bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating and Selecting the Best Outsourcing Service Country in East and Southeast Asia: An AHP Approach
Authors: Chen Shieh-Liang , Pham Van Kien , Chen James K. C. 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Over the last two decades, outsourcing has been considered a key component for business performance through which firms can narrow their business operations and focus on core competencies. Before doing that, it is vital to evaluate and determine the best outsourcing destination. Unfortunately, only a few studies have been done to help firms make decisions in relation to evaluating a potential outsourcing partner. In addition, most existing studies only emphasized a specific field at the company level, so a complete framework in this field has never been done before. This study therefore attempts to address this research gap by constructing an outsourcing hierarchy model with four levels, namely overall goal, criteria, sub-criteria, and alternative for the use of the AHP approach. In here, criteria would include the most important attributes, which are (1) cost competiveness, (2) human resources, (3) business environment, and (4) government policies. Each criterion itself also consists of several-sub criteria. With respect to these criteria, seven typical outsourcing countries in the East and South East Asia (China, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam) were selected to serve as alternatives. As a result, the weight of the higher priority, the more important the criterion or the alternative will be. The results show that cost competiveness is the most important factor in the second level of the hierarchy and it results in the dominance of employee salary, taxes, freight prices, and real estate costs respectively in the third level. Corresponding with this, China is the best outsourcing destination. Additionally, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand are emerging as three attractive countries due to the positive change of government policies as well as the improvements of human resources and national infrastructure. Generally, this study not only enriches the existing literature, but also provides readers and decision-makers a comprehensive view toward the given field.
Economic Design of SkSP-R Skip-Lot Sampling Plan
Authors: Balamurali Saminathan , Aslam Muhammad , Jun Chi-Hyuck 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Skip-lot sampling plans are widely used in industries in order to reduce sampling costs and inspection efforts when products have a good quality history. This type of skip-lot sampling plan is economically advantageous and useful to minimize the cost of the inspection particularly with costly and destructive testing. Recently, a new type of skip-lot sampling plan called SkSP-R was developed. In this paper, an economic design of the SkSP-R plan is proposed for both destructive and non-destructive testing by considering various cost items in order to optimize the plan.
The Effect of Cement–Sodium Silicate Grout Compounds on Void Ratio and the Coefficient of Secondary Compression of Treated Fibrous Peat
Authors: Kazemian Sina , Moayedi Hossein , Mosallanezhad Mansour 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Peats have low shear strength and high deformation characteristics. Peat is a naturally occurring material that is extremely soft with a high moisture content and exists in an unconsolidated state. The conventional binders used are cementitious materials, and the introduction of a new binder, sodium silicate, with other additives gives a better output than the conventional peat treatment. This article describes a laboratory study on the effect of different compounds of cement–sodium silicate grout on void ratio and the coefficient of secondary compression of fibrous peat. It is shown that by increasing the amount of sodium silicate (within 2.5 %), cement, and kaolinite in treated peat, we were able to decrease the mentioned properties of treated peat.
Crack Opening Evaluation and Sustainability Potential of Highly Flowable Strain-Hardening, Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (HF-SHFRC)
Authors: Liao Wen-Cheng , Chao Shih-Ho 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Highly flowable, strain-hardening fiber-reinforced concrete (HF-SHFRC) has good workability in the fresh state, and it exhibits the strain-hardening and multiple-cracking characteristics of high-performance, fiber-reinforced cementitious composites in the hardened state. HF-SHFRC can be easily manufactured and delivered by ready-mix trucks for cast-on-the-job sites. Structural large-scale test results from several research programs also showed that HF-SHFRC is effective in increasing shear strength, displacement capacity, and damage tolerance in members subjected to large inelastic deformations. The results of two tests, a long prismatic tensile test with continuous reinforcement and an in-plane pure shear panel test, are summarized in this paper. Relative to conventional concrete, HF-SHFRC not only demonstrates much better mechanical performance, but also presents reduced crack potential and excellent crack width control. These characteristics of HF-SHFRC can further diminish the need for repairs, rehabilitation, and maintenance after extreme loading events and give infrastructure a longer service life, which will eventually lower the life-cycle cost.
Three-Dimensional Discrete Element Modeling of Crack Development in Epoxy Asphalt Concrete
Authors: Qian Zhen-Dong , Wang Jiang-Yang , Chen Lei-Lei , Wang Lin-Bing 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Cracking in epoxy asphalt concrete (EAC) used for a steel bridge wearing course has always been a major cause of structural and functional deterioration of this material, particularly in cold climate. Therefore, it is important to understand the complex fracture behavior of this heterogeneous mixture, which is composed of irregularly shaped and randomly distributed aggregates surrounded by asphalt mastics. A three-dimensional (3D) fracture model independent of laboratory, based on the discrete element method (DEM), is reconstructed using a randomly generating algorithm to investigate the fracture behavior. A bilinear cohesive-softening model is implemented into the DEM framework to simulate the crack initiation and propagation in EAC. Several experimental tests are performed to obtain input parameters of materials for numerical models. The simulation results of a single-edge notched beam test agree well with experimental results and accurately capture the stress distribution and development of fracture zone. The modeling technique herein provides insight into the progressive cracking process; 3D visualization of crack trajectories also demonstrates the influence of heterogeneity on crack path. The 3D user-defined microstructural DEM fracture model is capable of giving a realistic cracking process of quasi-brittle materials such as EAC and can help us better understand various fracture mechanisms through numerical simulations.
Improving Corporate Governance Effects on an Enterprise Crisis Based on a New Hybrid DEMATEL with the MADM Model
Authors: Hu Kuang-Hua , Chen Fu-Hsiang , Tzeng Gwo-Hshiung , Lee Jinn-De 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to set up a new enterprise crisis improvement model for corporate governance based on the hybrid MADM model, which addresses on the main causal factors and amended priorities in order to reduce the occurrence of corporate crises. In this study, we present the use of a new hybrid MADM combined with a DEMATEL technique to construct an influential network relationship map (INRM) and find the influential weights of DANP in criteria from the influential relationship matrix, as well as the modified VIKOR method using influential weights, to evaluate and integrate the criteria performance in the gaps. This study also analyzes how to reduce the gaps to evaluate the decision for improving corporate governance effects based on INRM. This method provides decision-makers with a way to formulate improvement strategies. The results show that the overall average gap of corporate governance is 0.501 (signaling a crisis on the 0 to 1 scale). To remedy this issue, much bigger gaps are needed for improvement in each criterion. The implication is that Taiwan's current financial industry corporate governance system is too weak and needs to be strengthened, reengineered, and transformed.
Joint Selective Encryption of CAVLC and Signs of Motion Vectors for H.264/AVC
Authors: Khlif Naziha , Damak Taheni , Kammoun Fahmi , Masmoudi Nouri 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Currently, researchers are orienting their effort to selective encryption in order to protect video sequences against attacks during their transmission over a public channel. The reasons for this trend are of great importance. To reduce video data amount, the video compression chain is essential and to ensure their security, while in transmission, an encryption algorithm is evident. Thus, inserting the encryption module in the video compression chain is better than applying compression and encryption separately in terms of computing time. This paper presents a chaos based encryption method inserted in the H.264 Advanced Video Coding (AVC) used for video conferencing applications. The selective encryption was applied on context adaptive variable length coding (CAVLC) and on the signs of motion vectors. The results were deducted according to the values of peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity (SSIM) and the encryption rate (ER). Combining selective encryption of CAVLC (SE-CAVLC) and motion vector sign encryption (MVSE) are interesting in terms of enhancing the encryption and to damage the visual quality of the decoded video for both Intra and Inter predicted frames.
The Sounds and Stages of Emerson’s Social Reform
Authors: Gray Nicole H. 
Published: October 2014

Nicole H. Gray, “The Sounds and Stages of Emerson’s Social Reform” (pp. 208–232)
This essay argues that Ralph Waldo Emerson’s antislavery reform efforts in the 1850s depended on a theory of transformation and mediation that shares ground with his linguistic and philosophical experiments. I base this claim on a reading of the sounds and citations at work in one political address, delivered in 1854 as part of an extended public reaction to the passage of the Fugitive Slave Law in 1850. This essay takes up three different ways in which the structure of citation and revision (“recitation”) function in relation to this address. First, I discuss recitation in terms of critics’ conceptualization of Emerson’s general approach to language. Second, I consider Emerson’s recitation of a line from “La Marseillaise,” a revolutionary tune that became the French national anthem, in his journals and his speech. Finally, I turn to Emerson’s re-vision of his audience within this address, and in the space of his orations in general.
Ellis Englesberg and the Discovery of Positive Control in Gene Regulation
Authors: Hahn Steven 
Published: October 2014

AbstractBased on his work with the Escherichia coli l-arabinose operon, Ellis Englesberg proposed in 1965 that the regulatory gene araC was an “activator gene” required for positive control of the ara operon. This challenged the widely held belief in a universal mechanism of negative regulation proposed earlier by Jacob and Monod. For years, Englesberg’s model was met with deep skepticism. Despite much frustration with complex ad hoc explanations used to challenge his model, Englesberg persisted until the evidence for positive control in ara and other systems became overwhelming. Englesberg’s pioneering work enriched the original operon model and had a lasting impact in opening new and exciting ways of thinking about transcriptional regulation.
A Novel Ribosomopathy Caused by Dysfunction of RPL10 Disrupts Neurodevelopment and Causes X-Linked Microcephaly in Humans
Authors: Brooks Susan S , Wall Alissa L , Golzio Christelle , Reid David W , Kondyles Amalia , Willer Jason R , Botti Christina , Nicchitta Christopher V , Katsanis Nicholas , Davis Erica E 
Published: October 2014

AbstractNeurodevelopmental defects in humans represent a clinically heterogeneous group of disorders. Here, we report the genetic and functional dissection of a multigenerational pedigree with an X-linked syndromic disorder hallmarked by microcephaly, growth retardation, and seizures. Using an X-linked intellectual disability (XLID) next-generation sequencing diagnostic panel, we identified a novel missense mutation in the gene encoding 60S ribosomal protein L10 (RPL10), a locus associated previously with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); the p.K78E change segregated with disease under an X-linked recessive paradigm while, consistent with causality, carrier females exhibited skewed X inactivation. To examine the functional consequences of the p.K78E change, we modeled RPL10 dysfunction in zebrafish. We show that endogenous rpl10 expression is augmented in anterior structures, and that suppression decreases head size in developing morphant embryos, concomitant with reduced bulk translation and increased apoptosis in the brain. Subsequently, using in vivo complementation, we demonstrate that p.K78E is a loss-of-function variant. Together, our findings suggest that a mutation within the conserved N-terminal end of RPL10, a protein in close proximity to the peptidyl transferase active site of the 60S ribosomal subunit, causes severe defects in brain formation and function.
The Genetic Basis of Natural Variation in Seed Size and Seed Number and Their Trade-Off Using Arabidopsis thaliana MAGIC Lines
Authors: Gnan Sebastian , Priest Anne , Kover Paula X 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Offspring number and size are key traits determining an individual’s fitness and a crop’s yield. Yet, extensive natural variation within species is observed for these traits. Such variation is typically explained by trade-offs between fecundity and quality, for which an optimal solution is environmentally dependent. Understanding the genetic basis of seed size and number, as well as any possible genetic constraints preventing the maximization of both, is crucial from both an evolutionary and applied perspective. We investigated the genetic basis of natural variation in seed size and number using a set of Arabidopsis thaliana multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) lines. We also tested whether life history affects seed size, number, and their trade-off. We found that both seed size and seed number are affected by a large number of mostly nonoverlapping QTL, suggesting that seed size and seed number can evolve independently. The allele that increases seed size at most identified QTL is from the same natural accession, indicating past occurrence of directional selection for seed size. Although a significant trade-off between seed size and number is observed, its expression depends on life-history characteristics, and generally explains little variance. We conclude that the trade-off between seed size and number might have a minor role in explaining the maintenance of variation in seed size and number, and that seed size could be a valid target for selection.
Reducing Mortality and Infections After Congenital Heart Surgery in the Developing World
Authors: Jenkins Kathy J. , Castañeda Aldo R. , Cherian K.M. , Couser Chris A. , Dale Emily K. , Gauvreau Kimberlee , Hickey Patricia A. , Koch Kupiec Jennifer , Morrow Debra Forbes , Novick William M. , Rangel Shawn J. , Zheleva Bistra , Christenson Jan T. 
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND:
There is little information about congenital heart surgery outcomes in developing countries. The International Quality Improvement Collaborative for Congenital Heart Surgery in Developing World Countries uses a registry and quality improvement strategies with nongovernmental organization reinforcement to reduce mortality. Registry data were used to evaluate impact.

METHODS:
Twenty-eight sites in 17 developing world countries submitted congenital heart surgery data to a registry, received annual benchmarking reports, and created quality improvement teams. Webinars targeted 3 key drivers: safe perioperative practice, infection reduction, and team-based practice. Registry data were audited annually; only verified data were included in analyses. Risk-adjusted standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and standardized infection ratios among participating sites were calculated.

RESULTS:
Twenty-seven sites had verified data in at least 1 year, and 1 site withdrew. Among 15 049 cases of pediatric congenital heart surgery, unadjusted mortality was 6.3% and any major infection was 7.0%. SMRs for the overall International Quality Improvement Collaborative for Congenital Heart Surgery in Developing World Countries were 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62–0.81) in 2011 and 0.76 (95% CI 0.69–0.83) in 2012, compared with 2010 baseline. SMRs among 7 sites participating in all 3 years were 0.85 (95% CI 0.71–1.00) in 2011 and 0.80 (95% CI 0.66–0.96) in 2012; among 14 sites participating in 2011 and 2012, the SMR was 0.80 (95% CI 0.70–0.91) in 2012. Standardized infection ratios were similarly reduced.

CONCLUSIONS:
Congenital heart surgery risk-adjusted mortality and infections were reduced in developing world programs participating in the collaborative quality improvement project and registry. Similar strategies might allow rapid reduction in global health care disparities.
Childhood Obesity and Interpersonal Dynamics During Family Meals
Authors: Berge Jerica M. , Rowley Seth , Trofholz Amanda , Hanson Carrie , Rueter Martha , MacLehose Richard F. , Neumark-Sztainer Dianne 
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND:
Family meals have been found to be associated with a number of health benefits for children; however, associations with obesity have been less consistent, which raises questions about the specific characteristics of family meals that may be protective against childhood obesity. The current study examined associations between interpersonal and food-related family dynamics at family meals and childhood obesity status.

METHODS:
The current mixed-methods, cross-sectional study included 120 children (47% girls; mean age: 9 years) and parents (92% women; mean age: 35 years) from low-income and minority communities. Families participated in an 8-day direct observational study in which family meals were video-recorded in their homes. Family meal characteristics (eg, length of the meal, types of foods served) were described and associations between dyadic (eg, parent-child, child-sibling) and family-level interpersonal and food-related dynamics (eg, communication, affect management, parental food control) during family meals and child weight status were examined.

RESULTS:
Significant associations were found between positive family- and parent-level interpersonal dynamics (ie, warmth, group enjoyment, parental positive reinforcement) at family meals and reduced risk of childhood overweight. In addition, significant associations were found between positive family- and parent-level food-related dynamics (ie, food warmth, food communication, parental food positive reinforcement) and reduced risk of childhood obesity.

CONCLUSIONS:
Results extend previous findings on family meals by providing a better understanding of interpersonal and food-related family dynamics at family meals by childhood weight status. Findings suggest the importance of working with families to improve the dyadic and family-level interpersonal and food-related dynamics at family meals.
A new 3D damage model for concrete under monotonic, cyclic and dynamic loadings
Authors: Mazars Jacky , Hamon François , Grange Stéphane 
Published: October 2014

Abstract
Among the “theories” applied to model concrete behavior, damage mechanics has proven to be efficient. One of the first models for concrete introduced into such a framework is Mazars’ damage model. A new formulation of this model, called the “μ model” and based on a coupling of elasticity and damage within an isotropic formulation, is proposed herein for the purpose of 3D cyclic and dynamic loadings. Unilateral behavior (i.e., crack opening and closure) is introduced by use of two internal variables. A threshold surface is then associated with each of these variables. The shape of such surfaces has been chosen to model as accurately as possible concrete behavior under various loadings, i.e., tension, compression, shear, biaxial and triaxial, in the aim of simulating a large number of loading types (monotonic, cyclic, seismic, blast, impact, etc.). Applications of this model are presented on plain or reinforced concrete elements subjected to a range of loadings (e.g., multiaxial, cyclic, dynamic). A comparison with experimental results serves to demonstrate the effectiveness of these various selected options.
Dental arch response to Haas-type rapid maxillary expansion anchored to deciduous vs permanent molars: A multicentric randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ugolini Alessandro , Cerruto Carmen , Di Vece Luca , Ghislanzoni Luis Huanca , Sforza Chiarella , Doldo Tiziana , Silvestrini-Biavati Armando , Caprioglio Alberto 
Published: October 2014

ABSTRACT

Objective:
To assess maxilla and mandibular arch widths' response to Haas-type rapid maxillary expansion (RME) anchored to deciduous vs permanent molars on children with unilateral posterior crossbite.

Materials and Methods:
Seventy patients with unilateral posterior crossbite recruited at the Universities of Genova, Siena, and Insubria (Varese) were randomly located into GrE (RME on second deciduous molars) or Gr6 (RME on first permanent molars) and compared.

Results:
Upper intermolar distance and permanent molar angulation increased significantly in Gr6 vs GrE at T1. Upper intercanine distance increased significantly in GrE vs Gr6 at T1 and T2. GrE showed significant increases for upper intermolar and upper intercanine widths. Gr6 showed statistically significant increases for upper intermolar widths, for upper and lower intercanine widths, and for increases of angulation of upper and lower permanent molars.

Conclusions:
GrE showed reduced molar angulation increases at T1 and reduced molar angulation decreases at T2 when compared with Gr6. At T2, the net increase of the upper intercanine distance in GrE was still significant compared with Gr6, indicating a more stable expansion in the anterior area.