bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virulence Conversion of
Legionella pneumophila
by Conjugal Transfer of Chromosomal DNA
Authors: Miyamoto Hiroshi , Yoshida Shin-ichi , Taniguchi Hatsumi , Shuman Howard A.
Published: November 2003

In this study, we examined whether virulence conversion occurs in
Legionella pneumophila
by conjugal transfer of chromosomal DNA. A virulent strain, K6, which has the genes for Km
r
and LacZ
+
transposed in the chromosome of strain Philadelphia-1, which belongs to serogroup 1, was used as one parent, and an avirulent strain, Chicago-2S, which is a spontaneous streptomycin-resistant derivative of strain Chicago-2 belonging to serogroup 6, was used as the other parent. Experiments in which K6 (approximately 2.6 × 10
9
CFU) and Chicago-2S (approximately 8.9 × 10
9
CFU) were mated typically yielded 10
3
Km
r
Sm
r
LacZ
+
transconjugants. Thirty-two (about 2.8%) of 1,152 transconjugants belonging to serogroup 6 acquired the ability to grow intracellularly in
Acanthamoeba castellanii
and guinea pig macrophages. When guinea pigs were infected with sublethal doses of
Legionella
aerosols generated from one of these transconjugants (HM1011), they developed a severe pneumonia similar to that caused by donor strain K6. These results show that avirulent strain Chicago-2S changed into virulent strain HM1011 through conjugation with virulent strain K6. Furthermore, we showed that
Legionella
chromosomal virulence genes (
icm
-
dot
locus) were horizontally transferred by the conjugation system. The chromosomal conjugation system may play a role(s) in the evolution of
L
.
pneumophila
.
A Mutation in the Essential Gene
gmk
(Encoding Guanlyate Kinase) Generates a Requirement for Adenine at Low Temperature in
Salmonella enterica
Authors: Beck Brian J. , Huelsmeyer Mike , Paul Scott , Downs D. M.
Published: November 2003

In
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium,
gmk
encodes guanylate kinase, an essential enzyme involved in the synthesis and salvage of guanine nucleotides. Here we report the isolation of a mutation in
gmk
that results in a nutritional requirement for adenine at low temperature. Comparisons of kinetic parameters from the wild-type and mutant Gmk enzymes revealed that the mutant enzyme had a more than 20-fold-higher

K
m

for ATP than the wild-type enzyme. The growth dependence of the mutant on temperature and/or adenine could not be explained as a direct result of this kinetic difference. We propose a model in which previously described regulatory effects of GMP are responsible for these phenotypes.
CRITICAL BEHAVIOR OF SYSTEMS WITH LONG-RANGE INTERACTION IN RESTRICTED GEOMETRY
Authors: CHAMATI H. , TONCHEV N. S.
Published: October 2003

The present review is devoted to the problems of finite-size scaling due to the presence of long-range interaction decaying at large distance as 1/rd+σ, σ>0. The attention is focused mainly on the renormalization group results in the framework of [Formula: see text]-theory for systems with fully finite (block) geometry under periodic boundary conditions. Some bulk critical properties and Monte Carlo results are also reviewed. The role of the cut-off effects as well as their relation with those originating from the long-range interaction is additionally discussed. Special attention is paid to the description of an adequate mathematical technique that allows for the treatment of the long-range and short-range interactions equally. The review concludes with a short discussion of some open problems.
SHORT-TIME DYNAMICS OF THE RANDOM n-VECTOR MODEL WITH LONG-RANGE INTERACTION
Authors: CHEN YUAN , LI ZHI-BING
Published: October 2003

The short-time critical behavior of the random n-vector model with long-range interaction is studied by the theoretic renormalization-group approach. After a sudden quench to the critical temperature from the high temperature phase, the system is released to an evolution within model A dynamics. The initial slip exponents and the dynamic exponent are calculated to two-loop order.
CLASSICAL CANONICAL DISTRIBUTION FOR DISSIPATIVE SYSTEMS
Authors: TARASOV VASILY E.
Published: October 2003

We derive the canonical distribution as a stationary solution of the Liouville equation for the classical dissipative system. Dissipative classical systems can have stationary states that look like canonical Gibbs distributions. The condition for non-potential forces which leads to this stationary solution is very simple: the power of the non-potential forces must be directly proportional to the velocity of the Gibbs phase (phase entropy density) change. The example of the canonical distribution for a linear oscillator with friction is considered.
DYNAMIC OSCILLATION OF OPTICAL TRANSMITTANCE OF NEMATIC LIQUID CRYSTALS DURING THE TURN-ON AND TURN-OFF OF APPLYING FIELD AND TEMPERATURE VARIATION
Authors: LIN HSIANG KU , LUE JUH-TZENG
Published: October 2003

Single short pulse during the turn-on and relaxation oscillation after the turn-off of the applied electric field of the optical transmittance of liquid crystals are observed when the light transmits through a proper inclined angle of the polarizer and analyzer. A free energy simulation of the equilibrium tilting and twisting angles of molecules at each layer during an electric field that yields relevant polarization of the transmitted light can satisfactorily address this phenomenon. Optics of an isotropic-layered liquid crystal with the Jones 4×4 matrix formalism is implemented to solve this problem. Optical transmittance under linear changes of temperatures also reveals similar nonlinear relaxation oscillations and is also successfully simulated.
SALT-INDUCED AGGREGATION AND ENHANCED OPTICAL LIMITING IN CARBON-BLACK SUSPENSIONS
Authors: TIWARI S. K. , JOSHI M. P. , NATH S. , MEHENDALE S. C.
Published: October 2003

Results of a study of optical limiting of 532 nm, 15 nsec laser pulses by carbon-black suspensions in pure water and saline water are presented. The optical limiting strength was found to increase as the salinity of the host liquid increased. Particle size measurements showed that aggregation of carbon particles in the saline suspensions resulted in particles with sizes greater than that for the pure water suspension. As the thermophysical properties of the host liquids were nearly the same, the enhanced optical limiting performance is believed to be a direct consequence of the larger size of the carbon particles.
ENHANCEMENT OF EFFECTIVE SECOND-ORDER NONLINEARITY IN POLED POLYMERS BY INTRODUCING THE CHROMOPHORES WITH LOW GROUND STATE DIPOLE MOMENT
Authors: QIN ANJUN , BAI FENGLIAN , YE CHENG
Published: October 2003

The strategy of introducing the chromophores with low ground state dipole moment had been discussed to overcome the effect of the electrostatic interaction between the chromophores in the poled polymer films on its nonlinearity. As a result, the effective nonlinear optical coefficient d33 of the poled films, containing the chromophores with μg in the range of 3.5–5.5 D, will enhance at least 15%, even over 30%, compared to that of 7.5 D if the first hyperpolarizabilities (β) of chromophores are in the same magnitudes. And, under the above assumption, the same level of the d33 could even be achieved by utilizing the chromophores with μg as low as 2.2 D.
DOUBLE BLOW-UP SOLUTIONS FOR A BREZIS–NIRENBERG TYPE PROBLEM
Authors: MUSSO MONICA , PISTOIA ANGELA
Published: October 2003

In this paper we construct a domain Ω for which the problem [Formula: see text] has a family of solutions which blow-up and concentrate in two different points of Ω as ε goes to 0.
DENSITY FUNCTIONAL STUDY OF SELECTED MONO-ZINC AND GEM-DIZINC RADICAL CARBENOID CYCLOPROPANATION REACTIONS: OBSERVATION OF AN EFFICIENT RADICAL ZINC CARBENOID CYCLOPROPANATION REACTION AND THE INFLUENCE OF THE LEAVING GROUP ON RING CLOSURE
Authors: ZHAO CUNYUAN , WANG DONG-QI , PHILLIPS DAVID LEE
Published: October 2003

We report a theoretical study of the cyclopropanation reactions of EtZnCHI, (EtZn)2CH EtZnCHZnI, and EtZnCIZnI radicals with ethylene. The mono-zinc and gem-dizinc radical carbenoids can undergo cyclopropanation reactions with ethylene via a two-step reaction mechanism similar to that previously reported for the CH2I and IZnCH2radicals. The barrier for the second reaction step (ring closure) was found to be highly dependent on the leaving group of the cyclopropanation reaction. In some cases, the (di)zinc carbenoid radical undergoes cyclopropanation via a low barrier of about 5–7 kcal/mol on the second reaction step and this is lower than the CH2I radical reaction which has a barrier of about 13.5 kcal/mol for the second reaction step. Our results suggest that in some cases, zinc radical carbenoid species have cyclopropanation reaction barriers that can be competitive with their related molecular Simmons-Smith carbenoid species reactions and produce somewhat different cyclopropanated products and leaving groups.
Ab Initio STUDY OF THE MAGNETIC PROPERTIES AND CONDUCTIVE PROPERTIES OF BEST2[Fe(CN)5NO]
Authors: ZOU W. D. , LIU Z. L. , YAO K. L.
Published: October 2003

With the help of the ab initio method of the full potential linearized augmented-plan-wave, electronic band structure and its magnetic property for a charge transfer compound of bis (ethylenediselena)-tetrathiafulvalene (BEST) with [Fe(CN)5NO] anions are studied, where the exchange-correlation effects of electrons are accounted. The partial density of states and atomic spin magnetic moments are calculated and discussed. It is found that the π-electron of the iron atom in the t2g orbital mainly provides the magnetism. Because of the hybridization between oxygen and nitrogen, unpaired electrons localized at the nitric oxide radical contribute the magnetism to the compound. In particular, the calculations of spin magnetic moments reveal that the spin population (spin up and down) of C/Se/S altered in the organic donors, which may lead to antiferromagnetic exchange interactions. We also found that the π-electrons of the 2p-orbital of oxygen, the 2p-orbital of nitrogen, the t2g-orbital of iron, the 2p-orbital of selenium and the 2p-orbital of sulfur contribute to conductivity. These result reveal that the magnetism and conductivity are coexist in the titled compound. Our results are in good agreement with the experiment.
EVOLUTION OF A CATALYTICALLY EFFECTIVE MODEL ENZYME: THE IMPORTANCE OF TUNED CONFORMATIONAL FLUCTUATIONS
Authors: WILLIAMS G. S. BLAIR , HOSSAIN AFTAB M. , SHANG SHIYING , KRANBUEHL DAVID E. , BAGDASSARIAN CAREY K.
Published: October 2003

Possible causal connections between the dynamics of a thermally fluctuating model enzyme molecule and catalysis are explored. The model is motivated by observations from experiment and simulation that amino acid residues residing in different enzymatic domains may show markedly different degrees of conformational freedom. Consequently, we are interested in the catalytic efficacy of an enzyme as a function of long-range many-atom cooperative effects resulting from strong, moderate, and weak interactions between enzymatic residues. Here we show and quantify through molecular dynamics simulations how the number and distribution of these interactions affects an enzyme's conformational fluctuation dynamics and its effectiveness as a catalyst. For any given distribution of "stiff" and "loose" enzymatic domains, catalytic fitness is defined as the number of chemical events — specifically the number of times a catalytic residue and substrate surmount a chemical reaction barrier — during molecular dynamics simulation. Through mutation, recombination, and a selection procedure following the ideas of Darwinian evolution, a genetic algorithm drives a population of enzyme molecules to greater catalytic fitness by modifying the mix of stiff and loose interactions. Approximately 30,000 different enzyme molecules are generated by the genetic algorithm — each with a unique number and distribution of strong, moderate, and weak inter-residue interactions. While the catalytically least fit enzyme exhibits 16 chemical events, the fittest boasts 253. That point mutations far from the active-site chemistry in the fittest enzyme have a strong effect on the number of chemical events suggests that catalysis depends, in part, on long-range many-atom globally correlated dynamical fluctuations.
REDUCED GRADIENT METHODS AND THEIR RELATION TO REACTION PATHS
Authors: QUAPP WOLFGANG
Published: October 2003

The reaction path is an important concept in theoretical chemistry. We discuss different definitions, their merits as well as their drawbacks: IRC (steepest descent from saddle), reduced gradient following (RGF), gradient extremals, and some others. Many properties and problems are explained by two-dimensional figures. This paper is both a review and a pointer to future research. The branching points of RGF curves are valley-ridge inflection (VRI) points of the potential energy surface. These points may serve as indicators for bifurcations of the reaction path. The VRI points are calculated with the help of Branin's method. All the important features of the potential energy surface are independent of the coordinate system. Besides the theoretical definitions, we also discuss the numerical use of the methods.
On the Distribution of Null Complementizers
Authors: Bošković Željko , Lasnik Howard
Published: November 2003

The article provides a comprehensive account of the distribution of the null complementizer in English that does not appeal to the notion of government, thus contributing to the minimalist goal of eliminating arbitrary relations such as government. The account is based on Pesetsky's (1992) proposal that the null complementizer is a PF affix, which we instantiate through the affix-hopping approach to affixation. We also provide an account of several subject/object asymmetries with respect to extraction out of various clausal arguments.
Hybrid Integrate-and-Fire Model of a Bursting Neuron
Authors: Breen Barbara J. , Gerken William C. , Butera Robert J.
Published: November 2003

We present a reduction of a Hodgkin-Huxley (HH)—style bursting model to a hybridized integrate-and-fire (IF) formalism based on a thorough bifurcation analysis of the neuron's dynamics. The model incorporates HH-style equations to evolve the subthreshold currents and includes IF mechanisms to characterize spike events and mediate interactions between the subthreshold and spiking currents. The hybrid IF model successfully reproduces the dynamic behavior and temporal characteristics of the full model over a wide range of activity, including bursting and tonic firing. Comparisons of timed computer simulations of the reduced model and the original model for both single neurons and moderate lysized networks (n ≤ 500) show that this model offers improvement in computational speed over the HH-style bursting model.
A Derived Markov Process for Modeling Reaction Networks
Authors: Holland John H.
Published: November 2003

A reaction network arises when a set of reactants (chromosomes, chemicals, economic goods, or the like) recombine at specified rates to produce other reactants in the set. When the reactants are characterized in terms of “reactive regions” (schemata, active sites, building blocks), reaction networks can be modeled by classic stochastic urn models. The corresponding Markov processes are specified by matrices that, for realistic problems, are small enough to allow standard matrix operations and Monte Carlo estimates of important properties of the trajectory of the process, such as the expected time to first occurrence of some designated reactant.
A Kernel Density Analysis of Continuous Typical-Response Scales
Authors: Ferrando Pere J.
Published: November 2003

The present study assessed how respondents use continuous scales in two practical measurement situations. Responses to the continuous scales were expected to be multimodal, based on the assumptions that (a) respondents do not take full advantage of the scale and (b) the selective process is relatively general and common to all respondents. Kernel density analysis and a factor-analytic procedure were used to evaluate the assumptions in two empirical datasets. In both cases, the results suggested that respondents were operating with a limited number of response points in spite of the continuous nature of the scale.
Aggression in Inpatient Adolescents
Authors: Knox Michele , Carey Michael , Kim Wun Jung
Published: November 2003

Differences in aggressive behavior were examined in a primarily White sample of 84 thirteen- to seventeen-year-old depressed and nondepressed adolescent inpatients. Results indicate that depression and gender interact significantly; females with depression demonstrated more physical aggression than nondepressed females, and males with depression demonstrated less aggression than nondepressed males. These results indicate that depression is a greater risk factor for physical aggression in treatment-seeking female, compared to male, adolescents.
Youth Integration and Social Capital
Authors: Ravanera Zenaida R. , Rajulton Fernando , Turcotte Pierre
Published: November 2003

Integration is social cohesion measured at the individual level. This article examines three of its dimensions—inclusion, participation, and belonging—using data gathered from the General Social Surveys on Time Use. It describes the inclusion and participation of Canadians aged 15 to 29 years in 1986, 1992, and 1998; examines differences by age group and gender; and explores the effects of human and social capital of individuals, families, and communities on integration.
Performance Improvement in Schools
Authors: Walker Allan , Stott Ken
Published: October 2003

In this article, we suggest a parallel can be drawn between pressures to perform in sports and pressures on schools to perform. In developing this analogy we hold that schools, like athletes, have been exposed to the temptation of using artificial performance-enhancing substances. The application of such measures, although sometimes successful in the short term, has led to a number of unpleasant side effects and little enduring change in classrooms. This has given rise in some quarters to negative feelings about the future of education. On a more positive note, we extend the analogy by discussing several ‘natural’ performance-enhancing methods that are available to principals. These, we argue, offer increased hope for sustainable change in schools.
Resourcing the Continuum of Special Educational Needs in Two Local Education Authorities
Authors: Marsh Alan J.
Published: October 2003

This paper examines the relationship between special educational needs (SEN) and resource levels and looks at two LEAs as case studies. One LEA uses a professional audit approach to allocate resources for pupils with special educational needs but without statements while the other LEA uses educational tests. Interviews were conducted with headteachers, special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) and heads of department in English, mathematics and science. A theoretical framework is used to evaluate the two LEAs’ resourcing policies against the criteria of simplicity, equity, effectiveness, efficiency and accountability.
Crossing the Border into Leadership: Experiences of Newly Appointed British Headteachers and American Principals
Authors: Daresh John , Male Trevor
Published: October 2003

This article investigates the phenomena associated with English headteachers and US Principals crossing the professional ‘border’ into school leadership. Based on empirical evidence accumulated in both countries through in-depth interviews, the work explores the ways in which the successful candidates were prepared for the new role and the levels of professional support they received during the induction period. What becomes evident from the findings is that all respondents went through a process of ‘culture shock’ as none were prepared for the change in perceptions of others or for the intensity of the job. The article concludes by calling for a blend of theoretical and practical programmes of preparation and induction that allow those stepping into the school leader’s role to spend time reflecting on personal values, ethical stances and other similar matters as a way of adjusting to the demands of the ‘hot seat’.
School Restructuring and the Dilemmas of Principals’ Work
Authors: Wildy Helen , Louden William
Published: October 2003

The complexity of principals work is often characterized in terms of dilemmas. In this paper three are identified. The autonomydilemma concerns providing strong and shared leadership. The efficiencydilemma concerns leading collaborative decision-making that is efficient. The accountabilitydilemma concerns empowering local decision-making while complying with external requirements. These are explored using data from a standards framework for school principals in a large restructuring system. Judgements on what mattersin principals’ work reveal the skills, knowledge and dispositions required for principals in restructuring schools, and judgements about levels of performance are shown by how wellparticular examples of principals work are rated using a Rasch analysis. This study found what matters is that principals care for and involve others, are strong, fair and open to alternatives, articulate long-term views and balance these conflicting qualities. But, when faced with the dilemmas of restructuring, principals favour strong leadership over shared leadership, efficiency rather than collaboration, and accountability to central requirements over shared local decision-making.
Management System Design for a Learner Centered School
Authors: Wagner Kathleen
Published: October 2003

This study examines how a learner centred school defines and specifies its management decision support system, and how it implements the system on an ongoing basis. A qualitative single case study was designed to investigate and understand both the substance and process of this management system. A checklist of criteria was used in classroom observations to first validate the purposefully selected Montessori school as learner centred. Additionally, semi-structured interviews and school documentation review were used in the actual management system investigation. The findings indicate a tightly integrated management system comprised of few decision support elements, each clearly focused on the student. These elements map into a model comprised of distinct connections and linkages, where the teaching and learning processes represent the core element and drive and define the remaining system elements. Relationships, resources and particular organizational arrangements were identified as factors critical to successful implementation of this decision support system.
Professional Development Priorities
Authors: Adey Ken
Published: October 2003

A questionnaire survey of secondary school middle managers within one LEA was conducted in 1997 to ascertain how far their professional development priorities reflected their changing role. The author argues that the results indicate a growing acceptance of middle management responsibility for departmental performance measured by the results of SATs and external examinations. Thus there is an acceptance of the need to carry out managerial tasks of monitoring, evaluating, addressing problems of pupil performance and teaching competence, and of the need to plan departmental developments within the framework of whole-school priorities. However there is no widespread feeling that the middle manager should provide leadership by contributing to the shaping of whole-school policies or taking responsibility for the overall professional development of subject staff. How far the subject leader will be able to fulfil this leadership role will, it is argued, depend upon a changing senior management perception of the middle manager’s role; how far the teaching and administrative burden of the middle manager is lessened; and whether appraisal can remain a tool of genuine professional development rather than becoming a device for teacher assessment.
‘Really Good Ideas’?
Authors: Wallace Mike
Published: October 2003

The central government ‘evidence-informed policy and practice’ initiative has potential for promoting effective educational leadership and management but partners involved will have to compromise over several areas of contention. They must develop a shared ‘culture of realism’ where conflicting interests are acknowledged and compromises negotiated, and address several issues. First, educational leadership and management are contextually embedded and prescriptions must allow for diverse contexts of use. Second, central government agents must be ready to acknowledge that their policies can inhibit leadership and management. Third, a working consensus must be reached on the nature of effectiveness since it is a value-laden notion and partners subscribe to diverse values. Fourth, limits of what are to count as valid research and evidence will have to be established. Fifth, evidence relates to theory in informing action, so partners must give normative theory a place in research, dissemination and training. Sixth, there is a need for a ‘national research-literacy strategy’ to enhance partners’ understanding and acceptance of each other’s concerns and constraints.
Multi-Level Management and Literacy
Authors: Clipson-Bonyles Suzi
Published: October 2003

This article raises an important question about whether primary schoolchildren’s success in reading and writing depends as much on how the teaching of literacy is managed at different levels as on the underlying pedagogic principles. In doing so, it challenges the assumption that ‘literacy problems’ can be solved only by introducing (or imposing) new pedagogical approaches and assessment strategies, without considering the complex organizational nature of schools and education authorities. The introduction into British schools of the Catch Up Programme, a literacy intervention to assist 7–8-year-old struggling readers, has provided a useful context in which to examine some of these complexities. These include the range of people involved in decision making, implementation and evaluation, and the management style of the actual teaching, all of which may influence whether the programme succeeds or fails.
Beyond the Rational
Authors: Watson George , Crossley Michael
Published: October 2003

This article examines the introduction and evolution of the Strategic Management Process in the Further Education sector. This is done in the light of a critique of the transfer of management models from the business sector to Further Education; a theoretically informed review of related policy literature; and a detailed longitudinal case study of cultural change in one college embarking upon Incorporation. Implications of the analysis are explored for Further Education, for the possible reconceptualization of the Strategic Management Process and for the related theoretical literature.
Stress and Job Satisfaction among Primary Headteachers
Authors: Chaplain Roland P.
Published: October 2003

This article reports levels of perceived stress and job satisfaction among primary headteachers. Around half reported high levels of occupational stress but some half were satisfied with their work. Sources of stress and job satisfaction were examined under four headings: managing oneself and others; managing finances; managing the curriculum; and managing change. The highest levels of satisfaction came from personal factors and organizational factors. School organization was a source of stress and of satisfaction. The lowest level of satisfaction was with the level of social support. Two subgroups reporting ‘very high’ levels of stress differed markedly in levels of job satisfaction—one ‘very satisfied’, the other ‘not satisfied’. These differences were related to gender and perceived sources of job satisfaction and stress.
Neutral, Colluding or Subversive?
Authors: Johnson Helen
Published: October 2003

The restructuring of the British public sector since 1979 has brought marketization to the public services, including higher education. With this comes the concomitant managerial function of marketing. Academics and othersperhaps have a tendency to shrug such activity off as ‘administration’. However, it can be argued that the marketing discourse itself contains a number of subdiscourses. One belongs to the marketing practitioner,who may regard the practice as politically neutral or ‘common-sensical’.Others, from a different political position may see marketing as acontrolling device to support the market system, and with it an acceptance of a societal and institutional status quo. However, it is also possible tosee marketing as a subversive means to overturn tradition and promote new values, perspectives and different types of higher education institutions.
The Monitoring Role of the Academic Middle Manager in Secondary Schools
Authors: Wise Christine
Published: October 2003

This article examines aspects of the monitoring role of academic middle managers insecondary schools since the implementation of the Education Reform Act of 1988,drawing on the perceptions of middle managers. The data were collected from a largescalepostal survey of middle managers in three local authorities and three case-studyschools. Middle managers acknowledge the need for management tasks, including themonitoring of colleagues teaching, to be part of their role but still experience difficultiesin fulfilling this task. One suggested cause of this difficulty is the fact that the departmental team is perceived by middle managers to be against the monitoring of its work.
Global Trends in Tertiary Education Quality Assurance
Authors: Roberts Vivienne
Published: October 2003

The idea of a contracting world and the development of ever expanding global communication networks challenges Caribbean educators with the reality that they too are a part of a global discourse and their practices part of a global trend. Societal changes, including the emergence of nation states, the diversification and ‘massification’ of tertiary education have influenced tertiary education and its quality assurance policies and practices. The article samples a range of assurance systems identifying, in most instances, a changing balance of power among government, institutions and faculties. It argues that the newer entrants to Caribbean tertiary education should balance their thrust for institutional autonomy and academic freedom with attention to professional development and responsibility and commitment to quality. It concludes that important global trends in quality assurance systems include coordination, self critique, transparency and flexibility and it is these trends which should inform national and regional Caribbean accreditation mechanisms.
Illustrating Issues of Power and Control
Authors: Meyer Matthew J.
Published: October 2003

This article seeks to demonstrate the possibilities of the dramatic scenario as an approach to the examination of fundamental educational administration concepts with graduate students. It draws upon a piece of theatre as representation (TAR)—‘ The Icarus Selection Committee’—a scenario which was written specifically by the author to enable the examination of conflicts related to internal power and control issues of a school principal-selection committee. Students who participated in this exercise reflected afterwards on the complexity of administration and their affective response to this teaching tool.
The Role of the University Head of Department
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: October 2003

This article presents the findings of questionnaire surveys of departmental heads in one chartered and one statutory university. Comparisons are made between the role in the two types of university and with the findings of a study that was carried out by the author in 1995–6. The main findings of the present study were that, although the role has become more similar in the two types of university, there remain significant differences, most notably relating to the perceived importance of personal research. The most difficult issue identified by heads in both universities was dealing with under-performing staff.
Linking Resources to Learning
Authors: Wilkins Raphael
Published: October 2003

This article investigates contemporary resourcing issues for schools, and in particular explores the concept of linking resources to learning. The article is based on a study of school funding in a local education authority, which captured headteachers’ perceptions of the funding issues for their schools, and analysed published financial data. This material is used to identify a number of practical and conceptual difficulties to linking resources to learning. Delegation of financial decision-making has resulted in a general shift of funding towards staffing and away from other categories of spending, but delegation has made it harder to obtain impartial analyses of the effectiveness of resource deployment decisions. The interest of headteachers and others in ‘needs led’ models of school funding raises a number of conceptual difficulties. The article concludes that linking resources to learning requires a shift in emphasis away from the language of apportionment and towards the language of outcomes.
Leadership Studies in Education
Authors: Gunter Helen , Ribbins Peter
Published: October 2003

This is the second of two linked articles reported in this edition of the journal. Its focus is the process of mapping the field of leadership studies and producing maps of leadership practice. We locate this in both the theory of knowledge and of knowledge production from which we develop two more mapping typologies: first, an approach to the what, why and how of leaders, leading and leadership; and second, the presentation of possible positions that knowledge workers can take when they use and produce knowledge about leadership practice. We engage reflexively with these arguments and draw conclusions about the interplay between our own agency and the structures we inhabit, and how we both capture and make this real time activity transparent.
Enhancing School Leadership
Authors: Crawford Megan
Published: October 2003

This article offers a critical evaluation of how school leaders are using web-based conferencing. It asks if it is being used effectively, and how it could be developed. It takes an evaluation of the ICT component of the Leadership Programme for Serving Heads (LPSH), and looks at planned use, actual use and the views of the participants. It then discusses other research in online conferencing with school leaders and managers, and relates this to Wenger’s concept of a community of practice. The benefits of the community are discussed, and headteachers’ viewpoints are compared with research in this area. It asks whether the benefits of such communities are those that were originally intended, and how future research can develop.
Changing Times and Changing Roles
Authors: Rutherford Desmond
Published: October 2003

This article reports the findings from interviews with six headteachers of Roman Catholic primary schools on the composition and responsibilities of their senior management teams in the light of the 1998 Green Paper Teachers: Meeting the Challenge of Change. These heads were selected because their schools had figured well in the ‘Performance Tables 1999: Key Stage 2 Test Results’ and so should demonstrate exemplary practice. The schools’ OFSTED Inspection Reports provide further contextual information to inform the research. The findings explore the reasons for the schools’ success and, in particular, the centrality of the Catholic faith and the practice of the senior management teams.
The ‘As If’ Faculty/Student Advocate
Authors: Misch Donald A.
Published: October 2003

The ‘As If Faculty/Student Advocate’ is, fortunately, an infrequently encountered type of educational administrator, but one whose presence can be disconcerting and befuddling. S/he is described in terms of demographic, emotional, behavioural and interpersonal characteristics, underscoring this individual’s less than fully authentic concern for others. This administrative personality type is then related to psychological theories of narcissism, obsessive-compulsive personality, and aggression. Key constructs of self-psychology—the self, mirroring and maintenance of self-esteem—are employed to understand the underlying fears and motivations of the As If Faculty/Student Advocate.
Managing the Unmanageable?
Authors: Wallace Mike
Published: October 2003

The argument is developed that complex educational change, intrinsically, is relatively unmanageable. Its effective management entails coping with complexity over which control is inherently limited. There are modest possibilities for maximizing control within these limits and attempts to improve manageability should focus on them. Drawing on evidence from research on reorganization of schools, sources of ambiguity in the change process are identified. Popular prescriptions for practice are shown to have limited potential to guide practice because they underplay ambiguity and overplay the extent of human agency. It is suggested that understanding the extent and limits of human agency provides a strong foundation for more realistic prescriptions. Characteristics of complexity of reorganization as a complex educational change are identified and tentative practical themes for managing complex educational change are offered. An agenda for future research, theory, policy and practical guidance is put forward.
The Crux of Leadership
Authors: Busher Hugh , Barker Bernard
Published: October 2003

The three successful headteachers at a school in England managed policy, i.e. applied power effectively, in three distinct but interacting arenas: the micro level within the school and its departments; the meso level with local government and communities; and the macro level of central government and its agencies. They influenced these arenas by persuading school members to support their vision of a successful school through creating a culture that made staff and students feel valued but responsible members of the school community. This was achieved through the public sharing of knowledge of how to act effectively within school, e.g. in lessons or break times; to be connoisseurs of external policy contexts at meso and macro level; to understand how staff, students, and parents might perceive their actions; to assert their views and values effectively within the common interests of the school community. These leaders also created relationships with the school’s local authority and residential communities that made their members feel welcome partners with the school.
Keeping the Show on the Road?
Authors: Draper Janet , McMichael Paquita
Published: October 2003

In a context where school leadership is identified as crucial to school performance and preparation for headship is expected, the role of the short-term acting head is increasingly anomalous and school leadership may be jeopardized. This article reports on a study of acting heads’ situations, experience and support in post. A range of reasons led to acting positions that were then held for widely varying periods and supported to very different degrees. Uncertainty on length of appointment, role boundaries and freedom to innovate led to some dissatisfaction and unwillingness to apply for permanent posts. The findings also raise issues for the maintenance of school performance in times of change and uncertainty.
From Struggling to Juggling
Authors: Glatter Ron
Published: October 2003

The growing power and influence of the central state in British education and the policy hysteria which frequently characterize it are considered. Policy is largely based on performance management and other technicalrational approaches and the article questions whether these provide an adequate framework for the complex and fluid future which education faces. Best practice outside education is assumed to be founded on rationalistic approaches, but recent research suggests that staff commitment and satisfaction are key factors in producing results. The implications of the centralizing, rationalizing trend for professional development and research are explored and strategies for responding to it are proposed.
Global Forces, National Mediations and the Management of Educational Institutions
Authors: Bottery Mike
Published: October 2003

This article argues that those interested in the future development of educational management theory and practice need to examine the global context within which they occur because this global context has a profound influence upon both of them. It begins by presenting definitions of both globalization and educational management, and goes on to argue that, contrary to what some writers believe, the effects of global forces are not simple and unmediated, but are affected by nation state interventions into economic affairs, the social lives of citizens, and the educational institutions of these states. This means that educational managers can expect to be more, rather than less, directed by national legislation, and that the strategies and policies devised at national level may mean that schools and educational institutions in general will follow increasingly nationalistic rather than global paths.
A Legal Examination of Two Cases Involving Employment References
Authors: Parry Gareth
Published: October 2003

The subject of employment references has given rise to important court decisions in recent years in both Britain and the United States. This paper looks in detail at two cases, one British and one American, and discusses some of the legal issues and problems that may arise in the writing of references as a result of these judgements. The practical implications of the cases for schools are considered. The paper also discusses the introduction of ‘no comment’ references, which are becoming increasingly prevalent in the USA. In these, employers refuse to provide detailed information for former or departing employees because of the potential fear of exposing themselves to liability. The difficulties and problems that such references can cause for school districts and teachers are touched upon.
Organizational Effectiveness in Higher Education
Authors: Pounder James
Published: October 2003

Quinn and Rohrbaugh’s Competing Values Framework or Model has been proposed as ‘a general paradigm of organisational effectiveness’, yet the relevance of the model to higher educational organizations has never been tested. This paper describes the development of a set of organizational effectiveness self-rating scales for higher educational institutions in Hong Kong. The method of development tested the relevance of the effectiveness dimensions contained in the Competing Values Model to Hong Kong higher educational establishments. Rating scales were developed in four of the model’s nine effectiveness dimensions. There are grounds for suggesting that these four dimensions constitute the core of a model of organizational effectiveness applicable to Hong Kong higher education. Additionally, the study raised some important managerial issues in higher education.
The Association of Needs Assessment Strategies with the Provision of Family-Friendly Benefits
Authors: Roberts Gary E.
Published: November 2003

Family-friendly benefits are an essential and costly component of the compensation and human resource management system. The research literature clearly indicates that municipal governments offer family-friendly benefits at very low levels. One plausible hypothesis for their lower provision rate is the absence of a systematic needs assessment. In this sample of 358municipal governments, benefits needs assessment was associated with a higher perceived importance of family-friendly benefits in stimulating favorable personnel outcomes. However, the presence of needs assessment was not directly associated with the actual number of family-friendly benefits provided. The note concludes with factors that may attenuate the demand and need for family-friendly benefits.
Effect of c-Sterilization Process on PLGA Microspheres Loaded with Insulin-Like Growth Factor - I (IGF-I)
Authors: Carrascosa C. , Espejo L. , Torrado S. , Torrado J. J.
Published: October 2003

The influence of γ-sterilization on the physicochemical properties of a controlled release formulation for the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) was investigated in this study. Recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-I (rhIGF-I) was efficiently entrapped in poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres by water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) solvent evaporation technique. Microspheres were irradiated at a dose of 25 kGy and evaluated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The stability of the released protein was investigated by circular dichroism (CD) and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrilamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). No difference was noticed in microsphere size and morphology before and after irradiation. Drug loading remains essentially the same after the sterilization process. However, rhIGF-I aggregation was detected by electrophoresis. In addition, subtle changes in DSC pattern were noticed for irradiated microspheres. In vitro drug release from irradiated microspheres was also affected, showing an increased burst effect. From this results it can be concluded that γ-sterilization process causes changes in the properties of rhIGF-I loaded microspheres.
Genetic Algorithm Based Resistive Susceptor Design for Uniform Heating During the Induction Bonding Process
Authors: Mathur R. , Advani S. G. , Yarlagadda S. , Fink B. K.
Published: October 2003

In this research work, cut mesh design optimization for the induction bonding process using genetic algorithms (GAs) is investigated to solve the problem of nonuniform heating, which leads to nonuniform temperature fields and temperature gradients exceeding the process window required for bonding. Cut patterns in the metal mesh can redirect the magnetically induced electric currents generated thus changing the temperature distribution. In this work, the heat generation model for determining current and heat generation distribution for a given coil and mesh size, coded as a Mathematica function, was coupled with a simple genetic algorithm. The cost function to be minimized by the GA was the ratio of the maximum heat generation in the mesh to the minimum heat generation. Two studies were performed with the GA-based design optimization: the first with a six sided square mesh and the second using a ten sided square mesh. The best cut mesh designs obtained from the GA were compared with the globally optimal designs, where available, and with the baseline mesh. The GA could not reach the global optima due to the complex nature of the design search space. However, it was determined that the GA was able to reduce the variations in heat generation in the mesh for all cases and delivered significant improvements over the baseline case in reasonable computational time, evaluating less than 2% of the possible cut mesh patterns. Thus the genetic algorithm based design optimization was proven to be a computationally efficient tool in the generation of good cut mesh designs for the induction bonding process.
Ultrasonic Riveting and Hot-Air-Sticking of Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Hahn O. , Finkeldey C.
Published: October 2003

Mechanical fastening, e.g. screwing or riveting, or thermal joining techniques like ultrasonic riveting or hot-air-sticking, are used to join thermoplastic composites and metallic structures. This paper compares the experimental results of ultrasonic riveting and hot-air sticking of fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP-GM30, PP-LGF40) and polyamide6 (PA6-GF30) with steel. The influence of glass fiber volume fraction on process stability and the tensile strength of the joint are evaluated from micrographs and X-ray photographs. The influence of the thermoplastic matrix material and the glass fiber length on the wear of the sonotrode during ultrasonic riveting is investigated based on SEM-micrographs and surface roughness measurements.