bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RANK ONE CHAOS IN SWITCH-CONTROLLED PIECEWISE LINEAR CHUA'S CIRCUIT
Authors: WANG QIUDONG , OKSASOGLU ALI
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we continue our study of rank one chaos in switch-controlled circuits. Periodically controlled switches are added to Chua's original piecewise linear circuit to generate rank one attractors in the vicinity of an asymptotically stable periodic solution that is relatively large in size. Our previous investigations relied heavily on the smooth nonlinearity of the unforced systems, and were, by large, restricted to a small neighborhood of supercritical Hopf bifurcations. Whereas the system studied in this paper is much more feasible for physical implementation, and thus the corresponding rank one chaos is much easier to detect in practice. The findings of our purely numerical experiments are further supported by the PSPICE simulations.
China's Exchange Traded Fund: Is There a Trading Place Bias?
Authors: Cheng Louis T. W. , Fung Hung-Gay , Tse Yiuman
Published: March 2008

We use Granger causality tests and an EGARCH model to analyze the pricing relations in the US between two exchange traded funds, the iShares FTSE/Xinhua China 25 Index (FXI) and the S&P 500 Index Fund (IVV). Daily data indicates that Hong Kong home market basically drives the FXI returns in the US. In case of intraday analysis, the US-based IVV appears to dominate the pricing of the FXI. The evidence supports the speculative pricing hypothesis that the location of trading has stronger effects than the influence of domestic effects summarized by FXI's lagged returns.
The Second Financial Reform and the Development of Financial Industry in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Wei-Hsiung
Published: March 2008

All 11 cases of listed banks in Taiwan involved in merger and acquisition during 2000–2006 are examined. In this paper, the cumulative abnormal returns of acquiring banks two days after merger announcement are found to be negative, although target banks' shareholders enjoy higher abnormal returns. For acquiring banks, the post-merger cost efficiencies are not improved. State-owned banks are more efficient and profitable. Operating restrictions on banks and the recession during sample period are the major reasons. It is also suggested that several state-owned banks should be preserved as a means of improving social welfare.
THE UNCERTAINTY PRINCIPLE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONTINUOUS SHEARLET TRANSFORM
Authors: DAHLKE STEPHAN , KUTYNIOK GITTA , MAASS PETER , SAGIV CHEN , STARK HANS-GEORG , TESCHKE GERD
Published: March 2008

Finding optimal representations of signals in higher dimensions, in particular directional representations, is currently the subject of intensive research. Since the classical wavelet transform does not provide precise directional information in the sense of resolving the wavefront set, several new representation systems were proposed in the past, including ridgelets, curvelets and, more recently, Shearlets. In this paper we study and visualize the continuous Shearlet transform. Moreover, we aim at deriving mother Shearlet functions which ensure optimal accuracy of the parameters of the associated transform. For this, we first show that this transform is associated with a unitary group representation coming from the so-called Shearlet group and compute the associated admissibility condition. This enables us to employ the general uncertainty principle in order to derive mother Shearlet functions that minimize the uncertainty relations derived for the infinitesimal generators of the Shearlet group: scaling, shear and translations. We further discuss methods to ensure square-integrability of the derived minimizers by considering weighted L2-spaces. Moreover, we study whether the minimizers satisfy the admissibility condition, thereby proposing a method to balance between the minimizing and the admissibility property.
COMPACTLY SUPPORTED MULTIVARIATE, PAIRS OF DUAL WAVELET FRAMES OBTAINED BY CONVOLUTION
Authors: EHLER MARTIN
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we present a construction of compactly supported multivariate pairs of dual wavelet frames. The approach is based on the convolution of two refinable distributions. We obtain smooth wavelets with any preassigned number of vanishing moments. Their underlying refinable function is fundamental. In the examples, we obtain symmetric wavelets with small support from optimal refinable functions, i.e. the refinable function has minimal mask size with respect to smoothness and approximation order of its generated multiresolution analysis. The wavelet system has maximal approximation order with respect to the underlying refinable function.
SAMPLING EXPANSION IN SHIFT INVARIANT SPACES
Authors: KIM J. M. , KWON K. H.
Published: March 2008

For any ϕ(t) in L2(ℝ), let V(ϕ) be the closed shift invariant subspace of L2(ℝ) spanned by integer translates {ϕ(t - n) : n ∈ ℤ} of ϕ(t). Assuming that ϕ(t) is a frame or a Riesz generator of V(ϕ), we first find conditions under which V(ϕ) becomes a reproducing kernel Hilbert space. We then find necessary and sufficient conditions under which an irregular or a regular shifted sampling expansion formula holds on V(ϕ) and obtain truncation error estimates of the sampling series. We also find a sufficient condition for a function in L2(ℝ) that belongs to a sampling subspace of L2(ℝ). Several illustrating examples are also provided.
HILBERT–SCHMIDT OPERATORS AND FRAMES — CLASSIFICATION, BEST APPROXIMATION BY MULTIPLIERS AND ALGORITHMS
Authors: BALAZS PETER
Published: March 2008

In this paper we deal with the theory of Hilbert–Schmidt operators, when the usual choice of orthonormal basis, on the associated Hilbert spaces, is replaced by frames. We More precisely, we provide a necessary and sufficient condition for an operator to be Hilbert–Schmidt, based on its action on the elements of a frame (i.e. an operator T is [Formula: see text] if and only if the sum of the squared norms of T applied on the elements of the frame is finite). Also, we construct Bessel sequences, frames and Riesz bases of [Formula: see text] operators using tensor products of the same sequences in the associated Hilbert spaces. We state how the [Formula: see text] inner product of an arbitrary operator and a rank one operator can be calculated in an efficient way; and we use this result to provide a numerically efficient algorithm to find the best approximation, in the Hilbert–Schmidt sense, of an arbitrary matrix, by a so-called frame multiplier (i.e. an operator which act diagonally on the frame analysis coefficients). Finally, we give some simple examples using Gabor and wavelet frames, introducing in this way wavelet multipliers.
Approximating Catmull-Clark subdivision surfaces with bicubic patches
Authors: Loop Charles , Schaefer Scott
Published: March 2008

We present a simple and computationally efficient algorithm for approximating Catmull-Clark subdivision surfaces using a minimal set of bicubic patches. For each quadrilateral face of the control mesh, we construct a geometry patch and a pair of tangent patches. The geometry patches approximate the shape and silhouette of the Catmull-Clark surface and are smooth everywhere except along patch edges containing an extraordinary vertex where the patches are
C
0
. To make the patch surface appear smooth, we provide a pair of tangent patches that approximate the tangent fields of the Catmull-Clark surface. These tangent patches are used to construct a continuous normal field (through their cross-product) for shading and displacement mapping. Using this bifurcated representation, we are able to define an accurate proxy for Catmull-Clark surfaces that is efficient to evaluate on next-generation GPU architectures that expose a programmable tessellation unit.
Modeling and rendering of heterogeneous translucent materials using the diffusion equation
Authors: Wang Jiaping , Zhao Shuang , Tong Xin , Lin Stephen , Lin Zhouchen , Dong Yue , Guo Baining , Shum Heung-Yeung
Published: March 2008

In this article, we propose techniques for modeling and rendering of heterogeneous translucent materials that enable acquisition from measured samples, interactive editing of material attributes, and real-time rendering. The materials are assumed to be optically dense such that multiple scattering can be approximated by a diffusion process described by the diffusion equation. For modeling heterogeneous materials, we present theinverse diffusion algorithmfor acquiring material properties from appearance measurements. This modeling algorithm incorporates a regularizer to handle the ill-conditioning of the inverse problem, an adjoint method to dramatically reduce the computational cost, and a hierarchical GPU implementation for further speedup. To render an object with known material properties, we present thepolygrid diffusion algorithm, which solves the diffusion equation with a boundary condition defined by the given illumination environment. This rendering technique is based on representation of an object by a polygrid, a grid with regular connectivity and an irregular shape, which facilitates solution of the diffusion equation in arbitrary volumes. Because of the regular connectivity, our rendering algorithm can be implemented on the GPU for real-time performance. We demonstrate our techniques by capturing materials from physical samples and performing real-time rendering and editing with these materials.
Mathematical Models for Prognostic Prediction in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Galfano Antonio , Novara Giacomo , Iafrate Massimo , Cavalleri Stefano , Martignoni Guido , Gardiman Marina , D’Elia Carolina , Patard Jean Jacques , Artibani Walter , Ficarra Vincenzo
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The objectives of this study are to catalogue all models developed to predict survival of RCC patients and to identify the ones to be used in different situations. Methods: A systematic review was performed searching with a free text and MeSH strategy 3 electronic databases. For each model, the following parameters were identified: number, features of the patients; evaluation endpoints; clinical and/or pathological variables included; concordance indexes (cI). Results: The research retrieved 156 records. Eleven articles proposed new models, 5 articles external validations. We retrieved 2 mathematical models including clinical variables only (Yaycioglu, cI 0.651; Cindolo, cI 0.672); 2 algorithms including also pathological variables (SSIGN, cI 0.819; UISS, cI 0.79–0.84), 5 nomograms (Kattan, cI 0.76–0.86; Sorbellini, cI 0.82; Kim 2004, cI 0.79, Kim 2005, cI 0.68; Karakiewicz, cI 0.86); 2 algorithms for patients with metastatic disease (Motzer, Leibovich). Conclusions: The SSIGN was the most accurate algorithm for conventional RCC, while the UISS allowed the evaluation of patients regardless of tumor histotype. The Sorbellini nomogram is applicable only for patients with conventional RCC, while the Kattan and Karakiewicz nomograms also provide information for other histotypes. Metastatic patients can be evaluated with Leibovich and Motzer algorithms. Two models combine molecular markers and clinical features (Kim 2004–2005).
Management of Cystinuric Patients: An Observational, Retrospective, Single-Centre Analysis
Authors: Ahmed Kamran , Khan Mohammad Shamim , Thomas Kay , Challacombe Ben , Bultitude Matthew , Glass Jonathan , Tiptaft Richard , Dasgupta Prokar
Published: March 2008

Objective: A critical appraisal of the management of patients with cystine stones treated in our unit in the past 6 years and to analyze the outcome of multimodality therapies. Study Design: An observational, single-centre retrospective study. Methods: We reviewed the records of all patients with stones referred to our centre over a 6-year period from 1998 to 2005. Data recorded included demographic details, medical therapies received/prescribed, compliance with medical therapies, mode of treatment, stone clearance and any recurrence during this period of study. Results: A total of 30 cystinuric patients were treated in our institution over the period of 6 years from 1998 to early 2005. Of these 16 were males and 14 females with an average age at last follow-up of 39 years (range 15–70). Two patients were successfully managed medically. The remaining patients (n = 28) underwent a total of 237 procedures (pre- and postreferral to our unit), with an average of 7.9 procedures per patient for 126 stone episodes (4.2 episodes/patient). The modes of treatment included extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (n = 143), ureterorenoscopy and intracorporeal lithotripsy (n = 50), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (n = 28) and open procedures (n = 16). Two patients needed open surgery at our unit. Prior to referral to our dedicated unit, patients had received treatment with extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (multiple sessions), ureteroscopy (n = 14), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (n = 4) and open stone removal (n = 14). Most of the stones at our unit were managed using minimally invasive therapies. Conclusion: Compliance of cystinuric patients with medical treatment is often poor and patients experience recurrent stone episodes requiring multiple interventions. Modern management of cystine calculi should be with staged minimally invasive procedures to avoid the complications of multiple open procedures wherever possible along with appropriate medical prophylaxis.
Tadalafil and Fluoxetine in Premature Ejaculation: Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Mattos Rogerio M. , Marmo Lucon Antonio , Srougi Miguel
Published: March 2008

Introduction: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual disorder. An ideal, reliable and effective treatment is desired by many men and couples affected by this condition. Aim: Evaluate if the association of a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, tadalafil, and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, fluoxetine, can prolong the intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) in men with lifelong premature ejaculation. Methods: Sixty patients with lifelong premature ejaculation and without erectile dysfunction (ED) with IELT less than 90 s were enrolled in the protocol and randomized into 4 groups to use a combination of medications: (1) tadalafil 20 mg plus fluoxetine 90 mg, (2) fluoxetine 90 mg plus placebo, (3) tadalafil 20 mg plus placebo, and (4) two different placebo capsules (control). Before starting the medications, each man timed his IELT with a stopwatch, and likewise during the treatment period. Fluoxetine 90 mg or placebo was taken once a week plus tadalafil 20 mg or placebo within a 36-hour frame of intended sexual intercourse with a steady partner. Patients were prospectively followed for 12 weeks. One-way ANOVA was used for statistical comparisons of IELT results in each group. Results: Mean IELT before starting treatment was 51.3 ± 23 s. Withone-way ANOVA, a statistically significant difference in post-treatment IELT was seen with combination treatment compared to placebo (p < 0.001). There were increases in IELT from baseline in patients using fluoxetine plus tadalafil (49.57 ± 25.87 to 336.13 ± 224.77) (p < 0.001), fluoxetine (56.55 ± 18.55 to 233.62 ± 105.08) (p < 0.001) and tadalafil (49.26 ± 19.43 to 186.53 ± 159.05) (p = 0.001). The increases in each group were statistically significant compared to the placebo (49.86 ± 19.43 to 67.82 ± 46.18) (p = 0.042). Conclusion: Fluoxetine plus tadalafil significantly increased the IELT from baseline in men with lifelong premature ejaculation when compared to placebo, tadalafil or fluoxetine.
Prevalence of Cryptorchidism, Retractile Testis and Orchiopexy in School Children
Authors: Inan Mustafa , Aydiner Cagatay Yalcin , Tokuc Burcu , Aksu Burhan , Ayhan Sinan , Ayvaz Suleyman , Ceylan Turan
Published: March 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of cryptorchidism, retractile testis and orchiopexy and investigate the effects of these clinical conditions on testicular volume among schoolchildren aged 7–12 years. Methods: It was a cross-sectional and descriptive study. The participants were stratified by school population and age and 1,800 questionnaires were distributed. The inguino-scrotal examinations and the testicular volumes of the children were recorded. Results: The parents of 1,500 children agreed to allow their children to be examined. The prevalence of cryptorchidism and orchiopexy was found to be 0.73 and 1.3%, respectively. Retractile testis was found in 3.9% of the children. The mean testicular volume of children having retractile testis (1.82 ± 1.41 ml) was less than the ones who do not (2.38 ± 1.40 ml, p < 0.05). The prevalence was 1.7%, and 4% in the participants who had inguinal hernia also had hernioplasty. Conclusions: The prevalence of cryptorchidism and the mean age of orchidopexy are high among schoolchildren aged 7–12. Retractile testis might have some negative effects on the development of testicular volume in children. Parents and healthcare and education professionals should give special attention to inguino-scrotal diseases.
Results of Varicocelectomy in Patients with Isolated Teratozoospermia
Authors: Çakan Murat , Bakirtas Hasan , Aldemir Mustafa , Demirel Fuat , Altug Uğur
Published: March 2008

Introduction: Isolated teratozoospermia is rarely encountered in patients with clinically palpable varicocele, and the consequences of varicocelectomy remain unclear in these cases. In the current study, we assessed the effect of varicocelectomy on sperm morphology in a series of patients with infertility. Materials and Methods: The data obtained from 52 primary subfertile men with isolated teratozoospermia and clinical palpable varicocele were reviewed retrospectively. Varicocelectomy was performed on 29 patients, and the remaining 23 patients did not undergo any treatment (control group). The differences in sperm morphology assessed by using Kruger’s strict criteria 3 months before and 12 months after varicocelectomy were taken into consideration for statistical analysis. Results: One patient who underwent varicocelectomy was excluded from the study due to varicocele recurrence. Thus, data obtained from the remaining 28 patients were evaluated. Following varicocelectomy, significant improvement was detected in the ratio of normal sperm forms (p < 0.001). While there was significant improvement in the ratio of sperm cells with head defects, tail defects and immature forms (p < 0.001), the ratio of sperm with acrosome and mid-piece defects was not changed (p > 0.05). While an overall spontaneous pregnancy was achieved in 5 of the 28 (17.8%) couples in the varicocelectomy group within 12 months after operation, neither improvement in sperm morphology nor pregnancy in the patients’ partners was detected in the control group. Conclusion: Varicocelectomy caused a significant improvement in sperm morphology, particularly in immature forms and forms with head and tail defects evaluated by Kruger’s classification.
Peripheral Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor Arising from the Seminal Vesicle
Authors: Lawrentschuk Nathan , Appu Sree , Chao Ian , Chan Yee , Rogerson John , Davis Ian D.
Published: March 2008

In the genitourinary tract, masses in the seminal vesicles, particularly primary tumors, are an unusual event. One must consider all diagnoses including Ewing’s sarcoma or its variant, peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PPNET). In this case report we describe a case of PPNET arising from the seminal vesicle. The prognosis of such tumors is generally poor and requires aggressive multimodal management if it is to be successful. It is essential that unusual tumors are considered when confronted by a seminal vesicle mass and that appropriate investigation and management are initiated.
N-Terminal Prohormone Brain Natriuretic Peptide as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality in Blacks With Hypertensive Kidney Disease
Authors: Astor B.C. , Yi S. , Hiremath L. , Corbin T. , Pogue V. , Wilkening B. , Peterson G. , Lewis J. , Lash J.P. , Van Lente F. , Gassman J. , Wang X. , Bakris G. , Appel L.J. , Contreras G.
Published: March 2008

Background—

Higher levels of N-terminal prohormone brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) in several disease states, but few data are available in patients with chronic kidney disease or in blacks.

Methods and Results—

The African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension trial enrolled hypertensive blacks with a glomerular filtration rate of 20 to 65 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
and no other identified cause of kidney disease. NT-proBNP was measured with a sandwich chemiluminescence immunoassay (coefficient of variation 2.9%) in 994 African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension participants. NT-proBNP was categorized as undetectable, low, moderate, or high. Proteinuria was defined as 24-hour urinary protein–creatinine ratio >0.22. A total of 134 first CVD events (CVD death or hospitalization for coronary artery disease, heart failure, or stroke) occurred over a median of 4.3 years. Participants with high NT-proBNP were much more likely to have a CVD event than participants with undetectable NT-proBNP after adjustment (relative hazard 4.0 [95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1 to 7.6]). A doubling of NT-proBNP was associated with a relative hazard of 1.3 (95% CI 1.0 to 1.6) for coronary artery disease, 1.7 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.2) for heart failure, 1.1 (95% CI 0.9 to 1.4) for stroke, and 1.8 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.4) for CVD death. The association of NT-proBNP with CVD events was significantly stronger (
P
interaction
=0.05) in participants with than in those without proteinuria. Higher NT-proBNP was not associated with renal disease progression.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that elevated NT-proBNP levels are associated with higher CVD risk among blacks with hypertensive kidney disease. This association may be stronger in individuals with significant proteinuria.
Drought Index Mapping at Different Spatial Units
Authors: Rhee Jinyoung , Carbone Gregory J. , Hussey James
Published: March 2008

This paper investigates the influence of spatial interpolation and aggregation of data to depict drought at different spatial units relevant to and often required for drought management. Four different methods for drought index mapping were explored, and comparisons were made between two spatial operation methods (simple unweighted average versus spatial interpolation plus aggregation) and two calculation procedures (whether spatial operations are performed before or after the calculations of drought index values). Deterministic interpolation methods including Thiessen polygons, inverse distance weighted, and thin-plate splines as well as a stochastic and geostatistical interpolation method of ordinary kriging were compared for the two methods that use interpolation. The inverse distance weighted method was chosen based on the cross-validation error. After obtaining drought index values for different spatial units using each method in turn, differences in the empirical binned frequency distributions were tested between the methods and spatial units. The two methods using interpolation and aggregation introduced fewer errors in cross validation than the two simple unweighted average methods. Whereas the method performing spatial interpolation and aggregation before calculating drought index values generally provided consistent drought information between various spatial units, the method performing spatial interpolation and aggregation after calculating drought index values reduced errors related to the calculations of precipitation data.
Sources of Eddy Energy Simulated by a Model of the Northeast Pacific Ocean
Authors: Shore Jennifer , Stacey Michael W. , Wright Daniel G.
Published: March 2008

This paper examines the energy sources for eddy variability in the Gulf of Alaska using a numerical model and a novel form of data assimilation referred to as spectral nudging. Spectral nudging is distinguished from conventional nudging by its ability to operate only on specified frequency and wavenumber bands; in the present case, only the subannual variability is nudged, and only on spatial scales of 100 km or more. By using this approach, the broad-brush aspects of the model’s mean state are constrained to remain near the mean climatological conditions, while the simulated eddy field is determined by the model dynamics. Simulations of the North Pacific Ocean with a 0.25° horizontal resolution and spectral nudging have been previously shown to produce eddy fields that are significantly more energetic and more realistic than those produced by prognostic (i.e., not nudged) simulations. The analysis of the spectrally nudged model results undertaken here reveals the tendency of the circulation to be both baroclinically and barotropically unstable in different regions and to differing degrees. Along the north coast of the Gulf of Alaska, the simulation suggests that barotropic instability is more important overall as an energy source for eddies than is baroclinic instability. Along the east coast of the Gulf of Alaska, the simulation suggests that both baroclinic and barotropic instabilities are important. Although the overall energy transfer is from the mean state to the eddy field, there are regions of the model, particularly along the north coast of the Gulf of Alaska, where the transfer of energy is from the eddy field to the mean flow.
The Ways of Coping Scale
Authors: Rexrode Kathryn R. , Petersen Suni , O'Toole Siobhan
Published: March 2008

For more than 20 years, the Ways of Coping Scale (WOCS) has been used extensively to measure coping. Yet beyond the original psychometric data, few studies have reexamined its properties utilizing the enormous body of research generated on the WOCS. Reliability has been assumed to be consistent as an attribute of the test. This study used reliability generalization to identify (a) the variability in reliability estimates for the WOCS scores across studies, (b) the typical score reliability for the WOCS, and (c) the salient features across studies that relate to the variability in reliability estimate scores for the WOCS. Typical reliability across subscale scores ranged from .60 to .75 with Positive Reappraisal showing the least variability and Self-Controlling showing the most. Factors related to this variability were age and format of administration.
Some Points Which Professional Social Work Should Consider in Relation to Programs Stemming From the Alliance for Progress
Authors: Ospina-Restrepo Gabriel , de Cataldo Eliana
Published: March 2008

Editorial Note: This article was prepared for the IV Pan American Congress of Social Service held in San Jose, Costa Rica in November, 1961. It is followed by the text of a resolution on the Alliance for Progress adopted by the Congress.
Evaluation Research: Bridge Between Social Work Administrator, Practitioner and Researcher
Authors: Roskin Michael
Published: March 2008

Questions of service effectiveness, and helpfulness are challenging social work clinicians, administrators and researchers. Evaluative research, has been utilized to meet this challenge. However, too infrequently the administrator, clinician and re searcher utilize it in separate rather than interlocking pathways. Presented are practi cal suggestions to increase mutual understanding and collaborative evaluative efforts.
The Simulated Client in Social Work Training
Authors: Whatling Tony , Wodak Erica
Published: March 2008

A pilot study aiming at reducing the gap between learning and practice by giving students the opportunity to conduct interviews in a setting as close to actual fieldwork as possible.
Technology Transfer
Authors: Chatterjee Pranab , Ireyes Henry
Published: March 2008

The term "technology transfer" is discussed as an important concept for social workers. Social work, clinical psychology, etc. are shown to be a form of social technology which can be compared to agricultural, biomedical, and physical technology. Social work practice is seen as use of one such social technology and social work education is seen as transfer of such technology.
Information Systems in the Social Services: Factors for Success
Authors: Dzubow Steven R. , McMenamin Stephen
Published: March 2008

This paper presents the systems approach for the design and operation of a social service information system. Because the information technology hasn't been widely accepted throughout the social service profession, the assimilation of its benefits is only beginning to be realized. The paper includes the design and operation factors that have proven successful from the collective experiences of social service agencies and their lessons learned. This paper cites an example of an agency which subscribes to these factors for success. The evolving need for human services information systems is delineated as well as the major forces contributing to system development. Lastly, those factors related to informa tion system success are presented and correlated to various operating and system design criterion.
A Holistic Perspective On Student Growth and Development: a Look At Academic Programs in Graduate Schools of Human Service
Authors: Seelig Mike , Eldridge William , Schirtzinger Marie
Published: March 2008

In the history of higher education's response to the growth and learning needs of students, numerous political, economic, religious and cultural factors have influenced the way students were defined by the institution, and have dictated the range of needs considered legitimate for adult learning. The authors will outline major trends in higher education's history as the full range of psycho logical, social, physical and spiritual needs of students have been variously defined and addressed within traditional academic programs. The authors will also suggest the relevance of a holistic perspective on a wide range of differing needs as this relates particularly to human service professions. Research will be briefly cited to help document one way of assessing the degree to which academic pro grams, in fact, address either a wide or narrow range of needs for growth and learning among students.
Problems Experienced By Administrators in Conducting Systematic Planning for Social Service Agencies
Authors: Eldridge William D.
Published: March 2008

At a time in the history of social services where demands for accountability place increasing pressure on agency administrators and planners, a discussion of problems in organizing and conducting effective planning activities may create awareness of typical errors in logical and relevant decision making in establishing goals and objectives for agency programs.

This discussion will focus on frequently observed difficulties in seleeting and utilizing planning teams, discovering and properly assessing agency data, and using creative and open-minded perspectives in defining tasks and arenas for flexible program planning. Along with this outline of problem areas, the author will also suggest some simple methods to avoid common roadblocks, and to more effectively utilize staff input, agency information and logical decision making processes to engineer sound programs as a result of good planning.
Conceptual Frame Work On Self-Reliance in Community Development in Zimbabwe
Authors: Agere Samuel Takarinda
Published: March 2008

[Development theory and policy have been the subject of discussion in both the developed and the under-developed countries. The implementation of these policies have varied from one country to another. The central and critical question that is often raised is whether there is development among and within the poorest sections of society.

The new trend in development process particularly in the third world countries, is that, citizens should be involved in decision making, planning and implementation of programmes of action.

This paper provides a critical analysis of various theories of development and shows through examples, how they have failed in third world countries. An alternative self-reliant development strategy is examined and recommended within the economic, political and social conditions prevailing in Zimbabwe. Community Development is suggested as an important instrument of facilitating and accelerating the development process.

The use of external aid is not encouraged because it does not trickle down to the poor section of society. Further, aid does not help to bring about fundamental structural changes within society. Inequality between regions and more importantly between men and women is not tackled very effectively and meaningfully by external aid. Aid, like technology may not be neutral and may reflect the political ideals and economic interests of the donor countries.

Self-reliance inevitably implies the formation of self-help organisations through which development projects can be implemented and realised. For self-help organiza tions to be successful, certain political, economic and social conditions have to be met. Human and financial resources need to be committed by the Central Government to build the social infrastructure that will facilitate the development process.

The question of who participates in decision-making is discussed and recommenda tion is made that the beneficiaries or the direct consumers of the service should be involved in the identification of problems and implementation of projects.

On the whole, emphasis is placed on qualitative rather than quantitative aspect of development. This is very pertinent in community development which aims at the promotion of the quality of life of the majority of people in the country.]
Maternal Health Care Problems in Rural Communities, Korea
Authors: Suh Edward K.
Published: March 2008

[In recent years, overall health conditions in Korea seem to be gradually improving along with the relatively rapid growth of the national economy and the continuing efforts of social development. The rural health situation, however, is still far behind that of many other developing nations.

The author especially made an attempt not only to describe the maternal health care problems such as mortality, morbidity, and utilization of health care services which exist today in rural communities of South Korea, but also to make suggestions as to the ways of improving the conditions of the health care services.]
Community Participation: the Needed Approach To Primary and Secondary Prevention of Disability & Rehabilitation of the Disabled in Rural Communities
Authors: Mia Ahmadullah
Published: March 2008

[This article argues that in the social context of a country like Bangladesh where most people are rural, illiterate and conditioned by cultural prejudices about disability, and modern sophisticated health technology cannot be made available to the mass population, primary and secondary prevention of disability is to be stressed. In this connection, the scope of such preventive measures have been outlined. Further, it has been indicated that the conventional approaches to the problem of disability in the style of those prevailing in the developed countries emphasizing institutionalized care are proved inadequate or unsatisfactory in the conditions of an underdeveloped (or developing) country. The problem of disability can be greatly minimized in the under developed countries by making the masses aware of the causes of disability and by providing some basic facilities for taking early measures when any organic impairment occurs. The rural communities can be inspired and assisted to have organized efforts for prevention of disability and also for rehabilitation of many of those who are already disabled by using facilities at the local community level. The article has charted the specific activities which need to be undertaken towards these goals; and the existing infrastructure facilities which may conveniently be used in a developing country have been indicated.]
Social Work and Social Deviance Theory: Causes and Cures at Loggerheads
Authors: Grichting Wolfgang L.
Published: March 2008

{A taxonomy of social deviance theories is presented on the basis of dichotomisiny and crosstabulating two variables central to the study of human behaviour and social action: the nature versus nurture and the individual versus system notions. The result ing four types of social deviance theories — theories attributing deviance to individual versus group heredity and to personal versus systems shortcomings, respectively — suggest that there is considerable similarity among theories which often goes unnoticed and unnecessarily complicates the understanding of social deviance. Recommended cures for social deviance implied by the (meta)theoretical assumptions of these theories are identified. Recommended cures are found to be at loggerheads with implied causes of social deviance.
Attitudes Towards Disability and Rehabilitation Among Political and Professional Leaders in Israeli Development Towns
Authors: Shurka Esther
Published: March 2008

The process by which development towns were created in Israel engendered the need for welfare and rehabilitation services for a varied population. The present ex ploratory study focussed on the opinions of two groups of persons who supposedly represent and direct the social services in their communities — political leaders and professional leaders. A sample of 120 local leaders in ten development towns in northern Israel were individually interviewed on their attitudes towards disability and rehabilita tion, based on an original questionnaire. The results indicated several problems in attitudes towards disability and rehabilitation that can be seen as characteristic of local leadership, and possibly of the general population in Israeli development towns.
An Interactionist Approach to an Intake Interview
Authors: Day Peter R.
Published: March 2008

This paper raises questions about the ways in which social workers try to "explain" or make sense of their practice in interviewing. It is concerned with the ways that they "construct reality" in their day to day work and how they ascribe order or patterns to this reality. The discussion is based on a tape recorded transcript of a social worker — applicant interview and a transcript of a talk between the social worker and the writer about the interview. It seems that "theory" and "practice" are regarded as discrepant as theoretical knowledge is lost sight of in the action setting of the intake team where taken for granted routines take precedence.
Primary Prevention Concerns: the USA and Israel
Authors: Roskin Michael , Bloom Martin
Published: March 2008

[Here's a novel form of an article in which two friends, through letters, outline, inform and warn each other on the prevention priorities and concerns in their respective countries of USA and Israel.]
Social Workers' Attitudes Towards Public Accountability
Authors: Sung Kyu-taik
Published: March 2008

The public demand for accountability of human services has been increasing in the United States. Despite the growing importance of public accountability as a special responsibility of social workers, little information is available in U.S. on how these pro fessionals react to the implementation of accountability programs.

The survey reported in this paper was made to explore the attitudes of social workers in U.S. hospitals toward PSRO, a nationwide health care service review system. The paper presents a descriptive overview of significant aspects of American social workers' personal attitudes toward various issues of current concern about this accountability system.
Aging, Development and Social Welfare Strategies
Authors: Lusk Mark W.
Published: March 2008

(Social welfare strategies are closely linked to theoretical paradigms which surround the social problems they seek to address. Prevailing theories of social gerontology primarily address aging at micro and mezzo levels of analysis. Correspondingly, most contemporary strategies of social welfare and the aged focus on helping individuals and groups. Nonetheless, important theoretical insights into the social structural interplay of social development, stratification and aging have emerged which have relevance to welfare policymakers and practitioners.]
Programme evaluation of natural family planning in Mauritius: service delivery and volunteer training implications
Authors: Conner Geraldine L. , Veeder Nancy W.
Published: March 2008

In every field of human endeavor, there is a large body of research-based knowledge that has not been put to use; as a result, current practice lags behind contemporary knowledge ... the research-practice gap is especially wide in medicine, health, and family planning. (Rogers, 1973)
Unintended Consequences of State and Federal Antidiscrimination and Family Medical Leave Legislation on the Employment Rates of Persons With Disabilities
Authors: Lehmann Ilana , Crimando William
Published: March 2008

Although some writers have suggested that the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), contrary to its intent, was responsible for a decline in employment for persons with disabilities, there is little strong empirical support for such an assertion. This study is an attempt to demonstrate that, in fact, the dismal labor market experience following passage of the ADA was an unintended consequence of other factors—namely, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and similar state legislation—even though such legislation was not originally meant as disability legislation . A time-series design using data from the Current Population Survey supports this contention ( p < .05). Numerous implications for rehabilitation counselors, educators, and researchers are discussed.
Psychopathy in a Civil Psychiatric Outpatient Sample
Authors: De Oliveira-Souza Ricardo , Moll Jorge , Azevedo Ignácio Fátima , Hare Robert D.
Published: March 2008

In this primarily descriptive study, the authors describe a sample of patients referred or brought to a Brazilian civil psychiatric facility for evaluation and consultation because of a chronic pattern of social and behavioral problems. Their Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL: SV) scores generally were very high, and half of the patients met the DSM-IV criteria for antisocial personality disorder. In addition, about half of the patients reportedly had been charged or convicted of a serious criminal offense. The correlates of the PCL: SV were consistent with the research literature on psychopathy in criminal and forensic psychiatric populations. The results add to the small but growing literature on psychopathy in the community and are consistent with the view that antisocial dispositions and behaviors are part of the psychopathy construct.
Does Residential Proximity Matter? A Geographic Analysis of Sex Offense Recidivism
Authors: Duwe Grant , Donnay William , Tewksbury Richard
Published: March 2008

In an effort to reduce sex offense recidivism, local and state governments have recently passed legislation prohibiting sex offenders from living within a certain distance (500 to 2,500 feet) of child congregation locations such as schools, parks, and daycare centers. Examining the potential deterrent effects of a residency restrictions law in Minnesota, this study analyzed the offense patterns of every sex offender released from Minnesota correctional facilities between 1990 and 2002 who was reincarcerated for a new sex offense prior to 2006. Given that not one of the 224 sex offenses would have likely been prevented by residency restrictions, the findings from this study provide little support for the notion that such restrictions would significantly reduce sexual recidivism.
A Comparison of the Frequency Estimation and Chained Equipercentile Methods Under the Common-Item Nonequivalent Groups Design
Authors: Tianyou Wang  , Lee Won-Chan , Brennan Robert L. , Kolen Michael J.
Published: March 2008

This article uses simulation to compare two test equating methods under the common-item nonequivalent groups design: the frequency estimation method and the chained equipercentile method. An item response theory model is used to define the true equating criterion, simulate group differences, and generate response data. Three linear equating methods are also included for reference. The results show that when there is substantial group difference, the frequency estimation method has larger bias than the chained equipercentile method. The frequency estimation method, however, almost always has a smaller standard error of equating than the chained equipercentile method.
Samaj, Jati and Desh
Authors: Gupta Swarupa
Published: March 2008

This article redefines ideas about nationhood in late colonial Bengal by studying the intersection between three main conceptual sites of identity formation—samaj (social collectivity); jati (a multidimensional term implying birth, caste, race, tribe and nation); and desh (sub-region/region/ province/country). It concentrates on how samaj was deployed to mediate the fragmentations of jati and desh in the literati's agenda of recreating a collective self and approximating nationhood. These mediations reveal how ideas about nationhood drew on pre-existing indigenous unities embedded in past samajs, and a harmonious social order that enmeshed with ‘Aryan’ cultural values. By highlighting such origins, the article seeks to qualify existing assumptions about the modernity of colonial nationalisms and their borrowed, derivative and political nature. Situating samaj in two interrelated temporal and connotative contexts—as a historical community from whence the nation emerged, and as an idea-in-practice (an ongoing social, experiential reality having a modern functionality), this article locates nationhood in a long historical tradition, to uncover the ways in which past unities were reoriented in the modern (late colonial) period to produce the notion of a nation.
The Most Economic, Socially Viable, and Environmentally Sustainable Alternative Energy
Authors: Vanderburg Willem H.
Published: March 2008

The strengths and weaknesses of current energy planning can be attributed to the limited economic, social, and environmental contexts taken into account as a result of the current intellectual and professional division of labor. A preventive approach is developed by which the ratio of desired to undesired effects can be substantially improved. It takes into account supply-and demand-side options, renewable and nonrenewable sources, and net energy availability. Alternative energy must be considered within such a strategy, which carefully examines its effects on society and the biosphere. Intellectual barriers are identified, and ways of overcoming them are suggested.
Ground-Coupled Heating-Cooling Systems in Urban Areas: How Sustainable Are They?
Authors: Younger Paul L.
Published: March 2008

Ground-coupled heating-cooling systems (GCHCSs) exchange heat between the built environment and the subsurface using pipework buried in trenches or boreholes. If heat pumps in GCHCSs are powered by “green electricity,” they offer genuine carbon-free heating-cooling; for this reason, there has been a surge in the technology in recent years. Interference between adjoining installations is being reported, raising issues of sustainability in terms of performance, equitable sharing of natural resources, and localized ecological impacts. Using an analytical model for heat transport in porous media, sensitivity analyses have been obtained for open-loop systems in typical hydro-geological settings for urban GSHCSs in the United Kingdom, revealing that breakthrough of injected water will likely lead to significant declines in system performance in less than 25 years for well spacings less than 300 m, unless injection rates are kept below 250 m3/d. Only by cooperatively planning will adjoining landowners in urban areas achieve large-scale sustainable system designs.