft, Linux e Flok Society, realiza-se um estudo qualitativo sobre as licenças criativas, com suporte no levantamento de dados, documentos e referencial teórico, utilizando a análise de conteúdo nas licenças Creative Commons 4.0, para problematizar os direitos autorais e os reflexos da tecnologia na maneira como a população tem acesso aos bens culturais. Os resultados apontam para uma proteção da propriedade com muito acento ainda no direito autoral tradicional, frustrando quem pudesse esperar das licenças um novo paradigma na relação entre criação, produção e circulação coletiva de ideias. No entanto, conclui-se que a semente está lançada, no sentido de ampliar o debate e promover, cada vez mais, uma cultura de produção e acesso à informação que contemple uma perspectiva forte de Direitos Humanos.
NÃO ADIANTA NEM TENTAR ESQUECER: UM ESTUDO SOBRE O DIREITO AO ESQUECIMENTO
Authors: Fontoura Costa José Augusto , Miniuci Geraldo , Miniuci Geraldo
Published: February 2018

O artigo discute os precedentes e doutrinas brasileiras sobre o direito ao esquecimento sob uma ótica multidisciplinar para entender os limites da abordagem jurídica indutiva empregada até agora e propor temas para debate. Para tanto, descreve o sentido de "esquecer" em alguns discursos, particularmente: (i) jurisprudência do Tribunal Superior de Justiça do Brasil (STJ) e doutrina brasileira, (ii) etimologia e semântica do "esquecimento", (iii) teoria psicológica da memória, (iv) efeitos da supermemória digital com facilidade de evocação na internet, e (v) os limites e riscos de uma abordagem indutiva estritamente jurídica em um contexto de profunda transformação ambiental. O artigo conclui que um debate mais amplo e profundo é necessário para entender o sentido e o papel específicos de um direito ao esquecimento e propõe o abandono dos já bem tratados direitos à intimidade, privacidade, informação e liberdade de imprensa como cerne da discussão, já que o "eu" (self), como o centro das preocupações com a integridade individual, não é um núcleo íntimo projetado em outros campos, mas uma construção complexa que atravessa muitos contextos. Como resultado de pesquisa interdisciplinar, o artigo enfrenta riscos de simplificação excessiva e abordagem incompleta do estado da arte. Porém, esses defeitos potenciais são balanceados pelos benefícios de uma abordagem integrada, a qual seria impossível de outro modo. O artigo contribui para o estado da arte, uma vez que integra várias abordagens científicas para discutir a questão complexa e sensível do direito ao esquecimento. Portanto, é valioso para os desenvolvimentos acadêmicos e profissionais no assunto.
USO INDEVIDO DE REDES SOCIAIS E APLICATIVOS DE MENSAGENS INSTANTÂNEAS NO AMBIENTE LABORAL
Authors: Lemos Junior Eloy Pereira , De Souza Alves Edmar Wallisson , De Castro Fiuza César Augusto
Published: February 2018

O uso redes sociais e aplicativos de mensagens instantâneas tornou-se uma constante e veio facilitar a comunicação e troca de dados entre pessoas. No entanto, quando sua utilização envolve o ambiente de trabalho é preciso ter cautela, pois o uso excessivo destes meios de comunicação pode gerar problemas para o empregado e empregador. Atualmente não existe regulamentação que proíba o uso e acesso nas empresas e estas podem criar regras próprias. O presente artigo objetiva apresentar alternativas para os conflitos que possam surgir com base na análise dos direitos constitucionalmente assegurados ao cidadão. Após verificados estes elementos, concluímos que, até a elaboração de normas específicas, a melhor saída para evitar a ocorrência de conflitos envolvendo o uso destas modernas ferramentas de comunicação social seria o estabelecimento de um código de ética pelo empregador, o que facilitaria a identificação da falta e da punição a ser aplicada. Antes de adentrar ao tema, esclarece-se que foi utilizado o método científico da pesquisa qualitativa e bibliográfica.
Failing to address issues of interest for Aboriginal Australians in the 2016 Federal election campaign
Authors: Suriyaarachchi Rashini
Published: February 2018

This essay explores the ways in which Indigenous issues were framed, amplified and subverted in the national discourse in the lead up to the 2016 federal election. An examination of key theories on minority group representation and participation in democratic process provides the framework through which channels for Indigenous self-determination on key political issues in the Australian context are examined.
Information affordances: Studying the information processing activities of the core Occupy actors on Twitter
Authors: Tanupabrungsun Sikana , Hemsley Jeff , Semaan Bryan
Published: February 2018

Emergent social movements benefit from technologies that support the information activities that core actors perform to achieve the goals of the movement. Starting with an information-centric perspective, we use the theoretical lens of information processing, to examine the roles of Twitter affordances during the Occupy movement in solving information problems. Our data is a corpus of tweets from the core actors of the movement, as identified by our extended 1/9/90 rule. Using inferential statistics and network visualization, we show how different Twitter affordances act as mechanisms to resolve information problems in many different ways. Our network visualization shows the ecology of the interactions amongst the core actors, and between the core actors and the public. Our work contributes to the discussion around recent social movements on Twitter and advances the theory of information processing.
Home, front, and mobile phones: The case of the Second Lebanon War
Authors: Rosenberg Hananel
Published: February 2018

This paper deals with the cellphone’s role in the Second Lebanon War. Via in-depth interviews (N=20) with officers and combat soldiers, the study shows how soldiers’ cellular devices served a range of objectives: military, personal documentary, communication with home and family, and updating the home front and other battle sectors. On the military level, cellular enables the generation of the “cellular buddy” phenomenon, or the ability to consult with extra-organizational parties — such as friends who are former senior officers — which led to impeding the army’s internal chain of command. On the personal-experiential level, this section presents the “availability conflict” that the soldiers described, between their desire to be in touch with home during the war and the high price thereof. Full-time availability and the lack of ability to disconnect “brings” the home front, the home, and the family directly to the battlefield, thus affecting the soldiers’ already-complex experiential and mental state.
Irresistible bargains: Navigating the surveillance society
Authors: Pallitto Robert M.
Published: February 2018

Agents in contemporary societies are faced continually with choices regarding engagement with technological artifacts. They can choose to engage or decline engagement after considering the costs and benefits in each case. However, certain aspects of the surveillance society may be irresistible in a number of ways, so that refusal to engage with them is not a realistic option. The proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT), particularly as embedded in “smart city” initiatives, helps to make surveillance technologies potentially irresistible. After laying the conceptual groundwork for discussing irresistible bargains, this essay offers a two-part normative critique, focusing on the asymmetrical power relations engendered by smart cities as well as harms inflicted on the self.
Perceptions of video gaming careers and its implications on parental mediation
Authors: Jiow Hee Jhee , Athwal Rayvinder Jit Singh , Chew Ling Ling , Elias Muhammad Helmi , Lim Nina , Lye Qin Ting , Ng Xin Yu , Woo Kenneth
Published: February 2018

Since its advent in the 1970s, the video game industry has superseded its film counterpart, sporting a growth rate quadrupling that of other media and entertainment sectors. In contemporary times, video gaming occupations — namely game designers, professional gamers and YouTubers — have gained prominence, bolstered by the support of the media industry and government agencies. Yet, little remains known about the perceptions of these careers from the standpoint of parents and young gamers. This dearth of knowledge thus provides an impetus for research since parents’ perceptions could arguably influence the management of their children’s video gaming consumption. Results yielded through qualitative interviews with 35 respondents revealed that parental mediation was practiced via ‘distant mediation’. This is characterised by parents ostensibly withdrawing or remaining remotely detached from their children’s video gaming whilst monitoring them from afar. When perspectives of gaming careers were further scrutinised through a comparative scope, the findings also reflected that parents and children shared accommodating attitudes toward vocations in the video gaming sector.
Goals for algorithmic genies
Authors: Masum Hassan , Tovey Mark
Published: February 2018

Algorithmic genies built from growing computational capabilities bring risks like automating well-paying jobs, yet we suggest that if supplied with suitable goals and supporting infrastructure they can help in meeting many human needs. We argue that algorithmic genies can be harnessed to raise the baseline experience of people worldwide (raising the floor), especially if such harnessing is informed by wide consensus and deep evidence. Examples show how algorithmic genies could raise the floor for widely agreed human needs like health, education, and other components of the Social Progress Index. Ensuring that both the least well off and the majority share in the benefits of progress can help to ensure the floor is raised for all (floored progress). Floored progress can apply beyond basic human needs to problems that people across the economic spectrum struggle with (shared floors). We include three tables with illustrative opportunities, and conclude by summarizing the value of raising floors individually and in concert.
Social activism: Engaging millennials in social causes
Authors: Seelig Michelle I.
Published: February 2018

Given that young adults consume and interact with digital technologies not only a daily basis, but extensively throughout the day, it stands to reason they are more actively involved in advocating social change particularly through social media. However, national surveys of civic engagement indicate civic and community engagement drops-off after high school and while millennials attend college. While past research has compiled evidence about young adults’ social media use and some social media behaviors, limited literature has investigated the audience’s perspective of social activism campaigns through social media. Research also has focused on the adoption of new technologies based on causal linkages between perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, yet few studies have considered how these dynamics relate to millennials engagement with others using social media for social good. This project builds on past research to investigate the relationship between millennials’ online exposure to information about social causes and motives to take part in virtual and face-to-face engagement. Findings suggest that while digital media environments immerse participants in mediated experiences that merge both the off-line and online worlds, and has a strong effect on person’s influence to do something, unclear is the extent to which social media and social interactions influence millennials willingness to engage both online and in-person. Even so, the results of this study indicate millennials are open to using social media for social causes, and perhaps increasing engagement off-line too.
Antirival goods, network effects and the sharing economy
Authors: Olleros F. Xavier
Published: February 2018

Nothing facilitates large-scale collaboration like the prospect of inclusive, all-win games. Modern humans have gotten much better at large-scale collaboration because they have discovered, or invented, a broad range of collective goods that are easy to share and become more valuable the more they are shared, thus multiplying the opportunities for all-win outcomes. Steven Weber (2004) and Mark Cooper (2006a, 2006b) have drawn our attention to ‘antirival goods’ — subject to increasing returns to shared use — to differentiate them from ‘rival goods’ — subject to decreasing returns to shared use — and ‘nonrival goods’ — subject to constant returns to shared use. Unlike Weber and Cooper, I argue that nonrivalness and antirivalness are orthogonal properties of some collective goods, rather than stages along the same continuum away from rivalness. Collective goods, I also argue, are most inclusive when they are both nonrival and antirival. In an economy rich in both nonrival and antirival goods, the collaborative stance will often be the default collective choice, at large and small scales alike. Digital technologies are ushering in a transformative age as they expand the cornucopia of nonrival and antirival goods available to us. This inclusiveness of many digital goods eliminates the free-riding problem and mobilizes large amounts of volunteer work.
The view from the other side: The border between controversial speech and harassment on Kotaku in Action
Authors: Jhaver Shagun , Chan Larry , Bruckman Amy
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we use mixed methods to study a controversial Internet site: The Kotaku in Action (KiA) subreddit. Members of KiA are part of GamerGate, a distributed social movement. We present an emic account of what takes place on KiA: who are they, what are their goals and beliefs, and what rules do they follow. Members of GamerGate in general and KiA in particular have often been accused of harassment. However, KiA site policies explicitly prohibit such behavior, and members insist that they have been falsely accused. Underlying the controversy over whether KiA supports harassment is a complex disagreement about what “harassment” is, and where to draw the line between freedom of expression and censorship. We propose a model that characterizes perceptions of controversial speech, dividing it into four categories: criticism, insult, public shaming, and harassment. We also discuss design solutions that address the challenges of moderating harassment without impinging on free speech, and communicating across different ideologies.
Pensando la cultura en tiempos de globalización
Authors: Editor El
Published: February 2018

No abstract available.
El liberalismo hispanoamericano en el siglo XIX
Authors: Pozas Mario A.
Published: February 2018

Hispanic American thought has nourished itself from a creative appropriation of ideas from other latitudes. The case of Liberalism on 19th century is paradigmatic. Latin American Liberalism had very singular features that differentiate it from European Liberalism, not only in philosophical terms, but also turned it in a very influencing paradigm in the Latin American institutional life. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 293-313
El siglo XX: su delimitación y su significado
Authors: Ribera Ricardo
Published: February 2018

The 20th century is problematic, given the lack of unanimity regarding its delimitation. A very suggestive thesis on this issue comes from the British historian Eric Hobsbawm, who conceives the 20th century as a short century, starting with the World War First and ending with the dissolution of the Soviet Union and, thus, with the end of Cold War. This delimitation is unsatisfactory. According with the author, a more fecund delimitation and, therefore, interpretation of the 20th century, must start questioning the eurocentric interpretations of history. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 251-272
Cultura y contracultura: observaciones periféricas
Authors: Herrera Bernal
Published: February 2018

The concept of "counterculture", en vogue during the sixties, is quite inexact. In that sense, the use of the term "contestatary cultures" in opposition to the "dominant cultures" is more adequate. The relation of a cultural practice with its milieu is the criteria that allows to elucidate if it is dominant, subcultural, or countercultural. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 273-283
Medios de comunicación y ética de la responsabilidad
Authors: Molina Velásquez Carlos
Published: February 2018

The economic models that are based on the market's supremacy suppress the responsibility of taking decisions from the subjects. Both the classical Liberalism, that defends the ruling paper of the market, and the current mediatic societies, ruled by technologic criteria, dissolve the responsibility and, thus, ethics. Nevertheless, the role of a critical communication, committed with its own responsibilities, is vital to transform this panorama. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 285-292
El primer Dalton. Referencia de pasos (1961-1964)
Authors: Melgar Brizuela Luis
Published: February 2018

The author divides the works of the Salvadoran poet Roque Dalton in periods. In this text, which is a chapter of a doctoral thesis delivered to the Colegio de México, the author reviews the initial stage of Dalton's poetry, which engulfs the years 1961 and 1964, this is, starting with the publication of La ventana en el rostro and concluding with Los testimonios. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 315-330
Real Academia Española y Asociación de Academias de la Lengua Española: Diccionario panhispánico de dudas
Authors: Alvarenga Luis
Published: February 2018

No abstract available.
Un tema para todas las épocas: las postguerras
Authors: Miller Katherine
Published: February 2018

No abstract available.
Las migraciones como manifestación de la globalización
Authors: Artiga-González Álvaro , Bran-Molina Sergio René
Published: February 2018

Migration is a phenomenon that has been linked with Salvadoran society since a long time ago. Nevertheless, it gets new features when a characteristic phenomenon of the present enters in scene: Globalization. In fact, as the authors argue, migratory fluxes become a new expression of globalization. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 165-220
¿Son viables los objetivos del milenio en el entorno mundial del tercer milenio?
Authors: Ibisate Francisco Javier
Published: February 2018

The fact that all the governments around the world assume the Development Aims of the Millenium as their own means that they accept that the great social and economic models have been not able to face the human challenge they imply. In some way, we go back to the history of the economic systems, compared, not one against other, as we used to do during the Cold War decades, but comparing and confronting each model "against itself', this is, its principles and ideals against the historie results. Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 108, 2006: 221-249
Actinomyces neuii infection following ovarian cystectomy
Authors: Lueken Jennifer , Wilson Benjamin , Holbrook Mason , Medlin Erin E.
Published: February 2018

Background: Abdominal Actinomyces infections are rare complications of surgery. A case of Actinomyces neuii presenting as a severe postoperative pelvic infection is described.Case: A 30 year-old nulligravid female was transferred from an outside hospital for a postoperative fluid collection, fever, leukocytosis, and abdominal pain following exploratory laparotomy and bilateral ovarian cystectomy. She rapidly decompensated requiring emergent exploratory laparotomy, bilateral salpingooophorectomy, and abdominal washout. Cultures isolated A. neuii. Following a prolonged ICU admission, she was treated with prolonged antibiotics and made a complete recovery.Conclusions: Rare pathogens, such as A. neuii, may cause severe infections following gynecologic surgery. Multidisciplinary care at tertiary care facilities is critical.
When is the Spirit of Capitalism Effective for Economic Development?
Authors: Kuwahara Shiro
Published: February 2018

By incorporating endogenous innovation and wealth preference into the growth model, this paper aims to combine two important factors of economic development — “creative destruction,” as emphasized by Schumpeter (1912) and modelized by Aghion and Howitt (1992), and the “spirit of capitalism,” proposed by Weber (1905). Zou (1994) introduced this “spirit of capitalism” into the modern growth analysis by reinterpreting the Kurz (1968) model, wherein a preference on asset accumulation is introduced into the Ramsey model. By uniting these two factors, we obtain the result that this preference basically stimulates the long-term growth rate, and that it is eﬀective when the economy has a too low innovation eﬃciency. However, the eﬀect is small for an economy with a suﬃciently high innovation eﬃciency.
Currency Crises and Growth
Authors: Hamida Arafat
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of currency crises on economic growth. To do this, we opted for a dynamic panel data model and impulse response functions for a sample of seventeen emerging countries over a period from 1980 to 2014. The main results of the various empirical investigations show that there is a Negative effect of currency crises on short-term economic growth.
Centralization, Decentralization and Incentive Problems in Eurozone Financial Governance: A Contract Theory Analysis
Authors: Suzuki Yutaka
Published: February 2018

This paper uses a contract theory framework to analyze the mechanisms of eurozone financial governance, with a focus on centralization vs. decentralization and incentive problems. By constructing a Stackelberg game model with n Ministries of Finance as the first movers and the European Central Bank as the second mover, we show that each government can create growth in its own country (self-benefit) by increasing government spending, but that this will increase inflation, resulting in a decrease in the value of the euro. As these effects are shared equally by eurozone countries (cost sharing), an incentive to free-ride at the expense of other countries is present. We then analyze a penalty-based solution to the free-rider problem and derive a second-best solution where a commitment not to renegotiate penalties ex-post is impossible. The optimal solution shows that “limited sovereignty,” that is, substantially constrained fiscal sovereignty, should be imposed as a high marginal cost for the issuance of public debt. Finally, we close the paper by discussing the possibility of Fiscal Integration (Fiscal Union).
Sea-Level Rise and Species Conservation in Bangladesh’s Sundarbans Region
Authors: Dasgupta Susmita , Huq Mainul , Sobhan Istiak , Wheeler David
Published: February 2018

This paper develops a methodology for identifying high-priority species conservation areas in Bangladesh’s Sundarbans region, an UNESCO World Heritage site, considering both species vulnerability and the likelihood of inundation by future sea-level rise (SLR). Our species vulnerability analysis develops a composite spatial vulnerability indicator based on total species counts, endangered species counts, endemicity, and four measures of extinction risk from the high-resolution range maps and conservation status assessments for 378 terrestrial vertebrate species provided by IUCN Bangladesh, IUCN International and BirdLife International.We extend the analysis by identifying areas where protection will fail if they are inundated by SLR in this century. We project SLR by 2100 at 120 cm, near the upper bound of the current consensus, and develop digital maps of the Sundarbans region that incorporate alternative assumptions about interim subsidence (8 cm, 35 cm) and deposition of alluvial sediment (0 cm, 40 cm). We overlay these maps with our composite species vulnerability map to produce SLR-risk-adjusted maps for priority assessment.While it would be highly desirable to protect all species of Sundarbans, resource scarcity may necessitate focusing protection on the highest-priority areas. Our analysis indicates that the highest-priority conservation status should be assigned to Sundarbans core region that has both high species vulnerability and the lowest likelihood of inundation in this century. We also identify other critical areas in four echelons of descending priority, depending upon their likelihood of inundation by sea-level rise. We hope that our methodology will contribute to cost-effective conservation management in the Sundarbans region.
Universalism and Utilitarianism, Two Worlds Apart or Inextricably Linked?
Authors: Teck Tan Seng , How Liau Chee , Karuppiah Nanthakumar , Ho Chang Jau
Published: February 2018

Most authors and researchers consistently perceive ethics as being invariably divided into two clearly discernible divisions. The Kantian categorically imperative and universalistic divinity prescribes a somewhat non-negotiable and positivistic duty based maxim that guide the actualization of altruism. Conversely, the contemporary but more relative utilitarian approach advocates that an action that produces the greatest wellbeing of good for the greatest number is undeniably the ethical one. Clearly, it makes little sense and very negligible contribution to literature if corporations are continuously misled to believe that such strict and fervent dichotomy exist. On one hand, business firms in this globalized era are increasingly pressured to comply with emerging universalistic international laws. On the other, business firms cannot remain entirely altruistic. Corporations greatly need the flexibility and capability to relate dissimilar cultural contents and moral distorts. This paper maintains that there is an inextricable link between universalism and utilitarianism. The association between the two is at best complex and intricate. Business firms commonly usurp a utilitarian slant where relativity and ability to adapt is pivotal. However, a firm is estopped from usurping utilitarianism if a firm’s conduct falls below the threshold and minimum content of morality. This would immediately instigate a punctuated equilibrium in the firm triggered through a tsunamic impact, causing the firm to refresh into a universalistic mode. This punctuated equilibrium is frequently activated by external factors that are adequately vigorous to refresh and reset the moral values of a firm. Consider Shell’s defensive posture over the Brent Oil Spar allegation which left the firm with diving stock value and tarnished branding. Shell since then has taken a more Kantian receptive posture of apologizing for their catastrophic mistakes which resembled a renewed commitment to the betterment of human kind. This paper contributes to better the understanding of this ethical transition that firms might experience in their course of organization life cycle and how it can be managed tactfully.
Waste Management and Sustainability: Indicators under Ecological Economy Perspective
Authors: Cetrulo Natália Molina , Cetrulo Tiago Balieiro , Gonçalves-Dias Sylmara Lopes Francelino , Moreira Rodrigo Martins
Published: February 2018

For indicators to assess a society’s sustainability it is necessary that the understanding of what type of sustainability one wishes to measure is clear. The hypothesis tested in the present study is that solid waste management indicators, used in city sustainability assessments, do not represent the concept of strong sustainability. To test the hypothesis, the article initially identifies the perspectives of solid waste management from the strong sustainability’s point of view, under Ecological Economy perspective. The hypothesis was tested in thirteen sustainability assessment tools, covering approximately 400 cities. Two, out of five perspectives identified, had indicators selected represent them. Only one system presented three perspectives, and eight presented two. To represent the theme’s complexity, all perspectives should be considered, so the hypothesis formulated was accepted.
Determinants of Capital Structure: Empirical Evidence from Turkey
Authors: Cevheroglu-Acar Merve Gizem
Published: February 2018

The primary aim of this study is to identify the firm-specific determinants of the capital structure of non-financial firms in Turkey and to test whether the determinants offered by financial theory are able to provide convincing explanations for non-financial firms in Turkey. Because the relationship between liquidity and capital structure is not well examined for Turkish market in the context of capital structure theories, we include liquidity as independent variable in our models in addition to profitability, growth, non-debt tax shields, size, tangibility, and risk. We use panel regression as econometric model and cover the period from 2009 to 2016. Our results show that profitability, non-debt tax shield, size, tangibility, and liquidity are significant determinants of the capital structure, size being the most robust one. On the other hand, growth and volatility are not significantly related with the leverage. Moreover, we conclude that capital structure decisions of non-financial firms in Turkey are mostly consistent with the hypothesis of pecking order theory rather than trade-off theory.
The Awareness Level of Green Procurement at the District Assemblies in Western Region in Ghana
Authors: Peprah James Adu , Brako Samuel , Akosah Noah Boakye
Published: February 2018

The present study seeks to examine the awareness level of green procurement at the district assemblies in Ghana and also help create the consciousness of implementing and enforcing green procurement in the public sector effectively. The research was carried out in Eighteen (18) District Assemblies in the Western Region of Ghana using non-standard interview as the main data collection technique. The findings of the research revealed that, there are key legislations, standards and regulations regulating the assemblies’ activities on the environment and the society which affect green procurement, though there is no specific law/policy titled green procurement. These key legislations, standards and regulations have contributed to increased awareness of green procurement at the District Assemblies in Western Region tied with the recent introduction of sustainable procurement which has been included in the Public Procurement Amendment Act 2016 (Act 914). However, the study identified that the significant impact of public procurement as a policy instrument on environment appeared not to be clear to the assemblies. It is recommended that the procurement policy and the Act 663/914 should be reformed to reflect green procurement to help the districts in their quest in creating sustainable environment. The district assemblies and EPA should organise joint seminars and workshops to sensitize and create awareness among the assembly’s staff on the benefits of green procurement and the need to adopt it.
Perceptions of Residents in Xinjiang, Urumqi towards Tourism Development through China’s Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Chan Grace Suk Ha , Tang Irini Lai Fung , Zhang Mosa Wenxian
Published: February 2018

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) clearly reads as an audacious vision for transforming the political and economic landscapes of Eurasia and Africa over the coming decades via a network of infrastructure partnerships across the energy, telecommunications, logistics, law, Information and Technology, transportation and tourism sectors. The BRI prioritises people-to-people connection. Various countries and cities will benefit from promoting cultural nationalism and local civic identities. The joint project of Belt and Road (B&R) embraces the trend towards a multi-polar world, economic globalization and cultural diversity for upholding global free trade, allocating many resources and deeply integrating marketers. The BRI is a remarkable example of the borderless nature of infrastructure development. This initiative aims to foster economic growth and investment along the ancient Silk Road trading route between Europe and the East. For instance, in Xinjiang, Urumqi, various resources promoting the culture of the area add value to the tourism industry. This study adopted a descriptive research design that encompasses a qualitative approach and addressed the residents’ perception and attitude towards tourism. In-depth interviews with residents were conducted. Recommendations were made for destination marketers and governmental practitioners on how to improve and facilitate tourism industry for Xinjiang, Urumqi.
REGULATORY CONDITIONS OF FUNCTIONAL EFFICIENCY
AND STABILITY OF ROAD TRANSPORT ENTERPRISES
Authors: Majecka Beata , Mandera Ewelina
Published: February 2018

The functioning of road transport enterprises is determined by external (legal
processes and the market mechanism) and internal (a projection of regulatory
principles set out in functional systems) factors. The aim of this study is therefore
to identify legal and market conditions and internal operating rules of road transport
enterprises in the context of their impact on their efficiency and durability.
The paper is based on a theoretical literature review and a primary empirical
research.
Geography and Sentencing: Does Country of Citizenship Influence Sentence Longevity?
Authors: Iles Gale , Adegun Oladipupo V.
Published: February 2018

Contentious debates on immigrants in the United States has led to growing interest in their treatment in the criminal justice system. Much of what is known, however, springs from research that treats immigrants as a homogeneous group. The lumping of all immigrants into one category potentially mask variances in sentencing based on national origins. The current study disaggregates federal sentencing data to explore whether length of sentence differs by the defendants’ geographical region of citizenship. After controlling for a number of legal and extra-legal factors, sentences imposed upon Mexican citizens were found to be longer than sentences meted out to defendants who are citizens of other countries. Evidence suggesting that national origin has a stronger influence on sentence length than race/ethnicity and legal status was also detected. Implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed.