bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Natural Voice, Community Choirs, and World Song
Authors: Bithell Caroline
Published: October 2014

Chapter 1 offers an extended overview of the book’s immediate subject matter and the theoretical perspectives driving the analysis. Viewed through the window of a thick description of a Sing for Water event at London’s Thames Festival, it identifies the communities and practices that are that the main focus of the study. It then maps out the broader fields within which the histories and practices described are positioned and familiarises the reader with a set of key concepts and themes that inform the author’s interpretations throughout the book: these include networks, postmodernism, transnationalism, cosmopolitanism, cultural appropriation, social capital, participation, and celebration. Reference is made here to pertinent theoretical work in ethnomusicology, social anthropology, political science, and cultural and social theory. The chapter also includes a review of relevant literature on voice work, choirs, community music and world musics in education.
Natural Voice Practitioners and Their Journeys
Authors: Bithell Caroline
Published: October 2014

Combining analytical commentary, historical contextualisation, and oral history, chapter 3 explores the diverse journeys that have led individual practitioners to the natural voice fold. First, the reader is acquainted with the different experiences and insights that have fed into Frankie Armstrong’s distinctive brand of voice work. Further reference to the musical and professional backgrounds of a representative selection of practitioners based in the United Kingdom reveals how the movement has incorporated perspectives and values from a variety of musical worlds while also being influenced by the sociopolitical currents with which some of its more established members were associated in the 1970s and 1980s. Here, brief forays are made into the realms of folk revival, experimental theatre, community music, social work, the women’s movement, the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, circle dance, summer camps, and alternative therapies. The Natural Voice Practitioners’ Network emerges as a contemporary community of practice.
Semiclassical inversion methods
Authors: Child M. S.
Published: October 2014

Semiclassical inversion methods rely on phase integral expressions that connect potential energy functions to the various quantization integrals, phase shifts and matrix elements. The forms prove to be amenable to a family of exact Abelian integral transforms, which allow recovery of the classical turning points of the potential function at any given energy. The familiar RKR scheme for inversion of vibrational–rotational energy levels is the simplest example. Others include the inversion of elastic scattering data, fluctuating absorption profiles and fluctuating predissociation lifetimes. The accurate LeRoy–Bernstein extrapolation to dissociation limits is also described.
A comparison of data collected through farm management associations and the Agricultural Resource Management Survey
Authors: H. Kuethe Todd , Briggeman Brian , D. Paulson Nicholas , L. Katchova Ani
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to compare the characteristics of farms who participate in farm management associations to the wider population of farms at the state level.

Design/methodology/approach

– Farm-level records obtained from the USDA's Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS) are compared to similar data obtained from farm management associations in three states: Illinois, Kansas, and Kentucky.

Findings

– Data collected through farm management associations tend to represent larger farms and a greater share of crop producers as compared to livestock producers. Association data, however, capture a greater share of younger farm operators.

Originality/value

– This is the first study to compare farm statistics from several farm management associations to ARMS, and the study confirms the findings of existing studies of prior USDA surveys.
Does the Japanese employment system harm productivity performance?
Authors: Sotome Ryohei , Takahashi Masako
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of employment systems on productivity performance in Japanese companies from the perspective of data envelopment analysis (DEA) and sustainable human resource management (HRM).

Design/methodology/approach

– In all, three employment models including employment indicators in addition to financial indicators are examined between 2006 and 2012 with 2,738 listed Japanese companies. This study verifies robustness of the results by testing multiple DEA measurements and conducting industrial analysis.

Findings

– The results indicate employment systems influence productivity performance in Japanese companies and the characteristics of Japanese employment systems harm productivity performance. In particular, higher liquidity of human resource is essential contrary to the philosophy of long-term employment. Furthermore, new initiatives such as promotion opportunities for women have not been successful up to now.

Research limitations/implications

– This study investigates limited aspects of HRM practices and employment systems in Japanese companies due to data availability. This study is designed to investigate mainly organizational outcome considering sustainability. More research is needed to identify comprehensive influence from Japanese employment system not only on corporate performance but also reduction of harm on a variety of stakeholders such as employee, community and government.

Practical implications

– These findings suggest that it is necessary for executives in Japanese companies to pay attention to their HRM practices under Japanese employment system, in particular, entry and exit of human resource and support systems for female employees.

Originality/value

– There are few studies that investigate the relationship between employment system and productivity performance in Japanese companies. This research provides empirical evidence for potential influence of the Japanese employment system.
Quadratic polynomial form of electric arc furnace equation
Authors: Grabowski Dariusz
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– Electric arc furnaces are very often modeled using combined models which cover separately deterministic and stochastic phenomena taking place in the furnace. The deterministic part is expressed by nonlinear differential equations. A closed form of the solution to one of the most popular nonlinear differential equations used for the AC electric arc modeling does not exist for some values of the parameters. The purpose of this paper is to convert electric arc furnace equation for these parameters to the quadratic polynomial form which significantly simplifies solution.

Design/methodology/approach

– The solution has been obtained in the time domain by a sequence of transformations of the original nonlinear equation which lead to a system of quadratic equations, for which a periodic solution can be found easily using harmonic balance method (HBM).

Findings

– Quadratic polynomial form of electric arc furnace nonlinear equation in the case for which the solution to the nonlinear differential equation describing electric arc cannot be obtained in a closed form.

Research limitations/implications

– The complete model of the arc requires extension of the deterministic solution obtained for the quadratic polynomial form using stochastic or chaotic component.

Practical implications

– The obtained results simplify determination of the arc voltage or radius time waveforms if a closed form solution does not exist. The arc model can be used to evaluate the impact of arc furnaces on power quality during the planning stage of new plants. The proposed approach facilitates calculation of the arc characteristic.

Originality/value

– In order to avoid problems occurring when a large number of harmonics is required or the system contains strong nonlinearities, a transformation of the original equation has been proposed. Nonlinearities present in the equation have been transformed into purely quadratic polynomial terms. It facilitates application of the classical HBM and allows to follow periodic solutions of the arc equation when its parameters are varied. It also enables better understanding of the phenomenon described by the equation and makes easier the extension of the arc model in order to cover the time-varying character of the arc waveforms.
Face-saving tactics as an aid to construction negotiation in Hong Kong
Authors: Yiu Tak Wing , Chung Yuet Nog
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– In construction, the involvement of complex human interactions and incompatible interests among negotiating parties would pose as an obstacle in any negotiation process. The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of face in governing the behaviour of negotiating parties.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper identified the generic types of face-saving tactics used by construction negotiators, investigated the tactic-outcome relationships and examined the effects of face-inducement factors on these relationships with the use of moderated multiple regression (MMR).

Findings

– A taxonomy of face-saving tactics has been developed by employing the technique of principal component of factor analysis. The results suggest that the use of face-saving tactics in construction negotiation would statistically result in an achievement of mutual agreement, maintenance of harmony and avoidance of offending situations. The MMR models finally affirm that some tactic-outcome relationships would significantly depend on the face-inducement factors.

Research limitations/implications

– This research highlights the usefulness of face-saving tactics in construction negotiation.

Practical implications

– The findings revealed that these tactics can help facilitate the achievement of mutual agreement, maintain harmony and avoid offending situations. In this connection, an awareness of the proper use of face-saving tactics is worth-noticing in order to have successful dealings in negotiating project disputes.

Originality/value

– In construction, there are some distinct features which may influence the use of face-saving tactics and the behaviour of project dispute negotiators. The findings of this research would provide an insight into promoting proactive and collaborative project dispute resolution.
Exploring critical delivery selection risk factors for transportation design and construction projects
Authors: Tran Dai Q. , Molenaar Keith R.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of risk on the project delivery selection process of three primary methods in use in the USA, including design-bid-build (DBB); design-build (DB); and construction manager/general contractor (CMGC).

Design/methodology/approach

– The review of empirical studies, national survey questionnaire, multivariate analysis, and cross-validating discussion are adopted for this research. The risk factors were identified through an exhaustive literature review and empirical studies that included more than $10 billion of transportation projects. Experts with an average of 25 years of professional experience related to risk and project delivery methods in the transportation industry were invited to participate in the survey.

Findings

– There were six critical risk factors for DBB, seven for DB, and six for CMGC. These critical risk factors are ranked differently from each delivery method. The most critical risk factor for DBB is construction risk, for DB is scope risk, and for CMGC is constructability and documentation risk.

Research limitations/implications

– Knowledge of the risk factors will allow researchers to better understand the impact of risk on DBB, DB, and CMGC projects. The chief limitation of this research is that the primary data were mostly opinions from experts although several empirical data were collected for cross-validation. The future research may take into account the role of participant's risk aversion in project delivery decision frameworks.

Practical implications

– Transportation agencies and other practitioners can use these risk factors to make more effective and defensible decisions on which delivery method is the most suitable for their projects. The result from this study provides a foundation for decision makers to use a risk-based approach in the project delivery decision.

Originality/value

– This research is the first attempt to examine the impact of risk on the project delivery selection process.
Harnessing the potentials of technology incubation centres (TICs) as tools for fast-tracking entrepreneurship development and actualisation of the Vision 20:2020 in Nigeria
Authors: Akhuemonkhan Innocent , Raimi Lukman , Patel Ashok M , Fadipe Adeniyi O.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– Entrepreneurship development in Nigeria requires the adoption and assimilation of enterprise development models from nations with replicable success stories. Technology incubation centre (TIC) is one of the potent mechanisms that launched the “BRIC nations” – Brazil, Russia, India and China – to global prominence as the five biggest emerging economies. This paper attempts to unveil the potentials of TICs as novel tools for entrepreneurship development and actualisation of the Vision 20:2020 in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors adopt analytical and discursive approaches using qualitative and quantitative data sourced from Industrial policy documents, Goldman Sachs report, online databases of government agencies, Vision 20:2020 policy document and published articles on the subject matter. The generated data were subjected to content and thematic analyses, on the basis of which relevant conclusions were drawn.

Findings

– The findings from the research indicate that there are 37 TICs in Nigeria with very weak socio-economic impact on job creation, wealth creation and industrial development in Nigeria. However, for the BRIC nations, adopted as comparative models, TICs have impacted positively on job creation, wealth creation and economic development of the five nations.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper is essentially discursive and subjective. Further research on this subject matter should explore empirical analysis for an objective assessment of the situation.

Practical implications

– This paper underscores the need for harmonisation of policy objectives with policy implementation. At present, there are gaps between TIC policy objectives and woeful performance of the 37 TICs in Nigeria.

Social implications

– For Nigeria, to enhance job creation, wealth creation and economic development in the society, there is the need for functional TICs at local, institutional, regional, state and national levels.

Originality/value

– The paper unveils the gap between economic theory and practical model implementation in developing economy (Nigeria). It is a major contribution to the functionalist and structuralist debates on why policies fail.
Impact of information security initiatives on supply chain performance
Authors: PN Sindhuja
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this empirical research is to attempt to explore the effect of information security initiatives (ISI) on supply chain performance, considering various intra- and inter-organization information security aspects that are deemed to have an influence on supply chain operations and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on extant information security management and supply chain security management literature, a conceptual model was developed and validated. A questionnaire survey instrument was developed and administered among supply chain managers to collect data. Data were collected from 197 organizations belonging to various sectors. The study used exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis for data analysis. Further, to test the hypotheses and to fit the theoretical model, structural equation modeling techniques were used.

Findings

– Results of this study indicate that ISI, comprising technical, formal and informal security aspects in an intra- and inter-organizational environment, are positively associated with supply chain operations, which, in turn, positively affects supply chain performance.

Research limitations/implications

– This study provides the foundation for future research in the management of information security in supply chains. Findings are expected to provide the communities of practice with better information security decision-making in a supply chain context, by clearly formulating technical, formal and informal information security policies for improving supply chain performance.

Originality/value

– In today’s global supply chain environment where competition prevails among supply chains, this research is relevant in terms of capability that an organization has to acquire for managing internal and external information security. In that sense, this study contributes to the body of knowledge with an empirical analysis of organizations’ information security management initiatives as a blend of technical, formal and informal security aspects.
Competing patient and professional agendas in service development
Authors: Wainwright David , Boichat Charlotte , M. McCracken Lance
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to engage stakeholders in the development of a community based chronic pain-management service and identify their different agendas for service design and delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), a ten-step process that generates qualitative and quantitative data. Seven NGT groups were conducted in the south-west region of the UK, three with General Practitioners and nurses, three with chronic pain patients, and one with Healthcare Commissioners.

Findings

– The patient agenda for service development focused on process of care issues particularly the need for deep- empathy and emotional support from providers, while professionals prioritised cost-effectiveness. While there was some overlap between agendas they were largely discrete and often contradictory.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings imply service planners will need to make trade-offs between cost-containment and patient satisfaction. The methodology did not allow trade-offs to be put to participants in a structured form. However, such techniques are available, for example, Conjoint Analysis. There may also be value in bringing together patients and professionals in joint focus groups, to see if the gap between their different agendas can be bridged through discussion.

Originality/value

– The findings provide a novel insight into the competing agendas of patients and professionals regarding service development and design which will be of value to service planners and managers as they strive to reconcile these differences.
Travel content creation
Authors: Ribeiro Henrique , Fonseca Amaro Suzanne , Seabra Cláudia , Luís Abrantes José
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to examine factors that affect the likelihood to create travel content online. Research has shown that there are far more people consuming social media than generating it. However, online travel marketers need to pay attention to travelers that share their experiences online, as they have the potential to drive sales.

Design/methodology/approach

– An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study, by sending e-mail invitations to colleagues, students, personal contacts and other email contacts composed of Portuguese Internet users. A total of 244 complete responses were considered valid to test the hypotheses through partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

– The results reveal that travelers’ level of involvement with tourism products, innovativeness and use of social media directly influences writing reviews about travel experiences online.

Research limitations/implications

– First, the data used in this study were based on a convenience sample containing only the Portuguese population. Therefore, generalization of the results should be made with caution. The replication of this study in other countries would be desirable. Second, the study used a quantitative approach to examine the effect of personal characteristics on travel content creation. A research using also a qualitative approach could shed new light on the understanding of the research hypotheses.

Practical implications

– This study provides useful insights for travel social media websites and travel-related organizations, as they can adapt their marketing strategies to the type of travelers that are more likely to write about the travel services that they offer online.

Originality/value

– From a theoretical perspective, there are few studies that focus on the personal characteristics of travelers that create content online. The intention of this study is to help close this gap, providing useful insights with respect to this matter.
Interdisciplinary librarians: self-reported non-LIS scholarship and creative work
Authors: Thomas Susan E. , Leonard Anne E.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to interpret and discuss survey results of a study of academic librarians’ scholarship and creative work outside of library and information science in order to reveal some librarians’ motivations to perform such work as well as their perceptions of administrators’ attitudes toward it.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors published a link to a qualitative survey instrument on COLLIB-L and ULS-L, the e-mail lists for the college libraries section and the university libraries section of American Library Association, asking that only academic librarians engaged in scholarship and creative work outside of library and information science participate. This paper is an exploratory analysis of the survey results.

Findings

– Librarians reported that they produce such work for many reasons, including personal satisfaction, dynamic and successful liaison work, and ongoing commitment to scholarship and creative work. Academic librarians who produce non-LIS work do so with varying levels of support, and the recognition of such work is inconsistent among institutions.

Originality/value

– The authors are the first to query American academic librarians specifically about their scholarship or creative work outside of library and information science. Managers and administrators will glean much about academic librarians’ attitudes toward such work and how it adds value to the library operation and institution. Findings could affect criteria for reappointment, promotion, and tenure.
23 Mobile Things: self-directed and effective professional learning
Authors: Stephens Michael
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the “Mobile 23 Things” survey results from the program offered by Guldborgsund-bibliotekerne (a public library in Denmark) and present the findings as support for professional development (PD) models to increase library staff familiarity with emerging technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using an integrated, exploratory approach, a web-based survey tool, developed for a previous Learning 2.0 study, was adapted for this study, with survey questions translated English – Danish, and responses Danish – English. The data gathered from both pre- and post-program surveys are presented and analyzed.

Findings

– The research results identify that 23 Mobile Things increases familiarity with movable technologies, promotes inclusive learning, and can be an effective model for delivering PD.

Originality/value

– This paper reports on the first research study to evaluate the 23 Mobile Things model and provides evidence that this model of library staff PD can be an overall beneficial experience that increases staff knowledge and expertise related to mobile devices and applications.
Institutions collaborating on an information literacy assessment tool
Authors: Sharun Sara , Edwards Thomson Michelle , Goebel Nancy , Knoch Jessica
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to create an information literacy (IL) instruction assessment tool that responds to the unique needs of individual institutions and provides a strategic and relevant model for assessing IL skills among undergraduate students.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research team designed a post-test questionnaire comprised of two demographic questions, two open-ended questions and a pool of skill-based multiple-choice questions mapped to Association of College and Research Libraries Information Literacy (ACRL IL) Competency Standards for Higher Education. Participating librarians used a customized questionnaire to assess student learning at the end of their one-shot instruction sessions.

Findings

– In their responses to the multiple-choice questions, students demonstrated a clear understanding of ethical use of information and a strong ability to select appropriate tools for accessing information sources. Student responses to the open-ended questions revealed a wide range of confidence and ability levels, and provided insight into the frequency, depth and breadth with which various ACRL Standards are being addressed in library sessions.

Research limitations/implications

– This paper reports on student responses to questions that have subsequently been identified as problematic; therefore, strong inferences cannot be made about student learning from these responses. Questions have since been improved with further revision. In addition, the sample sizes for individual questions were too small to be generalizable.

Practical implications

– The intentional and strategic approach to the development of the assessment tool and its implementation is that it be practical and easy to implement for partner libraries. It is intended to make assessment of IL in the undergraduate context be assessable to all academic librarians who desire to participate.

Originality/value

– This paper describes a unique assessment tool that is designed to be responsive to local needs and provide a cost-free assessment option for academic libraries.
“Making space” in practice and education: research support services in academic libraries
Authors: Kennan Mary Anne , Corrall Sheila , Afzal Waseem
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– How academic libraries support the research of their parent institutions has changed as a result of forces such as changing scholarly communication practices, technological developments, reduced purchasing power and changes in academic culture. The purpose of this paper is to examine the professional and educational implications of current and emerging research support environments for academic libraries, particularly with regard to research data management and bibliometrics and discuss how do professionals and educators “make space” as new service demands arise?

Design/methodology/approach

– The present paper uses data from a recent survey of research support provision by academic libraries in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Ireland, (authors 2013), and provides additional in depth analysis of the textual responses to extend the analysis in the light of forces for change in higher education. The original online questionnaire surveyed current and planned research support in academic libraries, and constraints or support needs related to service developments. It was distributed to 219 institutions in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Ireland, and obtained 140 valid responses (response rate of 63.9 percent). Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics with thematic categorization and coding for the textual responses.

Findings

– Most academic libraries surveyed are already providing or planning services in the focal areas of bibliometrics and data management. There was also increasing demand for other research support services, not the focus of the study, such as eresearch support, journal publishing platforms, and grant writing support. The authors found that while many academic libraries perceive increasing research support services as a “huge opportunity” they were constrained by gaps in staff skills, knowledge, and confidence and resourcing issues. With regard to staff education and training, it was reported they require a broader understanding of the changing research and scholarly landscape, the research cultures of different disciplines, and technological change. There was a near-universal support for development of more comprehensive, specialized, LIS education to prepare professionals for broader research support roles.

Originality/value

– This further analysis of the implications of our survey in relation to influences such as economics, academic culture, technology, raises questions for both educators and practitioners about the future direction of the profession and how the authors collectively “make space” as new potential services arise.
Continuum description of damage and failure of composite laminates based on viscous regularization
Authors: Zhao ShiYang , Xue Pu
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of the paper is to improve the calculability of a continuum damage failure model of composite laminates based on Tsai-Wu criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

– A technique based on viscous regularization, a characteristic element length and fracture energies of fiber and matrix are used in the model.

Findings

– The calculability of the material model is improved. The modified model can predict the behavior of composite structure better.

Originality/value

– The convergence problem and the mesh softening problem are main concern in the calculability of numerical model. In order to improve the convergence, a technique based on viscous regularization of damage variable is used. Meanwhile, characteristic element length and fracture energies of fiber and matrix are added into the damage constitutive equation to reduce the mesh sensitivity of numerical results. Finally, a laminated structure with damages is implemented using a User Material Subroutine in ABAQUS/Standard. Mesh sensitivity and value of viscosity are discussed.
Potential contribution of the socio-economic approach to management to a better integration of CSR norms and economic standards
Authors: Savall Henri , Zardet Véronique , Péron Michel , Bonnet Marc
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to show the importance of an integrative approach to CSR.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper is based on the qualimetrics intervention-research methodology. It is an exploratory research project.

Findings

– The intervention-research case study shows an example where an integrative approach to CSR was made possible.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper only presents an example of a company. Future research should show how the method that has been experimented to integrate CSR might be implemented.

Practical implications

– The paper might help company actors debate and propose an innovative approach to CSR.

Social implications

– The paper provides scientific methods to better negotiate the creation of norms and standards in the field of CSR, enabling to move one step further as regards ISO 26000.

Originality/value

– It shows some of the conditions required to bridge the gap between CSR and financial standards.
Implementing SA8000 certification standards
Authors: Davoine Eric , Gendre Delphine
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to identify difficulties and tension fields encountered in a Social Accountability (SA) 8000 certification process. The paper is based on a case study within a multinational small–medium enterprise (SME) during the implementation of a SA8000 standard.

Design/methodology/approach

– In the framework of the case study, we adopt a cognitivist approach and use cognitive maps to describe and analyze the corporate social responsibility (CSR) representations of the main actors of the certification process: the owner-manager of the SME and the certification manager. We collected additional information on the case company through document analysis, additional interviews, validation interviews, confrontation interviews and follow-up interviews after one year.

Findings

– The analysis of cognitive maps revealed tension fields and difficulties linked to the different representations of social responsibility between the social accountability standard SA8000 and the owner-manager strategic vision. It also underlines the sensemaking role of the certification manager in the certification process.

Research limitations/implications

– Limitations of the research are the explorative character of an illustrative case study and the limits of the construction of cognitive maps. The cognitive perspective brings new insights into the certification process and into the interaction between middle and top management.

Practical implications

– Implementing a CSR standard necessitates a cognitive change of individual representationsto integrate CSR standardized criteria in the complex, idiosyncratic and systemic representations of the main actors.

Social implications

– The case study shows clearly the tensions existing between the CSR representation based on a social standard and the CSR representation of SME owner-managers.

Originality/value

– Cognitive mapping has been often used to analyze and to discuss strategic vision of SME owner-managers, but rarely in the field of CSR. The confrontation of two maps and the complementary analysis of the case study context bring additional perspectives on implementation difficulties.
Differential effects of the working alliance in family therapeutic home‐based treatment of multi‐problem families
Authors: Bachler Egon , Frühmann Alexander , Bachler Herbert , Aas Benjamin , Strunk Guido , Nickel Marius
Published: October 2014

Families with a low socioeconomic status play an increasingly significant role in health services, research and social policy. The present outcome research study is a pre/post naturalistic study of home‐based therapeutic work with multi‐problem families (MPF), as conducted by Therapeutisch Ambulante Familenbetreung, an integrative family therapy with a structure‐related, mentalization‐based, psychoanalytic orientation. With a mean treatment duration of 75.7 weeks, 379 families showed significant psychological improvement on 10 scales concerning patient–therapist collaboration, treatment expectancy and psycho‐social outcome measures with a medium to large effect size for all parameters (range: .35–1.49). About two‐thirds of the sample improved by two SD on individually set treatment goals, further supporting the clinical significance of the therapeutic effect of home‐based family treatment. Improvements in goal‐directed collaboration and treatment expectancy are shown to be related to clinical improvement. Structural family therapy interventions for families with multiple problems thus benefit from individually setting goals and improving their self‐efficacy and problem‐solving by means of improved treatment expectancy.

Practitioner's points

MPF constitute a significant problem in healthcare and costs (burden of disease).

The treatment of MPF is considered relatively difficult.

Improvements to the process quality (working alliance, treatment expectancy) increase the quality of the results of home‐based treatment of MPF.
Diversity and geochemical structuring of bacterial communities along a salinity gradient in a carbonate aquifer subject to seawater intrusion
Authors: Héry Marina , Volant Aurélie , Garing Charlotte , Luquot Linda , Elbaz Poulichet Françoise , Gouze Philippe
Published: October 2014

In aquifers subject to saline water intrusion, the mixing zone between freshwater and saltwater displays strong physico-chemical gradients. Although the microbial component of these specific environments has been largely disregarded, the contribution of micro-organisms to biogeochemical reactions impacting water geochemistry has previously been conjectured. The objective of this study was to characterize and compare bacterial community diversity and composition along a vertical saline gradient in a carbonate coastal aquifer using high throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. At different depths of the mixing zone, stable geochemical and hydrological conditions were associated with autochthonous bacterial communities harboring clearly distinct structures. Diversity pattern did not follow the salinity gradient, although multivariate analysis indicated that salinity was one of the major drivers of bacterial community composition, with organic carbon, pH and CO2 partial pressure. Correlation analyses between the relative abundance of bacterial taxa and geochemical parameters suggested that rare taxa may contribute to biogeochemical processes taking place at the interface between freshwater and saltwater. Bacterial respiration or alternative metabolisms such as sulfide oxidation or organic acids production may be responsible for the acidification and the resulting induced calcite dissolution observed at a specific depth of the mixing zone.
In-depth analyses of deep subsurface sediments using 454-pyrosequencing reveals a reservoir of buried fungal communities at record-breaking depths
Authors: Rédou Vanessa , Ciobanu Maria Cristina , Pachiadaki Maria G. , Edgcomb Virginia , Alain Karine , Barbier Georges , Burgaud Gaëtan
Published: October 2014

The deep subseafloor, extending from a few centimeters below the sediment surface to several hundred meters into sedimentary deposits, constitutes the deep biosphere and harbors an unexpected microbial diversity. Several studies have described the occurrence, turnover, activity and function of subseafloor prokaryotes; however, subsurface eukaryotic communities still remain largely underexplored. Ribosomal RNA surveys of superficial and near-surface marine sediments have revealed an unexpected diversity of active eukaryotic communities, but knowledge of the diversity of deep subseafloor microeukaryotes is still scarce. Here, we investigated the vertical distribution of DNA and RNA fungal signatures within subseafloor sediments of the Canterbury basin (New Zealand) by 454 pyrotag sequencing of fungal genetic markers. Different shifts between the fungal classes of Tremellomycetes, Sordariomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, Saccharomycetes, Wallemiomycetes, Dothideomycetes, Exobasidiomycetes and Microbotryomycetes were observed. These data provide direct evidence that fungal communities occur at record depths in deep sediments of the Canterbury basin and extend the depth limit of fungal presence and activity, respectively 1740 and 346 mbsf. As most of the fungal sequences retrieved have a cosmopolitan distribution, it indicates that fungi are able to adapt to the deep subseafloor conditions at record-depth and must play important ecological roles in biogeochemical cycles.
Quality indicators for prostate radiotherapy: Are patients disadvantaged by receiving treatment in a ‘generalist’ centre?
Authors: Freeman Amanda R , Roos Daniel E , Kim Laurence
Published: October 2014

Introduction

The purpose of this retrospective review was to evaluate concordance with evidence‐based quality indicator guidelines for prostate cancer patients treated radically in a ‘generalist’ (as distinct from ‘sub‐specialist’) centre. We were concerned that the quality of treatment may be lower in a generalist centre. If so, the findings could have relevance for many radiotherapy departments that treat prostate cancer.

Methods

Two hundred fifteen consecutive patients received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and/or brachytherapy between 1.10.11 and 30.9.12. Treatment was deemed to be in line with evidence‐based guidelines if the dose was: (i) 73.8–81 Gy at 1.8–2.0 Gy/fraction for EBRT alone (eviQ guidelines); (ii) 40–50 Gy (EBRT) for EBRT plus high‐dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy boost (National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines); and (iii) 145 Gy for low dose rate (LDR) I‐125 monotherapy (NCCN). Additionally, EBRT beam energy should be ≥6 MV using three‐dimensional conformal RT (3D‐CRT) or intensity‐modulated RT (IMRT), and high‐risk patients should receive neo‐adjuvant androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) (eviQ/NCCN). Treatment of pelvic nodes was also assessed.

Results

One hundred four high‐risk, 84 intermediate‐risk and 27 low‐risk patients (NCCN criteria) were managed by eight of nine radiation oncologists. Concordance with guideline doses was confirmed in: (i) 125 of 136 patients (92%) treated with EBRT alone; (ii) 32 of 34 patients (94%) treated with EBRT + HDR BRT boost; and (iii) 45 of 45 patients (100%) treated with LDR BRT alone. All EBRT patients were treated with ≥6 MV beams using 3D‐CRT (78%) or IMRT (22%). 84%, 21% and 0% of high‐risk, intermediate‐risk and low‐risk patients received ADT, respectively. Overall treatment modality choice (including ADT use and duration where assessable) was concordant with guidelines for 176/207 (85%) of patients.

Conclusion

The vast majority of patients were treated concordant with evidence‐based guidelines suggesting that, within the limits of the selected criteria, prostate cancer patients are unlikely to be disadvantaged by receiving radiotherapy in this ‘generalist’ centre.
Phenological growth stages of Silybum marianum according to the extended BBCH scale
Authors: Martinelli T. , Andrzejewska J. , Salis M. , Sulas L.
Published: October 2014

Silybum marianum is a medicinal plant cultivated for silymarin production in central Europe and Asia. It is also considered a weed of both arable lands and pastures. Although S. marianum still exhibits traits that are typical of wild species; both its fruit and biomass productivity are remarkable. Therefore, the species is gaining interest as a potential novel commercial crop for multiple uses (i.e. medicinal plant, bioenergy, and vegetable oil production). Despite the intriguing characteristics of this plant and its economic importance, a detailed description of the phenological growth stages of S. marianum has never been developed. A precise and univocal description of the growth stages of this species will offer a useful tool for several agronomic and research activities, weed management practices and for further genetic improvement programmes. In the present manuscript, the description of the phenological development of S. marianum is proposed utilising the extended BBCH (Biologische Bundesantalt, Bundessortenamt and Chemische Industrie) scale. The phenological growth stages are described utilising both the 2‐ and 3‐digit BBCH coding system. Pictures of the most representative stages supplement the manuscript.
Detection, identification and differentiation of Pectobacterium and Dickeya species causing potato blackleg and tuber soft rot: a review
Authors: Czajkowski R. , Pérombelon M.C.M. , Jafra S. , Lojkowska E. , Potrykus M. , van der Wolf J.M. , Sledz W.
Published: October 2014

The soft rot Enterobacteriaceae (SRE) Pectobacterium and Dickeya species (formerly classified as pectinolytic Erwinia spp.) cause important diseases on potato and other arable and horticultural crops. They may affect the growing potato plant causing blackleg and are responsible for tuber soft rot in storage thereby reducing yield and quality. Efficient and cost‐effective detection and identification methods are essential to investigate the ecology and pathogenesis of the SRE as well as in seed certification programmes. The aim of this review was to collect all existing information on methods available for SRE detection. The review reports on the sampling and preparation of plant material for testing and on over thirty methods to detect, identify and differentiate the soft rot and blackleg causing bacteria to species and subspecies level. These include methods based on biochemical characters, serology, molecular techniques which rely on DNA sequence amplification as well as several less‐investigated ones.
Developmental ideotype in the context of the dual‐purpose use of triticale, barley and durum wheat
Authors: Giunta F. , Motzo R. , Fois G. , Bacciu P.
Published: October 2014

Phenology strongly affects the performance of dual‐purpose (forage plus grain) cereals by defining the rate of leaf and tiller appearance, the duration of the pre‐grazing period and anthesis date. Here, the combined effect of genotypic and environmental variation conditions on anthesis date and the pre‐grazing period in durum wheat, triticale and barley was analysed to define a developmental ideotype for their dual‐purpose use. The extensive variation for the Haun stage reached at the time of apex emergence from the soil surface was associated with variation in the final leaf number, regardless of environment, species and cultivar. The timing of the terminal spikelet stage was the best predictor of apex emergence. The durum wheats tillered poorly, whereas the barleys and the triticales performed comparably in three of the four environments. In general, the higher the final leaf number, the higher the number of leaves and tillers produced by the time of apex emergence, the higher the number of leaves which emerges subsequently. The development of a high number of leaves both before and after apex emergence is advantageous, provided that anthesis is not overly delayed such that flowering and grain fill occur within a period where stressful conditions are likely to occur. Barley developed many leaves and had a low phyllochron, so was identified as the species with the development best suited for dual‐purpose cropping. However, the near simultaneous emergence of the first two tiller apices exposes it to a risk of grazing damage.
Phenological growth stages of jujube tree (Ziziphus jujube): codification and description according to the BBCH scale
Authors: Hernández Fca. , Legua P. , Melgarejo P. , Martínez R. , Martínez J.J.
Published: October 2014

The phenological growth stages of jujube tree are first described here using the BBCH scale. Based on this general scale, jujube phenology showed 8 of the 10 principal stages (0–9): bud, leaf and shoot development, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, fruit maturity and senescence. A schematic representation of the chronological progression of principal growth stages of jujube is also shown. The codification of the different growth stages is important for correct timing of general orchard management, particularly for disease and pest management. Besides, it will help farmers to efficiently schedule and manage jujube cultivation, as well as to improve knowledge dissemination among scientists around the World.
Misthinking Globalisation: Twentieth‐Century Paradigms and Twenty First‐Century Challenges
Authors: Baldwin Richard
Published: October 2014

Accounts of globalisation fail to distinguish the current globalisation from that which followed the industrial revolution. Before the industrial revolution most economic activity was local, with production and consumption bundled in the close geographic proximity. In the first globalisation, production and consumption unbundled on an unprecedented global scale as natural and man‐made trade costs fell. In the second unbundling the production process itself is being unbundled globally, with traditional ‘made in’ labels losing meaning as supply chains become more and more complex.
Expanding the Division of Labour: Trade Costs and Supply Chains in the Global Economy
Authors: Pomfret Richard
Published: October 2014

In the pre‐1914 globalisation reduction in trade costs allowed finer specialisation. The quantitative evidence is strong for some components of trade costs, but less so for aggregate trade costs. In the second globalisation, international supply chains have become an important element of the global economy, and we have better data to examine the links between trade costs and supply chains. After a brief review of the standard account of the evolution of supply chains, the article examines the quantitative evidence; regional value chains (RVCs) are especially strong, but the origins and nature ofRVCs differ in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The paper then presents evidence on trade costs, focusing on the years since 1990 when both data and computing facilities became more comprehensive, and analyses the relationship between trade costs and supply chains.