WIT Research Day Book of Abstracts 2011 by Waterford Institute of Technology

Table of Contents FOREWARD....................................................................................................................................................... 7 ORGANISING COMMITTEE ........................................................................................................................ 9 STAFF ABSTRACTS ..................................................................................................................................... 10 MR LIAM DOYLE.................................................................................................................................................... 11 THE ROLE OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT .................................................................................. 11 MS MARY FENTON ................................................................................................................................................ 13 GRADUATE ENTERPRISE PROGRAMMES: PERSPECTIVES OF GRADUATE ENTREPRENEURS ............................................................. 13 MS ANNE GRAHAM .............................................................................................................................................. 14 FINDING THE RED THREAD” THE ROLE OF THE LEARNING SPACE IN TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING IN EXECUTIVE EDUCATION .............. 14 DR RICHARD HAYES .............................................................................................................................................. 16 CLIFFORD ODETS AND THE THEATRE OF THE GREAT DEPRESSION ............................................................................................ 16 DR JIM LAWLOR .................................................................................................................................................... 17 COMPETITIVE ACTIVITIES IN NEW TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRIES .................................................................................................. 17 MS CIARA LOSTY AND DR MARIA MURPHY GRIFFIN ............................................................................................. 19 EXERCISE SELF-EFFICACY IN TRAINEE GARDAÍ FOLLOWING AN E-COUNSELLING INTERVENTION .................................................... 19 MS KATE MADDEN ................................................................................................................................................ 21 THE EDUCATIONAL MERITS OF INCORPORATING A SERVICE-LEARNING COMPONENT IN THE NURSING CURRICULUM ........................... 21 DR PANAGIOTIS MANESIOTIS, DR QENDRESA OSMANI, DR PETER MCLOUGHLIN ................................................. 23 PLASTIC ANTIBODIES FOR ISOLATION AND PURIFICATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOUNDS ........................................................ 23 MR T J MCDONALD ............................................................................................................................................... 24 EXCITEING IRISH COMMUNITIES: A 4 LENS MODEL TO SUPPORT THE USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY FOR IRISH VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS .................................................................................................................................. 24 DR COLETTE MOLONEY, MS ANGELA BUCKLEY, MS DEIRDRE MCDONALD, MS LISA MORRISSEY AND MS ALISON SLATTERY .............................................................................................................................................................. 26 ‘THE PAPER WITNESS’: THE ANALYSIS OF IRISH MUSIC MANUSCRIPTS AS INFORMATION SOURCES ............................................... 26 DR DOMINIC MURPHY .......................................................................................................................................... 28 OPTICAL FIBRE MANIPULATIONS ENABLING STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGIES........................................................................ 28 MR EOGHAN O’ DONOGHUE................................................................................................................................. 30 FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS: A POWERFUL TOOL FOR INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT .................................................. 30 MS MAEVE O’ GRADY ........................................................................................................................................... 32 THE ROLE OF AFFECTIVE EQUALITY IN COMMUNITY EDUCATION............................................................................................. 32

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

MS CORINNE POWER O’MAHONY, DR. FELICITY KELLIHER AND MS MARGARET SKELLY ....................................... 34 MAKING SENSE OF LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE: FACILITATING REFLECTIVE PRACTICE IN AN UNDERGRADUATE WORK PLACEMENT PROGRAMME................................................................................................................................................................ 34 DR JOSEPH O’MAHONY, ........................................................................................................................................ 36 ENVIRONMENTAL NANOTECHNOLOGY - ENERGY HARVESTING AND SENSOR TECHNOLOGIES ......................................................... 36 MR LIAM O’SHEA AND MR TOM WEMYSS ............................................................................................................ 37 NANO-POSITIONING RESEARCH IN WIT ............................................................................................................................. 37 DR J. MARTÍN SERRANO........................................................................................................................................ 39 MANAGEMENT OF MONITORING SERVICES IN THE CLOUD ..................................................................................................... 39 TELECOMMUNICATIONS SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS GROUP ....................................................................................................... 39 STUDENT ABSTRACTS............................................................................................................................... 42 MR VICTOR ADEBAYO ........................................................................................................................................... 43 INWARD FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS AS CATALYSTS FOR GROWTH IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY .................... 43 MR BERNARD BUTLER ........................................................................................................................................... 45 A FRAMEWORK TO MEASURE SERVER PERFORMANCE WHEN EVALUATING ACCESS CONTROL POLICIES IN ICT SYSTEMS........................ 45 MR STEFAN GABRIEL BUZOIANU, M.C. WALSH, G.E. GARDINER, M.C. REA, R.P. ROSS AND P.G. LAWLOR ............ 47 EFFECT OF FEEDING GENETICALLY MODIFIED BT (MON810) MAIZE TO PIGS FROM 12 DAYS POST-WEANING FOR 110 DAYS ON SERUM AND URINE BIOCHEMISTRY .............................................................................................................................................. 47 MR BRIAN CAFFREY .............................................................................................................................................. 48 AN INVESTIGATION INTO HUMAN-CENTRED PEER-SUPPORT EDUCATION SYSTEMS THROUGH ICT AND NEW MEDIA FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIFIC LEARNING DIFFICULTIES...................................................................................................................................... 48 MS KATIE CAGNEY ................................................................................................................................................ 49 CONTINUITY AND CHANGE: NARRATIVES FROM INSIDE MODERN IRISH FAMILIES ......................................................................... 49 MR SHIBO CAI AND DR JOSEPH O’ MAHONY ........................................................................................................ 50 LOW COST SENSOR BASED ON THE QUARTZ TUNING FORK ..................................................................................................... 50 MR RAYMOND CARROLL ....................................................................................................................................... 51 APPLICATION OF GENETIC ALGORITHM TO MAXIMISE CLEAN ENERGY USAGE FOR DATA CENTRES ................................................. 51 MS TRACEY COADY ............................................................................................................................................... 52 BIOTRANSFORMATIONS USING NITRILE HYDROLYSING ENZYMES FOR STEREOSELECTIVE ORGANIC SYNTHESIS ..................................... 52 MR PADRAIG CULLEN............................................................................................................................................ 54 A METHOD FOR PRODUCING ATOMICALLY SHARP FORCE SENSORS FOR USE IN A NOVEL PHOTOCONDUCTIVE ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 54 MR NIALL DONNELLY ............................................................................................................................................ 56 INTEGRATION OF OPENCL AND OPENMPI TO PROVIDE DISTRIBUTED SUPERCOMPUTING ............................................................ 56 MR AHMED ELMESIRY AND DR DMITRI BOTVICH ................................................................................................. 57 MAINTAINING USER PRIVACY IN LOCATION AWARE MOBILE SERVICES .................................................................................... 57 WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

MR LAURENCE FITZHENRY, DR PANAGIOTIS MANESIOTIS, DR PATRICK DUGGAN AND DR PETER MCLOUGHLIN . 58 SYNTHETIC MOLECULAR RECEPTORS FOR STEROID SENSING AND RELEASE ................................................................................ 58 MS MARGARET FITZPATRICK ................................................................................................................................ 59 DECONSTRUCTING THE KNOWLEDGE CONCEPT FOR KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER EFFICIENCY ............................................................. 59 MS DEIRDRE FLEMING .......................................................................................................................................... 61 TOWARDS A FRAMEWORK OF UNDERSTANDING RESTORING ACTIONS DURING THE STAGES OF DISSOLUTION IN INTER-ORGANISATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS ............................................................................................................................................................. 61 MR JOHN FLYNN ................................................................................................................................................... 63 DEVELOPMENT OF A WIND ENERGY PREDICTION TOOL........................................................................................................... 63 MR PEARSE FLYNN ................................................................................................................................................ 65 THE ROLE OF INTRINSIC RESIDUAL STRESSES IN THE WEAR PERFORMANCE OF PVD TOOL COATINGS ................................................ 65 MR KORBINIAN FRANK, DR MATTHIAS ROECKL AND DR TOM PFEIFER ................................................................. 66 OPTIMIZING DYNAMIC COMPOSITION OF BAYESIAN NETWORKS FOR CONTEXT SENSING AND INFERENCE ....................................... 66 MR LEIGH GRIFFIN, MR EAMONN DE LEASTAR AND DR DMITRI BOTVICH ............................................................ 67 ENGINEERING A SCALABLE GROUP MANAGEMENT COMPONENT FOR OPEN FEDERATED SOCIAL NETWORKING ............................... 67 MS KATIE HAMM .................................................................................................................................................. 68 DESIGNING AND ANALYSING TOURISM SERVICE SYSTEMS - BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN FRONT AND BACKSTAGE ACTIVITIES ............... 68 MS CLARE HAYES .................................................................................................................................................. 70 THE AMALGAMATION OF ACUTE PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES IN THE SOUTH-EAST OF IRELAND: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ........................ 70 MS AOIFE HENNESSY AND DR PAUL BARRY .......................................................................................................... 72 A MIMO CALCULATION INVOLVING NARAYANA TRIANGLES AND RIORDAN ARRAYS .................................................................... 72 MR STEPAN IVANOV, DR DMITRI BOTVICH AND DR SASITHARAN BALASUBRAMANIAM ..................................... 73 JOINT THROUGHPUT AND PACKET LOSS PROBABILITY ANALYSIS OF IEEE 802.11 NETWORKS ........................................................ 73 MS ANNE MARIE IVERS ......................................................................................................................................... 74 HOW DOES A NETWORK INFLUENCE MARKET ORIENTATION CAPABILITY? ................................................................................ 74 MS ANITA KEALY ................................................................................................................................................... 75 IS IMPLEMENTATION AND KEY SUCCESS FACTORS IN LARGE SCALE TELEMEDICINE PROJECTS IN POST-CONFLICT REGIONS: A GROUNDED THEORY CASE STUDY IN KOSOVO...................................................................................................................................... 75 MR ARTHUR KEARNEY .......................................................................................................................................... 77 MANAGERIAL INNOVATION: A STUDY OF MANAGERIAL CAPABILITY FOR INNOVATION IN TOURISM MICRO FIRMS ............................... 77 MS MAEVE KENNEALY, DR PEADAR LAWLOR AND DR ELEANOR OWENS.............................................................. 79 DEVELOPMENT OF A NOVEL SOLID BIOFUEL – USING SOLID PIG MANURE ................................................................................... 79 MS LISA KIRWAN, MR BARRY LAMBE AND DR PAULA CARROLL ........................................................................... 81 USING A COMMUNITY BASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY (PA) PROGRAMME AS A STRATEGY TO ENGAGE VULNERABLE MEN TO IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH AND WELLBEING ................................................................................................................................................. 81 WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

MS MARIA LUZ PRIETO, L. O’SULLIVAN, S.P. TAN, P. DUGGAN, P. MCLOUGHLIN, H. HUGHES, P.G. LAWLOR AND G.E. GARDINER ..................................................................................................................................................... 82 ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF MARINE BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM SEAWEEDS, SAND AND SEAWATER ................................................ 82 MS GEMMA MCCARTHY, DR PEADAR G. LAWLOR, DR MONSTERRAT GUTIERREZ AND DR GILLIAN E. GARDINER 83 REMOVAL OF SALMONELLA AND INDICATOR MICRO-ORGANISMS IN INTEGRATED CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS TREATING AGRICULTURAL WASTEWATER ............................................................................................................................................................... 83 MR CHRISTOPHER MCAULIFFE .............................................................................................................................. 84 RICHARD HENEBRY (1863-1916): ‘THE FORGOTTEN VOICE’ ............................................................................................... 84 MS ANNE MCDONNELL ......................................................................................................................................... 85 FORGING A PATH FOR ABSTINENCE FROM HEROIN; A GROUNDED THEORY OF DETOXIFICATION-SEEKING AMONG HEROIN USERS IN SOUTH EAST IRELAND .................................................................................................................................................... 85 MS ANDREA MCNAMARA ..................................................................................................................................... 87 TO INVESTIGATE THE ROLE OF COUNTRY CHARACTERISTICS IN THE AVAILABILITY OF FINANCE FOR IRISH SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES ................................................................................................................................................................ 87 MS ELENA MIHAILESCU, DR JAMES HUMPHREYS, DR EDDY FITZGERALD, DR IMELDA CASEY, DR PAUL MURPHY, DR ANDY BOLAND AND DR JOHN UPTON ............................................................................................................. 89 DAIRYMAN PROJECT - DELIVERING ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND PROSPERITY BY IMPROVING UTILIZATION OF RESOURCES ON DAIRY FARMS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 89 MR JULIEN MINNERAUD, DR SASITHARAN BALASUBRAMANIAM AND ................................................................. 91 DR DMITRI BOTVICH ............................................................................................................................................. 91 PARAMETERISED GRADIENT BASED ROUTING WITH QOE MONITORING FOR MULTIPLE IPTV PROVIDERS ....................................... 91 MS ANNETTE MURPHY ......................................................................................................................................... 92 AN EXPLORATION OF THE PERCEPTIONS OF PREGNANT WOMEN AND THEIR CARE PROVIDERS REGARDING THE PROVISION OF ANTENATAL CARE SERVICES .............................................................................................................................................................. 92 MR NOEL MURRAY ............................................................................................................................................... 93 THE SYMPHONY OF MANAGING A TOURISM DESTINATION EXPERIENCE ................................................................................... 93 MS MAGDALENA NECPALOVA, DR I.A. CASEY, DR E. FITZGERALD AND ................................................................. 95 DR J. HUMPHREYS ................................................................................................................................................ 95 CHANGES IN SOIL ORGANIC C IN A CLAY-LOAM SOIL UNDER PERMANENT AND CULTIVATED GRASSLAND IN RELATION TO GHG BUDGET . 95 MR JOHN ORGAN ................................................................................................................................................. 97 A SOCIO-TECHNICAL STUDY OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS RISKS ............................................................................................... 97 MS ROISIN O’ SHEA ............................................................................................................................................... 99 JUDICIAL SEPARATION AND DIVORCE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT .................................................................................................. 99 MS JENNIFER PATTERSON ....................................................................................................................................101 BULLYING, COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA AND ADOLESCENCE IN CONTEMPORARY IRISH SOCIETY ................................................... 101

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

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MR. PAUL PHELAN , DR. BILL KEOGH , DR. EDDY FITZGERALD , DR. IMELDA CASEY AND DR. JAMES 1 HUMPHREYS .......................................................................................................................................................103 PREDICTING N-FIXATION IN GRASS-CLOVER PASTURES......................................................................................................... 103 MS SHIAU PIN TAN, DR LAURIE O´SULLIVAN, MS MARIA LUZ PRIETO, DR GILLIAN E. GARDINER, DR PAT DUGGAN, DR PEADAR G. LAWLOR, DR PETER MCLOUGHLIN AND DR HELEN HUGHES .........................................................105 ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF ANTIBACTERIAL PHYTOCHEMICALS FROM GREEN AND RED SEAWEEDS HARVESTED FROM THE IRISH COASTLINE ................................................................................................................................................................. 105 MR YIYANG SUN AND DR JOSEPH O’ MAHONEY ..................................................................................................106 A NOVEL NANOHOLE BIOSENSOR .................................................................................................................................... 106 MR DANIEL TIEMANN ..........................................................................................................................................107 INVESTIGATION OF ORGANIC PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS WITH SCANNING PROBE MICROSCOPY ......................................................... 107 MR RENTAO WANG AND MR KEN DEEVY.............................................................................................................109 RECONFIGURABLE ADAPTIVE WIRELESS SENSOR NODE ....................................................................................................... 109 MR RUNXIN WANG AND MR ERIC ROBSON ........................................................................................................110 FCA ON SNA – SOCIAL NETWORK ANALYSIS .................................................................................................................... 110 MS ALICE WEI TAN ...............................................................................................................................................111 E-TANDEM LANGUAGE LEARNING OF CHINESE AND ENGLISH: SOME CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................ 111 MR DONG YANG AND DR JOSEPH O’ MAHONEY ..................................................................................................112 DEVELOPMENT OF HYBRID SPM SYSTEM USING A QUARTZ CRYSTAL TUNING FORK .................................................................... 112 MR LIU YAO .........................................................................................................................................................114 A LOW-COST, PRECISE BEAM DIRECTION CONTROLLER FOR PHASED ARRAY ANTENNAS ............................................................... 114 MR JOE YAQIANG LIU AND DR PAUL O’LEARY .....................................................................................................116 NOVEL DIELECTRIC ANALYSIS OF HIGH PERMITTIVITY POWDERS AND LIQUIDS............................................................................ 116 MR MENGJI YU ....................................................................................................................................................117 E-COMMERCE DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA: A COMPARISON BETWEEN LOCAL AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN CHINA'S E-COMMERCE SECTOR ................................................................................................................................................................................ 117

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Foreward Welcome to the book of abstracts compiled from the presentations made by staff and students during the WIT Research Day 2011. The last 10 years have been a period of transformation within the third level research community and in particular within the Institute of Technology sector. Waterford Institute of Technology‘s Institutional Strategy recognises the special role it has in the economic, social and cultural development of the South East region and beyond. The tradition of excellence in teaching is well established in the Institute with its graduates in key leadership roles in industry and public services. At the heart of the WIT culture is the spirit of innovation and responsiveness to the needs of its stakeholders. The emergence of the knowledge economy and the subsequent requirement for Ireland to reposition itself up the economic value chain has placed important challenges on third level educational establishments. Responding to these challenges regionally and nationally the Institute has established itself as a research led institution. Its research community is networked with leading research groups not only in Ireland but across the 5 Continents. This has led to the creation of a dynamic 4th level education environment with approximately 180 research students registered for Masters or PhD‘s. The community of academic researchers, postdoctoral fellows and postgraduate students is a truly multicultural community with students and staff from around the world. Our research work is published in some of the world leading journals and presented at leading international conferences. This ensures that the outcomes of our research activities are benchmarked against the best in the world. Our ability to innovate our research to create new products and services directly benefits industry. We have established a strong relationship with leading industries within the region which is contributing to the creation of high quality sustainable employment within the region. A key benefit of the links to industry is the training which is received by our postgraduate students. The combination of academic rigour and industry collaboration means that our graduates are ―industry ready‖. This publication is intended to provide the external community with a broad overview of the type and scope of research that is carried out in Waterford Institute of Technology. As you will see when browsing the publication the Institute has an active research community across all of its schools – Business, Education, Engineering, Health Science, Humanities and Science. The publication is not intended to cover all research areas or to provide an in-depth description of the research topics presented but rather a flavour of the topics researched by the Institute, which were presented at WIT Research Day 2011. We hope that it will be helpful to members of the public, industry and potential graduate students to locate topics of interest. Furthermore, detailed information may be obtained from the researchers themselves or from the Research Support Unit. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

I certainly hope that it will be a start of a dialogue between us, the Institute research community and you, our stakeholders. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the authors who contributed abstracts and to all those who participated in the Research Day. We also wish to express our heartfelt thanks to the Organising Committee Members for their substantial contributions to the Research Day. We are very grateful to all the people who have worked hard in preparing the Research Day and making the event successful. We would like to express our gratitude to our keynote speaker Professor Frances Ruane, Director of the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) who delivered a timely and undoubtedly very interesting debate on examining Ireland‘s research and innovation funding models and policies of the past two decades. Finally, we would also like to thank Dr. Mícheál Ó Foghlú, Executive Director Research, Telecommunications Software & Systems Group for his insights into Research Funding Policy.

Dr Willie Donnelly, Chair of WIT Research Day Organising Committee, Head of Research and Innovation, Waterford Institute of Technology.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Organising Committee Dr. Willie Donnelly, Research and Innovation Ms. Kathryn Kiely, Research and Innovation Ms. Susie Cullinane, Research and Innovation Ms. Eimear Fitzpatrick, Research and Innovation Ms. Martha McIlvenny, Research and Innovation Ms. Siobhan Harkin, Research and Innovation Ms. Mary Mosse, School of Business Ms. Niamh Owens, School of Business Dr. Jane Russell-O‘Connor, School of Education Dr. Joe O‘ Mahony, School of Engineering Mr. Eoghan O‘Donoghue, School of Engineering Dr. Niamh Murphy, School of Health Sciences Dr. Louise Murphy, School of Health Sciences Dr. Colette Moloney, School of Humanities Mr. John Sheppard, School of Science Dr. Sarah Hudson, School of Science Dr. Helen Hughes, School of Science Dr. Chamil Kulatunga, School of Science

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Staff Abstracts

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Liam Doyle The role of Information Systems in Supply Chain Management Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: ldoyle@wit.ie

Abstract: The traditional concern of supply chain management has been the movement of materials from original source to the point of final consumption. In addition to the downstream flow of materials, modern supply chain management is also concerned with other flows such as the upstream flow of reverse logistics and the flow of funds through the supply chain. Supply chain management seeks to carry out supply chain activities in an efficient and effective manner. In order to do so, organisations must recognise the need to streamline not only their internal processes but also the processes that link to their trading partners. Collaboration among supply chain partners enables the supply chain to better meet the needs of the final customer. Collaborative practices act to make the supply chain more competitive by reducing costs and adding extra value thereby increasing the profitability of the supply chain participants. Collaboration is seen in practice in a number of approaches to supply chain management. Vendor managed inventory (VMI), collaborative planning forecasting and replenishment (CPFR) just-in-time (JIT) and efficient customer response (ECR) are some of approaches to collaboration that have brought benefits to supply chains in a number of industries. There has also been an increasing awareness of the need to adopt an appropriate approach to supply chain strategy. Companies have adopted lean or agile approaches, or an appropriate combination of both, to support their supply chain strategy. In many cases companies have moved from the traditional push based model, where goods are produced in the hope the hope that demand will arise, to the pull based model where goods are produced in response to demand. Regardless of the supply chain strategy adopted or the supply chain practices employed, the efficient and effective operation of supply chains requires the sharing of information. Pull based models require the sharing of demand information among supply chain participants. Push based models require the sharing of forecasts. Collaborative approaches require information such as demand and stock levels to be shared. The requirement for sharing of information requires the flow of information between the supply chain partners.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

This flow of information is therefore another supply chain flow in addition to the flow of materials and the flow of funds. An information flow facility can be constructed through the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Traditionally, technologies such as electronic data interchange (EDI) were used for sharing information among trading partners. These technologies were often expensive and confined to larger trading partners. The expansion of e-commerce technologies, based on the Internet platform, has transformed inter-organisational exchange of information. The lower costs associated with these technologies have opened the power of ICT to a much greater range of users. The increased functionality of modern technologies allows increasingly powerful applications. The ubiquitous nature of the Internet enables information to be shared among trading partners regardless of location. Together these features allow organizations of all sizes to participate in trade with supply chain partners on a global basis in an efficient and cost effective manner. The nature of information systems available to support supply chains are examined and the usage of supply chain systems by Irish companies is reported.

Keywords: Supply Chain Management, Information Systems, Technology Adoption, Electronic Commerce, Business Process Design.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Mary Fenton Graduate Enterprise Programmes: Perspectives of Graduate Entrepreneurs Department of Adult and Continuing Education Email: mfenton@wit.ie

Abstract Stimulating entrepreneurship is a key economic and societal challenge to which Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) have much to contribute. In addition to their traditional roles of teaching and research, HEIs play a strategic role in adding value to their regional economy by supporting and developing campus enterprise. This third mission of HEIs is manifested in such initiatives as entrepreneurship education; the supply of entrepreneurial talent to create new businesses to generate employment and wealth; campus incubation; and the commercialisation of R&D. Of these, entrepreneurship education has become a panacea for generating employment and prosperity, however, there is little empirical evidence to support the assumption that entrepreneurship education can generate better outcomes of entrepreneurial activity. There is a lacuna of research exploring entrepreneurs‘ perspectives of graduate enterprise programmes, which this research seeks to address. By examining entrepreneurs‘ perspectives of the benefits and limitations of a graduate enterprise programme, this research examines if participants have actually achieved sustainable entrepreneurial outcomes vis a vis graduate entrepreneurs who did not participate in such a programme. Using the South East Enterprise Platform Programme as a case-study, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of the needs of graduate entrepreneurs at the crucial start-up phase of their business and identifies what supports HEIs can provide to them through graduate entrepreneurship programmes. This research is timely given the government‘s priority of supporting the development of highgrowth, export-oriented indigenous enterprise to rejuvenate the Irish economy. It contributes to the field of entrepreneurship education by providing (i) a synthesis of entrepreneurs‘ perspectives of a graduate enterprise programme and (ii) recommendations to HEIs, education and enterprise policy makers for enhancements to graduate enterprise supports/programmes. In addition, this research identifies areas worthy of further research to advance significantly the field of graduate entrepreneurship education.

Keywords: Graduate Entrepreneurship Education. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Anne Graham Finding the Red Thread” The Role of the Learning Space in Transformative Learning in Executive Education Department of Adult and Continuing Education Email: agraham@wit.ie

Abstract: Achieving an Executive MBA presents candidates with certain challenges – undertaking the study, completion of assignments and course requirements, maintaining a work-life balance in addition to experiencing personal change and development in many instances. Business schools should be clear about what ‗business they are in‘ and work to identify what the adult learners educational objectives and expectations are from their proposed programme of study. A narrowing of the gap between the two sets of expectations would reduce the noise and confusion in the teaching-learning environment of unmet expectations on both sides. This case study is about the development of a framework for transformative learning in executive education in a Scandinavian context. Transformative learning as a theme emerged from the practical experience of the author as a facilitator and academic responsible for an organisation development (OD) project in a business school in Scandinavia. This OD project focused on consolidating and enhancing an existing leader development programme (LDP) within an executive masters in business administration (EMBA) teaching-learning environment (TLE). It was during the research project, in conversations, interviews, discussion groups, workshops and archival data that students explicitly referred to the learning space of the LDP as being instrumental in its impact on their overall learning experience. Hence, transformative learning as a phenomenon emerging out of practice and its relation to the learning space of the LDP became the subject of this investigation. Contributions to knowledge from this research study relate generally to adult education and to the tradition of critical reflection. A particular contribution is to the area of transformative learning and the development of a framework for creating a distinctive learning space in executive education. A related contribution is in the identification of the key role of the learning team coupled with a range of components that must be employed within the learning space. Here, trusted relationships among members of the learning team are essential to the development of dialogue, critical reflection and profound discourse. Facilitation of the learning team toward enhancing its performance is necessary to support a learning space where the opportunity for transformative learning can occur. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Keywords: Transformative Learning, Executive Education, Learning Space, Enhancing Teaching-Learning Environments, Critical Reflection, Trusted Relationships, Learning Teams.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Richard Hayes Clifford Odets and the Theatre of the Great Depression Department of Languages, Tourism and Hospitality Email: rhayes@wit.ie

Abstract: The first performance of Clifford Odets‘s play Waiting for Lefty in March 1935 was declared ―the birth cry of the thirties‖. At the height of the American Depression, Odets—and the Group Theatre with which he was identified—came to be seen as a means by which American youth ―had found its voice‖. This paper will examine the play, Waiting for Lefty, in the context of the Depression, and will consider the relationship between works of art and social crisis. In so doing the paper will seek to identify some questions applicable to the current Irish economic and social situation. Odets, from being celebrated as the great hope for the American theatre, came to be derided as the ultimate sell-out. While Odets had some success in the theatre after Waiting for Lefty, he found fame and fortune in Hollywood where he went in 1936 to write movies (while there, he wrote movies like The General Died at Dawn and None but the Lonely Heart, as well as contributing to The Sweet Smell of Success and many others). The paper will also consider the life and work of Odets after Waiting for Lefty, in particular this seeming seduction by Hollywood: the one-time golden boy of the theatre of protest ended up writing vehicles for Elvis Presley and television screenplays. Odets‘s career dramatises the tensions that exist in culture between seemingly High Art and popular entertainment, as well as providing an illustration of the seeming compromises involved for anyone who comes into contact with the Hollywood ―Dream Factory‖. The paper will consider the relationship between art and morality and in so doing raise larger questions about the moral responses demanded to wealth, privilege and, most of all, talent. Keywords: Literature, Film, Drama, Culture.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Jim Lawlor Competitive Activities in New Technology Industries Department of Engineering Technology Email: jlawlor@wit.ie

Abstract: The impact of new technologies on incumbent industries has been a focus of research for decades. Schumpeter (1942/1976) coined the phrase ‗creative destruction‘ to describe it, while more recently Christensen (1997) used the term ‗disruptive technology‘ in a similar sense. But other contributors (e.g. Itami and Numagami, 1992; Myers, Sumpter, Walsh and Kirchhoff, 2002; Hopkins et al., 2007) have addressed a more fundamental issue, which is that new technology competition is different to ‗normal‘ competition, with Porter, early on, explicitly stating that it ‗change[s] the competitive rules of the game‘ (Porter, 1983, p3). This presentation considers the nature of competition in new technology industries, focusing on the competitive dynamics evident as stent technology was introduced, rather than solely on the technology‘s impact on an incumbent. Despite broad acceptance that new technology competition is unique, and that it possesses a large potential to engender change, few contributions specifically address the nature of new technology competition, and how the change it is associated with comes to be. These questions are of particular interest due to the need to grow Ireland‘s indigenous export base and to benefit from sustained investment in science, technology and innovation at national level (National Competitiveness Council, 2010). Understanding the nature of competition in new technology industries provides innovators with an insight into the types of challenges they may face as they attempt to introduce their new technologies. Findings indicate that distinctive parallel strategies were present in the stent industry as the technology was being introduced: one between direct competitors; another between the industry and the incumbents. Legal activities within new technology competition are revealed to be substantially more influential than has been previously recognised. Their nature, extent and scale as stents were introduced, was very dramatic. Alliances, acquisitions and the management of relationships between new technology firms and other actors were central to the competitive environment, and an extreme ruthlessness is evident within these relationships. Keywords: Competitive strategy; new technology; innovation; technological change.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

References: Christensen, C.M. 1997. The Innovators' Dilemma: when new technologies cause great firms to fail. Boston: Harvard Business School Press. Hopkins, M.M., P.A. Martin, P. Nightingale, A. Kraft, S. Mahdi. 2007. The myth of the biotech revolution: An assessment of technological, clinical and organizational change. Research Policy 36(4): 566-589. Itami, H., T. Numagami. 1992. Dynamic interaction between strategy and technology. Strategic Management Journal 13: 119-135. Myers, D., C. Sumpter, S.T. Walsh, B. Kirchhoff. 2002. Guest Editorial A Practitioner's View: Evolutionary Stages of Disruptive Technologies. IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management 49(4): 322-329. National Competitiveness Council, 2010. Annual Competitiveness Report 2010 Volume 2: Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Competitiveness Challenge. Porter, M.E. 1983. The Technological Dimension of Competitive Strategy. In Research on Technological Innovation, Management and Policy. Rosenbloom, R.S., Greenwich: JAI Press. 1: 1-33. Schumpeter, J. 1942/1976. Capitalism, Socialism, and Democracy. London, Allen and Unwin.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Ciara Losty and Dr Maria Murphy Griffin Exercise Self-Efficacy in Trainee Gardaí following an E-Counselling Intervention Department of Health Sport and Exercise Science Email: closty@wit.ie

Abstract: Background An Garda Síochána has focused recent attention on the rising inactivity levels and difficulties in maintaining a healthy lifestyle that is prevalent in today‘s society and is mirrored in its employees. Successfully adopting an exercise regimen requires confidence in one's ability to engage in exercise, also referred to as exercise selfefficacy. Exercise e-counselling was identified as the most effective and innovative intervention to reach trainee Gardaí and develop their exercise self-efficacy while in the Garda College, Templemore, and in their Garda stations nationwide. The primary research questions examined the effects of e-counselling on exercise selfefficacy (McAuley, 1993), stress (Reeder et al, 1973) and self-esteem (Rosenberg, 1989). The secondary research questions focused on supporting areas of interest, including additional outcome measures (blood pressure, body composition and estimated VO2max) and other categorical variables.

Methods The intervention group consisted of 274 participants. The control group consisted of 234 participants. Therefore there were 508 participants in total in this study, 343 (67.5%) males and 165 (32.5%) females. All participants were trainee Gardaí. The intervention lasted 11 months and consisted of generic exercise self-efficacy structured e-mails to the intervention group once a week and an interactive website was developed. Participants were encouraged to reply to generic e-mails for one-toone e-counselling. Participants were tested at pre- and post-intervention for changes in exercise self-efficacy, stress and self-esteem, as well as a battery of physiological measures. An evaluation questionnaire was also completed following intervention.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Results There was no significant effect found for exercise self-efficacy as a result of the intervention. Female self-efficacy to overcome barriers decreased even more than males over time (total mean score decreased from 54.76 to 42.91 for females and from 54.4 to 51.4 for males). Stress scores were maintained within the intervention group (p = 0.478) and increased significantly in the control group (p = 0.017). There were a number of significant physiological changes. 88% of the participants who engaged with the ecounselling were males.

Conclusions In relation to specifically increasing the trainee Gardaí self-efficacy to exercise, it was shown that e-counselling and generic exercise self-efficacy structured e-mails do not seem to be enough to maintain or increase exercise self-efficacy or physiological outcomes. E-mails and Internet perceptions were, however, positive, which may have implications for future study design. Male trainee Gardaí were shown to engage more frequently with e-counselling.

Keywords: Exercise self-efficacy, An Garda Síochána, e-counselling.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Kate Madden The educational merits of incorporating a service-learning component in the Nursing Curriculum Department of Health Sport and Exercise Science Email: cmadden@wit.ie

Abstract: Context and Background Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service in the curriculum to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, while providing a tangible benefit for the community. The ‗Save a Life‘ programme was designed to engage nursing students with a community service-learning experience by teaching emergency Basic Life Support (BLS) in schools. Eight undergraduate nursing students underwent a service-learning placement delivering the ‗Save a Life‘ programme in 3 Post-Primary schools as part of their community practice placement. Aim of the Study The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the ‗Save a Life‘ programme to teach emergency Basic Life Support in Post-Primary schools and establish the educational merits of incorporating a service-learning component in the nursing curriculum. Research Methodology The study used a sequential mixed methods design, encompassing two phases. Phase one used a pre- and post-test to evaluate the impact of the ‗Save a Life‘ programme on transition year students‘ (n = 100) and teachers‘ (n = 59) BLS knowledge, skills and attitudes. Phase two of the study used focus groups to illuminate nursing students‘ (n = 8) experiences of undertaking the service-learning placement. Key findings and Conclusions The pre- and post-test training scores indicate that the ‗Save a Life programme‘ impacted positively on students‘ and teachers‘ BLS knowledge, skills and attitudes (p < .05). Nursing students reported positive learning outcomes from the servicelearning experience.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The key categories that emerged from focus groups were enhanced skills acquisition, conceptualisation of health, importance of the ‗chain of survival‘ in saving lives and empowerment. Service-learning is an effective pedagogical approach that can be incorporated into undergraduate nursing programmes. The service-learning placement enhanced nursing students‘ cognitive, psychomotor and affective development, which are fundamental to professional nursing practice. The findings inform the potential contribution of service-learning in developing nursing students‘ competence, confidence and preparedness for nursing practice. Relevance and Implications This study has particular relevance and implications for nurse educators who seek to develop curricula that will prepare nurses with the knowledge, skills and attributes necessary to meet projected health care needs. It will be of interest to lecturers who support innovative pedagogy and are engaging with communities to improve higher education. The findings have implications for people who strive to improve bystander resuscitation in Ireland, and advocate cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in communities to improve the chance of survival for victims of cardiac arrest.

Keywords: Service-learning, Experiential learning, Innovative pedagogy, Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Basic Life Support.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Panagiotis Manesiotis, Dr Qendresa Osmani, Dr Peter McLoughlin Plastic Antibodies for isolation and purification of pharmaceutical compounds Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: pmanesiotis@wit.ie

Abstract: Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are synthetic polymeric materials, prepared by polymerisation of an appropriate functional monomer in the presence of a template (e.g. pharmaceutical, food component or environmental pollutant) and excess of a cross-linking monomer, resulting in cavities within the matrix of the polymer that are capable of selective and reversible binding of the targeted analyte, hence the term ―plastic antibody‖ has been used to describe them. MIPs have been utilised in a variety of analytical applications, including chiral stationary phases for chromatography, solid phase extractions and sensing. Successful imprinting is based on the strength of template – functional monomer interactions in the prepolymerisation phase, as an increased population of solution complexes will lead to a larger number of high fidelity binding sites. In order to shift the equilibrium towards template – functional monomer complexation, an excess of the functional monomer is commonly used, leading to random distribution of functionality throughout the polymer matrix, thus promoting non-specific binding to the imprinted phase. Here we report the synthesis of polymers imprinted with S-ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, prepared by stoichiometric non-covalent imprinting, using 4-methyl-2-acrylamidopyridine as the functional monomer. The resulting polymers were characterised using Solid State NMR, N2 sorption porosimetry, SEM and particle size analysis. Polymer particles were packed into HPLC columns whereby rapid, near-baseline enantio-separation of rac-ibuprofen was achieved, while the polymers were able to discriminate between the template and other structurally related compounds. The number of binding sites and binding constants were calculated using frontal chromatography. Furthermore, a colour difference between imprinted and blank polymers, attributed to the binding event and observable by naked-eye and UV light inspection, suggests potential application of the materials as sensing elements. Such materials can be used for rapid, inexpensive purification of pharmaceuticals, ensuring their suitability for use in drug formulations and minimise the risk posed to public health by undesired enantiomers. Keywords: Molecularly Imprinted Polymers.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr T J McDonald EXCITEing Irish Communities: A 4 lens model to support the use of Information and Communications Technology for Irish Voluntary Organisations Department of Computing Mathematics and Physics Email: tmcdonald@wit.ie

Abstract: The value of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as a management facilitator, which can help deliver improvements in efficiency, effectiveness and competitive advantage is well established. It is also clear that in these respects ICT is of value to both the private and the public sector. However, there are other parts of society that have yet to derive the potential benefits of ICT. These include both formal and informal groups of people who have a common connection, interest, friendship or bond, who wish to satisfy their needs and enhance their ability to interact. These are commonly known as voluntary organisations. Community based voluntary organisations have emerged as a special area of interest to academics and Information System (IS) practitioners and their importance has also been recognised by Governments at National levels in many countries. These Local Voluntary Organisations (LVOs) can be based on community, political, sporting, recreational, religious or civil needs. LVOs are an integral part of modern Irish life; they contribute to delivering a higher quality of life and when looked at through various lenses, they may be seen as also facilitating information dispersion, knowledge acquisition, employment creation and service provision, and play an important role in integrating individuals and communities. In recent times, the term Community Informatics (CI) has emerged as an IS field of study. Community Informatics can be viewed as an interdisciplinary approach to community development that utilises ICTs to enable community processes and helps communities realise their full ICT potential (Loader and Keeble, 2001). According to Gurstein (2007) CI represents an evolutionary advance on traditional systems development by combining ICTs with the dynamism and adaptability of life as lived in civil communities. Community Informatics as a field of study and in practice has been described by Gurstein (2008) as systematically approaching IS with a â&#x20AC;&#x2014;communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; focus.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

This research investigates the development a Community Informatics (CI) model to support the use of ICT by Irish communities and their LVOs.The proposed CI model should recognise the uniqueness and diversity of each LVO and its members, in terms of knowledge, experiences and needs and provide a mechanism to improve them through appropriate ICTs. This diversity dictates that a special focus with specific lenses is required for a CI model; which will enable greater participation by people in identifying organisational ICT requirements, by utilizing participatory design approaches. A CI model will establish planning, support and management processes that will make Irish LVOs directly responsible for their own ICT future. This is one of the pervasive concerns for Irish LVOs, who wish to use ICT to improve their operation and empower their members.

Keywords: Community Informatics, Voluntary Organisations, ICT.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Colette Moloney, Ms Angela Buckley, Ms Deirdre McDonald, Ms Lisa Morrissey and Ms Alison Slattery ‘The Paper Witness’: The Analysis of Irish Music Manuscripts as Information Sources Department of Applied Arts Email: cmoloney@wit.ie

Abstract: The notion of collecting Irish music is not a new one, but historically the main waves of collection appear to have coincided with periods when Irish music was at a low ebb. Edward Bunting (1773-1843) collected the remnants of a Gaelic harp tradition in 1792 and there was a proliferation of collectors such as George Petrie (1790-1866) associated with the Society for the Preservation and Publication of Irish Music, active in the period 1840-1850, immediately after the ravages of the famine had disseminated Irish music. These eighteenth and nineteenth century collectors were invariably trained in the European art music tradition and were selective in the material that they collected, at the very least restricting their collections to what they saw as truly Irish items. Patrick Weston Joyce (1827-1910) and Richard Henebry (1863-1916), both traditional musicians, were active as collectors of Irish Music at the end of the nineteenth and early twentieth century, still collecting postfamine material. An increased facility in music notation amongst traditional musicians and a decline in Irish music led to a wave of private music collections by traditional musicians in the 1930s, the same decade that also saw the formation of the Irish Folklore Commission. A number of the music manuscripts used by these collectors are still extant in libraries and archives, both in Ireland and abroad. In many cases these manuscript collections are incomplete, disorganised and often scattered in different repositories. In addition, many of the collections are large and most collectors shared their sources, contributed material to one another‘s collections, and even lent, or gifted, their entire collections to their fellow collectors. In recent times research in Irish music at WIT has concentrated on analysing the main pre-1910 manuscript collections of Irish music. These include the collections of Edward Bunting (17731843); Philip Carolan (1839-1910); Henry Hudson (1798-1889); George Noble Plunkett (1851–1948); John Edward Pigot (1822-1871); Patrick Weston Joyce (18271910) and Richard Henebry (1863-1916). The proposed paper will discuss the methodology used in the study: primarily historical research, musical analysis, palaeography and the consideration of textual and non-textual information.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

While the research into each of these manuscripts is valuable and unique in its own right, it is the resultant critical mass and opportunity to see how the individual collections inter-relate and the comprehensive view of Irish music which emerges that is particularly valuable in the WIT study. The extant manuscript collections contain a selection of tunes and settings which have now vanished from the popular repertory both locally and nationally. The vast majority of the tunes, and indeed many of the tune-types, which the manuscripts contain are no longer found in the aural repertory. The current research therefore helps to establish the provenance of manuscripts, give an understanding of their construction, contents and inter-relativity, and thereby provides a snapshot of the music in rural Ireland at a particular point in time.

Keywords: Musicology, culture, palaeography, Irish studies and history.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Dominic Murphy Optical Fibre Manipulations Enabling State-of-the-Art Technologies Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: drdfmurphy@gmail.com

Abstract: Since the pioneering work of Charles K. Kao and co-workers in the 1960s to reduce transmission losses in silica optical fibres, the optical fibre has become ubiquitous. As a low-loss photonic conduit, optical fibres have revolutionised telecommunications, providing the means to transmit large amounts of data, voice and video information. In the world of sensing, fibre gratings, for example, have been employed for structural health monitoring, environment monitoring and exploration including temperature sensing [1]. Side-polished and tapered fibres are used as substrate platforms in biological and chemical sensing applications. Optical fibres have also been used to image internal organs as a means of providing medical diagnoses and for minimally invasive and laser surgeries where treatments have been delivered more effectively to reduce levels of trauma and expedite healing times. Optical fibres have been continually developed and manipulated over the decades in terms of physical design, chemical composition and post-processing techniques. Developments have resulted in enhanced performance in established areas of deployment and have provided new functionalities that have been exploited across ever-increasing application spaces. One key example includes the erbium doped fibre for all-optical amplification, indeed there is continuing work to realise practical all-optical regeneration of long-haul signals [2]. Another key example is the invention of photonic crystal and microstructured optical fibres [3] that have provided mechanisms for: octave-spanning frequency comb generation; photonic bandgap guidance; and photonic gas microcells [4]. As technological challenges continue to emerge and as barriers arise with existing technologies, new optical fibre designs combined with optical fibre processing techniques are enabling next generation functionalities for state-of-the-art technologies. Biological and chemical sensing applications, for example, are taking advantage of microstructured fibres that facilitate the intimate interaction between core guided light and biological and chemical fluids that fill the surrounding holes for monitoring and detection [5]. In Astrophotonics, multi-core fibres (MCFs) are postprocessed and combined with existing fibres to form optical circuits that enable the observation of distant galaxies using ground-based instrumentation [6, 7].

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Multi-core fibres are also being engineered to enable higher communication bandwidths, through spatial division multiplexing, as a potential solution to the imminent capacity crunch in telecommunications networks. Finally, as high-speed, high-density optical buses, multi-core fibres provide an attractive platform to enable Exascale Computing, the next generation of high-performance super-computers, operating within the constraints of tightly confined spaces and low power budgets.

Keywords: Optical Fibres and Components, Spectrometry, Fourier Processing.

References 1. Murphy, D.F. , Flavin, D.A., “Statically scanned single and tandem low-coherence interferometers”, Measurement Science and Technology OFS-20 stacks.iop.org/MST/21/094031, (Special Issue) 2010.

2. Cuenot, B., Ellis, A., Healy, N., Murphy, D.F., Hussey, C.D., “Optical regeneration of WDM signals using quasi continuous filtering”, 8th ICTON, (Nottingham, UK), (Invited) 2006.

3. Birks, T.A., Kakarantzas, G., Russell, P.St.J., Murphy, D.F., “Photonic crystal fibre devices”, SPIE Proc.,4943, pp.142 – 151, (Brugge, Belgium), (Invited) 2002.

4. Wheeler, N.V., Grogan, M.D.W., Wang, Y.Y., Murphy, D.F., Birks, T.A., Benabid, F., “Large-core photonic microcells for coherent optics and laser metrology”, Photonics West (San Francisco), (Invited) 2011.

5. Murphy, D.F. , Monro, T.M., “Micro-structured soft glass optical fibres for next generation chemical and biological sensing”, Night Vision and Photonics Technology (Adelaide, Australia), (Invited) 2010.

6. Birks, T.A., Diez, A., Cruz, J.L., Leon-Saval, S.G., Murphy, D.F., “Fibres are looking up: optical fibre transition structures in astrophotonics”, Frontiers in Optics (Rochester, New York), (Invited) 2010.

7. Birks, T.A., Mangan, B.J., Diez, A., Cruz, J.L., Leon-Saval, S.G., Bland-Hawthorn, J., Murphy, D.F., “Multicore optical fibres for astrophotonics”, CLEO Europe (Munich), (Invited), 2011.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Eoghan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Donoghue Finite Element Analysis: A powerful tool for Industrial Research and Development Department of Engineering Technology Email: ewodonoghue@wit.ie

Abstract: Finite Element Analysis or FEA is a powerful research and development as well as failure analysis tool. FEA consists of a computer model of a component or design that is stressed and analyzed for specific results. It is used in new product design, and existing product refinement. FEA allows detailed visualization of where structures bend or twist, and indicates the distribution of stresses and displacements. FEA allows entire designs to be constructed, refined, and optimized before the design is manufactured. It provides a means to minimise the costly prototyping phase of a project by allowing the limitations of a prospective design be explored within a virtual environment. Potential issues can then be addressed with design modifications resulting in a greatly optimised design. A new design concept may be modelled to determine its real world behaviour under various load environments, and may therefore be refined prior to the creation of drawings. It is also useful in minimizing weight, materials, and costs. Once a detailed CAD model has been developed, FEA can analyze the design in detail, saving time and money by reducing the number of prototypes required. A variety of specializations under the umbrella of the mechanical engineering discipline (such as aeronautical, biomechanical, and automotive industries) commonly use integrated FEA in design and development of their products. SEAM is able to verify a proposed design will be able to perform to the client's specifications prior to manufacturing or construction. Modifying an existing product or structure FEA is utilized to qualify the product or structure for a new service condition. This potent design tool has significantly improved both the standard of engineering designs and the methodology of the design process in many industrial applications. SEAM has commercial ANSYS FEA mechanical package and is applying it to a number of customer projects as well as in house development activities. Some notable customer tasks are the analysis of cable fixtures for the electricity supply network, the development of a superior drill-head for mining industry and the optimised manufacture of contact lens. SEAM is also perusing projects related to the acoustic and thermal modelling of structures fabricated from materials from renewable sources. In the biomedical sector SEAM is using FEA to analysis novel implants and materials for the interpositional arthroplasty of the knee joint. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The introduction of FEA has substantially decreased the time to take products from concept to the production line. It is primarily through improved initial prototype designs using FEA that testing and development have been accelerated. In summary, benefits of FEA include increased accuracy, enhanced design and better insight into critical design parameters, virtual prototyping, fewer hardware prototypes, a faster and less expensive design cycle, increased productivity, and increased revenue. In this presentation some of these topics will be explored.

Keywords: Finite Element Analysis, virtual prototyping, design optimisation, failure analysis.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Maeve O’ Grady The Role of Affective Equality in Community Education Department of Adult & Continuing Education Email: maeveogrady@eircom.net

Abstract: Community education is a field of adult education that overlaps with the field of community development. It aims to engage the most excluded of groups in a process that builds self-confidence and community activism. It is inspired by Paulo Freire‘s (1970) analysis that education is always political: it either results in learners fitting into the social and political system (domestication), or becoming able to change it (liberation). Other research exists about the processes essential to liberatory education that are common to popular education globally (Walters and Manicom 1996, Connolly 2008), and current research in Ireland (Bailey 2011) is concerned with identifying the outcomes of community education for participants. This research is concerned mainly with identifying habitus changes (Bourdieu 2001) in participants, the dispositional shifts that are preconditions for active participation in wider society, or what Lynch describes as solidarity work (Lynch et al 2009). Bourdieu takes a very pessimistic view of the forces of domination and subordination in culture, especially those based on gender, and claims that habitus cannot be shifted by cognitive approaches. The research asks the question: to what extent a learning culture enables a learner gain and practice a greater sense of agency. Does a women-only culture have any effect on participants? Using the methodology of institutional ethnography, fieldwork was carried out for a period of six weeks in a community education organization. A major finding is the extent to which participants speak in terms of feelings. This contrasts with formal education‘s privileging of cognitive developmental processes. Belenky, Clinchy, Goldberger and Tarule‘s (1997) Women‘s Ways of Knowing identify five major perspectives on knowing: Silence, Received Knowledge, Subjective Knowledge, Procedural Knowledge, and Constructed Knowledge (Belenky et al 1997 p.15). (The final stage is similar to that identified by William Perry‘s (1970) study of undergraduate learners).

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The women involved in the organisation‘s programmes show movement, or a shift in habitus, from the Silent stage to that of Subjective Knowing. Participants‘ talk of feelings does not mean that this is therapeutic education, as warned against by Ecclestone and Hayes (2009): it is however an indicator that participation is having a therapeutic effect, especially on their perceptions of themselves as learners. Their relationship to knowledge and knowing is changing. The concept of Nurturing Capital (Lynch et al 2009) explains the relationship between receiving sufficient nurturing care and the ability to develop the self, connect with others, and work in solidarity with others. Affective equality means that the role of feelings and care should be seen as a vital element in adult education and development work generally.

Keywords: Institutional ethnography, habitus, field of practice, community education. References: 1. Bailey, N. (2011) More than just a course – researching DES funded community education, Dublin AONTAS. 2. Belenky, M.F., Clinchy, B., Goldberger,N., Tarule, J. (1997)Women’s Ways of Knowing: the development of self, voice and mind, 10th edition, Basic Books. 3. Pierre Bourdieu (2001) Masculine Domination, Cambridge, Polity Press. 4. Connolly, B. (2008) Adult Learning in Groups, Maidenhead, Open University Press. 5. Ecclestone, K. and Hayes, D. (2009) The Dangerous Rise of Therapeutic Education, London, Routledge. 6. Freire, P. (1970)Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Harmondsworth, Penguin. 7. Lynch, K., Baker, J. and Lyons, M. (2009) Affective Equality: Love, Care and Injustice, Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan. 8. Walters, S. and Manicom, L. (1996) (eds) Gender in Popular Education: methods for empowerment, London, Zed Books.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Corinne Power O’Mahony, Dr. Felicity Kelliher and Ms Margaret Skelly Making sense of learning from experience: Facilitating reflective practice in an undergraduate work placement programme Department of Management and Organisation Email: cpower-omahony@wit.ie

Abstract: There is growing interest in how students ‗learn‘ from actual experience and how this learning can be combined with curriculum learning to help develop reflective skills in graduates (Cunliffe, 2004; Francis and Cowen, 2008; Olsson et al., 2008). While work placement programmes are now commonplace in business degree programmes (Ayman et al., 2003; Elmuti, 2004; Hess, 2007; Starkey and Tempest, 2005), educators have struggled with how reflective skill enhancement can be achieved among undergraduates partaking in such programmes, and how practicetheory links can be strengthened when a student is in an experiential learning mode. This paper explores the concept of the learning moment in an undergraduate placement programme. For the purposes of this paper, the learning moment is defined as that moment where students ―make sense of learning from experience‖ (Freisner and Hart, 2005: 118). The paper begins by examining the literature relating to individual skills required in the reflective process, including log production, which can help students to identify and conceptualise the learning moment in context. It goes on to discuss undergraduate challenges when identifying and expressing learning moments in an experiential learning cycle. The authors adopt an action research methodology, and observe student placements in their capacity as programme leader and academic faculty members. The programme discussed in this paper forms part of a ‗flexible term‘ carried out in the third year of a four year honours business degree programme. The observed students are placed in either a teaching role or a community-based work environment as part of the ‗flexible term‘, and are supported by an educational programme completed in parallel with the student placement. Each student maintains a reflective log for the duration of the programme which have been assessed by the authors based on pre-established criteria relating to the experiential learning process (Kolb, 1976, 1984), providing insight into the learning moment in context.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Presentation to a general audience: We will outline the recorded results relating to this action research study and will offer our key reflections and recommendations in relation to reflective skill enhancement in undergraduate placement programmes, based on our multi-year experience observing this programme in action.

Keywords: Applied Learning, Education, Reflective practice.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr Joseph Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahony, Environmental Nanotechnology - Energy harvesting and sensor technologies Department of Engineering Technology Email: jomahoney@wit.ie

Abstract: The Nanotechnology Research Group at WIT provides interdisciplinary research opportunities for Engineering and Science graduates. Focusing on key areas of activity the group blends expertise in Chemical and Life Sciences with expertise in Engineering and Physics to develop novel solar harvesting and sensor technologies. Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) plays a key part in the daily activities of the research group. While the group possesses some commercial SPM instruments much effort goes into the in-house design and fabrication of customised instruments for nanoscale characterisation. This presentation will outline to a general audience an overview of our activities with a particular emphasis on environmental nanotechnology. The talk will highlight some of our research into low cost mechanical sensors for environmental monitoring and demonstrate the potential sensitivity of these sensors. More sophisticated label free biosensor technologies will be discussed, these technologies range from sophisticated molecular counting methods to the detection of the extraordinary optical transmission of light through nanosized apertures. Finally the talk will conclude with a discussion of photovoltaic energy harvesting technologies with an emphasis on printable solar technologies and the potential for solar energy in Ireland.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Liam O’Shea and Mr Tom Wemyss Nano-Positioning Research in WIT Department of Engineering Technology Email: loshea@wit.ie

Abstract: Nano-positioning is a significant challenge that is the subject of research at both national and international levels. While the positioning of an instrument at nanometre accuracy is feasible, and there are several commercial nanopositioning ‗stages‘ available, the tracing of a 3-D contour, with nanometre precision, presents a considerable engineering challenge. This presentation describes a series of related projects designed to lead to the construction of a laboratory instrument to achieve this. Nano-positioning has been a focus of substantial work within the AMT group in WIT in recent years. Two recent projects focused on in-process automation of measurement. One designed a quality measurement system, while the other established a measurement and control system for the manufacture of ball-bearings. These projects were undertaken with industrial partners and established a knowledge base and range of skills in the area of in-process measurement and control. This work was followed by a project in the implementation and operational valuation of a high-precision measurement-centred control system for a high volume manufacturer, which was completed in 2010. Parallel to these projects a PhD student has progressed work in the area of positioning with nanometre resolution in a noisy environment. At this point the factors influencing the functionality of a nano-positioning instrument have been investigated, the instrument has been designed and the key core components have been fabricated. The next stage of this work focuses on the construction and calibration of a nano-positioning instrument, which can trace a contour in three dimensions. Several challenges are anticipated, including the ‗straightforward‘ challenges of precision placement and alignment of the component parts of the instrument. It is also expected that constructing the instrument will reveal difficulties associated with mechanical construction of nano-precision instruments. Error management, limiting the impact of environmental factors and control are also issues which will need to be managed.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Completing this work will facilitate further nano-positioning work such as: its application to ‗micro-gripping‘ in the AMT group‘s flexible manufacturing and assembly system; its application to aspects of related AMT research, such as sensor positioning in microfluidics slides; micro- and nano-positioning applications within industry, and further complex nano-positioning challenges.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, nano-positioning, control.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Dr J. MartĂn Serrano Management of Monitoring Services in the Cloud Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email:jmserano@tssg.org

Abstract: Cloud computing has become a prominent and at the same time promising business area leading to the further specialization and proliferation of the ICT market. The major activity in cloud computing is focused in the design of software solutions supporting multiple services with the minimum investment in infrastructure. At the outset, it offers reduced cost of operation for the clients when a shared infrastructure can make statistical gains in regard of resource utilization. Furthermore cloud computing offers capabilities for better adaptation to changing business and IT operations following strategic objectives, and it could even have the prospect of providing improved features when it comes to resilience and robustness of the performance of applications. An emerging alternative to solve cloud computing decision control, from a management perspective is the use of formal languages as a tool for information exchange between the diverse data and information systems participating in cloud service provisioning. These formal languages rely on an inference plane [1][2]. By using semantic decision support, and enriched monitoring information management decision support is enabled and facilitated. As a result of using semantics a more complete control of service management operations can be offered, hence a more integrated management, which responds to business objectives. This semanticallyenabled decision support gives better control in the management of resources, devices, networks, systems and services, thereby promoting the management of the cloud with formal information models [3]. We are addressing the needs to manage the cloud when policies are being used as the mechanism to represent and contain Description Logic (DL) to operate operational rules. For example, the SWRL language [4][5] can be used to formalize a policy language to build up a collection of model representations with the necessary semantic richness and formalisms to represent and integrate the heterogeneous information present in cloud management operations. This approach relies on the fact that high level infrastructure representations do not use resources when they are not being required to support or deploy services [6][7]. Thus with high-level instructions the cloud infrastructure can be managed in a more dynamic and optimal way. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

We can identify several cloud usage patterns [8] based on bandwidth, storage, and server instances over time. Constant usage over time is typical for internal applications with small variations in usage. Cyclic internal loads are typical for batch and data processing of internal data. Highly predictable cyclic external loads are characteristic of web servers such as news, sports, whereas spiked external loads are seen on web pages with suddenly popular content (c.f. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;slashdottedâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;). Spiked internal load are characteristic of internal one-time data processing and analysis, while steady growth over time is seen on startup web pages. The cloud paradigm enables applications to scale-up and scale-down on demand, and to more easily adapt to the usage patterns as outlined above. Depending on a number or type of requests, the application can change its configuration to satisfy given service criteria and at the same time optimise resource utilisation and reduce the costs. Similarly clients - which can run on a cloud as well - can reconfigure themselves based on application availability and service levels required. We address on-demand scalability and scalability prediction of a service by computing a performance model of the architecture as a composition of performance models of individual components. Exact componentâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s performance modelling is very difficult to achieve since it depends on a various variables such as available memory, CPU, system bus speed, and caches. Instead of exact performance model we use an estimated model calculated from monitoring data. In this talk we address a number of research challenges for cloud computing. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of research challenges in this emerging area, but rather to introduce important issues with respect to improving cloud management, and which we aim to investigate as part of the SFI FAME project. Figure 1 depicts these trends based on well identified cloud demands [9].

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Figure1. Summary of challenges in Cloud Computing REFERENCES [1] Strassner, J., Ó Foghlú, M., Donnelly, W. Agoulmine, N. “Beyond the Knowledge Plane: An Inference Plane to Support the Next Generation Internet”, IEEE GIIS 2007, 2-6 July, 2007. [2] Serrano, J.M. Strassner, J. and ÓFoghlú, M. “A Formal Approach for the Inference Plane Supporting Integrated Management. Tasks in the Future Internet“ 1st IFIP/IEEE ManFI International Workshop, In conjunction with 11th IFIP/IEEE IM2009, 1-5 June 2009, at Long Island, NY, USA. [3] Blumenthal, M., Clark, D. “Rethinking the design of the Internet: the end to end arguments vs. the brave new world”, ACM Transactions on Internet Technology, Vol. 1, No. 1, Aug. 2001. [4] Bijan, P. et al. ”Cautiously Approaching SWRL”. 2006 http://www.mindswap.org/papers/CautiousSWRL.pdf. [5] Mei, J., Boley, H. "Interpreting SWRL Rules in RDF Graphs". Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science (Elsevier) (151): 53–69. 2006. [6] Neiger, G., Santoni, A., Leung, F., Rodgers D. and Uhlig, R.. “Intel Virtualization Technology: Software-only virtualization with the IA-32 and Itanium architectures”, Intel Technology Journal, Volume 10 Issue 03, August 2006. [7] Cisco, VMWare. “DMZ Virtualization using VMware vSphere 4 and the Cisco Nexus” 2009 www.vmware.com/files/pdf/dmz-vsphere-nexus-wp.pdf. [8] Host your web site in the cloud, Jeff Barr, Sitepoint, 2010, ISBN 978-0-9805768-3-2. [9] The Real Meaning of Cloud Security Revealed, Online access Monday, May 04, 2009. http://devcentral.f5.com/weblogs/macvittie/archive/2009/05/04/the-real-meaning-of-cloud-securityrevealed.aspx.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Student Abstracts

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Victor Adebayo Inward foreign direct investments as catalysts for growth in developing countries: an empirical study Department of Management and Organisation Email: viewvictor@hotmail.co.uk

Abstract: Over the last three decades there has been an exponential growth and an increasingly competitive market for global foreign direct investments (FDI). Global FDI net inflows have continued to rise consistently since the late 1970s. Current projections estimate that FDI inflows will increase to $1.5 trillion in 2011 and $2 trillion in 2012 (UNCTAD WIR Report 2010). Although most of the global FDI goes to the developed economies, mainly the triad of Japan, the European Union and the United States of America, FDI levels to developing countries especially Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) have increased since the early 1980s. Between 2000 and 2008, FDI to SSA have increased nine fold â&#x20AC;&#x2022;from $9.7 billion to $87 billion: (UNCTAD WIR Report various editions)â&#x20AC;&#x2013;. Many developing countries have incorporated inward FDI as a vital component in their strategy for economic growth. Indeed, most SSA African countries have in recent times made attempts to improve their business climate to attract FDI, but there are still factors that continue to inhibit inward FDI such as political instability, poor macroeconomic environments and a low level of human capital development. There have been several studies done on the effects of FDI on the host country, most of the empirical research does not differentiate between developed and developing countries (Borensztein et al 1998; Olofsdotter, 1998; de-Mello, 1999; Carkovic and Levine, 2002; Chloe, 2003; Bengoa and Sanchez-Robles, 2003) leading to incorrect inferences being drawn( B. Blonigen and M.Wang, 2004). This study will examine if there is causality between FDI carried out in developing countries and economic growth. An empirical study of 12 SSA developing countriesspecifically in SSA countries using comparable measures of institutional, economic and political milieu will be undertaken. The effects of FDI on SSA is under researched , this study will contribute to our understanding and explanation of the impact of FDI on economic growth in developing countries in the context of SSA countries.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

As is standard in FDI-growth literature, the dependent variable will be the average annual GDP growth rate. Data will be sourced from UNCTAD World Investment Reports (various editions), World Bank data, World development indicators, IMF and the individual countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; national statistics body. The number of countries selected for this study, and the variables that were chosen for the regression were determined by data availability and based on the fact that most of FDI inflows into SSA are largely concentrated in these countries. This study will be of interest to policy makers especially in developing countries in their efforts to attract foreign direct investments. It will also be of interest to multinational corporations in the formulation and implementation of market entry strategies to developing countries.

Keywords: Foreign direct investment, developing countries, economic growth.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Bernard Butler A framework to measure server performance when evaluating access control policies in ICT systems Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: bbutler@tssg.org

Abstract: Access control is an essential part of a secure ICT system. It protects the privacy, confidentiality and integrity of data stored on or transferred between ICT systems. Defining access control policies, and designing the infrastructure to support these policies, is non-trivial. The problem is compounded by the drive toward ever more fine-grained access control requirements, resulting in more complex policies that need to be evaluated for each access request. Researchers have recently turned their attention to the access control performance as this is a growing problem. This in turn has drawn attention to deep questions over how to represent and reason over complex rule bases; this is a rich area for study. As rationale, we note that major suppliers of hardware and software that provides and depends upon access control (such as Cisco) approached TSSG and requested asked us to study the problem and share our recommendations with them. Our chosen methodology is to build a software testbed in which to perform experiments. That is, in our experiments most of the likely factors influencing performance are controlled and can be varied singly or in groups as needed. Our experiments are also repeatable so the results can be verified by others, and can be included in larger studies because the experimental conditions are known explicitly. The key to achieving these objectives is that we have built a generalised environment in which specific software components, policies, request profiles, etc., can be inserted. The software components participating in the experiments are insulated from the generic environment by adapter components that ensure experimental conditions are not biased in favour of particular components. Our experiments have compared two open source Policy Decision Points (PDPs) and measured timings show marked differences in their behaviour. The best known has quite variable performance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some access requests take much longer to decide than others. The alternative has much reduced variability and generally more favourable performance characteristics.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

We ran simulations based on these service time measurements and discovered that the less well-known alternative has higher effective throughput. Thus performance prediction, in limited circumstances, is possible. Our results to date have been encouraging and have led to two papers being accepted for conferences. Our next steps are to gain greater control of more factors, and thereby to implement more comprehensive and realistic domain models to make stronger performance predictions and hence derive recommendations for better PDP performance.

Keywords: Access control, Policy evaluation, Server performance.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Stefan Gabriel Buzoianu, M.C. Walsh, G.E. Gardiner, M.C. Rea, R.P. Ross and P.G. Lawlor Effect of feeding genetically modified Bt (MON810) maize to pigs from 12 days post-weaning for 110 days on serum and urine biochemistry Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: Stefan.buzoianu@teagasc.ie

Abstract: Perceived health risks are among the main reasons for low acceptability of genetically modified (GM) feed ingredients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding GM maize to pigs from 12 d post-weaning to slaughter for 110 days on health as assessed by serum and urine biochemistry. Seventy-two entire male pigs (10.7 ± 1.9 kg live weight) were blocked by weight and litter and randomly assigned to one of four treatments (d 0); T1- non-GM maize (nGMm) in diet to d 110; T2- GM maize (GMm) in diet to d 110; T3- nGMm in diet for 30 d followed by GMm to d 110; T4- GMm in diet for 30 d followed by nGMm to d 110. Serum collected on d 0, 30, 60, 100 and 110 (n=10/trt) was analysed for liver and kidney health indicators (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), γ-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein (TP), urea (SU) and creatinine (SC). Creatinine and protein were measured in urine collected on d 110 to further assess kidney health. Urine data were analyzed as a one-factor ANOVA using the GLM procedure of SAS. For all other parameters, data were analyzed as repeated measures with the MIXED procedure of SAS with baseline (d 0) values included as a covariate in the model. For serum biochemistry, d 0 values were used as a covariate in the model. On d 30, SU was lower for T3 compared to T1, T2 and T4 (2.9 vs 3.9, 4.7 and 4.2 mmol/L, respectively; SEM=0.37; P=0.03). On d 110, there was a higher concentration of SC in pigs fed T3 and T4 compared to T1 and T2 (181.5 and 177.6 vs 163.9 and 155.9 µmol/L; SEM=5.63; P=0.001). Serum TP was lower on d 110 in pigs fed T4 compared to T1, T2 and T3 (57 vs 60.5, 59.3, 61.1 g/L; SEM=1.62; P=0.02). On d 110, serum AST tended to be lower in pigs fed T2 compared to T1 (37.2 vs 53.5 U/L; SEM=4.01; P=0.06). Although statistically significant differences were found, values remained within the normal ranges for pigs of similar age and weight. No parameter was consistently affected throughout the study; therefore changes detected are unlikely to be of clinical importance. This study shows no adverse effects of feeding Bt GMm to pigs between weaning and slaughter on serum or urine biochemistry and should help to assure consumers as to the safety of Bt maize. Keywords: Genetically modified, pigs, health, clinical biochemistry.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Brian Caffrey An investigation into human-centred peer-support education systems through ICT and new media for students with Specific Learning Difficulties Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: bcaffrey@gmail.com

Abstract: Often referred to as a Learning Disability or Disorder, Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD) are â&#x20AC;&#x2014;a diverse group of conditions that cause significant difficulties in perceiving, processing and/or producing auditory, visual and/or spatial information.â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; (TCD, 2010) An SLD is not an intellectual or general learning difficulty: students with SLDs are of average or higher intelligence that are prevented from performing to the full extent of their capabilities by conditions outside of their control. The conditions cover a wide range of issues, such as Dyslexia and the Autism Spectrum Disorders. People living with SLDs tend to suffer from related stigma, both self- and externally-generated. In an information-heavy setting, students with SLDs are at a natural disadvantage, academically, technically and professionally. With the drive to create a knowledge-based economy and the growth of social media, these students are at risk of being left even further behind. The overall research objective then is the development of actionable education frameworks, self-sustaining peer-support networks and independent learning strategies through ICT for students with SLDs and similar non-traditional third level populations. Since priority must at all times remain on furthering the growth of the students rather than the hardware or software, the most effective recourse in working towards joint optimisation of both individual performance and system usage would be to follow the approach and principles of socio-technical systems. This will be examined through the domains of integration, communication and imagination, operating initially on a social and academic level, but with a view to moving towards applied and professional expression of same. In addition to the enhancement of academic performance, the research aims to aid in the development of student familiarity and proficiency with ICT, reduce the stigma of SLDs, and promote their resilience and retention. While designed with Third Level and Adult Education institutes in mind, it also bears the potential to be adapted for Second Level Education. As this research is ongoing at present, final results and findings are pending. Keywords: ICT, SLD Peer-Support Networks.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Katie Cagney Continuity and Change: narratives from inside modern Irish families Department of Applied Arts Email: kcagney@wit.ie

Abstract: This research focuses on families in modern Ireland. Families are becoming increasingly diverse, and family forms have changed dramatically recently, there are significant increases in the number of separated and blended families (Fahey 2010) While there has been a number of quantitative studies on childhood recently, (National Longitudinal Study of Children 2009, Barnardos 2007), there has been little in- depth sociological enquiry about what it feels like to spend time in a family (Corsaro 1997). Family represents a constructed quality of human interaction or an active process rather than an object of detached social investigation (Morgan, 1999). This qualitative study explores what life is like in Irish families today and places special emphasis on listening to the voices of children in the family. This inclusion of children‘s voices in the research process recognises current trends in sociology to ‗rediscover‘ childhood (Corsaro 1998). Within the new sociology of childhood, children are seen as competent social actors able to contribute their views to the research (Green and Hogan 2005). Joint story telling is an important part of the culture of each family, it is how families organise their experiences and make them meaningful. This study, therefore, explores which aspects of spending time together are most significant for families and how families spend time together and what spaces they use; sitting around the kitchen table or chatting while commuting (Urry 2007) Furthermore one of the main aims of the research is to discover whether certain rituals and routines are unique to each family, or share common themes with other families (Fiese 2006). Twelve families were interviewed, forty five participants in total both children and adults. Sensitive ethical considerations about interviewing children were considered, and all children were interviewed with their consent and their guardian‘s consent. Each family was interviewed together in their own homes. This naturalistic setting facilitated the construction of family stories by the participants, a key focus of this research. The interviews were recorded and transcribed with the families‘ consent and these transcripts are currently being analysed. It is anticipated that this study will make an important contribution to the development of family policy and professional practice in the area of children and families. In addition emergent themes of time spent together in families will be useful in socio political debates concerning the rights of children and work life balance debates in Irish social and working society. Keywords: Sociology of the family, routines, time, space, narrative. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Shibo Cai and Dr Joseph O’ Mahony Low cost sensor based on the Quartz Tuning Fork Department of Engineering Technology Email: shibocai@hotmail.com

Abstract: The quartz crystal tuning fork shows great potential as a mechanical mass sensor. Recent work demonstrated that a change in resonance frequency could be used to measure mass changes in the low nanogramme range [1,2]. This method of mass detection relied on the use of sophisticated electronics and lock-in detection techniques to determine changes in resonance frequency following loading of the fork with polystyrene beads. This poster will outline a novel approach to mass detection that circumvents the requirement for sensitive and expensive electronics to produce a truly low cost method of mass sensing. In principle the fork can be connected in a self oscillating circuit such that the fork will oscillate at its resonance frequency. Breaking the feedback in the self oscillating circuit allows the recording of the damping coefficient of the tuning fork. The applications of Fourier techniques allow the resonance frequency to be determined. The method provides a direct low cost measurement of the changes in quality factor and resonance frequency. We will present early stage results from this work and will discuss how the technique may be used to fabricate low cost sensors for biomedical and environmental application through the integration of molecularly imprinted media with the arms of the tuning fork. References: [1]

Xiaodi Su, Changchun Dai, Jian Zhang, Sean J. O‘Shea, Quartz Tuning Fork Biosensor, Biosensors and Bioelectrics 17 (2002) 111 -117.

[2]

Hugh Butler, Joseph O‘Mahony, the development of Quartz Crystal Tuning Fork Nanosensors.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, Quartz Tuning Fork, Sensor.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Raymond Carroll Application of Genetic Algorithm to Maximise Clean Energy usage for Data Centres Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: rcarroll@tssg.org

Abstract: Following the huge growth in usage over the last 10 years, the Internet has become a critical business and social tool. In the future however, this popularity will continue to rise, with the Internet evolving into a full scale distributed service platform, offering a plethora of services from communications to business, entertainment and much more. These services will be more dynamic and sophisticated providing a range of complex capabilities. However, this dynamic service environment will lead to overwhelming management problems if not dealt with adequately. At the same time, society is now acutely aware of the significant energy burden the communications industry is becoming. The data centres housing these services are seeing their energy consumption increase proportionally, now leading researchers to actively search for solutions to improve the energy efficiency of data centres. With these two trends in mind we propose a biologically-inspired service framework that supports services intelligently solving a number of management problems. In particular we use this framework to address the new, emerging problem of a sustainable future internet. We propose a green solution that makes data centres and services prioritise the usage of clean, renewable energy sources. The solution allows data centres to share information regarding renewable energy and cooling, in order to exploit variance between different countries energy and temperature profiles by moving services between data centres. We then employ an evolutionary genetic-algorithm to find the optimal placement of these services on the data centres in terms of maximising renewable energy usage.

Keywords: Biologically Inspired Mechanisms, Service Management, Green IT.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Tracey Coady Biotransformations using nitrile hydrolysing enzymes for stereoselective organic synthesis Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: k.coady@upcmail.ie

Abstract: Pharmaceutical research and manufacturing is increasingly turning to biotechnology for new efficient routes to complex targets. Biocatalysis is rapidly evolving in organic synthesis, the historic backbone of the pharmaceutical industry, offering advantages for green technology and stereoselective control. Ireland is a major player in the global pharmaceutical industry and Government policy is to grow pharma/biopharma RandD to protect the sector. Research in this area will generate novel green technology with key industrial applications and industrial collaborations. Nitriles and carboxylic acids are widely used as intermediates in the fine chemical industry due to their versatility of transformations. Biotransformation of nitriles, either through a direct conversion from a nitrile to a carboxylic acid catalysed by a nitrilase or through the nitrile hydratase catalysed hydration of a nitrile followed by the amide hydrolysis catalysed by the amidase, have become the effective and environmentally benign methods for the production of carboxylic acids and their amide derivatives (2). R R CH

R CN

NHase

CONH2

(R)-Amide

amidase

COOH

Racemate

(S)-Acid

Nitrilase

This lead to the following research questions: 1. Do any of the available novel bacterial isolates possess interesting biocatalytic activity.

2. Can the bacterial isolates be used for the production of enantiomerically pure pharmaceutical actives and intermediates.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The 256 nitrile-metabolising bacterial isolates within the PMBRC were isolated and studied for different streams of work. The initial work in the laboratory ensured that fresh, working cultures and duplicate archives stocks of all isolates were generated and maintained to serve the duration of this project. The isolates were grown in rich medium (LB broth) and stored in duplicate, using microtitre-based high-throughput growth techniques. The bacterial isolates were first subjected to toxicity studies with the nitriles of interest. By attempting to grow the different isolates in rich medium in the presence of the relevant nitrile, any isolates that are sensitive to the nitrile and cannot grow in its presence can be determined. The biocatalytic activities of the isolate library were then tested with a selection of pharmaceutically important nitriles as detailed below: 3-hydroxyglutaronitrile, 3-hydroxybutyronitrile and 3hydroxy-3-phenylpropionitrile as these enantiopure ď ˘-hydroxycarboxylic acids and their derivatives are important precursors for the synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals (for example: ď ˘- hydroxycarboxylic esters may be to prepare intermediates of Î˛-lactam antibiotics). Currently work is underway to develop methods by which the biotransformation may be monitored using a range of various techniques, including high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to monitor the conversion from nitrile to acid, chiral HPLC to measure enantioselectivity, gas chromatography to measure those substrates which may not be monitored by ultraviolet detectors. Following screening for conversion and enantioselectivity, the substrates will be modified by the addition of substituents to enhance enantioselectivity.

Keywords: Green.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Padraig Cullen A method for producing atomically sharp force sensors for use in a novel photoconductive atomic force microscope Department of Engineering Technology Email: paddy002@gmail.com

Abstract: The motivation behind this project is to design, manufacture and test a novel atomic force microscope (AFM). In doing so I hope to achieve a multifunctional instrument which will aid in the development, production and testing of organic photovoltaic solar cells (OPVs). The novel AFM is required to operate in AFM, STM (scanning tunnelling microscope) and photoconductive AFM mode (pcAFM). Traditionally efficiency measurements of OPVs were based on macroscopic area measurements however these measurements cannot be truly related to the nano-scale properties of the device. Crosstalk between the sample illumination source and the laser feedback system used in traditional AFM can make experimentation difficult resulting in inaccurate results and frequent tip crashes. A Quartz Crystal tuning fork equipped with an atomically sharp gold tip will act as the force sensor within the novel AFM. Tuning forks are used as they have an extremely high quality factor, they are mass produced for use in wrist watches which make them extremely cheap and they can be electrically driven to oscillate at their resonant frequency. When the oscillating tuning fork and tip assembly approaches the sample under test, surface forces acting on the tip modify the resonance frequency of the tuning fork. Control of the tip sample distance as the tip is scanned across the sample surface maintains the oscillation of the tuning fork. Recording of the tip sample distance control signal provides a map of the underlying surface. The sensitivity and resolution of the AFM will depend on the properties of the tip attached to the tuning fork. Producing atomically sharp tips is an extremely difficult process, more specifically the transfer of the etched tip to the tuning fork. To over-come this problem a variation of the â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Double Lamelle Drop-off Techniqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; [1] of tip etching has been developed. This method allows the electrochemical etching of 20 micron gold wire attached in parallel to one of the tines of the tuning fork. In this method the gold wire which extends beyond the tine of the fork is passed through a platinum ring and a drop of CaCl electrolyte solution is added to form a meniscus around the ring producing an electrolytic cell, a current is applied and etching commences.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Preliminary testing confirms the production of reasonably sharp tips with a relatively small mass which was unobtainable using previous methods. This is largely attributed to the elimination of human interaction with the tip post etching. AC and DC etching of the gold wire can be optimised to provide atomically sharp probes for AFM measurements. This poster will provide an early stage assessment of the new technique for high quality tip etching.

References: M. Kulawik, M. Nowicki, G. Thielsch, L. Cramer, Review of scientific Instruments, Vol 74 Num 2 1027-1030.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Niall Donnelly Integration of OpenCL and OpenMPI to Provide Distributed Supercomputing Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: 20006940@mail.wit.ie

Abstract: Moore's Law defines that the number of transistors on a processor increases every 18 months. Increased application performance resulted from increasing the number of transistors on the chip and increasing the clock frequency. Sequential code would execute faster without any changes to code design. The failure of processor manufacturers to increase clock frequency has led to the emergence of lower clocked chips with multiple identical processing cores. Parallel programming is now required to realise increased application performance in future. This issue of multi-core processing has evolved with emergence of new heterogeneous processing architectures. Architectures such as graphics processing units (GPUs from different vendors), IBM Cell Broadband Engine (CBE) etc. implement non-standard programming models, requiring specialised algorithm development in order to gain efficiency. This creates challenges in terms of software portability, optimisation and maintainability. The Open Compute Language (OpenCL) specification was introduced by Khronos with the aim of addressing this problem. OpenCL defines a single programming model that can be implemented on any device supporting the specification. Devices that support the OpenCL specification implement separate compilers for OpenCL that optimise for their respective architecture. Parallel programming models can be used to implement computational patterns. Examples of computational patterns include structured/unstructured grids for approximating solutions to differential equations arising from the study of natural phenomena (fluid flow, structural analysis, heat transfer etc.), state machines to model the interaction of complex systems, graph traversal algorithms to search for optimal paths in graphs etc. The focus of this research is to examine the implementation of computational patterns on heterogeneous processing architectures using OpenCL. Relative device performance characteristics, including memory, clock speed and OpenCL specific characteristics will be examined to develop performance metrics for a device. The aim is to use the performance metrics of the devices as a basis to develop an optimisation algorithm. This algorithm has the aim of efficiently distributing the workload related to the computational pattern involved. A programmer will be able to define a problem using computational patterns and execute it on a number of heterogeneous processing architectures. 56 WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Ahmed ElMesiry and Dr Dmitri Botvich Maintaining User Privacy in Location Aware Mobile Services Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: ael-misery@tssg.org

Abstract: Mobile contexts of use vary a lot, and may even be continuously changing during use. The context is much more than location, but it difficult to identify. Location information is becoming an integral part of different mobile devices. Current mobile services can be enhanced with location-aware features, thus providing the user with a smooth transition towards context-aware services. Services on mobile devices have large potential due to the very personal and intimate nature of the devices and high targeting possibilities. Potential application fields can be found in areas such as travel information, shopping, entertainment, taxi services and advertising. Most of the service providers (sellers) consider location aware technology a high yield revenue stream. One major concern about consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; adoption with these new services lies in privacy concerns of the users of these services. In most cases, the privacy issues prevent people from fully embracing these services. Location disclosure due to insider attacks at the service provider side is a privacy concern for most of the consumers, where an employee of the service provider compromises the confidentiality and integrity of the collected data. A Common requirement for privacy aware consumers is to detect nearby services without revealing their private position. Existing solutions for this problem rely primarily upon the use of heavily cryptography protocols, and as a consequence more computing resources are required (e.g. processing power and bandwidth). In this poster, we investigate the privacy issues faced by people in sharing their location information on location aware mobile services (LAMS). We propose an approach for protecting privacy in location LAMS, the proposed approach provides a secure data collection schema that sanitizes the data prior to transmission to LAMS. By adjusting only two parameters, the user is able to choose to increase resources consumption efficiency or privacy level. This sanitization schema allows the user to make sure that the data do not leave his/her system until it is properly secured. We build a prototype for this approach and discuss parameters influences. We run experiments to test the efficiency of our approach and present the impact of parameters variations. Keywords: Privacy; Databases. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Laurence Fitzhenry, Dr Panagiotis Manesiotis, Dr Patrick Duggan and Dr Peter McLoughlin Synthetic Molecular Receptors for Steroid Sensing and Release Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: lfitzhenry@wit.ie

Abstract: Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are materials that contain sites or cavities, which are receptive to a specific molecule or group of molecules. This recognitive ability is designed into the polymer by the preparation of the polymer in the presence of the target molecule. Corticosteroids are pharmaceutically relevant compounds and the focus of this research is the development of polymeric materials capable of selectively recognising and differentiating between a range of structurally similar corticosteroids using the technology of molecular imprinting. These polymers are to be employed as sensing platforms, such as a quartz crystal microbalance, where they could selectively sense the steroids in complex biological matrices or drug delivery platforms where the materials could be used to enhance the targeting and release profiles of the steroids. To this end, a number of functional polymers have been synthesised in two different formats, bulk monolith and polymeric microspheres. Microspherical particles have a range of advantages over bulk material, including ease of synthesis, control of particle size and mass transfer. These polymers have been synthesised in a range of solvents and using a number of monomers. A high degree of control has been obtained for the synthesis of microspheres with sizes between 1-10 Âľm achieved. Both bulk and microspherical polymers have been tested using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and have been shown to selectively recognise steroids in aqueous solutions. Keywords: Functional polymers, drug release, sensors.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Margaret Fitzpatrick Deconstructing the Knowledge Concept for Knowledge Transfer Efficiency Department of Management and Organisation Email: margaret.fitzpatrick@hotmail.com

Abstract: A dominant theme that continuously appears to emerge from knowledge literature is that, knowledge transfer must occur â&#x20AC;&#x2022;frictionlesslyâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;, hence the importance of identifying major factors affecting knowledge transfer efficiency. Although knowledge transfer has received considerable attention in recent years (Lubit, 2001) and the major determinants affecting its efficiency have been identified (PĂŠrezNordtvedt et al, 2008), knowledge transfer is still proving problematic (Szulanski, 1996; Kwan and Cheung, 2006). Historically, knowledge is either explicit or tacit (Connell et al, 2003), and the literature suggests methods for transferring both types (Kwan and Cheung, 2006). It is widely agreed that explicit knowledge is relatively easy to transfer, as it is codified, while its counterpart tacit knowledge remains problematic to transfer (Lubit, 2001; Stenmark, 2001; Haldin-Herrgard, 2004). For Styhre (2004), the core of the issue is that tacit knowledge holds too many meanings as it is used as an umbrella term to describe all types of non-codified knowledge; consequently it is illdefined and there is no consensus on its characteristics (Howells, 1996; Castillo, 2002; Haldin-Herrgard, 2004: Meyer and Sugiyama, 2007). There is emerging recognition that knowledge is not polarised, as proponents of the category view of this dichotomy believe, instead various types of knowledge exist along a graded continuum which has explicit and tacit extremes (Kogut and Zander, 1992; Leonard and Sensiper, 1998; Jasimuddin et al, 2005). Simply stated, an organisation needs to identify the types of knowledge it possess before it can choose an appropriate method of transfer (Haider, 2009). However few studies have investigated the different types of knowledge that exist along the continuum. A rich typology of knowledge would be beneficial in clarifying the knowledge concept (Johnson et al, 2002) and it would allow for the development of more appropriate knowledge transfer methods, and this is the core objective of this research. Therefore, the purpose of his study is to deconstruct the knowledge concept into specific categories and to identify the most efficient knowledge transfer mechanism. A synthesis of knowledge and knowledge transfer literatures is utilised in order to investigate this studies overarching research objective.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Due to the significant gap in academic knowledge on this study‘s focus and the leveraging of the aforementioned research streams, it is perceived that this study will make a significant contribution to extant knowledge on achieving frictionless knowledge transfer. References: Castillo J. (2002), “A Note on the Concept of Tacit Knowledge”, Journal of Management Inquiry, Vol. 11, Iss. 1, pp. 46-59. Connell, N.A.D., Klein, J.H. and Powell, P.L. (2003), “It’s Tacit Knowledge But Not As We Know It: Redirecting The Search For Knowledge”, Journal of Operation Research In Society, Vol 54, pp. 140-152. Haldin-Herrgard, T. (2004), “Diving Under the Surface of Tacit Knowledge” Proceedings of the 5th European Conference on Organisational Knowledge, Learning and Capabilities, 2-3 April, pp. 1-21. Haider, S. (2009), “The Organizational Knowledge Iceberg: An Empirical Investigation”, Knowledge and Process Management, Vol 16, Iss. 2, pp. 74-84. Howells, J. (1996), “Tacit Knowledge, Innovation and Technology Transfer”, Technology Analysis and Strategic Management, Vol. 8, Iss. 2, pp. 91-106. Jasimuddin, S.M., Klein, J.H. and Connell, C. (2005), “The Paradox of Using Tacit and Explicit Knowledge Strategies to Face Dilemmas”, Management Decision, Vol. 43, Iss. 1, pp. 102-113. Johnson, B., Lorenz, E., Lundvall, Bengt-Ǻke (2002), “Why All This Fuss About Codified and Tacit Knowledge?”, Industrial and Corporate Change, Vol. 11, Iss. 2, pp. 245-262. Kogurt, B. and Zander, U. (1992), “Knowledge of the Firm, Combinative Capabilities, and the Replication of Technology”, Organization Science, Vol. 3, Iss. 3, pp. 383-396. Kwan, M.M. and Cheung, P.K. (2006), “The Knowledge Transfer Process: From Field Studies to Technology Development”, Journal of Database Management, Vol. 17, Iss. 1, pp. 16-33. Leonard, D. and Sensiper, S. (1998), “The Role of Tacit Knowledge in Group Innovation”, Californian Management Review, Vol. 40, Iss. 3, pp. 112-133. Lubit, R. (2001), “Tacit Knowledge and Knowledge Management: The Keys to Sustainable Competitive Advantage”, Organisational Dynamics, Vol. 29, Iss. 4, pp. 164 – 178. Meyer, B. and Sugiyama, K. (2007), “The Concept of Knowledge in KM: A Dimension Model”, Journal of Knowledge Management, Vol. 11, Iss. 1, pp. 17. Pérez-Nordtvedt, L., Kedia, B.L., Datta, D.K. and Rasheed, A.A. (2008) “Effectiveness and Efficency of Cross-Border Knowledge transfer: An Empirical Investigation”, Journal of Management Studies, Vol.45, Iss. 4, pp. 714- 744. Stenmark, D. (2000; 2001), “Leveraging Tacit Organisational Knowledge”, Journal of Management and Information Systems, Vol. 17, Iss. 3, pp. 9 – 23. Styhre, A. (2004), “Rethinking Knowledge: A Bergsonian Critique of the Notion of Tacit Knowledge”, British Journal of Management, Vol. 15, pp. 177-188. Szulanski, G. (1996), “Exploring Internal Stickiness: Impediments to the Transfer of Best Practice Within the Firm”, Strategic Management Journal, Vol. 17, Winter Special Issue, pp. 2743.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Deirdre Fleming Towards a framework of understanding restoring actions during the stages of dissolution in inter-organisational relationships Department of Management and Organisation Email: deirdremfleming@gmail.com

Abstract: The majority of inter-organisational research attention has focussed on the positives of developing successful relationships and not on the negatives of managing them, resulting in less attention on conceptual development and empirical evidence related to problematic relationships facing dissolution (Holmlund and Hobbs, 2009). Indeed the marketing literature on dissolving relationships appears disjointed with separate studies focussing on the reasons why relationships end (Keaveney, 1995; Perrien; Paradis and Richard, 1995) or on the processes of dissolution (Ping and Dwyer, 1992; Halinen and Tahtinen, 2002) or on the strategies for disengagement (Alajoutisjarvi, Moller and Tahtinen, 2000; Giller and Matear, 2001) but with scant attention to the restoration of a relationship once it has entered the dissolving stage (Salo, Tahtinen and Ulkuniemi, 2009; Tahtinen and Vaaland, 2006). The few studies that exist have focused on the process of recovery (Salo et al., 2009; Tahtinen et al. 2007) or on the analysis of the attenuating factors influencing recovery (see Vaaland and Tahtinen, 2003; Tahtinen and Vaaland, 2006), yet they have not linked recovery actions to each stage of the dissolution process. It is our argument that dissolution is a process rather than a single decision and repair can occur at any stage, although it may have different objectives at different parts of that process (Duck, 1984). Moreover, the restoration process cannot progress if either party is confused regarding the reasons for breakdown (Halinen and Tahtinen, 2002; Tahtinen et al., 2007). Similarly, the actions and reactions of individuals affect the outcome of the process (Hirshman, 1970; Rusbult, 1982) by either pushing the relationship towards dissolution or attempting to repair it. Using a qualitative methodology through the use of multiple case studies, the overarching aim of this study is to create an integrated framework of restoring actions during each stage of the dissolution process but also including the factors leading to dissolution and the responses to dissatisfaction. In pursuit of this aim this research will involve the analysis and exploration of the actions and reactions of individuals in order to gain a complete understanding of the total process.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

This research attempts to close a significant gap in the literature concerning relationship recovery by developing a holistic view of the process which has not been undertaken to date. The study will make a theoretical contribution to the literature thereby extending research on recovering inter-organisational relationships. Relationship dissolution represents a huge loss both financially and psychologically for firms. If relationships are in disorder they run the risk of lost development and growth and ultimately sustainability. From a managerial perspective, it is necessary to understand the reasons how relationships can become dysfunctional and in turn what strategies can be used to restore them. A greater understanding could help to rebuild or maintain the relationship as a whole or in the development of future relationships. Keywords: Business Relationships, Dissolution, Restoration.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr John Flynn Development of a wind energy prediction tool Department of Engineering Technology Email: John.Flynn@bausch.com

Abstract: Wind is a bountiful source of energy, especially in Ireland. Some of the highest winds in Europe are consistently in and around Ireland, especially in western regions. However, wind is also extremely variable in amplitude, ranging (at any given height) from 0 to as much as 25 metres/second. As the power in the wind has a cubic relationship with wind speed, even minor speed fluctuations can result in significant power variations. The Irish national demand for electrical power is itself also variable, varying by time of day, day in the week, time of year and weather. The amount of electrical power generated whether from wind or conventional fossil fuels must always meet the national demand, if electrical blackouts are to be avoided. Incorporating the volatile source of electrical power from wind is therefore quite a challenge, a challenge that will increase over the next nine years, as the amount of electrical power from wind is expected to increase about fourfold from the present figures. The ability to predict the likely wind strength is essential, especially if possible by several hours in advance. Such advance warning allows for conventional power plants to prepare to increase or decrease output, or, as seems likely to be at least part of the ultimate solution in nine years time, to plan the release of stored energy (or vice versa the storage of energy) from pumped storage facilities. This work reports on the development of a wind prediction model, based on actual wind data gathered over 18 months here in Waterford. The is statistically data analysed to confirm correct measurement performance and presented in the (for wind) conventional form of the Weibull distribution as well as monthly box plots to confirm site specific mean, median and outlier wind velocities. The direction information is presented in the form of a wind rose. The data is voluminous with 36,000 data points per sensor per annum (there are 4 sensors in this case and, as mentioned earlier, 18 months of data. The initial analysis is also useful in terms of analysing available energy for the site, but of little value in calculating future wind values. A model is presented of a temporal analysis of wind data so that future wind values may be predicted with definable confidence levels.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The eventual computer realisation of the model is presented using the R statistical programming language. R was chosen as it easily permits the statistical analysis of the wind data, without discarding the time element associated with each reading. Keywords: Wind renewable energy, Wind prediction.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Pearse Flynn The role of intrinsic residual stresses in the wear performance of PVD tool coatings Department of Engineering Technology Email: pearse.flynn@guehring.de

Abstract: Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) provides a convenient method to deposit hard wear resistant coatings onto tooling surfaces. The use of (Ti,Al)N coatings as mono or multilayered structures has increased significantly in recent times. When a coating is deposited onto a tool at elevated temperatures and cooled to room temperature, the thermal expansion mismatch between coating and the tool substrate results in thermal residual stresses. Residual stress can be defined as â&#x20AC;&#x2022;the stress remaining inside a component or structure once all externally applied forces have been removedâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;. There are many types of residual stresses some of which are beneficial to the normal operating component conditions others can be detrimental. Excessively high compressive stresses may result in de-lamination or de-cohesion of the thin PVD coating, particularly at sharp edges resulting in the deterioration in wear resistance at critical locations. Typical residual stress levels are on the order of 1-3GPa for a PVD ceramic coating on a metal substrate. Further stresses arise due to the growth of the thin film on the substrate and are normally called intrinsic growth stresses. These are mainly due to the controllable coating parameters used in depositing the coating or due to chemical reactions and phase transformations occurring during the process. The poster will introduce the issue of intrinsic growth stresses and outline the controllable coating parameters that can be adjusted to alleviate these stresses. Early stage X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) results will be presented to show the effects of coating parameters on the development of intrinsic stresses in the coating. The possibility to mitigate these stresses using stress relieving operations such as Argon ion bombardment with bias voltages up to 200V will be discussed. Determining the most effective point to apply this stress mediating technique is important in developing high quality wear resistant coatings. The Argon ion impact must be controlled so as not to detrimentally alter or contaminate coating chemistry. Keywords: Thin film properties, Material Science.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Korbinian Frank, Dr Matthias Roeckl and Dr Tom Pfeifer Optimizing Dynamic Composition of Bayesian Networks for Context Sensing and Inference Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: kfrank@tssg.org

Abstract: Breaking Bayesian Networks (BNs) for context inference from sensor networks into Bayeslets is a proven approach for optimising performance in resource constraint ubiquitous computing environments. Context inference with Bayesian Networks faces the challenge that the related costs (inference time, memory consumption) grow exponentially with the number of components, as it is NP hard. To minimise evaluation time, the BN to be evaluated has to be minimised. Automatic selection and composition of relevant Bayeslets would allow for this. Therefore, this research investigates optimisation approaches which evaluate the added value of using a particular Bayeslet versus its cost. To decide whether to connect two (or more) Bayeslets, the utility of the additional information has to be determined and compared to the costs of the connection, which gives us a Net Expected Utility. In utility theory the term utility is defined by the value a piece of information provides to the system. Evidently, this value strongly depends on the usage of the information. The utility of an additional piece of evidence can be quantified by the difference between the utility with the additional evidence and without the additional evidence. This work proposes two different utility functions: a probability‐based utility function based on logarithmic growth would be equivalent to Shannon‘s Mutual Information; a decision‐based utility function that maximizes the expected utility of possible actions is equivalent to the Value of Information (VoI). Mutual Information has to be normalised and the costs for integration have to be subtracted, so that the candidates for the decision criterion are the Net Normalized Mutual Information (NetNI) and the Net Value of Information, NetVoI. NetVoI takes into account all available information at request time, is therefore advantageous over NetNI. However the design of the utility function to reduce uncertainty in the target random variable of the Bayeslet is challenging.

Keywords: Context Awareness; Inference; Bayesian Networks.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Leigh Griffin, Mr Eamonn de Leastar and Dr Dmitri Botvich Engineering a Scalable Group Management Component for Open Federated Social Networking Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: lgriffin@tssg.org

Abstract: Group communication offers a means for resource sharing and collaboration, often delivered through diverse technologies. One of the technologies, Instant Messaging, traditionally took the role of a facilitating service within such communities. Driven by a flexible XML based protocol, XMPP, instant messaging has developed functionality to a point where it can be considered a standalone group communication medium. The nature of the protocol allows for server to server federation, paving the way for the development of an open-source federated social network. End user control over the privacy and visibility of data within their social network can be a reality. The core protocol itself contains the building blocks to bring about this paradigm shift, but the scalability, particularly in relation to group formation and the consumption of media based services, has yet to be achieved. This work presents a change of design philosophy, opting to embrace asynchronous or â&#x20AC;&#x2022;non-blocking I/Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; techniques, as a potential solution to the scalability issue. Marrying this technique to a component based approach, allowing for the abstraction of the group management capabilities from the core protocol, a scalable solution is possible. The initial scalability tests show startling results and are presented here for consideration.

Keywords: Group Communication; Group Management; XMPP; Instant Messaging; Services.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Katie Hamm Designing and analysing tourism service systems - bridging the gap between front and backstage activities Department of Management and Organisation Email: kthammm@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract: Continuous growth in services has led to the development of innumerable models and constructs measuring different facets of service systems and map processes (Shostack, 1987; Parasuraman et al., 1988; Cronin and Taylor, 1992; Cai, Chung, Su, 2008; Spraragen and Chan, 2008). However, the models that exist provide only a partial view of the whole service system and tend to ignore the interconnectivity between back and front stage activities (Teboul, 2006; Kim and Kim, 2001). Indeed, a substantial body of the existing theory has focused solely on front stage activities, contributing to the domineering front stage mindset among tourism practitioners (Teboul, 2006). Traditional concepts focus on the determination of quality at customer touch points and discount the importance and support of the backstage activities (Teboul, 2006; Kim and Kim, 2001). Theory suggests that if practitioners can effectively and efficiently design their service systems by bridging front and back stages, maximum system performance is achieved (Glushko, 2009; Waring and Bishop, 2010). However, effective integration of front and back stage activities remains a central dilemma for most tourism firms. Drawing from the theory of Waring and Bishop (2010) and Glushko and Tabas, (2009), difficulty stems from opposing characteristics intrinsic to the front and back stages. These divergent characteristics can stimulate conflicts within the system (Isaccs and Walendowski, 2001; Glushko and Tabas, 2008/2009). Without research that delves into ways to effectively bridge the front and the back stages for practitioners, conflicts will remain and service systems will not be operate to their full potential. Although numerous authors have acknowledged the benefits of bridging front and back stage activities, scant research attention has been given to the issue (Glushko, 2009; Waring and Bishop, 2010).This significant gap in the literature has serious consequences for practitioners as it causes them to view their service system as a group of unrelated events, rather than a constellation of processes (Bitner et al., 2008). Therefore benefits of service design will not materialise in practice. Essentially this represents a â&#x20AC;&#x2014;green fieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; for academic research.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Therefore the purpose of this poster is to conceptualise the current literature to develop a holistic service design model that integrates back and front stage activities. Due to the scarcity of research, it is perceived that our ongoing study will contribute substantially not only to academia but also to practice in that it will allow tourism operators to optimally deploy service processes and practices through a systematic, critical and comprehensive examination of a systems process. The poster will also highlight key areas warranting investigation going forward.

Keywords: Service systems, blueprinting, service design. References Bitner, M.J., Ostrom, A. L., Morgan, F. N. (2008), ―Service Blue printing: A Practical Technique for Service Innovation‖ California Management Review pp.1-24. Cai, H., Chung, J.Y., Su, H. (2008), ―Relooking at services science and services innovation‖, SOCA, Vol.2 No.1-14. Cronin J.J. and Taylor S.A. (1992),‖Managing Service Quality: A Re-examination and Extension‖, The Journal of Marketing, Vol.56, No.3 pp.55-68. Glushko, R.J, (2008) ―Designing a service science discipline‖, IBM Systems Journal, Vol.47, no.1, pp.15-28. Glushko, R.J, (2009), "Designing Information- Intensive Service Systems", Frontiers in Service Conference 2009- Honolulu 2009. Glushko, R.J., Tabas, L., (2009) ―Designing service systems by bridging the ―front stage‖ and the ―back stage,‖ Information Systems E-Business Management, Vol:7 pp.407-27. Goffman, E. (1959) ―The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life”, Garden City, NY: Doubleday Anchor. Isaccs, E., Walendowski, A. (2001)‖Designing from both Sides of the Screen,‖ Sams Publishing: Canada. Kim, H.W., and Kim, Y.G. (2001),‖Rationalizing the customer service process‖, Business Process Management, Vol.7 No.2. pp.139-156. Parasuraman, A., Zeithaml, V.A., Berry, L.L. (1988),‖SERVQUAL: A Multiple- Item Scale for Measuring Consumer Perceptions of Service Quality‖, Journal of Retailing, Vol.64, No.1 pp.12-40. Shostack, G. L., (1984) ―Designing Services That Deliver‖, Harvard Business Review No.84115. Spraragen, S., Chan, C. (2008) ―Service Blueprinting: When Customer Satisfaction Numbers Are Not Enough.‖ International DMI Education Conference. Design Thinking: New Challenges for Designers, Managers and Organizations. Teboul, J. (2006) ―Service is front stage: Positioning services for value advantage‖ Palgrave Macmillan: New York. Waring, J.J., Bishop, S., (2010) ―Water cooler learning- Knowledge sharing at the backstage and its contribution to patient safety‖, Journal of health Organization and management, Vol. 24, No. 4, pp. 325-342. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Clare Hayes The Amalgamation of Acute Psychiatric Services in the South-East of Ireland: A Retrospective study Department of Nursing Email: cjhayes@wit.ie

Abstract: The study aims to explore organisational issues, which are associated with the amalgamation of two acute psychiatric services in the South-East of Ireland. Following a thorough investigation of the literature surrounding service mergers, organisational issues emerge as a prominent concern. Services have engaged in domestic and international mergers over the last few years in order to match the macroeconomic trends operating worldwide and more recently to cope with the current global financial crisis. The national Government policy document A Vision for Change (2006) highlights the importance of closing all psychiatric institutions, in an effort to enhance a community-based model of care, modernisation of mental health infrastructure, thus reducing stigma for service users. Therefore, considering acute psychiatric services will continue to amalgamate in the near future, complying with the policy guidelines, organisational issues remain a priority in order to achieve successful and efficient service mergers. In the event of organisation amalgamations not being carried out effectively, the Irish health care system will suffer serious consequences in relation to improvement of care for service users and in terms of financial value. Thus it is now evident that finance alone will not improve the system; rather a concentrated effort must be made in order to ensure a responsive and efficient service (Downey-Ennis and Harrington 2002). This study would target healthcare leaders planning organisation amalgamations and those embarking on a smaller-scale integration of services. In addition, there are very few â&#x20AC;&#x2022;how-toâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; guides for successful organisation mergers in the national and international literature. Therefore, this study would aim to be of benefit to leaders, by sharing the experiences of the Waterford/Wexford mental health service. A case study design will be applied to best meet the requirements of the research. The study will purposively target and recruit individuals, who have dealt with the Waterford and Wexford amalgamation process to date. Both cases being Waterford and Wexford will be interviewed using a semi-structured framework to gain an indepth understanding of the organisational issues, which have affected the merger process. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Collectively, the data gathered will address the research objectives of the study as well as contribute to the conclusions drawn from the study. Finally, the Miles and Huberman (1984) approach to data analysis will be employed, drawing conclusions on the organisational issues surrounding the merger process within the specified mental health setting. Keywords: Organisational Issues, Psychiatric Service, Amalgamation, Mergers, Policy, Organisational Change, Organisational Culture.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Aoife Hennessy and Dr Paul Barry A MIMO calculation involving Narayana triangles and Riordan arrays Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: Aoife.hennessy@gmail.com

Abstract: Here we look at the mathematics of one application in the area of MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) wireless communication through the combinatorics of Riordan arrays. Due to the ever increasing popularity of wireless communications and the increased desire for efficient use of bandwidth, MIMO systems have become an important research area over the past 10 years as MIMO (multi-input multi-output) channels offer an increase in capacity compared to single - input single output channels. We use combinatorial techniques to calculate the MIMO channel capacity. The techniques involve Riordan arrays and the Narayana numbers. We will briefly introduce Riordan arrays and the Narayana numbers before finally applying them in a combinatorial evaluation of the capacity of a MIMO channel.

Keywords: A study of Integer sequences, Riordan arrays and orthogonal polynomials.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Stepan Ivanov, Dr Dmitri Botvich and Dr Sasitharan Balasubramaniam Joint throughput and packet loss probability analysis of IEEE 802.11 networks Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: sivanov@tssg.org

Abstract: In the recent years a growth of popularity of wireless networks has been observed. Different studies propose using such networks to provide transmissions of data between users, audio and video conferences. Many of such applications are sensitive to quality of service (QoS) provided by the underlying network. However, a problem of providing service of guaranteed quality has not been solved yet for wireless networks. In this work QoS is considered in terms of probability for an average packet sent through the network to be delayed more then a certain predefined timeout. This probability is called as ``packet drop probability'' as it is presumed that transmitting of all such packets is cancelled by the upper layers. Also QoS is considered in terms of throughput. Thus, QoS is defined as a set of requirements, where each node requests a connection capable of providing a certain predefined throughput, while the connection's packet drop probability does not exceed a certain threshold. Usually wireless networks operate according to IEEE 802.11, which specifies protocols of physical and MAC layers. A number of different studies have been conducted on performance of IEEE 802.11 wireless networks. However, questions of QoS control in such networks have not received sufficient attention from the research community. This work considers modelling of QoS of IEEE 802.11 networks defined in terms of throughput requirements and packet loss probability limitations. Random Walk model for packet delay is proposed. This model allows investigating influence of sizes of packets being transmitted through the network on the QoS. Extensive simulations confirm results obtained from the mathematical model. The study shows that despite throughput growth, increasing size of packets sent through the network may lead to QoS degradation in terms of packet drop probability. Thus, the study suggests a trade-off between throughput increasing and packet drop probability degradation to be considered in order to achieve the best possible performance. Keywords: Computer science; wireless communications.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Anne Marie Ivers How does a Network influence Market Orientation Capability? Department of Management and Organisation Email: amivers@wit.ie

Abstract: Market orientation is a critical capability (Hooley et al., 1999), which reflects the ability of the organisation to understand and respond to the needs of the market (Kohli and Jaworski, 1990) and is primarily concerned with three core elements: intelligence generation, intelligence dissemination and responsiveness (Kohli and Jaworski, 1990). Surprisingly, while market orientation is dependent on market information, the network context for the construct has been relatively ignored in the literature. There has been some examination of networked market orientation between firms (Elg, 2002) and more recently individual market orientation within the firm (Lam, Krans and Ahearne, 2010), but the network as a mechanism for market orientation has been relatively ignored. This study bridges the network and market orientation literatures in order to provide more insight into the construct of market orientation. While it is intuitive to consider the effect of networks on the development and efficacy of market orientation, as access to the market insights underpinning market orientation (Kohli and Jaworski, 1990) depends on external linkages, there have been very few studies examining the network context (Ritter, 2006). This study is set within a commercialisation context from the perspective of spin-out companies within an academic network, with the key research question aiming to investigate the influence of the university and academic network on market orientation capability in Irish academic spin-off companies. Studies linking organisational capabilities and academic spin-offs are rare (Walter, Auer and Ritter, 2006). A mixed method explanatory design is adopted (Cresswell, 2003) which incorporates a two phase approach. Phase one involved a national survey of marketing in Irish academic spin-out companies and Phase two, which is currently underway, involves an in-depth case study with the aim of understanding the network influence on market orientation. Upon completion of the study, it is envisaged that the researcher will advise on the optimum academic network context for fostering market orientation in academic spin out companies.

Keywords: Market Orientation, Network Management, Academic Spin-out companies.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Anita Kealy IS Implementation and Key Success Factors in Large Scale Telemedicine Projects in Post-conflict Regions: A Grounded Theory Case Study in Kosovo Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics Email: akealy@wit.ie

Abstract: Are post conflict situations uniquely different: Are success factors in complex, large scale IT projects influenced by the post-conflict situation itself in post conflict regions? This research is a grounded theory case study of a selected case organisation. Information Systems (IS) research in developing regions is limited, and even more so in post-conflict developing regions. IS in post-conflict, developing regions adds technical and behavioural issues such as infrastructure, education, funding, and local political instability to a complicated process. From the limited research, it has been found that success in implementation in these regions is mixed. Grounded theory and the single case study research approach are well established research approaches in Information Systems research (Matavire and Brown, 2008). Grounded theory is the generation of theory from data obtained during a study, this data can be obtained through interview, questionnaire, observation, documentation, images etc. The researcher goes into their chosen field and collects data, until no new information can be generated from the data (Robson, 2002; Glaser and Strauss, 1967; Strauss and Corbin, 1998). This grounded theory case study is conducted using interview, images, video and documentation. This study investigates an organisation which successfully implemented a large scale telemedicine project. The telemedicine project in Kosovo is a means of providing basic medical care and medical education to a region which is severely under resourced. Due to the conflict in the region there was a ten year gap in Doctors education. The facilities provided by telemedicine, such as teleconferencing facilities, an e-library, individual units in doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; surgery to consult with each other through video link, attempts to address these issues. What emerges from this study are a number of factors which influence the success of the project: Conflict, Telemed Centre as an Object, External Influences, Local Politics, Motivation for Telemed Workers, Motivation for Doctors and Leadership, with Conflict suggested as a major factor. This has implications for understanding IS Implementation in post-conflict, developing regions. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Keywords: Developing Region, Information Systems, Post Conflict, Telemedicine.

References: Glaser, B. And Strauss, A. (1967) The Discovery of Grounded Theory. Aldine: Chicago. Matavire, R. and Brown, I. (2008) â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Investigating the use of "Grounded Theory" in information systems researchâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;, Proceedings of the 2008 annual research conference of the South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists on IT research in developing countries: riding the wave of technology, p.139-147, October 06-08, 2008, Wilderness, South Africa. Robson, C. (2002) Real World Research. Blackwell: Oxford. Strauss, A. And Corbin, J. (1998) Basics of Qualitative Research: Techniques and Procedures for Developing Grounded Theory. 2nd Ed. Sage: Thousand Oaks, California.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Arthur Kearney Managerial innovation: a study of managerial capability for innovation in tourism micro firms Department of Management and Organisation Email: artkearney@eircom.net

Abstract: The recent economic crisis has led to search at government level, among policy makers and in businesses, for new strategies and innovations that might underpin economic recovery and stimulate growth. In an Irish context it is widely argued that tourism and small to medium enterprises will act as an engine for economic recovery (IBEC, 2011; Innovation Ireland, 2010; CSO, 2008). Within these sectors micro enterprises play an important role (Shaw and Williams, 2004). They account for almost ninety percent of small to medium size enterprises in Ireland (OECD, 2000) and over ninety percent of all Irish tourism businesses (Reinl, 2008). The academic literature on tourism and small business research highlights both the urgent need for strategic innovation and yet the challenges this poses for firms and their management ((Aldebert et al. 2010; Hjalager, 2010; Shaw and Williams, 2009; McAdam et al. 2007). Business innovation has, historically, been widely researched across academic disciplines. In more recent times there has been increasing interest in the managerial processes involved in such innovation (Tidd et al. 2005; Krause, 2004). In particular the impact of management as seen through the concepts of leadership, inter organisational networks, creativity, and entrepreneurship have been linked to improved management capability to innovate. Contemporaneously it has been argued that managers and employees possess their own, often distinct, theories of innovation (Salaman and Storey, 2002, Barnett and Storey, 2000; Zwick, 2002). However a review of literature has shown little in the way of the development of an integrated theory of management capability for innovation in a tourism context. Specifically writers suggest that the managerial role in strategic innovation emerges in different ways. Strategic innovation is argued to develop through entrepreneurial behaviour (Sundbo et al. 2007); networking (Larson, 2009; Novelli et al. 2006; knowledge management (Shaw and Williams, 2009; Cooper, 2006) and leadership (Hu et al. 2009). Generic theories of innovation are criticised for failing to account for the unique characteristics of both the tourism industry and the small to medium enterprise sector (Sundbo et al. 2007; McAdam et al. 2007; Scozzi et al. 2005). WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

These sectors face unique management challenges and, for this reason, offer an opportunity both to contribute to a developing field of academic knowledge but also to offer improved contextual knowledge to industry practitioners. The proposed research aims to investigate if and how tourism micro firms engage with creativity in their management capability. It will seek to evaluate the capability of managers to innovate within the context of the micro firm and to develop an integrative model for managerial innovation within the sector. It is anticipated this will enable such firms to benchmark and improve their managerial capability. The study will use a qualitative methodology. Qualitative research will be undertaken with managers within the micro firm sector enabling the collection of rich data and in depth analysis. The method of in-depth interviews with managers who act as key informants will be used, enabling investigation of the narratives underlying managerial theories of innovation (Salaman and Storey, 2009; 2002). It is anticipated the findings will have both academic, practitioner and policy implications. A gap in the scholarly literature regarding what constitutes managerial innovation and how this concept is manifest in the micro firm sector of the tourism industry will thus be addressed. Equally the findings will have important policy and practical implications including offering guidance on how managerial innovation may enable the sector to contribute to economic development; contributing to the development of tourism management learning programmes and enabling linkages to be made between government policies in the area of innovation and the knowledge economy and the specific potential of the tourism small to medium enterprise sector. Keywords: Innovation Management Tourism Micro-firm.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Maeve Kennealy, Dr Peadar Lawlor and Dr Eleanor Owens Development of a novel solid biofuel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; using solid pig manure Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: mkennealy@wit.ie

Abstract: In Ireland, the expansion of biofuel production has steadily increased over the past couple of decades. This increase has come about due to the almost near depletion of fossil fuels. Most biofuels are also carbon neutral and release less green house gases during combustion than fossil fuels. Additionally, many substances which were once considered wastes are now being successfully converted into useful biofuels (e.g. combustion of municipal solid waste to produce electricity). One such waste in abundant supply is animal manure. It has been utilised as a direct fuel for centuries and is still being used in third world countries today. The preferred method of disposing of pig manure in Ireland is to land-spread it for its fertiliser value. The Nitrates directive (SI 610 2010), and the gradual end to the transitional arrangements for the application of phosphorus from pig manure means that increased areas of suitable land are required for land spreading. Pig manure has been used to create heat and energy by way of anaerobic digestion. However, the use of manure as a solid fuel is in the initial stages of investigation. Mixing pig manure and a high carbon content biomass may produce a novel solid biofuel which could be comparable in value to other existing biofuels. The solid fraction from separated pig manure (SRM) was composted neat and with various biomass addendums - sawdust, woodchip, green waste and straw. Composting the SRM should result in a reduction in moisture content as well as promote the mixing of the SRM and the biomass addendum. Various mixtures were composted for 56 days. The effects of this composting process on the chemical composition of the samples will help determine the suitability of the samples as a biofuel. The following parameters were determined: moisture, ash, gross calorific value (GCV), net calorific value, pH, ash forming, corrosive and toxic elements. During composting the ratio of inorganic/organic species altered, leading to an increase in percentage ash and subsequently a decrease in GCV. The chemical analysis from the composting experiments showed that a SRM and sawdust sample with 6-8 hours composting time had the most suitable chemical analysis for a biofuel. However, an allied study found that 3-7 days composting was required for removal of microbiological pathogens. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

GCV was determined to have a similar range to other existing biofuels, e.g. woodchip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18-20 MJ/kg. Initial elemental studies have shown that the samples contained higher amounts of all the metals (K, Na, P, Fe, Cu, Cr and Cd) in comparison to the CEN/TS 14961:2005 solid biofuels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fuel specification and classes. Further elemental analysis of Al, Ca, Mg, Mn and Zn is being conducted. The main problem encountered during analysis was a high ash content in the SRM containing biofuels. Analysis of samples varying in C/N ratios is underway in an attempt to produce a product with similar characteristics to traditional biofuels, potentially resulting in reduced ash content. Keywords: Biofuel, pig manure, renewable energy.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Lisa Kirwan, Mr Barry Lambe and Dr Paula Carroll Using a community based physical activity (PA) programme as a strategy to engage vulnerable men to improve their health and wellbeing Department of Health Sport and Exercise Science Email: Lisakirwan03@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract: The health status of men is closely linked to economic opportunity in society and those in the lowest socio-economic group carry the disproportionate burden of ill health and are also less likely to participate in physical activity. In Ireland, only 48% of men engage in some form of regular PA with only 40% meeting recommended guidelines. Therefore, PA initiatives need to be tailored specifically for vulnerable men. An 18-week PA programme was developed as one part of a community-based strategy to improve the health of vulnerable men. The EQ-5D Euroqol Quality of Life and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short version) were administered at baseline, 6 weeks and 6 months. Qualitative observations (week 9 and 16) and interviews with both the participants (n=5) and the facilitator (week 19) were also used to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme and the impact it had on men‘s health. There was no significant difference in total physical activity volume (MET– minutes/week) and time spent sitting (P>0.05). However, there was an increase in the mean EQ VAS (visual analogue scale) quality of life rating across the three time points, from 61.4 at pre-intervention to 78.9 at six weeks and 81.1 at six months. Men experienced many benefits from participation such as increasing their social network, reducing isolation, losing weight and positive changes in their family‘s lifestyle behaviours. Key elements that contributed to the success of the programme included; removing all cost barriers, avoiding excessive assessments, a tangible and structured programme, allowing time for social interaction, providing an experienced instructor, participation of project workers, setting goals as a group and facilitating regular feedback on the structure of the programme. Despite this, participants did not have ownership of the programme and this threatened the long term sustainability of the programme. This investigation suggests that tailoring PA programmes specifically to the needs of vulnerable men can be effective in improving their quality of life. Similar projects should aim to empower participants by involving them in the organisation, planning and delivery of the programme. Keywords: Men‘s Health/Community Development. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Maria Luz Prieto, L. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan, S.P. Tan, P. Duggan, P. McLoughlin, H. Hughes, P.G. Lawlor and G.E. Gardiner Antibacterial activity of marine bacteria isolated from seaweeds, sand and seawater Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: 20038355@mail.wit.ie

Abstract: Due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, there is a demand for new antibacterial agents. Seaweed surfaces are colonised by diverse microbial communities, which play a role in inhibition of predators and biofouling. Therefore, seaweed-associated bacteria could potentially be exploited as a source of novel antibacterial compounds. The objective of this study was to examine antibacterial activity of culturable epiphytic (surface-attached) bacteria from a range of Irish seaweeds, as well as bacteria from sand and seawater. Samples were plated on a range of culture media and spore-forming bacteria, known for the production of antibacterial compounds, were isolated by heating samples to 80 ÂşC for 15 min prior to plating. Initially, more than 6,000 colonies isolated from seven seaweeds, one seawater sample and one sand sample, were screened for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, Listeria innocua, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus using an agar overlay method. Nineteen isolates with antibacterial activity against at least one of these indicator bacteria were isolated and their activity was confirmed against a range of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria. All antibacterial-producing bacteria were identified as Bacillus spp. by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, confirming the genus as an antibacterial producer. The antibacterial compounds are currently being characterised and data demonstrating sensitivity to proteolytic enzymes indicate that some are likely to be bacteriocins, ribosomally synthesised antibacterial peptides. Additional studies examining heat stability of the antibacterial compounds revealed that some retain activity following heating to 121Â°C for 15 min. Overall, this study demonstrates that bacteria isolated from seaweeds produce compounds with promising antibacterial activity against pathogens, such as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), E. coli and Salmonella. Future work will involve additional characterisation and identification of the antibacterial compounds produced by the marine bacteria.

Keywords: Seaweed, antibacterial compounds, marine. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Gemma McCarthy, Dr Peadar G. Lawlor, Dr Monsterrat Gutierrez and Dr Gillian E. Gardiner Removal of Salmonella and indicator micro-organisms in integrated constructed wetlands treating agricultural wastewater Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: gmccarthy@wit.ie

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the removal of pathogenic and indicator micro-organisms in integrated constructed wetland (ICW) systems treating agricultural wastewater. Nine ICWâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s treating piggery (3) or dairy (6) wastewater were sampled and indicator micro-organisms were enumerated in the influent as well as the effluent from the first, mid- and final cells. The presence/absence of Salmonella was also determined and any Salmonella isolates recovered were characterized. Mean counts of coliform, E. coli and Enterococcus across all nine ICW systems were lower in the final effluent than in the effluent from Cell 1 (P<0.001). An antibiotic susceptible isolate of Salmonella Dublin, a bovine-adapted serotype, was isolated from the influent to one dairy ICW but was not detected in any of the ICW cells. An antibiotic sensitive Salmonella Dublin isolate with the same molecular fingerprint was also recovered from the Cell 1 effluent of another dairy ICW but was absent from the influent and the mid-cell and final effluents. Salmonella Typhimurium DT104b was detected in the liquid fraction of anaerobically digested pig manure as well as in the effluent from the first cell and mid-cell of an ICW treating this material, but was absent in the final effluent. Molecular fingerprinting by pulsed field gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the recovered isolates were highly related. However, they had different antimicrobial resistance profiles, with some highly resistant isolates recovered. In conclusion, counts of indicator micro-organisms were reduced significantly within ICW, with E. coli and Enterococcus non-detectable in the final effluent. Moreover, Salmonella, when present in the influent, was effectively removed. Keywords: Manure, pathogens, composting, wastewater, integrated constructed wetlands.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Christopher McAuliffe Richard Henebry (1863-1916): ‘The Forgotten Voice’ Department of Creative and Performing Arts Email: auliffe@oceanfree.net

Abstract: Richard Henebry (1863-1916): ‗The Forgotten Voice‘ Richard Henebry was born in 1863 and pursued a commendable career in the study and restoration of the Gaelic language. His involvement in the Gaelic revival aroused his interest in recording Irish traditional music. As a traditional fiddler himself, he was more than qualified to collect and comment on it. He was the first in Ireland to collect sound samples ‗in the field‘, using an Edison Phonograph. Henebry was not content to simply record the existence of the music, he also analysed it in a new and scientific method. He examined his ‗field‘ recordings using the latest audio and tonometric methods and technology. He also wrote two books, Irish Music (1903), and A Handbook on Irish Music (1928). Because of his expertise in phonology, he used some methods of phonological analysis to examine the music, thus creating a completely new and novel approach to musicology. Although Richard Henebry was widely respected by his contemporaries as a Gaelic scholar and musician, he is largely forgotten today as a music collector and analyst. The proposed poster will give an overview of the project and methodology. The project aims to gain a detailed knowledge of the life and times of Richard Henebry and an understanding of his motivation for collecting Irish music. In addition, it intends to explore the nature of Irish music in Ireland at the beginning of the twentieth century, to identify Henebry‘s sources and to gain an understanding of Henebry‘s theories on Irish music. The poster will highlight the research completed on the project to date and the conclusions which can be derived from this. This will include a synopsis of the biographical detail unearthed on Richard Henebry; a brief evaluation of the influence Captain Francis O‘Neill exerted on Henebry in the area of Irish music; details of Henebry‘s collection work, primarily in Co. Waterford, and the identification of his sources; details of the nature and location of the extant Henebry recordings; and finally an overview of Henebry‘s publications and theories on Irish music. Keywords: Musicology, history, culture.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Anne McDonnell Forging a Path For Abstinence from Heroin; A Grounded Theory of Detoxification-Seeking Among Heroin Users in South East Ireland Department of Health Sport and Exercise Science Email: annemcdwex@gmail.com

Abstract: The need for an increase of community and residential detoxification services in Ireland has been articulated at national and local level (Mannix, 2006; Corrigan and O‘Gorman, 2007; Dept. Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, 2007; Doyle and Ivanovic, 2010). This study explores detoxification-seeking among heroin users in South East Ireland, through a classic grounded theory approach. The study identifies that the main concern of people who are seeking detoxification from heroin is the desire to get clean from heroin. There are three responses to this concern, each of which is part of the process of forging a path for abstinence from heroin. These three responses are; resolving to stop using heroin; navigating for abstinence from heroin, and initiating abstinence from heroin. However, not all heroin users when they are concerned with getting clean experience each of the three afore-mentioned responses. In addition, a completed process of forging a path for abstinence from heroin does not always end with long-term abstinence, and is frequently compounded by relapse. The responses of heroin users to wanting to get clean occur within a subjective ‗resource context‘. When forging a path for abstinence heroin users have varying levels of the following complex resources; dependence knowledge; treatment awareness; treatment access, and alliance. A supportive resource context enables a heroin user to forge a path for abstinence safely, whereby withdrawal is managed through a detoxification method which is not self-detox. The presence of formal and informal alliance, as well as a collaborative approach throughout the process of navigating enable heroin users to seek detoxification-seeking within the formal treatment sector. The study has implications for ensuring supportive resource contexts for heroin users through the development of low threshold services, community-based and residential detoxification services. The development of such services, with service user involvement, emerge as the way forward to meet the psycho-social and health needs of heroin users who are concerned with getting clean, and minimise the risk of self-detoxification.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The grounded theory demonstrates that valuable insights are gained from studying both treatment-seeking patterns and out of treatment experiences of trying to become drug-free.

Keywords: Heroin, detoxification, help-seeking, service development. Part-funded by the South East Regional Drugs Task Force.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Andrea McNamara To Investigate the Role of Country Characteristics in the Availability of Finance for Irish Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Department of Accounting and Economics Email: 20005025@mail.wit.ie

Abstract: The financial capital structure of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) has received significant attention, where the idiosyncratic nature of SME finance further heightens interest within the field (Berger and Udell, 1998). Against this backdrop, the availability of finance has remained the Achilles‘ heel of small and medium sized enterprises where conventional wisdom lends credence to stringent financial impediments (Hyytinen and Pajarinen, 2008). Alluding to the financial constraints inherent to small and medium sized enterprises, the theoretical framework of Berger and Udell‘s (2006) recent conceptual model underlines the proposed research, framing the milieu of the empirical investigation. To facilitate the perusal, the role of the financial institution structure and the role of the lending infrastructure (Berger and Udell, 2006) within Irish SME financing are inspected. Lending credence to the fundamental role of SMEs in an economy, reducing their ‗finance gap‘ (Harrison and Mason 1996; Tucker and Lean, 2003) forms much of the motivation for the research. Dissecting the financial institutional structure into its dimensions of large versus small banking institutions, foreign versus domestically owned banks, state owned versus privately owned institutions and market competition (Berger and Udell, 2006), emphasis is placed on the role of foreign versus domestically owned banking institutions. Given the paucity of studies investigating this element of the financial institutional structure (Berger and Udell, 2006) and its relevance within the Irish financial landscape, this reinforces the validity of the research. Furthermore, a secondary focus will also be placed on large versus small institutions given this dimension is evident within Ireland albeit less profound. By inspecting this tenet of research further, lies the scope to advance the empirical contribution outside of the US context (Di Patti and Gobbi, 2001). Constituting the lending infrastructure, the information environment, tax and regulatory environment, legal, judicial and bankruptcy environment and social environment (Berger and Udell, 2006) will also be evaluated. In particular, scholars posit a firm‘s financing behaviour is shaped not only by firm factors but concomitantly by country specific characteristics (Fan et al, 2008). WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Envisaging a change in paradigm, the role of country factors within SME finance has now progressed to the forefront of research albeit this tenet of literature still remains in its infancy stage. Given much of the existing studies focus on cross country analysis (Hall et al, 2004; Daskalakis and Psillaki, 2008) few individual country investigations prevail, highlighting some of the originality of the proposed research. Evaluating the recent conceptual model within Irish SME lending, a mixed methodology approach is proposed. To facilitate the research questions, the research orientation will first lend credence to a qualitative approach through the mechanism of questionnaires and interviews followed by the utilisation of quantitative methods to reinforce robustness. Originality of the research lies in obtaining a 360 degree view of Irish SME lending from all key participants i.e. financial institutions, representatives of the lending infrastructure and SMEs.

Keywords: Small Firm Financing, Country Characteristics.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Elena Mihailescu, Dr James Humphreys, Dr Eddy Fitzgerald, Dr Imelda Casey, Dr Paul Murphy, Dr Andy Boland and Dr John Upton Dairyman project - Delivering environmental quality and prosperity by improving utilization of resources on dairy farms Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: Elena.Mihailescu@teagasc.ie

Abstract: AIM The objective is to assess the ecological, economic and social performance of the main dairy regions in NWE, to analyse the needs and opportunities for improvement, and to encourage and support key stakeholders to optimise their activities and cooperate together. There are ten regions participating in DAIRYMAN project: Brittany (F), Pays de la Loire (F), Nord Pas de Calais (F), Southwest of Ireland (IRL), Northern Ireland (UK), Flanders (B), Wallonia (B), Baden-W端rttemberg (D) Luxembourg (LU) and The Netherlands (NL). WHY? Climate and soils are excellent for dairy production and there is an extensive local market for dairy products. Environmental sustainability is generally low: nutrient and greenhouse gas emissions are high due to the inefficient use of fertilizers, feeds and energy. This inhibits the ability of these densely populated areas to deliver services such as clean water or recreational use. Poor utilisation of increasingly expensive resources threatens the economic viability of dairy farms. HOW? There will be cooperation on the assessment of sustainability and needs and opportunities for improvement and on how to improve dialogue and cooperation between stakeholders to strengthen sustainability. Intensive interaction with regional development programmes and projects will create synergies. Experiences will be exchanged on the process of implementing environmental EU regulations in regions with high livestock densities and guidelines to optimise that process will be developed in. Therefore the key actors in policy making in the field of sustainable agriculture (e.g. the ministries of Agriculture and Environment and regional authorities) will be consulted and invited for regional and interregional meetings.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

EXPECTED OUTPUTS I will publish papers on N balance, P balance and on the economic results of 21 intensive dairy farms. Other outputs of the projects will be: list of indicators per country for assessing the regional sustainability, management tools of nutrient management, guidelines for adopting improved nutrient management for the farmers and for implementing transparent environmental policies for the local authorities. Keywords: Environmental sustainability, N balance, P balance, economic sustainability.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Julien Minneraud, Dr Sasitharan Balasubramaniam and Dr Dmitri Botvich Parameterised Gradient Based Routing with QoE Monitoring for Multiple IPTV Providers Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: jmineraud@tssg.org

Abstract: Popularity of IPTV (â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Internet Protocol TeleVisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;) services, such as Video on Demand (VoD) and live streaming, has increased tremendously over the last years. This impacts and increases complexities for managing resources of future communication networks, in particular when they have to support multiple IPTV providers, that offer numerous and diversified video contents. Today's techniques do not support or adapt to this new demand, therefore resource congestions occur when network activity increases. That impairs dramatically the Quality of Experience (QoE) which defines the perception of the content' quality as perceived by the endusers. The proposed solution is the integration of a QoE monitoring mechanism to new distributed routing protocol for underlying network that enables IPTV providers to successfully monitors quality of their streamed contents while maximizing usage of network resources. The proposed solution has been evaluated by simulations that show its efficiency in comparison to standard approaches. Keywords: Bio-inspired; Resource management; Routing.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Annette Murphy An exploration of the perceptions of pregnant women and their care providers regarding the provision of antenatal care services Department of Nursing Email: acmurphy@wit.ie

Abstract: Ireland currently has the highest birth of the 27 European Union (EU) countries (ESRI 2008). The increasing birth rates have led to an increase in demand for maternity services. In Ireland, most maternity units follow the medical led model of care; limiting Irish womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s choice for their maternity care to either using private health insurance or attending the public healthcare system. At WRH, various different midwifery-led schemes are available for low risk pregnant women, however according to anecdotal information volunteered by women attending the services: it seems that a lot of low risk women are unaware of these current options for care. The main aims of the proposed research are to improve the accessibility and knowledge of these midwifery led schemes. It is anticipated that the findings and results of this study will provide the framework necessary to devise an integrated care pathway from a service and service user perspective, which will enhance the reorganisation of maternityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;led services within the current healthcare system. It is envisaged that a mixed methods approach is utilised, using a non-experimental design for the quantitative approach classified as an exploratory survey. Questionnaires of low-risk women will explore their awareness levels of available options for care and their views regarding antenatal care services. From a qualitative perspective, approximately 10-15 semi-structured interviews of health professionals will provide rich data on the perceptions of health professionals regarding the provision of current antenatal care services and of the barriers involved regarding access to care. Participants will be recruited using a purposive sampling method for both approaches. Data from the quantitative approach will be analysed using the SPSS software packages and NVivo 9 will be used to analyse data following allocation into themes using the Myles and Huberman framework. It is anticipated that the findings and results of this study will provide the framework necessary to devise an integrated care pathway from a service and service user perspective, which will enhance the future reorganisation of maternityâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;led services within the current healthcare system. Keywords: Antenatal care services; low risk women; integrated care pathway; access to care; eligibility. 92 WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr Noel Murray The Symphony of Managing a Tourism Destination Experience Department of Management and Organisation Email: nmurray@wit.ie

Abstract: Although destinations have become one of the most popular topics in tourism research, most of these studies have focused on studying destination marketing and image (Wang, 2008), or on relating destination performance to the characteristics of the partners (Bramwell and Lane, 2000) or suggesting approaches to planning and managing the destination (Dredge, 1999), and comparatively little attention has been directed at treating tourism destinations as a strategic network (net) and how that net is managed. The dominant perception within the literature (Prideaux and Cooper, 2002) is that due to the fragmented nature of the industry, no single organisation has the capability to manage the wide diversity of tourism offerings at a destination level. Drawing on the Industrial Network Approach (Hakannson and Ford, 2002), Strategic Management (Gulatai et al. 2000) and the Dynamic Capabilities View (Teece et al. 1997), destinations can be viewed as strategic nets which are intentional structures specifically designed for the purpose of creating an integrated destination experience (Miles and Snow, 1986; Moller and Svahn, 2003). However, the benefit to the destination of these strategic nets does not come free. They require the development of specific organisational capabilities within the DMO. Gadde and Hakansson (2001) conceptualise that these capabilities centre around the hub organisation being capable of identifying and understanding market needs and the network actors required to deliver value for tourists. From a destination perspective, visioning capability involves an assessment of which elements the customer requires from the integrated experience offering (Hu and Ritchie, 1993). However simply having a visioning capability is not enough; the hub organisation must possess a network orchestration capability in order to strategically mobilise, coordinate and manage a group of autonomous but interdependent stakeholders to both co-create a destination experience and maximise individual firm performance. In line with Moller and Svahnâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s (2003) assertion that managing a strategic net is akin to orchestration, this study is adapting and developing the orchestral motif within the context of an experience destination as a strategic net. The orchestral metaphor addresses the complexity engendered in the creative process of attempting to manage a tourism destination network.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Within an orchestral context, the conductor takes a musical score and interprets this score for an orchestral setting. The conductor then orchestrates the diverse players so that his/her interpretation of the score is achieved. Applying this to the examination of management capabilities within a tourism destination context, this would equate the musical score with the narrative for the destination brand. The DMO which is responsible for destination planning must communicate this narrative to the tourism enterprises who are the key players in the destination network. This can be done through the network visioning capability (Moller and Svahn, 2003). However, understanding how these capabilities are utilised by a DMO to intentionally create an experience destination through the formation of strategic nets has not been studied to date. Therefore, the purpose of this poster is to present a framework outlining how a DMO intentionally conceptualises and develops a destination experience. Keywords: Tourism, Destination Management, Strategic Networks.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Magdalena Necpalova, Dr I.A. Casey, Dr E. Fitzgerald and Dr J. Humphreys Changes in soil organic C in a clay-loam soil under permanent and cultivated grassland in relation to GHG budget Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: Magdalena.necpalova@teagasc.ie

Abstract: The United Framework Convention on Climate Change obliges countries, through ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 5% during the first commitment period compared with 1990 levels. The article 3.4 allows including C sequestered in â&#x20AC;&#x2014;sinksâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; to meet emission targets. The aim of this study was to investigate in permanent grassland (PG) (i) C sequestration in the soil profile over between 2001 and 2009 (ii) changes in soil organic C (SOC) following cultivation. A long term study (2001-2009) was carried out on grass-clover grassland at Solohead Research Farm, on a poorly drained clay loam soils. The experimental area (22 ha) was divided into 4 blocks. Each block consisted of 4 paddocks. The blocks were under typical grassland management mainly used for grazing and for silage production. In 2001, the swards were between 6 and 16 years old. Soil sampling from the PG was carried out on 5 occasions between 2001 and 2009. Fifteen cores per paddock were taken to a depth of 90 cm using a hydraulic auger. Each core was subdivided into 3 depths: 0-30, 30-60 and 60-90 cm and bulked into one composite sample at each depth within each block. In 2008 one paddock in each block was ploughed and reseeded. The cultivated treatment (CG) was sampled as above on 3 occasions during 2008 and 2009. Soil cores were analysed by dry combustion using a LECO CN-2000. Soil bulk density (BD) was measured in 2001 and in 2008. The quantities of SOC in each depth section (t ha-1) were determined using soil BD. A one-way ANOVA (proc mixed; SAS) was used to examine the changes in SOC under the PG over time. Linear regression (proc reg; SAS) was used to estimate the annual change in SOC (t ha-1). The SOC (%) under PG and CG were subjected to ANOVA (proc mixed; SAS). The SOC (0-90 cm) increased linearly (P<0.05) between 2001 and 2009 at an annual rate of 5.96 t ha-1. This is an equivalent to the annual sequestration of 21.8 t CO2 ha1. Cultivation decreased SOC (P < 0.05) in the upper 30 cm of the soil profile.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

The difference in SOC between PG and CG represented a loss of 30.14 C t ha-1 in the 18 months after cultivation. Assuming that respiration was responsible for the loss, cultivation resulted in an emission flux of 110.3 t CO2 ha-1. Based on direct measurement of emissions (Li et al., 2011) and using Life Cycle assessment (Yan et al, 2011) estimated total annual GHG emissions from Solohead Dairy Research Farm (52 ha) to be approximately 475 t CO2 eq. These GHG emissions are less than half of the quantity sequestered into SOC under PG (1134 t CO2)). This has implications for the national GHG inventory and for the image (in terms of carbon footprint) of the milk produced on the farm. Further research to better understand the mechanism of C accumulation and mineralization in the soil at this site is needed. Keywords: Carbon accumulation in grassland soils.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Mr John Organ A Socio-Technical Study of Information Systems Risks Department of Computing Mathematics and Physics Email: organ3001@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract: This is a provisional examination for a PhD study of the socio-technical issues that have a bearing on the risks associated with using information systems. Traditionally organisations have taken a purely technological approach to information systems risk (IS risk). This is due to the traditional separation of business activities from technology functions within organisations (Halliday et al., 1996). This resulted in an approach to risk that was theoretically correct but deficient for the needs of an organisation (Westerman and Hunter, 2007). Consequently, a number of academics have developed alternative approaches to IS risk such as Halliday et al. (1996) that proposes a business orientated approach which emphasises protecting systems to which critical business processes depend. Alternatively Bandyopadhyay et al. (1999) whom advocates an alternative systems approach to information systems risk in which risks are dealt with at specific levels within an organisation. However effective the aforementioned approaches are, none of them enable organisational stakeholders make sense of information systems risk. Risk aversion must be tackled within an organisation. Management must engage and support smart risk awareness through proper policies whereby risk management and calculated risk are considered part of doing business (Westerman and Hunter, 2007). Werlinger et al. (2009) argues that stakeholders often fail to realise the penalties of not dealing effectively with IS risk. Whilst some research has been done into alternative approaches to IS risk most still do not factor in the significant organisational aspects of IS risk. This argument is further supported by Kemp (2009) whom states that much of the existing research focuses on what is produced by the different risk frameworks rather then the environment in which it operates consequently gaps can develop between the framework and the actual security practices undertaken.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Karl Weickâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s (1995) work on sensemaking provides a new sensemaking perspective on IS risk. Sensemaking is a iterative process whereby people take in stimuli in the form of speech, new technology or business processes producing actions which in turn produces new stimuli starting the process again (Stapleton,2001; Seligman, 2006). An important aspect of sensemaking is the question-action orientation whereby the stimuli cause questions to be asked which is important as often stakeholders rush to decision rather than focus upon what question is being asked (Stapleton, 2001). Weick (1995) argues that sensemaking is important in organisations were ambiguity or uncertainty surrounds an event, he goes on to argue that it is not about having access to more information but rather the information currently known about an event may not resolve any misunderstandings. In the context of IS risk often managers will use certain assumptions to determine what caused a particular security incident however as has been stated by Weick (1995) those assumptions maybe incorrect or never met because the information currently used to support said assumptions maybe incomplete this has a direct effect on the ability of an organisation to respond IS risks. Keywords: Information Systems, Information Security, Risk, Sensemaking.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Ms Roisin O’ Shea Judicial Separation and Divorce in the Circuit Court Department of Applied Arts Email: info@roisinoshea.ie

Abstract: Research funded by the Irish Research Council for the Humanities and Social Sciences D.I.Y. Divorce - The March of the Lay Litigant Introduction Organisations and groups that deal with families in crisis, and researchers and policy makers need information on what happens in the family courts. The veil of secrecy that still for the most part lies over Family Law proceedings, has meant that the public cannot see justice administered publicly. This project seeks to examine ―holistically‖ the Family Law system in relation to Judicial Separation and Divorce. Methodology There is a necessity for research and accurate statistical and other empirical data in this subject area, to form the basis for rational reform. The research will entail the preparation of Reports, Judgements, Trends and Statistics, based on a representative ―unit of time‖, (November 2008- July 2012 inclusive), selection of applications to the Circuit Court in relation to Judicial Separation and Divorce. The Circuit Court hears approximately 98% of all such cases. Research finding Our Family law system is not designed to assist the lay litigant, a significant number of which are presenting in court without legal representation, which is hugely problematic both for the court and the parties involved. There is a clear pattern of financial necessity and lengthy waiting lists for Free Legal Aid, driving the march of the lay litigant.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Statistics on Lay litigants presenting in court;

7/10/2008-17/12/2008

165 cases observed Cork Circuit Court

Divorce;

29% Male

Separation

5.45% Male 7.87% Female

Other

9.09% Male 6.06% Female

4/02/09-7/05/2009

125 cases observed Dublin Circuit Court

Divorce

15.2% Male 12% Female

Separation

3.2% Male

Other

10.4% Male 4.8% Female

23/02/2010-16/03/2010

103 cases observed South Eastern Circuit

Divorce

26% Male

Separation

1.94% Male 1.94% Female

Other

6.79% Male 1.94% Female

24% Female

2.4% Female

16.5% Female

The majority of lay litigants are husbands and Respondents to an application by the wife.

Keywords: Family law, lay litigant, Circuit Court.

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100

Ms Jennifer Patterson Bullying, Communications Media and Adolescence in Contemporary Irish Society Department of Applied Arts Email: Jennifer.patterson3@btinternet.com

Abstract: Historically, all new eras of modernisation bring with them both benefits and challenges, resulting in overall changes in societal order and values (Giddens, 1990:7). Such changes are also accompanied by impacts on our behaviour, and mutual interactions, both positive and negative. My research intends to provide a qualitative examination of one of the more negative aspects of human behaviour; bullying, within the context of how it is conducted by adolescents, through the medium of communication technology. The focal point of the study will be located primarily amid the adolescent cohort, and intends to investigate through focus groups and in-depth interviews, just how bullying behaviour appears to have adapted to changes within our current digital information era. Digital technologies have acquainted society with the newest form of social reality, namely cyber space, and more specifically; the domain of social networking sites (SNS). In February 2010 ―…Facebook had 426.7million unique visitors …up 68pc from the year before‖ (Cashin, 2010). This finding is suggestive that the popularity and convenience of such SNS are no longer a mere novelty; rather they have now become embedded into modern communication styles. Communication technologies now offer our young people immense social possibilities and freedom, especially from adult restriction and/or supervision. For instance mobile phones, have now become an undeniably necessary part of most young peoples daily arsenal. Such communication tools are beneficial in supporting social activity that permits young people to feel connected to their peers. Evidently however, such accessible social activities can also lend themselves to more sinister purposes, particularly where the relevant technologies permit its users to masquerade under the guise of anonymity, disinhibition and infinite exposure (Kowalski et al, 2008). Technology can and is, being employed in this more negative fashion, and as with more traditional forms of bullying, cyber bullying thrives on secrecy. In this context though, it seems important to note that as Bouilton and Durant remark; ―…harm faced by children on the Internet is a very human harm, not a technological harm‖ (2008:11).

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We need to bear in mind that what we are witnessing with cyber bullying is the same aggressive behaviour that drives more traditional styles of bullying, but with the potential to empower and magnify said aggression through communication media pathways. The overall objective of my study will be to establish and generate new knowledge in the field of cyber bullying within contemporary Irish society, and seeks to contribute significantly to academic and practitioner knowledge.

Keywords: Sociology, Social Psychology, Communications and Media.

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Mr. Paul Phelan1, 2, Dr. Bill Keogh2, Dr. Eddy Fitzgerald2, Dr. Imelda Casey2 and Dr. James Humphreys1 Predicting N-fixation in grass-clover pastures 1Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork 2Department of Chemical & Life Sciences , WIT Email: paul.p.phelan@teagasc.ie

Abstract: Nitrogenous fertiliser use is endemic in current agricultural production. However, environmental concerns and the escalating price of N-fertiliser over the last ten years bring the continued viability of this practice into question. An alternative is to increase use of biological N-fixing (BNF) plants in agriculture. Irish agriculture is predominantly grassland-based and white clover (Trifolium repens) is widely regarded the best-suited plant for increasing BNF in grazed-grassland. However, quantifying the input of N to farming systems from BNF is a major research goal. Therefore there is a demand for an effective tool to reliably estimate the BNF input to grassland from white clover. Previous literature indicates that BNF is closely related to the amount of clover plant material produced. Simple linear correlation across multiple experiments showed a significant relationship (y = 35x; R2 = 0.91; P < 0.01) where y = clover DM (t ha-1) and x = BNF in herbage (kg N ha-1). However, this is based on data from the main growing season (spring – late autumn) and does not take into account the release of N fixed in roots and stolons over the winter period and subsequent uptake by grass. A correction factor of 1.27 has been suggested to account for N fixed in roots and stolons. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the use of the above linear relationship for estimating BNF from white clover in Irish grassland over winter. From 2008 to 2009, 160 plots (each 2m × 8m) were installed on a grass-clover pasture at Solohead research Farm, (52˚51‘N, 08˚21‘W). Various combinations of simulated autumn grazing management factors (cutting height, cutting interval and date of last cut) were assigned to these plots in a randomised complete block design with 5 replications. Included in the design were grass-only plots with clover completely.

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Herbage dry matter (DM) production and N-content was measured at each harvest. BNF was calculated using the total nitrogen difference method: BNF  N gc  DM gc   N g  DM g  Where N was N-content of herbage (g kg-1), DM was herbage dry-matter yield (t ha1), gc referred to grass-clover plots and g referred to grass-only plots. The effect of simulated grazing management on BNF was analysed with interaction ANOVA in SAS Proc mixed and the BNF results were compared to predicted values from the linear equation described above using SAS Proc reg. Despite the large variation in simulated grazing management, there was a significant positive relationship between BNF and clover herbage DM production (R2 = 0.62; P < 0.01) with 44 kg N fixed per tonne of white clover DM yield. When predicted BNF was compared with actual BNF using linear regression, a high level of precision was found (y = 98x; R2 = 0.67). It can be concluded from this study that BNF in clovergrass pastures can be readily predicted across a wide range of management factors. Keywords: White clover; N-fixation; grassland; agriculture; ecology.

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104

Ms Shiau Pin Tan, Dr Laurie OÂ´Sullivan, Ms Maria Luz Prieto, Dr Gillian E. Gardiner, Dr Pat Duggan, Dr Peadar G. Lawlor, Dr Peter McLoughlin and Dr Helen Hughes Isolation and characterisation of antibacterial phytochemicals from green and red seaweeds harvested from the Irish coastline Department of Chemical and Life Sciences Email: 20039108@mail.wit.ie

Abstract: The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), has resulted in a need to identify novel antibacterial agents. Seaweeds contain a vast array of phytochemicals which are reported to have a wide range of biological activities, including antibacterial activity. Furthermore, seaweeds grow in relative abundance along the Irish coastline and are considered a sustainable natural resource. The aims of this research were, firstly, to examine antibacterial activity of extracts generated from seaweed species which are indigenous to the South-East coast of Ireland, and secondly, to isolate and characterise the compounds responsible for in vitro antibacterial activity. Initially, 56 extracts were generated using a range of solvents with varying polarity and these were tested in vitro for activity against a range of pathogenic and non-pathogenic, Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria using a disc diffusion assay. Twenty five extracts demonstrated antibacterial activity against at least one bacterial species and two extracts were chosen for further investigation. G2F, an extract generated from a green seaweed species with a neutral solvent produced inhibition zones against Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 (12 mm) and MRSA W73365 (7.5 mm). Bioactive compounds were separated from the crude extract using a combination of bioautography, preparative thin-layer chromatography and column chromatography. These bioactive compounds are currently being identified. In addition, a second extract R1A, from a red seaweed species also demonstrated a promising zone of inhibition against MRSA W73365 (18 mm) and is currently being investigated. This study demonstrates that green and red seaweeds harvested from the Irish coast contain compounds with promising antibacterial activity which could potentially be used against human antibiotic-resistant organisms, such as MRSA. Future work will involve additional characterisation and identification of the antibacterial compounds found in the extracts displaying bioactivity. Keywords: Seaweed, MRSA, antibacterial. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

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Mr Yiyang Sun and Dr Joseph Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mahoney A novel nanohole biosensor Department of Engineering Technology Email: sunyiyang@gmail.com

Abstract: A gold film patterned with subwavelength apertures operates as a highly sensitive biosensor, suitable for the measurement of realtime, biospecific interactions [1]. This method of biosensing relies on the phenomenon of the extraordinary optical transmission of light trough apertures smaller than the wavelength of the incident radiation [2]. The transmission of light is a plasmon resonance effect that is modified by changes in the refractive index occurring at the surface of the gold film. In this presentation the underlying theory of the sensor device will be explained with a discussion of a novel multi-analyte parallel sensor arrangement that is currently under development by the nanotechnology research group. To achieve a parallel array of sub wavelength apertures a method employing colloidal nanolithography is under development. Preliminary results from this process will be presented and options for the future development of this technique will be discussed. References [1] P.R.H. Stark, Allison E. Halleck, D.N. Larson, Methods 37 (2005) 37â&#x20AC;&#x201C;47. [2] W.L. Barnes, A. Dereux, T.W. Ebbesen, Nature 424 (2003) 824â&#x20AC;&#x201C;830.

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106

Mr Daniel Tiemann Investigation of organic photovoltaic cells with Scanning Probe Microscopy Department of Engineering Technology

Abstract: Photovoltaic cells are solar cells that convert light energy into electric energy. In organic photovoltaics, polymers, organic molecules or a combination of both are used as the photoactive material, which absorb light to provide a photo-voltage and photocurrent to a connected consumer device. Due to simpler and cheaper production methods, polymer based photovoltaic cells offer an attractive alternative to silicon based cells, which currently dominate the photovoltaic market. For an operating photovoltaic cell, the energy production cost (â&#x201A;Ź/kWh) relates to both its efficiency and lifetime. A successful deployment of organic photovoltaic cells requires substantive improvements in both key factors. The cell efficiency depends on 1) the probability of light absorption, 2) the yield of free charge carrier generation from the absorbed light and 3) the likeliness of these charge carriers to reach the electrode contacts of the cell, so that charge carriers can contribute to the photo-current of the cell. Chemical and physical changes taking place within the cell lead to a degradation of the cell efficiency and are responsible for finite cell lifetimes [1]. The generation of charge carriers depends on the local electronic properties of the cell materials and the interface morphology between cell components, which can both vary at the nanoscale. The charge transport properties and effects of degradation processes can also vary at such scale. Therefore, the access to cell properties at the nanoscale can provide valuable, additional information for the optimisation of organic photovoltaic cells besides the observations obtainable from macroscale measurements. Scanning probe microscopy related techniques based on scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning force microscopy (SFM) allow the nanoscale investigation of organic photovoltaic cell structures [2,3]. A customised STM, developed in-house, was used for the imaging of cell interfaces at nanoscale resolution and the nanoscale recording of I-V spectroscopy and z-V spectroscopy of organic photovoltaic cell structures. The spectroscopy methods allowed the extraction of local electronic and opto-electronic properties of the investigated samples. STM, SFM and UV-Vis spectroscopy have been applied to study the degradation effects of oxygen on polymer based photovoltaic cells.

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107

References 1. M. JĂ¸rgensen, K. Norrman, and F. C. Krebs, Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 2008, 92, 686-714. 2. M. Kemerink et al., Phys. Rev. B, 2004, 70, 045202. 3. A. Alexeev, J. Loos, and M. Koetse, Ultramicroscopy, 2006, 106, 191-199. Keywords: Scanning Polymers, Thin Films.

WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

Probe Microscopy,

Organic Photovoltaics, Conjugated

108

Mr Rentao Wang and Mr Ken Deevy Reconfigurable Adaptive Wireless Sensor Node Department of Engineering Technology Email: rentw47@gmail.com

Abstract: The wireless sensor network (WSN) is a new class of network that has appeared in the last few years. A wireless sensor network is essentially a network of spatially distributed individual devices referred to as nodes which have the ability to sense and/or control their environment. In the modern fast paced world in which we live, WSNs are increasingly employed in a wide range of applications, such as home automation, smart buildings, environmental monitoring, energy monitoring, health monitoring, industrial process control, natural disaster detection, etc. While WSNs are already shown to be capable of supporting and facilitating many applications, they continue to represent a diverse and challenging research area. Because of the large variety of sensors, a significant challenge in many applications is how to support or integrate different types of sensors within each node of the network to realise the specific goals of the system. The reconfigurable adaptive wireless sensors (RAWS) research programme proposes that a solution to this is to devise a sensor node technology that can reconfigure itself to accommodate different sensors. This can be achieved by leveraging the selfidentification feature of recent smart sensor standards. The research will investigate the feasibility of developing a highly capable sensor node technology with reconfigurability, multiple sensing capabilities, and wide applicability for deployment in low power high utility wireless sensor networks.

Keywords: Wireless Sensor Network, WSN, reconfigurable, adaptive.

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109

Mr Runxin Wang and Mr Eric Robson FCA on SNA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Social Network Analysis Telecommunications Software & Systems Group Email: rwang@tssg.org

Abstract: Social behavior data are generated by people interacting with each other and with services every minute of every day and accumulated into large volumes. Recent studies have shown that the underlying networks from these datasets are complex, however they can contain rich information which can be exploited in many applications. Social network analysis (SNA) has attracted great attention from networking area and data mining area where it was previously the reserve of sociologists. Given networks with well defined relationships, networking paradigms provide efficient mechanisms to effective walk through the networks. However, typically social network data are not limited in the form of linked data, individuals can be mediately connected by the events they involved or features they hold. Ming these two mode social data composing of both individuals and events or features requires a sophisticated data mining approach. Mining data of complex types has been investigated in data mining community for decades, there are many potential approaches that can be applied. Formal concept analysis (FCA) has been reported to be a good method to extract the hidden relations, cliques and communities from social datasets. Particularly for those two mode social network, FCA can effectively catch the relations between persons, relations between events and also the relations between persons and events, and structures these relations into a Galois Lattice (a network-like mathematic diagram). While the main issue that prevents the use of FCA across SNA applications is due to its runtime complexity. A brute-force method that searches every possible grouping of N objects leads to 2^n search space, which eventual causes long term process when an input dataset is relatively large. Although many advanced algorithms have been proposed, the runtime has not been reduced to a satisfactory level for volume of data in most of the current databases. This research investigates processing FCA on datasets with high dimensions and/or large scales, where we propose a divide-and-conquer approach implemented by using a distributed computing framework - hadoop, based on the theorems of Galois connection. It aims to reduce the runtime of FCA process in order to enable the use of FCA on nowadays social network data. Keywords: Data Mining, Social Network Analysis, Formal Concept Analysis.

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110

Ms Alice Wei Tan E-tandem Language Learning of Chinese and English: Some Challenges and Recommendations Department of Languages, Tourism and Hospitality Email: tanwei-ireland@hotmail.com

Abstract: E-tandem language learning is an arrangement whereby two native speakers of different languages communicate regularly at a distance using electronic media such as e-mail, telephone and video conferencing with one another, each with the purpose of learning the other‘s language. It is an underexploited but potentially a very powerful use of computer-mediated communication in second language pedagogy with the benefits of authentic, culturally grounded interaction. It is based on the principles of bilingualism, reciprocity and autonomy. The current research is an ongoing e-tandem project by e-mail between Irish students studying Chinese as a foreign language in Ireland and Chinese students studying English as a foreign language in China. In this project, the Irish students are from the Ireland UCC Confucius Institute and the Chinese students are from China Guangxi University of Technology, twelve students in each group. They communicate on a one-to-one basis via e-mail exchanges. The languages exchanged are Chinese and English. This project focuses on second language usage in a real context and on increasing awareness of learners‘ own culture as well as the target culture through interaction in e-tandem. After a brief introduction of the background, the aim and the methodology of this project, this poster will deal with the challenges associated with the development of such a project. The challenges focus on recruiting appropriate participants, establishing an online forum, designing effective task-based activities and carrying out a pilot study of those tasks. Finally, some recommendations based on the experience of establishing such an e-tandem project will be given. Overall this poster presents the preliminary findings of this ongoing project which will make some contributions to the current practice in e-tandem. E-tandem will be significant in improving learners‘ L2 learning and intercultural competence. This research will increase people‘s understanding and will provide insights into the validity of e-communication as a language learning opportunity. It will act as a gateway for real exchanges in distant languages experiences online by adding new tandem language pairings-Chinese and English in Europe. Keywords: Second Language and Intercultural Learning. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

111

Mr Dong Yang and Dr Joseph Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mahoney Development of hybrid SPM system using a quartz crystal tuning fork Department of Engineering Technology Email: Yangdong322@hotmail.com

Abstract: Scanning probe microscopy is the generic name for a family of instruments that employ a nanosized probe to generate 3-D contour maps of the surface of a sample under investigation. The resolution of these instruments can be sub atomic in the case of scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning force microscopy (SFM). They can also provide atomic and molecular scale spectroscopic information relating to the sample making them exceptionally powerful instruments for nanoscale characterisation. The requirement of a conductive sample surface limits the use of STM; however variations in conductivity across the sample surface can provide information about the chemical state of the surface. While SFM is more versatile with respect to the types of sample that can be characterised, electronic information relating to the sample surface requires the use of a metal coated probe which may limit the resolution of the instrument due to broadening of the probe by the coating. In addition photoconductivity and electroluminescence measurements are complicated in SFM due to the traditional laser/ cantilever beam bounce method of force measurement. The lack of rigidity in the SFM probe makes the technique unsuited to z-V spectroscopy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which is easily accessible through STM. A growing area of research interest is the study of photoconductive organic polymers and molecules that have applications in both illumination technology and solar electricity generation. These chemicals are responsible for advances in display technologies such as Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) televisions and plastic solar technologies. The nanoscale morphology of these devices is considered to play a vital role in optimising the device efficiency. Electroluminescence and photoconductivity information that is directly related to the local morphology of the organic electronic device will assist researchers in gaining a better understanding the processes involved. Quartz crystal tuning forks have been used in scanning probe microscopy as a sensitive force detection technique; originally they were employed to guide a sharp fibre optic probe towards a flat surface in scanning near field optical microscopy. Their sensitivity to lateral forces allowed the probe to be positioned to within a few nanometers of the surface under investigation. This sensitivity was later employed to develop low cost scanning force microscopes that generated topography information based on a measurement of the surface frictional force. WIT Research Day 2011 Book of Abstracts

112

While these instruments did not have the high resolution of the scanned cantilever type instrument, they did have the advantage of eliminating the laser beam from the system. The elimination of the laser beam from the AFM offers many advantages for SPM techniques such as nanoscale photoconductive imaging or nanoscale electroluminescence image. In this paper we will discuss the merits of our novel SPM design and the electronic control system required for the generation of topographic maps of a sample surface. Early stage results from this work will be presented along with a outline for future work. Keywords: Nanotechnology, SPM ,quartz crystal tuning fork.

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113

Mr Liu Yao A low-cost, precise beam direction controller for phased array antennas Department of Engineering Technology Email: storm1945@hotmail.com

Abstract: There are currently two main challenges in mobile personal communications: first, with the increase in mobile users, spectrum resources are declining and second, due to poor channel quality, the desired signal will experience loss, fading and variable delay before reaching the receiver antenna. These two issues (declining resources in the face of increasing demand) are the principal, contradictory challenges in the development of mobile communication technology. An effective means of simultaneously addressing both of these issues is to use smart antennas, where the term smart refers to an ability to spatially select transmission or reception angles of interest. Currently, research on smart antenna technology has not yet reached the practical stage, partly because of the complicated environment of electromagnetic wave propagation in mobile communications and partly due to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s mobility. It is often difficult for smart antenna adaptive process to both capture and track the user signal dynamically. This problem is exacerbated by the discretisation of air-space in conventional research, so that beams jump from discrete angle to discrete angle. This work presents the design, implementation and validation of a hardware smart antenna platform that dramatically and cheaply reduces the jumpiness of the antenna beam. In effect this means that while the antenna beam angles dividing the airspace into/from the antenna is still discrete, the level of granularity is so small that moving from one antenna beam angle to the next appears as a smooth and easy transition. The frequency of operation is at 2.45 GHz form an Agilent vector signal generator and the source signal is split four ways using a Wilkinson power splitter (designed using Agilentâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s ADS software, easily extended to 8-, 12- or 16-element). In the mean time the phase control (for ultimately defining the beam angle) is pre-calculated and fed to a Digital-to-Analog Convertor (DAC) from a look-up table. The DAC (AD5308) in turn feeds the two inputs of a Quadrature Modulator (AD8346), which is simultaneously fed by one of the signals from the power splitter. The quadrature modulator is able to control both phase and amplitude of the signal.

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114

Two types of antenna are tested, PCB patch antennas and ceramic chip antennas. Both antenna types were initially characterised in terms of antenna lobes, using the Two Antenna Gain method, which measured both the main and side (or grating lobes). Validation tests of the principle were performed in WITâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s wireless anechoic chamber, using a Tektronix DPX spectrum analyser.

Keywords: Smart Antenna, Beam steering.

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115

Mr Joe Yaqiang Liu and Dr Paul Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary Novel dielectric analysis of high permittivity powders and liquids Department of Engineering Technology Email: qiang1025@gmail.com

Abstract: Non destructive testing (NDT) is an important analysis technique to understand material composition. Dielectric analysis is an NDT technique, using a probing electromagnetic wave, which is both reflected and propagates through the material under test (MUT). The MUT can be any insulating material, whose molecular composition has a dipole moment that re-orientates in an applied electric field, thereby classifying the insulating material as a dielectric. There are many such dielectrics, the most common being water, with identifiable responses to probing electromagnetic wavelengths at certain (material specific) frequencies. Over the past three years test infrastructure has been developed here in WIT to probe MUTs over a wide range of microwave frequencies (from 800MHz to 15GHz) and used to characterise many materials, of differing shape, form (solids, liquids and powders) and molecular composition. This work has been presented at the Royal Irish Academy Radio Symposium and also at the European Wireless conference in Lucca, Italy, both in 2010. This work reports on the most recent infrastructure development, a glass tank, for testing liquids and powders and also presents preliminary results. The materials tested were common household cooking ingredients of salt, sugar, flour, as well as tap water. Post processing of the measured parameters, using the free space upgrade of the original Nicholson-Ross-Weir technique, yielded the MUT dielectric properties. Some post processing difficulties arise, especially where the dielectric properties are not known beforehand, meaning that the electrical length of the MUT is unknown. Finally, the next stage of infrastructure development is presented, to offer flexibility and accuracy over a wider range of dielectric properties. The infrastructure is once again a tank, albeit with the variation that it can now be varied in path width, so that the MUT powder or liquid can be probed over varying microwave path widths. This technique is novel and overcomes the difficulties of unknown dielectric properties and, therefore, electrical length. Keywords: Electromagnetic wave propagation; Dielectric analysis; Permittivity calculation; Non destructive testing.

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116

Mr Mengji Yu E-Commerce Development in China: a comparison between local and foreign investment in China's e-commerce sector Department of Computing Mathematics and Physics Email: mengjiyu@hotmail.com

Abstract: My research topic is E-Commerce Development in China: a comparison between local and foreign investment in China‘s e-commerce sector. The reason I choose this topic is that the Chinese economic miracle has been regarded as a key factor influencing the speed of world‘s recovery during current economic downturn. In this circumstance, a great number of companies shift their focus to the growing Chinese economy. Chinese online shopping market provides an enormous opportunity for foreign e-commerce companies. In past decade the decreasing computer prices and the increasing penetration of broadband services have led to dramatic growth of internet population numbers in China. Until June 2009, according to China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC) report, the internet users in China has reached 420 million, with an increase of 36 million compared to the end of 2009. The popularity rate of internet has climbed to 31.8%, with an increase of 2.9% compared to the end of 2009. In addition to this, according to iResearch (market analyst firm) report, over 105 million of internet users now make regular purchases online. It is also predicting that this number will double by 2011. In 2009, Chinese e-commerce market totalled $38.5 billion with growth equivalent to about 105% increase year-onyear. However, geographical diversity, cultural barrier and lack of understanding of local customers‘ preferences make this market less accessible from outside world. For instance, eBay acquired eachnet.com which had 79% market share in China‘s customer to customer e-commerce market in 2003. At the same year, Taobao.com was founded by parent Alibaba Group. Today Taobao.com holds 83% customer to customer market share in China, compare with Eachnet ebay which only holds 7% market share. The positions of two companies are reversed. Why does this situation happen? The answer will be found at the end of this research. At the same time, I wish the findings of this research will serve as the guide book to those who are preparing to enter China‘s e-commerce market. Keywords: China's E-Commerce Market.

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117