bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Perspectives on the Beneficial Role of Ginkgo biloba in Neurological and Cerebrovascular Disorders
Authors: Nash Kevin M. , Shah Zahoor A.
Published: November 2015

Ginkgo biloba extract is an alternative medicine available as a standardized formulation, EGb 761®, which consists of ginkgolides, bilobalide, and flavonoids. The individual constituents have varying therapeutic mechanisms that contribute to the pharmacological activity of the extract as a whole. Recent studies show anxiolytic properties of ginkgolide A, migraine with aura treatment by ginkgolide B, a reduction in ischemia-induced glutamate excitotoxicity by bilobalide, and an alternative antihypertensive property of quercetin, among others. These findings have been observed in EGb 761 as well and have led to clinical investigation into its use as a therapeutic for conditions such as cognition, dementia, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular diseases. This review explores the therapeutic mechanisms of the individual EGb 761 constituents to explain the pharmacology as a whole and its clinical application to cardiovascular and neurological disorders, in particular ischemic stroke.
Análisis de la estabilidad de diques rompeolas
Authors: Vidal César , Losada Miguel Ángel , Medina Raúl , Losada Iñigo
Published: November 2015

Uno de los factores determinantes del diseño de los diques rompeolas es el relativo al tipo y peso de las piezas del manto principal, que con un talud determinado, son capaces de resistir las solicitaciones debidas al oleaje. En este artículo se realiza una revisión del estado del arte de los métodos de cálculo de la estabilidad hidrodinámica de las piezas del manto principal de los diques rompeolas. A lo largo de los diferentes apartados se analizan la estabilidad de las piezas del manto exterior y de los morros de los diques no rebasables, de los diferentes mantos de los diques rebasables y de los diques berma. Junto al análisis anterior se acompañan las tablas y gráficos que permiten el cálculo del peso de las piezas artificiales y naturales más utilizadas. Por último se dedica un breve apartado al problema de la determinación de la solicitación de cálculo.
"Ecualizador": un método integral para la decisión con múltiples objetivos
Authors: Jaramillo Álvarez Patricia , Andreu Álvarez Joaquín , Smith Quintero Ricardo
Published: November 2015

Se presenta un sistema soporte para la toma de decisión multiobjetivo en un espacio continuo, en el que se integraron métodos clásicos y una metodología que se ha denominado "ecualizador" por las facultades regularizadoras entre intereses respecto a objetivos. Esta permite que el decisor, partiendo desde una solución inicial, "navegue" dentro del espacio de los objetivos. Mediante aprendizaje sobre posibles intercambios entre objetivos y limitaciones del espacio factible, va deduciendo sus verdaderas preferencias hasta que el proceso converja en una solución completamente satisfactoria para el decisor. Esta metodología tiene especial aplicación en la gestión de recursos naturales, en especial los recursos hídricos. Se presenta una aplicación del sistema soporte desarrollado en el caso de la gestión de agua para riego en la cuenca del Guadalquivir.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Vocational Fit Assessment (VFA)
Authors: Persch Andrew C. , Gugiu P. Cristian , Onate James A. , Cleary Dennis S.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Vocational Fit Assessment (VFA) by examining its factor structure and subscale reliability.

METHOD. This prospective cross-sectional study used two surveys (one for worker abilities and one for job demands) to collect the data needed for the psychometric evaluation of the VFA. Latent parallel analysis and ordinal exploratory factor analysis were used to iteratively refine VFA subscales.

RESULTS. Ten unidimensional subscales emerged from factor analysis of VFA items: (1) Cognitive Abilities, (2) Communication Skills, (3) Computer Skills, (4) Higher Task-Related Abilities, (5) Interpersonal Skills, (6) Lower Task-Related Abilities, (7) Physical Abilities, (8) Safety, (9) Self-Determination, and (10) Work Structure. Subscale internal consistency (ordinal α) was ≥.86 for VFA for worker abilities and ≥.77 for VFA for job demands.

CONCLUSION. The unidimensional structure of VFA subscales and estimates of internal consistency lend initial evidence in support of their reliability and validity.
Systematic Review of Yoga Interventions for Anxiety Reduction Among Children and Adolescents
Authors: Weaver Lindy L. , Darragh Amy R.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE. Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychological disorders among children and youths. There is growing interest in intervention options for anxiety. Yoga is widely used in clinical, school, and community settings, but consolidated sources outlining its effectiveness in reducing anxiety are limited.

METHOD. This systematic review examined the evidence base (1990–2014) for yoga interventions addressing anxiety among children and adolescents (ages 3–18 yr).

RESULTS. We identified 2,147 references and found 80 articles that were eligible for full-text review. The final analysis included 16: 6 randomized controlled trials, 2 nonrandomized preintervention–postintervention control-group designs, 7 uncontrolled preintervention–postintervention studies, and 1 case study.

CONCLUSION. Nearly all studies indicated reduced anxiety after a yoga intervention. However, because of the wide variety of study populations, limitations in some study designs, and variable outcome measures, further research is needed to enhance the ability to generalize and apply yoga to reduce anxiety.
Linda Lee Buettner, PhD, LRT, CTRS May 13, 1955 to April 26, 2012
Authors: Richeson, PhD, CTRS Nancy E.
Published: November 2015

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Evidence supporting exercise interventions for persons in early-stage Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Buettner, PhD, CTRS, LRT Linda , Richeson, PhD, CTRS Nancy E. , Yu, PhD Fang , Burgener, APRN-BC, FAAN, PhD Sandy C. , Buckwalter, PhD, RN, FAAN Kathleen Coen , Beattie, PhD Elizabeth , Bossen, MSN, RN Ann L. , Fick, PhD, APRN-BC Donna M. , Fitzsimmons, MS, APRN-BC Suzanne , Kolanowski, PhD, FAAN Ann , Rose, PhD, RN Karen , Pringle Specht, PhD, RN, FAAN Janet K. , Testad, PhD, RN Ingelin , McKenzie, PhD, CTRS Sharon
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this article is to grade research evidence supporting exercise-based interventions for persons with early-stage dementias and to report the recommendations of a consensus panel. The search produced 11 databased articles testing the effects of exercise interventions on a variety of outcomes. The body of evidence to support exercise interventions in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease is growing and has potential as a treatment modality following translational studies in recreation therapy and other fields.
Riding the waves of change
Authors: Richeson, PhD, CTRS Nancy E.
Published: November 2015

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The influence of the Outward Bound Veterans Program on sense of coherence
Authors: Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS Marieke , Ewert, PhD Alan W. , Luo, PhD Yuan
Published: November 2015

Veterans returning from Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn may experience threats to their mental health and well-being as a result of their military service. The sense of coherence is a concept that is health promoting, and when high, can be protective against negative health consequences of stress. There are few studies that have determined interventions that may enhance the sense of coherence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the influence of the Outward Bound Veterans Program (OBVP) on the sense of coherence for US veterans. This study examined 246 veterans who attended the OBVP. The OBVP is a program that uses problem-solving tasks and challenges in a land or water-based outdoor setting that become increasingly difficult. The OBVP relies on teamwork and a series of physical and cognitive challenges. After attending the OBVP, there was a significant increase in the sense of coherence for veterans, and this change persisted 1 year following the completion of the program.To our knowledge, this is the first intervention that has demonstrated increased sense of coherence following an intervention and 1 year later. Recreational therapists should consider the sense of coherence as an important variable when working with veterans.
Impact of seated Tai Chi on range of motion as a therapeutic recreation intervention
Authors: Lane, EdD, CTRS Suzie W. L. , Chun, PhD, CTRS Sanghee
Published: November 2015

Given the large population of older adults and the prevalence of increasing medical costs in the United States, there is a need for alternative means to assist or increase mobility and physical functioning. This study evaluated the efficacy of seated Tai Chi, specifically the number of sessions needed to facilitate an improvement in shoulder mobility. Twenty-eight individuals between the ages 65 and 83 began this program, and 22 completed all nine sessions. This evaluation indicated that shoulder flexion and abduction were significantly increased after six sessions and increased again after three additional sessions.
Leisure fitness: A recreation therapy concept design
Authors: Mikula, MA, CTRS, CSCS, HFS John R. , Smith, BS, CTRS, HFS Paul
Published: November 2015

This article examines the benefits of the recreation therapy intervention leisure fitness and its potential for positively affecting the health and well being of those with chronic health problems. Working within a wide variety of settings, qualified recreation therapists facilitate a leisure-fitness (LF) process to promote endurance, strength, mobility, and psycho-social well being among consumers. This article provides a practical concept design for the development and implementation of a recreation therapy LF program.
The prevalence of evidence-based practice by the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in the intervention planning process for client treatment
Authors: Gerken, PhD, CTRS, CPRP, CDSS Michelle D. , Costello, PhD Patti , Mrkic, MS Linda
Published: November 2015

Currently, there is a paucity of research examining the extent to which evidence-based practice (EBP) is being used by the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of EBP used by the CTRSs in the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTC) southern district of the United States. This observational study investigated the use of EBP in the intervention planning process for client treatment. A sample of 500 randomly selected CTRS from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) was surveyed, and 102 completed the survey, yielding a 20.4 percent response rate. The results clearly demonstrate that EBP is used at least some of the time by a majority of all CTRS. However, this survey indicates that EBP is not being used by most CTRS a majority of the time. Other results showed that only 27.7 percent of the respondents seek out research related to their clinical practice and evidence for validation 75 percent of the time or always. 31.7 percent apply research results to clinical practice 75 percent of the time or always. 33.7 percent use research to assist in developing recreation therapy (RT) intervention plans 75 percent of the time or always. 25.7 percent base their clinical decisions on research evidence 75 percent of the time or always, and 45.6 percent use RT interventions based on EBP 75 percent of the time or always. The goal of the RT profession should be to increase the use of research results and EBP so that all practicing CTRS are using them most, if not all of the time. EBP is a means toward effective client treatment which furthermore may aid in the survival and permanent inclusion of the RT profession in the healthcare world.
Putting the clouds back in aerosol–cloud interactions
Authors: Gettelman A.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Aerosol–cloud interactions (ACI) are the consequence of perturbed aerosols affecting cloud drop and crystal number, with corresponding microphysical and radiative effects. ACI are sensitive to both cloud microphysical processes (the "C" in ACI) and aerosol emissions and processes (the "A" in ACI). This work highlights the importance of cloud microphysical processes, using idealized and global tests of a cloud microphysics scheme used for global climate prediction. Uncertainties in key cloud microphysical processes examined with sensitivity tests cause uncertainties of nearly −30 to +60 % in ACI, similar to or stronger than uncertainties identified due to natural aerosol emissions (−30 to +30 %). The different dimensions and sensitivities of ACI to microphysical processes identified in previous work are analyzed in detail, showing that precipitation processes are critical for understanding ACI and that uncertain cloud lifetime effects are nearly one-third of simulated ACI. Buffering of different processes is important, as is the mixed phase and coupling of the microphysics to the condensation and turbulence schemes in the model.
Modeling study on the transport of summer dust and anthropogenic aerosols over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Y. , Sato Y. , Jia R. , Xie Y. , Huang J. , Nakajima T.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The Tibetan Plateau (TP) is located at the juncture of several important natural and anthropogenic aerosol sources. Satellites have observed substantial dust and anthropogenic aerosols in the atmosphere during summer over the TP. These aerosols have distinct effects on the earth's energy balance, microphysical cloud properties, and precipitation rates. To investigate the transport of summer dust and anthropogenic aerosols over the TP, we combined the Spectral Radiation-Transport Model for Aerosol Species (SPRINTARS) with a non-hydrostatic regional model (NHM). The model simulation shows heavily loaded dust aerosols over the northern slope and anthropogenic aerosols over the southern slope and the east of the TP. The dust aerosols are primarily mobilized around the Taklimakan Desert, where a portion of the aerosols are transported eastward due to the northwesterly current; simultaneously, a portion of the particles are transported southward when a second northwesterly current becomes northeasterly because of the topographic blocking of the northern slope of the TP. Because of the strong upward current, dust plumes can extend upward to approximately 7–8 km a.s.l. over the northern slope of the TP. When a dust event occurs, anthropogenic aerosols that entrained into the southwesterly current via the Indian summer monsoon are transported from India to the southern slope of the TP. Simultaneously, a large amount of anthropogenic aerosol is also transported from eastern China to the east of the TP by easterly winds. An investigation on the transport of dust and anthropogenic aerosols over the plateau may provide the basis for determining aerosol impacts on summer monsoons and climate systems.
C : N : P stoichiometry at the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study station in the North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Singh A. , Baer S. E. , Riebesell U. , Martiny A. C. , Lomas M. W.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability, in addition to other macro- and micronutrients, determine the strength of the ocean's carbon (C) uptake, and variation in the N : P ratio of inorganic nutrient pools is key to phytoplankton growth. A similarity between C : N : P ratios in the plankton biomass and deep-water nutrients was observed by Alfred C. Redfield around 80 years ago and suggested that biological processes in the surface ocean controlled deep-ocean chemistry. Recent studies have emphasized the role of inorganic N : P ratios in governing biogeochemical processes, particularly the C : N : P ratio in suspended particulate organic matter (POM), with somewhat less attention given to exported POM and dissolved organic matter (DOM). Herein, we extend the discussion on ecosystem C : N : P stoichiometry but also examine temporal variation in stoichiometric relationships. We have analyzed elemental stoichiometry in the suspended POM and total (POM + DOM) organic-matter (TOM) pools in the upper 100 m and in the exported POM and subeuphotic zone (100–500 m) inorganic nutrient pools from the monthly data collected at the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) site located in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean. C : N and N : P ratios in TOM were at least twice those in the POM, while C : P ratios were up to 5 times higher in TOM compared to those in the POM. Observed C : N ratios in suspended POM were approximately equal to the canonical Redfield ratio (C : N : P = 106 : 16 : 1), while N : P and C : P ratios in the same pool were more than twice the Redfield ratio. Average N : P ratios in the subsurface inorganic nutrient pool were ~ 26 : 1, squarely between the suspended POM ratio and the Redfield ratio. We have further linked variation in elemental stoichiometry to that of phytoplankton cell abundance observed at the BATS site. Findings from this study suggest that elemental ratios vary with depth in the euphotic zone, mainly due to different growth rates of cyanobacterial cells. We have also examined the role of the Arctic Oscillation on temporal patterns in C : N : P stoichiometry. This study strengthens our understanding of the variability in elemental stoichiometry in different organic-matter pools and should improve biogeochemical models by constraining the range of non-Redfield stoichiometry and the net relative flow of elements between pools.
The keystone species of Precambrian deep bedrock biosphere belong to Burkholderiales and Clostridiales
Authors: Purkamo L. , Bomberg M. , Kietäväinen R. , Salavirta H. , Nyyssönen M. , Nuppunen-Puputti M. , Ahonen L. , Kukkonen I. , Itävaara M.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The bacterial and archaeal community composition and the possible carbon assimilation processes and energy sources of microbial communities in oligotrophic, deep, crystalline bedrock fractures is yet to be resolved. In this study, intrinsic microbial communities from six fracture zones from 180–2300 m depths in Outokumpu bedrock were characterized using high-throughput amplicon sequencing and metagenomic prediction. Comamonadaceae-, Anaerobrancaceae- and Pseudomonadaceae-related OTUs form the core community in deep crystalline bedrock fractures in Outokumpu. Archaeal communities were mainly composed of Methanobacteraceae-affiliating OTUs. The predicted bacterial metagenomes showed that pathways involved in fatty acid and amino sugar metabolism were common. In addition, relative abundance of genes coding the enzymes of autotrophic carbon fixation pathways in predicted metagenomes was low. This indicates that heterotrophic carbon assimilation is more important for microbial communities of the fracture zones. Network analysis based on co-occurrence of OTUs revealed the keystone genera of the microbial communities belonging to Burkholderiales and Clostridiales. Bacterial communities in fractures resemble those found from oligotrophic, hydrogen-enriched environments. Serpentinization reactions of ophiolitic rocks in Outokumpu assemblage may provide a source of energy and organic carbon compounds for the microbial communities in the fractures. Sulfate reducers and methanogens form a minority of the total microbial communities, but OTUs forming these minor groups are similar to those found from other deep Precambrian terrestrial bedrock environments.
Foraging segregation of two congeneric diving seabird species (common and thick-billed murres) breeding on St. George Island, Bering Sea
Authors: Kokubun N. , Yamamoto T , Sato N. , Watanuki Y. , Will A. , Kitaysky A. S. , Takahashi A.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Sub-arctic environmental changes are expected to affect the ecology of marine top predators. We examined the characteristics of foraging behavior of two sympatric congeneric diving seabirds, common (Uria aalge: hereafter COMU) and thick-billed (U. lomvia: hereafter TBMU) murres breeding on St. George Island located in the seasonal sea-ice region of the Bering Sea. We investigated their flight duration, diel patterns of dive depth, and underwater wing strokes, along with morphology and blood stable isotopes. Acceleration-temperature-depth data loggers were attached to chick-guarding birds, and behavioral data were obtained from 7 COMU and 12 TBMU. Both species showed similar trip duration (13.21 ± 4.79 h for COMU and 10.45 ± 7.09 h for TBMU) and similar diurnal patterns of diving (frequent dives to various depths in the daytime and less frequent dives to shallow depths in the nighttime). During the daytime, dive depths of COMU had two peaks in shallow (18.1 ± 6.0 m) and deep (74.2 ± 8.7 m) depths, while those of TBMU were 20.2 ± 7.4 m and 59.7 ± 7.9 m. COMU showed more frequent wing strokes during the bottom phase of dives (1.90 ± 0.11 s−1) than TBMU (1.66 ± 0.15 s−1). Fishes occurred with higher proportion in the bill-loads brought back to chicks in COMU (85 %) than in TBMU (56 %). δ15N value of blood was significantly higher in COMU (14.47 ± 0.27 ‰) than in TBMU (13.14 ± 0.36 ‰). Relatively small wing area (0.053 ± 0.007 m2) of COMU compared to TBMU (0.067 ± 0.007 m2) may make them more agile underwater and thus enable them to target more mobile prey including larger fishes that inhabit deeper depths. These differences in foraging behavior between COMU and TBMU might explain the differences in their responses to long-term marine environmental changes.
Severe summer heat waves over Georgia: trends, patterns and driving forces
Authors: Keggenhoff I. , Elizbarashvili M. , King L.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. During the last 50 years Georgia experienced a rising number of severe summer heat waves causing increasing heat-health impacts. In this study, the 10 most severe heat waves between 1961 and 2010 and recent changes in heat wave characteristics have been detected from 22 homogenized temperature minimum and maximum series using the Excess Heat Factor (EHF). A composite and Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) have been performed to study summer heat wave patterns and their relationships to the selected predictors: mean Sea Level Pressure (SLP), Geopotential Height at 500 mb (Z500), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Zonal (u-wind500) and Meridional Wind at 500 mb (v-wind500), Vertical Velocity at 500 mb (O500), Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR), Relative Humidity (RH500), Precipitation (RR) and Soil Moisture (SM). Most severe heat events during the last 50 years are identified in 2007, 2006 and 1998. Largest significant trend magnitudes for the number, intensity and duration of low and high-impact heat waves have been found during the last 30 years. Significant changes in the heat wave predictors reveal that all relevant surface and atmospheric patterns contributing to heat waves have been intensified between 1961 and 2010. Composite anomalies and CCA patterns provide evidence of a large anticyclonic blocking pattern over the southern Ural Mountains, which attracts warm air masses from the Southwest, enhances subsidence and surface heating, shifts the African Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) northwards, and causes a northward shift of the subtropical jet. Moreover, pronounced precipitation and soil moisture deficiency throughout Georgia contribute to the heat wave formation and persistence over Georgia. Due to different large- to mesoscale circulation patterns and the local terrain, heat wave effects over Eastern Georgia are dominated by subsidence and surface heating, while convective rainfall and cooling are observed in the West.
Local finite-time Lyapunov exponent, local sampling and probabilistic source and destination regions
Authors: BozorgMagham A. E. , Ross S. D. , Schmale D. G.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The finite-time Lyapunov exponent (FTLE) is a powerful Lagrangian concept widely used for describing large-scale flow patterns and transport phenomena. However, field experiments usually have modest scales. Therefore, it is necessary to bridge the gap between the concept of FTLE and field experiments. In this paper, two independent observations are discussed: (i) approximation of the local FTLE time series at a fixed location as a function of known distances between the destination (or source) points of released (or collected) particles and local velocity, and (ii) estimation of the distances between the destination (or source) points of the released (or collected) particles when consecutive release (or sampling) events are performed at a fixed location. These two observations lay the groundwork for an ansatz methodology that can practically assist in field experiments where consecutive samples are collected at a fixed location, and it is desirable to attribute source locations to the collected particles, and also in planning of optimal local sampling of passive particles for maximal diversity monitoring of atmospheric assemblages of microorganisms. In addition to deterministic flows, the more realistic case of unresolved turbulence and low-resolution flow data that yield probabilistic source (or destination) regions are studied. It is shown that, similar to deterministic flows, Lagrangian coherent structures (LCS) and local FTLE can describe the separation of probabilistic source (or destination) regions corresponding to consecutively collected (or released) particles.
Lines of power: Availability to networks as a social phenomenon
Authors: Banks David A.
Published: November 2015

More than a semantic difference, investigating what it means to be online or offline shines light on the contours and configurations of digitally augmented life (Jurgenson, 2011). Through the analysis of primary and secondary sources, this essay traces the origin of the terms online and offline to the early railroad industry where “the line” was a powerful orienting image. I propose that rather than an individual binary status; online/offline distinctions are more accurately described as a communal social relationship. This paper will argue that, rather than boycotts or similar market solutions, users are best served by following the historical example of railroads and fighting for democratized administrative control over networks.
Pulling the plug visually: Images of resistance to ICTs and connectivity
Authors: Gomez Ricardo , Foot Kirsten , Young Meg , Paquet-Kinsley Rose , Morrison Stacey
Published: November 2015

As information and communication technologies (ICTs) become ever more present and pervasive in daily life, the use or non-use of ICTs can provide choices as well as obstacles or exclusion. As people look for ways to reduce ICT use and push back on ICT immersion, some express resistance to ICTs via ICTs. Building on past scholarship based largely on interviews, surveys and textual analysis, this exploratory study analyzes a collection of images posted online that express a critique of the ubiquity and constancy of ICT use, in more dramatic ways than texts allow and in far more subtle ways than a binary division between users and non-users. Our findings of this visual content analysis of 233 images discuss the use of humor, metaphor and blurred boundaries between digital and non-digital worlds in images of resistance and show distinct patterns in representations of problems engendered by ICTs, their criticism and in the antidotes suggested in the images.
Technologies of avoidance: The swear jar and the cell phone
Authors: Plaut Ethan R.
Published: November 2015

Technologies of communication and use receive much scholarly attention while technologies of avoidance and non-use receive comparatively little. A framework for rethinking limitations we place on our own uses of digital media is developed through a case study of one apparently simple pre-digital tool of avoidance, the swear jar, paying special attention to the physical environments and social contexts that determine its power. Those insights are then applied to numerous digital examples, especially mobile technologies. Among other conclusions, we must expand the ideas of “communication technologies” and even “communication” itself to accommodate tools and practices both old and new for carving out quiet.
The gender-technology divide or perceptions of non-use?
Authors: Kumar Neha
Published: November 2015

There exists a widely acknowledged gender divide in rural India that is perceived to complicate, often cripple, women’s access to various new media technologies, including mobile devices that their male counterparts have been using for several years. My research takes a deeper look at this divide to offer a more nuanced understanding that extends beyond the dualism of use and non-use and deconstructs the popular notions that rural Indian women are digitally illiterate, have little time or inclination to use technology, or would find it to be of little use. I analyze the role that patriarchal practices play in structuring the perceptions of women’s interactions with mobile phones using qualitative data collected over multiple site visits to Raebareli district in rural Uttar Pradesh (India).
Smartphone resistance as media ambivalence
Authors: Ribak Rivka , Rosenthal Michele
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we develop the notion of media ambivalence to account for such seemingly unrelated practices as content filtering, screen-time limitation and social media rejection. We propose that as compared to resistances to dedicated communication technologies with an on/off button, resistances in a neoliberal age of ubiquitous, convergent media are temporary and local. Analyzing interviews with smartphone resisters, we discuss their critique of smartphone culture; their investment in their feature phones and their pride and unease over using them; and their sense that their resistance cannot last. Interpreting smartphone resistance as a form of media ambivalence, we suggest that in terms of scope, contemporary resistance is aimed at a single medium, platform or practice that is singled out of the convergence; that its meaning develops over time along with technological and cultural changes; and that it acquires personal, social and political significance from related uses and resistances.
Strategic Management and Branding Panacea for Surviving in Volatile Environments: Case of Zimbabwe Tourism Industry
Authors: Chigora Farai , Zvavahera Promise
Published: November 2015

The Zimbabwe tourism destination has been rebranded three times between the years 1980 and 2011. It started with the brand name “Discover Zimbabwe” after independence in 1980, to “Africa Paradise” in 1996, then “Zimbabwe a World of Wonders” in 2011. The change was done as an effort to strategically position the country’s tourism destination through an attractive brand. The first two brands failed to change the perceptions of tourists towards Zimbabwe. This study sought to explore strategic factors that might have affected the tourism destination. The research applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches to extract data. The results showed that the majority of tourism players in Zimbabwe used the branding concept separately from strategic management. The study discovered that the failure of the tourism industry is attributed to the failure by the authorities to strategically consult key stakeholders in the formulation of the brand. The study therefore, recommended a brand-strategic model suitable for tourism destinations emphasising on combining branding and strategic management.
Realigning Value Chain Concept towards Destination Branding: Zimbabwe Tourism Destination Reality
Authors: Chigora Farai , Zvavahera Promise
Published: November 2015

The study analysed the value chain model that was used to analyse the sustainable competitive advantage of manufacturing businesses by Porter in 1985. The processes of the model which are both primary and secondary variables were matched and compared to the tourism destination processes. This was done in order to design a specific value chain model that can be used by a tourism destination so as to improve brand equity. The study therefore analysed Zimbabwe as a tourism destination which needs to improve its brand equity through an effective tourism value chain. The study used a sequential mixed method in order to establish data from respondents. It started with a qualitative design whereby by Zimbabwe tourism destination processes were established through in-depth interviews from various experts in the industry. The identified variables were local people, natural resources and destination marketers. Also the respondents agreed that the secondary factors for a Zimbabwe tourism destination value chain include finance, skilled human resources, infrastructure, sustainable practices and global partnerships. The relationship of Zimbabwe tourism destination variables to Porter’s primary value chain activities were identified through a quantitative design using survey questionnaires. The results of the study showed that the inbound logistics is related to local people, operations to natural resources and outbound logistics to destination marketers. The study recommended a value chain model specifically for tourism destinations that comprise of local people, natural resources and destination marketers as the primary activities. An effective mix of the tourism primary factors and secondary factors (finance, infrastructure, skilled human resources, sustainable practices and global partners) will lead to improved brand equity for the Zimbabwe tourism destination.
Attitudinal and Behavioural Loyalty: Zimbabwe Tourism Brand Performance Ascendancy
Authors: Chigora Farai , Zvavahera Promise
Published: November 2015

The study investigated the most common sources of brand loyalty in Zimbabwe’s tourism destination. This was based on two dominant sources of brand loyalty which are attitudinal and behavioural loyalty. The main reason for the study was that Zimbabwe’s tourism brand is underperforming due to various socio-economic and political factors such that authorities should know on the most prevailing source of brand loyalty. This helps in formulating strategies that turn either attitudinal or behavioural loyalty to better Zimbabwe tourism brand performance. The study used a sequential mixed methods research design which is a combination of both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In-depth interviews were carried out with various experts from the tourism industry in order to come up with the common sources of tourist loyalty in Zimbabwe. The identified variables were personal experience, general perception, media propaganda, word of mouth reference and speculations. These variables were then investigated as sources of brand loyalty through survey questionnaires that were distributed in the Zimbabwe tourism accommodation sector and resorts. The results showed that the most effective source of brand loyalty is media propaganda followed by word of mouth reference then speculation, personal experience and general perception. The most common sources have been classified as attitudinal effects and that study recommended effective media publicity management, sponsored familarisation tours and tourism brand showcasing partnerships at both regional and international levels.
Awareness Completes Brand Loyalty: Reality of Zimbabwe Tourism Destination
Authors: Chigora Farai , Zvavahera Promise
Published: November 2015

The study investigated the supremacy of raising tourism destination awareness in improving brand loyalty. This was based on the fact that Zimbabwe as a tourism destination has received global awareness through various campaigns but still failing to improve its tourism destination brand loyalty. Therefore the study applied both a positivists and interpretivist’s paradigm using quantitative and qualitative research designs respectively. Sequentially the research design started with a qualitative approach whereby senior managers in the tourism industry were interviewed and agreed that the most common sources of brand loyalty are brand awareness, brand image and perceived brand quality. These variables were then investigated on their relationship to brand loyalty using survey questionnaires that were distributed to the three main sectors of the tourism industry namely accommodation, travel and resorts. The results of the study showed that brand image is the most dominant variable which needs to be uplifted in order to improve Zimbabwe tourism destination’s brand loyalty. This is then followed by brand awareness and perceived brand quality. It is when there is an acceptable image of the Zimbabwe’s tourism brand that positive brand awareness will be created and perceived quality will be enhanced in moment of truth experiences. The study recommended an intensive media campaign to change the current negative perception on Zimbabwe as a tourism destination and sponsored familarisation tours. Also the study recommended an effective evaluation of the tourism products and services in order to see if they are of required quality and an intensive stakeholder involvement in brand formulation.
Understanding the spatiotemporal sample
Authors: Kovácsné Székely Ilona
Published: November 2015

One of the most fundamental concept of statistics is the (random) sample. Our experience – acquired during the years of undergraduate education – showed that prior to industrial practice, the students in geology (and, most probably, in many other non-mathematics oriented disciplines as well) are often confused by the possible multiple interpretation of the sample. The confusion increases even further, when samples from stationary temporal, spatial or spatio-temporal phenomena are considered. Our goal in the present paper is to give a viable alternative to this overly mathematical approach, which is proven to be far too demanding for geologist students.
Using the results of an environmental pollution analysis we tried to show the notion of the spatiotemporal sample and some of its basic characteristics. On the basis of these considerations we give the definition of the spatiotemporal sample in order to be satisfactory from both the theoretical and the practical points of view.
An improvement of the classification algorithm results
Authors: Machová Kristína , Puszta Miroslav , Bednár Peter
Published: November 2015

One of the most important aspects of the precision of a classification is the suitable selection of a classification algorithm and a training set for a given task. Basic principles of machine learning can be used for this selection [3]. In this paper, we have focused on improving the precision of classification algorithms results. Two kinds of approaches are known: Boosting and Bagging. This paper describes the use of the first method – boosting [6] which aims at algorithms generating decision trees. A modification of the AdaBoost algorithm was implemented. Another similar method called Bagging [1] is mentioned. Results of performance tests focused on the use of the boosting method on binary decision trees are presented. The minimum number of decision trees, which enables improvement of the classification performed by a base machine learning algorithm, was found. The tests were carried out using the Reuters 21578 collection of documents and documents from an internet portal of TV Markíza.
A proposal for an IOI Syllabus
Authors: Verhoeff Tom , Horváth Gyula , Diks Krzysztof , Cormack Gordon
Published: November 2015

The International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) is the premier competition in computing science for secondary education. The competition problems are algorithmic in nature, but the IOI Regulations do not clearly define the scope of the competition. The international olympiads in physics, chemistry, and biology do have an official syllabus, whereas the International Mathematical Olympiad has made the deliberate decision not to have an official syllabus. We argue that the benefits of having an official IOI Syllabus outweigh the disadvantages. Guided by a set of general principles we present a proposal for an IOI Syllabus, divided into four main areas: mathematics, computing science, software engineering, and computer literacy.
The Mathematics Education Traditions of Europe (METE) Project
Authors: Török Judit
Published: November 2015

This study is based on the work of the METE (Mathematics Education Traditions of Europe Project) team. Following a short introduction of the project, its theoretical background, methods and research design are presented in the next three sections. In the 4th section the tools developed by the METE team for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the collected data are discussed in details. The 5th section contains some personal remarks about using these tools. The 6th section presents the main results of the project, followed by a summary of the project's educational and theoretical significance.
An Investigation of Teachers’ Attitudes towards Children with Asperger’s Syndrome
Authors: Alenizi Mogbel Aid K
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this research is to measure the teachers’ awareness of, and attitudes towards children with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS, hereafter). The main intention was to sample primary school teachers; however time constraints dictated that the 30 teachers (male and female), who participated in this study, were postgraduate students and teaching staff. The instrument used in this study was a questionnaire that consisted of 34 items; 15 on attitude and 15 on knowledge. The independent variables were gender, age and experience of teaching children with Special Educational Needs; the dependent variables were knowledge of and attitude towards children with AS. The responses were subjected to a range of tests which, in the first place, showed there were some problems with the design of the questionnaire, also that responses were not a normal distribution, so the chosen tests were non-parametric, mainly Mann-Whitney U test. Very few differences in knowledge or attitude were found among the different groups of teachers. No significant differences in either knowledge or attitude were found in age or gender. The one interesting finding was that whilst teachers with experience of teaching children with Special Educational Needs (SEN, hereafter) had more knowledge, they were no more likely to have positive attitudes than others.
Structure Matters: Oil Markets Enter the Adelman Era
Authors: Verleger Philip K.
Published: November 2015

The 2014/2015 oil price collapse surprised the many economists who have published brilliant econometric explanations of oil price behavior. The sharp decline would not have caught Morris Adelman unawares. Professor Adelman’s lifelong research focused on the link between market structure and price behavior. His seminal work on industry structure, beginning with grocery retailer A&P, has provided a framework that can be used to explain oil price fluctuations that have occurred over the past four decades. His approach may not be as accurate as the elegant econometric models that dominate today’s literature but it does have one clear advantage: it provides far greater clarity on the way forward.
Robótica Educativa na aprendizagem de Lógica de Programação: Aplicação e análise.
Authors: Cambruzzi Eduardo , Souza Rosemberg Mendes de
Published: November 2015

Nas últimas décadas, o uso da Robótica Educativa como ferramenta de ensino de lógica de programação tem crescido, tanto nas escolas como nas universidades. Ao mesmo tempo que o interesse e o número de projetos para utilização desta ferramenta aumenta no âmbito acadêmico, poucos são os estudos que avaliam sua eficácia como objeto mediador na relação ensino-aprendizagem. Neste artigo, constrói-se, aplica-se e avalia-se Objetos de Aprendizagem baseados na Robótica Educativa como ferramenta de aprendizagem de Lógica de Programação. Os resultados obtidos permitem analisar as contribuições que a Robótica Educativa pode trazer para o aprendizado desta disciplina.
Celular e sala de aula: dos limites às possibilidades
Authors: Alves Eliane Dias Gomes , Vieira Márcia de Freitas
Published: November 2015

O uso indiscriminado da tecnologia móvel, em especial o celular, durante as aulas, é um fenômeno muito comum nas escolas. Neste cenário, este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa-ação realizada com o objetivo de verificar o quão o celular na sala de aula tem interferido no processo ensino e aprendizagem e como o seu uso pode ser otimizado por professores e alunos em prol de uma educação contemporânea. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam que ensinar com ajuda do celular é uma possibilidade real à espera de exploração por parte dos docentes, já que a aprendizagem móvel, num contexto real do aluno, tornou o processo mais motivador, possibilitando a aquisição de novas habilidades e conhecimentos.
O empreendedorismo e a inovação transformados em modelos de sucesso em uma instituição de ensino superior de Alagoas
Authors: Silva Érica A. da , Silva Jacqueline F. da , Costa Joana M. L. , Araújo Carlos W. F. V. de , Albuquerque Fábio D. de O.
Published: November 2015

O impulso das Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação no século XXI, favoreceu para o aumento do interesse acadêmico e a quantidade de centros de pesquisas direcionados ao empreendedorismo no Brasil. Aos poucos o empreendedorismo digital tem obtido um destaque especial nas Instituições de Ensino Superior possibilitando o desenvolvimento de competências e habilidades, transformando ideias em projetos possíveis de serem executados. Esse trabalho visa apresentar por meio de um estudo qualitativo, casos de sucesso realizados em Alagoas, além de alguns resultados da experiência do empreendedorismo aliado à tecnologia aplicado em um contexto dinâmico e desafiador proposto pela faculdade Maurício de Nassau.
A ToF-Camera as a 3D Vision Sensor for Autonomous Mobile Robotics
Authors: Francis Sobers Lourdu Xavier , Anavatti Sreenatha G. , Garratt Matthew , Shim Hyunbgo
Published: November 2015

The aim of this paper is to deploy a time-of-flight (ToF) based photonic mixer device (PMD) camera on an Autonomous Ground Vehicle (AGV) whose overall target is to traverse from one point to another in hazardous and hostile environments employing obstacle avoidance without human intervention. The hypothesized approach of applying a ToF Camera for an AGV is a suitable approach to autonomous robotics because, as the ToF camera can provide three-dimensional (3D) information at a low computational cost, it is utilized to extract information about obstacles after their calibration and ground testing and is mounted and integrated with the Pioneer mobile robot. The workspace is a two-dimensional (2D) world map which has been divided into a grid/cells, where the collision-free path defined by the graph search algorithm is a sequence of cells the AGV can traverse to reach the target. PMD depth data is used to populate traversable areas and obstacles by representing a grid/cells of suitable size. These camera data are converted into Cartesian coordinates for entry into a workspace grid map. A more optimal camera mounting angle is needed and adopted by analysing the camera's performance discrepancy, such as pixel detection, the detection rate and the maximum perceived distances, and infrared (IR) scattering with respect to the ground surface. This mounting angle is recommended to be half the vertical field-of-view (FoV) of the PMD camera. A series of still and moving tests are conducted on the AGV to verify correct sensor operations, which show that the postulated application of the ToF camera in the AGV is not straightforward. Later, to stabilize the moving PMD camera and to detect obstacles, a tracking feature detection algorithm and the scene flow technique are implemented to perform a real-time experiment.