bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints to On-Farm Maize (Zea mays L.) Seed Production in Western Kenya: Plant Growth and Yield
Authors: Wambugu P. W. , Mathenge P. W. , Auma E. O. , vanRheenen H. A.
Published: October 2012

Studies have shown that that about 85% of maize farmers in Western Kenya plant local varieties with about 80% using own farm-saved seeds. The production system is characterized by late harvesting, heavy striga infestation, use of local varieties, and low-soil fertility. The objective of this study was to test an on-farm seed production system which would help improve yield and quality of farm saved seeds. The trials were set up in a factorial design fitted as random complete block design. There were 3 factors each at 2 levels: time of harvest, variety choice, and fertilizer application. Fertilizer application led to an 88% increase in yield, 54% increase in number of seeds per cob, and 14% increase in 100-seed weight. Fertilizer application also led to an increase in seed vigour and viability. Yield differences between the 2 varieties were not significant. The correlation between 100-seed weight and seed vigour was significant showing that heavy seeds were more vigourous. Nitrogen application was therefore recommended for increasing yields and for producing vigourous seeds but should be done with caution to avoid lodging as witnessed. This study also noted that farmers are rational and their decisions are usually based on strong economic considerations.
Acute Intoxication Caused by a Synthetic Cannabinoid in Two Adolescents
Authors: Heath Travis S. , Burroughs Zachary , Thompson A. Jill , Tecklenburg Frederick W.
Published: October 2012

Illicit drug use continues to be a common problem among pediatric patients. Daily marijuana use among high school seniors is currently at a 30-year high. Marijuana use in adults has rarely been associated with cardiovascular adverse effects, including hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmia, and myocardial infarction. Recently, abuse of synthetic cannabinoids, such as the incense “K2” or “Spice,” has been increasingly reported in the lay press and medical literature. Overdose and chronic use of these substances may cause adverse effects including altered mental status, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness. Overdoses in adult patients have been described; however, limited reports in the pediatric population have been documented. A recent case series describes myocardial infarctions in pediatric patients, associated with synthetic cannabinoid use. In this report, we describe two adolescent patients admitted after they inhaled “K2,” resulting in loss of consciousness, tachycardia, and diffuse pain.
Physical Properties of an Alfisol Under Biofuel Crops in Ohio
Authors: Bonin Catherine , Lal Rattan
Published: October 2012

There is an increasing need to develop renewable energy sources from biofuel crops to replace fossil fuels. Biofuel crops may also enhance ecosystem functions such as soil quality, water availability, and nutrient reserves. Therefore, the effects of four biofuel crops (corn (Zea mays), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) and willow (Salix spp.) were evaluated on soil quality at three sites in Ohio to assess the effects of crop species on soil bulk density (ρb), soil moisture characteristics (SMC), water stable aggregate distribution (WSA), and aggregate tensile strength (TS) to 40 cm depth. Overall, results were site-specific, with most differences occurring for the clayey soil at the Northwest site. At the Jackson site, soil in the 0-10 cm layer under switchgrass had a higher moisture content (θ) between 0 and 100 kPa than that under indiangrass. At the Western site, θ under corn at 1500 kPa was higher at 30-40 cm depth. At the Northwest site, soils under corn in the 0-10 cm depth tended to have the lowest θ at 0 and 3 kPa, while soils under switchgrass and willow had 50% more large macroaggregates and fewer small microaggregates than that under corn. Soil TS in the 0-10 cm depth under corn was nearly 160% more than that under other perennial crops. These results suggest that management of perennial biofuel crops can improve soil physical quality. Changes over seven years occur first in the surface soil layers, but further differences may evolve in subsoil layers with increase in time.
Real World Renewable Hydrogen Transport
Authors: Gazey R. , Ali Dallia , Aklil Daniel
Published: October 2012

Hydrogen represents an excellent energy storage option as it can act as both a short and long‐term energy store. As the UK Government is strategically moving the UK towards a low carbon economy, hydrogen can play an important role as a solution to make use of grid constrained ‘green’ energy in transport.
In the transport sector, green hydrogen produced from renewable sources offers one of the best opportunities to reduce green house gas emissions and significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Use of zero carbon or ‘green’ hydrogen derived from renewable sources in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) is expected to lead to a 90%‐ 95% reduction in well‐to‐wheel emissions by 2020 when compared to existing internal combustion engines [1].
Described within this paper is a real-world case study that utilises grid constrained renewable energy (instead of discarding it) as a source of clean energy to produce ‘green’ hydrogen for use in a transport application. A model that simulates hydrogen demand from transport has been developed. A Simulink model of hydrogen production, storage and cascade refuelling operations has also been presented. The modelling of a real world application of hydrogen transport technology demonstrates how an electrolyser could be sized to provide the daily hydrogen fuel demand for a real-world commercial hydrogen transport application.
Low Powered Solar ECG with ZigBee Based Bio-Telemetry
Authors: Dedhia Parin , Doshi Harsh , Rane Mrunal
Published: October 2012

The advent of modern age has shown a drastic shift in the way humans have worked leading into sedentary lifestyles. Change in dietary pattern where fresh food is replaced by processed and fast food along with the increase of stress has led to rise of cardio-vascular disease which is glaringly evident in developing countries. Especially, Asians are more prone to cardio-vascular diseases genetically. The ECG device is a diagnostic medical instrument which determines the electrical activity of the heart. The conventional ECG devices are powered by mains electricity, thus are not energy efficient. Transformers used make the device bulky and expensive. Optimum isolation amplifiers have to be incorporated in these devices for patient safety, adding to the cost and complex circuit. We have designed a high quality solar electrocardiograph that is extremely energy efficient, cost effective and works on alternate energy, making it a completely eco-friendly product.
 Healthcare infrastructure is extremely weak in various developing countries of Asia, Africa and South America. Electricity is one of the major factor that drives the health care economy in these areas. Most of these areas lack basic electricity, thus have no access to good health care facilities. One of the most essential factors in developing a solar based ECG device is to give out an extremely energy efficient device yet excellent results and inexpensive in order to get net cost per test below $1. Having eliminated conventional power supply, the electro cardiogram is free from line frequency noise of 50/60 Hz, thus adding to excellent ECG quality. The device is incorporated with a traditional DC charging facility, thus can be charged with a normal cell phone charger in extreme case. The device is capable of acquiring ECG for more than 30 hours, at a sampling rate of 500 Hz. The ECG can be wirelessly transmitted with the help of low power wireless ZigBee, thus allowing monitoring ECG in real time.
Study of a Solar PV-Wind-Battery Hybrid Power System for a Remotely Located Region in the Southern Algerian Sahara: Case of Refrigeration
Authors: Laidi Maamar , Hanini Salah , Abbad Brahim , Merzouk Nachida Kasbadji , Abbas Mohamed
Published: October 2012

The present work shows an experimental investigation that uses a combination of solar and wind energy as hybrid system (HPS) for electrical generation under the Algerian Sahara area. The generated electricity has been utilized mainly for cooling and freezing. The system has also integrated a gasoline generator to be more reliable. This system is not linked with conventional energy and is not fixed in one region as it is the case of the military base in the Algerian borders. The cooling load consisted of three containers of 10 m3 each with total electricity consumption of 45 kWh/day, two positive rooms (with an internal temperature of +2°C and an external temperature of 35°C) and one negative room (with an internal temperature of -20°C and an external temperature of 35°C). Measurements included the solar radiation intensity, the ambient temperature and the wind speed was collected from Adrar weather station (a windy place in Algeria) for the year of 2010. To simulate the hybrid power system (HPS) HOMER was used. Emissions and renewable energy generation fraction (RF) of total energy consumption are calculated as the main environmental indicator. The net present cost (NPC) and cost of energy (COE) are calculated for economic evaluation. It is found that, for Adrar climates, the optimum results of HPS show a 50% reduction of emissions with 47% of renewable energy fraction.
Final Review of the Application of the SCOR Model: Supply Chain for Biodiesel Castor – Colombia Case
Authors: Salazar Fernando , Caro Martha , Cavazos Judith
Published: October 2012

This paper presents the final analysis on the process of characterizing the supply chain for Biodiesel Castor, made with the application of the SCC, SCOR Model, showing the strengths and weaknesses in the design of a strategic plan and logistics, as an important aspect in the search for alternatives, where tools such as SCOR and other applications or methodologies to characterize supply chains, may provide support for effective decision making, which somehow guarantees progress and development of production systems. This application, as a methodological tool, led to the identification of the different variables and operations that make up the supply chain processes such as obtaining Biodiesel from Castor, which determined what are the KPI´s of this chain, a determining factor for the validation of logistics Biodiesel process operations in order to strengthen and identify disconnects.
In an increasingly globalized world, where the strength and competitiveness are defined by the effective management of the supply chain that enables better delivery of customer service and value chain through the management of information flows, product and financial flows, such management potentiates the compete successfully in today's markets, for the result produced by the combination of the objectives of supply chain and implementing best practice methodologies.
Cellulase and Xylanase Production from Rice Straw by a Locally Isolated Fungus Aspergillus fumigatus NITDGPKA3 under Solid State Fermentation – Statistical Optimization by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Sarkar Nibedita , Aikat Kaustav
Published: October 2012

Alkali pretreated rice straw was used as substrate for cellulase production by a locally isolated fungus Aspergillus fumigatus NITDGPKA3 under solid state fermentation. Critical process parameters such as incubation period, temperature, basal medium content and pH were statistically optimized for an enhanced cellulase and xylanase yield by response surface methodology. The design predicted an optimum yield of 3.1 IU/g dry substrate, 64.18 IU/g dry substrate and 1040.57 IU/g dry substrate for FPase, CMCase and xylanase respectively under the optimum conditions of incubation period of 90 h, temperature at 33oC, initial basal medium content of 62% and initial pH 4. The experimental values under optimum conditions correlated well with the predicted results. Further, crude enzyme extract from Aspergillus fumigatus NITDGPKA3 was used for saccharification of pretreated rice straw and this released 189.50 mg/g of reducing sugar. This work was carried out in the Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Durgapur-713209, West Bengal, India, during the period 2010 to 2011.
First & Second Law Analysis of Solar Air Heater
Authors: Mittal Vijay , Kumar Thakur Sanjay
Published: October 2012

In this paper, thermodynamic analysis is performed for different cases of artificial roughness surface on the absorber plates of solar air heater duct. This analysis has been performed by using the correlations for heat transfer coefficient and friction factor developed experimentally for different type of roughness within the investigated range of operating and system parameters. The comparison has been made for different types of roughness on the basis of first law analysis (effective efficiency) and second law analysis (entropy, irreversibility distribution ratio and entropy generation number)
Les(af)filiations contestées de la littérature anglo-québécoise
Authors: Lane-Mercier Gillian
Published: October 2012

Cet article propose d’esquisser des éléments de réponse à la question suivante : dans quelle mesure peut-on « voir » dans la désignation « littérature anglo-québécoise » la présence de filiations et d’affiliations à l’endroit de la littéraire québécoise, lesquelles se déploieraient au-delà d’un simple jeu d’influences ou encore de critères fondés sur le seul lieu de résidence ? Pour y répondre, un double postulat est retenu. D’une part, la littérature anglo-québécoise ne saurait être pensée en dehors des tensions linguistiques, culturelles, historiques, politiques et territoriales que son épithète clivée présuppose, de sorte qu’évoquer l’idée d’une littérature anglo-québécoise revient à convoquer la littérature québécoise. D’autre part, le fait de s’interroger sur les héritages détournés de la littérature québécoise contemporaine nécessite, au-delà de la prise en compte de ses affiliations « propres », la prise en compte d’affiliations « autres » qui lui sont désormais constitutives, y compris lorsqu’elles sont refusées, et ce, selon une logique de l’adjonction conflictuelle. D’où l’hypothèse que voici : la problématique des héritages détournés de la littérature québécoise prend un relief singulier lorsqu’elle est appréhendée à travers la loupe grossissante que lui tend les (af)filiations, souvent contestées, de littérature anglo-québécoise, notamment en raison de la mise en cause du motif des deux solitudes que celle-ci opère. Se profilent alors de nouvelles options éthiques et de nouvelles pistes analytiques que l’article explore sur les plans théorique, méthodologique et analytique en se référant aux travaux de Simon Harel sur la conflictualité créatrice et à Black Bird (2003) du romancier anglo-québécois Michel Basilières.
Les fils d’Aimé Césaire. De la Martinique au Québec
Authors: Selao Ching
Published: October 2012

Cet article propose de se pencher sur le legs d’Aimé Césaire en mettant en parallèle la révolte de ses fils martiniquais et le détournement de ses fils québécois dans leur appropriation de la négritude. Il s’agira de voir comment la révolte des écrivains de la Martinique concerne l’héritage politique du père, malgré sa poésie de protestation et de revendication de liberté absolue, alors que ce même héritage politique ne semble pas avoir été pris en considération par les poètes engagés et indépendantistes du Québec qui voyaient en Césaire un modèle. Plusieurs questions surgiront en cours de route, de sorte que c’est davantage une exploration que nous proposons dans les pages qui suivent qu’une analyse tranchée sur l’héritage particulier de Césaire.
Délires du maître : nationalisme, folie et paradoxes chez François Hertel
Authors: Lacroix Michel
Published: October 2012

Intempestif tourbillon intertextuel prenant plaisir à brouiller la frontière entre roman et essai, Anatole Laplante, curieux homme de François Hertel accomplit un double détournement d’héritage. Les figures d’Émile Nelligan et de Lionel Groulx s’y trouvent en effet amalgamées et retournées, dans l’expression d’un délire nationaliste hanté de rêves morbides. Cet article vise à mettre en évidence cet ambigu travail sur la folie, l’audace, l’avenir et les filiations, qui ébranle le nationalisme de l’intérieur, fait de ses éléments des matériaux d’écriture.
Leçons de clochardise. Lectures d’Agonie et d’Il n’y a plus de chemin de Jacques Brault
Authors: Lapointe Martine-Emmanuelle
Published: October 2012

Agonie et Il n’y a plus de chemin de Jacques Brault mettent en scène des clochards qui ont choisi de quitter la vie sociale, qui « vivent en partie ailleurs », qui ne « sont plus tout à fait dedans », pour reprendre les mots de l’auteur. Préférant le détournement, le silence et le retrait aux discours engagés, ils mettent au jour les insuffisances d’une transmission culturelle qui, loin de reposer sur des certitudes, se révèle profondément aporétique à l’époque contemporaine. Quels héritages ces deux textes livrent-ils, sinon le détachement, le décalage, la distance et l’anachronisme qui, de toute façon, ne s’enseignent ni ne s’apprennent ? Quelle conception du vivre-ensemble contemporain élaborent-ils ? Afin de répondre à ces questions, le présent article s’attache à examiner les figures de l’anachronisme qui donnent lieu à une conception singulière de la transmission des savoirs et des affects, laquelle est partagée entre legs impossible et parole déliquescente.
Faire entendre sa voix. L’adolescent en crise et le roman québécois récent
Authors: Letendre Daniel
Published: October 2012

Depuis les années 1960, la littérature québécoise tente de se mettre au monde dans un perpétuel recommencement du geste fondateur. Ce rapport ambigu avec l’héritage, l’histoire et la mémoire se manifeste dans le roman des années 2000 par l’entremise du personnage de l’adolescent en crise qui tente de détourner le legs transmis par le père. Par l’analyse des personnages d’adolescents en lutte contre leur père écrivain, notamment dans les derniers romans de Marie-Claire Blais et dans La bête du lac de Martin Thibault, cet article décrit, dans un premier temps, les héritages contre lesquels se braquent les adolescents, les stratégies que ces personnages adoptent pour détourner le legs paternel et leur efficacité. Dans un deuxième temps, il soumet l’hypothèse selon laquelle cette crise d’adolescence, qui se caractérise par un détournement de l’héritage de la parole et du silence du père, serait peut-être aussi celle de la littérature québécoise d’aujourd’hui, qui désire prendre ses distances par rapport à l’héritage imposant des figures tutélaires des lettres d’ici.
Estimation of Ship Domain Zone
Authors: Švetak Jelenko
Published: October 2012

The paper discusses the ship domain zone or ship navigationsafety area. The navigation safety area around the ship hasbeen the object of research of many authors. Different variantsand algorithms have been suggested and the most popularamong them are as follows:- navigation safety area around the ship being observed by herown devices, presenting information of the danger of possiblecollision directly on the bridge;- navigation safety area around the ship when regulating hermovement by means of Vessel Traffic Se1vices.The article presents an algorithm for determination andplotting of the navigation safety area, which has the followingadvantages:- the algorithms give an instant solution to the problem ofevading one or more dangerously moving targets;- the calculation may apply the ARPA (Automatic RadarPlotting Aids) algorithm, which does not prevent the navigatorfrom keeping watch.The above mentioned algorithm allows simultaneous plottingof information about the situation around the ship and thedata for probable manoeuvring.
Proposal for Reduction of Calibration Process in Reference to Trip Distribution Method
Authors: Tanczos Katalin , Torok Apard
Published: October 2012

The nowadays applied different macro models or parts ofthose, which describe the urban environment, can originate in afour-step modelling process. The paper focuses on the trip distributionprocess (the 2'd step) because of its significant calibrationrequirements. Therefore, it is possible to make the entiremodelling process more reliable (dependent upon the reliabilityof the available databases ).
Testing Application (End-to-End) Performance of Networks With EFT Traffic
Authors: Lipovac Vlatko , Batoš Vedran , Sertić Antun
Published: October 2012

This paper studies how end-to-end application peiformance(of Electronic Financial Transaction traffic, in particular)depends on the actual protocol stacks, operating systemsand network transmission rates. With this respect, the respectivesimulation tests of peiformance of TCP and UDP protocolsrunning on various operating systems, ranging from Windows,Sun Solmis, to Linux have been implemented, and thedifferences in peiformance addressed focusing on throughputand response time.
Principles of Selection, Implementation and Utilization of RFID in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Vaculik Juraj , Michalek Ivan , Kolarovszki Peter
Published: October 2012

The paper deals with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)implementation and utilization within supply chain managementand also includes the economic feasibility of rollingout RFID. The members of the supply chain networks- suppliers,manufacturers and distributors - will operate independentlyfrom one another and according to their own agendas.This type of unmanaged network, howeve1; results in inefficiencies.The manufacturer might have a goal of maximizing productionin order to minimize unit costs. Clearly, all members ofthe supply chain stand to gain by coordinating their efforts toimprove efficiency and overall supply chain performance. Thisarticle is divided into three parts: Supply chain, Economic feasibilityof rolling out RFID and Processes of Supply chain management.
The Impact of Regulation 561/2006 on Fleet Management Viewed through Efficient Use of Drivers' Working Time
Authors: Muha Robert , Sever Drago
Published: October 2012

The introduction of contemporary procedures to fleet managementprocesses has recently changed the work planning andsupervision of driver's work activities. Tendencies to control theimplementation of driver's work have been present in modemprofessional practice for quite a long time; however, the equipmentavailable on the market limited its implementation. Theintensified development of digital tachographs has, in technicalterms, ensured such equipment considerably before the legislativegroundwork was prepared for its practical implementation.The Commission Regulation (EC) No. 561!2006 (implementationof Social legislation relating to Road Transport) does notbring any essential novelties in terms of permitted workload.Consistent monitoring of drivers activities, made possible bydigital tachographs, will have impact on the existing workingmethods. The topic of the present paper is in deep analysis ofthe impact of the mentioned regulation with special emphasison the conditions for the regulation of the current stage of driverswork and on the expected consequences. The essential imp011ancelies on the expected change in the mentality and approachto planning the driver's activities in the transport processon the part of the ea n·ier: the outcome will eventually resultin the efficiency of each individual canier.
Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys as smart materials for micro-positioning devices
Authors: Hubert A. , Calchand N. , Le Gorrec Y. , Gauthier J.-Y.
Published: October 2012

In the ﬁeld of microrobotics, actuators based on smart materials are predominant because of very good precision, integration capabilities and high compactness. This paper presents the main characteristics of Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys as new candidates for the design of micromechatronic devices. The thermo-magneto-mechanical energy conversion process is ﬁrst presented followed by the adequate modeling procedure required to design actuators. Finally, some actuators prototypes realized at the Femto-ST institute are presented, including a push-pull bidirectional actuator. Some results on the control and performances of these devices conclude the paper.
Vortexlike Power Flow at the Interfaces of Metamaterial Lens
Authors: Fang K. , Zhang Y. W. , Zhang L. W.
Published: October 2012

The metamaterial lens with DPS/DNS/DPS structure has been realized by using the two-dimensional (2D) isotropic transmission line approach. We studied the vortexlike power flow at the interfaces of metamaterial lens and validated by the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulator. The computational results showing its different conditions near DPS/DNS and other kinds of interfaces are obtained by CST STUDIO SUITE at different frequencies, and demonstrate the intuitionistic power location at the metamaterial lens interfaces.
Success Factors of Business Graduates of Lyceum of the Philippines University: Its Implications to Curriculum Functionality
Authors: Lubis Dante O.
Published: October 2012

This study focused on the employees’ performance of business graduates from the College of Business Administration of Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) as basis for success factor. The study used the descriptive method of research. It utilized a three part questionnaire and selected business graduates of the Lyceum of the Philippines University’s College of Business Administration served as respondents. Results revealed that business graduates of LPU are in their respective line of business-related jobs. They are technically capable of handling jobs assigned to them; their skills acquired from the school help them to be productive in their present positions as mostly are frontline employees. They were treated with respect, which gives them a sense of accomplishment. Their behavior in work and quality outputs are acknowledged as their commitment to the attainment of goals. Further, this is reflective of student’s persistence in doing work, maintaining of quality of work performance. Their positive attitude in their workplaces is clearly manifested as they are relatively new on their jobs. The work habits of fresh graduates manifest their desire to be efficient and effective in the accomplishments of desired targets.   Keywords - business curriculum, business graduates, curriculum functionality
Corporate Citizenship and Governance Practices in Holy Name University, Bohol, Philippines
Authors: Golosino Ernesto , Sy Maria Victoria U.
Published: October 2012

Holy Name University (HNU) just like any other academic institution is largely dependent on community trust, employees’ loyalty and collaborative efforts in order to attain its goals and objectives. However in the past few years, the administration noticed that there were lapses in addressing societal concerns and collaborative efforts among HNU’s various stakeholders which in a way affected the operations of the school. It is within this context that this study was made. The primary aim of the study was to assess HNU’s practices in terms of corporate citizenship and governance in order to design schemes to enhance its implementation and ensure its continued success. The study used the descriptive survey method. The findings showed that except for promoting environmental sustainability, all the components of corporate citizenship and governance were manifested and adhered to a great extent. In the light of these findings, the proponent concluded that while HNU upheld and integrated CSR and governance in its operations, there were certain aspects of the processes that needed to be enhanced to fulfill its obligations expected of it by its various stakeholders.   Keywords – corporate citizenship, governance, ethical behavior, internal control, risk management
Role of a Local Government of Cebu in Attracting and Maintaining Investments in Central Philippines
Authors: Yap Ernesto Go
Published: October 2012

Each local government unit in addressing the general welfare of its constituents must actively attract investments as these contribute to the long term and sustainable growth of the local economy. This study investigated the different factors or reasons that would encourage businesspersons to locate their business in a locality. It also revealed the expectations of businesspersons on the role of the local government unit after they had located using descriptive method. Survey questionnaires were distributed randomly to prospective respondents. Participant observation was used in an ocular visit. The study used frequency count for data analysis. Findings show that existing businesspersons perceive Mandaue City to be still a good location for setting up businesses, but the advantages the city possesses may be fast eroding. This paper concludes that maintaining investors’ confidence is as like any business relationship. The local government unit must continuingly extend excellent customer service to its customers, the business locators, to ensure continuing investment inflow.   Keywords - Local Investment Promotion, Maintenance of Investment, Local Government Unit
Trimestral Scheme of the Regular Graduate Programs Implemented in an Institution of Higher Learning
Authors: Sy Maria Victoria U. , Castillo Annie S.
Published: October 2012

The trimester based academic system is designed to provide greater flexibility in course offerings and availability. Furthermore, the system is believed to help students focus better in their subjects while at the same time enhancing their level of comprehension. This study examined the outcomes of the implementation of the trimestral scheme of the regular graduate programs offered by the University of San Jose-Recoletos as evaluated by the students (both currently enrolled and alumni) and the professors. The core components of the scheme being evaluated were: time frame, course achievement and content and financial concerns. In terms of the effectiveness of the scheme when measured according to the three factors, the currently enrolled students and professors found the program to be effective, but for the former students and alumni, the program was perceived to be less effective. As to the problems encountered, except for the professors, the students as well as the alumni opined that they encountered serious problems in the course of pursuing their studies under the trimestral schedule.   Keywords – trimestral scheme, regular graduate programs, time frame, course achievement and content, financial concerns.
Development Transformation Experienced by Marginalized Beneficiaries of a Government Sponsored Microfinance Program
Authors: Lozano Emiliana J. , Japos Genaro V.
Published: October 2012

A microfinance program involves livelihood access through borrowed capital to capacitate women in marginalized communities to improve their quality of life. The study elicited the perceptions of beneficiaries on the transformation in their lives as a result of their availment of microfinance program of the City Social Welfare and Development Office of Butuan City. The study utilized descriptive method adopting qualitative research technique by means of focused group discussion, personal interview and on-site observations. The study revealed that technology acquisition was the most appreciated area of development because it enabled them to start their projects efficiently and handle them effectively as compared to doing things by their common sense. They realized the need to pay their loan on time for use by others rather than delving on dole- out-mentality. They understood that aving money in the bank is a form of investment rather than hiding it in any part of their house with no future benefit. They learned how to absorb instruction, clarify matters and comply with the needed output. The study concludes that the beneficiaries affirmed the tangible benefits translated to development of their greater capacity to access capital, utilize the same productively and support their socio-economic needs.
Efficacy of Plagiarism Detection Software for Quality Assurance of a Research Journal
Authors: Japos Genaro V. , Gutierrez Bernard A. , Tubongbanua Jun Brian P.
Published: October 2012

Plagiarism in research undermines credibility of journal publications. Plagiarism detection addresses this problem. The study validated the efficacy of the plagiarism detector software for quality assurance of a journal publication. Using descriptive method, the study examined 66 plagiarism detector reports and compared the extent of originality and plagiarism of the research article before and after adoption of the plagiarism detector accumulator technology. Results revealthat the journal had a high level of originality (91.31%) and low level of plagiarism (8.34%). Only 23.72 percentof the 550 detected cases were validated as true plagiarism, giving the software an efficacy rate of 24 percent. The sources of plagiarism included the web links, wikipedia, news, social networking sites, and blogs, among others. The use of these sources indicated the citation of grey literature and non-authoritative sources. Failure to properly document sources was the main cause of plagiarism. The software, however, cannot penetrate the secured databases of subscription journals-thus; plagiarism from these sources evades detection. Plagiarism detection software is effective in intercepting plagiarized sources which elude the scrutiny of the editorial board prior to final publication. The editorial board’s strong quality assurance mechanism and the intervention scheme reduced the incidents of plagiarism in 2009.   Keywords - plagiarism, plagiarism detection software, journal publication, originality
Identifying the correlation between the gender and knowledge of the South African consumer in the selection of grocery products
Authors: Cant Michael C. , Scheers Louise Van
Published: October 2012

The knowledge that consumers have of products and services as well as other factors serves as an indicator as to which product or store to “pick”. The products and store location add to the ease with which consumers are able to cherry pick. This article has its focal point the South African customer and the motives for cherry picking and to establish if there is a relationship between price knowledge, consumer knowledge and gender. To some extent it was expected that females would be more knowledgeable about prices of grocery products and this was indeed the case. These same consumers are also well informed about promotions on grocery products. The conducted research concludes that gender has an influence on the knowledge that the South African consumers have on product prices, the types of stores and product assortment. The results also shows that the South African consumers is able to confidently cherry pick over more than one day due to their increased knowledge of prices offered on different products at different stores. This wider level of knowledge results in them being able to participate in cherry picking more readily than a consumer who has more limited price knowledge. The research findings also clearly indicate that there is a significant relationship between price knowledge, consumer knowledge and gender. Keywords - Customer behaviour, product knowledge, loyalty, cherry picking, product price knowledge; and gender
Moral Change in a Global Village: Islamic Perspective
Authors: Rabonataj Seyed Ali Akbar , Azadboni Ramezan Mahdavi
Published: October 2012

The attacks and criticism against ethics is a common part of philosophy. In modern age, due to scientific revolution and its great achievement and development, some scholars argue against any ethical system based on religion. But in the present century, the attacks against ethical role of religion take a different shape. Present century is distinguished from other centuries by its Information-Technology character .It is easy to see with wonder how Information-Technology has reduced the world to a global village through internet and satellite. The question is whether in such a world –global village-moral values are workable and possible? Educational and moral values, in general, aim at producing desired changes in the new generation. This goal was always fulfilled through building limited condition and making barriers. Today, it is impossible to keep new generations away from other cultures due to Information-Technology. It means in global village, making barriers do not work, and in such a world how one can fulfill moral values? The aim of this paper is to discuss the role of moral values in global village by giving a spiritual notion of humanity. I attempt to the possibility of ethical role of religion in contemporary globe by discussing Islamic ethical principles.   Keywords - education, religion, global village, value
Philosophical Orientation on Education of College Faculty in La Salle University
Authors: Suana Emma O.
Published: October 2012

This study aimed at finding out what educational philosophy is being espoused by majority of the college teachers of La Salle University and what educational philosophy is being upheld by each college or school. Ninety-two (92) college faculties from different colleges and school served as respondents of this study. The descriptive method of research was employed. Survey questionnaire on educational philosophy inventory with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.829 received by the researcher as part of the kit and handouts during the First Learning Leaders Congress last May 2009 was utilized. The statistical procedure that was used in the study was only percentage distribution. Findings revealed that majority of the CAS faculty are upholding the progressivism and eclectic philosophies of education. The Accounting teachers and majority of the Computer Studies, Education, and Hospitality Management teachers espouse the progressivism school of thought. Most of the Business and Economics, Engineering, and Nursing faculty members are eclectics who do not subscribe to one particular philosophy. Aside from being eclectic, the Nursing teachers are also equally essentialists, behaviorists, and progressivists. The educational philosophy being espoused by the majority of the faculty in the entire college unit is progressivism. Both probationary and permanent teachers uphold the progressivism philosophy of education which implies that they are more child-centered in their approach to teaching and they require their students to really be actively engaged in the learning process. Their way of teaching focuses more in developing students’ creativity, imagination, analysis and critical thinking.
Research Capability of State Educational Institutions: Its Relationship to the Faculty's Attitude & Involvement in Research
Authors: Salmingo Renato B.
Published: October 2012

This study ascertained the influence of faculty’s attitude and involvement in research on the research capability of state educational institutions (SEIs) in Western Visayas. Conducted in February 2002 among the 293 randomly selected faculty members of SEIs, this descriptive-correlational research utilized a researcher-made data-gathering instrument. Descriptive statistics employed were frequency counts, means, and standard deviations. Inferential statistics included the t-test for independent samples and Pearson’s r. Results show that the SEIs in Western Visayas were “slightly capable” of doing research and development activities. The faculty had “positive attitude” towards research and were “sometimes involved” in research activities. Significant differences were noted in the perception of research output: in their attitude towards research when grouped according to gender, teaching experience, research output, and management support, and in their involvement in research when grouped according to age, educational qualification, research outputs, and management support. Finally, the faculty’s perceptions of the research capability of SEIs and the faculty’s perception of the research capability of SEIs and the faculty’s attitude towards research were positively and significantly correlated.   Keywords - Research capability, faculty attitude, state educational institutions
Student Organizations of LPU: Assessing their Performance Towards the Attainment of Institutional Goals
Authors: Garcia Reynalda B. , Bay Jr. Bernardo E.
Published: October 2012

This study assessed the performance of student organizations of the Lyceum of the Philippines University in terms of organization’s objectives, operations, and outputs/achievements, and to determine how student organizations contributed to the development of the institutional goals. Participants of study were the active members and the advisers of all recognized student organizations for the school year 2006-2010. The research used the descriptive method of research with triangular approach where empirical data was supported with qualitative analysis and interviews with student organization members and advisers. The data were treated using weighted mean, ranking and t-test. Results revealed that LPU student organizations provide activities which contribute to the academic, socio-cultural, cognitive and personal development of the students, thus, student organizations play an important role in attaining the identified institutional goals. A student organization development program is proposed which focused on the organizational needs and assessment to help realize institutional goals.   Keywords - student organization, institutional goals
Psychological Function of Religious Practices
Authors: Yousofi Hossein
Published: October 2012

There are different sorts of disorder in human life. Some disorders take place directly in the human body which some disorders happen in the soul that is why we are not able to classify them as physical phenomena. The link between bodily health and spiritual health due to religious involvement by a committed person is a general accepted fact and finds a significant favor among the scholars. Avicenna, a great Muslim philosopher and physician, admitted and defended the relation between physical and mental health. The aim of this paper is to deal with the relationship between human bodily-mental health and religious involvement. An argument and detailed explanation is given on why and how religious involvement by a committed person will warrant human mental and bodily health. This paper while presuming that all world religions are in common in this regard but is limited to Islamic perspective. It will be articulated on the basis of Islamic teachings that praying as a first value advice in Quranic verses and other religious practices play an effective role to warrant human health.   Keywords - spiritual, Quranic perspective, physical health
Textual Intercourse: Gadamer’s Penetration Into the Depths of Understanding
Authors: Itao Alexis Deodato S. , Benitez Jiolito L.
Published: October 2012

As rational animals, human beings not only have the ability to think but also the capacity to understand. Human rationality is constituted by thinking and understanding. The immediate connotation of rationality, however, is almost always thinking. Hence, to speak of man as an animal rationale is to speak of man as a thinking being. But following his mentor Martin Heidegger, Hans-Georg Gadamer insists that man does not only think, but most importantly understands. To understand is an essential part of being human, of being rational. But what understands? What does it mean to understand? The issue of human understanding is not something simply epistemological; rather, it is something hermeneutical. That is to say, understanding always relates to the act of interpretation. In his monumental work Truth and Method, Gadamer diligently considers the matter of human understanding from a purely hermeneutical perspective. This paper, then, aims to synthesize Gadamer’s hermeneutical theory and argues that for Gadamer, human understanding is essentially characterized by a kind of textual intercourse, that is, a dialogic interaction or an intimate exchange of horizons between an interpreting subject and a text which, in very broad terms, can refer to any object of interpretation. Keywords – understanding, interpretation, hermeneutics, text, language, dialectic
Students’ Performance and Satisfaction with the Cisco Academy Networking Program (Computer Networking 1): Basis for a Proposed Pedagogical Action in Blended Learning
Authors: Red Evelyn Z.
Published: October 2012

Staying competitive in the IT field is a challenge. The use of IT certification programs involves a number of critical issues and implications for higher educational institutions (HEIs), educators, administrators, students, and the IT industry. Hence, there is a compelling need to gather and share IT certification program data to chart a comparative analysis across HEIs that are using certification programs. This study presents a summary of key findings among the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) students in the Lyceum of the Philippines University Batangas’ performance and satisfaction level in Computer Networking 1, the first course in the four-course certification program. It used the descriptive method of research. Respondents of the study were the 71 BSCS second year students who took the course during the Second Semester of SY 2009-2010. Frequency distribution, Pearson R and weighted mean were used for data analysis. The performance and satisfactory level the students gave to learning performance in Computer Networking 1 addresses their learning experiences and was an evidence of the pedagogical richness of the program and the contribution of the Computer Networking 1 teacher. In conclusion, the course actively engaged the students and a clear understanding of the subject were achieved. Keywords - computer networking, satisfaction, performance
Sulfur Emissions and Economic Growth in the Philippines: A Bivariate Causality and Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Puzon Klarizze
Published: October 2012

This paper studies the time series properties of sulfur emissions and economic growth. To identify the direction of the causal relationship between the two variables, it conducts causality and cointegration tests using data from 1950 to 2000. The test results imply that there is unidirectional causality running from sulfur emissions to GDP in the Philippines.   Keywords - cointegration, Granger causality, sulfur emissions, economic growth
Problematics of Homosexuality: Can Foucault Liberate The Gays? (An Exposee, an Evaluation, and a Critical Analysis of the Phenomenon of Homosexuality)
Authors: Babor Eddie R.
Published: October 2012

The problematics of homosexuality can be sketched in the context of recognition, repression, concealment, and disclosure. All these involve public policy, social legislations, and morality. As the title suggests, this paper is developed into three parts, namely: 1) exposee, 2) evaluation, and 3) critical analysis. It is in the last part where the paper attempts to draw much of Foucault’s thoughts on homosexuality. I regret, however, that the topic may appear boorish as it is being placed on the lofty grounds of philosophy since, usually, what we know of philosophy is its cunning, bristling, animated, and sometimes, even a throbbing “romance” with “reality” through the dynamism of epistemology, metaphysics, ontology, ethics, modernism, postmodernism, post postmodernism, structuralism, hermeneutics, existentialism, phenomenology, pragmatism, positivism, deconstruction, critical theory, and so on, and so forth. In a word, philosophy requires some heavy and hard dosages of “painful” thinking, concentration, reflection, analysis, synthesis, comparison, and the like. But, with the topic that I have decided to present to you, I wish that I may succeed in inviting you to join me in an attempt to reinventing the “nature” or “direction” of philosophy by placing it in the domain of what is deemed pleasurable – that is, let us try to make philosophy an endeavor of sexy matters and interests.   Keywords - Critical Analysis, epistemology, metaphysics, ontology, ethics, modernism, postmodernism, postpostmodernism, structuralism, hermeneutics, existentialism, phenomenology, pragmatism, positivism, deconstruction, critical theory, homosexuality.