bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forming Christians through Musicking in China
Authors: Lim Swee
Published: March 2017

In recent years, authorities in mainland China have renewed their call for the sinicization of Christianity through theological discourse. Given that Christianity is largely expressed in visible, worship-based ways, such as music (songs), rhetoric (sermons), rituals (sacraments), symbols (crosses, garments, banners, etc.), posture and gesture (genuflecting, lifting hands, etc.), one wonders at the implication of this development. Might there be an alternative approach to sinicization? This essay seeks to investigate the feasibility of sinicized Christianity from the ontology of musicking as purveyed through the practice of congregational song.
An Optimal and Energy Efficient Multi-Sensor Collision-Free Path Planning Algorithm for a Mobile Robot in Dynamic Environments
Authors: Alajlan Abrar , Elleithy Khaled , Almasri Marwah , Sobh Tarek
Published: March 2017

There has been a remarkable growth in many different real-time systems in the area of autonomous mobile robots. This paper focuses on the collaboration of efficient multi-sensor systems to create new optimal motion planning for mobile robots. A proposed algorithm is used based on a new model to produce the shortest and most energy-efficient path from a given initial point to a goal point. The distance and time traveled, in addition to the consumed energy, have an asymptotic complexity of O(nlogn), where n is the number of obstacles. Real time experiments are performed to demonstrate the accuracy and energy efficiency of the proposed motion planning algorithm.
Analysis of Driving Factors for Extended Producer Responsibility by Using Interpretative Structure Modelling (ISM) and Analytic Network Process (ANP)
Authors: Zheng Xiong , Xu Fangchao , Feng Lipan
Published: March 2017

The establishment of an efficient reverse supply chain is important, especially in the electronics industry, considering the environmental and resource pressures worldwide. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), an important environmental policy approach, has been adopted extensively in various countries, and the effectiveness of its implementation has been proven through practical application. However, the establishment and development of EPR are lacking in most developing countries where collection and recycling systems are underdeveloped. This study addresses this problem by exploring the hierarchical relationship among the driving factors of EPR in the electronics industry in China and by identifying and ranking the factors that are critical in EPR implementation. As important managerial conclusions, research results show that EPR-related laws and regulations, the consciousness of senior executives, and corporate image are the three most important driving factors of EPR implementation.
A Review on the Cosmology of the de Sitter Horndeski Models
Authors: Nunes Nelson , Martín-Moruno Prado , Lobo Francisco
Published: March 2017

We review the most general scalar-tensor cosmological models with up to second-order derivatives in the field equations that have a fixed spatially flat de Sitter critical point independent of the material content or vacuum energy. This subclass of the Horndeski Lagrangian is capable of dynamically adjusting any value of the vacuum energy of the matter fields at the critical point. We present the cosmological evolution of the linear models and the non-linear models with shift symmetry. We come to the conclusion that the shift symmetric non-linear models can deliver a viable background compatible with current observations.
Scientific Production of Patient’s Electronic Health Record in Online Journals from Brazilian scenario
Authors: Lacet Zaccara Ana Aline , Moreira Freire Maria Eliane , Smith Carneiro Morais Gilvânia , Meireles Moreira Márcia Adriana , Chaves Guedes Rolim Renata Maria , Bezerra Luna Lima Caliandra Maria , Brito Pereira de Melo Ângelo , Figueiredo de França Jael Rúbia , Vital Brito Batista Jaqueline , Costa de Souza Fernando André
Published: March 2017

The study aims to analyse the scientific production about patient’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) available in online journals from 2006 to 2015. This is an integrative review. The search was conducted in the Virtual Health Library and Portal Capes, considering only studies in Portuguese. The sample consisted of 17 articles. It was observed that from 2011 to 2012 is the period with the highest number of publications about the investigated issue. The majority of papers were published in journals in the area of computer science and the most common modality of publication was original article. It was found that scientific productions involving Electronic Health Record discussed about its importance and implementation in health services, as well as perceptions of health professionals about its utilization. The research evidenced the relevance of EHR in health services, emphasizing necessity for improved regulations of ethical and legal issues and creation of legal provision to concede judicial validity in Brazil.
Epidemiological Profile Of Children With External Ventricular Drainage
Authors: Barreto de Almeida Leôncio Alane , Grilo Moreira Xavier Thaís , Oliveira Dantas Saionara Lenarda , Ladim Macêdo Cibério , Valente Braga Andrea , Do Nascimento Correia Silvia Virginia Pereira , Batista Sarmento de Oliveira Thaiany , Brito Gomes de Farias Hérika
Published: March 2017

Objective: tracing the epidemiological profile, focused on infectious aspects, of children undergoing insertion of external ventricular drainage valve for the treatment of hydrocephalus.

Method: A retrospective, documentary and descriptive study of clinical and epidemiological approach with a quantitative analysis of the findings. The sample consisted of 53 children in a pediatric hospital of reference in the state of Paraiba in the period July 2009 to December 2014. For data analysis, non-parametric tests were used, and the chi-square test and Fisher test performed according to the statement.

Results: Among the 53 children who participated in our study, 49.1% (26) died. According to the causes found on the death certificate, 69.2% of the causes of death described relation to infection.

Conclusion: the high rates of CNS infections and other acquired infections, resulting in the deaths of children who underwent insertion of EVD valve, they are the result of a set of facts involving the care of a multidisciplinary team. The high incidence presented in the shunt study showed that changes and system remaining in the patient to a risk factor for infection.
Prevalence Of Burnout Syndrome And Factors Associated With University Teachers
Authors: Silva Holmes Ericka , Santos Sérgio Ribeiro dos , Figuerêdo de Almeida Anna Alice , Martins Simões Candeia Rozileide , Mendonça Rezende Chaves Laura Cristhiane , Cruz de Oliveira Ana Eloísa , Tavares da Fonseca Leila De Cássia , De Sousa Costa Maria Bernadete , Brito Vidal Batista Jaqueline , Ribeiro Gerson Da Silva , Cartaxo Gomes de Arruda Aurilene Josefa , Do Nascimento João Agnaldo
Published: March 2017

This is a systematic review that sought to identify the prevalence and factors associated with Burnout Syndrome in university teachers. The collection of the studies was done through descriptors in databases, which resulted in the selection of 8 articles. The prevalence for burnout had a small variation, but presented worrying values. The most frequent associated factors were: work overload, accumulation of activities beyond teaching, high employment ties, devaluation of the work performed and low remuneration. Burnout is still little recognized and studied in the category of university teachers, and it is difficult to identify an exact prevalence for this category. However, the associated factors are well defined and should be considered as a starting point for the prevention of the syndrome.
Multiple Populations in NGC 1851: Abundance Variations and UV Photometric Synthesis in the Washington and HST/WFC3 Systems
Authors: Cummings Jeffrey D. , Geisler D. , Villanova S.
Published: March 2017

The analysis of multiple populations (MPs) in globular clusters (GCs), both spectroscopically and photometrically, is key in understanding their formation and evolution. The relatively narrow Johnson U, F336W, and Stromgren and Sloan u filters have been crucial in exhibiting these MPs photometrically, but in Paper I we showed that the broader Washington C filter can more efficiently detect MPs in the test case GC NGC 1851. Additionally, In Paper I we detected a double main sequence (MS) that has not been detected in previous observations of NGC 1851. We now match this photometry to NGC 1851's published RGB abundances and find that the two RGB branches observed in C generally exhibit different abundance characteristics in a variety of elements (e.g., Ba, Na, and O) and in CN band strengths, but no single element can define the two RGB branches. However, simultaneously considering [Ba/Fe] or CN strength with either [Na/Fe], [O/Fe], or CN strength can separate the two photometric RGB branches into two distinct abundance groups. Matches of NGC 1851's published SGB and HB abundances to the Washington photometry shows consistent characterizations of the MPs, which can be defined as an O-rich/N-normal population and an O-poor/N-rich population. Photometric synthesis for both the Washington C filter and the F336W filter finds that these abundance characteristics, with appropriate variations in He, can reproduce for both filters the photometric observations in both the RGB and the MS. This photometric synthesis also confirms the throughput advantages that the C filter has in detecting MPs.
Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis in women of reproductive age at a family health clinic
Authors: Glehn Mateus de Paula von , Sá Lana Cristina Evangelista Ferreira , Silva Hian Delfino Ferreira da , Machado Eleuza Rodrigues
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Trichomonas vaginalis is considered the most prevalent curable sexually transmitted infection, and its occurrence exceeds that of gonococcal and chlamydia infections. This parasite has been identified as responsible for the increased risk of transmission of HIV and has also been associated with prostate and cervical cancer. Many carriers of T. vaginalis are asymptomatic and, when experiencing a health problem, they most often have nonspecific symptoms. The aim of this research was to estimate the presence of T. vaginalis and the associated factors in women of childbearing age at a primary health care clinic in the Federal District of Brazil. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with consecutive sampling of an outpatient population of women of childbearing age (excluding minors and pregnant women). The women answered a questionnaire and were examined. After vaginal pH measurement and whiff testing, a vaginal secretion sample was obtained for inoculation in TYM, a specific T. vaginalis culture medium. Results: The presence of T. vaginalis was identified in 16% of the sample. Fewer lifetime sexual partners and consistent condom use were identified as factors of protection against the infection. Complaints of dyspareunia were proportionally higher among women with positive cultures for T. vaginalis. Conclusions: The prevalence of T. vaginalis infection was high in the sample studied. The infection was positively associated with the number of lifetime sexual partners, and consistent condom use was a protective factor. Vaginal complaints were more common among women with T. vaginalis, but only dyspareunia had significant association.
Epidemiological evaluation of Mediterranean spotted fever in children of the Karak province in south Jordan
Authors: Nafi Omar , Tarawnah Yasseen , Tarawnah Amjad
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological patterns of Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) as well as its treatment and outcomes in children in south Jordan. Methodology: A retrospective observational study was conducted from June 2013 to December 2015. Data regarding demographics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, treatment, and outcomes were collected. Results: In total, 35 male and 20 female patients (mean age: 6 years ± 3.6) were included. The incidence of MSF was 7.9 cases/100,000 inhabitants/year; MSF affected 89% of individuals in the summer, 74.5% of those living in a rural area with tent housing, and 100% of those who had contact with animals. All cases presented with fever, and 94.5% had a skin rash. Serological tests were positive in 87.2% of cases, and Rickettsia conorii (the Moroccan strain) was present in all positive cases. All cases had thrombocytopenia, but none had leukocytosis. Hyponatremia was present in 71% of cases, and 49%, 61.8%, and 72.7% had increased urea, alanine transaminase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels, respectively. Doxycycline was administered to all patients, with a cure rate of 96.4% and mortality rate of 3.6%. Conclusions: MSF caused by R. conorii (the Moroccan strain) is prevalent in Jordan, and contact with animals is the route of transmission. The patients’ responses to doxycycline were excellent. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis, and specific treatment considerably decrease mortality. MSF should be considered as a possible cause of febrile disease in those with a rash and in those living in rural areas.
Modelo automatizado de tipificación de daños materiales por vicios o defectos que afecten a elementos de terminación y acabado en edificación
Authors: Marín D. , Moyano J. J. , Rico F. , Nieto J. E.
Published: March 2017

Los usuarios que detectan defectos en edificaciones recientemente acabadas con frecuencia acuden a la vía judicial para reclamar su reparación. Ello genera en los agentes intervinientes cierta incertidumbre respecto a si serán o no condenados como responsables de dichos defectos. El objetivo de la presente investigación se centra en proponer y validar un modelo automatizado en forma de herramienta informatizada que, de manera sencilla, ayude a «tipificar de forma predictiva» los defectos más frecuentes y controvertidos a la hora de delimitar responsabilidades, es decir, los denominados «de terminación o acabado».
Technopsychology of IoT Optimization in the Business World
Authors: Prayoga Tommy , Abraham Juneman
Published: March 2017

There are at least two complementary levels in the Internet of Things. The first (back) end comes from the big data companies that mine and analyze every log of activities through every device that are attached to the second (front) end, i.e., the many aspects of our lives. However, what keeps this wheel of innovation going forward is actually the front end user. Technology, however improved and innovative, will not fulfill its full potential if users do not adopt and accept it as part of their lives. They must be willing to work with the technology - sold as way to ease and improve lives - for the machine to work and be meaningful. By then the big data companies can gather information about what users want and how they behave to grasp a better understanding and make better decisions about next technology improvement. Users' acceptance and decisions to appropriate shape how big data companies work and innovate. Acceptance and appropriation are the two of the most important areas to explore in the field of IoT optimization in the business world.
Industrial Guidelines for Stimulating Entrepreneurship with the Internet of Things
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Jamalian Ahmad , Ghasemi Rohollah
Published: March 2017

Entrepreneurs are known as the engine of economic growth and prosperity. Entrepreneurs have relocated resources for the aim of introducing new economic, social, or socio-economic values. Revolutionary technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) have provided opportunities for entrepreneurs. The IoT is globally known as a new paradigm that rose from the world of ICT and changed dynamics of businesses and communities. However, there has been a lack of guidelines for promoting entrepreneurial initiatives by using of the IoT in industries. By conducting a comprehensive investigation of more than 120 commercialised IoT-based cases, this chapter identified 80 opportunity areas, and categorised them into the 13 main industries/sectors. Analysing 29 Iranian corporate, social, and SME entrepreneurs with the use of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique, this chapter measured the importance of each industry. Based on the results, this chapter presents recommendations to promote entrepreneurial activities.
Using the Motivational Aspects of Productive Persistence Theory and Social Media Motivators to Improve the ELA Flipped Classroom Experience
Authors: Schipke Rae Carrington
Published: March 2017

This chapter discusses the need to expand upon the pedagogical components of the flipped classroom model to include what is known about motivation as it relates to Productive Persistence Theory (PPT) and social media (SM) in order to increase student success in the English language arts. Motivational incentives suggested, in part, by the PPT literature, are identified and organized by its three non-cognitive aspects of grit, growth mindsets, and belonging. Motivators for SM use are identified in the literature and categorized as seeking, expressing, and engaging. Implications drawn are that student learning is personal, developmental, and social, all operating simultaneously. Also, that this multidimensionality is involved in motivating each individual student and that SM inherently supports such motivation. A conceptual framework is presented that demonstrates how both PPT and SM allow teachers to meet students where they are in their learning and in their personal and social growth and development.
Teachers' Perceived Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Flipped Classrooms in ELA and Non-ELA Classrooms
Authors: Snyder Nathan C.
Published: March 2017

As teachers and institutions continue to incorporate the flipped learning model for delivering curricula to students, more needs to be known about its efficacy in the classroom, especially in secondary classrooms, as the majority of published literature focuses on higher education settings. The goal of this research study was to identify teachers' perceptions regarding the use of the flipped learning model in various content areas, including English Language Arts (ELA). This research study took place in a progressive public high school in Manhattan where surveys were administered to the majority of the faculty, and follow-up interviews were conducted to determine teachers' perceptions of implementing the flipped learning model in their classrooms. Data showed many teacher-identified advantages and disadvantages of incorporating the flipped learning model into secondary classrooms.
The Drivers of ERP Value Among Scandinavian and Iberian SMEs
Authors: Ruivo Pedro , Oliveira Tiago , Johansson Björn , Neto Miguel
Published: March 2017

In the strategic information management field, IT value from for instance Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are considered to be paramount in the global economy. Recent research on IT business value claims for more cross-country studies as well as within the space of SMEs. Grounded in the resource-based view theory the authors propose a research model to explain ERP value. To empirically test this model, the study addresses a survey to a wide range of 2000 Scandinavia and Iberia firms and their IT and business executives. The model explains 43,9% and 49,1% of the variation in ERP value for Scandinavian and Iberian firms respectively. Results show that whereas for both regions, analytics and collaboration are important drivers for ERP value, ERP use is not significate for Scandinavian SMEs. This research studying ERP value among SMEs add an international dimension to the IS literature. The current paper also presents theoretical and practical implications, and the study's limitations.
Crowding-Out Effect in the European Union and Candidate Country Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Binhan Elif , Tatoğlu Ferda Yerdelen , Ataer Sinan
Published: March 2017

The effects of the government investments and private sector investments on the production, is an important academic argument subject between the Neo-classical school and the Keynesian school. Subject to the financing way of the government sector investments, accruing possibility of private sector investments decreases and crowding-out effect occurs with the behaviours of government sector which restricting the investment area of private sector or changing the investments plans. On the other hand Keynesian economist suggest that the economy is not always in the full employment level. By the hand of Keynesian multiplier mechanism which is increasing the public expenditures and decreasing the taxes, private sector would enhance its investments and crowding-in effect occurs. In this study, we aimed to test the existence of crowding out/in effects of the public sector investments on the private investments in the European Union and a candidate country Turkey with the panel causality tests, over the period 1970-2014.
The Corporate Social Network (CSN) in SME's
Authors: Choquet Isabelle , Folon Jacques
Published: March 2017

The authors intend to demonstrate that corporate social networks (CSN) are a very efficient tool for SME's and start-ups, since their early launch. They will immediately create an interactive structure and a culture of collective intelligence. The chapter aims at revealing how SMEs or start-ups are able to capture the opportunities provided by CSNs, perceived as proximity social networks. The research investigates if the use of CSN at the launch of the SME promotes the development of a collective intelligence culture, but also if several CSN may coexist within the same structure according to the needs encountered: “above-the-flow” approach (dialogue, exchanges) or “in the flow” approach (integration of workflow and document). The authors strongly believe that CSN has to be introduced by a web entrepreneur at the early stage of creation of his start-up, because it supports the scaling of the business, allowing the creation of a knowledge sharing culture, making the knowledge available inside the company.
Brand Reputation in the Facebook Era
Authors: Mir-Bernal Pedro
Published: March 2017

The vitality of the Internet highlights the research relevance that online reputation studies are acquiring. Most available research suggests that online reputation might also be managed (Online Reputation Management, ORM). However, technology development has given consumers a digital fingerprint and impact on a brand reputation. Therefore, brand reputation management is eventually limited to some tools. A literature review was conducted to pay attention to the most important emerging research topics on the field and to identify interesting research areas.
A Cultural Taboo
Authors: Lichy Jessica , Kachour Maher , Hetet Blandine , Kiley Patrick
Published: March 2017

The recent arrival of American gourmet-style food-trucks to the streets of France is transforming consumer behaviour. In France, a nation whose culture has traditionally experienced food as a blend of ‘art, pleasure and leisure,' the perception of Anglo-Saxon food-trucks as ‘junk food' is now being challenged. A new generation of re-conceptualized food-trucks are catering to French consumers - who still demand high-quality food but who are willing to try a new format. Communication via social networking sites (SNS) has acted as a catalyst for changing food consumption. Information about food-trucks is shared digitally across communities of interest, drawing attention to the marketing power of contemporary consumers. These ‘micro-communities of food' have created social groups that now congregate in the streets of France rather than in traditional, sit-down restaurants. This study explores the food-truck trend that is emerging in France with the intention of putting forward a new framework that identifies the factors which influence the purchase of food-truck products in France.
Practicing Scientific Argumentation Through Social Media
Authors: Craig-Hare Jana , Rowland Amber , Ault Marilyn , Ellis James D.
Published: March 2017

The use of social media in and outside the classroom is increasing in the number of popular applications as well as pervasiveness in our culture. Teachers utilize social media to engage students, connect with experts, and expand their own professional learning. This chapter provides educators with information about the use of social media to support STEM practices. Social media can be used to engage students in active learning and problem-solving through student-posted claims and effective online questioning. Using social media supports the scientific practice of engaging in argument from evidence, as well as emulates how scientists collaborate on their own research and share research findings. Best practices and lessons learned are shared in this chapter, including a case study from a secondary science classroom and suggestions for the use of social media for educator professional learning.
Beyond Angry Birds™
Authors: DeCoito Isha , Richardson Tasha
Published: March 2017

This chapter explores digital web-based tools for engaging learners and promoting inquiry-based STEM learning. Specifically the authors analyze a selection of technological supports in STEM education, including remote laboratories and simulations, within the context of inquiry based teaching and learning in physics. Teaching physics through inquiry continue to create high levels of anxiety amongst elementary school teachers, which in turn influences their pedagogical choices and limits the possibility of spontaneous events arising from student exploration in the classroom. The authors maintain that teachers will require professional development opportunities to work within the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework to ensure that they are able to select from a broad spectrum of technological supports. The authors highlight the potential of web-based digital tools to promote inquiry-based STEM learning, and engage both teachers and students, thus potentially improving attitudes toward teaching and learning STEM content through digital technologies.
STEM Teaching and Learning via Technology-Enhanced Inquiry
Authors: Connell Michael L. , Abramovich Sergei
Published: March 2017

This chapter aims to address several limitations of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) – a theoretical model used in the application of technology when teaching STEM disciplines. To this end, a supplement to TPACK drawn from the Action on Objects (AO) framework (Connell, 2001) is suggested. To illustrate the value of the proposed enhancement of TPACK, an example integrating science, technology, and mathematics is provided. The Texas College and Career Readiness Standards are used to demonstrate the relationship between the proposed theoretical modification of the leading model and the current teaching practice involving such scientific activities as measuring, record keeping, analyzing, conjecturing and evaluating. Additional suggestions and applications of the TPACK/AO model are provided.
Investigating Factors Influencing Third Sector Social Enterprise Managers' Career Orientations
Authors: Maher Chi
Published: March 2017

This chapter proposes conceptual framework that explores factors that influence managerial career orientations (self-perceived talents and abilities, basic values and the evolved sense of motives and needs that influences a person's career-related decisions. The argument put forward is that demographic (age, gender, social class, marital status, ethnicity, professional and educational qualifications); societal and organisational factors (government policies, labour market conditions, diversification of income streams, organisation size, structure and culture) will influence small third sector manager's career orientations. Identifying and understanding the career orientations of managers provide organisations with greater awareness of employee career needs and the ability to target career management effectively. The results indicate positive outcomes in organisational commitment, improved productivity and staff retention. This chapter concludes with a summary of finding, implications and future research directions.
Re-Inventing the Social Business Model
Authors: Cavenago Dario , Mariani Laura
Published: March 2017

The recent global economic crises and the decline of the traditional welfare state are challenging the development of third sector organisations involved in the provision of public services. With the support of the Italian case and the experiences of different Italian third sector organisations, this contribution highlights how organisational survival and growth require reinvention of the business model, commencing with the concept of social, economic and environmental sustainability. The scope of third sector organisations depends on the type of government, the stage of economic development, the model of civil society, the existence of philanthropic traditions and the law and regulation. All these variables affect the business model of third sector organisations. This chapter contributes to the third sector knowledge in Italy and concludes with a discussion on solutions that are able to incentivize the use of entrepreneurial principles, stimulate networking, cooperation and growth while maintaining the relationship with the territories.
Business Model Development for Stability, Sustainability, and Resilience
Authors: Staszewska Beata Maria
Published: March 2017

Innovative business model development, understood as a static phenomenon neglects the dynamic influences on both for-profit and not for profit sectors. Business model development is a complex process which has been well researched in corporations, but predominantly remained under-researched in not for-profit organisations. An exploratory study during 2011-2015 is undertaken to examine business development process in the areas of stability, sustainability and resistance in a local not for profit public enterprise. Findings suggest that a balanced approach to economic, ecological and social characteristics, organisational coping capabilities during volatile phases of business model development and organisational capability to manage during times of instability contributes to the type of business model development process.
Evaluating the Role of Three Basic Factors of Prospect Theory in Decision Making
Authors: Zervoudi Evanthia K.
Published: March 2017

The main aim of this paper is to empirically evaluate the role of three significant factors of the Prospect Theory: the S-shaped value function, the loss aversion, and the distortion of probability, in decision making. In order to do this, a general behavioral reward-risk model is firstly setup and an empirical evaluation about the role of each of these factor, separately and in interaction, on the optimal solutions of the problem follows. For the analysis, well known US equity portfolios consisting by stocks listed in NYSE, AMEX, and NASDAQ formed on investment style are employed. The findings indicate that agents differentiate their behavior according to their type of preferences and their loss aversion level but they seem to always prefer high positively skewed assets such as small and value stocks. The attractiveness of positively skewed assets is re-enforced when probability distortion is introduced in the model. The introduction of probability distortion also affects the optimal perspective values of the problem increasing significantly their magnitude. After that, results show that as loss aversion increases agents tend to follow more conservative strategies, with and without probability distortion, while the value functional form has also its role in the model; bounded value functions as the negative exponential function drives agents to more conservative behaviors while unbounded value functions as the piecewise power function give the incentive to agents to undertake great risks and follow more aggressive strategies. The examination of the interaction of these factors indicate that the combination of an unbounded value functional form with a large loss aversion index may reduce agents' aggressiveness and limit (but not alter) the value functional form effect on optimal solutions.
MPSO
Authors: Mohanty Subhadarshini , Patra Prashanta Kumar , Mohapatra Subasish , Ray Mitrabinda
Published: March 2017

Cloud computing is gaining more popularity due to its advantages over conventional computing. It offers utility based services to subscribers on demand basis. Cloud hosts a variety of web applications and provides services on the pay-per-use basis. As the users are increasing in the cloud system, the load balancing has become a critical issue. Scheduling workloads in the cloud environment among various nodes are essential to achieving a better Quality of Service (QOS). It is a prominent area of research as well as challenging to allocate the resources with changeable capacities and functionality. In this paper, a load balancing algorithm using Multi Particle Swarm Optimization (MPSO) has been developed by utilizing the benefits of particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Proposed approach aims to minimize the task overhead and maximize the resource utilization in a homogenous cloud environment. Performance comparisons are made with Genetic Algorithm (GA), Multi GA, PSO and other popular algorithms on different measures like makespan calculation and resource utilization.
Effect of N-Grams Technique in Preprocessing of Email Spam Filtering
Authors: Sharaff Aakanksha , Nagwani Naresh Kumar
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the process of spam categorization based on character level; content-based approach has been demonstrated. Spam categorization has been performed by using N-gram technique. The general technique of using N-grams on words, creating a “Bag of Words” representation of documents, has been replaced by ‘Bag of Characters'.‘Bag of Character' is created by treating the whole email document as a single string and splitting it character-wise. In this approach, multiple N-grams i.e. bi-grams, tri-grams and quad-grams have been used simultaneously. It results in ‘bag of character' representation of email documents containing N-grams of sizes 2, 3 and 4. It enhances the results by enabling us to solve the problems occurring in Word N-grams. All the experiments have been performed on Ling Spam Corpus.
Inelastic Response Spectrum for Seismic Soil Pile Structure Interaction
Authors: Emani Pavan Kumar , Kumar Ritesh , Vedula Phanikanth
Published: March 2017

Structures resting on deep foundations like pile groups are subjected to entirely different kind of vibrations than those resting on shallow foundations, due to the inherent variations in the ground motions experienced at various levels of the foundation. The present work tries to generate response spectrum for single-pile supported structures using inelastic dynamic soil-pile interaction analysis. In the numerical model, the soil nonlinearity includes both separation at soil-pile interface and the plasticity of the near-field soil. The radiation boundary condition is also incorporated in the form of a series of far-field dampers which absorb the out-going waves. Inelastic response spectra for the structure, represented by a SDOF system, is generated after applying the synthetic time histories compatible with design (input) response spectra (as per IS 1893:2002-part I) at the base of pile to investigate the effects of ground response analysis including kinematics and inertial interaction between soil- pile system. It is found that a structure supported by pile foundations should be designed for larger seismic forces/ accelerations than those obtained from the design spectrum given in IS 1893:2002-Part I. The verification of the developed MATLAB program is reported towards the end, using results from commercial Finite Element software ABAQUS.
Continuous Business Case Usage in the Context of a Strategic IT Enabled Investment at Rabobank
Authors: Maes Kim , De Haes Steven , Van Grembergen Wim , Huygh Tim , Maaswinkel Jos
Published: March 2017

It has been argued that optimal value creation from IT enabled investments requires a business case that is used throughout the entire investment lifecycle, as opposed to an approach that terminates when the investment is formally approved. This approach requires a rational transformation in the perspective on business cases in which they need to become a living document that is frequently updated and matures along the investment. This study presents the business case process for a strategic IT enabled investment at Rabobank. The case site was specifically selected for being a high-performer in the area of continuous business case usage. This case study shows how a high-performer operating in an IT intensive industry makes use of a continuous business case approach during a strategic IT enabled investment and the benefits they perceive from it.
Epidemiology of Skin Infections in Men's Wrestling: Analysis of 2009–2010 Through 2013–2014 National Collegiate Athletic Association Surveillance Data
Authors: Herzog Mackenzie M. , Fraser Melissa A. , Register-Mihalik Johna K. , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: March 2017

Context: 

Our knowledge of the current epidemiology of skin infections among wrestlers is limited.

Objective: 

To analyze and report the epidemiology of skin infections among National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men's wrestling student-athletes during the 2009–2010 through 2013–2014 academic years.

Design: 

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Setting: 

Aggregate skin infection and exposure data collected by the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program.

Patients or Other Participants: 

Collegiate men's wrestling student-athletes.

Main Outcome Measure(s): 

All viral, bacterial, or fungal skin infections reported by athletic trainers at 17 NCAA programs were analyzed, providing 35 team-seasons of data. Skin infection rates per 10 000 athlete-exposures (AEs), rate ratios, skin infection proportions, and skin infection proportion ratios were calculated.

Results: 

The athletic trainers reported 112 skin infections contracted by 87 student-athletes across 78 720 AEs. The overall skin infection rate was 14.23/10 000 AEs (95% confidence interval [CI] = 11.59, 16.86). Of the skin infections identified, 22.3% (n = 25) were recurrent skin infections. Most skin infections (65.2%) were attributable to 5 team-seasons (range, 11–19 infections). Most skin infections occurred during the regular season (n = 76, 67.9%), were identified during practice (n = 100, 89.3%), and resulted in ≥24 hours' time loss (n = 83, 74.1%). The rate for viral skin infections was 1.72 times the rate for bacterial skin infections (95% CI = 1.09, 2.72) and 2.08 times the rate for fungal skin infections (95% CI = 1.28, 3.39). Fungal skin infections more often resulted in time loss <24 hours compared with all other skin infections (75.0% versus 12.5%; infection proportion ratio = 6.00; 95% CI = 3.30, 10.92).

Conclusions: 

Our findings highlight the contagiousness of skin infections and suggest that skin infection rates may be attributable to high incidences among particular teams.
Recommendations for municipalities to become compliant with national legislation on biological invasions
Authors: Irlich Ulrike M. , Potgieter Luke , Stafford Louise , Gaertner Mirijam
Published: March 2017

Background: The South African National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004) (NEM:BA) requires all Organs of State at all spheres of government to develop invasive species monitoring, control and eradication plans. Municipalities across South Africa are required to comply with the Alien and Invasive Species Regulations under NEM:BA but are faced with myriad challenges, making compliance difficult. Objective: This paper unpacks some of the challenges municipalities face and provides guidance on how to overcome these in order to achieve NEM:BA compliance. Through a strategic, municipal-wide approach involving different landowners, compliance can be achieved and many of the associated challenges can be overcome. For example, lack of awareness and capacity within municipal structures can be addressed through various platforms that have proven successful in some areas. Conclusions: Using the City of Cape Town as a case study, we highlight some of the notable successes in overcoming some of these challenges. For example, the City’s Invasive Species Strategy has resulted in municipal buy-in, departmental collaboration and a city-wide invasive plant tender, allowing for streamlined invasive plant control across the city. We present a framework as a first step towards measuring compliance and how the national status report can measure the level of compliance by Organs of State.
Biological invasions in South African National Parks
Authors: Foxcroft Llewellyn C. , Van Wilgen Nicola J. , Baard Johan A. , Cole Nicholas S.
Published: March 2017

Objectives: A core objective in South African National Parks (SANParks) is biodiversity conservation and the maintenance of functional ecosystems, which is compromised by alien species invasions. The 2016 Alien and Invasive Species Regulations of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA) requires landowners to develop management plans for alien and invasive species, as well as report on the status and efficacy of control. Method: To compile the species list, we started with the 2011 SANParks alien species list. Name changes were updated and SANParks ecologists and park managers contacted to verify the species lists and add new records. Species reported by external experts were added in the same manner. The management programme costs and species controlled per park per year were extracted from SANParks’ Working for Water programme database. Results: SANParks has listed 869 alien and extra-limital species, including 752 plants and 117 animals, increasing from 781 alien species in 2011. About R 590 million has been spent by the Working for Water/Biodiversity Social Programmes since 2000/2001. Of the species recorded, 263 are listed by NEM:BA, including 12 Category 1a species, 184 Category 1b species, 28 Category 2 species and 39 Category 3 species. Conclusion: While large clearing programmes have been maintained since at least 1998, improving prioritisation is necessary. We provide a short synopsis of (1) what alien species are present in SANParks, (2) the species and parks that management has focused on, (3) the implications of the NEM:BA Invasive Alien Species Regulations and (4) future developments in monitoring.
Changes in the composition and distribution of alien plants in South Africa: An update from the Southern African Plant Invaders Atlas
Authors: Henderson Lesley , Wilson John R.U.
Published: March 2017

Background: Data on alien species status and occurrence are essential variables for the monitoring and reporting of biological invasions. The Southern African Plant Invaders Atlas (SAPIA) Project has, over the past 23 years, atlassed alien plants growing outside of cultivation. Objectives: To document changes in the alien plant taxa recorded in SAPIA, assess trends in invasive distributions and explore effects of management and regulations.Method: The numbers of alien plant taxa recorded were compared between May 2006 and May 2016, and changes in the extent of invasions at a quarter-degree squares (qds) scale were compared between 2000 and 2016. The effectiveness of regulations and interventions was assessed in terms of the relative change in the extent of invasions. Results: As of May 2016, SAPIA had records for 773 alien plant taxa, an increase of 172 since 2006. Between 2000 and 2016, the number of qds occupied by alien plants increased by ~50%, due both to ongoing sampling and to spread. Successful classical biological control programmes have reduced the rate of spread of some taxa and in a few cases have led to range contractions. However, other interventions had no detectable effect at a qds scale. Conclusions: South Africa has a growing number of invasive alien plant species across an increasing area. More taxa should be listed under national regulations, but ultimately more needs to be done to ensure that management is strategic and effective. SAPIA is a valuable tool for monitoring alien plant status and should be developed further so that invasions can be accurately tracked over time.
Evaluating invasion risk for freshwater fishes in South Africa
Authors: Marr Sean M. , Ellender Bruce R. , Woodford Darragh J. , Alexander Mhairi E. , Wasserman Ryan J. , Ivey Philip , Zengeya Tsungai , Weyl Olaf L.F.
Published: March 2017

Background: South Africa, as a signatory of the Convention on Biological Diversity, has an obligation to identify, prioritise and manage invasive species and their introduction pathways. However, this requires knowledge of the introduction pathways, factors influencing establishment success, invasive potential, current distributions and ecological impacts. Objectives: To evaluate the Fish Invasiveness Screening Kit (FISK) to predict the invasion risk posed by fish species proposed for introduction into South Africa. Method: FISK assessments were compiled for species whose invasion status in South Africa was known. A Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to calibrate the FISK for South Africa. The calibrated FISK was used to evaluate the risk that three species recently proposed for importation for aquaculture could become invasive in South Africa. Results: A FISK score of 14 was identified as the threshold to delineate between species that could become invasive in South Africa and those that are unlikely to become invasive. Of the three species evaluated, Silurus glanis had a high risk of becoming invasive in South Africa, Lates calcarifer was likely to be invasive and Oncorhynchus tshawytscha was unlikely to be invasive in South Africa. Conclusion: FISK was demonstrated to be a useful risk assessment tool to evaluate the invasion risk posed by species proposed for use in aquaculture. For the large number of fish imported for the pet trade, a rapid screening assessment to flag potentially high risk species was recommended prior to a full FISK assessment for flagged species.
Stronger tuberculosis laboratory networks and services in Africa essential to ending tuberculosis
Authors: Onyebujoh Philip C. , Thirumala Ajay K. , Piatek Amy
Published: March 2017

No abstract available.