bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysarthria in conversation
Authors: Mantie-Kozlowski Alana Rae
Published: January 2011

Abstract This study investigates how two interlocutors, one with acquired dysarthria, manipulated their language structure to facilitate the creation of texts. Two conventions of systemic functional linguistics are used: information structure and thematic structure. The lexicogrammatical choices and patterns in the text are described with special attention to how the partners collaborated, sometimes in a non-standard manner (Armstrong, 2005) to establish mutual understanding in the face of a considerably impaired speech signal. Natural emerging strategies to manage communication breakdowns are outlined. Some individuals with progressively debilitating diseases may not have the physical and/or cognitive resources to rehabilitate the subsystems of speech production. Investigations of everyday conversational practices involving individuals with speech disorders such as dysarthria can reveal additional options for promoting communicative success and participation.
Alterações metabólicas e digestivas no pós-operatório de cirurgia bariátrica
Authors: Jóia-Neto Luiz , Lopes-Junior Ascêncio Garcia , Jacob Carlos Eduardo
Published: January 2011

RACIONAL: As alterações na digestão e perdas de nutrientes são aspectos relevantes na redução do peso e na manutenção do estado nutricional do paciente submetido à gastroplastia, mas poucos estudos estão disponíveis na literatura. OBJETIVO: Estudar as alterações sistêmicas decorrentes da redução de peso ao longo do tempo, após o tratamento cirúrgico. MÉTODO: Estudo tipo coorte prospectivo com amostra de 44 indivíduos, obesos mórbidos, operados com derivação gástrica em Y-de-Roux e com anel de silicone. Análises clínicas foram realizados em tempos distintos: período pré-operatório, seis meses após a operação e durante os anos de 2006 e 2007. Os exames efetuados foram: glicemia de jejum; albumina sérica; colesterol total; hemoglobina; gordura fecal; substância redutora nas fezes; sangue oculto nas fezes. Endoscopia digestiva alta também foi realizada para medir o anel em centímetros. Ainda foram estudados o genero, idade, altura, peso, IMC, diabetes, e o tempo após a operação. RESULTADOS: A mediana do peso foi de 141 kg (91 - 216) e o IMC, teve mediana de 49,28 kg/m² (36,3 - 80,31). A anemia se manifestou em oito (18,2%) pacientes e 13 (29,5%) apresentaram albumina com valores reduzidos. No final do estudo, a média dos meses de seguimento foi de 52,56 + 8,84 meses. O peso médio foi de 86,96 + 15,44 kg e a média do IMC foi de 32,41 + 4,82 kg/m². A pesquisa de gordura fecal foi positiva em 16 pacientes (36,4%), substância redutora positiva nas fezes em um (2,3%) paciente e presença de sangue oculto nas fezes foi positiva em 13(29,5%) pacientes. O diâmetro interno do anel de silicone apresentou uma média de 0,75 cm + 0,23 cm. CONCLUSÃO: Após a operação ocorreu perda significativa de peso, porém, o IMC ainda se mantinha acima de 35 kg/m² na maioria dos pacientes acompanhados por longo tempo. Houve melhora substancial dos níveis de colesterol e glicemia. O diâmetro do anel não demonstrou associação significativa com a redução do peso; contudo, os pacientes com anel superior a 1 cm, não apresentaram anemia ou hipoaluminemia, estando clinicamente melhores do que aqueles com anel menor.
Latero-lateral femoro-femoral arteriovenous fistula: a new surgical approach for hemodialysis patients with no vascular access
Authors: Cerri Jesualdo , Ramacciotti Eduardo , Gomes Marise , Tedeschi Filho Wagner , Piccinato Carlos Eli
Published: January 2011

Purpose: A new surgical approach for vascular access for hemodialysis using a latero-lateral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in the thigh between the femoral artery (FA) and superficial femoral vein (SFV) transposed to the subcutaneous layer in patients with no other access options is described. Methods: Ten patients (mean age: 37,9 years) for whom all possible sites for execution of any other procedure had been exhausted, underwent latero-lateral AVF close to the adductor channel between the FA and the SFV. The FSV was released and sectioned 2 cm from its confluence with the deep femoral vein and transposed in the subcutaneous tissue with extensions using saphenous vein or prosthetic material (PTFE) when needed. Follow -up included patency, flow evaluation and complications. Results: Postoperative follow-up ranged from 3 to 96 months, with a mean of 38 months. The AVFs presented a flow of more than 350 ml/min and the AVFs remained patent for a mean period of 38 months. There were three failures of the procedures at 3, 5 and 7 months during postoperative follow-up due to graft infection and thrombosis (a case), anaphylactic shock and thrombosis (a case) and calf pain during dialysis (a case). Two patients developed slight inferior limb edema. Conclusion: The new surgical approach for access for hemodialysis represents a feasible procedure, with acceptable patency rates in exceptional cases where no other access option is available.
Qualidade das anotações de enfermagem relacionadas à ressuscitação cardiopulmonar comparadas ao modelo Utstein
Authors: Fernandes Ana Paula , Vancini Cássia Regina , Cohrs Frederico , Moreira Rita Simone Lopes
Published: January 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar a qualidade das anotações de enfermagem relacionadas à ressuscitação cardiopulmonar, comparando-as ao protocolo validado Utstein, em um hospital universitário. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo, exploratório, descritivo, de abordagem quantitativa, realizado por meio de consulta a prontuários de pacientes que sofreram parada cardiorrespiratória (PCR) seguida de óbito. A coleta de dados foi realizada no período de 1° de maio a 30 de junho de 2009. RESULTADOS: Dos 144 prontuários consultados, 74 foram dispensados por não haver nenhuma informação registrada dos itens a serem estudados e, 70 constituíram a amostra do estudo. Nestes, não havia anotações referentes à causa imediata da PCR (92%), intervenções realizadas na tentativa de recuperação cardiorrespiratória (RCP) (71%), ritmo inicial de PCR (59%), hora dos eventos (16%), drogas utilizadas (50%) e profissionais envolvidos na RCP (88%). CONCLUSÕES: As anotações foram escassas e, frequentemente, não realizadas. A utilização do modelo Utstein favorece a anotação sequencial dos eventos, evitando a perda de dados.
O processo de recuperação da criança após a alta hospitalar: revisão integrativa
Authors: Pinto Júlia Peres , Ribeiro Circéa Amália , Pettengill Myriam Aparecida Mandetta
Published: January 2011

OBJETIVO: Identificar o conhecimento disponível a respeito do processo de recuperação da criança hospitalizada e de sua família após a alta. MÉTODOS: Revisão integrativa da literatura realizada em bases de dados, de âmbito nacional e internacional, com abordagem qualitativa dos dados. RESULTADOS: Os 16 artigos selecionados pertencem a periódicos internacionais, foram publicados entre 1990 a 2005 e permitiram a identificação dos seguintes temas: Manifestações biopsicossociais da criança e da família. Fatores relacionados às manifestações biopsicossociais da criança e da família; Benefícios da alta precoce da criança e Necessidades de informação e apoio. CONCLUSÕES: As intervenções voltadas à criança e à família devem ser iniciadas ainda na hospitalização, a fim de melhorar sua capacidade de enfrentamento. Há necessidade de aprimorar as pesquisas sobre essa temática nos países em desenvolvimento incluindo a perspectiva da família como unidade.
Elaboration of sausage using minced fish of Nile tilapia filleting waste
Authors: Oliveira Filho Paulo Roberto Campagnoli de , Maria Netto Flavia , Ramos Kazumi Kawazaki , Trindade Marco Antônio , Viegas Elisabete Maria Macedo
Published: January 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of minced fish (MF) (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%), obtained from Nile tilapia filleting waste, in sausage and determine their physicochemical, nutritional and sensory properties. The sausages showed a decrease in protein and increase in fat content with increasing inclusion of MF. The nutritional quality of the products was high, with digestibility over 85%. The parameters of texture instrumental and yellow color (b*) decreased with the increasing inclusion of MF. The sensory evaluation of the color showed that the maximum level of inclusion of MF was not well accepted by the panelists. The sausage with the best acceptance for the flavor attribute was those with 60% of MF. The results showed good nutritional quality of sausages utilizing MF of Nile tilapia filleting waste and according to the sensory evaluation, the maximum level of inclusion should not exceed 60%.
Hairy Nightshade (Solanum sarrachoides) Competition with Two Potato Varieties
Authors: Hutchinson Pamela J. S. , Beutler Brent R. , Farr JaNan
Published: January 2011

Greenhouse and field trials were conducted at the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center to determine the effect of hairy nightshade competition on two potato varieties with different growth habits. Greenhouse replacement trials included treatments of three plants total in each pot with potato : hairy nightshade ratios of 3 : 0, 2 : 1, 1 : 2, or 0 : 3. Varieties tested were ‘Russet Burbank’ and ‘Russet Norkotah’. Greenhouse-grown hairy nightshade (cotyledon to one-leaf stage) were transplanted into pots earlier than or at the same time as potato plant emergence. As the number of Russet Burbank plants per pot decreased, potato plant biomass dry weight (average per plant) increased, regardless of hairy nightshade number or transplant time. When hairy nightshade were transplanted before Russet Norkotah emergence, potato plant biomass dry weight per plant was similar, regardless of potato : nightshade ratio. Field trials were conducted with Russet Burbank and Russet Norkotah in 2004 and 2005. At potato emergence, greenhouse-grown hairy nightshade plants (one- to two-leaf) were transplanted in between potato rows at densities of 0, 1, 2, or 3 plants m−1row, and solid-seeded at approximately 100 plants m−1row. Hairy nightshade biomass, stem and berry number, and seeds per berry were reduced by competition from Russet Burbank due to the amount and duration of shading, as compared with Russet Norkotah. Russet Burbank U.S. No. 1 and total tuber yields in plots with 1 hairy nightshade plant m−1row were similar to weed-free control yields, whereas yields in plots with 2, 3, or 100 m−1row were reduced in comparison. In contrast, Russet Norkotah yields were reduced when only 1 hairy nightshade plant m−1row was present. Overall, Russet Norkotah were less competitive with hairy nightshade than Russet Burbank in both the greenhouse replacement and field trials.
Environmental Effects on Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) Epicuticular Wax Deposition and Herbicide Absorption
Authors: Hatterman-Valenti H. , Pitty A. , Owen M.
Published: January 2011

Controlled environment experiments showed that velvetleaf plants grown under drought stress or low temperature (LT) treatments had greater leaf epicuticular wax (ECW) deposition compared to plants grown in soil with moisture at field capacity (FC) or a high temperature (HT) regime. Light intensity did not affect ECW deposition; however, increasing light intensity decreased the leaf ECW ester content and increased the secondary alcohol content. Plants grown at an LT regime or under FC had leaf ECW with fewer hydrocarbons and more esters than those grown at an HT or drought stress regime. Velvetleaf absorption of acifluorfen increased as light intensity decreased for plants grown in adequate soil water content, while the opposite was true for drought-stressed plants. Velvetleaf absorption of acifluorfen was approximately 3 and 10 times greater, respectively, with the addition of 28% urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) in comparison to crop oil concentrate (COC) or no adjuvant, regardless of the environmental treatments. Plants absorbed more acifluorfen when subjected to the LT regime in comparison to the HT regime when UAN was the adjuvant, while the opposite was true when COC was the adjuvant. Velvetleaf absorption of acifluorfen was not affected by drought stress when COC or no adjuvant was used and varied between studies when UAN was used. Velvetleaf absorption of bentazon was greatest for plants grown under HT/FC or high light/FC treatments and least with plants grown under HT/drought stress or low light/drought stress treatments, regardless of the adjuvant. However, bentazon absorption was higher with the addition of an adjuvant and for plants grown at a high light intensity or FC condition compared with medium to low light intensity or drought stress treatments.
Global Effect Index: A New Approach to Analyzing Allelopathy Survey Data
Authors: Ribeiro Jose Pedro N.
Published: January 2011

The analysis of allelopathic bioassay data commonly encounters two problems: one is the small number of biological replicates and the other is that the parameters used to infer allelopathic effects such as percentage and average time of seed germination are analyzed individually, and consequently, information on the global effects resulting from the cumulative effects of the tested agent (e.g., leaves extract) may be missed. Therefore, we propose an index to analyze several parameters altogether so as to have a better view of the global influence of a donor plant on a receptor, whose interference is more likely to be detected. The global effect index can help to detect allelopathic interferences of one plant on another, allowing for a more accurate interpretation of the data in the actual biological setting.
Corn and Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) Transpiration in Response to Drying Soil
Authors: Schmidt Jared J. , Blankenship Erin E. , Lindquist John L.
Published: January 2011

Soil water availability is the most important factor limiting crop yield worldwide. Understanding crop and weed transpiration in response to water supply may provide valuable insight into the mechanisms of crop yield loss in water-limited environments. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to quantify corn and velvetleaf transpiration in response to drying soil. Five plants of each species were well watered by adding back the equivalent water loss each day to reach field capacity, and five plants were subjected to drought stress (dry-down) by not replacing lost water. Normalized daily transpiration of dry-down plants was regressed on soil water content expressed as the fraction of transpirable soil water (FTSW). The critical soil water content below which plants begin to close their stomates occurred at FTSWcr= 0.36 ± 0.015 for corn and 0.41 ± 0.018 for velvetleaf. Total water transpired did not differ among species. Velvetleaf also responded to drought by senescing its oldest leaves, whereas corn mainly maintained its leaf area but with rolled leaves during peak drought stress. During a short-term drought, corn is expected to perform better than velvetleaf because it maintains full transpiration to a lower FTSW and does not senesce its leaves. Under severe long-term drought, the species that closes its stomates at greater FTSWcrwill conserve water and increase its chances of survival. Moreover, senescing all but the youngest leaves may ensure at least some seed production. Research is needed to evaluate the effects of soil water supply on corn–velvetleaf interference in the field.
Optimizing Cleanup Strategies and Remedial Costs at the Wafra Oil Field, Kuwait
Authors: Quillen Todd W. , Wyatt Jeff , Al-Dossari Mohammed , Merritt Steve , Davis Andy , Sheffield Jesse , Fahmy Yasser
Published: January 2011

Over 380 hectares of evaporation pits were used to manage produced water required remediation in response to environmental master planning at the Wafra oil field. To facilitate closure of these impoundments, a risk-based cleanup was selected wherein the former pit areas were backfilled using the reclaimed contents which were temporarily stored as stockpiles after stabilization and sampling. A risk assessment conducted for the site identified 3.2% total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) as a cutoff protective of human health, however, to adhere to the precautionary principal, material containing 1 to 3.2% TPH (type B) was consigned to deeper areas of the former pits, capped with 1 m of <1% TPH material (type A), and overlain by a minimum 30 cm of clean sand to facilitate revegetation. This paper describes a novel, multi-year approach to streamlining the remediation of >2 million m3 of impacted sand in a complex environmental setting, while meeting stringent international risk guidelines.

Initially, laboratory analytical data from a stockpile boring program were correlated with field test-kit and color analyzer measurements to develop a simple field TPH measurement tool. Then statistical analysis coupled with computation of pit volumes and three-dimensional modeling of the site was used to describe the spatial distribution of types A and B in the stockpiles and a redistribution strategy developed to meet remedial goals.

Quantification of spatial TPH distribution in the five stockpiles allowed optimization of hauling distances to the pit locations, while use of real-time global positioning system (GPS) survey data of the stockpile reduction in conjunction with geographic information system (GIS) applications allowed for accurate calculation of volumes excavated and placed as backfill, facilitating contractor invoicing. The use of sophisticated computer technology as part of the overall project design streamlined engineering design, while the GIS methodology also tracked real-time progress and provided final documentation for the project.
Optimizing Stakeholder Communication through Institutional & Community Focal Points to Foster a Stable Operating Environment
Authors: Hirst Robert , Rascher Jeanette , Zerriatte Reda , Al-Shamsi AbdulSalam , Aidrus Mohammed
Published: January 2011

The main objective of this article is to provide significant new knowledge on the utilization of institutional and community focal points as a tool used in Yemen to communicate and manage information between the Company and its project neighbours to foster a stable and understanding environment. Taking into account that these institutional and community focal points are dedicated and voluntary stakeholders, the focal point system for communication is unique as it supports effective project implementation geared towards sustainable stability during the Operations phase of the Project.

As the country's largest-ever industrial investment project, it is essential for Yemen LNG Company to raise awareness of the Project activities among affected communities, and to define and manage stakeholder issues and expectations. The Company has developed a Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan (PCDP) and Community Development Programs (CDPs) to support a stable operating environment, to develop long-term relationships with project stakeholders and to bring social and environmental benefits to key stakeholders which translate into long-term self-sustained development.

The tribal context, local governance, institutional structures and socio-economic and socio-cultural conditions in the operating locus are challenging, and in-depth knowledge of these characteristics was essential to translate it into appropriate communication tools and messages to achieve the desired objectives. Throughout the Project, a great deal of experience, research and information about stakeholders, especially the neighbouring tribal communities and relations with them, their level of comprehension about the project and the social and cultural structures which govern behaviours and access to information have been gathered.

Taking into account that effective communication tools have to be sensitive and appropriate, in order to ensure the participation of stakeholders, knowledge of the area in which the Project operates and its characteristics (including geographical information, tribal structures and affiliations, socio-economic and socio-cultural circumstances, as well as lessons learned from the Construction phase of the project) is important to optimize communication through community and institutional focal points to ensure social stability. This has much wider application for large construction projects in culturally sensitive areas.
Contractor Management and HSE Prequalification in Yemen
Authors: Al-Showaiter Marwan , Hirst Robert
Published: January 2011

Description - This paper describes how Yemen LNG has effectively managed the HSE aspects of contractor performance on a large construction project/operation in Yemen.

Application - Contracted work with respect to the management of HSE presents a constant challenge for any company. Yemen LNG Ltd considers that dealing with contracted work is one of the Company's top priorities, in the sense that contractors should have HSE systems in place so that the work is carried out safely without any harm to staff, assets or the environment. Contractor management in Yemen presents many challenges as in many instances the indigenous workforce will have only a very basic knowledge of HSE, poor management systems and unskilled personnel.

Results - Yemen LNG has over recent years been working on the improvement of the process applied to contracted work, from prequalification to the actual management of the selected contractor to carry out work. It encourages local contractors to participate in work and as part of their capacity development of the local company's works together with the companies to step by step enhance their competence. The capacity of local companies is also to build by partnering with other companies.

The process which YLNG has adopted is to encourage local contractors to undertake jobs at the appropriate skill level and at the same time provide support through training & inspections/audits which are carried out at various stages of the contractual cycle.

Significance - The basis of our prequalification is to determine how effectively potential contractors identify and manage hazards. We expect that potential contractors will develop a systematic approach and comprehensive plans to address such issues through documentation and work practices. Our goal is to actively encourage the alignment of our HSE cultures in a climate of continuous improvement. This is an area in which a large part of our effort is applied. If we feel that an individual contract doesn't meet the company's requirements or standards, we take the initiative to assist contractors both pre and post award to meet the company's standards
Conflict Management by Corporate Social Investments
Authors: Moraes Jorge
Published: January 2011

Based on negotiations of compensation and reparation for environmental damage in the State of Rio de Janeiro-Brazil, this paper deals with the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as main strategic instrument to set up a relationship among State, businesses and the civil society in the process of licensing and deploying gas pipelines. In this kind of process, some cultural aspects, such as a social pattern based in philanthropy and paternalism, make difficult for any agreement to be reached among the stakeholders. Moreover, the risk of environmental corruption demands a really special care. As a result, the process of licensing becomes slow and fragile. In some cases, negotiation ends up unsuccessful. This particular model coexists with an imperious need for investments in energy, leading to a hard contradiction between a traditional behavior and the surge of modern consumerism habits. Besides, local legislation and bureaucracy allow for few or no options to solve the conflict. In this context, as will be seen, CSR is a preferential way to establish fruitful dialog. It was used to make easy deployment of two gas pipelines across 15 cities in the State of Rio de Janeiro. By means of Corporate Social Investments (CSI), breaking communication barriers and providing alternatives to solve the original contradiction, it is possible to create a common experience of local development among entrepreneurs, state and community.
The Creation Of Cost Effective Prevention Strategies For Business Travelers and Expatriates: Analysis of Medical Evacuation/Repatriation Data
Authors: Deroose Patrick
Published: January 2011

One of the major exposures of any company with staff overseas is the number of emergency medical evacuation and repatriations. Based on the analysis of a single year (9/07-9/08) of case activity in one industry segment we will recommend a method for cost effective preventive measures.

5057 cases including 40 companies in the energy, mining and infrastructure (EMI) industry were analyzed. We analyzed medical evacuations and repatriations for different diagnostic categories (using ICD9 codes) for business travelers and expatriates. To facilitate the process we developed a proprietary country medical risk assessment tool. Based on a matrix differentiating staff (business traveler and expatriate), diagnostic category, and country medical risk profile we are able to identify cost effective prevention programs based on the basic prioritization system previously described by Issel et al (2004) in the context of an overall occupational health strategy.

The overall incident rate for medical evacuations and repatriations was 7% of all assistance cases in the entire population of 5057 members in the examined 40 companies within the EMI industry segment. Within the entire population the three main reasons for emergency medical evacuation were 28% accident and injury, 14 % cardiovascular disorders, and 14 % gastro-intestinal disorders. This distribution, however, was different for business traveler when compared to expatriate. The cost per case in high risk country is double as compared to a moderate risk country where risk is quantified by geography, economy, stability and local healthcare.

Our results clearly indicate that companies can target their preventive programs to achieve the best return on investment in an overall occupational health strategy which comprises preparation, compliance, tracking, and communication, with overarching support of medical and security expertise and assistance services.
Behavioural Based Safety Behind the Wheel
Authors: Pelly Roger , Pillai Murali
Published: January 2011

Land transport continues to be a major safety concern in the oil & gas industry, in the Middle East and elsewhere.

It has long been recognized that a holistic approach to driving safety is the most effective way to improve safety and reduce accident rates. Methods employed include pre-employment screening driver training and assessment, journey management, vehicle monitors, and vehicle selection.

This paper considers the behavioural aspect of some of these conventional approaches to driving safety and goes on to describe how Baker Hughes has expanded its behavioural observation programme to educate and encourage vehicle passengers to interact more with drivers. Passengers intervene to give feedback for both safe and unsafe actions. The passenger observations are recorded on pocket cards for later entry into a global database for analysis.

Experience from this recently introduced approach is discussed, including the challenges encountered and how they are being addressed.
Exploring Paternal Maturity in the Relationships between Older Fathers and Adult Children
Authors: Stelle Charlie D. , Sheehan Nancy W.
Published: January 2011

While research on parent-adult child relationships has expanded over the last two decades, most research has ignored the experiences of older fathers and their relationships with adult children. The present study sought to explore how midlife and older men assess the costs and rewards associated with their fatherhood experiences and how fathers' level of paternal maturity influences their perceptions of fatherhood. More specifically, the purpose of the present study was two-fold: to explore the costs and rewards of fatherhood and whether paternal maturity serves as a moderator of older men's fatherhood experiences. A purposive sample of 96 fathers (age 50–80) completed measures assessing ego development, generativity, and costs and rewards of fatherhood. The construct of paternal maturity, hypothesized to influence assessment of fatherhood experiences, was operationally defined as combining both affective (generativity) and cognitive (ego development) levels of psychological maturity. Results indicate mixed support for the influence of paternal maturity on fathers' perceptions of costs and rewards. Overall, findings note that the affective side of maturity (generativity) is more strongly associated with fathers' accounts of the costs and rewards than the cognitive side of maturity (ego development). Discussion centers on the utility of these concepts and the implications for continued research into the ongoing relationships between fathers and adult children.
Google's Evolution Leads to Library Revolution
Authors: Jaworski Susan , Sullivan Roberta (Robin)
Published: January 2011

Do library catalogs compete with Google or is it the other way around? We know which came first but which will finish in the end? Only trained library professionals were considered qualified to develop reliable catalog records. However, with the increased sophistication of search engines, we are beginning to realize that a collaborative effort may strike the proper balance.
A Student Perspective on How Online Discussions Should Be Graded
Authors: Hura Gerri
Published: January 2011

Grading discussions for quality and participation has been an area studied by researchers as the growth of online and distance learning has become a foundational component in academic environments. Research regarding assessment for online discussions has been in favor of employing and communicating specific rubrics for participation, as well as content and quality of postings supported by instructor feedback. The research regarding grading graduate student online discussions is not as definitive. In this study, students in four graduate level sections of the same course research, discuss, and finally determine the process as how face-to-face and online discussions will be graded. Through the discussion process, arguments and solutions change.
Cooperative Learning: Smart Pedagogy and Tools for Online and Hybrid Courses
Authors: Gradel Kathleen , Edson Alden J.
Published: January 2011

This article focuses on meshing technology-enhanced learning with cooperative learning pedagogy, to address teaching/learning challenges in higher education online and hybrid courses. Illustrations of implementation are made using coursework exemplars. Start-up solutions and sample applications are summarized. The purposes of this article are to provide an overview of cooperative learning in online and blended teaching/learning settings, and identify start-up strategies for faculty implementation.
Selection and Implementation of a Simulated Electronic Medical Record (EMR) in a Nursing Skills Lab
Authors: Curry David G.
Published: January 2011

SUNY Plattsburgh has a baccalaureate nursing program that has been active in integrating technology in nursing education for many years. Recently, the faculty implemented human simulation (Laerdal's SimMan) in the Nursing Skills Lab (NSL) to provide some uniform clinical experiences (high frequency or high risk scenarios) not always available in hospital clinicals. Now the challenge has been to include a method for students to practice electronic documentation of nursing actions outside of their clinical experiences. To meet this need, several software products were examined. In 2008, when this project began, there were few products from which to choose. Several large electronic medical record (EMR) products were examined, but due to privacy mandates, they did not lend themselves to use in simulation. One EMR company (Cerner) does have a simulation product, but it is expensive. The faculty wanted to introduce a documentation system easily adaptable to scenarios consistent with the classroom content and that could also be used for completion of assignments based on hospital clinical. NurseSquared (N2) software from Nursing Data Systems was found to be the product most compatible with the goals of the nursing faculty. This internet-based client-server system allows students and faculty to access their work from any computer on which the client software is installed. Faculty may assign scenarios for work in the nursing skills lab or students may be assigned to use the software to submit their hospital clinical write-ups. The software can be used from Nursing Fundamentals through Health Assessment to SimMan scenarios for students working on bedside computers in the NSL. In addition, faculty can review and critique the work online over the Internet.
Prevalence and Management of Behavioural and Psychiatric Symptoms on a Continuing Care Unit for Patients with Dementia
Authors: Balalle Champa , Jayalath Dilini , Shankar Kuttalingham , Ashaye Kunle
Published: January 2011

Objectives:

With the increasing concerns over the safety of some pharmacological interventions or lack of sufficient evidence of effectiveness in managing neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia, there is a constant need to review how such patients are managed. This study looks at the prevalence and management of behavioural and psychiatric symptoms amongst patients with dementia in a National Health Service (NHS) continuing care unit.

Method:

In this study, a survey of all 50 patients admitted to a longstay NHS-funded dementia care unit was carried out. The socio-demographic details along with severity of dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and medication were obtained on all the patients.

Findings:

All 50 patients were prescribed some form of medication for either physical and/or mental health reasons. Only five (10%) patients were not prescribed any form of psychotropic medication. A lack of non-pharmacological treatment options for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms was evident in the unit with only one occupational therapist available.

Conclusion:

Effective management of severe behavioural and psychiatric symptoms in dementia is challenging even in a NHS continuing care dementia unit due to the absence of clear benefit from pharmacological interventions and lack of resources for optimum non-pharmacological interventions.
Model Structure and the Combined Welfare and Trade Effects of China's Trade Related Policies
Authors: Dong Yan , Whalley John
Published: January 2011

Because China’s economic structure is different from that in OECD countries, using conventional neo-classical competitive trade models to analyze the welfare and trade impacts of trade related policy change can be misleading. In particular, both the exchange rate regime and output and pricing policies of state owned enterprises (SOE’s) will have effects on trade and welfare which differ from a classical competitive model. This paper present a numerical model that captures the combined and interactive effects of three policy elements in prototype form of tariffs, policy towards SOEs in the industrial sector, and an exchange rate regime supporting large trade surpluses and additions to foreign reserves. The model has non neutral monetary features, endogenous trade imbalances and average product pricing of labor in goods. We do not claim it to be fully representative of modern China, but it does go some way beyond simple competitive models used elsewhere and points to different conclusions of policy impact. We calibrate our model to 2006 data, and then evaluate the impacts both singly and in combination of: tariff liberalization, a move to more freely floating exchange rates, and SOE enterprise reform. Results show that large differences in policy have a different impact relative to a classical competitive model. SOE reform and a freely floating Chinese exchange rate have more impact on China’s welfare than tariff liberalization. Policies of RMB appreciation and increasing China’s money stock reduce China’s trade surplus. In the traditional competitive model, trade liberalization impacts both imports and exports, while in our central case model, with endogenously determined trade surplus, trade liberalization has little effect on exports. Most of the policy impact is on imports and the trade surplus. SOE reform of China’s manufacturing sector significantly decreases production of China’s manufacturing sector and increases production in China’s other sectors.
Institutional Quality and Economic Growth in Latin America
Authors: Sawyer W. Charles
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this paper is to relate total factor productivity to the problem of economic growth in Latin America. Slow economic growth has been the most important problem in the modern history of the region. The paper extensively reviews the literature on the determinants of economic growth in Latin America and shows that the slow growth of total factor productivity (TFP) seems to be the primary problem. Further, this problem is linked to the quality of institutions in the region. Unfortunately, the concept of institutional quality is very difficult to define in a meaningful way. This affects public policy towards economic growth in the region. Finally, it is shown that the problem that has been identified may be crucial for Latin America but the region is hardly unique in this regard.
Synthesis and biological activity of some triazole-bearing benzimidazole derivatives
Authors: Ansari K.F. , Lal C. , Khitoliya R.K.
Published: January 2011

A number of N'-[(aryl)methylidene]-2-(2-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-
1-yl)acetohydrazide and 4-(aryl)-5-[(2-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-
1-yl)methyl]-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol derivatives were synthesized by
incorporating various aromatic and heterocyclic substituents on
2-methyl-1H-benzimidazole. The structures of all the synthesized compounds
were elucidated based on their elemental analyses and spectral data. The in
vitro activities of these compounds against bacteria and fungi were evaluated
by the disc diffusion and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods.
Some of the synthesized derivatives were found to be as active as kanamycin
(standard drug).
Time to flashover of a vinyl based lining material: Cone calorimeter experiments
Authors: Xu Qiang , Hristov Jordan , Cao Liying , Que Xinggui
Published: January 2011

Fire behaviour of a vinyl based lining material with and without
anti-corrosion painting has been evaluated through 35 and 50kW/m2 cone
calorimeter tests. The minimum heat flux requited for surface ignition was
estimated. The data were compared by those provided by a revised
Kokkala-Thomas?s classification index prediction model, the
?stman-Tsantaridis empirical linear regression model and the Hansen-Hovde
multiple discriminant function analysis (MDA). All results collected allowed
to predict the material flashover time and to classify the lining material.
The results illustrate some differences in the classification of the
material due to different approaches of the models used.
Prediction of gas-particle partitioning of PAHs based on M5’ model trees
Authors: Radonic Jelena , Culibrk Dubravko , Vojinovic-Miloradov Mirjana , Kukic Branislav , Turk-Sekulic Maja
Published: January 2011

During the thermal combustion processes of carbon-enriched organic compounds,
emission of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons into ambient air occurs.
Previous studies of atmospheric distribution of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons showed low correlation between the experimental values and
Junge-Pankow theoretical adsorption model, suggesting that other approaches
should be used to describe the partitioning phenomena. The paper evaluates
the applicability of multivariate piece-wise-linear M5? model-tree models to
the problem of gas-particle partitioning. Experimental values of
particle-associated fraction, obtained for 129 ambient air samples collected
at 24 background, urban and industrial sites, were compared to the prediction
results obtained using M5? and the Junge-Pankow model. The M5? approach
proposed and models learned are able to achieve good correlation (correlation
coefficient >0.9) for some low-molecular-weight compounds, when the target is
to predict the concentration of gas phase based on the particle-associated
phase. When converted to particle-bound fraction values, the results, for
selected compounds, are superior to those obtained by Junge-Pankow model by
several orders of magnitude, in terms of the prediction error.
Bioactivity of wine prepared from ripened and over-ripened kiwifruit
Authors: Towantakavanit Korsak , Park Yong , Gorinstein Shela
Published: January 2011

In order to evaluate the fruit maturity value of ‘Hayward’ kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) as material for wine production, ripened and over-ripened fruit samples were analyzed. In addition, the effect of pectinase enzyme treatment on physicochemical characteristics of the wine during the fermentation process was also examined. The results showed that wine production from ripening kiwifruit took almost twice as long as from over-ripened fruit. The yield of wine production was increased from 63.35% to 66.19% by using riper kiwifruits and adding pectinase before amelioration. The soluble solid content (13.5%) in the wine produced from over-ripened fruits increased in comparison with the wine produced from ripened samples (10.3%). In both groups there was a decrease to 5° Brix at the end of fermentation. Difference of fruit maturity did not have a significant effect on acidy, pH, nor color of wine. The highest scores of total acceptance estimated during fermentation were for wine made from over-ripened fruits. Total phenolics content and antioxidant activities were similar in both wine groups while the mineral content, especially potassium, in wine made from over-ripened kiwifruit was higher than wine produced from ripened fruits. In conclusion, the quality characteristics of kiwifruit wine made from over-ripened fruit treated with pectinase showed higher values of wine in many aspects such as sensory value, alcohol and total phenolics content, antioxidant activity, minerals and production yield.
Preliminary histological observations on grapevine affected by esca disease
Authors: Andreini Lucia , Viti Raffaella , Scalabrelli Giancarlo
Published: January 2011

Esca is a destructive disease of the woody tissues of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) and due to the complexity of disease many aspects of host-pathogen interactions are not clearly understood. The histological characteristics of esca symptomatic petioles and internodes, collected from Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese grapevine were studied. The tissues were fixed in FAA, dehydrated and embedded in Histoplast. To identify the lignified cell walls the sections were stained by Crystal violet and Erythrosin B and observed using an optical microscope. The main feature of tissues infected by esca disease was the minor lignification of vascular tissues, which was observed in petiole tissues before appearance of esca symptoms. The opportunity to utilize the histological examination of tissues as a method for the early detection of esca infections is hypothesized for the future application.
CSF and serum total-tau and phospho-tau(181P) in MS patients
Authors: Jaworski Jacek , Psujek Marek , Bartosik-Psujek Halina
Published: January 2011

In search of biological marker in multiple sclerosis (MS), total-tau and phospho-tau (Thr181) concentrations were established in CSF and serum of 78 patients with MS, using commercially available kits. Serum and CSF concentrations of IgG, IgM, and albumin were assayed simultaneously to calculate quotients and indices of intrathecal synthesis. Serum t-tau detection was strikingly low (23.1%); therefore, this factor was excluded from further analysis. Serum p-tau levels did not correlate with any of indices or quotients. Unexpectedly, CSF t-tau and p-tau showed an inverse relation with MSSS and EDSS, which has not been published elsewhere. Our results do not support utility of serum t-tau and p-tau as surrogate markers for MS.
Modelling of nanocrystalline iron nitriding process — influence of specific surface area
Authors: Pelka Rafał , Arabczyk Walerian
Published: January 2011

Samples of iron catalysts of various specific surface areas for ammonia synthesis underwent nitriding with ammonia in a tubular reactor where continuous thermogravimetric measurement and measurements of hydrogen concentration in the gaseous phase were simultaneously performed. The nitriding process was performed under atmospheric pressure at 475°C. It was observed that, along with an increase in the mean size of iron nano-crystallites, the minimum nitriding potential (at which the iron nitriding reaction is initiated) of the gaseous phase also increased. The degree of nitriding of the catalyst samples increased with the increase in the mean size of iron crystallites. On the basis of the values of nitriding potential, nano-crystallite size distributions can be determined.
On some new Hilbert-type inequalities
Authors: Chang-Jian Zhao , Lian-Ying Chen , Cheung Wing-Sum
Published: January 2011

In the present paper we establish some new inequalities similar to extensions of Hilbert’s double-series inequality and give also their integral analogues. Our results provide some new estimates to these types of inequalities.
A note on warped product submanifolds of Kenmotsu manifolds
Authors: Khan Viqar , Khan Khalid , Siraj-Uddin
Published: January 2011

Warped product manifolds are known to have applications in Physics. For instance, they provide an excellent setting to model space-time near a black hole or a massive star (cf. [HONG, S. T.: Warped products and black holes, Nuovo Cimento Soc. Ital. Fis. B 120 (2005), 1227–1234]). The studies on warped product manifolds with extrinsic geometric point of view are intensified after B. Y. Chen’s work on CR-warped product submanifolds of Kaehler manifolds. Later on, similar studies are carried out in the setting of Sasakian manifolds by Hasegawa and Mihai. As Kenmotsu manifolds are themselves warped product spaces, it is interesting to investigate warped product submanifolds of Kenmotsu manifolds. In the present note a larger class of warped product submanifolds than the class of contact CR-warped product submanifolds is considered. More precisely the existence of warped product submanifolds of a Kenmotsu manifold with one of the factors an invariant submanifold is ensured, an example of such submanifolds is provided and a characterization for a contact CR-submanifold to be a contact CR-warped product submanifold is established.
Preference orders and continuous representations
Authors: Caterino Alessandro , Ceppitelli Rita , Mehta Ghanshyam
Published: January 2011

In this paper we prove some general theorems on the existence of continuous order-preserving functions on topological spaces with a continuous preorder. We use the concepts of network and netweight to prove new continuous representation theorems and we establish our main results for topological spaces that are countable unions of subspaces. Some results in the literature on path-connected, locally connected and separably connected spaces are shown to be consequences of the general theorems proved in the paper. Finally, we prove a continuous representation theorem for hereditarily separable spaces.