bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water supply in Jordan under drought conditions
Authors: Tarawneh Zeyad S.
Published: October 2011

This paper discusses the Mujib Dam reservoir's storage during the drought years of 2007–2009. It has been concluded that the policy of unplanned water release during the dry year 2007, when little attention was paid to the possibility of a continuation of the drought, contributed to the remarkable lack of surface water storage during 2008, another dry year. For better management and planning, this paper presents theoretical models to evaluate the occurrence probability and return period for extreme droughts, assuming that drought deficits are Beta distributed. Droughts of a short length (2–3 years) and deficits that exceed a threshold deficit (Do) are the most frequent droughts in the central Jordan region. Regardless of the drought deficit magnitude and the drought length, the return period of any drought condition is nearly 4 years. This paper recommends the application of large-scale sustainable solutions to reduce the gap between the demand on water and supply in Jordan during drought conditions. Furthermore, it is recommended that water losses from the clean water distribution systems be reduced below the existing loss rate, that large-scale rainwater capturing techniques are employed, and that large-scale desalination practices are applied to the readily available brackish and seawater in Jordan.
Raising effective awareness for domestic water saving: evidence from an environmental educational programme in Greece
Authors: Keramitsoglou Kiriaki M. , Tsagarakis Konstantinos P.
Published: October 2011

This paper looks into awareness of water saving amongst students and their parents, and how it interacts with their intentions to use water saving technology or to adopt water saving practices. To investigate this interaction, surveys were run through educational programmes aimed at eliciting both the intentions of students and the indirect effects of their parents; surveys were taken before and after the education programmes. The results show that parents have a more environmentally friendly approach towards water saving than their children. Furthermore, the educational programmes affected both students and their parents, though not for all actions investigated. Students and their parents seem to be willing to comply with water saving practices that require little effort, such as using an economy toilet flushing button, or fixing a tap when it leaks, but students were not willing to give up wasteful habits related to their body hygiene, such as leaving water running during a shower. The Mann–Whitney U test and Wilcoxon signed rank test were employed to show statistically significant differences before and after the intervention, comparing the stated attitudes of students and their parents. An active participation by parents in school programmes could encourage effective interactions amongst people in the community, facilitating behaviour change towards sustainable use of local natural resources.
Good water governance and IWRM in Zambia: challenges and chances
Authors: Uhlendahl Thomas , Salian Pritam , Casarotto Claudia , Doetsch Jakob
Published: October 2011

The implementation of principles for water governance is widely accepted but challenging for the whole water sector of a developing country like Zambia, because of the legal and administrative changes and organizational requirements involved. In February 2010, a revised water policy for Zambia was approved by the Cabinet. The revised National Water Policy 2010 aims to improve water resources management by establishing institutional coordination and by defining roles as well as responsibilities for various ministries. Taking into account the previous political and administration changes, this paper points out the problems and challenges of the implementation of good water governance mechanisms in Zambia. Focusing on the Kafue River Basin, from which water is abstracted for a variety of conflicting purposes (like municipal supplies, industrial use, mining, irrigation of agricultural land, fishery activities, wetland reserves and hydropower production), the gaps in implementing good water governance and Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in Zambia are identified, as well as the factors causing these gaps in the Zambian water sector. The paper finishes with a overview of the opportunities given by the new water policy through Water User Associations (WUAs) at a local level.
Adsorption of Zn(II) and Cd(II) ions in batch system by using the Eichhornia crassipes
Authors: Módenes A. N. , Espinoza-Quiñones F. R. , Borba C. E. , Trigueros D. E. G. , Lavarda F. L. , Abugderah M. M. , Kroumov A. D.
Published: October 2011

In this work, the displacement effects on the sorption capacities of zinc and cadmium ions of the Eichornia crassipes-type biosorbent in batch binary system has been studied. Preliminary single metal sorption experiments were carried out. An improvement on the Zn(II) and Cd(II) ions removal was achieved by working at 30 °C temperature and with non-uniform biosorbent grain sizes. A 60 min equilibrium time was achieved for both Zn(II) and Cd(II) ions. Furthermore, it was found that the overall kinetic data were best described by the pseudo second-order kinetic model. Classical multi-component adsorption isotherms have been tested as well as a modified extended Langmuir isotherm model, showing good agreement with the equilibrium binary data. Around 0.65 mequiv./g maximum metal uptake associated with the E. crassipes biosorbent was attained and the E. crassipes biosorbent has shown higher adsorption affinity for the zinc ions than for the cadmium ones in the binary system.
Optimized and validated spectrophotometric methods for the determination of hydroxyzine hydrochloride in pharmaceuticals and urine using iodine and picric acid
Authors: Rajendraprasad Nagaraju , Basavaiah Kanakapura , Vinay Kanakapura
Published: October 2011

Two simple, rapid, cost-effective and sensitive spectrophotometric procedures
are proposed for the determination of hydroxyzine dihydrochloride (HDH) in
pharmaceuticals and in spiked human urine. The methods are based on the
charge transfer complexation reaction of the drug with either iodine (I2) as
a ?-acceptor (method A) in dichloromethane or picric acid (PA) as a
?-acceptor (method B) in chloroform. The coloured products exhibit absorption
maxima at 380 and 400 nm for I2 and PA, respectively. The Beer Law was obeyed
over the concentration ranges of 1.25-15 and 3.75-45 ?g mL-1 for method A and
method B, respectively. The molar absorptivity values, Sandell sensitivities,
limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) are reported. The accuracy
and precision of the methods were evaluated on intra-day and inter-day basis.
The proposed methods were successfully applied for the determination of HDH
in tablets and spiked human urine.
Microstructure and corrosion behavior of Zn-Co alloys deposited from three different plating baths
Authors: Bajat Jelena , Stevanovic Sanja , Jokic Bojan
Published: October 2011

The effects of plating baths of different composition on the microstructure
and corrosion stability of Zn-Co alloy coatings were studied. Zn-Co alloys
with the same Co content were deposited from chloride plating baths
containing different amounts of Co2+ ions, as well as from a
sulphate-chloride plating bath. The surface morphology and crystallite size
were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force
microscopy (AFM). The corrosion stability of the Zn- Co alloys was determined
by following the change of the open circuit potential with time of immersion
in a 3 % NaCl solution and by polarization measurements. The results showed a
significant influence of the plating bath on the morphology and corrosion
stability of the Zn-Co alloys. The surface of the alloy coatings deposited
from the chloride baths were uniform and homogenous, whereas the deposit
obtained from the sulphate-chloride bath was quite inhomogeneous. The
corrosion stability of the homogenous Zn-Co deposits obtained by deposition
from both chloride baths was higher than that of the deposit obtained from
the sulphate-chloride bath. An increase in the Co content in the
chlorideplating bath resulted in a reduction of the alloy crystallite size
and it was shown that the alloy with the smaller crystallites of the two
alloy deposits, although having the same chemical content, exhibited a lower
corrosion rate.
The position of the Hungarian national minority in Vojvodina: Sociological and legal aspects
Authors: Manic Zeljka
Published: October 2011

The text is about sociological and legal analysis of the position of the
Hungarian national minority in Vojvodina, with special regard to the period
between 2002 and 2007. It is believed that ethnic relations have a
significant role in establishing national identity, and that collective
rights represent the legitimate effort to preserve the language, writings and
culture of those ethnic groups. The position of the Hungarian national
minority is the position that is guaranteed by the constitution of the
Republic of Serbia in the section regarding the collective rights: the right
to the education in their first language, official use of language and
writing, media information's in first language, preservation of culture and
the right to participate in public activities. The position of Hungarian
minority is regarded in two dimensions: the level of legal regulations and
the level of actual problems that the members of minority are facing when
practicing their rights.
Is There an Association between Earnings Management and Auditor-Provided Tax Services?
Authors: Krishnan Gopal V. , Visvanathan Gnanakumar
Published: October 2011

The issue of whether auditor-provided nonaudit services enhance or exacerbate financial reporting quality has been intensely debated among regulators, auditors, investors, academic researchers, and the media. In 2006, the SEC approved the rules proposed by the PCAOB limiting the tax services that incumbent auditors can offer to their clients. We contribute to this debate by examining whether auditor-provided tax services mitigate earnings management. We find a negative and significant relation between earnings management (loss avoidance) and tax fee paid to the incumbent auditor. Our results are consistent with knowledge spillover, i.e., when the same audit firm provides both audit and tax services, insight learned from providing tax services can contribute to audit quality.
Approximate Calculation of Capacitance of Lines with Multilayer Medium
Authors: Milovanović Alenka , Bjekić Miroslav
Published: October 2011

Approximate Calculation of Capacitance of Lines with Multilayer Medium

In this paper calculations of the capacitance per unit length of one or multilayer dielectric lines are presented. Special attention is given to the calculations of the capacitance per unit length of lines with rectangular cross sections, whose electrodes may be in different or the same layers of a two layer dielectric line. For the purpose of performing the above, several numerical methods are used and simple approximate expressions are proposed.
Forced Expression of ZNF143 Restrains Cancer Cell Growth
Authors: Izumi Hiroto , Yasuniwa Yoshihiro , Akiyama Masaki , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Kuma Akihiro , Kitamura Noriaki , Kohno Kimitoshi
Published: October 2011

We previously reported that the transcription factor Zinc Finger Protein 143 (ZNF143) regulates the expression of genes associated with cell cycle and cell division, and that downregulation of ZNF143 induces cell cycle arrest at G2/M. To assess the function of ZNF143 expression in the cell cycle, we established two cells with forced expression of ZNF143 derived from PC3 prostate cancer cell lines. These cell lines overexpress genes associated with cell cycle and cell division, such as polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), aurora kinase B (AURKB) and some minichromosome maintenance complex components (MCM). However, the doubling time of cells with forced expression of ZNF143 was approximately twice as long as its control counterpart cell line. Analysis following serum starvation and re-seeding showed that PC3 cells were synchronized at G1 in the cell cycle. Also, ZNF143 expression fluctuated, and was at its lowest level in G2/M. However, PC3 cells with forced expression of ZNF143 synchronized at G2/M, and showed lack of cell cycle-dependent fluctuation of nuclear expression of MCM proteins. Furthermore, G2/M population of both cisplatin-resistant PCDP6 cells over-expressing ZNF143 (derived from PC3 cells) and cells with forced expression of ZNF143 was significantly higher than that of each counterpart, and the doubling time of PCDP6 cells is about 2.5 times longer than that of PC3 cells. These data suggested that fluctuations in ZNF143 expression are required both for gene expression associated with cell cycle and for cell division.
Rendering Humanities Sustainable
Authors: Bednarik Robert G.
Published: October 2011

Launching a journal intended to cover the entire humanities is certainly an audacious project, for two reasons at least. Firstly, this journal will be expected to cover much academic diversity, particularly by including the “social sciences.” However, in this time of rampant overspecialization, perhaps it is precisely such wholeness and breadth of vision that could become a journal’s strength. Secondly, since the viability of the humanities has been questioned from a number of perspectives it seems essential to meet these challenges by reinventing the discipline in response to issues raised—also a major task. It involves justifying the continuation of humanistic traditions. For this, humanists need to consider the nature of these challenges, understand and analyze them, and respond to them. It is therefore inevitable that a forward-looking, new journal in this discipline will deem it relevant to review these matters. [...]
Patterns of and Motivations for Concurrent Use of Video Games and Substances
Authors: Ream Geoffrey L. , Elliott Luther C. , Dunlap Eloise
Published: October 2011

“Behavioral addictions” share biological mechanisms with substance dependence, and “drug interactions” have been observed between certain substances and self-reinforcing behaviors. This study examines correlates of patterns of and motivations for playing video games while using or feeling the effects of a substance (concurrent use). Data were drawn from a nationally-representative survey of adult Americans who “regularly” or “occasionally” played video games and had played for at least one hour in the past seven days (n = 3,380). Only recent concurrent users’ data were included in analyses (n = 1,196). Independent variables included demographics, substance use frequency and problems, game genre of concurrent use (identified by looking titles up in an industry database), and general game playing variables including problem video game play (PVP), consumer involvement, enjoyment, duration, and frequency of play. Exploratory factor analysis identified the following dimensions underlying patterns of and motivations for concurrent use: pass time or regulate negative emotion, enhance an already enjoyable or positive experience, and use of video games and substances to remediate each other’s undesirable effects. Multivariate regression analyses indicated PVP and hours/day of video game play were associated with most patterns/motivations, as were caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, and painkiller use problems. This suggests that concurrent use with some regular situational pattern or effect-seeking motivation is part of the addictive process underlying both PVP and substance dependence. Various demographic, game playing, game genre of concurrent use, and substance use variables were associated with specific motivations/patterns, indicating that all are important in understanding concurrent use.
In Vitro Anti-Listerial Activities of Crude n-Hexane and Aqueous Extracts of Garcinia kola (heckel) Seeds
Authors: Penduka Dambudzo , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: October 2011

We assessed the anti-Listerial activities of crude n-hexane and aqueous extracts of Garcinia kola seeds against a panel of 42 Listeria isolates previously isolated from wastewater effluents in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and belonging to Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria grayi and Listeria ivanovii species. The n-hexane fraction was active against 45% of the test bacteria with zones of inhibition ranging between 8–17 mm, while the aqueous fraction was active against 29% with zones of inhibition ranging between 8–11 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were within the ranges of 0.079–0.625 mg/mL for the n-hexane extract and 10 to >10 mg/mL for the aqueous extract. The rate of kill experiment carried out for the n-hexane extract only, revealed complete elimination of the initial bacterial population for L. grayi (LAL 15) at 3× and 4× MIC after 90 and 60 min; L. monocytogenes (LAL 8) at 3× and 4× MIC after 60 and 15 min; L. ivanovii (LEL 18) at 3× and 4× MIC after 120 and 15 min; L. ivanovii (LEL 30) at 2, 3 and 4× MIC values after 105, 90 and 15 min exposure time respectively. The rate of kill activities were time- and concentration-dependant and the extract proved to be bactericidal as it achieved a more than 3log10 decrease in viable cell counts after 2 h exposure time for all of the four test organisms at 3× and 4× MIC values. The results therefore show the potential presence of anti-Listerial compounds in Garcinia kola seeds that can be exploited in effective anti-Listerial chemotherapy.
Anti-Biofilm Compounds Derived from Marine Sponges
Authors: Stowe Sean D. , Richards Justin J. , Tucker Ashley T. , Thompson Richele , Melander Christian , Cavanagh John
Published: October 2011

Bacterial biofilms are surface-attached communities of microorganisms that are protected by an extracellular matrix of biomolecules. In the biofilm state, bacteria are significantly more resistant to external assault, including attack by antibiotics. In their native environment, bacterial biofilms underpin costly biofouling that wreaks havoc on shipping, utilities, and offshore industry. Within a host environment, they are insensitive to antiseptics and basic host immune responses. It is estimated that up to 80% of all microbial infections are biofilm-based. Biofilm infections of indwelling medical devices are of particular concern, since once the device is colonized, infection is almost impossible to eliminate. Given the prominence of biofilms in infectious diseases, there is a notable effort towards developing small, synthetically available molecules that will modulate bacterial biofilm development and maintenance. Here, we highlight the development of small molecules that inhibit and/or disperse bacterial biofilms specifically through non-microbicidal mechanisms. Importantly, we discuss several sets of compounds derived from marine sponges that we are developing in our labs to address the persistent biofilm problem. We will discuss: discovery/synthesis of natural products and their analogues—including our marine sponge-derived compounds and initial adjuvant activity and toxicological screening of our novel anti-biofilm compounds.
Bioactive Eunicellin-Based Diterpenoids from the Soft Coral Cladiella krempfi
Authors: Tai Chi-Jen , Su Jui-Hsin , Huang Ming-Shyan , Wen Zhi-Hong , Dai Chang-Feng , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: October 2011

Four new eunicellin-based diterpenoids, krempfielins A–D (1–4), along with two known compounds (5 and 6) have been isolated from a soft coral Cladiella krempfi. The structures of the new metabolites were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis and by comparison with spectroscopic data of related known compounds. Compounds 5 and 6 were shown to exhibit cytotoxicity against a limited panel of cancer cell lines. Furthermore, compounds 2, 3, 5 and 6 were shown to exert significant in vitro anti-inflammatory activity against LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells.
Alkaloids from Marine Ascidians
Authors: Menna Marialuisa , Fattorusso Ernesto , Imperatore Concetta
Published: October 2011

About 300 alkaloid structures isolated from marine ascidians are discussed in term of their occurrence, structural type and reported pharmacological activity. Some major groups (e.g., the lamellarins and the ecteinascidins) are discussed in detail, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer or viral infections.
L'invention du for intérieur
Authors: Neyraut Michel
Published: October 2011

Résumé For intérieur vient de forum, marché, place publique, tribunal. Le concept d’intériorité apparaît tardivement dans la pensée occidentale. Une étude de saint Augustin souligne les impératifs d’un langage de la prière. Ses prolongements chez Lacan. L’espace intérieur dessiné par Nicolas de Cues relance le procès des miroirs comme illustrant celui de la causalité psychique. Une application technologique récente permet à un individu de transporter les données de son code génétique.
L'injonction d'être sujet dans la société hypermoderne : la psychanalyse et l'idéologie de la réalisation de soi-même
Authors: de Gaulejac Vincent
Published: October 2011

Résumé « La psychanalyse s’intéresse au social » écrivent les auteurs de l’argument de ce numéro. Il en va de même pour la sociologie qui s’intéresse à la psychanalyse, à la fois comme pratique sociale et comme théorie qui apporte des clés de compréhension sur la dimension psychique des phénomènes sociaux. Si l’individu est le produit d’une histoire, cette histoire condense l’ensemble des facteurs sociaux et historiques qui interviennent dans le processus de socialisation et l’ensemble des facteurs intrapsychiques qui contribuent au développement de la personne. Loin de s’opposer, le social et le psychique, quand bien même ils obéissent à des lois propres, s’étayent et se nouent dans des combinaisons multiples et complexes.
Origines et vicissitudes de l'Être dans l'œuvre de Winnicott
Authors: Green André
Published: October 2011

Résumé Winnicott introduit le concept d’Être dans son œuvre quatre ans avant sa mort. Il abandonnera l’idée que celui-ci peut être en rapport avec un élément féminin pur. Il faut remarquer que Winnicott introduit ce concept quatre ans avant sa mort. Il se refuse à faire jouer un rôle aux pulsions destructrices du patient et ne considère que les défaillances de l’analyste. La conviction qu’il avait d’être le seul à pouvoir traiter ces patients ne facilita pas de leur part un abandon de leur sentiment d’omnipotence. En résumé, Winnicott considère les conséquences chez certains patients qui peuvent tuer leur analyste parce qu’ils se sont sentis eux-mêmes tués par leurs défaillances.
Modelling the sequential geographical exploitation and potential collapse of marine fisheries through economic globalization, climate change and management alternatives
Authors: Merino Gorka , Barange Manuel , Rodwell Lynda , Mullon Christian
Published: October 2011

Global marine fisheries production has reached a maximum and may even be declining. Underlying this trend is a well-understood sequence of development, overexploitation, depletion and in some instances collapse of individual fish stocks, a pattern that can sequentially link geographically distant populations. Ineffective governance, economic considerations and climate impacts are often responsible for this sequence, although the relative contribution of each factor is contentious. In this paper we use a global bioeconomic model to explore the synergistic effects of climate variability, economic pressures and management measures in causing or avoiding this sequence. The model shows how a combination of climate-induced variability in the underlying fish population production, particular patterns of demand for fish products and inadequate management is capable of driving the world’s fisheries into development, overexploitation, collapse and recovery phases consistent with observations. Furthermore, it demonstrates how a sequential pattern of overexploitation can emerge as an endogenous property of the interaction between regional environmental fluctuations and a globalized trade system. This situation is avoidable through adaptive management measures that ensure the sustainability of regional production systems in the face of increasing global environmental change and markets. It is concluded that global management measures are needed to ensure that global food supply from marine products is optimized while protecting long-term ecosystem services across the world’s oceans.
Life cycle of the marbled octopus, Amphioctopus aegina (Gray) (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) reared in the laboratory
Authors: Promboon Pichitra , Nabhitabhata Jaruwat , Duengdee Teerapong
Published: October 2011

Reproducing small eggs and planktonic hatchlings is a reproductive strategy of many species of benthic octopods although it is considered a pleisiomorphic state. The young in the planktonic and settling phases have a high energy consumption and require live food of specific size range characteristics, causing difficulties in obtaining appropriate food organisms for rearing experiments through the entire life cycle. This study obtained information on details of life cycle characteristics of Amphioctopus aegina (Gray) by resolving these difficulties. The aspects of life cycle of A. aegina were similar to those of other benthic octopus with a similar reproductive strategy. Growth was allometric, consisting of 3 phases in terms of body weight, including a transitional phase for the early settling stage. Feeding and conversion efficiency peaked over a 2-month period prior to reproduction, representing the period of energy storage. Growth from hatching to spawning took approximately 74% of the entire life span and the reproductive phase itself took 34%. Such longevities are similar to those of other benthic cephalopods with planktonic hatchlings. Overall similarities in these cephalopod taxa attest to the fitness of a life-history strategy involving production of planktonic offspring from benthic adults. A. aegina is the second benthic octopus species with planktonic hatchlings for which the life cycle has been completed through rearing in the laboratory.
Instruments and Experiments Control Methodology Based on IVI and LXI Technologies
Authors: Hernandez Unai
Published: October 2011

In this paper we present a new model to control the instruments and experiments in a remote laboratory. This model is based on LAN networks and a control methodology through reusable drivers. The objective is to obtain a software control architecture independent of the hardware of the laboratory, so each institution can use its own equipments and experiments based on its needs and with minimal restrictions regarding to the hardware of the lab.
Shaping Interactive Media with the Sewing Machine
Authors: Reimann Daniela
Published: October 2011

In the context of converging media technologies, the concept of mobile media embedded in wearable material was introduced. Wearable Computing, Fashionable Technology, and Smart Textile are being developed at the intersection of media, art, design, computer science, and engineering. However, in Germany, little research has been undertaken into Smart Textile in education1. Those activities are not realized at school in the context of artistic processes in general MINT2 education in classroom settings. In order to research the interplay of electronic textiles and wearable technology, hard and software tools, such as Arduino LilyPad, a programmable board designed for stitching into clothing and flexible applications are scrutinized. In the project, contemporary media art projects in the field of Fashionable Technology are explored to inspire interdisciplinary technology education. The project described in this paper engages girls in technology and engineering by integrating artistic processes as well as a more playcentric approach to technology and engineering education.
Visualization Elements of Shadow Play Technique Movement and Study of Computer Graphic Imagery (CGI) In Wayang Kulit Kelantan
Authors: Ghani Dahlan Abdul
Published: October 2011

In the attempt to preserve and safeguard the unique heritage of Wayang Kulit (Shadow Play), UNESCO has designated it as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity on 7th November 2003. Wayang Kulit Kelantan in Malaysia is threatened with imminent extinction. This paper reviews the critical situation of Wayang Kulit Kelantan in Malaysia. The visualization and movement of Wayang Kulit Kelantan is described in four major aspects, which are the puppets, shadows, screen for shadow projection (Kelir), and its light source. It also reviews the comparison methods and techniques between Wayang Kulit Kelantan traditional shadow play and Computer Graphics Imagery (CGI) used as a prototype design in Wayang Kulit Kelantan.
Colorado 14ers, Pixel by Pixel
Authors: Vogt Brandon J.
Published: October 2011

This document describes a capstone learning exercise designed for undergraduates enrolled in an introductory geospatial tools course. The overarching theme of the exercise, Colorado 14ers, Pixel by Pixel, is mountain geography. While immersed in a digital mountainous landscape, students explore topics of geomorphology and geomorphometry and discover how it is possible for a summit that rises well above 14,000 feet not to qualify as a true Colorado ‘14er’. To address these topics, students examine freely-available digital elevation models (DEMs) using common geospatial analysis tools. The exercise was developed with five purposes in mind: (1) students should be introduced gently to geospatial software; (2) students should enter upper-level geography courses armed with basic computer skills and a diverse geospatial toolkit; (3) students should internalize the fact that invariably digital geographic explorations are influenced by scale; (4) students of geography should be able to identify natural and anthropogenic impacts to a landscape, and; (5) to help students conceptualize what geographers do, learning exercises should include local and interesting case studies. As an exercise intended to synthesize geographic concepts covered throughout a course, the learning objectives range from grasping broad theoretical concepts related to scale and measurement to learning specific computer skills related to directory structures and file naming conventions. Deliverables of the exercise include posting four maps and answers to nine questions to a website. The outcome of the exercise is a confident, geospatial toolsavvy student who is eager to further investigate the field of geography.
Leveraging the Science of Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Bunch Rick , Tapp Anna , Pathak Prasad
Published: October 2011

The Center for Geographic Information Science (CGISc) at the University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG) was established in the Summer of 2006. CGISc is an educational research entity that relies on the use of GIS and the science of geographic information to conduct research on human and natural phenomena distributed on the Earth’s surface. CGISc welcomes interdisciplinary collaboration, and emphasizes the development of public-private sector partnerships. CGISc also places a high priority on research that involves students. This paper first provides an overview of the CGISc. This section is followed by a discussion on the fundamental approach to conducting geographic research using GIS. The paper concludes with several significant projects and a discussion on future directions.
The Development of Synergy Model on Internal and External Suppliers for Asian Airlines Industry
Authors: Fernando Yudi , Saad Norizan Mat , Haron Mahmod Sabri , Zailani Suhaiza
Published: October 2011

This paper examines the airline industry to develop a synergy model in internal and external suppliers for Asian airlines industry. An extensive literature review is conducted to present a synergy model to develop Asian airline competitiveness, safety and service quality. The literature review is highlighted to seek the relationships between internal marketing and internal service quality and identify whether the relation of supplier can moderate them. The review reveals that a synergy model based on internal marketing, internal service quality and supplier relations can overcome the Asian industrial phenomenon, especially in maintaining the service consistency and competitiveness. This model is needed for developing airline service and safety. Research in airline business is critical, as the quality of the airline service is declining in contrast with this industry’s growth. This paper provides insight into two important suppliers needed for the success of the airline industry.
An Abstract Model for Integrated Intrusion Detection and Severity Analysis for Clouds
Authors: Arshad Junaid , Townend Paul , Xu Jie
Published: October 2011

Cloud computing is an emerging computing paradigm which introduces novel opportunities to establish large scale, flexible computing infrastructures. However, security underpins extensive adoption of Cloud computing. This paper presents efforts to address one of the significant issues with respect to security of Clouds i.e. intrusion detection and severity analysis. An abstract model for integrated intrusion detection and severity analysis for Clouds is proposed to facilitate minimal intrusion response time while preserving the overall security of the Cloud infrastructures. In order to assess the effectiveness of the proposed model, detailed architectural evaluation using Architectural Trade-off Analysis Model (ATAM) is used. A set of recommendations which can be used as a set of best practice guidelines while implementing the proposed architecture is discussed.
Energy-Efficiency in Cloud Computing Environments
Authors: Moreno Ismael Solis , Xu Jie
Published: October 2011

Due to all the pollutants generated during its production and the steady increases in its rates, energy consumption is causing serious environmental and economic problems. In this context, the growing use and adoption of ICTs is being highlighted not only as one as the principal problem sources but also as one of the principal areas that could help in the problem’s reduction. Cloud computing is an emerging model for distributed utility computing and is being considered as an attractive opportunity for saving energy through central management of computational resources. To be successful, the design of energy-efficient mechanisms must start playing a mayor role. This paper argues the importance of energy-efficient mechanisms within cloud data centers and remarks on the significance of the “energy-performance” relationship in boosting the adoption of these mechanisms in real scenarios. It provides an analysis of the current approaches and the outline of key opportunities that need to be addressed to improve the “energy-performance” relationship in this promising model.
Using Free Software for Elastic Web Hosting on a Private Cloud
Authors: Kübert Roland , Katsaros Gregory
Published: October 2011

Even though public cloud providers already exist and offer computing and storage services, cloud computing is still a buzzword for scientists in various fields such as engineering, finance, social sciences, etc. These technologies are currently mature enough to leave the experimental laboratory in order to be used in real-life scenarios. To this end, the authors consider that the prime example use case of cloud computing is a web hosting service. This paper presents the architectural approach as well as the technical solution for applying elastic web hosting onto a private cloud infrastructure using only free software. Through several available software applications and tools, anyone can build their own private cloud on top of a local infrastructure and benefit from the dynamicity and scalability provided by the cloud approach.
Security Issues in Cloud Computing
Authors: Dahbur Kamal , Mohammad Bassil , Tarakji Ahmad Bisher
Published: October 2011

Cloud Computing (CC) is revolutionizing the methodology by which IT services are being utilized. It is being introduced and marketed with many attractive promises that are enticing to many companies and managers, such as reduced capital costs and relief from managing complex information technology infrastructure. However, along with desirable benefits come risks and security concerns that must be considered and addressed correctly. Thus, security issues must be considered as a major issue when considering Cloud Computing. This paper discusses Cloud Computing and its related concepts; highlights and categorizes many of the security issues introduced by the “cloud”; surveys the risks, threats, and vulnerabilities; and makes the necessary recommendations that can help promote the benefits and mitigate the risks associated with Cloud Computing.
Towards a More Naturalistic CALL
Authors: Benson Phil , Chik Alice
Published: October 2011

Recent social and technological developments are placing independent access to the Internet within the reach of more and more foreign language learners, who are increasingly using this access to pursue interests online through the languages they are learning. Conceptualized in this paper as “naturalistic CALL”, this phenomenon is described as a logical step in the evolution of CALL and, in particular, of its ‘communicative’ and ‘network-based’ phases. Following a brief review of early studies in this area, a framework for research is described based on dimensions of location, formality, pedagogy, and locus of control. Potential issues for future research within this framework are also identified with reference to data from a study of multilingual video-gaming practices among young people in Hong Kong.
The Nature of 'Talk' in Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication in a Vietnamese Tertiary EFL Context
Authors: Nguyen Long V. , White Cynthia
Published: October 2011

This classroom-based research aims to investigate the nature and quality of talk in synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) among Vietnamese tertiary EFL learners. Participants included 60 students in their sixth semester of an eight-semester BA in TESOL program in a large university in Central Vietnam. Using a sociocultural lens, the nature of discussion was compared in two modes of exchanges, SCMC versus face-to-face (FTF), through analysis of discussion transcripts supported by questionnaire data, interviews and observations. The first level of analysis, participation, revealed that the online students, collaborating in an academic task for the first time via SCMC, produced fewer words, but spent more time, during the discussion process. More equal contribution was a marked feature of the SCMC mode. For the second level of analysis examining the interactional nature and pattern of discussion, transcripts were analyzed according to socioaffective, organizational and sociocognitive themes, and their emergent subcategories. Clear differences were evident between the two settings regarding group processes, leadership, negotiation and consensus. It is argued that for these tertiary Vietnamese EFL learners, the FTF groups were more product-oriented in the discussion task, while the online groups presented a more process-oriented style of learning.
An Exploratory Study of the Effects of Extended Online Thematic Listening Tasks on the Development of Listening Comprehension
Authors: Sun Yu-Chih , Chang Wen-Li , Yang Fang-Ying
Published: October 2011

This study investigates the effects of employing extended online thematic listening tasks on the development of listening comprehension in an English course focusing on reading and writing skill development. To accomplish this aim, extended online thematic listening tasks were designed and implemented in English as a Foreign-Language (EFL) college level General English course. Pre- and post-tests were conducted to examine students’ gains in overall listening proficiency. Moreover, students’ mid-term and final exams were compared in order to track student progress. Data on student perceptions of online thematic tasks was also collected and analyzed. Findings suggest that extended online thematic listening tasks may constitute a dynamic forum which fosters significant gains in listening comprehension, test performance, and development of learning strategies. In addition, the findings reveal that students’ initial enthusiasm toward extended online listening tasks faded and the efforts that they put into the tasks gradually decreased as the semester progressed. Therefore, time availability and management become an important pedagogical issue in e-learning.
Teaching Students to Use Text-Profilers
Authors: Barth Ingrid , Klein-Wohl Esther
Published: October 2011

In this paper the authors suggest that teaching students to use freely available text-profiling software represents an innovative strategy and possible solution to needs of non-native English speakers who leave school without an adequate English vocabulary. First the research basis is described for a new text-profiler designed to help students acquire the high-frequency vocabulary they need in order to become effective readers of academic texts published in English. The authors then illustrate relative advantages of this tool and show how these features address specific issues related to learning English vocabulary at college or university. Finally pedagogic implications of teaching students to use text-profilers are presented and suggestions are offered for future directions.
Interest and Performance When Learning Online
Authors: Fraughton Tamra B. , Sansone Carol , Butner Jonathan , Zachary Joseph
Published: October 2011

As part of the Regulating Motivation and Performance Online Project (RMAPO), students completing an online HTML programming lesson demonstrated higher quiz scores and greater post-lesson interest when initially provided information about how the skills could be used (personal or organizational applications). These effects were mediated by higher levels of engagement with optional examples and exercises during the lesson. This paper examines whether the benefit from adding utility value information was limited to students with no prior experience creating web pages. Results show that, regardless of prior experience, the added information was associated with higher engagement levels, which were associated with higher lesson interest and quiz scores. Because prior experience was related to lower engagement levels overall, results suggest that experience had an indirect negative effect on motivation and performance outcomes that was offset by enhanced engagement when value was added. Implications for the Self-Regulation of Motivation Model (SRM) and online instructors are discussed.
Hydrogen-Bonded Interactions in the Systems L-Cysteine - H2SeO3 and L-Cysteine -H2SeO4
Authors: Pankratov Alexei N. , Bychkov Nikolay A. , Tsivileva Olga M.
Published: October 2011

Using the density functional theory method at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level of theory, the formation of hydrogen-bonded complexes of L-cysteine with selenious and selenic acids has been studied. In both cases of selenium-containing acids, the complexes occur preferably by cysteine carboxylic group, therewith the enthalpy of formation values consist from –19 to –21 kcal/mol, and free energy from –6 to –9 kcal/mol. Probably, the initial act of interaction in the system hydroxyl-containing selenium compound - a-amino acid, proceeding with mutual orientation of the reactants molecules and intermolecular hydrogen bonds formation, serves as a prerequisite for the thiol group capability of participating in the subsequent stages (including more completed transformations) of biologically important reactions.
Global Education Access Utilizing Partnerships and Networked Global Learning Communities
Authors: Kenon Vanessa Hammler
Published: October 2011

Networked global learning communities build partnership programs between higher education institutions and high schools which allow students, teachers and professors to attend and work in college preparation programs located in countries outside of their native lands. These educational programs help to promote development of transnational policies and procedure reforms to provide access to universities in other countries, as well as provide exposure to global learning strategies, structures, and emerging technologies among teachers and educational leadership. Transnational High School-University Bridge programs also allow the student to adjust to a new culture and work to improve their second language skills, while potentially earning college credit in a dual credit, high school environment.
The Net Generation and E-Textbooks
Authors: Nicholas Arlene J. , Lewis John K.
Published: October 2011

The traditional college student of today is part of the Net Generation who has been raised in an era of instant access. Their communication and learning is complemented by the Internet, a major influence on this cohort. The regular method of contact is text messaging, instant messaging and cell phones. Learning methods for the Net Generation include Internet tools such as Web-CT, Blackboard, online courses, online journals and i-pod downloads. Are they ready to also change from print textbooks to Internet based textbooks? This paper describes the attitudes of some Net Generation students towards the usage of electronic textbooks. Three case studies were conducted: one class used an online textbook and two other classes used e-chapter supplements. Students were questioned on their perceptions of using and learning with e-textbooks. Their views describe some changing thoughts towards network connected media that is the mantra of this generation.
Web 2.0
Authors: Harris Lisa , Warren Lorraine , Smith Kelly , Carey Charlotte
Published: October 2011

The use of Web 2.0 technologies in the classroom is becoming more widespread, as educators begin to recognise their use as effective learning and teaching tools. Web 2.0 facilitates new modes of social interaction that offer the potential to enrich university educational activities. New roles, structures and activities can be enabled, engendering new forms of creativity and increasing the availability of and extent of access to information. Yet in achieving this, such platforms shift the traditional boundaries between educators and their students, between personal and professional lives, raising issues of integrity and pedagogy in unexpected ways. This paper reflects on three personal narratives to examine some of these challenges; the authors conclude by highlighting concerns that universities need to address.
Chase-Like Decoding of Arithmetic Codes with Applications
Authors: Zribi Amin , Zaibi Sonia , Pyndiah Ramesh , Bouallègue Ammar
Published: October 2011

Motivated by recent results in Joint Source/ Channel (JSC) coding and decoding, this paper addresses the problem of soft input decoding of Arithmetic Codes (AC). A new length-constrained scheme for JSC decoding of these codes is proposed based on the Maximum a posteriori (MAP) sequence estimation criterion. The new decoder, called Chase-like arithmetic decoder is supposed to know the source symbol sequence and the compressed bit-stream lengths. First, Packet Error Rates (PER) in the case of transmission on an Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) channel are investigated. Compared to classical arithmetic decoding, the Chase-like decoder shows significant improvements. Results are provided for Chase-like decoding for image compression and transmission on an AWGN channel. Both lossy and lossless image compression schemes were studied. As a final application, the serial concatenation of an AC with a convolutional code was considered. Iterative decoding, performed between the two decoders showed substantial performance improvement through iterations.