bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The changing structure of charity retailers in Edinburgh’s built environment
Authors: Livingstone Nicola
Published: March 2011

The retail market contributes significantly to the British economy, but the niche market of charity retailing within it has seen little attention – a lacuna that this article seeks to address. Charity retailing is a recent phenomenon, emerging after the Second World War. The objective of this article is to address the spatial development of Edinburgh’s charity retailers, informed by an overview of the city’s current economic climate and retail market. Edinburgh is conceptualized within a general, UK perspective prior to case study analysis. It was chosen due to the significant number of charity retailers within the city. The article examines socio-economic data about Edinburgh taken from the most recent census, alongside an analysis of the locations chosen by its charity retailers. Through this analysis the article concludes that present-day charity retailers operate as profit maximizers, in locations favourable to appropriating the best quality donations and highest prices for the commodities offered. This is in direct contrast with the notion that they are still likely to be discovered in areas where there is a need demonstrated by poverty indicators.
Regional variations in new firm job creation: The contribution of high growth start-ups
Authors: Botham Ron , Graves Andrew
Published: March 2011

Much existing work argues that a small number of high growth start-ups create the majority of new firm jobs; that policies aiming to increase the volume (i.e. number) of start-ups in the UK’s less entrepreneurial regions may adversely affect their growth or quality; and, therefore, policy should target high growth new starts. To test these arguments, a database of all UK independent limited companies set up between 2001 and 2005 still operating in 2008 was constructed and analysed. In 2008 there were 351,000 such start-ups with 1.51 m employees. Defining high growth as firms with over 24 employees in 2008, high growth start-ups did not create the majority of new firm jobs and the ‘job creation problem’ in the UK’s less entrepreneurial regions is too few start-ups rather than a relative absence of high growth start-ups. Consequently, in the UK’s less entrepreneurial regions policy should aim to increase the volume of start-ups.
Using maps and funnel plots to explore variation in place of death from cancer within London, 2002–2007
Authors: Madden P , Coupland VH , Møller H , Davies EA
Published: March 2011

London has a high proportion of hospital deaths, which health policy seeks to reduce. We explore variation and trends in place of death from cancer within London between 2002 and 2007. Mortality data based on death certificates were used to define deaths from cancer at home, hospice, hospital and nursing home and examine trends over time for London. Proportions of deaths in each place were presented in maps for 31 London primary care trusts (PCTs). Funnel plots were used to identify consistent performance outside the control limits of three standard deviations. There was little overall change in place of death for London, but consistent variation between PCTs. Outer London PCTs had higher proportions of home deaths and inner London PCTs higher proportions of hospice deaths. Funnel plots identified consistent high outlying performance for home, hospice and hospital deaths. No PCT showed a change of 10% or more in home deaths, but five showed decreasing hospital deaths and three increasing hospice deaths. Maps and funnel plots appear useful for identifying areas with differing performance for home, hospital, nursing home and hospice deaths. These methods may help further investigation of how local services may successfully support deaths outside hospital.
Is there a role for subcutaneous furosemide in the community and hospice management of end-stage heart failure?
Authors: Zacharias Hannah , Raw Janet , Nunn Anne , Parsons Sharon , Johnson Miriam
Published: March 2011

Patients with advanced chronic heart failure (CHF) can experience ‘revolving door’ admissions, often for parenteral diuretics, when time at home is precious. Home intravenous diuretic services are patchy. This retrospective review describes 43 consecutive episodes of continuous subcutaneous infusion of furosemide (CSCI-F) in 32 advanced CHF patients; 28 episodes aiming to correct fluid balance and prevent hospital admission and 15 aiming to prevent symptoms in the dying.

Overall, 26/28 (93%) avoided hospital admission. Weight loss occurred in 20/28 (70%): a median loss of 5.6 kg [interquartile range (IQR) 0.1–8.9]). The daily dose of furosemide ranged from 40 to 250 mg. The median number of days on CSCI-F was 10.5 (range 2–48; IQR 6–13.8). Site reactions occurred in 10/43 (23%); all of which were mild except two, one of which required oral antibiotics. Symptoms were controlled in all 15 dying patients.

CSCI-F for patients with advanced CHF is effective in terms of weight loss and prevention of hospital admission with the heart failure nurse specialist playing a key overall management role in selection and monitoring. As the majority of community and hospice nurses have access to and are familiar with CSCI pumps, this practice should be nationally transferable. The role in the dying patient requires further assessment.
Stochastic modeling and identification of emergent behaviors of an Endothelial Cell population in angiogenic pattern formation
Authors: Wood Levi , Kamm Roger , Asada Harry
Published: March 2011

Despite a high level of stochasticity and heterogeneity, a population of biological cells can collectively construct a complex structure that emerges from individual cell behaviors. Endothelial Cells (ECs), for example, create a vascular network with a tubular structure through interactions with the surrounding scaffold and other cells. Individual cells make a series of discrete decisions whether to migrate, proliferate, or die, leading to network pattern formation. This paper presents a methodology for deriving agent behavior models from EC time lapse data in an in vitro micro-fluidic environment. Individual cells are modeled as stochastic agents that detect growth factors (chemical molecules) and the scaffold conditions, and that make stochastic phenotype state transitions. Based on observed behaviors, a model is obtained for predicting the behavior of a population of interacting cells, which will sprout out, form a tubular structure, and create a branch to generate a vascular network − the process referred to as angiogenesis. A Maximum Likelihood method for estimating model parameters from angiogenesis process time lapse data is then presented. The identified mechanism of emergent pattern formation, although investigated in the context of angiogenesis, provides useful insights for swarm and modular robotics.
On-line assembly planning for stochastically reconfigurable systems
Authors: Tolley Michael T , Lipson Hod
Published: March 2011

Stochastic assembly approaches can reduce the power, computation, and/or actuation demands on assembly systems by taking advantage of probabilistic processes. At the same time, however, they relinquish the efficiency and predictability of deterministic alternatives. This makes planning error-free assembly sequences challenging, particularly in the face of changing environmental conditions or goals. Here we address these challenges with an on-line approach to assembly planning for stochastically reconfigurable systems where the spatial and temporal availability of modules is uncertain, either due to a stochastic assembly mechanism, resource fluctuations, or large numbers of uncoordinated agents. We propose an assembly algorithm that is guaranteed to find an assembly path for finite-sized, connected objects. This is achieved by sampling the space of possible assembly paths to the target structure that satisfy assembly constraints. Assembly is accelerated by pursuing multiple paths in parallel. The algorithm computes these parallel assembly paths on-line during assembly and is thus able to adapt to changing conditions, as well as predict the remaining assembly time. For situations where the number of paths found exceeds the number that can be pursued in parallel, the assembly algorithm further maximizes assembly rates according to domain-specific local assembly costs.
Control methodologies for a heterogeneous group of untethered magnetic micro-robots
Authors: Floyd Steven , Diller Eric , Pawashe Chytra , Sitti Metin
Published: March 2011

In this work, we develop methods for controlling multiple untethered magnetic micro-robots (Mag-µBots) without the need for a specialized substrate. We investigate Mag-µBots that are geometrically and magnetically designed to respond uniquely to the same input magnetic fields. Designs include: (1) geometrically similar Mag-µBots with different values of magnetization; (2) geometrically dissimilar Mag-µBots with similar magnetization; and (3) geometrically dissimilar Mag-µBots with dissimilar magnetization. The responses of both magnetically hard and soft Mag-µBots are investigated. By controlling the input magnetic fields, individual and sub-groups of Mag-µBots are able to locomote in a parallel fashion. Specifically, the magnitude and frequency of the imposed driving magnetic fields are used as selection methods among the Mag-µBots. Various methods for accomplishing motion discrimination are discussed, modeled, and tested. It is found that while fully decoupled control is not possible with this method, parallel actuation of sub-groups of Mag-µBots is possible and controllable.
Ford Campus vision and lidar data set
Authors: Pandey Gaurav , McBride James R , Eustice Ryan M
Published: March 2011

In this paper we describe a data set collected by an autonomous ground vehicle testbed, based upon a modified Ford F-250 pickup truck. The vehicle is outfitted with a professional (Applanix POS-LV) and consumer (Xsens MTi-G) inertial measurement unit, a Velodyne three-dimensional lidar scanner, two push-broom forward-looking Riegl lidars, and a Point Grey Ladybug3 omnidirectional camera system. Here we present the time-registered data from these sensors mounted on the vehicle, collected while driving the vehicle around the Ford Research Campus and downtown Dearborn, MI, during November–December 2009. The vehicle path trajectory in these data sets contains several large- and small-scale loop closures, which should be useful for testing various state-of-the-art computer vision and simultaneous localization and mapping algorithms.
Headache outcomes following treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms: A prospective analysis
Authors: Schwedt Todd J , Gereau Robert W , Frey Karen , Kharasch Evan D
Published: March 2011

Objective: To analyze headache patterns prior to and following treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms and identify factors associated with different headache outcomes.

Methods: A prospective observational study of patients being treated for unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Headache patterns were established prior to aneurysm treatment and for 6 months following treatment. Factors associated with different headache outcomes were investigated.

Results: In all patients ( n = 44), 90-day headache frequency decreased from an average of 31 days prior to aneurysm treatment to 17 days following treatment ( p < 0.001). In patients with active pretreatment headaches ( n = 28), 90-day headache frequency decreased from 49 days to 26 days ( p = 0.002). Headache frequency was reduced in 68% of patients, while 9% of patients had new or worsened headaches following aneurysm treatment. Pretreatment migraine, more severe pretreatment headaches, higher pretreatment trait anxiety, and stent-assisted aneurysm coiling were associated with a lack of headache improvement.

Conclusions: The majority of patients with headaches at the time of aneurysm treatment had reductions in headache frequency during the 6 months following treatment. Potential risk factors for poor headache outcomes were identified but need to be studied further.
Cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the visual cortex in the prophylactic treatment of migraine
Authors: Antal Andrea , Kriener Naomi , Lang Nicolas , Boros Klara , Paulus Walter
Published: March 2011

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can be an effective prophylactic therapy for migraine and migraine-associated pain.

Method: This painless and non-invasive method was applied for 6 weeks over the visual cortex (V1), delivered three times per week. Thirty patients were assigned to cathodal or to sham stimulation, and 26 patients participated in the final analyses (cathodal: n = 13, sham: n = 13). During the first 3 weeks both groups received only placebo stimulation. Measures of attack frequency and duration, intensity of pain and number of migraine-related days were recorded 2 months before, during and 2 months post-treatment.

Results: Patients treated by cathodal tDCS showed a significant reduction in the duration of attacks, the intensity of pain and the number of migraine-related days post-treatment as compared to the baseline period, but not in the frequency of the attacks. However, compared to the sham group, only the intensity of the pain was significantly reduced post-stimulation. No patients experienced severe adverse effects.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that the application of cathodal stimulation over the V1 might be an effective prophylactic therapy in migraine, at least with regard to pain control.
A new Italian FHM2 family: Clinical aspects and functional analysis of the disease-associated mutation
Authors: Santoro Lucio , Manganelli Fiore , Fortunato Maria Roberta , Soldovieri Maria Virginia , Ambrosino Paolo , Iodice Rosa , Pisciotta Chiara , Tessa Alessandra , Santorelli Filippo , Taglialatela Maurizio
Published: March 2011

Objective: To describe a new FHM kindred, and to analyse the functional consequences of the disease-associated ATP1A2 p.G301R mutation in human cellular models grown at 37°C.

Patients and methods: Seven patients were clinically evaluated and gave informed consent for molecular analysis. Extra-pyramidal rigidity of the limbs was present in four subjects and in three of them tongue apraxia was also observed. ATP1A2 and CACNA1A were analysed by direct sequencing. Functional consequences of the mutation were investigated by cell viability assays, Western blots, and immunocytochemistry. Three-dimensional models of the human Na+/K+-ATPase α2 subunit were generated by homology modelling using SWISS-MODEL.

Findings: Analysis of ATP1A2 showed a heterozygous mutation, c.901G>A predicting the replacement of arginine for glycine at residue 301 (p.G301R). Functional analysis suggested that the mutation completely abolished Na+/K+-ATPase function.

Conclusions: The phenotypic spectrum of our FHM2 family includes some peculiar features. Functional data confirm that Na+/K+-ATPase haploinsufficiency caused by the ATP1A2 p.G301R mutation is responsible for FHM in the described family.
Preoperative Analysis of the Hill-Sachs Lesion in Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Cho Seung Hyun , Cho Nam Su , Rhee Yong Girl
Published: March 2011

Background: It has been reported that engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion affects postoperative recurrence of anterior shoulder instability. However, no method has been recognized as an effective preoperative means to predict engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion.

Purpose: This study was undertaken to assess the diagnostic validity of computed tomography (CT) with 3-dimensional (3D) reconstruction to judge engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion preoperatively.

Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods: One hundred four consecutive patients (107 shoulders) who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anterior shoulder instability were enrolled for this study. Preoperatively, CT with 3D reconstruction was performed on all patients to evaluate the size (width and depth measured on axial and coronal images), orientation (Hill-Sachs angle), and location (bicipital and vertical angles) of the Hill-Sachs lesion. Dynamic arthroscopic examination was made to confirm engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion. Then the correlation between the results and measurements on CT images was statistically analyzed.

Results: In cases of engaging lesions, the mean width was 52% (range, 27%-66%) and the mean depth was 14% (range, 8%-20%) of the humeral head diameter on axial images. The corresponding measurements on coronal images were 42% (range, 16%-67%) and 13% (range, 5%-24%), respectively. In cases of nonengaging lesions, the corresponding measurements were 40% (range, 0%-71%) and 10% (range, 0%-21%) on axial images and 31% (range, 0%-62%) and 11% (range, 0%-46%) on coronal images. The size of engaging Hill-Sachs lesions was significantly larger than that of nonengaging lesions on both axial and coronal images ( P = .001, < .001, .012, .007). The Hill-Sachs angle was 25.6° ± 7.4° in engaging lesions, which was significantly larger than 13.8° ± 6.2° in nonengaging lesions ( P < .001). The bicipital and vertical angles did not demonstrate significant correlation with engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion ( P = .850, .584).

Conclusion: On CT with 3D reconstruction images, the engaging Hill-Sachs lesions were larger in size and more horizontally oriented to the humeral shaft than nonengaging lesions. The authors concluded that preoperative prediction of the engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion, based on these findings, would be useful in planning additional procedures to treat a significant bone defect on the humeral head.
The pesticide deltamethrin increases free radical production and promotes nuclear translocation of the stress response transcription factor Nrf2 in rat brain
Authors: Li HY , Wu SY , Ma Q. , Shi N.
Published: March 2011

The transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a critical role in the mammalian response to chemical and oxidative stress through induction of phase II detoxification enzymes and oxidative stress response proteins. We reported that Nrf2 expression was activated by deltamethrin (DM), a prototype of the widely used pyrithroid pesticides, in PC12 cells. However, no study has examined Nrf2 nuclear translocation and free radical production, two hallmarks of oxidative stress, in the mammalian brain in vivo. To this end, we examined translocation of Nrf2 and production of free radicals in rat brain exposed to DM. Indeed, DM initiated nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Nrf2 translocation was accompanied by the expression of heme oxygenase-1 gene, an Nrf2-regulated gene linked to free radical production. Deltamethrin exposure promoted free radical formation in rat brain and reactive oxygen species generation in PC12 cells. Translocation of Nrf2 may be a response to DM-dependent induction of free radicals and DM may act as a mammalian neurotoxin by initiating oxidative stress.
Executive Functions in Youth With Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Pirila Silja , van der Meere Jaap J. , Rantanen Kati , Jokiluoma Maria , Eriksson Kai
Published: March 2011

Dependent on criteria used, between 35% and 53% of the participants with cerebral palsy fulfilled the criteria of clinically relevant executive function problems as defined by Conners’ (1994) Continuous Performance Test. Executive function problems were noticed mainly in participants with bilateral brain lesions and who had been born preterm. Findings highlight the need to check for attention problems in children with cerebral palsy.
Study and Production of Silicone Rubber and Polyethylene Alloy
Authors: Tavakkoli H. , Meibod M. P. , Frounchi M. , Dadbin S.
Published: March 2011

Linear silicone rubber and polyethylene alloy produced from extrusion-injecting process will be present in separate phases. While samples are mixed with 1% dicumylperoxide, DCP, and injected in extruder, an alloy is almost formed. In addition, when the samples containing silicon rubber with vinyl group are mixed with polyethylene and passed in the vicinity of electron beam, a similar reaction occurs, as confirmed from FTIR spectrum. The water contact angles for the samples has been listed in the article. Furthermore, the crystallinity of samples produced via electron beam method is more than that obtained from peroxide method. On the other hand, the tensile strengths of produced samples via both the methods are about 20% more than that of polyethylene. Also, the tensile strength of the produced samples in electron beam method (12.86 MPa) is better than that of the produced samples in peroxide method (11.99 MPa).
Loneliness and Self-Management Abilities in the Visually Impaired Elderly
Authors: Alma Manna A. , Van der Mei Sijrike F. , Feitsma W. Nathalie , Groothoff Johan W. , Van Tilburg Theo G. , Suurmeijer Theo P. B. M.
Published: March 2011

Objectives: To describe the degree of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly and to make a comparison with a matched reference group of the normally sighted elderly. In addition, we examined self-management abilities (SMAs) as determinants of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly. Method: In a cross-sectional study, 173 visually impaired elderly persons completed telephone interviews. Loneliness and SMAs were assessed with the Loneliness Scale of De Jong Gierveld and the SMAS-30, respectively. Results: The prevalence of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly was higher compared with the reference group (50% vs. 29%; p < .001). Multivariate hierarchical regression analysis showed that the SMA self-efficacy, partner status, and self-esteem were determinants of loneliness. Severity and duration of visual impairment had no effect on loneliness. Discussion: The relationship between SMAs (i.e., self-efficacy) and loneliness is promising, as SMAs can be learned through training. Consequently, self-management training may reduce feelings of loneliness.
The Effects of Types of Social Networks, Perceived Social Support, and Loneliness on the Health of Older People
Authors: Stephens Christine , Alpass Fiona , Towers Andy , Stevenson Brendan
Published: March 2011

Objectives: To use an ecological model of ageing ( Berkman, Glass, Brissette, & Seeman, 2000 ) which includes upstream social context factors and downstream social support factors to examine the effects of social networks on health. Method: Postal survey responses from a representative population sample of New Zealanders aged 55 to 70 years ( N = 6,662). Results: Correlations and multiple regression analyses provided support for a model in which social context contributes to social network type, which affects perceived social support and loneliness, and consequent mental and physical health. Ethnicity was related to social networks and health but this was largely accounted for by other contextual variables measuring socioeconomic status. Gender and age were also significant variables in the model. Discussion: Social network type is a useful way to assess social integration within this model of cascading effects. More detailed information could be gained through the development of our network assessment instruments for older people.
Public service bargains in Dutch top civil service
Authors: Steen Trui , Van der Meer Frits
Published: March 2011

In this article the position, role and functioning of the highest ranking officials in the Dutch civil service is discussed, using the theory of public service bargains (PSBs) as outlined by Hood and Lodge (2006). For the notion of a shift in PSB to be studied, we need a clear view on the initial PSB. We therefore first describe Dutch society and politics and the type of bargain traditionally found in Dutch public service, and briefly consider the reforms which might have had an impact on the PSB. Next, we analyse the key aspects of the current PSB. These include elements of reward, competency, and loyalty and responsibility. The current PSB is assessed in terms of Hood’s typology. While embedded in the specificities and history of the Dutch political—administrative system, a number of elements point to a shift towards a managerial bargain. As a result, we find a new, hybrid PSB to have emerged.
Synthesis and characterization of 1, 1-bis (3-methyl-4-epoxyphenyl) cyclohexane-toughened DGEBA and TGDDM organo clay hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Chandramohan Ayyavu , Alagar Muthukaruppan
Published: March 2011

1,1-bis (3-methyl-4-epoxyphenyl) cyclohexane (BMEPC) was synthesized from 1,1-bis (3-methyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) cyclohexane and 2-(chloromethyl) oxirane, and its structure was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), 1H-, 13C-NMR and electron impact-mass spectrometry. Both diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) and tetraglycidyl diamine diphenyl methane (TGDDM) epoxy resins were toughened with BMEPC using 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) as a curing agent. Epoxy and BMEPC-toughened epoxy systems were further modified with organophilic MMT (OMMT) clay. The chemical reactions involved between epoxy and DDM with OMMT was confirmed by FT-IR. OMMT clay-filled hybrid BMEPC-epoxy resin castings were characterized for their mechanical, thermal, thermo-mechanical and morphological properties. The values of Tg and heat distortion temperature of hybrid epoxy decreased with increasing incorporation of OMMT. The data obtained from thermal studies indicated that the incorporation of nano clay into BMEPC-modified hybrid systems possess improved thermal stability. The mechanical properties were studied as per ASTM standards. The TGDDM-based hybrid epoxy system exhibited higher values of tensile and flexural properties than that of the DGEBA hybrid epoxy system, whereas the impact strength of the DGEBA system was higher when compared with that of the TGDDM system. The values of dielectric constant (ϵ′) and dielectric loss (ϵ′′) were increased with increased incorporation of OMMT clay in both systems. From the X-ray diffraction analysis it was observed that the absence of d001 reflections in OMMT-filled BMEPC-modified epoxy systems indicated the formation of exfoliated nano hybrids. The homogenous morphologies were ascertained from scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope.
Changes in the regulation of overtime under different collective bargaining regimes: A comparison of Irish, Norwegian and Swedish banking
Authors: Nicolaisen Heidi
Published: March 2011

This article examines overtime regulations in the banking sector in Ireland, Norway and Sweden since 1980, to assess whether different modes of decentralized bargaining produce different outcomes. Ireland can be considered a case of unorganized decentralization, while Norway and Sweden represent slightly different modes of organized decentralization. A key finding is that overtime regulations generally remain stable and that the social partners at company level in all three systems have the necessary scope to adjust overtime regulations to meet specific challenges. Overtime remains the most important source of flexibility in regulated working time, although we believed that banking was likely to adopt new ways of structuring working time. In practice, however, performance policies are linked to unpaid overtime and the abuse of time off in lieu, in a way that undermines collectively negotiated overtime regulations. This seems to be a sectoral characteristic that overrides institutional differences.
Union membership variation in Europe: A ten-country comparative analysis
Authors: Scheuer Steen
Published: March 2011

This article investigates covariates of union density in ten West European countries. It adds to previous research by showing that collective bargaining coverage plays a substantial role. Hence future analyses of union density should emphasize the collective bargaining coverage variable, since trade unions may influence both the extent of coverage and the content of agreements. Of course, the question of the direction of the causality remains.
Flexicurity: A conceptual critique
Authors: Burroni Luigi , Keune Maarten
Published: March 2011

‘Flexicurity’ has become an influential concept in academic and political discourse, in particular since the European Commission placed it at the core of the European Employment Strategy. However, the concept is underdeveloped and suffers from a number of serious shortcomings. In this article we discuss a number of its problematic features. In particular, we focus on four aspects: its ambiguity and openness to political capture; its failure to problematize the creation of institutional complementarities; its lack of attention to conflicts of interest and to the heterogeneity of the labour market; and its reductionist view of the sources of flexibility and security. We illustrate this discussion with a series of empirical examples. Finally, we conclude that the flexicurity approach should either be abandoned, or be substantially improved.
Varieties of Capitalism and financial cooperation between employers: The initial and continuous vocational training in comparison
Authors: Cognard Etienne
Published: March 2011

According to theorists of Varieties of Capitalism, employers can achieve strong decentralized cooperation on vocational training when there are institutional devices encouraging workers and firms to co-invest in the skill production. Yet numerous European countries, including those where such institutional devices exist, do not rely on ‘spontaneous’ co-investment but operate compulsory training funds and levies which establish obligatory mutualization between employers.The objective of this article is to show that the rationalist theoretical framework of Varieties of Capitalism theory is capable of accounting for such collective financial schemes in the apprenticeship field, but is less suited to capture the compulsory contributions for continuing vocational training.
An Icelandic freshwater radiocarbon reservoir effect: Implications for lacustrine 14C chronologies
Authors: Ascough P.L. , Cook G.T. , Hastie H. , Dunbar E. , Church M.J. , Einarsson Á. , McGovern T.H. , Dugmore A.J.
Published: March 2011

A freshwater radiocarbon (14C) reservoir effect (FRE) is a 14C age offset between the atmospheric and freshwater carbon reservoirs. FREs can be on the order of 10 000 14C yr in extreme examples and are a crucial consideration for 14C dating of palaeoenvironmental and archaeological samples. Correction for a FRE may be possible, provided the FRE and the proportion of FRE-affected carbon within a sample can be accurately quantified. However, although such correction is desirable for affected samples, it is essential that such correction is accurate in order to produce useful chronological information. Accuracy of FRE correction can be limited by spatial variation in FRE within a freshwater system, but despite this there is currently a paucity of information to identify and quantify such variability within affected systems. Here we present results of a study that investigates the effects of spatial FRE variation upon dating accuracy within the freshwater system of Lake Mývatn, northern Iceland. A substantial FRE (>10 000 14C yr) has previously been identified in archaeological and modern samples from the region, which shows the potential for considerable spatial variability. The study also assesses the use of δ13C and δ15N in age correction of affected samples. The results show that benthic detritus and organisms at primary trophic levels from locations within the lake are affected by a FRE of at least 3500 14C yr, with clear spatial variation resulting in 14C age differences of up to 7670 14C yr between samples. There is a broad correlation between stable isotope values and FRE within the data set. However, large associated uncertainties currently preclude highly accurate and precise stable isotope-based quantification of the proportion of FRE-affected carbon within archaeological and palaeoenvironmental samples from Mývatn and the surrounding region.
‘Glocal boys’: Exploring experiences of acculturation amongst migrant youth footballers in Premier League academies
Authors: Weedon Gavin
Published: March 2011

This article explores the experiences of acculturation recounted by migrant youth footballers following their migrations to Premier League academies. Whereas problems of acculturation have been documented in research exploring the migratory experiences of senior professional athletes, the framing of migrant youth footballers as a problematic collective in academic, public and media discourse has tended to deflect from consideration of the individual athletes in transition. By drawing on a series of interviews with migrant youth players from a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and their ‘acculturating groups’ ( Ward et al., 2001 ) of academy staff including Directors, Managers, Coaches and Education and Welfare Officers, I aim to explore the prevalent issues of acculturation associated with being at once a migrant, an adolescent, and an elite athlete, adjusting to the demands of an intensive physical training programme whilst encountering and negotiating an unfamiliar social and cultural environment. In conceptualizing the process of acculturation as the experiential facet of the glocalization thesis, the article reflects on the interplay between the distinct political economy within which youth players migrate and their individual experiences of acculturation.
Modeling of Shape Memory Alloy Actuators Using Likhachev’s Formulation
Authors: Terriault Patrick , Brailovski Vladimir
Published: March 2011

This article presents a simplified version of Likhachev’s micromechanical model and its integration in ANSYS, a commercial finite element software package used to simulate the response of a structure equipped with shape memory alloy wire actuators controlled by direct Joule heating. The original Likhachev’s formulation is adapted to obtain a model that is easy to characterize, numerically efficient, and general in the sense that it can simulate all the shape memory-related features using the same formulation (superelasticity, shape memory effect, stress generation, etc.). The adapted Likhachev’s formulation is coupled to an electro-thermal model to simulate temporal response of actuators heated by an electrical current. An experimental result obtained with a deformable airfoil powered by shape memory actuators is used to validate the proposed electro-thermo-mechanical model.
Critical Care for Patients With Cancer
Authors: Ñamendys-Silva Silvio A. , González-Herrera Maria O. , Herrera-Gómez Angel
Published: March 2011

Malignancies are becoming increasingly common, especially as the population ages, and patients with cancer are likely to represent an increasing proportion of ICU populations. Advances in oncological and supportive care have led to improved prognosis and extension of survival time in patients with cancer. The National Institute Cancer located in Mexico City has an oncological ICU with 6 beds. During the biennium 2008-2009, 573 patients with cancer were admitted to the ICU. The mean age was 51 ± 16.36 years and 58.6% were women. The length of stay in the ICU was 2 days (interquartile range; 1-5). The 71.6% were surgical patients. The mortality rate was 15.9%. Patients with hemato-oncological cancer had higher ICU mortality rate than subgroup of critically ill patients with solid tumors (39.5% versus 11.9%). The course of organ dysfunction over first days of life-sustaining treatment before admission to ICU could be useful for physicians who treat critically ill cancer patients to detect patients who should be admitted to ICU to try to avoid the progression to multiple organ dysfunction. On the other hand, admission to the ICU should be offered to patients with newly diagnosed cancer and acute life-threatening cancer related events. The critical care of patients with cancer contribute and support to continue the fight against cancer.
Advance Directives in Home Health and Hospice Agencies: United States, 2007
Authors: Resnick Helaine E. , Hickman Susan E. , Foster Gregory L.
Published: March 2011

This report provides nationally representative data on policies, storage, and implementation of advance directives (ADs) in home health and hospice (HHH) agencies in the United States using the National Home and Hospice Care Survey. Federally mandated ADs policies were followed in >93% of all agencies. Nearly all agencies stored ADs in a file at the agency, but only half stored them at the patient’s residence. Nearly all agencies informed staff about the AD, but only 77% and 72% of home health agencies informed the attending physician and next-of-kin, respectively. Home health and hospice agencies are nearly universally compliant with ADs policies that are required in order to receive Medicare and Medicaid payments, but have much lower rates of adoption of ADs policies beyond federally mandated minimums.
Palliative Dialysis in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Trivedi Disha D.
Published: March 2011

Dialysis patients are often denied hospice benefits unless they forego dialysis treatments. However, many of those patients might benefit from as-needed dialysis treatments to palliate symptoms of uremia, fluid overload, etc. The current Medicare payment system precludes this “palliative dialysis” except in those few cases where the terminal diagnosis is unrelated to renal failure. As approximately three quarters of all US patients on dialysis have Medicare as their primary insurance, a of review of Medicare policy is suggested, with a goal of creating a new “palliative dialysis” category that would allow patients to receive treatments on a less regular schedule without affecting the quality statistics of the dialysis center. 1
Do Symptoms Matter When Considering Patients for Phase I Clinical Trials? A Pilot Study of Older Adults With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Healy Jennifer M. , Patel Taral , Lee Shuko , Sanchez-Reilly Sandra
Published: March 2011

Background: Older adults (OA) with advanced cancer (AC) undergoing phase I clinical trials (PICT) have poor prognosis. There are no studies which describe symptoms experienced by OA. Methods: Retrospective chart review of PICT participants >60 years. OA were compared by age (>65 vs 60-65) and by number of symptoms (>3 vs ≤3). Results: N = 56. Mean age = 67.09; 48.21% female. Median life-expectancy = 5 months (interquartile range = 2-9 months); 80.36% had pain; of those 64% without pain scale. Most did not have interdisciplinary professionals or hospice referrals. Older adults with >3 symptoms had more admissions (37.5% vs 14.29%; P = .0335), complications (46.43% vs 16.07%; P = .0026), and greater decline in functional status (24 participants >3 symptoms vs 8; P = .0173). There were no significant differences comparing OA by age. Conclusions: Older adults enrolled in PICT with more symptoms may sacrifice QOL for experimental treatment.
Development and Validation of a Modified Version of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale in a Flemish Palliative Care Population
Authors: Claessens Patricia , Menten Johan , Schotsmans Paul , Broeckaert Bert
Published: March 2011

Palliative cancer patients are faced with multiple symptoms that threaten their quality of life. To manage these symptoms, a reliable and valid way of registration is crucial. In this study, the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) has been translated, modified, and tested on content, face, criterion, construct validity, and internal consistency for patients admitted to Flemish palliative care units. These aspects are tested in a descriptive, comparative, longitudinal study based on 3 convenience samples. The first consisted of 8 palliative care experts. The second sample checked the face validity and consisted of 4 patients, 5 family members, and 5 nurses. The last sample involved 23 patients admitted to 3 Flemish palliative care units. Heedful of the “new-wave” vision on validity, the translated and altered ESAS seemed a suitable instrument for the symptom assessment of patients with cancer admitted to a palliative care unit.
Symptom Control in Advanced Cancer: Twenty Principles
Authors: Alvarez Adriana , Walsh Declan
Published: March 2011

In Palliative Medicine, symptom management is a clinical priority and one of the key skill sets of the palliative specialist. Symptom control principles have been derived from clinical practice in cancer pain management. They can also be applied to other cancer symptoms, and systematic application will help improve quality of life (QOL). They require a diagnosis of the underlying etiology, individualization of symptom therapy, a systematic approach to management, and therapeutic clarity and simplicity. There are 20 principles that have been identified as helpful to guide the clinical practice of symptom control in advanced cancer.
Bringing Social Media to the Writing Classroom: Classroom Salon
Authors: Kaufer David , Gunawardena Ananda , Tan Aaron , Cheek Alexander
Published: March 2011

This article introduces a new IText technology called Classroom Salon. The goal of Classroom Salon is to bring some of the benefits of social media—the expression of personal identity and community—to writing classrooms. It provides Facebook-like features to writing classes, where students can form social networks as annotators within the drafts of their peers. The authors discuss how the technology seeks to capture qualities of historical salons, which also built communities around texts. They also discuss the central features of the Classroom Salon system, how the system changes the dynamics of the writing classroom, current efforts to evaluate it, and future directions.
Developing Global Business Capabilities in MBA Students
Authors: Randolph W. Alan
Published: March 2011

The need to develop global business capabilities in MBAs is clear and growing, and faculty must create efficient and effective processes for developing these capabilities.The author offers for consideration an approach that utilizes theory combined with practice to begin developing global business capabilities during a one-semester course. The five global mind-sets (reflective, analytical, worldly, collaborative, and action) offered by Mintzberg provide a useful framework for categorizing the desired learning. He demonstrates that by using a variety of complementary approaches, including case analyses in multicultural teams, local and foreign business-opportunity analyses, a business-venture proposal that bridges two countries, and a focused study tour, students can make real progress in learning the five mind-sets. Pre—post questionnaires and qualitative data support the conclusion that MBAs who participate in an organized and diverse learning experience can begin to develop global business capabilities in a concentrated period of time.
Landmark vectors with quantized distance information for homing navigation
Authors: Yu Seung-Eun , Kim DaeEun
Published: March 2011

Returning home after an outward journey is a skill important to the survival of many insects and other animals. Many hymenopterans perform homing navigation using snapshot images taken at specific locations. Snapshot images can be processed in various ways, and this article focuses on the vector model of landmark distribution. In this article, we suggest a new landmark vector model with quantized distance information, and this method is highly successful for navigation without using a reference compass. The landmark distances based on egomotion can be obtained and this information produces a new type of homing navigation with landmark vectors. It includes varying sizes of landmark vectors, depending on the distance. We investigate the effect of quantized distance information or continuous distance in the landmark vectors for homing navigation performance. Even a few classes of discretization of landmark distances and a rough estimation of the current agent location can show excellent homing performance. Our experimental results are compared with those of other conventional navigation algorithms.
Multiple Deprivations in Transitional Chinese Cities
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Wu Fulong , Xu Xueqiang
Published: March 2011

This article applies the index of multiple deprivations to measuring the dimensions of deprivation in the city of Guangzhou, China. The study uses both population census data and information on minimum living standard support. The spatial pattern shows the concentration of highly deprived areas in old areas as well as in ex-industrial districts on the outskirts. The deprivation in old areas is characterized by underprivileged living conditions, while ex-industrial areas present a more income-based poverty. The authors suggest that this spatial pattern has resulted from underinvestment in old areas before economic reform and economic restructuring of industrial districts under postreform policies.
In Deep Waters: process theory between Scylla and Charybdis
Authors: Weik Elke
Published: March 2011

In this article, I propose a middle way between current process and substance theorizing as I argue that both ‘pure’ views are fraught with theoretical problems. I base my proposal on the ontologies of Aristotle and A.N. Whitehead, who both maintain that being and becoming are equally important for a comprehensive analysis of change processes. Drawing on their insights, I develop a conceptual frame that distinguishes between change and becoming, and proposes to use the pairs of potentiality-actuality and activity-relationality as notions that are less fraught with conceptual baggage and more relevant empirically than the distinction between substance and process.
Re-Reading C. Wright Mills
Authors: Barratt Edward
Published: March 2011

Inspired by the argument that discussions of the history of management studies commonly suffer from a lack of adequate historical contextualization, this paper offers a re-reading of the work of the well known critic C. Wright Mills. Focusing on Mills’s study of American labour in the 1940’s, we seek to return his work to the conditions in which it took shape: its social, political and philosophical context. We suggest a new way of reading Mills, the manner in which he exemplifies a certain way of leading a critical scholarly life. Mills’s debt to a Socratic tradition of critique is highlighted. We focus on the tentative and provisional elements in his project as he constitutes himself as both political theorist and actor. Without suggesting we aspire to copy Mills and highlighting important tensions, we reconsider the significance of Mills for critical management studies today.
Between law and politics: Explaining international dispute settlement behavior
Authors: Zangl Bernhard , Helmedach Achim , Mondré Aletta , Kocks Alexander , Neubauer Gerald , Blome Kerstin
Published: March 2011

Over recent decades a judicialization process of international dispute settlement procedures has taken place. Yet, the judicialization of procedures remains meaningless if the procedures are not used and accepted by disputing states in practice. Prominent theoretical approaches point to different conditions under which this is to be expected. Realism emphasizes the international distribution of power, institutionalism stresses the importance of the institutional design of international dispute settlement procedures, and liberalism points to the domestic institutional setting of the participating states. The article confronts these theoretical expectations with states’ actual dispute settlement behavior in the international trade regime, the United Nations Security Council, the European human rights regime and the regime on the protection of endangered species in the 1970s/80s and 1990s/2000s, respectively. Its main finding is that, compared to realism and liberalism, institutionalism fares better in explaining the judicialization of states’ dispute settlement behavior.