bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Management Strategies to Improve Electrical Networks Using Storage Systems
Authors: Montero-Sousa Juan Aurelio , Fernández-Serantes Luis Alfonso , Casteleiro-Roca José-Luis , Vilar-Martínez Xosé Manuel , Calvo-Rolle Jose Luis
Published: February 2016

The successive energy crises, usually linked to the rising prices of oil, bring about new topics of the energy systems management in general terms. Over all, the electrical system is one of these cases. In addition, a greater concern for environmental issues has introduced, to a greater or lesser extent, the generation from renewable sources in the electrical system. In this context, the possibility of developing and using electricity storage systems would manage mismatches between generation and demand at electricity networks, making them more efficiently. In this research, we propose a number of possible strategies based on technical peak shaving and valley filling. The tool is used as energy storage systems in general terms, regardless of the accumulation technique used. The classification of strategies essentially serves two criteria: optimization service and increased profitability.
Parameter Estimation of an High Performance I.M. Drive for Sensorless Operation
Authors: Dixit Monika , Shandilya Smita
Published: February 2016

A modern AC motor drive is a very intelligent system which covers a wide range of different electro technical apparatus and a wide scope of electrical engineering skills. A modern AC motor drive consists of four closely acting main parts: the AC machine, the power electronics, the motor control algorithm and the control hardware, i.e. the signal electronics. The advances in semiconductors and microelectronics have made the rapid development of AC motor drives possible. Semiconductors used in the switching converters provide the electric energy processing capability and microcontrollers and digital signal processors provide the data processing power for complex control algorithms.
E-Commerce in India
Authors: Kalia Prateek , Kaur Navdeep , Singh Tejinderpal
Published: February 2016

This chapter uniquely reports origin of e-commerce and holistic present scenario of online retail in India. Desk research and extant review of literature from reliable market research reports, books, journals and web has been done to decipher internet penetration, evolution of e-commerce and present scenario. Study observed that India is third largest country in terms of internet users. India will drive e-commerce in Asia pacific region after China and Indonesia. Reasons hampering India from finding place in global retail e-commerce index are also put in foreground. Sequential events leading to growth of different types of e-commerce in India are delineated into two waves to understand the evolutionary process. Out of total non-travel B2C e-commerce, online retail holds significant fifty percent share and its prospects for future growth are extremely positive. Businesses and researchers will find this chapter useful to devise future strategies to win and sustain e-commerce market in India.
Omnichannel Retailing
Authors: P. Gulnaz Banu , P. Gokulakannan
Published: February 2016

Tremendous growth of information technology led to the rise of a new form of retailing, the digital retailing, (includes e-commerce and m-commerce), which offers value, convenience and tons of information. Mostly, customers experience digital and conventional retailing distinctly. For a customer to appreciate ‘The brand', it is necessary for him to experience it, no matter through which channel he interacts with ‘The brand'. Here, Omnichannel strategy, which uses digital media as its backbone, is an integrated sales experience that melds the advantages of physical stores with the information rich-experience of online shopping. An Omnichannel strategy enables the customer to get what he wants anyhow, anytime and anywhere through options like Click and Collect Store, order from a public space, browse in store-order online, browse online-get at store and in-store GPS, information centre etc. From a retailer's perspective, it offers him a single customer view (SCV) that helps in understanding what the customers want. An effective integration of field intelligence and digital media data facilitates excellent control over the stocking of products. Integration of channels enables a retail store to fulfil an online order, thus the volume of products going into decline stage is reduced. Also it becomes easy to either risk pool the inventory and deliver from one point or reduce warehousing and deliver from the store. As a result, capital investment is optimised. To adopt omnichannel, it is necessary to understand the psychology of digital shoppers, customer touch points and actionable channels preferred by the customers. The SCV offered by omnichannel ensures that the brand makes its customers appreciate, enjoy and remain connected to the brand.
Globalization and Media's Impact on Cross Cultural Communication
Authors: Cross Doris E.
Published: February 2016

Diversity and change are key concepts facing the world, today. In the 21st century, organizational leaders recognize the importance of diverse perspectives and adaptations to changes. Globally, cultures have many definitions and difference as nations collectively strive to communicate with one another. Organizational leaders must understand the importance of cross-cultural communications in establishing trust and respect in business relationships. Doris E. Cross is an educator and researcher on diversity issues influence on organizational cultures competitive advantage. This chapter identifies factors, such as changing demographics, tumultuous economies, and workforce dynamics and effects on individual perceptions of organizational cultures.
Emotional Leadership
Authors: Bergethon Katherine P. , Davis Daniel Cochece
Published: February 2016

Although past research readily acknowledges emotions exist in organizations, and even acknowledges that leaders benefit from having “emotional intelligence,” fully understanding leadership's role in addressing the emotional dimension of organizational experience, especially during the typically high emotion situations of organizational conflicts, remains understudied. This chapter provides greater awareness of how leadership styles, especially transformational or charismatic leadership, relates with emotional intelligence to facilitate “emotional leadership” within organizations to achieve positive follower effects.
Speaking with Trunks, Dancing with the “Pink Elephants”
Authors: Clark Christine , Stowers Gwen
Published: February 2016

This chapter takes a contrary view of the “meta” aspect of meta-communication (where meta is defined as “behind” or “beneath”) in the online multicultural teacher education classroom, arguing that such communication inhibits learning about (content) and through (pedagogy) sociopolitically-located multicultural teacher education by enabling e-racism, e-classism, and e-sexism to operate in largely covert manners in the distance education context. Accordingly, this chapter contends that digital meta-communication on issues of race/ethnicity, socioeconomic class, and sex/gender needs to be “de-meta-ed” or made explicit in order for the kind of liberatory reflective conversation on these topics to occur that is foundational to the adequate preparation of PK-12 teachers to effectively educate all students.
Leading Virtual Teams
Authors: Davis Daniel Cochece , Scaffidi-Clarke Nancy M.
Published: February 2016

Virtual teams are increasingly common as marketplaces become more global. They offer advantages to employers, including increased time and travel savings, decreased real estate costs, and larger applicant pools. Yet, conflict is inherent in virtual teams, and leaders within virtual teams must confront debilitating conflicts due to technological issues, cultural miscommunication, and restructuring their communication. Though some elements are similar to handling conflict in any team situation, five group factors are especially subject to conflict and manifest differently in effective virtual teams: strategically selecting team members, building effective relationships, fostering trust, facilitating communication, and achieving team goals. Managing any team presents leaders with challenges regarding building relationships, facilitating communication, overcoming barriers and achieving team goals. However, adding geographic distance, cultural differences, and a lack of continuous face-to-face interaction exacerbates these challenges.
The Use of Online Social Networks in Higher Education and Its Influence on Job Performance
Authors: Carlos Vera Silva , Rodrigues Ricardo Gouveia
Published: February 2016

There is plenty of evidence on a positive influence of social relationships on work-related attitudes and behaviors. Besides, online social networks (OSNs), made possible by Web 2.0, have become a global phenomenon and have a considerable impact on the way people communicate and interact with each other. Our purpose is to evaluate the effect of using OSNs on the worker's attitudes and behaviors, particularly in the context of Higher Education. In this sense, we used a questionnaire, to evaluate the attitudes of 157 faculty members. To assess the use of OSNs, we resorted to a dichotomous variable. After analyzing and discussing the results we conclude that the use of OSNs influences the worker's performance, but not Job satisfaction, Organizational commitment or extra-role performance. The relationships we propose in what concerns the worker's attitudes are all empirically proved. Lastly, we describe the study limitations and we suggest some perspectives for future research.
Engineering Students' Communication Apprehension and Competence in Technical Oral Presentations
Authors: Radzuan Noor Raha Mohd , Kaur Sarjit
Published: February 2016

The demand for 21st century engineering graduates to be communicatively competent, particularly in English language, is increasing. Effective communication skills are one of the main competencies listed by the Malaysian Engineering Accreditation Council Policy with the expectation that all Malaysian engineering graduates will master it upon graduation. This involves skills in presenting information to technical and non technical audience through oral presentations. This chapter aims to examine engineering students' communication competence and their level of apprehension in delivering a technical oral presentation. Questionnaires, adapted from McCroskey's (1988) Self-Perceived Communication Competence and Richmond & McCroskey's (1988) Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety, were distributed to 193 final year Universiti Malaysia Pahang engineering students who were preparing for their Undergraduate Research presentation. The results of the study have direct and indirect implications to the teaching and learning of oral presentation skills among engineering undergraduates.
The Link between Communicative Intelligence and Procedural Justice
Authors: Mitchell Renée J. , Von Zoller Kendall
Published: February 2016

The public's perception of police legitimacy is viewed through the lens of procedural justice (Tyler, 2003). Legitimacy it is a perception held by an audience (Tankebe & Liebling, 2013). Tyler (2006, p. 375) defines legitimacy as “a psychological property of an authority, institution, or social arrangement that leads those connected to it to believe that it is appropriate, proper, and just.” Four aspects of the police contact that affects a citizen's view: active participation in the decision-making, the decision-making is neutral and objective, trustworthy motives, and being treated with dignity and respect (Tyler, 2004). Accordingly an officer should act in a way that supports citizen's active participation, conveys an air of neutrality, and enhances dignity and respect. One way an officer can transmit his intent is through communicative intelligence. Communicative intelligence is a communication theory based on five capabilities (Zoller, 2015). These authors intend to link communicative intelligence to behaviors officers should engage in to enhance PJ and improve PL.
CAMES
Authors: Smith Peter , Cames Olaf
Published: February 2016

The majority of IT Projects are not successful and fail for non-technical reasons, despite the fact that numerous project management methodologies exist in the marketplace and are now in common use in organisations. As the CHAOS report from Standish Group documents, this remains an important and current issue (Dominguez, 2009; The Standish Group International Inc., 2013). The fact is that for more than 20 years the majority of IT projects have failed; largely as a result of human factors and communication issues. This leads to enormous economic issues for organisations in the public and private sector. This chapter proposes a new approach to project management which addresses the human factor and issues of communication. The proposed approach is novel and applies principles drawn from philosophy and action research to produce an approach which has the potential to radically change the way in which projects are managed. The approach is discussed in terms of practice and the academic literature and is applied to two project simulations.
Surveillance of Electronic Communications in the Workplace and the Protection of Employees' Privacy
Authors: Inglezakis Ioannis
Published: February 2016

The use of Information and Communication Technologies in the workplace is constantly increasing, but also the use of surveillance technology. Electronic monitoring of employees becomes an integral part of information systems in the workplace. The specific software which is used for monitoring electronic communications is, however, intrusive and infringes upon the employees' right to privacy. The issue of surveillance of employees' electronic communications is subject to different approaches in various jurisdictions. The most comprehensive protection to employees is afforded in the EU, and it would be enhanced once the General Data Protection Regulation is passed.
The Influence of Tool Stiffness on the Dimensional Accuracy in Titanium Alloy Milling
Authors: Zębala Wojciech
Published: February 2016

The paper presents the simulation model of down milling process of titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) with a tool made of sintered carbides, considering a tool stiffness. A finite element method, applied for numerical computations was experimentally verified with the help of force dynamometer, thermo-vision and high-speed video cameras. Differences between measured and simulated values were less than 22 % for cutting forces and about 8% for maximum cutting zone temperature and about 5% for tool deflection in the active part of the cutting edge.
Application of Taguchi Method to Optimization of Cutting Force and Temperature during Turning of Difficult to Cut Materials
Authors: Struzikiewicz Grzegorz , Zębala Wojciech , Rumian Ksenia
Published: February 2016

The paper presents an analysis of the selection of the regression function in the optimization of steel turning using Taguchi method. The study attempts to investigate cutting force and temperature during turning of steel. Taguchi L16 (4) 2 orthogonal array has been applied for experimental design. S/N ratio and ANOVA analyses were performed to identify significant parameters influencing cutting force and temperature. Mathematical models for both response parameters i.e. cutting force and temperature roughness were obtained through regression analysis. The confirmation experiments carried out at optimal combination of parameters given by Taguchi’s analysis. The optimal solution provided by desirability function optimization was compared with the optimal setting of parameters given by Taguchi analysis. The optimization results provided by both techniques are in close proximity.
Cutting Force during Grinding Determined by Regression Analysis and Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Kovač Pavel , Pucovsky Vladimir , Gostimirović Marin , Savković Borislav , Šooš Ľubomír , Ješić Dušan
Published: February 2016

This paper presents an investigation of possibilities of using regression analysis and genetic algorithms in modelling the cutting force values in cylindrical grinding. The process included measurement of cutting forces during cylindrical grinding and later calculating their values using abovementioned techniques. It was concluded that both techniques can be used for cutting forces modelling with genetic algorithms having a slight advantage.
Influence of Machining Parameters on Machine Tool Loads at Rotary Ultrasonic Machining of Cubic Boron Nitride
Authors: Kuruc Marcel , Vagovský Juraj , Peterka Jozef
Published: February 2016

Poly-crystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) is one of the hardest known material. Therefore only advanced methods are able to treat such material. Advanced machining methods, proper for machining of hard and brittle materials (such as glass and ceramics) include rotary ultrasonic machining (RUM). However, high hardness of workpiece cause higher loads and it could negatively affect achievable accuracy and surface topography. Machine loads are affected by both: machined material and machining parameters. This contribution investigates influence of machining parameters, such as spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut, on loads of machine tool during machining of PCBN by rotary ultrasonic machining.
ELID Fine Grinding of SiC Bearing Rollers
Authors: Zhao Long , Bafakeeh Omar , Liu Hao , Marinescu Ioan D.
Published: February 2016

Electrolytic in-process dressing (ELID) grinding is drawing more and more attention by the researchers for its smart method of in-process dressing of the grinding wheel. Many researches place emphasis on study of in-processing dressing and oxide layer. In this study, the effects of three grinding factors, including wheel speed, load applied on workpiece and eccentricity of three parts in one holder, on surface roughness (Ra) and material removal rate (MRR) were investigated in a single-side ELID grinding experiment. Each factor has three levels. The experimental results show that each factor has different influence: 1. Applied load is the main factor which significantly affects the Ra and MRR; 2. the speed of grinding wheel doesn’t show much influence; 3. eccentricity has a great influence on roughness but not on material removal rate.
Comparison of Sintered Carbide Shafts Turning with PCD and CBN Tools
Authors: Matras Andrzej , Kowalczyk Robert
Published: February 2016

The paper presents the results of turning tests with PCD and CBN tools of super hard materials such as sintered carbides WC-Co with different Co content in the material structure. In studies, the attention has been focused on the main cutting force component Fc and the surface roughness parameter Ra values, depending on the cutting data (vc, f, ap).
Using Advanced CAM System in Modern Machining
Authors: Djurica Danijel , Sekulić Milenko , Kramar Davorin , Kovač Pavel , Gostimirović Marin
Published: February 2016

Goal of this paper highlight characteristics and spectrum of machining cutting sequences that programming system SolidCAM support. The practical goal of this paper is defining post-processor and machine simulation for 3-axis CNC machine like a tool for verification modern tool-path and generation G-code that will be used for cutting real part.
Identification of the Minimal Thickness of Cutting Layer Based on the Acoustic Emission Signal
Authors: Gawlik Józef , Krajewska-Śpiewak Joanna , Zębala Wojciech
Published: February 2016

The chip-forming precision machining process plays a significant role in the mechanical technology. In planning of machining operation, it is crucial to supply the information about the possible minimal value of the machining allowance. For the technologist, when planning the machining operation, it is important to define the minimal thickness of cutting layer correctly. This article presents a new method of describing the start of decohesion process in a workpiece, meaning the determination of the minimal thickness of cutting layer based on the AE signal generated in the cutting zone. The research conducted on the turning of an alloy steel and the analysis of the AE signal strength confirmed that the proposed method opens new possibilities in quickening the identification of the minimal thickness of cutting layer under normal machining conditions.
Morphology of the Chip Formation at Orthogonal High Speed Milling of AISI H13
Authors: Řehoř Jan , Fulemová Jaroslava , Monková Katarína , Monka Peter
Published: February 2016

High-speed cutting (HSC) or high-speed machining (HSM) is an issue that the scientists deals with in long-term. To demonstrate the explicitness, that a full HSC machining process is considered, it is necessary to monitor the series of factors. In particular, the process of chip formation, cutting forces, cutting temperature, vibration, tool life and surface finish quality in relation to the method of machining, machined material and its properties. The article deals with the detailed analysis and evaluation of the chip formation in order to determine the hard area, transition area and veritable HSC machining. The evaluation process is based on the proposed experimental model, which is confronted with the measurement results.
Collection of host-marking pheromone from Rhagoletis mendax (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Faraone Nicoletta , Hillier N. Kirk , Cutler G. Christopher
Published: February 2016

Blueberry fruit fly, Rhagoletis mendax Curran (Diptera: Tephritidae), females deposit a host-marking pheromone (HMP) on the surface of fruit immediately after oviposition that deters oviposition by female conspecifics. We collected this HMP from artificial oviposition devices and faeces. In subsequent two-choice bioassays, gravid females showed a strong preference for untreated oviposition devices as compared to those treated with extracts from either of these two sources. The methods described for collecting HMP of R. mendax will be useful for its eventual identification and synthesis, with potential applications in R. mendax management.
Anatomical study of animal remains from Phoenician-Punic amphorae found in the Santa Giusta Pond, Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Portas Laura , Farina Vittorio , Del Vais Carla , Carcupino Marcella , Gazza Ferdinando , Sanna Ignazio , Zedda Marco
Published: February 2016

During the underwater excavations carried out in the Santa Giusta Pond, near Oristano, Sardinia, a significant amount of Phoenician- Punic materials was brought to light including amphorae (dating back to 7th-2nd century BC) and vegetal and animal remains. All of these archaeological finds may come from Othoca, an important Phoenician- Punic city on the eastern shore of the pond, geographically corresponding with the modern-day town of Santa Giusta. Animal materials consist of more than 3000 very well-preserved remains, belonging to sheep (Ovis aries), goat (Capra hircus) and cattle (Bos taurus). Bone analyses allowed reconstructing the slaughtering methods, as well as manipulation procedures carried out to preserve meat in order to be exported overseas. Although pig (Sus scrofa) played an important economical role in other Sardinian Phoenician-Punic settlements, in this archaeological context this species is absent, suggesting that the meat contained in the amphorae was probably destined to other areas of the Mediterranean basin, where people did not eat pork.
Cortisol and glucose responses in juvenile striped catfish subjected to a cold shock
Authors: Adloo Mohammad Nabi , Soltanian Siyavash , Hafeziyeh Mahmoud , Ghadimi Nastaran
Published: February 2016

Cold-shock stress happens when a fish had been adjusted to a specific water temperature or range of temperatures and is consequently exposed to a rapid drop in temperature, resulting in a cascade of physiological and behavioral responses and, in some cases, death. In the current study, the stress response of striped Catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) was studied by evaluating serum cortisol and glucose level following an abrupt reduction in water temperature (from 28°C to 15°C) at different time points (prior to, and after 1h, 12h and 24h cold treatment, respectively). Regardless of some mortality occurred in cold challenged fish, none of the physiological parameters changed during evaluation period. The results, suggesting that despite of necessity of cortisol and glucose evaluation in any of stress assessment, yet, due to their high variability in different fish species, additional complementary tests such as measurement of other stress hormones e.g. heat shock proteins as well as blood-cell counts (preferably in chronic experiments) should also be included.
Canine osteoarthritis and treatments: a review
Authors: Bland Stephanie D.
Published: February 2016

Arthritis is a commonly occurring chronic illness in human and animals alike. Among all domestic and pet animal species, dogs suffer from arthritis more often because of excessive running or exercise, injury, and/or genetic predisposition. Presently, one in four of 77.2 million pet dogs in the United States are diagnosed with some form of arthritis. In dogs, osteoarthritis is more common than rheumatoid arthritis and pain is the number one observation. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a slowly progressive inflammatory disease, which is characterized by degeneration of the cartilage, hypertrophy of bone at the margins, and changes in the synovial membrane, and that eventually results in pain and stiffness of joints. Alterations in joint structures, decreased flexibility, and severe pain ensues, due to lack of hydration and inflammation. Cells within the damaged joints release pro-inflammatory cytokines, which further the inflammatory process. This causes more breakdown of the cartilage collagen type II and proteoglycans, which results in a perpetual destructive cycle. This perpetuating cycle ultimately results in cartilage destruction, subchondral bone thickening, and synovial membrane inflammation. This review focuses on osteoarthritis, the disease, causes, treatments, and presents a glimpse of some new therapies under study.
Innocuousness of conjunctival vaccination with Brucella melitensis strain Rev.1 in pregnant Iranian fat-tailed ewes
Authors: Alamian Saeed , Bagheri Nejad Ramin , Jalali Hamid Reza , Kalantari Armin , Etemadi Afshar
Published: February 2016

Brucella melitensis strain Rev.1 is the most effective vaccine against brucellosis in sheep and goats. In Iran, mass vaccination is carried out all over the country in which adult animals are immunized by subcutaneous injection of reduced doses of the vaccine. However, due to antibody responses elicited by vaccination, concomitant implementation of test-andslaughter is impossible. To overcome the problem, vaccination through conjunctival route is recommended. In this study, serological responses of six pregnant Iranian fat-tailed ewes to conjunctival vaccination with standard doses of the vaccine were evaluated using modified Rose Bengal test, serum agglutination test and indirect ELISA. Besides, vaccine strain excretion in milk and vaginal discharges was also examined by microbiological culture of milk and vaginal swab samples taken one day post-parturition. Animals were vaccinated during the second half of gestation. As the results, antibody titers of five (83.3%) ewes decreased to the levels not detectable by the tests within three months after vaccination. No vaccine-induced abortions occurred and vaccinated ewes delivered healthy lambs 50.33±15.56 (mean ± standard deviation) days post-vaccination. Vaccine strain was not isolated from milk and vaginal swab samples. Generally, our study shows full doses of B. melitensis strain Rev.1 can be used conjunctively to vaccinate pregnant Iranian sheep during late pregnancy without abortifacient effects, prolonged antibody responses and vaccine strain excretion in milk and vaginal discharges. Nevertheless, further studies are required to determine safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine in field conditions.
Exploration of transnationalism as a concept and phenomenon in Public Administration
Authors: Hanyane Barry
Published: February 2016

Transnationalism as both a phenomenon and a concept has received negligible attention in modern times in relation to the practice of public administration and its corresponding field of study. This article provides an account of the meaning and the relevance of both the concept and phenomenon as received and applied by practitioners and scholars in the said practice and field of study. From the latter, a deliberate approach towards policy matters is undertaken in relation to the concept and phenomenon of transnationalism. In this article policies used by the national Department of Home Affairs in South Africa form the basis from which a case is made relevant to this topic in p(P)ublic a(A)dministration. Additionally, case studies in the SADC region are considered. This article therefore argues that transnationalism is as much local as global issues such as immigration, citizenship, global economy, service delivery, government (in)efficiency and (in)effectiveness and such other matters of public interest.
Naming and exploring the causes of collective violence against African migrants in post-apartheid South Africa: Whither Ubuntu1 ?
Authors: Dassah M. O.
Published: February 2016

In South Africa, attacks mainly directed at black non-South Africans, is a rampant, long- standing phenomenon notwithstanding the spirit of Ubuntu which is thought to permeate the social fabric. Assumptions have been made in various labels describing the attacks, raising concerns about their appropriateness. Further, various explanations and hypotheses have been advanced about causes of or reasons for the attacks. The root causes of the attacks need to be properly understood for lasting solutions to be found. The objectives of this article are: first, to analyse the appropriateness of various labels in order to name the phenomenon South Africa is confronted with; and, secondly, to identify the root causes of the attacks. This analysis could assist in formulating policies and strategies to address the attacks. This article is theoretical, and it draws on in-depth analysis of relevant literature and empirical studies in order to addresses two research questions. First, are the attacks motivated by pure criminality, or are they manifestations of Afro-phobia/Negrophobia, expressions of xenophobia or indicators of outright racism? Secondly, what are the causes of or explanations for the attacks? On nomenclature, the article rejects the criminality label as reductionist. To an extent, the Afro-phobia/Negrophobia label has merit, but the racism tag is unsustainable. Xenophobia emerges as the appropriate description because empirical studies point to a significant number of South Africans holding xenophobic attitudes and having expressed their preparedness to forcefully eject foreign nationals. The article concludes that xenophobia is a complex phenomenon and has multiple causes, which must be properly understood and that finding effective solutions to it requires involvement of all key stakeholders.
Combined use of LIDAR and hyperspectral measurements for remote sensing of fluorescence and vertical profile of canopies
Authors: Ounis A. , Bach J. , Mahjoub A. , Daumard F. , Moya I. , Goulas Y.
Published: February 2016

Se presenta el desarrollo de un nuevo sistema lidar (LASVEG) para la teledetección aerotransportada de la fluorescencia de la clorofila (ChlF) y el perfil vertical del dosel. Mediante la combinación de la fluorescencia inducida por láser (LIF), la fluorescencia inducida por el sol (SIF) y la distribución de la altura del dosel, el nuevo instrumento permitirá la evaluación simultánea de la producción primaria bruta (GPP), la eficiencia de la fotosíntesis y las reservas de carbono por encima del nivel del suelo. Se discuten cuestiones técnicas del desarrollo del lidar fluorescencia y se presentan las prestaciones previstas.
Molecular characterization of atmospheric particulate organosulfates in three megacities at the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Wang Xin Ke , Rossignol Stéphanie , Ma Ye , Yao Lei , Wang Ming Yi , Chen Jian Min , George Christian , Wang Lin
Published: February 2016

Abstract. PM2.5 filter samples have been collected in three megacities at the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River: Wuhan (WH), Nanjing (NJ), and Shanghai (SH). The samples were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with Orbitrap mass spectrometry (MS), which allowed for detection of about 200 formulas of particulate organosulfates (OSs), including dozens of formulas of nitrooxy-organosulfates, with various numbers of isomers for each tentatively determined formula at each location. The number of aliphatic OS formulas represented more than 78 % of the detected OSs at the three locations, while aromatic OSs were much less numerous. OSs with two to four isomers accounted for about 50 % of the total OSs on average in these megacity samples, and the percentage of OSs with six and more isomers in the WH sample was more significant than those in the SH and NJ samples. Additionally, the molecular formula, average molecular weight, and degrees of oxidation and unsaturation of tentatively assigned OSs were compared. The results indicate that the OSs between NJ and SH shared higher similarity, and the characteristics of OSs in SH varied diurnally and seasonally. OSs derived from isoprene, monoterpenes, and sesquiterpenes were abundant in samples from the three megacities and could be produced through both daytime photochemistry and NO3 night-time chemistry. The reaction pathways leading to isoprene-derived OSs probably varied in those locations because of the different NOx levels. In addition, a number of OSs that might be formed from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were also detected, which underlies the importance of anthropogenic sources for this class of compounds.
Measurements of Global Distributions of Polar Mesospheric Clouds during 2005–2012 by MIPAS/Envisat
Authors: García-Comas Maya , López-Puertas Manuel , Funke Bernd , Jurado-Navarro Á. Aythami , Gardini Angela , Stiller Gabriele P. , Clarmann Thomas v. , Höpfner Michael
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We have analysed the MIPAS IR measurements of PMCs for the summer seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres from 2005 to 2012. Measurements of PMCs using this technique are very useful because they are sensitive to the total ice volume independent of particle size. For the first time, MIPAS has provided coverage of the PMCs total ice volume from mid-latitudes to the poles. MIPAS measurements indicate the existence of a continuous layer of mesospheric ice, extending from about ~ 81 km up to about 88–89 km on average and from the poles to about 50–60º in each hemisphere, increasing in concentration with proximity to the poles. We have found that the ice concentration is larger in the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere. The ratio between the ice water content (IWC) in both hemispheres is also latitude-dependent, varying from a NH / SH ratio of 1.4 close to the poles to a factor of 2.1 around 60º. This also implies that PMCs extend to lower latitudes in the NH. A very clear feature of the MIPAS observations is that PMCs tend to be at higher altitudes with increasing distance from the polar region (in both hemispheres), particularly equator-wards of 70º, and that they are about 1 km higher in the SH than in the NH. The difference between the mean altitude of the PMC layer and the mesopause altitude increases towards the poles and is larger in the NH than in the SH. The PMC layers are denser and wider when the frost point temperature occurs at lower altitudes. The layered water vapour structure caused by sequestration and by sublimation of PMCs is more pronounced at latitudes northernmost of 70 degrees. Finally, MIPAS observations have also shown a clear impact of the migrating diurnal tide on the diurnal variation of the PMCs ice concentration.
Piezoelectric crystal microbalance measurements of enthalpy of sublimation of C2–C9 dicarboxylic acids
Authors: Dirri F. , Palomba E. , Longobardo A. , Zampetti E.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We present here a novel experimental set-up that is able to measure the enthalpy of sublimation of a given compound by means of piezoelectric crystal microbalances (PCMs). The PCM sensors have already been used for space measurements, such as for the detection of organic and non-organic volatile species and refractory materials in planetary environments. In Earth atmospherics applications, PCMs can be also used to obtain some physical–chemical processes concerning the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in atmospheric environments. The experimental set-up has been developed and tested on dicarboxylic acids. In this work, a temperature-controlled effusion cell was used to sublimate VOC, creating a molecular flux that was collimated onto a cold PCM. The VOC recondensed onto the PCM quartz crystal, allowing the determination of the deposition rate. From the measurements of deposition rates, it has been possible to infer the enthalpy of sublimation of adipic acid, i.e. ΔHsub : 141.6 ± 0.8 kJ mol−1, succinic acid, i.e. 113.3 ± 1.3 kJ mol−1, oxalic acid, i.e. 62.5 ± 3.1 kJ mol−1, and azelaic acid, i.e. 124.2 ± 1.2 kJ mol−1. The results obtained show an accuracy of 1 % for succinic, adipic, and azelaic acid and within 5 % for oxalic acid and are in very good agreement with previous works (within 6 % for adipic, succinic, and oxalic acid and within 11 % or larger for azelaic acid).
An Empirical Study of Avoidance of Prepositions in English Writings by Chinese Higher Vocational College Students
Authors: Zhang Jinbai
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the avoidance of prepositions in English writings by Chinese higher vocational College students of different English proficiency levels and the main reasons for the avoidance, using English writing tasks and a questionnaire. The result indicates that the students at low English level tend to avoid using English prepositions but the students at high English level do not avoid prepositions. Low English proficiency level is the main cause of avoidance. L2 complexity, L1 and L2 differences, Psychological factors also contribute to the avoidance of English Prepositions by Chinese high vocational College students.
A Comparative Study of Pound’s and Lu Xun’s Syntactic Experiments
Authors: Zhu Lingyan
Published: February 2016

The first half of 20th century saw two translators coming from the west and east respectively choose the same translation strategy to carry out their syntactic experiments in their translation practice. The two renowned translators are Ezra Pound and Lu Xun. Staying in different historical contexts and encountered with the dominant target poetics they were dissatisfied with, both Pound and Lu Xun attempted to fulfill their syntactic experiments by signifying the syntactic differences of the source texts through the use of foreignization strategy. Although attracting many negative comments because of the unfluent translation resulting from them, Pound’ and Lu Xun’ syntactic experiments exert great influence on the development of their target languages, further contributing a lot to the development of their target culture. This paper will make a comparative study of Pound’s and Lu Xun’s syntactic experiments by exploring their motives, elaborating their translation principles and strategies, and analyzing their influence and significance.
Quality Assessment of Soil Pollution Monitoring: Focus on Representativeness
Authors: Desaules Andre
Published: February 2016

Soil monitoring data can be no better than the quality of the monitoring system they stem from. Quality assessment (QA) of soil monitoring requires reliable and comprehensive quality assessment and quality control (QA/QC) schemes including (1) the selection of parameters and measurement quality related to (2) space and (3) time. It can be presented by a synoptic diagram with three axes based on a table with quality criteria. The two major quality parameters are the degrees of resolution (precision) and representativeness (bias), whereas the latter does not yet include parameter selection and soil sampling.
As a result the quality of soil monitoring is usually greatly overestimated. This finding is supported by examples and practical recommendations are given. Since full representativeness for the three aspects of soil monitoring is a fiction in practice, their biases have to be quantified completely, continuously and reliably. The most important challenges are to quantitatively assess and control the representativeness of primary soil sampling and to improve it.
What Is the Best Parametric Survival Models for Analyzing Hemodialysis Data?
Authors: Vahedi Mohsen , Mahmoodi Mahmood , Mohammad Kazem , Ossareh Sharzad , Zeraati Hojjat
Published: February 2016

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are both common public health problems worldwide. Hemodialysis (HD) is one of the main ultimate modalities of renal replacement therapy in these patients. The aim of this study was to compare the different parametric (Weibull, Gamma, Gompertz, Log-logistic and Lognormal) survival models, in maintenance HD (MHD) patients.

Method: This study was conducted from March 2004 to October 2013 and encompassed 544 ESRD patients under MHD in Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Tehran, Iran. Laboratory, clinical and demographic data were extracted from the Hemodialysis Data Processor Software, which had been designed for data collection in Hasheminejad Kidney Center. Exponential, Weibull, Gompertz, lognormal and log-logistic were used for analyzing survival of hemodialysis patient using STATA software. To compare these models Akaike Information criterion (AIC) and Cox-Snell residual were utilized.

Results: According to the both criteria (AIC and Cox-Snell residual), Weibull survival model manifested better results as compared with other models. According to this model, age at the time of admission (HR=1.015, p-value=0.018), walking ability (HR=0.656, p-value=0.010), diabetes mellitus as the underlying disease (HR=1.392, p-value=0.038), hemoglobin level (HR=0.790, p-value<0.001), serum creatinine (HR=0.803, p-value<0.001), serum protein (HR=0.747, p-value=0.010) and Single pool Kt/V(HR=0.092, p-value<0.001), had significant effect on survival of the hemodialysis patient

Conclusion: In our analysis Weibull distribution, which had the lowest AIC value, was selected as the most suitable model. 
Health Priority Setting in Iran: Evaluating Against the Social Values Framework
Authors: Mostafavi Hakimeh , Rashidian Arash , Arab Mohammad , Mahdavi Mohammad R. V. , Ashtarian Kioomars
Published: February 2016

Background: Health systems, as part of the social system, consider public values. This study was conducted to examine the role of social values in the health priority setting in the Iranian health system.

Methods: In this qualitative case study, three main data sources were used: literature, national documents, and key informants who were purposefully selected from health care organizations and other related institutions. Data was analyzed and interpreted using the Clark-Weale Framework.

Results: According to our results, the public indirectly participates in decision-making. The public representatives participate in the meetings of the health priority setting as parliament members, representatives of some unions, members of the city council, and donors. The transparency of the decisions and the accountability of the decision makers are low. Decision makers only respond to complaints of the Audit Court and the Inspection Organization. Individual choice, although respected in hospitals and clinics, is limited in health care networks because of the referral system. Clinical effectiveness is considered in insurance companies and some hospitals. There are no technical abilities to determine the cost-effectiveness of health technologies; however, some international experiences are employed. Equity and solidarity are considered in different levels of the health system.

Conclusion: Social values are considered in the health priority decisions in limited ways. It seems that the lack of an appropriate value-based framework for priority setting and also the lack of public participation are the major defects of the health system. It is recommended that health policymakers invite different groups of people and stakeholders for active involvement in health priority decisions. 
Assessing the Distribution of Household Financial Contribution to Health System: A Case Study of Iran
Authors: Fazaeli Amir Abbas , Hadian Mohmmad , Rezapour Aziz
Published: February 2016

Background: Throughout the world, financing the healthcare system through households' financial contribution is a challenging issue in evaluating performance of healthcare systems. The purpose of this paper is illustrating the consequences of Iranian household to health system financial contribution in terms of burden and incomes approaches.

Method: The Data derived from an annual survey by Statistics Center of Iran (SCI) on expenditure-income of 36,551 households in 2012 was used to analyze countrywide distribution indicators of households' medical expenses by measuring indices of Income and burden approaches based on World Health Organization (WHO) and World Bank recommended methodologies.

Results: The fairness in financial contribution index was 0.85 and 0.82, and the income redistributive effect index was 0.54 and 0.3 in urban and rural areas, respectively. The fairness in financial contribution index was found 0.84 and 0.83 and the income redistributive effect index was 0.48 and 0.25 for households with and without medical insurance, respectively.

The percentages of household with catastrophic health payments were 2.4% and 4% and the change in the number of household falling below the poverty line due to health system payments was 0.4% and 2% in urban and rural areas, respectively. The percentages of household with catastrophic health payments were 2.8% and 3% and the change in the number of household falling below the poverty line due to health system payments was 0.008 and 0.011 for households with and without medical insurance, respectively.

Conclusion: Distribution indicators of medical expenses were more favorable in urban areas compared to rural areas and Medical insurance has declined impoverishment risks and number of people suffered due to catastrophic health expenditure.

In addition, the result showed that there are different approaches for analyzing the distribution of out of pocket payments which used to complement each other in respect of formulation and development policy making in health system.
Does Firms’ Social Responsibility Counteract Some Critical Effects of Labor Market Flexibility?
Authors: Oliva Nadia , Pacella Andrea
Published: February 2016

The aim of this paper is twofold. First, it will be argued that the flexibility in labour contract duration can be ineffective in increasing productivity, profits and employment when workers test a high state of uncertainty. Second, it will be shown that these effects can be reduced when firms put into effect a system of social responsibility. What emerges is that while flexibility produces unstable collaborative behavioural codes between employers and employees that damage both, the firms’ social responsibility contributes to spread a spirit of shared values and personal gratifications amongst workers that reduce this instability and generate positive economic performances.