bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plan de negocio para la creación de una empresa comercializadora de harina de zapallo, en la ciudad de Machala
Authors: Belduma Valencia Erika Adriana , Belduma Belduma Richard Gustavo
Published: March 2024

The change in the food pattern in developing countries and in the lifestyles of the population, have modified the way of eating, so this research focuses on the development of a business plan for the creation of a company producing and marketing flour based on pumpkin pulp, in the city of Machala, the aim is to determine the economic feasibility of the project, desired characteristics of the product for the final consumer, by conducting a market study, and financial analysis through the development of cash flow, to verify the economic viability; the main tool for obtaining primary information was the survey, a random sample was made with descriptive statistics variables, the results obtained were tabulated through a database developed in Excel, and analyzed through the statistical program SPSS version 24; based on the results obtained that the demand for pumpkin flour is in the middle and upper middle social class, with a presentation of the product of 250 gr at a cost of $1.10 ctvs. Once the different financial indicators are applied, a net present value (NPV) of USD $211,895.88 is obtained; an internal rate of return (IRR) of 29%, which is higher than the initial interest rate, is recommended for immediate acceptance, the investment is recovered in a period of 4 years and 5 months approximately.
Preliminares para Programa de Maestría en Administración y Dirección de Empresas, por la Universidad Metropolitana, sede Machala
Authors: Luciani Toro Laura Rosa , Zambrano Morales Ángel Alberto , González Ordoñez Andreína Inés
Published: March 2024

The impact and speed with which technological changes occur in a globalized world, make the environment that surrounds companies increasingly complex and competitive, implying great challenges to stay in the market through the efficient and effective achievement of its operation; This reality prevailing at present, makes it necessary for organizations to use different forms of administration and direction to those that were traditionally being used, and in turn, determine new trends of professionals that are inserted in all the activities of the production and generation of goods and services, which requires specialization. All this led to the Ecuadorian university, must adapt immediately to changes in endogenous and exogenous factors responding dynamically and vertiginously to a permanent update of managers and teachers from the development of high quality professional training processes in the investigative and linkage dimension; in correspondence with the growing demands of social demand and development of the country. In response to the need for the relevance of higher education, which seeks congruence between university careers, the masters offered and the needs posed by the local productive sector, the metropolitan university, made a diagnosis in order to determine the potential demand of applicants for an academic program of Master in Business Administration and Management, which justified the need and importance of the program that was proposed to develop the Metropolitan University of Ecuador, Machala.
El imperio innecesario de la ley jurídica
Authors: Betancourt Pereira Erik Javier , Romero Romero Clara Daniela
Published: March 2024

The unnecessary rule of legal law is about a brief analysis legitimization of power by the state. They can't live on their own and need a politically organized society to survive and fulfill common purposes. The sovereign power of a state is born because the vast majority and of the collective hosts its freedoms and grants a group of people who are going to govern, that is there are rulers and rulers but everyone should have a clear north set by law. Unfortunately, the power of the state forgets these goals and in drawing up its rules does not reflect the experience of the people which is due, which triggers a number of problems at the same time, citizens are forced to comply these not by conviction but for avoiding the various sanctions. Therefore, you face a structural problem, so this research is qualitative, historical, documentary, because the very origin of the sovereign power of the state was analyzed and like this must have appropriate and common ends to come to harmony concluding that the law when it is broken, and by not developing real legal rules directed at material justice provoke a nonexistent right.
Plataformas de medios sociales y uso dado por estudiantes indígenas durante el confinamiento por la pandemia COVID-19
Authors: Dzib Moo Doris Laury Beatriz , Durán González Rosa Elena
Published: March 2024

The present research was with the intention of analyzing what is the handling that university students from indigenous communities give to social media platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact that this has on their learning. For this purpose, we rely on the quantitative methodological approach, counting on a universe of 168 indigenous students, corresponding to the long school year February-July 2020, all from the Bachelor of Education Sciences of the Academic Division of Education and Arts in the Autonomous Juárez University of Tabasco, in Mexico. Of the total universe, 44 indigenous students between 19 and 24 years old were taken as a study sample. For data collection, a closed question form on a Likert-type scale was used as an instrument with 3 categories of responses that were previously delimited, in order to identify the use that they give to social media platforms and impact on learning of indigenous students. The results showed that the students, although they live in communities far from the city, are not limited in being able to access these digital tools, unfortunately the use they give does not favor their learning.
La gestión universitaria en tiempos de Covid-19: Retos, nuevas prácticas y aprendizajes
Authors: Gil Álvarez José Luis , Morales Cruz Mabel , Nieto Almeida Lázaro Emilio
Published: March 2024

The extreme situation with the Covid-19 pandemic has posed great challenges and consequently new practices and learning for universities, leading to continuity in the training of professionals, the development of research and innovation and a permanent link with society, in conditions of social isolation, according to the particularities of the context, in the present and with a vision of a future still uncertain. The authors of this work reflect on what was previously stated, from experience, the study of information sources and the development of new practices under integrated working conditions and exchanges between universities.
La competitividad interna empresarial de las Mipymes de la provincia El Oro
Authors: González Ordóñez Andreína Inés , Luciani Toro Laura Rosa , Urdaneta Montiel Armando José , Zambrano Morales Ángel Alberto
Published: March 2024

Internal business competitiveness can be studied through the competitiveness map proposed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The application of the map in companies becomes a diagnostic tool that allows to know its initial state in the face of competitiveness and thus identify the areas in which strengths are presented and those in which there are weaknesses. The objective of the research is to determine the internal business competitiveness of Mipymes in the province of El Oro. The deductive method was used and the type of research is descriptive with the application of a field design. The population was formed by 1406 mipymes and the sample by 172 companies. A survey was applied, whose instrument used a Likert scale in response. The results obtained show that the areas of accounting and finance (4,464) and information systems (4,458) have the highest average values, indicating that these areas have strengths; while the areas of commercialization (4,097) and environmental management (4,073) have the lowest average values, indicative of the existence of weaknesses in these areas, and on which improvements should be proposed through the implementation of action plans.
Servicio de Atención Familiar. Unidad Médica Familiar 24 del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Cd. Mante, Tamaulipas, México.
Authors: Sánchez Hernández Norma Alicia , Morales Ramírez Dionicio , Hernández Martínez Víctor Hugo
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia de depresión, ansiedad y estrés en adultos jóvenes y su relación con el estado nutricional. Métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal, analítico y prospectivo. Muestreo probabilístico sistemático en intervalo fijo de tres pacientes. Se incluyeron derechohabientes de 20 a 35 años, no embarazadas de la Unidad de Medicina Familiar No. 77, de Ciudad Madero, Tamaulipas. Se aplicó DASS-21 para estrés, ansiedad y depresión y se determinó peso y talla para calcular IMC. Se analizaron datos a través del programa SPSS V25.0. Resultados: Se incluyeron 214 participantes de edad media de 28, el 62.6% mujeres, 53.7% solteros y el 31.8% en unión libre. Además, el 59.3% mencionó tener licenciatura como último grado académico. Se determinó una asociación significativa entre el estado nutricional y la depresión (p=0.000), ansiedad (p=0.001) y estrés (p=0.004) con un intervalo de confianza del 95%. Conclusiones: Existe una importante presencia de trastornos mentales y malnutrición en la población y su relación refleja la necesidad de integrar la valoración anímica del paciente como parte de la estrategia para enfrentar el sobrepeso y la obesidad aunado a los cambios en el estilo de vida.
Irritant and repellent behaviors of sterile male Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes are crucial in the development of disease control strategies applying sterile insect technique
Authors: Boonyuan Wasana , Panthawong Amonrat , Thannarin Thodsapon , Kongratarporn Titima , Khamvarn Vararas , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap , Nararak Jirod
Published: March 2024

The mosquito Aedes aegypti, known to transmit important arboviral diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika and yellow fever. Given the importance of this disease vector, a number of control programs have been proposed involving the use of the sterile insect technique (SIT). However, the success of this technique hinges on having a good understanding of the biology and behavior of the male mosquito. Behavioral responses of Ae. aegypti male populations developed for SIT technology were tested under laboratory conditions against chemical and natural irritants and repellents using an excito-repellency (ER) chamber. The results showed that there were no significant behavioral escape responses in any of the radiation-sterilized male Ae. aegypti test populations when exposed to citronella, DEET, transfluthrin, and deltamethrin, suggesting that SIT did not suppress the expected irritancy and repellency (avoidance) behaviors. The type of information reported in the current study is vital in defining the effects of SIT on vector behavior and understanding how such behavior may influence the success of SIT technology with regard to other vector control interventions.
From Field to Feed trough: Examining the Drivers of Feed and Fodder Technologies Uptake among Pastoral Beef Farmers in Kenya
Authors: Kaburu Purity , Metto Veronica , Isako Tura , Muriithi Gideon , Njenga David
Published: March 2024

Adoption of technologies and effective management practices in the pastoral beef systems are necessary for improved productivity and resilient agricultural systems. This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of Technology Innovations and Management Practices (TIMPs) among pastoral beef farmers in Isiolo and Kajiado counties. Employing a cross-sectional approach and utilizing the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SURe) model, the research explores the intricate dynamics that shape farmers' decisions regarding three key TIMPs; planted fodder, feed supplementation, and fodder conservation. Using a systematic sampling technique, a sample size of 619 pastoral farmers was adopted.  This research seeks to uncover the underlying motivations and barriers, understanding the complex relationships between resource accessibility, socio-economic considerations, and the role of extension services in facilitating technology adoption. The research underscores the importance of addressing specific barriers, including limited access to resources and socio-economic constraints faced by these farmers. The evidence-based strategies derived from this research paves the way for scientifically informed interventions to propel the livestock sector in Kenya towards a sustainable future. The study's recommendations emphasize the need for targeted policies that prioritize market accessibility, technology awareness and information access, thus effectively supporting the adoption of TIMPs among pastoral beef farmers. Implementing these recommendations contributes to strengthening of resilience of the livestock sector and the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices in Kenya.
Construction Errors in Students' Mathematical Problem-Solving Based on Scaffolding Analysis
Authors: Wildah Azza , Kamid  , Haryanto
Published: March 2024

In mathematics learning, concept construction errors often occur when learning Systems of Linear Equations with Three Variables (SPLTV). This research aims to determine the process of students' concept construction errors, the causal factors, and how students overcome problems by providing scaffolding in SPLTV material. Data was obtained from test results and interviews with six students as research subjects. From the research results, data was received that the errors experienced by students in solving mathematical problems on SPLTV material were that the method used needed to match what was taught, made mistakes in calculations, did not make conclusions, and made mistakes at the previous stage. It was found that the factors that caused students' errors were lack of accuracy, misunderstanding of concepts, or needing to be more fixated on example questions. After being given the scaffolding stages, namely environmental provisions, explaining and reviewing, restructuring, and developing conceptual thinking, students know where their mistakes are and can correct them. Providing scaffolding can help students minimize concept construction errors when solving mathematical problems.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Parameters of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Chandrawanshi Akash , Bagri Pankaj Kumar , Karade Rajat
Published: March 2024

Aim: To   study   effect   of   integrated   nutrient   management   on   growth   and   yield   of   maize (Zea mays L.).

Study Design: A field experiment was conducted at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, AKS, University, Satna during Rabi season 2023 on Maize crop.

Methodology: The experiment trail was laid out in randomized block design.  It consisted of three replications with ten treatment combinations i.e. T1 - Control,, T2 - 100% RDN by FYM (24 t/ha),, T3 - 75% RDN by FYM+25% RDN by VC,,  T4 - 75%RDN by FYM+25% RDN by VC + Azotobacter and PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed,, T5 - 100% RDN by VC (8 t/ha),, T6    - 75% RDN by VC+25% RDN by FYM,, T7 -75%RDN by VC+25% RDN by FYM+ Azotobacter and PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed,, T8 - 50% RDN by VC + 50 % RDN by PM (3.8 t/ha),, T9 - 50% RDN by VC+50% RDN by PM + Azotobacter and PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed,, T10 - 50%RDN by EC (6 t/ha) + Beejamrut + Jeevamrut spray 500 l/ha (twice).

Results: The results showed that application of T9 50% RDN by VC + 50% RDN by poultry manure + Azotobacter + PSB had significant effect on growth and yield of maize. The plant height, number of leaves per plant and dry matter accumulation were also significantly higher in T9 followed by T8 50% RDN by VC + 50 % RDN by PM (3.8 t/ha). The highest grain yield (39.40 q ha-1) was obtained in T9 followed by T8 (38.15 q ha-1), T7 (37.62 q ha-1) andT5(36.73 q ha-1).
Total Synthesis of Complex Cyclotryptamine Alkaloids: Stereocontrolled Construction of Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters
Authors: Steven Alan , Overman Larry E.
Published: June 2007

Our ability to access the more complex members of the cyclotryptamine family of alkaloids, and to exploit their disparate biological activities, is limited by the synthetic challenge posed by their oligomeric, polyindoline structures. A recurring structural theme within these molecules is the presence of multiple quaternary stereocenters in close proximity to one another. Over the last decade, we have developed a set of transformations that allow rapid access to polyindolines, a number of which exploit the ability of catalytic levels of palladium to orchestrate carbon–carbon bond formation with impressive levels of regio‐ and stereocontrol. This review tells the story behind the development of this toolbox of synthetic methods, and their validation through the total synthesis of a number of structurally complex cyclotryptamine alkaloids. It also highlights an aspect of asymmetric catalysis that has received little attention, the ability of catalytic asymmetric reactions to selectively elaborate complex, polyfunctional molecules.
Strategic alliances are channels for innovation at Sprint Nextel
Authors: Nelson Susan
Published: June 2007

Innovations nurtured through strategic alliances have helped make Sprint Nextel one of the frontrunners in the race to redefine the telecommunications industry. Its successful partnerships share a common implementation approach that includes careful alignment of objectives, deployment of dedicated resources, and strong collaboration at all levels, facilitated by the company's Strategic Alliance function. Each Strategic Alliance team bridges the alliance partners' organizations to keep information flowing, access needed resources, help resolve problems, and build positive relationships that enable the partners to leverage each other's technology and market expertise to bring value to Sprint Nextel customers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Error analysis and reduction in lossy TLM
Authors: Kennedy Alan , O'Connor William J.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents a novel technique to analyse the lossy TLM method for diffusion. From the equations derived for the variance error, it also shows how adjusting the transmission coefficient for one time step can reduce the long‐term variance error to zero and significantly increase the accuracy of transient results obtained. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cannabidiol in vivo blunts β‐amyloid induced neuroinflammation by suppressing IL‐1β and iNOS expression
Authors: Esposito G , Scuderi C , Savani C , Steardo L , De Filippis D , Cottone P , Iuvone T , Cuomo V , Steardo L
Published: June 2007

Background and purpose:

Pharmacological inhibition of beta‐amyloid (Aβ) induced reactive gliosis may represent a novel rationale to develop drugs able to blunt neuronal damage and slow the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Cannabidiol (CBD), the main non‐psychotropic natural cannabinoid, exerts in vitro a combination of neuroprotective effects in different models of Aβ neurotoxicity. The present study, performed in a mouse model of AD‐related neuroinflammation, was aimed at confirming in vivo the previously reported antiinflammatory properties of CBD.

Experimental approach:

Mice were inoculated with human Aβ (1–42) peptide into the right dorsal hippocampus, and treated daily with vehicle or CBD (2.5 or 10 mg kg−1, i.p.) for 7 days. mRNA for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was assessed by in situ hybridization. Protein expression of GFAP, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and IL‐1β was determined by immunofluorescence analysis. In addition, ELISA assay of IL‐1β level and the measurement of NO were performed in dissected and homogenized ipsilateral hippocampi, derived from vehicle and Aβ inoculated mice, in the absence or presence of CBD.

Key results:

In contrast to vehicle, CBD dose‐dependently and significantly inhibited GFAP mRNA and protein expression in Aβ injected animals. Moreover, under the same experimental conditions, CBD impaired iNOS and IL‐1β protein expression, and the related NO and IL‐1β release.

Conclusion and implications:

The results of the present study confirm in vivo anti‐inflammatory actions of CBD, emphasizing the importance of this compound as a novel promising pharmacological tool capable of attenuating Aβ evoked neuroinflammatory responses.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 151, 1272–1279; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707337
Two dimensional photoacoustic imaging based on an acoustic lens and the peak-hold technology
Authors: Zhang Hanchao , Tang Zhilie , He Yongheng , Guo Lina
Published: June 2007

A new method of photoacoustic (PA) imaging based on an acoustic lens and the peak-hold technology is presented in this article. A fast PA imaging system, which consists of an acoustic lens, a 64-element linear transducer array, and a peak detection-and-hold circuit, is developed to obtain the two dimensional (2D) PA images of the experimental samples. By utilizing an acoustic lens, the PA signals generated from the sample are directly imaged on the imaging plane and collected by the 64-element linear transducer array which changes the PA signals into the corresponding electronic signals. Then the electronic signals are converted into a one dimensional image using the peak detection-and-hold circuit. After vertical scanning with a step motor on the imaging plane, the 2D PA image of the sample is achieved successfully. The results show that the images reconstructed in this experiment agree well with the original samples. Compared to other methods, this PA imaging system can acquire the PA images more rapidly without any complex algorithms, and it may provide a more convenient method for future in vivo noninvasive imaging of tissues and clinic diagnosis.
Improved performance in organic light emitting diodes with a mixed electron donor-acceptor film involved in hole injection
Authors: Cao Guohua , Qin Dashan , Cao Junsong , Guan Min , Zeng Yiping , Li Jinmin
Published: June 2007

Organic light emitting diodes using a mixed layer of electron acceptor 3, 4, 9, 10 perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride and electron donor copper phthalocyanine (PTCDA:CuPc) on indium tin oxide (ITO) anodes were fabricated. The device properties were found to be strongly dependent on the thickness of the PTCDA:CuPc film: both the power efficiency and the driving voltage of the device were optimized with a thickness of PTCDA:CuPc ranging from 10 to 20 nm. As compared to the conventional ITO/CuPc hole injection structure, the ITO/PTCDA:CuPc hole injection structure could remarkably enhance both the luminance and the power efficiencies of devices. A mechanism of static-induced, very efficient hole-electron pairs generation in mixed PTCDA:CuPc films was proposed to explain the experimental phenomena. The structural and optical properties of PTCDA:CuPc film were examined as well.
The Politics of Education and Architectural Design: the instructive example of British primary education
Authors: Cooper Ian
Published: June 2007

In Britain, the years since the Second World War tend to have been presented as a period of revolution in primary education, as a time of dramatic changes. These have apparently occurred not just in educational practices but in the design of school buildings deemed necessary to accommodate these practices. This paper is a review both of the part which central government has played in encouraging changes in design, and of the supposed alterations in teachers' and children's behaviour on which such changes were said to be based. Consequently, in the review attention is focused on the relationship of the politics of education to architectural design.
Ethnicity and Friendship: the contrast between sociometric research and fieldwork observation in primary school classrooms
Authors: Denscombe Martyn , Szulc Halina , Patrick Caroline , Wood Ann
Published: June 2007

Sociometric research in racially mixed primary schools has revealed considerable ethnic bias in patterns of friendship choice. Teachers in such schools, however, tend to reject such research because the findings run contrary to their own experience. The teachers tend to perceive a considerable level of friendship and integration between pupils of different ethnic origins. This paper investigates the dissonance between teachers' perceptions and the research results through a direct comparison of findings from two methods of “seeing what is really happening” in the classroom: sociometric testing and protracted fieldwork observation. The comparison of the two sets of findings highlights the inherent limitations of sociometric testing and points to those aspects of inter‐pupil contact that are likely to form the basis of teachers' perceptions of the friendship choices of pupils.
Subject Cultures and the Introduction of Classroom Computers
Authors: Goodson Ivor F. , Mangan J. Marshall
Published: June 2007

What has often been missing in research on classroom computers is an appreciation for the challenge which microcomputers may present to the well‐established cultures and subcultures of schools, and in particular to subject subcultures. This paper reports on recent research which attempted to assess some of the reciprocal effects of classroom computing and the context and culture of schooling. The distinctive characteristics of three subject areas included in the study—art, social studies, and family and technological studies—are enumerated. The meanings of these subcultures for the participant teachers are explored through interview data, and through summaries of classroom interaction patterns. The impact of the introduction of microcomputers into these school cultures is then explored using some of the same data sources. Microcomputer use is shown to have a distinct effect upon teaching styles and classroom interaction patterns, but to be independent of the effects of subject cultures. This finding suggests that classroom computers have an observable effect on teaching styles, but also that they may fit in with some high school subjects more easily than others. Several lines for future inquiry into the interaction of subject cultures and educational technologies are opened.
Gender Differences in Mathematics Participation in Australian Schools: some relationships with social class and school policy
Authors: Lamb Stephen
Published: June 2007

In Australia girls have been underrepresented in mainstream mathematics in senior high school. Yet is this true of all groups of girls? Using data gathered in four high schools, this study sought to document the extent to which girls’ participation in mathematics varied depending on social class and school background. The results show that while girls are less likely than boys to take up university‐preparatory mathematics subjects, particularly advanced mathematics, this is not experienced equally by all groups of girls. Social class has a major impact on girls’ chances of studying specialist mathematics in the final years of school. Gender relativities are much weaker for girls from professional family origins for whom class background works to offset the effects of gender. School policy is also an important influence. In schools which have more liberal policies of curriculum access the gender gap narrows, whereas in schools which operate traditional academic practices of pupil management and curriculum organisation from the junior year levels, gender selection tends to be more severe. These results suggest that future work needs to focus not on whether girls as a group are more disadvantaged in mathematics, but on which groups of girls and in which school settings.
The State Schools Book: a critique of a league table
Authors: Morrison H. G. , Cowan P. C.
Published: June 2007

The Department for Education's performance tables for English schools report a range of measures from examination results to truancy rates. League tables, on the other hand, aim to provide a simple rank order of schools, often based upon data reported in performance tables. Technically accurate league tables allow the user to make valid inferences regarding the quality of a school from its position in the table. Structural equation modelling is used to analyse one of Britain's most widely disseminated league tables, The Sunday Times State Schools Book. It is demonstrated that the table fails to meet any of the technical requirements which would assure its internal construct validity and its technical shortcomings are shown to impact adversely on a large number of schools. Finally, it is argued that modern validity inquiry effectively rules out the creation of ‘valid’ league tables purporting to rank schools according to quality.
Can the Mothers of Invention Make Virtue out of Necessity? An optimistic deconstruction of research compromises in contract research and evaluation
Authors: Stronach Ian , Allan Julie , Morris Brian
Published: June 2007

This article offers a retrospective deconstruction of research compromises undertaken during ‘quick and dirty’ contract evaluation. The deconstruction identifies constraining changes in the nature of research contexts, but develops a positive view of methodological developments which might be regarded as creating ‘transgressive validity’. Notions of ‘hybridity’ in research methodology, and of ‘negotiation’ in research procedures are considered.
Children's Relief Maps of Model Landscapes
Authors: Wiegand Patrick , Stiell Bernadette
Published: June 2007

There is widespread recognition that children (and adults) find the conventions of relief mapping difficult to interpret. In this study, 111 primary age children were asked to map four model landscapes of increasing complexity. The results show an age‐related progression from representing hills in elevation only, through simple outline plans and various attempts to differentiate slope, to their early experiments with the use of contours. It is suggested that teachers can support children's understanding of relief mapping by acknowledging children's own prior cartographic thinking and making strategic use of maps employing hill signs other than contours.
Educational Researchers in Universities: the condition of the workforce*
Authors: Brown Margaret
Published: June 2007

The British Educational Research Association (BERA) 1997 Presidential Address discusses some issues associated with that part of the workforce in educational research which is employed in universities, including the implications of recommendations in the Dearing Report. Problems are identified in recruiting staff who have appropriate experience and qualifications, at all levels from junior researcher to professor. The reverse side of the systemic problems are those of encouraging and enabling potential and existing staff to pursue successful careers in educational research, especially contract researchers who currently experience precarious careers. Some reference is made to the results of a recent BERA survey, and comparisons are made with the position in other disciplines. Proposals for remedial action, including putting pressure on the responsible agencies, are outlined.
‘Régime of Truth’ as a Serendipitous Event: an essay concerning the relationship between research data and the generation of ideas
Authors: Garratt Dean
Published: June 2007

This article argues that realist social researchers tend to regard serendipitous events within the research process with great suspicion. One result of this has been the virtual absence of any serious analysis of the role that serendipity plays in the generation of research ideas. This article attempts to address this absence through the retrospective analysis of one case study, in which the significance and impact of serendipity is explored through an example of an epiphanous experience. In capturing this moment, a serendipitous, Foucauldian reading of school discipline as a ‘régime of truth’ is developed and examined. This is then juxtaposed with a second reading or deconstruction of the first account. The article contrasts the illumination within the first account with the sobering retrospection in the second, ultimately exposing several methodological weaknesses within the original perspective. As a result, the article deliberates upon the problematic nature of constructing plausible research stories, and examines what conclusions might be drawn from those deeply interpenetrated issues that inevitably beset educational researchers.
Building Home‐School Liaison into Classroom Practice: a need to understand the nature of a teacher's working day
Authors: Hancock Roger
Published: June 2007

This article describes an evaluation of a home‐school liaison initiative— the Parental Involvement in the Core Curriculum (PICC) Project. The PICC Project ran for 2 years and it involved lecturers from a university working with class teachers in three primary schools in an inner London borough. The article looks at the extent to which the various parental involvement ideas entered school practice in a lasting way and highlights the professional issues arising from the implementation process. There is a focus on teachers’ management of the new parent practice and reflection on the methodology of the evaluation and the role of the in‐house evaluator. Given the current climate of expectations in the area of home—school liaison, it is suggested that teachers need to establish feasible initiatives for parental involvement practice—initiatives that are not only realistic in terms of extra workloads but also balanced in terms of the time spent engaging with parents and the direct benefits that this brings for children's learning. It is concluded that teachers need more pre‐service and in‐service support in order to set up productive collaborations with parents. However, more fundamentally, it is suggested that class teachers’ identities stem mainly from their work with children. So, if they are to embrace home‐school liaison without outside facilitation, there is a need for a review of the school day to give work with parents more time and status.
Rocky Mountains and Tired Indians: on territories and tribes. Reflections on multidisciplinary education in the health professions
Authors: Pirrie Anne
Published: June 2007

This article is a critical reflection on an evaluation of ‘multidisciplinary’ education in health care. The author questions the appropriateness of the topographical and anthropological metaphors commonly used to describe ‘barriers’ to multidisciplinary education and practice. She suggests that there are limits to the extent to which cohesive practice is feasible; or ‘multidisciplinary’ education desirable. She argues that these are systemic and unrelated to ‘territorialism’ or ‘tribalism’. Moreover, they can be more adequately explained by reference to notions of openness, closure, autonomy, self‐reference, circularity, interdependence and indeterminacy. The rationale for the development of multidisciplinary education within the context of changing patterns in health care delivery is also explored.
Calculating Summary Measures of Unimodal Response Curves by Means of Nonlinear Regression Models
Authors: Bender Ralf
Published: June 2007

In biomedical research summary measures such as the curve maximum (Cmax)are frequently used to describe and analyze unimodal response curves. However, if the true curve is perturbed by autocorrelated noise the calculation of summary measures from raw data can be arbitrary and misleading due to high peaks produced by the correlated errors. A possible solution is to fit suitable nonlinear functions to the response curves and estimate the summary measures from these functions. In this paper formulas are derived providing a way to estimate important summary measures of unimodal curves by means of the parameters of the lognormal function. The method is illustrated by application to pharmacodynamic data.
Cyclical Thrombocytopenia: Characterization by Spectral Analysis and a Review
Authors: Swinburne Joanna L. , Mackey Michael C.
Published: June 2007

We have analyzed published platelet time series in four normal individuals and 29 putative cyclical thrombocytopenia patients for evidence of significant (p ≤ 0.05) cyclicity. Three of the normal individuals (all males) showed significant cycling (periods T of 23, 30 and 31 days) as did 15 of the cyclical thrombocytopenia patients (T from 13 to 65 days). Cyclical thrombocytopenia seems to be approximately equally prevalent in women and men, though in cases where a definite etiology was suggested an autoimmune origin occurs more frequently in women. We also briefly review the current state of knowledge of the control of platelet production by thrombopoietin (c‐Mpl ligand) and previous attempts that have been made to construct mathematical models for the platelet control system.
Modelling the Effects of Paclitaxel and Cisplatin on Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Panetta John Carl , Chaplain Mark A. J. , Cameron David
Published: June 2007

The two drugs, Paclitaxel and Cisplatin, have important roles in the treatment of breast and ovarian cancer, with the combination currently considered the optimum first line chemotherapy of epithelial ovarian cancer. There has been a variety of experimental and clinical studies to try to determine the most effective method to deliver these drugs. These studies consistently show that giving Paclitaxel prior to Cisplatin is the more effective regimen. However, the reasons why are not fully understood. Therefore, we have developed a mathematical model to describe and predict the effects of these two drugs. This model takes into account the cytotoxic effects of the drugs on the cell‐cycle and the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic effects of the drugs on each other. The model agrees with the experimental and clinical studies which show that Paclitaxel given prior to Cisplatin is the better combination and, in addition, the model also predicts more effective treatment regimens. These include conditions on the time between doses and the dosing of each of the drugs.
Mathematical Modelling of Profiled Haemodialysis: A Simplified Approach
Authors: Baigent Stephen , Unwin Robert , Yeng Chee Chit
Published: June 2007

For many renal patients with severe loss of kidney function dialysis treatment is the only means of preventing excessive fluid gain and the accumulation of toxic chemicals in the blood. Typically, haemodialysis patients will dialyse three times a week, with each session lasting 4‐6 hours. During each session, 2‐3 litres of fluid is removed along with catabolic end‐products, and osmotically active solutes. In a significant number of patients, the rapid removal of water and osmotically active sodium chloride can lead to hypotension or overhydration and swelling of brain cells. Profiled haemodialysis, in which the rate of water removal and/or the dialysis machine sodium concentration are varied according to a predetermined profile, can help to prevent wide fluctuations in plasma osmolality, which cause these complications. The profiles are determined on a trial and error basis, and differ from patient to patient. Here we describe a mathematical model for a typical profiled haemodialysis session in which the variables of interest are sodium mass and body fluid volumes. The model is of minimal complexity and so could provide simple guidelines for choosing suitable profiles for individual patients. The model is tested for a series of dialysate sodium profiles to demonstrate the potential benefits of sodium profiling. Next, using the simplicity of the model, we show how to calculate the dialysate sodium profile to model a dialysis session that achieves specified targets of sodium mass removal and weight loss, while keeping the risk of intradia‐lytic complications to a minimum. Finally, we investigate which of the model profiled dialysis sessions that meet a range of sodium and fluid removal targets also predict extracellular sodium concentrations and extracellular volumes that lie within “safe” limits. Our model suggests that improvements in volume control via sodium profiling need to be set against potential problems in maintaining blood concentrations and body fluid compartment volumes within “safe” limits.
Mathematical Model for HIV/AIDS with Complacency in a Population with Declining Prevalence
Authors: Baryarama F. , Mugisha J. Y. T. , Luboobi L. S.
Published: June 2007

An HIV/AIDS model incorporating complacency for the adult population is formulated. Complacency is assumed a function of number of AIDS cases in a community with an inverse relation. A method to find the equilibrium state of the model is given by proving a stated theorem. An example to illustrate use of the theorem is also given. Model analysis and simulations show that complacency resulting from dependence of HIV transmission on number of AIDS cases in a community leads to damped periodic oscillations in the number of infectives with oscillations more marked at lower rates of progression to AIDS. The implications of these results to public health with respect to monitoring the HIV/AIDS epidemic and widespread use of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs is discussed.
A Mathematical Model for the Dynamics of HIV/AIDS with Gradual Behaviour Change
Authors: Baryarama F. , Mugisha J. Y. T. , Luboobi L. S.
Published: June 2007

An HIV/AIDS model that incorporates gradual behaviour change is formulated with a variable force of infection for the adult population. The variability is modelled using a general function of time since introduction of the initial infective and exemplified for three specific functions. Expressions for the time taken for the reproductive number to reduce to unity and expressions for the time taken to attain a stationary steady state are deduced and discussed. Model projections for urban, peri‐urban and rural Uganda are compared with corresponding antenatal clinic sites prevalence trends. The analysis shows that the dramatic decline in HIV prevalence in Uganda in the early 1990s was only possible through drastic declines in the force of infection. Since prevalence was high and reductions in frequency of sexual acts was minimal, the huge reduction could be attributed to reductions in probability of transmission per sexual act probably due to increased selective condom use among high risk sexual partnerships since overall condom use was low.
Scar‐Free Embryonic Wound Healing and the Prevention of Scarring Following Wound Healing in the Adult
Authors: McCallion R. L. , Ferguson M. W. J.
Published: June 2007

The development of scarring following accidental injury or surgery is an important clinical problem, often resulting in adverse effects on frowth and function, as well as an undersirable cosmetic appearance. Adult wound healing and scar formation are characterised by acute inflammation, wound contraction and disordered collagen deposition. Similar processes may also be involved in the progression of fibrotic disease states such as pulmonary fibrosis and hepatic cirrhosis. A major clinical objective is therefore, the reduction, and ideally the prevention, of scarring. The embryo and early fetus respond to injury in a way that is fundamentally different from the adult. In general, the early fetus heals rapidly, without scar formation. Extracellular matrix deposition in the fetal wound is rapid and organised in its structure, much more similar in appearance to unwounded skin, whilst, in the adult, matrix deposition is disordered. The inflammatory response, charasterisitic of the early phase of adult wound healing, is absent, or highly limited, in the fetus and the levels of cytokines are generally greatly reduced. Research into fundamental cellular and molecular differences between adult and fetal wound healing have revealed a number o targets in the adult wound which can be manipulated to more closely resemble the fetal wound environment and hence result in the reduction of adult scarring.
Linkage to Primary Medical Care Following Inpatient Detoxification
Authors: Griswold Kim S. , Greene Benjamin , Smith Susan J. , Behrens Torsten , Blondell Richard D.
Published: June 2007

It is important to address the medical problems of individuals admitted for detoxification by arranging for follow‐up with primary care physicians after discharge. This was a prospective cohort study of 119 patients admitted for detoxification. Follow‐up data were collected over the telephone one week following discharge. Among this group of patients, 72% had a primary care provider (PCP). Patients who intended to see their provider were statistically more likely to be abstinent on follow‐up (OR = 4.5, CI = 1.24–16.58, p = 0.024). As compared to those patients without primary care follow‐up, having a plan to see one's PCP was associated with lower rates of relapse following detoxification.
Brief Screening Instruments for Risky Drinking in the Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic
Authors: Hill Kevin P. , Chang Grace
Published: June 2007

In this pilot study, we compared two brief screening instruments, the T‐ACE (Tolerance, Annoyed, Cut down, Eye‐opener) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), with a clinician interview and structured clinical interview (SCID) to determine if they improved identification of risky drinking in a psychiatry clinic compared to clinician interviews. Sixteen of 50 subjects satisfied DSM‐IV criteria for lifetime alcohol abuse or dependence on the SCID, and four, all T‐ACE positive, were listed “correctly” in the chart as having an alcohol problem. With an SCID gold standard, risky drinking was identified with sensitivities and specificities of 0.88 and 0.59 for the T‐ACE and 0.63 and 0.85 for the AUDIT. Brief screening instruments improved the identification of risky drinking in a psychiatry clinic.
The treatment of depression: A case study using theme‐analysis
Authors: Meier Augustine , Boivin Micheline , Meier Molisa
Published: June 2007

Theme Analysis was applied to the transcripts of 18 counseling sessions of a middle‐age depressed male to identify the themes of depression, indicate how they are linked to each other, and to track changes on the themes across psychotherapy sessions as reflected by a change process measure. Psychotherapeutic themes were defined in terms of polarities with one pole representing the problem‐end on a continuum and the second pole representing the striving‐towards end on a continuum. The Seven‐Phase Model of the Change Process was used to assess change on the themes across the sessions. Depression was defined by DSM‐IV diagnostic criteria for a Major Depressive Episode and by the Depression Scale of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Three classes of themes were identified: descriptive, main and core. The research produced one core theme to which the other themes are linked. The results suggest that the themes change across therapy in a progressive forward manner. The theoretical implications and clinical relevance of the findings were discussed.
‘Partnership’ as Strategy: Public—private relations in Education Action Zones
Authors: Jones Ken , Bird Kate
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT The article summarises recent political and theoretical presentations of ‘partnership’ and ‘networking’ and discusses their relevance to the understanding of contemporary education policy. It focuses in detail on the first stages of the establishment of Education Action Zones (EAZs) in two areas of England, describing in detail their patterns of governance, and the relationship they involve between ‘public’ and ‘private’ partners. It questions whether existing theorisations are adequate to understanding the dynamics of partnership in situations where there are substantial conflicts of interest between ‘partners'. It concludes that ‘partnership’ in the EAZ context needs to be understood not as an established system of clearly‐defined relationships but rather as a political strategy intended to accomplish a historic shift in the governance of education.