bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Phase Field Model for Rate-Dependent Ductile Fracture
Authors: Badnava Hojjat , Etemadi Elahe , Msekh Mohammed
Published: May 2017

In this study, a phase field viscoplastic model is proposed to model the influence of the loading rate on the ductile fracture, as one of the main causes of metallic alloys’ failure. To this aim, the effects of the phase field are incorporated in the Peric’s viscoplastic model; the model can efficiently be converted to a standard rate-independent model. The novel aspects of this work include: Describing a coupling between rate-dependent plasticity and phase field formulation by defining an energy function that contains the energy dissipation caused by plastic deformation as well as the fracture process and elastic energy. In addition, the equations required to develop the numerical solution are presented. The governing equations are determined by a minimization principle that results in balance laws for the coupled displacement-phase field problem. Furthermore, an implicit integration algorithm for a viscoplasticity model coupled with a phase field is presented for a three-dimensional stress state. The proposed algorithm can be utilized for different constitutive models of rate-dependent and rate-independent plasticity models coupled with fracture by changing the definition of the plastic multiplier. In addition, to control the influence of the plastic deformation and its work on the crack propagation, a threshold variable is defined in the model. Finally, using the proposed model, the influence of the loading rate on the responses of the different specimens in one-dimensional and multi-dimensional cases is investigated and the accuracy of the results was verified by comparing them with existing experimental and numerical results. The obtained result proves that the model can simulate the impact of the loading rate on the material response, and the gradual change of the fracture phase from ductile to brittle, caused by increasing the loading rate.
Exploiting the Redundancy of Multiple Overlapping Aerial Images for Dense Image Matching Based Digital Surface Model Generation
Authors: Dominik Wojciech
Published: May 2017

In recent years, significant development in the domain of dense image matching (DIM) can be observed. Meanwhile, in most countries, aerial images are acquired countrywide on a regular basis with decreasing time intervals and increasing image overlaps. Therefore, aerial images represent a growing potential for digital surface model (DSM) acquisition and updating. Surface reconstruction by image matching, in most cases, requires dealing with the redundancy caused by multiple overlapping images. Many approaches considering this redundancy in the surface reconstruction process have been developed. However, there is no commonly accepted procedure for this task. From the experience of the author, it can be stated that currently applied methods show some limitations regarding DSM generation from aerial images. Therefore, it is claimed that there is room for the development of new algorithms for integration of dense image matching results from multiple stereo pairs. Methods dedicated to aerial image based DSM generation that would exploit the specificity of this task are desirable. In this paper, an approach to compute the DSM elevations from redundant elevation hypotheses derived by pairwise dense image matching is presented. The proposed approach takes into account the base-to-height (b/h) ratio of stereo pairs, the distribution of elevation hypotheses from multiple stereo pairs and the neighboring elevations. An algorithm of selection of the elevation hypotheses used for the calculation of the final DSM elevation for each grid cell was developed. The algorithm was used to generate the DSM based on two sets of aerial images having significantly different acquisition parameters. The results were compared to the models obtained from several commonly used software packages for image based DSM generation. The quality assessment was carried out by visual inspection of terrain profiles and shaded surface display as well as by the planarity control of flat parts of the terrain. The assessment of the results showed that the application of the proposed algorithm can bring some advantages and it can contribute to improving the quality of the DSM.
Signal Processing for a Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) Video Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with Beat Frequency Division Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW)
Authors: Kim Seok , Yu Jiwoong , Jeon Se-Yeon , Dewantari Aulia , Ka Min-Ho
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we present a novel signal processing method for video synthetic aperture radar (ViSAR) systems, which are suitable for operation in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) environments. The technique improves aspects of the system’s performance, such as the frame rate and image size of the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) video. The new ViSAR system is based on a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) SAR structure that is combined with multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, and multi-channel azimuth processing techniques. FMCW technology is advantageous for use in low cost, small size, and lightweight systems, like small UAVs. MIMO technology is utilized for increasing the equivalent number of receiving channels in the azimuthal direction, and reducing aperture size. This effective increase is achieved using a co-array concept by means of beat frequency division (BFD) FMCW. A multi-channel azimuth processing technique is used for improving the frame rate and image size of SAR video, by suppressing the azimuth ambiguities in the receiving channels. This paper also provides analyses of the frame rate and image size of SAR video of ViSAR systems. The performance of the proposed system is evaluated using an exemplary system. The results of analyses are presented, and their validity is verified using numerical simulations.
Room-Temperature Ammonia Sensor Based on ZnO Nanorods Deposited on ST-Cut Quartz Surface Acoustic Wave Devices
Authors: Li Wei , Guo Yuanjun , Tang Yongliang , Zu Xiaotao , Ma Jinyi , Wang Lu , Fu Yong
Published: May 2017

Using a seed layer-free hydrothermal method, ZnO nanorods (NRs) were deposited on ST-cut quartz surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices for ammonia sensing at room temperature. For a comparison, a ZnO film layer with a thickness of 30 nm was also coated onto an ST-cut quartz SAW device using a sol-gel and spin-coating technique. The ammonia sensing results showed that the sensitivity, repeatability and stability of the ZnO NR-coated SAW device were superior to those of the ZnO film-coated SAW device due to the large surface-to-volume ratio of the ZnO NRs.
Understanding Mothers’ Infant Feeding Decisions and Practices
Authors: Head Emma
Published: May 2017

This paper begins with a discussion of social research which seeks to critique the emphasis on breastfeeding in infant feeding health promotion. The key themes of this research center on science, risk, and morality but other factors can also shape mothers’ decisions and practices regarding infant feeding, and particularly, breastfeeding. The paper explores a range of research studies which together highlight the wide range of social, cultural, and economic factors implicated in infant feeding decisions and practices. The discussions here demonstrate that social and economic factors, familial and social networks, interactions with health professionals, cultural contexts which sexualize women’s bodies, and experiences of public space, can all play a role in shaping how mothers negotiate infant feeding. This broad conceptualization of the factors that shape infant feeding practices offered by social research poses a challenge to the more simplistic accounts of infant feeding decisions implicit in public health promotion. It also demonstrates the profoundly social quality of infant feeding decisions that women make and the particular contributions that social research can make to our understandings of this area.
The Effect of Physicochemical Modification on the Function of Antibodies Induced by Anti-Nicotine Vaccine in Mice
Authors: Thorn Jennifer , Bhattacharya Keshab , Crutcher Renata , Sperry Justin , Isele Colleen , Kelly Barbara , Yates Libbey , Zobel James , Zhang Ningli , Davis Heather , McCluskie Michael
Published: May 2017

Smoking remains one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. One approach to assisting smoking cessation is via anti-nicotine vaccines, composed of nicotine-like haptens conjugated to a carrier protein plus adjuvant(s). We have previously shown that the carrier, hapten, linker, hapten load, degree of conjugate aggregation, and presence of adducts can each influence the function (nicotine-binding capacity) of the antibody (Ab) induced. Herein, we extend those findings and show that tertiary structure is also critical to the induction of functional immune responses and that this can be influenced by conjugation conditions. We evaluated immunogenicity in mice using six lots of NIC7-CRM, a conjugate of 5-aminoethoxy-nicotine (Hapten 7), and a single point (glycine 52 to glutamic acid) mutant nontoxic form of diphtheria toxin, cross-reactive material 197 (CRM197), which were synthesized under different reaction conditions resulting in conjugates with equivalent molecular characteristics (hapten load, aggregates, adducts), but a different tertiary structure. When tested in mice, better functional responses (reduced nicotine in the brain of immunized animals relative to non-immunized controls) were obtained with conjugates with a more closed structure than those with an open conformation. These studies highlight the need for a better understanding of the physicochemical properties of small molecule conjugate vaccines.
The effect of Dr Google on doctor–patient encounters in primary care: a quantitative, observational, cross-sectional study
Authors: Van Riel Noor , Auwerx Koen , Debbaut Pieterjan , Van Hees Sanne , Schoenmakers Birgitte
Published: May 2017

Background

Two-thirds of all patients search the internet prior to a health consultation.

Aim

To explore how searching for online health information before visiting a doctor influences patients’ behaviour during the consultation.

Design & setting

A quantitative, observational, and cross-sectional study of 18–75-year-old patients who used the internet.

Method

Patients were recruited by social media for the quantitative study. This was followed by a qualitiative study of GPs who were questioned in focus groups. Two questions were addressed: What is the effect of searching online health information on the behaviour of the patients? How does the GP handle this information?

Results

Almost half of all responders (total n = 963) usually went to the doctor after the online information search but two-thirds were not reassured by the internet search. More than half of responders had more confidence in their GP after searching online. The older the responders, the more they went to the doctor after their internet search and the younger the responders, the more they were worried. The more frequently people consulted the internet for specific complaints, the more likely they reported reassurance.

Discussion

Patients usually made an appointment with their GP after the internet search. New symptoms are rarely noticed and the search usually did not lead patients to distrust their GP. The majority of GPs described positive effects of the online search behaviour on the consultation.

Conclusion

The emerging use of the internet for searching health information, commonly referred to as 'Dr Google', is not seen as a threat by GPs and leads to a better mutual understanding of symptoms and diagnosis.
ZnO nanoparticles sensitized by CuInZnxS2+x quantum dots as highly efficient solar light driven photocatalysts
Authors: Donat Florian , Corbel Serge , Alem Halima , Pontvianne Steve , Balan Lavinia , Medjahdi Ghouti , Schneider Raphaël
Published: May 2017

Alloyed CuInZnxS2+x (ZCIS) quantum dots (QDs) were successfully associated to ZnO nanoparticles by a thermal treatment at 400 °C for 15 min. The ZnO/ZCIS composite was characterized by TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy. ZCIS QDs, with an average diameter of ≈4.5 nm, were found to be homogeneously distributed at the surface of ZnO nanoparticles. ZCIS-sensitized ZnO nanoparticles exhibit a high photocatalytic activity under simulated solar light irradiation for the degradation of Orange II dye (>95% degradation after 180 min of irradiation at an intensity of 5 mW/cm2). The heterojunction built between the ZnO nanoparticle and ZCIS QDs not only extends the light adsorption range by the photocatalyst but also acts to decrease electron/hole recombination. Interestingly, the ZnO/ZCIS composite was found to produce increased amounts of H2O2 and singlet oxygen 1O2 compared to ZnO, suggesting that these reactive oxygen species play a key role in the photodegradation mechanism. The activity of the ZnO/ZCIS composite is retained at over 90% of its original value after ten successive photocatalytic runs, indicating its high stability and its potential for practical photocatalytic applications.
Spectral Resolution-linked Bias in Transit Spectroscopy of Extrasolar Planets
Authors: Deming Drake , Sheppard Kyle
Published: May 2017

We re-visit the principles of transmission spectroscopy for transiting extrasolar planets, focusing on the overlap between the planetary spectrum and the illuminating stellar spectrum. Virtually all current models of exoplanetary transmission spectra utilize an approximation that is inaccurate when the spectrum of the illuminating star has a complex line structure, such as molecular bands in M-dwarf spectra. In those cases, it is desirable to model the observations using a coupled stellar–planetary radiative transfer model calculated at high spectral resolving power, followed by convolution to the observed resolution. Not consistently accounting for overlap of stellar M-dwarf and planetary lines at high spectral resolution can bias the modeled amplitude of the exoplanetary transmission spectrum, producing modeled absorption that is too strong. We illustrate this bias using the exoplanet TRAPPIST-1b, as observed using Hubble Space Telescope/WFC3. The bias in this case is about 250 ppm, 12% of the modeled transit absorption. Transit spectroscopy using JWST will have access to longer wavelengths where the water bands are intrinsically stronger, and the observed signal-to-noise ratios will be higher than currently possible. We therefore expect that this resolution-linked bias will be especially important for future JWST observations of TESS-discovered super-Earths and mini-Neptunes transiting M-dwarfs.
Nuclear Spiral Shocks and Induced Gas Inflows in Weak Oval Potentials
Authors: Kim Woong-Tae , Elmegreen Bruce G.
Published: May 2017

Nuclear spirals are ubiquitous in galaxy centers. They exist not only in strong barred galaxies but also in galaxies without noticeable bars. We use high-resolution hydrodynamic simulations to study the properties of nuclear gas spirals driven by weak bar-like and oval potentials. The amplitude of the spirals increases toward the center by a geometric effect, readily developing into shocks at small radii even for very weak potentials. The shape of the spirals and shocks depends rather sensitively on the background shear. When shear is low, the nuclear spirals are loosely wound and the shocks are almost straight, resulting in large mass inflows toward the center. When shear is high, on the other hand, the spirals are tightly wound and the shocks are oblique, forming a circumnuclear disk through which gas flows inward at a relatively lower rate. The induced mass inflow rates are enough to power black hole accretion in various types of Seyfert galaxies as well as to drive supersonic turbulence at small radii.
La transformation des pratiques de GRH en PME innovantes
Authors: Adla Ludivine , Gallego-Roquelaure Virginie
Published: May 2017

L’objectif de cet article est d’étudier l’évolution des pratiques de GRH favorisant l’innovation en PME. Utilisant la théorie des échelons supérieurs, couplée au mix social de Mahé de Boislandelle (2015), nous soulignons l’importance de la discrétion managériale et de l’exigence de la fonction managériale dans le déploiement de pratiques de GRH. Prenant le cas de quatre PME innovantes, nous explorons à partir, de récits de vie, d’entretiens semi-directifs et d’analyse documentaire, le rôle du dirigeant, les spécificités de la GRH et de l’innovation. Les résultats montrent que dans certains cas, la personnalité du dirigeant oriente la GRH et dans d’autres, ce sont essentiellement ses valeurs qui la transforment.
Le rôle managerial des chefs d’établissement : quels enjeux de satisfaction pour les enseignants du secondaire en France ?
Authors: Fournier Sandrine , Masou Roula
Published: May 2017

Les chefs d’établissement du secondaire jouent un rôle primordial dans la satisfaction des enseignants à travers leurs pratiques managériales. Dans cet article, nous nous intéressons aux effets du rôle de manager des chefs d’établissement sur la satisfaction des enseignants du secondaire. Pour mieux appréhender celle-ci, cette recherche s’appuiera sur une démarche méthodologique de nature quantitative. Elle mobilisera des courants théoriques permettant de conceptualiser la satisfaction des enseignants et le rôle managérial des chefs d’établissement. Les résultats de notre étude menée au niveau national dans les établissements publics locaux d’enseignement permettent de recentrer le débat sur les conditions de travail des enseignants suite à l’évolution de ces pratiques managériales.
L’influence de l’Europe sur le secteur social de l’aide à domicile
Authors: Chauvière Michel
Published: May 2017

Comme bon nombre de secteurs d’action sociale et médico--sociale, le monde de l’aide à domicile est en complète mutation. En réponse à l’allongement de l’espérance de vie se développe notamment une économie ouverte et concurrentielle des services à la personne et le domicile privé est survalorisé. Mais on observe aussi une lente déconstruction de notre modèle social historique, la recherche d’alternatives économiques du côté de l’investissement privé lucratif et un nouveau management public qui cherche à rompre avec l’action sociale administrée. La présente contribution vise quelques aspects significatifs de l’influence doctrinale de l’Europe dans ce processus. On en décrira d’abord les institutions et les principaux modes de fonctionnement, avant d’aborder les services, le social business , la promotion du bien vieillir , le domicile et l’usager.
L’accompagnement à domicile : mission impossible ?
Authors: Ennuyer Bernard , Gardien Ève
Published: May 2017

Bernard Ennuyer revient sur la façon dont les professionnels intervenant au domicile des personnes qui souhaitent y finir leur vie peuvent accompagner ces personnes sans trop bousculer leurs habitudes et leur chez-soi. Il propose des réflexions sur le domicile et le chez-soi et suggère des pistes d’amélioration pour respecter bien plus qu’on ne le fait aujourd’hui les choix de vie de personnes, certes fragiles, mais qui restent des citoyens à part entière. Il met aussi en question la façon dont les politiques publiques stigmatisent, en France, la population dite âgée dans la façon même de l’accompagner en la discriminant.
La liste des personnes qualifiées, un outil de la loi du 2 janvier 2002 véritablement utile ?
Authors: Foucault Giroux Laurent
Published: May 2017

L’article L. 311-3 du Code d’action sociale et des familles ( casf ) constitue le fondement même du droit des usagers : « L’exercice des droits et libertés individuels est garanti à toute personne prise en charge par des établissements et services sociaux et médico-sociaux. » Parmi ces droits, il existe celui du libre accès à la liste des personnes qualifiées. Souvent oubliée, voire totalement ignorée, cette liste doit, ou devait, à l’origine, aider à lutter notamment contre la maltraitance.
Les spasad expérimentaux, une offre encouragée pour une meilleure prise en charge
Authors: Schmid Clara
Published: May 2017

Après dix ans d’existence, le statut des services polyvalents d’aide et de soins infirmiers à domicile n’a pas permis de rendre lisible pour les publics accompagnés la coordination pouvant parfois exister entre les ssiad et les saad . La loi relative à l’adaptation de la société au vieillissement propose l’expérimentation d’une forme mutualisée de service polyvalent d’aide et de soin à domicile en faveur des personnes âgées et des personnes handicapées. L’enjeu d’un accompagnement décloisonné des personnes âgées et des personnes handicapées est ainsi possible par une phase expérimentale d’un modèle plus intégré, avec la publication d’un cahier des charges co-construit par les acteurs du secteur. Un état des mesures prises pour accompagner cette évolution des pratiques des spasad est proposé dans cet article.
Des employeurs comme les autres ? Quelles spécificités de management pour les particuliers employeurs en incapacité motrice majeure ?
Authors: Touahria-Gaillard Abdia
Published: May 2017

Afin d’organiser leurs aides humaines, les personnes en situation de handicap peuvent recourir à l’emploi à domicile entre particuliers. Dans ce cadre, elles deviennent particuliers employeurs et endossent toutes les responsabilités administratives et juridiques de la relation d’emploi. Mais au-delà de cela, elles doivent également gérer tous les éléments de cette relation : du recrutement à la formation. Notre enquête qualitative par entretiens semi-directifs auprès de particuliers employeurs et de leurs salariés en Languedoc-Roussillon et en Ile-de-France nous a permis d’approcher les expériences vécues de ce management spécifique. Il s’avère que les ressources territoriales, à savoir les politiques sociales locales ou encore les associations d’accompagnement des personnes en situation de handicap, ont une incidence sur les styles managériaux. Mais ces grandes différences entre les deux territoires investigués n’empêchent pas la manifestation locale de manières de faire différentes, oscillant du recrutement affinitaire qui s’exprime dans un soft management au recrutement par compétences qui peut révéler un rapport instrumental à l’aide prodiguée.
Gender Economics
Authors: Moore Susanne
Published: May 2017

This chapter will introduce a definition of the theory of Gender Economics to create a development pathway for the future study of Gender Economics as a concept. The definition covers Gender Economics and its application in business at a micro level, as well as in policy and economic theory at a macro level. This chapter introduces Diversity Economics, a concept that looks at leveraging innovation and performance from diversity. This chapter firstly defines four major categories of economic activity where this author believes that gender, and particularly women, plays a role, i.e. Investment, Policy, Environment, Innovation and Health. Secondly this chapter details examples from three of the category definitions of Gender Economics.
Genderized Workplace Lookism in the U.S. and Abroad
Authors: Sims Cynthia Howard
Published: May 2017

Lookism is preferential treatment of those considered to be attractive and discrimination against those deemed less physically desirable. Value is attached to certain physical characteristics such as skin tone, height, weight, facial features, and hair color/textures. Two of the phenomena that exist under the umbrella of lookism are colorism and weightism, which are both genderized phenomenon that create social and workplace inequities. There are studies that explore physical appearance discrimination external to and within workplaces in the United States; however, there is little research on the impact of these prejudices on women abroad. Since today's global workforce is composed of women from various countries and cultural backgrounds, and their cultural values impact their career aspirations and career opportunities, organizational and career development professionals must understand the implications of both U.S. and international lookism and utilize strategies to address and prevent the related issues.
Developing a Practice of Cultural Awareness in Pre-Service Teachers by Promoting Positive Dialogue Around Diversity
Authors: Watson Allyson Leggett
Published: May 2017

Within higher education there are dynamic constructs surrounding discussions on race, gender and bias. Courses detailing inclusive pedagogy and university restructuring for diversity initiatives are at the forefront of higher education administration strategic planning. By drilling down into educator preparation programs, it is often assumed that the notion of conversations about diversity and teaching cultural awareness has long been a standard of practice. Solid educator preparation programs tout cultural awareness and assist in preparing teachers to effectively teach and serve in diverse school settings. This preparation allows for new teachers to feel secure in methods to meet the needs of learners through content and personal connection. This chapter will identify the strengths of a pre-service teacher preparation program designed to implement cultural conversation early in the baccalaureate program. The program is centered around learning strategies, techniques and pedagogical practices based on theoretical implications and class discourse relating to all areas of diversity.
Through the Eyes of the Beholder
Authors: Losike-Sedimo Nonofo Constance
Published: May 2017

This chapter presents experiences of an elderly woman living in Africa from a Feminist theoretical perspective. Feminism is a theory that argues that men and women should be treated equally, politically, economically and socially. It includes sensitivity to all sorts of gender biases such as excluding voices of women in life debates. The aim of this chapter is to map the challenges and constraints posed by patriarchal value system, as it relates to the right to reproduction, child rearing practices and legal connotation, the discussion also includes opportunities in socio-cultural, Educational, economic and political participation. These experiences are situated in both public and private life. As the author wrote this narrative of her experiences, she went through major literature sources and could only locate a few relevant sources with similar narrations.
Diversity and Teacher Education
Authors: Zhou Molly Y.
Published: May 2017

Teachers' knowledge and skills in working with students of diverse backgrounds depend largely on their knowledge of ethnic groups and appreciation of culture and language differences. This chapter examined preservice teachers' preparation for diversity in a teacher education program at a university in southeastern United States. Study participants were preservice teachers enrolled in an education course in the school of education at the said university. Thirty preservice teachers' semester long reflections from a diversity education course were collected and analyzed. Two questions guided the discussion of the chapter: 1) What was the learning experience of preservice teachers in the course? 2) What was the collective conscience of preservice teachers on teaching students in increasingly diverse classrooms? The findings revealed that the course experiences facilitated preservice teachers' critical thinking skills on history, cultural identity, family and language difference, ethnic experiences. Implications on diversity in education were discussed.
Constructing Conducive Environment for Women of Color in Engineering Undergraduate Education
Authors: Ro Hyun Kyoung , McIntosh Kadian
Published: May 2017

The engineering field, in particular, struggles to recruit and retain students, especially women of color. Thus, consideration of how academic environments, such as treatment by faculty and peers, interaction with faculty, and available resources for learning and tutoring, uniquely affect women of color is examined. Several theories, such as critical racial theory, intersectionality, and campus climate framework, highlight the importance of examining individual characteristics and details of the environmental context. This study used data from a sample of 850 women students in 120 U.S. engineering undergraduate programs from 31 four-year institutions. Black women engineering students experienced and perceived more differential treatment because of their race/ethnicity but interacted more with faculty than White women students. This study provides critical implications for policy and practice regarding how administrators and faculty members can design engineering programs to create better climate and offer resources for women of color students.
Public Demand Aggregation as a Means of Bridging the ICT Gender Divide
Authors: Williams Idongesit , Kwofie Benjamin , Sidii Fauziatu Salifu
Published: May 2017

More men use ICTs than women globally. This is not because there are more men than women globally. Rather, it is because of social, economic and cultural challenges that work against the adoption of ICTs by women. In this chapter, public demand aggregation of ICT content is promoted as a means of bridging the ICT gender gap. The argument presented here is; the promotion of useful e-government service(s) in a country will enable equal adoption of ICTs by both men and Women. The argument for content is inspired by the examples proposed in this chapter as well as a synthesis of results from the Ghana Wireless Project and a research visit to Jaribu and Kerege in Tanzania. This chapter concludes, that the adoption of mandatory national e-government initiatives will result in more women identifying other uses of ICTs in other areas of their lives, spurring sustainable adoption of ICTs.
Utilizing Virtual Technology as a Tool to Enhance the Workforce Diversity Learning
Authors: Greer Bertie Marie , Luethge Denise J , Robinson Gil
Published: May 2017

New technologies for sharing information and communication are being developed every day. Such technologies have become critical to organizations and are needed to bridge the global distance gap. The ability for employees to meet virtually and interact with domestic and global partners is priceless. This ubiquitous communication ability also can be used to promote diversity and equality in the workplace. In this chapter, the increased global role of technology in the workplace and how its use can benefit and/or hinder diversity objectives will be discussed. Additionally, an innovative course delivery method will be used to demonstrate how students in diversity courses can use virtual technologies to build skills and develop intercultural and global competencies by learning from and interacting with students from around the world.
(Un)Doing Gender?
Authors: Groen Maike
Published: May 2017

Professional digital gaming has established itself as e-sport. The gendered usage of digital games has an impact on the social structure of participants in the professional realm: gamers, organizers, commentators and fans are mostly identified as white men. The background of this phenomena are streaming platforms, where harassment is experienced by most female identified gamers at some point. The community has never been silent about these problems, but how to deal with the gender gap in tournament participants is another question. Gender segregation can facilitate visibility and solidarity – but is this an unnecessary dramatization of the socially constructed line? Do these segregations maybe just reinforce stereotypes? What does it mean for female identified people to participate? And how do gaming communities react? The chapter discusses problems and possibilities of female-only tournaments with vivid examples from different games and takes diverse perspectives of (female) gamers, fans and organizations into consideration, while pointing out crucial facts about the topic.
The Education of Roma Children
Authors: McDermott J. Cynthia , Chapel Fredrick M. , Drahokoupil Štěpán Vidím , Bakšić-Muftić Jasna , Daniel Stanislav , Hancock Ian , Symeou Loizos
Published: May 2017

The education of Roma children presents many challenges throughout the world because of poverty, issues of isolation and discrimination. In many countries where Roma reside, laws exist that prohibit discrimination against this minority group. A variety of conflicting issues exist for Roma children. On one hand, the Roma communities practice cultural norms that are in conflict with a typical schooling environment that requires significant structure and lack of independent support. Conversely, schools fail to provide appropriate bilingual instruction for Roma children who usually do not speak the local language. In most countries discrimination attitudes create segregated schools and insufficient social services. Many efforts and organizations are in place to positively impact these challenges to provide quality education for all Roma children.
An NGO's Efforts to Empower Ex-Convicts in Botswana
Authors: Joseph Molefe Coper
Published: May 2017

This chapter presents a case-study drawn from a qualitative study which explored how non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Botswana perceive and respond to recent global emphasis to engage men as stakeholders in gender and development so as to achieve gender equality and to empower women. This case-study was purposively selected from sixteen focus group discussions held with different organizations across the country. The chapter specifically looks at efforts by the Botswana Institute of Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offenders (BIRRO), an NGO established by a group of rehabilitated ex-convicts to empower other ex-convicts by way of facilitating their re-integration into society. They established this NGO after realizing that the rate of reoffending is high due to negative stereotypes attached to ex-convicts. Despite facing some challenges, BIRRO is trying to counteract the disenfranchising criminal identity which members of the public attach to people who once committed a crime.
Innovation, Innovativeness, and Gender
Authors: Okoń-Horodyńska Ewa
Published: May 2017

The chapter deals with the search for the sources of broadly understood creativity in solving various problems: social, political, practical (related to everyday life), family, economic, culture, religious, etc. wherever traditional approaches proved ineffective. These creative solutions - unconventional and having their practical application - became innovations. How multi-dimensional one's predispositions to solve problems are affects the person's capabilities to develop innovations. In view of the growing importance of gender studies, the already mentioned elements should be supplemented with one more - gender. Hence, the concept of Innovative Gender is introduced where men and women are granted equality of measures, opportunities, and situations encompassed by the innovation genome model. The starting point for Innovative Gender research is the establishment of four dedicated matrixes containing information (variables) that describes a given area, taking into account gender issuer, with collaboration playing a major role here.
Culturally Gendered
Authors: Tran Ben
Published: May 2017

The social differentiation between males and females is a relational concept: masculinity exists and has meaning only as it contrasts with femininity, and vice versa (Connell, 1995, p. 43). Western culture, especially, prides itself on the successful integration of feminism into modern society—though some still question how successfully integrated feminism truly is while others ponder whether or not cultural power in society has been reversed. As masculinity studies developed, according to Simpson (2004), so too did the concept of multiple masculinities, the idea that men respond to and embrace masculinity in a variety of ways because the expression of masculinity can “change according to time, the event, and the perspectives” of a group or community (Imms, 2000, p. 156), as demonstrated by Heasley (2005), and men who are in female dominated occupations. Nevertheless, multiple masculinities are commonly segregated into the following categories: hegemonic, complicit, subordinated, and marginalized.
Racial Disproportionalities in Discipline
Authors: Curran F. Chris
Published: May 2017

Student safety represents an important goal for schools; however, policies designed to facilitate school safety may have unintended negative consequences. Zero tolerance policies, those that mandate severe punitive measures, have been widely implemented by school leaders over the last several decades; however, recent research suggests that such policies may contribute to racial disparities in the use of discipline. This chapter reviews the history of zero tolerance policies in schools and, through descriptive analysis of data from the Civil Rights Data Collection of 2011-2012, documents racial disparities in the use of expulsions. Findings suggest that while zero tolerance policies may contribute to such disparities, the racial disparities are more pronounced for non-zero tolerance expulsions. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Delineating Challenges and Opportunities for HBCUs
Authors: Wanjera Osundwa Fred
Published: May 2017

There has been a recent push on a majority of American campuses to become more diverse in all aspects of their everyday life. For this reason, several institutions have to rethink how they approach the subject of diversity. Educational institutions, including historically Black institutions, must bridge socio-economic, racial and other differences if they are to thrive in a higher education environment that is continually becoming more competitive as demographics shift. This chapter illustrates how changing demographics, the benefits of continued diversification, and the value that is continuously being placed on diversity should influence positive change and shape the character and institutional climate of historically Black institutions. The chapter underscores the need for HBCUs to create cultural climates in which all students are recruited, appreciated and valued regardless of their racial or socio-economic backgrounds as a strategy to achieve competitiveness.
Gender Responsive Election Coverage in Nigeria
Authors: Ogwezzy-Ndisika Abigail Odozi , Faustino Babatunde Adeshina
Published: May 2017

This article appraises media coverage of elections in Nigeria with a view to determining the extent it is gender responsive. Specifically, it assesses media coverage of elections and highlights the implications for gender equitable politics in Nigeria; provides data on coverage of both men and women during 2011 general elections; and reviews whether media personnel have fulfilled their social responsibility expectations such as gender equality goals to which the Nigerian state has pledged to in many international instruments. Data for the study were mined from existing documents on media coverage of elections in Nigeria collected, during the 2011 general elections across the six geopolitical zones; and African Media Barometer 2008 and 2011.This score card brings to the fore the extent Nigerian media personnel are implementing the Beijing Platform for Action; and the findings can be used for policy formulation on media reportage and programming for gender responsive election coverage.
The African American Course Mystique
Authors: Carter Joelle Davis
Published: May 2017

One of the challenges in building an inclusive and engaged college campus is empowering students to leverage campus resources while creating an environment that afford academic success. It is common for colleges and universities to offer diverse courses such African American studies courses to enrich students' learning. Drawing from a larger study focused on the factors influencing the engagement of White students attending public HBCUs, this chapter presents select aspects of the experiences of 22 White students attending two public HBCUs who were required to enroll in an African American studies or African Diaspora course toward degree completion. Despite instances of hypervisibility, a term associated with racial spokesmanship roles or feeling as if one stands out due to characteristics, such as race (Peterson & Hamrick, 2009); students pointed to the positive impact of diverse interactions with peers; strong faculty interaction and difficult class discussions that challenged their critical thinking skills and identity development and growth.
“A Girl Move”
Authors: Baasanjav Undrah Buyan
Published: May 2017

The confluence of gender and information technology in chess is explored in this chapter based on a small empirical interview study. By interviewing nine women chess players who compete in men's tournaments, the chapter examines the underrepresentation of women in the traditionally male domain of chess and discusses the role of computers and the Internet in women players' work/play routines. Five in-depth interviews were conducted Face-to-Face (FTF) and four interviews were conducted over the Internet using the textual chat feature of the International Chess Club during the summer of 2010. How women negotiate gendered identity and how they position themselves in regard to information technology are discussed. The interviewees' reflexive accounts discussing gendered practices and the changing notion of gender in chess challenge technologically infused male culture in ways that help us to understand the role of embodiment in mastery and expertise.
The Role of Gender on Student Success
Authors: Bayrak Tuncay , Gulati Anil
Published: May 2017

Numerous studies have investigated why computers are perceived as being a male domain. In this study, the authors examine intra-gender differences among undergraduate and graduate students who enrolled in Management Information Systems (MIS) courses and attempt to answer such questions as do males achieve significantly higher scores in MIS courses? Does instructor gender affect female students' academic achievement? Do females underperform males in achievement at either or both undergraduate and graduate levels? This paper provides findings which demonstrate that female students performed significantly better than their male counterparts in the two introductory undergraduate MIS courses and performed equally well in an upper lever MIS course and an introductory course in the graduate program. Male students were impacted by the gender of the teacher. Even though it was not a main focus of the present study, the authors cannot resist making a casual observation that female teachers were more effective in the classroom.
Career Choices in Information and Communication Technology among South Western Nigerian Women
Authors: Ojokoh Bolanle Adefowoke , Adeola Oladele Stephen , Isinkaye Folasade Olubusola , Abraham Chon
Published: May 2017

This study is designed to discover the key factors for the under-representation and lack of career progression or otherwise of women in the ICT field, specifically in South Western Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered to women (i.e., students, lecturers and other staff) studying or working in selected higher institutions. The results show that 90% of the women studied are self-motivated in their choice of the ICT career with very little external incentivizing or encouragement supporting their choice, besides the lure of high compensation and prestige associated with skilled ICT work. The slight influence on the career choice of women to pursue ICT derives from everyday use of computers and career information provided by role models and mentors, which are atypical, while, those women who did not choose a career in ICT did so because of their perception of the overabundance of required programming skills. Other barriers include environmental working conditions, infrastructure and electricity in the work area needed to support ICT related work. Although, many of the career women believe that they are competitive with their male counterparts in ICT; the fact remains in South Western Nigeria that only a few women are senior associates at organizations in the ICT field. Recommendations are offered to decrease this disparity and address enabling conditions for change.
Implicit Processes and Emotions in Stereotype Threat about Women's Leadership
Authors: Kelso Gwendolyn A. , Brody Leslie R.
Published: May 2017

Stereotype threat about leadership ability may trigger emotional and cognitive responses that reduce women's leadership aspirations. This chapter reviews literature and presents a study on the effects of implicit (covert) and explicit (overt) leadership stereotype threat on women's emotions, power-related cognitions, and behaviors as moderated by exposure to powerful female or male role models. Emotional responses were measured using self-report (direct) and narrative writing (indirect) tasks. Undergraduate women (n = 126) in the Northeastern U.S. were randomly divided into three stereotype threat groups: none, implicit, and explicit. Implicit stereotype threat resulted in higher indirectly expressed (but not self-reported) anxiety, behaviors that benefited others more than the self, and when preceded by exposure to powerful female role models, higher self-reported negative emotion but also higher indirect positive affect. Explicit stereotype threat resulted in higher indirect optimism, and when preceded by exposure to powerful female role models, lower self-reported sadness but also lower implicit power cognitions.
Perceived Enjoyment and the Effect of Gender on Continuance Intention for Mobile Internet Services
Authors: Khedhaouria Anis , Beldi Adel
Published: May 2017

Based on technology acceptance theory, the authors examined the effect of perceived enjoyment and gender on the intention to continue using mobile Internet services (MIS) in an everyday life context. A survey was conducted among 623 current MIS users to test the structural equation model. Their findings confirm the effect of perceived enjoyment on MIS continuance intention as well as the moderating effect of gender. Women expressed a stronger need for perceived usefulness and ease-of-use than men, while men expressed a significant need for perceived enjoyment. Interestingly, and somewhat contrary to previous findings, the effect of perceived usefulness on MIS continuance intention was stronger for women; whereas the effect of perceived enjoyment was significantly stronger for men. The authors findings suggest that MIS developers and providers should consider the gender of users when designing and offering MIS. The paper provides some guidelines regarding how MIS can be designed and customized for gender segments.
Sexual Identities in the Workplace
Authors: Cleve Robert A. , Işık İdil , Pecanha Viviane de Castro
Published: May 2017

The global progression of human rights advocating for marginalized communities, especially LGBTQ, has seen tremendous change over the past several decades, including the conditions for disclosure of sexual identity in the workplace. The decision-making process of disclosure and the necessity for others to know is key to understanding how best to support and address the potential organizational trauma that may result. Not all disclosure of minority identity is negative and the availability of positive policy development within organizations can assist in smooth transitions toward more equal inclusion and dispel previous heteronormative and heterosexist ideologies. Through increased knowledge about the LGBTQ community and case analysis, a cross cultural lens will be utilized from Brazil, Turkey and the U.S.; prominent sexual identity disclosure perspectives for numerous occupations, as well as recommendations for systemic awareness and change will be offered.