bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrasonic Stimulation Induced Fos Expression in Medullary Catecholaminergic Neurons in Rats
Authors: Xing Xiao-Hui , Wang Ling , Rao Zhi-Ren , Chen Jing-Zao
Published: January 2017

To clarify the effects of infrasound on the medulla, catecholaminergic neurons in the medulla expressing Fos were investigated in the rats by immunohistochemical method. After exposure to infrasound (8Hz, 120dB) for 2 hours, animals were sacrificed and sections of the medulla were stained immunohistochemically for Fos and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Many Fos-like immunoreactive neurons were found in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) and Ventrolateral medulla (VLM) at the middle and caudal levels of medulla, only a few of them scattered in the reticular formation between NTS and VLM. Some Fos immunoreactive neurons were also labeled with TH. These results indicated that medulla was sensitive to infrasonic stimulation and some medullary catecholaminergic neurons might be involved in the responses to the stress produced by infrasound.
Study protocol for a scoping review on rehabilitation scoping reviews
Authors: Colquhoun Heather L , Jesus Tiago S , O’Brien Kelly K , Tricco Andrea C , Chui Adora , Zarin Wasifa , Lillie Erin , Hitzig Sander L , Straus Sharon
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

Scoping reviews are increasingly popular in rehabilitation. However, significant variability in scoping review conduct and reporting currently exists, limiting potential for the methodology to advance rehabilitation research, practice and policy. Our aim is to conduct a scoping review of rehabilitation scoping reviews in order to examine the current volume, yearly distribution, proportion, scope and methodological practices involved in the conduct of scoping reviews in rehabilitation. Key areas of methodological improvement will be described.

Methods and analysis:

We will undertake the review using the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review methodology. Our search will involve two phases. The first will combine a previously conducted scoping review of scoping reviews (not distinct to rehabilitation, with data current to July 2014) together with a rehabilitation keyword search in PubMed. Articles found in the first phase search will undergo a full text review. The second phase will include an update of the previously conducted scoping review of scoping reviews (July 2014 to current). This update will include the search of nine electronic databases, followed by title and abstract screening as well as a full text review. All screening and extraction will be performed independently by two authors. Articles will be included if they are scoping reviews within the field of rehabilitation. A consultation exercise with key targets will inform plans to improve rehabilitation scoping reviews.

Ethics and dissemination:

Ethics will be required for the consultation phase of our scoping review. Dissemination will include peer-reviewed publication and conferences in rehabilitation-specific contexts.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Clinical Evaluation of Patellar Resurfacing with Press-Fit Osteochondral Autograft Plugs
Authors: Nho Shane J. , Foo Li Foong , Green David M. , Shindle Michael K. , Warren Russell F. , Wickiewicz Thomas L. , Potter Hollis G. , Williams Riley J.
Published: January 2017

Background

Autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT) has been successfully used in the femoral condyle and trochlea and is an attractive treatment option for full-thickness patellar cartilage lesions.

Hypothesis

Patients treated with AOT for the repair of symptomatic, isolated patellar cartilage lesions will demonstrate improvement in functional outcomes and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging appearance.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Between 2002 and 2006, patients with focal patellar cartilage lesions treated with AOT were prospectively followed. The mean age at the time of surgery was 30 years. Clinical assessment was performed with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), activities of daily living of the Knee Outcome Survey (ADL), and Short Form-36 (SF-36) at baseline and most recent follow-up. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to evaluate the cartilage repair morphologic characteristics in 14 cases.

Results

Twenty-two patients met the study criteria with a mean follow-up of 28.7 months (range, 17.7–57.8 months). The mean Patellar lesion size was 165.6 ± 127.8 mm and the mean size of the donor plug was 9.7 ± 1.1 mm in diameter with 1.8 ± 1.4 Plugs/defect. The mean preoperative IKDC score was 47.2 ± 14.0 and improved to 74.4 ± 12.3 ( P = .028). The mean preoperative ADL score was 60.1 ± 16.9 and increased to 84.7 ± 8.3 ( P = .022). The mean SF-36 also demonstrated an improvement, from 64.0 ± 14.8 at baseline to 79.4 ± 15.4 ( P = .059). Nine patients underwent concomitant distal realignment and demonstrated improvement between preoperative and postoperative outcomes scores, but these differences were not statistically significant. Magnetic resonance imaging appearance demonstrated that all plugs demonstrated good (67%–100%) cartilage fill, 64% with fissures <2 mm at the articular cartilage interface, 71 % with complete trabecular incorporation, and 71 % with flush plug appearance.

Conclusion

Patellar AOT is an effective treatment for focal patellar chondral lesions, with significant improvement in clinical follow-up. This study suggests that patients with patellar malalignment may represent a subset of patients who have a poor Prognostic outlook compared with patients with normal alignment.
Ban on Gay, Abortion Copy Finds Community Support
Authors: Waters Ken , Lynd Taryn , Wood Tara
Published: January 2017

This case study examines the decision to ban editorial or advertising content supporting homosexual and abortion rights. The authors found papers continued to flourish because their policies reflected beliefs of people in their communities.
Advertising Agencies Reduce Reliance on Newspaper Ads
Authors: Maxwell Ann , Wanta Wayne
Published: January 2017

A survey of 211 U.S. advertising agency executives showed that the main reason for the decreased reliance was the inefficiency of newspaper advertising in reaching audiences.
Survey Supports Publication of Controversial Letters
Authors: Reader Bill , Riffe Dan
Published: January 2017

The survey indicates that most people agree with journalists that publishing controversial opinions in letters to the editor is ethically justified.
Number of Corrections Increase at Two National Newspapers
Authors: Nemeth Neil , Sanders Craig
Published: January 2017

The number of corrections published in The New York Times and The Washington Post in 1997 and 2007 was compared. The Times more than doubled the number of its corrections. The Post published slightly more.
Citizen Journalism Web Sites Complement Newspapers
Authors: Lacy Stephen , Duffy Margaret , Riffe Daniel , Thorson Esther , Fleming Ken
Published: January 2017

A content analysis of 86 citizen blog sites, 53 citizen news sites and 63 daily newspaper sites indicated that citizen journalism sites, including both news and blog sites, differed significantly from newspaper sites.
Newpapers Use Three Frames to Cover Alternative Energy
Authors: Haigh Michel M.
Published: January 2017

A content analysis of articles covering alternative energy in nine newspaper found the most common frames were international trade, the U. S. economy and political strategy. Story frame, tone and source credibility changed over time.
Regular Readers Expect More Polling Details
Authors: Currin-Percival Mary
Published: January 2017

People who regularly read newspapers rate a poll without information about how it was done as less informative and less objective than do those who do not regularly read newspapers.
Cuts in Newspaper Staffs Change Meeting Coverage
Authors: Besley John C. , Roberts M. Chris
Published: January 2017

Reporters were asked about public meetings coverage and what changes are occurring given news organizations' cuts in staff. All reported using the Internet to file copy during and after meetings and some use blogs to discuss the meetings.
Commentary about Government Both Broad, Diverse
Authors: Fico Frederick , Lacy Stephen , Baldwin Thomas , Bergan Daniel , Wildman Steven S. , Zube Paul
Published: January 2017

A study of editorials, columns and letters about local government in dailies and weeklies shows the range available is both broad and diverse, an outcome consistent with the goals of the Hutchins Commission as well as that of the journalism community.
Web-centric Convergence Replaces Media Partnerships
Authors: Kraeplin Camille , Batsell Jake
Published: January 2017

This study of convergence journalism at TV news operations and newspapers in the top 200 markets found that cross-platform partnerships found in 2003 and 2005 had largely faded by 2011 to be replaced by a new model of web-centric convergence journalism or ‘Webvergence.’
Social Media Features Attract College Students to News Websites
Authors: Chock T. Makana , Wolf John M. , Chen Gina Masullo , Schweisberger Valarie N. , Wang Yi
Published: January 2017

Younger readers were more likely to spend time on a local news website and report a greater likelihood to return to the site after social media features were added. The college-age students also perceived content on the site as more valuable and as having a greater influence on them.
Reporters' Smartphone Use Improves Quality of Work
Authors: Molyneux Logan
Published: January 2017

A survey of U.S. newspaper reporters and editors found that journalists with smartphones are more likely to produce multimedia, including audio, video and photo content; however, many complain that smartphones keep them tethered to their work seven days a week.
U.S. Newspapers Cite Social Media More than Does the Egyptian Press
Authors: Fesenamier Margaret A. , Kaloumeh Luay , Zhuang Yuxi , Ivory James D.
Published: January 2017

Articles in U.S. newspapers about demonstrators during the 2011 Egyptian revolution mention social media more frequently than do articles in Egyptian newspapers, and they also describe social media more often as an effective tool in the revolt.
Economic Forces behind Newspapers' Increasing Use of Color and Graphics
Authors: Kenney Keith , Lacy Stephen
Published: January 2017

A national random sample of 114 daily newspapers probed how economic factors, such as competition and ownership, affect the use of new technology for color and graphics. Regression analysis showed newspaper competition had a significant impact on newspapers' use of color and graphics. Television competition had no impact. The number of newspapers in a group had a limited relationship to the use of graphics and color.
Blaming the Boss
Authors: Pease Ted
Published: January 2017

The 1,328 newspaper journalists responding to a national study place “inept managers” atop a list of reasons they think the industry is losing talent. “Bad managers have disillusioned more journalists than I can count,” one reporter said, “and I don't see the industry doing anything about it.”
The McPaper Revolution?
Authors: Gladney George Albert
Published: January 2017

The newspaper industry still has a long way to go before all U.S. dailies look and act like USA Today, according to this study of the country's 230 largest papers. Smaller, group-owned papers showed more tendency to adopt USA Today characteristics, while big “elite” papers and independents have resisted adopting McPaper traits.
Using Focus Groups to Improve Survey Research
Authors: Grusin Elinor Kelley , Stone Gerald C.
Published: January 2017

Mass communication researchers often ask questions that require individuals to recall past behaviors and events, but little attention has been given to how interviewers can stimulate recall. This study – applying focus group techniques – indicates survey respondents may have more to say than they initially think.
Is One as Good as Another? The Relative Influence of Pre-Election Surveys on Voter Behavior
Authors: Cotter Patrick R. , Stovall James G.
Published: January 2017

Election surveys, expert opinions and man-in-the-street interviews all have about the same amount of impact on candidate preference.
Covering Local Conflict: Fairness in Reporting a Public Policy Issue
Authors: Fico Frederick , Soffin Stan
Published: January 2017

Few of 42 stories on local conflict were balanced, but overall both sides got equal treatment. Sources were a major influence on coverage.
Novel Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Hydrogels from Silylated PEGs
Authors: Jo Seongbong , Park Kinam
Published: January 2017

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and Pluronic® F-127 (PF127) were silylated with 3-isocyanatopropyltriethoxysilane to synthesize PEG-based hydrogels by sol-gel transition of silane. Silanes on different PEG molecules formed covalent bonds by acid-catalyzed hydrolysis and condensation. Addition of monosilylated PEG resulted in the incorporation of dangling PEG chains, which increased the swelling ratio of the hydrogels slightly. PEG hydrogels in microspheres were prepared by emulsifying aqueous silylated PEG solution in oil followed by curing. Crosslinked PF127 hydrogels displayed inverse thermosensitivity. The previously swollen PF127 hydrogels shrank immediately at high temperatures (e.g., 6000), but the welling of shrunken hydrogels at low temperature (e.g., 5°C) took much longer. The release of fluorescein from the PF127 hydrogels was dependent on the temperature of the environment. The release of fluorescein from the PF127 hydrogels was faster at 45°C than at 5°C. This was most likely due to shrinking of the hydrogels leading to squeezing of the incorporated fluorescein. The ability of hydrogel formation by simple sol-gel transition of silylated PEG can be used to prepare new drug delivery systems and biomaterials.
Are Canadian Girls Becoming More Violent? An Examination of Integrated Criminal Court Survey Statistics
Authors: Silcox Jennifer
Published: January 2017

Girls often find themselves at the center of a moral panic surrounding youth crime with claims that their behavior is out of control in national news media. While media often readily suggests that crime among girls is on the rise, there is little scholarly consensus. This article explores the Integrated Criminal Court Survey to analyze whether guilty findings among girls are rising, what can be said about girls’ involvement in crime and violence over the past few decades, and how legislation changes and ideological shifts have altered how youth in conflict with the law have been treated.
Social Disorganization Theory, Community Empowerment, and Coalition Building: Exploring the Linkages
Authors: Moriarty Laura J.
Published: January 2017

The linkages between social disorganization theory, community empowerment, and coalition building are explored in the present article in an effort to address alcohol and other drug problems within communities. Social disorganization is explained and the conceptualization and operationalization of the dimensions of social disorganization are discussed. Both community empowerment and coalition building, two processes used to reorganize a socially disorganized community, are explained. Specific examples from the police literature focusing on community empowerment are also discussed.
The BEST of British
Authors: Tobert Michael T.
Published: January 2017

The UK, as far as we can discover, is currently the only country in the world that has an expertise database for its research community. It is one of the few countries that entrusts this sort of development to the private sector. I would like to look at how this has come about, comment on two factors that I think have influenced the outcome - namely size and quality - say something about who uses the database and where it is all leading.
Support and Recognition for Workplace Learning
Authors: Lamdin Lois
Published: January 2017

In this article, Lois Lamdin reviews current perceptions of ‘employability’ in the USA, the kind and extent of training sponsored by industry, and the difficulties perceived by industry in interacting with higher education in relation to training. She stresses the importance of recognizing the workplace as learning place, discusses the development and benefits of prior learning assessment, and sets out the importance of establishing a national credentialling system for the workforce, taking into account the variety of academic and non-academic ways learning is achieved. Finally, she describes the existing work of the Employee Growth and Development Programs of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning, which demonstrate how business, unions, government, and higher education can work together to help respond to the crucial challenge of training and retraining a national workforce.
Italian Industry and Universities
Authors: Romagnoli Gian Cesare
Published: January 2017

Activities and interest in the sphere of university–industry interaction have grown rapidly in Italy over the past ten years, but cooperation between the sectors is still in its infancy and there is a lack of formal structures for liaison. With special reference to the research programme Progetto Impresa-Università of the Fondazione RUI, the author assesses recent developments in university–industry interaction in Italy and points up organizational and structural constraints. He suggests various policy and organizational measures to encourage and facilitate cooperative activities, while at the same time taking into account the necessity to avoid imposing cooperation on academic institutions.
An Interactive Model of Business/Academia
Authors:   McKinsey & Co
Published: January 2017

This article points out flaws in two types of ‘linear models’ (‘technology-driven’ models and ‘market-driven’ models) and argues that an interactive model will lead to the most successful partnerships. Three phases are identified: business concept generation; design development and concept testing; and commercialization and launch. The article concludes by outlining the optimum focus of collaboration for different sized companies.
Exploitation of Research in UK Universities
Authors: Reed J.V.
Published: January 2017

This article looks first at the subject of technology transfer. Patent portfolio management is discussed, followed by research grants and contracts, and spin-off companies. Issues related to intellectual property management are then covered, including ownership, copyright and confidential information. The article stresses the many changes in approach that have taken place in UK universities in the last 10 years and which seem set to continue.
Exploitation or Partnership?
Authors: Elliott Chris
Published: January 2017

The author proposes a model for university—industry partnership which, in particular, takes a different approach to intellectual property rights from current policy in the UK. He argues that the prevailing attitude to IPR, while attempting to generate rewards for the academics, actually reduces the rewards they receive. He also suggests that contract research is assuming too high a priority and that universities are in danger of being deflected from their key roles of educating students and advancing knowledge. The exploitation of intellectual ability, he argues, does not equal the exploitation of intellectual property rights, and a focus on the latter in the universities is counterproductive to stimulating collaboration. The approach proposed is that currently employed successfully in the Smith Institute, a collaborative venture between the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge and Smith System Engineering.
Technology Transfer and Innovation in China
Authors: Ming Wang Xing
Published: January 2017

In recent years China has achieved rapid economic growth. This is in part due to the ‘opening up’ of the country to the outside world through reforms of the economic system. Technology transfer and innovation have played a significant role in that growth and are a high priority in the government's agenda for future development. This article reviews recent developments in technology transfer in China and looks at the policies in place and under development to encourage more widespread technology innovation, transfer and dissemination. In particular, the author considers the role of foreign investment, the establishment of Special Economic and Technical Development Areas, and further economic and financial infrastructure reforms.
The ‘Technology for Business Growth’ Programme
Authors: Kirk C.M. , Winsley P.H.
Published: January 2017

The use of technology to gain competitive advantage is emerging internationally as one of the key strategic issues for modern enterprises in the rapidly changing environment of the 1990s. Much of New Zealand's steadily declining economic performance over the last 30 years has been attributed to a lack of R&D investment and technological innovation. In response to this, the Technology for Business Growth Programme was introduced in 1990 by the government with the primary aim of catalysing an ‘R&D’ culture in industry. This article sets out the Programme's aims and actions in the context of the culture and attitudes that have been prevalent in New Zealand business, and assesses its success to date.
Industry and Engineering Education in the USA
Authors: Dahlstrom Donald A.
Published: January 2017

Many changes have occurred in US engineering education that have affected the critical relationship between higher education and industry. Chief among these influences are rapid change and growth in technology; reduction in participation in higher education budgets in the 50 state universities to markedly reduced percentages; increase in student tuition and costs to more than twice the inflation rate of the Consumer Price Index; the global marketplace as it affects industry; and the fact that the federal government supplies by far the biggest percentage of higher education research grants, with industry supplying the least (thus, the government has considerable influence on university research). The author discusses what changes should be made to improve this critical relationship, particularly as it concerns engineering education.
User Needs Analysis
Authors: Hobday Mike , Rush Howard
Published: January 2017

This paper presents the ‘user needs analysis' – a simple tool designed to build trust and confidence between industrial managers and academic researchers involved in long-term collaborative science research. The authors provide a step-by-step explanation of how the tool has been implemented in three large organizations currently participating in a three-year project concerned with innovation management. The paper shows how multiple needs can be identified and the benefits which can acrue to both sides in the collaboration.
University–Enterprise Cooperation
Authors: Prosser Ed
Published: January 2017

The author examines the extent to which university–enterprise cooperation is part of a very complex set of operations for education and economic systems. He looks at the ways in which such cooperation developed significantly in the 1980s under the impulse of national and EU programmes, which led to a whole range of institutional instruments coming into being – such as liaison centres, science parks, incubators, teaching and research staff exchange, student placement schemes, joint training programmes and continuing education centres. He further examines the extent to which the 1990s have seen a decrease in this type of partnership and lists possible reasons from the point of view of both universities and enterprises. Finally, the author provides various scenarios for the future and argues that universities will need to review the basis of their organization and redefine their own mission and partnership with enterprises.
Properties of the Interpenetrating Polymer Network Hydrogels Composed of Poly(vinyl alcohol) and Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride)
Authors: Kim Seon Jeong , Yoon Seoung Gil , Kim Sun I.
Published: January 2017

Temperature-and pH-responsive interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels constructed with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) using the sequential IPN method were studied. The characterizations of IPN hydrogels were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). IPN hydrogels exhibited a relatively high swelling ratio, 180-360% at room temperature. The swelling ratio for the hydrogels depended on pH and temperature. DSC was used to determine the amount of free water in IPN hydrogels. The amount of free water increased with increasing PDADMAC content in the IPN hydrogel.
Early clinical experience of dolutegravir in an HIV cohort in a larger teaching hospital
Authors: Todd SEJ , Rafferty P , Walker E , Hunter M , Dinsmore WW , Donnelly CM , McCarty EJ , Quah SP , Emerson CR
Published: January 2017

Dolutegravir (DTG) is the third HIV integrase inhibitor (INI) available for prescription in Belfast since July 2014. It has shown high virological efficacy in both treatment-naïve and -experienced patients. We carried out a retrospective case chart analysis of HIV-1-positive adults commenced on DTG between July 2014 and September 2015. Patients were identified from records as either treatment-naïve or antiretroviral therapy (ART) experienced. Outcomes included: (1) virological response (HIV-1 RNA viral load at 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks), (2) immunological response (CD4+ cell count at 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks) and (3) tolerability (side effects and discontinuation). The main exclusion criteria were patients transferring care already established on DTG from other treatment centres or inadequate follow-up information (defined as attendance at <50% of clinical and serological follow-up visits). One hundred and fifty-seven commenced DTG out of 823 patients on ART; 106 (68%) were switched to DTG from another regimen, and 51 (32%) were ART-naïve. One naïve and 14 treatment-experienced patients were excluded from the analysis due to failure to attend clinical follow-up. Analysis of HIV-1 RNA viral load (HIV-1 VL) was divided into three groups: 50 new starters, 68 suppressed at switch and 24 not suppressed at switch. New starters: Baseline median HIV-1 RNA VL 71,259 copies/mL (19,536Q25−196,413Q75); 73% were virally undetectable (HIV-1 RNA VL <70 copies/mL) by week 4. Switching patients: Of those with an HIV-1 RNA undetectable viral load prior to switching, two were detectable with a mean viral load of 443,730 copies/mL after four weeks. Of the 24 patients detectable at switch (median HIV-1 VL 2212 [311Q25−43,467Q75]), 10 were detectable after four weeks. For those with a recordable viraemia, the median HIV-1 VL reduced to 376 (220Q25−1181Q75). At week 12, four patients were detectable with a median VL of 12,390 (567Q25−52,285Q75). Overall, 56 (35%) reported side effects; 40 (25%) reported either difficulty with low mood, anxiety or sleep disturbance. Sixteen (10%) discontinued DTG, with 13 (8%) due to intolerable side effects. DTG is a useful drug in naïve or switch patients. It has the potential to effectively suppress the viral load within the first four weeks of treatment and thus reduces infectiousness. Within the cohort, DTG was generally well tolerated but side effects such as low mood, anxiety and sleep disturbance were high, with 8% of patients discontinuing treatment.
Nuclear Electrics Approach to Environmental Management Systems
Authors: Kemp N. W. , Free A. J.
Published: January 2017

Nuclear Electric (NE) currently operates the 11 nuclear power stations in England and Wales, generating 61 TWh of electricity in 93/94, constituting over 23% of the Country's electricity consumption. The company is also decommissioning 2 nuclear power station, Berkeley and Trawsfynydd, and is progressing commissioning of the PWR station at Sizewell to time and cost. NE was formed in 1990 following the re-organisation of the UK electricity industry, taking over all the nuclear stations previously operated by the Central Electricity Generating Board (CEGB). The company competes in the UK electricity market with the privatised generators National Power and Powergen who inherited the fossil fuelled stations of the CEGB.

This paper outlines the nature of Nuclear Electric's existing environmental management systems, considers the implications of the adoption of a company environmental policy and looks at the exercise currently under way to incorporate the requirements of the policy into current management practices using BS7750 as a vehicle.
Volcanism and Climate
Authors: Schönwiese C.-D.
Published: January 2017

Apart from anthropogenic impact on climate, there are a variety of natural impacting mechanisms which overlap in climate observation data, so considerably complicating the determination of causes and effects. One of these mechanisms is explosive volcanism, which leads to various kinds of particles being released into the stratosphere. These particles scatter and absorb parts of incoming solar radiation, causing the stratosphere to grow warmer and at the same time the lower atmosphere (troposphere) to grow cooler. Therefore volcanism is an antagonist of the “Greenhouse Effect”.
Energy Consumption in Large Acute Hospitals
Authors: Willliams J.M. , Griffiths A.J. , Jones D. , Eaton P.N.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines energy cost and consumption in large acute hospitals. Energy represents the third largest cost in the National Health Service behind staff wages and drugs, hence it is recognised as a major cost area. The Department of Health has established a target of reducing energy consumption in the National Health Sector by 15% in the five year period up to 1996. The experience of hospitals suggests that savings of up to 20% are possible on predicted levels. The largest energy cost in hospitals is electricity, this accounts for 42% of total energy expenditure. There is a sharp upward trend in electricity consumption throughout the Health Sector. The remaining energy expenditure is allocated to fossil fuels. A case study performed at the Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport, identified electricity as the major energy cost and examined the areas where the greatest consumption was occurring.
CO2 Taxes and Duties
Authors: Schulz W. , Welsch H.
Published: January 2017

The Federal Government is aiming for a reduction of the total CO2 emissions of the whole of Germany by the year 2005 of 25-30%. One of the political instruments that is to be applied for achieving this target is a CO2 duty or tax (see note at the end of this paper). But even the most basic questions regarding the design of this tax still remain a point of conflict. Furthermore it is unclear in what relationship this kind of duty is meant to be with the European combined energy/CO2 tax which since has been suggested. This paper will examine firstly a proposal of CO2 duties for the power station sector, one differentiated according to the efficiency level of the power station and to the energy source, and secondly will show the results of simulations of CO2, duties and energy taxes in models of the economy. In both cases the effectiveness (CO reduction achieved per DM tax) and the efficiency (total economic costs per t CO2 reduction) of different taxation solutions will be noted.
Why Regionalism? A Look at the Costs and Benefits of Regional Trade Agreements in Africa
Authors: Barnekow Sarah Ellis , Kulkarni Kishore G.
Published: January 2017

Countries were involved in regional trade agreements (RTAs) long before the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) was established in 1947. In recent years, however, RTAs have proliferated, particularly in Africa. In this article, we examine the various reasons why African countries have chosen to engage in these agreements, particularly in light of the fact that they do not seem to be ‘trade creating’ in nature. As Jacob Viner made it popular in the 1950s, not all trade agreements lead to higher economic welfare for the nations engaging in them. In the case of African countries where there is a limited degree of variation in the goods that are produced, and infrastructure and trading systems are designed for intercontinental rather than intra-continental trade, RTAs may not necessarily lead to greater welfare. Our examination of RTAs does not yield a strong positive result that they are welfare-enhancing exercises. A greater care needs to be taken for future RTAs.
Determinants of Price Differential for Labour Pricing within the Ghanaian Construction Industry
Authors: Kissi Ernest , Oteng Daniel , Akunyumu Stephen , Offei Isaac
Published: January 2017

The construction industry is a sector of the economy that transforms various resources into constructed physical economic and social infrastructure necessary for socio-economic development. Labour forms an integral part of the construction process and cannot be overlooked. The reward of labour wages has become a domain for agitation in recent times as a result of the differential pricing of labour across the country, ranging from city to city. The aim of this study is to explore the determinants that account for different rates of labour. A mixed method approach was used that involves semi-structure interview and closed-ended questionnaires. The target population for the data collection was contractors, labourers and consultants within Ghana. Data generated from the survey were analysed using relative importance index (RII). The study revealed that consultants, labourers and contractors take into account the level of skill of personnel, demand for labour competition among firms, use of plant and equipment among others as the important determinants for labour pricing differential. The empirical data are limited to the views of consultants, labourers and contractors in the Ghanaian construction industry only. The article is of utmost importance for policymakers especially consultants in estimating prices of labour for certain geographical regions. Likewise, the study has the potential of spurring future development of the industry in order to stop labour agitation and also serve as a basis for future research.
Why Packaging Is Commercially Vital for Tobacco Corporations
Authors: Barraclough Simon , Gleeson Deborah
Published: January 2017

This study analyses what British American Tobacco (BAT) and its 4 publicly listed Asian subsidiary companies have told their shareholders about the commercial value of tobacco packaging. The discourse on packaging in BAT annual reports was analyzed, revealing themes of modernization, rejuvenation, internationalism, heritage, innovation, value for money, and competitive edge. Packaging was credited with providing existing brands with a competitive edge and enabling the successful “launch” of new ones. Since advertising, sponsorship, and free samples were prohibited in many countries, packaging has become more important for advertising. New brands and brand variants have proliferated. BAT companies have allocated considerable resources to regularly altering packaging for marketing purposes. Clearly, restrictions on packaging will substantially detract from the promotion of the company’s brands. The findings provide further evidence from industry sources of the vital function of packaging and further justify plain packaging as an essential part of any comprehensive tobacco control policy.
Effects of different hydrocolloids on properties of gluten-free bread based on small broken rice berry flour
Authors: Numfon Rakkhumkaew
Published: January 2017

Gluten-free bread formulations based on small broken rice berry using various types of hydrocolloids (xanthan gum, guar gum, and locust bean gum) at different concentrations (0, 1, 1.5, and 2 g/100 g) were tested in this study. The effects of hydrocolloid addition on the pasting properties of flour were also investigated, including the quality parameters of the breads. The pasting properties of small broken rice berry flour incorporated with guar gum were most affected. Gluten-free bread containing hydrocolloid showed improved qualities in terms of loaf specific volume, texture, sensory values, and microstructure. A 1 g/100 g of hydrocolloid addition was sufficient to improve the physical and chemical qualities of bread. The highest score of all attributes from the sensory evaluation was obtained by gluten-free bread containing 1 g/100 g guar gum.
Noteworthy Literature Published in 2016 for the Cardiothoracic Anesthesiologist
Authors: Varelmann Dirk J. , Muehlschlegel J. Daniel
Published: January 2017

Clinical research and outcome studies dominated the publication spectrum for the cardiothoracic anesthesiologist in 2016. Echocardiography is an important tool in the armamentarium of the cardiothoracic anesthesiologist. Technology is advancing at a fast pace: A new method to quantify the regurgitant volume in mitral regurgitation has been described in an experimental model and been validated in humans. Interesting studies on key elements of our daily practice have been published: Does tranexamic acid decrease the transfusion requirements after cardiac surgery? Are patients with a postoperative cognitive deficit at risk for dementia 7.5 years after surgery? What is the best strategy for post–cardiac surgery atrial fibrillation? What is the mechanism of preconditioning with remifentanil? Large multicenter looked at the treatment strategies for moderate and severe ischemic mitral regurgitation and benefits of transcatheter aortic valve replacement versus the surgical approach. These studies may give us ideas on how to tailor treatment to optimize the patients’ outcome and to minimize the associated risks.
Globalization routes: The pursuit of conformity and distinctiveness by top business schools in India
Authors: Vakkayil Jacob , Chatterjee Debabrata
Published: January 2017

In this article, we examine how leading business schools in India orient themselves locally and globally while pursuing conformity and distinctiveness. We expect that these dynamics are particularly complex in ‘emerging’ economies such as India where liberalization and subsequent economic resurgence have led to more intense global exposure for business schools. By exploring changes in the way these responses are applied over time, we identify four globalization routes in the field. Furthermore, we show that these routes make up two broad zones of global–local interaction. In one, we point to the ability of global practices to serve both global and local compulsions, leading to the diffusion of global norms and practices. In the other, we point to how inherent paradoxes lead to possibilities for moderate and radical global distinctiveness.
First-time fathers’ perception of their childbirth experiences
Authors: Howarth Anne M , Scott Kate M , Swain Nicola R
Published: January 2017

Birth satisfaction impacts on a man’s adjustment to his new role as father. Fathers have been found to have needs similar to those of mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. Research suggests that these needs may not be being met for first-time fathers. In a quantitative survey, fathers’ birth satisfaction was similar to mothers. This study then used a phenomenological form of thematic analysis to gain an insight into the birth experiences of 155 first-time New Zealand fathers. Core themes included safety of mother and baby, understanding support role, mother in control and managing pain and care and communication after birth. Fathers commented on what impacted on their childbirth experiences and in so doing outlined their needs for a positive experience. Fathers experienced a high level of satisfaction along with a need to be involved and included.
On the sequential organization and genre-orientation of discourse units in interaction: An analytic framework
Authors: Quasthoff Uta , Heller Vivien , Morek Miriam
Published: January 2017

The article deals with larger stretches of talk-in-interaction and argues in favor of a descriptive approach, which integrates the structural requirements of global organization, the special type of sequential orderliness within larger units as well as the genre-orientation of these units. Drawing on previous work in conversation analysis, discourse analysis and the sociological genre analysis, the article introduces GLOBE as an analytical tool which functionally links discourse units to conventionalized communicative purposes. GLOBE reconstructs the interactive achievement of genre-oriented discourse units in a three-branch analysis of jobs, devices and forms. The analytical potential of GLOBE is demonstrated in the exemplary genre-contrastive analysis of a narrative, an explanative and an argumentative excerpt. On the basis of the analyses of the three genres, the overarching constitution of genre-oriented global units is then explicated.
Structural health monitoring for impact damaged composite: a new methodology based on a combination of techniques
Authors: de Medeiros Ricardo , Vandepitte Dirk , Tita Volnei
Published: January 2017

Advanced aerospace materials, including fibre-reinforced polymer and ceramic matrix composites, are increasingly being used in critical and demanding applications, challenging not only the current damage prediction, detection and quantification methodologies, but also the residual life of the structure. The main objective of this work consists of developing a new methodology based on different techniques to be applied on structural health monitoring system for impacted composite aeronautic structures. For this, it is necessary to identify, and to localise damage, as well as to calculate the severity of the damage and to predict the residual strength of the composite structure. To achieve these goals, the research methodology should consider three methods: (1) vibration-based method, (2) shearography speckle and (3) flexural after impact. Composite plates, made of epoxy resin reinforced by carbon fibre, are evaluated. First, vibration-based method provides frequency response functions to be analysed by a new metric, which is compared in terms of their capability for damage identification and global location. Afterwards, the extension of impact damage is determined using shearography speckle. This technique has demonstrated great potential for damage detection in composite-laminated structures. A flexure after impact test is used to evaluate its limitations and potentialities as a damage-tolerance technique. The residual flexural strength of damaged specimens is evaluated by quasi-static four-point bending test. A new criterion based on a relationship between damage metric from vibration-based method and flexure after impact analysis is presented and discussed. Finally, it discussed the advantages and limitations of this combination of techniques into the context of structural health monitoring systems.
A Qualitative Approach to Lifelong Learning: Strategic Competence and Reflective Education
Authors: Alberici Aureliana
Published: January 2017

The present article is first of all a contribution to theory in the broad field of adult education in lifelong perspective, that, starting from literature and theories in this field, develops a reflection based on empirical work, related in particular to the use of qualitative methodologies in the learning process for mature students enrolled in university. The outcome of this experimentation was the support and empowerment of motivation and volition and the development of proactive, reflexive and self-analytical abilities needed for adult students to achieve transformative and reflective results in learning. The first part of the paper brings forward a theory on lifelong learning (LLL) and it is also a reflection on the need to place the subject at the centre of education by using qualitative methods, such as: experiential, reflective and transformative learning.

In the second part, the paper tackles the issue of the relations between LLL and reflectiveness, as a basic feature of social relationships, of organisations and personal relations. The third section focuses on ‘learning to learn’ as a strategic competence and a necessary resource for anyone. The last part takes into consideration concepts and methods of reflective education as a feature of education not limiting itself to its functional dimension. Thus, some reflective methodologies such as: Bilan de Compétences (BdC), empowerment, lifelong guidance, critical event, are brought forward as examples of reflective educational paths.
Using a Simultaneous Prompting Procedure with an iPad to Teach the Pythagorean Theorem to Adolescents with Moderate Intellectual Disability
Authors: Creech-Galloway Carey , Collins Belva C. , Knight Victoria , Bausch Margaret
Published: January 2017

Providing standards-based instruction in core content areas for individuals with moderate and severe disabilities is a hot topic in the field of special education, and teachers struggle to find the best methods for providing high-quality standards-based instruction in core content areas that also has personal relevance for the students. This investigation evaluated the effectiveness of a simultaneous prompting procedure to teach four adolescents with moderate intellectual disabilities to use the Pythagorean theorem to solve real-life scenarios (i.e., sewing, using a ladder, finding dimensions of a screen) shown on a short video on an iPad. A multiple probe design across participants evaluated the effectiveness of the procedure. Results indicate the participants acquired the skill of using the Pythagorean theorem and generalized it to additional real-life, novel problems. Social validity, limitations, and implications for practitioners are also discussed.
What Families Need: Validation of the Family Needs Assessment for Taiwanese Families of Children with Intellectual Disability and Developmental Delay
Authors: Chiu Chun-Yu , Turnbull Ann P. , Summers Jean Ann
Published: January 2017

This study documented the process of developing and validating the Family Needs Assessment (FNA), a seven-factor 73-item measure developed for research and practice, using a sample of Taiwanese families. In developing the FNA, the research team identified a theoretical basis for family needs, used literature and qualitative results in generating items, ensured culturally and linguistically accurate translation of the measure, and revised the measure based on results from pilot tests and cognitive interviews. Although a confirmatory factor analysis is necessary to support final validity, results from this study provide a foundation for understanding Taiwanese family needs. According to the results, the domains with highest needs are Hope (i.e., anticipating and achieving positive outcomes) and Disability-Related Services (i.e., getting services and teaching the child with disabilities). Findings from this study indicate that the FNA, developed as a comprehensive, contemporary, accessible, and culturally appropriate tool, can contribute to the disability-related field in research and practice.
The Solitary Criminologist
Authors: Crichlow Vaughn J.
Published: January 2017

This article uses a narrative approach to explore Black identity and alienation in the academy. It discusses the dearth of Black criminologists and the potential consequences of the underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in higher education. The researcher uses critical race theory as a framework for understanding these challenges. The difficulties of navigating a tenure-track career in criminology and criminal justice while deconstructing the burden and responsibility of representing “Blackness” in a predominantly White field are also discussed. Narrative can be a useful approach for exploring racial identity, unearthing relevant challenges within the field, and increasing knowledge on the experience of Black scholars. It can also foster greater connectivity among minority faculty across institutions. It is recommended that support groups be used to address the needs of underrepresented minorities, build inclusive work cultures, alleviate feelings of alienation and the perceived responsibility of representing one’s own race.