bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community pharmacies as good neighbours? A comparative study of Germany and the UK
Authors: Pioch Elke A. , Schmidt Ruth A.
Published: November 2004

Located as intermediaries between patients/customers and national health systems, community pharmacies have to negotiate increasing government demands for free advice, pressure on their earnings and an increasingly deregulated market. A comparative assessment of the German and UK markets highlights the tensions pharmacists face as healthcare providers and retailers, assessing the ways in which each group copes with growing competitive challenges. Based on a grounded theory study of community pharmacies in Berlin/Brandenburg and the Greater Manchester area the role of pharmacies within their local neighbourhoods is discussed and the potential for the transfer of marketing intelligence between the two countries evaluated.
People and partnerships: marketing urban retailing
Authors: Warnaby Gary , Bennison David , Davies Barry J. , Hughes Howard
Published: November 2004

This article investigates the interaction between urban place marketing actors with specific reference to marketing urban areas as shopping destinations – town centre managers, shopping centre managers, local authority economic development managers and marketing managers and tourism promotion managers. It reports the results of a survey of these actors in the top 173 urban shopping destinations in the UK. It identifies those actors with prime responsibility for marketing urban retail provision (i.e. town centre managers and shopping centre managers), the nature of their collaboration (via formal, informal, and initiative‐specific interaction), and the factors impelling interaction (i.e. recognition of the linkages between the activities of different organisations, ensuring wider representation of organisational interests and the financial imperative). With the recent publication of Draft PPS6 and its increased focus on the strategic development of smaller centres, the implications for the marketing/promotion of such centres are addressed in detail.
Supply chain risk in an uncertain global supply chain environment
Authors: Barry Jack
Published: November 2004

The breadth and scope of supply chain risks have broadened significantly in recent years. Even prior to the 2001 terrorist attacks, the creep of risks and uncertainties were widening with increased globalization, widening political reach by leading countries, and the rise of market producing and consuming economies. This article raises some essential supply chain questions as well as some that have impact on the field from outside of it.
Minimizing logistics risk through real‐time vehicle routing and mobile technologies
Authors: Giaglis G.M. , Minis I. , Tatarakis A. , Zeimpekis V.
Published: November 2004

Vehicle routing (VR) is critical in successful logistics execution. The emergence of technologies and information systems allowing for seamless mobile and wireless connectivity between delivery vehicles and distribution facilities is paving the way for innovative approaches to real‐time VR and distribution management. This paper investigates avenues for building upon recent trends in VR‐related research towards an integrated approach to real‐time distribution management. A review of the advances to‐date in both fields, i.e. the relevant research in the VR problem and the advances in mobile technologies, forms the basis of this investigation. Further to setting requirements, we propose a system architecture for urban distribution and real‐time event‐driven vehicle management.
A study on project success factors in large construction projects in Vietnam
Authors: Duy Nguyen Long , Ogunlana Stephen O. , Thi Xuan Lan Do
Published: November 2004

Large construction projects are inherently complex and dynamic. A comprehensive answer on how to manage such projects successfully is difficult to provide. This paper expounds on the success factors for large construction projects in Vietnam. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from practitioners. Factor analysis was employed to categorize these success factors perceived by 109 respondents from 42 construction‐related organizations. Factor analysis uncovered that these success factors can be grouped under four categories, here titled the four COMs: comfort, competence, commitment, and communication. The result can be used as a guideline to successfully handle construction projects in Vietnam as well as in other countries, especially in the emerging economies in Asia and the rest of the world.
Surveyors' perspectives on ethics in organisational culture
Authors: Liu Anita M.M. , Fellows Richard , Ng Jess
Published: November 2004

This paper investigates perceptions on ethics amongst surveyors working in Hong Kong. Objectives of the study are to develop an organisational ethics model, to examine the dominant and significantly different ethical climate and culture types amongst private‐ and public‐sector organisations that employ surveyors, and to determine any effects of the existence of ethical codes. It is postulated that ethical behaviours have an impact on the final project outcome. The empirical work is of survey design and the data are analysed using principal component factor analysis, correlation and analysis of variance. The results yield a number of factors and the strength of factors present differs between public and private organisations with a large number of respondents indicating uncertainty of the presence of ethical codes.
Valuing guarantees in a BOT infrastructure project
Authors: Wibowo Andreas
Published: November 2004

Host governments often provide guarantees in build‐operate‐transfer (BOT) infrastructure projects to attract private sector investors. Problems arise because the governments often do not know the full extent of contingent liabilities when issuing guarantees, and because they account and record guarantee costs only when guarantees come due. This paper discusses the guarantees' financial impact from the perspectives of the government and the project sponsor. A typical Indonesian BOT toll road project is taken as the case study. Stochastic simulation using Latin Hypercube technique is applied on the cash flow model with and without guarantees. Several types of guarantees including minimum revenue guarantee, maximum interest rate guarantee, debt guarantee, tariff guarantee and minimum traffic guarantee are discussed. Simulation results reveal that guarantees can reduce risk but are not free of cost. If compared with equivalent subsidies, however, some guarantees can be more effective in lessening the extent of project risk.
Effective communication strategies in a franchise organization
Authors: Davis Paul James
Published: November 2004

Examines the nature and success of corporate communication initiatives within a large retail franchise organization. Challenges faced by communication strategists in franchised organisations are discussed and initiatives for overcoming these barriers are outlined. Research conducted through Deakin University into franchisee awareness of, and support for, corporate instigated policy is outlined. The research, centred on corporate communication tools, found strong franchisee awareness of corporate policy with a few exceptions. Franchisee support for policies varied considerably. Recommendations for more effective communication between franchisors and franchisees include greater corporate initiated consultation and clearer promotion of core ideas that justify and explain rather than preach and demand.
Can a city communicate? Bradford as a corporate brand
Authors: Trueman Myfanwy , Klemm Mary , Giroud Axele
Published: November 2004

This exploratory research examines how corporate communications can influence stakeholder perceptions to enhance or detract from the city as a brand. It uses the UK city of Bradford as a case study and adopts theoretical concepts of product and corporate branding. Balmer's AC2ID test of corporate identity is applied to identify gaps in the City's official communications strategy, revealing conflicting messages between local government policy and different stakeholder groups. This analysis points to the need for positive visual evidence of change, such as an improved built environment in the city centre. The analysis may have value for policy‐makers in the UK and elsewhere who seek to improve community and stakeholder relationships. This research may also help to promote an honest approach towards branding cities as well as providing the potential for an enhanced brand value.
Attitudes toward international careers among male and female Canadian business students after 9‐11
Authors: Wang Bruce C.Y. , Bu Nailin
Published: November 2004

Career aspirations of 145 senior undergraduate business students in Canada were analyzed. An overwhelming majority desired an overseas assignment at some point in their career, and they were not adversely affected by the 9‐11 terrorist attack. While 60 percent of the students considered pursuing a global career with multiple international assignments, 40 percent of those did so hesitantly. While receptivity to international careers was affected by the expectations of how such a career would enhance the quality of professional life and speed career advancement, willingness to accept a particular position was mostly influenced by the extent to which it would allow for a satisfying personal life. An international assignment would likely be rejected if it was at an undesirable location or would negatively affect family life. Women were as receptive to international careers as men, and multilingual students with foreign friends tended to have a strong interest in international careers.
The pattern of development and diffusion of breakthrough communication technologies
Authors: Ortt J. Roland , Schoormans Jan P.L.
Published: November 2004

Diffusion of many successful communication technologies, like telephony and television technology, follows an almost perfect S‐shaped curve. This curve implies that, after their introduction, subsequent sales of products on the basis of these technologies can be predicted accurately. However, the diffusion of other breakthroughs in communication technologies, like interactive television, videotelephony or broadband mobile communication technology, shows a more erratic pattern. Introduction of these technologies is often postponed or, once introduced, they are quickly withdrawn from the market after the first disappointing results. Rather than distinguishing alternative patterns, this article shows that the S‐shaped curve and the more erratic patterns represent subsequent phases in one pattern of development and diffusion of breakthrough communication technologies. Three phases are distinguished in this pattern. Managerial implications of the differences between these phases are discussed. the paper shows that a company trying to introduce a new communication technology has to adopt different strategies in each phase.
Is spectrum still a constraint for mobile telecommunications?
Authors: Gruber Harald
Published: November 2004

The paper sets out to reconcile some puzzles observed in the cellular mobile telecommunications industry. European auctions for 3G services led to unprecedented high spectrum licence fees in some countries. Some firms paying such high upfront fees did eventually forfeit rolling out the network or launching services. However, similar events happened in other countries, where the spectrum was assigned free but some licence holders decided not to launch services. The question therefore is why do some firms not pick up business opportunities provided by access to apparently scarce inputs? The paper presents an analytical framework to explore the conditions for such situations to arise.
Lessons from Alibaba.com: government's role in electronic contracting
Authors: Hu Qin , Wu Xun , Wang Clement K.
Published: November 2004

Although electronic commerce (e‐commerce) can be a source of competitive advantage, will e‐commerce businesses in countries like China flourish when governments still take a “wait‐and‐see attitude” as to prompting, protecting, and regulating e‐commerce? The paper employs transaction cost economics in analyzing the role of government in regulating electronic contracting. Due to the transaction costs arising from e‐commerce, explicit contracts between parties are usually incomplete. The paper argues that these contracts should always be backed by implicit contracts, which are determined by default rules in various governments. Therefore, it behoves governments urgently to fill gaps in incomplete contracts in e‐commerce in order to foster a predictable legal environment for e‐businesses, minimize legal risks and transaction costs, and maximize economic and social benefits. The authors believe that governments must also act in concert with one another at the international level to create a favorable and consistent commercial environment.
Wholesale pricing and local exchange competition
Authors: Wood Lisa V. , Zarakas William P. , Sappington David E.M.
Published: November 2004

Examines recent trends in local exchange competition in the US telecommunications industry. Shows that the predominant modes of operation by competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs) have been changing over time. These operating modes also vary substantially in different regions of the country. Provides a preliminary exploration of the role of potential profit in explaining the extent of overall CLEC activity. Also considers the role of prices in explaining variation in CLEC operating mode, and discuss possible additional determinants of CLEC activity that merit further investigation.
Students promoting economic development and environmental sustainability
Authors: Keen Cheryl , Baldwin Elizabeth
Published: November 2004

Community‐based research has been suggested as a particularly effective form of service learning in college‐community collaborations. This paper reviews findings from interviews with alumni/ae and community partners of an environmental and economic sustainability center at Allegheny College in Northwest Pennsylvania, the Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED). CEED's community‐based research projects have spanned the natural and social sciences to analyze water quality, reduce waste streams and local energy consumption, identify environmental problems and enhance forest management. Interviews with alumni/ae point to the valued real world experience, enhanced cognitive development, and improved communication skills for students. Community partners valued new information and networks resulting from research and stressed the contribution they were making to college students' learning. Community‐based research projects can benefit from interviewees' recommendations to increase continuity, clarity of purpose, and follow‐through in projects, while maximizing opportunities for dialogue between community partners and students. Community‐based research may have a strong contribution to make to students' cognitive, academic, social, civic and career development.
The role of social capital in today's economy
Authors: Bueno Eduardo , Paz Salmador Marí , Rodríguez Óscar
Published: November 2004

The rapid and well‐known evolution – considered by many observers to be revolutionary – from industrial society to knowledge society, defined by the importance of knowledge creation processes, is showing the relevance of the social capital of organizations. This study seeks to contribute to the development of this new concept. First, presents the theoretical background of social capital. Second, based on an intellectual capital approach, tests the situation of social capital in some Spanish companies, with a reference to the international landscape. The findings of the research support the convenience of the development of an integral framework for the management of intangibles that create future benefits, considering the relations with several social agents. Concludes by proposing a model of intellectual capital that expressly includes social capital.
The role of corporate reputation in developing relational capital
Authors: Martín de Castro Gregorio , López Sáez Pedro , Emilio Navas López José
Published: November 2004

In the present business landscape, relations between firms are one of the most valuable assets. This work points out the main agents to which firms are related, and which build up their relational capital. This proposal highlights the gathering of agents in different levels; one of them constituted by the relations with customers, suppliers, partners, and investors; and the second one related to the relations with state or public sector entities, regulatory institutions, and with the community, as part of a wider or more general environment. Once presented, relational capital, the strategic relevance of corporate reputation is discussed, with a trigger and moderator role for all the previously mentioned relations.
Are frequent customers always a company's intangible asset?
Authors: Joia Luiz Antonio
Published: November 2004

Since the early 1990s research has been conducted in an attempt to establish a viable and reliable manner of measuring the intangible assets, also referred to as the intellectual capital, of companies. Several models have been devised, most of them using indicators to evaluate the intangible assets of a given undertaking. In this article, exploratory single case study methodology is used to analyse the behaviour of the “customer retention” indicator, which has been widely used to evaluate a company's relationship capital. One of the largest Brazilian retailing groups is analysed, in order to obtain an in‐depth insight into the behaviour of its frequent customers via its digital channel. Conclusions are presented indicating that the role of the frequent customers in an e‐retailing company can sometimes be widely divergent from that presented in existing academic literature. Some managerial implications of these conclusions are also presented.
Measuring knowledge worker productivity
Authors: Ramírez Yuri W. , Nembhard David A.
Published: November 2004

The structure of the economy continues to change; where once they are dependent on the productivity of a manual workforce, companies increasingly depend on the productivity of knowledge workers. Today, knowledge workers account for more than two‐thirds of the workforce, and thus should be the focus of strategic plans to improve productivity. Currently there are no universally accepted methods to measure knowledge worker productivity, or even generally accepted categories. This paper provides a taxonomy of knowledge worker productivity measurements, and identifies a number of productivity dimensions that are used to categorize the findings of previous research. Also describes the relative density of discussions along these dimensions and identifies critical areas for future research.
Countercyclical Pricing in Customer Markets
Authors: Bagwell Kyle
Published: November 2004

I present a dynamic model of price determination in customer markets that are subject to exogenous business cycle fluctuations. The business cycle is described in terms of a Markov process, in which market demand alternates stochastically between fast growth (boom) and slow growth (recession) phases. In the consumers' preferred equilibrium outcome, (1) prices are below the monopoly level, and (2) prices are countercyclical when demand growth rates are positively correlated through time. A firm faces a dynamic trade‐off when making its current price selection. While a higher price may raise a firm's profit in the short term, it also may diminish the firm's reputation for low prices, leading to lower profits in the future.
Intermediated Search
Authors: Smith Eric
Published: November 2004

If buyers cannot observe product characteristics, they search available sellers to find better matches. In this situation, market go‐betweens who ‘manage’ a variety of products emerge, offering consumers a variety of trading opportunities which reduce the uncertainty of search and improve the quality of consumer–producer trades. The distribution of the benefits from this intermediation depend critically on the number of products available. When variety is low, increases in capacity heighten competition, thereby lowering prices. On the other hand, with many products on offer, retail firms act monopolistically. In this case, increased capacity raises prices.
Do Markets Drive Out Lemmings—or Vice Versa?
Authors: Hey John D. , Morone Andrea
Published: November 2004

This paper investigates experimentally a market inspired by two strands of literature: on herd behaviour in non‐market situations, and on the aggregation of private information in markets. The first strand suggests that socially undesirable herd behaviour may result when information is private; the second suggests that in a market context the price mechanism may cause the private information to be aggregated correctly and efficiently. This latter therefore suggests that socially undesirable behaviour may be eliminated through the market. We test this experimentally, and find that socially undesirable behaviour may result: the market is misled by agents privately optimizing.
Variation in Perspective: The Employment Success of Ethnic Minority Males in the Netherlands, 1988–2002
Authors: Bevelander Pieter , Veenman Justus
Published: November 2004

This article investigates the job chances of ethnic minority males in the Dutch labour market. Using information from the Social Position and Use of Facilities by Immigrants (SPVA) surveys for the years 1988, 1991, 1994, 1998, and 2002, we trace the employment pattern of various ethnic minority groups and Dutch natives, and study some determining factors for the job chances in the Netherlands during this period. The analysis reveals a clear variation in the employment patterns for different ethnic minority groups. Individual characteristics, such as marital status and especially educational level, turn out to be important factors in explaining the job chances for all groups. Moreover, support is found for the effect of the regional demand for labour on the employment chances for most of the analysed ethnic groups, which implies that no support is found for the queuing theory.
Refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina in Serbia: A Study of Refugee Selectivity
Authors: Lukic Vesna , Nikitovic Vladimir
Published: November 2004

This paper examines selectivity of refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina in Serbia with respect to certain demographic and socio‐economic structures. Analyses indicated that the demographic and socio‐economic characteristics of these refugees are significantly more favourable than those of other refugees in Serbia and those in the place of origin. The results show that refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina who, because of war, have sought refuge in Serbia are positively selective compared to the population that moved shorter distances (i.e. within the borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina) for the same reason.

Their educational level and participation in the Belgrade workforce, the main urban and functional centre and pole of demographic concentration, support the hypothesis that despite the forced nature of their migration, movement to Serbia as a destination rather than migration within Bosnia and Herzegovina was partly determined by economic factors in keeping with the structural characteristics of the refugees. The directions of recent refugee migrations from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Serbia have continued the historic trend of previous migrations on the territory of the former Yugoslavia. To be specific, the centres with the highest concentrations of recent refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina are precisely those municipalities with the greatest number of persons who migrated from Bosnia and Herzegovina before 1991.
Fish drift in a Danube sidearm‐system: II. Seasonal and diurnal patterns
Authors: Zitek A. , Schmutz S. , Ploner A.
Published: November 2004

Seasonal and diurnal patterns of larval and juvenile fish drift were investigated in the Marchfeldkanal, a man‐made side branch of the Danube River near Vienna, Austria. A clear seasonal pattern with peak densities in mid‐June was found. Species composition varied over time, showed a site specific pattern and was dominated by tubenose goby Proterorhinus marmoratus. Water temperature was the main factor responsible for the increase of drift densities until the median drift date and repeated occurrence of early larval stages in drift indicated repeated spawning for many species. Significant differences in drift densities between different time periods of the day (day, dusk, night and dawn) were found for common bream Abramis brama, barbel Barbus barbus, chub Leuciscus cephalus, tubenose goby and roach Rutilus rutilus. The highest drift rates occurred at night (2200–0400 hours), with 86% of all larvae drifting during the hours of darkness. Fish larvae of different lengths drifting at different phases of the day were found for common bream, bleak Alburnus alburnus and chub, with largest larvae drifting during dusk (chub) and day (bleak and common bream). For bleak, all gudgeon species Gobio spp., tubenose goby, roach and for all cyprinid species combined, one 2 h night sample was found to be sufficient to predict the total 24 h drift.
Nitrogen metabolism and excretion in Allenbatrachus grunniens(L): effects of variable salinity, confinement, high pH and ammonia loading
Authors: Walsh P. J. , Wei Z. , Wood C. M. , Loong A. M. , Hiong K. C. , Lee S. M. L. , Wong W. P. , Chew S. F. , Ip Y. K.
Published: November 2004

The nitrogen metabolism and excretion patterns of the grunting toadfish Allenbatrachus grunniens and the effects of salinity on these processes were examined. Individuals of A. grunniens were subjected to several experimental treatments, including variable salinity (2 to 30), high pH (8·5 compared to 7·0 for controls), high environmental ammonia (10 mM) and confinement to small water volumes, and measurements were made of activities of selected enzymes of nitrogen metabolism, ammonia and urea excretion rates, and tissue and plasma contents of ammonia, urea and amino acids. Activities of key ornithine‐urea cycle enzymes were rather low (e.g. liver carbamoyl phosphate synthetase III activity was 0·001 μmols min−1 g−1), and A. grunniens consistently demonstrated a low capacity for urea excretion despite significant elevations of plasma and tissue ammonia contents by the high pH and high ammonia treatments. This species could thus be categorized as ammoniotelic. Total free amino acid contents in plasma and tissues were increased by the high pH and high ammonia treatments, but no patterns were discerned in individual amino acids that would indicate any preferential accumulation (e.g. alanine and glutamine) as has been noted previously in several semi‐terrestrial fish species. Thus, it appeared that A. grunniens was not unusual in its patterns of nitrogen metabolism and excretion in comparison to other ‘typical’ teleosts. Furthermore, manipulation of salinity had no major effects on nitrogen excretion in either this species or in comparative studies with the ureotelic gulf toadfish Opsanus beta. The results are discussed in the context of the broader pattern of nitrogen metabolism and excretion in the Batrachoididae.
Chemical‐physical properties of lipoproteins in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Curatola G. , Camilloni M. A. , Vignini A. , Nanetti L. , Boscaro M. , Mazzanti L.
Published: November 2004

Background  Anorexia nervosa (AN), a psychosomatic disorder, has serious negative effects on multiple organs and systems of the human body. Anorexia nervosa usually runs a chronic course and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

In order to elucidate the role played by lipids in AN, in the present study we compared the plasma lipid profile and the chemical‐physical properties of lipoproteins obtained from subjects affected by AN.

Materials and methods  The study was performed on lipoproteins of AN subjects and of age‐matched healthy subjects used as controls. We tested the susceptibility to oxidative stress in vitro, the fatty acid content, the fluidity using 2‐dimethylamino‐(6‐lauroyl)‐naphthalene (Laurdan) and 1,6‐difenil‐1,3,5‐esatriene (DPH) probes.

Results  Present results indicate that AN patients present a deep alteration of the composition and of chemical‐physical properties in circulating lipoproteins, even in the absence of significant modifications to clinical metabolic parameters. A significantly decreased body mass index (BMI) was found in AN patients in comparison with controls. Anorexia nervosa patients showed a significant modification of phospholipids to protein ratio and a significantly increased percentage of unsaturated fatty acids compared with control subjects as well as a decreased fluidity, a significantly increased percentage of liquid‐crystalline phase in VLDL, and a significantly reduced susceptibility to oxidative stress, more pronounced in LDL.

Conclusions  These results confirm the hypothesis that anorexia is accompanied by changes of lipid metabolism in the central nervous system (CNS).
Predictors of health behaviours in college students
Authors: Von Ah Diane , Ebert Sheryl , Ngamvitroj Anchalee , Park Najin , Kang Duck‐Hee
Published: November 2004

Aim.  This paper reports a study examining the direct effects of perceived stress, perceived availability of and satisfaction with social support, and self‐efficacy, and examines the intermediary roles of perceived threat (perceived susceptibility ×perceived severity), benefits, and barriers on alcohol behaviour, smoking behaviour, physical activity and nutrition behaviour, general safety behaviour and sun‐protective behaviour in college students.

Background.  Health behaviours formed during young adulthood may have a sustaining impact on health across later life. Entering college can be an exciting, yet stressful event for many adolescents and young adults as they face trying to adapt to changes in academic workloads, support networks, and their new environment. Coupled with these changes and new‐found responsibilities, they have greater freedom and control over their lifestyles than ever before. However, researchers have shown globally that many college students engage in various risky health behaviours.

Method.  A cross‐sectional sample of 161 college students enrolled in an introductory psychology course completed self‐report questionnaires regarding stress; social support; self‐efficacy; and components of the Health Belief Model including perceived threat, perceived benefits, perceived barriers; and common health behaviours. Step‐wise multiple regression analysis was conducted and significant predictors were retained as modifiers in the path analysis.

Findings.  Self‐efficacy significantly predicted alcohol and smoking behaviour, physical activity and nutrition protective behaviour, general safety protective behaviour and sun‐protective behaviour. Under high‐perceived threat, self‐efficacy was mediated by perceived barriers for binge drinking and moderated by perceived barriers for physical activity and nutrition behaviours. In addition, under high‐perceived threat, self‐efficacy was moderated by perceived threat for alcohol use at 30 days and 6 months. Under low threat, self‐efficacy was mediated by perceived barriers for smoking behaviour and general safety protective behaviours.

Conclusions.  Future health promotion programmes with college students must use interventions that maximize self‐efficacy and ultimately reduce barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Developing concept maps from problem‐based learning scenario discussions
Authors: Hsu Li‐Ling
Published: November 2004

Aims.  This paper reports a study examining the effects of adopting concept mapping in problem‐based learning scenario discussions on the improvement of students’ learning outcomes in a nursing course.

Background.  Students in Taiwan usually have a high degree of anxiety about whether or not they have learned enough. Problem‐based learning is a method of teaching that uses a patient situation or scenario to stimulate students to acquire and apply information to solve problems. Concept mapping can promote problem‐solving and critical thinking to help students organize complex patient data, process complex relationships and offer holistic care to patients.

Methods.  An experimental design was used, with participants randomly assigned either to a control or experimental group. The experimental group participated in six problem‐based learning scenario discussions during the 16‐week semester, while the control group attended a traditional course.

Results.  The experimental group had significantly higher proposition and hierarchy scores for their concept maps compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in the cross‐link and example scores between the two groups. In general, the total score difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance levels. Only one student in the experimental group obtained a high score; most participants in both groups (over 50%) obtained low scores.

Conclusions.  Concept mapping strategies may be useful for analysis of individual student's thinking processes for (1) emphasizing key concepts or main ideas, (2) understanding relationships between different concepts, including cause–effect and part–whole relationships, (3) reviewing propositions, hierarchies and cross‐links in a logically scientific way, and (4) revising concept structures to agree with theory and experience.
Advanced practice nursing roles: development, implementation and evaluation
Authors: Bryant‐Lukosius Denise , DiCenso Alba , Browne Gina , Pinelli Janet
Published: November 2004

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to discuss six issues influencing the introduction of advanced practice nursing (APN) roles: confusion about APN terminology, failure to define clearly the roles and goals, role emphasis on physician replacement/support, underutilization of all APN role domains, failure to address environmental factors that undermine the roles, and limited use of evidence‐based approaches to guide their development, implementation and evaluation.

Background.  Health care restructuring in many countries has led to substantial increases in the different types and number of APN roles. The extent to which these roles truly reflect advanced nursing practice is often unclear. The misuse of APN terminology, inconsistent titling and educational preparation, and misguided interpretations regarding the purpose of these roles pose barriers to realizing their full potential and impact on health. Role conflict, role overload, and variable stakeholder acceptance are frequently reported problems associated with the introduction of APN roles.

Discussion.  Challenges associated with the introduction of APN roles suggests that greater attention to and consistent use of the terms of the terms advanced nursing practice, advancement and advanced practice nursing is required. Advanced nursing practice refers to the work or what nurses do in the role and is important for defining the specific nature and goals for introducing new APN roles. The concept of advancement further defines the multi‐dimensional scope and mandate of advanced nursing practice and distinguishes differences from other types of nursing roles. Advanced practice nursing refers to the whole field, involving a variety of such roles and the environments in which they exist. Many barriers to realizing the full potential of these roles could be avoided through better planning and efforts to address environmental factors, structures, and resources that are necessary for advanced nursing practice to take place.

Conclusions.  Recommendations for the future introduction of APN roles can be drawn from this paper. These include the need for a collaborative, systematic and evidence‐based process designed to provide data to support the need and goals for a clearly defined APN role, support a nursing orientation to advanced practice, promote full utilization of all the role domains, create environments that support role development, and provide ongoing evaluation of these roles related to predetermined goals.
Malassezia yeasts in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Aspres Nicholas , Anderson Chris
Published: November 2004

SUMMARY Atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition, the aetiology of which is multifactorial, involving genetic, immunological and environmental factors. In recent years, it has been suggested that various microbial organisms may also be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Yeasts belonging to the Malassezia genus have received particular attention. These yeasts, known to be a part of the normal skin flora, have been shown to be capable of inducing immunoglobulin (Ig)E‐mediated and T‐cell mediated immune responses postulated to contribute to chronic inflammation in the skin, particularly in the head and neck region, where colonization with Malassezia is the greatest. Considerable evidence now exists to support this idea, raising the possibility that specific antifungal therapy may be a useful treatment measure in some atopic patients who have a head and neck pattern of dermatitis.
Gallbladder vasculitis associated with cutaneous leucocytoclastic vasculitis
Authors: Manoharan Shobhan , Muir James
Published: November 2004

SUMMARY A 72‐year‐old woman presented with a 1‐week history of a painful, purpuric, pruritic rash on her legs, buttocks and arms. Skin biopsy revealed histological features typical of leucocytoclastic vasculitis. She was admitted, her usual medications were withheld, and she was commenced on ibuprofen and loratadine. The patient had undergone a laparoscopic cholecystectomy 2 months prior to her rash appearing. She had been having upper abdominal pain for 2 years and, following a more severe acute episode, an abdominal ultrasound scan had revealed a solitary cholelithiasis. Histology of the gallbladder revealed acute fibrinoid vasculitis in two small arteries, on a background of chronic cholecystitis. A mild postoperative wound infection was treated with a short course of cephalexin and no other investigations were conducted. As an inpatient, the patient's rash improved, but she progressed to develop systemic vasculitis and acute renal failure. Renal biopsy showed focal necrotizing glomerulonephritis, consistent with vasculitis. She was subsequently commenced on cyclophosphamide 100 mg daily, prednisolone 50 mg daily and one prophylactic trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole (160 mg/800 mg) tablet 3 days/week. Following discharge, the patient's cutaneous vasculitis eventually resolved and renal function gradually improved. Her prednisolone was gradually reduced to 7 mg daily and cyclophosphamide was weaned, then substituted with azathioprine 100 mg daily.
Bowen's disease of the nail bed
Authors: Mirza Basit , Muir James B
Published: November 2004

SUMMARY A 77‐year‐old man presented with a 2‐year history of left thumbnail dystrophy, purulent discharge and aching pain. There was no history of trauma. On examination there was a linear area of nail dystrophy and dyschromia of the nail bed. The nail plate was thinned proximally. No other digits were affected. There was no lymphadenopathy. X‐ray of the digit was normal. Longitudinal nail biopsy revealed Bowen's disease along the length of the nail bed and nail matrix specimen. After avulsion of the nail plate, the nail matrix and tumour were fully excised. The defect was repaired with a split‐skin graft. His symptoms were relieved.
Allergic contact dermatitis to a sanitary pad
Authors: Rademaker Marius
Published: November 2004

SUMMARY A 13‐year‐old girl presented with a recurring vulval dermatitis that started several days after first using a sanitary pad. The rash settled but recurred with subsequent use of the same sanitary pads. Patch testing revealed a marked sensitivity (3+) to colophony (rosin). She denied previous reactions to adhesive tape/sticking plaster. During patch testing she also developed reactions to a black permanent waterproof marking pen used to mark the site of patch tests. The ink of this pen also contained colophony.
Textile dye allergic contact dermatitis following paraphenylenediamine sensitization from a temporary tattoo
Authors: Saunders Helen , O'Brien Timothy , Nixon Rosemary
Published: November 2004

SUMMARY Textile dye allergy is frequently caused by azo dyes, which can cross‐react with structurally similar compounds, including paraphenylenediamine. A case of allergic contact dermatitis to azo textile dyes, presenting principally as a sock dermatitis, is presented. The patient also gave a history of an episode of scalp dermatitis consistent with contact allergy to paraphenylenediamine in hair dye. It is proposed that paraphenylenediamine sensitization from a temporary skin tattoo may have been the primary sensitizing event for these reactions.
Extinctions of herbivorous mammals in the late Pleistocene of Australia in relation to their feeding ecology: No evidence for environmental change as cause of extinction
Authors: Johnson C. N. , Prideaux G. J.
Published: November 2004

Abstract   There has been debate over the cause of the extinction of ‘megafauna’ species during the late Pleistocene of Australia. One view is that environmental change, either natural or human‐induced, was the main factor in the extinctions. Some support for this comes from the observation that, among herbivores, most of the species that went extinct were apparently browsers rather than grazers. Browsers would presumably have been more dependent on shrubland and woodland habitats than grazers, and it has been argued that such habitats might have contracted in response to aridity or changed fire regimes in the late Pleistocene. Here, we test this idea by comparing extinction rates of browsers and grazers in the late Pleistocene, controlling for body mass in both groups. We show that in both browsers and grazers the probability of extinction was very strongly related to body mass, and the body mass at which extinction became likely was similar in the two groups. It is true that more browsers than grazers went extinct, but this is largely because most very large herbivores in the late Pleistocene were browsers, not because large browsers were more likely to go extinct than similarly sized grazers. This result provides evidence against some forms of environmental change as a cause of the extinctions.
Unexpected relationships and valuable mistakes: non‐myrmecochorous Prosopis dispersed by messy leafcutting ants in harvesting their seeds
Authors: Milesi Fernando A. , Lopez De Casenave Javier
Published: November 2004

Abstract  Ants generally disperse seeds while feeding on fruits or structures attached to the seed. Seed dispersal as a by‐product of seed predation (dyszoochory) was recognized in specialized harvester ants, but not in ants predating seeds opportunistically. Leafcutting ants are the main herbivores in much of the Neotropics, and they have been reported to remove fruits and seeds, but their role as seed predators and dispersers has not been acknowledged. Prosopis flexuosa D.C. (Fabaceae, Mimosoideae) is the most abundant tree species in the central Monte Desert, Argentina, and it is likely to depend on secondary animal dispersal. Mammalian frugivores are usually considered its main dispersers, but the opportunity for dispersal may be small since the removal of fruits and seeds by seed predators is very intense. The objective of this study was to identify which ant species interact with P. flexuosa fruits and to evaluate their relative importance as seed predators and dispersers. In a field experiment, whole and segmented pods were offered and several ant species exploiting the fruits were identified. Additionally, all pod segments remaining around nests of the three ant species able to remove them (the leafcutters Acromyrmex lobicornis Emery and Acromyrmex striatus Roger, and Pheidole bergi Mayr) were examined during and after the P. flexuosa primary dispersal season. Up to 753 pod segments and 90 sound seeds were found accumulated in a circle of 1 m radius over nests of A. lobicornis, and even more in an examined trail. Acromyrmex striatus left a smaller proportion of sound seeds and P. bergi left a smaller number of pod segments. All tendencies were similar during shorter known periods of accumulation. Leafcutting ants are acting as important seed predators, and ‘by mistake’ may be dispersing a key non‐myrmecochorous tree. This is an unexplored path in the seed dispersal cycle of P. flexuosa that challenges the tendency to predict interactions based on classifications made with other goals.
Effects of Fire on the Abundance of Xenarthrans in Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Prada Manrique , Marinho‐Filho Jader
Published: November 2004

Abstract  Fire is an important ecological factor in Cerrado vegetation of central Brazil, and in other savanna ecosystems. The effect of fire on the abundance of some Xenarthran mammal species Priodontes maximus Kerr, 1792 (giant armadillo), Euphractus sexcinctus Linnaeus, 1758 (yellow armadillo) and Myrmecophaga tridactyla Linnaeus, 1758 (giant anteater)) was studied at Reserva Xavante do Rio das Mortes, a 329 000 ha Xavante Indian reserve in the Cerrado of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Track counts were used to compare the abundance of these mammals along seven burned and seven unburned transects, on seven occasions between August 1995 and August 1996. The number of tracks in burned and unburned areas did not differ. Xenarthrans probably use burned areas to obtain food resources, basically termites and ants. Xavante traditional fire hunts may reduce fuel accumulation and function as a mechanism to prevent more destructive fires. Fire management at Reserva Xavante is recommended because the burning system of Brazilian farmers is already influencing the Xavante community. Xavante traditional knowledge about fire could be an important instrument for this management.
Composition, size and dynamics of the seed bank in a mediterranean shrubland of Chile
Authors: Figueroa Javier A. , Teillier Sebastián , Jaksic Fabian M.
Published: November 2004

Abstract  Analysis was performed of the richness and abundance of woody species, forbs, and annual grasses in the easily germinating soil seed bank (henceforth seed bank) in a mediterranean shrubland of central Chile. The effects of successional development after fire and by microsite type (underneath or outside shrubs) on the density of seeds in the soil, and the relationship of species abundance in the seed bank with its abundance in the above‐ground vegetation was examined. A total of 64 plant species were recorded in the seed bank, of which 44 were annual or biannual. Eight species were woody and another eight were perennial herbs. Four could not be identified to species level. The highest richness of established herbaceous species was recorded in late spring, with 31 species. The regeneration of the herbaceous vegetation was driven by the annual production of seeds and by a reserve of short‐lived propagules in the soil. Density of all germinating seeds was significantly higher during late spring and late summer. Density of grass seeds was greater during late spring, while that of all other species was greater during late summer. Annual grass seeds accumulated in higher proportion at exposed microsites rather than under woody canopy, and in young (< 5 years old) and intermediate‐age patches (10–20 years old) rather than in mature vegetation (30–50 years old). The abundance of established woody and herb species was uncorrelated with that of the seed bank.