bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Response of the Female Vocal Quality and Resonance in Professional Voice Users Taking Oral Contraceptive Pills: A Multiparameter Approach
Authors: Van Lierde Kristiane M. , Claeys Sofie , De Bodt Marc , Van Cauwenberge Paul 
Published: September 2006

AbstractObjective/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to analyze the vocal quality and resonance (nasality and nasalance values) during the menstrual cycle in professional voice users using oral contraceptive pills (OCPs). Although professional voice users are more sensitive and aware of their vocal quality, no changes of voice and resonance characteristics were expected because OCPs create a stable hormonal balance throughout the menstrual cycle.Study Design: The authors conducted a comparative study of 24 healthy, young professional voice users using OCPs. One assessment was performed between the 10th and 17th day of pill intake, when hormonal levels reached a steady state. The second assessment was performed during the first 3 days of menses, when no pills were taken and hormonal levels were minimized.Methods: Subjective (perceptual evaluation of voice and nasality) and objective (aerodynamic, voice range, acoustic, Dysphonia Severity Index [DSI], nasometer) assessment techniques were used.Results: The Mann‐Whitney U test showed no significant difference between the perceptual evaluation of the voice and the nasality in the two assessments. The paired Student t test showed no significant difference regarding the maximum phonation time, the vocal performance, the acoustic parameters, and the DSI.Conclusions: These findings indicate that OCPs do not have an impact on the objective and subjective voice and resonance parameters in young professional voice users. This information is specifically relevant to professional voice users who are more aware of vocal quality changes and ear, nose and throat specialists/voice therapists who treat professional voice users with voice problems/disorders. Further research regarding the impact of increased vocal load during the premenstrual or menstrual phase in professional voice users using OCPs should be considered.
Application of Magnetic Resonance Virtual Endoscopy as a Presurgical Procedure Before Sialoendoscopy
Authors: Su Yu‐Xiong , Liao Gui‐Qing , Kang Zhuang , Zou Yan 
Published: September 2006

AbstractObjectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate the feasibility of clinical application of magnetic resonance (MR) virtual endoscopy as a presurgical procedure before sialoendoscopy and to evaluate its value in the diagnosis of obstructive salivary gland diseases and preoperative visualization of endoluminal views.Study Design: This study presents our initial experience to use MR virtual endoscopy for the presurgical visualization of salivary duct lumen and ductal pathologies in comparison to the sialoendoscopy findings in a feasibility study.Methods: Six consecutive patients with suspected obstructive salivary gland diseases underwent MR sialography with a three‐dimensional fast imaging using steady‐state acquisition. The three‐dimensional MR data were transferred to an independent workstation and were postprocessed with navigator software to generate three‐dimensional reconstruction and virtual endoscopic images. The fly‐through mode was used to imitate the sialoendoscopic exploratory procedure. Then the patients underwent sialoendoscopy and the endoscopic findings were compared with the preoperative virtual endoscopic images.Results: The MR data acquisition and postprocessing protocol were feasible. The virtual endoscopy created clear endoluminal views of salivary duct and the ductal pathologies. The diagnoses were all confirmed by surgical sialoendoscopy. The virtual endoscopic images showed close resemblance to the sialoendoscopic findings.Conclusions: MR virtual endoscopy is an effective and noninvasive diagnostic method for evaluating the endoluminal anatomy and pathologies of the salivary duct. The clinical application of MR virtual endoscopy as a presurgical procedure before sialoendoscopy is a valuable and promising approach, which can provide surgeons useful morphologic and pathologic information.
The Community Management of Chylous Fistula Using a Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitor (Orlistat)
Authors: Belloso Antonio , Saravanan Kasirajan , de Carpentier John 
Published: September 2006

AbstractWe describe two innovative ideas in the treatment of iatrogenic chyle leak. The first is the early use of a pancreatic lipase inhibitor (Orlistat) to reduce fat absorption and chyle production, with consequent faster fistula healing. The second is the treatment of these patients at home in the community by district nurses backed by the hospital staff. This domiciliary approach has a positive psychological effect on the patient, permits the patient to take responsibility for their treatment, and reduces hospital length of stay minimising patient exposure to nosocomial infections.
Image Guided Transoral Approach to the Pterygopalatine Fossa
Authors: Bleier Benjamin Saul , Mirza Natasha 
Published: September 2006

AbstractObjectives: We present a transoral approach using image guidance to approach inferiorly based lesions of the pterygopalatine fossa.Study Design: Case report.Methods: A 49‐year‐old male presenting with a benign cyst of the inferior pterygopalatine fossa. The presentation, workup, and management are discussed.Results: The patient underwent a computed tomography scan that confirmed the location of the lesion in the left pterygopalatine fossa. An image guidance system was used to effect a complete transoral resection of the benign cyst.Conclusions: Benign lesions of the pterygopalatine fossa may be successfully accessed using a transoral approach with image guidance, which minimizes postoperative morbidity.
Objective Pulsatile Tinnitus: A Video Clip Demonstration of the Condition
Authors: Doshi Jayesh , Anari Shahram , Carrie Sean 
Published: September 2006

AbstractPulsatile tinnitus is an uncommon condition. We describe a case of pulsatile tinnitus and visually demonstrate a pulsating tympanic membrane caused by a postoperative cerebrospinal leak into the mastoid air cells following resection of a left temporal petrous meningioma. To our knowledge, this is the first case in the literature where an objective pulsatile tinnitus has been captured on video (see www.laryngoscope.com).
Digital TV is coming of age and local government is starting to take note
Authors: Hancer Jane 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand how, why and what citizen‐focused services local authorities might consider and deliver on digital interactive television (DiTV). In trying to make interaction with local government more joined up and easier for the citizen, digital television has been employed by around 80 local authorities in the UK to determine what is best offered via this emerging channel, how efficiencies in service delivery can be achieved and to encourage participation and democracy.Design/methodology/approachThe project was run by offering a stable, centrally‐hosted, centrally‐funded, multi‐platform technology to local government to investigate and manage their services. Alongside just “getting involved” a large research project involving 300 homes in West London was run with accompanying qualitative and quantitative research.FindingsThe evidence indicates that the public is interested in using simple transactional and informational services at this point in time, as long as they are given the “directions” to find services. There are high expectations regarding the use of a wide range of services as the medium beds in and becomes more widely available. A large percentage of citizens expect to use DiTV to contact and communicate with the local government organisations just as they use the telephone today.Research limitations/implicationsThe research derives from pre‐structured polls conducted through closed questioning and responses from the public were therefore inevitably limited by the reference frame provided by researchers.Originality/valueThis paper provides a detailed view of how citizens use DiTV and expectations of use for the future. Analysis of usage data is supplemented by a DigiTV specified research project.
Gas flow simulation in a micro nozzle
Authors: Yang Zhao , Hai Wei Yang 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo study the flow character in a micro nozzle.Design/methodology/approachThe flow in the micro nozzle is simulated using the Direct Simulation Monte‐Carlo (DSMC) method. Considering characteristics of high‐temperature gas flow, the Cercignani‐Lampis‐Lord (CLL) gas‐surface interaction model is adopted in the simulation of high‐temperature gas flow in the Laval nozzle at different inlet pressures and temperatures.FindingsThe results showed that as the temperatures of inlet flow increased, the thrust efficiency will increased accordingly, however, the influence of inlet pressure variety on the nozzle performance is insignificant.Originality/valueA useful reference to the design and performance improvement of micro thruster and MEMS power system.
A study on the efficiency of pulsed plasma thruster (PPT)
Authors: Dali Hou , Wansheng Zhao , Xiaoming Kang 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe pulsed plasma thruster (PPT) is one sort of promising electric thrusters, but the low efficiency is always a big problem for PPT. Many researches have been working on solving this problem. However, there is still no significant breakthrough. This paper aimed to discuss some methods for improving the PPT's efficiency.Design/methodology/approachThe causes for the low efficiency by analyzing the theoretical models of PPT are discussed, and the influences on PPT's performance investigated in terms of the structural or electrical parameters.FindingsThe change of structural or electrical parameters which influence the thrust efficiency significantly are taken into account. In the process of designing PPT, optimized structural and electrical parameters should be chosen to attain a better performance.Research limitations/implicationsThis analysis is mainly based on the parallel‐rail PPT.Practical implicationsThe result of analysis is adopted, the higher thrust efficiency of PPT is expectable.Originality/valueBy introducing theoretical models and analyzing results of some researcher's experiments, this paper offers a method of designing PPT and attempts to help designer to choose appropriate structural and electrical parameters.
Iterative solution to differential geometric guidance problem
Authors: Li Chaoyong , Jing Wuxing , Wang Hui , Qi Zhiguo 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo study the application of three‐dimensional differential geometric (DG) guidance commands to a realistic missile defense engagement, and the application of the Newton's iterative algorithm to DG guidance problems.Design/methodology/approachThe classical differential geometry theory is introduced firstly to transform all the variables in DG guidance commands from an arc length system to the time domain. Then, an algorithm for the angle‐of‐attack and the sideslip angle is developed by assuming the guidance curvature command and guidance torsion command equal to its corresponding value of current trajectory. Furthermore, Newton's iteration is utilized to develop iterative solution of the stated algorithm and the two‐dimensional DG guidance system so as to facilitate easy computation of the angle‐of‐attack and the sideslip angle, which are formulated to satisfy the DG guidance law.FindingsDG guidance law is viable and effective in the realistic missile defense engagement, and it is shown to be a generalization of gain‐varying proportional navigation (PN) guidance law and performs better than the classical PN guidance law in the case of intercepting a maneuvering target. Moreover, Newton's iterative algorithm has sufficient accuracy for DG guidance problem.Originality/valueProvides further study on DG guidance problem associated with its iterative solution.
The extension programme and food safety education in the USA
Authors: Singleton Jan , “Val” Hillers Virginia 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explain the work and importance of the “extension” programme in the USA.Design/methodology/approachAn historical review of the formation, development, present day workings and importance of the extension programme.Findings“Extension” works in six major areas, including family, consumer science and agriculture. Extension grants that address food safety are issued via the National Integrated Food Safety Initiative (NIFSI). Target audiences for the programmes include various groups of consumers (pregnant/nursing mothers, infants, teens, etc.), as well as multipliers or gatekeepers who disseminate knowledge to groups of consumers.Practical implicationsSince the Year 2000, NIFSI have awarded more than 180 competitive integrated food safety grants. Federal data indicate 20 percent reduction in foodborne disease attributed to collaborative educational efforts including the development of HACCP.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the few to describe the work of the extension programme with specific reference to food safety.
Information literacy landscapes: an emerging picture
Authors: Lloyd Annemaree 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo describe the various landscapes in which information literacy has been explored and to propose new ways of thinking about information literacy.Design/methodology/approachDraws on constructivist‐influenced grounded theory method employed during doctoral research into information literacy practices of firefighters.FindingsInformation‐literate people are more usefully described as being engaged, enabled, enriched and embodied. Information literacy is conceptualized through this research as a way of knowing. The revised and extended definition is a more appropriate one to underpin an emerging ontological perspective on information literacy and to foster an understanding of information literacy as a meta‐competency.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was limited to an in‐depth exploration of one professional group in one geographic location over 18 months.Practical implicationsThe provision of a broader definition of the information literacy and the illustration of how information is perceived in a variety of concepts broadens librarians' and educators' understanding of information literacy. It offers librarians and educators a different way of thinking about information literacy.Originality/valueThis paper reports and expands upon original doctoral research of significance to information professionals and educators.
Freedom of information in the SADC region: implications for development and human rights
Authors: Mutula Stephen M. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo argue that developing countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region should embrace the concept of freedom of information to enable better human rights and economic development.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews the current situation through discussion of current legislation and proposed policies.FindingsWhereas several theories abound as to why there has been little development in sub‐Saharan Africa, this paper discusses the status of freedom of information legislations within the SADC region and the implications for accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper suggests the importance of further research into the importance of freedom of information legislation for economic and human rights development.Practical implicationsThe paper has practical implication for those considering the potential of freedom of information legislation in developing countries.Originality/valueFreedom of information has largely taken a back seat amidst several social, economic and political reforms that have been instituted collectively or by individual countries. It is the view of this paper that freedom of information provides an important link for the economic, social and political reform initiatives.
Integrating digital libraries and virtual learning environments
Authors: Saumure Kristie , Shiri Ali 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper aims to compare three virtual learning environments (VLEs) (WebCT, Blackboard and creation of study environments) with respect to how well they have incorporated elements of digital libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe comparative evaluation technique has been used to compare the three selected VLEs along five key dimensions of digital libraries: content/format support, metadata, search/browse features, customizability and preservation.FindingsWithin the three selected VLEs, content reusability, search/browse functionality, along with customizability and personalizability appear to be the best addressed digital library elements.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper gives a sense of how well some current VLEs are implementing elements of digital libraries, as well as what areas are lacking. The results could have been further enhanced by examining additional VLEs.Practical implicationsThis study provides a window into what options currently exist with respect to the integration of digital libraries and VLEs, as well as where these packages should go in the future. It provides recommendations related to seamless access, metadata implementation, controlled vocabulary and preservation.Originality/valueThis paper is of value to librarians, digital library developers, instructors and VLE designers – giving them feedback on how these environments should be structured to enhance information access. It is the first comparative evaluation of these three VLEs with respect to the implementation of digital library elements.
Towards sustainable development strategies
Authors: Barin Cruz Luciano , Ávila Pedrozo Eugênio , de Fátima Barros Estivalete Vânia 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to present a framework that allows an ampler understanding of the evolution process tracked by companies in the pursuit of strategies for sustainable development, taking into account the increasing awareness of the social and environmental pressures facing business.Design/methodology/approachThe article adopts an interdisciplinary approach, using the complexity standpoint, allowing the articulation of the main axis of this study: sustainable development, organizational strategies and organizational learning.FindingsConsideration of the type of learning undertaken by companies to advance in the direction of strategies oriented to sustainability. This is analyzed in light of the complexity theory, showing the need of transformations in the individual values, a transformation that will reflect itself in the organization and in society.Research limitations/implicationsNo empirical research is conducted to analyze the importance of the learning type for the orientation to sustainability in companies. Future research may verify this importance.Practical implicationsThe article points to the need for sustainable business actions that are oriented to people and society in general. Some propositions can help managers to manage the considerable difficulties dealing with sustainable development pressures.Originality/valueThe text deepens the understanding about the evolution towards sustainability oriented strategies, considering the learning type as a key concept. It operationalizes the contributions of the complexity theory, according to the view of Edgar Morin (a French perspective). This allows a different comprehension of the non linear behavior patterns that are common in the organizations.
Political leadership in democracies: some lessons for business?
Authors: Butcher David , Clarke Martin 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show that, with demands from a widening range of stakeholders for more democratic approaches to governance, there is an evident need to develop alternative models of organizing. In seeking to understand how to conceptualise this alternative, an analysis of the organizational and political institutional contexts for leadership is provided.Design/methodology/approachAnalyses the main precepts of democracy to establish the basis upon which a comparison between these two contexts might be made. It distinguishes between the value premises of democracy and the structural mechanisms through which those principles are enacted and identifies the significant leadership processes that underpin these values. This analysis is then used as a basis for analyzing the leadership role in organizations.FindingsThe paper demonstrates that differences between the two settings are a matter of perspective: the structural mechanisms of democracy are not enacted rationally. In particular, the pre‐eminence of micro‐political activity is highlighted as a vehicle for the enactment of ethical behaviour and civic virtue in both settings.Practical implicationsApplying a political institutional approach to leading suggests the need to reconfigure the role of hierarchy to encourage self‐organization, valuing conflict, protection of weaker stakeholders, the legitimization of political activity and helping groups to forge their own identity.Originality/valueMost similar analyses are typically constructed within the canons of rational organization. Applying to businesses the principles of institutional leadership implies a significantly different model in which leaders promote and legitimise both the distribution and coalescing of power and the necessary dissent and debate required to reconcile a plurality of interests with the establishment of organizational coherence.
Performance in sports teams
Authors: Espitia‐Escuer Manuel , García‐Cebrián Lucía Isabel 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is twofold: to evaluate the performance of Spanish First‐Division soccer teams, comparing the sports results that they actually obtain with those that they should have obtained on the basis of their potential, and to propose a future course of action.Design/methodology/approachIn order to assess the potential of each team in the Spanish professional soccer league between the years 1998 and 2005 an output‐oriented version of Data Envelopment Analysis is used. In this way it is possible to calculate the number of points a team could have achieved with an efficient use of its actual resources and, consequently, its potential position in the league classification.FindingsThe main conclusion is that a team's final league position depends more on its efficient use of resources than on its potential.Practical implicationsFrom the practical perspective, the results seem to stress that measures directed at improving soccer teams' results should focus on improving their efficient use of available resources. Consequently, this work provides a preliminary result, obtained using economics tools, that suggests where soccer team managers might direct their efforts to improve their sports results.Originality/valueThe present work is based on the same concept of potential in sports teams as Zak et al. (1979) and Hofler and Payne (1997), but with a number of differences compared with the earlier studies. First, the potential of the teams and their actual results are compared not by assessing their efficiency in the use of resources, but by observing their final league table positions. Second, the technique which is used to estimate the frontier is in this case Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), or the deterministic non‐parametric frontier method, which has not often been used in order to measure efficiency in soccer. Finally, the object of study is the Spanish First Division soccer teams in the seasons 1998/1999, 1999/2000, 2000/2001, 2001/2002, 2002/2003, 2003/2004 and 2004/2005.