bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training Teachers for the Exceptionally Able Child
Authors: Jones Lex
Published: January 2012

“‘Problem solving’ has been mentioned throughout the 4 years B.Ed. course but only now am I coming to understand what it is all about”. These comments were from an astute student undertaking a final year module entitled “The Exceptionally Able Child” at Middlesex Polytechnic. The challenge we, as teachers, need to provide for the bright child are matched by parallel challenges in learning for teachers in training. Creative teaching requires creative teachers. All children benefit from creative teaching. The exceptionally able child in particular must have learning opportunities which cater for special needs and interests to allow this ability to be fostered.

This article seeks to chart the first 4 years of a course which began as a modest attempt for providing students with teaching opportunities to help the bright child. The practical context comprised a heart for student participation in research. For me, the course tutor, so much of my own teaching practice. in the primary classroom has been questioned along with teaching styles at tertiary level.
Teaching Able Mathematicians in School
Authors: Marjoram D T E
Published: January 2012

This paper looks particularly at the characteristics of gifted mathematicians. The author scans the lives of a number of eminent mathematicians, highlighting the differences and also the essences of their mathematical talent.

In a very direct way, the writer presents a series of examples of primary and secondary pupils' insights into mathematics outlining the implications for the school and the teacher.

The paper concludes with suggestions for policy and provision.
The Gifted Label, Gifted Children and the Aftermath
Authors: Ring Brenda , Shaughnessy Michael F.
Published: January 2012

Gifted children are receiving more and more attention and special educational services in the school system of America today. While there is much on labeling people as “mentally retarded” little has been done on the effects of labeling children as “gifted”. This paper explores the effects of labeling children as gifted. It addresses the effects that the label places on males and females and their self-concept and self-esteem. The family too, is affected in very subtle ways. The literature regarding the labeling process and its effects are discussed. Lately, peer relationships are somewhat affected both for boys and girls. Expectations are often set, and friendships are affected. Needed research in this area will be specified. We need to know more about the process and both the immediate and long-term effects, ramifications, and repercussions of the labeling process and its after effects.
Individualisation in the Multicultural Teaching-Learning Situation
Authors: van Ryneveld Grove Helen
Published: January 2012

This article aims to indicate that an individualised approach is imperative for the successful teaching of multicultural pupil populations. The cultural plurality displayed by the South African population is first dealt with, whereafter the educational needs which evolve from the cultural plurality are identified. The process of educational change is described in terms of Kuhn's idea of the structure of scientific revolutions as it pertains to the South African situation. Appropriate instructional measures for meeting evolving educational needs are suggested. These measures are largely based on Lynch's model of instructional strategies which illustrates the process of matching curriculum and pupil information with a view to achieving equity in educational provision.
Creativity, Intelligence, and Problem Solving: a Definition and Design for Cross-Cultural Research and Measurement Related to Giftedness
Authors: Maker C. June
Published: January 2012

A new definition of giftedness is proposed based on a review of the constructs of intelligence, creativity, and problem solving. A research design employed in a series of studies of giftedness in children and adults is presented, along with a summary of important results. Finally, implications of the design for both research and practice are outlined.
A Comparison of Characteristics of Intellectually Gifted and Non-Intellectually Gifted Adolescents and Young Adults Participating in Theatre Arts Programs
Authors: Rader Stephen M
Published: January 2012

Since 1960, researchers and theoreticians have devoted a great deal of attention to the concept of creativity. They have developed profiles describing the characteristics of highly creative persons and proposed many programs intended to enhance creative expression. They have, however, neither examined nor discussed the characteristics of individuals who are both highly creative and intellectually gifted, and they have not often provided precise descriptions of those qualities as they are manifested in specific fields. This paper is a comparison of the characteristics of highly creative, intellectually gifted and highly creative, non-intellectually gifted adolescents and young adults who have participated actively in theatre arts programs at the secondary and undergraduate levels. Placement of students in the two categories examined was based on scores on individual or group IQ tests and on the author's subjective evaluation, after an extensive period of observation, of the students' levels of creativity. The paper is not a research study; rather, it is based on the author's observations during more than 15 years of work in secondary and undergraduate theatre. The sample included about 25 highly creative, intellectually gifted students and nearly 100 highly creative students who were not intellectually gifted. Although this paper is limited to theatre arts, the observed differences between these two groups of students may emphasize the importance of further examining theatre and other fields of expression to determine whether similar differences exist.
High Ability in Hungary
Authors: Herskovits Maria
Published: January 2012

This article describes the provision for the exceptionally able in Hungary and provides some detail of both is-school and out-of-school activities.
Creative Imagination and Imagery
Authors: Khatena Joe
Published: January 2012

This article examines our state of knowledge on the creative process. The author has not confined himself to education/psychology sources. The creative process starts with imagery and has limitless vehicles for expression. The most prominent are language, music and painting. The author concludes by drawing attention to the woefully under-subscribed areas where further research is needed.
Talent as an Alternative Conception of Giftedness
Authors: Feldhusen John F
Published: January 2012

This article explores the multi-faceted nature of giftedness. The writer draws together a number of diverse definitions and developments of researchers in the field. He suggests a way forward in understanding the concept of giftedness in the light of recent research.
A TASC for Telematics
Authors: Maltby Florence , Beattie Julie
Published: January 2012

This paper outlines how TASC has been adopted to provide an extension programme through Telematics 1 Through the Priority Country Areas Programme National Element (PCAP) both Western Australia and the Northern Territory gained funding for a joint three year Telematics project from 1992–1994. for a group of high ability primary school students from a remote mining town in Western Australia.
A Developmental Concept of Giftedness: Implications for the Regular Classroom
Authors: Braggett Eddie J
Published: January 2012

Earlier approaches to giftedness and to the education of highly able students emphasised a relatively static concept of giftedness characterised by formal identification procedures, predetermined cut-off points for selection purposes, and pull-out programs for the selected students. This model is based on assumptions that can no longer be countenanced. In its place, a developmental concept of giftedness acknowledges the influence and importance of the environment on a child's performance and stresses the crucial role of the regular classroom teacher in the development of talented behaviour. Implications for the teacher and the school are discussed under the headings of (a) identification, (b) curriculum, (c) classroom management & organisation, (d) teaching strategies & skills and (e) school organisation. A developmental concept is not only theoretically sound but also includes the regular teacher as part of the developmental process itself.
A Secondary School Journey: Programming for Gifted Students at a Catholic High School in Canada
Authors: Leroux Janice A
Published: January 2012

At a French Catholic Secondary School in Ottawa, Ontario Canada, a year long study was carried out to determine the academic and social development of high ability students in a congregated class. Students reported the importance of teachers as a source of interest and inspiration in educational outcomes. Teachers' attempts to help students gain a realistic self-image resulted in some lowering of self-esteem by some students, while questioning of their use of higher abilities helped some students reach a new level of wisdom and personal learning. The need for greater challenges to student higher level thinking skills, more use of mentors and enhanced sense of social responsibility among gifted students were indicated in the study.
The minimum sit-to-stand height test: reliability, responsiveness and relationship to leg muscle strength
Authors: Schurr Karl , Sherrington Catherine , Wallbank Geraldine , Pamphlett Patricia , Olivetti Lynette
Published: January 2012

Objective: To determine the reliability of the minimum sit-to-stand height test, its responsiveness and its relationship to leg muscle strength among rehabilitation unit inpatients and outpatients.

Design: Reliability study using two measurers and two test occasions. Secondary analysis of data from two clinical trials.

Setting: Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services in three public hospitals.

Subjects: Eighteen hospital patients and five others participated in the reliability study. Sevety-two rehabilitation unit inpatients and 80 outpatients participated in the clinical trials.

Methods: The minimum sit-to-stand height test was assessed using a standard procedure. For the reliability study, a second tester repeated the minimum sit-to-stand height test on the same day. In the inpatient clinical trial the measures were repeated two weeks later. In the outpatient trial the measures were repeated five weeks later. Knee extensor muscle strength was assessed in the clinical trials using a hand-held dynamometer.

Results: The reliability for the minimum sit-to-stand height test was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81–0.96). The standard error of measurement was 34 mm. Responsiveness was moderate in the inpatient trial (effect size: 0.53) but small in the outpatient trial (effect size: 0.16). A small proportion (8–17%) of variability in minimum sit-to-stand height test was explained by knee extensor muscle strength.

Conclusions: The minimum sit-to-stand height test has excellent reliability and moderate responsiveness in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Responsiveness in an outpatient rehabilitation setting requires further investigation. Performance is influenced by factors other than knee extensor muscle strength.
Nonresponse versus Measurement Error
Authors: Hox Joop J. , de Leeuw Edith D. , Chang Hsuan-Tzu
Published: January 2012

Non-réponse versus erreur de mesure – Doit-on insister auprès des répondants réticents ? : Pour augmenter les taux de réponse, les enquêteurs intensifient leurs efforts pour amener les personnes échantillonnées parmi les répondants. La question est de savoir si les répondants « réticents » fournissent des réponses de qualité moindre que les répondants « impatients ». Nous définissons les répondants impatients comme des personnes qui répondent au premier envoi d'une enquête postale, et les répondants réticents comme des personnes qui répondent plus tardivement. Nous avons utilisé une analyse multitrait-multiméthode (MTMM) qui permet la séparation statistique de la variance de fond ou de trait, la variance de méthode et la variance d'erreur. Les résultats montrent que la structure de mesure ne diffère pas entre les répondants impatients et réticents. Il n'y avait également aucune différence systématique dans les estimations de la fiabilité et la validité des deux groupes.

To increase response rates, survey researchers intensify their efforts to bring sampled persons into the respondent pool. The question is whether or not “reluctant” survey respondents provide answers of lower quality than “eager” respondents. We define eager respondents as persons who respond to the first round of a mail survey, and reluctant respondents as persons who respond in later rounds. We used a multitrait-multimethod (MTMM) design, which allows statistical separation of substantive or trait variance, method variance, and error variance. The results show that the measurement structure does not differ between eager and reluctant respondents. There was also no systematic difference in the reliability and validity estimates for both groups.
Le choix de la langue dans le logiciel Alceste - Exemple du traitement d’une base de données bibliographiques
Authors: Dalud-Vincent Monique , Normand Romuald
Published: January 2012

The Choice of Language for the Alceste Software-Example of the Analysis of a Bibliographic Data Base: Using Alceste requires a priori choosing a language. This choice is crucial since the analysis is based on the use of a dictionary of the language used, but it is problematic when the corpus is a bibliography of references in English, French and German. In this paper, we show, for a largely bilingual (English and French) bibliography, with 5,000 references, the variations in the software results when you change the settings.

L’utilisation d’Alceste nécessite un paramétrage a priori de la langue. Ce choix est essentiel dans la mesure où l’analyse est basée sur l’utilisation d’un dictionnaire de la langue retenue, mais il est délicat lorsque le corpus à analyser est une bibliographie comprenant des références en anglais, en français, en allemand. Dans cet article, nous montrons, à partir d’une bibliographie essentiellement bilingue (anglais et français) comptant 5.000 références, les variations obtenues au niveau des résultats du logiciel quand on change le paramétrage.
Transfer of Variables between Different Data Sets, or Taking “Previous Research” Seriously
Authors: Todosijević Bojan
Published: January 2012

Transfer de variables entre différentes bases de données, ou prendre au sérieux “des recherches précédentes" : Tenant compte de deux enquêtes méthodologiquement similaires, une question non posée dans une enquête pourrait être considérée comme un cas particulier du problème des données manquantes. Ainsi, le transfert des données entre des bases de données (« appariement statistique » ou « fusion de données ») pourrait être obtenu en appliquant les procédures bayésiennes d’imputation multiple des valeurs manquantes. Afin de s’attaquer au problème de l’indépendance conditionnelle créé par cette approche, un ensemble de données simulées pourrait servir comme « troisième ensemble de données » qui transmet l’information sur la relation entre les variables qui ne sont pas ordinairement observés. Ce document présente un modèle de transfert de données entre des bases de données différentes, basé sur l’approche de l’imputation multiple (IM). Les résultats montrent que l’appariement statistique fondé sur les principes MI peut être un outil de recherche utile. Ce travail est fondé sur une prise en compte sérieuse « des recherches précédentes ».

Given two methodologically similar surveys, a question not asked in one survey could be seen as a special case of the missing data problem. Hence, the transfer of data across data sets (“statistical matching” or “data fusion”) could be achieved applying the procedures for Bayesian multiple imputation of missing values. To tackle the problem of conditional independence, which this approach creates, a simulated data set could serve as the “third data set” that conveys information about the relationship between variables not commonly observed. This paper presents a model for transferring data between different data sets based on multiple imputation (MI) approach. The results show that statistical matching based on MI principles can be a useful research tool. The entire enterprise is interpreted in the sense of taking the “previous research” into account seriously.
Supplemental Application of Configural Frequency Analysis to Free Sorting Data
Authors: Harloff Joachim
Published: January 2012

Application supplémentaire de l'analyse de fréquence configurale pour le tri libre des données : L'intention de cet article est de démarrer une discussion à propos de cet outil simple et supplémentaire pour analyser des tris libres de données. Des caractéristiques communes des tris de données et de leur pertinence pour les analyses de fréquence configurale sont discutées, en relations avec l'analyse des données descriptive et confirmatoire. La taille d'échantillon pour le tri de cartes est re-examinée pour l'analyse descriptive. L'échantillon nécessaire dépend d'une certaine mesure du domaine spécifié. Le nombre moyen de différentes configurations rencontrées dépend du nombre de tris recueillies, le nombre d'éléments inclus dans le domaine et les caractéristiques du domaine. Un test simple et exact de signification est proposé pour tester les hypothèses de fréquences configurales de tri libre et flou de données.

This paper analyses the application of Configural Frequency Analysis (CFA) to free sorting data. It is intended to start a discussion about this simple supplementary analysis tool for free sorting data. Common features of sorting data and their relevance for CFA are discussed, in its approach to using both descriptive and confirmatory data analysis. Sample size requirements of card sorting are also revisited for descriptive analysis. The sample required to some extent depends on the specified domain. The average number of different configurations encountered depends on the number of sortings collected, the number of items included in the domain and the qualities of the domain. A simple exact significance test is proposed for hypothesis testing of configural frequencies in free fuzzy sorting data.
Understanding Sequencing in Social Network Communications
Authors: Mo Guang Ying , Wellman Barry
Published: January 2012

Comprendre le séquençage dans les communications dans un réseau social :Le séquençage est un processus décisionnel indispensable dans la circulation de l'information. Cette note de recherche propose la conceptualisation de séquençage pour comprendre comment et pourquoi les expéditeurs d'information « priorisent » certains membres du réseau pendant qu'ils communiquent avec d'autres. Nous examinons l'utilité de cette conceptualisation avec les données recueillies à partir de GRAND, un réseau académique. Le concept de séquençage permet aux chercheurs d'explorer les processus décisionnels qui surviennent avant le flux d'information et de lier le comportement des individus au contexte social.

Sequencing is an indispensable decision-making process during information flows. This paper proposes the conceptualization of sequencing to understand how and why information senders prioritize some network members when they communicate with others. We examine the usefulness of this conceptualization with data collected from GRAND, a scholarly network. The concept of sequencing enables researchers to explore the decision-making process that occurs prior to information flows and link individuals’behavior to the social context.
Narrowing the field in elections: The Next-Two rule
Authors: Brams Steven J , Kilgour D Marc
Published: January 2012

We suggest a new approach to narrowing the field in elections, based on the ‘deservingness’ of candidates to be contenders in a runoff, or to be declared one of several winners. Instead of specifying some minimum percentage (e.g., 50) that the leading candidate must surpass to avoid a runoff (usually between the top two candidates), we propose that the number of contenders depends on the distribution of votes among all candidates. Divisor methods of apportionment proposed by Jefferson and Webster, among others, provide measures of deservingness, but they can prescribe a runoff even when one candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote. We propose a new measure of derservingness, called the Next-Two rule, which compares the performance of candidates to the two that immediately follow them. It identifies as contenders candidates who are bunched together near the top. We apply the Next-Two rule to several empirical examples.
Systematic gear shift model for an automatic-transmission-based parallel hybrid electric vehicle
Authors: Kim Gi-Woo
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a new systematic gear shift modelling approach for the real-time powertrain control and simulation of a multi-stepped automatic-transmission-based powertrain system such as parallel-type hybrid electric vehicles. The power/on 1 → 2 upshift modelling of a six-speed automatic transmision which is the main element of a Lepelletier-type planetary gear set is first performed to illustrate the procedure of the proposed gear shift modelling. A condensed algebraic formulation of the gear shift for each state is derived for a computationally efficient calculation based on the system matrix obtained from all governing equations. Finally, a non-linear shift simulation and brief open-loop shift control using MATLAB/Stateflow® are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed gear shift model.
Green metacycles of attention: Reassessing the attention cycles of environmental news reporting 1961–2010
Authors: Djerf-Pierre Monika
Published: January 2012

This article examines the longitudinal development of environmental news reporting in Swedish television over an extended period of time, 1961–2010. It returns to Anthony Downs’s (1972) seminal article on issue attention cycles when analyzing the cyclic nature of environmental news reporting and advances the issue attention cycle framework by introducing the concept of metacycles as it explores the trajectory of environmental news reporting. Metacycles refers to the major fluctuations in attention to the entire domain of environmental issues over time, while issue cycles refer to the oscillation in attention pertaining to single issues. The article analyzes the pattern of the metacycles, and investigates how cycles of attention to individual issues contribute to the shaping of the environmental metacycles in the news.
Omentalisation of the head in cats: A cadaver study
Authors: Karl Sandy , Dupré Gilles
Published: January 2012

The involvement of the greater omentum in reconstructive, abdominal and thoracic surgery is based on its manifold qualities, which include immunological support, lymphatic drainage, angiogenesis, adhesion, haemostasis and fat storage. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the greater omentum could be extended to the head. In addition, we evaluated the surgical procedures necessary for this extension. Our study reveals that specific surgical lengthening techniques of the greater omentum, such as dorsal extension and inverted L-shape elongation, are necessary to successfully transpose the omentum to the head in cats. As the survival of the omentum after transposition procedures is still unknown, its application in chronic non-healing wounds of the head in cats warrants further investigation.
Activin A and cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ueland Thor , Aukrust Pål , Aakhus Svend , Smith Camilla , Endresen Knut , Birkeland Kåre I , Gullestad Lars , Johansen Odd Erik
Published: January 2012

Background:

Silent coronary artery disease is a frequent complication of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Based on its multiple roles in inflammation, atherogenesis and glucose homeostasis, we hypothesised that activin A could be related to coronary atherosclerosis in T2DM.

Methods:

Activin A and follistatin were measured in 102 patients with T2DM and 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Coronary angiography was performed in a sub-population of patients and associations with activin A were examined using multiple linear regression.

Results:

Serum activin A and the activin A/follistatin ratio were increased in patients with T2DM and coronary artery disease (CAD) compared with healthy volunteers and the elevated activin A was associated with the severity of coronary atherosclerotic burden as determined by the proportion of ≥2 vessel disease ( p = 0.035) after multivariable-adjusted trend analysis. No significant association between presence of CAD or extent score and activin A was observed.

Conclusion:

In patients with T2DM, increased activin A may reflect chronic underlying pathophysiological processes involved in development of cardiovascular disease.
Sub-optimal achievement of guideline-derived lipid goals in management of diabetes patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, despite high use of evidence-based therapies
Authors: DeGuzman Pamela B , Akosah Kwame O , Simpson Allan G , Barbieri Kirk E , Megginson Gregory C , Goldberg Randal I , Beller George A
Published: January 2012

Guidelines recommend aggressive goals for lipid and blood pressure reduction for high risk patients with diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic coronary disease. However, it remains unclear how many patients achieve treatment goals versus the number of people merely placed on treatment. We conducted an observational study in an academic cardiology clinic. A total of 926 patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and concomitant diabetes mellitus met criteria. Mean age was 68.4 ± 10.2, 65.6% were male, and 86.8% were Caucasian. By the last visit a high percentage of patients were receiving recommended medications. Mean LDL-cholesterol achieved was 80.4 mg/dl with 40.9% reaching ≤ 70 mg/dl, and 61.7% reaching SBP ≤ 130 mmHg. Many patients with diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are prescribed recommended medications; however, few achieve guidelines-specified therapeutic goals for LDL-cholesterol and blood pressure. Studies evaluating performance improvement should include percentage of patients reaching treatment goals. Mechanisms underlying the treatment gap need to be identified and addressed.
Disney, engagement, action: the Infection Prevention Society’s strategy from development to launch
Authors: Storr Julie , Loveday Heather , Kilpatrick Claire , Curran Evonne , Cooper Tracey
Published: January 2012

This paper details the development of the Infection Prevention Society strategic plan 2011–2016 from its inception in 2009 to its launch in September 2011 at the Infection Prevention Society’s annual conference. It aims to provide a transparent account of how the vision, mission and strategic aims of the strategy were shaped and crafted through a number of iterations that involved members at key stages.
Defining the ‘object’ of public relations research: A new starting point
Authors: Edwards Lee
Published: January 2012

In this article I consider the importance of paradigmatic variety in the scholarly field of public relations. I reflect on the role that both conflict and cooperation between different paradigms play in the development of academic fields, and review definitions of public relations to examine the extent to which both are present in public relations scholarship. Based on this discussion, I consider the assumptions that underpin existing approaches to public relations in order to reveal the ways in which they are connected, as well as differentiated, along a series of continua. I conclude by proposing a new definition of public relations, as flow rather than organizational function, that can accommodate the range of research encompassed by these continua, thereby facilitating greater unity, inclusivity and, I would hope, dialogue in the field.
Politics of Social Life in Russia
Authors: Kuzich Alexandr E.
Published: January 2012

This paper looks at the life of modern Russian Society in the view of politics. It suggests that processes of free and democratic formation of authorities and management are priorities. And It emphasizes on the importance of participation. This participation includes not only elections of the President and Parament. but an effective dialog with power and administration authorities of all levels.
Mahathir's Anti-Western World View: An Intellectual Origin of Malaysian Reactions to the Economic Crisis in the Late 1990s
Authors: Soh Byungkuk
Published: January 2012

This study attempts to investigate a key question: In the face of the economic crisis seen from the mid-1977, why did the Malaysian government take the reactions against the world moving rapidly toward ever greater globalization, deregulation and liberalization quite contrary to other Asian countries? In an effort to partly answer this question, this study examines Mahathir's anti-Western world view in an intellectual perspective. As a matter of fact, the prime minister is the most influential political figure in contemporary Malaysia. Calling himself as Chief Executive Officer or CEO of ‘Malaysia Incorporated’, he was able to engineer Malaysian Society at the apogee of the power center to engineer Malaysian society during the past two decades, putting his visions into practice through various policies. In this sense, Mahathir's world view is one of the key factors which been us to foresee the direction of the society. When the financial crisis broke out in July 1997, Mahathir revealed his anti-Western world view without reluctance, pinpointing currency speculators of the West as its main culprits. Mahathir was quite sure that the economic disaster was originated principally from the global economic environment in which no restriction was imposed on any currently trading. Thus, in the wake of the crisis, his prime concern was to curb currency trading by the speculators.
A Review on the Methodological Arguments in the Study of Comparative Politics
Authors: Kang Mun Hee
Published: January 2012

This paper seeks to explain three distinctive trends of methodological arguments in the contemporary study of comparative politics, which are positivists, realists, and statists. On these three approaches, there is no consensus among scholars about which one is the most appropriate to the comparative study of different nation-states. The purpose of this paper is to identify the strength and weakness in the conflicting arguments found in three approaches. This involves an overall analysis of the various ontological perspectives, different problem perceptions, and future alternatives. In this comparative review, this paper also attempts to present inherent problems in each trend.
Using Cultural Metaphors in University Education and Management Training
Authors: Gannon Martin J.
Published: January 2012

In the area of university education and management training, it is important to emphasize a coupe of points. First, we need to develop a standard vocabulary about culture that has meaning to students and managers but avoid being esoteric and obscurantist. Second, our experiences suggtsts that practitioners need to judge their training and educational sessions not by popularity ratings but by outcome measures, for example, giving managers a short survey at the end of class to assess their cultural vocabulary and to see if they really do understand what the trainer is talking about. Third, it is better for us to use a variety of training and educational techniques, as different people learn in different ways. Finally, managers are to be encouraged to apply the cultural concepts to company-based or industry-based cases or, in the case of students, to cases with which they can at least identify.
Center-Periphery Relations in Russia: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Lee Hongsub
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the causes of tension between the center and the periphery in the Russian Federation. In this paper, two factors, the legacy of the Soviet Era and the indeterminacy of the 1993 Constitution are mainly discussed. For the verification of this assertion, the case of the Russian Far East is specifically analyzed. Since the emergence of Vladimir Putin, all reform measures taken by him can be considered anti-federalist. Much of what President Putin says and does indicates that the new president, in contrast to the previous one, does not favor Russia's federal structure, or at least does not understand federalism. In this context, the future of center-periphery relations in Russia is gloomy.
Intercultural Conflict Patterns and Intercultural Training Implications for Koreans
Authors: Choe Yunhee
Published: January 2012

Scholars and practitioners have developed intercultural training models and techniques and attempted to assess directions in the field by identifying training methodologies and their related theoretical foundations. However, there has been very little effort to apply and test empirically the efficacy and suitability of Euro-American intercultural training models and theories for Asians, especially for Koreans. The author presented differences focusing on language, thought patterns, and value orientations between Asians and Euro-Americans, and introduced some concepts and characteristics of Korean interpersonal interactions. The author also introduced studies in which researchers attempted to test the Western training models on Asian participants and pointed out inappropriateness of the training models. Based on the above discussions, the author suggested that intercultural trainers consider these differences and alter training approaches and methods to reflect the learning styles and cultural backgrounds of trainees from Asia, and in this case, Korean cultures.
Economic and Political Changes in Brazil: Facts and Perspectives
Authors: Portugal Marcelo S.
Published: January 2012

This article presents some considerations about the recent Brazilian economic policy. Some hypotheses about the economic perspectives for the forthcoming years are also considered. Although the current government politically represents the opposition to the previous administration, not only in their rhetoric but also in their attitudes, they seem to have chosen to maintain the economic policy and the agenda of structural reforms. Priority will be given to Tax Reform and Social Security Reform. The central points of the previous economic policy, that is, floating exchange rates and the inflation targeting mechanism, were maintained under the new administration. Inflation is the main short tern problem, but the Central Bank is showing determination in keeping a conservative policy to ensure that, by the end of 2003, inflation will be reduced.
From “Creeping Independence” to Reluctant Realism? China-Taiwan Relations under the DPP
Authors: Kang Jun Young
Published: January 2012

The rise to power of the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan was a landmark event in the history of cross-Strait relations. As the old but familiar competition between the Chinese Communist Party(CCP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) has shifted to a new but uncertain one between the CCP and the DPP, Beijing may well find that their divergent political stance, together with the apparent lack of previous contacts and mutual understanding, could make it harder to find a common ground between the two.

At issue is a long list of major disputes that the DPP has inherited, such as the “one China” issue, the “one country, two systems” unification formula, and a possible use of force. Unlike former President Lee Teng-hui who in the eyes of Beijing has pursued “creeping independence, the Chen presidency—notwithstanding his party's political platform for Taiwan's independence—has reluctant realism as his modus operandi in the face of domestic political realities and China's reactions.

This article throws some light on the changing contexts, major trends, and recent developments in PRC-Taiwan relations with an emphasis on what the DPP rule could bring to bear on the relationship. Section one offers a synopsis of the PRC-Taiwan ties in the 1990s, that is between the CCP and the KMT. Section two illuminates the DPP's positions on some salient issues in the cross-Strait relationship, while section three addresses major factors that affect the current and likely future courses of action on both sides. Finally, the concluding section analyzes the prospects and parameters of change in the cross-Strait relationship, with an eye on their policy implications.
Some Considerations about Fertility in Italy: Methodological Problems
Authors: Iaquinta Pietro
Published: January 2012

This paper looks at the evolution of fertility in Italy from the 1960s to the 1990s, using a statistical analysis as its methodology. The article also tries to develop a hypothesis taken from the analysis while considering the problems and complexities of theorizing from perceived any patterns and trends observed in the reproductive process. The two methods of analysis used look at the general European and specifically Italian demographic structures in evidence.
North Korea's Policy of Sinuiju Special Economic Zone: Implications and Prospects
Authors: Namkoong Young
Published: January 2012

In the establishment of the special administrative region at Sinuiju and the promotion of the second SEZ, following internal and external factors worked together: (1) serious economic stagnation, (2) a following step to the 7.1 measures for improving economic management, (3) the success of China's policy of Special Economic Zone, (4) the gesture of opening-door to the U.S. While the first three of four reasons for the background of establishing the Sinuiju SEZ is positive reasons, the fourth one is the negative reason. To speak of it, if the fourth reason is the most important, the possibility that the Sinuiju SEZ was unexpectedly made without any preparation cannot be excluded. The administrative ministrer Yangbin's arrest and confinement show that there wasn't enough tuning with China about establishing the Sinuiju SEZ. Prospects of Sinuiju SEZ need to be predicted dividing into the short term, the mid term, and the long term. For the short term, the achievement of Sinuiju SEZ for an early stage depends on to what extent China (central government, Liaoning Province, and City of Dandong) cooperates. For the mid term, Western enterprises' active approach to Sinuiju SEZ crucially depends on how much the United States lifts the economic sanction against North Korea. For the long term, the prospects of Sinuiju special economic zone depend on the relations between the SEZ and North Korea's whole national economy. Without internal reforms, the simple opening policy can't recover North Korea's economy.
Investigating a “New Paradigm” on Strategy against Corruption in the Private Sector
Authors: Lee Jae-Hyung
Published: January 2012

This paper's main objective is to investigate a “new paradigm” on strategy against corruption as proposed by Kang, Chul-Kyu and Lee, Jae-Hyung(2003)(hereafter Kang and Lee) in private sector. A “new paradigm” is characterised by shifting the equilibrium point of corruption downward, due to the external shocks(i.e., regulatory reform, accounting transparency, education, and information technology) as well as a severe regulation(i.e., exposure and punishment). On the basis of this study, policy makers should choose an objective by scientific methodology; Scientific measurement enhances understanding which contributes to the control, and thus facilitates improvement. This suggests that scientific measurement or evaluation is essential. Using a cross-sectional data of 20 countries from the 2002 International Management Development Yearbook and the 2002 Opacity Index by Price Waterhouse Coopers the empirical results are consistent with a “new paradigm” in private sector. It is also evident in cross national comparisons that Korea's fair trade policies such as accounting transparency in private sector as well as regulatory reform, together with a severe regulation such as exposure and punishment, can make a substantial contribution to her national competitiveness.
The European Union beyond 2004: Small States and Trade Policy
Authors: Lee Moo Sung
Published: January 2012

The growing number of small states is one of the sui generis characteristics of a future enlarged EU. A wealth of research has been undertaken to analyse the likely effect of candidate states on future enlargement. Most of this has concentrated on large candidate countries, particularly the evaluation of their immediate financial impact on the EU. This paper purports to examine some of the economic effects which small candidate states would have on the enlarged EU with particular reference to its trade policy. Analysis is made of the characteristics of small candidates to shed light on their likely positions and behaviour patterns and, consequently, their effect on the future direction of EU economic policy.
Ten Cultural Values of the U.S.: Communication, Behavior, and Historical Perspectives
Authors: Kim Hyong-In
Published: January 2012

This study aims to analyze ten American cultural values by examining how they have affected its people's communication and behavior and how their historical experiences have constructed these values. First, I examined previous scholars' search for American identities, such as T. Parsons, Florence Kluckhon, Fredrick Strodtbeck, Geert Hofstede, Edward Hall, and Martin J. Gannon. Referring to their findings and adding a few more elements to them, then, I present ten values of the United States. They are individualism, love of freedom, equalitarianism, reverence of laws, multiculturalism, Puritanism, frontier spirit, pragmatism, respect of science and technology, and belief in the future. These values have molded independent, informal, practical, optimistic, naive, tolerant, dynamic, straightforward, assertive, aggressive, and progressive American characteristics in their way of communication and behavior.
A Study on Structural Features of Egyptian Shipping
Authors: Kim Hyun-Duk
Published: January 2012

This paper researches the structural features of Egyptian shipping. In particular, the growth and development of the Egyptian shipping industry was divided broadly into four periods in terms of ownership and then major structural characteristics was founded respectively. Such a trial has not been carried out so far. The “Gradual Privatization Period”, in particular, from 1990–2000, was treated in detail considering structural aspects such as growth trends of shipping tonnage, composition, age distribution and average ship size of the Egyptian merchant fleet. In doing so, some findings and suggestions are drawn at the end of this paper.
Trade Facilitation and a Northeast Asian Free Trade Arrangement
Authors: Kim Sangkyom , Park Innwon
Published: January 2012

What will be the most efficient way of building a regional trade arrangement (RTA) in a globalizing world, especially for countries in Northeast Asia? We strongly suggest that the RTA should stress trade facilitation rather than following common guidance on tariff reduction. In order to support our argument, we attempted to analyze the net trade creation effect of trade facilitation among the countries in Northeast Asia including China, Korea, and Japan by using a survey analysis and a Gravity analysis. We found that each of the four trade facilitation indices we consider (customs procedures, standards and conformity, business mobility, information and communication technology) shows significantly positive effects on bilateral trade between the three Northeast Asian countries.
Exchange Rate Volatility and Trade Flows of the U.K. in 1990s
Authors: Hwang Hae-du , Lee Jin-woo
Published: January 2012

This paper examines the impact of exchange rate volatility on trade flows in the U.K. over the period 1990–2000. According to the conventional approach, exchange rate volatility clamps down trade volumes. This paper, however, identifies the existence of a positive relationship between exchange rate volatility and imports in the U.K. in the 1990s by using a bivariate GARCH-in-mean model. It highlights a possible emergence of a polarized version with conventional proposition that ERV works as an impediment factor on trade flows.
Minority to Mainstream: The Amalgamation of Hispanic Customs and Traditions into American Popular Culture
Authors: Culhane Jolane
Published: January 2012

In the United States, the portion of the population that is of Hispanic descent has now become the largest minority group in the nation. Continued immigration guarantees that their numbers will grow in the coming decades. The influence of Spanish-speakers in America is increasing in all aspects of lifedomestic political issues, education, immigration policy, international relations. The social fabric of the United States is also changing to reflect the incorporation of many Hispanic cultural elements into the mainstream of American life. This article examines the process of cultural amalgamation and considers some examples in the present-day America.
The Establishment of e-Trade Network through SCM in the East Asian Region
Authors: Chung Yongkyun , Kim Hongyoul
Published: January 2012

The establishment of e-Trade Network is imperative to facilitate trade in the East Asian Region, since most of trade liberalization efforts have turned out to be ineffective in multilateral basis during last decades. The East Asian Region, market is divided into two sub-markets: Southeast Asian market and Northeast Asian market. For the trade facilitation in East Asian region, it seems to be effective to utilize electronic trade for the establishment of a e-Trade Network incorporating the whole area of the East Asian Region. On the recognition that SCM is an effective tool to strengthen e-Trade Network, this paper suggests a conceptual model of global trade SCM model.
The First American Secret War: Assessing the Origins and Consequences of Operation AJAX in Iran
Authors: Kim Jaechun
Published: January 2012

This paper analyzes the origins and consequences of “Operation AJAX” - the code name of the first American covert action to overthrow Mossadeq regime in Iran in the early 1950s. The case study of Operation AJAX suggests that the public opinion against the overt policy of overthrowing Mossadeq regime in both Britain and the U.S. was an important factor contributing to the American elites' decision to resort to covert action instead of open military engagement. This Anglo-American collaboration of 1953 clandestinely toppled the legitimate and popular nationalist government of Iran and established and consolidated the heinous dictatorship of the Shah, hence sowed the seeds of the caustic anti-American sentiments widely held in Arab nations in the contemporary era. The U.S. policy toward Iran in the early days of Cold War eventually led to the fundamentalist backlash headed by Ayatollah Khomeini in 1976. The Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979 was an important event for the Islamic fundamentalists to rally back. The case study suggests that the radical Islamic fundamentalism and the rampant anti-American sentiment in the region could not have found such overwhelming popular support in the region without the American covert action, Operation AJAX and subsequent American support for the dictatorship.