Abstract
We experiment an alternative routing scheme for the Robust Network Loading problem. Named k-adaptive, it is based on the fact that the decision-maker chooses k second-stage solutions and then commits to one of them only after realization of the uncertainty. This routing scheme, with its corresponding k-partition of the uncertainty set, is dynamically defined under an iterative method to sequentially improve the solution. The method has an inherent characteristic of multiplying the number of variables and constraints after each iteration, so that additional measures are introduced in the solution strategy in order to control its tractability. We compare our k-adaptive results with the ones obtained through other routing schemes and also verify the effectiveness of the methods utilized using several realistic instances from SNDlib. © 2018

Abstract

Abstract
The development of a single window system for collaborative Multimodal Logistics services with offer for optimized and integrated door-to-door services is a complex endeavor. The concept was previously worked on by a set of European projects whose results were taken as best practices and lessons learned from the logistics sector. In this current paper we present a background and the major problems faced by the logistics sector and how IT can address them, and the existing expectations for collaborative real time door-to-door logistics Services. Next, we present the main results, consisting of an innovative system addressing these expectations - the Logistics Single Window. Finally we draw the conclusions from the results and present how the results innovate when compared with current state of the art. © 2017 IEEE.

Abstract
Higher education students exhibit difficulties in learning computer programming, particularly transitioning from initial programming to advanced programming, so it’s necessary to develop effective teaching strategies. We developed the SimProgramming approach to help students overcome learning difficulties transitioning from entry-level to advanced computer programming, by developing appropriate learning strategies. The students perform a specific set of tasks in a learning environment that simulates business operations, developing a problem-based learning assignment. One of those tasks is filling biweekly individual self-reflection and co-reflection forms. This approach was implemented at the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (Portugal), in a 4th semester course of two bachelor programmes: Informatics Engineering and ICT. The students provided 37 biweekly forms, on which we conducted thematic analysis to identify their strategies for co-regulation of learning during the assignment. Students are adopting different strategies in each phase of the approach. Early phases are devoted to organization, planning, and transformation of information, and later phases focus on applying theoretical knowledge and hands-on programming. We recommend including this type of pedagogical task (biwekly self-reflection and co-reflection forms) in educational practices, in view of their contribution to improving self- and co-regulation learning strategies.

Abstract
Post-mortem tissues samples are a key resource for investigating patterns of gene expression. However, the processes triggered by death and the post-mortem interval (PMI) can significantly alter physiologically normal RNA levels. We investigate the impact of PMI on gene expression using data from multiple tissues of post-mortem donors obtained from the GTEx project. We find that many genes change expression over relatively short PMIs in a tissue-specific manner, but this potentially confounding effect in a biological analysis can be minimized by taking into account appropriate covariates. By comparing ante-and postmortem blood samples, we identify the cascade of transcriptional events triggered by death of the organism. These events do not appear to simply reflect stochastic variation resulting from mRNA degradation, but active and ongoing regulation of transcription. Finally, we develop a model to predict the time since death from the analysis of the transcriptome of a few readily accessible tissues.

Abstract
An innovative, forward-looking organization has a different kind of internal structure, different Marketing and a different way of processing things. Innovative organizations have methods and processes that help them avoid stagnation. In the 21st century we have embraced a whole new technological world. Communicating through social networks is a new phenomenon and organizations must follow this trend, otherwise they will not endure. Companies need to be close to clients and the best way to achieve this is by exploring the new tools that online social media provide (social media includes e-mail and social networks and other such applications). The way people are exposed to information and publicity suffered a real change, as nowadays almost everything is also advertised online. Internet usage and social networking will be the focus of this article. The main research question of this paper is: what is the impact of using social networks on the performance and competitiveness of organizations? This question is relevant since almost every company has access to the Internet, as do their employees. Social networks may also be used for professional purposes as networks that connect everyone to expedite and facilitate communication. On the other hand, social networks may influence productivity negatively. To better discuss the main issue, we will use a Portuguese company as a case study. Thus, we interviewed an employee at BRABBU - the head of the BRABBU Press & Communications department - to establish patterns in the usage of social networks for internal communication during working hours. BRABBU is an award-winning company which won the Best Viral Instagram award, in January 2018, attributed by the Maison et Objet. Furthermore, a sample of the general population was surveyed (we received 352 answers to the survey) to deepen the study of this topic and so as to ascertain whether people think that online social networks help or hinder business performance. The result was clear: social networks may be a great help for internal communication, but this does not replace human contact. Finally, this usage of social networks in the work environment has to reach a consensus amongst the younger generations (e.g. millennial, in favour of this usage) and older ones (e.g. baby boomers, not so receptive to new technologies).