bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities for Using Building Information Modeling to Improve Worker Safety Performance
Authors: Alomari Kasim , Gambatese John , Anderson Jason
Published: February 2017

Building information modelling (BIM) enables the creation of a digital representation of a designed facility combined with additional information about the project attributes, performance criteria, and construction process. Users of BIM tools point to the ability to visualize the final design along with the construction process as a beneficial feature of using BIM. Knowing the construction process in relationship to a facility’s design benefits both safety professionals when planning worker safety measures for a project and designers when creating a project’s design. Success in using BIM to enhance safety partly depends on the familiarity of project personnel with BIM tools and the extent to which the tools can be used to identify and eliminate safety hazards. In a separate, ongoing study, the authors investigated the connection between BIM and safety to document the opportunities, barriers, and impacts. Utilizing an on-line survey of project engineers who work for construction firms together with a comprehensive literature review, the study found those who use BIM feel that it aids in communication of project information and project delivery, both of which have been found to have positive impacts on construction site safety. Further, utilizing the survey results, the authors apply the binary logistic regression econometric framework to better understand the factors that lead to safety professionals believing that BIM increases safety in the work place. In addition, according to the survey results, a large percentage of the engineers who use BIM feel that ultimately it helps to eliminate safety hazards and improve worker safety. The study findings suggest that improvements in safety performance across the construction industry may be due in part to increased use of BIM in the construction industry.
Implementation of Sustainable Tourism in the German Alps: A Case Study
Authors: Paunović Ivan , Jovanović Verka
Published: February 2017

What are the processes behind efforts for more sustainable mountain destinations in the German Alps and what are the views of different tourism stakeholders on these processes? The research deals both with threats pushing the agenda of sustainable development (such as climate change and depletion of resources), indicators of sustainable tourism (to measure the scope of change), as well as cross-border cooperation and stakeholder engagement in the German Alps. The data was collected through 30 interviews with individuals dealing with tourism development and sustainable tourism development in the German Alps. The findings suggest that a holistic approach and collection and dissemination of data and knowledge on sustainability are the basis for developing sustainable mountain tourism. Implementation and monitoring should focus on specific flagship sustainable tourism products, as well as on a destination in a broader sense and the sustainable tourism market. Three themes emerged as important for implementation of sustainable tourism in the German Alps: indicators of sustainable tourism, cross-border cooperation and stakeholder engagement.
The Monetary Valuation of Environmental Externalities through the Analysis of Real Estate Prices
Authors: Del Giudice Vincenzo , De Paola Pierfrancesco , Manganelli Benedetto , Forte Fabiana
Published: February 2017

This paper proposes a theoretical model of evaluation of environmental externalities based on the analysis of real estate prices. This issue is included in regional planning policies which include activities and interventions that produce economic and non-economic effects. The monetary assessment of economic and non-economic effects can be expressed as a forecast (ex ante) and/or following (ex post) such activities and interventions. The assessment of the economic impact, with particular reference to interventions and infrastructure work, is widely based on procedures which make use of market prices. The proposed model was applied to an actual case, considering the effects of noise pollution, produced by traffic from the Naples Beltway, on residential property.
Mapping the Distribution Pattern of Gentrification near Urban Parks in the Case of Gyeongui Line Forest Park, Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kwon Yoonku , Joo Shinha , Han Soyoung , Park Chan
Published: February 2017

The objective of this study was to map the distribution pattern of gentrification, showing the adverse effect of urban parks. The study adopted the perspective that urban parks, which have thus far been featured in urban planning without much criticism, may actually bring about unintended effects. This study employed a theory of gentrification that has received increasing interest in urban sociology to investigate the other side of the gentrification phenomenon. We identified urban parks as the cause of the gentrification from the start, and verified and visualised the phenomenon in the case of the Gyeongui Line Forest Park. We determined that the area with the higher possibility of gentrification was that within 600 m of the park. Big data accumulated over the past decade were used to prepare a proactive, systematic procedure to address gentrification, which is materialising in diverse forms. Through this study, we contribute to debates on the environmental justice of urban parks. Small changes in urban space can strongly affect our healthy lifestyles and urban sustainability. From this perspective, our study’s research process and its results could provide indications of how to structure and manage new urban planning projects in the future.
A New Optimization Model for the Sustainable Development: Quadratic Knapsack Problem with Conflict Graphs
Authors: Shi Xiaochuan , Wu Lei , Meng Xiaoliang
Published: February 2017

New information technology constantly improves the efficiency of social networks. Using optimization and decision models in the context of large data sets attracts extensive attention. This paper investigates a novel mathematical model for designing and optimizing environmental economic policies in a protection zone. The proposed model is referred to as the quadratic knapsack problem with conflict graphs, which is a new variant of the knapsack problem family. Due to the investigated problem processing a high complex structure, in order to solve efficiently the problem, we develop a metaheuristic which is based on the large neighborhood search. The proposed method embeds a construction procedure into a sophistical neighborhood search. For more details, the construction procedure takes charge of finding a starting solution while the investigated neighborhood search is used to generate and explore the solution space issuing from the provided starting solution. In order to highlight our theoretical model, we evaluate the model on a set of complex benchmark data sets. The obtained results demonstrate that the investigated algorithm is competitive and efficient compared to legacy algorithms.
Clinical Study of NeuroRegen Scaffold Combined with Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Repair of Chronic Complete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Zhao Yannan , Tang Fengwu , Xiao Zhifeng , Han Guang , Wang Nuo , Yin Na , Chen Bing , Jiang Xianfeng , Yun Chen , Han Wanjun , Zhao Changyu , Cheng Shixiang , Zhang Sai , Dai Jianwu
Published: February 2017

Regeneration of damaged neurons and recovery of sensation and motor function after complete spinal cord injury (SCI) are challenging. We previously developed a collagen scaffold, NeuroRegen, to promote axonal growth along collagen fibers and inhibit glial scar formation after SCI. When functionalized with multiple biomolecules, this scaffold promoted neurological regeneration and functional recovery in animals with SCI. In this study, eight patients with chronic complete SCI were enrolled to examine the safety and efficacy of implanting NeuroRegen scaffold with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs). Using intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, we identified and surgically resected scar tissues to eliminate the inhibitory effect of glial scarring on nerve regeneration. We then implanted NeuroRegen scaffold loaded with hUCB-MSCs into the resection sites. No adverse events (infection, fever, headache, allergic reaction, shock, perioperative complications, aggravation of neurological status, or cancer) were observed during 1 year of follow-up. Primary efficacy outcomes, including expansion of sensation level and motor-evoked potential (MEP)-responsive area, increased finger activity, enhanced trunk stability, defecation sensation, and autonomic neural function recovery, were observed in some patients. Our findings suggest that combined application of NeuroRegen scaffold and hUCB-MSCs is safe and feasible for clinical therapy in patients with chronic SCI. Our study suggests that construction of a regenerative microenvironment using a scaffold-based strategy may be a possible future approach to SCI repair.
C57BL/6 Substrains Exhibit Different Responses to Acute Carbon Tetrachloride Exposure: Implications for Work Involving Transgenic Mice
Authors: McCracken Jennifer M. , Chalise Prabhakar , Briley Shawn M. , Dennis Katie L. , Jiang Lu , Duncan Francesca E. , Pritchard Michele T.
Published: February 2017

Biological differences exist between strains of laboratory mice, and it is becoming increasingly evident that there are differences between substrains. In the C57BL/6 mouse, the primary substrains are called 6J and 6N. Previous studies have demonstrated that 6J and 6N mice differ in
response to many experimental models of human disease. The aim of our study was to determine if differences exist between 6J and 6N mice in terms of their response to acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) exposure. Mice were given CCl4 once and were euthanized 12 to 96 h
later. Relative to 6J mice, we found that 6N mice had increased liver injury but more rapid repair. This was because of the increased speed with which necrotic hepatocytes were removed in 6N mice and was directly related to increased recruitment of macrophages to the liver. In parallel, enhanced
liver regeneration was observed in 6N relative to 6J mice. Hepatic stellate cell activation occurred earlier in 6N mice, but there was no difference in matrix metabolism between substrains. Taken together, these data demonstrate specific and significant differences in how the C57BL/6 substrains respond to acute CCl4, which has important implications for all mouse studies utilizing this model.
Cytogeography of the subalpine marsh marigold polyploid complex (Caltha leptosepalas.l., Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Wefferling Keir M. , Castro Sílvia , Loureiro João , Castro Mariana , Tavares Daniela , Hoot Sara B.
Published: February 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Unrecognized variation in ploidy level can lead to an underestimation of species richness and a misleading delineation of geographic range.Caltha leptosepala(Ranunculaceae) comprises a complex of hexaploids (6x), rare nonaploids (9x), and dodecaploids (12x), all with unknown distributions. We delineate the geographic distribution and contact zones of the cytotypes, investigate morphologies of cytotypes and subspecies, and discuss the biogeography and evolutionary history of the polyploid complex.

METHODS:

Using cytologically determined specimens as reference, propidium iodide flow cytometry was performed on silica‐dried samples and herbarium specimens from across the range ofC. leptosepalas.l. Genome size estimates from flow cytometry were used to infer cytotypes. A key morphological character, leaf length‐to‐width ratio, was measured to evaluate whether these dimensions are informative for taxon and/or cytotype delimitation.

KEY RESULTS:

Dodecaploids were more northerly in distribution than hexaploids, and a single midlatitude population in the Northern Rockies yielded nonaploids. Genome size estimates were significantly different between all cytotypes and between hexaploid subspecies. Leaf length‐to‐width ratios were significantly different between subspecies and some cytotypes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Caltha leptosepalapresents clear patterns of cytotype distribution at the large scale. Marked differences in morphology, range, and genome size were detected between the hexaploid subspecies,C. leptosepalasubsp.howelliiin the Cascade‐Sierra axis andC. leptosepalasubsp.leptosepalain the Rockies. Sympatry between cytotypes in the Cascades and a parapatric distribution in the Northern Rockies suggest unique origins and separate lineages in the respective contact zones.
Regiochemistry of cyclocondensation reactions in the synthesis of polyazaheterocycles
Authors: Campos Patrick T , Rodrigues Leticia V , Belladona Andrei L , Bender Caroline R , Bitencurt Juliana S , Rosa Fernanda A , Back Davi F , Bonacorso Helio G , Zanatta Nilo , Frizzo Clarissa P , Martins Marcos A P
Published: February 2017

The syntheses of several polyazaheterocycles are demonstrated. The cyclocondensation reactions between β-enaminodiketones [CCl3C(O)C(=CNMe2)C(O)-CO2Et] and aromatic amidines resulted in glyoxalate-substituted pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidinone, thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidinone and pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole. Pyrazinones and quinoxalinones were obtained through the reaction of these glyoxalates with ethylenediamine and 1,2-phenylenediamine derivatives. On the other hand, the reaction of glyoxalates with amidines did not lead to the formation of imidazolones, but rather N-acylated products were obtained. All the products were isolated in good yields. DFT-B3LYP calculations provided HOMO/LUMO coefficients, charge densities, and the stability energies of the intermediates, and from these data it was possible to explain the regiochemistry of the products obtained. Additionally, the data were a useful tool for elucidating the reaction mechanisms.
Analysis Of Adhesion And Self-Care In Patients Submitted To Lung Transplant In Outpatient Clinic Follow-Up
Authors: De Souza Pena Susana Beatriz , Mendes de Paula Pessoa Vera Lúcia , Braga Ribeiro Silvania , Macêdo Monteiro Ana Ruth
Published: February 2017

Introduction: The lung transplant is the only option of survival of the patient affected by a deadly lung disease. The outpatient clinic follow-up requires the patient discipline and responsibility in the face of complex care suggested by the multidisciplinary team. 

Objectives: Meet aspects related to adhesion to treatment and self-care of patients submitted to the lung transplant, accompanied, in outpatients, in a referral hospital in Fortaleza-Ceará-Brazil.

Methods: Exploratory research with qualitative approach, in a referral hospital in cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases in Fortaleza-Ceará, in the period September 2015 to January 2016. 10 patients transplanted lung were interviewed, after approval by the ethics committee of this institution. The Organization and analysis of the data was backed up on phenomenological and theoretical saturation used to meet the significant units.

Results: It was noticed the strong bond established by patients and professionals of the team that accompanies them. That bond is characterized by a relationship of trust between patient and professional, stimulating attendance and adhesion of the transplanted in outpatient visits. Outpatient consultations in lung transplant marked commitment, the accuracy of both periodical transplanted as part of some professional multidisciplinary team. On the other hand, it was observed the lack of autonomy of some categories.

Conclusion: The treatment is complex and requires a commitment of both transplanted and the professionals who make up the lung transplant team. There was the patient's commitment in to adhere to consultations and interest in following the guidance of care. Is necessary joint participation and integral of all categories, in order to promote multiple interventions and educational practices in the singular therapeutic plan of transplanted.
Dense Gas in the Outer Spiral Arm of M51
Authors: Chen Hao , Braine Jonathan , Gao Yu , Koda Jin , Gu Qiusheng
Published: February 2017

There is a linear relation between the mass of dense gas traced by the HCN(1–0) luminosity and the star formation rate (SFR) traced by the far-infrared luminosity. Recent observations of galactic disks have shown some systematic variations. In order to explore the SFR–dense gas link at high resolution (∼4″, ∼150 pc) in the outer disk of an external galaxy, we have mapped a region about 5 kpc from the center along the northern spiral arm of M51 in the HCN(1–0), HCO+(1–0), and HNC(1–0) emission lines using the Northern Extended Millimeter Array interferometer. The HCN and HCO+ lines were detected in six giant molecular associations (GMAs), while HNC emission was only detected in the two brightest GMAs. One of the GMAs hosts a powerful H ii region, and HCN is stronger than HCO+ there. Comparing observations of GMAs in the disks of M31 and M33 at similar angular resolution (∼100 pc), we find that GMAs in the outer disk of M51 are brighter in both the HCN and the HCO+ lines by a factor of 3, on average. However, the

and

ratios are similar to the ratios in nearby galactic disks and the Galactic plane. Using the Herschel 70 μm data to trace the total IR luminosity at the resolution of the GMAs, we find that both the

–

and

–

relations in the outer disk GMAs are consistent with the proportionality between the

and the dense gas mass established globally in galaxies within the scatter. The IR/HCN and IR/HCO+ ratios of the GMAs vary by a factor of 3, probably depending on whether massive stars are forming.
Simultaneous Chiral Symmetry Restoration and Deconfinement Consequences for the QCD Phase Diagram
Authors: Klähn Thomas , Fischer Tobias , Hempel Matthias
Published: February 2017

For studies of quark matter in astrophysical scenarios, the thermodynamic bag model is commonly employed. Although successful, it does not account for dynamical chiral symmetry breaking and repulsions due to the vector interaction which is crucial to explain recent observations of massive, two solar mass neutron stars. In Klähn & Fischer we developed the novel vBag quark matter model which takes these effects into account. This article extends vBag to finite temperatures and isospin asymmetry. Another particular feature of vBag is the determination of the deconfinement bag constant

from a given hadronic equation of state in order to ensure that chiral and deconfinement transitions coincide. We discuss consequences of this novel approach for the phase transition construction, the phase diagram, and implications for protoneutron stars.
Predicted Extension of the Sagittarius Stream to the Milky Way Virial Radius
Authors: Dierickx Marion I. P. , Loeb Abraham
Published: February 2017

The extensive span of the Sagittarius (Sgr) stream makes it a promising tool for studying the gravitational potential of the Milky Way (MW). Characterizing its stellar kinematics can constrain halo properties and provide a benchmark for the paradigm of galaxy formation from cold dark matter. Accurate models of the disruption dynamics of the Sgr progenitor are necessary to employ this tool. Using a combination of analytic modeling and N-body simulations, we build a new model of the Sgr orbit and resulting stellar stream. In contrast to previous models, we simulate the full infall trajectory of the Sgr progenitor from the time it first crossed the MW virial radius 8 Gyr ago. An exploration of the parameter space of initial phase-space conditions yields tight constraints on the angular momentum of the Sgr progenitor. Our best-fit model is the first to accurately reproduce existing data on the 3D positions and radial velocities of the debris detected 100 kpc away in the MW halo. In addition to replicating the mapped stream, the simulation also predicts the existence of several arms of the Sgr stream extending to hundreds of kiloparsecs. The two most distant stars known in the MW halo coincide with the predicted structure. Additional stars in the newly predicted arms can be found with future data from the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope. Detecting a statistical sample of stars in the most distant Sgr arms would provide an opportunity to constrain the MW potential out to unprecedented Galactocentric radii.
The Physics of Protoplanetesimal Dust Agglomerates. VIII. Microgravity Collisions between Porous SiO2 Aggregates and Loosely Bound Agglomerates
Authors: Whizin Akbar D. , Blum Jürgen , Colwell Joshua E.
Published: February 2017

We performed laboratory experiments colliding 0.8–1.0 mm and 1.0–1.6 mm SiO2 dust aggregates with loosely bound centimeter-sized agglomerates of those aggregates in microgravity. This work builds on previous microgravity laboratory experiments examining the collisional properties of porous loosely bound dust aggregates. In centimeter-sized aggregates, surface forces dominate self-gravity and may play a large role in aggregate growth beyond this size range. We characterize the properties of protoplanetary aggregate analogs to help place constraints on initial formation mechanisms and environments. We determined several important physical characteristics of these aggregates in a large number of low-velocity collisions. We observed low coefficients of restitution and fragmentation thresholds near 1 m s−1 for 1–2 cm agglomerates, which are in good agreement with previous findings in the literature. We find the accretion efficiency for agglomerates of loosely bound aggregates to be higher than that for just aggregates themselves. We find sticking thresholds of 6.6 ± 2 cm s−1, somewhat higher than those in similar studies, which have observed few aggregates stick at speeds of under 3 cm s−1. Even with highly dissipative collisions, loosely bound agglomerates have difficulty accreting beyond centimeter-sized bodies at typical collision speeds in the disk. Our results indicate agglomerates of porous aggregates have slightly higher sticking thresholds than previously thought, allowing possible growth to decimeter-sized bodies if velocities are low enough.
Subaru/SCExAO First-light Direct Imaging of a Young Debris Disk around HD 36546
Authors: Currie Thayne , Guyon Olivier , Tamura Motohide , Kudo Tomoyuki , Jovanovic Nemanja , Lozi Julien , Schlieder Joshua E. , Brandt Timothy D. , Kuhn Jonas , Serabyn Eugene , Janson Markus , Carson Joseph , Groff Tyler , Kasdin N. Jeremy , McElwain Michael W. , Singh Garima , Uyama Taichi , Kuzuhara Masayuki , Akiyama Eiji , Grady Carol , Hayashi Saeko , Knapp Gillian , Kwon Jung-mi , Oh Daehyeon , Wisniewski John , Sitko Michael , Yang Yi
Published: February 2017

We present H-band scattered light imaging of a bright debris disk around the A0 star HD 36546 obtained from the Subaru Coronagraphic Extreme Adaptive Optics (SCExAO) system with data recorded by the HiCIAO camera using the vector vortex coronagraph. SCExAO traces the disk from r ∼ 0.″3 to r ∼ 1″ (34–114 au). The disk is oriented in a near east–west direction (PA ∼ 75°), is inclined by i ∼ 70°–75°, and is strongly forward-scattering (g > 0.5). It is an extended disk rather than a sharp ring; a second, diffuse dust population extends from the disk’s eastern side. While HD 36546 intrinsic properties are consistent with a wide age range (t ∼ 1–250 Myr), its kinematics and analysis of coeval stars suggest a young age (3–10 Myr) and a possible connection to Taurus-Auriga’s star formation history. SCExAO’s planet-to-star contrast ratios are comparable to the first-light Gemini Planet Imager contrasts; for an age of 10 Myr, we rule out planets with masses comparable to HR 8799 b beyond a projected separation of 23 au. A massive icy planetesimal disk or an unseen super-Jovian planet at r > 20 au may explain the disk’s visibility. The HD 36546 debris disk may be the youngest debris disk yet imaged, is the first newly identified object from the now-operational SCExAO extreme AO system, is ideally suited for spectroscopic follow-up with SCExAO/CHARIS in 2017, and may be a key probe of icy planet formation and planet–disk interactions.
The Effects of Ram-pressure Stripping and Supernova Winds on the Tidal Stirring of Disky Dwarfs: Enhanced Transformation into Dwarf Spheroidals
Authors: Kazantzidis Stelios , Mayer Lucio , Callegari Simone , Dotti Massimo , Moustakas Leonidas A.
Published: February 2017

A conclusive model for the formation of dwarf spheroidal (dSph) galaxies still remains elusive. Owing to their proximity to the massive spirals Milky Way (MW) and M31, various environmental processes have been invoked to explain their origin. In this context, the tidal stirring model postulates that interactions with MW-sized hosts can transform rotationally supported dwarfs, resembling present-day dwarf irregular (dIrr) galaxies, into systems with the kinematic and structural properties of dSphs. Using N-body+SPH simulations, we investigate the dependence of this transformation mechanism on the gas fraction, f
gas, in the disk of the progenitor dwarf. Our numerical experiments incorporate for the first time the combined effects of radiative cooling, ram-pressure stripping, star formation, supernova (SN) winds, and a cosmic UV background. For a given orbit inside the primary galaxy, rotationally supported dwarfs with gas fractions akin to those of observed dIrrs (f
gas ≳ 0.5), demonstrate a substantially enhanced likelihood and efficiency of transformation into dSphs relative to their collisionless (f
gas = 0) counterparts. We argue that the combination of ram-pressure stripping and SN winds causes the gas-rich dwarfs to respond more impulsively to tides, augmenting their transformation. When f
gas ≳ 0.5, disky dwarfs on previously unfavorable low-eccentricity or large-pericenter orbits are still able to transform. On the widest orbits, the transformation is incomplete; the dwarfs retain significant rotational support, a relatively flat shape, and some gas, naturally resembling transition-type systems. We conclude that tidal stirring constitutes a prevalent evolutionary mechanism for shaping the structure of dwarf galaxies within the currently favored CDM cosmological paradigm.
Intégration des besoins spirituels dans un service de médecine palliative
Authors: Morard Caroline , Zulian Gilbert
Published: February 2017

La spiritualité englobe plusieurs concepts, allant du plaisir des choses simples aux questions plus fondamentales du sens de la vie et de la mort. Afin d’évaluer les besoins en matière de spiritualité, nous avons mené une étude ouverte dans un service spécialisé de médecine palliative situé dans un canton où la laïcité et la neutralité religieuse sont la règle. Avec l’accord de la commission d’éthique suisse relative à la recherche sur l’être humain et celui de l’organisation FACIT nous avons utilisé la version française du questionnaire Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Scale-Spirituality. Il comprend 40 questions réparties en 5 catégories : le bien-être physique, familial et social, émotionnel, fonctionnel et spirituel, quantifiés sur les 7 derniers jours pour un total maximal de 156 points. Quatorze patients ont été inclus, obtenant des scores de 62 à 120 points. Toutefois, la passation du questionnaire s’est avérée problématique ; la plupart des patients n’ont pu lire les questions eux-mêmes en raison de leur état de santé précaire ; ils ont éprouvé des difficultés à quantifier leurs besoins ; certains sans plus aucun but dans la vie ont semblé mieux apaisés que d’autres avec un but bien précis ; partager leur vécu a prévalu sur quantifier leurs besoins ; et expliquer leur sérénité ou au contraire leur peur face à la mort a été très important pour eux. Malgré la présence d’une réelle souffrance spirituelle chez tous les patients, la spiritualité est apparue difficilement quantifiable dans notre contexte culturel hospitalier. La fragmenter équivaut peut-être à enfermer l’esprit alors qu’il s’agit de lui reconnaître sa liberté. D’autres outils que le questionnaire FACIT-SP mériteraient donc d’être développés pour mieux correspondre aux attentes des patients et aux réalités des professionnels.
Pour une éthique du pli
Authors: Bryant Levi R. , Bisson Frédéric
Published: February 2017

Comment se fait-il qu’un corps en vienne à penser qu’il devrait être quelque chose, que le monde devrait être quelque chose, plutôt que d’être purement ce qu’il est ? L’éthique est la manière dont les corps plient le temps en eux-mêmes et, en particulier, la manière dont les êtres plient le futur en eux-mêmes, dans leur devenir relié au monde qu’ils impliquent. Le grand ennemi d’une éthique du pli est l’abstraction, quand nous pensons les corps comme des « objets », comme s’ils étaient de micro-souverains séparés de leur champ.
Nue comme une vere
Authors: Blanc Nathalie
Published: February 2017

Une vere de terre s’en va faire un tour dans l’espace, histoire de respirer mieux. Fuyant les brutalités terrestres, elle espère trouver asile et une herbe accueillante. Après un temps, elle se sent cependant obligée de rentrer.
Réduction des émissions des CO 2 chinoises et gaz de schiste
Authors: Hubert Marie-Hélène
Published: February 2017

Afin de diminuer ses émissions de CO 2 , le gouvernement chinois vise à accroître la part du gaz, notamment en extrayant les réserves de gaz de schiste chinoises. Le gaz de schiste peut fournir 10 % de la consommation d’énergie d’ici 2030 si son coût d’extraction diminue d’un tiers. Toutefois, les émissions de CO 2 chinoises augmentent de 5 %. Une politique imposant la stagnation de la consommation de charbon favorise l’extraction du gaz de schiste à grande échelle et diminue les émissions de CO 2 de 41 %. En revanche, une taxe sur les émissions de CO 2 ralentit le développement du gaz de schiste au profit des énergies renouvelables.
Transferts de technologies propres, commerce international et accords environnementaux
Authors: Glachant Matthieu , Ing Julie , Nicolaï Jean-Philippe
Published: February 2017

Depuis le début des négociations sur le climat, le développement des transferts nord-sud de technologies propres est considéré comme complémentaire à une coopération internationale visant la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre. Cependant, ce développement suscite des défis politiques et économiques considérables, notamment parce qu’il affecte la compétitivité relative des entreprises des pays développés et des pays en voie de développement. Dans cet article, nous examinons en quoi la présence de commerce international influence les incitations du Nord au transfert et étudions également comment une coopération environnementale internationale affecte ces incitations.
Introduction to E-Reading Context
Authors: Abubaker Azza A , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

The research aims to identify the problems and seek for possible solutions in e-reading context from a systematic discussion that is supported by more than 50 relevant references. The definitions of the problem have been presented. Numbers of research questions are asked prior to the methodologies. The importance and differences of qualitative and quantitative methods are addressed. Meanwhile, ethical issues and their benefits and risks are discussed and explained. Finally, the research framework is proposed as guidance for the near future research actions.
Access and Use of the Internet among Libyan Primary School Students
Authors: Abubaker Azza A , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

This chapter aims to examine the use of the internet and eBook among students in public primary schools in Libya. The literature showed a lack of research that examines access to the Internet, students' awareness of eBook, and using the computer for learning at school. However, this type of research has been important in providing a better understanding of eBook usage and helping designers to create eBooks that meet user needs. Thus, the number of netizens determines the causes of use as a starting point for understanding and determining e- reading stages in order to investigate the factors that affect e- text reading among young people. This chapter presents the questionnaire data as analysed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software for analysis and focuses on collecting quantitative data that can help build a clear understanding of current user behaviour. At the end of this chapter, these two objectives should be met: examining the use of Internet among students aged 9 to 13, and defining the awareness and aim of using eBook among students.
Introduction to the Investigating in Neural Trust and Multi Agent Systems
Authors: Lu Gehao , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

Introducing trust and reputation into multi-agent systems can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of the systems. The computational trust and reputation also creates an environment of survival of the fittest to help agents recognize and eliminate malevolent agents in the virtual society. The research redefines the computational trust and analyzes its features from different aspects. A systematic model called Neural Trust Model for Multi-agent Systems is proposed to support trust learning, trust estimating, reputation generation, and reputation propagation. In this model, the research innovates the traditional Self Organizing Map (SOM) and creates a SOM based Trust Learning (STL) algorithm and SOM based Trust Estimation (STE) algorithm. The STL algorithm solves the problem of learning trust from agents' past interactions and the STE solve the problem of estimating the trustworthiness with the help of the previous patterns. The research also proposes a multi-agent reputation mechanism for generating and propagating the reputations. The mechanism exploits the patterns learned from STL algorithm and generates the reputation of the specific agent. Three propagation methods are also designed as part of the mechanism to guide path selection of the reputation. For evaluation, the research designs and implements a test bed to evaluate the model in a simulated electronic commerce scenario. The proposed model is compared with a traditional arithmetic based trust model and it is also compared to itself in situations where there is no reputation mechanism. The results state that the model can significantly improve the quality and efficacy of the test bed based scenario. Some design considerations and rationale behind the algorithms are also discussed based on the results.
Neural Trust Model
Authors: Lu Gehao , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

The problems found in the existing models push the researcher to look for a better solution for computational trust and computational reputation. According the problem exposed earlier, the newly proposed model should be a systematic model which supports both trust and reputation. The model should also take the learning capability for agents into consideration because agents cannot quickly adapt to the changes without learning. The model also needs to have the ability to make decisions according to its recognition of trust. Before actually building the model, it is necessary to analyze the concept of trust. Usually when people say trust they mean human trust, however, in this research trust refers to computational trust. How human trust is different from computational trust is a very interesting question. The answers to the question helped the researcher recover many features of computational trust and built a solid theoretical foundation for the proposed model. The definitions of trust in different disciplines such as economy, sociology and psychology will be compared. A possible definition of computational trust will be made and such trust from several different perspectives will be analyzed. The description of the model is important. As a whole, it is represented as a framework that defines components and component relationships. As the concrete components, the purposes and responsibilities of the specific component are explained. This is to illustrate the static structure of the model. The dynamic structure of the model is described as the process of executing the model.
Trust Learning and Estimation
Authors: Lu Gehao , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

Predict uncertainty is critic in decision making process, especially for the complex systems. This chapter aims to discuss the theory involved in Self-Organizing Map (SOM) and its learning process, SOM based Trust Learning Algorithm (STL), SOM based Trust Estimation Algorithm (STL) as well as features of generated trust patterns. Several patterns are discussed within context. Both algorithms and how they are processed have been described in detail. It is found that SOM based Trust Estimation algorithm is the core algorithm that help agent make trustworthy or untrustworthy decisions.
Reputation Generation and Propagation
Authors: Lu Gehao , Lu Joan
Published: February 2017

Reputation plays an important role in multi-agent system. It is a socialized form of trust which makes agent cooperate with each other and reduces the cost of agents' interaction. In a world with only computational trust, the agent can only perceive its own interactions. Its learned trust pattern can only be used by itself. There is no socialized mechanism to magnify the trustworthiness that has been learned. To introduce reputation is the solution to efficiently exploit the trust patterns. If the NTR algorithm is designed for intelligent agents, then the reputation propagation models and reputation generation mechanism are designed for multi-agent systems. Introducing reputation into multi-agent systems brings many benefits: the agent can greatly extend its range of influence to cover other agents. The agent also can share the interaction experience with others. Such sharing will accelerate the washing out of malevolent agents and increase the possibility of transactions for benevolent agents. The reputation will improve the executive efficiency of agents by avoiding unnecessary communication and transactions. In general, reputation is the key to form a tight coupling agent society. There is no acknowledged or standard definition for computational reputation. But it is possible to describe it from five facets: interaction experience, intention of propagation, range of propagation, path of propagation, content of reputation. Interaction experience explains the reputation from the view of information source; intention of propagation explains from the view of agents' motivation; range of propagation explains from the view of spatial consideration; path of propagation explains from the view of network; content of reputation explains from the expression of the reputation. The author builds three models of reputation propagation. Point-to-point based inquiry allows an initiative agent start an inquiry request to its acquaintance. If the middle agent has intention to transfer the inquiry, then the request can be propagated far from the initiative agent and thus form a reputation network. Broadcasting based propagation is to let agent broadcast its experience about every interaction or transaction so that every other agents in the society can learn what happened.
Theoretical Discussion of Gender and Power
Authors: Losike-Sedimo Nonofo
Published: February 2017

This chapter presents gender disparities found in the faculty of education at the time of this study. These are discussed from a theoretical point of view. The author takes a view that gender mainstreaming is a contested concept, practiced in various ways by governments, institutions and departments. Although practice varies, the aim is to eradicate gender inequality completely. This implies that any workplace that intends to support gender equity must also support multiculturalism. If multiculturalism is practiced in an institution or organization, the organizational culture will provide a leeway for gender diversity. The objective of this chapter is to compare the institutional culture to the societal culture of the University of Botswana. Gender mainstreaming practices at UB are analyzed. The chapter describes observed gender disparities, possible solutions and suggestions for what seems to work for the future. It also explains gender discrimination as rooted in both organizational and societal culture.
Strategic Innovation Management
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: February 2017

This chapter introduces the framework and causal model of knowledge management, strategic orientation, organizational innovation, and organizational performance. It argues that dimensions of knowledge management, strategic orientation, and organizational innovation have mediated positive effects on organizational performance. Organizational innovation positively mediates the relationships between knowledge management and organizational performance and between strategic orientation and organizational performance. Knowledge management is positively correlated with strategic orientation. Furthermore, the author hopes that understanding the underlying assumptions and theoretical constructs of knowledge management, strategic orientation, organizational innovation, and organizational performance through the use of the framework and causal model will not only inform researchers of a better design for studying knowledge management, strategic orientation, organizational innovation, and organizational performance, but also assist in the understanding of intricate relationships between different factors.
Communities of Practice in Transition Economies
Authors: Vajjhala Narasimha Rao
Published: February 2017

Communities of Practice (CoPs) are informal groups of individuals sharing knowledge and experience within or outside an organization. CoPs can help organizations, especially Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) with limited financial and human resources improve efficiency and productivity by leveraging knowledge resources in the organization. Transition economies have different social and economic conditions as compared to developing and developed countries. The success of CoPs in SMEs located in transition economies depends to a certain extent on the social and cultural factors in transition economies. This chapter explores the factors contributing to the success of CoPs as well as challenges that CoPs face in transition economies. This chapter explores the role of national and organizational culture on the functioning of CoPs in SMEs in transition economies. The objective of this chapter is to develop a framework that could be applied to CoPs in transition economies. This chapter also identifies the factors that might limit the work of CoPs in the context of innovation in SMEs in transition economies.
A Transformation Approach for Scaling and Sustaining Agility at an Enterprise Level
Authors: Sidky Ahmed
Published: February 2017

The sustainability of agile transformations is deeply linked to how the organization “transforms” to agile. Sustainable, effective agile transformations affect all the elements of culture such as, leadership style, leadership values, work structures, reward systems, processes, and of course the work habits of people. How to affect that culture shift is the key question we will present in this chapter. The author will present two different common transformation approaches (organizational-led and process-led) and then describe a hybrid version called culture-led transformation that is designed to change critical organizational and personal habits to improve and sustain organizational agility.
Management in Modern Organizations
Authors: Sousa Maria José , Moço Isabel
Published: February 2017

The starting point for this chapter was to bring together the research fields of organizational theories, innovation and change and knowledge management. The focus was on innovation in the perspective of organisational studies and the process of knowledge sharing in organisations. The main idea was not to create an historical framework of these theories but to use them as analytical models. The chapter begins with a description of the main features of organisational theories, including navigation in organisational innovation context: types of organisational innovation and nature of innovation. It also includes the conceptualization that individual knowledge is a critical source of organisational knowledge and explores the link between individual knowledge use and organisational innovation processes. This literature review tries to create a frame for the organisational innovation process. In this context it was important to analyse its implications to the effective use and share of individual knowledge, linking it to the knowledge management theories. However the importance of organisational innovation for competitiveness is not explicit and the choice between investing in technology and investing in people always raises some questions about short and long term survival of the organisations – being the new digital configuration of organizations another way to reach organizational success.
Current Approaches in Change Management
Authors: Altındağ Erkut
Published: February 2017

This book review includes modern management techniques which take part in the concept of Change Management and its applications in detail. Companies which want to be afloat in a dynamic market and grow by getting strong should be adopted to change and use it as a strategic attack. Therefore, to include some modern management techniques which are proven in terms of popularity and safety in management understanding of a country can provide huge advantages and create a high added value. The main subject is that every company adopts an appropriate management model according to its own organization and employee structure and apply theoretical phenomenon in a successful way. There are quite few companies which are successful in this scope while there are many which are trying to succeed. Companies which want to be among this minority should decrease their resistance against change and should be open to innovations. In this chapter, you are going to read specific clues and tactics for the companies which want to be adopted change.
Explanatory Model of Adoption, Development and Utilization of Administrative Workflow Systems
Authors: Lousã Mário Dias , Monteiro José Augusto
Published: February 2017

With this article the authors intend to present an explanatory model about the process of adoption, development and deployment of workflow systems and the resulting organizational changes. Throughout the article they highlight major internal and external factors that influence the organization, adoption and development of the workflow system. The model, the factors and organizational changes introduced in this article emerged from the literature review and two case studies. The results of the literature review led to the definition of the concepts and subjects that were developed in the case studies. The first case consisted of a longitudinal study where the authors followed the process of adoption and development of a workflow system in a company. The second case study consisted of a post-implementation workflow system - retrospective study.
IN&OUT Model
Authors: Sarabia Maria , Obeso Maria , Philpott Elaine
Published: February 2017

Evidence suggests that only 30 per cent of family businesses survive after the first generation. The purpose of this paper is to explain how the unique culture and knowledge forms, which are identified as intangible and relevant advantages on family businesses, can be protected through leadership succession. IN&OUT succession model is built on three previous frameworks: Denison culture model, Nonaka and Takeuchi's knowledge creation and next-generation socialization theory. The IN&OUT model presents a step-by-step process where the successor receives from the founder and from the business (IN); and the successor contributes to the group and to the organization (OUT), creating a dynamic loop of biographical leadership.