bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le métier comme instrument de protection contre les risques psychosociaux au travail : le cas d'ingénieurs managers de proximité
Authors: Miossec Yvon , Clot Yves
Published: December 2011

Résumé Dans cet article, nous présentons la manière dont la clinique de l’activité aborde la question des risques psychosociaux. Après avoir relevé quelques limites dans l’approche de l’épidémiologie, nous présentons notre manière d’entrer dans cette question en posant le problème du métier. Le métier, c’est le rapport inachevé entre les dimensions psychologiques et sociales du travail. Nous analysons l’usage que des professionnels font d’une intervention réalisée à la demande du service de santé au travail d’une grande entreprise. Leur permet-elle d’établir de nouveaux rapports entre les instances du métier ? L’analyse des dialogues enregistrés pendant l’intervention met en lumière deux modes de fonctionnement du métier. Nous expliquons avec ce modèle du métier en quoi ces fonctionnements sont favorables ou défavorables à la santé au travail.
L' intervention ergonomique sur les risques psychosociaux dans les organisations : enjeux théoriques et méthodologiques
Authors: Petit Johann , Dugué Bernard , Daniellou François
Published: December 2011

Résumé Une action sur les rps nécessite, si elle se veut efficace, de permettre une mise en débat sur le fonctionnement organisationnel de l’entreprise, la répartition des lieux et des circuits de décision. Cet article a pour objectif de présenter les enjeux théoriques et méthodologiques que cela représente pour l’action ergonomique sur les rps . Dans un premier temps, nous proposons un cadre théorique qui nous permet de montrer que les ergonomes ont un rôle à jouer sur les rps . Pour cela, il est question de pouvoir mettre en lien la souffrance exprimée par les opérateurs avec les difficultés de production émanant de défaillances organisationnelles, et plus particulièrement les difficultés rencontrées par les salariés pour « bien faire leur travail ». Nous présentons alors un exemple d’intervention dans une entreprise de service pour étayer nos propos. Pour terminer, nous nous appuyons sur le concept de subsidiarité comme guide à la réflexion sur la conception organisationnelle pour les ergonomes.
Reconstrucción de una armadura de cubierta de lazo, en la iglesia parroquial de Almenara de Tormes (Salamanca)
Authors: Fernández-Cabo M. C.
Published: December 2011

El artículo describe el proceso de restauración de la armadura de cubierta de la nave principal de la iglesia románica de Almenara de Tormes, Salamanca (España). El techo de la armadura de par y nudillo del siglo XVI estaba oculto por un entablado, que al ser retirado permitió apreciar unas entalladuras que evidenciaban la existencia de una lacería que se había perdido. En base a la regularidad geométrica de esos cortes o trazas aparecidos en los nudillos, fue posible realizar una reconstrucción completa de la lacería. Se investigó sobre los trazados de lazo que pudieran encajar en esos cortes, rebajes o entalladuras, analizando otros trazados de lazo de la época y lugar histórico. Después de comprobar las medidas y ángulos precisos de las trazas de los nudillos se formularon algunas hipótesis de trazado de lazo y se consiguió desarrollar un trazado que encajaba a la perfección con los restos existentes. Como resultado de esta investigación se pudo proceder a la elaboración de un proyecto de restauración procediendo a continuación a la reconstrucción completa del artesonado hasta en sus más pequeños detalles.
Ética de la peritación estructural de edificios existentes
Authors: Monfort J.
Published: December 2011

La amplitud y diversidad de situaciones que se pueden plantear en estos trabajos de peritación, hacen que cualquier norma para regular su contenido omita casos que deben ser resueltos por el perito según su “leal saber y entender”. Por la transcendencia y responsabilidad que se puede derivar de ellos, vamos a analizar algunos aspectos vinculados a su repercusión desde el punto de vista legal y profesional.
Regulation of Immune Responses by Prostaglandin E2
Authors: Kalinski Pawel
Published: December 2011

PGE2, an essential homeostatic factor, is also a key mediator of immunopathology in chronic infections and cancer. The impact of PGE2 reflects the balance between its cyclooxygenase 2-regulated synthesis and 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase-driven degradation and the pattern of expression of PGE2 receptors. PGE2 enhances its own production but suppresses acute inflammatory mediators, resulting in its predominance at late/chronic stages of immunity. PGE2 supports activation of dendritic cells but suppresses their ability to attract naive, memory, and effector T cells. PGE2 selectively suppresses effector functions of macrophages and neutrophils and the Th1-, CTL-, and NK cell-mediated type 1 immunity, but it promotes Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cell responses. PGE2 modulates chemokine production, inhibiting the attraction of proinflammatory cells while enhancing local accumulation of regulatory T cells cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Targeting the production, degradation, and responsiveness to PGE2 provides tools to modulate the patterns of immunity in a wide range of diseases, from autoimmunity to cancer.
Human CD90 Identifies Th17/Tc17 T Cell Subsets That Are Depleted in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Guillot-Delost Maude , Le Gouvello Sabine , Mesel-Lemoine Mariana , Cheraï Mustapha , Baillou Claude , Simon Anne , Levy Yves , Weiss Laurence , Louafi Samy , Chaput Nathalie , Berrehar François , Kerbrat Stéphane , Klatzmann David , Lemoine François M.
Published: December 2011

By revisiting CD90, a GPI-anchored glycoprotein, we show that CD90 is expressed by a subset of CD4+ and CD8+ human T cells. CD4+CD90+ cells share similarities with Th17 cells because they express the Th17-specific transcription factor RORC2 and produce IL-17A. CD4+CD90+ cells are activated memory T cells that express the gut mucosal markers CCR6, CD161, and the α4 and β7 integrins. Compared with CD90-depleted CCR6+ memory Th17 cells, CD4+CD90+ cells express higher levels of IL-22 and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and GM-CSF), but they produce lower levels of IL-21 and no IL-9. Analyses of CD8+CD90+ cells reveal that they express RORC2 and are able to produce higher levels of IL-17A, IL-22, and CCL20 compared with CD90-depleted CD8+ cells. These data show that CD90 identifies Th17 and Tc17 cells with a peculiar cytokine profile. Studies of circulating CD90+ cells in HIV patients show that CD90+ cells are decreased with an imbalance of the CD4+CD90+/regulatory T cell ratio in nontreated patients compared with treated patients and healthy donors. Overall, human CD90 identifies a subset of Th17 and Tc17 cells within CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, respectively, which are depleted during HIV infection.
Retargeting of Human Regulatory T Cells by Single-Chain Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Koristka Stefanie , Cartellieri Marc , Theil Anke , Feldmann Anja , Arndt Claudia , Stamova Slava , Michalk Irene , Töpfer Katrin , Temme Achim , Kretschmer Karsten , Bornhäuser Martin , Ehninger Gerhard , Schmitz Marc , Bachmann Michael
Published: December 2011

Bispecific Abs hold great potential for immunotherapy of malignant diseases. Because the first components of this new drug class are now entering clinical trials, all aspects of their mode of action should be well understood. Several studies proved that CD8+ and CD4+ effector T cells can be successfully redirected and activated against tumor cells by bispecific Abs both in vitro and in vivo. To our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence that bispecific Abs can also redirect and activate regulatory T cells against a surface Ag, independently of their TCR specificity. After cross-linking, via a bispecific Ab, redirected regulatory T cells upregulate the activation markers CD69 and CD25, as well as regulatory T cell-associated markers, like CTLA-4 and FOXP3. The activated regulatory T cells secrete the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10, but, in contrast to CD8+ and CD4+ effector T cells, almost no inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the redirected regulatory T cells are able to suppress effector functions of activated autologous CD4+ T cells both in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, the potential risk for activation of regulatory T cells should be taken into consideration when bispecific Abs are applied for the treatment of malignant diseases. In contrast, an Ag/tissue-specific redirection of regulatory T cells with bispecific Abs holds great potential for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and graft rejection.
Prevalence of urinary incontinence and other lower tract urinary symptoms in patients with uterine myomas
Authors: Borawski Dorota , Bluth Martin H. , Cheung Wellman W.
Published: December 2011

To study the prevalence and risk factors of the overactive bladder, urinary incontinence and other lower tract urinary symptoms in patients with uterine myomas, female patients with established diagnosis of the uterine myomas presenting to gynecology clinic were invited to answer a self-administered questionnaire, which included questions on evidence of lower urinary tract symptoms [modified Overactive Bladder-Validated 8-question Screener (OAB-V8)]. Demographic data, relevant medical and surgical history, and pelvic ultrasound findings were reviewed from the patients charts. Statistical significance of relationship between OAB, stress incontinence and urge incontinence in relation to body mass index (BMI), uterine volume and size of dominant myoma were analyzed using 2-taild exact Fisher test and Wilcoxon test. Ninty-eight patients (28 to 81 years) completed the questionnaire over a period of 3 months. The majority were premenopausal and had detectable myomas on ultrasound. OAB was present in 47.9% women. No significant statistical relation between size and volume of the uterus and overactive bladder, urge incontinence, stress incontinence and mixed incontinence was noted. Observation of OAB subtypes with urge and stress incontinence in premenopausal patients with uterine myomas was statistically significant in comparison with premenopausal women studied (60.8% vs 15.3 and 63% vs 6.8, respectively; P<0.001). Overall prevalence of OAB was similar in both groups. Our study showed the higher prevalence of overactive bladder than in the general population, however overall OAB prevalence related to fibroids did not show statistical significance. OAB-stress incontinence and OABurge incontinence subtypes were associated with uterine myomas.
Lithofacies and diagenesis of selected conventional core from Jurassic and Early Cretaceous terrigenous clastic rocks, Scotian Basin
Authors: Gould K M , Karim A , Piper D J W , Pe-Piper G
Published: December 2011

This Open File presents lithologic and petrographic detail from conventional cores from wells located across the Scotian Basin; specifically, from the Abenaki subbasin: the Mic Mac D-89, Mic Mac J-77, Mic Mac H-86, North Banquereau I-13, and Wyandot E-53 wells;
from the Sable subbasin: the Marmora P-35, Onondaga O-95, Sable Island C-67, South Desbarres O-76 and Wenonah J-75 wells; and from the edge of the Shelburne subbasin: the Mohican I-100 well. Core samples from the Mic Mac D-89, Wyandot E-53 and Mohican I-100 wells are from the Middle Jurassic Mohican
Formation; the remaining wells sampled either the extreme top of the Late Jurassic Mic Mac Formation or the Early Cretaceous Missisauga and Logan Canyon formations For all cores, except those in the Mohican Formation, detailed core logs are presented that use a lithofacies scheme previously applied
to many other wells in the Scotian Basin. Diagenetic minerals have been studied in petrographic thin section, with selected minerals also studied by electron microprobe. Porosity and permeability data from core plug analysis have been compiled.
Middle Jurassic Mohican Formation terrigenous sediment facies differ from those of the Early Cretaceous, reflecting the more arid climate conditions at that time. Other than the presence of early diagenetic anhydrite in the Mohican I-100 well, diagenetic minerals in sandstones are similar to those
found in Early Cretaceous sandstones.
A brief analysis of the differences in reservoir quality between the Sable and Abenaki subbasins shows that the Abenaki subbasin has proportionally better reservoir quality in the Cree Member, but proportionally poorer quality in the Middle Member of the Missisauga Formation and in the uppermost
Jurassic Mic Mac Formation, compared to the Sable subbasin. In both subbasins, excellent reservoir quality is associated with chlorite rims on framework grains. Loss of reservoir quality is commonly related to carbonate cements, which are sparse to absent in the Cree Member and the Upper Member of
the Missisauga Formation in the Abenaki subbasin. Lithofacies in the two subbasins are in part controlled by rates of subsidence and sediment supply, which were both greater in the Sable subbasin. River-mouth sandstones, which form the best quality reservoirs, are thicker in the Sable subbasin,
where greater subsidence created greater accommodation. Widespread tidal-flat facies in the Abenaki subbasin host poorer quality reservoir sandstones.
Seismic investigation of the "rumblings" in Windsor, Ontario
Authors: Bent A L , Woodgold C R D
Published: December 2011

Natural Resources Canada was asked for assistance by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment in their ongoing investigation of rumblings" reported in Essex County, Ontario. Reports of the rumblings which appear to be a combination of vibrations and low
frequency noise began in March 2011 and are continuing as of this writing (September 2011). In June 2011 four seismometers were installed in the western part of the city of Windsor where the largest number of noise complaints originated. The stations ran until late August 2011. Examination of the
data revealed a signal on two of the stations that was consistent in character with the reported rumblings in terms of time, duration and behavior. Further analysis of the signals revealed that they were propagating as acoustic waves in the atmosphere and that they originated from the general
vicinity of Zug Island, Michigan. Further investigation is required to determine the exact source of the signal.
Mutations of TFAP2B in congenital heart disease patients in Mysore, South India
Authors: Lingaiah Kusuma , Sosalagere Dinesh M. , Mysore Savitha R. , Krishnamurthy B. , Narayanappa Doddaiah , Nallur Ramachandra B.
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Cardiac malformations in the young constitute a major portion of clinically significant birth defects. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a common congenital cardiac birth defect, affecting nearly 1 per cent of all live births. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is clinically significant foetal circulation anomaly, second most common form of CHD which constitutes approximately 10 per cent of total CHDs. The study aimed to screen for TFAP2B mutations in CHD patients of Mysore.

Methods:

With informed consent, 100 clinically diagnosed CHD patients and 50 healthy controls in Mysore, south India, were recruited for the analysis of screening of mutations. MassARRAY analysis of 5 prominent mutations of TFAP2B was performed.

Results:

The analysis did not show any of the five mutations of TFAP2B screened by massARRAY in patients and controls, indicating that these mutations were not involved in the manifestation of CHD in the patients at Mysore, south India.

Interpretation & Conclusions:

The findings suggest the lack of involvement of known mutations of TFAP2B with syndromic or nonsyndromic CHDs in Mysore patients.
Assessing the adhesion of putative indigenous probiotic lactobacilli to human colonic epithelial cells
Authors: Duary Raj Kumar , Rajput Yudhishthir Singh , Batish Virender Kumar , Grover Sunita
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Adherence of bacteria to epithelial cells and mucosal surfaces is a key criterion for selection of probiotic. We assessed the adhesion property of selected indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus strains based on their hydrophobicity and ability to adhere to human epithelial cells.

Methods:

Five human faecal Lactobacillus isolates, one from buffalo milk and one from cheese were assessed for hydrophobicity following the microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons (MATH) method and colonization potentials based on their adherence to Caco2 and HT-29 colonic adenocarcinomal human intestinal epithelial cell lines. Lactobacillus strains that adhered to Caco2 and HT-29 cell lines were quantified by plating after trypsinization and simultaneously the adhered bacteria were also examined microscopically after staining with Geimsa stain and counted in different fields.

Results:

Among the tested faecal isolates, L. plantarum Lp91 showed maximum percentage hydrophobicity (35.73±0.40 for n-hexadecane and 34.26±0.63 for toluene) closely followed by L. plantarum Lp9 (35.53±0.29 for n-hexadecane and 33.00±0.57 for toluene). Based on direct adhesion to epithelial cells, L. plantarum Lp91 was the most adhesive strain to HT-29 and Caco2 cell lines with per cent adhesion values of 12.8 ± 1.56 and 10.2 ± 1.09, respectively. L. delbrukeii CH4, was the least adhesive with corresponding figures of 2.5 ± 0.37 and 2.6 ± 0.20 per cent on HT-29 and Caco2 cell lines. Adhesion of the six isolated Lactobacillus strain to HT-29 cell and Caco2 lines as recorded under microscope varied between 131.0 ± 13.9 (Lp75) to 342.7 ± 50.52 (Lp91) and 44.7 ± 9.29 (CH4) to 315.7± 35.4 (Lp91), respectively.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Two Indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus strains (Lp9, Lp91) demonstrated their ability to adhere to epithelial cell and exhibited strong hydrophobicity under in vitro conditions, and thus could have better prospects to colonize the gut with extended transit
Non invasive real-time monitoring of bacterial infection & therapeutic effect of anti-microbials in five mouse models
Authors: Barman Tarani Kanta , Rao Madhvi , Bhati Ashish , Kishore Krishna , Shukla Gunjan , Kumar Manoj , Mathur Tarun , Pandya Manisha , Upadhyay Dilip J.
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

In vivo imaging system has contributed significantly to the understanding of bacterial infection and efficacy of drugs in animal model. We report five rapid, reproducible, and non invasive murine pulmonary infection, skin and soft tissue infection, sepsis, and meningitis models using Xenogen bioluminescent strains and specialized in vivo imaging system (IVIS).

Methods:

The progression of bacterial infection in different target organs was evaluated by the photon intensity and target organ bacterial counts. Genetically engineered bioluminescent bacterial strains viz. Staphylococcus aureus Xen 8.1, 29 and 31; Streptococcus pneumoniae Xen 9 and 10 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Xen-5 were used to induce different target organs infection and were validated with commercially available antibiotics.

Results:

The lower limit of detection of colony forming unit (cfu) was 1.7-log10 whereas the lower limit of detection of relative light unit (RLU) was 4.2-log10. Recovery of live bacteria from different target organs showed that the bioluminescent signal correlated to the live bacterial count.

Interpretation & conclusions:

This study demonstrated the real time monitoring and non-invasive analysis of progression of infection and pharmacological efficacy of drugs. These models may be useful for pre-clinical discovery of new antibiotics.
Accessible Table of Contents
Authors: Cason Jana
Published: December 2011

Accessible Table of Contents
The World Health Organization/World Bank’s First World Report on Disability
Authors: Seelman Katherine D.
Published: December 2011

In June, 2011 at the United Nations (UN) in New York City, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank launched the first World Report on Disability. This short overview of the Report provides information about its purpose, development and content, intended audiences, and outcomes.  Special attention is directed to the sections of the Report which address telerehabilitation and information and communication technology.
Resolving Barriers to Licensure Portability for Telerehabilitation Professionals
Authors: Cohn Ellen R. , Brannon Janice A. , Cason Jana
Published: December 2011

Rehabilitation professionals (e.g., audiologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, etc.) can only engage in telerehabilitation in states in which they hold a professional license. The current state-based licensure and regulation of rehabilitation professionals does not facilitate the practice of telerehabilitation across state lines. Given today’s equipment capabilities and consumer adoption of the electronic delivery of many kinds of services, health care providers, including rehabilitation professionals, should be able to serve clients wherever they are needed.
Family Relationship of Children with Behavior Disorders
Authors: Al-Qaisy Lama Majed , Turki Jihad
Published: December 2011

Abstract The present study aims to determine the relationship of the families of children with childhood behavior disorders. In a sample of 263 students in the age group of 10-12 years studying in 4th, 5th and 6th standards in the elementary schools of Tafila city. The researcher analyzed the family relationship of the three groups of families based on two factors such as cohesion and conflict. Investigator also compared these factors in the families of children with no behavior disorders, with that of families of children with mild and severe behavior disorders.  The results of the study reveals that, a high cohesion and less conflict is found among the families of children with no behavior problems and low cohesion and conflict in the families of children with severe behavior problems.   Keywords: family, relationship, children, behavior disorders
Role of Instructional Technology in Private Teacher Training Colleges in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa (Pakistan)
Authors: Suleman Qaiser , Hussain Ishtiaq
Published: December 2011

Abstract Instructional technology plays a fundamental and crucial role in facilitating teaching learning process and makes it more effective, interesting and successful. Therefore, the study was conducted to investigate the availability, usability, usefulness and on the other hand barriers to the successful integration of instructional technology in private teacher training colleges in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa (Pakistan). The main objectives of the study were to investigate the availability and usability of instructional technology in private teacher training colleges, the usefulness of instructional technology in teacher training programmes, and to find out the main barriers in the way of successful integration of instructional technology in teacher training programs. All the principals, teachers and prospective teachers working and studying in private teacher training colleges in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa constituted as the population of this study. In total, 24 private colleges out of 48 were selected randomly and from each of these colleges, one principal, 5 teachers and 15 prospective teachers were selected randomly as the sample of this ongoing research. The study was descriptive in nature. Three questionnaires were developed for principals, teachers and for prospective teachers as research instruments for the collection of data. After analysis of data, the researcher arrived at the conclusion that most of the important instructional technologies are not available in private teacher training colleges. Teachers do not use even the available instructional technologies into teaching learning process. The researchers noted that poor availability of instructional technologies is the main barrier to the technology integration. In addition, lack of technical and administrative support, lack of funding, lack of necessary skills and knowledge, excessive electricity failures, lack of training opportunities, and lack of preparation time were also observed during data collection.  Key Words: Teacher Education, Teachers Training Colleges, Instructional Technology, Barriers to the successful integration of instructional technology
The Effect of Extrinsic Product Cues and Customer Services/Sales Personnel on Restaurant Image, KPK, Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Murad , Ullah Hafiz , Manzoor Sheikh Raheel , Iqbal Khurshed
Published: December 2011

Abstract This research study analyzes the effect of extrinsic product cues (store name, brand name, price) and customer service on restaurant image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the customers of   six well known restaurants of two cities of KPK, Pakistan. The names of these two cities are Peshawar and Kohat. This research study uses regression and correlation techniques in order to analyze the relationship as well as effect between extrinsic product cues (store name, brand name, price) and customer service on restaurant image. The result of the study demonstrates that there is a significant positive impact of predictors on the response variable. The study recommends favorable extrinsic product cues and customer services enhance the image of the restaurant. Future research areas have also been indicated in this study. Key words: Brand name, Store name, Price, Customer service & Restaurant image
Minimizing Potential Issues in Higher Education by Professionally Developing University Teachers
Authors: Siddiqui Anam , Aslam Hassan Danial , Farhan Hafiz Muhammad , Luqman Adeel , Lodhi Muhammad Arfan
Published: December 2011

Abstract   The major purposes of this paper is to firstly explore the relationship among three variables namely professional development of faculty members, teachers’ performance and quality of higher education, and secondly to provide solution to perceived issues and challenges faced by higher education system with the help of comprehensive model. Authors have deeply reviewed previous research studies conducted by researchers and have elaborated their views in connection with the current debate. This paper is purely qualitative in nature and authors have formulated comprehensive model that can be helpful for the policy makers and administrators of the higher education system. This comprehensive model clearly explains that if teachers are equipped with proper and well organized pedagogical as well as administrative training programs then their performance can be greatly improved which can further enhance the quality of education delivered to the students. Both pre-service and in-service professional development programs should be organized for faculty members that will improve their knowledge, skills and abilities, which in turn will further improve their academic, pedagogical and administrative job performance resulting the improvement of overall quality education. Moreover the relation that has been explored can be used to minimize many emerging problems, and perceived issues and challenges faced by higher education system. The model proposed by authors will be useful for policy makers who can then make better policies and can design improved procedures to enhance quality of education. Besides all this, the model is also helpful for management/administrators of higher education system to train and develop their faculty members on specified patterns to inculcate healthy learning among their students. Key words: Professional Development of faculty members, Perceived Issues and Challenges to Higher Education, Quality, Quality of Education, Professional Development Programs, Performance of Faculty Members.
Effect of Teamwork on Employee Performance
Authors: Manzoor Sheikh Raheel , Ullah Hafiz , Hussain Murad , Ahmad Zulqarnain Muhammad
Published: December 2011

Abstract This research study analyzes the effect of teamwork on employee performance about the staff members of Higher Education Department of Khyber Pakhtoon Khawa (KPK), Peshawar Province of Pakistan. Several measures of employee performance were analyzed including esprit de corps, team trust and recognition and rewards. There is clear evidence that teamwork and other measures of employee performance are positively related with employee performance. The self-administered questionnaires were distributed within the Directorate of Higher Education, (KPK) Peshawar, including four Government Degree Colleges (GDC’s) of boys and girls located in Peshawar and Kohat area. The research study uses regression and correlation techniques in order to analyze the relationship between two variables that is Teamwork and Employee Performance. The result of the study shows that there is a significant positive impact of predictors on the response variable. The study recommends that to adapt teamwork activities in order to enhance the employee performance. Future research areas have also been indicated in this study. Keywords:      Employee performance, teamwork, team trust, esprit de corps & recognition & rewards
Vocationalization of education in Kenya: the Classroom Practice and the Learners’ Responsibilities for Change in the 21st Century
Authors: Ondigi Samson , Ayot Henry , Mueni Kiio , Nasibi Mary
Published: December 2011

Abstract The essence of education is to prepare an individual for lifelong experiences after schooling. Education as offered in schools today is expected to give the teacher a chance to impart knowledge and skills in the learner, and for the learner to be informed and be able to put into practice what has been gained in the course of time. The Kenyan curriculum and goals of education are clearly stipulated if followed to the latter. Basically, the classroom practice by both the teachers and the learners exhibit an academic rather than a dual system that is expected to meet the needs of both the individual and those of the communities which form subsets of the society at large. It is upon this premise that education of a given country must prepare its individuals in schools so as to meet the goals of education at any one given time of a country’s history. This paper looks at the perspective of vocationalization of education in Kenyan at this century. The history of education ever since independence in 1963 by focusing on the Ominde commission through the Koech report of 1999 have been emphatic that education must meet the national goals of education as stipulated in the curriculum. But what is edging the practice that has not revolutionalized the socio-economic, cultural and political development of Kenya? Differentiated Instruction is a teaching theory based on the premise that instructional approaches should vary and be adapted in relation to individual and diverse students in classroom aimed at achieving diversified learning and common practices in the career. The challenges herein are: where have we gone wrong as a nation, what is the practice in the classroom, when can the nation be out of this dilemma, who is to blame for the status quo and finally what is the way forward? By addressing these questions, the education system will be responsive to the changes in time and Kenya will be on the path to successful recovery.
Evaluation of Impact of Motion and Time on Employees' Job Satisfaction in Goldasht Mosaic Plant
Authors: Khani Hossein , Javadi Mohammad Hossein Moshref
Published: December 2011

The present survey is about evaluation of motion and time with regard to job satisfaction in Isfahan Goldasht Mosaic Plant. There are five hypotheses in this survey: The main hypothesis is that evaluation of motion and time affect wage. Five factors of job satisfaction and their impact on job satisfaction were studied in the secondary hypotheses. This survey was conducted using descriptive-field method and data was collected by means of questionnaire, interview and observation. Statistical population of Goldasht Mosaic Plant included one-hundred forty (140) persons in which statistical sample in this survey were equal to the statistical population. Statistical techniques and SPSS software were used for data analysis. Motion measurement and timing procedures like OPC process and process of working with both hands were applied to evaluate motion and time. Research findings indicated that evaluation of motion and time had positive impact on wage, while it must be pointed out that other four secondary hypotheses established the following points: Evaluation of motion and time had negative impact on improvement opportunity, nature of work and supervision. But it had positive impact on colleagues. Recommendations about considering organizational performance and job satisfaction regarding productivity of employees were represented at the end of survey given research findings. Key words: Evaluation of motion and time, motion measurement, timing, job satisfaction
A Comparison Study of Stock Market Returns Given by the Newsweek 500 Green Companies and Broad Market Indices in US
Authors: Sanjeevkumar Vimala
Published: December 2011

“Going green” is no longer a fringe topic. The green revolution has already started, and is going green from the bottom up and the top down. Going green is about sustainability. Corporations exhaust resources, pollute the environment, generate large amount of waste and engage themselves in tons of unsustainable practices. These practices become an expense to the nation. Businesses are finding ways to protect the environment, particularly though developing standards and green certification programs. Some corporations are responding to the requirements of consumers to buy products with less impact on the environment (i.e) in their creation, packaging, marketing, use, and disposal. Furthermore with scientific and global consensus that human activities and carbon emissions contribute significantly to climate change, corporations no longer have the choice to ignore being environmentally sensitive. Green practices can be rewarding in the long run as it ensures that natural resources can be sustained as long as possible. Many investors are also prepared to put their money into green businesses because they see that sustainable practices are actually more profitable in the long term. Recent developments in technology have made it easier to protect the environment, and many businesses have learned that a sustainable supply chain is a valuable asset. Furthermore green companies are now gaining greater consumer acceptance as they are portrayed as the more responsible business. The Top 500 companies ranked by the 2009 Newsweek Green Rankings shows a noteworthy green attitude which consumers adore, therefore the publicity which these companies get will in turn translate into more customers and improve their profits ultimately. This study focuses on the green ranked companies thereby analyzing whether the returns of these companies meet the broad market return.
Residential Schools in Canada: History, Healing and Hope
Authors: Sharpe Glynn
Published: December 2011

Residential Schools in Canada were created to assimilate native children into Canadian culture. Native traditions, languages and lifestyles were systematically obliterated via prescribed curriculum, punitive educational practices and rampant physical, emotional, spiritual and sexual abuse inflicted upon them. The lingering effects of such atrocities (alarmingly high suicide rates, alcohol and drug addiction and feelings of negative self-worth) have plagued subsequent generations of Aboriginal people in Canada. A residential school survivor’s testimonial helps contextualize the horrors experienced by thousands of children. The paper concludes with the steps undertaken by native groups across Canada that hope to address, via traditional healing methods, the residual effects of such a legacy of pain.
Fast and High Accuracy Numerical Methods for the Solution of Nonlinear Klein–Gordon Equations
Authors: Mohebbi Akbar , Asgari Zohreh , Shahrezaee Alimardan
Published: December 2011

In this work we propose fast and high accuracy numerical methods for the solution of the one dimensional nonlinear Klein-Gordon (KG) equations. These methods are based on applying fourth order time-stepping schemes in combination with discrete Fourier transform to numerically solve the KG equations. After transforming each equation to a system of ordinary differential equations, the linear operator is not diagonal, but we can implement the methods such as for the diagonal case which reduces the time in the central processing unit (CPU). In addition, the conservation of energy in KG equations is investigated. Numerical results obtained from solving several problems possessing periodic, single, and breather-soliton waves show the high efficiency and accuracy of the mentioned methods.
Influence of the Grain Size on the Conduction Mechanism of Barium Strontium Titanate Thin Films
Authors: Saif Ala’eddin A. , Zahid Jamal Zul Azhar , Poopalan Prabakaran
Published: December 2011

Sol-gel barium strontium titanate ( Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3) thin films with different grain sizes have been successfully fabricated as metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitors. The perovskite structure of the material has been confirmed via X-ray diffraction (XRD). In order to correlate the effect of the grain size to the conduction mechanisms of these films, atomic force microscopy (AFM) results are presented. The grain size shows an important effect on the conduction mechanism for the films. The results show that as the grain size increases, both the impedance and the permittivity of the films decrease, whereas the conductivity shows an inverse variation. The Z* plane for all films shows two regions, corresponding to the bulk mechanism and the distribution of the grain boundaries-electrodes conduction process.M´´ versus frequency plots reveal non-Debye relaxation peaks, which are not able to be observed in the e´´ plots. Alternating current (AC) conductivity versus frequency plots show three regions of conduction processes, i.e. a low-frequency region due to direct current (DC) conduction, a mid-frequency region due to translational hopping motion, and a high-frequency region due to localized hopping and/or reorientational motion.
General Solutions for the Unsteady Flow of Second-Grade Fluids over an Infinite Plate that Applies Arbitrary Shear to the Fluid
Authors: Fetecau Constantin , Fetecau Corina , Rana Mehwish
Published: December 2011

General solutions corresponding to the unsteady motion of second-grade fluids induced by an infinite plate that applies a shear stress ƒ (t) to the fluid are established. These solutions can immediately be reduced to the similar solutions for Newtonian fluids. They can be used to obtain known solutions from the literature or any other solution of this type by specifying the function ƒ (.). Furthermore, in view of a simple remark, general solutions for the flow due to a moving plate can be developed.
A New Semi-Analytical Solution of the Telegraph Equation with Integral Condition
Authors: Abbasbandy S. , Roohani Ghehsarehb H.
Published: December 2011

In the current work, the telegraph equation in its general form and with an integral condition is investigated. Also the well-known homotopy analysis method (HAM) is applied and an interesting iterative algorithm is proposed for solving the problem in general form. Some numerical examples are given and compared with the exact solution to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Some Unsteady Flows of a Jeffrey Fluid between Two Side Walls over a Plane Wall
Authors: Khan Masood , Iftikhar Faiza , Anjum Asia
Published: December 2011

In this paper, some time-dependent flows of a non-Newtonian fluid between two side walls over a plane wall are investigated. The following three problems have been studied: (i) flow due to an oscillating plate, (ii) flow due to an accelerating plate, and (iii) flow due to applied constant stress. The explicit expressions for the velocity field are determined by using the integral transforms. The solutions that have been obtained, depending on the initial and boundary conditions, are written as sum of the steady state and transient solutions. The similar solutions for second-grade and Newtonian fluids can be deduced as limiting cases of our solutions. Furthermore, in absence of the side walls they reduce to the similar solutions over an infinite plate. The effects of some important parameters due to side walls on the flow field are investigated.
Encapsulation of manganese(III) complex in NaY nanoporosity for heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Kuźniarska‐Biernacka Iwona , Rodrigues Otilia , Carvalho Maria A. , Neves Isabel C. , Fonseca António M.
Published: December 2011

An encapsulated Mn(III)–salen complex in NaY was synthesized and characterized, and the catalytic behaviour of the complex was evaluated by the oxidation of styrene. The encapsulation was achieved by two different methodologies designated as the flexible ligand method (A) and the method of in situ complex synthesis (B). The characterizations of the free complex as well as the catalysts with and without the complex were performed by powder X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, chemical analysis and FT‐IR spectroscopy. Both prepared catalysts are active in the oxidation of styrene in the presence of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (tBuOOH) and lead to styrene epoxide and benzaldehyde. The localization of the complex in zeolite plays an important role in the catalytic activity of these heterogeneous catalysts. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel protein photocrosslinking and cryopolymerization method for cryogel‐based antibacterial material synthesis
Authors: Say Rıdvan , Biçen Özlem , Yılmaz Filiz , Hür Deniz , Öziç Rasime , Denizli Adil , Ersöz Arzu
Published: December 2011

Lysozyme (Lys), also known as muramidase or N‐acetylmuramide glycanhydrolase, is a family of enzymes that damage bacterial cell walls by catalyzing the hydrolysis of 1,4‐β‐linkages between N‐acetylmuramic acid and N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine residues in a peptidoglycan and between N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine residues in chitodextrins. In this study, Lys was enhanced with a photosensitive facility by ruthenium chelate based monomers with a photosensitization and conjugation approach [amino acid (monomer) decorated and light underpinning conjugation approach]. Then, photosensitive Lys was allowed to interact with methacryloyl amido tyrosine (MATyr) monomer, which included tyrosine parts in its structure similar to those in the Lys structure. Two different types of cryogels including Lys–MATyr in their macropores were synthesized, Lys–MATyr cryogel and Lys–MATyr–clay cryogel. These two materials were used for the measurement of the antibacterial activity on Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The effects of the modified Lys on Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus were determined with a dilution plate method. The effects on Escherichia coli and S. aureus were determined with a turbidity method. According to the data, the Lys–MATyr–clay modified embedded cryogel was effective on Gram‐positive bacteria, and the Lys–MATyr modified embedded cryogel was so effective on Gram‐negative bacteria. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Bonding properties of poly(vinyl chloride)‐based wood–plastic composites bonded with epoxy adhesive
Authors: Cheng Rui‐Xiang , Li Ying , Wang Qing‐Wen , Zhang Li
Published: December 2011

This article studied the bonding properties of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)‐based wood–plastic composite (WPC) materials bonded with epoxy adhesive. The results show that the dry compression shear strength of bonded specimens glued with epoxy adhesive could reach 72% of the strength of the PVC‐based WPCs themselves. That meant the bonding connection with epoxy resin was feasible in the application of PVC‐based WPCs. The results show that the compression shear strength after the damp cycle was 0.981 times the compression shear strength without any treatment. In addition, the retention rate of the compression shear strength was 87.7% after the UV aging test process set in this study. In this study, the surface morphologies of bonded specimens glued with epoxy adhesive after a boiling–drying treatment and UV aging were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results of SEM show that the glue line became rough in different degrees after the damp cycle and UV aging. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Crosslinking kinetics of the formation of lignin‐aminated polyol‐based polyurethane foam
Authors: Huo Shu‐Ping , Nie Ming‐Cai , Kong Zhen‐Wu , Wu Guo‐Min , Chen Jian
Published: December 2011

FTIR‐ATR (Fourier Transform Infrared‐Attenuated Total Reflectance) spectroscopic analysis was used to study the kinetics of the formation of the polyurethane foam, which was prepared by reacting a mixture of lignin‐aminated polyol (LAP) and glycol (PEG) with diphenylmethane diisocyanates (MDI‐50) in the presence of water as blowing agent. The crosslinking reactions were followed by monitoring the change of the absorbance of the NCO group at 2270 cm−1 in FTIR‐ATR spectra. The apparent activation energy (Ea) calculated according to n‐th order reaction model was 16.44 kJ/mol, and the frequency factor (A′) was 2.69 min−1. Furthermore, the crosslinking reaction is approximated to be a first‐order reaction. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Improved texture analysis for hydrogel characterization: Gel cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and hardness
Authors: Hurler Julia , Engesland André , Poorahmary Kermany Bahador , Škalko‐Basnet Nataša
Published: December 2011

The texture properties of formulation are an important parameter in optimization of topical formulations. These properties will affect applicability of the formulation at the administration site and therapy outcome. Our aim was to develop a fast and reliable method to characterize texture properties of hydrogels, namely cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and hardness. During the method development, we realized that the measurements setup needed to be adjusted for each hydrogel type, namely Carbopol, chitosan, and poloxamer hydrogels. The influence of the polymer concentration, pH, and incorporation of additives such as glycerol, drug solution, or liposomes on the texture properties, as determined by Texture Analyzer, was evaluated. In addition, the new method was applied to determine the changes during the accelerated stability testing. While Carbopol and poloxamer gels showed a linear relationship between the polymer concentration and texture properties, for low molecular weight chitosan gels the properties increased in exponential manner with increasing polymer concentration. The effect of incorporated liposomes on the gel properties was found to be dependent on the type of hydrogel. The hydrogel hardness was affected by the temperature as seen in accelerated stability testing. The method represents a valuable tool in pharmaceutical and cosmetics formulation development. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012