bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Method for inverse synthetic aperture radar imaging of space debris using improved genetic algorithm
Authors: Ning Yu , Bai Xue‐ru , Zhou Feng , Liu Lei
Published: January 2017

Due to the rapid spinning of space debris, its radar echoes have serious migration through range cells and highly non‐stationary, time‐varying Doppler. With low pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and data missing, conventional joint time–frequency imaging methods such as the Wigner–Ville distribution and the short‐time Fourier transform cannot obtain well‐focused image. To tackle this problem, this study proposes a novel method for inverse synthetic aperture radar imaging of rapidly spinning space debris using the improved genetic algorithm (GA). Firstly, the authors derive the analytic model of the scattering centres and convert the imaging problem to a parametric optimisation problem. Then, an improved GA method combined with the CLEAN technique is introduced to estimate the model parameters and construct the range and cross‐range history of each scattering centre. Finally, high‐resolution images at different time instants are obtained. Simulation results have shown that the proposed method achieves high resolution with low computational burden, and it is robust to low PRF and data missing.
Bone Allograft Segment Covered with a Vascularized Fibular Periosteal Flap: A New Technique for Pediatric Mandibular Reconstruction
Authors: Sierra Nicolas E. , Diaz-Gallardo Paula , Knörr Jorge , Mascarenhas Vasco , García-Diez Eloy , Munill-Ferrer Montserrat , Bescós-Atín Maria S. , Soldado Francisco
Published: January 2017

The free vascularized fibular graft is nowadays the preferred technique for pediatric mandibular reconstruction. Despite the versatility and proven efficacy for restoring the facial appearance and maxillomandibular function, those mandibular reconstructions with free vascularized fibula associate difficulties for a simultaneous restoration of the alveolar height and facial contour, which are derived from the height discrepancy between the fibula and the native mandible. In addition, the donor-site growth and morbidity are of special concern in the pediatric patient. We report a novel technique for pediatric mandibular reconstruction, in an 11-year-old girl, using a combination of a bone allograft segment with a vascularized fibular periosteal flap (VFPF), after resection of an Ewing sarcoma located at the right body of the mandible. The patient has showed optimal cosmetic, functional, and radiological outcomes, which have been maintained for 2.5 years, without detecting donor-site complications. Through this original technique, and based on the powerful osteogenic and vasculogenic properties of the pediatric VFPFs, we could effectively reconstruct a large mandibular defect providing a functional and aesthetic reconstruction, while avoiding the potential morbidity associated with the fibula resection.
Does the configurational entropy of polydisperse particles exist?
Authors: Ozawa Misaki , Berthier Ludovic
Published: January 2017

Classical particle systems characterized by continuous size polydispersity, such as colloidal materials, are not straightforwardly described using statistical mechanics, since fundamental issues may arise from particle distinguishability. Because the mixing entropy in such systems is divergent in the thermodynamic limit, we show that the configurational entropy estimated from standard computational approaches to characterize glassy states also diverges. This reasoning would suggest that polydisperse materials cannot undergo a glass transition, in contradiction to experiments. We explain that this argument stems from the confusion between configurations in phase space and states defined by free energy minima, and propose a simple method to compute a finite and physically meaningful configurational entropy in continuously polydisperse systems. Physically, the proposed approach relies on an effective description of the system as an M*-component system with a finite M*, for which finite mixing and configurational entropies are obtained. We show how to directly determine M* from computer simulations in a range of glass-forming models with different size polydispersities, characterized by hard and soft interparticle interactions, and by additive and non-additive interactions. Our approach provides consistent results in all cases and demonstrates that the configurational entropy of polydisperse system exists, is finite, and can be quantitatively estimated.
A multi-chain polymer slip-spring model with fluctuating number of entanglements: Density fluctuations, confinement, and phase separation
Authors: Ramírez-Hernández Abelardo , Peters Brandon L. , Schneider Ludwig , Andreev Marat , Schieber Jay D. , Müller Marcus , de Pablo Juan J.
Published: January 2017

Coarse grained simulation approaches provide powerful tools for the prediction of the equilibrium properties of polymeric systems. Recent efforts have sought to develop coarse-graining strategies capable of predicting the non-equilibrium behavior of entangled polymeric materials. Slip-link and slip-spring models, in particular, have been shown to be capable of reproducing several key aspects of the linear response and rheology of polymer melts. In this work, we extend a previously proposed multi-chain slip-spring model in a way that correctly incorporates the effects of the fluctuating environment in which polymer segments are immersed. The model is used to obtain the equation of state associated with the slip-springs, and the results are compared to those of related numerical approaches and an approximate analytical expression. The model is also used to examine a polymer melt confined into a thin film, where an inhomogeneous distribution of polymer segments is observed, and the corresponding inhomogeneities associated with density fluctuations are reflected on the spatial slip-spring distribution.
Nanoscale pinning effect evaluated from deformed nanobubbles
Authors: Teshima Hideaki , Nishiyama Takashi , Takahashi Koji
Published: January 2017

Classical thermodynamics theory predicts that nanosized bubbles should disappear in a few hundred microseconds. The surprisingly long lifetime and stability of nanobubbles are therefore interesting research subjects. It has been proposed that the stability of nanobubbles arises through pinning of the three-phase contact line, which results from intrinsic nanoscale geometrical and chemical heterogeneities of the substrate. However, a definitive explanation of nanobubble stability is still lacking. In this work, we examined the stability mechanism by introducing a “pinning force.” We investigated nanobubbles at a highly ordered pyrolytic graphite/pure water interface by peak force quantitative nano-mechanical mapping and estimated the pinning force and determined its maximum value. We then observed the shape of shrinking nanobubbles. Because the diameter of the shrinking nanobubbles was pinned, the height decreased and the contact angle increased. This phenomenon implies that the stability results from the pinning force, which flattens the bubble through the pinned three-phase contact line and prevents the Laplace pressure from increasing. The pinning force can also explain the metastability of coalesced nanobubbles, which have two semispherical parts that are joined to form a dumbbell-like shape. The pinning force of the semispherical parts was stronger than that of the joint region. This result demonstrates that the contact line of the semispherical parts is pinned strongly to keep the dumbbell-like shape. Furthermore, we proposed a nanobubble generation mechanism for the solvent-exchange method and explained why the pinning force of large nanobubbles was not initially at its maximum value, as it was for small nanobubbles.
Application of IR imaging for free-surface velocity measurement in liquid-metal systems
Authors: Hvasta M. G. , Kolemen E. , Fisher A.
Published: January 2017

Measuring free-surface, liquid-metal flow velocity is challenging to do in a reliable and accurate manner. This paper presents a non-invasive, easily calibrated method of measuring the surface velocities of open-channel liquid-metal flows using an IR camera. Unlike other spatially limited methods, this IR camera particle tracking technique provides full field-of-view data that can be used to better understand open-channel flows and determine surface boundary conditions. This method could be implemented and automated for a wide range of liquid-metal experiments, even if they operate at high-temperatures or within strong magnetic fields.
Dual upper drift waves in RF produced magnetized helium plasma
Authors: Ghosh Abhijit , Saha S. K. , Chowdhury S. , Janaki M. S.
Published: January 2017

Self-excited dual upper drift modes have been observed in a magnetized helium plasma, having frequencies less than the ion cyclotron frequency (fci) but higher than that of the conventional low frequency drift waves (f≪fci). The modes propagate mainly in the azimuthal direction with mode numbers m = 1 and m = 2 with frequencies 30 kHz and 50 kHz, respectively, and also have weak axial propagation. They coexist over a wide range of radial and axial locations and the direction of azimuthal propagation coincides with the electron diamagnetic drift. A local dispersion relation obtained from the fluid description of the plasma predicts an instability simultaneously for both m = 1 and m = 2 modes (with different frequencies) over a range of radial locations.
Controlled modulation of hard and soft X-ray induced tunneling currents utilizing coaxial metal-insulator-metal probe tips
Authors: Cummings Marvin , Shirato Nozomi , Kersell Heath , Chang Hao , Rosenmann Daniel , Freeland John W. , Miller Dean , Hla Saw-Wai , Rose Volker
Published: January 2017

The effect of a local external electric field on the barrier potential of a tunneling gap is studied utilizing an emerging technique, synchrotron x-ray scanning tunneling microscopy. Here, we demonstrate that the shape of the potential barrier in the tunneling gap can be altered by a localized external electric field, generated by voltages placed on the metallic outer shield of a nanofabricated coaxial metal-insulator-metal tip, resulting in a controlled linear modulation of the tunneling current. Experiments at hard and soft x-ray synchrotron beamlines reveal that both the chemical contrast and magnetic contrast signals measured by the tip can be drastically enhanced, resulting in improved local detection of chemistry and magnetization at the surface.
Hybrid dynamic economic emission dispatch of thermal, wind, and photovoltaic power using the hybrid backtracking search algorithm with sequential quadratic programming
Authors: Mohy-ud-din Ghulam
Published: January 2017

Increasing environmental concerns have led to a push for renewable energy sources to be extensively used to reduce emissions. In this paper, we investigate a hybrid dynamic economic emission dispatch (HDEED) problem involving thermal, wind, and photovoltaic (PV) generation systems. Our formulation considers the stochastic nature of both wind and PV generated power, and differences because of mismatches between the actual and allocated wind and PV power. A hybrid backtracking search algorithm with sequential quadratic programming was used to minimize the total operational costs and emissions, while dispatching power to the committed generation units subject to all operational constraints. To verify the efficacy, we applied the proposed technique to solve the dynamic economic emission dispatch problem on five and ten unit test systems. The proposed technique was also used to solve the HDEED problem on IEEE 30 bus, 6-unit and IEEE 57 bus, 7-unit test systems, with and without renewable generation. The results of our numerical simulations show the efficiency of the proposed technique with respect to reducing operational costs and emissions. Moreover, our results show that by incorporating renewable energy into existing power systems, we can reduce operational costs and emissions.
Sign-changing non-monotonic voltage gain of HfO2/Parylene-C/SrTiO3 field-effect transistor due to percolative insulator to two-dimensional metal transition
Authors: Schulman Alejandro , Kitoh Ai , Stoliar Pablo , Inoue Isao H.
Published: January 2017

Controlling the insulator-to-2D-metal transition is a promising key to overcome the scaling problem that silicon-based electronic devices will face in the near future. In this context, we examine the channel formation of SrTiO3-based solid-gated field-effect devices in which a 2D metal phase coexists with a semiconductor phase. A non-monotonic voltage-gain transfer characteristic with negative and positive slope regions is observed. We introduce a numerical model that helps to rationalize the experimental findings in terms of the established physics of field-effect transistors and percolation. Our numerical study not only reproduces the experimental results but also provides non-trivial predictions, which we verify experimentally.
First-principle investigation of structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Co2VIn and CoVIn Heusler compounds
Authors: Zipporah Muthui , Rohit Pathak , Robinson Musembi , Julius Mwabora , Ralph Skomski , Arti Kashyap
Published: January 2017

Investigation of the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of full-Heusler Co2VIn as well as half-Heusler CoVIn Cobalt based Heusler compounds using density functional theory (DFT) leads to the general conclusion that Co2VIn and CoVIn are half-metallic materials with a gap at the Fermi level in the minority states and majority states respectively. A Hubbard-like Coulomb correlation term U has been included in the DFT (DFT+U) for the computation of the electronic and magnetic properties of the compounds. The structural properties have been calculated for the paramagnetic and ferromagnetic phases, and both Co2VIn and CoVIn are found to be stable in the ferromagnetic phase. The calculated magnetic moments are 2 μB and 0.9 μB per formula unit for Co2VIn and CoVIn respectively.
Controlled data storage for non-volatile memory cells embedded in nano magnetic logic
Authors: Riente Fabrizio , Ziemys Grazvydas , Mattersdorfer Clemens , Boche Silke , Turvani Giovanna , Raberg Wolfgang , Luber Sebastian , Breitkreutz-v. Gamm Stephan
Published: January 2017

Among the beyond-CMOS technologies, perpendicular Nano Magnetic Logic (pNML) is a promising candidate due to its low power consumption, its non-volatility and its monolithic 3D integrability, which makes it possible to integrate memory and logic into the same device by exploiting the interaction of bi-stable nanomagnets with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. Logic computation and signal synchronization are achieved by focus ion beam irradiation and by pinning domain walls in magnetic notches. However, in realistic circuits, the information storage and their read-out are crucial issues, often ignored in the exploration of beyond-CMOS devices. In this paper we address these issues by experimentally demonstrating a pNML memory element, whose read and write operations can be controlled by two independent pulsed currents. Our results prove the correct behavior of the proposed structure that enables high density memory embedded in the logic plane of 3D-integrated pNML circuits.
Magnetic properties of (misch metal, Nd)-Fe-B melt-spun magnets
Authors: Li R. , Shang R. X. , Xiong J. F. , Liu D. , Kuang H. , Zuo W. L. , Zhao T. Y. , Sun J. R. , Shen B. G.
Published: January 2017

The effect of replacing Nd with misch metal (MM) on magnetic properties and thermal stability has been investigated on melt-spun (Nd1-xMMx)13.5Fe79.5B7 ribbons by varying x from 0 to 1. All of the alloys studied crystallize in the tetragonal 2:14:1 structure with single hard magnetic phase. Curie temperature (Tc), coercivity (Hcj), remanence magnetization (Br) and maximum energy product ((BH)max) all decrease with MM content. The melt-spun MM13.5Fe79.5B ribbons with high ratio of La and Ce exhibit high magnetic properties of Hcj = 8.2 kOe and (BH)max= 10.3 MGOe at room temperature. MM substitution also significantly strengthens the temperature stability of coercivity. The coercivities of the samples with x = 0.2 and even 0.4 exhibit large values close to that of Nd13.5Fe79.5B7 ribbons above 400 K.
Exchange and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions in bulk FeGe: Effects of atomic vacancies
Authors: Loh G. C. , Gan C. K.
Published: January 2017

We examine the effects of atomic vacancies on the (1) spin interaction, and (2) electronic character in the cubic B20 chiral magnet FeGe. For the former, Heisenberg exchange and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya (DM) interactions are studied. The latter is done via a particular Wannier flavor of the Hamiltonian in the form of maximally-localized Wannier functions (MLWFs). Using first-principles calculations based on full-potential linearized augmented plane-wave (FLAPW)-based density functional theory (DFT), the spin order of bulk FeGe, in its pristine form, and with a Fe (Fe75%Ge100%) or Ge vacancy (Fe100%Ge75%) is investigated. Despite the presence of vacancies, the ground state of FeGe remains helimagnetic, i.e. spin spirals in FeGe are fairly robust. The energetic stability of FeGe increases in the presence of the vacancies. The spiral size is increased by approximately 40%, suggesting that vacancies can be introduced to manipulate the chiral order. The vacancies lift the band degeneracy in the valence manifold of the Wannier-interpolated band structures. Only the spin-down Fermi surfaces are substantially different between the pristine and defective FeGe; it is electron-like in the pristine case, but largely hole-like in the defective ones. The Ge vacancy splits the Fermi surface more than the Fe vacancy. The Heisenberg exchange between nearest Fe pairs is ferromagnetic in pristine FeGe. This Fe-Fe interaction remains ferromagnetic, albeit a slight decrease in strength, in the presence of a Fe vacancy. In contrast, a Ge vacancy in FeGe induces anti-ferromagnetism between nearest Fe pairs. By including spin-orbit coupling effects, we find that the DM interaction of defective FeGe is reversed in sign, and it is more uniform in strength along the three highly symmetric directions, relative to that in pristine FeGe. All in all, the versatility of FeGe makes it an excellent functional material, especially in data storage and spintronics applications.
Magnetic field deformation due to electron drift in a Hall thruster
Authors: Liang Han , Yongjie Ding , Xu Zhang , Liqiu Wei , Daren Yu
Published: January 2017

The strength and shape of the magnetic field are the core factors in the design of the Hall thruster. However, Hall current can affect the distribution of static magnetic field. In this paper, the Particle-In-Cell (PIC) method is used to obtain the distribution of Hall current in the discharge channel. The Hall current is separated into a direct and an alternating part to calculate the induced magnetic field using Finite Element Method Magnetics (FEMM). The results show that the direct Hall current decreases the magnetic field strength in the acceleration region and also changes the shape of the magnetic field. The maximum reduction in radial magnetic field strength in the exit plane is 10.8 G for an anode flow rate of 15 mg/s and the maximum angle change of the magnetic field line is close to 3° in the acceleration region. The alternating Hall current induces an oscillating magnetic field in the whole discharge channel. The actual magnetic deformation is shown to contain these two parts.
Age and growth, reproductive biology, and histology in Atlantic needlefish (Strongylura marina) in a coastal freshwater lake
Authors: Egbert Mary E. , Rulifson Roger A.
Published: January 2017

The Atlantic needlefish (Strongylura marina) is a coastal epipelagic species inhabiting shallow coastal waters along the western Atlantic coast from Maine to Brazil. Little has been published about the species due to lack of commercial or sport value. A population exists in Lake Mattamuskeet, a coastal lake connected to Pamlico Sound (NC, USA) via four man-made canals, and fish access is controlled by water-control structures. Herein we describe the life history and age and growth dynamics of the species in the lake. Based on anecdotal and state reports, we believe this species may exhibit anadromy. Sampling was from March to May 1997 and 1998, and from March to October 2001. We also collected from another coastal watershed to complete the length distribution. Spring adults had a high gonadosomatic index compared with autumn (fall) adults, which had atresia. No eggs or age-0 fish were captured in the lake during summer. The four length cohorts matched growth and back-calculated length at age. Otoliths were linearly related to fish length and were used for ageing and growth calculations. Although we found no direct evidence of spawning, data compilation suggests that Atlantic needlefish could be using this lake for reproduction.
On the existence of periodic solutions for a fractional Schrödinger equation
Authors: Ambrosio Vincenzo
Published: January 2017

We present an elementary proof of the existence of a nontrivial weak periodic solution for a nonlinear fractional problem driven by a relativistic Schrödinger operator with periodic boundary conditions and involving a periodic continuous subcritical nonlinearity satisfying a more general Ambrosetti-Rabinowitz condition.
Advancing the efficiency and efficacy of patient reported outcomes with multivariate computer adaptive testing
Authors: Morris Scott , Bass Mike , Lee Mirinae , Neapolitan Richard E
Published: January 2017

Objective: The Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) initiative developed an array of patient reported outcome (PRO) measures. To reduce the number of questions administered, PROMIS utilizes unidimensional item response theory and unidimensional computer adaptive testing (UCAT), which means a separate set of questions is administered for each measured trait. Multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) and multidimensional computer adaptive testing (MCAT) simultaneously assess correlated traits. The objective was to investigate the extent to which MCAT reduces patient burden relative to UCAT in the case of PROs.

Methods: One MIRT and 3 unidimensional item response theory models were developed using the related traits anxiety, depression, and anger. Using these models, MCAT and UCAT performance was compared with simulated individuals.

Results: Surprisingly, the root mean squared error for both methods increased with the number of items. These results were driven by large errors for individuals with low trait levels. A second analysis focused on individuals aligned with item content. For these individuals, both MCAT and UCAT accuracies improved with additional items. Furthermore, MCAT reduced the test length by 50%.

Discussion: For the PROMIS Emotional Distress banks, neither UCAT nor MCAT provided accurate estimates for individuals at low trait levels. Because the items in these banks were designed to detect clinical levels of distress, there is little information for individuals with low trait values. However, trait estimates for individuals targeted by the banks were accurate and MCAT asked substantially fewer questions.

Conclusion: By reducing the number of items administered, MCAT can allow clinicians and researchers to assess a wider range of PROs with less patient burden.
Unveiling What Is Written in the Stars: Analyzing Explicit, Implicit, and Discourse Patterns of Sentiment in Social Media
Authors: Villarroel Ordenes Francisco , Ludwig Stephan , de Ruyter Ko , Grewal Dhruv , Wetzels Martin
Published: January 2017

Deciphering consumers’ sentiment expressions from big data (e.g., online reviews) has become a managerial priority to monitor product and service evaluations. However, sentiment analysis, the process of automatically distilling sentiment from text, provides little insight regarding the language granularities beyond the use of positive and negative words. Drawing on speech act theory, this study provides a fine-grained analysis of the implicit and explicit language used by consumers to express sentiment in text. An empirical text-mining study using more than 45,000 consumer reviews demonstrates the differential impacts of activation levels (e.g., tentative language), implicit sentiment expressions (e.g., commissive language), and discourse patterns (e.g., incoherence) on overall consumer sentiment (i.e., star ratings). In two follow-up studies, we demonstrate that these speech act features also influence the readers’ behavior and are generalizable to other social media contexts, such as Twitter and Facebook. We contribute to research on consumer sentiment analysis by offering a more nuanced understanding of consumer sentiments and their implications.
Stochastic models of gene transcription with upstream drives: exact solution and sample path characterization
Authors: Dattani Justine , Barahona Mauricio
Published: January 2017

Gene transcription is a highly stochastic and dynamic process. As a result, the mRNA copy number of a given gene is heterogeneous both between cells and across time. We present a framework to model gene transcription in populations of cells with time-varying (stochastic or deterministic) transcription and degradation rates. Such rates can be understood as upstream cellular drives representing the effect of different aspects of the cellular environment. We show that the full solution of the master equation contains two components: a model-specific, upstream effective drive, which encapsulates the effect of cellular drives (e.g. entrainment, periodicity or promoter randomness) and a downstream transcriptional Poissonian part, which is common to all models. Our analytical framework treats cell-to-cell and dynamic variability consistently, unifying several approaches in the literature. We apply the obtained solution to characterize different models of experimental relevance, and to explain the influence on gene transcription of synchrony, stationarity, ergodicity, as well as the effect of time scales and other dynamic characteristics of drives. We also show how the solution can be applied to the analysis of noise sources in single-cell data, and to reduce the computational cost of stochastic simulations.
Hierarchical tissue organization as a general mechanism to limit the accumulation of somatic mutations
Authors: Derényi Imre , Szöllősi Gergely J.
Published: January 2017

How can tissues generate large numbers of cells, yet keep the divisional load (the number of divisions along cell lineages) low in order to curtail the accumulation of somatic mutations and reduce the risk of cancer? To answer the question we consider a general model of hierarchically organized self-renewing tissues and show that the lifetime divisional load of such a tissue is independent of the details of the cell differentiation processes, and depends only on two structural and two dynamical parameters. Our results demonstrate that a strict analytical relationship exists between two seemingly disparate characteristics of self-renewing tissues: divisional load and tissue organization. Most remarkably, we find that a sufficient number of progressively slower dividing cell types can be almost as efficient in minimizing the divisional load, as non-renewing tissues. We argue that one of the main functions of tissue-specific stem cells and differentiation hierarchies is the prevention of cancer.
Patterns of polymorphism at the self-incompatibility locus in 1,083Arabidopsis thalianagenomes
Authors: Tsuchimatsu Takashi , Goubet Pauline M. , Gallina Sophie , Holl Anne-Catherine , Fobis-Loisy Isabelle , Bergés Héléne , Marande William , Prat Elisa , Meng Dazhe , Long Quan , Platzer Alexander , Nordborg Magnus , Vekemans Xavier , Castric Vincent
Published: January 2017

Although the transition to selfing in the model plantArabidopsis thalianainvolved the loss of the self-incompatibility (SI) system, it clearly did not occur due to the fixation of a single inactivating mutation at the locus determining the specificities of SI (the S-locus). At least three groups of divergent haplotypes (haplogroups), corresponding to ancient functional S-alleles, have been maintained at this locus, and extensive functional studies have shown that all three carry distinct inactivating mutations. However, the historical process of loss of SI is not well understood, in particular its relation with the last glaciation. Here, we took advantage of recently published genomic re-sequencing data in 1,083Arabidopsis thalianaaccessions that we combined with BAC sequencing to obtain polymorphism information for the whole S-locus region at a species-wide scale. The accessions differed by several major rearrangements including large deletions and inter-haplogroup recombinations, forming a set of haplogroups that are widely distributed throughout the native range and largely overlap geographically. ‘Relict’A.thalianaaccessions that directly derive from glacial refugia are polymorphic at the S-locus, suggesting that the three haplogroups were already present when glacial refugia from the last Ice Age became isolated. Inter-haplogroup recombinant haplotypes were highly frequent, and detailed analysis of recombination breakpoints suggested multiple independent origins. These findings suggest that the complete loss of SI inA.thalianainvolved independent self-compatible mutants that arose prior to the last Ice Age, and experienced further rearrangements during post-glacial colonization.
GIS as a supporting instrument for making decisions about the library sources collection management
Authors: Pournaghi Roya
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Nowadays, libraries are confronted with the growth of library collection, financial problems and lack of enough space. Hence, an organized and automatic system is needed to manage the sources collection. The purpose of the current study was using a GIS in managing the sources collection (systematic weeding, collection development and retrieving the extent of the sources loan) of the library to implement the system in a case sample and using the output maps for improving the status of managing the sources and contributing to make weeding more systematic and supplying the sources.

Design/methodology/approach

Combination of survey methods-descriptive design system was used. To gather the required data, the survey-descriptive method was used. To implement and enter the information and data into ArcGIS and analyze the data and display the results on the library floors maps, system designing was utilized.
Finally, the proposed model was designed based on the exiting reality.
Spatial database design and plan have been done at the Central Library of Tehran University.

Findings

The spatial database created in the study demonstrated that GIS has the potential for searching, displaying and presenting several reports considering the extent of the loan for each specific shelf on the map of the building and several halls of the library.

Originality/value

Thorough using the database for the extent of the loan and use of the sources in GIS and the potential for being updated and searching for spatial information, decisions related to managing the library sources collection including weeding, collection development and selection can be supported. The proposed model in the current study can be used in other libraries. Easy development and low cost for its implementation makes it applicable for all libraries.
Talent management practice effectiveness: investigating employee perspective
Authors: Khoreva Violetta , Vaiman Vlad , Van Zalk Maarten
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enhance the theoretical and empirical understanding of the process through which talent management (TM) practice effectiveness impacts high-potential employees’ commitment to leadership competence development.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling was utilized to analyse survey data representing a sample of 439 high-potential employees from 11 Finnish multinational corporations.

Findings

First, the authors found that the more high-potential employees perceived TM practices to be effective, the more they were committed towards leadership competence development. Next, the findings revealed that the association between TM practice effectiveness and commitment to leadership competence development operates by means of psychological contract fulfilment. Finally, the authors found that female employees possessed a stronger reaction to the effectiveness of TM practices by demonstrating higher levels of commitment to leadership competence development than male employees.

Originality/value

This study supports social exchange theory, which postulates that when organizations invest in their employees, the employees are likely to reciprocate these corporate investments in positive ways. The findings indicate that TM practices may help high-potential employees to make sense of their employment relationship and communicate to employees those attitudes and behaviours that organizations value. The authors thus advocate that in order to have the desired effect, such as for instance the increased commitment to leadership competence development, it is crucial for organizations to invest in those TM practices that are perceived as effective by employees.
Linking innovative human resource practices, employee attitudes and intention to leave in healthcare services
Authors: Kloutsiniotis Panagiotis V. , Mihail Dimitrios M.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Following an “employee-centric” approach, the purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of high-performance work systems (HPWS) on employees’ work engagement and job satisfaction, and the mediating effect of these variables on employees’ affective commitment and intention of leaving their hospital.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling was used on a sample of 296 clinicians (doctors and nurses) across seven Greek regional hospitals.

Findings

The findings indicate a strong positive effect of HPWS on employees’ job satisfaction, affective commitment, and work engagement and a negative effect on their intention to leave. In addition, employees’ engagement and job satisfaction positively mediate the HPWS effects on employees’ affective commitment and negatively on their intention to leave.

Practical implications

The findings not only validate previous studies’ conclusions, but also provide evidence for the potential fruitfulness of the HPWS approach in improving employees’ outcomes and well-being in turbulent times.

Originality/value

Although the argument that HPWS has a positive effect on organizational performance and productivity is well established, there are considerably fewer studies that examine the positive effects of HPWS specifically on employees’ job attitudes and outcomes, and the processes through which HPWS influences health-related outcomes. Finally, this study confirms the argument that HPWS can be a fruitful approach even in a country severely affected by Europe’s debt crisis over the last five years.
Specialized entrepreneurship education: does it really matter? Fresh evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Tariq , Chandran V.G.R. , Klobas Jane
Published: January 2017

Purpose

There is a long-standing debate on whether the entrepreneurship education program (EEP) of university graduates can promote entrepreneurship intention and behaviour. The purpose of this paper is to use the theory of planned behaviour as a conceptual framework and compare the differences in entrepreneurial attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intentions among students who participated in entrepreneurship education with a control group of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students in Pakistan. The study further examines what drives intentions between the two groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a questionnaire survey from 348 entrepreneurship students and 329 MBAs in their final year (both groups did a total of four years’ tertiary study). One-way analysis of variance test and regression analysis were used to examine the differences and the antecedents of entrepreneurship intention between the two groups.

Findings

MBAs have higher entrepreneurial intentions (EIs) than EEP students and the EIs are statistically significant. Nevertheless, the authors did not find any differences in attitude, perceived control behaviour and subjective norms towards entrepreneurship in both the groups. The entrepreneurship intentions of the MBA students are more influenced by social pressure as opposed to EEP students who are influenced by perceived control behaviours.

Research limitations/implications

First, although the study introduced a control group, comparisons were based only on EIs and their antecedents in participants’ final year of study. This cross-sectional design provides no information about how much intentions and antecedents changed over time. A longitudinal study would provide information about such changes. Second, the groups in the study were matched in terms of gender, age distribution, family background, years of study and presumed disposition towards running their business. It would be useful if future comparative and longitudinal research measured these individual factors and their effects.

Practical implications

Educational activities render the starting of a business desirable and feasible by changing the attitudes and intentions. Nevertheless, various exposures to the challenges of being an entrepreneur via the education programmes may lower their intention to be entrepreneurs. As such, entrepreneurial programmes should be designed with care.

Social implications

The study provides some insights on improving EIs especially in understanding the antecedents that are important for nations, such as Pakistan which has high unemployment and widespread poverty.

Originality/value

This study provides fresh evidence on the role of entrepreneurship education by comparing EIs and the cognitive antecedents of intentions of the two groups – entrepreneurship as well as MBA students.
Motivators of SME initial export choice and the European Union regional effect in manufacturing
Authors: Stouraitis Vassilios , Mior Harun Mior Harris , Kyritsis Markos
Published: January 2017

Purpose

A global reach in exporting has been linked to profitability. The purpose of this paper is to answer the influence of EU regulations on exporting decisions of UK manufacturing small- and medium-sized firms (SMEs) by investigating the home and host country-based motivators behind SMEs’ choice to export, and export regionally, within the EU.

Design/methodology/approach

Contrasting the Uppsala and resource-based view perspectives (using a sample of UK independent manufacturing SMEs and utilizing a survey, correlation analysis and factor analysis), the paper finds and describes the effect of the most recurrent motivators from the literature on the SMEs’ decision to export within the EU or not.

Findings

The paper finds that SMEs whose latest international market entry was not in the EU scored significantly higher in the factor scorings for the motivators in the external dimension than participants whose latest entry was in the EU. Several motivators show an association with the choice to exportper se. The importance of regionalization to export initiation (and EU membership) within the EU is emphasized in the results.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is limited.

Practical implications

In the current climate, how can SMEs reduce market research costs for managers by relying solely and proactively on home country and internal advantages and motivators and being more aware of their surroundings? Managers and policymakers can direct their strategy, resources and policy more efficiently according to motivators; internal home country motivators (e.g. strengths of prices of products) direct the SME to overcome inter-regional liability of foreignness, while host country motivators (e.g. legal restrictions in the host country) direct them to regional ventures.

Originality/value

The theoretical and empirical work on the topic, until recently, has been fragmented and inconsistent focusing on specific motivators but not necessarily justifying the selection or origin of variables even less on SMEs.
Measuring employee innovation
Authors: Lukes Martin , Stephan Ute
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model of employee innovative behavior conceptualizing it as distinct from innovation outputs and as a multi-faceted behavior rather than a simple count of “innovative acts” by employees. It understands individual employee innovative behaviors as a micro-foundation of firm intrapreneurship that is embedded in and influenced by contextual factors such as managerial, organizational and cultural support for innovation. Building from a review of existing employee innovative behavior scales and theoretical considerations the authors develop and validate the Innovative Behavior Inventory (IBI) and the Innovation Support Inventory (ISI).

Design/methodology/approach

Two pilot studies, a third validation study in the Czech Republic and a fourth cross-cultural validation study using population representative samples from Switzerland, Germany, Italy and the Czech Republic (n=2,812 employees and 450 entrepreneurs) were conducted.

Findings

Both inventories were reliable and showed factorial, criterion, convergent and discriminant validity as well as cross-cultural equivalence. Employee innovative behavior was supported as comprising of idea generation, idea search, idea communication, implementation starting activities, involving others and overcoming obstacles. Managerial support was the most proximal contextual influence on innovative behavior and mediated the effect of organizational support and national culture.

Originality/value

The paper advances the understanding of employee innovative behavior as a multi-faceted phenomenon and the contextual factors influencing it. Where past research typically focuses on convenience samples within a particular country, the authors offer first robust evidence that the model of employee innovative behavior generalizes across cultures and types of samples. The model and the IBI and ISI inventories enable researchers to build a deeper understanding of the important micro-foundation underpinning intrapreneurial behavior in organizations and allow practitioners to identify their organizations’ strengths and weaknesses related to intrapreneurship.
Leading the introduction and development of lesson and learning study in an English Secondary Academy
Authors: Austin Lucy
Published: January 2017

Purpose

At “The Academy” the author has undertaken five lesson study (LS) cycles to date and the outcomes of these are discussed with consideration to the local context, the culture and the wider context which have surrounded the six-year period of implementation. The emphasis here is not to present pedagogical outcomes of the LS but to present the leadership challenges they have presented and how these have been overcome. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is presented as a case study and uses the author’s personal reflections on the approaches used thus far to implement LS within the specific context. The author also uses a review of data concerning continuous professional development (CPD) within “The Academy” along with interviews with some of the teachers who have been involved.

Findings

LS is an emerging form of CPD in the UK and even when implemented does not yield a wealth of quantitative data which can be used to prove the impact it can have; consequently implementing LS can be perceived as a risk within the profession. The author explores whether the “impact” which is emerging is everything the author expected it to be, or indeed everything it needs to be. The author discovers the culture we are working in, with increasing pressures on time and increased dependence on quantitative data, requires leaders to manage the associated perceived risks in order to successfully implement LS.

Originality/value

This paper is intended to provide useful insights for senior leaders and leaders of LS who are in the process of implementing LS within their own contexts.
Sustainable imaginaries: a case study of a large suburban Canadian university
Authors: Vaughter Philip , Alsop Steve
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the concept of sustainability imaginaries – unifying core assumptions on what sustainability entails held by stakeholders – set within a large suburban Canadian university. The study aims to expand the field of research into imaginaries by focusing on imaginaries within an institution as opposed to a societal or national level.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is conceptual in nature and draws upon empirical tools, such as collaborative thematic coding of interviews of university community members, to illustrate emergent imaginaries around sustainability at the institution.

Findings

This paper identifies four core sustainability imaginaries in an analysis of the interview data: sustainability as performance, sustainability as governance, sustainability as techno-efficiency and sustainability as community organizing. The paper then uses these imaginaries to analyse two recent university-wide events: the establishment of a high-level sustainability council and an energy management program.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the institutional focus of this study, the research may lack generalizability to other institutions. Thus, researchers are encouraged to explore what other imaginaries may exist at other institutions.

Practical implications

This paper includes implications for how universities can manage conflicting expectations and definitions in relation to new sustainability initiatives on campus.

Originality/value

This paper offers reflections on the concept of sustainability imaginaries and what they might offer the field of sustainability in higher education.
Transdisciplinary learning and teaching as answers to urban sustainability challenges
Authors: Biberhofer Petra , Rammel Christian
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the relevance of science-society interfaces and their potential for higher education institutions to engage stakeholders in supporting sustainable change in cities, via the transdisciplinary learning and teaching approach of the Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development Vienna.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study stresses new forms of transdisciplinary learning and teaching as essential drivers of a sustainable urban development. The inter- and transdisciplinary teaching course “Sustainability Challenge”, which has been offered since 2010 as a collaborative project by the four largest universities of Vienna, highlights the value of experienced-based learning approaches and the method of service learning. Special attention is devoted to the opportunities and challenges of the setting provided by the applied science-society interface and the particular method of service learning with its concrete benefits for the city of Vienna.

Findings

In analyzing the conceptual framework of the teaching course as well as conducted service learning projects, the authors prove potential benefits of transdisciplinary learning and teaching for real answers to urban sustainability challenges. Portraits of the most successful service learning projects are presented, with partners such as the City of Vienna, an organization and one enterprise. Lessons learned from the case study and key elements of the institutionalized umbrella function of science-society interfaces that provide prerequisites for applying transdisciplinary learning and teaching are shown.

Originality/value

Finally, main requirements, challenges and necessary institutional settings for transdisciplinary learning and teaching are summarized.