bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Document Storage and Retrieval in the Electronic Office
Authors: Ashford John
Published: October 2007

Electronic office systems involving the creation, transmission and storage of documents are now being installed with fifty or more user stations. Little provision is yet being made for the filing and retrieval of documents held within the systems, and problems common in conventional filing and registry practice will be at least as difficult in the electronic office. Proposals are made for practical approaches to the design of electronic office systems to provide for the effective storage and retrieval of the documents which they generate.
Defence and Disarmament Information: principles, problems and practicalities
Authors: Phillips Sheena , Spaven Malcolm
Published: October 2007

The use of information to influence particular audiences in particular ways is especially prevalent in the defence and disarmament field. The variations between different countries in the accessibility of government information on defence issues reflect differences in political culture. The lack of information may inhibit full consideration of such issues by different groups of users. The Armament and Disarmament Information Unit (ADIU) was established at the University of Sussex in 1978, to collect, monitor and disseminate such information. The Unit's activities and publications are described in detail. A list of other information units covering defence and disarmament and an appeal for funds are included.
Armament, Disarmament and the Third World: the importance of information
Authors: Smith Chris
Published: October 2007

Research in developing countries into armament and disarmament is hampered by the reluctance of governments to release information and data pertaining to defence and national security. In fact, the production, sale and purchase of military technology is well-documented, but most of this information is to be found in the industrialized countries. The Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex, England, is planning to compile a guide to sources for research in this field, designed specifically for Third World researchers. The proposed contents of the guide are outlined. A possible follow-up project would be the creation of an international network of armament and disarmament researchers.
Zimbabwe: a National Library and Documentation Service is Launched
Authors: Dube Sam R.
Published: October 2007

Investigations into library services in Zimbabwe before independence in 1980 were reviewed during a subsequent feasibility study which recommended the creation of an integrated national library service. Legislation to establish the service was enacted in 1985, but its development has been hampered by lack of funds. A school of library and information science, offering a three-year diploma, has been established at the Harare Polytechnic. Staff training and financial support are the main problems facing the service in the future.
Library Automation in Nigerian Universities
Authors: Alabi G.A.
Published: October 2007

The introduction of automated library systems in Nigerian universities has encountered a number of obstacles, including erratic power supplies, equipment failures and lack of trained staff.
Madagascar: Développement Des Bibliothèques
Authors: Rakoto Rabakonirina
Published: October 2007

The eradication of illiteracy and the promotion of reading received low priority in Madagascar during the colonial and, neo-colonial periods. In 1973, a Libraries Department was created within the Ministry of Revolutionary Culture and Art. Since 1978, fifty-five public libraries have been created in provincial prefectures. Others have been set up in sub-prefectures and cantons. The National Library moved into a new building in 1982 and also serves as the public library for the capital, Antananarivo. (In French)
SAMARU PUBLIC LIBRARY: an example of a university public library service in Nigeria
Authors: Alafiatayo Benjamin O. , Aleraiye Joash T.
Published: October 2007

Samaru Public Library is a small but unique establishment in Kaduna State of Nigeria, being financed and administered by Ahmadu Bello University's Department of Library Science, rather than by the government. Since its re-opening in 1968, it has served as a training laboratory for students of the Department. Discusses the training offered, staffing and bookstock situations, type of clientele and funding. Financial constraints have meant that the library has not been able to provide adequate services nor to fulfil its training objectives.
Evaluating an Agricultural Data Base in Brazil
Authors: Dias De Sordi Neide Alves
Published: October 2007

The National Centre for Agricultural Documentary Information (Centro Nacional de Informação Documental Agrícola: CENAGRI) in Brazil has a legal responsibility to collect, analyse, store and disseminate the national agricultural literature, which is recorded in the national agricultural data base, AGROBASE. The coverage of the national literature by AGROBASE was evaluated in terms of the number of documents included, in relation to the total number produced, during the period 1982-1985. Three indexes of coverage were established in respect of coverage by type of document (monographic and serial publications) and by subject. The indexes by type of document indicate that AGROBASE includes 29 percent of monograph titles, a maximum of 52 percent of periodical titles and 64 percent of periodical articles. The index of subject coverage was based on a comparison of coverage of the literature on six subjects by AGROBASE and selected specialized printed bibliographies. This index indicates that the coverage of AGROBASE is more extensive than that of the printed bibliographies. Despite its weaknesses, AGROBASE constitutes one of the most important instruments for obtaining access to the national agricultural literature.
Implementing Information Technology Projects in Developing Countries
Authors: Kanamugire Athanase B.
Published: October 2007

Reviews the problems of implementing information technology projects in developing countries, with examples from Ethiopia, the Sudan and Tanzania. Considers the advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM as a means of solving some of the problems of access to information experienced by developing countries, and describes the experience of the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia in introducing CD-ROM search services to complement existing online search facilities. Reactions of users and staff to CD-ROM are described. Concludes that, through its ability to provide appropriate information conveniently and quickly, CD-ROM may come to play a major role in the process of development of the Third World.
Agricultural Library Cooperation in Zambia
Authors: Chifwepa Vitalicy
Published: October 2007

Agricultural libraries in Zambia need to engage in interlibrary cooperation in order to alleviate the problems of resources scarcity and to improve accessibility of information. A survey of agricultural libraries showed that there were nineteen agricultural libraries in the country, of which only five engaged in interlibrary cooperation. As a result, there is probably duplication of information collections and limited access to information. A framework is suggested for improving accessibility of information and promoting interlibrary cooperation.
Archives and Records Managemen t in Africa
Authors: Mnjama Nathan M.
Published: October 2007

Most archival institutions in Africa have concentrated on historical records and are not involved with day-to-day records management. Problems of records management in Africa include: lack of resources; poor management; inappropriate staff and training; lack of tools and techniques. Suggested solutions include: more support from top management; change in attitudes among archivists; better staff and training; development of new tools and techniques; revision of archival legislation.
The Zimbabwe Book Development Council
Authors: Bamhare M.
Published: October 2007

Describes the book supply infrastructure in Zimbabwe and the objectives, structure and work of the Zimbabwe Book Development Council.
Library Cooperation for National Informa tion Pro vision
Authors: Törnudd Elin
Published: October 2007

The pattern of specialized national resource libraries found in some European countries may provide a model for developing countries. Describes the national resource library networks in Finland and other European countries and presents the results of an evaluation of the Finnish network carried out in 1992. International cooperation with the newly-independent Baltic states, especially Estonia, is increasing.
The United Nations University and Information Development
Authors: Wesley-Tanaskovic Ines
Published: October 2007

Describes the role of the United Nations University in promoting the effective use of new information technologies in support of science and technology for development. The UNU Information and Decision Systems (INDES) project studies the constraints preventing developing countries from using advances in informatics in the design and management of complex man-made systems, and from integrating their own systems with international systems. A Symposium held in Kyoto, Japan in 1992 reviewed major information programmes over the last twenty-five years which had aimed at improving the information processing capabilities of countries, and found that a significant gap in infrastructure and a lack of systematic approach still persisted in many developing countries.
Monitoring: a tool for improving national water supply and sanitation sector planning and management
Authors: Watters Greg
Published: October 2007

An obstacle to effective planning and management in the water and sanitation sector has been the lack of information on the status of water and sanitation services at the national level. The Joint Monitoring Programme of the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund aims to overcome this problem by helping countries to begin monitoring using a limited number of key indicators.
Informa tion Management for Water and Sanitation in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Iddings Steven Ned
Published: October 2007

Mountainous terrain and poor communications make the monitoring of water supply and sanitation operations in Papua New Guinea difficult. An Environmental Health Information System provides a simple tool for collecting vital data.
Preserving the En vironmen t in Brazil: the role of CETESB
Authors: Bottesini Jorge Arleti Maria
Published: October 2007

The Environmental Sanitation Technology Company (CETESB) of the State of São Paulo in Brazil has wide-ranging responsibilities for protecting the environment and ensuring safe water supplies and sanitation. It also has a role to play in helping Portuguese speaking African countries to develop their water and sanitation sectors.
Keeping Water Professionals Informed: the role of the American Water Works Associa tion
Authors: Byerley Gay Porter
Published: October 2007

The American Water Works Association provides a toll-free telephone advisory service to managers of small water supply systems, as well as a computerized bibliographic database, a numeric database of industry information, and a computer bulletin board.
Improving Information Management for Water and Sanitation in East Africa: the role of NETWAS
Authors: Riunge Theresa W.
Published: October 2007

The Network for Water and Sanitation has been helping to improve information management in water and sanitation institutions in East Africa for the last five years. It now has a new training strategy designed to meet changing needs and growing demand.
Strategies for Library and Information Development in Ghana
Authors: Entsua-Mensah Clement
Published: October 2007

Discusses key issues to be taken into consideration when planning for national library and information systems in Ghana. Looks at existing shortcomings and offers suggestions as to how these could be rectified to meet the challenges of the next century. Places emphasis on information resource sharing through networking activities.
Records Management at the Kenya Railways Corporation
Authors: Mnjama Nathan M.
Published: October 2007

Describes the Kenya Railways Corporation and its current records management practices. Summarizes the results of records management surveys and discusses problems of: records creation, including poor mail management, file classification, indexing systems, layout and work flow, and misfiling; problems with current records, including loss of files, poor file tracking and ineffective re-submit system; problems with non-current records; problems of records disposition; and staffing of registries. Considers the relationship between administrative reforms and records management and how records management could contribute to the administrative reform programme at the Kenya Railways Corporation. Concludes that the reform programme will not achieve its desired effect without embracing a comprehensive records management programme.
Can libraries in Africa ever be sustainable?
Authors: Rosenberg Diana
Published: October 2007

Libraries in Africa barely exist any more. Diana Rosenberg examines the attempts that have been made to stem the decline, and concludes that the root of the problem of sustainability still awaits attention.
Preserving Library Materials in the So u th Pacific
Authors: Kivia Ivarature
Published: October 2007

Librarians in the South Pacific are aware of the importance of preservation, but have so far made little progress in establishing formal preservation programmes for library materials.
The South Pacific Centre for Communication and Information in Development
Authors: Evans John A.
Published: October 2007

Studies in library and information science and in journalism and communication at the University of Papua New Guinea are to be merged in a new South Pacific Centre for Communication and Information in Development.
Sources and Quality of Economic-financial Information in Latin America
Authors: Ciurlizza Alejandra
Published: October 2007

Easy access to financial information is vital to Latin American countries at the present time; but is the available information sufficiently reliable?
Meeting Basic Health Information Needs in Africa
Authors: Patrikios Helga
Published: October 2007

Based on a paper presented at a meeting held on 15 July 1994 at BMA House, London: Getting health information from the developed to the developing world. Discusses problems faced by the University of Zimbabwe Medical Library (UZML) in meeting health information needs of academics and students. These include: lack of books, journals and experienced staff. Factors enabling information delivery include: development aid; low cost publishing; and information technology. Describes information delivery at UZML and its collaboration with the Ministry of Health in improving the delivery of health information in Zimbabwe through book distribution; publishing a digest of journal literature; training of health library managers ; development of a local health literature database; and online searches of MEDLINE and other databases on CD-ROM. Proposes an offshore endowment fund to finance book provision and discusses problems of security for library books. Reviews the relationship between journal subscriptions, document delivery services and CD-ROM databases, and considers the need for medical librarians to be trained in computer skills and subject knowledge. Concludes that cost and appropriateness must be the yardsticks in any discussion on bringing health information to the developing world.
The Zimbabwe International Book Fair, 1994
Authors: Mbanga Trish
Published: October 2007

A brief account of the 1994 Zimbabwe International Book Fair, held in Harare, Zimbabwe from 3-7 August 1994. The Fair is becoming recognized as Africa's principal book fair.
Developing Information Skills in Malaysian Organizations
Authors: Halimah Badioze Zaman
Published: October 2007

Describes an attempt to assess the effectiveness of the Information Skills Programme (ISP), designed to stimulate thinking in organizations, in an organization in the rubber-producing sector in Malaysia. The project aimed to develop skills in time management, the use of information and the use of information technology among factory workers and their supervisors and managers. Participants were also helped to develop skills in analyzing, evaluating, organizing and presenting information. The results showed that ISP encouraged thinking, not only among top management, but in all personnel within the organization.
Information Technology in an Academic Environment: computer laboratories in the University of Botswana
Authors: Moyo Lesley M.
Published: October 2007

The lessons learned in setting up computer laboratories in the University of Botswana may help others faced with similar problems.
The Role of Paranational Libraries in National Information Provision
Authors: Line Maurice B.
Published: October 2007

Can networks of paranational libraries act as satisfactory substitutes for national libraries? The debate continues.
Input, triggering and poverty of the stimulus in the second language acquisition of Japanese passives
Authors: Hara Masahiro
Published: October 2007

This article adopts an input perspective in examining a poverty-of-the stimulus (POS) learning situation in second language acquisition (SLA). Analysis of grammaticality judgement data from 81 English-speaking and 85 Chinese-speaking learners of Japanese isolates triggering input that informed English learners of subtle semantic properties of the ni direct passive underdetermined by second language (L2) input. The study shows a sufficient correlation in the case of English learners between acquisition of the ni direct passive's triggering properties (available through input) and acquisition of its POS properties (unavailable through input). Importantly, those properties are direct consequences of affectivity, an underlying semantic property of the ni direct passive. That correlation does not obtain in the case of Chinese learners due to a positive first language (L1) effect. Additional corroborating evidence comes from acquisition of another Japanese passive, the ni yotte, for which no correlation was found between its non-triggering and non-POS properties for either English or Chinese learners as those properties are available through input. The article proposes that English learners' computation of a target-like conceptual representation of the triggering input leads to the restructuring of their lexical—conceptual representation of the ni direct passive.
Personal Networks and Ethnic Identifications
Authors: Lubbers Miranda J. , Molina José Luis , McCarty Christopher
Published: October 2007

This article investigates whether personal networks influenced ethnic self-identifications of migrants in Spain. During the years 2004—6, data were collected about personal networks of migrants in Spain ( N = 294) through a questionnaire and a structured interview. The networks were classified into five network profiles on the basis of both variables about structure (e.g. density, betweenness and number of cohesive subgroups) and composition (e.g. country of origin and percentage of family members). Profiles were related to the different ways in which migrants identified themselves. Personal networks in which network members, mostly family and people from the country of origin, formed one dense cluster were associated with ethnic exclusive self-identifications, whereas more heterogeneous personal networks tended to exhibit more plural definitions of belonging. The results show that both individual and network characteristics contribute to an understanding of ethnic self-identification.
Drugs given by a syringe driver: a prospective multicentre survey of palliative care services in the UK
Authors: Wilcock Andrew , Jacob Jayin K , Charlesworth Sarah , Harris Elayne , Gibbs Margaret , Allsop Helen
Published: October 2007

The use of a syringe driver to administer drugs by continuous subcutaneous infusion is common practice in the UK. Over time, drug combinations used in a syringe driver are likely to change and the aim of this survey was to obtain a more recent snapshot of practice. On four separate days, at two-week intervals, a questionnaire was completed for every syringe driver in use by 15 palliative care services. Of 336 syringe drivers, the majority contained either two or three drugs, but one-fifth contained only one drug. The median (range) volume of the infusions was 15 (9.5–48) mL, and duration of infusion was generally 24 hours. Only one combination was reported as visually incompatible, and there were 13 site reactions (4% of total). Laboratory physical and chemical compatibility data are available for less than half of the most frequently used combinations.
Characteristics of end-of-life decisions: survey of UK medical practitioners
Authors: Seale Clive
Published: October 2007

Background: To assess the extent to which UK doctors discuss end-of-life decisions (ELDs) with patients, relatives and colleagues, and to assess the degree to which patients' lives are shortened by ELDs. Method: Postal survey of 857 UK medical practitioners. Comparison of UK data with published data from other countries, permissive and not permissive of medical involvement in actively hastening death. Findings: UK doctors, compared with those in permissive and non-permissive countries, are relatively cautious in shortening life by more than a few days. Willingness to discuss ELDs with patients and relatives is relatively high in the UK, but not as high as in permissive countries. UK doctors are highly likely to discuss ELDs with colleagues, and are more likely to do this than doctors in other countries, whether these countries are permissive or not. Interpretation: UK endof-life decision-making is particularly collegiate and reflects caution about actions that significantly shorten life. A culture of sharing decisions with patients and relatives is also evident.
Spiritual issues in palliative care consultations in the Netherlands
Authors: Kuin Annemieke , Deliens Luc , van Zuylen Lia , Courtens Annemie M , Vernooij-Dassen Myrra JFJ , van der Linden Barbara , van der Wal Gerrit
Published: October 2007

Introduction: In the Netherlands, healthcare professionals are able to consult Palliative Care Consultation (PCC) teams about individual patients, for information, support and advice. This study aims to understand which spiritual issues are discussed in these consultations and to determine which factors influence whether they are raised or not. Methods: The national register of the consultations of the PCC teams was analysed for a two-year period. Results: Spiritual issues played a role in 8.4% of palliative care consultations, of which 4.1% were by phone and 18.3% were bedside consultations. Often spiritual issues were raised by the consultant during the exploration of the request from the caregiver; the discipline of the consultant rather than the discipline of the requesting professional or the patient characteristics determined whether or not such issues were raised. The main support given by the consultant was in coaching the professional caregiver on how to address these issues. Discussion: This study demonstrates the important role of PCC team consultants in exploring and identifying the spiritual needs of patients about whom they are consulted. Although continued education in spiritual care for palliative care professionals is essential, PCC team consultants will play an important role in drawing the attention of healthcare professionals to the need to recognize and address the spiritual needs of their patients.
Survey of specialist palliative care and heart failure: September 2004
Authors: Gibbs Louise ME , Khatri Ajeet K , Gibbs J Simon R
Published: October 2007

Aims: To describe English specialist palliative care (SPC) services' provision for, and attitude to, heart failure patients, and to identify developments of particular interest or expertise in this area. Method: Postal survey of all lead consultants of English SPC services, September 2004. Results: Of 397 services, 233 replied (response rate 59%); 222 (95%) thought SPC had a role in severe/end stage heart failure, while three (1%) did not. A total of 197 services (85%) accepted heart failure patients, 26 (11%) did not. The most common reasons for not accepting heart failure patients were lack of resources or beds, implications for staff training or an organizational decision. The mean number of heart failure patients currently under a service was 2.2, but 15 had more than five (maximum 53). Fifteen services (6%) had specific referral criteria for heart failure patients, including recurrent hospital admissions without symptomatic improvement, inappropriateness of further hospital admission and severity of heart failure. Twelve services (5%) had or were developing treatment guidelines for heart failure: five were end of life pathways, three covered breathlessness management and three were symptom control guidelines. Some 137 services (59%) described local collaborative initiatives between SPC, heart failure services and primary care, such as mutual education, joint working and working groups. A number of models of joint working practices were described in detail. Twenty-seven (12%) knew of national initiatives. Conclusions: The current situation of SPC services in England for patients with heart failure varies widely. One in 10 SPC services in this audit did not accept heart failure patients. Few have developed services of significant size. Local collaborative initiatives are common. Specific referral criteria and symptom control guidelines have been developed. Their role in promoting good palliative care in patients with heart failure remains unclear. Better dissemination of practical knowledge gained by these initiatives could significantly improve the provision of SPC services to heart failure patients.
Symptom patterns of advanced cancer patients in a palliative care unit
Authors: Tsai Jaw-Shiun , Wu Chih-Hsun , Chiu Tai-Yuan , Hu Wen-Yu , Chen Ching-Yu
Published: October 2007

This study involved longitudinal evaluations of symptom severity and describes the symptom patterns of 77 terminal cancer patients (median age: 62 years; 61% female), selected from 537 consecutive patients admitted to the Palliative Care Unit of the National Taiwan University Hospital. The most common primary cancer sites in these patients were lung (23.4%), liver (15.6%), and stomach (13%). Nineteen physical and psychological symptoms were assessed using different scales. The median number of symptoms was 11 (range: 1-18) on admission, among which weakness, fatigue, anorexia, pain, and depression were the most common. A comparison of the initial symptom severity scores with those at one week after admission and two days before death suggested six symptom change patterns: A: continuous static (restless/heat, abdominal fullness, constipation, dizziness, and insomnia); B: static-increase (fatigue, weakness, nausea/vomiting, taste alteration, dysphagia, diarrhea, dry mouth, and night sweats); C: decrease-static (pain and depression); D: decrease-increase (anorexia and dyspnea); E: static-decrease (aggression); and F: gradually decrease (anxiety). These six symptom patterns can be divided into two categories on the basis of the relative severity of symptoms between one week after admission and two days before death. The first category included patterns A, C, E and F, and the symptoms improved with palliative care. However, the symptoms in the second category (patterns B and D), which were associated with the anorexia-cachexia syndrome and dyspnea, did not show improvement. As symptom management is an essential component of palliative care, holistic care, which encompasses physical, psychosocial and spiritual aspects, represents a rational approach for the relief of these incurable symptoms at the end stage of life for these patients.
A patient with dementia and cancer: to feed via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube or not?
Authors: Shah Sanjay H
Published: October 2007

Despite the lack of clear benefits of feeding via gastrostomy tube in dementia patients, its use has been increasing. The views of health professionals, patients and their carers differ widely about the perceived benefits, which makes decision-making difficult and stressful. The palliative care approach of facilitating better communication and end-of life care planning can help avoid inappropriate gastrostomy tube placements. A case of an elderly male with dementia and two malignancies is described, and the place of the palliative care approach is explored.
Responding to desire to die statements from patients with advanced disease: recommendations for health professionals
Authors: Hudson Peter L , Schofield Penelope , Kelly Brian , Hudson Rosalie , O'Connor Margaret , Kristjanson Linda J , Ashby Michael , Aranda Sanchia
Published: October 2007

It is not uncommon for patients with advanced incurable disease to express a desire to hasten their death. Health professionals often have difficulty responding to such statements, and find it challenging to ascertain why these statements are made. Health professionals may struggle to determine whether a ‘desire to die’ statement (DTDS) is about a request for hastened death, a sign of psychosocial distress, or merely a passing comment that is not intended to be heard literally as a death wish. Given the lack of guidelines to assist health professionals with this issue, we have prepared multidisciplinary recommendations for responding to a DTDS, underpinned by key principles of therapeutic communication and a systematic review of empirical literature. Where the relevant literature was lacking, the recommendations were drafted by the authors (clinicians and/ or academics from the following disciplines: nursing, medicine, psychiatry, psychology, sociology, aged care and theology), based on their expert opinion. Multiple drafts of the recommendations were circulated to the authors for refinement until consensus was reached. Strategies for advancing the evidence base for the maturation of guidelines in this area are offered.
Assessment and prediction of natural hazards from satellite imagery
Authors: Gillespie Thomas W. , Chu Jasmine , Frankenberg Elizabeth , Thomas Duncan
Published: October 2007

Since 2000, there have been a number of spaceborne satellites that have changed the way we assess and predict natural hazards. These satellites are able to quantify physical geographic phenomena associated with the movements of the earth's surface (earthquakes, mass movements), water (floods, tsunamis, storms), and fire (wildfires). Most of these satellites contain active or passive sensors that can be utilized by the scientific community for the remote sensing of natural hazards over a number of spatial and temporal scales. The most useful satellite imagery for the assessment of earthquake damage comes from high-resolution (0.6 m to 1 m pixel size) passive sensors and moderate resolution active sensors that can quantify the vertical and horizontal movement of the earth's surface. High-resolution passive sensors have been used successfully to assess flood damage while predictive maps of flood vulnerability areas are possible based on physical variables collected from passive and active sensors. Recent moderate resolution sensors are able to provide near real-time data on fires and provide quantitative data used in fire behavior models. Limitations currently exist due to atmospheric interference, pixel resolution, and revisit times. However, a number of new microsatellites and constellations of satellites will be launched in the next five years that contain increased resolution (0.5 m to 1 m pixel resolution for active sensors) and revisit times (daily < 2.5 m resolution images from passive sensors) that will significantly improve our ability to assess and predict natural hazards from space.
The Story of a 'Maverick': Bulgaria's Fertility Decline
Authors: Botev Nikolai
Published: October 2007

Analysis of the fertility decline in Bulgaria shows that the perception of Bulgaria as an 'anomaly'in terms of its demographic development is based on a conservative interpretation of the demographic transition theory. The features that distinguish Bulgaria from the western European countries (faster decline, persistence of early and universal marriages, etc.) are generally accounted for by the specific social, economic, cultural, and political conditions. These findings suggest that the speed of the fertility decline and the means through which it is achieved are affected by a complex interaction between cultural and economic factors that are often difficult to distinguish in terms of primacy.
Nuptiality Patterns and Household Structure On the Greek Island of Mykonos, 1849-1959
Authors: Hionidou Violetta
Published: October 2007

The focus of the study is the population of the Cycladic island of Mykonos, Greece, from the mid-nineteenth to the mid-twentieth century. An overwhelming preponderance of nuclear households was found there in the mid-nineteenth century. The inheritance system facilitated the observed rules of neolocality. At the same time, the marriage pattern was clearly Mediterranean, i.e. with rather low age at first marriage for females, high for males, and low levels of permanent celibacy. Over the period of the study a gradual move away from this pattern was observed, mainly due to an increase in the female age at marriage. These findings are in line with other evidence from southern Mediterranean Europe, and indicate the strong influence of common socioeconomic and probably cultural elements.
Cognitive Processing Styles in Reading-Disabled and a Matched Group of Normal Children
Authors: Stoiber Karen Callan , Bracken Bruce A. , Gissal Timothy J.
Published: October 2007

The present study discusses reading disabilities from a neuropsychological perspective and examines cognitive processing in reading-disabled children according to two models: simultaneous-sequential and Bannatyne's WISC-R subtest recategorization. Scores on the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) were compared for a group of reading-disabled and matched normal children. Results revealed a clear sequential processing deficit for the reading-disabled sample. This group also scored significantly lower on the K-ABC Mental Processing Composite and reading achievement subtests than the matched normal group. An analysis of WISC-R scores in terms of Bannatyne's system further indicated a significant sequential weakness for the reading-disabled children. Implications of deficit processing patterns in disabled readers are considered.
The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children and School Achievement: a Validity Study
Authors: Zins Joseph E. , Barnett David W
Published: October 2007

The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) was designed to measure problem-solving skills in a manner not directly related to prior academic achievement. As with any new instrument, it is important to study the relationship of the K-ABC to traditional measures. This study compared the results of the K-ABC to the Wide Range Achievement Test with a nonreferred sample of 40 children. The results suggest for the most part that integrated cognitive processes are related to tasks found in the two achievement tests. Both tests appear to measure different skills, although the reading subtests were substantially correlated.
A Paramorphic Representation of Psychologists' Clinical Impressions of Degree of Mental Retardation
Authors: Roszkowski Michael J. , Spreat Scott , Isett Robert
Published: October 2007

The purpose of this study was to develop a paramorphic representation of the clinical decision-making procedure used by psychologists in combining IQ and adaptive behavior information to arrive at a diagnosis of degree of mental retardation. The data consisted of the clinical judgments formed by 8 psychologists on 180 mentally retarded individuals. The psychologist-assigned levels of mental retardation classifications were regressed on IQ and 23 domain scores from the Adaptive Behavior Scale. IQ alone had a correlation of .83 with this classification. A linear combination of IQ, Independent Functioning, Vocational Activity, Physical Development, and Economic Activity resulted in a multiple correlation of .87. Various interpretations of these results are discussed.
Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the Burks Behavior Rating Scales
Authors: Wright Dan , Edelbrock Craig , Reed Michael L.
Published: October 2007

The construct validity of the Burks Behavior Rating Scales was investigated by the multitrait-multimethod matrix procedure. Correlations between parent and teacher ratings of 38 children referred for psychological evaluations supported the convergent and discriminant validity of 9 of the 19 scales. Analyses of teacher-teacher correlations for 40 referred children supported the validity of 16 scales. The construct validity of three previously derived broad-band factors labeled Neurotic, Immature, and Hostile-Aggressive was not supported. Results were discussed in terms of the differential validity of the Burks scales. Caution was urged in interpreting scores on scales labeled Poor Intellectuality and Excessive Suffering, as well as scores on the three broad-band factors.
Effects of Student Attributes On Kindergarten Scores Across Product and Process Tests
Authors: Glutting Joseph J. , Barker William , Gelardo Mark S.
Published: October 2007

Three preschool tests were administered to a group of 583 kindergarten children in order to investigate the effects of age, ethnicity, sex, socioeconomic status level, and language background on the scores of two product tests (one verbal and one nonverbal) and one process test. In addition, the study examined how student differences on process variables contribute to score disparities on product tests across ethnic and language background groups. The Cooperative Preschool Inventory—Revised Edition (PI), Draw-a-Man (DAM), and Goodman Lock Box were administered to Anglo, black, English-dominant Puerto Rican, and Spanish-dominant Puerto Rican children. Findings were subjected to linear regression analyses. While the scores on all three tests were modified by at least two of the student-attribute variables, the process scores measured by the Lock Box were less affected than the product scores on the PI and DAM. Results are discussed in terms of the difficulty Spanish-dominant Puerto Rican children showed in processing cognitive stimuli. Research and programming suggestions are provided for investigations at the kindergarten level where English proficiency varies within ethnic groups.
The Freedom-From-Distractibility Factor: an Examination of Its Adaptive Behavior Correlates
Authors: Roszkowski Michael J.
Published: October 2007

The main purpose of this study was to assess the validity of the name Freedom from Distractibility, commonly assigned to the third factor usually found on the Wechsler intelligence scales. The WAIS scores of 111 mentally retarded individuals were submitted to a factor analysis, and the resulting factors were correlated with these subjects' scores on the Adaptive Behavior Scale (ABS). It was hypothesized that if this factor was really a measure of attention, then, compared to the other factors, it should show (a) a stronger relationship with the Hyperactive Tendencies domain of the ABS, (b) a lower correlation with the cognitive domains of the ABS, and (c) a lower correlation with the general factor extracted from the WAIS. The results failed to support any of these hypotheses. It was concluded that Freedom from Distractibility may be a misnomer. This factor appears to be tapping a more cognitive factor, perhaps memory or some aspect of numerical ability.
Assessing the Effect of Family Friendly Programs on Public Organizations
Authors: Durst Samantha L.
Published: October 2007

This article reports the results of a survey of family friendly programs offered by a randomly selected sample of public organizations The results suggest public agencies vary in the number of programs offered Although respondents believe implementing these programs is in the best interest of their organizations, they have little evidence to support this conclusion. Few organizations select programs systemically or assess the needs of employees prior to program implementation Only slightly more evaluated the effects of those programs The implications of these results and suggestions for the evaluation of family friendly programs are presented
Federal Family-Friendly Workplace Policies
Authors: Newman Meredith , Mathews Kay
Published: October 2007

Women's work experiences continue to be characterized by metaphors such as glass ceilings, glass walls, sticky floors, and trap doors (Guy, 1995) To what extent do the implementation of flexble workplace policies and personnel practices improve women's work experience? This article attempts to answer this question as it relates to the utilization of family-friendly workplace policies within federal cabinet-level departments The authors examine how the Clinton administration's family-friendly initiatives are being operationalized in several departments, companng and contrasting these efforts in varying settings The authors conclude that—progressive federal legislation notwithstanding— significant barriers remain to the widespread implementation of such policies
Affirmative Action Policies and Workplace Discrimination
Authors: Ortega Ramona
Published: October 2007

This study examines the personal perceptions of Mexican American professionals about affirmative action policies and workplace discrimination Data were gathered through interviews and self-administered questionnaires circulated to Hispanic, African American, and Anglo-American managers in three categones executives, professionals, and supervisors Americans of Mexican descent are the focus of the study, and thus were separated from all other Hispamcs This methodology found that Mexican Americans, as a specific ethnic subculture, perceive that they are helped "somewhat" by affirmative action, while they contemporaneously report low levels of workplace discrimination
Intra-arterial Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Thrombosis Complicating Cerebral Angiography in a 17-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Golomb Meredith R. , Rafay Mubeen , Armstrong Derek , Massicotte Patricia , Curtis Rosalind , Hune Selina , deVeber Gabrielle A.
Published: October 2007

Few reports describe the use of intra-arterial recombinant tissue plasminogen activator to treat intracranial thrombosis in children. A 17-year-old girl with a history of prior venous thrombosis developed a left middle cerebral artery thrombus during diagnostic cerebral angiogram. Therapy with intra-arterial tissue plasminogen activator was initiated. An immediate follow-up angiogram demonstrated recanalization, and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging 9 hours later showed no evidence of infarction. Following the angiogram, femoral artery thrombosis developed. Treatment with supratherapeutic levels of heparin, localized delivery of intraarterial tissue plasminogen activator, embolectomy, danaparoid, and dipyridamole failed to re-establish perfusion to the lower leg, and below the knee amputation was required. Neurologic examination remained normal 1 year later. Cerebral damage was avoided with the use of emergency intra-arterial tissue plasminogen activator for cerebral artery thrombosis in this child. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:420—423).
Relative Influence of Epileptic Seizures and of Epilepsy Syndrome on Cognitive Function
Authors: Tromp Selma C. , Weber Jacobina W. , Aldenkamp Albert P. , Arends Johan , vander Linden Inge , Diepman Leonie
Published: October 2007

Cognitive impairment is frequently observed in children with epilepsy. We aimed at addressing to what extent cognitive function is affected by paroxysmal epileptiform activity with or without clinical seizures or by clinical features characteristic of the epilepsy syndrome. To this purpose, combined electroencephalographic (EEG) recording and cognitive testing (IQ and reaction times) were performed in 28 children. Frequent epileptiform EEG discharges significantly reduced reaction time, as did the occurrence of seizures during cognitive testing. Syndrome-related factors tended to affect cognitive functions as well: children with generalized epilepsy and high average seizure frequency obtained lower scores. Linear regression analysis showed that stable aspects of cognitive function, as reflected in intelligence level, are most closely related to the severity of the epilepsy syndrome (average seizure frequency), whereas transient aspects of cognitive function, such as reaction times, are related to the occurrence of epileptiform EEG discharges. This suggests that seizures have a direct effect on transient cognitive aspects, which can accumulate and result in effects on intelligence level. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:407—412).
Atonic Seizures in Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Khan Raja B. , Marshman Kimberly C. , Mulhern Raymond K.
Published: October 2007

Atonic seizures are part of some childhood epilepsy syndromes and can also result from acquired central nervous system insult. Of 93 survivors of childhood cancer with uncontrolled seizures, 10 (11%) with atonic seizures form the basis for this report. Seven survived acute leukemia, and three survived brain tumors. The median age at cancer diagnosis was 9 months (range 2—52). Nine received systemic and six intrathecal chemotherapy; cranial irradiation was given to seven. All have learning difficulties, abnormal brain magnetic resonance images, and an abnormal electroencephalogram; six are developmentally delayed. All have difficult-to-control seizures, but six improved on myoclonus-specific drugs with accelerated development in two younger patients. Atonic seizures in cancer survivors are associated with difficult-to-control seizures and pervasive cognitive impairments. Young age at cancer diagnosis and cranial irradiation may predispose the patient to development of this syndrome. Recognition and appropriate treatment of atonic seizures in cancer survivors could improve seizure control, neurologic development, and quality of life. ( J Child Neurol 2003;18:397—400).
Utility of Electroencephalography in the Evaluation of Common Neurologic Conditions in Children
Authors: Aydin Kürşad , Okuyaz Çetin , Serdaroğlu Ayşe , Gücüyener Kivilcim
Published: October 2007

The objective of this study was to assess the utility of electroencephalography (EEG) in the evaluation of common neurologic conditions in children. The EEG recordings of 534 consecutive children (aged < 20 years) were prospectively read by a certified pediatric neurologist. Common diagnostic indications included the following: clinical seizures (33.8%), definite epilepsy (31.2%), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (9.1%), headache (8%), syncope (3.5%), learning disabilities (2%), tic disorders (1.4%), and sleep disorders (1.1%). Overall, 63.8% of EEG records were normal, slowing background activity was noted in 6.1%, ADHD was noted in 35.3% (definite epilepsy), and epileptiform activity was noted in 37.1% of the cases of definite epilepsy and 13.2% of the clinically suspected cases. Epileptiform activity was rarely found in the patients without epilepsy. All EEG records of children with syncope ( n = 19) and headache ( n = 43) were normal. These findings indicate that although EEG plays an important diagnostic role in epilepsy, interictal EEG is being overused during evaluation of various neurologic disorders in children, and a normal EEG is highly predictable in children with nonepileptic conditions. ( J Child Neurol 2003; 18: 394—396).