bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Always on a Sunday
Authors: Preston Peter
Published: June 2008

Many newspaper analysts and media commentators have dismissed the national Sunday market as a disaster area beyond regeneration. Preston disagrees and points out that although circulations are falling in the Sunday market, the quality press is not faring badly: "In March 2008, quality Sunday sales were recorded as 2.04 per cent down on March 2007: better by far than mid-market and red-top Sundays (down 4.7 per cent and 3.81 per cent respectively) and better than quality dailies, down 2.51 per cent. It's not a dismaying result when you remember that Sundays are traditionally priced far higher than their Saturday in-house competitors." A brave proprietor wishing to launch a new newspaper should go for Sunday, perhaps with Saturday as an added extra, Preston argues. "Print perhaps only one set of magazines and add-ons to cover the weekend. And deal with the run of the week exactly how young readers in particular are tackling it: by logging on and surfing around the whole puzzle on paper for those with the time and inclination to think and brood... If you can marry the swiftness and cheapness on demand of the web with the relative permanency of print, then you have a total package."
Europe: media freedom in retreat
Authors: Horsley William
Published: June 2008

While some member states violently obstruct media freedom, European Union manipulation conceals truths. Horsley, media freedom representative of the Association of European Journalists and a former BBC foreign correspondent, unveils a disingenuous strategy. He writes: "The many-sided assaults on media freedom have compounded what was already a complex and daunting task to report Europe adequately and journalists still struggle to find the vocabulary to describe the unique hybrid nature of the European Union... It is time that national governments came clean about the realities of the EU, the fierce national rivalries that are still played out inside its meetings, and the limits of their own ability to manage its huge administrative and governmental machine. It is time, too, for the media to stop being embarrassed about Europe and to find new ways of telling a complex and vitally important story. For that, one of the first tasks must be to win back the media freedom and independence that has been dangerously eroded."
It's more fun on the `Dark Side'
Authors: McCrystal Damien
Published: June 2008

Journalism has historically belittled public relations as being profligate and soft. But life is better in PR-land says a business journalist who crossed over: "Certainly, my lifestyle and work in public relations is far more enjoyable than my last job in journalism, which became a bit of a battle not only over expenses but also time spent at my desk and words produced. In PR, these things are not issues. Results are the only measure of success and if you get good ones then no one gives a damn about how many hours you spend in the office." And he concludes: "Journalists who've used up their expense budgets and spent all their own meagre wages but need to entertain an important contact contact me from time to time. Would I mind joining in and picking up the tab to save the hack's embarrassment? Of course not. All part of the service. Do I want anything in return? Maybe, but nothing earth shattering. A little mention here, a non-mention there. Is that unethical? In the modern world, I don't think so."
Arwyr lleol
Authors: Hughes Glyn Mon
Published: June 2008

The papurau bro (Welsh language local newspapers) break all the rules in helping to keep the Welsh language alive - but is their revolution running out of steam? From a small seed sown in Cardiff in 1973, some 56 publications still exist, which implies they've earned their place in contemporary Wales. Yet they break every rule of design, of news values and competition. They rarely seek advertising and few have paid staff to produce the goods. They are furiously independent and regard the advent of "new" - for which read "relatively old" - technology with a perhaps not altogether healthy degree of scepticism... Yet the papers are being dragged slowly into the 21st century - some now have their own web presence. But even if, together, they form the largest single readership of anything published in the Welsh language, their future is not guaranteed. Research shows that 60 per cent of papers fear for their future. Their continued antipathy towards anything commercial and anything that might constitute a "scoop", plus that unbending independence, could spell doom for something that has been nothing short of a phenomenon.
Myth, Jung and the McC women
Authors: Anslow James
Published: June 2008

The Express group libelled the McCann family. The media vilified Heather McCartney. To explain why, a student in psychiatry visits Carl Jung's couch: "The print barrange against both women was unmatched in its prolonged intensity even by the intermittent coverage of jailed (now dead) Moors murderer Myra Hindley. Why? What is it about the portrayal of these two women by the news media that elicits such a powerful, pervasive and usually negative response?" Anslow continues: "These resilient and recurring patterns were identified by the influential but controversial Swiss psychologist and thinker Carl Jung (1875-1961) and labelled 'archetypes'. In his Collected Works, Jung writes: 'There are types of situations and types of figures that repeat themselves endlessly and have a corresponding meaning'... Jungians would claim that consumers of news reports respond to the same collectively unconscious contents as the journalists who gather, edit and present the stories. Thus, unconsciously, they expect shared, archetypal, embedded patterns to assert themselves in the reportage."
Dangermen
Authors: Brennan Michael
Published: June 2008

Is a picture worth a thousand words? Is the power of the photograph overlooked by many writers? In two articles, the BJR celebrates the roll of the photojournalist. Accomplished photographer Brennan writes: "Looking now at old news pictures and newsreels, I cannot believe my work and that of my now my equally ageing colleagues has become archive material. There was much criticism in the 70s and 80s of voyeurism, because of the harrowing images of war, particularly those from Vietnam from... many great, brave, photojournalists. That debate appears to have gone away. Now we are bombarded with images so graphic and instant that the pictures from that earlier time appear almost benevolent... And technology has allowed anyone to be a 'citizen journalist'. Pictures from news events, sometimes taken from cell-phone cameras and usually of poor quality, fetch top dollar with major news organizations. Everyone is a 'news' photographer, triggering an influx by opportunist and mostly untalented snappers that some believe has sounded the death knell for great news photography. I don't believe that's the case. Technology has only enhanced the skills of the new breed of serious photojournalists."
Blame it on Blow Up
Authors: Davis Victor
Published: June 2008

The veteran journalist and author recalls the highs and lows of working with newspaper photographers in the past, and concludes: "The staff photographers of today don't sing or joke much. They are an endangered species in a world teeming with civilians wielding digital cameras and celebrity-chasing amateurs looking for a big score. Breaking news pictures are increasingly the work of passers-by while the reduced staff teams are edged off the prime pages. There's a growing tendency to print the by-lines of those who do get their pictures published vertically, which I daresay is all right if you're Japanese. It's sad. I fear the parade's gone by and the only ones left cheering are the bean counters who grubstaked all those years of riotous assembly."
Planning and Decision Making
Authors: Das J.P.
Published: June 2008

Decision making no longer assumes a rational information processor, be it in business management or entrepreneurship. Emotions and conations interact with cognition. This is the received view. But what exactly are emotion and will? True to its title, this article begins by providing a firm grounding on emotions. Next, it considers conscious will: Is it a force or a feeling or is it an illusion? Moving on, this article briefly examines the complex concept of consciousness and its role in decision making from the Euro-American and the East Indian perspectives. Is there a little man, a homunculus, who makes decisions? It then considers an existing theory of planning as a cognitive process. The context for discussion is provided by a case history of an entrepreneur. It examines and highlights the infusion of emotional determinants at each step of the decision-making process. The final section of this article describes tests of executive functions that are biased towards analytic or synthetic aspects of planning.
Entrepreneurial Orientation among the Youth of India
Authors: Levenburg Nancy M. , Schwarz Thomas V.
Published: June 2008

Expanding the level of entrepreneurial activity within all nations is an increasingly important political and economic goal, especially for developing countries. Literature suggests that culture, education and environment play key roles, yet these attributes vary greatly across nations. This study explores the level of interest in entrepreneurship among what may be India's next generation of entrepreneurs, namely undergraduate business students, and draws comparisons with students enrolled in the US. Despite a combination of social structures and cultural values within India that historically constrained entrepreneurship, a number of efforts in recent years seem to have significantly shifted the national mindset regarding entrepreneurship, particularly among India's youth who were found to demonstrate a significantly higher level of interest in starting new ventures than their US counterparts.
Small Business Considerations in Canada
Authors: Ensign Prescott C.
Published: June 2008

Regionalism has been evident throughout Canada's history. Economic policies and political conflicts have emphasised regional differences. Changes in the business environment have been dramatic with a shift to continental integration. This article explores the historical evidence of regionalism, Canada as a political community, Canada as an economic community and the changing scene for small business in Canada.
Environmental Initiatives Undertaken by Entrepreneurs in the Philippines
Authors: Rao Purba
Published: June 2008

Many factors motivate entrepreneurs to start and enhance their businesses. In the past, their primary concerns revolved around the bottom-line and survival strategies. However, with awareness of environmental impact of industry operations, entrepreneurs should have a much broader mindset. To determine the extent to which environmental sustainability has become a part of the planning horizon of entrepreneurs, we conducted research involving thirty-six Philippine entrepreneurs. In view of the limited sample size, the data analysis was confined to non-parametric tests of significance. The analysis established that if an entrepreneur has larger asset size or is advanced in age, one could expect the him/her to be more motivated to incorporate environmental initiatives in the enterprise, leading to better environmental performance. At the same time, when an enterprise is set up by an entrepreneur who is more professionally-oriented, the enterprise can also be expected to demonstrate better environmental performance.
Early Development of Stereotyped and Self-Injurious Behaviors
Authors: Berkson Gershon , Tupa Megan
Published: June 2008

Literature on early development of typical and abnormal stereotyped and self-injurious behaviors was reviewed. Such behaviors are part of normal development, but abnormalities can be detected from birth to Age 3. Many of these behaviors reach a maximum level around Age 2 and then decline. The behaviors may be retained in some children, however, and around the time the child reaches school age, the behaviors may increase. Increase and decline of typical behaviors are delayed in children with developmental delays. The relationship between early and later behaviors has not been studied. Although many abnormal behaviors may emerge from typical behaviors in infancy, some behaviors definitely do not. Possibly, the 2nd year is a sensitive period for emergence of abnormal stereotyped and self-injurious behaviors and treatments might be most effective then. Tests of efficacy of treatments to prevent these behaviors are rare.
Effects of Adult Contingent Imitation on Development of Young Children's Vocal Imitation
Authors: Gazdag Gail , Warren Steven F.
Published: June 2008

The effects of adult contingent vocal imitation on the development of vocal imitation skills by three young children with mental retardation were investigated. A multiple baseline across three young children with mental retardation were investigated. A multiple baseline across subjects design was implemented. Generalization sessions were conducted separately with both the children's teacher and teaching assistant. Child vocal imitation to adult contingent imitation, elicited imitation, and spontaneous imitation were measured in generalization sessions throughout the study. All children vocally imitated in response to adult contingent imitation during training. Minimal generalization to adult contingent imitation and elicited imitation prompts were shown by the children. Moderate to strong generalized increases in spontaneous imitation occurred for all children concurrent with training.
Testing Predictive Validity of the Communication Composite of the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales
Authors: McCathren Rebecca B. , Yoder Paul J. , Warren Steven F.
Published: June 2008

This study tested the predictive validity of the Communication Composite of the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales as a predictor of expressive vocabulary. The Communication Composite consists of six clusters that measure specific aspects of communicative behavior. Participants were 58 children, 17 to 34 months of age, who were functioning at the prelinguistic stage of language development. All children had mild to moderate developmental delays but no sensory impairments. The Communication Composite was used to measure prelinguistic communication skills at the beginning of the study, and an unstructured play session was used to measure expressive vocabulary 1 year later. Results indicated that the Communication Composite was a significant predictor of later expressive language. In addition, all tested clusters were significant predictors of later expressive language.
Caregiver Interaction Behavior With Prenatally Cocaine-Exposed and Nonexposed Preschoolers
Authors: Krauss Roberta Brobeil , Thurman S. Kenneth , Brodsky Nancy , Betancourt Laura , Giannetta Joan , Hurt Hallam
Published: June 2008

This study examined the quality of caregiver-child interaction as measured by the Parent/ Caregiver Involvement Scale (PCIS), with a sample of 41 preschoolers who were prenatally exposed to cocaine and 39 nonexposed preschoolers. Within the cocaine group, 19 children were in the care of relatives or foster caregivers and 22 were in the care of their biological mothers. Results suggest that mothers of nonexposed children were significantly more emotionally and developmentally appropriate than caregivers of prenatally cocaine-exposed children, and no significant differences in interaction behavior were found between biological mothers and foster caregivers of prenatally cocaine-exposed children. The importance of conceptualizing this population of children within the context of their environment is stressed.
Everyday Family and Community Life and Children's Naturally Occurring Learning Opportunities
Authors: Dunst Carl J. , Hamby Deborah , Trivette Carol M. , Raab Melinda , Bruder Mary Beth
Published: June 2008

National surveys of nearly 3300 parents (and other caregivers) of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with or at-risk for developmental delays were conducted to ascertain the sources of naturally occurring learning opportunities afforded young children in the context of family and community life. One group of parents completed a survey about family life as sources of learning opportunities (N = 1723), and another group completed a survey of community life as sources of learning opportunities (N = 1560). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that both family and community life were each made up of 11 different categories of learning opportunities. Results indicate the 22 categories provide a framework for recognizing and identifying sources of learning opportunities providing children a rich array of experiences constituting natural learning environments.
Teaching Parents to Employ Mand-Model Procedures to Teach Their Children Requesting
Authors: Mobayed Kay L. , Collins Belva C. , Strangis Diane E. , Schuster John W. , Hemmeter Mary Louise
Published: June 2008

In this investigation, a home-based interventionist taught 4 female parents to embed the mand-model procedure in daily activities to teach expressive language skills to their young children with speech delays. A multiple probe design was used to demonstrate experimental control and an ecological process was used to select functional areas in the home where language skills could be taught. Data were collected on parents' use of the procedure and their child's responses. During the intervention phase, parents were provided with feedback along with specific encouragement to use the individualized instructional program daily. Results indicated that parents can be taught to embed effectively the mand-model procedure into functional activities, resulting in children's acquisition of target verbal responses across settings.
Early Child Risk Factors for Externalizing and Internalizing Behaviors: A 5-Year Follow-Forward Assessment
Authors: Stormont Melissa
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this follow-forward study was to determine if behavioral groupings, created when children were preschoolers, were associated with different outcomes 5 years later. Participating in this follow-forward study were parents of three groups of children who participated in a larger study 5 years earlier. Children had been identified as preschoolers with hyperactivity, hyperactivity and aggression, or comparisons. Response rate for the follow-forward study was 66% and attrition rates were similar across the groups. Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) at the outcome assessment. Analyses were conducted to determine if the original groups could be differentiated on the CBCL factors 5 years later. Results from this study clearly illuminated the importance of early assessments of hyperactivity and aggression, as they were associated with later behavior problems.
Using Voice Output Devices to Increase Initiations of Young Children With Disabilities
Authors: Dicarlo Cynthia F. , Banajee Meher
Published: June 2008

A multiple baseline study evaluated the effects of using voice output devices to facilitate communicative initiation behaviors of 2 young children who were developmentally delayed and nonverbal. Data were collected during snack time on specific communication behaviors. Both children increased their specific initiations. In addition, unclear initiations and adult prompted communication behaviors decreased when the voice output devices were used. Comparisons with a typically developing peer suggested the voice output device enabled both children to increase their specific initiated communication behavior closer to that of the peer. Results support the use of augmentative voice output devices with young nonverbal children. Areas for future research to more thoroughly evaluate the potential utility of voice output devices are noted.
Social Interactions of Preschoolers With and Without Impaired Hearing in Integrated Kindergarten
Authors: Brown P. Margaret , Remine Maria D. , Prescott Sonia J. , Rickards Field W.
Published: June 2008

This study investigated the social competence of children with normal hearing (n = 10) and children with impaired hearing (n = 10) who attended an integrated preschool program for 4 to 5 year olds. The study compared the social interactions of the two groups of participants both in sociodramatic play and nonplay activities, their entry behaviors and relative success rates. Entry behaviors were associated both with the hearing status of participants and with the type of activity. The children with normal hearing were more likely initially to survey the group (particularly in sociodramatic play) and then to use behaviors that either oriented themselves to the group's activity or referenced the group to themselves. The children with normal hearing were more successful in gaining entry, particularly to nonplay activities.
An Agenda for Change in Early Childhood Inclusion
Authors: Guralnick Michael J.
Published: June 2008

The chapter that follows in this issue of the Journal of Early Intervention is reprinted from my recently published edited volume, Early Childhood Inclusion: Focus on Change (Guralnick, 2001c). In that chapter, I present an agenda for change that identifies core issues as well as the mechanisms and strategies to address those issues at the systems, program development, and research levels. Central to this proposed agenda is the establishment of a National Leadership Forum on Early Childhood Inclusion.
The Effectiveness of Cochlear Implants for Children With Prelingual Deafness
Authors: McKinley Ann M. , Warren Steven F.
Published: June 2008

No longer considered an experimental procedure, cochlear implantation in young children with profound hearing loss has become almost commonplace. This paper reviews the efficacy of cochlear implantation in children with prelingual deafness. First, a brief introduction to cochlear implants is provided. Second, research regarding the effects of cochlear implantation in children with prelingual deafness on speech perception, speech production, and language development is reviewed. Finally, implications for early childhood educators are discussed.
Entering Preschool: Family and Professional Experiences in This Transition Process
Authors: Hanson Marci J. , Beckman Paula J. , Horn Eva , Marquart Jules , Sandall Susan R. , Greig Diane , Brennan Elizabeth
Published: June 2008

Important changes in services occur for children with disabilities at age 3. A qualitative cross-site approach was used to investigate the experiences of families of these children and their service providers as they made the transition from Part C to Part B programs. Issues investigated were families' and professionals' experiences and expectations for the transition process, and the process of decision-making related to service selection. A sample of 22 families was followed as they entered, participated in, and exited the transition process. Results indicated that families and professionals experienced this transition as an event, not as a process. The shift in service delivery models from infant-toddler services to preschool services was often problematic, and information exchange and communication was crucial to family involvement and decision making. In general, families were given limited choices with respect to preschool programs; Only few programs offered inclusive service models. Families' and professionals' strategies facilitating the transition are reported.
Supports and Barriers to Writing an Interagency Agreement on the Preschool Transition
Authors: Fowler Susan A. , McCollum Jeanette A.
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine how interagency agreements are developed that focus on the transition of children with special needs from early intervention programs to early childhood special education. Particularly, this study used elements of the conceptual models of collaboration proposed by Harbin and McNulty (1990) and Gray (1985) to study the conditions that might facilitate or impede the writing of these agreements and the possible changes of these conditions over time. Participants from four teams attempting to write an interagency agreement on the preschool transition were interviewed at three points in time, spanning 5 months. Results of the interviews suggested that writing an interagency transition agreement was a complex, multidimensional, and sequential process.
General Growth Outcomes for Young Children: Developing a Foundation for Continuous Progress Measurement
Authors: Priest Jeff S. , Mcconnell Scott R. , Walker Dale , Carta Judith J. , Kaminski Ruth A. , Mcevoy Mary A. , Good Roland H. , Greenwood Charles R. , Shinn Mark R.
Published: June 2008

Public expectations of accountability in our education system have increasingly focused on young children's development, in part because of Goal 1 of the National Education Goals (By the year 2000, all children in America will start school ready to learn). Few sensitive measurement systems have been developed, however, to monitor young children's growth over time. Building such a system requires a parsimonious but comprehensive set of developmental outcomes expected of children between birth and age 8. In the two studies presented here, investigators formulated a set of 15 general growth outcomes for young children, and conducted a survey of parents of children with and without disabilities and professionals in early childhood and early elementary education to validate the outcomes.
Young Children's Block Construction Activities: Findings From 3 Years of Observation
Authors: Hanline Mary Frances , Milton Sande , Phelps Pamela
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this study was to explore the development of the complexity of block constructions of preschool children and to determine the effects of various factors on the children's block play. Sixty-five children were observed a total of 421 times, over the course of 3 years. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to determine the effects of disability, gender, and time the child was involved with block construction activity on the developmental complexity of block constructions. Results indicate that (a) the complexity of children's block constructions increase with chronological age, (b) time the child was involved with block construction activity has a positive effect on block construction complexity, and (c) gender did not influence block construction complexity. Implications of findings are discussed in relation to increasing understanding of children's development and to authentic assessment approaches.
A Phenomenological Investigation of the Experience of Taking Part in `Extreme Sports'
Authors: Willig Carla
Published: June 2008

This article is concerned with what it may mean to individuals to engage in practices that are physically challenging and risky. The article questions the assumptions that psychological health is commensurate with maintaining physical safety, and that risking one's health and physical safety is necessarily a sign of psychopathology. The research was based upon semi-structured interviews with eight extreme sport practitioners. The interviews were analysed using Colaizzi's version of the phenomenological method. The article explicates the themes identified in the analysis, and discusses their implications for health psychology theory and practice.
Is Abstinence an Alternative?
Authors: Dodge Tonya , Jaccard James J.
Published: June 2008

The present study incorporated the behavioral alternative of abstinence into the Theory of Reasoned Action to test whether abstinence contributed to the prediction of intentions to use performance enhancing substances (PES). Adolescent athletes ( N = 241) completed a questionnaire about the use of legal and illegal PES. Approximately 2.5 percent of adolescents reported having tried an illegal PES and 17 percent reported having tried a legal PES. Results showed that attitudes and norms associated with abstinence contribute to the prediction of behavioral intentions over and above that of attitudes and norms associated with using both legal and illegal PES.
Methamphetamine Abuse in the United States
Authors: Shrem Michael T. , Halkitis Perry N.
Published: June 2008

Emerging behavioral research on methamphetamine suggests a growing public health concern no longer limited to specific regions of the United States. Given that current evidence-based treatments for addressing methamphetamine addiction have had limited success, there remains a need to further examine the efficacy of these approaches. Here, we synthesize the psychological research literature regarding the prevalence and correlates of methamphetamine use across all segments of the US population, analyze the role that use of the drug plays in relation to sexual risk-taking and consider implications for therapeutic interventions to address this drug addiction.
Reactions to a Perceived Challenge to Identity
Authors: Strachan Shaelyn M. , Brawley Lawrence R.
Published: June 2008

Based upon Identity and Social Cognitive theories, two studies examined reactions to challenges to exercise identity (Study 1) and healthy-eater identity (Study 2). For both studies, participants responded to a perceived challenge relative to the health behavior in terms of affect, intentions, self-regulatory efficacy and generated self-regulatory strategies. High identity participants in both studies showed the theory-based, hypothesized response pattern suggesting they were seeking identity-behavior congruency and this response pattern was stronger than exhibited by moderate identity individuals. Collectively, findings support the compatible use of Identity and Social Cognitive theories in studying identity and suggest that identities may be important in understanding health behavior regulation.
Young Australian Women's Aspirations for Work, Marriage and Family
Authors: Arthur Nicole , Lee Christina
Published: June 2008

Multiple roles remain a reality for women. While there is debate over whether this arises from personal aspirations or social arrangements, it is clear that it results in stress and reductions in emotional well-being. We asked 13 female Australian university students about their aspirations for age 35, with reference to relationships, motherhood and work, and conducted a thematic analysis. Most aspired to traditional roles as wives, mothers and part-time workers, despite simultaneously wanting postgraduate professional education. They expected husbands in professional careers who would meet the family's financial needs. Strong implicit assumptions regarding gender and social class were identified. The analysis raises the question of young men's aspirations and their match with women's.
Women's Experiences of an Altered Appearance during Chemotherapy
Authors: Harcourt Diana , Frith Hannah
Published: June 2008

This study explores breast cancer patients' experiences of chemotherapy treatment, with a focus on the impact of an altered appearance during this time. We present two key themes from the thematic analysis of interviews with 19 women: anxiety that chemotherapy will render them identifiable as a `person-with-cancer'; and problematic interactions with others. We discuss how changes in appearance can reveal disease status to others, demonstrate the personal impact of temporary changes to appearance, relate these findings to literature on psychosocial aspects of disfigurement and consider the provision of psychosocial care for women experiencing an altered appearance during chemotherapy.
Interventions to Increase Self-efficacy in the Context of Addiction Behaviours
Authors: Hyde J. , Hankins M. , Deale A. , Marteau T.M.
Published: June 2008

This article describes the effectiveness of interventions aimed at increasing self-efficacy and consequently, changing addiction behaviours. Electronic databases were searched and bibliographies of retrieved references scanned. Ten studies targeting tobacco smoking, alcohol and illicit drug use met the inclusion criteria. The interventions ranged from computer-generated tailored letters to intensive group-based interventions. Seven of the 10 studies reported positive effects of interventions upon self-efficacy. The two that assessed behaviour change reported a significant effect but as neither performed mediation analyses, behaviour change could not reliably be attributed to self-efficacy change. In conclusion, self-efficacy can be increased using a range of methods. There is, however, little evidence to determine whether such increases change behaviour.
Toward Gender-aware Health Care
Authors: Vogt Dawne S. , Barry Amy A. , King Lynda A.
Published: June 2008

In response to identified deficits in the provision of health care to female patients, we sought to improve healthcare workers' gender awareness— conceptualized as gender-role ideology, sensitivity, and knowledge related to female patients—through the application of a brief computerized educational intervention. This study, conducted in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health-care setting, involved a pretest—posttest equivalent control group design. We evaluated hypotheses using random coefficients regression, a technique that offers a number of advantages relative to repeated-measures ANOVA. Findings revealed significant improvements in sensitivity and knowledge for participants in the treatment condition compared to the control condition. With several exceptions, the intervention was similarly effective across employee groups.
Readiness for Community-based Bicycle Helmet Use Programs
Authors: Kakefuda Itsumi , Stallones Lorann , Gibbs Julie
Published: June 2008

Understanding community context is as important to develop effective community-based injury prevention programs as assessing attitudes and behaviors among individuals. Readiness of a community toward community efforts to promote bicycle helmet use and of individuals to use bicycle helmets were examined in a northern Colorado town in the United States, using a semi-qualitative approach. Community readiness and individual readiness to prevent injuries through use of bicycle helmets differed across groups. The findings provide a better understanding of interactions between community perceptions and individual attitudes and behaviors. Further, target groups for improving bicycle helmet use were identified.
Facts versus `Feelings'
Authors: Morgan Susan E. , Stephenson Michael T. , Harrison Tyler R. , Afifi Walid A. , Long Shawn D.
Published: June 2008

Researchers are already aware that decision making about health issues is not necessarily driven by rational or cognitive-based decision-making processes. This appears to be especially true for the decision to donate organs. Although hints about what is actually driving the decision-making process are scattered throughout the literature, noncognitive factors have not been tested systematically. Structural equation modeling of data gathered from 4426 participants at six different geographic locations in the United States demonstrates that cognitive-based factors (such as knowledge about donation) are less influential on the decision to donate than noncognitive variables such as the desire to maintain bodily integrity, worries that signing a donor card might `jinx' a person, and medical mistrust.
Perceived Need for Spiritual and Religious Treatment Options in Chronically Ill Individuals
Authors: Dale Hannah , Hunt Nigel
Published: June 2008

The objective of the study was to examine the desire for spiritual and religious treatment options in chronically ill adults. Email interview data ( N = 12) generated themes for religion, spirituality, and desired treatments. The resultant questionnaire data ( N = 83) analysed the popularity of treatments. Thirty-five wide-ranging spiritual and religious treatment options were identified for use in the questionnaire; 47 per cent of the sample was interested in spiritual or religious treatments. There is a need for spiritual and religious treatment options, and translation of treatments into practice would assist coping for many people.
How we got here
Authors: Brown Ed , Cloke Jonathan , Ali Mansoor
Published: June 2008

This paper provides a contextual and historical backdrop for this special edition by exploring cross-sectoral debates about the potential impacts of the GATS negotiations and their place within the broader political economy of North-South relations. It traces the historical background to the negotiations as part of the formation of the World Trade Organization in 1995 and assesses some of the major controversies that have arisen over the likely impacts of GATS upon the interests of Southern countries. It then goes on to consider the specfic issues involved in the regulation of international trade in services and outline how the GATS is supposed to operate, before briefly outlining some of the major controversies that have arisen over the likely impacts of the GATS process upon the interests of Southern countries.
Debating GATS
Authors: Joy Clare
Published: June 2008

This paper, rather than being a traditional academic paper, presents a short personal reflection upon the involvement of one British NGO, the World Development Movement, in the global civil society campaign aimed at raising awareness of, and objection to, the current GATS negotiations. It focuses specifically upon issues of transparency and accountability within the international negotiation process and the opportunities for citizen participation in what are potentially extremely important decisions. The paper has a particular focus upon the positions taken by the European Union within the negotiations.
GATS and water services
Authors: Mitlin Diana
Published: June 2008

This paper considers the implications of the General Agreement on Trade in Services for the delivery of water to low-income residential customers in the South. The specific feature of the GATS is the liberalization of water supplies. The paper argues that the GATS may, depending on national government commitments, limit the ways in which the water market can be developed and structured by the state. With a focus on the implications for access for the poorest, the discussion explores three possible ways in which the GATS may constrain the capacity of local agencies (state and civil society) to extend the supply of clean water to those most in need.
GATS, ‘privatization’ and institutional development for urban water provision
Authors: Franceys Richard
Published: June 2008

The goal of ensuring good enough water and sanitation, particularly for the urban poor in lower-income countries, is considered in relation to the initial wave of public private partnerships and the development of the GATS. Some benefits of private sector involvement are discussed whilst recognizing that, for many, international private sector involvement was an unwelcome and invalid attempt at a development short-cut. With no commitments of the water sector to the GATS, economic regulation, left behind from the privatization wave, is seen as an important driver for institutional development to ensure service to all, but only in the context of significantly enhanced ‘capacity building’ which facilitates the delivery of a ‘societally-owned’ customer oriented water service.
‘Reclaiming public water’
Authors: Terhorst Philipp
Published: June 2008

The ‘Reclaiming Public Water’ project joins social movements, NGOs, trade unions, public officials and water professionals. In opposition to neoliberal sector policies, they argue for improved public service delivery and effective citizen and workers participation. The paper critically engages with this transnational process of research, networking and political projection. I discuss the emerging opportunities for public sector reform without recourse to privatization that are based on the protagonism by an emerging transnational and locally embedded public sphere. The analysis of this ‘globalization from below’ examines the potential impacts on sector policy and argues for changes in research and development practices and policy.
Poverty Reduction Strategies
Authors: Harvey Peter
Published: June 2008

The links between access to safe water and poverty alleviation are multifaceted, but can be realized only if water supplies are sustained. Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs) have been developed by many low-income countries in conjunction with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, and describe each country's macroeconomic, structural and social policies and programmes to promote growth and reduce poverty. An analysis of PRSPs in sub-Saharan Africa revealed insufficient attention to water and rural development and identified three common themes in the pursuit of reduced poverty: trade liberalization, decentralization and privatization; each of which poses opportunities, but also considerable threats, to the development of sustainable rural water services. An additional theme is that of community management of water services, which is prescribed by many PRSPs and related national sectoral strategies, yet has failed to deliver satisfactory levels of sustainability. PRSPs are designed to promote growth and reduce poverty, yet many of their essential ingredients threaten to reduce the sustainability of rural water services and thus hinder rather than promote development and poverty alleviation in rural Africa.
Use of a Surgical Preparation and Sterile Dressing Change During Office Visit Treatment of Chronic Foot and Ankle Wounds Decreases the Incidence of Infection and Treatment Costs
Authors: Schade Valerie L. , Roukis Thomas S.
Published: June 2008

Foot and ankle surgeons work with a patient population burdened by multiple factors that adversely affect wound healing and the ability to combat infection. As a result, many of these patients are seen for treatment of chronic ulcerations on their lower extremities that are highly susceptible to colonization and possible progression to a limb- and/or life-threatening infection. The Limb Preservation Service at the Madigan Army Medical Center hypothesized that implementation of a standardized protocol involving a formal physician-directed surgical preparation of the affected lower extremity and a physician-applied sterile dressing at each outpatient clinic appointment would reduce the incidence of infection, use of systemic antibiosis, and thus the requirement for frequent follow-up office appointments. Initiation of this protocol resulted in the reduction of infection to the extent that antibiotic need was eliminated. The frequency of office visits required for follow-up was also significantly reduced. This is key in treating a patient population in which the financial burden to treat chronic wounds and associated infections represents a large portion of the health care money spent for their medical care.
Approach to the Management of Soft Tissue Tumors of the Foot and Ankle
Authors: DeGroot Henry
Published: June 2008

To properly treat soft tissue tumors, the foot and ankle surgeon must start with an adequate fund of knowledge and follow a systematic approach. Some malignant soft tumors have a predilection for the foot and ankle, and they may mimic common musculoskeletal conditions, leading to a trap for the unwary clinician. This review will familiarize the practitioner with the common soft tissue tumors that occur in the foot and ankle along with their presentations. A systematic approach to the workup is outlined, which is designed to establish the diagnosis with a significant degree of certainty before the surgical treatment of the tumor is planned. A practical and reliable method of distinguishing benign tumors from those that are potentially malignant is presented. Finally, the techniques for surgical management of the common soft tissue tumors are summarized.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Studio Format in Introductory Undergraduate Biology
Authors: Montelone Beth A. , Rintoul David A. , Williams Larry G.
Published: June 2008

Kansas State University converted its introductory biology course, previously taught as an audio-tutorial (A-T), to a studio format in 1997. We share with others information about the process involved and present assessment data for the studio format course that address 1) student exam performance in A-T and studio; 2) student course grades in A-T and studio; 3) student and instructor perceptions and attitudes for A-T and studio; 4) student performance in subsequent biology courses for A-T and studio; and 5) gains in student learning for the studio course and other traditional lecture/lab courses. Collectively, these measures demonstrate that the studio format is as effective as or more effective (for some measures) than the A-T approach and traditional approaches in providing an effective learning environment. We discuss the issues involved in comparing course formats.
Gauging the Gaps in Student Problem-Solving Skills: Assessment of Individual and Group Use of Problem-Solving Strategies Using Online Discussions
Authors: Anderson William L. , Mitchell Steven M. , Osgood Marcy P.
Published: June 2008

For the past 3 yr, faculty at the University of New Mexico, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology have been using interactive online Problem-Based Learning (PBL) case discussions in our large-enrollment classes. We have developed an illustrative tracking method to monitor student use of problem-solving strategies to provide targeted help to groups and to individual students. This method of assessing performance has a high interrater reliability, and senior students, with training, can serve as reliable graders. We have been able to measure improvements in many students' problem-solving strategies, but, not unexpectedly, there is a population of students who consistently apply the same failing strategy when there is no faculty intervention. This new methodology provides an effective tool to direct faculty to constructively intercede in this area of student development.
Nanocourses: A Short Course Format as an Educational Tool in a Biological Sciences Graduate Curriculum
Authors: Bentley Anna M. , Artavanis-Tsakonas Spyros , Stanford Jennifer S.
Published: June 2008

Traditional courses for graduate students in the biological sciences typically span a semester, are organized around the fundamental concepts of a single discipline, and are aimed at the needs of incoming students. Such courses demand significant time commitment from both faculty and course participants; thus, they are avoided by a subset of the academic science community. Course length and the high barrier to course development are inhibitory to the creation of new courses, especially in emerging areas of biology that may not merit a full-semester approach. Here, we describe the implementation of a new, graduate-level course format, created to allow for rapid development of courses, provide meaningful educational experiences for both junior and senior graduate students and other members of our community, and increase the breadth of faculty involvement in teaching. These courses are greatly abbreviated, and thus termed “nanocourses.” Based on experience from the first three semesters, nanocourses seem to accomplish the initial goals that we set. Importantly, nanocourses engaged students, postdoctoral fellows, faculty, and others, thus providing a new mechanism to educate our community in response to rapid advances in biology. In our view, nanocourses are a useful tool that can supplement graduate-level curricula in varied ways.