bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Earliest Homo Sapiens (Sapiens): Biological, Chronological and Taxonomic Perspectives
Authors: Tillier Anne-marie
Published: June 2007

Over the last twenty years the debate over the origin of modern Man has broadened, the supporters of a theory of regional diversification of Homo sapiens being often opposed by those holding to the single source theory (the ‘Out of Africa’ model). At the same time, the idea of Homo neanderthalensis as a separate species was being resurrected, supported by bone classification typology and drawing on arguments derived from palaeogenetic analyses, which buttressed the case for the existence of distinct species and for privileging an African origin for modern humans. The prospects offered by palaeogenetic research to find answers for the questions concerning the relationship between modern humans and Neanderthals throw up numerous questions and all the obstacles have not yet been removed. Palaeoanthropology, from its point of view, casts major doubt on the thesis according to which man has always evolved in the same direction.
Hedonistic Consumerism: Patterns of Consumption in Contemporary Capitalism
Authors: Migone Andrea
Published: June 2007

The post-Fordist accumulation regime has drifted toward hedonistic consumerism: a mix of highly unequal and bourgeoning consumption. Since World War II, cultural and structural elements have led to a situation in which consumption, fostered by induced wants, far exceeds levels of basic need and tends to be monopolized by the wealthiest, both among and within nations. I suggest that a possible solution to these tensions may be found by applying Sen's notion of equality of opportunity to modern patterns of consumption.
Attitudes About the Police and Neighborhood Safety in Disadvantaged Neighborhoods
Authors: Payne Brian K. , Gainey Randy R.
Published: June 2007

Building on past research, this study focuses on how the experience of victimization and being approached by a drug dealer relate to individuals' perceptions about neighborhood safety and in turn affect perceptions of the police. Ordinal logistic regression analyses are conducted on data from a sample of residents in socially and economically disadvantaged, high-crime neighborhoods. Findings suggest that victimization leads to perceptions that one is not safe, but being approached by a drug dealer has an even stronger effect. Being approached by a drug dealer and perceptions of being unsafe are the strongest factors affecting negative attitudes toward the police. Implications are provided.
Report: Policy drivers and the planning and implementation of integrated waste management in Ireland using the regional approach
Authors: Rudden P.J.
Published: May 2007

Waste management in Ireland has been dramatically transformed over the past 10 years from over 90% reliance on landfill towards a fully integrated approach. According to the latest EPA National Database Report in 2007 our municipal (household and commercial but excluding construction and demolition) recycling rate was 35% in 2005. This has been achieved through the implementation of 10 regional waste management plans all prepared within a new national planning framework in accordance with the Waste Management Act 1996 and Government policy document `Changing Our Ways', published in 1998 by the Irish Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The principal drivers of the waste management plans and strategies are the EU Waste Framework Directive (recently revised), the EU Packaging Directive and the EU Landfill Directive. In addition, there were substantial political and environmental drivers due to the relatively poor standard of landfills in Ireland. Strict landfill regulation by the Environment Protection Agency commenced in 1997and led to many closures of poor facilities and new standards of siting design and operation. This has led to very high landfill charges that are only now beginning to stabilize. The key to improving public attitudes to the greatly improving waste management system has been the degree and content of stakeholder involvement programmes. These programmes are now consolidated into a national `Race against Waste' programme (www.raceagainstwaste.ie). The purpose of the programme is to create awareness and deal with many of the misconceptions in the public mind attached to waste treatment methods especially incineration. Waste management is after all about people.
Report: Examples of capacity building cooperation
Authors: Poulsen Svend Byrial
Published: May 2007

Odense Waste Management Company Ltd. (OWMC) covers the municipality of Odense having around 185 000 inhabitants. It is a not-for-profit company, in which all services are paid for by the users. OWMC is increasingly participating in international development activities, particularly within training and operational support. This is mainly driven by the staff, who think it is important, interesting, challenging and fun to contribute their know-how elsewhere. The main approach applied, when training and practice is undertaken for OWMC's own staff as well as for international cooperation partners, is to keep things simple and easily understandable, even if there may sometimes be rather complex processes and activities involved. So far, OWMC has in 2003— 2005 participated in a project for the municipalities of Koszalin and Slupsk in Northern Poland, and in 2005—2007 in a project for the newly established solid waste management departments of Beni Suef and El Fashn cities in Egypt. Would it be possible to create a future waste management sector with more know-how sharing mechanisms in place, and might the establishment of a capacity building working group or networking forum, for example, within the framework of ISWA be an important step forward in this context? Why not just start now?
Exploration of urban deposits: long-term prospects for resource and waste management
Authors: Wittmer Dominic , Lichtensteiger Thomas , Wittmer Dominic
Published: May 2007

Many materials currently in use are potentially available to become raw materials for future production if the materials are recycled instead of discarded as solid waste. However, the structure and life-expectancy of these secondary resources have not been sufficiently examined, and comprehensive methods for forecasting the availability of such materials are still lacking. This study presents a method for identifying anthropogenic material stocks in combination with the method of material flow analysis (MFA). The method was applied to copper in Switzerland as an example, with the focus on use in buildings. The exploration concept was a three-step process. First, a MFA identified the relevant stocks within the inventory of the region. Second, these stocks were inventoried through a building stock model and determination of key parameters that were defined by surveying selected buildings and from the literature. Third, the study team developed a dynamic MFA model to describe the copper stocks and flows during the period 1900—2000. The results of the copper stock calculation (in kg capita—1) were: buildings 79 ± 11, infrastructure 107 ± 25, movables 34 ± 9, landfills 50 ± 12. The calibrated model enabled the study team to develop resource and waste management scenarios forecasting waste flows. It is shown that the conversion of buildings into other uses may affect the waste flows significantly.
Report: Waste refinery in the municipality of Borås
Authors: Johansson Andreas , Blomqvist Evalena , Ekvall Annika , Gustavsson Lennart , Tullin Claes , Andersson Bengt-Åke , Bisaillon Mattias , Jarlsvik Tisse , Assarsson Anders , Peters Gunnar
Published: May 2007

This paper briefly describes waste treatment trends in Sweden and describes an example of state-of-the-art treatment in a local integrated waste treatment system (Borås). The focus is on treatment of household waste, to illustrate what can be done to establish a sustainable waste treatment system with high recovery of materials and energy. The various processes have resulted in a low amount of landfilled household waste, and high proportions of recovered energy and materials. Heat, electricity, vehicle fuel and fertilizers, metals and construction materials are recovered from the local waste in Borås, with less than 4% of domestic waste being sent to landfill.
Digitized Virtuosity: Video War Games and Post-9/11 Cyber-Deterrence
Authors: Power Marcus
Published: June 2007

In post-9/11 America, digital war games have increasingly come to provide a space of cyber-deterrence where Americans are able to `play through' the anxieties that attend uncertain times and new configurations of power. This article seeks to examine the increasingly close relationship between the US military and the digital-game industry, along with the geographies of militarism that this has produced. Focusing on the contribution that digital war games make to a culture of perpetual war and in the manufacture of consent for US domestic and foreign policy, the Pentagon's mobilization and deployment of digital games as an attempt to create a modern version of the noble war fantasy is critically examined. With particular reference to America's Army, the official US Army game, the article seeks to examine the influence of digital war games in the militarization of popular culture and in shaping popular understandings of geopolitics.
Social Risk and Social Insurance
Authors: Kim Wonik
Published: June 2007

This article analyzes the political support for social insurance, providing micro-foundations of how rational workers demand social protection. Existing studies have focused on the importance of income inequality in the form of redistributive and income effects. Yet they have largely ignored the protective effect stemming from the distribution of risks within society. Using unemployment insurance, I argue that the political demand for unemployment insurance depends on the distribution of risk as well as income in a society. A multiplicative interaction model is employed to test the joint effects of income and risk inequality on replacement rates of unemployment insurance. The empirical evidence shows that: 1) the risk of losing one's job differs significantly across the economic sectors in which people are employed, 2) the impact of risk inequality is positive unless there is excessively high income inequality, and 3) the relationship between income inequality and unemployment benefits is also conditional upon risk inequality.
Development of a Quasi-static Model of NiMnGa Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Couch Ronald N. , Sirohi Jayant , Chopra Inderjit
Published: June 2007

A quasi-static model for NiMnGa magnetic shape memory alloy is formulated along the lines of the Brinson and Tanaka SMA constitutive models. Since the shape memory effect (SME) and pseudoelasticity exist in both NiTi and NiMnGa, constitutive models for SMAs offer a basis for ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (FSMA) modeling. Two types of quasi-static tests involving constant external magnetic field and constant stress are conducted to identify nine model parameters. These model parameters include free strain, Young's moduli, fundamental critical stresses, fundamental critical threshold fields, and stress-influence coefficients. The Young's moduli of the material in its field and stress preferred states are determined to be 450 and 820 MPa respectively, while the free strain is measured to be 6.5%. These test data are used to assemble a critical stress—magnetic field intensity profile that is useful for determining the model parameters and for predicting the various states of the material for a wide range of magnetic or mechanical loading conditions. Although all of the parameters can be obtained from constant magnetic field testing, useful insight into NiMnGa actuator behavior can be gained from constant axial stress tests. Once implemented, the analytical model shows good correlation with the test data, capturing both the magnetic shape memory effect and pseudoelasticity. Because the model is piecewise linear, it does not capture material behavior resulting from nonlinear effects such as magnetic saturation. Despite its inherent limitations, this model shows encouraging results, providing a solid basis for future modeling efforts.
Contemporary art's audiences
Authors: Sifakakis Spyros
Published: May 2007

While postmodernist claims for contemporary art~s pluralism, inclusive character and interpenetration with everyday cultures proliferate, little attention is paid to the actual practices, discourses and realities of the art world, its institutions and the interest groups that are involved. Based on findings of the author~s recent ethnographic research on a leading contemporary art gallery in Britain and through an analysis of art~s audiences as an insider construct, this article argues that a distinction exists between informed and uninformed audiences which is directly associated with two competing types of cultural recognition. These are specialist accreditation and public recognition; the domination of the former in their struggle is presented as decisive in art~s socio-cultural legitimization and as manifest in the content and limited range of the audience as an insider discourse.
Health Disparities and Violence Against Women
Authors: Bent-Goodley Tricia B.
Published: June 2007

This article encourages readers to consider the cultural and societal influences that impact health and health disparities among women survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Health consequences caused by IPV are widely documented and broadly discussed. Connections between health disparities and IPV are also discussed as related to women of color. Cultural factors and societal influences are identified to provide the reader with greater awareness of how these issues intersect with and impact IPV. Finally, the implications for scientific research and practice are discussed to include considerations for stronger assessment tools, greater collaboration and community participation, determination of best practices, requirement of cultural competence, mandated accountability, encouragement of mentorship, increased funding for research, increased advocacy, and increased culturally competent media and health promotion campaigns.
Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in Medical Settings
Authors: Phelan Mary Beth
Published: June 2007

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with negative health consequences. Universal screening for IPV offers many opportunities for successful intervention, yet this practice in medical settings is controversial. This article examines the potential impact of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for IPV screening and the emerging literature supporting measurable health benefits resulting from screening interventions in medical settings. Several screening tools and methods of administration that have been evaluated in various clinical settings, with goals to increase their sensitivity and to determine a best method of administration, are reviewed in this article. Mandatory reporting is closely linked to screening practices and may influence healthcare worker practice and patient disclosure. Mandatory reporting studies are lacking and show variable physician compliance, victim acceptance, and scant outcome data. Informed consent prior to screening, explaining the process of mandatory reporting statutes and victim options should be evaluated to increase sensitivity of screening tools.
Chemokine-idiotype fusion DNA vaccines are potentiated by bivalency and xenogeneic sequences
Authors: Fredriksen Agnete Brunsvik , Bogen Bjarne
Published: June 2007

V regions of monoclonal Ig express an exquisite B-cell tumor–specific antigen called idiotype (Id). Id is a weak antigen and it is important to improve immunogenicity of Id vaccines. Chemokine receptors are expressed on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and are promising targets for Id vaccines. Here we compare monomeric and dimeric forms of MIP-1α and RANTES that target Id to APCs in a mouse B lymphoma (A20) and a multiple myeloma model (MOPC315). MIP-1α was more potent than RANTES. The dimeric proteins were more potent than monomeric equivalents in short-term assays. When delivered in vivo by intramuscular injection of plasmids followed by electroporation, dimeric proteins efficiently primed APCs in draining lymph nodes for activation and proliferation of Id-specific CD4+ T cells. Good anti-Id antibody responses were obtained, and mice immunized only once were 60% to 80% protected in both tumor models. CD8+ T cells contributed to the protection. Antibody responses and tumor protection were reduced when the human Ig hinge = CH3 dimerization motif was replaced with syngeneic mouse counterparts, indicating that tumor-protective responses were dependent on xenogeneic sequences. The results suggest that bivalency and foreign sequences combine to increase the efficiency of chemokine-Id DNA vaccines.
Critical role of FLT3 ligand in IL-7 receptor–independent T lymphopoiesis and regulation of lymphoid-primed multipotent progenitors
Authors: Sitnicka Ewa , Buza-Vidas Natalija , Ahlenius Henrik , Cilio Corrado M. , Gekas Christos , Nygren Jens M. , Månsson Robert , Cheng Min , Jensen Christina T. , Svensson Marcus , Leandersson Karin , Agace William W. , Sigvardsson Mikael , Jacobsen Sten Eirik W.
Published: June 2007

The molecular pathways regulating lymphoid priming, fate, and development of multipotent bone marrow (BM) stem/progenitor cells that continuously replace thymic progenitors remain largely unknown. Herein, we show that fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3) ligand (Fl)–deficient mice have distinct reductions in the earliest thymic progenitors in fetal, postnatal, and adult thymus. A critical role of FL in thymopoiesis was particularly evident in the absence of interleukin-7 receptor α (IL-7Rα) signaling. Fl−/−Il-7r−/− mice have extensive reductions in fetal and postnatal thymic progenitors that result in a loss of active thymopoiesis in adult mice, demonstrating an indispensable role of FL in IL-7Rα–independent fetal and adult T lymphopoiesis. Moreover, we establish a unique and critical role of FL, distinct from that of IL-7Rα, in regulation of the earliest lineage-negative (Lin−) Lin−SCA1+KIT+ (LSK) FLT3hi lymphoid-primed multipotent progenitors in BM, demonstrating a key role of FLT3 signaling in regulating the very earliest stages of lymphoid progenitors.
Endogenous platelet factor 4 stimulates activated protein C generation in vivo and improves survival after thrombin or lipopolysaccharide challenge
Authors: Kowalska M. Anna , Mahmud Shawn A. , Lambert Michele P. , Poncz Mortimer , Slungaard Arne
Published: June 2007

Pharmacologic infusion of activated protein C (APC) improves survival in severe sepsis, and platelet factor 4 (PF4) accelerates APC generation in a primate thrombin-infusion model. We now tested whether endogenous platelet PF4 content affects APC generation. Mice completely deficient in PF4 (mPF4−/−) had impaired APC generation and survival after thrombin infusion, similar to the impairment seen in heterozygote protein C–deficient (PC+/−) mice. Transgenic mice overexpressing human PF4 (hPF4+) had increased plasma APC generation. Overexpression of platelet PF4 compensated for the defect seen in PC+/− mice. In both a thrombin and a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) survival model, hPF4+ and PC+/−/hPF4+ mice had improved survival. Further, infusion of hPF4+ platelets improved survival of wild-type mice after an LPS challenge. These studies suggest that endogenous PF4 release may have biologic consequences for APC generation and survival in clinical sepsis. Infusions of PF4-rich platelets may be an effective strategy to improve outcome in this setting.
The cooperative activity between the carboxyl-terminal TSP1 repeats and the CUB domains of ADAMTS13 is crucial for recognition of von Willebrand factor under flow
Authors: Zhang Ping , Pan Weilan , Rux Ann H. , Sachais Bruce S. , Zheng X. Long
Published: June 2007

ADAMTS13 cleaves von Willebrand factor (VWF) between Tyr1605 and Met1606 residues at the central A2 subunit. The amino-terminus of ADAMTS13 protease appears to be sufficient to bind and cleave VWF under static and denatured condition. However, the role of the carboxyl-terminus of ADAMTS13 in substrate recognition remains controversial. Present study demonstrates that ADAMTS13 cleaves VWF in a rotation speed– and protease concentration–dependent manner on a mini vortexer. Removal of the CUB domains (delCUB) or truncation after the spacer domain (MDTCS) significantly impairs its ability to cleave VWF under the same condition. ADAMTS13 and delCUB (but not MDTCS) bind VWF under flow with dissociation constants (KD) of about 50 nM and about 274 nM, respectively. The isolated CUB domains are neither sufficient to bind VWF detectably nor capable of inhibiting proteolytic cleavage of VWF by ADAMTS13 under flow. Addition of the TSP1 5-8 (T5-8CUB) or TSP1 2-8 repeats (T2-8CUB) to the CUB domains restores the binding affinity toward VWF and the inhibitory effect on cleavage of VWF by ADAMTS13 under flow. These data demonstrate directly and quantitatively that the cooperative activity between the middle carboxyl-terminal TSP1 repeats and the distal carboxyl-terminal CUB domains may be crucial for recognition and cleavage of VWF under flow.
The twisted pharynx phenotype in C. elegans
Authors: Axäng Claes , Rauthan Manish , Hall David H , Pilon Marc
Published: June 2007

Background

The pharynx of C. elegans is an epithelial tube whose development has been compared to that of the embryonic heart and the kidney and hence serves as an interesting model for organ development. Several C. elegans mutants have been reported to exhibit a twisted pharynx phenotype but no careful studies have been made to directly address this phenomenon. In this study, the twisting mutants dig-1, mig-4, mnm-4 and unc-61 are examined in detail and the nature of the twist is investigated.

Results

We find that the twisting phenotype worsens throughout larval development, that in most mutants the pharynx retains its twist when dissected away from the worm body, and that double mutants between mnm-4 and mutants with thickened pharyngeal domains (pha-2 and sma-1) have less twisting in these regions. We also describe the ultrastructure of pharyngeal tendinous organs that connect the pharyngeal basal lamina to that of the body wall, and show that these are pulled into a spiral orientation by twisted pharynges. Within twisted pharynges, actin filaments also show twisting and are longer than in controls. In a mini screen of adhesionmolecule mutants, we also identified one more twisting pharynx mutant, sax-7.

Conclusion

Defects in pharyngeal cytoskeleton length or its anchor points to the extracellular matrix are proposed as the actual source of the twisting force. The twisted pharynx is a useful and easy-to-score phenotype for genes required in extracellular adhesion or organ attachment, and perhaps forgenes required for cytoskeleton regulation.
Distinguishing importation from diversification of quinolone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae by molecular evolutionary analysis
Authors: Pérez-Losada Marcos , Crandall Keith A , Bash Margaret C , Dan Michael , Zenilman Jonathan , Viscidi Raphael P
Published: June 2007

Background

Distinguishing the recent introduction of quinolone resistant gonococci into a population from diversification of resistant strains already in the population is important for planning effective infection control strategies. We applied molecular evolutionary analyses to DNA sequences from 9 housekeeping genes and gyrA, parC and porB of 24 quinolone resistant N. gonorrhoeae (QRNG) and 24 quinolone sensitive isolates collected in Israel during 2000–2001.

Results

Phylogenetic and eBURST analyses and estimates of divergence time indicated QRNG were introduced on 3 separate occasions and underwent limited diversification by mutation, deletion and horizontal gene transfer. Reconstruction of N. gonorrhoeae demography showed a slowly declining effective strain population size from 1976 to 1993, rapid decline between 1994 and 1999, and an increase from 1999 to 2001. This is partially attributable to declining gonorrhea case rates from 1973 to 1994. Additional contributing factors are selective sweeps of antibiotic resistant gonococci and increased transmission from sex workers. The abrupt decline in the mid-1990s heralded an increased incidence of gonorrhea from 1997 to the present. The subsequent increase in effective strain population size since 1999 reflects the increased gonococcal census population and introduction of quinolone resistance strains.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the effective use of population genetic approaches to assess recent and historical population dynamics of N. gonorrhoeae.
A review of methodology and analysis of nutrition and mortality surveys conducted in humanitarian emergencies from October 1993 to April 2004
Authors: Prudhon Claudine , Spiegel Paul B
Published: June 2007

Background

Malnutrition prevalence and mortality rates are increasingly used as essential indicators to assess the severity of a crisis, to follow trends, and to guide decision-making, including allocation of funds. Although consensus has slowly developed on the methodology to accurately measure these indicators, errors in the application of the survey methodology and analysis have persisted. The aim of this study was to identify common methodological weaknesses in nutrition and mortality surveys and to provide practical recommendations for improvement.

Methods

Nutrition (N = 368) and crude mortality rate (CMR; N = 158) surveys conducted by 33 non-governmental organisations and United Nations agencies in 17 countries from October 1993 to April 2004 were analysed for sampling validity, precision, quality of measurement and calculation according to several criteria.

Results

One hundred and thirty (35.3%) nutrition surveys and 5 (3.2%) CMR surveys met the criteria for quality. Quality of surveys varied significantly depending on the agency. The proportion of nutrition surveys that met criteria for quality rose significantly from 1993 to 2004; there was no improvement for mortality surveys during this period.

Conclusion

Significant errors and imprecision in the methodology and reporting of nutrition and mortality surveys were identified. While there was an improvement in the quality of nutrition surveys over the years, the quality of mortality surveys remained poor. Recent initiatives aimed at standardising nutrition and mortality survey quality should be strengthened. There are still a number of methodological issues in nutrition and mortality surveys in humanitarian emergencies that need further study.
Who should be undertaking population-based surveys in humanitarian emergencies?
Authors: Spiegel Paul B
Published: June 2007

Background

Timely and accurate data are necessary to prioritise and effectively respond to humanitarian emergencies. 30-by-30 cluster surveys are commonly used in humanitarian emergencies because of their purported simplicity and reasonable validity and precision. Agencies have increasingly used 30-by-30 cluster surveys to undertake measurements beyond immunisation coverage and nutritional status. Methodological errors in cluster surveys have likely occurred for decades in humanitarian emergencies, often with unknown or unevaluated consequences.

Discussion

Most surveys in humanitarian emergencies are done by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Some undertake good quality surveys while others have an already overburdened staff with limited epidemiological skills. Manuals explaining cluster survey methodology are available and in use. However, it is debatable as to whether using standardised, 'cookbook' survey methodologies are appropriate. Coordination of surveys is often lacking. If a coordinating body is established, as recommended, it is questionable whether it should have sole authority to release surveys due to insufficient independence. Donors should provide sufficient funding for personnel, training, and survey implementation, and not solely for direct programme implementation.

A dedicated corps of trained epidemiologists needs to be identified and made available to undertake surveys in humanitarian emergencies. NGOs in the field may need to form an alliance with certain specialised agencies or pool technically capable personnel. If NGOs continue to do surveys by themselves, a simple training manual with sample survey questionnaires, methodology, standardised files for data entry and analysis, and manual for interpretation should be developed and modified locally for each situation. At the beginning of an emergency, a central coordinating body should be established that has sufficient authority to set survey standards, coordinate when and where surveys should be undertaken and act as a survey repository. Technical expertise is expensive and donors must pay for it. As donors increasingly demand evidence-based programming, they have an obligation to ensure that sufficient funds are provided so organisations have adequate technical staff.
The use of personal digital assistants for data entry at the point of collection in a large household survey in southern Tanzania
Authors: Shirima Kizito , Mukasa Oscar , Schellenberg Joanna Armstrong , Manzi Fatuma , John Davis , Mushi Adiel , Mrisho Mwifadhi , Tanner Marcel , Mshinda Hassan , Schellenberg David
Published: June 2007

Background

Survey data are traditionally collected using pen-and-paper, with double data entry, comparison of entries and reconciliation of discrepancies before data cleaning can commence. We used Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) for data entry at the point of collection, to save time and enhance the quality of data in a survey of over 21,000 scattered rural households in southern Tanzania.

Methods

Pendragon Forms 4.0 software was used to develop a modular questionnaire designed to record information on household residents, birth histories, child health and health-seeking behaviour. The questionnaire was loaded onto Palm m130 PDAs with 8 Mb RAM. One hundred and twenty interviewers, the vast majority with no more than four years of secondary education and very few with any prior computer experience, were trained to interview using the PDAs. The 13 survey teams, each with a supervisor, laptop and a four-wheel drive vehicle, were supported by two back-up vehicles during the two months of field activities. PDAs and laptop computers were charged using solar and in-car chargers.

Logical checks were performed and skip patterns taken care of at the time of data entry. Data records could not be edited after leaving each household, to ensure the integrity of the data from each interview. Data were downloaded to the laptop computers and daily summary reports produced to evaluate the completeness of data collection. Data were backed up at three levels: (i) at the end of every module, data were backed up onto storage cards in the PDA; (ii) at the end of every day, data were downloaded to laptop computers; and (iii) a compact disc (CD) was made of each team's data each day.

A small group of interviewees from the community, as well as supervisors and interviewers, were asked about their attitudes to the use of PDAs.

Results

Following two weeks of training and piloting, data were collected from 21,600 households (83,346 individuals) over a seven-week period in July-August 2004. No PDA-related problems or data loss were encountered.

Fieldwork ended on 26 August 2004, the full dataset was available on a CD within 24 hours and the results of initial analyses were presented to district authorities on 28 August. Data completeness was over 99%.

The PDAs were well accepted by both interviewees and interviewers.

Conclusion

The use of PDAs eliminated the usual time-consuming and error-prone process of data entry and validation. PDAs are a promising tool for field research in Africa.
Sampling in health geography: reconciling geographical objectives and probabilistic methods. An example of a health survey in Vientiane (Lao PDR)
Authors: Vallée Julie , Souris Marc , Fournet Florence , Bochaton Audrey , Mobillion Virginie , Peyronnie Karine , Salem Gérard
Published: June 2007

Background

Geographical objectives and probabilistic methods are difficult to reconcile in a unique health survey. Probabilistic methods focus on individuals to provide estimates of a variable's prevalence with a certain precision, while geographical approaches emphasise the selection of specific areas to study interactions between spatial characteristics and health outcomes. A sample selected from a small number of specific areas creates statistical challenges: the observations are not independent at the local level, and this results in poor statistical validity at the global level. Therefore, it is difficult to construct a sample that is appropriate for both geographical and probability methods.

Methods

We used a two-stage selection procedure with a first non-random stage of selection of clusters. Instead of randomly selecting clusters, we deliberately chose a group of clusters, which as a whole would contain all the variation in health measures in the population. As there was no health information available before the survey, we selected a priori determinants that can influence the spatial homogeneity of the health characteristics. This method yields a distribution of variables in the sample that closely resembles that in the overall population, something that cannot be guaranteed with randomly-selected clusters, especially if the number of selected clusters is small. In this way, we were able to survey specific areas while minimising design effects and maximising statistical precision.

Application

We applied this strategy in a health survey carried out in Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic. We selected well-known health determinants with unequal spatial distribution within the city: nationality and literacy. We deliberately selected a combination of clusters whose distribution of nationality and literacy is similar to the distribution in the general population.

Conclusion

This paper describes the conceptual reasoning behind the construction of the survey sample and shows that it can be advantageous to choose clusters using reasoned hypotheses, based on both probability and geographical approaches, in contrast to a conventional, random cluster selection strategy.
Don't spin the pen: two alternative methods for second-stage sampling in urban cluster surveys
Authors: Grais Rebecca F , Rose Angela MC , Guthmann Jean-Paul
Published: June 2007

In two-stage cluster surveys, the traditional method used in second-stage sampling (in which the first household in a cluster is selected) is time-consuming and may result in biased estimates of the indicator of interest. Firstly, a random direction from the center of the cluster is selected, usually by spinning a pen. The houses along that direction are then counted out to the boundary of the cluster, and one is then selected at random to be the first household surveyed. This process favors households towards the center of the cluster, but it could easily be improved. During a recent meningitis vaccination coverage survey in Maradi, Niger, we compared this method of first household selection to two alternatives in urban zones: 1) using a superimposed grid on the map of the cluster area and randomly selecting an intersection; and 2) drawing the perimeter of the cluster area using a Global Positioning System (GPS) and randomly selecting one point within the perimeter. Although we only compared a limited number of clusters using each method, we found the sampling grid method to be the fastest and easiest for field survey teams, although it does require a map of the area. Selecting a random GPS point was also found to be a good method, once adequate training can be provided. Spinning the pen and counting households to the boundary was the most complicated and time-consuming. The two methods tested here represent simpler, quicker and potentially more robust alternatives to spinning the pen for cluster surveys in urban areas. However, in rural areas, these alternatives would favor initial household selection from lower density (or even potentially empty) areas. Bearing in mind these limitations, as well as available resources and feasibility, investigators should choose the most appropriate method for their particular survey context.
Reliability of voluntary step execution behavior under single and dual task conditions
Authors: Melzer Itshak , Shtilman Irena , Rosenblatt Noah , Oddsson Lars IE
Published: May 2007

Background

The current study investigated the repeatability (test-retest reliability) of ground reaction force parameters recorded during a voluntary step execution under single (motor task) and dual task (motor and cognitive task) conditions for healthy adults and elderly individuals as well as the number of trials required to produce repeatable results.

Methods

Twenty-four healthy adults (21–63 years old) and 16 elderly adults (66–87 years) performed a voluntary rapid step execution following a tap on their heel while standing on a force platform under single and dual task conditions on three separate occasions. The first two tests were performed 30–60 minutes apart and the third test was performed a week later. Variables analyzed from the ground reaction force data included onset latency of step initiation (initiation phase), preparation and swing phases, foot-off and foot-contact times.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC(2,1)) were good to excellent across all parameters and test conditions for the pooled population and for elderly (0.74–0.92 and 0.62–0.88, respectively) except for the swing phase duration where lower values were seen (0.54–0.60 and 0.32–0.64 respectively). Values were similar under single and dual task conditions.

Conclusion

A voluntary step execution test, performed under single and dual task conditions especially foot-off and foot-contact times, is a reliable outcome measure that may be a useful tool to asses dynamic balance function for diagnostic purposes as well as clinical intervention trials.
Creating sustainable small to medium enterprises through technological innovation
Authors: Thomas A J
Published: May 2007

In order for UK manufacturing companies to meet the current pressures of a modern manufacturing environment they need to develop leaner, flexible, and more responsive manufacturing systems. At the heart of these requirements is the need to introduce advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) into companies in order to improve their efficiency and responsiveness to customer demands. While technology continues to be developed at unprecedented rates, the number of companies implementing such technologies is low. This in turn threatens their long-term economic sustainability.

This paper initially identifies the reasons why small to medium enterprises (SMEs) fail to adopt new and advanced technologies. It then goes on to propose a coherent strategy for the effective introduction and application of AMT in SMEs before proposing a model for the introduction of new and advanced technologies into these companies. The model is subsequently evaluated through its application in a number of SMEs and compares its performance through assessing the companies who adopted the model against those who decided not to use such a formal approach to technology implementation (TI). The creation of a generic TI model provides a framework for a wider number of SMEs to introduce AMT into their respective organizations since it provides for a systematic approach for SMEs to introduce AMT in an efficient and effective manner, thus reducing implementation costs and improving project management efficiency.
Texture analysis for grinding wheel wear assessment using machine vision
Authors: Arunachalam N , Ramamoorthy B
Published: May 2007

The surface quality of the components produced in a grinding process mainly depends on the grinding wheel topography. To maintain the quality of the component, the condition of the grinding wheel should be monitored and the periodical dressing has to be done to retain the shape and the sharpness of the cutting edges. In the present paper, the machine-vision-based texture analysis methods are introduced to discriminate the surface condition of the grinding wheel. The grinding wheel images are acquired using a charge coupled device (CCD) camera at different intervals of time during the process and the texture of the grinding wheel image is analysed using appropriate statistical and fractal methods. The variation of the parameters with the condition of the grinding wheel surface is analysed and presented. The evaluated parameters are clearly discriminating the texture of the grinding wheel at every stage. The methods presented in this paper can be used to assess the grinding wheel condition effectively.
Integrating knowledge maps in design process configurations for concurrently engineered product development
Authors: Yang Q , Song B , Lu W F , Zhang Y
Published: May 2007

Concurrently engineered product development requires effective inter-functional communication and knowledge sharing across multidisciplinary teams and heterogeneous processes. This paper presents a semantics-enabled approach to the integration of knowledge maps with design process configurations to support more meaningful communication and seamless collaboration between cross-functional teams and concurrent workflows in new product introduction (NPI) processes. The proposed approach focuses on: explicit and formalized process description and configuration of NPI activities; process knowledge capture and reuse through knowledge maps; integration of knowledge maps into design process configurations; and ontology-based process model mapping and knowledge sharing to support seamless process collaboration. It thereby contributes to the development of the next generation concurrent engineering methodologies in order to achieve NPI process advances for meaningful inter-functional communication and collaboration. The approach has been implemented in a software prototype to provide the concurrently engineered product development with the capabilities of semantic process description and configuration, knowledge reuse, and process collaboration.
A decision support system for supplier selection in the airline industry
Authors: Chan F T S , Chan H K , Ip R W L , Lau H C W
Published: May 2007

Supplier selection has increasingly been regarded as one of the most important strategies in the globalization era. While many companies require different resources from the supply market, airline companies require supplies of parts and repair and maintenance services. The suppliers of these products and services are regarded as critical for the industry. With the multidimensional nature of the problem, supplier selection involves both tangible and intangible selection criteria. This paper presents a case study on solving the supplier selection problem in the airline industry through a decision support system that employs the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The system was implemented with the aid of the commercial software package Expert Choice. The significance of the study is to provide a new platform for airline companies in selecting suppliers on the basis of the proposed decision support system, which was tested with a Hong Kong-based airline company during the course of development. In addition, the model highlights the areas of most concern to airline companies in supplier selection. Unlike many similar studies, sensitivity analysis has been performed in order to improve the robustness of the results, and to understand the importance of different criteria with respect to the selected decision.
Design and performance assessment for use in ultrasonic-aided cylindrical surface polishing
Authors: Pa P S
Published: May 2007

This paper studies the performance assessment of ultrasonic-aided electropolishing and ultrasonic-aided pulse-electropolishing of external cylindrical surfaces by three groups of design electrode recommended in a previous publication by the author. Six types of feeding electrode are connected with continuous direct current in an electropolishing experiment. It requires no expensive special-purpose equipment nor high material removal as does conventional electrochemical machining, it offers fast improvement of the surface roughness and reduces the residual stress on the workpiece in a new area in electropolishing. The control factors include die material, chemical composition and concentration of the electrolyte, electrolyte temperature, flowrate of the electrolyte, initial gap width, electrical current rating, workpiece and electrode rotational speed, and electrode feed rate. The experimental parameters are the frequency and power level of ultrasonics, the pulse period, and the electrode design. The design change from inner taper to inside pins for full-ring electrodes performs well. The designed flat arrowhead electrode with flute back rake angle and side rake angle comes out better than that of the double-flute arrowhead electrode. The disc electrode with pins attached on edge performs better than the disc with a discharge flute; and the polishing effect of disc-form electrodes is the best, followed by arrowhead electrodes, and ring-form electrodes. Using adequate electrode geometry as well as the ultrasonic aid, an effective and low-cost electropolishing of external cylindrical surface is presented.
High-velocity oxy-fuel coating of AMDRY 9954 on to Ti-6Al-4V alloy: Fracture toughness measurement
Authors: Al-Anazi D , Hashmi M S J , Yilbas B S
Published: May 2007

High-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) coating of AMDRY 985 on to Ti-6Al-4V alloy is carried out and fracture toughness of the coating is examined using indentation tests. The workpiece coated was heat treated for 1 h at annealing temperature to resemble the high heating ambients found in practice. Three-point bending test data are used to determine Young's modulus of the coating prior to and after heat treatment. It is found that heat treatment enhances the oxidation levels in the surface region of the coating, which then acts like the centres for early crack initiation. Once the crack formed at the surface reaches the coating substrate interface, total failure of the coating results.
Entropy generation in a rotating channel
Authors: Basha M , Al-Qahtani M , Yilbas B. S.
Published: May 2007

A computational study is performed on a three-dimensional turbulent flow and heat transfer in a rotating rectangular channel with an aspect ratio of 10:1, oriented 120° from the direction of rotations. Entropy generation due to heat transfer and fluid friction is computed and reported. To examine the influence of rotation number and density ratio on volumetric entropy generation rate, rotation number and density ratio are varied in the simulations. A numerical scheme employing a control volume approach is introduced to solve the governing equations of transport. A constant heat flux boundary condition at the leading and trailing edges of the channel is considered to resemble the blade heating. It is found that the rotation number and density ratio have a significant effect on the entropy generation rate in the channel. In this case, increasing the density ratio enhances the entropy generation rate, whereas increasing the rotation number modifies the trend of the entropy generation rate in the channel.