bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the relationship between web presence and web usability for universities
Authors: Peker Serhat , Kucukozer-Cavdar Seyma , Cagiltay Kursat 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to statistically explore the relationship between web usability and web presence of the universities. As a case study, five Turkish universities in different rankings which were selected from Webometrics rankings were evaluated and compared.

Design/methodology/approach
– Two different methods were employed for performing usability evaluation of the selected universities: a user testing was used to measure the user performance on the selected tasks and a questionnaire to assess the user satisfaction on the website use. Both usability evaluation methods were applied on the pre-determined tasks for each university by participation of 20 subjects. After the usability evaluation, the universities were ranked in terms of usability results and finally, the relationship between web usability and web presence of universities was statistically investigated by using Kendall’s rank correlation.

Findings
– Several common usability problems which were asserted by related previous studies were identified at the end of usability evaluation of university websites. The usability results also revealed that selected Turkish university websites suffer from numerous usability problems. Further, a strong positive correlation (p
<
0.05) between the usability of the university websites and their web presences were identified. Hence, the participants showed a higher success and satisfaction while performing the tasks on the university websites which have strong web presences.

Practical implications
– The findings from this study have practical implications for universities. Correlation results showed that universities can improve their web usability by giving importance to their web presence volumes. Universities can estimate their web usability levels by investigating their web presence rankings and they can also raise their rankings in Webometrics ranking system by improving the usability of their websites. Moreover, university web developers can design more usable and more user-friendly websites by avoiding usability and design problems identified through usability evaluation.

Originality/value
– Different from the prior research efforts focussing on usability of educational web pages, this study contributes to the growing literature by statistically exploring the relationship between web presence and web usability of universities. This study is also precious from the point of view that it is one of the first attempts to evaluate and compare usability levels of a set of universities’ websites from Turkey.
Learning styles preferences of statistics students
Authors: Yousef Darwish Abdulrahman 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– Although there are many studies addressing the learning styles of business students as well as students of other disciplines, there are few studies which address the learning style preferences of statistics students. The purpose of this study is to explore the learning style preferences of statistics students at a United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). Furthermore, it investigates whether there are statistically significant differences along the four dimensions of learning styles due to students’ demographic and academic characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach
– Questionnaires were distributed to the whole population which included 79 undergraduate statistics students at the UAEU, of which 69 returned the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to present the main characteristics of respondents and the results of the study. Additionally, a chi-square test was used to find out if there were significant differences along the four dimensions of learning style preferences due to students’ demographic and academic characteristics.

Findings
– The results indicate that UAEU undergraduate statistics students have balanced preferences along the four dimensions of learning styles. Results also suggest that there are no statistically significant differences along the four dimensions of learning styles due to students’ demographic and academic characteristics, except in the active-reflective and sensing-intuitive dimensions with respect to high school type (private vs public).

Research limitations/implications
– There are a number of limitations associated with this study. First, the findings of the study are based on data from only one university. Second, the sample was small and limited to undergraduate statistics students and, therefore, it excluded graduate students who might have had different experiences. Third, the results are based on a self-reported questionnaire and this, in turn, might have affected the reliability of the results On the other hand, it has a number of implications for educators and students. Educators will benefit from the results of this study in the sense that they will adopt teaching styles and strategies that match learning styles of the majority of their students. Students themselves will benefit from knowing their own learning style.

Originality/value
– The present study is the first attempt to explore learning styles preference of undergraduate students not only in the UAE setting but also in the developing country setting.
A comparative assessment of the performance of select higher education institutes in India
Authors: Sahney Sangeeta , Thakkar Jitesh 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the performance of select technical higher education institutes of national importance in India. This helps to judge the efficiency and effectiveness of an institute to provide valuable insights on performance measurement and effectiveness not only to the respective institute but also to governmental agencies and policymakers.Design/methodology/approach– The paper makes a comparative analysis across various educational institutes of repute. This paper looks at the performance of four technical higher education institutes of India. An integrated data envelopment analysis–analytic hierarchy processing (DEA–AHP) approach has been used to compare and evaluate the relative efficiencies in terms of input provided to the institute to produce outputs.Findings– The results depict the performances of the four institutes over the period of five years and, in turn, help assess the increase or decrease in the performance of a particular institute in comparative assessment. The paper also helps identify the most efficient institute among the four institutes that have been compared, in terms of academic efficiency, research efficiency, teaching efficiency and consulting efficiency.Practical implications– A study like this would furnish an insight into the performance of the select higher educational institutes. The findings can be useful for policymakers, educational planners and administrators in designing a system based on various criteria that can help improve the overall efficiency and decide about benchmarking and funding strategies.Originality/value– This paper is an attempt toward defining, conceptualizing and measuring performance effectiveness of institutes of higher education in the Indian context. The effort at the integration of the methodologies (through comparison and DEA–AHP) has helped to provide insights that could not have been obtained through the use of the methods or techniques alone. The paper has helped identify critical strategic issues and parameters which when implemented would be useful for policymakers, educational planners and administrators in designing a system based on various criteria that can help improve the overall efficiency of educational institutes in higher education.
Do pre-entry tests predict competencies required to excel academically in law school?
Authors: Wamala Robert 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– Prospective students of law are required to demonstrate competence in certain disciplines to attain admission to law school. The grounding in the disciplines is expected to demonstrate competencies required to excel academically in law school. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relevance of the law school admission test to predicting the competencies.

Design/methodology/approach
– The assessment is based on administrative records of 815 students admitted at Makerere University’s law school on the basis of their performance in the test. Grades obtained in advanced level (A-Level) of secondary education subjects, namely, literature, history, divinity and economics, were adopted as a measure of competence in the disciplines. The outcome of the test was modeled by performance of enrollees in the subject, their characteristics (gender, nationality, entry scheme and academic qualifications at enrollment) and first-year grade point average using a quantile regression.

Findings
– With the exception of enrollees’ characteristics, no significant variations in the outcome of the test were noted in the results between students who did not do the subjects at the A-Level and those who obtained Grade A (p
>
0.05). Similar findings in performance were noted between students who obtained Grade A and those with other grades in the disciplines.

Research limitations/implications
– The findings confirm that admission tests to law school are a measure of mental rather than educational or academic ability. However, the results may not be applied to candidates in countries where a bachelor’s degree is a requirement for admission to law school.

Originality/value
– The study provides an empirical investigation of whether the admission test to law school predicts competencies required to excel academically in the undergraduate program.
Managing the development of e-ID in a public e-service context
Authors: Melin Ulf , Axelsson Karin , Söderström Fredrik 
Published: March 2016

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse and understand the contemporary management of electronic identification (e-ID) development to: identify and formulate challenges and reflect upon the use of a combination of perspectives. To generate knowledge on this issue, we investigate e-ID development in Sweden from: an e-government systems development lifecycle perspective and a project challenge and critical success factor (CSF) perspective.Design/methodology/approachThis is a qualitative case study covering an analysis of the three years in a larger project focusing e-ID in a public e-service setting. Empirical sources have been face-to-face interviews; official documents and different kind of forums for presentations and discussions in, for example, hearings arranged by authorities; meetings with the coordinating agency, and practitioners’ networks events.FindingsThis study concludes that there are significant challenges involved in managing e-ID development because of its contextual and integrated character. Challenges involve the organization and management of the program and can be traced back to e-government, general project management literature and theory on path dependency. Based on this study, we can question, e.g. governance models, centralization and a narrow focus on the technical artefact. Our study is also an illustration of a possible way to analyse e-ID within an e-government initiative.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study shows that an e-ID can be considered as a back office-enabler for launching e-services, but also highlights the need for management of the artefact as an integral part of e-service development because it is intertwined with the use of e-services from a user perspective. This aspect together with the insights related to challenges and success factors including path dependency provides implications for future practice of e-ID management and development in particular and information systems artefact development in general.Originality/valueThis paper addresses challenges related to the development of e-ID in a public e-service setting. Few studies have theoretically combined a lifecycle perspective on challenges and success factors related to e-ID development while also focusing different dimensions of path dependency as an example of a challenging area within a program frame. Studying e-ID as a contemporary phenomenon from a contextual perspective in line with sociomaterial thinking – with a focus on the interplay between technology and people –can also help us to understand and discuss artefact development in general.
Antagonistic interactions between an invasive alien and a native coccinellid species may promote coexistence
Authors: Hentley William T. , Vanbergen Adam J. , Beckerman Andrew P. , Brien Melanie N. , Hails Rosemary S. , Jones T. Hefin , Johnson Scott N. 
Published: March 2016

Summary

Despite the capacity of invasive alien species to alter ecosystems, the mechanisms underlying their impact remain only partly understood. Invasive alien predators, for example, can significantly disrupt recipient communities by consuming prey species or acting as an intraguild predator (IGP).

Behavioural interactions are key components of interspecific competition between predators, yet these are often overlooked invasion processes. Here, we show how behavioural, non‐lethal IGP interactions might facilitate the establishment success of an invading alien species.

We experimentally assessed changes in feeding behaviour (prey preference and consumption rate) of native UK coccinellid species (Adalia bipunctata and Coccinella septempunctata), whose populations are, respectively, declining and stable, when exposed to the invasive intraguild predator, Harmonia axyridis. Using a population dynamics model parameterized with these experimental data, we predicted how intraguild predation, accommodating interspecific behavioural interactions, might impact the abundance of the native and invasive alien species over time.

When competing for the same aphid resource, the feeding rate of A. bipunctata significantly increased compared to the feeding in isolation, while the feeding rate of H. axyridis significantly decreased. This suggests that despite significant declines in the UK, A. bipunctata is a superior competitor to the intraguild predator H. axyridis. In contrast, the behaviour of non‐declining C. septempunctata was unaltered by the presence of H. axyridis.

Our experimental data show the differential behavioural plasticity of competing native and invasive alien predators, but do not explain A. bipunctata declines observed in the UK. Using behavioural plasticity as a parameter in a population dynamic model for A. bipunctata and H. axyridis, coexistence is predicted between the native and invasive alien following an initial period of decline in the native species. We demonstrate how empirical and theoretical techniques can be combined to understand better the processes and consequences of alien species invasions for native biodiversity.
Two‐year effects and cost‐effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training in mild pelvic organ prolapse: a randomised controlled trial in primary care
Authors: Panman CMCR , Wiegersma M , Kollen BJ , Berger MY , Lisman‐Van Leeuwen Y , Vermeulen KM , Dekker JH 
Published: March 2016

ObjectiveTo compare effects and cost‐effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and watchful waiting in women with pelvic organ prolapse.DesignRandomised controlled trial.SettingDutch general practice.PopulationWomen (≥55 years) with symptomatic mild prolapse, identified by screening.MethodsLinear multilevel analysis.Main outcome measuresPrimary outcome was change of pelvic floor symptoms (Pelvic‐Floor‐Distress‐Inventory‐20 [PFDI‐20]) during 24 months. Secondary outcomes were condition‐specific and general quality of life, costs, sexual functioning, prolapse stage, pelvic floor muscle function and women's perceived improvement of symptoms.ResultsPFMT (n = 145) resulted in a 12.2‐point (95% CI 7.2–17.2, P < 0.001) greater improvement in PFDI‐20 score during 24 months compared with watchful waiting (n = 142). Participants randomised to PFMT more often reported improved symptoms (43% versus 14% for watchful waiting). Direct medical costs per person were €330 for PFMT and €91 for watchful waiting but costs for absorbent pads were lower in the PFMT group (€40 versus €77). Other secondary outcomes did not differ between groups. Post‐hoc subgroup analysis demonstrated that PFMT was more effective in women experiencing higher pelvic floor symptom distress at baseline.ConclusionPFMT resulted in greater pelvic floor symptom improvement compared with watchful waiting. The difference was statistically significant, but below the presumed level of clinical relevance (15 points). PFMT more often led to women's perceived improvement of symptoms, lower absorbent pads costs, and was more effective in women experiencing higher pelvic floor symptom distress. Therefore, PFMT could be advised in women with bothersome symptoms of mild prolapse.Tweetable abstractPelvic floor muscle training can be effective in women with bothersome symptoms of mild prolapse.
Why We Need Postmortem Analysis of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices
Authors: Mauf Sabrina , Jentzsch Thorsten , Laberke Patrick J. , Thali Michael J. , Bartsch Christine 
Published: March 2016

AbstractThe prevalence of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is increasing. However, postmortem analysis of CIEDs is not performed routinely. Fourteen consecutive CIEDs were analyzed. The indication for and date of implantation, technical data, CIED reprogramming, heart rhythm disturbances, patient demographics and medical consultations were investigated. Death during the first year after implantation was seen in 54%, whereof 71% consulted a physician within 10 days before death. The time of death was attributed to a particular day in 29%. There was a relationship between CIEDs and cause/manner of death in 50%. Although limited by a small sample size, this study advocates the routine postmortem CIED analysis for forensic and clinical purposes in selected cases. Patients with CIEDs seem to show an increased risk of death during the first year after implantation. The analysis of CIEDs can be helpful in evaluating the time/cause/manner of death.
Paying for Environmental Results is WTO Compliant
Authors: Hasund Knut Per , Johansson Maria 
Published: March 2016

SummaryResults‐based payments can be compatible with WTO and CAP rules. They could accordingly replace some of the present agri‐environmental payment schemes based on complying with conditions about management practices. Value‐based payments are permitted by the WTO but not by the CAP, at least not if the payments exceed the additional costs of producing the environmental service, including income foregone. If the payment exceeds the extra cost or loss of income the scheme is not exempt on WTO green box grounds but the sum of such schemes is likely to fit below the EU ceiling on non‐exempt support. The EU has large margins below its amber box ceiling. Value‐based payments can be differentiated according to the quantity or quality of delivered environmental services: the higher the environmental value, the higher the payment. The present agri‐environmental payments of the CAP are cost based and the EU classifies them as meeting the WTO green box of minimally trade and production distorting support. They are therefore not subject to the EU's WTO ceiling on non‐exempt support. The reason to convert to results‐based or value‐based payments is that they are potentially significantly more efficient than the existing management‐based and cost‐based payments.
Production of a single cyclic type of fructooligosaccharide structure by inulin‐degrading Paenibacillus sp. LX16 newly isolated from Jerusalem artichoke root
Authors: Yao Zhihua , Guo Jiqiang , Tang Wenzhu , Sun Zhen , Hou Yingmin , Li Xianzhen 
Published: March 2016

SummaryA novel inulin‐degrading bacterium was isolated from a soil sample collected on Jerusalem artichoke roots. It is a Gram‐positive, aerobic, motile and central endospore‐forming straight rod, and exhibits phenotypic properties being consistent with its classification in the genus Paenibacillus. The predominant cellular fatty acids were anteiso‐C15:0, C16:0 and anteiso‐C17:0. This strain represents a novel species of the genus Paenibacillus on the basis of phenotypic data together with phylogenetic analysis, and it is here designated as LX16 and deposited in China centre for type collection, China (= CCTCC 2015256). Strain LX16 could produce a cyclofructooligosaccharide fructanotransferase catalysing the formation of one type of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) from inulin. The FOS was identified as a cyclofructooligosaccharide with a degree of polymerization of 6. Such homology in inulin degradation products may be beneficial for the functional FOS production.
Recent molecular and therapeutic advances in B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in children
Authors: Giulino‐Roth Lisa , Goldman Stanton 
Published: March 2016

SummaryPaediatric B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (B‐NHL) compromises a heterogeneous group of histological entities of which Burkitt lymphoma is the most common. In resource‐rich countries, the expected cure rate is in excess of 85% with application of risk‐adapted short intensive chemotherapy. In recent years, large paediatric cooperative group trials have sought to improve upon outcomes by decreasing the intensity of cytotoxic treatment as well as introducing targeted therapies, such as rituximab. These efforts have resulted in excellent outcomes, however there remains a group of high‐risk patients for whom novel treatment approaches are needed. In this review, we will summarize the recent paediatric clinical trials in B‐NHL as well as compare treatment approaches across the major cooperative groups. We will also highlight our current understanding of the molecular biology of paediatric B‐NHL with a focus on how this may help guide future rational targeted therapy.
Radiological and Biological Assessment of Immediately Restored Anterior Maxillary Implants Combined with GBR and Free Connective Tissue Graft
Authors: Kolerman Roni , Nissan Joseph , Rahmanov Arkadi , Zenziper Eran , Slutzkey Shimshon , Tal Haim 
Published: March 2016

AbstractObjectivesRadiologic and biologic assessment of immediately restored Implants combined with guided bone regeneration (GBR) and free connective tissue graft.Methods1–4 year retrospective study involving 34 patients treated with maxillary immediately restored anterior single‐implants. Soft tissue dimensions, radiographic bone loss, and biological and prosthetic complications were assessed.ResultsDuring the mean follow up period of 29 months the study group presented a mean mesial bone loss of 1.10 ± 0.39 mm (range: 0.5–2.4 mm), and mean distal bone loss of 1.19 ± 0.41 mm (range: 0.4–2.1 mm). Mean periimplant probing depth of 3.49 mm (SD ± 1.06) and 2.35 (SD ± 0.52) for the contralateral tooth (highly significant p < 0.001). Bleeding on probing was present in 29.4% of the examined implant supported crown sites and 10.4% of the contralateral teeth (p < 0.001).ConclusionsAnterior maxillary single‐tooth replacement, using GBR and connective tissue graft according to the concept of immediate implant placement, and non‐functional restoration is an accepted treatment modality achieving favorable peri‐implant soft tissue condition.