bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perception survey on the introduction of clinical performance examination as part of the national nursing licensing examination in Korea
Authors: Shin Su Jin , Kim Yeong Kyeong , Suh Soon-Rim , Jung Duk Yoo , Kim Yunju , Yim Mi Kyoung
Published: November 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze opinions about the action plan for implementation of clinical performance exam as part of the national nursing licensing examination and presents the expected effects of the performance exam and aspects to consider regarding its implementation.Methods: This study used a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected by a questionnaire survey, while qualitative data were collected by focus group interviews with experts. The survey targeted 200 nursing professors and clinical nurses with more than 5 years of work experience, and the focus group interviews were conducted with 28 of professors, clinical instructors, and nurses at hospitals.Results: First, nursing professors and clinical specialists agreed that the current written tests have limitations in evaluating examinees’ ability, and that the introduction of a clinical performance exam will yield positive results. Clinical performance exam is necessary to evaluate and improve nurses’ work ability, which means that the implementation of a performance exam is advisable if its credibility and validity can be verified. Second, most respondents chose direct performance exams using simulators or standardized patients as the most suitable format of the test.Conclusion: In conclusion, the current national nursing licensing exam is somewhat limited in its ability to identify competent nurses. Thus, the time has come for us to seriously consider the introduction of a performance exam. The prerequisites for successfully implementing clinical performance exam as part of the national nursing licensing exam are a professional training process and forming a consortium to standardize practical training.
Ultrasonic Monitoring of Biocatalysis in Solutions and Complex Dispersions
Authors: Buckin Vitaly , Altas Margarida
Published: November 2017

The rapidly growing field of chemical catalysis is dependent on analytical methods for non-destructive real-time monitoring of chemical reactions in complex systems such as emulsions, suspensions and gels, where most analytical techniques are limited in their applicability, especially if the media is opaque, or if the reactants/products do not possess optical activity. High-resolution ultrasonic spectroscopy is one of the novel technologies based on measurements of parameters of ultrasonic waves propagating through analyzed samples, which can be utilized for real-time non-invasive monitoring of chemical reactions. It does not require optical transparency, optical markers and is applicable for monitoring of reactions in continuous media and in micro/nano bioreactors (e.g., nanodroplets of microemulsions). The technology enables measurements of concentrations of substrates and products over the whole course of reaction, analysis of time profiles of the degree of polymerization and molar mass of polymers and oligomers, evolutions of reaction rates, evaluation of kinetic mechanisms, measurements of kinetic and equilibrium constants and reaction Gibbs energy. It also provides tools for assessments of various aspects of performance of catalysts/enzymes including inhibition effects, reversible and irreversible thermal deactivation. In addition, ultrasonic scattering effects in dispersions allow real-time monitoring of structural changes in the medium accompanying chemical reactions.
Maximum Entropy-Copula Method for Hydrological Risk Analysis under Uncertainty: A Case Study on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Guo Aijun , Chang Jianxia , Wang Yimin , Huang Qiang , Guo Zhihui
Published: November 2017

Copula functions have been extensively used to describe the joint behaviors of extreme hydrological events and to analyze hydrological risk. Advanced marginal distribution inference, for example, the maximum entropy theory, is particularly beneficial for improving the performance of the copulas. The goal of this paper, therefore, is twofold; first, to develop a coupled maximum entropy-copula method for hydrological risk analysis through deriving the bivariate return periods, risk, reliability and bivariate design events; and second, to reveal the impact of marginal distribution selection uncertainty and sampling uncertainty on bivariate design event identification. Particularly, the uncertainties involved in the second goal have not yet received significant consideration. The designed framework for hydrological risk analysis related to flood and extreme precipitation events is exemplarily applied in two catchments of the Loess plateau, China. Results show that (1) distribution derived by the maximum entropy principle outperforms the conventional distributions for the probabilistic modeling of flood and extreme precipitation events; (2) the bivariate return periods, risk, reliability and bivariate design events are able to be derived using the coupled entropy-copula method; (3) uncertainty analysis highlights the fact that appropriate performance of marginal distribution is closely related to bivariate design event identification. Most importantly, sampling uncertainty causes the confidence regions of bivariate design events with return periods of 30 years to be very large, overlapping with the values of flood and extreme precipitation, which have return periods of 10 and 50 years, respectively. The large confidence regions of bivariate design events greatly challenge its application in practical engineering design.
An Integrated Modeling Approach for Forecasting Long-Term Energy Demand in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Syed , Cai Yanpeng , Fazal Rizwan , Das Walasai Gordhan , Mirjat Nayyar
Published: November 2017

Energy planning and policy development require an in-depth assessment of energy resources and long-term demand forecast estimates. Pakistan, unfortunately, lacks reliable data on its energy resources as well do not have dependable long-term energy demand forecasts. As a result, the policy makers could not come up with an effective energy policy in the history of the country. Energy demand forecast has attained greatest ever attention in the perspective of growing population and diminishing fossil fuel resources. In this study, Pakistan’s energy demand forecast for electricity, natural gas, oil, coal and LPG across all the sectors of the economy have been undertaken. Three different energy demand forecasting methodologies, i.e., Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Holt-Winter and Long-range Energy Alternate Planning (LEAP) model were used. The demand forecast estimates of each of these methods were compared using annual energy demand data. The results of this study suggest that ARIMA is more appropriate for energy demand forecasting for Pakistan compared to Holt-Winter model and LEAP model. It is estimated that industrial sector’s demand shall be highest in the year 2035 followed by transport and domestic sectors. The results further suggest that energy fuel mix will change considerably, such that oil will be the most highly consumed energy form (38.16%) followed by natural gas (36.57%), electricity (16.22%), coal (7.52%) and LPG (1.52%) in 2035. In view of higher demand forecast of fossil fuels consumption, this study recommends that government should take the initiative for harnessing renewable energy resources for meeting future energy demand to not only avert huge import bill but also achieving energy security and sustainability in the long run.
Photovoltaic Device Performance Evaluation Using an Open-Hardware System and Standard Calibrated Laboratory Instruments
Authors: Montes-Romero Jesús , Piliougine Michel , Muñoz José , Fernández Eduardo , De la Casa Juan
Published: November 2017

This article describes a complete characterization system for photovoltaic devices designed to acquire the current-voltage curve and to process the obtained data. The proposed system can be replicated for educational or research purposes without having wide knowledge about electronic engineering. Using standard calibrated instrumentation, commonly available in any laboratory, the accuracy of measurements is ensured. A capacitive load is used to bias the device due to its versatility and simplicity. The system includes a common part and an interchangeable part that must be designed depending on the electrical characteristics of each PV device. Control software, developed in LabVIEW, controls the equipment, performs automatic campaigns of measurements, and performs additional calculations in real time. These include different procedures to extrapolate the measurements to standard test conditions and methods to obtain the intrinsic parameters of the single diode model. A deep analysis of the uncertainty of measurement is also provided. Finally, the proposed system is validated by comparing the results obtained from some commercial photovoltaic modules to the measurements given by an independently accredited laboratory.
Anti-Freezing Mechanism Analysis of a Finned Flat Tube in an Air-Cooled Condenser
Authors: Guo Yonghong , Cheng Tongrui , Du Xiaoze , Yang Lijun
Published: November 2017

In cold winter weather, the air-cooled condensers (ACCs) face serious freezing risks, especially with part load of the power generating unit. Therefore, it is of benefit to investigate the heat transfer process between the turbine exhaust steam and cooling air, by which the freezing mechanism of the finned tube bundles can be revealed. In this work, the flow and heat transfer models of the cooling air coupling with the circulating water, are developed and numerically simulated for the anti-freezing analysis on basis of the finned tube bundles of the condenser cell. The local air-side heat transfer coefficient, condensate film development, and non-condensable gas development are obtained and analyzed in detail. The results show that, the most freezing risk happens at the fin base due to the highest air-side cooling capacity, besides the windward velocity, ambient temperature and turbine back pressure all determine the freezing risk with the constant inlet flow rate of the non-condensable gas. Furthermore, increasing fin thickness and decreasing fan rotating speed are the most effective anti-freezing measures. Additionally, increasing turbine back pressure can also be adopted to avoid ACC freezing, however the adjustment of outlet steam-air flow is not recommended.
Occupational Safety and Health Concerns in Logging: A Cross-Sectional Assessment in Virginia
Authors: Kim Sunwook , Nussbaum Maury , Schoenfisch Ashley , Barrett Scott , Bolding Michael , Dickerson Deborah
Published: November 2017

Increased logging mechanization has helped improve logging safety and health, yet related safety risks and concerns are not well understood. A cross-sectional study was completed among Virginia loggers. Participants (n = 122) completed a self-administered questionnaire focusing on aspects of safety and health related to logging equipment. Respondents were at a high risk of workplace injuries, with reported career and 12-month injury prevalences of 51% and 14%, respectively. Further, nearly all (98%) respondents reported experiencing musculoskeletal symptoms. Over half (57.4%) of respondents reported symptoms related to diesel exhaust exposure in their career. Few (15.6%), however, perceived their jobs to be dangerous. Based on the opinions and suggestions of respondents, three priority areas were identified for interventions: struck-by/against hazards, situational awareness (SA) during logging operations, and visibility hazards. To address these hazards, and to have a broader and more substantial positive impact on safety and health, we discuss the need for proactive approaches such as incorporating proximity technologies in a logging machine or personal equipment, and enhancing logging machine design to enhance safety, ergonomics, and SA.
Two Cycloartenol Synthases for Phytosterol Biosynthesis in Polygala tenuifolia Willd
Authors: Jin Mei Lan , Lee Woo Moon , Kim Ok Tae
Published: November 2017

Oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) are enzymes that play a key role in control of the biosynthesis of phytosterols and triterpene saponins. In order to uncover OSC genes from Polygala tenuifolia seedlings induced by methyl jasmonate (MeJA), RNA-sequencing analysis was performed using the Illumina sequencing platform. A total of 148,488,632 high-quality reads from two samples (control and the MeJA treated) were generated. We screened genes related to phytosterol and triterpene saponin biosynthesis and analyzed the transcriptional changes of differentially expressed unigene (DEUG) values calculated by fragments per kilobase million (FPKM). In our datasets, two full-length cDNAs of putative OSC genes, PtCAS1, and PtCAS2, were found, in addition to the PtBS (β-amyrin synthase) gene reported in our previous studies and the two cycloartenol synthase genes of P. tenuifolia. All genes were isolated and characterized in yeast cells. The functional expression of the two PtCAS genes in yeast cells showed that the genes all produce a cycloartenol as the sole product. When qRT-PCR analysis from different tissues was performed, the expressions of PtCAS1 and PtCAS2 were highest in flowers and roots, respectively. After MeJA treatment, the transcripts of PtCAS1 and PtCAS2 genes increased by 1.5- and 2-fold, respectively. Given these results, we discuss the potential roles of the two PtCAS genes in relation to triterpenoid biosynthesis.
Practical and Sustainable Synthesis of Optically Pure Levocabastine, a H1 Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Kang Sung , Nam Dong , Ahn Jaeseung , Lee Jaemin , Sim Jaehoon , Lee Jeeyeon , Suh Young-Ger
Published: November 2017

A practical and sustainable method for the synthesis of levocabastine hydrochloride (1), a H1 receptor antagonist for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, that can be applied to the industrial production of the compound has been developed. Substantial improvements over the previously reported procedure are achieved via efficient preparation of an optically active key intermediate (5) without chiral resolution and with a more effective detosylation, which complements the previous procedure. Notably, our process requires no chromatographic purification and provides levocabastine hydrochloride in greater than 99.5% purity in a 14.2% overall yield.
Larix decidua Bark as a Source of Phytoconstituents: An LC-MS Study
Authors: Baldan Valeria , Sut Stefania , Faggian Marta , Dalla Gassa Elena , Ferrari Sara , De Nadai Gabriele , Francescato Stefano , Baratto Gianni , Dall’Acqua Stefano
Published: November 2017

Larix decidua bark is a waste of the timber industry and is widely diffused in Northern Italy. This material can be considered a good source of antioxidants and phytoconstituents with possible use in cosmetic or nutraceutical products. In this study, simple extraction of larch bark was performed using mixtures of ethanol/water. Furthermore, the phytochemical composition of larch bark extract was studied using LC-MSn methods and the main constituents were identified as flavonoids, spiro-polyphenols, and procyanidins. To confirm the identification by LC-MS semi-preparative HPLC was performed in order to isolate the main constituents and verify the structures by 1H-NMR. Antioxidant properties were studied using an in vitro approach combining DPPH assay and LC-MS in order to establish different roles of the various classes of phytochemicasl of the extract. DPPH activity of some of the isolated compounds was also assessed. The overall results indicate this waste material as a good source of antioxidant compounds, mainly procyanidins, whichresulted the most active constituents in the DPPH assay.
Anti-Inflammatory Potential of 1-Nitro-2-Phenylethylene
Authors: Sugimoto Michelle , De Jesus Amazonas da Silva Márcia , Froede Brito Larissa , Dos Santos Borges Rosivaldo , Amaral Flávio , De Araujo Boleti Ana , Ordoñez Maritza , Carlos Tavares Jose , Pires Sousa Lirlandia , Lima Emerson
Published: November 2017

Inflammation is a reaction of the host to infectious or sterile stimuli and has the physiological purpose of restoring tissue homeostasis. However, uncontrolled or unresolved inflammation can lead to tissue damage, giving rise to a plethora of chronic inflammatory diseases, including metabolic syndrome and autoimmunity pathologies with eventual loss of organ function. Beta-nitrostyrene and its derivatives are known to have several biological activities, including anti-edema, vasorelaxant, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. However, few studies have been carried out regarding the anti-inflammatory effects of this class of compounds. Thereby, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of 1-nitro-2-phenylethene (NPe) using in vitro and in vivo assays. Firstly, the potential anti-inflammatory activity of NPe was evaluated by measuring TNF-α produced by human macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). NPe at non-toxic doses opposed the inflammatory effects induced by LPS stimulation, namely production of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and activation of NF-κB and ERK pathways (evaluated by phosphorylation of inhibitor of kappa B-alpha [IκB-α] and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 [ERK1/2], respectively). In a well-established model of acute pleurisy, pretreatment of LPS-challenged mice with NPe reduced neutrophil accumulation in the pleural cavity. This anti-inflammatory effect was associated with reduced activation of NF-κB and ERK1/2 pathways in NPe treated mice as compared to untreated animals. Notably, NPe was as effective as dexamethasone in both, reducing neutrophil accumulation and inhibiting ERK1/2 and IκB-α phosphorylation. Taken together, the results suggest a potential anti-inflammatory activity for NPe via inhibition of ERK1/2 and NF-κB pathways on leukocytes.
The Effect of Fluid Shear Stress on the In Vitro Release Kinetics of Sirolimus from PLGA Films
Authors: Zheng Quan , Chu Zhaowei , Li Xiaoming , Kang Hongyan , Yang Xiao , Fan Yubo
Published: November 2017

Drug-carrying coatings of stents implanted in blood vessels are exposed to various blood flows. This study investigated the effect of fluid shear stress on the in vitro release kinetics of sirolimus from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) films. The homemade parallel plate flow chamber was used to exert quantitative shear stress on the sirolimus-carrying film. By adjusting the flow rate of the release media in the chamber, three levels of shear stress (3.6, 12.0, and 36.0 dyn/cm2) were respectively applied. For each level of shear stress employed, the release kinetics of sirolimus from the PLGA films exhibited a four-phase profile: an initial burst release phase (Phase I), a lag phase (Phase II), a second burst release phase (Phase III), and a terminal release phase (Phase IV). During Phases I and II, sirolimus was released slowly and in small amounts (<10%); however, during Phases III and IV, the drug release increased considerably. Comparisons of different shear stresses indicated that greater shear stress resulted in earlier and faster sirolimus release, with more cumulative drug release observed. PLGA film degradations (molecular weight reduction, mass loss, and surface topographical variations) were also investigated to better explain the observed drug release behavior. Consequently, fluid shear stress was found to significantly accelerate the release of sirolimus from the PLGA matrices. Therefore, this study could provide a practical method for evaluating the in vitro drug release from polymer matrices under uniform shear stress, and might help improve the design of biodegradable coatings on drug-eluting stents.
Non-Contact Sensor for Long-Term Continuous Vital Signs Monitoring: A Review on Intelligent Phased-Array Doppler Sensor Design
Authors: Hall Travis , Lie Donald , Nguyen Tam , Mayeda Jill , Lie Paul , Lopez Jerry , Banister Ron
Published: November 2017

It has been the dream of many scientists and engineers to realize a non-contact remote sensing system that can perform continuous, accurate and long-term monitoring of human vital signs as we have seen in many Sci-Fi movies. Having an intelligible sensor system that can measure and record key vital signs (such as heart rates and respiration rates) remotely and continuously without touching the patients, for example, can be an invaluable tool for physicians who need to make rapid life-and-death decisions. Such a sensor system can also effectively help physicians and patients making better informed decisions when patients’ long-term vital signs data is available. Therefore, there has been a lot of research activities on developing a non-contact sensor system that can monitor a patient’s vital signs and quickly transmit the information to healthcare professionals. Doppler-based radio-frequency (RF) non-contact vital signs (NCVS) monitoring system are particularly attractive for long term vital signs monitoring because there are no wires, electrodes, wearable devices, nor any contact-based sensors involved so the subjects may not be even aware of the ubiquitous monitoring. In this paper, we will provide a brief review on some latest development on NCVS sensors and compare them against a few novel and intelligent phased-array Doppler-based RF NCVS biosensors we have built in our labs. Some of our NCVS sensor tests were performed within a clutter-free anechoic chamber to mitigate the environmental clutters, while most tests were conducted within the typical Herman-Miller type office cubicle setting to mimic a more practical monitoring environment. Additionally, we will show the measurement data to demonstrate the feasibility of long-term NCVS monitoring. The measured data strongly suggests that our latest phased array NCVS system should be able to perform long-term vital signs monitoring intelligently and robustly, especially for situations where the subject is sleeping without hectic movements nearby.
Crack Propagation Calculations for Optical Fibers under Static Bending and Tensile Loads Using Continuum Damage Mechanics
Authors: Chen Yunxia , Cui Yuxuan , Gong Wenjun
Published: November 2017

Static fatigue behavior is the main failure mode of optical fibers applied in sensors. In this paper, a computational framework based on continuum damage mechanics (CDM) is presented to calculate the crack propagation process and failure time of optical fibers subjected to static bending and tensile loads. For this purpose, the static fatigue crack propagation in the glass core of the optical fiber is studied. Combining a finite element method (FEM), we use the continuum damage mechanics for the glass core to calculate the crack propagation path and corresponding failure time. In addition, three factors including bending radius, tensile force and optical fiber diameter are investigated to find their impacts on the crack propagation process and failure time of the optical fiber under concerned situations. Finally, experiments are conducted and the results verify the correctness of the simulation calculation. It is believed that the proposed method could give a straightforward description of the crack propagation path in the inner glass core. Additionally, the predicted crack propagation time of the optical fiber with different factors can provide effective suggestions for improving the long-term usage of optical fibers.
A Human Body Pressure Distribution Imaging System Based on Wavelet Analysis and Resistance Tomography
Authors: Zhao Shuanfeng , Wang Wenbo , Guo Wei , Zhang Chuanwei
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a pressure distribution sensing system based on wavelet analysis and resistance tomography is proposed to overcome the shortcomings of a traditional electrode type pressure distribution sensor, which needs to be arranged with many electrodes and has a high production cost. The system uses ADS1256, a constant current source module, a serial communication module, a Raspberry host, a touch screen, and other components. The wavelet transform is used to preprocess the collected signal to improve the anti-jamming performance of the system. The method of resistance tomography is used to realize the real-time imaging of pressure distribution. Finally, the reliability of the system is verified using conductive silica gel as a sensitive material. The experimental results show that wavelet analysis preprocessing can significantly improve the quality of pressure distribution imaging.
Ameliorative Effects of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract on Growth Performance, Immune Function, Antioxidant Capacity, Biochemical Constituents, Liver Histopathology and Aflatoxin Residues in Broilers Exposed to Aflatoxin B1
Authors: Ali Rajput Shahid , Sun Lvhui , Zhang Niya , Mohamed Khalil Mahmoud , Gao Xin , Ling Zhao , Zhu Luoyi , Khan Farhan , Zhang Jiacai , Qi Desheng
Published: November 2017

Aflatoxicosis is a grave threat to the poultry industry. Dietary supplementation with antioxidants showed a great potential in enhancing the immune system; hence, protecting animals against aflatoxin B1-induced toxicity. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) one of the most well-known and powerful antioxidants. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of GSPE in the detoxification of AFB1 in broilers. A total of 300 one-day-old Cobb chicks were randomly allocated into five treatments of six replicates (10 birds per replicate), fed ad libitum for four weeks with the following dietary treatments: 1. Basal diet (control); 2. Basal diet + 1 mg/kg AFB1 contaminated corn (AFB1); 3. Basal diet + GSPE 250 mg/kg; (GSPE 250 mg/kg) 4. Basal diet + AFB1 (1 mg/kg) + GSPE 250 mg/kg; (AFB1 + GSPE 250 mg/kg) 5. Basal diet + AFB1 (1mg/kg) + GSPE 500 mg/kg, (AFB1 + GSPE 500 mg/kg). When compared with the control group, feeding broilers with AFB1 alone significantly reduced growth performance, serum immunoglobulin contents, negatively altered serum biochemical contents, and enzyme activities, and induced histopathological lesion in the liver. In addition, AFB1 significantly increased malondialdehyde content and decreased total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxide, glutathione-S transferase, glutathione reductase activities, and glutathione concentration within the liver and serum. The supplementation of GSPE (250 and 500 mg/kg) to AFB1 contaminated diet reduced AFB1 residue in the liver and significantly mitigated AFB1 negative effects. From these results, it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of GSPE has protective effects against aflatoxicosis caused by AFB1 in broiler chickens.
Composition of Groundwater Bacterial Communities before and after Air Surging in a Groundwater Heat Pump System According to a Pyrosequencing Assay
Authors: Kim Heejung , Mok Jong-Koo , Park Youngyun , Kaown Dugin , Lee Kang-Kun
Published: November 2017

The geothermal energy of groundwater has aroused increasing interest as a solution to climate change. The groundwater heat pumps (GWHP) system using groundwater is the most environmentally friendly system to date and has been examined in several studies. However, biological clogging by microorganisms negatively affects the thermal efficiency of the GWHP system. In this study, we employed air surging, the most popular among well management methods, and pyrosequencing to analyze the genetic diversity in bacteria before and after air surging in a geothermal well. Furthermore, the diversity of dominant bacterial genera and those related to clogging were evaluated. The bacterial diversity of the groundwater well increased after air surging. Nevertheless, the proportion of bacterial genera thought to be related to microbiological clogging decreased. In cooling and heating systems based on the geothermal energy of groundwater, the wells should be maintained regularly by air surging to reduce efficiency problems caused by microbiological clogging and to prevent secondary damage to human health, e.g., pneumonia due to human pathogenic bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter.
Resonant Absorption of Surface Sausage and Surface Kink Modes under Photospheric Conditions
Authors: Yu Dae Jung , Van Doorsselaere Tom , Goossens Marcel
Published: November 2017

We study the effect of resonant absorption of surface sausage and surface kink modes under photospheric conditions where the slow surface sausage modes undergo resonant damping in the slow continuum and the surface kink modes in the slow and Alfvén continua at the transitional layers. We use recently derived analytical formulas to obtain the damping rate (time). By considering linear density and linear pressure profiles for the transitional layers, we show that resonant absorption in the slow continuum could be an efficient mechanism for the wave damping of the slow surface sausage and slow surface kink modes while the damping rate of the slow surface kink mode in the Alfvén continuum is weak. It is also found that the resonant damping of the fast surface kink mode is much stronger than that of the slow surface kink mode, showing a similar efficiency as under coronal conditions. It is worth noting that the slow body sausage and kink modes can also resonantly damp in the slow continuum for those linear profiles.
Les ingénieurs formés par la voie de l’apprentissage. Les recruteurs les jugent plus compétents mais continuent de recruter en priorité les ingénieurs formés par les grandes écoles
Authors: Debuchy Delphine
Published: November 2017

Dans un contexte de forte compétitivité, les ingénieurs représentent une main-d’œuvre hautement qualifiée et recherchée par les entreprises françaises. Datant de près de trois siècles, leur système de formation est bousculé, les écoles sont contraintes de réagir. L’accès au titre d’ingénieur par la voie de l’apprentissage constitue un changement surprenant. Nous interrogeons les éventuels impacts de ce dispositif sur les pratiques de recrutement des ingénieurs.
Les principaux défis de l’expatriation au féminin
Authors: Attia Marianne , Melin Christopher
Published: November 2017

La part des femmes dans le contingent des expatriés au sein des organisations demeure relativement faible comparée à celle des hommes. Afin d’interpréter ces statistiques, notre article a pour but d’étudier les principaux défis liés à l’expatriation au féminin. Pour ce faire, nous avons réalisé 18 entretiens auprès de responsables des ressources humaines à la mobilité internationale (n=9) et de femmes expatriées (n=9). Notre étude met ainsi en avant des préjugés toujours existants qui freinent l’expatriation des femmes et rend également compte de difficultés rencontrées par le conjoint homme suiveur. Enfin, nous formulons quelques recommandations aux organisations désireuses de développer la part des femmes dans leur contingent d’expatriés.
Gérer une relation d’affaires entre deux PME dans un contexte international
Authors: Beddi Hanane , Mayrhofer Ulrike , Rateau Jérôme
Published: November 2017

Cet article mobilise le modèle d’interaction développé par les chercheurs de l’IMP Group (Industrial Marketing and Purchasing Group) pour analyser le déroulement d’une relation d’affaires engagée entre une PME allemande et son distributeur français. Notre étude de cas permet de retracer la rupture de cette relation en montrant en quoi elle est le résultat d’un processus d’interaction. Les résultats soulignent l’importance de la confiance mutuelle et des liens interpersonnels dans les relations d’affaires, notamment lorsque des conflits se développent dans un contexte international.
L’application de la géophysique marine au diagnostic subaquatique
Authors: Pelgas Philippe , Ichstchenko Simon , Le Faou Yann , Moysan Yann , Wirtz Bruno
Published: November 2017

Les surfaces des diagnostics subaquatiques prescrits peuvent très vite frôler le gigantisme, ce qui rend inadéquate la méthode traditionnelle de prospection de la totalité des fonds avec des plongeurs. La recherche d’artefacts, tant en milieu maritime que fluvial, nécessite le recours aux outils acoustiques et magnétométriques. A la création du service des activités subaquatiques de l’Inrap en 2011, une réflexion a été menée afin de transposer les protocoles d’acquisition de données géophysiques issues de l’industrie et de la Marine aux opérations de diagnostics préventifs. Trois catégories de systèmes sont identifiables : ceux qui permettent d’« observer » le fond (sonar latéral ou sidescan sonar) voire de le topographier (sondeurs multifaisceaux ou SMF), ceux qui mesurent le champ magnétique et ceux qui pénètrent le sédiment en profondeur (sondeur de sédiments ou subbotom profiler).
Connexions vibratoires tibétaines
Authors: Diemberger Hildegard , Ramble Charles
Published: November 2017

Au Tibet, les sons peuvent guérir, rendre malade, protéger, défier, apaiser, polluer, purifier, séduire ou même libérer des attachements mondains. Les sons de l’environnement naturel se mêlent aux musiques et aux psalmodies des humains au sein de paysages sonores intimement interconnectés. Alors que les aspects spirituels et les pouvoirs guérisseurs des musiques rituelles bouddhiques ont souvent été décrits, le kaléidoscope des sons naturels et humains exécutés des siècles durant semble quant à lui moins connu. Ce portfolio explore l’histoire et les effets de certains de ces paysages sonores sacrés.
How the Human Resource Practices of Chinese MNEs in Africa Create Economic Growth and Livelihood Options
Authors: Berning Sue Claire , Ambrosius Judith
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the economic development impact of multinational enterprises (MNEs) in developing countries. In particular, the relationship between MNEs' developmental effect on economic growth and poverty reduction and their use of human resource management (HRM) practices will be examined. The regional focus will be on Chinese MNEs in Africa. The paper is conceptual in nature by analyzing relevant key literatures, investigating cases of Chinese MNEs in Africa, and finally deriving a systematic conceptual framework.
Internet Addiction
Authors: Smyth Shaun Joseph , Curran Kevin , Mc Kelvey Nigel
Published: November 2017

Internet addiction is a recent phenomenon which describes a state where people become so involved in online behaviour to the detriment of other aspects of their lives. Treatment camps for young people have sprung up around in a bid to address this contemporary issue. This chapter examines the factors in Internet addiction, its definition, the complications which exist in the various diagnostic methods of successfully diagnosing Internet addiction and the criticism directed towards some of these diagnostic methods. We also examine which individuals are at risk of developing this condition. We look at positive diagnosis of the addiction and the resultant effects it has on an individual's family life, employment, social life and personal wellbeing before finally looking at possible methods and treatments that can be used in treating Internet addiction.
Selfie-Objectification as a Facet of the Social Media Craze Among Youths in Nigeria
Authors: Endong Floribert Patrick Calvain
Published: November 2017

The advent of the social media in Nigeria has given rise to a plurality of information technology syndromes as well as multiple forms of social leprosies. One of these social leprosies has been selfie-objectification manifested by naked and highly sexualized selfies. As a form of social pathology, selfie-objectification has particularly engulfed the youths, corrupting the latter's innocence and affecting the positive relationship culture among them. Using observations and secondary sources, this chapter explores two opposing perspectives on selfie-objectification in Nigeria namely conservative and liberal. It criticizes the conservative reading of the self-objectification paradigm, arguing that any interpretation of selfie-objectification by Nigerian youths solely as a culturally insensitive act and a western cultural import is myopic and objectionable. The phenomenon should rather be read along the line of Nigerian youths' visible embrace of a liberal and postmodern philosophy of life.
Women and Careers
Authors: Ayari Asma
Published: November 2017

Even though women now account for almost half of the labor force, women's work remains highly marked by a strong vertical and horizontal segmentation and continues to be less well paid than that of men. This chapter presents the glass ceiling and its consequences on the career of the women. The authors start by identifying some obstacles responsible for creating GC effects, and giving a set of recommendations to mitigate its effects.
A Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithm Inspired by the Effect of Sunlight on the Leaf Germination
Authors: Hosseini Farzaneh , Kaedi Marjan
Published: November 2017

This paper develops a nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm named sun and leaf optimization (SLO) which is inspired by the effect of sunlight on the leaves germination. In SLO, candidate solutions in the state space are considered as leaves grown on a tree, and high-quality solutions are considered as greener leaves germinated in the direction of sunlight. On a tree, usually greener leaves are found closed to each other, because such area is probably exposed more to the sun and hence it is suitable for hosting other greener leaves. Inspired by this phenomenon, in SLO, during the search, the authors take the existence of high quality solutions as a sign of promising areas for finding optimum; thus, they generate more candidate solutions near the higher quality solutions to search those areas more painstakingly. Wind effect is imitated to escape the local optima. The evaluation results demonstrate the high performance of proposed algorithm.
Efficient Job Scheduling in Computational Grid Systems Using Wind Driven Optimization Technique
Authors: Ghosh Tarun Kumar , Das Sanjoy
Published: November 2017

Computational Grid has been employed for solving complex and large computation-intensive problems with the help of geographically distributed, heterogeneous and dynamic resources. Job scheduling is a vital and challenging function of a computational Grid system. Job scheduler has to deal with many heterogeneous computational resources and to take decisions concerning the dynamic, efficient and effective execution of jobs. Optimization of the Grid performance is directly related with the efficiency of scheduling algorithm. To evaluate the efficiency of a scheduling algorithm, different parameters can be used, the most important of which are makespan and flowtime. In this paper, a very recent evolutionary heuristic algorithm known as Wind Driven Optimization (WDO) is used for efficiently allocating jobs to resources in a computational Grid system so that makespan and flowtime are minimized. In order to measure the efficacy of WDO, Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) are considered for comparison. This study proves that WDO produces best results.
Adaptive Integrated Unit to User's Equipment for the Spectral and Energy Efficiency in Cognitive Networks
Authors: Dotche K. A. , Diawuo K.
Published: November 2017

The work proposes an adaptive integrated unit to user's equipment for the spectral and energy efficiency, under severe channel fading condition like in 5Generation cellular network. The spectral and energy efficiency are formulated through an optimization problem under a coverage sensitivity criterion. This criterion is the ratio of the mobile user transmit power over its received power. The criterion is a typical awareness parameter that could help in effective counting of the number of active users within a cell coverage or in multi-transmitters coverage system. The criterion is meant to be embedded into the user equipment in such a way to provide much information about the device status (e.g. Idle, or active or off). The unit block diagram includes a downtilt switching tool that aims at decreasing the channel fading and inter-cell interference. The system transfer function is then evaluated. The obtained results show an enhanced spectral efficiency, and the energy consumption is also considerably reduced when the coverage area seems to be idle. Hence, the unit could be applied to a transmitter for power minimization as the objective in the absence of no-cell load.
The Mediating Effect of Interpersonal Trust on Virtual Team's Collaboration
Authors: David Kauffmann , Golan Carmi
Published: November 2017

This article examines the relationship between task-communication and five collaborative processes by exploring the mediating effect of interpersonal trust in a virtual team's environment. A multiple mediation model was developed to examine this relationship where cognitive-based trust and affective-based trust are defined as mediation variables between task-communication and the five processes of collaboration. The main results of this study show a significant correlation with a large effect size between task communication, trust and collaboration. Also, interpersonal trust is playing an important role as a mediating element in the relationship between task communication and collaboration. This is where the emotional side of trust is no less important than the rational side, if not even more, in some collaborative processes.
Knowledge Forms and Enterprise Innovation Performance
Authors: Sun Qian , Hou Renyong
Published: November 2017

Enterprises cannot innovate without knowledge, but the relationship between different knowledge forms and enterprise innovation performance remains unclear. Using data from hi-tech firms in Biolake of Optics Valley in China, this article explores the mechanism of knowledge forms and enterprise innovation performance. Results show that (1) knowledge stock has an inverse U-shaped relationship with enterprise innovation performance; (2) knowledge flows from internal R&D efforts and external collaborative innovation are positively correlated with enterprise innovation performance; (3) knowledge stock plays a positive moderating effect on knowledge flow from internal R&D efforts and enterprise innovation performance and a negative moderating effect on knowledge flow from external collaborative innovation and enterprise innovation performance. Suggestions about knowledge accumulation strategies and the knowledge resource loop in knowledge management practices are proposed.
Multi-Criteria Recommender Systems
Authors: Hdioud Ferdaous , Frikh Bouchra , Ouhbi Brahim , Khalil Ismail
Published: November 2017

A Recommender System (RS) works much better for users when it has more information. In Collaborative Filtering, where users' preferences are expressed as ratings, the more ratings elicited, the more accurate the recommendations. New users present a big challenge for a RS, which has to providing content fitting their preferences. Generally speaking, such problems are tackled by applying Active Learning (AL) strategies that consist on a brief interview with the new user, during which she is asked to give feedback about a set selected items. This article presents a comprehensive study of the most important techniques used to handle this issue focusing on AL techniques. The authors then propose a novel item selection approach, based on Multi-Criteria ratings and a method of computing weights of criteria inspired by a multi-criteria decision making approach. This selection method is deployed to learn new users' profiles, to identify the reasons behind which items are deemed to be relevant compared to the rest items in the dataset.
Co-Design System for Template Matching Using Dedicated Co-Processor and Cuckoo Search
Authors: Cardoso Alexandre de Vasconcelos , Tavares Yuri Marchetti , Nedjah Nadia , Mourelle Luiza de Macedo
Published: November 2017

Template matching is an important method used for object tracking, in order to find a given-pattern within a frame sequence. Pearson's Correlation Coefficient (PCC) is widely used to quantify the similarity between two images. Since this coefficient calculus is computed for each image pixel, it entails a computationally expensive process. In this article, an embedded co-design system is proposed, which implements the template matching, in order to accelerate this process. The dedicated co-processor, responsible for performing the PCC computation, is used in two configurations: serial and pipeline. Cuckoo Search (CS) is used to improve the search for the maximum correlation point of the image and the used template. The search process is implemented in software and is run by an embedded general-purpose processor. The performance results are compared to those obtained through Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) using the same hardware approach.
GPS Patents and Their Effects on Our Future and Rights
Authors: Margulis Chloe S. , Galli Brian J.
Published: November 2017

The interest in GPS technology has led to the filing of many GPS patents. Although not all the filed patents result in the production of final products, there has been a rise in the question of GPS Technology and its ethical values in relation to privacy, rights, and government surveillance. Aside from covering the above issue, this paper will also discuss the branching of from GPS technology, development, and ethical implications to GIS mapping and RFID tagging in modern society. The main dilemma addressed will focus on the legality of taking people's locations in patented applications, devices, and programs, and using them for various needs, whether the user is aware or unaware of this. Will this be considered an infringement on personal rights and liberties, specifically pertaining to the Fourth Amendment?
Effects of Lithium Salt on Interfacial Reactions between SiC and EC-Based Solutions in Lithium Secondary Batteries
Authors: Jeong Soon Ki
Published: November 2017

Electrochemical reactions occurring at a SiC electrode were investigated to gain insight into the effects of lithium salts, such as LiPF6, LiClO4, LiCF3SO3, and LiBF4, on the interfacial resistance. Lithium salts were found to exert little effect on the magnitude of the resistance of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI). In contrast, the charge-transfer reactions observed in the LiCF3SO3-containing solution exhibited the smallest resistance. Charge-discharge analysis revealed that the nature of the SEI was significantly different from that formed in ethylene carbonate-based solutions containing different lithium salts. The SiC electrode exhibited large discharge capacity and low coulombic efficiency in the LiCF3SO3-containing solution. This might be closely related to the smallest charge-transfer resistance.
Investigation of Thermoplastic Starch/Fiber Blend: Effect of Tapioca Residue on the Mechanical Properties and Surface Study
Authors: Thongjun Yupawan , Kaisone Thiti , Hanthanon Pran , Wiphanurat Chanon , Ouipanich Sumate , Nampitch Tarinee
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to characterize thermoplastic starch containing corn starch and tapioca residues, which were used as reinforcement in a blended matrix. In the process, the composites were prepared with different tapioca residue contents at 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 % by weight using compression molding at 135 °C for 8 min. Subsequently, their mechanical, thermal and morphology properties were evaluated. The results showed that the reinforcing effect of tapioca residue lead an increase in the stiffness of the samples. Young’s modulus increased with higher tapioca residue content. When the loading of tapioca residue increased tensile strength for 80/20 and 70/30 mixtures from 7.46 to 8.58 MPa. In addition to the highest of tapioca residue could increase tensile strength dramatically. Further, the glass transition temperature tended to decrease with the increased loading of tapioca residue. Moreover, the morphology showed that the increment of tapioca residue content appeared embedded in the polymer matrix.