bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Private equity, the minimalist organization and the quality of employment relations
Authors: Rodrigues Suzana B , Child John
Published: February 2010

This article develops a firm-level analysis of how the quality of employment relations following acquisition by private equity firms (PEFs) is contingent upon the strategic intent of those firms and the post-acquisition organizational choices they make. The efficiency gains that PEFs seek in acquired companies are expected to encourage restructuring towards a minimalist organization. However, the form such an organization takes is seen to depend on whether PEF strategy is oriented primarily towards extracting short-term value from acquired assets rather than towards renewing and developing those assets. Contrasts in the process of restructuring and in organizational form associated with these two strategies will have different implications for the quality of employment relations. The way in which PEFs restructure the companies or units they acquire is the key intervening factor between the strategic intent of PEFs and impact they have on the quality of employment relations.
Mechanical Behaviors of 2D and 3D Basalt Fiber Woven Composites Under Various Strain Rates
Authors: Baozhong Sun  , Zhilin Niu  , Lvtao Zhu  , Bohong Gu
Published: February 2010

Compressive behaviors of 2D basalt fiber laminated plain woven composite and 3D basalt fiber orthogonal woven composite were tested under various strain rates with a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus and universal material test system (MTS 810.23). Compressive stress—strain curves were obtained at strain rates ranging from 0.001 to 3500 s-1. The compressive curves exhibited strong strain-rate sensitivity. Compression modulus and failure stress of the 2D woven composite are both greater than those of the 3D woven composite under the same strain rate. The main failure mode of the 2D woven composite is delamination both along in-plane direction and through thickness direction. As the impact velocity increases, the 2D woven composite will be in debris owing to the resin cracks, whereas for that of the 3D orthogonal woven, there is no delamination between each layer because of the binds of Z-yarns. The 3D woven composite will also be in debris under high strain rate compression when the Z-yarns break.
Economic sanctions and the duration of civil conflicts
Authors: Escribà-Folch Abel
Published: February 2010

This article studies the impact of economic sanctions on the duration and outcome of intrastate conflicts. Sanctions are argued to foster the convergence of beliefs over parties’ capacity, to reduce the utility of victory and to increase the costs of continuing fighting. Using a sample of 87 wars and new data on sanctions and sanction types, the author shows that sanctions and their durations are statistically associated with shorter intrastate conflicts. It is also shown that total economic embargoes are the most effective type of coercive measure in these cases and that sanctions imposed either by international organizations or by other actors have similar negative effects on war duration. In the second part of the article, the dependent variable is disaggregated, and I demonstrate that sanctions imposed by international institutions increase the likelihood of conflict resolution, whereas those sanctions not imposed by such institutions tend to increase the probability of a military victory. Moreover, if the targeted state is a member of the international institution imposing the sanctions, the effect of such coercion is even greater. Economic embargoes are also proven to increase the likelihoods of a military and a negotiated end, whereas international arms embargoes reduce the likelihood of a military victory.
Incremental propagation rules for a precedence graph with optional activities and time windows
Authors: Barták Roman , Čepek Ondřej
Published: February 2010

Constraint-based scheduling is a powerful tool for solving complex real-life scheduling problems thanks to a natural integration of special solving algorithms encoded in so-called global constraints. Global constraints describe subproblems of the scheduling problem, eg, allocation of activities to a disjunctive resource. Filtering algorithms behind these constraints are used to prune the search space by eliminating options that violate the constraint. The filtering algorithms are frequently expressed in the form of propagation rules that react to some change appearing during problem solving, eg, adding a new precedence relation, by proposing a derived restriction, eg, shrinking a time window. These changes can be invoked by other constraints or they can be a result of some search decision. This paper describes new incremental propagation rules integrating propagation of precedence relations and time windows for activities allocated to a disjunctive resource. Moreover, the rules also cover so-called optional activities that may or may not be present in the final schedule.
Randomized control of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus placebo for chronic decubitus ulceration
Authors: Larking Anna M , Duport Sophie , Clinton Michael , Hardy Mary , Andrews Keith
Published: February 2010

Objective: To assess whether extracorporeal shock wave therapy increases the rate of healing in chronic decubitus ulceration.

Design: Double-blind randomized cross-over study.

Setting: A large, long-stay hospital specializing in the management of people with complex neurological disabilities.

Subjects: The total population of available patients with chronic neurological conditions and chronic decubitus ulceration who met the inclusion criteria.

Interventions: Ulcers were randomized into receiving either the extracorporeal shock wave therapy or the placebo for a four-week period, followed by a two-week ‘washout’ period followed by a four-week period of the cross-over treatment/ placebo.

Main measures: Measurement of the area of the ulceration. For each observation the average of three measurements were taken.

Results: Nine ulcers (in eight patients) were included in the study: five on the buttocks/sacrum/trochanter and four on the feet/ankles. All those with static chronic ulcers showed improved healing starting 6—8 weeks after the start of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, whether treated first with the placebo or the therapy.

Conclusions: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy has a potential part to play in the treatment of chronic skin ulceration.
Comparison of two accelerated clinical pathways - after total knee replacement how fast can we really go?
Authors: Renkawitz T. , Rieder T. , Handel M. , Koller M. , Drescher J. , Bonnlaender G. , Grifka J.
Published: February 2010

Objective: To evaluate whether a further optimization of an existing accelerated clinical pathway protocol after total knee replacement is feasible and improves postoperative outcome.

Design: Prospective, parallel group design.

Setting: Orthopaedic University Medical Centre.

Patients: A total of 143 patients, scheduled for unilateral primary total knee replacement under perioperative regional analgesia.

Intervention: Sixty-seven patients received an optimized accelerated clinical pathway including patient-controlled regional analgesia pumps, ultra-early/doubled physiotherapy and motor-driven continuous passive motion machine units. Seventy-six patients received a standard accelerated clinical pathway.

Main measures: Feasibility was defined as the proportion of patients successfully completing the assigned pathway. Early postoperative pain on a visual analogue scale, consumption of regional anaesthetics, knee range of motion, time out of bed, non-stop walking distance/stair climbing, circumference measurement and Knee Society Score on the operated leg. Possible discharge according to an own discharge checklist.

Results: All patients assigned to both groups successfully completed this pathway. Patients in the optimized pathway showed significant benefits regarding stair climbing/walking distance/time out of bed/circumference measurements of the thigh/Knee Society function score on the fifth postoperative day and stair climbing/ circumference measurements of the thigh on the eighth postoperative day, and reduction of the consumption of regional anaesthetics. No significant reduction in length of stay was observed.

Conclusions: Early postoperative functional process indicators tended to be higher within the optimized pathway group, but the main effects flattened over the course of the first eight postoperative days.
Antidiabetic effect of some medicinal plants of Oriental Morocco in neonatal non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus rats
Authors: Bnouham Mohamed , Merhfour Fatima Zahra , Ziyyat Abderrahim , Aziz Mohamed , Legssyer Abdelkhaleq , Mekhfi Hassane
Published: February 2010

The goal of the present study is to test the effect of water extract (WE) of four medicinal plants used as antidiabetics in Eastern Morocco (Arbutus unedo: Au, Ammoïdes pusilla: Ap, Thymelaea hirsuta: Th, and Urtica dioïca: Ud). These plants are used in cooking to bring out the flavor in a dish or to complement it. The first experiment was realized in order to determine the antidiabetic effect of the WE of these plants during 5 weeks’ treatment. Seven groups of Wistar rats were used: Healthy controls, neonatal streptozotocin (n-stz) induced-diabetic rats (90 mg/kg; intraperitoneally [i.p.]), n-stz + tolbutamide (400 mg/l), and 4 groups n-stz + WE of plants (400 mg/l, drink water). The percentages of Plasma glucose lowering effect were, respectively for Au, Ap, Th, Ud and tolbutamide: 31.6 % p<0.01, 27.4 % p<0.05, 38.2 % p<0.01, 13 % and 33.9 % p<0.05 when compared with untreated diabetic controls. In a second experiment, oral glucose tolerance tests were carried out in n-stz induced-diabetic rats. The i.p. administration of the water extract (WE) of Ap and Ud (150 mg/kg) 30 minutes before the glucose overload (2 g/kg) showed a significant reduction glycemia, respectively of 36 % at 60 min (p<0.05) and 50 % at 180 min (p<0.05) after glucose overload compared with controls. In contrast, the effect of WE of Au and Th (150 mg/kg, i.p.) was not significant. The in vitro study of glucose utilization by isolated rat hemidiaphragm suggests that these extracts in combination with insulin potentiate its activity and enhance the utilization of glucose. In conclusion, it seems that these plants possess antidiabetic activity.
Peripheral neuropathy in patients with primary antiphospholipid (Hughes’) syndrome
Authors: Santos MSF , de Carvalho JF , Brotto M. , Bonfa E. , Rocha FAC
Published: February 2010

The involvement of the peripheral nervous system in diverse autoimmune diseases is well established. However, no appropriately designed studies have been performed in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS)-related peripheral neuropathy. We aimed to investigate the occurrence of peripheral neuropathy in patients diagnosed with PAPS. Twenty-six consecutive patients with PAPS (Sapporo criteria) and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled at two referral centers. Exclusion criteria were secondary causes of peripheral neuropathy. A complete clinical neurologic exam followed by nerve conduction studies (NCS) was performed. Paresthesias were reported in eight patients (31%). Objective mild distal weakness and abnormal symmetric deep tendon reflexes were observed in three patients (11.5%). With regard to the electrophysiologic evidence of peripheral neuropathy, nine patients (35.0%) had alterations: four (15.5%) had pure sensory or sensorimotor distal axonal neuropathy (in two of them a carpal tunnel syndrome was also present) and one (4%) had sensorimotor demyelinating and axonal neuropathy involving upper and lower extremities, while four patients (15.5%) showed isolated carpal tunnel syndrome. Clinical and serologic results were similar in all the patients with PAPS, regardless of the presence of electrophysiologic alterations. In conclusion, peripheral neuropathy is a common asymptomatic abnormality in patients with PAPS. The routine performance of NCS may be considered when evaluating such patients.
The Factorial Mirror (FAM) Concept of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and the Firm Impact Sphere (FIP)
Authors: Abouzeedan Adli
Published: February 2010

E-globalization is a terminology of high significance when focusing on smaller firm mechanisms of survival and growth in the new IT-based economy. One of the new approaches to understanding the interaction between the firms’ activities and their environments is the concept of the ‘Firm Impact Sphere’. The ‘Firm Impact Sphere’ (or FIP) concept was initially proposed by Abouzeedan and Busler (2002a, 2006a). The FIP concept facilitates better perception of the business environment of today.

In relation to that, it is worth recalling that scholars made an effort to categorize a firm’s performance factors related to internal environments versus the ones related to the external environment of the firm, by arranging the various factors of impact into individual groups, such as the SPF classification system (see Abouzeedan 2002). In that paper, the equivalency between the sub-groups within the SPF-classification system was established. That work was developed further by a later paper by Abouzeedan (2003), where the author discussed how to relate equivalent groups of parameters. To do this, he introduced the concept of the mirror effect using the ‘Factorial Mirror’ concept (see Abouzeedan 2003).

In this article, I try to illustrate how the ‘Factorial Mirror’ (or FAM) concept can be utilized to understand the relationship between the external and internal parameters incorporated in the firm performance models and relate that concept to the Firm Impact Sphere (FIP) framework of analysis. I then proceed to connect that analysis to bridging tactics and alliances’ formation. In the context of this discussion, I introduce the BFF Triangle as an abstract presentation to the said. By understanding how manipulating parameters of the external environment would alter the internal environment of the firm, scholars should be able to build a better perception of the dynamism behind the ability of firm bridging tactics to transfer themselves into workable alliances.
Soft and Hard Aspects of Quality Management Practices Influencing Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction in Manufacturing-oriented Services
Authors: Lenka Usha , Suar Damodar , Mohapatra Pratap K.J.
Published: February 2010

This review rationalizes that quality management practices have been adopted as a marketing strategy in the post-liberalized economy. Evaluating the literature and theories of quality management, differences are found in the implementation of quality management practices in manufacturing and service sectors. A critical assessment of literature and a comparison of various quality management models divulge the variables that are proposed to influence service quality and customer satisfaction in manufacturing-oriented services. These variables are categorized as ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ aspects of quality management. The soft aspects include transformational leadership, workplace spirituality, service climate, human resource management practices, employees’ affective commitment and job satisfaction. The hard aspects incorporate the management information system and physical evidence. It is rationalized that the adoption of soft and hard aspects of quality management is essential to achieve service quality and customer satisfaction.
A New Approach to the Modeling and Analysis of Fracture through Extension of Continuum Mechanics to the Nanoscale
Authors: Sendova T. , Walton J.R.
Published: February 2010

In this paper we focus on the analysis of the partial differential equations arising from a new approach to modeling brittle fracture based on an extension of continuum mechanics to the nanoscale. It is shown that ascribing constant surface tension to the fracture surfaces and using the appropriate crack surface boundary condition given by the jump momentum balance leads to a sharp crack opening profile at the crack tip but predicts logarithmically singular crack tip stress. However, a modified model, where the surface excess property is responsive to the curvature of the fracture surfaces, yields bounded stresses and a cusp-like opening profile at the crack tip. Further, two possible fracture criteria in the context of the new theory are discussed. The first is an energy-based crack growth condition, while the second employs the finite crack tip stress the model predicts. The classical notion of energy release rate is based upon the singular solution, whereas for the modeling approach adopted here, a notion analogous to the energy release rate arises through a different mechanism associated with the rate of working of the surface excess properties at the crack tip.
Commentary: Innovation and Stability within the Dialogical Self: The Centrality of Ambivalence
Authors: Ribeiro António P. , Gonçalves Miguel M.
Published: February 2010

This commentary focuses on Ligorio’s (2010) and O’Sullivan-Lago and de Abreu’s (2010) work as an opportunity to elaborate upon discontinuity emergence and continuity restoration within the Dialogical Self. We depart from the pair rupture—transition as a unit of analysis for understanding the flow of change within the Dialogical Self and the centrality of ambivalence as a development catalyser to focus on the way change and maintenance of problematic self-narratives in psychotherapy are pictured by the innovative moments model. We have argued that innovative moments (or i-moments) can be understood as episodes of rupture or discontinuity, since they challenge a person’s usual way of understanding and experiencing (i.e., the problematic narrative), generating ambivalence or uncertainty. We have suggested that avoiding this ambivalence, by means of semiotic attenuation of i-moments, can foster the maintenance of the problematic self narrative. In fact, when ambivalence is not overcome, i-moments and the problematic narrative may establish a cyclical relation throughout the therapeutic process, blocking the self’s development.
Knowledge Translation Strategies Using the Thinking About Epilepsy Program as a Case Study
Authors: Martiniuk Alexandra L. C. , Secco Mary , Speechley Kathy N.
Published: February 2010

In many areas of health promotion and health care there is a need to bring new knowledge from research into practice (knowledge translation). Relevant research alone is not usually sufficient to achieve the ultimate outcome(s) of interest. This study aims to address this gap by outlining practices and outcomes involved in moving research findings into action using the example of the Thinking About Epilepsy program. A case study approach is used to discuss evidence-based principles and steps taken to translate evidence about the Thinking About Epilepsy program into action. Data used to inform this process include organizational documents, observations, and stakeholder interviews. Partnerships and techniques used for knowledge translation are discussed. The process of moving research knowledge into action is discussed explicitly in terms of who the policy makers are, what action is desired, the role of partners, and funding. Using a case study approach the authors have illustrated the importance of starting knowledge translation at the beginning, not at the end, of the research project. The principles discussed in this article can be extended past epilepsy and applied to move research findings relevant to other health conditions, health promotion activities, products, and technologies into action.
Safeguarding children and public health: Midwives’ responsibilities
Authors: Lazenbatt Anne
Published: February 2010

Aim: Using a healthy settings framework, this study aims to compare and contrast how midwives working in either hospital or community settings are currently responding to the co-occurrence of domestic and child abuse; their perceived role and willingness to identify abuse; record keeping; reporting of suspected or definite cases of child abuse; and training received.

Methods: A survey questionnaire was sent to 861 hospital and community midwives throughout Northern Ireland, which resulted in 488 midwives completing the questionnaire, a 57% response rate. Comparisons were made using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation and the questionnaire was validated using exploratory factor analysis.

Results: Community midwives reported receiving more training on domestic and child abuse. Although a high percentage of both hospital and community midwives acknowledged a link between domestic and child abuse, it was the community midwives who encountered more suspected and definite ( p < 0.001) cases of child abuse. More community midwives reported being aware of the mechanisms for reporting child abuse. However, an important finding is that although 12% of community midwives encountered a ‘definite’ case of child abuse, only 2% reported the abuse, leaving a 10% gap between reporting and identifying definite cases of child abuse. Findings suggest that lack of education and training was a problem as only a quarter of hospital midwives reported to have received training on domestic violence and 40% on child abuse. This was significantly less than that received by community midwives, where the figures were 57% and 62%, respectively.

Conclusion: Midwives need training on how to interact with abused mothers using non-coercive, supportive and empowering mechanisms. Many women may not spontaneously disclose the issues of child or domestic abuse in their lives, but often respond honestly to a sensitively asked question. This issue is important as only 13% of the sample actually asked a woman a direct question about domestic violence.
The efficacy and safety of abatacept in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Westhovens Rene , Verschueren Patrick
Published: February 2010

Despite important progress in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in the last decade, even in the era of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) blockade there is a need for additional therapeutic options in many patients. In recent years three therapies with a distinct mode of action became available: rituximab, an anti-B cell therapy, tocilizumab, an anti IL-6 therapy, and abatacept, a costimulation blocker. Primary efficacy results of all three therapies are comparable at 6 months, nevertheless they have distinct efficacy and safety profiles. In the current review we focus on specific aspects of efficacy and safety of abatacept: increasing clinical and X-ray improvements over time, important and stable responses over several years, timing of response, improvements in patient-centered outcomes, and also long-term safety and easy administration with low rates of perfusion reactions. Currently, head to head comparisons between biologics are still lacking and registry data of drugs with a mode of action different to TNF blockade are still rare. In the meantime detailed analysis of all trials with a drug such as abatacept provides important information for the practicing rheumatologist.
The genetic diversity and evolution of field pea (Pisum) studied by high throughput retrotransposon based insertion polymorphism (RBIP) marker analysis
Authors: Jing Runchun , Vershinin Alexander , Grzebyta Jacek , Shaw Paul , Smýkal Petr , Marshall David , Ambrose Michael J , Ellis TH Noel , Flavell Andrew J
Published: February 2010

Background

The genetic diversity of crop species is the result of natural selection on the wild progenitor and human intervention by ancient and modern farmers and breeders. The genomes of modern cultivars, old cultivated landraces, ecotypes and wild relatives reflect the effects of these forces and provide insights into germplasm structural diversity, the geographical dimension to species diversity and the process of domestication of wild organisms. This issue is also of great practical importance for crop improvement because wild germplasm represents a rich potential source of useful under-exploited alleles or allele combinations. The aim of the present study was to analyse a major Pisum germplasm collection to gain a broad understanding of the diversity and evolution of Pisum and provide a new rational framework for designing germplasm core collections of the genus.

Results

3020 Pisum germplasm samples from the John Innes Pisum germplasm collection were genotyped for 45 retrotransposon based insertion polymorphism (RBIP) markers by the Tagged Array Marker (TAM) method. The data set was stored in a purpose-built Germinate relational database and analysed by both principal coordinate analysis and a nested application of the Structure program which yielded substantially similar but complementary views of the diversity of the genus Pisum. Structure revealed three Groups (1-3) corresponding approximately to landrace, cultivar and wild Pisum respectively, which were resolved by nested Structure analysis into 14 Sub-Groups, many of which correlate with taxonomic sub-divisions of Pisum, domestication related phenotypic traits and/or restricted geographical locations. Genetic distances calculated between these Sub-Groups are broadly supported by principal coordinate analysis and these, together with the trait and geographical data, were used to infer a detailed model for the domestication of Pisum.

Conclusions

These data provide a clear picture of the major distinct gene pools into which the genus Pisum is partitioned and their geographical distribution. The data strongly support the model of independent domestications for P. sativum ssp abyssinicum and P. sativum. The relationships between these two cultivated germplasms and the various sub-divisions of wild Pisum have been clarified and the most likely ancestral wild gene pools for domesticated P. sativum identified. Lastly, this study provides a framework for defining global Pisum germplasm which will be useful for designing core collections.
Combined rotation scarf and Akin osteotomies for hallux valgus: a patient focussed 9 year follow up of 50 patients
Authors: Kilmartin Timothy E , O'Kane Claire
Published: February 2010

Background

The Cochrane review of hallux valgus surgery has disputed the scientific validity of hallux valgus research. Scoring systems and surrogate measures such as x‐ray angles are commonly reported at just one year post operatively but these are of dubious relevance to the patient. In this study we extended the follow up to a minimum of 8 years and sought to address patient specific concerns with hallux valgus surgery. The long term follow up also allowed a comprehensive review of the complications associated with the combined rotation scarf and Akin osteotomies.

Methods

Between 1996 and 1999, 101 patients underwent rotation scarf and Akin osteotomies for the treatment of hallux valgus. All patients were contacted and asked to participate in this study. 50 female participants were available allowing review of 73 procedures. The average follow up was over 9 years and the average age at the time of surgery was 57. The participants were physically examined and interviewed.

Results

Post‐operatively, in 86% of the participants there were no footwear restrictions. Stiffness of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was reported in 8% (6 feet); 10% were unhappy with the cosmetic appearance of their feet, 3 feet had hallux varus, and 2 feet had recurrent hallux valgus. There were no foot‐related activity restrictions in 92% of the group. Metatarsalgia occurred in 4% (3 feet). 96% were better than before surgery and 88% were completely satisfied with their post‐operative result. Hallux varus was the greatest single cause of dissatisfaction. The most common adverse event in the study was internal fixation irritation. Hallux valgus surgery is not without risk and these findings could be useful in the informed consent process.

Conclusions

When combined the rotation scarf and Akin osteotomies are an effective treatment for hallux valgus that achieves good long‐term correction with a low incidence of recurrence, footwear restriction or metatarsalgia. The nature of the osteotomies allows early return to normal shoes and activity without the need for postoperative immobilisation in a plaster cast.
Goal-directed intraoperative therapy based on autocalibrated arterial pressure waveform analysis reduces hospital stay in high-risk surgical patients: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Mayer Jochen , Boldt Joachim , Mengistu Andinet M , Röhm Kerstin D , Suttner Stefan
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Several studies have shown that goal-directed hemodynamic and fluid optimization may result in improved outcome. However, the methods used were either invasive or had other limitations. The aim of this study was to perform intraoperative goal-directed therapy with a minimally invasive, easy to use device (FloTrac/Vigileo), and to evaluate possible improvements in patient outcome determined by the duration of hospital stay and the incidence of complications compared to a standard management protocol.

Methods

In this randomized, controlled trial 60 high-risk patients scheduled for major abdominal surgery were included. Patients were allocated into either an enhanced hemodynamic monitoring group using a cardiac index based intraoperative optimization protocol (FloTrac/Vigileo device, GDT-group, n = 30) or a standard management group (Control-group, n = 30), based on standard monitoring data.

Results

The median duration of hospital stay was significantly reduced in the GDT-group with 15 (12 - 17.75) days versus 19 (14 - 23.5) days (P = 0.006) and fewer patients developed complications than in the Control-group [6 patients (20%) versus 15 patients (50%), P = 0.03]. The total number of complications was reduced in the GDT-group (17 versus 49 complications, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

In high-risk patients undergoing major abdominal surgery, implementation of an intraoperative goal-directed hemodynamic optimization protocol using the FloTrac/Vigileo device was associated with a reduced length of hospital stay and a lower incidence of complications compared to a standard management protocol.

Trial Registration

Clinical trial registration information: Unique identifier: NCT00549419
Reliability management and assessment for the electric traction system on the Korea High-Speed Train
Authors: Seo S I , Park C S , Choi S H , Han Y J , Kim K H
Published: February 2010

The Korea High-Speed Train (KHST) is complete and ready for commercial service. In preparation for commercial service, the reliability of the KHST was proven. In this article, a practical procedure is proposed to assess and manage the reliability of the prototype train traction system. The past data of a similar traction system are analysed in order to set the reliability target. The effectiveness of the procedure for reliability growth is shown. After the electric traction system is classified into subsystems, reliability analysis is carried out. Reliability block diagram and failure mode effect analyses are performed. The expressions for calculating the reliability are deduced and the mean kilometres between service failures are calculated using the previous failure rate data. Some practical criteria for the demonstration of reliability are proposed. Reliability growth is shown using a test run on a commercial line.
Skeletal stem cells and bone regeneration: Translational strategies from bench to clinic
Authors: Tare R S , Kanczler J , Aarvold A , Jones A M H , Dunlop D G , Oreffo R O C
Published: February 2010

Clinical imperatives for new bone to replace or restore the function of traumatized or bone lost as a consequence of age or disease has led to the need for therapies or procedures to generate bone for skeletal applications. Tissue regeneration promises to deliver specifiable replacement tissues and the prospect of efficacious alternative therapies for orthopaedic applications such as non-union fractures, healing of critical sized segmental defects and regeneration of articular cartilage in degenerative joint diseases. In this paper we review the current understanding of the continuum of cell development from skeletal stem cells, osteoprogenitors through to mature osteoblasts and the role of the matrix microenvironment, vasculature and factors that control their fate and plasticity in skeletal regeneration. Critically, this review addresses in vitro and in vivo models to investigate laboratory and clinical based strategies for the development of new technologies for skeletal repair and the key translational points to clinical success. The application of developmental paradigms of musculoskeletal tissue formation specifically, understanding developmental biology of bone formation particularly in the adult context of injury and disease will, we propose, offer new insights into skeletal cell biology and tissue regeneration allowing for the critical integration of stem cell science, tissue engineering and clinical applications. Such interdisciplinary, iterative approaches will be critical in taking patient aspirations to clinical reality.
Sliding wear characterization of microwave-glazed plasma-sprayed ceramic composites
Authors: Sharma A K , Krishnamurthy R
Published: February 2010

The main objective of the present study is to present the wear characteristics of post-processed plasma deposits of alumina-titania (AT-13) ceramic composites under high-speed sliding. Spray deposits were post-processed (microwave glazed) by way of exposing them to microwave radiation at a frequency of 2.45 GHz in a multi-mode cavity by using the microwave hybrid heating principle. During ‘microwave glazing’, densification of the coating's structure takes place as a consequence of microwave-heating-induced phase transformation, leading to significant enhancement in hardness and reduction in porosity. Responses of the as-sprayed and microwave-glazed composites were monitored while they were subjected to sliding type of tribocontact at a speed of 5 m/s. Subsequent analyses are presented in terms of wear rate, pressure-velocity-time ( p- v- t) characteristics, fractography, elemental count, and acoustic emission (AE) emanated during the trials. The results show a steady sliding wear response after an initial higher rate. The p- v- t factor analysis confirms a better operating condition with glazed composites. Glazed composites exhibit higher stability towards elemental transfer between the wear surface and the counter surface. AEs emanating during trials indicate deformation and brittle fracture as the dominating wear mechanisms of the as-sprayed and microwave-glazed ceramic composites.
Energy audit of fishing vessels
Authors: Thomas G , O'Doherty D , Sterling D , Chin C
Published: February 2010

Recent dramatic rises in the price of diesel fuel have resulted in the questionable viability of sectors of the Australian commercial fishing industry. Many fishing vessels currently operating in the fleet are over 20 years old and operate in a way that is inefficient in terms of the energy input (combustible fuels) in contrast with the useful energy output (catch). Combined with the global need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions there is a clear need to introduce new efficiencies into fishing vessel operations. This paper reports on the development of an energy audit method for fishing vessels, based on similar systems for land-based industries. It enables the analysis of individual vessels to be made and allows the assessment of their energy usage and current level of efficiency. A sample energy audit has been conducted for an Australian fishing vessel that leads to recommendations for improved efficiencies to combat present and possible future fuel cost increases.
What the Stock Market Decline Means for the Financial Security and Retirement Choices of the Near-Retirement Population
Authors: Gustman Alan L , Steinmeier Thomas L , Tabatabai Nahid
Published: February 2010

This paper investigates the effect of the current recession on the retirement age population. Data from the Health and Retirement Study suggest that those approaching retirement age (early boomers ages 53 to 58 in 2006) have only 15.2 percent of their wealth in stocks, held directly or in defined contribution plans or IRAs. Their vulnerability to a stock market decline is limited by the high value of their Social Security wealth, which represents over a quarter of the total household wealth of the early boomers. In addition, their defined contribution plans remain immature, so their defined benefit plans represent sixty five percent of their pension wealth. Simulations with a structural retirement model suggest the stock market decline will lead the early boomers to postpone their retirement by only 1.5 months on average. Health and Retirement Study data also show that those approaching retirement are not likely to be greatly or immediately affected by the decline in housing prices. We end with a discussion of important difficulties facing those who would use labor market policies to increase the employment of older workers.
Religious perspectives on embryo donation and research
Authors: Kerridge Ian H , Jordens Christopher F C , Benson Rod , Clifford Ross , Ankeny Rachel A , Keown Damien , Tobin Bernadette , Bhattacharyya Swasti , Sachedina Abdulaziz , Lehmann Lisa Soleymani , Edgar Brian
Published: February 2010

The success of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) worldwide has led to an accumulation of frozen embryos that are surplus to the reproductive needs of those for whom they were created. In these situations, couples must decide whether to discard them or donate them for scientific research or for use by other infertile couples. While legislation and regulation may limit the decisions that couples make, their decisions are often shaped by their religious beliefs. Unfortunately, health professionals, scientists and policy-makers are often unaware of the way in which faith traditions view ART and decisions concerning the ‘fate’ of surplus embryos. In this paper scholars representing six major religious traditions provide a commentary on a hypothetical case concerning the donation or destruction of excess ART embryos. These commentaries provide a rich account of religious perspectives on the status of the human embryo and an insight into the relevance of faith to health and policy decisions, particularly in reproductive medicine, ART and embryo research.
Endo-anal ultrasound versus endo-anal magnetic resonance imaging for the depiction of external anal sphincter pathology in patients with faecal incontinence: a systematic review
Authors: Sajid MS , Khatri K , Siddiqui MRS , Baig MK
Published: February 2010

Objective: To evaluate the endo-anal ultrasound (EAUS) versus endo-anal magnetic resonance imaging (EAMRI) in the diagnosis of external anal sphincter defects (EAS) in patients with faecal incontinence (FI). Methods: Studies on EAUS and EAMRI were selected and analyzed to generate summative data. Results: Five studies encompassing 347 patients of FI were included in this review. Three studies validated the results of EAUS and EAMRI by surgery (61 patients). In the fixed effect model, EAUS was superior to EAMRI in the depiction of EAS defects. On combined analysis of five studies using fixed effect model, both EAUS and EAMRI were equally effective. However, there was a significant heterogeneity between studies. Conclusion: EAUS and EAMRI are comparable in the diagnosis of EAS defects in patients of FI. Since EAUS is an economical, quicker and easily available imaging modality, it may be used a preferable investigation for the diagnosis of EAS defects in patients of FI.
Revolution, What Revolution? Contextual Issues in Citizenship Education in Schools in England
Authors: Harber Clive
Published: February 2010

This article sets out some of the key obstacles facing the successful implementation of education for democratic citizenship in England in the light of claims about its radical potential. It argues that citizenship is indeed not like other subjects because it has wider implications for the purposes of schooling and the way that schools and classrooms are organised. It discusses evidence of progress on the implementation of citizenship education and then considers a series of serious structural impediments to its radical potential that exist within the wider education system - teacher supply and the nature of teacher education; curricular issues including the national curriculum, teaching controversial issues and the role of Personal, Health and Social education; school councils and racism. It concludes by noting that a curriculum innovation such as citizenship needs considerable time to become embedded and develop in an education system but that possible political change poses a significant threat to its continued existence.
The Teaching of Democracy: Challenging the Meaning of Participation, Discourse and Dissent in the English School Curriculum
Authors: Gibson Howard
Published: February 2010

The teaching of democracy featured strongly in the Crick Report, the theoretical forerunner of the legislative framework, and is today an important element underpinning the citizenship curriculum in English schools. This paper suggests, however, that democracy is a more complex and problematic term than the one assumed by these documents. It therefore approaches the term more critically with the aim of unearthing some of the assumptions by exploring in detail three of its central tenets, viz. democratic participation, debate or discussion and the link between law and justice. It concludes by suggesting that teachers, charged with energising and re-engaging students with the democratic process, are currently expected to work with a framework that is theoretically questionable and concerned more for the generation of social cohesion than education.
Handicraft and Home Economics as Designers of Citizens Who are Able to Cope in Society
Authors: Lind Ene , Pappel Kale , Paas Kristi
Published: February 2010

Craft taught at comprehensive school is an integrative subject, which enables students to generalize the knowledge acquired in theoretical disciplines and connect it to everyday life, hence designing a self-managing citizen. In the Republic of Estonia the subject of Craft includes both Home Economics and Handicraft. A pilot study and two national surveys were conducted in order to clarify Estonian society's expectations and the readiness of schools to implement this contemporary approach of the subject at comprehensive school. The studies involved young people aged 20 to 29 and teachers of Handicraft and Home Economics in basic schools. The outcome of the research revealed that both youngsters and specialist teachers were aware of the necessity to modernize the subject and its importance in managing independent lives. The means offered for increasing students' motivation in acquiring Craft were modernizing the subject, usage of various teaching methods, widening the choice of study materials and considering students' wishes. The results of the research formed the foundations for designing new syllabi for Home Economics and Handicraft.
Exploring the Teaching of Values in Primary Education: Theory into Practice through a Case Study of Living Values in an English Primary School
Authors: Jordan Ann , Silvanus-Davis Anne , Taylor Paul
Published: February 2010

This article considers how values education, and in particular the concept of Living Values, can be forwarded through a whole school approach within an English Primary School context. It specifically looks at how Living Values within the school has emerged from a consideration of the theory and practice of Values Education as this has developed over recent years. Given that the issue of Values is currently being discussed within the framework of the review of the Primary Curriculum within English Schools, this article seeks to show how the theoretical context and existing practice can play their part in the debate.
Political Education: Controversial Issues, Neutrality of Teachers and Merits of Team Teaching
Authors: Yuen Timothy Wai Wa , Leung Yan Wing
Published: February 2010

This paper examines political education, particularly regarding such matters as discussion of controversial issues, neutrality of teachers and the merits of team teaching. Data were obtained from a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews with students who had completed a political education course taught by the authors. It is hoped that the paper will assist understanding of the complexities of political education on the one hand, and provide practical recommendations to educators working with political education on the other.
Three Continents Claiming an Archipelago: The Evolution of Aegean’s Herpetofaunal Diversity
Authors: Lymberakis Petros , Poulakakis Nikos
Published: February 2010

The area of the Aegean can be described as one of nature’s most active laboratories. The contemporary geomorphology of the Aegean is a result of diverse and still ongoing geological events, which coupled with climate changes, have created mountains and thousands of islands. The Aegean bridges three continents, where human activity has been recorded for at least 10,000 years. Herpetofauna diversity offered early researchers the possibility of describing patterns in the Aegean, especially as the distributional limit for several species and faunal elements. The patterns initially described at a rather coarse scale formed the frame on which the application of new techniques opened new views and permitted finer analyses. Here, we assess recent works on the Aegean’s herpetofauna, outlining the role of sea barriers, especially the Mid Aegean Trench (MAT). We propose four basic patterns (pre-MAT, post-MAT, newcomers, and that of an outlier) and discuss exceptions to these patterns, to interpret the diversity recorded. The interdisciplinary study of taxonomy helps explaining the observed diversity and provides powerful arguments for how exploring diversity can be used to explain more than biological processes.
Soil Line Influences on Two-Band Vegetation Indices and Vegetation Isolines: A Numerical Study
Authors: Yoshioka Hiroki , Miura Tomoaki , Demattê José A. M. , Batchily Karim , Huete Alfredo R.
Published: February 2010

Influences of soil line variations on two-band vegetation indices (VIs) and their vegetation isolines in red and near-infrared (NIR) reflectance space are investigated based on recently derived relationships between the relative variations of VIs with variations of the soil line parameters in the accompanying paper by Yoshioka et al. [1]. The soil line influences are first demonstrated numerically in terms of variations of vegetation isolines and VI values along with the isolines. A hypothetical case is then analyzed by assuming the discrepancies between the general and regional soil lines for a Southern Brazil area reported elsewhere. The results indicate the validity of our analytical approach for the evaluation of soil line influences and the applicability for adjustment of VI errors using external data sources of soil reflectance spectra.
El feminismo y la familia. Influencia del movimiento feminista en la transformación de la familia en España
Authors: Alberdi Inés
Published: February 2010

Los movimientos feministas aparecieron en España coincidiendo con la transición política desde un régimen dictatorial e intransigente a un régimen democrático que proclamó como valores fundamentales la libertad y los derechos del individuo. Las ideas que defendieron las mujeres feministas coincidieron con las reivindicaciones de libertad de todos los que se oponían al régimen de Franco y añadieron a estos una crítica radical de la autoridad que se encarnaba específicamente en la familia patriarcal…
El análisis económico de la familia
Authors: Cabrillo Francisco
Published: February 2010

Si hay una institución en la que la utilización de la ciencia económica para su estudio ha suscitado críticas, ésta es, sin duda, la familia. Y, a pesar de ello, las aportaciones de los economistas a la investigación de la estructura y la evolución de la familia han sido relevantes; y sus argumentos son ampliamente utilizados —unas veces de forma consciente y otras no— por sociólogos, juristas o politólogos…
Los desafíos al sistema de protección social derivados de la postmodernización de la familia
Authors: Meil Landwerlin Gerardo
Published: February 2010

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