bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of ligands in the electronic properties of FeTe0.6Se0.4
Authors: Adhikary Ganesh , Biswas Deepnarayan , Sahadev Nishaina , Ram Swetarekha , Kanchana V. , Yadav C. S. , Paulose P. L. , Maiti Kalobaran
Published: October 2013

We investigate the electronic structure of FeTe0.6Se0.4 employing high resolution photoemission spectroscopy and ab initio band structure calculations. Fe 2p core level and the valence band spectra exhibit signature of strong electron correlation in the electronic structure. The electronic states near the Fermi level reduces in intensity with the decrease in temperature in conformity with the insulating transport observed near 300 K. An insulator to metal transition around 150 K could be related to the spectral lineshape change in the vicinity of the Fermi level. The spectral features near Fermi level exhibit significant p orbital character due to the correlation induced Fe d spectral weight transfer. The experimental spectra reveal dominant temperature dependence of the spectral functions possessing large p-character. While the origin of the anomalous electronic properties in the normal phase could be revealed in the electronic structure of this material, these results emphasizes the importance of ligand states in the high temperature superconductors that is important to explore such materials for various applications.
Influence of the annealing atmosphere on the structural properties of FePt thin films
Authors: Vladymyrskyi I. A. , Karpets M. V. , Ganss F. , Katona G. L. , Beke D. L. , Sidorenko S. I. , Nagata T. , Nabatame T. , Chikyow T. , Beddies G. , Albrecht M. , Makogon Iu. M.
Published: October 2013

FePt thin films with a thickness of 30 nm were deposited by dc magnetron sputtering at room temperature onto SiO2(100 nm)/Si(100) substrates. These films were post-annealed in a temperature range of 500 °C to 900 °C for 30 s in three different atmospheres—N2, Ar, and forming gas (Ar+H2 (3 vol. %)). Irrespective of the annealing atmosphere, the chemically ordered L10 FePt phase has formed after annealing at 500 °C. Higher annealing temperatures in N2 or Ar atmosphere resulted in a strong increase in grain size and surface roughness but also in the appearance of a pronounced (001) texture in the FePt films. However, these films show the presence of iron oxide. In contrast, annealing in forming gas atmosphere suppressed the oxidation process and resulted in a reduced grain size and lower surface roughness. However, no (001)—but a strong (111)—texture was obtained after annealing at 700 °C, which might be related to the reduced unit cell tetragonality and incorporation of hydrogen to the FePt lattice. Thus, this study clearly demonstrates that the oxygen/hydrogen content plays an important role in controlling the crystallographic orientation during post-annealing.
Distinguishing cells by their first-order transient motion response under an optically induced dielectrophoretic force field
Authors: Zhao Yuliang , Liang Wenfeng , Zhang Guanglie , Mai John D. , Liu Lianqing , Lee Gwo-Bin , Li Wen J.
Published: October 2013

This letter reports our characterization of the transient motion of cells under an optically induced dielectrophoresis (ODEP) force field. Different types of human cells repeatably undergo a first-order transient motion response when subjected to a specific ODEP force field. A kernel function is derived to describe this transient motion. This function can be generally matched to experimental data for Raji cells and red blood cells by measuring two parameters: the initial velocity and the transient time-constant. They are uniquely different for Raji cells and RBCs. Support vector machine is used to distinguish between them based on their transient response characteristics.
An effective splitting-and-recombination micromixer with self-rotated contact surface for wide Reynolds number range applications
Authors: Feng Xiangsong , Ren Yukun , Jiang Hongyuan
Published: October 2013

It is difficult to mix two liquids on a microfluidic chip because the small dimensions and velocities effectively prevent the turbulence. This paper describes two 2-layer PDMS passive micromixers based on the concept of splitting and recombining the flow that exploits a self-rotated contact surface to increase the concentration gradients to obtain fast and efficient mixing. The designed micromixers were simulated and the mixing performance was assessed. The mixers have shown excellent mixing efficiency over a wide range of Reynolds number. The mixers were reasonably fabricated by multilayer soft lithography, and the experimental measurements were performed to qualify the mixing performance of the realized mixer. The results show that the mixing efficiency for one realized mixer is from 91.8% to 87.7% when the Reynolds number increases from 0.3 to 60, while the corresponding value for another mixer is from 89.4% to 72.9%. It is rather interesting that the main mechanism for the rapid mixing is from diffusion to chaotic advection when the flow rate increases, but the mixing efficiency has not obvious decline. The smart geometry of the mixers with total length of 10.25 mm makes it possible to be integrated with many microfluidic devices for various applications in μ-TAS and Lab-on-a-chip systems.
Quantifying under-reporting of pathology tests in Medical Benefits Schedule claims data
Authors: Trevena Judy A. , Rogers Kris D. , Jorm Louisa R. , Churches Tim , Armstrong Bruce
Published: October 2013

Objective We investigated the completeness of recording of pathology tests in Australian Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) claims data, using the example of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. With some exceptions, MBS claims data records only the three most expensive pathology items in an episode of care, and this practice (‘episode coning’) means that pathology tests can be under-recorded. Methods The analysis used MBS data for male participants in the 45 and Up Study. The number and cost of items in each episode of care were used to determine whether an episode contained a PSA screening test (Item 66655), or could have lacked a record of this item because of episode coning. Results MBS data for 1 070 392 episodes involving a request for a pathology test for 118 074 men were analysed. Of these episodes, 11% contained a request for a PSA test; a further 7.5% may have been missing a PSA request that was not recorded because of episode coning. Conclusions It is important to consider under-reporting of pathology tests as a result of episode coning when interpreting MBS claims data. Episode coning creates uncertainty about whether a person has received any given pathology test. The extent of this uncertainty can be estimated by determining the proportion of episodes in which the test may have been performed but was not recorded due to episode coning. What is known about the topic? Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) claims data are a key resource for Australian health researchers. What does this paper add? We investigated a feature of MBS claims data known as episode coning, which may cause some pathology tests to be under-reported. Using the example of requests for PSA tests, we estimated the uncertainty in the amount of use of PSA tests introduced by episode coning. What are the implications for practitioners? Researchers using MBS data to identify use of specific pathology tests need to be aware of under-reporting caused by episode coning, and to estimate and report the uncertainty that this introduces into their findings.
Water: the most important ‘molecular’ component of water stress tolerance research
Authors: Vadez Vincent , Kholova Jana , Zaman-Allah Mainassara , Belko Nouhoun
Published: October 2013

Water deficit is the main yield-limiting factor across the Asian and African semiarid tropics and a basic consideration when developing crop cultivars for water-limited conditions is to ensure that crop water demand matches season water supply. Conventional breeding has contributed to the development of varieties that are better adapted to water stress, such as early maturing cultivars that match water supply and demand and then escape terminal water stress. However, an optimisation of this match is possible. Also, further progress in breeding varieties that cope with water stress is hampered by the typically large genotype × environment interactions in most field studies. Therefore, a more comprehensive approach is required to revitalise the development of materials that are adapted to water stress. In the past two decades, transgenic and candidate gene approaches have been proposed for improving crop productivity under water stress, but have had limited real success. The major drawback of these approaches has been their failure to consider realistic water limitations and their link to yield when designing biotechnological experiments. Although the genes are many, the plant traits contributing to crop adaptation to water limitation are few and revolve around the critical need to match water supply and demand. We focus here on the genetic aspects of this, although we acknowledge that crop management options also have a role to play. These traits are related in part to increased, better or more conservative uses of soil water. However, the traits themselves are highly dynamic during crop development: they interact with each other and with the environment. Hence, success in breeding cultivars that are more resilient under water stress requires an understanding of plant traits affecting yield under water deficit as well as an understanding of their mutual and environmental interactions. Given that the phenotypic evaluation of germplasm/breeding material is limited by the number of locations and years of testing, crop simulation modelling then becomes a powerful tool for navigating the complexity of biological systems, for predicting the effects on yield and for determining the probability of success of specific traits or trait combinations across water stress scenarios.
Rapid utilisation of storm water-derived dissolved organic carbon and its fractions in an urban lake
Authors: Wallace Todd A. , Ganf George G. , Brookes Justin D.
Published: October 2013

Hypoxia occurred in the Torrens Lake, South Australia, after a 16-mm rainfall which discharged high concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) into the Lake. This work explores the hypothesis that hypoxia was correlated with the bioavailability of DOC. Carbonaceous biological oxygen demand and a decrease in DOC from samples collected immediately after stormwater was discharged into the Lake confirmed the presence of an active aerobic microbial community. In addition, the inlet and outlet of the Lake were monitored over a 10-day period. Dissolved oxygen fell from 10 to <3 mg L–1 within 44 h as the DOC increased and then decreased. A similar pattern occurred at the outlet after a lag of 20 h. At the inlet, because minimal mixing with the Lake water occurred, the rapid decrease of DOC and its fractions was interpreted as a function of aerobic microbial activity. Aquatic humic substances (AHS) were metabolised fastest, followed by hydrophilic acids (HiA) and hydrophilic neutrals (HiN). The warm nature of Mediterranean water bodies during summer may make them more susceptible to hypoxia as the frequency of extreme droughts allow accumulation of leaf litter and other debris that is subsequently mobilised by episodic floods.
Identifying and understanding barriers to sexually transmissible infection testing among young people
Authors: Oliver de Visser Richard , O'Neill Nancy
Published: October 2013

Background
To counter the disproportionate impact of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) among young people and encourage higher levels of STI testing, it is necessary to identify the factors that influence STI testing. Methods: A mixed-methods study incorporating a cross-sectional quantitative survey and qualitative analysis of individual interviews was conducted in England. Some 275 university students aged 17–25 years completed an online questionnaire. Interviews were conducted with a purposively selected sample of eight men and women. Results: Multivariate analysis of quantitative data revealed that injunctive norms (i.e. a desire to comply with others’ wishes for testing), descriptive norms (i.e. perceptions of others’ behaviour) and shame related to STIs predicted past testing behaviour. Intention to undergo testing was predicted by greater perceived susceptibility, past testing, stronger injunctive norms and greater willingness to disclose sexual histories. Qualitative analysis of interview data confirmed the importance of perceived susceptibility, normative beliefs, stigma and shame, and perceived ease of testing. Conclusions: To increase STI testing among young people, there is a need to promote pro-testing norms, address low perceived susceptibility and make testing easier.
Predicting the spatial dynamics of rabies epidemics on heterogeneous landscapes
Authors: Smith David L. , Lucey Brendan , Waller Lance A. , Childs James E. , Real Leslie A.
Published: October 2013

Often as an epidemic spreads, the leading front is irregular, reflecting spatial variation in local transmission rates. We developed a methodology for quantifying spatial variation in rates of disease spread across heterogeneous landscapes. Based on data for epidemic raccoon rabies in Connecticut, we developed a stochastic spatial model of rabies spread through the state's 169 townships. We quantified spatial variation in transmission rates associated with human demography and key habitat features. We found that large rivers act as semipermeable barriers, leading to a 7-fold reduction in the local rates of propagation. By combining the spatial distribution of major rivers with long-distance dispersal we were able to account for the observed irregular pattern of disease spread across the state without recourse to direct assessment of host-pathogen populations.
Retroviral-mediated transmission of a mouse VL30 RNA to human melanoma cells promotes metastasis in an immunodeficient mouse model
Authors: Song Xu , Wang Baiyang , Bromberg Michael , Hu Zhiwei , Konigsberg William , Garen Alan
Published: October 2013

Infection of a human melanoma cell line by a retroviral vector resulted in transmission of a mouse VL30 (mVL30-1) retroelement RNA to some of the cells infected by the retrovirus, followed by synthesis, integration, and expression of the mVL30-1 cDNA. One vector carried a tissue factor (TF) transgene that generated high TF melanoma clones, and another vector was a control without the TF transgene that generated low TF clones. Some high TF melanoma clones contained the mVL30-1 retroelement and others did not, and some low TF melanoma clones contained the mVL30-1 retroelement and others did not. Each type of melanoma clone was tested for its metastatic potential in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice, by i.v. injection of the cells to generate lung tumors. None of the low TF clones that either contained or lacked the mVL30-1 retroelement generated lung tumors, consistent with earlier results showing that high TF expression promoted metastasis. The high TF clones containing the mVL30-1 retroelement were strongly metastatic, in contrast to the high TF clones lacking the mVL30-1 retroelement, which were weakly metastatic. Southern hybridization analyses showed that the mVL30-1 cDNA integrated into different genomic sites in different melanoma clones, suggesting that the effect of the mVL30-1 retroelement on metastasis depends not on integration
per se
but instead on expression of the mVL30-1 RNA. A role for the mVL30-1 RNA in metastasis and possibly other cell functions is an unexpected finding, because the RNA appears to lack significant coding potential for a functional protein. The metastatic effect might be mediated directly by a noncoding mVL30-1 RNA or by a peptide or small protein encoded by one of the short ORFs in the mVL30-1 RNA.
The V-ATPase membrane domain is a sensor of granular pH that controls the exocytotic machinery
Authors: Poëa-Guyon Sandrine , Ammar Mohamed Raafet , Erard Marie , Amar Muriel , Moreau Alexandre W. , Fossier Philippe , Gleize Vincent , Vitale Nicolas , Morel Nicolas
Published: October 2013

Several studies have suggested that the V0 domain of the vacuolar-type H+-adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) is directly implicated in secretory vesicle exocytosis through a role in membrane fusion. We report in this paper that there was a rapid decrease in neurotransmitter release after acute photoinactivation of the V0 a1-I subunit in neuronal pairs. Likewise, inactivation of the V0 a1-I subunit in chromaffin cells resulted in a decreased frequency and prolonged kinetics of amperometric spikes induced by depolarization, with shortening of the fusion pore open time. Dissipation of the granular pH gradient was associated with an inhibition of exocytosis and correlated with the V1–V0 association status in secretory granules. We thus conclude that V0 serves as a sensor of intragranular pH that controls exocytosis and synaptic transmission via the reversible dissociation of V1 at acidic pH. Hence, the V-ATPase membrane domain would allow the exocytotic machinery to discriminate fully loaded and acidified vesicles from vesicles undergoing neurotransmitter reloading.
The vesicular ATPase: A missing link between acidification and exocytosis
Authors: Wang Dong , Hiesinger P. Robin
Published: October 2013

The vesicular adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) acidifies intracellular compartments, including synaptic vesicles and secretory granules. A controversy about a second function of this ATPase in exocytosis has been fuelled by questions about multiple putative roles of acidification in the exocytic process. Now, Poëa-Guyon et al. (2013. J. Cell Biol. http://dx.doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201303104) present new evidence that the vesicular ATPase performs separate acidification and exocytosis roles and propose a mechanism for how these two functions are causally linked.
Discourse and the No-thing-ness of Culture
Authors: Silverstein Michael
Published: October 2013

Where can we find “culture” in relation to humans’ experience of it in by-degrees normatively appropriate and socially effective semiotic interactions? By analyzing several examples of such semiotic material, we can develop the idea that “culture” is a socio-historically contingent wave phenomenon immanent in social practice dimensionalized by semiotic characteristics I here term signification—circulation—emanation.
A generalized Koszul theory and its application
Authors: Li Liping
Published: October 2013

Let

A
A

be a graded algebra. In this paper we develop a generalized Koszul theory by assuming that

A
0

A_0

is self-injective instead of semisimple and generalize many classical results. The application of this generalized theory to directed categories and finite EI categories is described.
Demazure modules and graded limits of minimal affinizations
Authors: Naoi Katsuyuki
Published: October 2013

For a minimal affinization over a quantum loop algebra of type

B
C

BC

, we provide a character formula in terms of Demazure operators and multiplicities in terms of crystal bases. We also prove the formula for the limit of characters conjectured by Mukhin and Young. These are achieved by verifying that its graded limit (a variant of a classical limit) is isomorphic to some multiple generalization of a Demazure module, and by determining the defining relations of the graded limit.
Philosophy of Science and Social Work
Authors: Bloom Martin
Published: October 2013

Social work is, or ought to be, an empirically based, theoretically guided, value-infused practice that helps clients resolve their own challenges (problems or possibilities) in a way that is acceptable within an appropriate sociocultural context. There is nothing in this general definition of the profession that demands any necessary connection to a philosophy of science. Philosophy of science is a study of the abstract tools and methods (in contrast with empirical ones) with regard to understanding the nature of the science, with the emphasis here on the social sciences. This involves using epistemology (the study of knowledge and its tools for understanding, such as how concepts, propositions, and theories are used in science), ethics (the study of right or moral conduct, including the subtopic of ethical duties of helping professionals), logic (the study of valid and invalid forms of reasoning, as distinguished from its content), and, last but not least, metaphysics (the study of the nature of ultimate reality, including such charming topics as the relationship between “mind” and matter, fact and value, and substance versus visible attributes of substance. Very few social workers likely know about these topics (except professional ethics), and fewer still make use of them in daily practice. Social workers don’t ordinarily lose sleep over questions of what exists (in “reality” or in our “minds” where we construct that reality). What do we know” Do we only know what we can perceive, or are abstract concepts like neurosis or wellness “real?” What is the nature of good practice? For example, Is helping a client obtain her pittance from welfare or overturning the system to demand fair treatment for all good practice? Philosophy of science is developed largely in academic settings to address a variety of complex ideas, not people or things as such. This separation is unfortunate, because social work has much to learn about its scientific bases and how these influence its practice and its evaluation choices; and philosophy of science may benefit by the posing of new kinds of socially useful questions involving living people, semi-living organizations, and comatose nations. This bibliographic article is in the uncomfortable position of having to introduce some readers to very unfamiliar territory, while at the same time providing others with coverage in depth on these same topics. The compromise that will be used is to present one introductory text on each of the several topics discussed below, along with ample citations for going into greater depth.
Anarchism
Authors: Kinna Ruth
Published: October 2013

Anarchism developed as a distinctive strain within radical and revolutionary thought in the mid-19th century. The political theory, often associated with Pierre-Joseph Proudhon (b. 1809–d. 1865), Michael Bakunin (b. 1814–d. 1876), and Peter Kropotkin (b. 1842–d. 1921), appeared in parallel with a worldwide, international movement that shaped anarchist practices and that gave expression to a critique of capitalist exploitation, state tyranny, and an idea of rebelliousness that has been influential in sociopolitical, economic, and cultural realms. Contemporary anarchists argue about both the continuities and the discontinuities between the historical and modern movements and the antecedents of European anarchism, but there is a strong consensus that anarchism cannot be reduced to a single set of principles, conceptual arrangements, or theoretical positions that might be applied in practice, analysis, or critique. Because canonical approaches to the history of anarchist ideas are typically resisted, and because the ideological boundaries of anarchism remain contested, anarchist approaches to sociological issues are distinguished by their diversity and are difficult to pin down. However, the anarchists’ traditional opposition to processes associated with state formation, and their interrogation of the complex relationships between these processes and capitalism, society, technology, and culture, are important frames for the discussion of perennial themes, notably, domination, organization, and transformation. Reflections on the rise of the modern European state and the possibility of nonstate organization have long encouraged an interest in anthropology, supporting strongly normative accounts of mutuality, cooperation, and reciprocity. In the anticapitalist mainstream, anarchism supports a rich tradition of thinking about self-regulation, self-management, and decentralized federation. The anarchists’ principled rejection of authority has fostered an interest in systems of education, law, punishment, concepts of crime, and the institutionalization of love in heterosexual relationships, generating cultural practices and literatures that are at once subversive and utopian. Anarchist utopianism is in turn an important strain in urban design, art, and ecology. The anarchist eschewal of institutional politics and advocacy of direct action have focused attention on issues of struggle, protest, and violence as well as the theorization of direct action and prefigurative change. Notwithstanding anarchist suspicions of the elitism and complicity of academic institutions, anarchism has had an influence on mainstream sociology and is equally influenced by critical strains within it. The relationship with Marxism, though often unhappy, has provided one route into sociology. Max Weber’s engagements with anarchism have provided another; and, in late-20th- and early-21st-century history, anarchists have begun to develop approaches to sociology that resonate with both traditions.
HIV/AIDS
Authors: Sangaramoorthy Thurka
Published: October 2013

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) represents a group of conditions that occur as a result of severe immunosuppression related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV/AIDS is an incurable medical condition and a complex global pandemic. Although significant strides have been made in the last thirty years to stem the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS, it continues to be one of the leading causes of infectious disease deaths in the world. HIV/AIDS has claimed more than 35 million lives, and as of 2017, there are approximately 36.9 million people living with HIV/AIDS globally, with a significant majority residing in sub-Saharan Africa. HIV/AIDS is also a social phenomenon that reflects various forms of global inequalities. It runs along the fault lines of society and significantly impacts those who are the most vulnerable. Poverty, gender inequalities, political instability, famine and food insecurity, and inadequate health care standards undergird and continue to drive the epidemic. These issues related to the global inequalities of HIV/AIDS are of central importance to anthropology. Anthropologists have long studied the importance of cultural, social, and structural factors contributing to HIV/AIDS. Since the beginning of the epidemic, anthropologists have contributed to better understandings of cultural beliefs and local practices that place people at risk for HIV/AIDS, advocated for equitable access to care and treatment, and promoted culturally appropriate strategies for prevention. More recently, anthropologists have also critically analyzed the complex relationships of power between global multilateral organizations, influential donors, governments of resource-poor countries, and local communities, and their impact on global HIV/AIDS projects.
Effect of Gastrojejunal Feedings on Visits and Costs in Children With Neurologic Impairment
Authors: King Marta , Barnhart Douglas C. , O'Gorman Molly , Downey Earl C. , Jackson Daniel , Mundorff Michael , Holubkov Richard , Feola Peter , Srivastava Rajendu
Published: October 2013

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of gastrojejunal tube (GJT) feedings in children with neurologic impairment (NI) on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)– and/or dysfunctional swallowing–related visits and their associated costs.

Methods:

The present study is a retrospective cohort study of children with NI and GERD who underwent GJT placement at the study hospital from December 1999 to October 2006. Visits (emergency department, radiology, and hospitalizations) were reviewed from the time of birth until 1 year following GJT placement and classified as either not GERD and/or dysfunctional swallowing related or GERD and/or dysfunctional swallowing related (eg, pneumonias). Incident rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated by dividing the post‐GJT visit rate by the pre‐GJT visit rate. Other outcomes included associated costs, fundoplications, and deaths.

Results:

Thirty‐three patients met inclusion criteria. The IRR for total visits was 1.78 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–2.81) and for GERD‐ and/or dysfunctional swallowing–related visits 2.88 (95% CI 1.68–4.94). Feeding tube‐related visits (IRR 5.36, 95% CI 2.73–10.51) accounted for the majority. GERD‐ and/or dysfunctional swallowing–related costs per child per year were low overall, with no difference from pre‐GJT versus post‐GJT placement ($1851 vs $4601, P = 0.89). Seven (21%) children underwent Nissen fundoplication and 4 (12%) died within 1 year of GJT placement. Two deaths involved jejunal perforation.

Conclusions:

Children with NI and GERD who are treated with GJT feedings have significantly more GERD‐ and/or dysfunctional swallowing–related visits in the following year. The majority of these visits are because of the procedural complications, which are inexpensive. There is, however, mortality associated with the GJT and some children proceed to a fundoplication.
System dynamics model of debt accumulation in developing countries
Authors: Pastor Ansah John , Azeem Qureshi Muhammad
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a dynamic macroeconomic framework that identifies the fundamental structure of public debt accumulation process in developing countries and its two way linkages with economic growth and public finances. Within this framework, the objective of this study is to identify leverage points that may be utilized to slow down debt accumulation process without slowing down economic growth.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses the system dynamics (SD) method to model and analyze the debt accumulation process. This method allows us to analyze the relationship between structure and behaviour of complex dynamic systems. This paper considers fiscal policy as the strategic element of the debt accumulation process and hence it considers seignorage and consequent inflation to be outside the model boundary. In other words the paper assumes that there exists an effective monetary policy that satisfies the objectives of the fiscal policy.

Findings

– Capping debt servicing (debt relief) increases the debtor country's capacity to invest and the higher investment will raise capacity to pay debt in the future, with some of the rewards going to the creditor. Financing public investment through borrowing produces the highest Debt-GDP ratio compared to all other polices considered. Widening of the tax base to include this informal sector without increasing the tax rate and reducing the extravagant non-debt current expenditure are effective endogenous policy options that help reduce considerably the Debt-GDP ratio. The best composite policy demonstrates that a reduction in the Debt-GDP ratio does not only require exogenous assistance (debt relief) but endogenous government and private sector responsibility to maintain fiscal discipline and generate growth.

Originality/value

– The unique characteristic of this model is the transparent way in which it represents the two-way feedback relationship between the debt, public finance and economic development taking into consideration the delays and non-linearities involved in this process.
Trade liberalization, technology import and skill upgrading in Tunisian manufacturing industries
Authors: Mrabet Zouhair , Lanouar Charfeddine
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to focus on the impact of trade openness and technology import on the change in demand structure of employment toward skilled workers. Because of the limited number of empirical papers done in the case of Tunisia, this research investigates whether these factors had similar effects on relative labor demand in Tunisia to those observed in the international literature.

Design/methodology/approach

– For this purpose, the paper uses a manufacturing industries database provided by the Tunisian National Institute, the Quantitative Economic Institute and Comtrade of United Nations for six manufacturing industries. The methodology used here is a panel data technique, and consists of estimating a dynamic relative employment equation.

Findings

– Empirical results show that trade liberalization and technology change positively affect relative employment of Tunisian manufacturing industries which confirms the existence of skill biased technological change that contributes to increase the relative demand for skilled workers.

Originality/value

– The paper adds to existing literature by studying for the first time the case of Tunisian manufacturing industries by using dynamic model. The paper deals also with an econometrics issues related to the use of suitable estimation methodology in the case of dynamic panel data at macroeconomics level.
Food waste as an index of foodservice quality
Authors: Ferreira Manuela , Liz Martins Margarida , Rocha Ada
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate waste at a Portuguese university setting in order to suggest improvements on foodservice sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

– The work was developed during four weeks in order to allow the evaluation of parameters of an entire menu cycle. The index of waste/consumption (%) was obtained by the ratio between plate waste and the quantity of foods distributed, subtracting the weight of leftovers.

Findings

– The average index of waste/consumption was approximately 24 percent, higher in the days with a fish menu, values considered unacceptable. Each canteen user is served with approximately 940 g of foods, from which only 660 g were effectively consumed, corresponding to 80 g of leftovers and 200 g of waste.

Originality/value

– It seems possible and desirable to reduce food waste in order to optimize food unit profitability and sustainability. Reducing food waste will contribute to improve foodservice quality as well as consumer's satisfaction. Potential strategies to achieve this goal may include previous booking of meals, to adopt tray less during lunch and additionally analyze the eating patterns for a particular forecasted meal, and then prepare and serve food based on the appropriate forecast.
Predicting breakfast consumption
Authors: Mullan Barbara , Wong Cara , Kothe Emily , Maccann Carolyn
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Breakfast consumption is associated with a range of beneficial health outcomes including improved overall diet quality, lower BMI, decreased risk of chronic disease, and improved cognitive function. Although there are many models of health and social behaviour, there is a paucity of research utilising these in breakfast consumption and very few studies that directly compare these models. This study aims to compare the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and the health action process approach (HAPA) in predicting breakfast consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

– University students (N=102; M=19.5 years) completed a questionnaire measuring demographics, TPB and HAPA motivational variables, and intentions. Behaviour and HAPA volitional variables were measured four weeks later.

Findings

– Using structural equation modelling, it was found that the TPB model was a superior fit to the data across a range of model indices compared to the HAPA. Both models significantly predicted both intentions and behaviour at follow up; however, the TPB predicted a higher proportion of the variance in breakfast consumption (47.6 per cent) than the HAPA (44.8 per cent). Further, the volitional variables did not mediate the intention-behaviour gap, and the data were not an adequate statistical fit to the model compared to the TPB.

Research limitations/implications

– The results support the use of the TPB and show that some aspects of the HAPA are useful in predicting breakfast consumption, suggesting that risk perception and self-efficacy be targeted in interventions to increase behaviour. The volitional variables did not appear to mediate breakfast consumption indicating that intention is still the strongest predictor, at least in this behaviour.

Originality/value

– The current study is the first to compare the TPB and HAPA in predicting breakfast consumption.
The effect of hedonic and utilitarian values on satisfaction and behavioural intentions for dining in fast-casual restaurants in Iran
Authors: Nejati Mehran , Parakhodi Moghaddam Parnia
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This study seeks to examine the influence of hedonic and utilitarian values on customers' satisfaction and behavioural intentions for dining out in the context of fast-casual restaurants in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

– A total of 379 surveys were collected (342 deemed usable) from respondents who had experienced dining out in a fast-casual restaurant at least once within one month prior to the survey collection time. A research model was tested using structural equation modelling (SEM) to examine the research hypotheses.

Findings

– Results of the study revealed that both hedonic and utilitarian values significantly influenced satisfaction and behavioural intentions. Besides, satisfaction was also found to have a significant positive influence on behavioural intentions. The study also showed that utilitarian value has a more powerful influence on the behavioural intention of customers in the context of fast food restaurants.

Research limitations/implications

– The main limitation of this study pertains to the sample which is collected from a limited section of the society with high level of education. This study helps to expand the body of literature on the behaviour of young customers in developing countries. Besides, the current study has also contributed to theory by examining the usefulness of two distinct structures of consumer service values, namely hedonic and utilitarian.

Practical implications

– This study expands the understanding of owners/managers in the food and hospitality industry about the influence of distinct value types on customers' satisfaction and behavioural intentions.

Originality/value

– This study examined two distinct structures of consumer service values on the behavioural intentions of customers from a developing country. Since the structure of the fast food industry is different from most other countries, in that none of the giant fast food chain restaurants operate in Iran, the results of this study can provide invaluable insights from a different perspective.
Determinants of consumer support for mandatory labeling of genetically modified food in India
Authors: Babasaheb Kajale Dilip , C. Becker Tilman
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to understand young consumers' (students') opinions about the mandatory labeling policy for genetically modified foods (GMF), and in-depth analysis of determinants of young consumer support for this policy.

Design/methodology/approach

– Consumer survey was conducted by using a face to face interview method for a sample of 298 students. The hypotheses of this study are risk benefit perceptions and concerns about the current labeling policy likely to determine students' support for mandatory labeling of GMF. The questionnaire employed for the survey mainly focuses on the questions such as students' perceptions about GMF and opinions about current labeling policy in India. Probit model was used to analyze the determinants of young consumers' support for this policy.

Findings

– The authors found that 58 per cent of the students support mandatory labeling of GMF and 39 per cent of the students are willing to pay 10-15 per cent more price for foods under this policy. Young consumers who have knowledge about GM technology are more likely to support this policy. Young consumers' dissatisfaction with the current labeling, and demand for information about food production have a positive influence on support for this policy. Those young consumers who use food labels regularly are likely to support this policy and young consumers' trust in university for truthful information about GMF has a positive influence. Whereas, students' risk benefits perception and moral concerns about GMF have an insignificant influence.

Research limitations/implications

– Limitations of the study are that it focused only on university students and used small sample size. Hence, further studies are recommended for overall consumer representative sample.

Practical implications

– The findings of this study will be helpful for further research on consumers and mandatory labeling of GMF in India, and also provide some useful information for marketing of GMF in India.

Originality/value

– To the authors' knowledge this is the first study that analyzes the determinants of young consumers' support for mandatory labeling policy for GMF in India.
Weeding worries, part 2: journals
Authors: Luther Cottrell Terrance
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The discussions surrounding weeding print journals can be quite different from those involving books or videos. This paper aims to provide commentary and direction for library managers seeking insight on how to engage pragmatically in the weeding of print journal titles for a variety of reasons.

Design/methodology/approach

– Drawing on recent press related to an all-digital bibliotech opening in Texas, and contrasting the book weeding perspectives from part 1 of this series, this article explores print journal culling projects from the perspective of the consciousness of library users and stakeholders.

Findings

– Weeding journals in waves or phases over multiple years of time can be a way to cope with the pressure of needing to reduce print collections due to duplication in online databases and print formats. Surveying users' journal needs separate from book or video needs will produce a more accurate understanding of what titles to keep on hand, and will also draw importance to this information type as it may be at risk as e-books and videos dominate the consumer information landscape.

Originality/value

– Reduction in print journal collections continues as the popularity of online article databases grows more and more. Educating users on the virtue of journal publications separate from books and videos is a way to build more understanding about this unique resource. If digital bibliotechs of the future become what users know as “libraries”, but do not contain journals of any type, a major information source will have disappeared from the consciousness of future library supporters.
Assessing post-traumatic stress symptoms in a Latino prison population
Authors: N. Caraballo José , Pérez-Pedrogo Coralee , E. Albizu-García Carmen
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to assess the reliability and validity of the Spanish version of the Davidson trauma scale (DTS-S) and to determine the prevalence and correlates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a non-clinical random sample of prison inmates.

Design/methodology/approach

– Probabilistic samples of 1,179 inmates from 26 penal institutions in Puerto Rico were selected using a multistage sampling design. Population estimates and correlations were obtained for PTSD, generalized anxiety and depression. The reliability, factor structure, and convergent validity of the DTS-S were assessed. Cross-validation was employed to confirm the results of the factor analyses.

Findings

– Using the cut-offs adopted by the scale's author, 136 (13.4 percent) of the inmates are likely to have current PTSD and 117 (11.6 percent) reach the cut-off for sub-threshold PTSD. Confirmatory factor analysis generated two factors explaining 53 percent of the variance. High reliabilities were obtained for the total scale (α=0.95) and for the frequency and severity scales (α=0.90 and 0.91). Significantly higher DTS-S scores were found for females (t=2.26,p<0.025), for inmates diagnosed with depression or anxiety (t=2.02,p<0.05), and those reporting suicide attempts (t=4.47,p<0.0001).

Originality/value

– Findings support that the DTS-S is a reliable and valid measure to assess PTSD symptoms in Latino inmate populations and to identify individuals at risk for the disorder that require confirmatory diagnosis and clinical interventions.
Prison, a missing target to address issues related to drug detoxification and rehabilitation: Nepalese experiences
Authors: Kant Jha Chandra , M. Donovan Dennis
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Drug use has numerous consequences on health, the economy, culture and the peace and security of families and communities. Drug users often engage in various criminal activities, including drug dealing, to sustain their drug use. Under Nepalese law, consumption, possession and sale of drugs are illegal, which increases the risk of incarceration for drug users.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a phenomenological/qualitative approach, the paper explores how various activities can lead to the arrest of drug users, how they cope without taking drugs in custody and prison and how they plan abstinence after release.

Findings

– Participants engaged in various categories of criminal activity, including stealing, looting, etc. Most of the drug users were in custody and prison at least once. Drug use relapses led the participants to re-engage in criminal activities including drug dealing. Parents were often overburdened by their sons and daughter's drug use and were worried about their repeated relapses. Finally, some parents negotiated with their sons and daughters to keep them in prison where they would be able to stay without taking drugs and their involvement in crimes and conflicts would decrease.

Originality/value

– Keeping substance abusers in prison does not appear to be an effective strategy, as many participants relapse after release from prison. However, a prison-based educational and health promotion strategy would be beneficial for drug users to develop knowledge and skills on staying drug-free. However, to date, no effort has been made to provide such services to drug users and develop their coping strategy after release.
The Blue Ocean that disappeared – the case of Nintendo Wii
Authors: Hollensen Svend
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose with this article is to analyze the “Blue Ocean” phenomenon in depth. The goal is to better understand the underlying dynamic strategies in the form of interactions between theory and management practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– Single case study, Nintendo, which strategy is being confronted with the strategies of the two competitors, Sony and Microsoft. This is done in order to distinguish the value propositions of the three players in the game console industry

Findings

– The main finding is that even if a company can create a Blue Ocean very fast with the right value proposition at the right time, it may be short-termed and may be transformed into a Red Ocean again within 1-2 years, unless the company's competitiveness is safe-guarded.

Practical implications

– The results show, that Nintendo started out with a Red Ocean around 2005 with their GameCube. Then they turned it into a Blue Ocean with their introduction of “Wii” in November 2006. But Nintendo could not prevent Sony and Microsoft in turning it back to a Red Ocean, with their introduction of similar product features (motion controls), but at better quality. If Nintendo will be able to reestablish the Blue Ocean with their introduction of the “Wii U” in November 2012 is questionable.

Originality/value

– There is constantly a need for reformulating the strategy through a dynamic and creative process, in order not to turn the Blue Ocean into a Red Ocean again.