bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Technological Change in Small Business
Authors: Tatnall Arthur
Published: May 2011

Many small businesses are quite entrepreneurial in their operation, and are prepared to consider the advantages conferred by information technology. On the other hand, some are still quite happy to continue to do things in the same way they always have, and see no need to investigate use of this technology. How and why these businesses differ in this way, and why they adopt some technologies and not others, is investigated in this chapter. The introduction of a new information system into a small business, or the upgrading of an existing system, should be seen as an innovation and so considered through the lens of innovation theory. The most widely accepted theory of how technological innovation takes place is provided by innovation diffusion, but most of the research based on this model involves studies of large organizations or societal groups. This chapter argues that another approach, that of innovation translation, has more to offer in the case of innovations that take place in smaller organizations–those employing less than 20 people (Burgess, Tatnall, & Darbyshire, 1999).
Franchising and Information Technology
Authors: Cehn Ye-Sho , Justis Robert , Chong P. Pete
Published: May 2011

According to Justis and Judd (1998), franchising is defined as “a business opportunity by which the owner (producer or distributor) of a service or a trademarked product grants exclusive rights to an individual for the local distribution and/or sale of the service or product, and in return receives a payment or royalty and conformance to quality standards. The individual or business granting the business rights is called the franchisor, and the individual or business granted the right to operate in accordance with the chosen method to produce or sell the product or service is called the franchisee.” Although the business of the franchisor is usually larger than the “satellite small businesses” of the franchisees, most franchisors manage mostly small and medium-size enterprises (Stanworth, Price, and Purdy, 2001). The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recognizes this fact and sponsors various seminars in franchising, for example, business plan and raising capital, through regional Small Business Development Centers (Thomas and Seid, 2000). In addition, SBA sets up programs specifically designed for franchises (for example, Franchise Registry Web site: www.franchiseregistry.com) to streamline the review process for SBA loan applications (Sherman, 1999) and provide special incentives for franchisees to open locations in economically depressed areas (Thomas and Seid, 2000).
The Digital Metamarket
Authors: Pagani Margherita
Published: May 2011

The world’s emerging multimedia market results from the process of convergence of three industries which were created at an interval of 50 years respectively—the telephone industry (1890), the television industry (1930), and the computer industry (1980). Convergence describes a process change in industry structures that combines markets through technological and economic dimensions to meet merging consumer needs. It occurs either through competitive substitution or through the complementary merging of products and services, or both at once (Dowling, Leichner & Thielman, 1998). Convergence is a phenomenon by which previously separated sectors end up being part and parcel of one big metamarket (Valdani, 1997), thus generating an effective merging of previously different sectors. A terminology specification appears to be right and proper—a specification adopted by the theory of business economics which conceptually defines the meaning of sector, industry, and market based on three dimensions of analysis.1 According to such terminology, the sector is characterised by all the customers’ groups (first dimension), by all the required functions (second dimension), based on the same technology (third dimension). On the other hand, within the confines of such taxonomy, the concept of industry expresses the vertical relations among the sectors. Industry detects the globality of vertically linked sectors, starting from the production of raw materials up to the gleaning of products destined to intermediate or final consumption. Changes in the relations and among the confines of the different sectors are of the utmost importance in changing both the industry and the market structure. Thus, based on the assumption that the definition of “sector” has to do with the uniformities evidenced on the offer side, the definition of industry relates to the process of productive verticalization, the definition of “metamarket” or complex market, widens the business’s competitive area to include those products deemed as surrogate in terms of technology within those usage situations where similar functions and benefits are required.
Digital Television
Authors: Pagani Margherita
Published: May 2011

With the introduction of digital technology in the production, distribution, and reception of the TV signals, an actual technological discontinuity occurred which—starting from the first half of the ’90s—has been putting pressure on the TV system thus originating an important transformation. The passage to digital TV is a technological phenomenon of the widest range from the standpoint of transmission capability, of efficiency of distribution networks, of image quality, and of flexibility and variety of performances which for the very first time widen the TV set’s field of use well beyond the programs’ traditional fruition. But this evolution’s value is not only technological. Indeed, it has a profound impact on the entire TV system: from the offer typologies to the consumption manners, from the technological and productive structures to business models. The market outlook, the operators’ typologies, the distribution systems are changing. The audience behavior and the TV watcher’s status are changing, as well as the nature of the medium and its function. In the previous section we described the evolution directives featured in the reference scenario. We will now analyse digital TV’s technological features with special reference to the advantages and limitations of the different manners of transmitting the digital signal.
Telework Effectiveness
Authors: Shin Bongsik
Published: May 2011

We are witnessing rapid growth of inter and intra-organizational telework in many different forms: distributive project teams, telecommuting, mobile work, business to-employee, employee e-business, and virtual corporations. Despite the increasing prevalence of distributive work and its importance in creating business value, our understanding of its success factors is limited. Among many prospective factors, task characteristics, communication quality, and technology support have been mentioned frequently as key components for successfully running telework. Communications quality and technology support seem the direct result of operational design in managing the virtual process; while task characteristics of workers are typically pre-determined, unless they are modified for telework. This paper discusses the implications of chosen variables on telework success from a fit theory perspective. It focuses on examining the implications of two- and three-way alignments among task characteristics, communications quality, and technology support on in a distributive work setting.
E-Commerce Adoption in Small Firms
Authors: Chan Pak Yuen P. , Mills Annette M.
Published: May 2011

This research examines the adoption of e-commerce technology (namely, order-execution online trading technology) by six small brokerage firms at various stages in the evaluation and adoption processes. The study is informed by innovation theory and prior research, and seeks to identify the key factors influencing the adoption process. Consistent with innovation theory, the case findings suggest that three classes of factors influence adoption: innovation factors, factors, organizational factors and environmental factors. The key factors within each of these classes were identified as compatibility and perceived benefits (innovation factors); IT sophistication, internal and external IT support and management support (organizational factors); and pressure from e-commerce-able competitors and clients (environmental factors). Of these variables, compatibility and perceived benefits were found to be the most significant in impacting e-commerce adoption.
ERP Systems Impact on Organizations
Authors: Hedman Jonas , Borell Andreas
Published: May 2011

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are in most cases implemented to improve organizational effectiveness. Current research makes it difficult to conclude how organizations may be affected by implementing ERP systems. This chapter addresses this issue by presenting an artifact evaluation of ERP systems. The evaluation is based on the Competing Values Model (Quinn & Rohrbaugh, 1981; Rohrbaugh, 1981). The evaluation shows that ERP systems support effectiveness criteria, related to internal and rational goals of organizations. The evaluation also points out weaknesses in ERP systems, especially in areas related to human resource management and organizational flexibility. The result of the evaluation is used to discuss the impact of ERP systems on organizations and is presented as a series of hypotheses.
Using Usability Factors to Predict the E-Commerce User Experience
Authors: Stander Adrie , van der Merwe Nata
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces the use of usability factors as a means of predicting the e-commerce user experience. It argues objectively measurable usability factors, such as page layout, navigation techniques, privacy statements and color can be used to predict how a user of an e-commerce Website will experience the interaction with the site. In support for this argument, it reports on the results of a small pilot study that was done to determine the feasibility of a more extensive study aimed at building a model for the prediction of the user experience. The authors hope a better understanding of the intricate relationship between usability factors and the subjective user experience will lead to the design of more successful e-commerce Websites.
Strategic Models for the Delivery of Personal Financial Services
Authors: Gordon Steven , Mulligan Paul
Published: May 2011

The growth of the Internet and the rapidly evolving regulatory climate in the United States and abroad have radically altered the environment of the financial service industry. This chapter focuses on integrated personal financial services (IPFS) — the integration of services such as banking, insurance, and investing for the end consumer — in this new, networked economy. It identifies three different business models for the delivery of IPFS. It explores the concept of an infocracy, a form of organization in which information provides the underpinning of structure and the basis of individual power, and addresses its implications for the management and success of the alternative IPFS business models.
Towards a Sociopragmatic-Constructivist Understanding of Information Systems
Authors: Wyssusek Boris , Schwartz Martin
Published: May 2011

Contemporary understanding of information systems (IS) is flawed by fundamental problems in information systems research and practice. In this chapter, we claim that philosophical presuppositions have a great influence on our understanding of IS. Reflecting on the modernism-postmodernism debate and its methodological consequences for IS research, we derive the need for a paradigmatic foundation of IS research. Referring to Kuhn’s concept of “paradigm,” we develop a framework for the conceptualization of “paradigms of inquiry.” We use the notion of “model,” which we believe to be pivotal for the understanding of IS, to illustrate the implications of the adoption of a “paradigm of inquiry.” In response to a criticism of both the positivist and the radical-constructivist paradigms, we develop a paradigm called “sociopragmatic constructivism” (SPC). Presupposing that human inquiry relies on social contextualization, common practice and cultural history, we propose an agenda for upcoming IS research grounded in SPC.
Using Modularization Approach to Design Instructional Systems for Computer Literacy Courses
Authors: Chen Kuan C.
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, the guiding principles of the modularization content arrangement that some instructors use is offered. Eight planning steps in module instructional design are summarized. A general strategy of these principles and applications in a case study is discussed in this chapter as well. A new modularization approach in instructional design, defining the course goals and arranging the course content, are two important issues for instructors. The author hopes the process of the module instructional design through essential knowledge and skills in the computer literacy course development will not only be a valuable synthesizing experience for instructors, but also the modularization approach may be preferable to students with a variety of backgrounds.
Enterprise Configuration
Authors: Targowski Andrew
Published: May 2011

The new economy requires a new enterprise organization. It obligates most companies to redefine their mission, goals, and strategy. The emerging 21st century enterprise is a more complex organization than the 20th century industrial enterprise. Since the enterprise consists of small teams running their affairs from a single office, the lean organization is also a subject of the emerging trend of outsourcing and creating partnerships. Managing those relationships will be the key strategy of the IT support. Enterprises that once handled everything internally now find they must concentrate on their core competencies, so they outsource much more than they once did. Moreover, many of the new relationships are international and global. In 1995, the Institute for the Future in Menlo Park, California, found that the number of international joint ventures has grown 25% a year since 1990. Time to reach market is critical when products have a competitive life span of one year, one month, one week, or one afternoon, as in the case of some products in financial services. Innovation, rather than access to resources, plant, and capital, is what counts most.
Comparing U. S. and Japanese Companies on Competitive Intelligence, IS Support and Business Change
Authors: Guimaraes Tor , Sato Osamu , Kitanaka Hideaki
Published: May 2011

The increase in business competitiveness forces companies to adopt new technologies to redesign business processes, improve products, and support organizational changes necessary for better performance. The literature on Competitive Intelligence (CI) touts its importance in providing corporate strategic vision to improve company competitiveness and success. To implement their strategic vision companies have to implement changes to their business processes, products, and/or to the organization itself. The voluminous body of literature on the management of change, including sub-areas such as Business Process Reengineering (BPR), Total Quality Management (TQM), and product improvement, implicitly or explicitly propose that company strategic intelligence is a pre-requisite for change, and that effective Information Systems (IS) support is a critical requirement for implementing change. There is some empirical evidence supporting these two hypotheses based on U.S. business organizations and there is little reason to believe that the relationships do not hold for Japanese companies. Whether or not U.S. and Japanese organizations are different in any way along these important variables is an interesting question. A field test of how effectively U.S. and Japanese business organizations are identifying strategic problems and opportunities, how effectively they implement business changes, and use IS technology to do so, was undertaken to empirically explore any differences. Despite the relatively small sample size, the results corroborate the importance of competitive intelligence and IS support for effectively implementing business change in U.S. and Japanese companies. The findings indicate, on the average, American companies are more effective in providing IS support for business change and Japanese companies are more effective in CI activities.
Relevant Aspects for Test Delivery Systems Evaluation
Authors: Valenti Salvatore , Cucciarelli Alessandro , Panti Maurizio
Published: May 2011

The number of educational institutions seeking solutions to the problems associated with the burden of expanded student numbers is increasing every day. Most solutions to the problems of delivering course content, supporting student learning, and assessment may be found through the use of computers, thanks to the continuous advances of information technology. According to Bull (1999), using computers to perform assessment is more contentious than using them both to deliver content and to support student learning. In many papers, the terms Computer Assisted Assessment (CAA) and Computer Based Assessment (CBA) are often used interchangeably and somewhat inconsistently. The former usually covers all use of computers in assessment, including reporting and marking, such as in optical mark reading. The latter is often restricted to the use of computers for the entire process, including delivery of the assessment and provision of feedback (Charman and Elmes, 1998). In this paper we will adopt the term Computer Based Assessment and we will discuss some issues related to the online assessment of students.
An Advanced Course in Application Programming and Design
Authors: Schmidt Cecil
Published: May 2011

The continuing evolution in state-of-the-art business applications such as those that support e-commerce, advancements in programming language design such as Java™, and the requirements for persistent data access mechanisms have all significantly impacted the required knowledge-base of computer information science graduates. As such these individuals should have a strong background in the design and implementation of client/server applications in both traditional and Web-based environments. Application design should emphasize object-oriented techniques that can take full advantage of the most recent enhancements to programming languages. Also, alternative file structures and data access methods should be explored. This chapter gives an overview of a new course offering which will address these issues.
Information Systems and Computer Science Model Curricula
Authors: Scime Anthony
Published: May 2011

Computer science and information systems are interrelated disciplines that both cover the technical and functional aspects of computing. They are fields of study in high demand by students and employers. Yet, many colleges do not have the resources to offer multiple computing departments. So, professional organizations have developed model curriculums to help define the knowledge necessary for information technology majors. This chapter provides a discussion of model IS and CS curricula. It is hoped that IT departments will be able to develop an information technology curriculum, which suits their student’s needs.
Remote Control for Videoconferencing
Authors: Perry Marcia , Agarwal Deborah
Published: May 2011

We have designed, implemented, and deployed a camera control system and a conference controller that provide remote control capabilities for videoconferencing over the Internet. The camera control system allows users to pan, tilt, and zoom the cameras, switch between cameras, and get a picture-in-picture view from their desktops. The conference controller allows conference participants to not only start and stop the media tools on a remote host, but also to dynamically change settings and turn transmission on and off. It supports the vic (video) and vat (audio) Internet videoconferencing tools and enhances their usability by providing an integrated and secure user interface for local and remote control of these applications. This paper describes the design and implementation of the camera control system (devserv and camclnt) and the conference controller (confcntlr). The remote control capabilities offered by these tools have changed the videoconferencing paradigm to one of telepresence. With these tools remote users can “walk” around the room, focus in on objects, and actively participate rather than just observe.
Ad Hoc Virtual Teams
Authors: Pare Guy , Dube Line
Published: May 2011

Virtual arrangements are proposed as a way for organizations to face the challenges of the upcoming century and to operate both efficiently and innovatively (Bleecker, 1994; Jarvenpaa & Ives, 1994). Information and communication technologies (ICT) serve as powerful enablers of virtual organizing in the form of various intra- and inter-firm arrangements (Knoll & Jarvenpaa, 1995). Among other emerging arrangements, virtual teams, both within and across organizations, are relatively recent phenomena brought about in part by the emergence of technologies such as electronic mail, Internet, groupware and videoconferencing (Barnatt, 1995; Iacono & Weisband, 1997; Lipnack & Stamps, 1997). The reluctance of many workers to relocate for a new job, the global nature of the marketplace, the need to complete projects as quickly as possible, and the need to tap the best brains no matter where they may be, are all examples of drivers of virtual teams within and across organizations (Geber, 1995; Duarte & Snyder, 1999; Lipnack & Stamps, 1997).
A Conversation Regarding Ethics in Information Systems Educational Research
Authors: Williams Mark Campbell
Published: May 2011

Should ethics be a significant importance in information systems educational research? In this chapter, I reflect on my heuristic and psychologically-oriented self-study concerning some ethical improprieties which I committed during the data collection phase of an information systems educational research programme. As part of this heuristic reflection, I engaged in a number of self dialogues in the form of a conversation between various characters. Reported in this paper is one of these dialogues, concerning broad issues of ethics and research and discussing the notion of wisdom, maturity, meaning, and virtue. I begin by asserting that this is even more so when considering research investigating and using new media, such as the world wide web, in which acceptable ethical practices have yet to be established and consolidated.
Research on IS/IT Investment Evaluation and Benefits Realization in Australia
Authors: Lin Chad , Pervan Graham , McDermid Donald
Published: May 2011

In modern organisations a large portion of senior management’s time is now being spent on finding ways to measure the contribution of their organisations’ IS/IT investments to business performance. It has been shown that IS/IT investments in many organisations are huge and increasing rapidly every year and yet there is still a lack of understanding of the impact of the proper IS/IT investment evaluation processes and practices in these organisations. At the same time, the issue of expected and actual benefits realised from IS/IT investments has also generated a significant amount of debate in the IS/IT literature amongst the researchers and practitioners. This is as true in Australia as it is in the rest of the developed world. Thus, one can argue that a detailed program of research into the current practice and process of IS/IT investment evaluation in Australia is warranted. This paper reviews the progress made in research in this area and proposes a research program incorporating surveys, case studies, and expert focus groups to assess current practice and to develop an approach, model or framework based on the fit between theory and practice of IS/IT investment evaluation by large Australian organisations.
Data Quality-Based Requirements Elicitation for Decision Support
Authors: Vaisman Alejandro
Published: May 2011

Today, information and timely decisions are crucial for an organization’s success. A Decision Support System is a software tool that provides information allowing its users to take decisions timely and cost-effectively. This is highly conditioned by the quality of the data involved, usually stored in a data warehouse, and by a sound and complete requirements analysis. In this chapter we show that conventional techniques for requirements elicitation cannot be used in Decision Support Systems, and present a methodology denoted DSS-METRIQ, aimed at providing a single data quality-based procedure for complete and consistent elicitation of functional (queries) and non-functional (data quality) requirements. The outcomes of the process are a set of requirement documents and a specification of the operational data sources that can satisfy such requirements. We review the state-of-the-art in the field, and show that in spite of the tools and methodologies already proposed for the modeling and design of Decision Support Systems, DSS-METRIQ is the first one that supports the whole process by means of an integral technique.
Fatigue Life Extension by Ultrasonic Peening for Offshore Structures: As-built Weld Quality and Overloads During Remaining Service Life
Authors: Martinez Luis Lopez , Hedmar Malcolm
Published: May 2011

The fatigue life extension procedure by ultrasonic peening uses FEA to assess the critical weld details and to define the location and extension of the areas to be treated. However, FEA models do not take into account variations in as-built weld quality. Areas with moderate level of stresses but showing varying weld quality might benefit of ultrasonic peening treatment as much as areas with the highest stresses. The ultrasonic peening procedure takes into account certain weld parameters originating in the as-build quality so these can be improved during the application of the treatment in order to achieve full benefit.

As-build weld quality has a great influence on the fatigue life of offshore structures. Hence the fatigue life extension procedure needs to address the implications of a low as-build weld quality previous to the application of the ultrasonic peening procedure. When as-built weld quality limits the targeted fatigue life, ultrasonic peening could enhance the fatigue strength up to a desired level. For weld details which have already consumed half of their fatigue life ultrasonic peening can reset the clock to zero.

The increased fatigue resistance due to ultrasonic peening treatment is partly based on the introduction of compressive stresses. Extreme load conditions could redistribute the compressive stresses and therefore it is necessary to verify if the improvement would be still present during the remaining service life of the installation. Therefore fatigue testing with compressive preloads has been carried out on ultrasonic peening treated specimens.

Despite the extreme low weld quality, the ultrasonic peening improved weld details, showed a factor 2 in fatigue life extension which is a value presented in literature as a lower band for the improvement. This improvement is estimated to be unchanged even if overloads could relax the induced compressive stresses.

The poor weld quality have reduced the level of improvement to a factor 2 in life and therefore it is recommended an improvement of weld angle by machining before the application of ultrasonic peening when required.

For structural details with low as-built weld quality ultrasonic peening treatment could be the only solution left to enhance the fatigue life avoiding weld repair.

The economical benefits due to reduced weld repair and/or maintenance on offshore installations as a result of the ultrasonic peening treatment include:Restore the fatigue strength for structural details with poor weld qualityAvoidance of a long term plan for extensive weld repair or hot workAvoidance of long and unscheduled operational disruptionsIncreased structural safety for the installation during the remaining service life
Understanding Engineering Challenges Posed by Natural Hydrocarbon Infiltration and the Development of Authigenic Carbonate
Authors: Thomas Stephen , Hill Andrew John , Clare Michael Andrew , Shreeve James William , Unterseh Stephan
Published: May 2011

Infiltration of shallow soils by naturally occurring hydrocarbons has been documented in several deepwater environments worldwide. The potential for significant soil modification, such as the development of authigenic carbonates and alteration of the generally expected background geotechnical properties may provide constraints to flowline routing, foundation installation and engineering lifetime performance. This paper presents a review of the current state of knowledge of the authors with special reference to recent investigations in deepwater offshore Angola, and a suggested method for identification, characterization and prediction.

Interpretation of 3D exploration seismic, enhanced by AUV (Chirp) data facilitates an initial identification of areas prone to hydrocarbon infiltration and the vertical and spatial extent of potential soil modification. A first pass geotechnical characterisation is developed by targeted seabed CPTs and soil sampling. The generation of an integrated predictive model requires a multidisciplinary advanced testing programme, including geophysical, geotechnical, geochemical and geological analyses.

Once the extent, nature, and formative processes of hydrocarbon-related soil modification are understood, an assessment can be made of the challenges posed to a field development. This provides the necessary input to foundation and /or routing feasibility and determines if there is requirement to mitigate, through avoidance or design.

Introduction

Recent deepwater discoveries of natural hydrocarbon extrusions, such as seeps and mounds, have been made in various offshore settings including: Escanaba Trough, Northeast Pacific (Koski et al., 2002); Gulf of Mexico, USA (Canet et al., 2006); Porcupine Trough, offshore western Ireland (Naeth et al., 2006); offshore California, USA (Naehr et al., 2000; Lorenson et al., 2009); Australian Shelf, Timor Sea (O'Brien et al., 2002). This list is by no means exhaustive, but serves to illustrate the global distribution of such occurrences and that their profusion may be more significant than previously thought (Figure 1). In many instances, occurences of carbonate (or carbonate-rich claystone) are found in association with hydrocarbon infiltrations such as in the Nile Delta, Egypt (Wheeler and Satdnitskaia, 2011), offshore Trinidad (Deville, 2008), Sea of Marmara (Zitter et al., 2008), Guaymas Basin, California (Paull et al., 2007) and offshore Oregon, USA (Johnson et al, 2008). These are believed to be have been formed in situ (or authigenic) by post-depositional, diagenetic processes that have utilised hydrocarbon that has been introduced to the shallow subsurface by natural seepage.
Stochastic Optimization and Uncertainty Analysis for E&P Projects: A Case in Offshore Gas Field Development
Authors: Ettehadtavakkol Amin , Jablonowski Christopher J. , Lake Larry Wayne
Published: May 2011

Development optimization of new fields can be improved with integrated quantitative models that account for the technical and economical aspects of hydrocarbon recovery. A challenge in implementation is to understand the potential impact of uncertainty on optimal decision-making. To mitigate the risks and seize the opportunities arising from the uncertainty, the models used in the decision-making process should include a robust capability for stochastic optimization. This paper presents a case study in development optimization of a two-compartment offshore gas field. The analysis focuses on the optimization of facility size, well counts, compression power and production policy. A stochastic programming model is developed to investigate the impact of uncertainties in original gas in place and inter-compartment transmissibility. Reservoir tank equations are used to model pressure and production responses. The reservoir and well equations are coupled with economic and surface facility models. Results of two solution methods, optimization with Monte Carlo sampling and stochastic programming, are analyzed and compared. The models are then used in a value of information (VOI) analysis. The current work is part of an emerging effort in industry to introduce fast and efficient methods for optimizing field development under uncertainty. Computational efficiency is a significant advantage of the proposed approach because it eliminates most constraints on the scope of the uncertainty analysis. The intended applications of this approach are project screening, scenario and uncertainty analyses, including VOI analysis.
Novel Indolocarbazole Derivative 12-(α-L-arabinopyranosyl)indolo[2,3-a]pyrrolo[3,4-c]carbazole-5,7-dione Is a Preferred c-MycGuanine Quadruplex Ligand
Authors: Kaluzhny Dmitry N. , Shchyolkina Anna K. , Ilyinsky Nikolay S. , Borisova Olga F. , Shtil Alexander A.
Published: May 2011

The indolocarbazole derivative 12-(α-L-arabinopyranosyl)indolo[2,3-a]pyrrolo[3,4-c]carbazole-5,7-dione (AIC) has demonstrated a high potency (at nanomolar to submicromolar concentrations) towards the NCI panel of human tumor cell lines and transplanted tumors. Intercalation into the DNA double helix has been identified as an important prerequisite for AIC cytotoxicity. In this study, we provide evidence for preferential binding to the G-quadruplex derived from the c-Myconcogene promoter (Pu18 d(AG3TG4)2; G-c-Myc). The association constant for AIC:G-c-Myccomplex was ~100 times and 10 times greater than the respective values for the complexes AIC:c-Mycduplex and AIC:telomeric d(TTAGGG)4G-quadruplex. The concentrations at which AIC formed complexes with G-c-Mycwere close to those that attenuated the steady-state level of the c-MycmRNA in the human HCT116 colon carcinoma cell line. We suggest that preferential binding of AIC to G-c-Mycrather than to the c-Mycduplex might favor the quadruplex formation in the cells, thereby contributing to downregulation of the c-Mycexpression by AIC.
Die verband tussen gemeentebouprosesse en missionale gemeente-ontwikkeling
Authors: Ungerer André G. , Nel Malan
Published: May 2011

This article dealt with the process of building up the local congregation and the manner in which missional objectives are achieved. The article was undertaken against the background of the disturbing decline in membership numbers, particularly in the two traditional Reformational churches in South Africa, namely the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) and the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa. This decline is in line with similar tendencies in mainstream churches the world over. The key aspects of the theory of building up the local church was discussed and mission in the current South African context dealt with, particularly in view of the fact that an entirely new mission field has opened itself up with the influx into the country of so many people from neighbouring countries who have come to live in our midst. Missional objectives for the local church, as well as aspects that can be subjected to empirical testing are determined all along. The hypothesis wanted to verify whether local churches that have undergone a structured process of building up the local church are more successful missionally than those that have not undergone a structured process.
Technical Note: In-situ derivatization thermal desorption GC-TOFMS for direct analysis of particle-bound non-polar and polar organic species
Authors: Orasche J. , Schnelle-Kreis J. , Abbaszade G. , Zimmermann R.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. An in-situ derivatization thermal desorption method followed by gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (IDTD-GC-TOFMS) was developed for determination of polar organic compounds. Hydroxyl and carboxyl groups of compounds such as anhydrous sugars, alcohols and phenols, fatty acids and resin acids are targets of the derivatization procedure. Derivatization is based on silylation with N-Methyl-N-trimethylsilyl-trifluoroacetamide (MSTFA) during the step of thermal desorption. The high temperature of 300 °C during desorption is utilized for the in-situ derivatization on the collection substrate (quartz fibre filters) accelerating the reaction rate. Thereby, the analysis time is as short as without derivatization. At first the filter surface is dampened with derivatization reagent before insertion of the sample into the thermal desorption unit. To ensure ongoing derivatization during thermal desorption the carrier gas is saturated with MSTFA until the desorption procedure is finished. The method introduced here was compared with direct thermal desorption gas chromatography time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (DTD-GC-TOFMS) and with solvent extraction (SE) procedures followed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Comparisons were carried out with field samples originating from ambient aerosol collected on quartz fibre filters. Moreover, the methods have been applied on NIST Standard Reference Material Urban Dust (SRM 1649a).
Modelling of spacecraft spin period during eclipse
Authors: Georgescu E. , Plaschke F. , Auster U. , Fornaçon K.-H. , Frey H. U.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. The majority of scientific satellites investigating the Earth magnetosphere are spin stabilized. The attitude information comes usually from a sun sensor and is missing in the umbra; hence, the accurate experimental determination of vector quantities is not possible during eclipses. The spin period of the spacecraft is generally not constant during these times because the moment of inertia changes due to heat dissipation. The temperature dependence of the moment of inertia for each spacecraft has a specific signature determined by its design and distribution of mass. We developed an "eclipse-spin" model for the spacecraft spin period behaviour using magnetic field vector measurements close to the Earth, where the magnetic field is dominated by the dipole field, and in the magnetospheric lobes, where the magnetic field direction is mostly constant. The modelled spin periods give us extraordinarily good results with accumulated phase deviations over one hour of less than 10 degrees. Using the eclipse spin model satellite experiments depending on correct spin phase information can deliver science data even during eclipses. Two applications for THEMIS B, one in the lobe and the other in the lunar wake, are presented.
Landslide susceptibility assessment in the Upper Orcia Valley (Southern Tuscany, Italy) through conditional analysis: a contribution to the unbiased selection of causal factors
Authors: Vergari F. , Della Seta M. , Del Monte M. , Fredi P. , Lupia Palmieri E.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. In this work the conditional multivariate analysis was applied to evaluate landslide susceptibility in the Upper Orcia River Basin (Tuscany, Italy), where widespread denudation processes and agricultural practices have a mutual impact. We introduced an unbiased procedure for causal factor selection based on some intuitive statistical indices. This procedure is aimed at detecting among different potential factors the most discriminant ones in a given study area. Moreover, this step avoids generating too small and statistically insignificant spatial units by intersecting the factor maps. Finally, a validation procedure was applied based on the partition of the landslide inventory from multi-temporal aerial photo interpretation. Although encompassing some sources of uncertainties, the applied susceptibility assessment method provided a satisfactory and unbiased prediction for the Upper Orcia Valley. The results confirmed the efficiency of the selection procedure, as an unbiased step of the landslide susceptibility evaluation. Furthermore, we achieved the purpose of presenting a conceptually simple but, at the same time, effective statistical procedure for susceptibility analysis to be used as well by decision makers in land management.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Prostaglandin-Timolol Fixed Combinations: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Aptel Florent , Cucherat Michel , Denis Philippe
Published: May 2011

Purpose

To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effects and tolerability of the 3 prostaglandin-timolol fixed combinations (PG-timolol FCs).

Methods

Clinical trials comparing directly the PG-timolol FCs or comparing the PG-timolol FCs to their individual components were thoroughly searched. The main outcome measures were efficacy assessed by IOP (taken at 9 AM, noon, 4 PM, and over the mean diurnal curve) change at 3 months (or after 1 to 6 months of treatment if no data were available at month 3) from baseline and tolerability assessed by the incidence of conjunctival hyperemia.

Results

Twenty trials were identified (n=4684 patients). Intraocular pressure reduction was usually greater with the 3 PG-timolol FCs than the individual PG (mean difference [MD] 0.00 mmHg to 2.59 mmHg; p>0.1 to p<0.001). The incidence of hyperemia was significantly less with latanoprost- and bimatoprost-timolol FCs than with the individual PG (relative risk = 0.66 and 0.61; p=0.05 and p<0.001). From direct comparisons, IOP reduction was significantly greatest with bimatoprost-timolol FC, at 9 AM, 4 PM, and over the mean diurnal curve compared to latanoprost-timolol FC (MD = 0.90 mmHg to 1.48 mmHg; p<0.001) and at all time points compared to travoprost-timolol FC (MD = 0.66 mmHg to 0.90 mmHg; p<0.001). The incidence of hyperemia was not significantly less with latanoprost-timolol FC than with bimatoprost-timolol FC (relative risk = 1.32; p>0.1).

Conclusions

The 3 PG-timolol FCs provide a greater IOP reduction and lower incidence of hyperemia than the 3 PGs alone. The direct comparisons suggest a greater efficacy of the bimatoprost-timolol FC compared with latanoprost- and travoprost-timolol FCs.
To Explore the Experiences of Women on Reasons in Initiating and Maintaining Breastfeeding in Urban Area of Karachi, Pakistan: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Shaheen Premani Zahra , Kurji Zohra , Mithani Yasmin
Published: May 2011

This is an exploratory study that explores the experiences of lactating women in initiating, continuing, or discontinuing breastfeeding in an urban area of Karachi, Pakistan. Objectives. To explore the experiences of lactating women and to understand their support and hindering mechanisms in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding. Methods. This is an exploratory design assisting in exploring the participant's experiences of initiating and maintaining breastfeeding to better understand their world. Purposive sampling was used, and data was analyzed through manual thematic analysis. Results. The data revealed that mother's knowledge, sociocultural environment, breastfeeding decision, and self- and professional support acted as driving forces for the participants. However, sociocultural environment, physiological changes, time management, and being a housewife to breastfeed their children were all challenges and barriers that the participants thought hindered their breastfeeding initiation and maintenance. Conclusion. Breastfeeding is a natural but taxing phenomenon, and breastfeeding mothers experience supporting and hindering factors in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding.
Activity Budgets and Forage Selection of Podolian Cattle, a Semiwild Bovine Breed
Authors: Napolitano Fabio , Girolami Antonio , Pacelli Corrado , Braghieri Ada
Published: May 2011

This study aimed to describe the behaviour of Podolian breed, a semiwild cattle breed kept in a natural environment (as either a small group of young bulls or cows within a family herd), and the interaction of these animals with the environment in terms of ingestion from natural pastures. Diurnal grazing behavioural pattern was monitored through continuous focal animal recording method. The activity budget of free-ranging animals was characterized by high locomotor and feeding activities. They exhibited a high degree of adaptability to the local phytocoenosis with high levels of ferns' and tree foliage intakes performed by cows and the selection of a diet more nutritious than pasture performed by young bulls. These results along with the low levels of agonistic interactions recorded in the two experiments suggest that extensive systems based on grazing allow social stability and provide a natural environment for the expression of cattle species-specific behaviour.
From 3D tissue data to impedance using Simpleware ScanFE+IP and COMSOL Multiphysics – a tutorial
Authors: Pettersen Fred-Johan , Høgetveit Jan Olav
Published: May 2011

Tools such as Simpleware ScanIP+FE and COMSOL Multiphysics allow us to gain a better understanding of bioimpedance measurements without actually doing the measurements. This tutorial will cover the steps needed to go from a 3D voxel data set to a model that can be used to simulate a transfer impedance measurement. Geometrical input data used in this tutorial are from MRI scan of a human thigh, which are converted to a mesh using Simpleware ScanIP+FE. The mesh is merged with electrical properties for the relevant tissues, and a simulation is done in COMSOL Multiphysics. Available numerical output data are transfer impedance, contribution from different tissues to final transfer impedance, and voltages at electrodes. Available volume output data are normal and reciprocal current densities, potential, sensitivity, and volume impedance sensitivity. The output data are presented as both numbers and graphs. The tutorial will be useful even if data from other sources such as VOXEL-MAN or CT scans are used.
Simulations of an Infrared Composite Curing Process
Authors: Nakouzi Sawsane , Pancrace Johann , Schmidt Fabrice , Le Maoult Yannick , Berthet Florentin
Published: May 2011

Using IR energy is an efficient method of curing composites. In this paper, we study IR interactions with the composite, which is placed in an IR oven. The liquid resin infusion technique is used for the impregnation process of fibers with resin. Numerical simulations of the curing process for a carbon fiber‐reinforced epoxy (RTM6) system are presented. In‐lab software called Rayheat based on ray tracing algorithms and developed in Matlab is used to compute the radiative heat flux that impacts the composite. A three‐dimensional numerical model is developed in the finite element software Comsol Multiphysics, where the heat‐balance equation is coupled with the cure kinetic model of the resin. The computed radiative heat flux is exported to Comsol Multiphysics and imposed as a boundary condition on the top surface of the composite. This numerical model allows calculation of the temperature distribution in the composite during curing, which is a key parameter that affects its mechanical properties. We can predict also the evolution of the degree of cure as function of time.
Cross‐Stacked Superaligned Carbon Nanotube Films for Transparent and Stretchable Conductors
Authors: Liu Kai , Sun Yinghui , Liu Peng , Lin Xiaoyang , Fan Shoushan , Jiang Kaili
Published: May 2011

Transparent and stretchable conductors are essential components in many stretchable electronics. However, it is still a challenge to make this kind of conductor easily and cost‐effectively. Here, a way to utilize cross‐stacked superaligned carbon nanotube films to make transparent and stretchable conductors is reported. The as‐produced cross‐stacked films are isotropic in electrical conductivity, but anisotropic in mechanical properties, because of their microscale cross structures. Along some directions, the films can sustain a high strain, of more than 35%, which is helpful for applications as stretchable conductors. These cross‐stacked films can be further made into composite films with polyvinyl alcohol by a dip‐coating method, and with polydimethylsiloxane by an embedding method. The former composite films have similar isotropic electrical and anisotropic mechanical properties to SACNT films, but much larger capability in terms of tensile load. The latter composite films possess quite highly stretchable and reversible electrical behaviors, which can be used in stretchable touch panels, solar cells, strain sensors, and implanted conductors.