bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing medical students’ perception of the evaluation culture: Is it possible?
Authors: Colbert-Getz Jorie M. , Baumann Steven
Published: February 2016

Student feedback is a critical component of the teacher-learner cycle. However, there is not a gold standard course or clerkship evaluation form and limited research on the impact of changing the evaluation process. Results from a focus group and pre-implementation feedback survey coupled with best practices in survey design were used to improve all course/clerkship evaluation for academic year 2013-2014. In spring 2014 we asked all subjected students in University of Utah School of Medicine, United States of America to complete the same feedback survey (post-implementation survey). We assessed the evaluation climate with 3 measures on the feedback survey: overall satisfaction with the evaluation process; time students gave effort to the process; and time students used shortcuts. Scores from these measures were compared between 2013 and 2014 with Mann-Whitney U-tests. Response rates were 79% (254) for 2013 and 52% (179) for 2014. Students’ overall satisfaction score were significantly higher (more positive) post-implementation compared to pre-implementation (P<0.001). There was no change in the amount of time students gave effort to completing evaluations (P=0.981) and no change for the amount of time they used shortcuts to complete evaluations (P=0.956). We were able to change overall satisfaction with the medical school evaluation culture, but there was no change in the amount of time students gave effort to completing evaluations and times they used shortcuts to complete evaluations. To ensure accurate evaluation results we will need to focus our efforts on time needed to complete course evaluations across all four years.
A new hybrid method for size and topology optimization of truss structures using modified ALGA and QPGA
Authors: NOII Nima , AGHAYAN Iman , HAJIRASOULIHA Iman , KUNT Mehmet Metin
Published: February 2016

Modified Augmented Lagrangian Genetic Algorithm (ALGA) and Quadratic Penalty Function Genetic Algo­rithm (QPGA) optimization methods are proposed to obtain truss structures with minimum structural weight using both continuous and discrete design variables. To achieve robust solutions, Compressed Sparse Row (CSR) with reordering of Cholesky factorization and Moore Penrose Pseudoinverse are used in case of non-singular and singular stiffness matrix, respectively. The efficiency of the proposed nonlinear optimization methods is demonstrated on several practical exam­ples. The results obtained from the Pratt truss bridge show that the optimum design solution using discrete parameters is 21% lighter than the traditional design with uniform cross sections. Similarly, the results obtained from the 57-bar planar tower truss indicate that the proposed design method using continuous and discrete design parameters can be up to 29% and 9% lighter than traditional design solutions, respectively. Through sensitivity analysis, it is shown that the proposed methodology is robust and leads to significant improvements in convergence rates, which should prove useful in large-scale applications.
Memristor Effect in Sandwich-Type Ni-TiOx-p/Si-Ni Heterojunction
Authors: Kostiukevych Oleksandr M. , Skryshevsky Valeriy A. , Lendiel Vasyl V. , Shulimov Yuriy G. , Manilov Anton I. , Lushkin Oleksandr Ye.
Published: February 2016

I-V, C-V characteristics and current change kinetics of the Ni-TiOx-p/Si-Ni heterojunction were studied under different speeds of voltage sweep, in darkness and under illumination of various spectral regions. It was found that Ni-TiOx-p/Si-Ni heterojunction shows pronounced hysteretic behavior and can act as memristor cell. Results of studies of photosensitivity and current kinetics under abrupt changes of applied voltage and illumination reveal considerable role of surface states recharging in TiOx oxide layer or at TiOx-p/Si interface in the switching effects.The studied Ni-TiOx-p/Si-Ni heterostructure is prospective as a basis for low-cost, CMOS- and SOI-compatible microelectronic devices with non-volatile memory.
Capacitive Properties of MIS Structures with SiOx and SixOyNz Films Containing Si Nanoclusters
Authors: Evtukh A. , Bratus’ Oleg , Ilchenko Volodymyr , Marin Volodymyr , Vasyliev Iegor
Published: February 2016

he negative differential capacity has been observed in case of MIS structures with SiOx and SixOyNz films containing Si nanoclusters. It has been shown that existence of negative differential capacity depends on charge state of Si nanoclusters or electron traps　in the insulating matrix. In case of SixOyNz films the two peaks have been revealed in C-V characteristics connected with Si nanoclusters and electron traps. The low-temperature annealing of SixOyNz films in hydrogen passivates the electron traps caused by Si dangling bonds and as a result the peak in C-V characteristics connected with electron traps disappears. The following low-temperature annealing in vacuum caused the some effusion of hydrogen from the film and appearance of electron traps and connected with them capacity shoulder on C-V characteristics.
It has been shown, that the frequency and temperature dependences of the negative differential capacitance in C-V curves can be successfully used for the determination of nanoclusters and traps parameters for the samples with the nanoclusters embedded in SiO2 or SixOyNz films.
Chemical Vapor Deposited Graphene for Opto-Electronic Applications
Authors: Passi Vikram , Gahoi Amit , Riazimehr Sarah , Wagner Stefan , Bablich Andreas , Kataria Satender , Lemme Max
Published: February 2016

In this work, fabrication and characterisation of graphene photodiodes and transfer length method structures is presented. Graphene growth is carried out using a thermal chemical vapor deposition process on copper foils and subsequently transferred onto silicon-dioxide/silicon substrate. Comparison of electrical and optical characteristics of the photodiodes, which are fabricated on both n-type and p-type silicon, is shown. The photodiodes fabricated on n-type silicon show good rectifying behaviour when compared with photodiodes fabricated on p-type silicon. Spectral response of graphene photodiodes is measured to be less than 0.2 mAW-1 which is attributed to the light absorbance of 2.3% for single layer graphene. Transfer length method device structures are also fabricated and contact resistance is calculated and plotted as a function of spacing between the contacts. The calculated contact resistance (RcW) is 0.87 kΩ.µm. The latter structures are also characterised under various ambient conditions, before and after annealing. The value of contact resistance reduces from 0.87 kΩ.µm to 0.75 kΩ.µm after annealing. This reduction is attributed to the improvement in bonding between graphene and metal. Measurements under vacuum show an increase in contact resistance which is attributed to the removal of adsorbed water molecules on the surface on graphene. The sheet resistivity of graphene is calculated to be between 1.17 kΩ/□ and 3.67 kΩ/□.
Residual Stresses Control for Large Scale Open Die Forged Parts
Authors: Hardin Mikhail , Burtsev Sergey
Published: February 2016

This paper gives an overview of residual stresses problem after heat treatment of large scale forged parts as well as numerical study and simulations of different methods to reduce stresses. DEFORM software was used for Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations as one of the most capable simulation tools combining both forging and heat treatment processes analysis. The study is performed on the sample of large scale airspace part of aluminum AK6 (AlMgSiCu) alloy. The comparison of different quenching media is presented. Practical conclusions and recommendations are made to optimize the process and reduce residual stresses after the heat treatment. This paper provides numerical simulation and theoretical conclusions and needs to be amended by experimental measurement of residual stresses by one of available methods as part of the future work.
Isothermal Backward Extrusion of Thick-Walled Anisotropic Pipe Blanks in Mode of Short-Time Creeping
Authors: Yakovlev Sergey Sergeevich , Perepelkin Aleksey Alekseevich , Pasynkov Andrey Aleksandrovich
Published: February 2016

Provided here is a mathematical model of the operation of backward extrusion in the mode of short-time creeping of thick-walled pipe blanks made out of orthotropic material with cylindrical anisotropy of the mechanical properties. Carried out was theoretical research of the operation of isothermal axisymmetric backward extrusion of thick-walled pipe blanks made out of anisotropic materials by conic point-tool in the mode of short-time creeping. Established were regularities regarding the change of material flow kinematics, regarding the stressed and strained condition of the blank, regarding force modes and limit possibilities of deformation depending on the technological parameters, on friction conditions on the contact surfaces of the operating tools and of the blank, regarding the geometrical dimensions of the blank and of the manufactured part, and of the anisotropy of the mechanical properties of the blank material, that on the basis of the developed mathematical model of isothermal non-radial flow of anisotropic material under conditions of axisymmetric stressed and strained conditions in the mode of short-time creeping. Experimental operations were carried out for isothermal backward extrusion of thick-walled pipe blanks made out of АМг6 aluminum and ВТ6С titanium alloys. Comparing the results of theoretical and experimental data for force modes of the operation of isothermal backward extrusion of thick-walled pipe blanks points to their satisfactory similarity (difference not exceeding 5% - 10%).
Development of the Combined Technology of Manufacturing of the Facilitated Constructions of Seal of an Electrocable
Authors: Nescoromniy S.V. , Strizhakov E.L. , Ageev S.O. , Rogozin D.V.
Published: February 2016

Authors of article offer the mixed technology of receiving the facilitated screening casing from aluminum foil of 0,15÷0,2 mm thickness by the means of magnetic-pulse welding preforming (MPWP) combining thermal and force impact on processed material.The physical entity of MPWF is described, parameters of the modes of welding are specified, metallographic researches of a zone of welded connection are conducted.The press of double action realizing static and impulse loading on processed material is developed.
Fabrication of Aluminum-Ceramic Composites with TiC-Ni Skeleton by SHS Pressing Method
Authors: Fedotov A.F. , Latukhin Evgeniy I. , Novikov Vladislav A.
Published: February 2016

One-stage technology of obtaining aluminum-ceramic skeleton composites by combining the processes of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) of the porous skeleton and its infiltration under pressure with molten aluminum (method SHS-pressing) was considered. Experimental study of the effect of the pressure of infiltration on the distribution of the content of aluminum over the height and radius of the disk-shaped sample with SHS skeleton made of a cermet of TiC-Ni was performed. Mechanisms of the formation of structure and properties of the composite depending on the infiltration pressure were described.
The Quality Improvement in Manufacturing “Screw”-Parts Using the DEFORM-3D Software
Authors: Zvonov Sergey , Shlyapugin Aleksey
Published: February 2016

The check of developed inventory for high-speed stamping "Screw"-part forging fabricated from aluminum alloy by using DEFORM is performed. The high efficiency of the program is shown. The characteristic of metal flow and stress-strain state during the processing is opened.
Design Features of the Small-Scale PMI Power Unit
Authors: Kostriukov Evgenii E. , Yusupov Rinat Yu.
Published: February 2016

The paper is dedicated to description of the design of special-purpose small-scale pulse-magnetic installations. Recommendations are given on the choice of the element base of energy storages and the high-voltage charging unit for various embodiments. The paper presents main parameters of small-scale pulse capacitors and of current switches of foreign and domestic manufacturers.
A Clinical Case of Clozapine-Induced Fatal Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Romney Eric , Nagaraj Vinay J. , Kafer Amie
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Clozapine, a second generation medication, has become the atypical antipsychotic drug of choice for refractory or treatment-resistant schizophrenia. In addition to the high risk of agranulocytosis and seizures, clozapine treatment is increasingly associated with significant metabolic effects, such as hyperglycemia, central weight gain and adiposity, hypertriglyceridemia, and elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. A potentially life-threatening complication of altered metabolism is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This report details a case of fatal DKA in a schizophrenic patient undergoing treatment with clozapine.

Case Description

An African–American male in his 20s with a medical history significant for schizophrenia was presented to the psychiatric inpatient ward with severe paranoid thoughts and aggressive behavior. After trials of risperidone, olanzapine, and haloperidol—all of which failed to adequately control his psychotic symptoms—clozapine titration was initiated and he showed significant improvement. Weight gain was observed throughout hospitalization, but all blood and urine test results showed no metabolic or hematological abnormalities. The patient was discharged for outpatient treatment on clozapine (125 mg morning and 325 mg evening) along with divalproex sodium and metoprolol. Six days post-discharge, the patient died. A medical autopsy later ruled that the death was due to DKA without any evidence of contributory injuries or natural disease.

Results and Conclusion

Significant increase in body mass index from 28.7 to 33.5 was observed during hospitalization. The blood glucose level, measured after his death, was found to be 500 mg/dL. Altered metabolism due to clozapine can lead to dyslipidemia-mediated-pancreatic-beta-cell damage, decreased insulin secretion as well as insulin resistance. In DKA, low levels of insulin lead to an increased release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue. Acetyl coenzyme A (CoA), derived from the breakdown of free fatty acids, is metabolized by the Kreb's cycle. In hepatocytes, excess acetyl-CoA is converted into ketone bodies (acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate) and released into circulation. Ketone bodies have a low p Ka value and their high serum concentrations lead to DKA. In this patient, DKA was most probably clozapine induced and had fatal consequences. Thus, recognizing potential risk factors, providing patient education, and increasing monitoring of patients on clozapine and other atypical antipsychotics are critical to prevent the life-threatening effects of DKA.
Barriers and Challenges in Hyperemesis Gravidarum Research
Authors: Grooten Iris J. , Roseboom Tessa J. , Painter Rebecca C.
Published: February 2016

Nausea and occasional vomiting in early pregnancy (NVP) are common. When vomiting is severe or protracted, it is referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). HG affects up to 3% of pregnancies and is characterized by weight loss, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and the need for hospital admission. HG has significant consequences for maternal well-being, is associated with adverse birth outcomes, and leads to major health care costs. Treatment options are symptomatic, hampered by the lack of evidence-based options including studies on nutritional interventions. One of the reasons for this lack of evidence is the use of a broad range of definitions and outcome measures. An internationally accepted definition and the formulation of core outcomes would facilitate meta-analysis of trial results and implementation of evidence in guidelines to ultimately improve patient care.
A Pilot Test of a Mobile App for Drug Court Participants
Authors: Johnson Kimberly , Richards Stephanie , Chih Ming-Yuan , Moon Tae Joon , Curtis Hilary , Gustafson David H.
Published: February 2016

The U.S. criminal justice system refers more people to substance abuse treatment than any other system. Low treatment completion rates and high relapse rates among addicted offenders highlight the need for better substance use disorder treatment and recovery tools. Mobile health applications (apps) may fill that need by providing continuous support. In this pilot test, 30 participants in a Massachusetts drug court program used A-CHESS, a mobile app for recovery support and relapse prevention, over a four-month period. Over the course of the study period, participants opened A-CHESS on average of 62% of the days that they had the app. Social networking tools were the most utilized services. The study results suggest that drug court participants will make regular use of a recovery support app.

This pilot study sought to find out if addicted offenders in a drug court program would use a mobile application to support and manage their recovery.
Yoko Ono's Magical Thinking
Authors: Mackie Vera
Published: February 2016

In this piece I analyse Yoko Ono's recent artwork Mended Cups and link this to other creative works concerned with grief and mourning.
City Performance: Chinese New Year in West Kalimantan
Authors: Prasetyo Frans Ari
Published: February 2016

Frans Ari Prasetyo is a scholar working at the Bandung Institute of Technology whose work focuses on etnography, visual anthropology, urban-rural planning and histories.
Learning to be Affected in Contemporary Art
Authors: Springgay Stephanie
Published: February 2016

The Canadian artist Diane Borsato has explored a number of different projects with bees and beekeepers, mushrooms and mychologists, and with plants. Much of Borsato’s practice is concerned with ‘learning’ through affective, bodily, and intimate gestures. She often works with specific groups of people – mycologists, astronomers, physicists, tea sommeliers, ikebana practitioners and beekeepers – in order to think about the mobility of thought, about ethical-political encounters, and the affective dimensions to embodied knowing.
Solstice Hart-Seer: Recordando ‘La Chascona’ y ‘La Sebastiana’ Crónica (Hart-Seer Solstice: Remembering ‘La Chascona’ and ‘La Sebastiana’ Chronicle)
Authors: Chavez-Silverman Susana
Published: February 2016

Cuando vi el headline ayer, de una nota de la escritora Joyce Maynard en la Travel section del New York Times (diario que—a contracorriente—I’ve recently started taking los domingos), “Where Pablo Neruda Lived and Loved,” and especially when my eye scrolled down to the words donde la autora explica que está en Tsile con su marido Jim, queriendo dedicar “some time to our Spanish. That, and romance,” confieso que mi primera reacción fue un giant eye-roll, followed closely by the exclamation—¡gringa huevona! al leer la frase siguiente: “Who better to fan the flames than Neruda?”
Lomba Merpati: Place-making and Communal Signalling within Javanese Pigeon Racing.
Authors: Stevens Leyla
Published: February 2016

The project, Lomba Merpati, is a series of photographs and video works documenting pigeon racing in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Associated as a lower socio-economic class sport and tied up with expressions of Javanese masculinity, pigeon racing occupies a central position within much of the daily social activity of Javanese villages.  The project explores the significance of pigeon training grounds as communal gathering points for young men in Yogyakarta. Comprising short video and photographic portraits, the series focuses on the performative gestures enacted by pigeon fanciers as they train their pigeons for short distance sprinting.
The Transcultural Edge
Authors: Vanni Ilaria
Published: February 2016

Critical writing about transculturation has a long history in Latin American studies, and more recently the concept has been used to analyse the effects of globalization. This article takes as its point of departure the Latin American genealogy of the idea, and brings it together with the ecological notion of ‘edge’ intended as a transition area between different systems. By bringing transculturation and edge together this paper seeks to understand transculturation as a process in which human and non-human entities participate.It does so curating five cultural works written at the edge of academic practices, and spanning several countries, cultural formations and genres.
Actors and networks in resource conflict resolution under climate change in rural Kenya
Authors: Ngaruiya G. W. , Scheffran J.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The change from consensual decision-making arrangements into centralised 12 hierarchical chieftaincy schemes through colonization disrupted many rural conflict resolution mechanisms in Africa. In addition, climate change impacts on land use have introduced additional socio-ecological factors that complicate rural conflict dynamics. Despite the current urgent need for conflict-sensitive adaptation, resolution efficiency of these fused rural institutions has hardly been documented. In this context, we analyse the Loitoktok network for implemented resource conflict resolution structures and identify potential actors to guide conflict-sensitive adaptation. This is based on social network data and processes that are collected using the saturation sampling technique to analyse mechanisms of brokerage. We find that there are three different forms of fused conflict resolution arrangements that integrate traditional institutions and private investors in the community. To effectively implement conflict-sensitive adaptation, we recommend the extension officers, the council of elders, local chiefs and private investors as potential conduits of knowledge in rural areas. In conclusion, efficiency of these fused conflict resolution institutions is aided by the presence of holistic resource management policies and diversification in conflict resolution actors and networks.
Ethical Standards of Scientific Research for Beginning Accounting Scholars
Authors: Engel Cole
Published: February 2016

Analogous to public and private accounting practice, ethical scientific researchers must maintain the standards of honesty and objectivity as they carry out their scholarly pursuits. Any activities that compromise honesty and objectivity may introduce bias into research. Ethical considerations play a role in all research, and all investigators must be aware of and attend to the ethical considerations related to their studies. A foundation of trust is vital to scientific research. Nevertheless, ethical practice involves much more than merely following a set of guidelines. Ethical issues often have no easy answer. The issues are never black and white. Rather, they are various shades of grey. This article discusses how to ensure that all aspects of proposed research proceed with care and integrity and meet the ethical standards of scientific research.
Normative Organizational Commitment and its Effects on Employee Retention
Authors: Sow Mouhamadou , Anthony Peter , Berete Moussa
Published: February 2016

Given the strategic benefit of retaining employees, the need for identifying factors that drive employee retention has attracted the attention of both scholars and practitioners in the past few decades. Grounded on the self-determination theory of motivation, the purpose of this quantitative study with correlational design was to examine he relationship between normative commitment and turnover intention among healthcare internal auditors in the United States. The results of a correlational analysis using data from 92 healthcare internal auditors member of AHIA show a negative and significant relationship between normative commitment and turnover intention (r=-.248, p=.03). 
Sage-Grouse Nesting, Brood and Winter Habitat Characteristics in Montana
Authors: Woodward Jennifer , Sika Jenny , Wambolt Carl , Newell Jay , Schroff Sean , Sowell Bok
Published: February 2016

Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) habitat characteristics were studied in central Montana primarily on Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. wyomingensis Beetle & Young) dominated rangeland. The primary objective was to compare shrub and herbaceous parameters within (use, random or non-use) and between seasonal habitats (nest, brood, winter). Two study sites (Musselshell and Golden Valley counties), and 2 years (2004 and 2005) were compared. Nest, brood, and random sites were compared for herbaceous cover, and grass height (n = 648). Nest, brood, random, winter use and winter non-use sites were evaluated for shrub cover, density, and height. All differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. Sage-grouse nested in areas with greater total shrub cover and height, and taller live and residual grass than was randomly available. No differences were found between brood and paired random sites for any of the herbaceous or shrub parameters measured. Shrub cover and density were greater at winter use sites than non-use sites. Winter use sites had less shrub cover than nest sites. The nest and brood habitat had similar shrub cover, density, and height on the study area. Sage-grouse habitats should be managed to include sagebrush, forbs, and grass. Herbaceous vegetation was more important during nesting and brood rearing than during the winter. Therefore, some portions of sage-grouse habitat may benefit from management for greater herbaceous cover, but not at the expense of removing sagebrush. Sagebrush cover from 10 to 15 percent was the most consistent component of sage-grouse habitat.
Tactful Acquisitions & merger of The Walt Disney Company improved its performance, showed by financial & industry analysis
Authors: Latif Madiha , Jaskani Jawwad Hassan , Ilyas Tehreem , Saeed Irum , Shah Kaynaat , Azhar Nida
Published: February 2016

Case overview –This case contains detailed information about Walt Disney Co. that gives knowledge about its business environment, acquisitions & merger, market position & company performance. This study traces the reporting of the financial performance in Walt Disney as compared to the industry. Walt Disney was established in 1923 with a small sketch but now it is a giant as well as the market leader. Walt Disney is a market leader for a long time and is operating efficiently in the market. This case study illustrates its financial performance by comparing its financial data from 1999 to 2013. The company is growing year over year through acquisitions and mergers with the other firms. The company’s performance has been analyzed through various analysis and financial techniques to elaborate the actual financial condition of the company.The experiences gained from the current study will serve the businesses in entertainment industry through providing help full insights for the tactful strategies & elimination of financial risks. The unique analysis of the market helps to manage business environment. Also play a significant role in the development of a theoretical base for further research studies in the field of finance as well as for learning purposes.Expected learning outcomes – The objective of this case study is to demonstrate the critical success factors particularly in financial terms which provides a solid base for a business group to sustain its competitive position & market leader in the industry. The readers are expected to get numerous benefits from this case study. Like an understanding of calculation & interpretation of basis financial ratios & its implications for investors, creditors & financial managers which strengthen their decision making, and it also help researchers who keen about this industry, significance of various financial analyses for a business organization.
The Impact of Non-Accounting Ownership and Top Management Support on (ABC) Adoption among Service Companies in Jordan: Proposed Conceptual Framework
Authors: Jebreel Mohammad Farouq Hussein
Published: February 2016

Accurate costing information is crucial for services businesses and information for strategic decision, to maintain a competitive advantage over its competitor's Traditional costing system leads to cost information distortion ,therefor the management of these businesses to Activity Based Costing (ABC) was introduced to address the shortcomings of traditional volume-based costing system. Prior research in developed countries showed impact adoption of ABC for many of companies for different sectors However in developing countries there are shortage in these studies. In order to achieve the high degree of adopting ABC in developing countries. This paper proposes a conceptual framework to investigate the factors influences on the success of ABC through non-accounting ownership, top management and ABC adoption among Service Companies listed on the Amman Stock   Exchange (ASE).
Differences in Work Values by Gender, Marital Status, and Generation: An Analysis of Data Collected from “Working Persons Survey, 2010”
Authors: Ueda Yutaka , Ohzono Yoko
Published: February 2016

Work values have received a significant amount of attention from organizational researchers. This study performed an exploratory factor analysis of data collected from working persons living in the Tokyo metropolitan area. It identified four basic work values: accomplishment, contribution, power and authority, and monetary rewards. This study also examined the effects of gender, marital status, and generation on work values. The results revealed that males had higher levels of work values than females, except for monetary rewards. Married persons demonstrated higher levels of work values than unmarried persons did. Age exerted complicated effects on each work value. This study proposes some implications for practical applications of the results for human resource management and provides suggestions for future research.
THE APPROACH OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT OF SMEs IN TURKEY: ANALYSIS OF EU LDV PROJECTS
Authors: Tiftik Hidayet , Zincirkiran Mustafa
Published: February 2016

SMEs have very important roles and functions in the economy. SMEs which are the driving forces of the economy in developing countries are in different quests in terms of getting finance for both their expanding overseas and for business operations. In this sense, there are different projects offering economical, social and cultural opportunities to SMEs. One of the outstanding ones in our country is the European Union projects.This research consists of the review of the literature on the subject as well as the LDV (Leonardo Da Vinci) mobility projects which are the kinds of European Union projects and the works of SMEs in our country. The research carried out through the secondary data acquired from the National Agency, the short name of which is the Presidency of the European Union Education and Youth Programs includes the project application statistics of SMEs between 2004-2012 according to the provinces, project issues, and the number of people benefiting from these projects, and the relevant information related with the amount of funding provided by this means. As a result of this research, a number of proposals about project management have been submitted to SMEs operating in our country.
The Factors Influencing Student Satisfaction in Vietnamese Higher Education
Authors: Duong Minh-Quang
Published: February 2016

Student satisfaction has been considered an important factor in measuring the quality of learning approach and a key factor in the success of learning programs. The main purpose of this study investigated demographic factors affecting student satisfaction in Vietnamese higher education. In the study, I used a questionnaire to survey 618 third-year students of 24 departments and faculties at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. The findings of this study showed that students were moderately satisfied with their environment campus. The study also shows that there were significant differences between student satisfaction and mother education dimension.
The Relationship between Learning Styles and Metacognitive Reading Strategy of EFL Learners
Authors: Jafarpanah Zohreh , Farahian Majid
Published: February 2016

Learning styles and strategies are among the important factors which affect the learners’ performance in foreign language learning. The present study investigated the relationship between learning styles and metacognitive reading strategy of Iranian EFL (English as Foreign language) learners. It has also made an attempt to discover which learning style has the strongest correlation with metacognitive reading strategy. Accordingly, a total sample of 128 students who studied EFL at university was asked to answer a proficiency test. The purpose of administrating the proficiency test was to have a homogenized group of intermediate EFL learners. As the next step, the participants were asked to answer two questionnaires which explored their metacognitive reading strategy and learning styles. The data analysis indicated that thirteen learning styles out of twenty-three ones have a significant, positive correlation with metacognitive strategy. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between visual, auditory, introvert, intuitive, concrete, closure-oriented, synthesizing, analytic, sharpener, deductive, field independent, metaphoric, and reflective styles with metacognitive reading strategy. In addition, among 23 learning styles, visual, closure- oriented and synthesizing styles had the strongest correlation with metacognitive strategy. The findings revealed that Iranian EFL learners with these three learning styles use more metacognitive reading strategy.

Keywords: Learning Styles, Metacognitive Reading Strategy, Foreign Language Reading
Investigating the Relationship between Talent Management Strategy and Career Path of Principals of Schools in Shahr-e-Kord
Authors: Gholipour Zahra , Ali Siadat Seyed , Taghi Mahmoudi Mohammad
Published: February 2016

The aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between talent management strategy and career path in principals of schools in Shahr-e-Kord. The study is a descriptive-correlational one and its population includes all principals of high schools in Areas 1 and 2 of Shahr-e-Kord equal as 103 individuals in the academic year 2014-2015. A number of 81 principals were selected as participants via the simple random sampling and using Chochrane’s formula. To measure talent management, the Sweem standard questionnaire and to measure career path, the Schaufeli standard questionnaire were used. The reliability coefficients for the questionnaires were calculated using Chronbach’s alpha coefficients as 0.85 and 0.84 respectively. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation coefficient and regression coefficient by SPSS. The results indicated that talent management strategy has a positive and significant correlation with principals’ career path of principals of schools in Shahr-e-Kord. In addition, there is a direct and significant correlation between components of communication, performance management, training the staff and in acknowledgment of individuals with career path.
Green Purchase Intention: an examination of customers towards Adoption of Green Products
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Umar Hayat , Qureshi Qamar Shehzad , Rizwan Muhammad , Ahmad Aftab , Mehmood Farukh , Hashmi Faiza , Riaz Bushra , Nawaz Aneela
Published: February 2016

Increasing awareness on the various environmental problems has led a shift in the way consumers go about their life. There has been a change in consumer attitudes towards a green lifestyle and people are actively trying to reduce their impact on the environment. Massive industrialization has changed this world radically and leaving behind a curse to nature. Environmental reduction is a concern of people all around the globe. The purpose of this study is to identify the important factors that influence the green purchase intentions of the people. This study investigates the effects of different variables on green purchase intention of consumers. A sample of 150 respondents was taken from the students and professional in Bahawalpur City of Pakistan. The data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire, using the previous established scales. Regression results of the study validate all the hypotheses of the study confirming the significant impact of green perceived value, green trust, green environmental responsibility, green marketing tools and green purchase attitude on green purchase intention. The current study falsifies the assumption that the consumers in developing countries are less prone towards purchasing of green products. Managerial implications and limitations are discussed to make this study more fruitful.
Islamic Hire Purchase Law is Getting Special Attention in Malaysia: A Socio-Legal Analysis
Authors: Jalil Md. Abdul
Published: February 2016

The Muamalah Hire Purchase Bill (MHPB) was initially prepared by a group of members of the shariah supervisory council of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (BIMB) in 1991 and it was later submitted to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs in Malaysia and the Central Bank of Malaysia for review. Finally in the year 2000, it was referred to the Attorney General’s Chamber for further examination whether it met the shariah rules and how it could be implemented in Malaysia. However, the Bill could still not be submitted to the Parliament until today for consideration and approval due to certain reasons. The objective of this paper is to discuss the nature of the Islamic hire purchase contract (IHPC) and to compare it with the traditional hire purchase contract (THPC) for purposes to find the difference between the two systems of law. Descriptive and analytical research methodology had been applied in this research paper to analyze the collected data.

 Keywords: Traditional hire purchase contract (THPC), Hire Purchase Act (HPA), Muamalah Hire Purchase Bill (MHPB), Al-ijarah thumma al-bai (AITAB), Islamic hire purchase law (IHPL) etc.
Perception of Students’ Teachers’ and Parents’ towards Sexuality Education in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria.
Authors: Eko Jimmy Edi , Osuchukwu Nelson Chukwudi , Osonwa Okorie Kalu , Offiong Dominic Asuquo
Published: February 2016

ABSTRACT: This study was aimed at assessing the perception of students, teachers and perception in Calabar south local government area of Cross River State, Nigeria. A cross sectional survey was employed and a structured questionnaire was used to generate both qualitative and quantitative data from 850 respondents using the multi-stage stratified sampling technique. Most students were within the age bracket of 13-18 476 (95.2%), teachers were mostly within 25-29 years 54 (27.0%) and parents were mostly 40-44 years of age 22 (22.0%). Most study participants shared similar opinion that sex education should cover areas such as abstinence, HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, basis of reproduction etc. Masturbation, abortion and contraceptives were unanimously agreed not to be included in sex education content. A substantial proportion of the respondents agreed that abstinence-plus should be the main message of sex education in schools. Training for both parents and teachers should be provided by government and NGOs for accessibility of appropriate resources to develop capacity and confidence to deliver effective sexuality education to school adolescent. Policy makers need to formulate a definite, explicit, and workable sexuality education policy.
Self-Concept and Academic Achievement of Students at the Higher Secondary Level
Authors: Kumari Archana , Chamundeswari S.
Published: February 2016

Self-concept is the cognitive aspect of self and generally refers to the totality of a complex, organized and dynamic system of learned beliefs, attitudes and opinions that each person holds to be true about his or her personal existence. Self-concept and achievement are dynamically interactive and reciprocal. It is found that certain psychological factors like self-concept plays a major role in determining the academic achievement of students. Hence the need for this study. A sample of 321 students in different categories of schools following different systems of education at the higher secondary level was chosen. The findings of the study conducted revealed that students belonging to central board schools were better in their self-concept and academic achievement when compared to students from other boards. There is also a significant and positive relationship between self-concept and academic achievement of students at the higher secondary level.

 

Keywords: Self-concept, Academic Achievement, Psychological factors
Practices of Malaria Prevention among School Adolescent within Calabar Metropolis, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Eko Jimmy , Osonwa Okorie Kalu , Offiong Dominic Asuquo
Published: February 2016

Abstract: This study examines the practices of Malaria prevention among school adolescent within Calabar Metropolis, Southern Nigeria. Stratified and systematic sampling technique was used to select four hundred (400) respondents used as the sample for the study. Questionnaire was administered to the respondents. Data collected were analyzed by the use of frequency tables, graphs, means, and standard deviation. Chi-square was used to compare proportions and associations between variables. It was discovered that respondents who have heard of malaria 400 (100%) are also aware of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITN), 394 (98.5%) but the use of ITN was substantially average among them. Stagnant water and over grown weeds were identified as breeding site for Anopheles mosquito. Health workers, followed by media were the major sources of information on malaria prevention. It is recommended that school teachers should be empowered with information about the causes of malaria and prevention strategies.

 

 

 

Keywords: Malaria prevention, School adolescent, Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria

 
Max Weber's Sociology of Law Applied to a Case of Judicial Intervention into State-Sanctioned Inmate Abuse
Authors: Farmer J. Forbes
Published: February 2016

Applying Weber's classical sociology of law as the theoretical lens, the author revisits a famous judicial intervention (Ruiz v. Estelle 1980) aimed at curtailing the cruel and unusual punishment suffered by indigent and uneducated inmates and perpetrated by prison staff and inmate overseers, known as "building tenders." Marquart and Crouch (1984; 1985) and Ekland-Olson (1986) wrote case studies of this intervention into the activity at a unit of an American state prison system on data they obtained from participant observation, formal and informal interviews with correctional officers and inmates, and institutional documents (e.g. log books, memos and inmate records). The following article follows the outline of the series of events described in these cases and adds a Weberian explanation of the changing forms of justice that are both rational and irrational, formal and substantive.
Where are we in the question of identity: Jordanian youth as a model
Authors: Al-Rousan Safwat , Al-Rousan Mohammed , Al-Shurman Yousef
Published: February 2016

This study aimed at investigating the concept of national identity and its constituents as perceived by Jordanian youth. Its main question is about the identity we have nowadays. The study sought to understand and analyze the concept of identity and its subjective and objective constituents through the identification of the perceptions of Jordanian youth of the identity by realizing its constituents, following the approach of social field studies and through some simple statistical analyses based on a sample which consisted of (250) young university people. They were asked about national identity and its most prominent constituents through the method of international sample. After analyzing the results, the study concluded the following:

First:   Jordanian youth consider identity as the perception of membership to both Jordan and the tribe and devotion to the political regime as being the protector of this identity and its connection with their living place and way of upbringing.

Second: The most prominent constituent of identity is the regional dimension with (62%), followed by the national dimension (21%), and finally the religions dimension (17%).

Third: The study concluded the result that there is confusion among Jordanian youth in regard to the constituents of identity, its local and national concept and the degree of perception.

The study recommended the necessity for the preparation of joint programs between the public sector and the institutions of civil society in order to create common distributors within the Jordanian collective sensation for one identity that reinforces membership to both society and identity simultaneously.
Diversification of Woman Job at Informal Sector in Pare-Pare Nusantara Harbour
Authors: . Asmirah , Idris Rabihatun , Pandu Maria E. , Suhaeb Firdaus W.
Published: February 2016

A great quantity of society whose economic problems caused the increasing of woman number who work for earning additional income. Man and woman share role in their household where woman play either housewife role or actively work out of the house to ear additional income. Working at informal sector is more flexible because it does not need certain requirements, except physical ability and a little financial capital. In order to be able to sustain life, women can choose many works at informal sector as a strategy earning sufficient income. Eventhough, factually still there many people does not live prosperously yet. Diversification job can be done due to the flexibility of each job. And the most important thing is the willingness to work and do not strive for gaining a big profit.
We shape it, you make it: “Facing” and “Voicing” language-in-education policy in Barbados
Authors: Denny Stacy
Published: February 2016

This study examines language-in-education policies in other countries to determine the best kind of language policy for Barbados, the challenges which are presented by the process and feasible measures/plans for developing that policy. The aim is to convince policymakers of the need for an explicit, cohesive, ‘humanised’ language policy in order to improve the health of language education in the country.
“Hypercitizenship” And The Evolution Of A Global Identity
Authors: Pitasi Andrea , Angrisani Mariarosalba
Published: February 2016

The idea of the paper moves from the consideration of autonomous agents and global flows eventually converging by means of autopoietic systems.

This work reframes the topic of the reconfiguration in the evolving social scenarios within Pitasi’s concept of HYPERCITIZENSHIP, sketched out by designing a muldimensional and multipolar convergence among different kinds of citizenship.

With its four conceptual dimensions, Hypercitizenship, features the strategic attitude of those areas in which capitalism is turning into turbogenetic capitalism. Its main features are the following: Cosmopolitan, scientific, societarian and entrepreneurial.

The Hypercitizenship concept is focused on the fact that communication about key challenges of our times is increasingly meaning communication and public understanding of science and technology for governance and policymaking on a global, glocal and cosmopolitan scale.

From this point of view, law becomes one of the à la carte products to be bought by browsing a global "catalogue" (Mundus) surfing on a technological global platform (Globus) of which the internet is the best metaphor and which can be seen as the most important platform for convergence developments and as a driver of several, key, changes. This new media platform is cosmopolitan and glocal while the mass media often still fall into the methodological nationalism trap. Indeed, the emerging scenarios are more and more shaped by supranational (UN, EU, NAFTA) or multinational (Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s…) entities and by new localisms which cannot survive outside a global network.  

Thus, the emerging glocality is witnessing that the “national state” citizenship is too big -bureaucratically speaking-, but too small -in competitive terms-, to be strategic in the merging scenarios.

Hence, the importance of a new conception of citizenship in the glocal age is rising, which we refer to as “Hypercitizenship”.