bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of fogging lenses and cycloplegia on open‐field automatic refraction
Authors: Queirós A. , González‐Méijome J. , Jorge J. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPurpose:  To compare refractive values measured with and without cycloplegia, or with fogging lenses, using an open‐field auto‐refractor.Methods:  One hundred and forty‐two young adults were enrolled from a university population; 96 were female (67.6%) and 46 were male (32.4%), the age range was 18–26 years (mean 22.3 ± 3.7 years). The refraction measurement was obtained for the right eye of each subject with the Grand Seiko Auto Ref/Keratometer WAM‐5500 (GS) under three conditions, always in this sequence: (1) without cycloplegia (GS), (2) without cycloplegia but using a + 2.00 D fogging lens (GS_2D) and (3) with cycloplegia (GS_cycl).Results:  When the average values of spherical equivalent were compared, both accommodation control strategies were almost equally successful: GS, M = −0.85 ± 2.21 D; GC_2D, M = −0.53 ± 2.10 D and GS_cycl, M = −0.57 ± 2.24 D (Kruskal–Wallis test, p < 0.001). When the results were analysed separately for different refractive groups, emmetropes and hyperopes show statistically significant differences while myopes did not. When both accommodation strategies were compared there was a trend for more myopic subjects to display more negative values under cycloplegia, while low myopes, emmetropes and hyperopes tend to display more negative values with the +2.00 D fogging lenses, suggesting this was less effective for accommodation control.Conclusions:  Over‐refraction through +2.00 D fogging lenses is useful to achieve additional relaxation of the accommodative response in a similar way to cycloplegia when open‐field autorefraction is performed in young adults.
Clinical signs and symptoms in post‐menopausal females with symptoms of dry eye
Authors: Srinivasan Sruthi , Joyce Elizabeth , Senchyna Michelle , Simpson Trefford , Jones Lyndon 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPurpose:  To characterize clinical signs and symptoms in a group of post‐menopausal (PM) females who present with and without symptoms of dry eye.Methods:  Eighty‐three healthy PM females were categorized as being symptomatic or asymptomatic of dry eye based on their response to the Allergan Ocular Surface Disease Index© (OSDI) questionnaire. Non‐invasive tear breakup time (NITBUT) was evaluated using the ALCON Eyemap®. Tear volume was assessed using the phenol red thread (PRT) test and bulbar conjunctival hyperaemia was measured using objective and subjective methods.Results:  The total OSDI score (TOS) and subscores for the non‐dry eye (NDE; n = 39) and dry eye (DE; n = 44) groups were significantly different (TOS: NDE = 7.43 ± 7.71 vs DE = 24.87 ± 13.89; p < 0.001). The DE group exhibited a shorter NITBUT (5.3 ± 1.7 s vs 7.0 ± 2.7 s; p = 0.0012). Tear volume was lower for the DE group (19.3 ± 5.1 mm vs 16.3 ± 5.6 mm; p = 0.031). Bulbar hyperaemia was higher in the DE group for both subjective grading using a modified CCLRU scale (48.4 ± 10.0 vs 40.6 ± 10.4; p = 0.0011) and objective measurement by spectrophotometer (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage u’ value = 0.285 ± 0.006 vs 0.282 ± 0.006; p = 0.005).Conclusions:  OSDI can be used to separate PM females who demonstrate clinical signs of ocular dryness. PM women with dry eye symptoms demonstrate shorter NITBUT, lower tear volume and increased bulbar conjunctival hyperaemia than those who have no symptoms.
Changes in soil organic carbon in a mountainous French region, 1990–2004
Authors: Saby N. P. A. , Arrouays D. , Antoni V. , Lemercier B. , Follain S. , Walter C. , Schvartz C. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis paper reports spatial and temporal changes at the regional level in soil organic carbon (SOC) using a soil‐test database. A total of 23 329 SOC test values recorded between 1990 and 2004 by certified commercial laboratories and collected in a mountainous French region (Franche‐Comté) were integrated in a database. Results show a strong trend in organic carbon content, mainly related to elevation. A large loss in SOC was observed over the survey period. This loss correlated with baseline SOC content with greater loss from soils with higher carbon content. This loss is likely to be due to both changes in land use from permanent grassland to cultivation and to an increase in temperature during the survey period. Our study demonstrates that past soil‐test results which were not originally intended for monitoring can provide an alternative method for detecting changes in SOC.
An evaluation of Colwell‐P as a measure of plant‐available phosphorus in soils of volcanic and non‐volcanic origins in the highlands of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Kirchhof G. , Ramakrishna A. , Bailey J. S. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractVarious soil test methods including Olsen, Colwell, Bray and Truog have been used to assess the levels of plant‐available P (PAP) in soils situated in the highlands of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Up until now, though, there has been no guarantee that these tests provide valid assessments of PAP in these somewhat atypical organic matter‐rich tropical soils. Furthermore, the critical soil‐P concentrations associated with the tests have been based on studies conducted elsewhere in sub‐tropical and temperate latitudes and as such may or may not be valid for soils or cropping situations in PNG. Soil (Colwell)‐P and leaf‐P data collected during a recent survey of sweet potato gardens in the highlands of PNG were therefore used to determine if useful relationships existed between these variables for different groups of soils, and if they do, to use these relationships to evaluate critical soil Colwell‐P concentrations corresponding to a known critical concentration of P in sweet potato index leaf tissue. Separate, highly significant linear relationships were obtained between leaf‐P and Colwell‐P for soils of volcanic and non‐volcanic origins. Based on these relationships, the critical Colwell‐P concentration for volcanic soils was found to be four times greater than that for non‐volcanic soils, presumably because much of the P extracted from the former soils with alkaline sodium bicarbonate had been chemically ‘fixed’ via sorption and precipitation reactions with sesquioxides and rendered unavailable to plants at ambient soil pH. These critical Colwell‐P concentrations if adopted as benchmark values for the soil groups in question should ensure that the results of future soil fertility surveys involving Colwell‐P assessments are correctly interpreted.
A generalized economic order quantity model with deteriorating items and time varying demand, deterioration, and costs
Authors: Balkhi Z. T. , Tadj L. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractA dynamic inventory model with deteriorating items is considered in this paper. Besides the demand and deterioration rates, the cost parameters are also assumed to be general functions of time. Necessary and sufficient conditions for a unique optimal solution are derived. An illustrative example is provided.
Airline seat allocation competition
Authors: Li Michael Z. F. , Zhang Anming , Zhang Yimin 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis paper examines the classical seat allocation problem under competition between two airlines with different cost structure. The cost asymmetry that has been ignored in the yield management literature can be caused by either operations or distributions. We investigate the decision problem of two airlines offering two identical fare classes under both the simultaneous and sequential allocations. For both allocation cases, we show the existence, uniqueness and stability of pure‐strategy Nash equilibrium under a reasonable condition on the ratios of relative profit margins of the two fare classes. We find that there will be fewer seats protected for the full‐fare class if the discount seats can be booked first. We found that the asymmetry in costs has two effects on the equilibrium solutions: (a) an airline behaves aggressively for the fare class where it enjoys a cost advantage; (b) an airline tends to balance the trade‐offs internally when it has absolute cost advantage in both fare classes. In deriving the collusive solution for both cases for comparative purposes, we discover new insights by solving the two‐flight, two‐fare seat allocation problem with different cost structures on the two flights. In particular, we show that rivalry in full‐fare seat protection leads to a Prisoners' Dilemma for the carriers. Finally, a numerical example is used to illustrate various analytical results.
Incomplete oblique projections method for solving regularized least‐squares problems in image reconstruction
Authors: Scolnik H. D. , Echebest N. E. , Guardarucci M. T. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractIn this paper we improve on the incomplete oblique projections (IOP) method introduced previously by the authors for solving inconsistent linear systems, when applied to image reconstruction problems. That method uses IOP onto the set of solutions of the augmented system Ax−r=b, and converges to a weighted least‐squares solution of the system Ax=b. In image reconstruction problems, systems are usually inconsistent and very often rank‐deficient because of the underlying discretized model. Here we have considered a regularized least‐squares objective function that can be used in many ways such as incorporating blobs or nearest‐neighbor interactions among adjacent pixels, aiming at smoothing the image. Thus, the oblique incomplete projections algorithm has been modified for solving this regularized model. The theoretical properties of the new algorithm are analyzed and numerical experiments are presented showing that the new approach improves the quality of the reconstructed images.
Applications of the DM‐GRASP heuristic: a survey
Authors: Santos Luis F. , Martins Simone L. , Plastino Alexandre 
Published: June 2008

AbstractRecent research has shown that the hybridization of metaheuristics is a powerful mechanism to develop more robust and efficient methods to solve hard optimization problems. The combination of different techniques and concepts behind metaheuristics, if well designed, has the potential to exploit their advantages while diminishing their drawbacks, which results in methods suited to a more diverse set of real problems. The DM‐GRASP heuristic is one such hybrid method that has achieved promising results. It is a hybrid version of the GRASP metaheuristic that incorporates a data‐mining process. In this work, we review how this hybridization was designed and survey the results of its practical applications evaluated until now.
Autonomy of Artistic Expression for Adult Learners with Disabilities
Authors: Young Graham C. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractWhen an art tutor adopts the role of assistant to a disabled artist it is difficult not to move from helping with the physical handling of materials on the one hand into the actual creative process on the other, thus influencing how the artwork looks. Ecas is an Edinburgh‐based charity which promotes opportunities for physically disabled people to be self‐fulfilled and to participate in all aspects of society. They run, among other things, traditional art classes and computer classes. The use of computer technology (CT) in art seemed to offer the chance for self‐fulfilment for disabled artists by increasing control over artistic choices and providing for self expression with only minimal assistance required from others. Ecas decided to fund a research project in the form of a ten‐week pilot course and the data collected during the trial confirmed these possibilities and it was clear that adult learners with disabilities could benefit from CT in order to have greater autonomy in the creation of their art than before. In particular the program Corel Painter IX.5 and various graphics tablets proved to be a powerful arsenal for self‐expression without having to wait for a tutor to tape paper to a board, replenish paint, change brushes attached to a head pointer or any one of the many and varied problems disabled students had with traditional art materials.
Insights into the Integration of Traditional Filipino Arts in Art and Design Education: Voices from the Academe
Authors: Loza Cynthia B. , De Guzman Allan B. , Jose Regalado T. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis article presents the first segment of a qualitative study that explores the feasibility of integrating traditional arts in Philippine art and design education. The views of educators on traditional arts were sought to provide an impetus for the study and a springboard for discussion regarding the relevance of traditional Filipino arts in a predominantly Westernised educational system. The educators’ views and opinions on the central question, ‘Why and how should the study of traditional Filipino arts be integrated in the art and design programme?’ will be used to guide a trial integration of the learning of traditional arts in tertiary art and design classes. They will form part of the multiple perspectives that will be gathered from various sectors throughout the course of research. This phenomenological study, on the whole, seeks to uncover the potentials of traditional arts as a rich resource for learning, particularly for students of art and design.
How can we Create the Conditions for Students’ Freedom of Speech within Studies in Art?
Authors: Matthews Miranda 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis study investigates how the dynamics of students’ voice can be productively brought into teaching situations. I have researched the conditions required for constructive freedom of speech, within art education. I explored the potential for vocal peer assessment and for students’ ownership of their educational experiences, for the Teacher—Artist Partnership Programme, 2006‐7.My methodology engages in a dialectical exchange between the philosophies of Jean‐Paul Sartre and Michel Foucault, specifically their ethics and interpretations of freedom. This theory was integrated via action research, with the creative learning situation. Sartre's reflections on freewill, ‘free commitment’ and the ‘free project of a sentence’ are discussed. These ideas are related to Foucault's stance on personal autonomy, and the individual's interface with structures of power and knowledge. I have also charted research on student consultation by Sarah Bragg, examining parallels between contemporary perspectives and the views of pragmatist John Dewey.The project was conducted in a creative partnership with artist Thurle Wright. We planned workshops that would maximise freedom of expression, with students of AS Photography at Crown Woods School, Greenwich. The transcripts of group discussions after the workshops have provided essential insights into how students can contend with preconceptions, and autonomously interpret freedom.
White Heat or Blue Screen? Digital Technology in Art & Design Education
Authors: Radclyffe‐Thomas Natascha 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe recent explosion in ICT means computers are marketed as an essential element of modern education. Governments have spent heavily on ICT but evidence of the effectiveness of this investment is contradictory; teacher attitude is cited as both a barrier to and a facilitator of its implementation. Initially used to simplify course administration, ICT now has the potential to fundamentally change practices; recognising the opportunities ICT offers as a bridge between classrooms and the relevant world beyond, teachers access online resources such as museum collections and practitioners. No consensus exists within art and design education as to the role of ICT or even its validity in the arts; using the computer as a tool for fine art may mean different teaching skills are required and different learning approaches are enabled. This article reviews international research on the adoption of ICT in schools and colleges, specifically looks at examples of good practice in art and design education and reviews trends in technology to determine the benefits and limitations for future practice.
The Act of Looking: Wofgang Iser's Literary Theory and Meaning Making in the Visual Arts
Authors: Hubard Olga M. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractIn his account about reading novels, Wolfgang Iser argued that the work of art is not the text itself but the experience that emerges as a reader interacts with the text. Yet, he clarified that the aesthetic object is not based only on the subjective input of the reader but also determined by specific signs that a text presents. This article draws from Iser's theories to examine the process through which five teenagers discover meaning in an abstract sculpture by artist Isamu Noguchi. The author shows how the young viewers arrived at a series of readings that were elicited by the qualities of the work and that built upon each other in a sort of snowballing process. The article also illustrates how the sort of meaning that an artwork can yield stretches throughout the whole experience and can therefore not be translated into a discursive statement.
Designing a Utopia: An Architectural Studio Experience on David Harvey's Edilia
Authors: Yesilkaya Nese Gurallar 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe design of a utopia was devised as a studio project in order to bring critical thinking into the design studio and to stimulate creativity. By suggesting a utopia, the pedagogical aim was to improve progressive thinking and critical thought in the design education of architectural students — and also future architects. From this perspective, the utopia called Edilia, from the book Spaces of Hope by the critical geographer David Harvey, was taken as a basis for the students to design a utopic environment. In addition to Harvey's book, students were not only challenged by the idea of an alternative society but also by the idea of a different space. Utopia, as an inter‐disciplinary subject, brought various issues and different perspectives into the design studio such as public and private realms, everyday life, work, leisure, nature, technology and sustainability. With the help of the concept of utopia, a theoretically‐informed design studio enabled students to criticise the existing world, dream about an alternative one and make the design of their dreams in a creative way.
Art at the Mall: A Look at the Aesthetics of Popular Mall Art Culture
Authors: Szekely Ilona 
Published: June 2008

AbstractCurrently there is a scarcity of information in the art education literature about purchasing art. This article examines how art acquires economic and social value, as well as how consumers make decisions when purchasing a piece of art. Where does an art student, or the general public learn about buying art? How much, if any, of this process is happening in the art class? There is an assumption art educators make, that raising some invisible standards of taste leads to greater awareness of art consumption. In this article, the author visits four mall stores to study the aesthetics of art purchase to discuss a number of implications for art teaching. Elitist views of the contemporary art world regarding popular culture and the purchase of art frame the debate. As art educators we ask art students to look at the world as critical consumers; this article then, offers practical approaches for classroom discussions surrounding the purchase of art.
The ‘Night Owl’ Learning Style of Art Students: Creativity and Daily Rhythm
Authors: Wang Sy‐Chyi , Chern Jin‐Yuan 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis article explores the deep‐rooted ‘night owl’ image of art practitioners and calls for attention on a consideration of the time for learning in art. It has been recognised that the human body has its own internal timings and knowing the ‘time’ pattern is important for better productivity in conducting creativity‐related activities.This study surveyed 230 art students and 251 management students in a university and examined if there existed any cross‐disciplinary differences in terms of self‐confidence of creative ability, preferences of a particular time for creativity tasks, and routine patterns for daily activities such as getting up, going to bed and working.The results reveal that the art students have more confidence in their creative ability than the management students; about 58 per cent of the art students feel more creative after 10 p.m., as opposed to 29.2 per cent of the management students; and there exist significant differences between the two groups in terms of what time they get up, go to sleep and prefer to work.
Implementing a ventilator care bundle in an adult intensive care unit
Authors: Westwell Samantha 
Published: June 2008

AbstractBackground:  Ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP), in addition to causing distress to patients, is associated with increased length of stay in intensive care, higher rates of morbidity and mortality and pressure on critical care capacity and costs. A care bundle approach for the management of ventilated patients can reduce the risk of VAP.Aim:  This paper aims to appraise the implementation of a series of high impact intervention care bundle components directed at preventing the development of VAP, within an adult intensive care unit of a district general hospital.Intervention:  Subsequent to the implementation of care bundle components, evidence from audit data revealed that compliance fell below standard. To address this, Department of Health staff who were visiting the hospital recommended that the frequency of audit activity should be increased to facilitate the rapid identification of areas of poor compliance, which could then be rectified.Conclusion/Implications:  Daily care bundle audits showed a positive impact on compliance. However, without a robust method to collect data on prevalence of VAP, the impact of the care bundles on improving outcomes for this aspect of care is unknown.
Managing a good death in critical care: can health policy help?
Authors: Coombs Maureen , Long Tracy 
Published: June 2008

AbstractAim:  This paper discusses end‐of‐life care (EoLC) in critical care through exploration of what is known from the international literature and what is currently presented within UK policy.Background and context:  EoLC is an important international critical care issue, and currently provides a key focus for health care policy in the UK. While society holds that critical care is delivered in a highly technical area with a strong focus on cure and recovery, mortality rates in this speciality remain at approximately 20%. When patient recovery is not an outcome, discussions with patient, family and extended care teams turn towards futility of treatment and end‐of‐life management. However, there are specific barriers to overcome in EoLC for the critically ill.Conclusion:  A key issue for EoLC in critical care is a lack of robust systems to prospectively identify individuals who are most at risk of dying. A further challenge is divergent perspectives within and across clinical teams on treatment withdrawal and limitation practices. To streamline patient management and underpin a hospice approach to care, EoLC policies are currently being used within the UK. While this provides a national framework to address some key critical care clinical issues in the UK, there is a need for further refinement of the tool to reflect the reality of EoLC for the critically ill. It is important that international best practice exemplars are examined and clinicians actively engage and contribute to ensure that any local EoLC frameworks are fit for purpose.