bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disseminating Health Information in Sierra Leone: the challenge
Authors: M'Jamtu-Sie Nance
Published: October 2007

The 10-year rebel war in Sierra Leone left the majority of citizens traumatized. Most have little knowledge about their health problems. It is therefore important to explore sources and methods of providing heath information and to consider how to encourage people to seek it.
Providing Online Information Services in Makerere University Library
Authors: Omona Walter
Published: October 2007

Although Makerere University Library faces many problems in acquiring journals, the increasing availability of online journals free of charge or at reduced prices through special programmes provides great hope for addressing this constraint, which is faced by most libraries in developing countries.
Knowledge Sharing in Development Agencies: knowledge fortress or knowledge pool?
Authors: Barnard Geoff
Published: October 2007

There is an obvious need for better knowledge sharing within and between development agencies. Systems designed to pool knowledge offer the benefits of greater openness and a richer knowledge sharing process.
The British Library On the International Scene
Authors: Bourne Ross
Published: October 2007

The British Library, in addition to its role as the national library of the United Kingdom, participates in a wide range of international activities, including those of IFLA, the Conference of Directors of National Libraries, the International Serials Data System and FID, among others. This participation costs money, but produces both financial and professional benefits.
Forget the NWICO...and Start All Over Again
Authors: Salinas Raquel
Published: October 2007

Despite the emphasis which has been placed on the New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO), developing countries still do not see information as a key resource to decision-making. The external debt problems which were not foreseen by Latin American countries illustrate how the neglect of specialized information flows weakens the position of developing countries in negotiations which affect their interests. A study undertaken by the author showed that Latin American debtor countries lacked the information necessary to renegotiate their debts due the absence of a mechanism for sharing information and surveying the world economy. By contrast, at an early stage the main creditors had established their own information centre, the Institute for International Finance. Some guidelines for future strategies to improve the position of developing countries in the international economic and information order are suggested.
Library Buildings in the 1980s
Authors: Mangold Elisabeth , Dewe Michael
Published: October 2007

The second in a series of articles on library buildings completed since the 1980s and based largely on the library literature. New buildings, extensions and conversions in Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary, Poland Romania, Yugoslavia and the USSR are noted. The literature, with the exception of Hungary and East Germany, provides little detail of specific projects but does illustrate a number of theoretical and practical concerns. There is also considerable discussion in the East European countries about the adaptation of buildings for library purposes.
Le Comite De L'Informatique Du Conseil International Des Archives: son activité et ses projets
Authors: Pieyns Jean
Published: October 2007

Traces the origins of the Automation Committee of the International Council on Archives (ICA) and summarizes its objectives and achievements with regard to publications, training and research studies. (In French)
Local Studies And The New Technology: the British experience
Authors: Dewe Michael
Published: October 2007

Traces the development of public library local studies collections in the United Kingdom. The use of these collections has increased considerably in recent years and has coincided with a time of financial stringency, placing heavy demands on staffing and materials. The use of the 'old' modern technology for local studies provision is examined, covering microforms and photocopying; recording oral history; photography and films; and video history. Projects which are examples of the use of the new technology are: the national local studies database project at York University; the Eighteenth Century Short Title Catalogue; an experiment with the use of Prestel in public libraries; computerized cataloguing; indexing with a microcomputer; local newspaper indexes in North America; and the Domesday Project. The adoption of the new technology is slow due to financial restraints on the acquisition of equipment such as interactive video. However, with increasingly cheaper microcomputers and software, local studies librarians will be able to develop the full potential of their collections.
Botswana: a Regional Approach To Library Education
Authors: Neill J.R.
Published: October 2007

The background to the establishment of the Department of Library Studies, University of Botswana, is described. Details are provided of the Department's Certificate, Diploma and postgraduate programmes and information about the various countries in Southern, Central and Eastern Africa which regularly send students to the Department. A long vacation 'Summer School'-type programme is offered for librarians from the region.
Educational Objectives, Libraries and Reading in Nigeria
Authors: Nweke Ken M.C.
Published: October 2007

Libraries as social institutions are indispensable to the realization of the educational aims and objectives of Nigeria. Previous studies of the constraints affecting Nigerian readers suggest that the provision of relevant library services providing a wide variety of reading materials, especially by Nigerian authors and at prices that all can afford, will help remove the constraints and further promote recreational reading, which in turn encourages self-development.
Development Information in Sri Lanka
Authors: Karunanayake C.I.
Published: October 2007

Reviews the present status of activities relating to development information in Sri Lanka with special reference to the role of the Centre for Development Information. Briefly outlines the generation of development information, the infrastructure developed for the collection, organization and dissemination of such information and resource-sharing programmes at the national. regional and international levels. Discusses the bibliographic control programme developed by the Centre for Development Information, highlighting the necessity of such a programme to avoid duplication of effort and Development information in Sri Lanka

to overcome the problem of paucity of information for planning, policy making and research.
Community Libraries in Zimbabwe
Authors: Atherton Lucy
Published: October 2007

The majority of public libraries in Zimbabwe remain legacies of the colonial era. Their stock is composed largely of donations which are frequently out-of-date or irrelevant. However, a number of initiatives are attempting to provide an appropriate service to both urban and rural communities. Emphasis is on books in the vernacular, follow-up materials for new literates and encouraging both children and adults to read for pleasure. The projects discussed highlight the importance of providing library services in appropriate locations, of talking to communities to discover their true book and information needs and the value of volunteers. These successful initiatives are set against the difficulties of the National Library and Documentation Service plans and its problems in reaching the less privileged members of society.
Marketing Developmen t Information in South Asia
Authors: Geethananda Hemamalee
Published: October 2007

Budget cuts coupled with increased costs involved in the application of technology in information processing and dissemination have required libraries and information centres to turn to information marketing. The concept of marketing has a utilitarian value as a good management tool to target and offer streamlined information services to the clients of a library or information centre. Since the main objective of marketing of library type data is not profit maximization, but being socially responsive, the concepts of pure marketing have to be somewhat modified to be applicable to this sector. An extensive literature on marketing for the non-profit sector already exists, though not for bibliographic data. Provides a perspective on information marketing using the Development Information Network South Asia (DEVINSA) as a case study. Hemamalee Geethananda is Chief Librarian and DEVINSA Project Leader, Marga Institute, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Management and Marketing of Information Services in Africa
Authors: Nawe Julita
Published: October 2007

Stresses the need for library and information professionals to adopt a pro-active approach in marketing their services in the context of basic marketing principles, in order to achieve the ultimate aim of serving both actual and potential users of such services, with special reference to sub-Saharan Africa.
Electronic Bulletin Boards for So u th African Libraries
Authors: de Jager Karin
Published: October 2007

Edited version of a paper presented at the conference: 'Information for the nation: appropriate technologies for information transfer' of the South African Institute for Library and Information Science in September 1992. For many South African librarians, appropriate technology means affordable technology. Part of the library community in the country has been preoccupied with expensive state-of-the-art information technology. Small information centres can use electronic bulletin boards to participate in local bulletin board networks linking a wide range of libraries and information centres in specific areas. Possible applications of such a system are outlined.
How Indian Journalists Use Libraries
Authors: Joseph Rosamma
Published: October 2007

Report on a survey of library use by journalists working on eight newspapers published in Kerala, India. Examines: the reasons why journalists use the libraries of their newspapers; how they use the information they obtain; which types of library materials they use, and how often; what other sources of information they use, and how often; how often they visit the library and for how long; how long they have to wait to obtain the information they need, and who searches for it. There were significant differences in the patterns of use of the library by senior editorial staff and staff in other categories. Concludes that there is room for improvement in the collections and services of the libraries concerned.
Progress in Scientific and Technical Information Services in China
Authors: Campbell Harry C.
Published: October 2007

Describes recent progress in the People's Republic of China in the publication of scientific and technical journals and the computerization of information services. Assesses the output of scientific and technical papers in China and the extent to which they are indexed by foreign bibliographical sources. Describes current developments and future plans for the introduction of computer-based library and information systems.
Information Technology Manpower and the National Information System in Uganda
Authors: Ogwang-Ameny Remy
Published: October 2007

Outlines the background of the project to establish a National Information System (NIS) in Uganda, the structure of the system and its target beneficiaries, and the national information policy. Discusses the need of the NIS for trained information technology personnel and makes proposals with regard to the content of training programmes and modules, training methodology, and training materials and facilities.
The International Records Management Council in Zimbabwe
Authors: Njovana Samuel
Published: October 2007

A short account of the Third Congress of the International Records Management Council (IRMC), held in Harare from 6 to 10 September 1993.
The Pacific Legal Informa tion Network
Authors: Rannells Eve
Published: October 2007

The Pacific Legal Information Network was intended to provide online full-text retrieval of legal documents in the Pacific Law Collection of the University of Papua New Guinea Library. It has not yet been possible to achieve this aim, but the Library will photocopy and fax copies of documents to users and continues to develop the collection, which covers the legislation of a number of Pacific island states.
Information in Support of Community Management of Water Points in Zambia
Authors: Carty Dermot , Mbewe Isaac J.
Published: October 2007

Lack of data on water sources made it difficult for the authorities in Zambia to target drought relief assistance. A new Community Management and Monitoring Unit now aims to collate field data on water sources, collect information on community management and design educational materials for schools and communities.
Management Information Systems for Water and Sanitation Agencies: a regional perspective
Authors: Basaran Ali K.T.
Published: October 2007

Managers of water supply and sanitation agencies often have to make decisions on incomplete information. The World Health Organization is actively trying to solve this problem by promoting the development of management information and monitoring systems.
The Retrospective File: Reflections on a Decade of Directing
Authors: Kamba Angeline S.
Published: October 2007

In this first contribution to The Retrospective File, the former Director of the National Archives of Zimbabwe looks back over ten years of achievement.
A Strategic Alliance in Information : international non-governmental organizations unite to serve the World Community
Authors: Tocatlian Jacques
Published: October 2007

The information sector is under constant pressure for change and adaptation. To meet these challenges, the international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the information sector need to work together. The International Federation for Information and Documentation (FID), is taking the lead in establishing a Strategic Ailiance of these NGOs. The final text of a resolution to this effect was agreed at a Consultation Meeting of NGOs held in The Hague, Netherlands, on 11 April 1994, and is being circulated for signature by all the NGOs concerned. Once signed, the resolution will be read in a ceremony at the 47th FID Congress in Tokyo, at which celebrations commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of FID will begin. Includes the full text of the resolution (to be known as 'the Tokyo Resolution').
Library and Information Studies in Malta
Authors: Sciberras Lillian
Published: October 2007

Traces early attempts at providing local library education and training in Malta against the background of growing demand for library and information services, stunted by the unavailability of professionals. Records the roles of the Ghaqda Bibljotekarji and the University of Malta in the evolving provision of part-time library and information science education. Includes an outline of the current diploma structure and a profile of the student population. Addresses the need to upgrade standards and describes the links being established with library and information science programmes abroad.
Administrative Reforms and National Archives in Africa
Authors: Murunga Wamukoya Justus
Published: October 2007

Structural adjustment programmes implemented in developing countries in recent years focus sharply on the management of public affairs. Access to well-managed records and information is among the vital ingredients that make up an efficient administration. Describes the establishment of archives centres in Africa and discusses: the role of national archives in the modern state; the link between administrative reforms and records management; the nature of records management; and achieving accountability through record-keeping. Concludes that past attempts by African governments to demonstrate accountability have achieved limited success and that further leverage must come through effective record-keeping.
TEPACIS: a Teaching Package on CDS/ISIS
Authors: Devadason F.J. , Devadason Renuka
Published: October 2007

The widely-used software package, CDS/ISIS, has a reputation for being difficult to learn. A new computer-assisted instruction package, TEPACIS, aims to make the task easier.
Educating Users at Moi University Library
Authors: Odini Cephas
Published: October 2007

Various constraints affect the education of users at Moi University in Kenya. They can be overcome through proper planning and through integrating the programme into the university curriculum.
IFLA: From Turmoil to Turmoil: based on an interview with Hans-Peter Geh
Authors: Carroll Frances Laverne
Published: October 2007

Hans-Peter Geh, President of IFLA from 1985 to 1991, talks to Laverne Carroll about his time in office and his views on international librarianship.
Information Education in Botswana
Authors: Havard-Williams Peter
Published: October 2007

Outlines the development and programmes of the Department of Library and Information Studies of the University of Botswana, staff activities and the role of the Department within the University.
Literary Prizes in Malaysia: awards, organizers and authors
Authors: Zainab Awang Ngah
Published: October 2007

Abridged version of an article published in KekalAbadi in March 1995. Lists eighty-six literary awards and prizes offered for creative literary works in the Malay language written between 1946 and 1993. Identifies the organizers offering these awards. Government agencies contributed more than half of the awards. Organizers in the private sector provided 22 percent of the awards; literary associations and societies provided 17 percent. 829 authors contributed 1,748 winning titles (including consolation prizes). Short stories accounted for 47 percent, poetry for 36 percent, novels account for 11 percent, and dramas for 6 percent. A small number of authors won most of the prizes. This may have management implications for libraries and documentation centres wishing to build collections of award-win ning works. The success of literary awards in encouraging Malaysian authors may provide an example for other develop. ing countries anxious to increase their indigenous literary out put.
Managing Public Sector Financial Records in The Gambia : the implications for good government
Authors: Akotia Pino
Published: October 2007

In The Gambia, as in many other developing countries, finance is recognized as a key resource for development; but this is not always the case with the records which document financial transactions.
A Network of Networks in Latin America
Authors: Ciurlizza Alejandra
Published: October 2007

Edited version of a paper presented within the framework of the V Consultation Meeting of the INFOLAC Program, October, 1995. Reports on the objectives, expected outputs, activities, results and impacts of the Network of Networks Latin America Project, designed to strengthen eighteen Latin American information networks and systems.
DRAiN: a CDSlISIS library management system
Authors: Naber Gerrit
Published: October 2007

Describes DRAiN (Drainage Information System), a computerized library management system using CDS/ISIS software prepared by the International Institute for Land Reclamation and Improvement (ILRI) within the framework of the network activities of the International Program for Technology Research in Irrigation and Drainage (IPTRID). DRAiN has databases for the storage of bibliographic data, addresses of institutions and persons, serials and data of ongoing research projects. It offers facilities for data input and exchange, retrieval (menu driven using HEURISKO), and output in different formats, including a current awareness bulletin. A manual is available.
The Zimbabwe International Book Fair, 1995
Authors: Mitchell-Powell Brenda
Published: October 2007

A brief account of the Zimbabwe International Book Fair, 1995, including a two-day pre-Fair meeting on 'Freedom of Expression' attended by Nobel laureates Wole Soyinka and Nadine Gordimer. Includes information on the African Publishers' Network and the African Periodicals Exhibit.
The acquisition of tense—aspect in child second language English
Authors: Haznedar Belma
Published: October 2007

The aim of this article is two-fold: to test the Aspect Hypothesis, according to which the early use of tense—aspect morphology patterns by semantic/aspectual features of verbs, and Tense is initially defective (e.g. Antinucci and Miller, 1976; Bloom et al., 1980; Andersen and Shirai, 1994; 1996; Robison, 1995; Shirai and Andersen, 1995; Bardovi-Harlig, 1998; Shirai, 1998); and to test Gavruseva's aspectual features account, according to which inherent aspectual properties of the verbs such as telicity and punctuality determine which verbs will be non-finite and which verbs will not (Gavruseva, 2002; 2003; 2004) in child L2 acquisition. Based on longitudinal data from a Turkish child second language (L2) learner of English, we present counter evidence for both hypotheses. First, it is shown that despite the fact that the early production of past tense morphology occurs exclusively with punctual predicates, data from copula be, auxiliary do and pronominal subjects do not show any evidence for defective tense. Second, contrary to what is predicted in Gavruseva's hypothesis, the rate of uninflected punctual verbs is much higher than that of uninflected non-punctual verbs in the child L2 grammar.
Response article Full transfer vs. developmentally moderated transfer: a reply to Bohnacker
Authors: Pienemann Manfred , HÅkansson Gisela
Published: October 2007

Ute Bohnacker's (2006) article on the acquisition of the verb second (V2) property in German by native speakers of Swedish (also a V2 language) is an attempted rebuttal of Håkansson et al.'s (2002) work on first language (L1) transfer and aspects of the underlying theory on which the work is based: Processability Theory (Pienemann, 1998). The article by Håkansson et al. presented empirical evidence from a similar population of learners (native language Swedish, target language German), showing that V2 is not transferred at the initial state. Unfortunately, Bohnacker misrepresents key aspects of our work on L1 transfer and, paradoxically, her own data constitute empirical evidence supporting our position, as we show in this response.
Networks and Identifications
Authors: de Federico de la Rúa Ainhoa
Published: October 2007

This article introduces a series of research studies that have opted for a `structural interactionist' approach to social identity. It is argued, starting from the categories defined by the macro-social institutions that are used to refer to the social contexts in which individuals live, that actors define, negotiate and claim their micro-social identities out of socially organized interactions in the mesosocial relational structures that form personal communities, according to the situations and aims that the actors pursue. This special issue explores different aspects of the complex relationship between personal communities that constitute concrete social networks and identification with abstract imagined communities.
Multiple Senses of Community in Migration and Commuting
Authors: Maya-Jariego Isidro , Armitage Neil
Published: October 2007

This article explores the relation between multiple senses of communities (M-SOC), time and relationships. Modern communications have weakened the traditional relationship between physical setting and social space, enabling participation in multiple communities simultaneously. Physical presence is no longer necessary or a guarantee for participation. This article is based upon a simple premise, that while as individuals we give meaning to our realities across a complexity of communities, our relations are continuously situated in time and space. Time participating in one community is time not spent participating in another. Additionally we are continuously holding a dialogue with time, both interpreting the past and assessing the future. Emigrating and commuting are social phenomena that are both concerned with the physical movement of individuals between social spaces, with contrasting distributions of time and relations across social spaces. Data obtained from two separate survey populations — immigrants ( N = 200) and commuting university students ( N = 208) from the same town — provide the empirical basis of the article. UCINET was used to map respondents' personal networks and calculate relational variables. M-SOC, measured with the Sense of Community Index (SCI), was correlated with (1) the distribution of time, (2) the future expectations of and (3) relational variables across multiple communities. In the case of foreigners, the number of years living in Spain was a significant predictor in three different hierarchical regressions of the sense of community with their neighbourhood in the sending country, their neighbourhood in Spain and the community of expatriate compatriots. For commuters, the average time spent daily in the city of residence, the average degree of their personal networks and the presence of people from the city of residence in their personal networks were all positively associated with the sense of community of the city of residence.
When death appears best for the child with severe malignancy: a nationwide parental follow-up
Authors: Hunt Hayley , Valdimarsdottir Unnur , Mucci Lorelei , Kreicbergs Ulrika , Steineck Gunnar
Published: October 2007

Background: Loss of a child to malignancy is associated with long-term morbidity among surviving parents. This study aims to identify particular sources of stress among parents of children with severe malignancy. Methods: We attempted to contact all parents in Sweden who lost a child to cancer between 1992 and 1997. Some 449 parents answered an anonymous questionnaire, including a question regarding whether they ever thought that death would be best for the child with severe malignancy. Results: Mothers whose children were unable to communicate during their last week of life were more likely to think that death would be best for the child (relative risk (RR): 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-2.1). Fathers whose children faced six years or more with malignancy were more likely to think that death would be best for their child (RR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.3-3.5). Conclusions: The inability of the child with severe malignancy to communicate increases the likelihood of mothers thinking that death would be best for the child, while longer duration of the child's illness increases the occurrence of this thought among fathers.
Comparative pilot study of symptoms and quality of life in cancer patients and patients with end stage renal disease
Authors: Saini T , Murtagh F EM , Dupont P J , McKinnon P M , Hatfield P , Saunders Y
Published: October 2007

Background: Patients with advanced renal failure are increasingly opting for conservative treatment, yet little is known of their palliative care needs. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study, examining symptom burden and quality of life in patients with advanced renal failure (estimated GFR < 17 mL/min; n = 11). A contemporary cohort with terminal malignancy acted as comparators (n = 11). Symptom burden was scored using an extended Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form questionnaire. Quality of life was assessed using the Euroqol-5Q questionnaire. Demographic and pathological data, performance status and co-morbidity were also recorded. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar for the two groups. Symptom burden (renal 17; cancer 15; P =NS) and quality of life scores (renal 60; cancer 60; P =NS) were remarkably similar. Both groups reported high levels of psychological distress. Conclusions: Patients with advanced renal failure experience a symptom burden and impairment of quality of life similar to that of patients with terminal malignancy.
The management of anorexia by patients with advanced cancer: a critical review of the literature
Authors: Shragge Jeremy E , Wismer Wendy V , Olson Karin L , Baracos Vickie E
Published: October 2007

This report presents the results of a critical review of the literature on the experience of anorexia (loss of appetite) by patients with advanced cancer. Although several studies have investigated this experience, the adaptive strategies used by patients to compensate for appetite loss remain poorly elucidated. Based on the small body of extant research, it was concluded that, in many instances, a gap exists between the ability of patients and caregivers to come to terms and deal realistically with the emotional and social consequences of patient anorexia. Patients generally appear to suffer greater discord as a result of this disparity, than from the direct psychological impact of anorexia. A greater understanding of the management of anorexia by patients is essential for the development of dietary and psychosocial interventions that would aid both patients and caregivers to cope with this common symptom.
Effectiveness of brief training in cognitive behaviour therapy techniques for palliative care practitioners
Authors: Mannix Kathryn A , Blackburn Ivy Marie , Garland Anne , Gracie Jennifer , Moorey Stirling , Reid Barbara , Standart Sally , Scott Jan
Published: October 2007

We describe training in CBT techniques for 20 palliative care practitioners delivered as 12 days' equivalent teaching plus skills-building supervision over a six month period. Audiotapes of trainees' interactions with patients during their usual work were rated using a specially devised ‘Cognitive First Aid’ rating scale (CFARS). The CFARS was highly internally consistent (Cronbach's Alpha 0.93) and inter-rater reliability was high. Trainees showed significant gain in CBT skills competency over six months (p=0.001). After initial training, half the trainees were randomised to discontinue supervision; their measured CBT skill dropped as did their self-reported confidence when reassessed six months later, whereas those who continued in supervision gained further skill and maintained confidence (p=0.007). Palliative care practitioners can be trained in CBT skills by a simple and brief training course and supportive, skills-building supervision. These skills are compatible with national guidelines on delivery of psychological support to patients at all stages of cancer. Supervision is necessary to ensure maintenance of skills and confidence to use them.
Heart failure and palliative care services working in partnership: report of a new model of care
Authors: Daley Andrew , Matthews Christine , Williams Anne
Published: October 2007

It is widely acknowledged that people with advanced heart failure have at least as great a need for supportive and palliative care as those with malignant disease. However, specialist palliative care services are seldom involved in their care in the UK. We describe a three-year collaboration between community-based heart failure nurse specialists and existing specialist palliative care services. In the model of care that has evolved, the heart failure nurses remain key workers throughout the illness. They run a regular support group for patients and carers in the setting of a hospice day therapy unit, referring patients for other palliative care involvement as necessary. Activity data and the results of patient interviews are presented. These suggest that the model is a cost effective, sustainable way of providing high quality care for people with heart failure.
Challenges to end of life care in the acute hospital setting
Authors: Willard Carole , Luker Karen
Published: October 2007

Background: Research exploring patients' care and treatment preferences at the end of life (EOL) suggests they prefer comfort more than life-extension, wish to participate in decision-making, and wish to die at home. Despite these preferences, the place of death for many patients is the acute hospital, where EOL interventions are reported to be inappropriately invasive and aggressive. Aim: This paper discusses the challenges to appropriate EOL care in acute hospitals in the UK, highlighting how this setting contributes to the patients' and families' care and treatment requirements being excluded from decision-making. Methods: Twenty-nine cancer nurse specialists from five hospitals participated in a grounded theory study, using observation and semi-structured interviews. Data were collected and analysed concurrently using the constant comparative method. Results: EOL interventions in the acute setting were driven by a preoccupation with treatment, routine practice and negative perceptions of palliative care. All these factors shaped clinical decision-making and prevented patients and their families from fully participating in clinical decision-making at the EOL.
Desire for hastened death in patients with advanced disease and the evidence base of clinical guidelines: a systematic review
Authors: Hudson Peter L , Kristjanson Linda J , Ashby Michael , Kelly Brian , Schofield Penelope , Hudson Rosalie , Aranda Sanchia , O'Connor Margaret , Street Annette
Published: October 2007

Purpose: Patients’ desire for hastened death within the context of advanced disease and palliative care is a controversial topic, frequently discussed in the international literature. Much of the discussion has focused on opinion and debate about ethical matters related to hastened death. Not many research studies seem to have specifically targeted why palliative care patients may desire hastened death, and few have focused on clinical guidelines for responding to such requests.

Methods: Using a systematic literature review process, we evaluated the research evidence related to the reasons patients express a desire for a hastened death, and the quality of clinical guidelines in this area.

Results: Thirty-five research studies met the inclusion criteria related to reasons associated with a desire for hastened death. The factors associated with a desire to die were often complex and multifactorial; however, psychological, existential and social reasons seem to be more prominent than those directly related to physical symptoms, such as pain. Much of the evidence supporting the reasons for these statements is based on: (a) patients’ perceptions of how they may feel in the future, and (b) health professionals’ and families’ interpretations of why desire to die statements may have been made. Several publications provided expert opinion for responding to requests for physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia. In keeping with this limited research base, there is a lack of evidence-based guidelines for clinical care that addresses the desire to die among terminally ill patients. Most literature has focused on discipline specific responses, with minimal exploration of how clinicians might respond initially to a statement from a patient regarding a desire to die.

Conclusions: In order to advance understanding of the complex issue of desire for hastened death in the context of palliative care, research should focus on studies with patients who have actually made a desire to die statement and the development of guidelines to help health professionals respond. Direction for research in this area is described.
Recent developments in estimating land surface biogeophysical variables from optical remote sensing
Authors: Liang Shunlin
Published: October 2007

Earth system models and many other applications require biogeophysical variables, and remote sensing is the only means by which to estimate them at the appropriate spatial and temporal scales. Developing advanced inversion methods to solve ill-posed multidimensional nonlinear inversion problems is critical and very challenging. This article reviews state-of-the-art algorithms for estimating land surface biogeophysical variables in optical remote sensing (from the visible to the thermal infrared spectrum) to stimulate the development of new algorithms and to utilize existing ones.
Family Economic Strategies in Nineteenth-and Early Twentieth-Century Indianapolis
Authors: Robinson Robert V.
Published: October 2007

Through cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of two samples of families living in Indianapolis from 1860 to 1880 and from 1900 to 1920, I test several hypotheses on how families adjusted their use of three income-generating strategies (wives' employment, children's employment, and taking in boarders) to their social, economic and demographic milieu as well as to their changing needs and opportunities as they moved through the family life cycle. The bulk of families in both periods used at least one of these strategies at some point, relying on strategies of wives early in the life cycle and/or strategies of children later. Relative to families in the post-1860 period, families after the turn of the century relied more on the paid work of wives and daughters and less on boarding and sons' employment as sources of income.
Marriage and Militance in a Working Class District of St. Petersburg, 1896-1913
Authors: Economakis Evel , Brym Robert J.
Published: October 2007

Sharp controversy still exists over whether the Russian proletariat on the eve of the 1917 revolution comprised an urbanized, class-conscious community or a mass of semi-urbanized peasants rebelling against an alien industrial regime. We use published and archival data (church marriage records, county council statistics, and St. Petersburg worker blacklists) to argue against the "peasant"school. Specifically, we demonstrate the existence of an urban, working class community by analyzing the association among (1) frequency of urban marriage with spouses coming from different geographical origins, (2) industrial militance, and (3) rural socioeconomic conditions that turned peasants into proletarians.
Household Structure and Labor Markets in Postwar Japan
Authors: Mosk Carl
Published: October 2007

While cultural rules are important in determining the structure and size of households in populations, economic and demographic constraints are of equal, if not of greater, importance in determining household characteristics. This paper argues that the demand for labor having certain characteristics (related to skilling, monitoring costs, and the capacity to signal trainability to prospective employers) has played an important role in shaping household structure and size in prewar Japan both through its indirect impact upon the vital rates and through its direct impact on who stays in the household and who goes out on a temporary and/or permanent basis. The diffusion of rice cultivation agriculture and by-employments during the Tokugawa period changed the demand for farm household labor and led to a regime of moderate sized stem family households. Analysis of a data set with economic and demographic data for approximately 1,000 towns and villages circa 1930 bears out the importance of the demand for labor in conditioning household size and structure in prewar Japan.
Some Questions and Answers About the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-Abc)
Authors: Kaufman Alan S.
Published: October 2007

This paper presents an overview of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) and addresses some frequently asked questions about the new battery. Topics treated include the rationale for the 2½-to-12½-year age range, the predictive validity of the battery, the impact of teaching items on reliability, the Sequential-Simultaneous dichotomy, and the issue of K-ABC versus WISC-R.
McCarthy Performance and Neurological Functioning in Children Born "At Risk"
Authors: Prasse David P. , Siewert Julaine C. , Ellison Patricia H.
Published: October 2007

The neurophysiological paradigm is increasing in popularity in education and psychology, although the complexity of behavior-to-brain inference may limit its immediate utility. The present study examines the relationship of three neurological measures and their relationship to the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities from a concurrent-and predictive-validity perspective. Also investigated is the ability of traditional neurocognitive McCarthy indicators to differentiate between children with and without signs of neurologic abnormality. Findings warrant a dual approach to neuropsychological assessment (clinical and quantitated) and also sugest that the McCarthy Motor Scale may be of value in assessing the neurologic integrity in the 4-year-old. Findings concerning traditional neurocognitive indicators are inconclusive.
Social Validity in the Assessment of Children's Social Skills: Establishing Standards for Social Competency
Authors: Gresham Frank M.
Published: October 2007

Social validity is a concept that, in part, deals with the social or applied importance of the effects of intervention programs. Given the importance of assessing social competence in school-age children and youth, it is critical that these measures be socially valid. That is, these measures should reflect outcomes that social systems such as the schools consider important. Various assessment methods were classified as Type I, Type II, and Type III measures based on their social validity. Conclusions focused on the increased use of Type I measures, the establishment of appropriate normative groups for these measures, the adoption of a competence-correlates definition of social skills, and the increased use of multivariate research methods in the area of social skills assessment.
The Determinants of Job Satisfaction Among United States Air Force Security Police
Authors: Reiner Michael D. , Jihong Zhao
Published: October 2007

The volummous literature on workplace attitudes has identified two competing types as determmants of employee job satisfaction demographic charactenstics of individuals and the characteristics of the work environment This research tests the relative effects of these two sources of variation in job satisfaction among United States Air Force securay pohce Our findings suggest that work environment variables produce significant effects on employee job satisfaction, while demographic variables, generally, failed to demonstrate appreciable influence Since the former are a matter of public management practices and policies while the latter are fixed features of employee background, the imphcation of these findings is that public sector managers' leadership and management activities have senous consequences for employee job satisfaction
Lies, Damned Lies, and Medical Experts: The Abrogation of Responsibility by Specialty Organizations and a Call for Action
Authors: Milunsky Aubrey
Published: October 2007

The festering problem of medical expert witnesses proffering false testimony in court remains. A review of the many proposed reforms to resolve this chronic and outrageous practice has indicated little progress despite a resolution by the American Medical Association enunciating that medical expert witness testimony is effectively the practice of medicine. A questionnaire was sent to 36 specialty organizations to determine whether they had established guidelines, position statements, policies, or bylaws that govern the disciplinary management of their members who testify falsely. Responses were obtained from all 36 specialty organizations and showed that over 80% had no definitive disciplinary policies to deal with this egregious practice. This finding is all the more surprising given repeated judicial and other exhortations to professional organizations to “police themselves.” To address the abrogation of responsibility by specialty organizations, new stringent disciplinary steps are proposed to exorcise the despicable practice of false expert witness testimony from the practice of medicine. ( J Child Neurol 2003; 18: 413—419).
Intravenous Immunoglobulin as Adjunctive Therapy for Juvenile Spasms
Authors: Bingel Ulrike , Pinter Joseph D. , Sotero de Menezes Márcio , Rho Jong M.
Published: October 2007

Intravenous immunoglobulin has been reported to be an effective treatment for infantile spasms. Juvenile spasms are electrically and clinically similar to infantile spasms but occur in a later age group. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of five children (aged 4.5—11.5 years) at our institution. Their primary seizure type was juvenile spasms and they were treated with a single inpatient course of intravenous immunoglobulin (400 mg/kg/day intravenously for 5 consecutive days) on an adjunctive basis. Seizure frequency was determined from parental reports. By 3 months after treatment, improvement (a 50—92% reduction in seizure frequency) was noted in four patients; sustained benefit was seen in three patients for up to 12 months. One patient showed no response at 3 and 6 months and had an increase in seizure frequency at 1 year. We conclude that single-course intravenous immunoglobulin can be effective as adjunctive therapy for juvenile spasms and that benefit can persist for many months. However, larger controlled, prospective clinical trials are needed to validate this unconventional treatment modality for specific seizure types such as juvenile spasms. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:379—382).
Evoked Potentials in Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Cheliout-Heraut Fawzia , Barois Annie , Urtizberea Andoni , Viollet Louis , Estournet-Mathiaud Brigitte
Published: October 2007

Visual evoked potentials, brainstem evoked responses, and somatosensory evoked potentials were evaluated in 22 children with spinal muscular atrophy, types I and II. Eleven of the children had the severe form of spinal muscular atrophy (type I) and 11 children had the intermediate form (type II). The results of visual evoked potentials, brainstem evoked responses, and somatosensory evoked potentials were compared with those obtained in a control group. Statistical analysis showed abnormalities in the different sensory modalities. A significant increase in the visual evoked potential latencies was observed and was found more often in patients with spinal muscular atrophy type I. Alterations of the somatosensory thalamocortical responses were also observed, as well as a delay in the central conduction time. Although spinal muscular atrophy is usually considered to be a purely motor disorder involving neurons of the spinal anterior horn and nuclei of the lower cranial nerves, lesions of the posterior roots, spinal ganglia, ascending tracts, lateral geniculated corpus, and thalamus have been reported. Our results suggest that sensory neuron degeneration occurs more commonly in spinal muscular atrophy than previously thought and that this process probably develops more slowly than motoneuron degeneration. Such degeneration may be associated with brain atrophy. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:383—390).
Multifocal Myoclonus Following Group A Streptococcal Infection
Authors: Smyth Penelope , Sinclair D. Barry
Published: October 2007

Movement disorders as postinfectious manifestation of group A streptococcal infections have been reported and are thought to occur on an autoimmune basis. We describe an unusual case of multifocal myoclonus following strep throat infection. Clinical description and chart review were the method used. A 10-year-old boy developed focal myoclonus involving his right arm and shoulder 1 week after streptococcal throat infection treated with penicillin. His magnetic resonance image was normal, and he initially responded to clonazepam but did not sustain a response. The myoclonus spread to involve all limbs and the trunk, becoming multifocal over the next few weeks. He did not have choreoathetosis of Syndenham's chorea. He was given one course of intravenous immunoglobulin and became asymptomatic after treatment. He remained symptom free for 8 months following intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. Various symptoms have been reported following group A streptococcal infections in children. These neurobehavioral abnormalities may be mediated through antineuronal antibodies. Our case demonstrates multifocal myoclonus as a poststreptococcal autoimmune phenomenon. To our knowledge, only two other cases of poststreptococcal myoclonus have been reported in the literature. Recognition of this unusual condition as a manifestation of autoimmune poststreptococcal disease in children is essential to avoid overinvestigation and to ensure early treatment. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:434—436).