bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust Parameter Design via Taguchi’s Approach and Neural Network
Authors: Tsai Jeh‐Hsin , Lu Iuan‐Yuan
Published: February 2011

The parameter design is the most emphasized measure by researchers for a new products development. It is critical for makers to achieve simultaneously in both the time‐to‐market production and the quality enhancement. However, there are difficulties in practical application, such as (1) complexity and nonlinear relationships co‐existed among the system’s inputs, outputs and control parameters, (2) interactions occurred among parameters, (3) where the adjustment factors of Taguchi’s two‐phase optimization procedure cannot be sure to exist in practice, and (4) for some reasons, the data became lost or were never available. For these incomplete data, the Taguchi methods cannot treat them well. Neural networks have a learning capability of fault tolerance and model free characteristics. These characteristics support the neural networks as a competitive tool in processing multivariable input‐output implementation. The successful fields include diagnostics, robotics, scheduling, decision‐making, prediction, etc. This research is a case study of spherical annealing model. In the beginning, an original model is used to pre‐fix a model of parameter design. Then neural networks are introduced to achieve another model. Study results showed both of them could perform the highest spherical level of quality.
The Free Flow of Excellence Toward the Field‐Being Approach to TQM
Authors: Pavlovic Dusan
Published: February 2011

The concept of Total Quality Management may be perceived from different philosophical perspectives. In this paper we shall present a view on TQM from the perspective of Field‐Being philosophy and compare it with the alternative philosophical views. From the perspective of Field‐Being philosophy, the goal of TQM is to achieve the free flow of excellence at all levels: individual, team and organizational. By overcoming rigidity in thinking, behavior and performance TQM turns into an art – the Art of Quality Management, which is the source of true stakeholder delight.
The Role Effect Loyalty of Internet: A Causal Model
Authors: Soo Kim Gye
Published: February 2011

The Internet can provide benefits obtained from changing the structure of a business, such as emphasizing the importance of different types of personnel. In addition, the Internet alters the process for business activity, both within and outside the organization. Using structural equation modeling, I empirically test a number of hypothesized relationship based on a sample of 126 Internet Community users. The results are as follows: loyalty is significantly influenced by trust and relationship, repeat purchase is significantly influenced by e‐loyalty. In addition, word of mouth is significantly influenced by e‐loyalty.
A Modified Target Costing Technique to Improve Product Quality from Cost Consideration
Authors: Wu Hsin‐Hung
Published: February 2011

The target costing technique, mathematically discussed by Sauers, only uses the Cp index along with Taguchi loss function X − R control charts to set up goal control limits. The new specification limits derived from Taguchi loss function is linked through the Cp value to X − R control charts to obtain goal control limits. This study further considers the reflected normal loss function as well as the Cpk index along with its lower confidence interval in forming goal control limits. Withe the use of lower confidence interval to replace the point estimator of the Cpk index and reflected normal loss function proposed by Spring to measure the loss to society, this modified and improved target costing technique would become more robust and applicable in practice. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate how this modified and improved target costing technique works.
Managing Knowledge Creating Relationships
Authors: Gadman Sean
Published: February 2011

The internet is enabling a new economy based on the networking of human knowledge. While the benefits of connecting people to people, people to information and people to data within an organization are becoming more recognized and appreciated, much less is known about managing knowledge creation and dissemination across corporate boundaries. This paper addresses the challenges associated with selecting the best collaborative strategy and managing relationships which span organizational cultures and boundaries.
Corporate Reengineering for MRPII Implementation: Via a Hierarchical Modelling Approach
Authors: Chang Jimmy S.F. , Chau K.Y. , Chan Y.K.
Published: February 2011

Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRPII) is one kind of manufacturing information system that can help manufacturing companies gain competitive advantages. It is estimated that more than one hundred MRPII systems are available in the market, many of them are mature enough to solve most operational issues in accordance with users’ requirements. More often than not, many of these systems provide more functions than a company expects. Manufacturing companies worldwide have attempted to implement thse MRPII systems, however, many companies experienced failure due to managerial rather than technical issues. The authors propose an approach utilising a roadmap to integrate BPR and the MRPII implementation in order to overcome this difficulty. A detail road map is developed to guide this implementation, which is designed using a hierarchical analysis technique known as Integrated DEFinition Method (IDE). IDEF is a systematic manufacturing management and integration‐modeling tool. The proposed approach is implemented and illustrated using a reference company and the results indicated that 66 per cent reduction in errors for maintaining the bills of materials system; 99 per cent reduction in time to carry out material requirement planning; and 70 per cent reduction in time previously taken for non‐productive discussions.
A Further Development of TQM Model: Meeting Organisational Development Needs
Authors: Chan Y.K. , Chan Jimmy S.F. , Chau K.Y.
Published: February 2011

While there are many successful cases where application of the TQM model has reaped substantial benefits, there is little attempt to further develop the TQM model to meet organisations’ development needs. The purpose of this paper is introduce the process of development of a fit‐for‐purpose management system model to meet the development needs of the MTR Corporation Limited, a metro company of Hong Kong. The new management system model is formulated based on the previous research results on TQM but comprises a new approach to bridging their pitfalls. The formulation of the TMS elements is based on the common factors of four National Quality Awards (Japan, USA, Europe and Australia) and the critical factors developed by seven studies. These studies include those of Saraph et al. (1989), Flynn et al. (1994), Anderson et al. (1995), Powell (1995), Handfield and Ghosh (1995), Black and Porter (1996), and Ahire et al. (1996).
Development of a Quality Manual for a Research and Educational Centre: A Case Study
Authors: Fai Pun Kit , Ellis Ruel L.A. , Chan Laverne
Published: February 2011

There have been growing concerns about whether proper measures are in place to ensure the delivery of quality services and the operations in research and educational institutions. This paper describes various quality models and discusses their relevance into the total quality concepts and quality management systems (QMS) in education. It then illustrates how a QMS and the accompanied quality manual be developed in a research and educational institution using the Centre for Enterprise Research Integration (ERI) a The University of the West Indies, Trinidad as a case. Through personal interviews with the Centre’s personnel, views on the operations and determinants of the QMS were acquired. Results showed that the people’s resistance to changes, conflicts on academic freedom, and difficulties on measuring performance were the obstacles to QMS implementation. People involvement and proper communication are determinants of QMS implementation. The system also rests on having a tailored quality manual that entails the documentation of processes and procedures for ascertaining the delivery of quality services and operations in the Centre. The development of quality manual is briefly described in the paper.
Corporate Social Responsibility: A Survey of the Italian SA8000 Certified Companies
Authors: La Rosa Salvatore , Lo Franco Eva
Published: February 2011

Today’s society requires companies to act more and more effectively for the general good, by respecting human rights and the environment. Innovative and enlightened companies try to meet this need through the adoption of several initiatives. Accordingly, the International Standard Organisation is now working on attempts to unify these initiatives and to formulate an internationally recognised standard, providing guidance to companies on social responsibility. Currently the SA8000 international standard is the most often used tool – based on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) philosophy – which guarantees the respect of fundamental workers’ rights. Since 2003, Italy holds the world record for its number of SA8000 certified companies. This paper discusses the findings of a two‐stage survey of the Italian SA8000 certified companies carried out over the last two years. The focus of the survey is on both reasons and effects of the implementation of SA8000 standard. In the first stage the rate of response was very high while in the second stage it was satisfactory. The results provide a clear picture of the companies and their degree of achivement and awareness of the fundamental principles of human resource management. A section of the survey deals with some issues related to the Public Sector.
Neighborhood preferences of house buyers: the case of Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: Teck‐Hong Tan
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The paper attempts to examine the impacts of neighborhood types, as defined by a gated‐guarded neighborhood with landscape compound and a freehold tenure neighborhood on residential property values in Klang Valley, Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A weighted least squares method together with a heteroscedasticity consistent covariance matrix estimator is used to estimate the coefficients of structural, locational and neighborhood attributes of dwellings on house prices.

Findings

Results show that the gated‐guarded neighborhood with landscape compound could increase residential property values by 18.1 per cent. Additionally, the positive perception of a freehold property in the neighborhood could induce a price premium of 23.7 per cent.

Research limitations/implications

It is reasonable to believe that neighborhood types play a role in determining residential property values.

Practical implications

In order to meet the increasingly affluent and discerning house buyers, developers, instead of just offering dream homes in prime locations, should provide intangible benefits in the neighborhood that are just as sought after by today's house buyers – such as a sense of security in the landscape compound, a feeling of harmony with one's surroundings and an infrastructure which supports the lifestyle of house buyers.

Originality/value

House buyers in Malaysia are increasingly aware of the value of gated‐guarded and freehold neighborhoods. However, there is little evidence to assess the value provided by such neighborhoods in Klang Valley, Malaysia. The paper aims to determine the responsiveness of the willingness to pay to changes in neighborhood types.
An econometric panel data‐based approach for housing price forecasting in Iran
Authors: Hadavandi Esmaeil , Ghanbari Arash , Mohsen Mirjani S. , Abbasian Salman
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate long‐run elasticities for housing prices in Tehran's (capital of Iran) 20 different zones relative to several explanatory variables available for use such as land price, total substructure area, material price, etc. Moreover, another goal of this paper is to propose a new approach to deal with problems which arise due to a lack of proper data.

Design/methodology/approach

The data set is gathered from “The Municipality of Tehran” and “The Central Bank of Islamic Republic of Iran (CBI)”. One‐way fixed effects and one‐way random effects approaches (which are panel data approaches) are applied to model housing price forecasting function in Tehran's 20 different zones. Results are compared with ordinary least squares approach which is a common approach in this field. Finally, outcomes of the preferred approach are discussed and analyzed with regard to the economic point of view.

Findings

Results show that one‐way fixed effects approach provides more accurate forecasts and can be considered as a suitable tool to deal with housing price forecasting problems in environments which are: uncertain, complex, and faced with a lack of proper data. Moreover, it is found that land price is the most effective factor that has impact on total housing cost in Tehran, i.e. the main portion of house prices in Tehran is affected by land price, so appropriate policies have to be made by the government to control fluctuations of this factor.

Practical implications

The proposed approach will supply policy makers with improved estimations with decreased errors in uncertain and complex environments which are faced with a lack of proper data, and it extracts valuable information which enables policy makers for handling non‐linearity, complexity, as well as uncertainty that may exist in actual data sets with respect to housing price forecasting. Moreover, the proposed approach can be applied to similar housing price case studies to obtain more accurate and more reliable outcomes.

Originality/value

Applying panel data approach for estimation of housing prices is relatively new in the field of housing economics. Moreover, this is the first study which employs panel data approach for analyzing the housing market in Tehran.
Developing affordable housing design for low income in Sana'a, Yemen
Authors: Alaghbari Wa'el , Salim Azizah , Dola Kamariah , Abdullah Abang Ali Abang
Published: February 2011

Purpose

Housing costs are very high in Yemen compared with Middle East countries, which caused a shortage of housing supply especially for low‐income groups. This paper aims to develop affordable housing design for people with low income and to examine their ability to afford houses in Sana'a, Yemen.

Design/methodology/approach

Two different questionnaires were used to achieve the study objectives. The first one was to examine the requirements and needs of low‐income groups, while the second was to analyze the feedback of professionals in relevant housing authorities in Sana'a. An affordable house design methodology was used to design alternatives of low‐income housing in order to minimize cost and environmental impact while maximizing the social acceptability in housing projects.

Findings

The results show that the low‐income group can afford new houses in Sana'a in consideration of the following: constructing multi‐storey housing units such as apartment system through using the concrete frame structure and building the internal and external walls with concrete blocks with limited areas (65‐120) square meters.

Originality/value

The findings could be used to improve housing affordability through housing policies in Yemen in order to decrease the housing shortage particularly for the low‐income group.
The implementation of social responsibility in purchasing in Hong Kong/Pearl River Delta
Authors: Antonio
Published: February 2011

Purpose

In response to stakeholder concerns for social responsibility in global supply chains, companies have implemented codes of conduct in outsourcing activities. The purpose of this paper is to examine empirically how a multinational buying office implements its social responsibility and the codes in purchasing activities in the Hong Kong and Pearl River Delta (HK/PRD) region.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reports a case study that reviews the experience from three sourcing projects of a multinational buying office in the HK/PRD region. This company has successfully adopted purchasing social responsibility (PSR) practices for years.

Findings

The results show that the environment, ethics, health and safety, and human rights are more important than diversity, community, and financial responsibility in PSR practices in the HK/PRD region. The benefits of adopting PSR include reduced operating costs, enhanced brand image and reputation, increased sales and customer loyalty, increased productivity and quality, increased ability to attract and retain employees, and risk management. The challenges include the cost of compliance, communication with uneducated workers, conflicts among different codes of conduct and sub‐contracting.

Research limitations/implications

The paper reflects the recent PSR situation in the HK/PRD region, primarily giving new insights for future research.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical evidence on PSR implementation in the HK/PRD region, proposing seven core/non‐core dimensions of PSR and identifying the benefits and obstacles to its implementation. The paper provides academic and managerial guidelines for implementing PSR practices in the HK/PRD region.
How green is my outsourcer? Measuring sustainability in global IT outsourcing
Authors: Babin Ron , Nicholson Brian
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the intersection of sustainability and global IT outsourcing (GITO). GITO is well established as a business practice towards reducing costs and improving performance. Sustainability issues related to carbon footprint and greenhouse gases are increasingly important for all organizations. Responsible and economic energy management is a critical business capability and environmental responsibility in global outsourcing.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on empirical work undertaken in the UK and North America together with content analysis of public data from leading GITO providers, this paper presents a model for measuring sustainability in outsourcing.

Findings

The research findings demonstrate a growing environmental maturity in GITO firms, as measured against external recognized standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative, the Carbon Disclosure Project, the UN Global Compact and the ISO environmental and social responsibility standards.

Practical implications

In the context of social, economic and political discussions regarding sustainability, this paper contributes to our practical and theoretical understanding of GITO providers and the impact of environmental issues in outsourcing.

Social implications

Consumers, governments and society at large demonstrate increasing expectations for sustainability from all organizations. Outsourcers can provide improved sustainability capability to their buyers in this important area.

Originality/value

Environmental and social responsibility in global outsourcing has received little attention in academic research. This paper provides a starting point for further investigation of the role of sustainability in outsourcing.
Damage mitigation for school buildings in seismically vulnerable regions
Authors: Kit Miyamoto H. , Gilani Amir S.J. , Wada Akira
Published: February 2011

Purpose

School buildings have suffered disproportionate damage during past and recent earthquakes. For example, during the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, many school buildings collapsed, resulting in loss of life. School buildings in many other parts of the world are also susceptible to this type of widespread damage because of inadequate design, detailing, or poor construction quality. The purpose of this paper is to show how these fatal flaws can be mitigated prior to future catastrophe by using good engineering practice to retrofit vulnerable schools.

Design/methodology/approach

Conventional and innovative, cost‐effective, and reliable tools are available to prevent damage to schools. It is often necessary to examine a group of buildings or all structures in a locality and develop a comprehensive risk management plan for the vulnerable buildings. As an example, a comprehensive evaluation and retrofit project, under the auspices of the World Bank, is currently under way in Istanbul, Turkey, to address vulnerable school and hospital buildings as discussed in the paper. As part of this effort in Turkey, a guideline that relies on state‐of‐the‐art evaluation and retrofit methods has been developed to assist the local engineers.

Findings

Implementation of the program based on the uniform standards developed in the retrofit guidelines, has significantly reduced the seismic risk to schools in Istanbul.

Practical implications

The proposed evaluation and implementation technique can be utilized by governments worldwide to prevent further damage to key infrastructure and save millions of lives.

Originality/value

Innovative retrofits can be used to provide enhanced performance and provide seismic resiliency for cluster of school buildings.
Developing Rwanda's schools infrastructure standards and guidelines
Authors: Hirano Seki , Kayumba Eudes , Grafweg Annika , Kelman Ilan
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the experience of those directly involved in drafting the new national school infrastructure standards and guidelines for Rwanda.

Design/methodology/approach

The process that was followed in Rwanda, the successes, and the challenges to overcome are reported from the field experience of those involved in the process.

Findings

Despite a devastating genocide in 1994 and faced with continual underdevelopment and resource challenges, the commitment of Rwandans to safe and quality education illustrates how much can be achieved.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of the work in Rwanda was practical, yet this paper reports fundamental data from the field which are analysed within wider contexts.

Practical implications

Rwanda is making progress towards its medium‐term education goals, based on international standards and agreements. The lessons can apply to other locations to avoid some of the pitfalls that Rwanda experienced.

Social implications

If progress towards safe and quality education in Rwanda continues at the same pace for the next several years, then the country will have a baseline educated population from which to continue the efforts towards development.

Originality/value

The case study of Rwanda is relatively unique in the literature. The process followed is fairly standard for development work, but has value in indicating that it can be successful, especially with regards to inclusiveness, in a post‐political violence context.
Human intervention in freshwater ecosystems drives disease emergence
Authors: PEELER EDMUND J. , FEIST STEPHEN W.
Published: February 2011

1. We present a causal web to map some important anthropogenic drivers (long‐distance movement of live aquatic animals, large‐scale movements of animal products and farming practices) via proximate causes to different types of emerging disease.

2. The long‐distance movement of animals and their pathogens and parasites will directly lead to increased geographical distribution. In addition, the introduction of non‐native species for aquaculture or as ornamental animals may promote host‐switching through the mixing of pathogens and parasites with new hosts, driving the emergence of new diseases and known diseases in new hosts. The movement of animal products may drive disease emergence by the same processes, but the risks are lower.

3. The high stocking density found in many aquaculture systems and the relative genetic homogeneity of farm animals can increase disease prevalence. Generally, the overspill of pathogens into the environment is not prevented and in addition, farm or ornamental animals may escape or be released. Thus, wild aquatic animal populations may be exposed to pathogens introduced via the movement of animals for farming. In addition, high stocking density (and short lifespans) favours the selection of virulent pathogen strains. Suboptimal farm conditions (poor water quality and co‐infections) can lead to decreased host resistance, leading to more severe signs of disease and higher prevalence.

4. Many emerging diseases have already seriously affected populations of wild aquatic animals. Future disease emergence presents a threat to freshwater animal populations. Early detection and prompt action, however, can minimise the impact of emerging diseases. Aquaculture and the ornamental trade pose significant threats to wild populations by acting as ultimate drivers for disease emergence via pathways summarised in our causal web. An improved understanding of the influence of human activities will allow us to evaluate the risks associated with current practices, identify measures to mitigate the likelihood and impact of disease emergence.
Occlusal measurement method can affect SEMG activity during occlusion
Authors: FORRESTER S. E. , PRESSWOOD R. G. , TOY A. C. , PAIN M. T. G.
Published: February 2011

Summary  Occlusal indicators are widely used in dental treatment to measure tooth contacts that occur during occlusion. However, the presence of an indicator may affect the mechanics of occlusion and lead to invalid tooth contact data. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of four indicators (Parkell, silk, T‐Scan® sensor and paper) on surface electromyography (SEMG) activity during occlusion. Twenty‐three subjects performed strong bites and maximum clenches onto the four indicators and natural dentition. Surface electromyography recordings of anterior temporalis and superficial masseter activity and the subjects’ perception of each indicator were measured. SEMG activity with the T‐Scan® sensor and paper was significantly different (higher masseter activity; P < 0·05) compared to that for natural dentition. The Parkell and silk gave no significant differences to natural dentition. Similarly, subjects perceived that T‐Scan® sensor and paper had the greatest effect on occlusion and were the least comfortable (P < 0·05). Thus, the very plastic T‐Scan® sensor and very thick articulating paper both affected SEMG activity during occlusion and, therefore, may not provide valid tooth contact information for dental treatment. In conclusion, occlusal indicators can change SEMG activity during occlusion which may affect the validity of the measurements they provide.
Levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and metalloproteinase‐9 in the cerebrospinal fluid of dogs with visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: MARANGONI N. R. , MELO G. D. , MORAES O. C. , SOUZA M. S. , PERRI S. H. V. , MACHADO G. F.
Published: February 2011

Inflammation causes increases in the level of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which, in central nervous system (CNS), are associated with neuroinflammation and disruption of blood–brain barrier. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is pivotal for detecting diseases in CNS and, although a specific diagnosis may not be achieved, this analysis is helpful to confirm the diagnosis or to rule out relevant differential diagnoses. This study examined the levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 in the CSF of dogs using gelatin zymography to verify possible alterations in these enzymes during natural systemic infection with Leishmania chagasi. Latent and active forms of MMP‐2 were detected in some dogs of both groups, with high levels in the control group. In contrast, latent and active forms of MMP‐9 were detected only in some animals with leishmaniasis. These results clearly demonstrate that MMP‐9 is elevated in CSF of dogs with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Although these results are preliminary, they suggest that MMP‐9 might play a role in disruption of blood–brain barrier and/or blood–CSF barrier. While the presence of MMPs in CSF is not a condition exclusive to VL, their presence and persistence in CSF supports the hypothesis of an inflammatory state within CNS of dogs with VL.
Autophagy differentially controls plant basal immunity to biotrophic and necrotrophic pathogens
Authors: Lenz Heike D. , Haller Eva , Melzer Eric , Kober Karina , Wurster Karl , Stahl Mark , Bassham Diane C. , Vierstra Richard D. , Parker Jane E. , Bautor Jaqueline , Molina Antonio , Escudero Viviana , Shindo Takayuki , van der Hoorn Renier A. L. , Gust Andrea A. , Nürnberger Thorsten
Published: February 2011

In plants, autophagy has been assigned ‘pro‐death’ and ‘pro‐survival’ roles in controlling programmed cell death associated with microbial effector‐triggered immunity. The role of autophagy in basal immunity to virulent pathogens has not been addressed systematically, however. Using several autophagy‐deficient (atg) genotypes, we determined the function of autophagy in basal plant immunity. Arabidopsis mutants lacking ATG5, ATG10 and ATG18a develop spreading necrosis upon infection with the necrotrophic fungal pathogen, Alternaria brassicicola, which is accompanied by the production of reactive oxygen intermediates and by enhanced hyphal growth. Likewise, treatment with the fungal toxin fumonisin B1 causes spreading lesion formation in atg mutant genotypes. We suggest that autophagy constitutes a ‘pro‐survival’ mechanism that controls the containment of host tissue‐destructive microbial infections. In contrast, atg plants do not show spreading necrosis, but exhibit marked resistance against the virulent biotrophic phytopathogen, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato. Inducible defenses associated with basal plant immunity, such as callose production or mitogen‐activated protein kinase activation, were unaltered in atg genotypes. However, phytohormone analysis revealed that salicylic acid (SA) levels in non‐infected and bacteria‐infected atg plants were slightly higher than those in Col‐0 plants, and were accompanied by elevated SA‐dependent gene expression and camalexin production. This suggests that previously undetected moderate infection‐induced rises in SA result in measurably enhanced bacterial resistance, and that autophagy negatively controls SA‐dependent defenses and basal immunity to bacterial infection. We infer that the way in which autophagy contributes to plant immunity to different pathogens is mechanistically diverse, and thus resembles the complex role of this process in animal innate immunity.
Pre‐eclampsia: The effect of intravenous fluid preload on atrial natriuretic peptide secretion during Caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia
Authors: Pouta A. , Karinen J. , Vuolteenaho O. , Laatikainen T.
Published: February 2011

Background: The haemodynamic effect of volume load at elective Caesarean delivery may be modulated by atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) especially in pre‐eclamptic women in whom basal ANP levels are increased.

Methods: We followed the haemodynamic parameters and determined the peripheral venous levels of ANP before and after an intravenous volume preload of 1000 ml of Ringer's acetate solution, followed by a further load of the same volume under spinal anaesthesia in 7 healthy and in 6 pre‐eclamptic women.

Results: During the preload period the median ANP level increased more (from 14.8 to 22.1 pmol/l, P=0.03) in pre‐eclamptic than in healthy women (from 8.0 to 8.5 pmol/l, NS); while an increment in central venous pressure (CVP) was also greater in pre‐eclamptic than in healthy women. The increase in the concentrations of ANP correlated significantly (P< 0.05) with the increase in CVP in the total study group. A signify cant increase in ANP levels in healthy pregnant women was not seen until during the second infusion period under spinal anaesthesia; in pre‐eclamptic women the levels increased further during that period.

Conclusion: These findings concur with the theory that atrial stretch is a stimulus for ANP release. An exaggerated release of ANP in response to volume loading may aid in the adaptation of maternal circulation to volume load at elective Caesarean delivery in pre‐eclamptic women.
Intracranial subdural haematoma — a rare complication following spinal anaesthesia
Authors: Bjärnhall M. , Ekseth K. , Boström S. , Vegfors M.
Published: February 2011

We present a rare case with postspinal headache resulting in an intracranial subdural haematoma. After 5 days of persistant headache the condition was recognized and diagnosed on a computerized tomography‐scan (CT) of the skull. The patient was operated with evacuation of the haematoma 2 weeks after the spinal anaesthesia and recovered completely.;
Cardiovascular effects of desflurane and isoflurane in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Grundmann U. , Müller M. , Kleinschmidt S. , Larsen B. , Larsen R.
Published: February 2011

Background: Anaesthesia in patients with ischaemic heart disease may cause adverse haemodynamic reactions. This investigation compares the cardiovascular effects of equipotent concentrations of desflurane and isoflurane in 30 patients (ASA III) with coronary artery disease before surgical stimulation.

Methods: After standardised induction of anaesthesia with etomidate, fentanyl and pancuronium and tracheal intubation patients randomly received either desflurane (group I, n = 15) or isoflurane (group II, n = 15) in slowly increasing concentrations. ST‐segment analysis and haemodynamic measurements were performed at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 MAC of desflurane or isoflurane.

Results: Cardiac index did not change significantly in the two groups during the administration of the inhalational anaesthetics. Desflurane and isoflurane both caused a dose‐dependent significant decrease of mean arterial blood pressure (group I: −16%; group II: −18%). As with isoflurane, the decrease of mean arterial pressure produced by desflurane primarily resulted from a decrease in systemic vascular resistance (group I: −26%, group II: −21%). Central venous pressure was not affected by the two volatile anaesthetics. Pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure remained unchanged during the administration of isoflurane, but in contrast both parameters significantly increased in patients receiving desflurane (PAP 24%, PCWP 40%). ST‐segment analysis provided no signs of myocardial ischaemia.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that in patients with coronary artery disease the haemodynamic effects of equipotent concentrations of desflurane and isoflurane are similar except for a significant increase in PAP and PCWP caused by desflurane. Therefore, desflurane should be administered with great caution if it is used as an alternative anaesthetic in patients with ischaemic heart disease.
Experimental evidence for the phenotypic impact of admixture between wild and biocontrol Asian ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) involved in the European invasion
Authors: TURGEON J. , TAYEH A. , FACON B. , LOMBAERT E. , DE CLERCQ P. , BERKVENS N. , LUNDGREN J. G. , ESTOUP A.
Published: February 2011

Hybridization can fuel evolutionary processes during biological invasions. The harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis has long been used as a biocontrol agent before the species became invasive worldwide. Previous analysis based on microsatellite data has shown that European invasive populations bear traces of admixture between an eastern North American source, which is at the origin of the worldwide invasion, and biocontrol strains used in Europe. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that this early admixture event may have fostered the European invasion by impacting on the phenotypes of wild European populations. Mean life history traits of experimental F1 hybrids are compared with pure parental sources and wild European crosses. Our results reveal a biased impact whereby North American beetles benefitted from being admixed with European biocontrol strains. Resemblance between experimental hybrids and wild European invasive crosses further suggests a long‐lasting effect of admixture that may still be at work and fostering invasiveness.
Emotional distress and health risk behaviours of mothers of United States marines*
Authors: Slaven‐Lee P.W. , Padden D. , Andrews C.M. , Fitzpatrick J.J.
Published: February 2011

SLAVEN‐LEE P.W., PADDEN D., ANDREWS C.M. & FITZPATRICK J.J. (2011) Emotional distress and health risk behaviours of mothers of United States marines. International Nursing Review58, 164–170

Aim:  The aim was to explore emotional distress and health risk behaviours of mothers of servicemen. The study was inspired by the first author's clinical practice in primary care among women who reported significant emotional distress surrounding impending deployment of their sons.

Background:  Thousands of US service members have been deployed in the current wars. The potentially profound effects of deployment on emotional distress of military spouses and children have been documented; however, mothers of servicemen have not been studied.

Methods:  This was an exploratory descriptive study to determine self‐reported levels of emotional distress and health risk behaviours in the mothers of deployed male US Marines compared with mothers of male Marines not currently deployed. Mothers were accessed via a voluntary online support organization.

Results:  Mothers of deployed sons reported significantly higher levels of emotional distress and more health risk behaviours compared with mothers of sons not deployed. Many of the mothers in both groups reported high levels of emotional distress.

Discussion:  As primary care providers, nurses should be alert to the high levels of emotional distress and health risk behaviours among all patients. This exploratory study highlights these dimensions in mothers of servicemen.

Conclusions:  This study is the first of mothers of sons serving in the military. While the focus is on mothers of sons serving in the US military, their experience is likely not unique. Mothers of military service members all over the world send their children off to war and wait for their safe return.
Nursing students' immunisation status and knowledge about viral hepatitis in Turkey: a multi‐centre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yamazhan T. , Durusoy R. , Tasbakan M.I. , Tokem Y. , Pullukcu H. , Sipahi O.R. , Ulusoy S. ,   Turkish Nursing Hepatitis Study Group
Published: February 2011

Yamazhan T., Durusoy R., Tasbakan M.I., Tokem Y., Pullukcu H., Sipahi O.R., Ulusoy S. & Turkish Nursing Hepatitis Study Group (2011) Nursing students' immunisation status and knowledge about viral hepatitis in Turkey: a multi‐centre cross‐sectional study. International Nursing Review58, 181–185

Background:  The aims of this multi‐centre cross‐sectional survey were to detect Turkish nursing students' level of knowledge on viral hepatitis, to evaluate their rates of exposure to blood and to find out their hepatitis A (HAV), hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination status.

Methods:  This multi‐centre cross‐sectional study was conducted in 14 nursing schools located in the seven geographical regions of Turkey. A questionnaire composed of 47 questions on socio‐demographic factors, level of knowledge on HAV, HBV, hepatitis C (HCV) immunisation status, exposure history and attitudes was applied to the study group.

Results:  A total of 1491 third‐ and fourth‐year nursing students participated with an 89% response rate. The mean age of the participating students was 21.4 ± 1.3. Their mean knowledge score was 23.7 ± 4.6 (71/100) and was significantly higher in fourth‐year students than third‐year students. There were significant differences in mean scores among nursing schools. Among the participants, 85.3% had received HBV vaccine and 9.1% had received HAV vaccine. The percentage of students who signify themselves at increased risk of acquiring viral hepatitis was 97.3%. Of the students, 28.1% had sustained a needle‐stick injury and 5.4% had experienced conjunctival exposure to blood.

Conclusions:  Curriculum differences among nursing schools have a significant effect on nursing students' level of knowledge. For this reason, nursing schools should organize HBV immunisation programmes for their students to increase vaccination coverage.
Music intervention and preoperative anxiety: an integrative review
Authors: Pittman S. , Kridli S.
Published: February 2011

PITTMAN S. & KRIDLI S. (2011) Music intervention and preoperative anxiety: an integrative review. International Nursing Review58, 157–163

Background:  Hospitalized patients and patients scheduled to undergo surgery or invasive medical procedures experience high levels of anxiety. Recently, music intervention has been evaluated for its anxiolytic effects in preoperative patients.

Aim:  The aim of this integrative review was to illustrate the varying methodological approaches utilized to assess the efficacy of a music intervention in reducing preoperative anxiety in adults.

Methods:  A total of 11 articles, meeting the inclusion criteria, were evaluated and included.

Findings:  Three of the eight (38%) studies, investigating the effect of listening to music on blood pressure, concluded that listening to music lowered blood pressure. Three of seven (43%) studies, investigating the relationship between listening to music and heart rate, illustrated patterns of decreased heart rates. Finally, two of four (50%) studies, investigating relaxing effects of listening to music on breathing, provided evidence of a decreased respiratory rate.

Conclusion:  There was inconsistent evidence regarding music's effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, heart rate and respirations in anxious patients. However, music intervention can still be used by nurses to create a calm, relaxing atmosphere geared towards reducing anxiety in preoperative patients.
Adiponectin and Resistin Gene Polymorphisms in Association with Their Respective Adipokine Levels
Authors: Lau Cia‐Hin , Muniandy Sekaran
Published: February 2011

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the adiponectin and resistin loci are strongly associated with hypoadiponectinemia and hyperresistinemia, which may eventually increase risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), metabolic syndrome (MS), and cardiovascular disease. Real‐time PCR was used to genotype SNPs of the adiponectin (SNP+45T>G, SNP+276G>T, SNP+639T>C, and SNP+1212A>G) and resistin (SNP‐420C>G and SNP+299G>A) genes in 809 Malaysian men (208 controls, 174 MS without T2DM, 171 T2DM without MS, 256 T2DM with MS) whose ages ranged between 40 and 70 years old. The genotyping results for each SNP marker was verified by sequencing. The anthropometric clinical and metabolic parameters of subjects were recorded. None of these SNPs at the adiponectin and resistin loci were associated with T2DM and MS susceptibility in Malaysian men. SNP+45T>G, SNP+276G>T, and SNP+639T>C of the adiponectin gene did not influence circulating levels of adiponectin. However, the G‐allele of SNP+1212A>G at the adiponectin locus was marginally associated (P= 0.0227) with reduced circulating adiponectin levels. SNP‐420C>G (df = 2; F= 16.026; P= 1.50×10−7) and SNP+299G>A (df = 2; F= 22.944; P= 2.04×10−10) of the resistin gene were strongly associated with serum resistin levels. Thus, SNP‐420C>G and SNP+299G>A of the resistin gene are strongly associated with the risk of hyperresistinemia in Malaysian men.
The Association of a Single‐Nucleotide Polymorphism of the IL‐2 Inducible T‐cell Kinase Gene with Asthma
Authors: Lee Shin‐Hwa , Chang Hun Soo , Jang An‐Soo , Park Sung‐Woo , Park Jong Sook , Uh Soo‐Taek , Kim Yong Hoon , Oh Bermseok , Lee Jong‐Keuk , Park Byung‐Lae , Shin Hyung Doo , Park Choon‐Sik , Kimm Kuchan
Published: February 2011

Asthma manifests as TH2‐dominant airway inflammation regulated by inducible T‐cell kinase (ITK). To investigate associations between genetic variants of the ITK gene and asthma, 31 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in 303 normal controls and 498 asthmatics and the two groups were compared using logistic regression models. The functional effects of the ITK promoter SNP were assessed using pGL3 luciferase reporter systems and gel‐shift assays. The minor allele−196C>T in the promoter region of the ITK gene was significantly more frequent in asthmatics than in controls. The luciferase activity of the PGL3‐ITK‐196T allele construct was higher than that of the −196C allele. In the gel‐shift assay, −196T double‐stranded oligonucleotides bound more strongly to Jurkat cell nuclear protein compared to the −196C double‐stranded oligonucleotides. People with the −rare allele 196C>T may be more susceptible to asthma via transcriptional regulation of the ITK gene.
OMITTED VARIABLES IN THE MEASUREMENT OF A LABOR QUALITY INDEX: THE CASE OF SPAIN
Authors: Lacuesta Aitor , Puente Sergio , Cuadrado Pilar
Published: February 2011

Traditional measures of labor quality might have the shortcoming of missing some features of the very important increase in labor utilization within European countries. In particular, we explore the case of Spain. Despite showing one of the most important increases in labor quality in the EU according to standard methods, it also presents a negative TFP growth. The paper shows the importance of considering—on top of observed changes in the composition of the labor force by gender, age, education, tenure, and nationality—changes in both average and relative productivities of those abovementioned socio‐demographic groups over time. We first use a time varying weight index in order to capture the decrease in relative productivities across characteristics. Once this issue is considered the estimated growth of labor quality decreases notably and the index becomes flat between 2002 and 2006. We relate this slowdown to the increasing over‐education of the Spanish workforce in the recent past. We then incorporate a selection model into the labor force. We argue that in the recent past there has been a massive entry of workers with below average unobserved abilities, generating a decrease in quality of labor. Indeed labor quality slightly decreased from 1995 onwards (always increasing without the selection model).
General overview of neo‐adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma before liver transplantation: necessity or option?
Authors: Fujiki Masato , Aucejo Federico , Kim Richard
Published: February 2011

Because of its increasing incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma, it is now recognized as a worldwide health problem affecting mostly patients with chronic liver disease. Liver transplantation is the optimal therapy and achieves its best results in patients with small tumour burden. In an effort to prevent tumour progression and patient dropout from the transplant wait list, the concept and utilization of neo‐adjuvant locoregional therapies have gained relevance in the past few years. Moreover, good and maintained response to therapy is now considered a surrogate of favourable tumour biology, therefore aiding the patient transplant selection process. Herein, we review the current role of neo‐adjuvant therapies and revise concepts of tumour ‘downstaging’ or ‘bridging therapy’ in the setting of liver transplantation. In addition, we explore the debate of implementing locoregional therapy for patients with small tumours and short waiting times to liver transplantation.