bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation, Collection, and Recycling of Used and End-of-Life Mobile Phones
Authors: Jang Yong-Chul , Lee Seunghun , Kim Hwidong
Published: June 2015

Mobile phone use has exponentially grown worldwide from a few subscribers in the 1970s to more than 6 billion in 2013. As mobile phones are frequently replaced and upgraded, enormous volumes of mobile phones are retired each year. Mobile phones and accessories typically contain a variety of valuable elements as well as many toxic chemicals. The toxic substances may cause serious human health problems if they are not properly managed. Thus, environmentally sound management of used and end-of-life mobile phones is an issue of growing concern around the world. Although a large quantity of mobile phones are disposed each year, only a small fraction of these phones are collected and managed, and collection programs occur primarily in developed countries. Considering the potential environmental impacts of used and end-of-life mobile phones, understanding the current knowledge of the management of mobile phone waste is critical. This chapter reviews the generation rates, collection systems and recycling, and the impacts of obsolete mobile phones, based on review of available literature and research conducted by a number of leading and pioneering scholars in the field.
Mobile Phones: News Consumption, News Creation, and News Organization Accommodations
Authors: Johnson Kristine
Published: June 2015

Advances in mobile phone technologies have changed the way news is consumed and created. Accordingly, this relates to three specific areas: 1.) people turn to their phones to consume news content, 2.) people use their phones to create news content, and 3.) news organizations are making accommodations based on these changes. In particular, research indicates an increase in the number of people who use their phones to access the news. In addition, given the availability of faster connections and phone-based multimedia capabilities, individuals now play a role in the creation news content. News organizations are taking notice and have adopted ways in which to utilize mobile phone capabilities, both in terms of the distribution and creation of news content. Suggested future research involves examining consumer use of more than one digital device at a time.
The New Frontier of Mobile Communication Ethics
Authors: Gebru Amanuel , Basila Catherine
Published: June 2015

Existing international research on cellphone ethics was thematically reviewed with a focus on empirical observation. Additionally, cross cultural mobile telephony was explored, as well as philosophical ethics, including consequentialist, dentological and normative perspectives as a conceptual backdrop. This major ethical evaluation of cellphone communication was guided by Stahl, Heersmink, Flick, van den Hoven, Wakunuma, Ikonen and Rader's (2010) framework, which assists in the ethical analysis of communication technology. The current scientific knowledge, regarding mobile communication ethics is discussed and includes, interpersonal communication, cellphones and public acoustical environments, spousal communication, organizational communication contexts, inter-group dimensions and M-health ethics.
Religious Use of Mobile Phones
Authors: Cho Kyong James , Campbell Heidi A.
Published: June 2015

Mobile phones have had a profound impact on many aspects of contemporary life, including the practice of religion. This chapter outlines the significance of the intersection of religion and mobile phone technology. The study of religion and mobile phones is closely connected to the broader field of “digital religion,” which for nearly two decades has explored how religious individuals and communities use and respond to digital media. Scholars of digital religion have argued that religious communities and culture are increasingly being influence and shaped by digital media in notable ways, especially in relation to issues of identity, community, and authority (Campbell, 2012). These issues are also important in understanding how religious groups engage with and are influenced by mobile technologies and digital culture. The chapter begins by defining the study of mobile media and outlines the history of digital religion as a field of study. Next, it highlights three key areas of research focus in relation to religion and mobile media: the use of mobile media by religious individuals and communities, how religion has been expressed through mobile applications, and reflection on broader cultural significance of the intersection of religion and mobile phones. This leads to a discussion of emerging issues within the study of religion and mobile phones.
James E. Katz: An Intellectual Biography
Authors: Chen Yi-Fan , Lever Katie
Published: June 2015

James E. Katz is an American pioneer in examining social consequences of mobile technology use in everyday life. He builds a global mobile communication research network and his work informs various mobile communication studies around the world. He explores how mobile technology's affect social interaction and what their uses reveal about human nature and organizations; Katz was among the first to demonstrate their pro-social uses. He also seeks to understand what the future holds in terms of society and communication technologies and works with others to explore ways in which society can best prepare itself to make the optimal use of new developments. This article documents Katz's research activities and his intellectual impacts on mobile communication studies.
Mobile Literacies: Learning in the Mobile Age
Authors: Novak Daniel , Wang Minjuan
Published: June 2015

The ubiquity of Internet-capable mobile devices in the lives of people around the world has given rise to new learning practices that occur in an increasingly complex digital ecosystem. Mobile learning enables teachers to deliver instructional materials to a student when they need them, at points where the relevance and value of the knowledge are highest. In this chapter, the authors examine how the trend toward ubiquity of mobile and digital technologies has converged with changes in research paradigms in Education to produce a new approach to mobile learning design. This ‘mobile literacies' approach extends from contemporary thinking on mobile learning, cognitive science, the New Literacies, and instructional systems design. The chapter provides a design heuristic for ensuring attention to the important facets of the design of materials that take advantage of new opportunities for ‘learning in the mobile age.'
Mobile Phone Use by Middle School Students
Authors: Guinee Kathleen , Mertz Gregory
Published: June 2015

Mobile phones are prevalent in the daily lives of middle school students. They are useful for academic and informal learning, but may also facilitate cheating. Mobile phones can help foster student-centered learning and promote positive emotions and student motivation. Middle school students text and make calls using mobile phones to maintain friendships and make plans, as well as explore romantic relationships. Two social problems that can emerge with mobile phone use are cyberbullying and sexting. Mobile phones make middle school students feel safe, but can also put them in physical danger and facilitate risky behaviors. Using a mobile phone, particularly after bedtime, is associated with poor sleep and mental health.
Science Learning Games for Mobile Platforms
Authors: Perry Gabriela Trindade , Eichler Marcelo Leandro
Published: June 2015

Science learning, though bound to broader learning theories, is a research area on its own. Science subject domains share special characteristics: they are like wide nested concept nets - most of which are either abstract or not available to direct observation. For this reason the authors advocate that game-based and simulation-based pedagogies are promising tools for learning. Recently the authors have noticed two characteristics that would further empower the use of these strategies: (1) the widespread use of mobile technology among youngsters with continuous increase in processing power and internet access, and (2) the strong affordances games could provide in learning activities.
Health Effects of Mobile Phone Usage
Authors: Levis Angelo , Masiero Laura , Orio Paolo , Biggin Susan , Garbisa Spiridione
Published: June 2015

Uncertainty about the association between health risks and exposure to radiofrequency radiation emitted by cellular and cordless mobile phones can be addressed by a critical analysis of the methodology used in studies assessing this relationship. Studies funded by cellphone companies give reassuring conclusions but are affected by biases and flaws, whereas public-funded studies are without these errors and show acute and chronic effects, including head tumors, findings supported by biological evidence.
Mobile Phone Addiction
Authors: Leung Louis , Liang Jingwen
Published: June 2015

This article reviews the literature on mobile phone addiction, the excessive use of mobile phone technology, which is an impulse control disorder with negative social and psychological consequences. It provides a clear definition of mobile phone addiction, along with its theoretical origin, diagnostic criteria for assessment, and an identification of the symptoms and consequences of addictive behavior. More importantly, it summarizes key predictors of this addictive behavior from a psychosocial perspective. The article also points out potential relationships between mobile phone addiction and other social behaviors. Finally, it discusses limitations of the assessment criteria for mobile phone addiction and makes suggestions for future research.
Mobile Phone Culture: The Impacts of Mobile Phone Use
Authors: Lee Seung-Hyun
Published: June 2015

From being a simple communication technology to a key social tool, the mobile phone has become such an important aspect of people's everyday life. Mobile phones have altered the way people live, communicate, interact, and connect with others. Mobile phones are also transforming how people access and use information and media. Given the rapid pervasiveness of mobile phones in society across the world, it is important to explore how mobile phones have affected the way people communicate and interact with others, access the information, and use media, and their daily lifestyle. This article aims to explore the social and cultural implications that have come with the ubiquity, unprecedented connectivity, and advances of mobile phones. This article also focuses on the discussion about people's dependence on, attachment and addiction to mobile phones, social problems that mobile phones generate, and how people value mobile phone use.
Mobile Technology and Social Identity
Authors: Yonkers Virginia
Published: June 2015

Cell phones and mobile technology allow an individual to create a new level of social identity in which a person does not have to be physically present to identify with or be part of an in-group. Research on mobile technology and social identity can be grouped into three categories of findings. The mobile phone is an extension of the individual. Mobile technology is used to create and maintain social networks and a feeling of belonging with reference groups, social networks, and aspired social networks. Mobile technology crosses temporal, physical, cultural, and power boundaries to create status (or lack thereof) within a community.
Textism Use and Language Ability in Children
Authors: Waldron Sam , Wood Clare
Published: June 2015

Textism use (or textese) refers to the way in which individuals write in shorthand on mobile devices in order to save space or time. Thurlow (2003) devised one of the first coding schemes for textisms, and textism use has since been hotly debated by the media (Crystal, 2008). Plester et al. (2008; 2009) and Wood et al. (2011; 2014) have since investigated the relationship that texting has with children's language abilities, and found no evidence of negative effects. Further research has been conducted into the effects of texting on readers of differing abilities (Coe & Oakhill, 2011) and found that it is better readers who tend to use more textisms. Further research is discussed in relation to children with reading difficulties such as specific language impairments (Durkin et al, 2011) and dyslexia (Veater et al, 2011).
The Digital Drug: Understanding and Treating Mobile Phone Addiction
Authors: Young Kimberly
Published: June 2015

Internet addiction has been exacerbated by the proliferation of mobile technology. Users have moved beyond traditional notions of Internet addiction and new problems associated with mobile phone use have risen. This technology is needed for many functional reasons such as shopping, making airline reservations, and making hotel reservations. What happens when this becomes too much connectivity and health problems occur? This article looks at mobile phone addiction. Similar to Internet addiction, the symptoms associated with mobile phone addiction, the risk factors, and the overall impact on mental health and personal well-being are explored. Consequences and new strategies in dealing with mobile use and addiction at home and work are discussed. Most significantly, this article provides an inside look at the first US-based inpatient treatment center treating Internet and mobile phone addiction. Finally, new concerns raised by mobile technologies and their impact for addiction in next digital generation are explored.
Healthcare Applications for Smartphones
Authors: Mosa Abu Saleh Mohammad , Yoo Illhoi , Sheets Lincoln
Published: June 2015

Smartphones provide both advanced mobile communications and portable computing in a single handheld device. The number of smartphone users is growing rapidly, including among healthcare professionals. Many medical applications for smartphones have been developed and are widely used by health professionals and patients. The use of smartphones is getting more attention in healthcare day by day. Medical applications make smartphones useful tools in the practice of evidence-based medicine at the point of care, in addition to their use in mobile clinical communication. Also, smartphones can play a very important role in patient education, disease self-management, and remote monitoring of patients. In this article, the authors present healthcare applications for smartphones in three user groups: healthcare professionals, medical or nursing students, and patients.
Mobile Health in Emergency Care
Authors: Redha Waddaa , Hartwick Kirsten , Sikka Neal
Published: June 2015

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010, significant changes are occurring within the healthcare system. It is imperative that ways to both reduce cost and improve health are found. Since emergency medicine is often considered the gateway to the healthcare system, healthcare providers need to determine the best way to provide high quality care in the emergency department while also curbing costs. Mobile health, or mHealth, utilizes technology to increase the mobility of patients and their providers and provides a medium to transfer data and information efficiently. In emergency medicine, this technology can be applied in various treatments including wound care, stroke care, and prehospital care. In this article, the authors discuss the current uses of mHealth within emergency care and potential areas for future growth.
Mobile Phones in Haematology
Authors: McLean Richard , Gane Susan
Published: June 2015

The haematology laboratory provides an important service to clinical areas in terms of analysing blood samples for disease diagnosis, monitoring, and screening. Communication of urgent results is of paramount importance for effective healthcare management and verbal communication of results is often required to relay urgent information or life threatening results to a clinician. As mobile phones have progressed beyond the capability of voice transmission to now incorporate cameras, multimedia messaging, and email, the possibility to expand its use in haematology has diversified. Challenges to the haematology laboratory may present in low income healthcare environments or rural areas with limited resources and research has been focused on addressing these challenges. Mobile application technology for smartphones has opened up the potential for increased development of medical applications which could assist communication, diagnosis, and education within the field of haematology.
Mobile Tracking for Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Kauer Sylvia , Reid Sophie
Published: June 2015

Mobile tracking is the latest burgeoning area in the field of technology in mental health care with mobile apps, SMS protocols, and new devices used to track mood and behavior in order to improve mental health and wellbeing. To date, there has been little research investigating the effects of mobile tracking on mental health although this research is promising. The concept of tracking, or self-monitoring, has grown over the last 40 years stemming from behavioural homework between therapeutic sessions, the expressive writing paradigm and momentary sampling. Exploring the theory and evidence surrounding these paradigms provides insight into the mechanisms of mobile tracking. Further research using rigorous methodologies and investigating mechanisms of mobile tracking is warranted.
Use of Mobile Phones to Help Prevent Child Maltreatment
Authors: Guastaferro Katelyn M. , Jackson Matthew C. , Self-Brown Shannon , Jabaley Julie J. , Lutzker John R.
Published: June 2015

Child maltreatment prevention interventions have been proven to reduce risk and rates of recidivism, although only recently have these interventions incorporated mobile phone technology in implementation. This article first presents the public health problem of child maltreatment and discusses the use of technology in the at-risk population. Prior public health research that has evaluated the effect of mobile phone technology in implementation is reviewed followed by the few child maltreatment prevention research efforts that have incorporated mobile phones. Limitations of mobile phone technology in this field and future directions are suggested.
Communication Privacy Management and Mobile Phone Use
Authors: Worthington Debra L. , Fitch-Hauser Margaret
Published: June 2015

The introduction of new technologies effects rapid social change and challenges social norms. A major challenge with the advent of mobile phones is how the technology tests traditional notions of personal privacy and interaction involvement, particularly in public settings. Communication privacy management (CPM) theory provides a means of explaining the tensions between mobile phone users and proximate others. In this article, components of communication privacy management theory are outlined and its application to mobile communication is discussed. Next, privacy issues associated with specific mobile technology are reviewed and cultural differences in mobile communication privacy needs are examined. In light of the limited research in this area, suggestions for future research are also presented.
Text Messaging as a Forum for Negative and Antisocial Communication
Authors: Ehrenreich Samuel E. , Gentsch Joanna K. , Rosen Lisa H. , Underwood Marion K.
Published: June 2015

Text message communication has become an increasingly popular form of peer interaction among adolescents (Lenhart, 2012). In addition to providing a constant source of access to adolescents' peer network, text messaging also provides a method of peer interaction that is cheap and convenient (Ling, 2005), and generally devoid of parental monitoring (Davie, Panting & Charlton, 2004). These features of text messaging may make it an ideal environment for exchanging communication about antisocial and delinquent topics. This chapter reviews current research investigating how adolescents use text messaging to communicate about negative and antisocial topics. Specifically, the discussion examines the extent to which youth engage in negative and antisocial communication via text messaging and how this communication may reinforce these behaviors through the phenomenon of deviancy training (complimenting and encouraging antisocial activities and providing instruction for how to engage in them; Dishion, Spracklen, Andrews & Patterson, 1996). The extent to which parents monitor communication exchanged via text messaging, and the protective effect this monitoring is also discussed. This article concludes with suggestions for future research directions.
Mobile Phone-Related Behaviors and Problems in Japan
Authors: Fuji Kei , Yoshida Fujio
Published: June 2015

In Japan, the use of mobile devices has been spreading rapidly and continues to grow. However, this causes many problems that no one predicted. This article describes the use of mobile devices as well as issues related to their use in Japan. The authors will discuss these issues regarding the three aspects of “sharing of information and emotions in emergent disasters,” “addictive use of mobile devices,” and “cyberbullying in young people,” and will introduce representative psychological researches in Japan. At the end of this article, the actions and directions necessary to address these issues will be discussed.
Mobile Screen Media Practices in Korea
Authors: Ok HyeRyoung
Published: June 2015

This article summarizes the current knowledge about the socio-cultural significance of mobile screen media practices in the current mediascape of Korea, where mobile media technologies have developed with continuing emphasis on their potential as convergent screen media since the introduction of 3G mobile phone service. Five specific areas of discussion including mobile phone communication, text messaging, mobile multimedia usage and gender, mobile screen service, and mobile gaming represents the prevalent aspects of the mobile screen media practices in Korea.
Mobile Phone and Driving
Authors: Benedetto Andrea , Calvi Alessandro , D'Amico Fabrizio
Published: June 2015

Although most countries have made cell phone use while driving illegal, the drivers still use it both for calling and texting, increasing worries related to sanitary aspects, among these the effects on driving performance and road safety. There are many studies that have investigated the distraction factors related to phone use while driving. Specifically, experimental studies using driving simulators, closed-track driving courses, and naturalistic driving while using a mobile phone have reported a variety of driving impairments. This article firstly provides a review of the state-of-the-art and then, after a discussion of the great advantages of studying drivers' performance using driving simulation, a full simulator study on the effects of mobile phone while driving is presented. Finally, future research direction is addressed.
Road Safety and Mobile Phone Behaviors
Authors: Bhatti Junaid Ahmad
Published: June 2015

Mobile phone use while driving is one of the major road safety risks. In surveys from different settings, the rate of mobile phone use while driving ranged from 1 to 11%. Literature from observational and experimental studies show that driving capacities such as reacting to traffic hazards, maintaining a central lane position, maintaining a safe distance and speed are negatively affected when using a mobile phone while driving. Several epidemiological studies suggest that motor vehicle collision risks increase by two to nine times when using a mobile phone (handheld or hands-free) compared to not using the phone while driving. Considering these findings, almost three-quarters of the countries have adopted legislation banning the use of handheld mobile phone devices while driving. These interventions, however, are insufficient to deal with the use of hands-free mobile phones while driving and texting which are challenging to ascertain and prevent. Currently, “in-vehicle” and collision avoidance technologies are being evaluated to further reduce the impact of these road menaces in our society.
The Role of Mobile Phones in Real World Motor Vehicle Crashes
Authors: McEvoy Suzanne P.
Published: June 2015

Early on, road epidemiological studies (Redelmeier & Tibshirani, 1997; McEvoy et al., 2005) indicated an increased risk of motor vehicle crashes, including injury crashes, associated with mobile phone use. However, these studies were unable to assess the relative risks pertaining to specific phone tasks (for example, conversing versus texting). Moreover, direct comparisons of risk between different types of driver distractions, while possible (McEvoy, Stevenson, Woodward, 2007), were difficult to undertake. Naturalistic driving studies using instrumented cars in every day driving have provided more details of the tasks that confer particular risk in relation to phone use and other driver distractions (Klauer et al., 2014; Olson et al., 2009; Klauer et al., 2006; Dingus et al., 2006). Interest generated in these studies has prompted current trials using similar methodologies elsewhere, for example, Australia (Regan et al., 2013). To date, phone tasks involving handling of the phone and/or multiple or prolonged eye glances away from the forward roadway (dialling, reaching for the phone and text messaging) have been shown to significantly increase the risk of crashes and near crashes.
Mobile Phone: Repurposed Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities
Authors: Bouck Emily C. , Jasper Andrea , Bassette Laura , Shurr Jordan
Published: June 2015

Mobile phones are a prime example of an everyday technology that can be repurposed to be an assistive technology for an individual with a disability. In-and-of-themselves as well as through their capabilities to host applications (apps), mobile phones enhance the independence of individuals with disabilities in multiple functional areas, including – but not limited to – daily living skills, communication, and navigation within one's community. This article provides readers with the current literature and considerations for using mobile phones as repurposed assistive technology for individuals with disabilities with a focus on mobiles phones for promoting independence, for use as a prompting device, and for use as an AAC device. This article stresses the lack of existing research base, but the potential of mobile phones to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Mobile Phones as Assistive and Accessible Technology for People with Disabilities
Authors: Morris John T. , Mueller James L. , Jones Michael L.
Published: June 2015

Mobile phones have contributed substantially to greater levels of social participation and independence by people with disabilities. Mobile phone technologies (including tablets) have become increasingly powerful, sophisticated, flexible, and ubiquitous since the first commercial mobile wireless phone call was made on October 13, 1983. In 2007, the launch of the first iPhone with its capacitive touchscreen interface ushered in a new era of accessibility, usability, and assistive technology for people with disabilities. Still, important economic and accessibility barriers to greater mobile phone use by people with disabilities remain. The evolution of mobile phone behaviors of people with sensory, physical, and cognitive disabilities is closely intertwined with the development of ever more powerful and flexible mobile phone technology, as well as the evolution of statutory and regulatory requirements for accessibility and use. This article summarizes these developments, by first identifying and defining disabilities, then distinguishing between assistive technology and accessible technology. Finally, the complex evolution of mobile phone technology and mobile phone behaviors by people with disabilities is reviewed.
Managing Knowledge at Tourism Destinations
Authors: Kumar Amit
Published: June 2015

Today, knowledge has become a pivotal tool of implementing strategies and approaches to achieve desired results. During the recent past, researches on knowledge management have grown rapidly in the management literature and tourism is no exception in this context. Moreover, the recent developments in tourism and hospitality marketplace have recognised knowledge as a key competitive tool and a determinant for socio-economic growth at destinations. Thus, it is obvious that if a tourism destination/nation/organisation is to remain competitive in the volatile tourism business environment, the application of knowledge management approach has become fundamental to transform tourism knowledge into capabilities for the survival, sustain and growth of tourism sector. The aim of this chapter is to conceptualize the application of knowledge concept and suggest further research issues in this area to develop a knowledge networks. Overall this chapter demonstrates the considerable utility of managing knowledge for tourism in delivering destination competitiveness.
The Global Implications of Ecotourism in Emerging Economies
Authors: Birău Felicia Ramona
Published: June 2015

The main purpose of this chapter is to highlight the global implications of ecotourism in emerging economies. In the recent past, the tourism industry has become a growing segment of the economy with an impressive expansion potential. Nevertheless, ecotourism in emerging economies establishes a great interdisciplinary research interest. Ecotourism has become extremely popular and highly beneficial on development of emerging economies. The definition of ecotourism is very complex and cannot be compressed in pure theory. Its practical implications are extremely heterogeneous. Ecotourism fundamentally contributes to nature conservation and improvement of livelihoods particularly in rural areas. The original approach provides a complex empirical analysis based on certain emerging economies, i.e. Poland, Brazil, India, China, Russia, Hungary, Slovenia, Slovakia, Romania and Bulgaria in the turbulent context of the global financial crisis.
Understanding the Importance of Property Management Practices in Indian Hotel Industry
Authors: Chand Dhiman Mohinder , Anand Manish
Published: June 2015

The proliferations of modern technologies coupled with sophisticated network protocols have unveiled new avenues for organizations and the hospitality industry is no exception in this context. Technology-based systems stand in a pivotal position to offer better service to the tourists. Hospitality industry especially hotels can take advantage of the pervasiveness of technology-based systems to advance some of their operations. This chapter seeks to assess the importance of property management system (PMS) in Indian hotels and to analyse the factors that influence a hotel's ability to adopt PMS. The study shows that there is a large variation in the importance of PMS among the hotels in the industry. The study concludes by arguing for greater impetus to promote PMS adoption among hotels due to its impact on reducing the level of leakage. The chapter further makes recommendations to hotel operators and policy makers on the use of PMS in hotels.
Risk Perceptions of International Female Tourists in India
Authors: Chugh Sushma
Published: June 2015

In tourism industry perceptions are major influencing factors of visiting a destination. Tourism products cannot be pre tested prior to purchase. Therefore tourists rely a lot on perceptions and images of a destination. India is generally known for its myriad of culture, spirituality, climate and diversity. Image of India has suffered a tremendous jolt overseas after a few incidents of rapes and crimes have surfaced against women. Keeping this in mind this paper is an attempt to find out the risk perceptions of foreign women travelers to India and whether they consider India a safe destination for women. They were administered questionnaires taking the parameters that Gunn, 1972 had introduced. A sample of 100 international women tourists was selected randomly and on judgement basis. General perception of women tourists about India on safety and security of women was not positive. It was concluded through the survey that though women travelers had security and safety issues in India yet they found the country worth visiting again.
Consumer Sentiment and Confidence during Post-Crisis 2008
Authors: Chatterjee Tonmoy , Dinda Soumyananda
Published: June 2015

This chapter attempts to find out the impact of recent recession on the consumption pattern through consumer confidence index (CCI) of selected developed and developing economies. This chapter examines how the macroeconomic variables like growth rate, inflation, unemployment rate and debt-GDP ratio etc. influence the consumer's confidence during 1996-2012, in which the crisis occurred in 2008. Moreover, in this chapter we have explained the role of consumptions sentiment in terms of consumer confidence regarding future expectation. Apart from that, from the panel data set of 11 countries, we have found that more or less all the economies including the United States have experienced downward movement of consumer's confidence in the presence of the great recession of 2008-2009.
Globalization, Consumer's Preference, and Welfare in India
Authors: Das Koushik
Published: June 2015

The purpose of the present chapter is to analyse general equilibrium effects of different trade liberalization policies for India under imperfectly competitive market structure. Since present day world trade is much akin towards the increasing returns to scale and market structure oriented industry behaviour, we have considered monopolistically competitive market structure for our analysis. Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modelling has been applied as it seems to be relevant methodology for policy simulation. Consumer's love for variety and increasing returns to scale present in the sectors involving large fixed costs, are strong determinants of consumer's as well as producer's business confidence. Our study reveals that increased welfare gain due to trade and openness is not much larger as compared to standard perfect competition scenario as the scale economy benefit is predominant only in few sectors like capital goods industries and not prominently visible in large agricultural and informal manufacturing sectors.
Governance Evolution and Impact on Economic Growth
Authors: Raju A. Subramanyam , Balasubramaniam Nagarajan , Srinivasan Rajamanickam
Published: June 2015

Governance matters (Kaufman, et al, 1999) for growth is now an accepted dictum. However, there are as many hypotheses as to what constitutes governance 'as there are researchers in the field' (Bressers, J.T.A. & Kuks, S.M.M., 2003). Apart from econometrics, political science provides important insights on factors that influence governance and facilitate growth. This chapter examines the political history and economy of South Asia to determine the features that shaped governance and affected economic growth. It finds that governance in South Asian context evolved through three phases. Using a comparative perspective of GDP growth rates and World Governance Indicators in South Asia and Brazil, it analyzes the relationship between political history and economy in each phase. The findings indicate that political ideologies, stability of regimes and policy continuity hugely influence the institutions of government and economic growth. The chapter also finds that people's participation in governance would enhance growth and distributive social justice.
Institutional and Cultural Implications of Mexican SMEs Internalization
Authors: Vargas-Hernández José G.
Published: June 2015

The aim of this chapter is to analyze from the perspective of institutionalism if the European Union market is a potential market for the internationalization of Mexican SMEs. This chapter identifies a framework of the current situation of Mexican SMEs, encompassing as the political-economic aspects that govern the cooperative relationship as the normative and cultural factors that impact directly businesses, concluding that the complexity of the European Union resulting from the uniqueness of each of its members is reflected in a set of formal and informal rules that negatively impact on the internationalization of Mexican SMEs to that market.
Economic Intelligence Information and Process in Shipping Companies in Morocco
Authors: Bachrane Mostafa , El Alami Jamila , Hanoune Mostafa
Published: June 2015

This article presents the results of a survey conducted in 2014-2015 on the practices of economic intelligence within a population of 100 shipping companies in the area of TangerMed. The research objective is to check whether information management strategy and economic intelligence exists in these types of companies, and how to exploit internal and external information of the different actors in the same business in order to prevent risks, seize opportunities and to anticipate threats. Such type of companies lives in a context of economic struggle where they try to protect their status and promote their development. The research seeks to present practical situations and provide clear recommendations to resolve the difficulties threatening their existence on a daily basis. Data elicited from the respondents provide reliable results thanks to a well targeted sampling of interviewees. The activities of shipping companies are divided into four categories: shipping agents, ships' consignees, freight forwarders and forwarding agents. TangerMed area was chosen on the basis of the high concentration of shipping companies attracted by competitive advantages of the bustling port hub. The analysis of questionnaires revealed that 27 interviewees did not respond to questions knowing that the results discussed are derived from 73 questionnaires. It appears that the need for economic intelligence is an emerging concept in these types of companies, despite the considerable need to it. EI provides a number of advantages, in terms of organization, competitiveness and process. This study aims to increase knowledge of these type of companies. The approach is descriptive and explanatory, and thus allows room for the evaluation of the spread and ownership of the concept.
Technologically changing African context and usage of Information Communication and Technology in churches: Towards discerning emerging identities in church practice (a case study of two Zimbabwean cities)
Authors: Magezi Vhumani
Published: June 2015

The last decade has seen massive progress in technological advancement in Africa. Many pastors have embraced the use of technology in their religious and ministerial practices. Within such a context, it is necessary to understand the various identities of the African pastor emerging from responses to the use of technology. This article discusses technological use in churches, particularly focusing on the changing technological context of Africa. The article uses Zimbabwe as a case study to assess and determine technology use and the responsive emerging identities of pastors. Three identities of pastors arising from increased technological use in Zimbabwe have been discerned. The first identity is that of the pastor who is on a par with the world. He is a technology embracer and is as sophisticated as the congregational members. He is a networker and entrepreneur. The second identity is that of a pastor who is trailing society and technology. He is a cautious technology embracer and is a confused technology consumer. The third identity is that of a pastor in isolation. He is a technology objector, and is unconnected, ignorant and feels that God is somewhat an enemy of technology.
Religion as memory: How has the continuity of tradition produced collective meanings? – Part one
Authors: Urbaniak Jakub
Published: June 2015

Danièle Hervieu-Léger gives an account of religion as a chain of memory, that is, a form of collective memory and imagination based on the sanctity of tradition. According to her theory, in the postmodern world the continuity of religious memory has been broken and all that remains are isolated fragments guarded by religious groups. This twofold study aims at showing, firstly, in what sense religion can be conceived of as memory which produces collective meanings (Part One) and, secondly, what may happen when individualised and absolutised memories alienate themselves from a continuity of tradition, thus beginning to function as a sort of private religion (Part Two). Being the first part of the study in question, this article is dedicated to a historical-theological analysis of religious memory as a source of collective meanings, as seen from a Christian perspective. Firstly, it situates Hervieu-Léger’s definition of religion against the background of the most topical religious contexts in which the notion of memory appears today. Secondly, the dialectics of individual and collective memory is discussed, notably through the lens of Ricoeur’s original proposal. This is followed by an overview of the traditional functions of memory in Christianity. Lastly, the interpretation of the way in which Christian tradition, in its premodern continuity, served as a source of collective cultural meanings, is recapitulated. What underlies this analysis is the conviction that to comprehend, and even more so to challenge mechanisms based on which the dominant purveyors of meaning (such as economic and information market) function in our day, one should have a clear understanding of what they attempt to substitute for. In brief, before exploring how memories become religion, one ought to be able to conceive of religion as memory.
Herinneringe
Authors: Heigers Albie
Published: June 2015

No abstract available.
Магнитная восприимчивость и диамагнетизм Ландау квантовой столкновительной вырожденной плазмы
Authors: Latyshev Anatolii Vasil'evich , Yushkanov Aleksandr Alekseevich
Published: June 2015

С использованием корректного выражения электрической проводимости квантовой столкновительной вырожденной плазмы дается кинетическое описание магнитной восприимчивости и выводится формула для вычисления диамагнетизма Ландау.
Финслеровы $N$-спиноры с действительными компонентами
Authors: Solov'ev Anton Vasil'evich
Published: June 2015

Изучаются математические объекты, называющиеся финслеровыми $N$-спинорами над полем $\mathbb{R}$. Строится общая алгебраическая теория этих объектов. Показано, что финслеровы $N$-спиноры над полем $\mathbb{R}$ порождают две серии плоских псевдофинслеровых пространств $N(N+1)/2$ и $N(N-1)/2$ измерений. Произведено обобщение эпиморфизма $SL(2,\mathbb{R})\to O^\uparrow_+(1,2)$ на случай группы $SL(N,\mathbb{R})$. Детально рассмотрены примеры финслеровых $N$-спиноров над полем $\mathbb{R}$ при $N=2,3$.
Cубдиффузионная кинетика роста и разрушения нанопреципитатов в твердых растворах
Authors: Sibatov Renat Timergalievich , Svetukhin Vyacheslav Viktorovich
Published: June 2015

На основе дробно-дифференциальных обобщений моделей преципитации Хэма и Аарона-Котлера исследуется кинетика субдиффузионно-ограниченного роста и растворения выделений новой фазы. Получены зависимости числа примесей и размеров выделения новой фазы от времени. Решения согласуются с результатами моделирования методом Монте-Карло.
Caracterização estrutural em uma floresta de terra firme no estado do Amapá, Brasil
Authors: Batista Anderson Pedro Bernardina , Aparício Wegliane Campelo da Silva , Aparício Perseu Da Silva , Santos Vanessa Silva dos , Lima Robson Borges de , Mello José Marcio de
Published: June 2015

O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a composição florística, estrutura e distribuição espacial das espécies arbóreas em uma floresta de terra firme no Estado do Amapá. Foram coletados dados dendrométricos e florísticos em 200 unidades amostrais terciárias, sendo analisadas as árvores com diâmetro a 1,30 m do solo (DAP) ≥ 40 cm. Foram calculados parâmetros fitossociológicos, distribuição espacial e índice de diversidade de Shannon. No levantamento foram amostrados 4.030 indivíduos arbóreos, distribuídos em 37 famílias e 201 espécies, sendo Goupia glabra (cupiúba) a espécie de maior valor de importância (VI). A área florestal apresenta características de floresta preservada. A amostragem revelou que a vegetação arbórea ocorre com maior proporção de espécies com distribuição espacial aleatória, no entanto, as espécies como maior VI se distribuíram de forma agregada na área.
Modelos hipsométricos tradicionais e genéricos para Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis
Authors: Mendonça Adriano Ribeiro de , Corandin Cínthia Mazon , Pacheco Gustavo Rezende , Vieira Giovanni Correia , Araújo Márcio Da Silva , Interamnense Márcio Torreão
Published: June 2015

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar modelos tradicionais e genéricos na estimativa da relação hipsométrica de Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis. Os dados são oriundos de árvores em diferentes idades, sítios e densidade de plantio. Foram avaliados dez modelos para estimativa da altura total das árvores. Os modelos foram avaliados de acordo com o coeficiente de determinação ajustado, erro padrão da estimativa, erro padrão relativo, viés, média das diferenças e desvio padrão das diferenças. Além dessas estatísticas, os modelos foram avaliados por meio da representação gráfica da altura total observada versus altura total estimada. Verificou-se uma maior precisão dos modelos genéricos.
Assessment of adequate quality and collocation of reference measurements with space borne hyperspectral infrared instruments to validate retrievals of temperature and water vapour
Authors: Calbet X.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. A method is presented to assess whether a given reference ground based point observation, typically a radiosonde measurement, is adequately collocated and sufficiently representative of space borne hyperspectral infrared instrument measurements. Once this assessment is made, the ground based data can be used to validate and potentially calibrate, with a high degree of accuracy, the hyperspectral retrievals of temperature and water vapour.
H2S interference on CO2 isotopic measurements using a Picarro G1101-i cavity ring-down spectrometer
Authors: Malowany K. , Stix J. , Van Pelt A. , Lucic G.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Cavity ring-down spectrometers (CRDS) have the capacity to make isotopic measurements of CO2 where concentrations range from atmospheric (~ 400 ppm) to 6000 ppm. Following field trials, it has come to light that the spectrographic lines used for CO2 have an interference with elevated (higher than ambient) amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which causes significant depletions in the δ13C measurement by the CRDS. In order to deploy this instrument in environments with elevated H2S concentrations (i.e., active volcanoes), we require a robust method for eliminating this interference. Controlled experiments using a Picarro G1101-i optical spectrometer were done to characterize the H2S interference at varying CO2 and H2S concentrations. The addition of H2S to a CO2 standard gas reveals an increase in the 12CO2 concentration and a more significant decrease in the 13CO2 concentration, resulting in a depleted δ13C value. Reacting gas samples containing H2S with copper prior to analysis can eliminate this effect. However, experiments also revealed that the addition of H2S to CO2 results in the formation of carbonyl sulfide (OCS) and carbon disulfide (CS2), causing a decrease in the overall CO2 concentration without affecting the δ13C value. It is important for future work with CRDS, particularly in volcanic regions where H2S is abundant, to be aware of the H2S interference on the CO2 spectroscopic lines and to remove all H2S prior to analysis. We suggest employing a scrub composed of copper to remove H2S from all gas samples that have concentrations in excess of 1 ppb.