bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Social and Regional Lessons of a Complex Roma Integration Programme (Case Study from a Hungarian Rural Area)
Authors: Tésits Róbert , Levente Alpek B. , Szabó Rebeka
Published: February 2016

The overall purpose of this study is to find out how to facilitate the integration of Roma people into society with the help of settlement and regional development. This is examined in the context of a specific project during which the site has been liquidated. The question arises as to what extent the implementation of the programme reached its target. The essay examines the implications of the programme for further development on the settlement concerned. The programme illustrates the importance of a complex approach, and the importance of interacting factors during the convergence of disadvantaged groups. This synergetic interaction is evaluated because it is extremely important with regard to the long-term sustainability and success of the programme. However, with the change of housing conditions, the immediate environment is also changing and one has to adapt to the new environment, which in many cases can lead to conflicts as well.
Investigation of Oxygen Diffusion in Irradiated UO2 with MD Simulation
Authors: Günay Seçkin D.
Published: February 2016

In this study, irradiated UO2 is analyzed by atomistic simulation method to obtain diffusion coefficient of oxygen ions. For this purpose, a couple of molecular dynamics (MD) supercells containing Frenkel, Schottky, vacancy and interstitial types for both anion and cation defects is constructed individually. Each of their contribution is used to calculate the total oxygen diffusion for both intrinsic and extrinsic ranges. The results display that irradiation-induced defects contribute the most to the overall oxygen diffusion at temperatures below 800–1,200 K. This result is quite sensible because experimental data shows that, from room temperature to about 1,500 K, irradiation-induced swelling decreases and irradiated UO2 lattice parameter is gradually recovered because defects annihilate each other. Another point is that, concentration of defects enhances the irradiation-induced oxygen diffusion. Irradiation type also has the similar effect, namely oxygen diffusion in crystals irradiated with α-particles is more than the crystals irradiated with neutrons. Dynamic Frenkel defects dominate the oxygen diffusion data above 1,500—1,800 K. In all these temperature ranges, thermally induced Frenkel defects make no significant contribution to overall oxygen diffusion.
The Effects of 17 Weeks of Ballet Training on the Autonomic Modulation, Hormonal and General Biochemical Profile of Female Adolescents
Authors: da Silva Carla Cristiane , Goldberg Tamara Beres Lederer , Soares-Caldeira Lúcio Flávio , Oliveira Ricardo dos Santos , de Paula Ramos Solange , Nakamura Fábio Yuzo
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to examine the alterations in physiological and biochemical markers, after 17 weeks of ballet training in high level ballet dancers. Twenty four female ballet dancers from 12 to 15 years old took part in the study. The study followed 17 weeks of ballet training and analyzed changes in body composition, the autonomic nervous system and biochemical variables before and after (post) training. The internal training load was obtained using the session rating of perceived exertion (session-RPE) method, calculated as the mean weekly session-RPE, monotony and strain. After 17 weeks of training there were significant increases in body mass, height, lean body mass, total protein, urea, hemoglobin concentration, testosterone and thyroxine. During this period, decreases in relative body fat, uric acid, red blood cells, C-reactive protein, and ferritin were also found. After the training period, the autonomic modulation demonstrated significant positive alterations, such as increases in parasympathetic related indices. Based on the results obtained we concluded that ballet training led to improvements in body composition and autonomic modulation. In general hematological and biochemical variables demonstrated that the training did not have adverse effects on the health state of the adolescents.
Comparisons of a Multi-Frequency Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis to the Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry Scan in Healthy Young Adults Depending on their Physical Activity Level
Authors: Verney Julien , Schwartz Chloé , Amiche Saliha , Pereira Bruno , Thivel David
Published: February 2016

This study aimed at comparing BIA and DXA results in assessing body composition in young adults depending on their physical activity level. Eighty healthy 19-30 years old subjects were enrolled and their body composition (Fat Mass and Fat-Free Mass) was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and by a newly developed Bioelectrical Impedance Analyzer (BIA - Tanita MC780). A seven-day physical activity level was assessed using a 3-axial accelerometer. DXA-FM% and BIA-FM% were correlated (p<0.001; r= 0.852; ICC [IC95%]: 0.84 [0.75 – 0.90]; concordance coefficient: 0.844). DXA-FFM and BIA FFM were correlated (p<0.001; r=0.976; ICC [IC95%]: 0.95 [0.93 – 0.97], concordance coefficient: 0.955). DXA and BIA measurements of FM% and FFM were highly correlated in both boys and girls regardless of the physical activity level. Compared with DXA scans, newly developed bioelectrical impedance analyzers provide satisfactory fat mass and lean mass measures in healthy young women and men, despite their physical activity level.
Iron Metabolism in Field Hockey Players During an Annual Training Cycle
Authors: Podgórski Tomasz , Kryściak Jakub , Konarski Jan , Domaszewska Katarzyna , Durkalec-Michalski Krzysztof , Strzelczyk Ryszard , Pawlak Maciej
Published: February 2016

Post-physical training changes in iron metabolism in the human body often occur. To fully describe these processes, fifteen male Polish National Team field hockey players (age 27.7 ± 5.2 years, body mass 72.8 ± 7.6 kg and body height 177.1 ± 5.7 cm) were examined in three phases of an annual training cycle: preparatory (T1), competitive (T2) and transition (T3). To assess aerobic fitness, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was evaluated. Based on the iron concentration, the changes in total iron binding capacity (TIBC), unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) and other selected haematological indicators (haemoglobin, erythrocytes, mean corpuscular haemoglobin - MCH) in iron metabolism were estimated. The average values of maximum oxygen uptake increased from 54.97 ± 3.62 ml·kg−1·min−1 in T1 to 59.93 ± 3.55 ml·kg−1·min−1 in T2 (p<0.05) and then decreased to 56.21 ± 4.56 ml·kg−1·min−1 in T3 (p<0.05). No statistically significant changes in the erythrocyte count were noted. The MCH and haemoglobin concentration decreased between T1 and T2. The maximal exercise test caused a significant (p<0.05) increase in the plasma iron concentration during the competition and transition phases. Progressive but non-significant increases in resting iron concentration, TIBC and UIBC in the analysed annual training cycle were noted. To show global changes in iron metabolism in the human body, it is necessary to determine additional variables, i.e. UIBC, TIBC, haemoglobin, MCH or the erythrocyte count. The direction of changes in iron metabolism depends on both the duration and intensity of the physical activity and the fitness level of the subjects. Dietary intake of iron increases the level of this trace element and prevents anaemia associated with training overloads.
Analysis of the Association Between Motor and Anthropometric Variables with Change of Direction Speed and Reactive Agility Performance
Authors: Sattler Tine , Sekulić Damir , Spasić Miodrag , Perić Mia , Krolo Ante , Uljević Ognjen , Kondrič Miran
Published: February 2016

There is an evident lack of studies examining the factors associated with reactive agility performances. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between anthropometrics, body composition, jumping capacity, reactive strength, and balance with a stop-and-go change of direction speed (CODS) and reactive agility. The total sample comprised 39 male (body height: 182.95 ± 5.19 cm; body mass: 80.66 ± 7.69 kg) and 34 female (body height: 171.45 ± 6.81 cm; body mass: 61.95 ± 6.70 kg) college-level athletes (21.9 ± 1.9 years of age). The variables included body height, body mass, the percentage of body fat (BF%), balance as measured by an overall-stability index, the countermovement jump (CMJ), a reactive-strength index (RSI), stop-and-go reactive agility, and stop-and-go CODS. To define the associations between motor and anthropometric variables with CODS and reactive agility, the participants were clustered into three achievement groups based on their CODS and reactive agility performances. The ANOVA showed a significant difference between the CODS-based achievement groups for the CMJ (F test = 3.45 and 3.60 for males and females, respectively; p < 0.05), the RSI (F test = 6.94 and 5.29 for males and females, respectively; p < 0.05), and balance (F test = 3.47; p < 0.05 for males). In females, the reactive agility achievement groups differed significantly in the RSI (F test = 6.46; p < 0.05), the CMJ (F test = 4.35; p < 0.05) and BF% (F test = 4.07; p < 0.05), which is further confirmed by discriminant canonical analysis (Can R = 0.74; p < 0.05). The results confirm the need for independent evaluation and training for both CODS and reactive agility performance in sports.
Attack Coverage in High-Level Men’s Volleyball: Organization on the Edge of Chaos?
Authors: Laporta Lorenzo , Nikolaidis Pantelis , Thomas Luke , Afonso José
Published: February 2016

Change is pervasive, but emerging patterns are occasionally detectable through analysis of systemic behaviors. Match analysis uses these patterns in order to reduce the degree of improvisation and to optimize the training process. However, it is possible that certain game phases elude systematic patterning. In this vein, our aim was to analyze the case of attack coverage in men’s volleyball, as we suspected it would elude systematic patterning and has received negligible attention in scientific research. We analyzed the occurrence of attack coverage in 4544 plays of the 2011 Volleyball World League. A Chi-square test with residual adjusted values was applied to explore significant associations between variables. A Monte Carlo correction was applied, as some cells had n<5. Effect sizes were determined using Cramer’s V. Overall, attack coverage occurred in 3.89% of ball possessions, and 23 distinct structures emerged. These structures lacked significant associations with the game complex, setting zone, and effect of attack coverage. Conversely, attack coverage structures showed significant associations with the attack zone and tempo, with very strong effect sizes (V=0.472 and V=0.521, respectively). As certain attack zones are deeply associated with attack tempo, it is apparent that quicker attack plays affect attack coverage structuring, promoting the formation of less complex structures. Ultimately, attack coverage structures seem to depend on momentary constraints, thereby rendering rigid systematization impracticable. Still, we contended that a principle-based approach might be suitable. This invites researchers to rethink how to interpret game regularities.
Martial Art Training and Cognitive Performance in Middle-Aged Adults
Authors: Douris Peter , Douris Christopher , Balder Nicole , LaCasse Michael , Rand Amir , Tarapore Freya , Zhuchkan Aleskey , Handrakis John
Published: February 2016

Cognitive performance includes the processes of attention, memory, processing speed, and executive functioning, which typically declines with aging. Previous research has demonstrated that aerobic and resistance exercise improves cognitive performance immediately following exercise. However, there is limited research examining the effect that a cognitively complex exercise such as martial art training has on these cognitive processes. Our study compared the acute effects of 2 types of martial art training to aerobic exercise on cognitive performance in middle-aged adults. We utilized a repeated measures design with the order of the 3 exercise conditions randomly assigned and counterbalanced. Ten recreational middle-aged martial artists (mean age = 53.5 ± 8.6 years) participated in 3 treatment conditions: a typical martial art class, an atypical martial art class, and a one-hour walk at a self-selected speed. Cognitive performance was assessed by the Stroop Color and Word test. While all 3 exercise conditions improved attention and processing speed, only the 2 martial art conditions improved the highest order of cognitive performance, executive function. The effect of the 2 martial art conditions on executive function was not different. The improvement in executive function may be due to the increased cortical demand required by the more complex, coordinated motor tasks of martial art exercise compared to the more repetitive actions of walking.
A Practical Approach to Operational Hydrodynamic Slug Analysis in Pipelines
Authors: Galatro Daniela , Ercolani Dario , Fuertbauer Daniel
Published: February 2016

Hydrodynamic slugs in pipelines are usually analysed by using steady-state flow simulation software as a first approximation and then modelled in transient simulation software in order to get more accurate values. In this work, the ILF approach for hydrodynamic analysis is presented by using an empirical and a mechanistic method for steady-state simulations and by using a transient approach. For both, steady-state and transient simulations commercial software is applied. Furthermore, a new pseudo-transient approach as an alternative to the Lagrangian slug tracking scheme that is currently tested is presented. A set of operational hydrodynamic slug examples illustrates the use and accuracy of both commercial simulation programs and the newly developed pseudo-transient approach. Finally, a set of considerations for the hydrodynamic slug analysis in pipelines is proposed as a guide for accurate estimation of the slug properties.
Enhancement of MSF Using Microbubbles
Authors: Okazaki Takahiro , Kawara Zensaku , Yokomine Takehiko , Kunugi Tomoaki
Published: February 2016

Multi Stage Flash (MSF) distillation plants are widely used in saline water desalination. In order to enhance MSF, it is important to increase an evaporation rate in the flashing stage. A spray flash method, in which superheated water jets are injected through nozzles into a depressurized environment to increase the gas/liquid interface area, is a promising technique to make the increase of evaporation rate, which leads directly to the reduction of energy consumption and cost of the MSF plant. In this paper, the introduction of microbubbles into the spray jet as the nucleation sites to increase the evaporation rate of the spray flash is proposed. The spray flash behaviours with/without microbubbles at outside/inside of the nozzle-inside were observed by means of a high speed camera to investigate the mechanism of enhancement of spray flash due to microbubbles. Moreover, the number densities of droplets and bubble volume increase were obtained from visualized images in order to discuss quantitatively on the effects of introduction of microbubbles.
The Thermosiphon Cooling System of the ATLAS Experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Battistin M. , Berry S. , Bitadze A. , Bonneau P. , Botelho-Direito J. , Boyd G. , Corbaz F. , Crespo-Lopez O. , Da Riva E. , Degeorge C. , Deterre C. , DiGirolamo B. , Doubek M. , Favre G. , Godlewski J. , Hallewell G. , Katunin S. , Lefils D. , Lombard D. , McMahon S. , Nagai K. , Robinson D. , Rossi C. , Rozanov A. , Vacek V. , Zwalinski L.
Published: February 2016

The silicon tracker of the ATLAS experiment at CERN Large Hadron Collider will operate around –15°C to minimize the effects of radiation damage. The present cooling system is based on a conventional evaporative circuit, removing around 60 kW of heat dissipated by the silicon sensors and their local electronics. The compressors in the present circuit have proved less reliable than originally hoped, and will be replaced with a thermosiphon. The working principle of the thermosiphon uses gravity to circulate the coolant without any mechanical components (compressors or pumps) in the primary coolant circuit. The fluorocarbon coolant will be condensed at a temperature and pressure lower than those in the on-detector evaporators, but at a higher altitude, taking advantage of the 92 m height difference between the underground experiment and the services located on the surface. An extensive campaign of tests, detailed in this paper, was performed using two small-scale thermosiphon systems. These tests confirmed the design specifications of the full-scale plant and demonstrated operation over the temperature range required for ATLAS. During the testing phase the system has demonstrated unattended long-term stable running over a period of several weeks. The commissioning of the full scale thermosiphon is ongoing, with full operation planned for late 2015.
Electrocatalytic Activity of Three Carbon Materials for the In-situ Production of Hydrogen Peroxide and Its Application to the Electro-Fenton Heterogeneous Process
Authors: García-Rodríguez Orlando , Bañuelos Jennifer A. , Rico-Zavala Arturo , Godínez Luis A. , Rodríguez-Valadez Francisco J.
Published: February 2016

The in-situ generation of hydrogen peroxide in the electro-Fenton process is paramount. For this reason, in this research the electrocatalytic activity of three carbon materials was evaluated in the reaction of oxygen reduction via two electrons. Furthermore, in order to eliminate the use of iron salts in solution (homogeneous process), the iron was electrodeposited on the surface of the carbon material and was applied in a heterogeneous electro-Fenton process for the degradation of methyl orange dye. The largest amount of generated H2O2 was achieved with the Carbon Felt (CF) electrode (460 mg L−1) without iron after 60 minutes. The electrodes with electrodeposited iron were characterized by SEM and EDS, which showed that the surface of the Carbon Sponge (CS) electrode had the largest amount of iron (23.84 %). However, the CF electrode showed a greater and faster degradation of the dye (98 %) after 30 minutes of treatment. The CF material was the best and most-viable choice of material compared to the CS and Carbon Cloth (CC) for industrial application in electro-Fenton processes, due to its greater catalytic activity in the production of H2O2, uniform distribution of iron, more efficient TOC removal and lower cost per cm2 of material.
Low-carbon Building Innovation Trends and Policy Pespectives in Hungary between 2020 and 2030
Authors: Fogarassy Csaba , Horvath Balint
Published: February 2016

Regarding the aspects of climate policy, the building sector in Hungary is one of the best performing industries. This means that the GHGs (Greenhouse Gasses) the sector emits can be decreased more effectively and at less cost than in the case of other sectors. This is no surprise in the European Union, since there is a continual demand on behalf of society to develop old and outdated buildings, thus modern technological solutions also inherently result in operating efficacy. The ‘climate policy targeted’ development of the built environment based on EU funds is thus one of the most popular developments amongst European Union Member States. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess the climate policy effects of the presently preferred strategy approach(es) between 2020 and 2030.
Case study: Examples of Wooden Vernacular Architecture - Turkish Houses in Western Anatolia
Authors: Yilmaz Karaman Özgül , Tanaç Zeren Mine
Published: February 2016

Wooden material is described as the oldest construction material along with stone. In the historical process, especially for the buildings of shelter, timber construction components are seen to be used as primary and indispensable structural system components in different geographies of the world as well as Anatolia. This paper focuses on timber-frame structures of four different settlements from Western Anatolia. It is aimed to analyze the traditional techniques, in order to transmit our cultural heritage to the next generations, as well as obtaining some data on construction techniqes to be used for creating alternative solutions to the house production of today.
Rational and Relational Bases of Public Managers’ New Profiles in the Context of Trust Research
Authors: Kożuch Barbara , Sienkiewicz-Małyjurek Katarzyna , Luty Lidia
Published: February 2016

Competencies are a set of distinctive resources and opportunities. They relate to specific capabilities of management and to performance of management methods. In the catalogue of existing managerial competencies, an increasingly important role is played by trust. The deep insight in this field of literature gives grounds for the inference that trust is rather a means to achieve public organisations’ goals, than being the end in itself. Therefore in this article we have assumed, that contemporary competencies, to a large degree, rely on trust which is rationally and relationally rooted.

The main aim of this paper is to identify and evaluate components of trust with reference to the competences of public managers mirrored in their new profiles. To achieve the goal of the article, publications of the field of organisational studies and public management which aim to show the importance of creating trust within an organisation were reviewed to identify main managerial competences analysed in the context of public trust as an important factor of improving public organisations. Moreover, the results of a survey with 93 respondents carried out in 2014 in 8 units of local public administration from the Malopolska Region were used. As a result the main components of trust in new public managers’ profiles have been identified and assessed.
Organizational Culture Based on Competences in Public Service – Example of the Competency Model in the Customs Service
Authors: Jabłońska-Wołoszyn Maria
Published: February 2016

Using competencies to manage business organizations and to base a competency model on attributes of a preferable organizational culture is a common practice in business. Competency criteria allow improvement of workers’ performance by informing them what behaviors further achieving the required organizational goals. Public organizations, faced with challenges of being a part of the European Union, have been learning how to use competencies to pursue new goals and create new organizational cultures of the offices.

The goal of this article is to present practices of the competencies evaluation usage in the Customs Service to shape behaviors accordingly to its preferable organizational culture.
Staff Turnover as a Strategy of Knowledge Management: Empirical Evidence from Information Technology Industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sanjeewani Dasanayaka Rasika , Kuruppuge Ravindra Hewa
Published: February 2016

Information Technology (IT) industry in Sri Lanka can be considered as one of the fast growing industrial sectors in current competitive, technological oriented and rapidly changing business environment. Generally, IT industry performance depends on knowledge management (KM) in firms in the industry. The concept of staff turnover (ST) has become as more important aspect in the context of knowledge management. As limited research studies are shown in literature about staff turnover and knowledge management in IT industry in Sri Lanka, this research explore the impact of staff turnover on knowledge management in IT companies in Sri Lanka. The survey method has been adopted using structured questionnaire in Likert scale to collect data. Respondents from different job categories and companies for the sample have been selected using stratified sampling method. After descriptive analysis of basic features of respondents of the survey, the causal relationship between staff turnover and knowledge management is analyzed using correlation analysis. The major finding emulating from the study is that there is a positive relationship between high staff turnover and weak knowledge management. Further, the study shows that organizational factors such as managerial style, lack of recognition, lack of competitive compensation system and toxic workplace environment significantly influence employee knowledge management. However, possible learning environment in the firm also directs employee turnover in IT industry in Sri Lanka.
The Realities and Illusions of the XXIst Century Social Contract
Authors: Wolnicki Miron , Piasecki Ryszard
Published: February 2016

STRUCTURED ABSTRACT:

Purpose – The paper aims to clarify the relationship between the rise of the sovereign debt in the G20 and the relative underpayment of labor versus capital.

Design/methodology/approach – The historic analysis of successes and failures of demand management in the leading market economies. Provide data to support and illustrate the claims made in the paper.

Findings – The argument presented in the paper is that the root cause of the rapidly rising sovereign debt lies in the demand deficiency originating in the cumulative effect of lagging labor compensation relative to productivity gains. Developed market democracies desperately need policies to mend the failing social contract between labor and capital. The real solution of the debt is to address demand deficiency, increase labor participation and wages, or basically, introduce a new social contract between labor and capital.

Research limitations/implications – The detailed analysis of demand management policies would have to be country specific which goes beyond the scope of the paper.

Practical implications – The paper implies that G20 policies go into a wrong direction and increase the risk of chain debt defaults in the leading market economies.

Originality/value – This paper fulfils an identified need to study the root cause of the demand deficiency syndrome and the need to introduce long term policies needed to restore growth in the market economies.
Cultural Comparison of Trait Emotional Intelligence among the Provinces of Pakistan (Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan)
Authors: Anjum Mehmood , Muhammad Zia Syed , Ahmed Khan Waheed
Published: February 2016

The important feature of effective manager is to understand emotions in an effective method. This study looks into cultural variations in trait Emotional Intelligence among the business managers from the provinces of Pakistan i.e. Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Comparing rotated component matrixes of these four provinces revealed the four traits emotional intelligence factors, Well-being, Self-control, Emotionality, and Sociability of these provinces. Short-form of Trait emotional intelligence Questionnaire developed by Petrides [2009] has employed to measure the 404 business managers from four provinces in present article. The results revealed evident the cultural differences in trait emotional intelligence scores with the business managers of Sindh scoring consistently higher than other three provinces and the business managers from Balochistan province scores are at lowest. These cross cultural differences may have ramification for global EI trait, well-being, self-control, emotionality and sociability in business manager’s performance, negotiation, conflict management, decision making and organizational development.
Intercultural Project Management for IT: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Isern Germinal
Published: February 2016

The development of Information Technology projects using Project Management Methodologies like PMP-PMI, Agile or SCRUM for software development, CPM, CCPM, RAD, XP, FDD, ITIL, JAD, LD, PRINCE2, etc.; may be a complete success or a total catastrophe, for series of reasons, events and circumstances that frequently are not related at all with the deliverables, the products being built, the IT technology involved, the level of expertise, the responsibility and professionalism of the stakeholders including the project manager, but due to intercultural factors. The PMP-PMI Model (PMBOK) describes 10 areas: Cost Management, Time Management, Scope Management, Risk Management, Quality Management, Procurement Management, Integration Management, Stakeholder Management, Human Resources Management and Communication Management. An IT project is considered successful if the customer is happy, but technically and formally if the TEAM was able to meet the triple constraint set up by time/cost/scope. This happy ending is not possible if the project manager and the team as a whole are not able to confront, attack and solve the issues associated with Human Resources Management, Stakeholder Management and specially Communication Management.

These three areas are highly influenced by Intercultural factors like language, race, age, gender, religion, sexual preferences, beliefs, habits, etc., becoming their analysis an essential task if we want to accomplish and guarantee a favorable outcome. This position paper concludes in contradiction with what is a very common believe between many technical project managers that the most important factors to take in consideration for the success of an IT project management is the careful and planned attention to the potential issues and challenges associated with the cross-cultural communication and the human resources implicated in the projects. This paper will describe the cultural dimensions, issues and challenges associated with Intercultural Project Management for IT.
Family Involvement in the Firm and Exports in the Family SME: Is the Manager’s International Orientation Influential?
Authors: Basly Sami
Published: February 2016

Does the family involvement affect exports in the family firm? The literature seems to support this view even if the direction and magnitude of this impact remains controversial. Drawing on the perspectives of agency [Chrisman et al. 2004; Schulze et al. 2001] and stewardship as applied to family firms [Davis, Schoorman and Donaldson 1997] and also on socio-emotional wealth perspective [Gómez-Mejía et al. 2007], this study seeks to contribute to this debate by studying the influence of family involvement on the SME exports intensity. To reconcile the divergent views, our research attempts to assess the role of the manager’s international orientation as a variable moderating the relationship between family involvement and exports in SMEs. Based on a hypothetical-deductive approach, the study uses a sample data of 125 family SMEs obtained through a questionnaire. The results show that even if the positive influence of the manager’s international orientation is corroborated, its moderating role seems to be limited to only one facet of the construct of family involvement i.e. involvement in management. Moreover, owning-family involvement in management seems to negatively influence exports while some results argue for a positive effect of the family involvement in ownership on exports.
Articulatory correlates of metrical structure: Studying jaw displacement patterns
Authors: Erickson Donna , Kawahara Shigeto
Published: February 2016

Previous phonetic studies of metrical prominence have primarily focused on its acoustic manifestations, including pitch, intensity, duration, spectral tilt, etc. In this paper we outline our new research program in which we explore jaw displacement patterns as another articulatory reflex of metrical prominence. We present our studies of English and Japanese in some detail, which show that jaw movement patterns are neither flat nor random, but instead the degrees of jaw displacement correlate well with metrical prominence. Based on these results, we argue that there are at least two articulators to express metrical prominence: the larynx and the jaw. Our aim is not so much to object to looking at the acoustic manifestations of metrical structures or other articulation-based approaches; we instead would like to encourage other researchers to investigate metrical structure in terms of jaw movement as well.
Changes in the production factor’s structures in agriculture in the light of price adjustments. A case study of selected EU countries1
Authors: Czyżewski Andrzej , Staniszewski Jakub
Published: February 2016

The conducted research concerns the issue of the impact of the prices on the volume and the productivity of labour and capital factors. The purpose of the article is to compare to what extend changes in the structures of agricultural production factors in the agriculture of selected EU countries (Poland, Hungary, Italy) in years 1999-2013 are the consequence of adaptation to price conditions on the agricultural products markets and production factors markets. The studies prove the low elasticity of production factor structures relative to the price scissors index in the all countries. However, in the case of Hungary and Poland it is particularly low, which can be connected with low capitalization of agriculture in those countries, on the one hand, and the “path dependency” effect in the context of communist past of these countries, on the other.
Differences in Power Distribution and Health Risk for the Tool Operator Predicted by Human Physical Models in the ISO 10068:2012 Standard
Authors: Dobry Marian W. , Hermann Tomasz
Published: February 2016

The article presents an approach to assessing human physical models specified in the ISO 10068:2012 standard. The models were compared on the basis of energy analysis, which was conducted in terms of power distribution. Since the models in question have a fully specified internal structure, the investigation focused on power distribution in the models and the total power in the system. The article provides a description of the construction and energy-based modelling of Human-Tool systems. Simulation results obtained during the study were analysed in terms of health risks posed to the tool operator.
Design, Modelling and Laboratory Testing of a Pipe Inspection Robot
Authors: Ciszewski Michał , Wacławski Michał , Buratowski Tomasz , Giergiel Mariusz , Kurc Krzysztof
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a design of a tracked in-pipe inspection mobile robot with an adaptive drive positioning system. The robot is intended to operate in circular and rectangular pipes and ducts, oriented horizontally and vertically. The paper covers a design process of a virtual prototype, focusing on track adaptation to work environment. A mathematical description of a kinematic model of the robot is presented. Operation of the prototype in pipes with a cross-section greater than 210 mm is described. Laboratory tests that validate the design and enable determination of energy consumption of the robot are presented.
Forest species mapping using airborne hyperspectral APEX data
Authors: Tagliabue Giulia , Panigada Cinzia , Colombo Roberto , Fava Francesco , Cilia Chiara , Baret Frédéric , Vreys Kristin , Meuleman Koen , Rossini Micol
Published: February 2016

The accurate mapping of forest species is a very important task in relation to the increasing need to better understand the role of the forest ecosystem within environmental dynamics. The objective of this paper is the investigation of the potential of a multi-temporal hyperspectral dataset for the production of a thematic map of the dominant species in the Forêt de Hardt (France). Hyperspectral data were collected in June and September 2013 using the Airborne Prism EXperiment (APEX) sensor, covering the visible, near-infrared and shortwave infrared spectral regions with a spatial resolution of 3 m by 3 m. The map was realized by means of a maximum likelihood supervised classification. The classification was first performed separately on images from June and September and then on the two images together. Class discrimination was performed using as input 3 spectral indices computed as ratios between red edge bands and a blue band for each image. The map was validated using a testing set selected on the basis of a random stratified sampling scheme. Results showed that the algorithm performances improved from an overall accuracy of 59.5% and 48% (for the June and September images, respectively) to an overall accuracy of 74.4%, with the producer’s accuracy ranging from 60% to 86% and user’s accuracy ranging from 61% to 90%, when both images (June and September) were combined. This study demonstrates that the use of multi-temporal high-resolution images acquired in two different vegetation development stages (i.e., 17 June 2013 and 4 September 2013) allows accurate (overall accuracy 74.4%) local-scale thematic products to be obtained in an operational way.
Searching for Organizational Intelligence in the Evolution of Public-Sector Performance Management
Authors: Virtanen Petri , Vakkuri Jarmo
Published: February 2016

The article explores the transformation process of evaluation, performance monitoring and accountability in the public sector. The process underlines that horizontal accountability referencing a wide democratic footprint is likely to become more explicit. To this end, this article develops the idea of transformation of public sector performance management from the viewpoint of organizational intelligence. Much of the current doctrine originates from rationalistic performance management and evaluation models and are therefore reluctant or unable to see the social mechanisms incorporated in the mechanisms of accountability. This article concludes that ‘hard nose’ rationalistic models of performance and evaluation are not anymore fit for purpose. To be measured by traditional performance metrics, the society is far too complex, constructed by various social networks and retrospective interlink-ages, and constituted by public service systems. Thus, the need for intelligence in organizational knowledge management and decision-making processes ought to be addressed more systematically.
Benchmarking in Czech Higher Education
Authors: Plaček Michal , Ochrana František , Půček Milan
Published: February 2016

The first part of this article surveys the current experience with the use of benchmarking at Czech universities specializing in economics and management. The results indicate that collaborative benchmarking is not used on this level today, but most actors show some interest in its introduction. The expression of the need for it and the importance of benchmarking as a very suitable performance-management tool in less developed countries are the impetus for the second part of our article. Based on an analysis of the current situation and existing needs in the Czech Republic, as well as on a comparison with international experience, recommendations for public policy are made, which lie in the design of a model of a collaborative benchmarking for Czech economics and management in higher-education programs. Because the fully complex model cannot be implemented immediately – which is also confirmed by structured interviews with academics who have practical experience with benchmarking –, the final model is designed as a multi-stage model. This approach helps eliminate major barriers to the implementation of benchmarking.
When will we ever learn ?
Authors: Johansson Vicki
Published: February 2016

This paper puts forward the argument that Performance Measurement Systems (PMSs) foster rational, self-interested behaviour and vested values at all levels within organisations, which weakens moral barriers preventing fraud, fabrication of data and bribery. It argues that the longer a PMS is in operation, the greater the probability that rational self-interested behaviour in conflict with fundamental values and goals will be consolidated, aggravated and disseminated within organisations that operate within public welfare policy. If implemented, common incentives aimed at counteracting undesirable behaviour aggravate and speed up this process rather than reversing it. In a worst-case scenario, PMSs are the first step toward corruption, even though PMSs have been implemented with the good intention of improving public policy and strengthening accountability.
Taxation Of Partnership - Legal national reports for the Nordic Tax Research Council′s annual meeting, 2015 in Aarhus
Authors: Hilling Axel
Published: February 2016

This joint report includes the five legal national reports on the taxation of partnership in the Nordic countries. The general contents of these reports are summarized and thoroughly analyzed in Liselotte Madsen’s General report, published in this issue of the NTaxJ. For additional information, details on legislative measures etc. we find it important, however, to also publish the national reports in full length. We hope you will find it valuable as well.

The respective national reports appear in alphabetic order, in regard to the country which regulation is presented. Name of the country reporter and contact information are presented in the beginning of each report.
Ex-vivo investigation on the potential of 1470 nm diode laser light for enucleation of uterine leiomyoma
Authors: Fürst Sophie-Theresa , Hasmüller Stephan , Burges Alexander , Pongratz Thomas , Sailer Bettina , Heide Michael , Sroka Ronald
Published: February 2016

Background and objective:

Patients suffering from uterine leiomyoma are often treated by hysterectomy or organ preserving myoma enucleation using electrosurgical, ultrasonic or radio-frequency techniques. Considerable thermal tissue damage leads to the development of scar formation which in the long term may result in complications during pregnancy. Therefore alternative techniques are required.

Materials and methods:

After ethical approval, human uteri myomatosus were used to investigate the interaction of 1470 nm diode laser light (Medilas D MultiBeam; Dornier MedTech Laser GmbH, Weßling, Germany) during surgical procedures (laser mode, continuous wave; laser power, 5–30 W; fiber core diameter, 600 μm; cutting velocity, 3 mm/s). Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation was performed to improve understanding of tissue ablation and coagulation processes. Additionally laser-assisted ex-vivo myoma enucleation procedures were performed to assess handling and applicability. Descriptive and correlation statistics were used for evaluation.

Results:

The macroscopic visible coagulation rim was calculated to be at a maximum of ~550 μm in lateral direction (superficial width), and ~300 μm in axial plane (sagittal depth). Microscopic examination of hematoxylin and eosin stained sagittal tissue slices showed a largest ablation depth of 279.1±186.8 μm and a maximum irreversibly damaged remaining tissue depth of 628.7±354.3 μm when a laser power of 30 W was applied. The ratio of the remaining tissue and ablation depth indicates that increased applied laser power results in a faster ablation than coagulation into the depth. Hands-on ex-vivo myoma enucleation at power levels of 20–25 W showed an ideal preparation situation with the potential for sufficient surface coagulation when the fiber-tissue distance is adjusted to 5–10 mm.

Conclusion:

Sufficient and effective ablation and coagulation of uterus myomatosus tissue and the ex-vivo myoma enucleation showed the potential of the 1470 nm diode laser as an innovative surgical tool for myoma enucleation. Based upon this study it should be clinically validated whether this procedure could become an alternative application in endoscopic surgery in gynecology.
Free Movement of Persons and European Solidarity Revisited
Authors: Giubboni Stefano
Published: February 2016

This paper analyses the case-law of the European Court of Justice on the scope and limits of cross-border access of economically inactive Union citizens to national systems of social assistance. The author de-constructs and challenges the weak rhetoric of transnational solidarity generously deployed by the Court of Justice at the beginning of the expansive cycle of its case-law on the transnational social protection rights of mobile EU citizens. The most recent case-law shows, in fact, a spectacular retreat from this rhetoric in tune with the neo-nationalistic and social-chauvinistic moods prevailing in Europe.
Eurocrisis and the myths of European redistribution: illegitimate, unsustainable, inefficient?
Authors: Nicoli Francesco
Published: February 2016

Criticism of European solidarity relies on three cornerstone arguments with mythological features. First is the “Myth of the Beggar”: it is believed that supranational solidarity is self-defeating, as it produces a moral-hazard scheme where endogenous incentives to reform (otherwise known as “market pressure”) are artificially removed. Second stands the “Myth of the Efficient Markets”: it is believed that solidarity, through its market-distortive effects, artificially allocates resources into less productive activities, thus decreasing the overall growth rate of the economy. Third is the “Myth of the Demos”: it is believed that democracy- and thus redistribution- can endure only within a single Demos, and thus no solidarity can exist outside of a Demos. This paper aims to challenge the view that any scheme of solidarity is self-defeating, inefficient and illegitimate, developing a notion of “federative solidarity” providing a solution to the three “myths”.
How much Solidarity is in the EU Budget?
Authors: Kölling Mario
Published: February 2016

In this article I argue that the EU budget is (slowly) moving from a budget based on the rationale that richer EU countries help poorer EU countries in exchange for their engagement to the process of economic integration, and because economic development of the EU has positive economic returns for them, to a concept of solidarity based on a different rationale; that all member states and the Union are confronted with the same challenges and risks. In order to support this argument I analyse the development of the different budget headings as well as the increasing flexibility within the budgetary system.

Leaving aside the discussion as to whether this change is considered to be positive or negative, a reform of the own resources system and a stronger involvement of the European Parliament in the negotiation of the Multi Financial Framework would be essential to foster the trend. These reforms, together with an increase in the financial resources available, are necessary if the EU budget is to be reconciled with a solidarity role it should and has to play, in addition to giving the EU the means to properly address current and future challenges.
The ESM and the Principle of Transparency
Authors: De Nes Matteo
Published: February 2016

This note analyses a peculiar feature of the ESM, namely the lack of an acceptable set of standards for the fundamental democratic principle of transparency. Moving from the particular nature of this mechanism, we will highlight the most critical concerns connected to secrecy, confidentiality and inviolability of documents, looking not only at the ESM Treaty but also at relevant documents approved by its bodies (in particular the Code of Conduct and the By-Laws).
Emerging trends in flame retardancy of biofibers, biopolymers, biocomposites, and bionanocomposites
Authors: Idumah Christopher Igwe , Hassan Azman
Published: February 2016

Recent advancements in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites have engineered the need to procure alternatives to replace metals in automotives, construction, aerospace, defense, electronics, and gas and oil industries. However, application versatility of biomaterials has been limited due to poor flame retardancy. In line with the new CO