bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where did the Modality Principle in Multimedia Learning Go? A ­Double Replication Failure that Questions Both Theory and Practical Use
Authors: Tabbers Huib K. , van der Spoel Wilco
Published: October 2011

Abstract.The modality principle claims that animations are more effective with narration than with on-screen text. However, the cognitive mechanisms that explain the effect are not entirely clear yet. Two issues were investigated in the current study. Experiment 1 focused on the different channel assumption that narration and on-screen text tax working memory differently. Sixty participants studied an animation on the formation of lightning ( Mayer & Moreno, 1998 ; Moreno & Mayer, 1999 ) with either narrated text or on-screen text. Afterwards, mental effort, retention and transfer were measured. Also, half the participants got a counting task that taxed the phonological loop in working memory. The hypothesis was that the counting task would affect learning in the narrated condition more than in the on-screen text condition. The results did not show such an interaction, with the loading task affecting both conditions equally. Surprisingly, no main effect of modality was found either. Nevertheless, the results do not support the different channel assumption as an explanation for the modality effect. The second experiment tested whether the modality effect could be the result of split attention in the on-screen text condition, aggrevated by a lack of time to integrate screen text and animation. Seventy participants studied the same animation as in Experiment 1, but this time both modality of text and speed of animation were varied. We expected the strongest modality effect in the fast conditions, and a less strong effect in the slow conditions. However, no differences were found on any of the dependent measures. The double failure to replicate the modality effect and the lack of evidence for the different channels explanation raises doubt on its theoretical rationale and limits its practical use as a design principle.
Using documentaries for Earth science education
Authors: Hooper Richard , Lilienfeld Linda , Arrigo Jennifer
Published: October 2011

With the success of An Inconvenient Truth, a movie about former U.S. vice president Al Gore's campaign to educate the public on global climate change, long‐form documentaries, particularly those concerning environmental issues, are enjoying a renaissance. These films can be a powerful educational tool because they create teachable moments by heightening students' interest in environmental topics. Successful documentaries engage the audience emotionally and tell a compelling story, with heroes and villains. Often films touch on some scientific concepts and may even contain graphics and animations that are useful in explaining processes. However, they generally do not provide a balanced exposition of the science and technical issues that underlie the environmental problems described. Documentaries may advocate a particular policy position.
Conway B. Leovy (1933–2011)
Authors: Catling David
Published: October 2011

Conway Leovy, professor of atmospheric sciences and geophysics at the University of Washington (UW) and AGU member since 1961, died in Seattle on 9 July 2011, a week before his 78th birthday. His career of understanding planetary atmospheres spanned more than 40 years. Conway's interest in atmospheres was kindled soon after he received a degree in physics and mathematics from the University of Southern California in 1954. He was a U.S. Air Force weather forecaster from 1954 to 1958, which included service at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and in Seoul, South Korea. After completing a Ph.D. in meteorology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1963, Conway did research at the Rand Corporation, Santa Monica, Calif., on ozone chemistry, the planetary boundary layer, and mesosphere dynamics. Each area served as a springboard for subsequent activities. Knowledge of stratospheric chemistry allowed Conway to advise the U.S. Senate in the early 1970s about the effects of supersonic transport. Similarly, his research into dynamics and radiation informed a lifetime's work in these fields. Also at Rand, Conway began research about Mars, a significant topic for much of his career.
Bias in bonding behavior among boron, carbon, and nitrogen atoms in ion implanted a-BN, a-BC, and diamond like carbon films
Authors: Genisel Mustafa Fatih , Uddin Md. Nizam , Say Zafer , Kulakci Mustafa , Turan Rasit , Gulseren Oguz , Bengu Erman
Published: October 2011

In this study, we implanted N+ and N2+ ions into sputter deposited amorphous boron carbide (a-BC) and diamond like carbon (DLC) thin films in an effort to understand the chemical bonding involved and investigate possible phase separation routes in boron carbon nitride (BCN) films. In addition, we investigated the effect of implanted C+ ions in sputter deposited amorphous boron nitride (a-BN) films. Implanted ion energies for all ion species were set at 40 KeV. Implanted films were then analyzed using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The changes in the chemical composition and bonding chemistry due to ion-implantation were examined at different depths of the films using sequential ion-beam etching and high resolution XPS analysis cycles. A comparative analysis has been made with the results from sputter deposited BCN films suggesting that implanted nitrogen and carbon atoms behaved very similar to nitrogen and carbon atoms in sputter deposited BCN films. We found that implanted nitrogen atoms would prefer bonding to carbon atoms in the films only if there is no boron atom in the vicinity or after all available boron atoms have been saturated with nitrogen. Implanted carbon atoms also preferred to either bond with available boron atoms or, more likely bonded with other implanted carbon atoms. These results were also supported by ab-initio density functional theory calculations which indicated that carbon-carbon bonds were energetically preferable to carbon-boron and carbon-nitrogen bonds.
Dynamics of interatomic Coulombic decay in quantum dots
Authors: Bande Annika , Gokhberg Kirill , Cederbaum Lorenz S.
Published: October 2011

In this work we demonstrate that the interatomic Coulombic decay (ICD), an ultrafast electron relaxation process known for atoms and molecules, is possible in general binding potentials. We used the multiconfiguration time-dependent Hartree method for fermions to study ICD in real time in a two-electron model system of two potential wells. Two decay channels were identified and analyzed by using the box stabilization analysis as well as by evaluating the autocorrelation function and measuring the outgoing electron flux during time-propagations. The total and partial ICD widths of an excited state localized in one potential well as a function of the distance between the two potentials was obtained. Finally, we discuss the results with a view to a possible application of ICD in quantum dot technology.
Movement Surface: A Multilevel Approach for Predicting Visitor Movement in Nature Areas
Authors: Maldonado Ana , Wachowicz Monica , Vaźquez-Hoehne Antonio
Published: October 2011

The movement of visitors in nature areas is influenced by a variety of factors that consist of aggregated characteristics such as the average number of visitors to a park, different types of visitors, and their typical destinations, as well as individual characteristics of an individual vistor's expectations, motivations, activities, duration of stay, and trip itineraries. Therefore, it is important to simulate an overall picture of a visitor movement (macroscopic level) according to his individual physical mobility and cognitive capabilities (microscopic level). Most recreational simulation models have been developed to deal with one specific level in particular. In this paper we describe an integrated multilevel modelling approach for the prediction of visitor movement in nature areas. At the macroscopic level, a visitor movement is represented by a movement surface which follows the analogy of the flow of water in gravity models. In contrast, our model also belongs to the microscopic category, where visitors interact with their movement surface by making a sequence of decisions according to utility measures, which in turn generates their individual trajectories. The model was implemented for the simulation of the visitor movements within the Dwingelderveld National Park, which is located in the northern part of the Netherlands. Finally, the main outcomes and limitations of such a modelling approach are discussed.
A Review of the Presence and Use of Fractal Geometry in Architectural Design
Authors: Joye Yannick
Published: October 2011

Although references to fractals in architecture are made frequently, to date a systematic, encompassing, scholarly treatment of the use and presence of this geometrical language in architecture is missing. Often such references are made only cursorily and give a limited view on the possible cross-fertilizations between fractal geometry and architecture. In this paper an attempt is made to remedy this, aiming to present a systematic review of the use and presence of fractal geometry in architecture. The paper starts off with a short introductory section. In section 2 some of the theoretical basics about fractal geometry are reviewed. On the basis of this, possible interpretations of the concept ‘fractal architecture’ and the problems associated with them are made explicit and discussed. In section 3 a review of the different ways in which fractal geometry has been related to architecture is presented. Section 4 touches upon quantitative methods to analyze the fractal aspects of architecture. The fifth section is a discussion of a number of methods and heuristics based on fractal geometry to create architectural work. In the final section, possible explanations for the (apparent) perennial interest in fractal form in architecture are discussed.
The Characteristics and Tradeoffs of Households Choosing to Live in Gated Communities
Authors: Plaut Pnina O
Published: October 2011

Gated communities have grown in importance in the United States in recent years and they are also common in many other countries. Relatively little is known about the factors and tradeoffs associated with the preferences of households to live in such communities. There is a popular perception of gated communities being refuges for higher income and higher status predominantly white households in the United States but this appears to be largely incorrect. The profile of those who live in gated communities is the focus of this study. Homeowners living in gated communities are analyzed separately from renters, and are compared with those living in nongated communities, with special attention to location within the metropolitan statistical area and housing features. The factors that affect their respective decisions appear to be different. Residence in gated communities is ‘purchased’ both in the form of higher prices and rents, but also in the form of trading off some housing features, such as settling for smaller units with fewer bedrooms, for ‘gatedness’. The role of other factors in affecting likelihood of living in gated communities, including income, education, and some other factors associated with socioeconomic status, is explored using logit analysis. Those living in the urban subregions of the metropolitan statistical areas (the central city and secondary cities) have the highest likelihood of choosing gated communities, other things being equal. Somewhat surprisingly, people do not seem to be choosing gated communities in order to shorten their commuting distances. Despite the media stereotypes, racial minorities are often over-represented in gated communities for all minority groups for both forms of housing tenure (ownership and renting). Income disparities between whites and blacks are generally narrower within gated communities than they are outside of them. Within racial groups, income diversity, as measured by standard deviations, is greater in gated communities than outside of them, indicating greater heterogeneity.
Towards a Methodology for Flexible Urban Design: Designing with Urban Patterns and Shape Grammars
Authors: Duarte José P , Beirão José
Published: October 2011

Traditional urban plans use definitive design systems, without the flexibility required to deal with the complexity and change that characterize contemporary urban societies. To conceive urban plans with increased flexibility, a shape grammar-based design methodology is proposed which is capable of producing various design solutions instead of a single rigid layout. In this approach the plan is a design system encoding a set of alternative solutions, rather than a single, specific solution. This methodology was developed on the basis of the analysis of existing plans and on a series of experiments undertaken within the controlled environment of design studios. Results show that shape grammars produce urban plans with nondefinitive formal solutions, while keeping a consistent design language. They also provide plans with explicit and implicit flexibility, thereby giving future designers a wider degree of freedom. As a result, they are particularly appropriate for dealing with complexity and change throughout the legal lifespan of the plan. Finally, they provide students with a concrete methodology for approaching urban design, fostering the development of additional design skills.
Patchy nitrate promotes inter-sector flow and 15N allocation in Ocimum basilicum: a model and an experiment
Authors: Thorn Alexandra M. , Orians Colin M.
Published: October 2011

Root conductance increases under high nitrate conditions. This plasticity might increase water and nutrient transport between parallel xylem pathways, but restrictions to lateral flow – called sectoriality – are expected to limit this crossover. We simulated the effects of a high nitrate patch on root conductance, water uptake and inter-sector water transport, then empirically tested whether a high nitrate patch affects water uptake and nitrogen distribution (applied 15N as 14NH415NO3 to half the root system) within the crowns of split-root hydroponic basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). Simulations showed that at low sectoriality, the proportion of water taken up in a patch scales with the relative change in root resistance and that this fraction decreases with increasing tangential resistance. The effect of sectoriality decreased when a higher background root resistance was assumed. Empirically, water flow through excised basil roots was 1.4 times higher in the high nitrate than the no nitrate solution. In split-root basil, a nitrate patch resulted in a marginally significant increase in the proportion of water taken up from the patch and water uptake patterns significantly predicted the distribution of 15N. Our results suggest that root conductance can mediate nitrogen allocation between sectors, a previously unexplored benefit.
A propósito de las fuentes gramaticales francesas en la Gramática general española de J. Gómez Hermosilla (Madrid, 1841)
Authors: Lépinette Brigitte
Published: October 2011

En este artículo nuestra finalidad ha sido evaluar, desde el punto de vista de la doctrina gramatical, los Principios de Gramática General (1841 [1835]) de José Mamerto Gómez Hermosilla (1771–1837), calibrar las aportaciones de sus fuentes francesas – Beauzée, Condillac y Destutt de Tracy – y describir cómo se utilizaron éstas. El método para tal fin ha consistido en contrastar de forma precisa la macroorganización, así como la teoría sobre el sustantivo, en las obras francesas mencionadas y en la española. Nuestro propósito era un mejor conocimiento de la recepción y de la adaptación en España de lo que se puede llamar genéricamente Gramática general. El estudio nos ha permitido destacar que J. M. Gómez Hermosilla se sirvió de sus fuentes francesas con originalidad.
Effects of Ceratomyxosis on Population Dynamics of Klamath Fall‐Run Chinook Salmon
Authors: Fujiwara Masami , Mohr Michael S. , Greenberg Aaron , Foott J. Scott , Bartholomew Jerri L.
Published: October 2011

Animal populations are frequently infected by pathogens, but it is not always easy to determine the importance of pathogens to overall population dynamics. It is especially difficult to detect the effects of disease in population time series data because the effects are often local while overall population dynamics are also affected by larger‐scale environmental factors. We overcame this difficulty by applying multivariate time series analysis to extract local effects from spawning abundance data and by comparing the survival rate of juvenile fall‐run Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha from two locations in the Klamath River basin of California, one of which is affected by a high concentration of the myxozoan parasite Ceratomyxa shasta. To assess the effect of the disease (ceratomyxosis) caused by C. shasta on the population dynamics, we analyzed spatially structured abundance data for naturally spawning salmon and survival data for hatchery‐released salmon for associations with exposure to C. shasta and stream discharge, another important factor with respect to ceratomyxosis in juvenile salmon. The results suggest that ceratomyxosis reduces the survival of the Chinook salmon that migrate through the location where parasite densities are highest and that this effect is also detectable in spawning abundance estimates.
Caspase-8 inactivation in T cells increases necroptosis and suppresses autoimmunity in Bim−/− mice
Authors: Bohgaki Toshiyuki , Mozo Julien , Salmena Leonardo , Matysiak-Zablocki Elzbieta , Bohgaki Miyuki , Sanchez Otto , Strasser Andreas , Hakem Anne , Hakem Razqallah
Published: October 2011

Dysregulation of either the extrinsic or intrinsic apoptotic pathway can lead to various diseases including immune disorders and cancer. In addition to its role in the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, caspase-8 plays nonapoptotic functions and is essential for T cell homeostasis. The pro-apoptotic BH3-only Bcl-2 family member Bim is important for the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and its inactivation leads to autoimmunity that is further exacerbated by loss of function of the death receptor Fas. We report that inactivation of caspase-8 in T cells of Bim−/− mice restrained their autoimmunity and extended their life span. We show that, similar to caspase-8−/− T cells, Bim−/− T cells that also lack caspase-8 displayed elevated levels of necroptosis and that inhibition of this cell death process fully rescued the survival and proliferation of these cells. Collectively, our data demonstrate that inactivation of caspase-8 suppresses the survival and proliferative capacity of Bim−/− T cells and restrains autoimmunity in Bim−/− mice.
Spatial constraints dictate glial territories at murine neuromuscular junctions
Authors: Brill Monika S. , Lichtman Jeff W. , Thompson Wesley , Zuo Yi , Misgeld Thomas
Published: October 2011

Schwann cells (SCs), the glial cells of the peripheral nervous system, cover synaptic terminals, allowing them to monitor and modulate neurotransmission. Disruption of glial coverage leads to axon degeneration and synapse loss. The cellular mechanisms that establish and maintain this coverage remain largely unknown. To address this, we labeled single SCs and performed time-lapse imaging experiments. Adult terminal SCs are arranged in static tile patterns, whereas young SCs dynamically intermingle. The mechanism of developmental glial segregation appears to be spatial competition, in which glial–glial and axonal–glial contacts constrain the territory of single SCs, as shown by four types of experiments: (1) laser ablation of single SCs, which led to immediate territory expansion of neighboring SCs; (2) axon removal by transection, resulting in adult SCs intermingling dynamically; (3) axotomy in mutant mice with blocked axon fragmentation in which intermingling was delayed; and (4) activity blockade, which had no immediate effects. In summary, we conclude that glial cells partition synapses by competing for perisynaptic space.
Implicit and explicit prior information in near-infrared spectral imaging: accuracy, quantification and diagnostic value
Authors: Pogue Brian W. , Davis Scott C. , Leblond Frederic , Mastanduno Michael A. , Dehghani Hamid , Paulsen Keith D.
Published: October 2011

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) of tissue provides quantification of absorbers, scattering and luminescent agents in bulk tissue through the use of measurement data and assumptions. Prior knowledge can be critical about things such as (i) the tissue shape and/or structure, (ii) spectral constituents, (iii) limits on parameters, (iv) demographic or biomarker data, and (v) biophysical models of the temporal signal shapes. A general framework of NIRS imaging with prior information is presented, showing that prior information datasets could be incorporated at any step in the NIRS process, with the general workflow being: (i) data acquisition, (ii) pre-processing, (iii) forward model, (iv) inversion/reconstruction, (v) post-processing, and (vi) interpretation/diagnosis. Most of the development in NIRS has used ad hoc or empirical implementations of prior information such as pre-measured absorber or fluorophore spectra, or tissue shapes as estimated by additional imaging tools. A comprehensive analysis would examine what prior information maximizes the accuracy in recovery and value for medical diagnosis, when implemented at separate stages of the NIRS sequence. Individual applications of prior information can show increases in accuracy or improved ability to estimate biochemical features of tissue, while other approaches may not. Most beneficial inclusion of prior information has been in the inversion/reconstruction process, because it solves the mathematical intractability. However, it is not clear that this is always the most beneficial stage.
Has the time come to use near-infrared spectroscopy as a routine clinical tool in preterm infants undergoing intensive care?
Authors: Greisen Gorm , Leung Terence , Wolf Martin
Published: October 2011

Several instruments implementing spatially resolved near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to monitor tissue oxygenation are now approved for clinical use. The neonatal brain is readily assessible by NIRS and neurodevelopmental impairment is common in children who were in need of intensive care during the neonatal period. It is likely that an important part of the burden of this handicap is due to brain injury induced by hypoxia–ischaemia during intensive care. In particular, this is true for infants born extremely preterm. Thus, monitoring of cerebral oxygenation has considerable potential benefit in this group. The benefit, however, should be weighed against the disturbance to the infant, against the limitations imposed on clinical care and against costs. The ultimate way of demonstrating the ‘added value’ is by a randomized controlled trial. Cerebral oximetry must reduce the risk of a clinically relevant endpoint, such as death or neurodevelopmental handicap. We estimate that such a trial should recruit about 4000 infants to have the power to detect a reduction in brain injury by one-fifth. This illustrates the formidable task of providing first-grade evidence for the clinical value of diagnostic methods. Is it a window of opportunity for the establishment of a rational basis before another technology is added to an already overly complex newborn intensive care?
Towards the next generation of near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Hoshi Yoko
Published: October 2011

Although near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was originally designed for clinical monitoring of tissue oxygenation, it has also been developing into a useful tool for neuroimaging studies (functional NIRS). Over the past 30 years, technology has developed and NIRS has found a wide range of applications. However, the accuracy and reliability of NIRS have not yet been widely accepted, mainly because of the difficulties in selective and quantitative detection of signals arising in cerebral tissue, which subject the use of NIRS to a number of practical restrictions. This review summarizes the strengths and advantages of NIRS over other neuroimaging modalities and demonstrates specific examples. The issues of selective quantitative measurement of cerebral haemoglobin during brain activation are also discussed, together with the problems of applying the methods of functional magnetic resonance imaging data analysis to NIRS data analysis. Finally, near-infrared optical tomography—the next generation of NIRS—is described as a potential technique to overcome the limitations of NIRS.
Diffuse optical spectroscopic imaging correlates with final pathological response in breast cancer neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Cerussi Albert E. , Tanamai Vaya W. , Hsiang David , Butler John , Mehta Rita S. , Tromberg Bruce J.
Published: October 2011

Diffuse optical spectroscopic imaging (DOSI) non-invasively and quantitatively measures tissue haemoglobin, water and lipid. Pilot studies in small groups of patients demonstrate that DOSI may be useful for longitudinal monitoring and predicting breast cancer neoadjuvant chemotherapy pathological response. This study evaluates the performance of a bedside DOSI platform in 34 breast cancer patients followed for several months. DOSI optical endpoints obtained at multiple timepoints are compared with final pathological response. Thirty-six stage II/III breast cancers (34 patients) were measured
in vivo
with DOSI prior to, in the middle of and after the completion of pre-surgical neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Cancer therapies ranged from standard anthracyclines to targeted therapies. Changes in DOSI-measured parameters at each timepoint were compared against final surgical pathology. Absolute changes in the tumour-to-normal (T/N) ratio of tissue deoxyhaemoglobin concentration (ctHHb) and relative changes in the T/N ratio of a tissue optical index (TOI) were most sensitive and correlate to pathological response. Changes in ctHHb and TOI were significantly different between tumours that achieved pathological complete response (pCR) versus non-pCR. By therapy midpoint, mean TOI-T/N changes were 47±8 versus 20±5 per cent for pCR versus non-pCR subjects, respectively (
Z
=0.011). Changes in ctHHb and TOI scaled significantly with the degree of pathological response (non-, partial and complete). DOSI measurements of TOI separated pCR from non-pCR by therapy midpoint regardless of drug or dosing strategy. This approach is well suited to monitoring breast tumour response and may provide feedback for optimizing therapeutic outcomes and minimizing side-effects.
Optical imaging for the new grammar of drug discovery
Authors: Krucker Thomas , Sandanaraj Britto S.
Published: October 2011

Optical technologies used in biomedical research have undergone tremendous development in the last decade and enabled important insight into biochemical, cellular and physiological phenomena at the microscopic and macroscopic level. Historically in drug discovery, to increase throughput in screening, or increase efficiency through automation of image acquisition and analysis in pathology, efforts in imaging were focused on the reengineering of established microscopy solutions. However, with the emergence of the new grammar for drug discovery, other requirements and expectations have created unique opportunities for optical imaging. The new grammar of drug discovery provides rules for translating the wealth of genomic and proteomic information into targeted medicines with a focus on complex interactions of proteins. This paradigm shift requires highly specific and quantitative imaging at the molecular level with tools that can be used in cellular assays, animals and finally translated into patients. The development of fluorescent targeted and activatable ‘smart’ probes, fluorescent proteins and new reporter gene systems as functional and dynamic markers of molecular events
in vitro
and
in vivo
is therefore playing a pivotal role. An enabling optical imaging platform will combine optical hardware refinement with a strong emphasis on creating and validating highly specific chemical and biological tools.
The future of South East Asian rainforests in a changing landscape and climate
Authors: Hector Andy , Fowler David , Nussbaum Ruth , Weilenmann Maja , Walsh Rory P. D.
Published: October 2011

With a focus on the Danum Valley area of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, this special issue has as its theme the future of tropical rainforests in a changing landscape and climate. The global environmental context to the issue is briefly given before the contents and rationale of the issue are summarized. Most of the papers are based on research carried out as part of the Royal Society South East Asia Rainforest Research Programme. The issue is divided into five sections: (i) the historical land-use and land management context; (ii) implications of land-use change for atmospheric chemistry and climate change; (iii) impacts of logging, forest fragmentation (particularly within an oil palm plantation landscape) and forest restoration on ecosystems and their functioning; (iv) the response and resilience of rainforest systems to climatic and land-use change; and (v) the scientific messages and policy implications arising from the research findings presented in the issue.
Conclusion: applying South East Asia Rainforest Research Programme science to land-use management policy and practice in a changing landscape and climate
Authors: Walsh Rory P. D. , Nussbaum Ruth , Fowler David , Weilenmann Maja , Hector Andy
Published: October 2011

The context and challenges relating to the remaining tropical rainforest are briefly reviewed and the roles which science can play in addressing questions are outlined. Key messages which articles in the special issue, mainly based on projects of the Royal Society South East Asia Rainforest Research Programme (SEARRP), have raised of relevance to policies on land use, land management and REDD+ are then considered. Results from the atmospheric science and hydrology papers, and some of the ecological ones, demonstrate the very high ecosystem service values of rainforest (compared with oil palm) in maintaining high biodiversity, good local air quality, reducing greenhouse emissions, and reducing landslide, flooding and sedimentation consequences of climate change—and hence provide science to underpin the protection of remaining forest, even if degraded and fragmented. Another group of articles test ways of restoring forest quality (in terms of biodiversity and carbon value) or maintaining as high biodiversity and ecological functioning levels as possible via intelligent design of forest zones and fragments within oil palm landscapes. Finally, factors that have helped to enhance the policy relevance of SEARRP projects and dissemination of their results to decision-makers are outlined.
Seasonal Variation of the Effect of Extremely Diluted Agitated Gibberellic Acid (10e-30) on Wheat Stalk Growth: A Multiresearcher Study
Authors: Endler Peter Christian , Matzer Wolfgang , Reich Christian , Reischl Thomas , Hartmann Anna Maria , Thieves Karin , Pfleger Andrea , Hofäcker Jürgen , Lothaller Harald , Scherer-Pongratz Waltraud
Published: October 2011

The influence of a homeopathic high dilution of gibberellic acid on wheat growth was studied at different seasons of the year. Seedlings were allowed to develop under standardized conditions for 7 days; plants were harvested and stalk lengths were measured. The data obtained confirm previous findings, that ultrahigh diluted potentized gibberellic acid affects stalk growth. Furthermore, the outcome of the study suggests that experiments utilizing the bioassay presented should best be performed in autumn season. In winter and spring, respectively, no reliable effects were found.
Pro- and Antiapoptotic Markers in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma Associated with Balkan Endemic Nephropathy
Authors: Jankovic-Velickovic Ljubinka , Stojnev Slavica , Ristic-Petrovic Ana , Dolicanin Zana , Hattori Takanori , Mukaisho Kenichi , Stojanovic Mariola , Stefanovic Vladisav
Published: October 2011

The role of aristolochic acid in the etiology of Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) and associated upper-tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) has been recently confirmed. The aim of this study was to determine apoptosis-related marker(s) specific for BEN-associated UTUC. Present investigation included 105 patients with UTUC, 44 from BEN region and 61 control tumors. Altered expression of Survivin was more often present in BEN UTUC with high grade and solid growth (P<0.005;P<0.05) than in control tumors. Significantly lower expression of proapoptotic marker Bax was found in BEN tumors with high grade, high stage, necrosis, and without metaplastic change (P<0.05; 0.05; 0.05; 0.05) compared to control tumors with the same features. Group (BEN-related/control), stage, growth pattern, and caspase 3 activity were significantly associated with the expression of Bax (P=0.002, 0.034, 0.047, 0.028, resp.,). This investigation identifies Bax as specific marker of BEN-associated UTUC. Decrease of pro-apoptotic protein Bax together with alteration of Survivin may be indicative for specific disturbances of intrinsic apoptotic pathway in UTUC arising in endemic areas.
Three‐level quality assessment of a dental hospital using EFQM
Authors: Vakani Farhan , Fatmi Zafar , Naqvi Kashif
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This article aims to measure quality by applying the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) excellence model at three different participation levels, in a Karachi teaching university dental hospital.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study assessed the eight EFQM model excellence concepts as benchmarks for providing quality services: results orientation; customer focus; leadership and constancy of purpose; management by processes and facts; people development and involvement; continuous learning, innovation and improvement; partnership development; and corporate social responsibility. This study was conducted at Hamdard University Dental Hospital (HUDH), located in Karachi – part of the largest privately‐owned university in Pakistan. Data were collected through in‐depth interviews with internal stakeholders at three levels (management, faculty and student).

Findings

Continuous learning, innovation and improvement; partnership development; and corporate social responsibility were satisfactorily represented.

Research limitations/implications

The EFQM assessment was limited to a single university dental hospital, hence findings cannot be generalized.

Originality/value

The article highlights that it is envisaged that this exercise will bring about a positive change in attitude and will stimulate institute staff to kick start the self assessment process and implement measures leading to better quality practices, thus establishing a continuous quality improvement cycle.
Exploring the alignment between service strategy and service innovation
Authors: Lightfoot Howard W. , Gebauer Heiko
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Literature is relatively sparse on describing how companies should align their determinants for service innovations with their different types of service strategies. This study seeks to explore the alignment between three types of service strategies and determinants for service innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, multi‐case research design on 12 Western European capital goods manufacturers including 24 service innovation projects was employed. The study is based on multiple sources of evidence: internal documentation of service innovation and development projects and, most importantly, interview data and participation in internal innovation workshops. Traditional inductive research methods were used to analyze the case studies.

Findings

These indicate that aligning service strategies with determinants for service innovations is very complex. The configurations of the determinants are associated with the innovation success. Alternative configurations of determinants can create counterproductive effects and can limit the success of service innovation projects as well as implementation of service strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on interviews and case studies, but the external validity (generalizability) of the alignments could not be assessed accurately. Future research would benefit from insights obtained from quantitative data. The findings supplement existing research on success factors for the service business in manufacturing companies.

Practical implications

The findings imply that managers contemplating a specific service strategy have to consider the service innovation and reframe the determinant for service innovations accordingly. Companies trying to implement an after‐sales service strategy should focus on a narrow range of determinants for service innovations. The resulting configurations guide managers to set up an efficient and effective service innovation management that helps them to implement their service strategy through successful service innovation project.

Originality/value

This empirical study shows that the configuration of determinants for service innovation differs for each service strategy. Whereas, the few similarities in determinants on service innovation are mainly other applications of existing theories on service innovation, the differences modify the existing theories.
Mental contrasting promotes integrative bargaining
Authors: Kirk Dan , Oettingen Gabriele , Gollwitzer Peter M.
Published: October 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to test the impact of several self‐regulatory strategies on an integrative bargaining task.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were randomly assigned to dyads and negotiated over the sale of a car. Before negotiating, participants were prompted to engage in one of three self‐regulation strategies, based upon fantasy realization theory (FRT): to mentally contrast a successful future agreement with the reality of bargaining, to exclusively elaborate on successful future agreement, or to exclusively elaborate on the reality of bargaining. Those in the control condition merely began the negotiation.

Findings

Mentally contrasting a successful future agreement with the reality of bargaining leads dyads to reach the largest and most equitable joint agreements, compared to dyads that elaborate only on successful future agreement, or on the reality of bargaining.

Research limitations/implications

Since it was found that mental contrasting promotes integrative agreement, it is important to learn more about the psychological processes that mediate and moderate this effect. Another related line of research would examine the application of the findings to other bargaining scenarios. One further future line of research should combine mental contrasting with planning strategies.

Originality/value

The findings of the paper have implications for both self‐regulation and negotiation research. The result that mental contrasting fosters integrative solutions reflects its potential to help negotiators effectively discriminate among feasible and unfeasible components of a multi‐faceted goal (integrative agreement). For negotiation research, the paper identifies an effective self‐regulatory strategy for producing high‐quality agreements.
Aligning anti‐money laundering, combating of financing of terror and financial inclusion
Authors: de Koker Louis
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify key questions that should be addressed to enable the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to provide guidance regarding the alignment of anti‐money laundering, combating of financing of terror and financial inclusion objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on relevant research and documents of the FATF to identify questions that are relevant to consider when it formulates guidance regarding the alignment between financial integrity and financial inclusion objectives.

Findings

The FATF advises that its risk‐based approach enables countries and institutions to further financial inclusion. It is, however, not clear what the FATF means when its uses the terms “risk” and “low risk”. It is also unclear whether current proposals for financial inclusion regulatory models will necessarily limit money laundering as well as terror financing risks to levels that can be described as “low”. The FATF will need to clarify its own thinking regarding low money laundering and low terror financing risk before it will be able to provide clear guidance to national regulators and financial institutions.

Originality/value

This paper was drafted to inform current FATF discussions regarding guidance on financial inclusion. The questions are relevant to all stakeholders in financial regulation.
The development of strategic clinical leaders in the National Health Service in Scotland
Authors: Edmonstone John
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to describe a national strategic and multi‐professional clinical leadership programme designed and developed for the National Health Service in Scotland. It addresses the policy imperatives behind the programme, the local and national processes for identifying future clinical leaders and their preparation through the programme.

Design/methodology/approach

The background context and case for the programme are considered against international and local contexts. The programme's roots are explored, drawing upon the extensive consultation process used. The programme design is explained and the evaluation methodology and results are described.

Findings

Key learning related to programme design and delivery issues is highlighted, as is that relating to leadership itself.

Research limitations/implications

This is a one‐country case study but draws upon recent international good practice.

Originality/value

The case study identifies how a small (five million population) country can devise a strategic clinical leadership programme which reflects the distinctive direction adopted at policy level of working closely with clinical leaders.
The implications of mortgage finance on housing market affordability
Authors: McCord Michael , McGreal Stanley , Berry Jim , Haran Martin , Davis Peadar
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The downturn in the residential housing market in Northern Ireland (NI) has been the most pronounced of any UK region, with house prices contracting circa 40 per cent between 2007Q3 and 2009Q4. The downturn at first glance appears to have increased the “ability to afford” however this is nonetheless a “false dawn”. Significant deposit levels coupled with a more prudent lending culture has ensured that housing affordability remains a primary policy concern. The purpose of this paper is to empirically analyse the interrelationships between mortgage liquidity and housing affordability in NI during the boom‐bust cycle in the residential property market.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses mortgage‐lending statistics for NI in the period 1993‐2009, using time series panel data. House price data are drawn from the University of Ulster House Price Index over the same time series. To facilitate analytical interpretation and outcome analysis, quantitative evaluation is applied within a first‐time buyer (FTB) affordability framework.

Findings

This study finds that the relationship between mortgage finance and affordability has been driven by deregulation of the mortgage market contributing to the rise in house prices and affordability pressures during the market up cycle. More recently, ongoing liquidity constraints within the financial sector are impairing recovery in the residential property market culminating in heightened concerns of both purchase and “deposit gap” affordability. The key findings suggest that the new significant capital requirement needed to access the housing market will inevitably prolong affordability pressures for the foreseeable future.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to affordability debate in two ways. First, it examines the effect of both liberalised and contracted patterns of mortgage finance on affordability and argues that conventional approaches appear to present a “false dawn” for FTBs in NI. Second, the paper demonstrates that affordability post‐financial crisis has shifted in genre towards a purchase and deposit gap (lag time) issue.
Events and climate change: an Australian perspective
Authors: Mair Judith
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider some of the issues of vulnerability and risk, mitigation, adaptation and the adaptive capacity of events. Given the significance of events to community, society and the economy, it seems imperative that the risks of any potential negative effects of climate change on this sector are understood, and that the capacity of events to adapt to and mitigate climate change is identified.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory conceptual paper considers some of the issues of vulnerability and risk, mitigation, adaptation and the adaptive capacity of events, and highlights the fact that different types of events are likely to be affected unequally by climate change.

Findings

The paper finds that different types of events are likely to be impacted in different ways by climate change. It also concludes that smaller, community events and larger hallmark events are likely to be most seriously affected by climate change, as they are types of events which rely on specific locations and venues.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations are those of a conceptual paper – although the empirical research on climate change and tourism may reflect the situation for the events industry, this has not yet been tested. Future research should test the propositions in this paper.

Practical implications

The paper suggests strongly that the events industry should incorporate strategies for adapting to climate change impacts into its policy and planning. Some of the likely climate change impacts are identified in the paper, along with potential adaptation solutions.

Originality/value

This topic has not yet been addressed in the academic literature and therefore the paper represents an important step in the understanding of climate change. The paper has academic value as a platform to underpin future research and practical value for event organisers planning for an uncertain future.
Open innovation in China: policies and practices
Authors: Fu Xiaolan , Xiong Hongru
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the evolution of policies and practices of open innovation (OI) in China under globalization.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a review paper. It combines historical archives and case study approaches, covering policies and practices at both the macro‐ and micro‐levels.

Findings

It is found that Chinese firms have in practice employed a variety of OI models since the reforms of science and technology systems in the mid‐1980s. Policies introduced by the Chinese Government with respect to inbound and outbound OI, as well as policies encouraging OI networks, have encouraged Chinese firms to adopt various OI modes and practices. Some critical institutional challenges still need urgent attention and effective efforts to reinforce them.

Originality/value

This paper aims to fill the gap in the literature by providing the first systematic review of the evolution of the policies and practices of OI in China, and exploring the implications for latecomer firms in building indigenous innovation capability. As far as the authors are aware, this is one of the first systematic review studies on OI policies and practices with a focus on emerging economies.