bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Computational Efficiency of Bat-Inspired Algorithm in Optimal Structural Design
Authors: Hasançebi O. , Azad S. Kazemzadeh
Published: June 2015

Bat-inspired (BI) algorithm is a recent metaheuristic optimization technique that simulates echolocation behavior of bats in seeking a design space. Along the same line with almost all metaheuristics, this algorithm also entails a large number of time-consuming structural analyses in structural design optimization applications. This study is focused on improving computational efficiency of the BI algorithm in optimum structural design. The number of structural analyses required by BI algorithm in the course of design optimization is reduced considerably by incorporating an upper bound strategy (UBS) into the solution procedure. The performance of the resulting algorithm, i.e. UBS integrated BI algorithm (UBI), is evaluated in discrete sizing optimization of large-scale steel skeletal structures designed for minimum weight according to American Institute of Steel Construction-Allowable Stress Design provisions. The numerical results verify that the UBI results in a significant gain in the computational efficiency of the standard algorithm.
Early Crushing Failure of High-Rise Shear Walls with No Boundary Confinement
Authors: Kang Su-Min , Park Hong-Gun , Kim Jae-Yo
Published: June 2015

Currently, the ultimate compressive strain of shear walls with no boundary confinement, which is a crucial factor in determining the ductility of shear walls, is empirically assumed to be 0.003 to 0.005. In this study, a fundamental study involving experimental and numerical works was undertaken, to investigate how the actual size and load conditions of plastic hinge region affect the ductility of high-rise shear wall. According to the cyclic loading test, in the case of high-rise shear wall with no boundary confinement, early crushing failure occurred and the ultimate compressive strain was smaller than 0.004 which was generally expected value, because of the size and load condition of high-rise shear wall. According to the additional experimental study and nonlinear analysis conducted for compression zone of high-rise shear wall, it is recommended that for unconfined high-rise shear walls, the maximum compressive strain allowable for ductility design should conservatively be the strain corresponding to the maximum concrete strength and boundary confinement should be provided in the compressive zone where the strain exceeds this ultimate strain.
Analysis of Dynamic Characteristics of the Canton Tower under Different Earthquakes
Authors: Li H. , Liu J.K. , Chen W.H. , Lu Z.R. , Xia Y. , Ni Y.Q.
Published: June 2015

This paper presents the experimental modal analysis of the Canton Tower from the ambient vibration measurements under different earthquake excitation conditions. Firstly, the time history and Power Spectral Density (PSD) of the acceleration response under different earthquake excitations have been compared. Secondly, two output-only modal identification techniques are applied to the field measurements under earthquake excitations to identify the dynamic properties of the tower, namely, the Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD) and the Subspace Stochastic Identification (SSI). At last, the Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) method is applied to obtain the instantaneous frequencies and energy distribution under different loadings in the time-frequency domain and the results are compared with those from wavelet transform. The modal properties of the Canton Tower presented in this paper can be used as baseline for structural health monitoring and the analysis of dynamic characteristic of the high-rise structures under different earthquake excitations in future.
Tracing the evolutionary history of the little‐known Mediterranean‐Macaronesian genus Andryala (Asteraceae) by multigene sequencing
Authors: Ferreira Maria Zita , Zahradníček Jaroslav , Kadlecová Jana , de Sequeira Miguel Menezes , Chrtek Jr. Jindřich , Fehrer Judith
Published: June 2015

Andryala (Asteraceae: Cichorieae) is a little‐known Mediterranean‐Macaronesian genus whose taxonomy is much in need of revision. In order to elucidate species relationships in the genus, we performed phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the external transcribed spacer (ETS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA), two chloroplast (cpDNA) markers (trnT‐trnL and trnV‐ndhC intergenic spacers), and one single‐copy nuclear gene (sqs) using Bayesian and maximum parsimony methods of inference. While cpDNA analysis confirmed a previously inferred chloroplast capture event with the sister genus Pilosella, all nuclear markers supported the monophyletic origin of Andryala. However, determining accurate phylogenetic relationships within the genus was quite challenging due to very low levels of nucleotide divergence of all nrDNA and cpDNA markers and a high degree of homoplasy and incomplete lineage sorting in the variable sqs marker. Although none of the phylogenies were well resolved, all markers identified two well‐supported basal lineages corresponding to the relict species A. agardhii (Spain, Morocco) and A. laevitomentosa (Romania). The remaining Andryala taxa under study, whose relationships were largely unresolved, formed a well‐supported clade (“Major Radiation Group”). The capacity of the markers to resolve taxonomic entities within this group varied. While congruent genetic evidence was found for some taxa, several morphologically unambiguous species could not be distinguished at all with most or even all markers. The extremely low level of genetic divergence among most of the species, in spite of high morphological diversity, along with a basal polytomy found with all markers, suggests their relatively recent and rapid speciation. Phylogenetic analyses of the single‐copy marker advocate for a single colonization event of the common ancestor of two endemic species (A. glandulosa, A. crithmifolia) from the Mediterranean region to Madeira and that of two other endemics (A. perezii, A. pinnatifida) to the Canary Islands. The frequently observed evolutionary pattern of continental dispersion followed by insular speciation also holds for Andryala.
A revised infrageneric classification of the genus Peperomia (Piperaceae)
Authors: Frenzke Lena , Scheiris Emma , Pino Guillermo , Symmank Lars , Goetghebeur Paul , Neinhuis Christoph , Wanke Stefan , Samain Marie-Stéphanie
Published: June 2015

The classification of species‐rich genera is one of the most challenging tasks in systematics. In this paper we present an updated infrageneric classification of the genus Peperomia (Piperaceae), one of the most species‐rich genera of plants. The classification is based on a molecular phylogeny of 190 accessions and the placement of 1340 of the 1606 currently accepted taxa within this classification. We provide the most comprehensive circumscriptions of Peperomia subgenera since the work of Dahlstedt in 1900, with five newly described subgenera. Fourteen monophyletic groups were revealed by phylogenetic reconstructions, including two newly discovered clades. Extensive field work, monitoring of representative living collections in our botanical gardens, and herbarium studies were the basis for morphological assignment of 80% of Peperomia species to the subgenera recognized and described herein. This work, in combination with the detailed descriptions of these subgenera, will aid field botanists, taxonomists, and ecologists to properly collect and identify species. Although parallel evolution of characters makes identification of species within Peperomia difficult, especially in species‐rich clades, the key to subgenera will provide a useful framework for anyone interested in this genus and will be a reference for further studies in Peperomia.
The Factor Productivity in the Pre-crisis Russian Economy
Authors: Басовская  , Basovskaya Elena
Published: June 2015

To evaluate the factor productivity in the pre-crisis economy the econometric models were built. From the general level determination of the labor productivity models of 77.8%, the share of capital is 67%, the share of human capital — 8.4%, the share of new technologies — 1.4%. Effect of changes in the level of human capital on productivity surpasses the effect of changes in capital and the degree of diffusion of new technologies. In the pre-crisis period, the influence of the main production factors on the labor productivity was significantly decreased. The new tecnology have ceased to influence on productivity in general. The recession factor productivity in the country in the period 2010- 2013 may due to the formation under the impact of the adopted laws for the economic growth adverse institutional environment.
Analysis of the Relationship of Cyclicality, Prediction and Assessment in Innovation Efficiency
Authors: Шишкин  , Shishkin Andrey
Published: June 2015

This work is devoted to the analysis of system of an assessment of efficiency of

innovations. It describes the communications of innovations with processes

which happen as in the external and also in the internal environment of

functioning of an economic entity. It displays the researches which allow to

establish interrelation of recurrence and forecasting. These processes are in the

general system which can effectively function by means of calibration formation.

The questions connected with an assessment of efficiency of innovations are

also considered. It is closely connected with an assessment of innovative

capacity of territories which can become an analysis source. The article

analyses the role of prediction in systems of innovative development and

criteria approach in system of selection of innovations.
INFLUENCE OF ZINC AND MAGNESIUM ADDITION ON THE FLUIDITY OF Al-Zn-Mg ALLOY
Authors: Akinlabi Oyetunji , Emokpaire Okhiai Stephen
Published: June 2015

The goal of this research was to investigate the influence of zinc and magnesium on the fluidity of Al-Zn-Mg alloy. The fluidity test was carried out using a serpentine-shape sand mould. The length of the serpentine-shape pattern was 180 cm. The experiment was designed by varying the compositions of zinc from 1 to 5 wt%, and magnesium from 0.5 wt% to 2.5 wt%. Variation in compositions of the two elements was done separately, and later a combined variation in compositions of zinc and magnesium was investigated. The superheat temperature was placed at 70ºC above the liquidus temperature. From the results obtained, it was observed that there was general increase in fluidity when the percentage weight composition of magnesium was increased. Alloy with 2.3 wt% Mg was found to have the highest fluidity, followed by alloy with 2.85 wt % Mg. When the percentage weight compositions of zinc were increased, there was a general decrease in fluidity of the Al-Zn-Mg alloy, in which alloy with 5.14 wt % zinc recorded the lowest fluidity of 57.1 cm as compared to the as-cast alloy. Also for the combined variation in compositions of zinc and magnesium, it was discovered that there was decrease in the flow length of the alloy, where alloy with 5.14 wt% Zn and 2.85 wt% Mg combined has flow length of 59.8 cm. But the reduction in fluidity length when the composition of zinc was varied was more drastic as compared to that of the combined alloying elements.
PROCESSING OF SOLUTION AFTER LEACHING OF STEELMAKING DUST BY CEMENTATION
Authors: Palencar Marek , Kukurugya Frantisek , Miskufova Andrea
Published: June 2015

The work includes a description of a hydrometallurgical processing of steelmaking dust a waste product of steel production from electric arc furnace (EAF). Most attention is paid to cementation. The aim is to study purification of solution by cementation of impurities that could cause problems in zinc electrowinning process. Most attention is focused on removal of cadmium and lead from the sulphate and chloride solutions. The highest efficiency of cadmium removal was achieved in the sulphate solution, at 25, 50, 80 °C and at pH = 4, 5, 6. The highest efficiency of lead removal from sulphate solution (87.61 %) was achieved at pH = 6 and temperature of 80 °C. In chloride solution, the highest efficiency of lead removal (99.94 %), at the same pH but at a lower temperature of 50 °C was achieved.
THE EFFECT OF SOIL ENVIRONMENT ON THE CORROSION OF PIPELINE
Authors: Cervova Jana , Hagarova Maria
Published: June 2015

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of soil environment on steel pipeline corrosion. The corrosion of the gas pipeline DN 500 after 48-year operation was studied by electrochemical methods. The samples of the pipeline were tested in soil electrolyte for 6 hours. Corrosion resistance of the steel samples was evaluated by open circuit potential and potentiodynamic polarization resistance measurements. Corrosion rate icorr of studied steel was determined using a potentiodynamic polarization method. Corrosion behavior of surface without and with corrosion products was compared. The corrosion rate icorr of the sample with corrosion layer reached the lower value compared to the sample without corrosion layer.
Stock Ownership and Political Behavior: Evidence from Demutualizations
Authors: Kaustia Markku , Knüpfer Samuli , Torstila Sami
Published: June 2015

A setting in which customer-owned mutual companies converted to publicly listed firms created a plausibly exogenous increase in stock ownership. We use this shock to identify the effect of ownership of publicly listed shares on political behavior. Using instrumental variable regressions, difference-in-differences analyses, and matching methods, we find the shock changed the way people vote in the affected areas, with the demutualizations being followed by a 1.7–2.7-percentage-point increase in right-of-center vote share. Analyses of demutualizations that did not involve public listing of shares suggest that explanations based on wealth, liquidity, and tax-related incentives do not drive the results, and that the ownership of publicly listed shares was instrumental in generating the increase in conservative voting.

This paper was accepted by Gustavo Manso, finance.
Sourcing Strategies and Supplier Incentives for Short-Life-Cycle Goods
Authors: Calvo Eduard , Martínez-de-Albéniz Victor
Published: June 2015

Multiple sourcing with quick response has been recognized as a useful tool to manage demand risk for short-life-cycle goods. However, general wisdom has traditionally ignored the effect of these practices on supplier incentives. In this paper we find that, when suppliers make pricing decisions, dual sourcing does not always lead to higher supply chain efficiency or buyer profits as compared to single sourcing. This loss takes place when suppliers commit to prices up front, before any possible forecast change, but not when they delay the price quotes after demand forecasts have been updated. Specifically, with up-front price commitment, dual sourcing leads to inflation of supplier prices because expensive suppliers will still receive part of the business if they are sufficiently quick. Thus, when supplier prices are endogenous, double marginalization may offset the additional buyer profit enabled by higher ordering flexibility. In contrast, with delayed price quotes, a buyer will find dual sourcing beneficial because single sourcing locks it into a monopolistic supplier that extracts most of the available rent.

This paper was accepted by Martin Lariviere, operations management.
The habits of a great teacher
Authors: Bromley Matt , Sobel Daniel
Published: June 2015

What are the traits of excellent teaching that NQTs should be focusing on developing as they embrace the freedoms of year two at the chalkface? Matt Bromley explains

There are many reasons behind poor pupil behaviour in the classroom. Often SEN can have a role to play or students can simply be struggling to access the learning. Daniel Sobel offers some pointers
Improvisação como competência cultural: uma autoetnografia da atividade gerencial no setor público
Authors: Santos Leonardo Augusto N. dos , Davel Eduardo
Published: June 2015

Como a incerteza e a criatividade são inerentes à vida social, a capacidade de improvisar é fundamental para o êxito organizacional. Apesar de ter sido bem estudada no campo dos Estudos Organizacionais, a improvisação ainda é pouco conhecida do ponto de vista cultural. Por isso, esta pesquisa examina a dimensão cultural que fundamenta a consecução da improvisação como competência culturalmente relevante para a prática gerencial. Contrapondo a metáfora do jazz no contexto anglo-saxônico ao “jeitinho” no contexto brasileiro, busca-se estabelecer um diálogo entre os estudos da improvisação e os estudos da cultura organizacional brasileira. Com foco em cinco práticas de gestão em uma organização pública, a abordagem autoetnográfica sustentou o processo empírico de pesquisa, oferecendo um acesso privilegiado à complexidade e sutileza dos fenômenos subjetivos que envolvem a cultura e a improvisação.
A identidade de enfermeiros supervisores em um hospital público de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Minini Raquel Mieco , Ferraz Deise Luiza da Silva
Published: June 2015

Com este estudo, objetivou-se identificar a percepção tanto dos enfermeiros supervisores sobre suas atividades quanto dos diferentes sujeitos que delas participam, a fim de analisar as identidades profissionais que são condicionadas pelas demandas assistenciais e gerenciais dessa profissão. Adotando-se a posição teórica de Ciampa (1993) e realizando-se um estudo qualitativo, observou-se que a identidade pressuposta de enfermeiro cuidador metamorfoseia-se na identidade de enfermeiro “apagador de incêndios” no processo de negação da identidade imposta pelas condições de trabalho que criaram o “enfermesa”. Concluiu-se que o trabalho, enquanto projeto, e as condições que possibilitam a concretização (ou não) da identidade pressuposta mostram-se centrais nesse processo identitário.
Grayling: no crowning glory
Authors: Joseph Markus
Published: June 2015

As Lord Chancellor, Chris Grayling was responsible for upholding the rule of law, but his many defeats before the courts shows how badly he misunderstood his role. Joseph Markus looks back over his three years.
Beleaguered boroughs
Authors: Lara ten Caten  , Maria Palomares
Published: June 2015

Lara ten Caten and Maria Palomares explain how the twin crises of public spending cuts and insufficient housing have led to appalling behaviour by local authorities, and describe the impact on those who need help.
Shelf lives: Drawing out letters from World War I
Authors: MacDonald Juliet
Published: June 2015

This article concerns the initial stages of an art residency with the Liddle Collection, an archive of World War I interviews, documents and related objects at Leeds University Library’s Special Collections. The Collection, which has been awarded Designation for its international significance, was founded by historian Peter Liddle in the 1970s, and is centred on personal testimonies of wartime experiences. After outlining its history and current situation, the article focuses on my modes of entry into this large body of material. The Collection has a catalogue and cross-referencing subject index. With reference to Spieker, I consider how they shape the archive as I encounter it. Three writing/drawing methods (making notes, drawing diagrams and writing lists) have been used as a means to immerse myself in the Collection, map and process it as an artist. Finally, I consider Christov-Bakargiev’s idea of the ‘distracted archive’ as a model to take forward.
Brass Art: A house within a house within a house within a house
Authors: Lewis Chara , Mojsiewicz Kristin , Pettican Anneké
Published: June 2015

Performances from Brass Art (Lewis, Mojsiewicz, Pettican), captured at the Freud Museum, London, using Kinect laser scanning and Processing, reveal an intimate response to spaces and technologies. ‘A house within a house within a house within a house’ links historical and cultural representations of the double, the unconscious and the uncanny to this artistic practice. The new moving-image and sonic works form part of a larger project to inhabit the writing rooms of influential authors, entitled ‘Shadow Worlds | Writers’ Rooms’.
Reconstructing textile heritage
Authors: Calvert Sophie , Power Jess , Ryall Helen , Bills Paul
Published: June 2015

This article recreates a deteriorating archive, bringing life, opportunity and growth to a collection that is in reality dying. It explores a collection owned by the National Trust at Claydon House in Buckinghamshire. Modern techniques of Infinate Focus Microscopy and Computerized Tomography scanning are used to render 3D digital images which are intended to capture the imagination of contemporary artists and designers resulting in an ever evolving archive for future generations. The research identifies that all textile materials have significance and even the smallest fragments may serve as an inspiration to the next generation of creative designers. Focusing on the preservation, restoration and visualization of small insignificant fragments of delicate cloth, the article captures and reinvents the materials, giving a new meaning for future generations.
Estructura y forma de la ciudad a través de la cartografía histórica: Castro Urdiales, Cantabria (1800-1960)
Authors: Delgado Viñas Carmen
Published: June 2015

El presente artículo se plantea como objetivo el análisis de la evolución estructural y morfológica de un espacio urbano de rango y tamaño modestos, Castro Urdiales (Cantabria), desde su condición histórica de villa marinera hasta su consolidación como ciudad industrial moderna. Desde una perspectiva metodológica, la parte más substancial del análisis de la dinámica urbanística se apoya esencialmente en el uso de las imágenes cartográficas, como referencias documentales que proporcionan datos y testimonios que no se encuentran en otras fuentes. No obstante, como sucede con otras fuentes documentales, la información obtenida de mapas y planos ha sido combinada y complementada con otro tipo de fuentes coetáneas a las cartográficas. Y, por descontado, se han adoptado las oportunas precauciones, similares a las tomadas con las fuentes escritas, sobre posibles errores de información mediante el contraste y la comparación de unas y otras fuentes, cartográficas y literarias.
Memoria, iconografía y paisaje: a propósito del uso de la fotografía como fuente geográfica
Authors: Suárez Japón Juan Manuel
Published: June 2015

La memoria es una facultad humana de inequívoca importancia en el manejo de los conocimientos. Los localiza temporal y espacialmente y deviene un factor esencial de nuestro reconocimiento, tanto individual como socialmente: “memoria personal versus memoria colectiva”. a) Una de las opciones metodológicas de la Geografía, la llamada “histórica”, en la que este trabajo se inserta, procesa las distintas fuentes y datos del pasado para alcanzar explicaciones del presente. b) De entre ellas, la fotografía ha alcanzado un valor relevante especialmente en el análisis de procesos de cambios paisajísticos veloces, los que es posible disponer de “series fotográficas” capaces de fijar el proceso en imágenes, trasuntos fieles de la realidad. c) Desde esas perspectivas metodológicas, se presente el estudio de un caso: la orilla del Guadalquivir por Coria del Río (Sevilla).
El impacto de las coladas de 1706 en la ciudad de Garachico. (Tenerife, Islas Canarias, España)
Authors: Romero Ruiz Carmen , Beltrán Yanes Esther
Published: June 2015

Uno de los escenarios eruptivos de mayor importancia en Canarias es el asociado al desarrollo de erupciones basálticas fisurales, de comportamiento efusivo y localizadas en sectores de rifts volcánicos de bajas tasas eruptivas. El 80% del volcanismo histórico producido en Canarias se ha localizado en estas estructuras y en el 60% de los casos las coladas se emplazan en ambientes litorales, densamente poblados, lo que las convierte en el riesgo volcánico más importante de las islas. La erupción de Garachico ha sido el fenómeno volcánico histórico de mayor impacto socioeconómico de Tenerife. Entre el 5 de mayo y el 13 de junio de 1706 se emitió 0,045 km3 de materiales volcánicos que cubrieron un área de 7,6 km2. Este trabajo se centra en los daños vinculados al emplazamiento de las coladas en el sector litoral, pues fueron las causantes de las mayores pérdidas provocadas por la erupción. Este estudio evidencia, asimismo, que el desarrollo de erupciones efusivas en rifts de este tipo obliga a contemplar no sólo los escenarios eruptivos más probables sino también los escenarios geográficos de inserción de las erupciones, pues éstos condicionan las modalidades de emplazamiento de los flujos lávicos y los riesgos derivados de ellos.
La planificación y gestión de los humedales de Andalucía en el marco del Convenio Ramsar
Authors: Arias-García Jonatan , Gómez-Zotano José
Published: June 2015

Las zonas húmedas de Andalucía han sido objeto de explotación y transformación desde tiempos remotos, lo que ha originado una importante degradación de estos frágiles ecosistemas. Sin embargo, la sociedad ha ido cambiando su percepción y relación con los humedales, evolucionando desde las antiguas desecaciones al actual uso racional y reconocimiento de los valores naturales, bienes y servicios que ofrecen. En este sentido, el Convenio Ramsar ha supuesto un importante punto de partida para los numerosos instrumentos, planes y estrategias que en los últimos años han tratado de garantizar la conservación y revalorización de los humedales. En el presente artículo se realiza una reflexión, sistematización y análisis crítico de las distintas medidas y acciones que se han ido desarrollando para rehabilitar, recuperar y, en definitiva, gestionar las zonas húmedas de Andalucía. Se detecta que las actuaciones derivadas de la planificación resultan insuficientes y dificultan la gestión integral de estos ecosistemas.
Estrategias de Competitividad Turística en las Áreas Naturales Protegidas de Quintana Roo, México
Authors: Segrado Pavón Romano Gino , Serrano Barquín Rocío Del Carmen , Juan Pérez José Isabel , Cruz Jiménez Graciela , Arroyo Arcos Lucinda
Published: June 2015

El objetivo fue determinar las estrategias de competitividad turística aplicadas en las Áreas Naturales Protegidas (ANP) de Quintana Roo, México. Se aplicó una metodología cualitativa de triangulación con entrevistas a los administradores, revisión de la bibliografía especializada y observación de campo. El modelo de Kay fue la base teórica para recolectar datos de la administración de las ANP y los resultados se clasificaron según la propuesta de Porter sobre estrategias de competitividad. Entre los resultados se destaca que la mayoría de las ANP aplica la estrategia de Demarketing, C.O. Isla Mujeres y Tulum aplican la diferenciación y Sian Ka´an la segmentación, aunque todas apoyan la sustentabilidad ecológica y social, pero la económica prácticamente no se considera. El subsidio económico para favorecer el acceso, la ausencia de centros de educación ambiental, capacidades limitadas de los agentes locales y falta de coordinación y consenso entre instituciones federales, cooperativas locales y ejidos, son limitantes para mejorar la competitividad turística. Se concluye que en las ANP las estrategias de competitividad se aplican sin la lógica económica. Palabras clave: turismo, ANP, competitividad, estrategias, Quintana Roo.
A influência dos fatores externos sobre os destinos turísticos
Authors: Carvalho Fabíola Cristina Costa de , Pimentel Thiago Duarte
Published: June 2015

O objetivo deste ensaio teórico foi identificar, a partir da estrutura do mercado turístico, as influências causadas por elementos macroambientais na gestão e planejamento de destinos turísticos (DT’s). O argumento defendido aqui é o de que o posicionamento do destino turístico no ambiente externo condiciona suas possibilidades de crescimento, organização e desenvolvimento. Por meio de um levantamento teórico, indutivo, baseado na literatura especializada sobre planejamento turístico e nos principais expoentes da área no cenário brasileiro, identificou-se um conjunto de elementos externos que podem influir sobre as decisões e ações tomadas no âmbito interno de um DT. Como resultado, é apresentado um framework teórico de fatores condicionantes da realização da atividade turística em escala local a partir de estratégias baseadas na análise macroambiental. Tais fatores trazem, por extensão, consequências diretas também para o planejamento de destinos turísticos, condicionando as possibilidades de ação, os recursos passíveis de serem efetivamente utilizados, bem como os mercados a serem atingidos. Como conclusão, a contribuição deste estudo apresenta e propõe, ainda que propedeuticamente, um framework sistêmico e integrado – ao contrário da literatura pré-existente – evidenciando sua necessária consideração como um pré-requisito fundamental do processo de planejamento do destino turístico, pois sua desconsideração pode inviabilizar qualquer plano elaborado.
Evaluación de la calidad de la información climático-meteorológica contenida en los portales institucionales de promoción turística de España
Authors: Gómez Martín M. Belén , Armesto López Xosé A. , Martínez Ibarra Emilio
Published: June 2015

Los portales institucionales de turismo suelen ser importantes proveedores de información climático-meteorológica, configurándose en uno de los principales lugares  al que acuden los turistas en el momento de la toma de decisiones que se realiza durante la fase pre-vacacional, aunque también suelen ser consultados en destino, por la información meteo que contienen para el desarrollo de la experiencia durante la fase vacacional. Ambos hechos hacen que la información atmosférica mostrada en ellos se tenga que debatir entre las exigencias informativas y las exigencias de creación de imagen para la promoción. Es por ello que, la hipótesis de partida de esta investigación sostiene que la información climático-meteorológica que se ofrece en los portales institucionales es insuficiente y no responde a las necesidades informativas requeridas por el turista-consumidor. Con objeto de poner a prueba esta suposición, este trabajo evalúa –para el caso español- la calidad de la información climático-meteorológica proporcionada a los turistas en los portales de los organismos encargados de la promoción turística de los destinos a nivel estatal y autonómico, a partir del establecimiento y análisis de 26 indicadores. Los resultados indican que la información atmosférica proporcionada al turista en los portales institucionales no supera los requisitos informativos establecidos por la OMM.
Studying physico-mechanical properties of cement pastes in presences of blend polymer as chemical admixtures
Authors: Negim Elsayed , Yeligbayeva G. , Niyazbekova Rimma , Rakhmetullayeva R. , Mamutova A.A , Iskakov R. , Sakhy M. , Mun G.A.
Published: June 2015

Physico-mechanical properties of cement pastes were studied by setting time, combined water, compressive strength, SEM as well as porosity in presence of blend polymers. Blend polymers were used based on polyvinyl alcohol and carbamide with blend ratios 20/80, 40/60 and 80/20 respectively. The addition of blend polymers to cement pastes affected the physico-mechanical properties of cement pastes. As the content of carbamide in the polymer blends decreased, the water of consistency decreased, whereas the setting times (initial & final) were elongated. The combined water content and compressive strength of the hardened cement pastes were increased at all ages of hydration. The SEM images showed that the addition of these polymers to cement material improves the dispensability and workability of cement pastes.
Influence of the Season on the Metabolic Profile in Chios Sheep
Authors: Dzadzovski Igor , Celeska Irena , Ulchar Igor , Janevski Aleksandar , Kirovski Danijela
Published: June 2015

Chios is a breed of sheep selected for milk production, with metabolic features typical for a dairy sheep breed. The energy requirements of pregnant sheep is increase in the last weeks of gestation. Metabolic imbalance in the late pregnancy in sheep, usually cause a metabolic disorder known as pregnancy toxemia. Additionally, a pregnant sheep exposed to low environmental temperatures has increased energy demands, due to its adaptation to undesirable environmental conditions. The aim of this study was to compare the metabolic profile of Chios sheep exposed to different environmental conditions.Two groups of ewes were instigated. First group included 8 pregnant ewes with clinical signs of pregnancy toxemia exposed to cold stress during the winter season. The second group included 8 non-pregnant, clinically healthy ewes, that were examined during the non-breeding period, in the spring season. Blood samples were taken and serum concentrations of glucose, beta-hydroxybutirate (BHBA), total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, triglyceride and cholesterol, as well as activity of AST and ALP were determined. Pregnant ewes exposed to cold stress had significantly lower levels of glucose and total protein, and significantly higher levels of BHBA, albumin and AST in the serum compared to non-pregnant ewes that were in optimal environmental conditions. There was no significant difference between the serum levels of urea, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides and ALP among the groups. In conclusion, low environmental temperature and poor feeding during the winter season caused metabolic distress in pregnant ewes during the early winter season.
International Relationship Marketing: Intellectual Foundations and Avenues for Further Research
Authors: Samiee Saeed , Chabowski Brian R. , Hult G. Tomas M.
Published: June 2015

Relationship marketing is a central and important tenet in marketing thought, and considerable research effort in the discipline has been devoted to examining various facets of relationship marketing, resulting in a large body of knowledge. In this study, the authors specifically focus on the international dimension of the relationship marketing literature and use citation and cocitation data to identify and unfold its intellectual foundations. The goal is to provide new and meaningful avenues for further research using the knowledge structure on which international relationship marketing stands. The examination of the literature spans more than 40 years, divided into three time periods that permit detection of longitudinal trends as well as meaningful visual representations of the cocitation data. Overall, the authors survey 29 key publications and identify 3,509 articles that include 230,684 citations, examining the data for 1972–1993, 1994–2003, and 2004–2013 to unfold research possibilities. Drawing on the analysis of emergent multidimensional scaling results, the authors discuss potential international relationship marketing research incorporating social relations and networking, new ventures, internationalization, trust and commitment, tacit knowledge, and cultural values.
Adolescent and young adult medicine in Australia and New Zealand: towards specialist accreditation
Authors: Sawyer Susan M. , Farrant Bridget , Hall Anganette , Kennedy Andrew , Payne Donald , Steinbeck Kate , Vogel Veronica
Published: June 2015

In Australia and New Zealand, a critical mass of academic and clinical leadership in Adolescent Medicine has helped advance models of clinical services, drive investments in teaching and training, and strengthen research capacity over the past 30 years. There is growing recognition of the importance of influencing the training of adult physicians as well as paediatricians. The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of specialist physician training across the two countries. Following advocacy from adolescent physicians, the RACP is advancing a three-tier strategy to build greater specialist capacity and sustain leadership in adolescent and young adult medicine (AYAM). The first tier of the strategy supports universal training in adolescent and young adult health and medicine for all basic trainees in paediatric and adult medicine through an online training resource. The second and third tiers support advanced training in AYAM for specialist practice, based on an advanced training curriculum that has been approved by the RACP. The second tier is dual training; advanced trainees can undertake 2 years training in AYAM and 2 years training in another area of specialist practice. The third tier consists of 3 years of advanced training in AYAM. The RACP is currently seeking formal recognition from the Australian Government to have AYAM accredited, a process that will be subsequently undertaken in New Zealand. The RACP is expectant that the accreditation of specialist AYAM physicians will promote sustained academic and clinical leadership in AYAM to the benefit of future generations of young Australasians.
Adolescent health in South America
Authors: Gaete Veronica
Published: June 2015

Since the 1950s, a significant amount of work has been done on behalf of the comprehensive health of young people in South America. This article focuses on the regional process of training health professionals to work with this age group. There are countries in which the growth of adolescent health training has been significant, others that have made progress but still have a narrower offer of teaching activities, and a few where only very basic and limited training is available. Latin American professional associations, scientific societies, and international organizations have also contributed to the education of the adolescent health work force. Although the training in the region has advanced in some countries to the point that there is specialization in adolescent medicine, much remains to be done. Certain regional conditions have contributed to the education of providers in adolescent care. The most important has been the existence of professionals who have been highly motivated to improve the health of young people. They have worked very hard and with great commitment to achieve this goal. There have also been important obstacles to educating professionals in adolescent care. Aside from the usual lack of funding, barriers have existed in the health care system and its providers, as well as the training entities and because of certain South American conditions. Finally, this article describes the regional adolescent medicine programs and the status of recognition of this specialty, and addresses the opportunities and challenges for adolescent health training.
Structural Nested Mean Models to Estimate the Effects of Time-Varying Treatments on Clustered Outcomes
Authors: He Jiwei , Stephens-Shields Alisa , Joffe Marshall
Published: June 2015

In assessing the efficacy of a time-varying treatment structural nested models (SNMs) are useful in dealing with confounding by variables affected by earlier treatments. These models often consider treatment allocation and repeated measures at the individual level. We extend SNMMs to clustered observations with time-varying confounding and treatments. We demonstrate how to formulate models with both cluster- and unit-level treatments and show how to derive semiparametric estimators of parameters in such models. For unit-level treatments, we consider interference, namely the effect of treatment on outcomes in other units of the same cluster. The properties of estimators are evaluated through simulations and compared with the conventional GEE regression method for clustered outcomes. To illustrate our method, we use data from the treatment arm of a glaucoma clinical trial to compare the effectiveness of two commonly used ocular hypertension medications.
Thermal Units Commitment Integrated with Reactive Power Scheduling for the Smart Grid Considering Voltage Constraints
Authors: Howlader Harun Or Rashid , Matayoshi Hidehito , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: June 2015

Nowadays, deregulation and liberalization in the power market has increased the competition in the retail power sectors. As a result, power companies need to reduce the operational cost and maximize profits by operating generators with high efficiency. On the other hand, the all electric residences are increasing, so controllable loads such as the electric water heater, heat pump and electric vehicle are being introduced to the power systems. The conventional system does not operate using thermal units with controllable loads in a coordinated manner. Therefore, the smart grid has become very popular in all over the world. This paper focuses on the reactive power scheduling of controllable loads, and determines the optimal operation of thermal units by satisfying the voltage constraints. The proposed method can satisfy the voltage constraint and reduce the rate of the power cost for a power system. The optimal control algorithm has been determined by the Tabu search method. Simulation results verify the proposed method and validate the performance and effectiveness of the control algorithm applied to the controllable loads and batteries.
A Comprehensive Study on the Effect of Maltitol and Oligofructose as Alternative Sweeteners in Sponge Cakes
Authors: Nourmohammadi Elham , Peighambardoust Seyed Hadi
Published: June 2015

In the present study the possibility of reduced-calorie sponge cake production with maltitol and oligofructose was investigated (control: 100% sucrose; M1: 100% maltitol; M2: 77% maltitol–23% oligofructose; M3: 23% maltitol–57% sucrose–20% oligofructose; M4: 25% maltitol–75% sucrose). The sensory and physical properties of the final product such as volume, specific volume, moisture and water activity, crust color, firmness and overall acceptability were evaluated. Among four samples, M3 (maltitol–sucrose–oligofructose) showed very close results to the control in terms of water activity, firmness and sensory properties and even outmatched it in volume and specific volume. M3 also presented darker crust in comparison with control. According to the results, M2 and M4 were also appropriate in some properties like volume, specific volume, water activity and crust color. M1 showed the weakest physical and sensory attributes. Moisture was not affected by maltitol and oligofructose (p > 0.05).
Seeking the best training model for difficult conversations in neonatology
Authors: Lechner Beatrice E. , Shields Robin , Tucker Richard , Bender G. Jesse
Published: June 2015

We hypothesize that a formal simulation curriculum prepares neonatology fellows for difficult conversations better than traditional didactics.

Single-center neonatology fellowship graduates from 1999 to 2013 were sent a retrospective web-based survey. Some had been exposed to a Difficult Conversations curriculum (simulation group), others had not (no simulation group). The simulation group participated in one workshop annually, consisting of lecture, simulation, and debriefing. Scenarios were customized to year of training. Epoch comparisons were made between the simulation and no simulation groups.

Self-rated baseline effectiveness at discussing difficult topics was not different. The simulation group reported more supervised family meetings and feedback after fellow-led meetings. Simulations were rated very positively. The simulation group reported increased comfort levels. Strategic pause and body positioning were specific communication skills more frequently acquired in the simulation group. In both groups, the highest ranked contributors to learning were mentor observation and clinical practice. In the simulation group, simulation and debriefing outranked didactics or other experiences.

Simulation-based workshops improve communication skills in high stakes conversations. However, they do not substitute for mentor observation and experience. Establishing a structured simulation-based difficult conversations curriculum refines vital communication skills necessary for the high stakes conversations neonatologists direct in clinical practice.
Paraoxonase 2 Cys311Ser polymorphism and its association with the systolic blood pressure values in asymptomatic dyslipidemic individuals: a pilot study
Authors: Novotny Dalibor , Karasek David , Vaverkova Helena , Bartkova Margita , Kubickova Veronika
Published: June 2015

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the relationship of paraoxonase 2 (PON2) gene Cys311Ser variants with blood pressure values, endothelial/hemostatic marker levels, and other laboratory parameters in asymptomatic dyslipidemic subjects. The same analyses were also performed with the common variants of PON2 Cys311Ser and –T1131C apolipoprotein A5 (ApoA5) polymorphisms, and PON2 Cys311Ser and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) polymorphisms.

Methods: Two hundred and sixty-four individuals were included in the study. The laboratory parameters were assessed by routine kit methods, while methods based on polymerase chain reaction were used for PON2, ApoA5, and ApoE genotyping.

Results:
PON2 311 SS homozygous individuals had significantly lower systolic blood pressure values (SBP, p<0.01), C-reactive protein, and apolipoprotein A1 levels (p<0.05), as compared with C allele carriers. The analysis revealed no differences in the levels of endothelial/hemostatic markers, except for the increased adhesion molecule [soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1)] concentrations in 311S/E2 carriers (p<0.05). PON2 311S subjects showed the lowest values of SBP in combination with “neutral” ApoE3 allele (p<0.05).

Conclusions: The presence of the PON2 311 C variant could represent an elevated risk of atherosclerotic complications in asymptomatic dyslipidemic individuals. Nevertheless, considering the study limitations, these relationships are necessary to be confirmed in further research.
A Cardinal Worry for Permissive Metaontology
Authors: Hewitt Simon
Published: June 2015

Permissivist metaontology proposes answering customary existence questions in the affirmative. Many of the existence questions addressed by ontologists concern the existence of theoretical entities which admit precise formal specification. This causes trouble for the permissivist, since individually consistent formal theories can make pairwise inconsistent demands on the cardinality of the universe. We deploy a result of Gabriel Uzquiano’s to show that this possibility is realised in the case of two prominent existence debates and propose rejecting permissivism in favour of substantive ontology conducted on a cost–benefit basis.
Kim on Events
Authors: Gozzano Simone
Published: June 2015

According to Kim, events are constituted by objects exemplifying property(ies) at a time. In this paper I wish to defend Kim’s theory of events from one source of criticism, extending it by taking into account a number of ideas developed by Davidson. In particular, I shall try to avoid events proliferation – one of the most serious problems in Kim’s theory – by using a suggestion Kim himself advances, that is, by taking adverbs and the like to be events’ rather than properties’ modifiers.
Liquid-liquid mass transfer studies in various stirred vessel designs
Authors: Ghotli Reza Afshar , Abdul Aziz Abdul Raman , Ibrahim Shaliza
Published: June 2015

A general review on correlations to evaluate mass transfer coefficients in liquid-liquid was conducted in this work. The mass transfer models can be classified into continuous and dispersed phase coefficients. The effects of drop size and interfacial area on mass transfer coefficient were investigated briefly. Published experimental results for both continuous and dispersed phase mass transfer coefficients through different hydrodynamic conditions were considered and the results were compared. The suitability and drawbacks of these correlations depend on the operating conditions and hydrodynamics. Although the results of these models are reasonably acceptable, they could not properly predict the experimental results over a wide range of designs and operating conditions. Therefore, proper understanding of various factors affecting mass transfer coefficient needs to be further extended.