bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roughness of Excimer Laser Ablated Corneas With and Without Smoothing Measured With Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Lombardo Marco , De Santo Maria P , Lombardo Giuseppe , Barberi Riccardo , Serrao Sebastiano
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To analyze the surface roughness of porcine corneas after excimer laser ablation with and without the smoothing procedure by means of atomic force microscopy.

METHODS: Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) was performed on eight porcine corneas. Immediately following the procedure, smoothing was performed on four corneas using a viscous solution of 0.25% sodium hyaluronate. The corneas were examined in balanced salt solution after fixation in 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution using atomic force microscopy. Quantitative analysis of the ablated stromal surface topography was performed using the section analysis module of the atomic force microscopy software. Repeated measurements were made over small areas (^50 ?im2) near the center of each ablation, with a vertical resolution of <1 nm.

RESULTS: Images of the ablated stromal surface showed undulations and granule-like features on the ablated surface of the specimens. The specimens on which the smoothing procedure was performed (rootmean-square [RMS] rough: 0.152 ?0.014 ???) were more regular (P<.001) than those on which PRK alone was performed (RMS rough: 0.229?0.018?im).

CONCLUSIONS: Atomic force microscopy analysis requires a simpler preparation of the specimens with respect to that necessary for scanning electron microscopy; for this reason, atomic force microscopy techniques are more reliable for the study of biological surfaces and prove to be a feasible method to establish the differences when comparing different laser techniques. Our investigations highlight that although the laser cut of scanning-spot excimer laser systems is precise in removing even the smallest amounts of tissue, the smoothing technique may still be useful to reduce post-ablation roughness. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21:469-475.]
Dynamic Visual Stimulus Presentation in an Adaptive Optics Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope
Authors: Poonja Siddharth , Patel Saumil , Henry Luis , Roorda Austin
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the technology and application of synchronized laser modulation in the adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscope (AOSLO), which makes it possible to deliver adaptive optics (AO) corrected stimuli to the retina of a living eye and to record the precise retinal location where the stimulus has landed.

METHODS: The modification involves the development of custom software to control a high frequency pixel clock and a waveform generator board in synchrony with the scanning mirrors. The experiment involves a measurement of visual acuity with and without aberrations correction with AO.

RESULTS: The system can project stimuli at a frame rate of 30 Hz with high sampling resolution (7.5 seconds of arc), thereby limiting the quality of the retinal image to the level of AO correction. Visual acuity in six subjects is improved on average by 33% after aberration correction across a 5.89-mm pupil.

CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic visual stimulus presentation in an AOSLO works effectively and expands the scope of AOSLO applications. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21:S575-S580.]
Optimized Prolate Ablations With the NIDEK CXII Excimer Laser
Authors: Hollady Jack T , Bains Harkaran S
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To describe a novel excimer laser ablation algorithm, termed optimized prolate ablation (OPA), that uses both topography and ocular aberrometry and maintains or improves the natural corneal shape postoperatively.

METHODS: A descriptive article outlining the theory behind this ORA algorithm.

RESULTS: The theoretical changes to the ablation algorithm described in this article will produce a prolate cornea postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS: OPA treated eyes will have equal or better visual quality than preoperatively because agerelated changes from lenticular spherical aberration are measured and treated. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21(Suppl): S595-S597.
Comparison of NIDEK CATz Wavefront-guided LASIK to Traditional LASIK With the NIDEK CXII Excimer Laser in Myopia
Authors: He Rui , Qu Min , Yu Shun
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To compare the visual and refractive outcomes in myopic LASIK between wavefront-guided and traditional treatment.

METHODS: The study included 162 eyes of 81 myopic patients undergoing LASIK by one surgeon. The right eye of each patient underwent customized LASIK with the NIDEK NAVEX laser system (NIDEK, Gamagori, Japan) (study group); the left eye of each patient underwent traditional LASIK with the NIDEK CXII excimer laser system (control group).

RESULTS: No significant differences were noted in refractive error, uncorrected visual acuity, and best spectacle-corrected visual acuity after surgery between the two groups (t test, P > .05). Postoperatively, 3.7% of patients in the study group reported glare, which was significantly lower than 12.4% in the control group (chi-square test, .01 < P < .05). Higher order aberrations increased after surgery in both groups, but less increase was noted in patients in the study group. A statistically significant reduction was noted in the postoperative increase of Zernike coefficients C7, C8, and C12 in the study group compared to the control group (t test, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Customized LASIK significantly reduces the rate of postoperative glare and induction of higher order aberrations compared to traditional LASIK. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21(Suppl):S646-S649.]
Conductive Keratoplasty for the Correction of Residual Hyperopia After LASIK
Authors: Alió Jorge L , Ramzy Mohamed I , Galal Ahmed , Claramonte Pascual J
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report the 6-month results concerning efficacy, safety, predictability, and stability of conductive keratoplasty for the correction of residual hyperopia after corneal refractive surgery.

METHODS: A total of 35 eyes (26 patients) with residual hyperopia after corneal refractive surgery ranging between +1.00 to +4.75 diopters (D) of spherical equivalent refraction were enrolled in the study and underwent conductive keratoplasty following a modified nomogram.

RESULTS: Variables and data were available for all eyes at 6 months postoperatively. A total of 24 (69%) eyes had uncorrected visual acuity (UCYA) of ≥20/40, and 10 (29%) eyes had UCVA of 20/20. Manifest refractive spherical equivalent was within ±0.50 D in 17 (49%) eyes and within ±1.00 D in 25 (71%) eyes in cases of previous hyperopic LASIK; the optical zone was significantly increased.

CONCLUSIONS: Using a modified nomogram, conductive keratoplasty for correction of residual hyperopia was effective, but predictability was not satisfactory and safety needs to be established. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21:698-704.]
Excimer Laser Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Granular and Lattice Corneal Dystrophy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Das Sujata , Langenbucher Achim , Seitz Berthold
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To compare the visual and refractive outcome after excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for superficial corneal opacities in granular and lattice dystrophy.

METHODS: Phototherapeutic keratectomy was performed in 62 eyes of 40 patients (granular dystrophy [n=50] and lattice dystrophy [n=12]) after epithelial debridement and pannus removal. Data regarding preand postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, changes in spherical equivalent of manifest refraction, Zeiss keratometry, astigmatism, and corneal topography were analyzed and compared between granular and lattice dystrophy. Recurrence, if any, was noted during a mean follow-up of 3.0?2.7 years.

RESULTS: Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity improved in 79% and 62% of eyes with granular and lattice dystrophy, respectively. Spherical equivalent refraction increased by a mean of 1.3 ?1.7 diopters (D) (median: 1.0 D) for granular dystrophy and a mean of 1.0 ?1.8 D (median: 0.5 D) for lattice dystrophy. The keratometric central power decreased by a mean of -0.8 ?4.3 D (median: -1.6 D) for granular dystrophy and a mean of -0.3?1.6 D (median: -0.7 D) for lattice dystrophy. No significant changes were noted regarding keratometric astigmatism in either granular or lattice dystrophy. The proportion of "regular" and "mild irregular" keratometry mires increased (39% vs 67% for granular dystrophy and 0% vs 50% for lattice dystrophy). In granular dystrophy, the surface regularity index/surface asymmetry index (SRI/SAI) decreased significantly from 2.14/2.24 preoperatively to 1.31/0.80 postoperatively (P=. 006/P=. 01). In contrast, decrease of SRI/SAI from 1.97/1.65 preoperatively to 1.35/1.16 postoperatively did not reach statistical significance in lattice dystrophy. Recurrences were observed in 10 (20%) eyes with granular dystrophy and 2 (17%) eyes with lattice dystrophy.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that PTK may be tried in all patients with superficially accentuated opacities in granular and lattice dystrophy before undergoing a more invasive procedure, such as lamellar or penetrating keratoplasty. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21:727-731.]
First Clinical Experience With the Alcon LADAR 6000 Excimer Laser
Authors: Carones Francesco , Vigo Luca , Scandola Elena
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the reliability and ergonomics and to assess the first clinical results provided by the new LADAR 6000 excimer laser used to correct myopia and astigmatism, both by conventional and wavefrontguided ablation.

METHODS: Seventy-four consecutive eyes from 37 patients underwent LASIK as the first field evaluation protocol of the Alcon LADAR 6000 excimer laser. Forty-six eyes were treated by wavefront-guided ablation to correct a manifestspheroequivalent refractive error (MSRE) of -0.50 to -9.75 diopters (D) (mean: -4.19 D, cylinder range: 0.0 to -3.50 D). Twenty-eight eyes were treated by conventional ablation to correct MSRE of -1.00 to -7.00 D (mean: -3.11 D, cylinder range: 0.0 to -1.75 D). Uncorrected (UCVA) and best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), MSRE, and wavefront measurements were assessed. Follow-up was 3 months for all eyes.

RESULTS: Three months after surgery, all eyes were within ?1.00 D of intended correction. Forty-three (93.5%) eyes treated with wavefront-guided ablation and 25 (89.3%) eyes treated with conventional ablation were within ?0.50 D. All eyes reached 2*20/25 UCVA. UCVA ^20/20 was reached in 45 (97.8%) wavefront-guided eyes and 26 (92.9%) conventional eyes; 37 (80.4%) wavefront-guided eyes and 17 (60.7%) conventional eyes had 20/16 UCVA. None of the eyes treated lost ^2 lines of BSCVA.

CONCLUSIONS: The LADAR 6000 excimer laser results proved to be at least as accurate, predictable, and safe as the results currently achieved with the LADARVision4000 excimer laser. The improved microscope illumination enhances visibility for better consistency and ease of use. The better ergonomics and software design of this platform improved patient flow. [J Refract Surg. 2005;21: S781-S785.]
Pictorial Depictions of Musicians, Musical Instruments and Music-Making in the Stammbücher of Paul Jenisch (1558–1647) and Johann Michael Weckherlin (1579–1631)
Authors: Owens Samantha
Published: December 2019

The Württembergische Landesbibliothek in Stuttgart houses a rich collection of Stammbücher, including ones compiled by Paul Jenisch (1558–1647) and Johann Michael Weckherlin (1579–1631). These valuable sources (Cod. hist. qt. 298–299 and Cod. hist. oct. 218) offer a wealth of iconographical evidence concerning organology and performing practices.
La Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba. Fuentes gráficas hasta 1850
Authors: Gámiz Gordo Antonio
Published: December 2019

La Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba cuenta con un rico legado de imágenes hasta la llegada de la fotografía a mediados del XIX que constituyen una destacada fuente documental para la investigación. Tras una amplia labor de rastreo y localización de dichas imágenes, se aportan referencias sobre sus autores, contexto y técnicas, valorando su fiabilidad o precisión gráfica. Las primeras conocidas corresponden a tiempos cristianos, destacando dos panorámicas urbanas de la segunda mitad del XVI, una de ellas objeto de plagios con una notable difusión en Europa. Los primeros planos a escala del monumento conservados son del XVIII y las primeras vistas interiores de finales de ese siglo. En la primera mitad del XIX se produjeron abundantes imágenes de viajeros y artistas, algunas muy bellas y publicadas con gran éxito editorial. Los documentos gráficos reseñados se presentan agrupados según su autoría y orden cronológico: primeras imágenes simbólicas (desde 1360), Wyngaerde (1567), Civitatis (h. 1585-1617), copias del Civitatis (s. XVII-XVIII), Baldi (1668), óleo anónimo (1741), imágenes esquemáticas (s. XVIII), dibujo colección Vázquez Venegas (1752), planos Académicos (1767-1804), Swinburne (1775-1779), Karwinsky y Rillo (1811), Laborde (h. 1800-1812), Murphy (1802-1813), Bacler d’Able (h. 1820), Taylor (h. 1826-1832), Ford (1831), Lewis (1832-1836), Prangey (1832-1837), Gail (h. 1832-37), Roberts (1833-1839), Dauzats (h. 1836-1838), Chapuy (h. 1838-1842), Villaamil (h. 1838-1844), Bossuet (h. 1841-1855), Gerhardt (h. 1849-1851), Guesdon (1853), Parcerisa (1855) y Los Monumentos Arquitectónicos (h. 1852-1881).
Estudio y enseñanza del hebreo bíblico en la Córdoba califal (929-1031)
Authors: Martínez Delgado José
Published: December 2019

A partir de las descripciones de las políticas de mecenazgo aplicadas por los califas omeyas de Córdoba y los períodos educativos de la época se reinterpretan todos los datos conocidos sobre los filólogos hebreos y el estudio del hebreo bíblico en la capital de al-Andalus durante el califato, confirmando que los judíos participaron y se beneficiaron de dichas políticas explotándolas hasta sus últimas consecuencias.
La eliminación de metales tóxicos presentes en efluentes líquidos mediante resinas de cambio iónico. Parte XI: Cobalto(II)/H+/Lewatit TP260
Authors: Alguacil Francisco José
Published: December 2019

Este trabajo investiga sobre la eliminación de cobalto(II) presente en medios acuosos mediante la resina de cambio iónico Lewatit TP260. El sistema se estudia bajo distintas condiciones experimentales: velocidad de agitación (300-1400 min-1), temperatura (20-60 ºC), pH del medio acuoso (1-5), dosificacion de la resina (0.07-0.5 g·L-1) y fuerza iónica de la disolución acuosa. El metal se carga en la resina mediante una reacción de intercambio catiónica en un proceso endotérmico y espontáneo. Esta reacción de intercambio se define por un proceso de difusión en la disolución acuosa y el modelo cinético de pseudo-primer orden (20 ºC) y el modelo cinético de pseudo-segundo orden (60 ºC), asimismo los resultados experimentales se ajustan bien a la isoterma de Langmuir. Los resultados experimentales del sistema se han comparado con los obtenidos con otras resinas de intercambio cationico y también con nanotubos de carbono de pared multiple oxidados y sin oxidar. Se estudia la selectividad del sistema Co(II)-Lewatit TP260 con respecto a la presencia de otros cationes (disoluciones binarias Co-metal) en el medio acuoso). El cobalto(II) cargado en la resina se puede fluir con disoluciones ácidas (HCl o H2SO4).
A Stepwise Approach to Assess the Occupancy State of Larval Lampreys in Streams
Authors: Harris Julianne E. , Silver Gregory S. , Jolley Jeffrey C. , Nelle R.D. , Whitesel Timothy A.
Published: December 2019

Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus is an ecologically and culturally important anadromous species of conservation concern for which fisheries managers use information on occupancy state in streams to assess species status and inform stream management decisions. Here we developed a stepwise approach that incorporates the potential for nondetection and a preselected expected maximum probability of stream occupancy if field crews do not document larval Pacific Lamprey during sampling. Our approach includes seven steps: define the occupancy question; select the maximum acceptable probability of occupancy, if the species is not documented during sampling; define an assumed detection probability for the target organism; calculate required sampling effort; select sampling units; conduct sampling; and interpret sampling results into probabilistic occupancy conclusions. We examined detection probability of our approach for larval lamprey using data from multiple occupied streams in the Pacific Northwest. We illustrated our approach by evaluating Balm Grove Dam as a barrier to Pacific Lamprey migration in Gales Creek, Oregon. Bayesian estimates of detection probability in occupied streams ranged from 0.15 to 0.94, with an overall median of 0.70 (95% credible interval: 0.60–0.79). Assuming detection probability is at least 0.15 (i.e., lowest estimate), 19 reaches are required for the expected maximum probability of occupancy to be not more than 0.05, if the species is not documented through our sampling approach. Although detected downstream, we detected no larvae upstream of Balm Grove Dam; thus, we conclude that the maximum probability of occupancy upstream of Balm Grove Dam was not more than 0.05 at an assumed detection probability of 0.4, suggesting the dam as a barrier to adult migration. We provide an occupancy assessment tool with standardized sampling requirements that incorporates the potential for nondetection and the flexibility to select an expected maximum probability of occupancy if researchers document no larvae, to aid management and restoration in a single stream.
Renoncer aux vanités du monde à l’âge positif ou la voie de la science
Authors: Brenner Anastasios
Published: December 2019

À première vue, il pourrait sembler que la notion de vanité relève de la théologie, de l’histoire de l’art ou de la littérature plutôt que de la philosophie. Pourtant, cette notion engage des problèmes, des situations ou des attitudes philosophiques : l’humilité, la tempérance, la fin, la mort, etc. Elle touche même au domaine de la connaissance scientifique. Car l’un des défis que la science a eu à relever était de répondre à l’accusation de futilité que lui opposaient théologiens et moralistes. L’objet de cet article est d’explorer les diverses tentatives de justification de la part du sujet connaissant.
« Le grand faiseur, rue Massacre » : poétiques en vanité
Authors: Blaise Marie , Triaire Sylvie
Published: December 2019

Il s’agit d’analyser, à partir des théories benjaminiennes sur l’allégorie au xixe siècle développées notamment dans « Zentralpark » (Charles Baudelaire) et Origines du drame baroque allemand, les formes que prend la vanité chez Flaubert et Mallarmé ; qu’il s’agisse du sonnet en -yx, « allégorique de lui-même », ou d’objets et de figures inscrivant dans l’œuvre leur logique propre et une forme d’opacité et d’irréductibilité au sens, les vanités modernes constituent un reste, garant formel de la puissance d’information.
Les Vanités dans l’art contemporain. L’interpellation métaphorique ou le regardeur malgré lui
Authors: Lambotte Marie-Claude
Published: December 2019

L’article montre comment, sans doute à la suite des expressions de la fin de l’art ou de la défaillance du langage dans les années cinquante du siècle dernier, les vanités contemporaines manipulent les codes de la vanité et cherchent à échapper à toute norme expressive. Il montre aussi comment cette distanciation, cependant, se retourne et appelle le jugement subjectif du spectateur, non seulement sur le motif représenté mais sur la possibilité de l’œuvre elle-même.
Transportation of Chemical Cargoes by Tanker Ships
Authors: Arican Ozan Hikmet , Dugenci Ibrahim , Kara Gokhan , Unal Ali Umut
Published: December 2019

Chemical and industrial chemical substances are used in every area of industry. Much of these chemicals are transported from one country to another by ships. Most of these ships are container ships and chemical tankers. Chemical tankers are included in international logistics because they carry large amounts of different cargoes. Moving more suitable and larger amounts of cargo from one port to another plays a role in the provision of trade. The transport of chemical loads generally takes place in 4 stages with different ship types. These stages are: tank preparation, loading, transportation, and discharging. This chapter explains these steps.
Blockchain Technology in Maritime Transportation and Management
Authors: Solmaz Murat Selçuk , Koray Murat
Published: December 2019

This chapter discusses using blockchain technology in maritime transportation and management. Blockchain technology is less than 10 years old. With a lot of its features, the new technology has the potential to solve many problems in many sectors. Nowadays, this potential attracts many companies and organizations to try the blockchain technology in their sector to find the solution to their problems, to increase their profit, and to decrease the time spent for doing their jobs. Like other sectors, there are many works in maritime transportation and management for using blockchain technology. This chapter introduces blockchain technology and examines current and future uses and applications of it in maritime transportation and management.
Crowdfunding and Slow Money
Authors: Aymeric Jung
Published: December 2019

Investment is always needed for new business or business development, and we are living with the emergence of new kinds of providers. Alongside banks, funds, or capital markets, efficient funding through people is doable on a larger scale than ever before, thanks in part to the Internet. Crowdfunding platforms and Slow Money are part of this bottom-up trend. In this chapter we compare crowdfunding and Slow Money and by analyzing how they attract people, we discuss their similarities and differences to respond to the research questions. The analysis might help identify potential synergies between the two non-conventional models, and heighten crowd-based solutions of fundraising. This article will identify their fundamentals. More importantly, we will investigate the spirit behind direct funding.
High-Growth SMEs
Authors: El Hakioui Mohamed , Louitri Abdenbi
Published: December 2019

This essay tries to highlight the economic importance of the high-growth SMEs phenomenon. In doing so, an attempt to define and specify this type of firms was conducted. From the authors' literature review it was found that there is no single definition of high-growth. Each researcher adopts a definition according to his research interests. Trying to discuss the economic importance of SMEs gazelles, analysis led to identify three main features of high-growth: high-growth persistence, the novelty and strategic voluntarism. These characteristics make the high-growth SMEs a specific research object.
Horizontal Crowdfunding Platforms
Authors: Greco Tomaso
Published: December 2019

In recent years arose a multitude of crowdfunding platforms of different nature and with different goals. In this chapter some peculiar aspects of crowdfunding platforms will be examined, both in terms of their socio-economic impact and in terms of the exogenous and endogenous system of rules with which they interact. Crowdfunding is not governed exclusively by the rules of law and the regulations of the platforms that host it. Every campaign involves the construction of a community, with its specific rules, that are in part pre-established by the campaign creator and in part the result of the interaction of the community. However, these rules do not live in a closed set, building a case history to which the future campaigns will not necessarily have to conform, but with high probability they will use as a parameter. Although it is not possible to identify the rules that are common to all the crowdfunding campaigns, could be observed an evolution mostly harmonic between different campaigns with respect to the methods, the mechanisms of involvement and, of course, the rules.
Crowdfunding as a Marketing Tool
Authors: Allegreni Fabio
Published: December 2019

Most people, at a first sight, perceive Crowdfunding as a specific and exciting process to raise money. Of course, this is correct, but it is not the whole truth. A successful crowdfunding campaign must be addressed to a community of people, rather than to an indiscriminate crowd, which is also typical for any marketing strategy. Leveraging on this key element, crowdfunding can amplify almost any kind of communication activity, provided it is able to meet the needs of a community and to provide the benefits that the community expects. Therefore, if well exploited, crowdfunding is a powerful tool in the hands of marketers, whose potential goes far beyond the evidence of pre-selling a new product, to reach new marketing horizons such as branding, business development, CRM, credit scoring and even HR management.
Insurance as an Optimization Tool for Risk Management in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Ivančević Katarina
Published: December 2019

The SME risk management optimization model includes appropriate methods for identification, analysis and classification of risk assessment and developing a plan to overcome the risks and control the applied reaction to risk. Insurance is a classic way of a risk management process and is applicable to specific situations. The subject of this study is exposure and risk management in small and medium-sized enterprises (hereafter: SMEs) which are eligible for transfer of insurance coverage. This paper discusses the process of risk management in SMEs by transfer to insurance and indicates which risks and in what way can be transferred to the insurer. In this paper we analyze the supply of domestic insurers in Serbia, and insurance requirements, variants that offer coverage to overcome the particular risks to which SMEs are exposed. In the elaboration and research of mentioned theses the paper will use methodological procedures of analysis and synthesis, the inductive-deductive method, and if necessary, the comparative method of scientific research.
Project Portfolio Management
Authors: Jałocha Beata , Bogacz-Wojtanowska Ewa
Published: December 2019

Project Portfolio Management is a relatively new practice for the majority of non-government organisations. Project portfolio management is important in the areas of management and education of third sector practitioners. However, project portfolio management, corporate management tools are usually used in the business sector with very little research undertaken in the non-government sectors. This chapter fills that research gap by identifying and analysis of project portfolio management practices in non-governmental organizations. Findings suggest that non-government organisations manage multiple projects simultaneously but that project portfolio management could support them to build their portfolio in accordance with a strategic plan that can fulfil their strategic objectives efficiently and effectively.
Running Successful Crowdfunding Campaigns for Non-Profits
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: December 2019

Crowdfunding is a method to raise revenue and funding from a large number of people. First used by entrepreneurs as a way to attract small-sized investments to for-profit ventures, the crowdfunding platform has grown substantially over the last five years. Today, a valuable mechanism for fundraising for not for profit organisations, the crowdfunding platform is projected to realise nearly a US$100 billion by 2025. Non-profit leaders, employees and volunteers can benefit by successful crowdfunding campaigns as a means to raise revenue.
Determinants of Self-Employment Entry
Authors: Simoes Nadia , Moreira Sandrina B. , Crespo Nuno
Published: December 2019

Self-employment is increasingly an attractive labor market option worldwide. In a European context, Portugal is well-known for displaying one of the highest rates of self-employment. This study explores the main determinants of the probability to enter into self-employment in Portugal. We present results from a binary logit model using individual data drawn from national-level statistics. Our findings suggest that individuals older than 35, males, married, low educated, individuals with previous experience, and heads of household are expected to enter self-employment. The empirical study also reveals important differences regarding households' compositions and dimensions, current and former unemployment levels, and at a regional level in Portuguese NUTS II.
The Relationship between Entrepreneurial Competencies, Competitive Intelligence, and Innovative Performance among SMEs from an Emerging Country
Authors: Abdul-Mohsin Ainul
Published: December 2019

Competitive intelligence is vital to an organisation because it emphasises on understanding and measuring an organisation's competitive environment and the unstructured information that influence an organisation's strategic decision making. In fact, it also assists in creation of ideas and innovation. Yet, research on competitive intelligence practice among entrepreneurs is quite scanty. There is a need to investigate if entrepreneurial competencies and innovative performance is influenced by competitive intelligence. Thus, this study aims to analyse the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies, innovative performance and if competitive intelligence is the missing link among the entrepreneurs within the Malaysian SME context.
Real Estate Crowdfunding
Authors: Cinelli Steven A.
Published: December 2019

Like a juggernaut, “crowdfunding” has hit the media, the financial markets and the common narrative by storm. Incipient in many ways, the intermediation of financing transactions online has become a billion-dollar industry. As technology has advanced, even recreated, industries, there seems none more primed than “finance”, an inherently information business. By creating improved efficiency, both art and science of finance are enriched. A 21st century vestige of the 1980's syndication business, real estate seems to be enjoying the fruits of the crowd, with $1 billion of property financings conducted online in 2014, with an expected $2.5 billion this year. For sponsors and investors, there appears legitimacy to the online approach, underscored by the level of venture capital now finding home in this burgeoning sector. Yet, like its progenitor, might real estate crowdfinance find legislative, regulatory, and practical headwinds, stunting its progress? Still early, with business models, scalability and sustainability still suspect, the current momentum seems promising.
Information and Communication Technology for SMEs' Competitiveness
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: December 2019

Competitiveness of a firm is its capacity to achieve its targets. These targets are likely to be expressed in a variety of terms depending on the context (Barney 2002). Within a macroeconomic perspective, a competitive firm develops and sustains a level of performance that contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), employment opportunities, and the wealth of the people. From an entrepreneurial perspective, a competitive firm needs to survive in the market and to achieve market share and profitability. This paper deliberates regarding the theory of competitive advantage and discusses the role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for augmenting SMEs' competitiveness.
Proactive Law as Competitive Advantage in Crowdfunding
Authors: Wroldsen Jack
Published: December 2019

This chapter explains how the paradigm of proactive law as competitive advantage can help entrepreneurs succeed in crowdfunding campaigns. Business law scholars have developed theories of “proactive law” and “law as competitive advantage” to show how law can be transformed from an obstacle into a strategic business advantage. This chapter analyzes the evolving crowdfunding landscape through the lens of proactive law as competitive advantage. The chapter proposes several types of innovative securities designed to create competitive advantages in crowdfunding offerings. For example, one type would give crowdfunding investors long-term equity interests while simultaneously eliminating short-term corporate governance challenges for small crowdfunded companies. Apart from securities, the chapter also describes how a proactive approach to law can enhance crowdfunding campaigns in multiple areas, from intellectual property to tax efficiency. To conclude, the chapter suggests expanding the theory of proactive law as competitive advantage to additional areas of entrepreneurship, beyond crowdfunding.
Does Crowdfunding (Creatively) Disturb the Conventional (Banking) Alliances with Support Networks for Financing (Micro-)Entrepreneurs?
Authors: Mercier Nathalie , Alia Hayyan , Ashta Arvind , Ben Nasr Maaouia , Bonescu Mihaela , Ndiaye Ahmadou Bamba
Published: December 2019

Microentrepreneurs need financial capital as well as human and social capital. Banks prefer refinancing microfinance institutions and capacity building organizations rather than dealing with microentrepreneurs directly. In this chapter, we examine if the advent of crowdfunding could disturb such relations. Our research question is “what is the perception of people working in support networks on the changing of the relations between banks, support networks and crowdfunding platforms?” In this chapter, we first provide a background on entrepreneurship and coaching in France, emphasizing the role of the entrepreneurial support networks. Thereafter, we present our research methodology based on semi-structured interviews with managers in these support networks. The findings from these interviews are presented in the third section. We find that while the support networks are aware of crowdfunding initiatives, they do not think it will make a major change to the existing relations. This finding is original because most other research seems flabbergasted by the dramatic speed of development of crowdfunding sites. In the fourth section, we analyze the discourse using Nvivo software. The recommendations that emerge from this analysis point to using crowdfunding more as a tool of image building and communication.
IT Strategic Planning through CSF Approach in Modern Organizations
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: December 2019

Although the purpose of strategic planning is straightforward - to outline where an organization wants to go and how it's going to get there - its nature is complex and dynamic. The, critical success factor (CSF) method, can augment strategic planning efforts by illuminating an organization's present situation and potential future. This chapter explores the value of enhancing typical strategic planning techniques with the CSF method and presents an integrated framework for helping modern organizations to understand the broad range of interrelated elements that influence strategy development for Information Technology (IT). The chapter synthesizes documented theory and research in strategic planning and CSFs. It also provides insights and lessons re the pros and cons of integrated strategic planning framework in the context of IT in modern organizations. Through in-depth literature review and contextual analysis, the chapter incorporates suggestions to modern organizations for IT Strategic Planning with CSF Approach for a holistic and effective strategic planning process.
Strategic IT Alignment in Service Sector
Authors: Haider Abrar , Saetang Sureerat
Published: December 2019

Effective management and governance is key to the business and information technology alignment. Just as business organisations have to be responsive to the changes in their operating environment to remain competitive, they also have to be proactive in leveraging technological resources to sense these changes and take appropriate strategic and operational decisions. Governance of information technologies is not the job of technology administrators; in fact, it is everybody's responsibility. With this recognition and understanding, technology stakeholders are able to assume responsibilities and accountabilities to execute and achieve desirable behaviour in the use of information technologies. This paper presents a case study of a bank in Thailand on how it has embedded governance practices in its social, operational, structural, and technical environment. It concludes that maximization of value from information technologies is dependent upon the technical, cultural, and organisational endorsement of business practices relating to their governance.
Using Marketing to Implement a Strategic Plan
Authors: Galli Brian J.
Published: December 2019

Close to 75% of marketing and promotional campaigns globally fail to meet their purpose. Marketing campaigns fail due to pitfalls, which sink promotional projects. Strategic planning is significant in overcoming these pitfalls hence increasing the chances of business being successful in their promotional campaigns. However, a lot of businesses are experiencing issues with integrating strategic planning into their daily operations and promotional campaigns. This article is intended at discussing the pitfalls, which may sink a promotional campaign and suggests how strategic planning can solve these issues. In addition, this article also discusses approaches which can be adopted by organizations to enable them to successfully integrate strategic planning into the marketing projects. In conclusion, it suggests some approaches that organizations may adopt to ensure that they are successful in their future projects.
Understanding Knowledge Management Spectrum for SMEs in Global Scenario
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: December 2019

Knowledge that exists within organization is a sustainable source of competitive advantage. Though enormous research on knowledge management (KM) has taken place, little focus has been on KM in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Globalization of supply chains, rapid technological advances, superior returns on intellectual capital, growing importance of knowledge-intensive industries would make KM a strategic tool in the growth and success of all, especially SMEs. KM-enabled SMEs are essential for competitive and sustainable growth. Hence a judicious approach for KM in SMEs is a must in current scenario. Done by an in-depth literature review and contextual analysis, the objective of this paper is twofold - to aid researchers in recognizing and understanding KM spectrum for SMEs in a globalized world and for SMEs to reckon that success and worth of businesses depend more on intellectual capital than physical assets merely.
Are the Payments System and e-Banking in India Safer than in other SAARC Members?
Authors: Das Rituparna
Published: December 2019

This paper deals with the issues in the way the banks are managing risks in payments and settlement systems using netbanking within the legal frame of information technology in India compared to other SAARC members. It compared India with the SAARC members with respect to management of credit risk, liquidity risk and operational risk in the payment system. The findings are: (i) India, Pakistan and Nepal are stronger in managing all of aforesaid risks in their payments systems relative to the rest and (ii) India is the most permissive by nature as to the crime of computer hacking.
Mobile Money Transfer
Authors: Gachukia Martin Kang'ethe
Published: December 2019

The chapter reviews the growth of mobile money transactions (MMTs) and their effect on international remittances and financial inclusion. The novelty of MMTs is its widening adaptation beyond Sub-Saharan Africa with increased confidence in use of MMTs by international humanitarian agencies and governments in reaching out to citizenry through government-to-people (G2P) as well as people-to-government (P2G) payment platforms. The chapter is conceptualized on the emergent themes emanating from the World Bank data under the G20 financial inclusion indicators in 60 countries with remarkable MMTs per 100,000 adults. Emergent findings from the data indicates of MMT benefits to small countries such as the Pacific Island countries, benign economic policies under West African countries, increased uptake of cash and voucher transfers through humanitarian support, and the pursuit of cashless economy through mobile wallets. In essence, the growth of MMTs is currently viewed as leap-frog strategy to the low- and middle-income countries embracing MMTs in promoting the sustainable development goals.
Impact of Trust on Customer Adoption of Digital Payment Systems
Authors: Kanojia Palak , Lal Madan
Published: December 2019

With the government spending huge amounts on making digital payments successful, the reports indicate that the rate of penetration is not as rapid as it is supposed to be. Many third parties are entering into the payment sector with alternative payment systems at retail sector. This study is based on the literature available on the consumer behaviour theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The purpose of the research is to test the relationship between the trust-based factors and the antecedents of the behavioural intention to use electronic payments by the users. Presently, the research question that has been concentrated on is to study the impact of trust on the attitude and intention to use electronic payments in India. The objective of the study is to examine the role of trust in technology adoption model. The findings indicated that trust acts as a significant determinant of consumer adoption of digital payments in India. Therefore, in order to find the answers to the research question, the study has been conducted among the users of electronic payments.
Employing Artificial Intelligence and Algorithms in the Digital Lending Industry
Authors: Opati Thaisaiyi Zephania
Published: December 2019

Lenders employ AI and algorithms in analyzing the potency for loan advancement. AI and algorithms are seen as efficient, and banks seem to be adopting or exploring the AI applications and algorithms to manage risk and cut bottom line cost, thus replacing costly, laborious, and repetitive activities along the value chain. The chapter offers practical solution to the practitioners and stakeholders on identifying customers associated with consumer risky default behaviors. It then advises on how to deal with these issues and what banks should employ to curb risky borrowing behavior.
Adoption of Mobile Payment Application and Its Impact on Business
Authors: Sayed Ahmad Fayaz , Shahid Muhammad Khalil , Ahmad Sayed Fayaz
Published: December 2019

Technology development has blessed the business environment with many tremendous opportunities and created several challenges. One of these developments is mobile payment applications, which are inevitable in the modern word. Companies, customers, etc. are adopting this modern mobile application to avail the service of mobile payment. Without any doubt it has many advantages, but it has also many challenges in adoption. This chapter discusses the adoption of mobile application and its impact on business. Security, ease of use, service availability, and risk are some of the main factors contributing to the adoption of mobile payment application. These factors not only affect the adoption of MPA but also have a strong link with business. As MPA changes the mood of business, again its pros and cons exist, and there is a need to be addressed. This chapter concludes a proposed model for the adoption of mobile payment application after thorough literature review.
A Scenario on Dry-WEDM and WEDM for Industrial Applications
Authors: Gowthaman P.S. , Jeyakumar S. , Saravanan B.A.
Published: December 2019

In present day manufacturing industries playing the major role in the machining of new materials with complex shapes, intricate structure and difficult profiles. The improvement of industries and machines is accountable for product quality and accuracy, which are not satisfied in conventional machining techniques. The WEDM is advanced machining process, they are capable to machining the components which are difficult to machine, whereas Dry-WEDM is another method, it utilizes the gas instead of dielectric liquid, it exhibits lower corrosion, fine finish, decrease dielectrics and environment friendly. Development of WEDM is suitable machining option for meeting the demands of modern tool room application and metal cutting industries. The purpose of the article attempts is to highlights the application, improvement and future scope of Dry-WEDM and WEDM in industrial areas.
Thermal Buckling of Functionally Graded Sandwich Beams
Authors: Daikh Ahmed Amine , Guerroudj Mohamed , El Adjrami Mohamed , Megueni Abdelkader
Published: December 2019

Thermal buckling of new model of functionally graded (FG) sandwich beams is presented in this study. Material properties and thermal expansion coefficient of FG sheets are assumed to vary continuously along the thickness according to either power-law (P-FGM) or sigmoid function (S-FGM) in terms of the volume fractions of the constituents. Equations of stability are derived based on the generalized higher-order shear deformation beam theory. Thermal loads are supposed to be constant, linear or nonlinear distribution along the thickness direction. An accurate form solution for nonlinear temperature variation through the thickness of S-FGM and P-FGM sandwich beams is presented. Numerical examples are presented to examine the influence of thickness ratio, the inhomogeneity parameter and the thermal loading kinds on the thermal buckling response of various types of FG sandwich beams.
Development of Methodology for Determining the Physical Properties of Natural and Innovative Materials
Authors: Spinelli Rodrigo , Pasquali Pedro Henrique Dall'Agnol , Bertotti Angélica , Lerin Dantara , Pitol Alana F. , Patiño-Cambeiro Faustino , Konrad Odorico
Published: December 2019

The high energy consumption of buildings in the various sectors of society, the exploitation of natural resources and the use of fossil fuels make it necessary to research constructive alternatives that can reduce the impact on the planet. The use of thermal insulation in buildings is important for the reduction of energy consumption, however, most of the materials developed are manufactured generating high rates of pollution. This study starts with the use of natural elements (corn cob / soybean straw / pine bark) and innovative elements (vacuum / slimstone plate), in order to improve energy efficiency of buildings. The methodological development of the work began in the selection of materials and development of facade cladding boards. The determination of the thermal conductivity was analyzed using a heating plate and PT100 temperature sensors, determination of the apparent and actual density, and analysis of the material composition using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). After the development of the analyzes, the natural slabs and recycled slimstone showed significant results, with thermal conductivity lower than 0.07 W / m.k.
Test of Asphalt Working from a Mill from the Frez from the Exploded Asphaltobetone Layers of Road Surfaces
Authors: Rajczyk Marlena , Rajczyk Pawel , Rajczyk Jaroslaw
Published: December 2019

The milling cutter obtained from milling the surface layers from the worn out class A, S and GP roads is a valuable component of the newly produced asphalt mixtures. The proportion of granulate as a material obtained from the aggregate cutter with the content of used asphalt binder for MMA production according to available recommended documents should not exceed 30% of recycled material in the overall composition of the weight formula of the new mixture designed with the participation of fresh native aggregates. MMA properties with a 30% share of the milling cutter for fabrication of the foundation layer and an intermediate layer with parameters do not differ from mixtures made of native aggregates. It is purposeful to develop framework standards for specifying the methods of obtaining and its classification for objective evaluation and a high-value application in MMA technology involving partial or full processing of an asphalt cutter.