bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Management Role in Protecting Corporate Data Resources
Authors: Carter Roy
Published: March 2008

The protection of electronic data processing (EDP) systems receives insufficient attention. Underdeveloped control procedures and lax supervision allow insufficient practices to thrive, often to the degree that they influence corporate decision making. The damage potential from this misuse of data resources can only increase as the growth of EDP continues. A large part of EDP security is user education. Security must be incorporated into the total programme of systems planning, acquisition and evolution. The Data Protection Act has implications for all companies and any failure of computer security may well bring the company into conflict with the law.
Britain and New Technology:The Responses from Industrial Management and the Trade Unions
Authors: Rowe Christopher J.
Published: March 2008

New information technology is having an increasing impact on industrialised countries. The workplace responses from both sides of industry are examined. While British management and industries are somewhat hesitant in responding to new technology, the British public is very “technologically minded”. This suggests that Britain is moving faster “in the right direction” than any other nation (bar Holland) and could be a “winner” again by the year 2000.
Multi‐user Systems: Network or Central Processor?
Authors: Ramsden Steven
Published: March 2008

Multi‐user systems fall into two main categories — shared single processors and networked microcomputers. Both have significantly different features but one they should have in common is the ability to provide satisfactory record layout safeguards. Practical experience has shown that a shared processor system offering true multi‐user, multi‐tasking facilities provides a more robust approach than that of networking microcomputers for normal business applications.
Taking on Employees
Authors: Muir John
Published: March 2008

In the UK, a contract of employment does not have to be in writing. This can cause problems for employees who may be aware of the basic terms of their employment, but not details such as overtime working. The terms which consolidating legislation in 1978 set out are given. It is important that the terms and conditions in a contract are clearly understood by the employee. It is advised to have these terms set down in writing.
Recent Developments in the Area of Motivation
Authors: Dingley James C.
Published: March 2008

Motivation is central to management. Previous work and practice has been based on the work of Maslow and Herzberg. This approach has not always been successful. A new theory, the social action theory of behaviour, is emerging. It argues that the understanding of behaviour needs to be expanded beyond an understanding of inner psychological needs to an understanding of the wider social setting in which behaviour takes place. Hence the task of managers is to understand what their workers, subordinates and even superiors actually think of themselves and their situation, what they want, and recognise the interpretation that they place on their work.
Using Modern Business Computers as a Marketing Tool
Authors: Willis Eric
Published: March 2008

Very few businesses are using personal computers as a marketing tool and are missing out on a cost‐effective way of improving sales. A course run by the Welsh Regional Management Centre at the Polytechnic of Wales and sponsored by the Manpower Services Commission demonstrates the returns which can be made. The programme is based on an actual case study of a highly successful and profitable firm, Recliners Unlimited. The programme provides tuition in using the computers and integrates this with the organisation of an advertising campaign with a direct mail shot and telephone follow‐up.
What is a Decision Support System?
Authors: Whyte Roderick G.
Published: March 2008

Attention is now focusing on the use of sophisticated Decision Support Systems (DSS) as an invaluable tool in management decision making. This is a highly sophisticated, computer‐based information system which comprises a co‐ordinated collection of data models, reporting and analysis tools and supporting hardware and software. These enable an organisation to gather information from its business and the marketplace and turn that data into a basis for action. A particular set of skills and resources, both systems and people‐oriented, are required to implement a DSS. The hardware is universally available and the software is now beginning to appear. Both are becoming increasingly cheaper. This should enable many more companies to exploit decision‐making systems towards more effective management.
Using Data Intensively
Authors: Law Ian
Published: March 2008

Most commercial organisations have the hardware and software to gather and process as much, if not more, information than they can use. If the amount of information is not controlled it can lead to increases in its cost. The nature of the cost of information is considered and a model proposed which illustrates the way in which data can be used intensively, comprising a marketing, production and financial sector. The more realistic the components of the total model, the better the job it will be able to do at both the tactical and strategic level.
Opportunities for Technology Development
Authors: Olesen Douglas E.
Published: March 2008

The number of options for Research and Development (R&D) and technology development are growing. For many American companies their investment in this area is their single most important investment. Therefore it is essential that they explore all options for technology development to get the best return for their investment. It is important that companies look beyond their own facilities and staff in their quest for the new technology they will need to keep them out in front.
Implications of Transition from an Industrial Era to One of Information
Authors: Reck Robert
Published: March 2008

Information technology has transformed society and business managements need to identify trends in order to take advantage of the change. Social trends comprise: customisation, decentralisation, self‐help, communication, participation and information overload.
A Change in Packaging Purchasing: Wine and Spirits
Authors: Cruden T.M.
Published: March 2008

The present packaging materials purchasing procedures of a wine and spirits manufacturing company are analysed and reviewed with respect to updating its information gathering and procurement techniques. Established practices can be improved by performance audits and strategic procurement scenarios. Purchasing teams are better able to obtain favourable terms from suppliers without loss of quality or service.
Making Public Support for Technology‐based Small Businesses More Effective
Authors: Gibb Allan A.
Published: March 2008

Great effectiveness in support of technological product and market development of small firms may be produced by programmes which are local, easily accessed, time efficient, understandable, informal, personal, visible, credible, accepted, opportunity and problem oriented, trustworthy, cheap and integrated, in that they may combine advice, consultancy, training, financial provision and provision of premises. Current assistance fails to identify existing deficiencies of firms, fails to recognise that different types of support are needed at different stages and fails to realise that scaled down versions may not be appropriate. Better qualified personnel need to be employed and managerial development is necessary to cope with new technology. Support for marketing should be an integral part of the support.
Lessons from the Japanese Automotive Industry
Authors: Gettel‐Riehl Karen , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: March 2008

Understanding the Japanese culture is important to an understanding of Japanese management styles. Management practices in the automotive industry — just‐in‐time techniques — are examined. The Japanese economy, evolution of the work ethic and its problems and effects on the family are discussed. Changes are apparent or forthcoming as the people recognise their own needs as against those of the company.
Fishing Tackle — A Case Study in Innovation
Authors: Vogel Alfredo
Published: March 2008

The introduction of new technology into the small to medium‐size company presents many problems — the most severe being the lack of skilled personnel, technologists and management. Through the use of outside consultants and a six‐step process, innovation projects can be undertaken with the maximum benefit at the minimum cost. A small fishing tackle manufacturer, in order to conform to legal and market changes, has to change its melting and casting processes. The six‐step process is employed to effect change in this company.
Selling Delivered Delivers the Goods
Authors: Fitchett Jerry
Published: March 2008

Britain's share of overseas trade would increase if more companies were to change to a door‐to‐door pricing system — a price inclusive of transportation. In a survey, tradition was given as the main reason for companies not using “delivered” pricing. It is argued that this system serves customers in a particular area more cost‐effectively, control is greater when selling via subsidiaries or agents, which offers the potential for improving customer service levels.
Integrated Software for Improved Productivity and Management Information
Authors: Milburn Ross
Published: March 2008

Firth‐Derihon Stampings are one of the UK's leading forgings manufacturers, and, in common with many large engineering concerns, ran into difficulties in the 1970s with the world recession. In addition, they experienced understandable difficulties in controlling the logistics of manufacturing several thousands of components, all requiring high standards of quality control, and many having to go through a detailed certification process for MOD and other demanding customers. The company sought a solution in more comprehensive computerisation and initiated a thorough survey of the possible types of system that might be adopted. The considerable impact of the system on the company is traced and the company management's responses regarding its advantages are described.
ALL BENEFITS ARE TANGIBLE — I JUST CAN'T GET MY HANDS ON THEM
Authors: Chapman Paul
Published: March 2008

A growing number of leading management consultants are highlighting from their work the link between investments in information technology and successful business performance. Whilst many senior executives have taken this message to heart and have invested heavily in IT, they are frustrated by the seeming lack of progress and escalating costs in their information services operations. Some rules of thumb for the “non‐technical” senior executive by which he or she can measure whether the technology investments being proposed are the right solutions are given. It is suggested that “Return on Investment” is not the best measure of success in IT and gives an alternative measure by linking the investment to achievement of business objectives. In the process, it explodes one or two myths about IT.
QUALITY SERVICE AT A PROFIT
Authors: Harper Douglas
Published: March 2008

Copystatic Ltd entered the photocopying sales and maintenance market‐place in tire early 1970s, going through a boom and then a price war. In order to stay in business, the company took the decision to offer customers added value in the form of quality field service, or “uptime”. It recognised a need to have more effective control over its servicing activities and it was decided that a computer system would be the only effective solution. Consultants were commissioned to locate suitable software, but none existed, so the company was forced to develop the system in‐house. After nine years of development and £2 million of investment, the system, known as Copystatic software, is now the market‐leading management information system for organisations involved in field service and repair. During the early part of 1987, Copystatic was awarded BS 5750 certification from the British Standards Institution for excellence in customer engineering services. Without a computer system to control such a vast service operation, this would have been impossible to achieve.
CBMFIS: CORE OF THE “FACTORY OF THE FUTURE”
Authors: Attaran Mohsen , Bidgoli Hossein
Published: March 2008

Computer‐integrated manufacturing (CIM) or flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) are widely publicised as the operational mode for the “factory of the future” These systems are centred on a computer‐based manufacturing information system (CBMFIS) that contains all product‐related and process‐related data. Successful design and implementation of a reliable information system requires a close integration of a broad range of managerial, technical and behavioural issues. Such a model is presented and its components identified. Critical elements of each component are identified and analysed within the context of the manufacturing environment. This presentation should provide comprehensive guidelines for establishing a CBMFIS and so improve the chances for success in the use and development of such a system.
LINKING SMALL BUSINESS AND MODERN MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES
Authors: Gupta Yash P.
Published: March 2008

Small businesses are vital for a nation's economic well being. In recent years, the rate of the failure of small businesses has been on the rise. These failures have been attributed to a number of factors, including a lack of implementation of scientific management concepts in their operations. These concepts are reviewed and their applicability in a small business setting explored.
HOW TO INTEGRATE NEW MEMBERS INTO A WORK TEAM EFFECTIVELY
Authors: Heath Nancy , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: March 2008

Practical means are provided of integrating a new team member into an effective team. To be effective, teams must manage goals, roles, processes and relationships. Goals need to be held in common and be quantifiable. Roles of members need to be clearly stated for the process to be managed. The leader needs to be accepted, the decision‐making responsibilities need to be clear and communications need to be effective. The team members need to be able to work together and handle difficulties in the relationships. To introduce a new member successfully, a team should consider the interviewing and hiring process, the gradual introduction of the person to the team work, and the fact that the new person needs to understand the goals of the team.
MARKET ANALYSIS — THE HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MARKETING
Authors: Whitehead John
Published: March 2008

Market analysis has established its usefulness in many businesses and represents a major advance in marketing methodology. Computer power generates an information system of enormous importance to the marketer. Market analysis unifies and integrates marketing activity in a way that has previously proved elusive.
HOMEWORKING THROUGH NEW TECHNOLOGY: OPPORTUNITIES AND OPPOSITION — PART ONE
Authors: Connolly Sean
Published: March 2008

The employment trend of working at home with computers in the United Kingdom is investigated, covering what computer homeworking is, who is involved, the form it takes and the types of organisations that have shown interest in it. Information is then provided concerning the extent of the growth in homeworking, and why there has not been the explosion of computer homeworking — as might have been expected — as a result of the technological opportunities offered by the microcomputer is explained.
COMPUTER GRAPHICS AS AN AID TO BUSINESS PRESENTATIONS
Authors: Winton Nick
Published: March 2008

The application of computer graphics has revolutionised the area of business presentations, especially 35mm slides. Sophisticated systems allow for the use of an unlimited range of colours and thousands of stored library images. Corrections and updates can easily be accommodated, because all information is stored on computer disk and can be instantly recalled. Final information can be output as 35mm slide, 10 x 8 colour transparancy, black and white laser print or as overhead transparency format.
STATISTICAL METHODOLOGIES FOR QUALITY AND PRODUCTION IMPROVEMENT
Authors: Goh T.N.
Published: March 2008

Efficient techniques of information collection and analysis are essential to all quality and productivity improvement studies. Most established concepts of quality control are passive in nature, intended more for the maintenance of the status quo than for purposeful changes. Statistical experiment design methodologies constitute an active approach which can provide the kind of understanding of process and product characteristics that is needed for managing changes during design and manufacture. Systematic planning of data collection and analysis by these methodologies is a prerequisite for the attainment of higher productivity, as it enables the investigator to identify and evaluate important variables quickly, replacing the conventional single‐variable procedures by a far more efficient approach. The major features and potential applications of experiment design are outlined in a non‐technical language for the appreciation of managers.
FROM ISLANDS OF AUTOMATION TO THE NEW WORLD OF UNIX
Authors: Howard Andrew G.
Published: March 2008

CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing) is usually viewed as a vast and complex undertaking which only the General Motors of this world can afford. This article puts forward a simple CIM strategy based on a building block approach using UNIX (the industry standard hardware independent computer operating system). This approach ensures companies start with systems they can afford and also manage. Risks are decreased, small companies too can now build their own CIM strategies. UNIX's great strength is portability and flexibility: companies can start with basic MRP systems and build upon those, integrating at will the more specific elements of CIM as they are needed. The suitability of UNIX for this “mix and match” approach is examined. No longer is there any need to be locked in to one hardware or software supplier. Competitive edge too is improved as the manufacturer can respond quickly to the fluctuating nature of the consumer market. As new products are required, new computer control systems can easily be integrated with the core system.
IMPROVING COMMUNICATIONS AT WORK
Authors: Margerison Charles J.
Published: March 2008

Conversation control is a skill. It can be learnt. It requires an understanding of the concepts and then regular practice. This article looks at the use of facts and opinions; how to open up and close down a conversation and how to diverge and converge, particularly in a work situation.
Project Management as a Language Game
Authors: Starling Grover
Published: March 2008

Towards a better understanding of how project managers use language to get things done.
Capital Investments in Manufacturing: Strategic and Operational Dimensions
Authors: Chung Kam B.
Published: March 2008

Success lies in striking a balance between financial criteria and others.
Evaluating Strategic Capacity Decisions:
Authors: Miller Tan , Liberatore Matthew J.
Published: March 2008

The impact off strategic capacity decisions on production and distribution.
Specific IgE to Respiratory Allergens and IgG Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and Streptococcus pneumoniae in Norwegian Military Recruits
Authors: Ellertsen L. K. , Hetland G. , Løvik M.
Published: February 2008

Declining exposure to infections has been implicated as a cause for the rising trend of allergy. Gastrointestinal infections, in particular, have been suggested to have a protective effect against allergy development. In contrast, there are only limited data available regarding the effect of respiratory tract infections with encapsulated bacteria on allergy development. We investigated the association between IgG antibodies against the gastrointestinal parasite Toxoplasma gondii and the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae and specific IgE to common allergens in Norwegian military recruits. IgG antibodies to T. gondii and to a 23‐valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax®) were determined by ELISA. Specific IgE to common airborne allergens was determined by Phadiatop®. Individuals with Phadiatop values from class 0–2 were classified as non‐atopic (n = 419), while those with class 3–6 were classified as atopic (n = 201). No significant difference was observed in IgG antibody levels to pneumococcal polysaccharides between atopic and non‐atopic recruits, whereas seropositivity to T. gondii was found to be less frequent among the atopic recruits (odds ratio, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.17–0.81; P = 0.01). Hence, in Norwegian recruits, the serological response to a gastrointestinal pathogen, but not to the respiratory encapsulated bacteria, was found to be associated with a lower probability for being sensitized according to the criteria used. The present study conforms to the hypothesis that reduced rates of infection with certain microorganisms may be associated with an increased risk of allergic sensitization.
Identification of a biologically active, small, secreted peptide in Arabidopsis by in silico gene screening, followed by LC‐MS‐based structure analysis
Authors: Ohyama Kentaro , Ogawa Mari , Matsubayashi Yoshikatsu
Published: March 2008

Peptidomics is a challenging field in which to create a link between genomic information and biological function through biochemical analysis of expressed peptides, including precise identification of post‐translational modifications and proteolytic processing. We found that secreted peptides in Arabidopsis plants diffuse into the medium of whole‐plant submerged cultures, and can be effectively identified by o‐chlorophenol extraction followed by LC‐MS analysis. Using this system, we first confirmed that a 12‐amino‐acid mature CLE44 peptide accumulated at a considerable level in the culture medium of transgenic plants overexpressing CLE44. Next, using an in silico approach, we identified a novel gene family encoding small secreted peptides that exhibit significant sequence similarity within the C‐terminal short conserved domain. We determined that the mature peptide encoded by At1g47485, a member of this gene family, is a 15‐amino‐acid peptide containing two hydroxyproline residues derived from the conserved domain. This peptide, which we have named CEP1, is mainly expressed in the lateral root primordia and, when overexpressed or externally applied, significantly arrests root growth. CEP1 is a candidate for a novel peptide plant hormone.
The ectopic overexpression of a seed‐specific transcription factor, HaHSFA9, confers tolerance to severe dehydration in vegetative organs
Authors: Prieto‐Dapena Pilar , Castaño Raúl , Almoguera Concepción , Jordano Juan
Published: March 2008

Most plant seeds tolerate desiccation, but vegetative tissues are intolerant to drastic dehydration, except in the case of resurrection plants. Therefore, changes in the regulation of genes normally expressed in seeds are thought to be responsible for the evolutionary origin of desiccation tolerance in resurrection plants. Here, we show that constitutive overexpression of the seed‐specific HSFA9 transcription factor from sunflower is sufficient to confer tolerance to severe dehydration, outside of the developing seed context, to vegetative tissues of transgenic tobacco. Whole 3‐week‐old seedlings could survive severe dehydration. This was quantified as a water loss to 1.96 ± 0.05% of the initial water content, which corresponds to a water potential of ≈ −40 MPa. Survival depended on the water potential, from 40% survival at ≈ −20 MPa to 6.5% survival at ≈ −40 MPa. Whole‐seedling survival was limited by the dehydration sensitivity of the roots. Survival correlated with the ectopic expression of a genetic program involving seed‐specific, small heat‐shock proteins, but not late embryogenesis abundant proteins. The accumulation of sucrose or raffinose family oligosaccharides was not altered by HSFA9. The observed tolerance was achieved without a reduction of growth and development. Our results strongly support the previously suggested contribution of small heat‐shock proteins to the desiccation tolerance of seeds. We provide a successful system for analyzing tolerance to severe dehydration in all vegetative organs of seedlings. We propose that HSFA9 is a potential genetic switch involved in the evolution of tolerance to vegetative desiccation.
Functional domains of SPATULA, a bHLH transcription factor involved in carpel and fruit development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Groszmann Michael , Paicu Teodora , Smyth David R.
Published: March 2008

The SPATULA (SPT) gene is involved in generating the septum, style and stigma: specialized tissues that arise from carpel margins. By matching sequences within the extended bHLH region of AtSPT across species databases, twelve orthologues were identified in eudicots, rice and a gymnosperm. Two conserved structural domains were revealed in addition to the bHLH region: an amphipathic helix and an acidic domain. These are conserved in the tomato orthologue, which can restore carpel function to spt mutants of Arabidopsis. The acidic domain is essential for SPT carpel function, and the amphipathic helix supports it. A bipartite sequence overlapping the bHLH domain is required for nuclear localization, and a mutation in the conserved beta strand adjacent to the bHLH C terminus results in the loss of SPT function. SPT apparently acts as a transcriptional activator, as the addition of the SRDX repression domain phenocopies the spt mutant phenotype. Expression of an artificially activating 35S:SPT‐VP16 construct can induce carpelloid properties in sepals, and new defects in the gynoecium. These disruptions are associated with ectopic expression of the STYLISH2 gene, although STYLISH2 expression does not require SPT function. Ectopic expression of unmodified SPT does not induce such changes, implying that SPT acts in association with essential coactivators present only in regions where SPT is normally active. Because the VP16 activation domain can compensate to some extent for the loss of the amphipathic helix and acidic domain, these domains may normally interact with such co‐activators.
Trans‐generation inheritance of methylation patterns in a tobacco transgene following a post‐transcriptional silencing event
Authors: Lunerová‐Bedřichová Jana , Bleys Annick , Fojtová Miloslava , Khaitová Lucie , Depicker Anna , Kovařík Aleš
Published: March 2008

We have studied the inheritance of the epigenetic state of tobacco transgenes whose expression was post‐transcriptionally silenced by an invertedly repeated silencer locus. We show that, in hybrids, the coding region of the target neomycin phosphotransferase (nptII) gene was almost exclusively methylated at CG configurations, and dense non‐CG methylation occurred in the 3′ untranslated region. Homologous sequences in the silencer locus were heavily methylated at both CG and non‐CG motifs. After segregation of the silencer locus, the CG methylation but not the non‐CG methylation of the target genes was transmitted to the progeny. In the segregants, we observed an overall increase of CG methylation in the target genes, associated with a re‐distribution from the 3′ end of the coding region towards the middle. This pattern was inherited with some fluctuation for at least two additional generations in the absence of a detectable T‐DNA‐derived small RNA fraction. Thus CG methylation is not cleared during meiosis and may be inherited over generations without RNA signals being present. These epi‐allelic variants re‐expressed the reporter gene immediately after segregation of the trigger, showing that relatively dense CG methylation (approximately 60–80%) imprinted on most of the coding region (>500 bp) did not reduce expression compared with the parental non‐methylated locus. We propose that the genic CG methylation seen in euchromatic regions of the genome may originate from ancient post‐transcriptional gene silencing events as a result of adventitiously produced methylation‐directing RNA molecules.
A Migration Study of Mother's Work, Welfare Participation, and Child Development
Authors: Liu Haiyong
Published: February 2008

Abstract.  This paper investigates how women's migration and labor supply behaviors respond to changes in welfare policies and labor market conditions, controlling for endogenous initial residence and unobserved heterogeneity. It also traces out how these responses influence educational inputs and child outcomes. The simulation results show that poor and low‐educated single women with children do change their residential locations in response to changes in welfare policies and labor market conditions. The magnitude of this response in the form of migration is rather modest. More importantly, however, such policy changes often have large and important impacts on particular at‐risk groups.
Understanding what it is Like to be Stalked
Authors: Frieze Irene Hanson
Published: February 2008

Partner Stalking: How Women Respond, Cope, and Survive. T.K. LOGAN, JENNIFER COLE, LISA SHANNON, & ROBERT WALKER. New York: Springer, 2006. 368 pp., $45.00 (hardcover), ISBN: 0–8261–3756–3.
Truth Telling Through Research
Authors: Arieux Marianne
Published: February 2008

Urban Girls Revisited: Building Strengths. BONNIE J. ROSS LEADBEATER & NIOBE WAY (EDS.). New York: New York University Press, 2007. 381 pp., $70.00 (hardcover), ISBN: 0814752128; $24.00, (paperback) ISBN: 0814752136.
Isolation of Primary Human Hepatocytes After Partial Hepatectomy: Criteria for Identification of the Most Promising Liver Specimen
Authors: Vondran Florian Wolfgang Rudolf , Katenz Ekaterina , Schwartlander Ruth , Morgul Mehmet Haluk , Raschzok Nathanael , Gong Xiaobing , Cheng Xiangdong , Kehr Daniel , Sauer Igor Maximilian
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Demands for primary human hepatocytes are continuously increasing, while supply is insufficient due to limited cell sources. To improve cell availability, the present study investigates the influence of donor liver characteristics on the outcome of hepatocyte isolation from surgically removed liver tissue (n = 50). Hepatocytes were isolated from liver specimens using a standardized two‐step collagenase perfusion technique. The patient's sex, previous chemotherapy, or histopathology have shown no influence. Donor age significantly affected the isolation outcome, but was not found suitable for predicting cell yields. Preoperative blood parameters did not correlate with cell yield, although cell function was affected: total protein, albumin synthesis, and cell viability were significantly decreased for serum gamma‐glutamyl‐transferase (GGT) levels >60 U/L. Specimens from patients with benign diseases gave significantly higher cell yields than tissue removed due to secondary and primary tumors, respectively. The indication for surgery is a valuable basis for identifying the most yielding specimens. Hepatocytes from donors with high GGT levels appear to show reduced functional properties.
The Rise of Identity in SLA Research, Post Firth and Wagner (1997)
Authors: BLOCK DAVID
Published: February 2008

AlthoughFirth and Wagner (1997)did not explicitly discuss the issue of identity in second language acquisition (SLA) research, their article was symptomatic of a general trend to open up SLA to social theory and sociological and sociolinguistic research, which in turn led some researchers to explore links between second language (L2) learning and identity. In this article, I discuss empirical research linking L2 learning and identity that has been published since Firth and Wagner. I begin with a discussion of the broadly poststructuralist approach to identity, which has become the approach of choice among researchers taking this line of enquiry. I then critically review key publications carried out in three distinct L2 learning contexts: naturalistic, foreign language, and study abroad. I conclude with some suggestions about future directions for identity‐in‐SLA research.
Microstructural Development of the AlN/Ti Diffusion Couple Annealed at 1000°C
Authors: Chiu Chia‐Hsiang , Lin Chien‐Cheng
Published: February 2008

The microstructural development of an AlN/Ti diffusion couple, annealed at 1000°C in an argon atmosphere for 0.1–36 h, was investigated using analytical scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The decomposition and diffusion of Al and N atoms into Ti gave rise to various reaction layers at the interface. A δ‐TiN layer was initially formed in the reaction zone between AlN and Ti, and the α2‐Ti3Al layer subsequently developed between δ‐TiN and Ti. Then an intergranular τ1‐Ti3AlN phase was formed in the δ‐TiN layer with the orientation relationships [111]τ1− Ti3 AlN//[111]δ− TiN and (110)τ1− Ti3 AlN//(110)δ− TiN. The further diffusion of N atoms into the α2‐Ti3Al layer led to the growth of δ‐TiN and a twinned α2‐Ti3Al(N) solid solution, wherein N atoms went to one of the octahedral interstitial sites in an orderly manner upon cooling, resulting in the formation of τ1‐Ti3AlN. The orientation relationships between τ1‐Ti3AlN and α2‐Ti3Al(N) were [111]τ1− Ti3 AlN// [0001]α2− Ti3Al(N) and (011)τ1− Ti3AlN//(1120)α2− Ti3Al(N). Finally, diffusion paths are proposed for the interfacial reactions at various stages.
Impact of Point‐of‐care Testing in the Emergency Department Evaluation and Treatment of Patients with Suspected Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Renaud Bertrand , Maison Patrick , Ngako Alfred , Cunin Patrick , Santin Aline , Hervé Jérôme , Salloum Mirna , Calmettes Marie‐Jeanne , Boraud Cyril , Lemiale Virginie , Grégo Jean Claude , Debacker Marie , Hémery François , Roupie Eric
Published: February 2008

Objectives:  To assess the impact of point‐of‐care testing (POCT) for troponin I (cTnI) measurement on the time to anti‐ischemic therapy (TAIT) for patients with suspected non–ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE‐ACS) presenting to the emergency department (ED).

Methods:  This was an open‐label, randomized, single‐center trial conducted in a university‐affiliated hospital. cTnI measurement of patients with suspicion of NSTE‐ACS coming to the ED was randomly allocated to POCT or central hospital laboratory testing (CHLT). The authors compared patients’ baseline characteristics, time to anti‐ischemic therapy, and medical outcomes between the randomized groups, in all study participants and in high‐risk NSTE‐ACS (cTnI level ≥ 0.10 μg/mL), and in those with low suspicion ACS (no chest pain and no ST deviation).

Results:  Of the 860 patients enrolled, 113 were high‐risk NSTE‐ACS patients, including 53 (46.9%) allocated to POCT and 60 (53.1%) to CHLT. POCT was associated with decreased time to anti‐ischemic therapy of about three‐quarters of an hour, which was due to a shorter time to physician notification of cTnI level, in both all and subgroup participants. In contrast, neither ED length of stay nor medical outcomes differed between study groups.

Conclusions:  Point‐of‐care testing for cTnI measurement might be clinically relevant for ED patients with a suspicion of NSTE‐ACS, particularly for high‐risk patients with a low suspicion of ACS.
Pretreatment frontal EEG and changes in suicidal ideation during SSRI treatment in major depressive disorder
Authors: Iosifescu D. V. , Greenwald S. , Devlin P. , Perlis R. H. , Denninger J. W. , Alpert J. E. , Fava M.
Published: February 2008

Objective:  We investigated frontal quantitative EEG (QEEG) as predictor of changes in suicidal ideation (SI) during SSRI treatment in major depressive disorder (MDD).

Method:  Eighty‐two subjects meeting DSM‐IV criteria for MDD entered an 8‐week, prospective, open‐label treatment with flexible dose SSRIs and completed at least 4 weeks of treatment. We assessed MDD severity with the 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM‐D‐17); change in SI was measured with HAM‐D item no. 3. We recorded four‐channel EEGs (F7‐Fpz, F8‐Fpz, A1‐Fpz, A2‐Fpz) before treatment.

Results:  During the first 4 weeks of treatment 9 (11%) subjects experienced worsening SI. Left‐right asymmetry of combined theta + alpha power correlated significantly with change in SI from baseline, even when adjusting for changes in depression severity (HAM‐D‐17) and for the SSRI utilized.

Conclusion:  Frontal QEEG parameters before treatment may predict worsening SI during SSRI treatment in MDD.
Infill of a structurally controlled estuary: An example from southern Whanganui Inlet, New Zealand
Authors: Kennedy David M. , Paulik Ryan , Millar Michael
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Whanganui Inlet, South Island, New Zealand, is a structurally controlled estuary where most of the accommodation space has been occupied by sediment and expanses of mud/sand flats are exposed at low tide. A flood‐tide delta extends 1.5 km from the entrance; however, both a mud basin and surfical fluvial deltas are absent from the inlet. Sedimentological and foraminiferal analysis of vibrocores from the inlet's southern half indicates that the intertidal flats accreted close to modern elevations soon after sea level flooding. The present surfical morphology of Whanganui Inlet therefore appears to be inherited from sedimentation that took place soon after sea level stabilized, with little deposition now occurring on the intertidal flats.
Trans‐Tasman migration: New Zealanders’ explanations for their move
Authors: Green Alison E. , Power Mary R. , Jang Deannah M.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  This study investigates why New Zealanders move to Australia. A survey of New Zealanders living in Australia found ‘pull’ factors, notably greater opportunities and better climate, were the most common reasons. While desire for change or sense of adventure was important, dissatisfaction with life in New Zealand was also a factor. Results indicated a form of transnationalism as migrants felt at home in both countries. They maintained links with New Zealand evident in support for New Zealand sporting teams, expressions of New Zealand nationality, emotional connection and regular contact with New Zealand.
Clinical evaluation of glass‐ionomer tunnel restorations in primary molars: 36 months results
Authors: Markovic D , Peric T
Published: February 2008

Background:  The purpose of this study was to clinically examine the efficacy of tunnel preparations in primary molars restored with glass‐ionomer cement during a 36‐month observation period.

Methods:  A total of 233 tunnel restorations were placed in primary molars of 203 patients aged 6–10 years. Restorations were evaluated after 12, 24 and 36 months using the modified USPHS criteria for secondary caries, marginal discolouration, marginal adaptation and anatomic form. The Alpha+Bravo score (except for caries) and absence of clinical signs of endodontic complications was considered as a clinical success.

Results:  At the end of the 36‐month experimental period, the cumulative survival rate of tunnel restorations in primary molars was 72 per cent. The main reasons for failure were endodontic complications (46 per cent of the failures), secondary caries (31 per cent of the failures) and marginal ridge fractures (19 per cent of the failures).

Conclusions:  The tunnel preparation filled with reinforced restorative glass‐ionomer cement is a suitable treatment for minimal proximal caries lesions in primary molars.
The Support Reaction of a Simply Supported and Uniformly Loaded Thin Circular Aeolotropic Plate
Authors: Eriksson Kjell
Published: February 2008

A previous analytical solution of the deflection of a thin circular aeolotropic plate, with simply supported edge and uniform lateral load, has been used to derive approximate series expressions for the plate support reaction, which are directly applicable in practice. The support reaction, which has been calculated for some typical anisotropic materials of varying degree of anisotropy, varies significantly along the plate perimeter and strongly anisotropic materials require in general a higher order series solution. Certain solution constants of previous deflection approximations were not found to harmonize and are therefore recalculated.
Analytical Model of the Confined Compression Test Used to Characterize Brittle Materials
Authors: Chocron Sidney , Walker James D. , Nicholls Arthur E. , Dannemann Kathryn A. , Anderson Charles E.
Published: February 2008

Numerical and analytical simulations of projectiles penetrating brittle materials such as ceramics and glasses are a very challenging problem. The difficulty comes from the fact that the yield surface of brittle materials is not well characterized (or even defined), and the failure process may change the material properties. Recently, some works have shown that it is possible to characterize and find the constitutive equation for brittle materials using a confined compression test, i.e., a test where a cylindrical specimen, surrounded by a confining sleeve, is being compressed axially by a mechanical testing machine. This paper focuses on understanding the confined compression test by presenting an analytical model that explicitly solves for the stresses and strains in the sample and the sleeve, assuming the sleeve is elastic and the specimen is elastoplastic with a Drucker–Prager plasticity model. The first part of the paper briefly explains the experimental technique and how the stress-strain curves obtained during the test are interpreted. A simple and straightforward approach to obtain the constitutive model of the material is then presented. Finally, a full analytical model with explicit solution for displacements, strains, and stresses in the specimen and the sleeve is described. The advantage of the analytical model is that it gives a full understanding of the test, as well as information that can be useful when designing the test (e.g., displacements of the outer radius of the specimen).
Postyield Cyclic Buckling Criteria for Aluminum Shear Panels
Authors: Jain Sachin , Rai Durgesh C. , Sahoo Dipti R.
Published: February 2008

Aluminum shear panels can dissipate significant amount of energy through hysteresis provided strength deterioration due to buckling is avoided. A detailed experimental study of the inelastic behavior of the full-scale models of shear panels of 6063-O and 1100-O alloys of aluminum is conducted under slow cyclic loading of increasing displacement levels. The geometric parameters that determine buckling of the shear panels, such as web depth-to-thickness ratio, aspect ratio of panels, and number of panels, were varied among the specimens. Test results were used to predict the onset of buckling with proportionality factor f in Gerard’s formulation of inelastic buckling. Moreover, a logarithmic relationship between buckling stress and slenderness ratio of the panel was observed to predict experimental data closely. These relations can be further used to determine the geometry of shear panels, which will limit the inelastic web buckling at design shear strains.
An Evaluation of the Interaction Between Surface Waves and a Simplified OTEC Intake Flow
Authors: Nihous G. C.
Published: February 2008

The interaction between a steady linear water-wave field and a two-dimensional current, selected to approximate the surface intake of a large floating ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) plant, is examined. The mathematical formulation is based upon the use of averaged Lagrangians, and the determination of rays, of characteristics, numerical results in nondimensional form are obtained, for a headsea configuration, while relative intake strength (current velocity) is allowed to vary. Energy focusing is shown to occur in the vicinity of the intake walls, although this effect linearly depends upon relative intake strength. Simple dimensional arguments, however, indicate that such interaction effects are weak when a “typical” large OTEC plant is considered.
A First-Order Second-Moment Approach to Systems Fatigue Reliability
of Offshore Structures
Authors: Hu Y. , Chen B.
Published: February 2008

A method to evaluate the probability of failure of a failure path leading to fatigue collapse of an offshore structure is presented. The failure path is modeled by a number of failure elements, which represent the fatigue-sensitive joints in the structure, connecting in parallel and failing in sequence. The probability of failure of the parallel system is calculated by using first-order second-moment method. The formulation is further improved by considering the probability of occurrence of a specified sequence in which the failure elements fail. The method can be employed both in searching for important failure paths and in evaluating the probability of failure of the whole structure in systems fatigue reliability analysis of offshore structures.
Effect of Mooring Line Arrangement on the Dynamics of Spread Mooring
Systems
Authors: Bernitsas M. M. , Garza-Rios L. O.
Published: February 2008

A design methodology is formulated to reveal the dependence of nonlinear slowmotion dynamics of spread mooring systems (SMS) on mooring line arrangement. For a given SMS configuration, catastrophe sets are developed in the parametric design space showing the dependence of stability boundaries and singularities of bifurcations on design variables. This approach eliminates the need for nonlinear simulations. For general SMS design, however, the designer relies on experience rather than scientific understanding of SMS nonlinear dynamics, due to the high number of design variables. Several numerical applications are used to demonstrate counterintuitive ways of improving SMS dynamics. The SMS design methodology formulated in this paper aims at providing fundamental understanding of the effects of mooring line arrangement and pretension on SMS horizontal plane dynamics. Thus, the first guidelines are developed to reduce trial and error in SMS design. The methodology is illustrated by comparing catastrophe sets for various SMS configurations with up to three mooring lines. Numerous examples for a barge and a tanker SMS which exhibit qualitatively different nonlinear dynamic behavior are provided.
A Computer Model of Glaze Accretion on Wires
Authors: Draganoiu G. , Lamarche L. , McComber P.
Published: February 2008

The design of power transmission lines requires a knowledge of combined wind and ice loading and of the dynamic behavior of wires loaded with ice accretion. The calculation of the wind forces, in turn, imposes a need for a more detailed computer model for determining glaze accretion shape. For this purpose, a computer model of glaze accretion on wires, was developed. It is based on experimental results in the area of ice accretion on wires, as well as on results in the related field of the glaze ice accretion on airfoils. The model incorporates the time dependent on feedback between the growing accretion and the air stream, the variation of the heat transfer coefficient around the cylinder, and the surface runback of water. The main components of the model are the computation of the air flow field, the computation of the impingement water at the control volume level, the solving of the heat balance equation, and the computation of the accretion shape on the wire. The surface air velocity is obtained through the solution of the potential flow around the iced wire and wake, followed by the integration on the surface of the laminar boundary layer. The water flux is computed in each control Volume down to the separation point. The heat balance equation derived from the energy equation is solved to determine the freezing fraction and the resulting modified ice surface geometry.