bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physical activity effect on snacks choice of children
Authors: Klonaridou V. , Papadopoulou S.K. , Fahantidou A. , Hassapidou M. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeSnacks cover an important percentage of children's energy intake. Children prefer and select, tasty and attractive snacks, without noticing their dietary value. The purpose of this study was to record the physical activity of children of the sixth grade of Public school and to examine the effect of physical activity on snacks' choice and the interaction of physical activity and sex in the choice of healthy snacks.Design/methodology/approachThe participants were 338 students (164 boys and 174 girls) of sixth grade of public elementary of Thessaloniki. For the statistic analysis the SPSS statistical program was used.FindingsAccording to the results 63.3 per cent of students (30.5 per cent girls and 32.8 per cent boys) participated systematically in physical activity sessions. There was a positive effect of physical activity on the weekly intake of pear, apple, orange, natural fruit juice and spinach pie and a negative on soda, p<0.05. There was also an important interaction between physical activity and sex in biscuits, pizza and spinach pie consumption, p<0.05. Male and female students of the sixth grade did not seem to have healthy nutrition behavior regarding their snack selection. There seems to be a positive effect of physical activity on snacks choice of children.Originality/valueThe paper highlights how it is necessary for the small children to be educated in how to be fed healthy not only in their main meals, but also in the intermediary. Furthermore physical activity status should be taken under account when designing a nutrition intervention program.
Nutritional evaluation of rumen epithelial tissue scrapings in goat nutrition
Authors: Oluwakemi Bawala Toheeb , Olaleye Akinsoyinu Akintunde 
Published: January 2007

PurposeHigh cost of feed forms a major constraint to livestock production in Nigeria. The purpose of this paper is to show how improved nutritional strategies such as incorporation of unconventional feed resources, such as rumen epithelial tissue scrapings (RETS), which are cheap in cost and availability into the livestock diets, can reduce feed cost and hence achieve a greater profit with a optimal animal performance, become imperative.Design/methodology/approachFifteen lactating West African dwarf goats were randomly allotted into each of three dietary groups (A, B and C) of five animals in a completely randomized design. Each diet contained one of the three dietary protein sources, namely, urea (A), RETS (B) and groundnut cake (GNC) (C) representing non‐protein nitrogen, unconventional natural protein and conventional natural protein sources respectively. After 90 day feeding trial, the performances (dry matter intake, weight gain, milk yield/composition and the blood chemistry) of the goats fed with RETS diet (B) were assessed and compared with those of other two groups (A and C) fed with urea and GNC diets respectively.FindingsThe result show that goats fed with RETS and GNC diets had similar performances and performed better than those fed with urea diet.Practical implicationsRETS is inexpensive and portends no danger to animal health on account of toxicity, as compared to GNC and urea respectively. Its' inclusion in goat diet, however, gives a least cost wholesome ration formula.Original/valueNutrition accounts for a greater proportion of production cost expenses in livestock industry. The results indicate that the cost of production can be minimized with the utilization of unconventional feed resources in goat nutrition for farmers to achieve the maximum profit.
Preparation of low calorific fiber rich cakes by wheat bran supplementation
Authors: Muhammad Anjum Faqir , Rauf Muhammad , Issa Khan Muhammad , Hussain Shahzad 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis study was designed to incorporate untreated and alkaline hydrogen peroxide treated wheat bran into wheat flour and to access the appropriate type of bran and its optimum level of addition in flour, which may not affect quality but enhance the overall status of the fiber in the bakery products.Design/methodology/approachComposite flours prepared by replacing wheat flour with wheat bran both untreated and untreated at 5, 10, 15 and 20 per cent were subject to proximate analysis. Panel of judges evaluated cakes prepared from composite flours to access suitable level of substitution. Calorific value of the product prepared was also determined.FindingsStatistical analysis of data obtained predicted that significant decrease in moisture and nitrogen free extracts (carbohydrates) contents of flours were found. On the other hand, protein, fiber and total ash of the flour increase with increasing level of replacement. Calorific value of the cakes decreases with increasing level of wheat bran addition. Wheat bran up to 20 per cent replacement was found acceptable by the panel of judges with maximum acceptability of cake with chocolate flavor.Practical implicationswheat bran may be supplemented to bakery product in order to prepare high fiber products. Wheat bran contains higher amount of insoluble fiber which can help to reduce the blood cholesterol level.Originality/valueResearch conduct was unique one in its nature as effect of both untreated and alkaline hydrogen peroxide treated wheat bran was evaluated in the same study and suitable levels of addition for both were accessed.
Optimal machining parameters based on surface roughness experimental data and genetic search
Authors: Conceição António C.A. , Davim J.P. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeSurface roughness is an important parameter in manufacturing engineering with significant influence on the performance of mechanical parts. Failures, sometimes catastrophic failures, leading to high costs, have been imputed to a component's surface roughness. Owing to the need for improvement of machining parameters in order to obtain a prescribed surface roughness, new developments have been recently investigated. This work aims to report on a study of an optimisation model based on genetic algorithms (GAs).Design/methodology/approachThe developed algorithm considers a machining parameter data population obtained from experimental tests. The exchange of structured information based on natural selection principles and “survival‐of‐the‐fittest” allows the combination of solutions in a sequence of generations leading to the best solution.FindingsOver standard experimental design methodologies the proposed GA approach shows advantages in finding the optimal conditions under the imposed constraints. Indeed the quality of the produced surface roughness cannot be evaluated using only a criterion. This GA method determines the combined effects of the input parameters to the optimal machining parameter.Originality/valueA new methodology for determining optimal machining parameters in dry turning based on the measurement of the surface roughness is proposed. The numerical and experimental developed model can be used with success on further applications with industrial interest.
On the size effect of molybdenum disulfide particles on tribological performance
Authors: Hu Xianguo 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo provide a suitable useful mixing ration of nano‐sized molybdenum disulfide and commercial common molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) particles (approximately 1.5 μm in diameter) in liquid paraffin, which can lead to a better tribological performance.Design/methodology/approachThe MoS2 nanoparticles and commercial common MoS2 particles (approximately 1.5 μm in diameter) were dispersed in liquid paraffin with different concentrations and ratios by means of ultrasonic in order to study their lubrication capacity, friction reduction and wear resistance. The tribological experiments were carried out by MQ‐800 four‐ball tribometer, in which extreme pressure, wear scan diameter and friction coefficient were measured. It was analyzed that the chemical status of elements on the rubbed surface by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and it was observed that the surface topography of wear scan by scanning electron microscope (SEM).FindingsThe results showed that the loading capacity of liquid paraffin with different kinds of MoS2 particles were increased with their contents. The liquid paraffin containing the mixture of MoS2 nanoparticles and common MoS2 particles has a better wear resistance, friction‐reducing performance and extreme pressure property than the liquid paraffin containing pure common MoS2 or pure nano‐MoS2 particles. The optimal mixing ratio of nano‐MoS2 and common MoS2 is 20 wt percent, the loading capacity reaches the highest value. By XPS and SEM it was suggested that the difference in the tribological performance between MoS2 nanoparticles and MoS2 common particles was attributed to the surface and interfacial size‐effect of nanoparticles and the formation of molybdenum trioxide thin film on the rubbed surface.Research limitations/implicationsIt is not studied that the effects of mixing of common MoS2 and nano‐MoS2 in the actual lubricating oil with various additives.Practical implicationsIt provided a basic research results and data for the application of nano‐MoS2 particles.Originality/valueThe mixing of nanoparticles and non‐nano‐sized particles will lead to new tribological results, which is different from results obtained from other nanoparticles before.
Shall I train your apprentice?
Authors: Walther Belinda , Schweri Jürg , Wolter Stefan C. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe classical form of dual vocational training in Switzerland is on‐the‐job training combined with theoretical education in a school. In order to be an attractive educational choice for both enterprises and pupils, the apprenticeship model has to be constantly adapted to the demands of the labour market. As a potential model for future apprenticeship training, large firms started to concentrate their apprenticeship training in one or a few sites. More recently, independent external firms have been set up with the express purpose of training apprentices for other companies. This article aims to discuss these new developments.Design/methodology/approachThis article bases its discussion of the developments on the basis of a unique data set comprising more than 2,300 training companies in Switzerland.FindingsThe observations reported in this article suggest that training in a training centre is a viable alternative to the usual in‐house apprenticeship system where the apprentice is trained within the company. However, training centres will never be an ideal solution for all occupations or for every company. Training centres are primarily worthwhile for investment‐intensive occupations where the main objective is to invest in an apprentice's human capital and thus help ensure a steady supply of highly qualified workers.Originality/valueThe article presents useful developments in the use of training centres.
Building Pathways: apprenticeships as a route to higher education
Authors: Bowers‐Brown Tamsin , Berry David 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to present apprentices’ perceptions of their opportunities for progressing to higher education. Data gained through semi‐structured interviews with apprentices is placed in the context of the current policy agenda to widen participation in higher education and to increase the skills levels of those in employment. These policies are paramount for apprentices, many of whom fit both of these criteria. The research reported in this paper aims to answer the question “Do apprentices perceive there to be barriers in progressing to higher education?”Design/methodology/approachIn total 44 interviews were conducted with apprentices during college placements and further interviews were conducted with apprentices who had progressed to higher education courses (HNC and HND) at the same colleges.FindingsThe findings show that employer support, time, finance and apprentices’ perceptions of their own ability are the key factors that determine whether apprentices will progress to higher‐level courses. The research highlights the need for a holistic approach to information, advice and guidance, ensuring that consistent and comprehensive information and advice are delivered to students.Originality/valueAlthough the research presented in this paper focuses on the engineering and construction apprenticeships, the implications and findings are also pertinent to other apprenticeship programmes.
Addressing gender segregation in apprenticeships in England
Authors: Miller Linda 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to report findings from a UK study funded by the Equal Opportunities Commission to explore gender segregation in apprenticeships in five strongly segregated sectors: construction, plumbing, engineering, information technology (all strongly male‐dominated), and child care (female‐dominated). The aim of the research was to consider the nature of the barriers preventing young people moving into apprenticeships in these areas of work and to investigate the actions that have been taken by local Learning and Skills Councils to address gender segregation in apprenticeships.Design/methodology/approachThe research consisted of a survey of Local Learning and Skill Councils (the bodies that fund all post‐16 learning provision outside higher education in the UK), case study interviews in five geographical regions selected as examples of good practice, and interviews with representatives of Sector Skill Councils.FindingsThis paper reports some of the barriers encountered by organisations involved in encouraging young people to enter vocational training and by apprentices themselves, and the actions that organisations have taken to try to encourage more diverse groups of young people to consider apprenticeships in these sectors.Originality/valueThis paper is of importance to those wishing to encourage young people to enter into vocational training.
Apprenticeships in Germany: modernising the Dual System
Authors: Deissinger Thomas , Hellwig Silke 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper proposes to investigate the modernisation of the German Dual System for apprenticeships.Design/methodology/approachThe paper looks at the history of the development of the Dual System and looks at the challenges it faces today.FindingsThe paper finds that Germany, with its long‐standing tradition of dual apprenticeships and the reputation of maintaining its practices rather than changing them, has joined the vocational education and training reform agenda. It also finds that reforms seem inevitable in the face of a partial failure of the traditional mechanisms operating within the existing apprenticeship system.Originality/valueThis paper is useful in highlighting the challenges faced by a traditional apprenticeship system.
Registered apprenticeship training in the US construction industry
Authors: Glover Robert W. , Bilginsoy Cihan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to compare the performance of building trades apprenticeship programs in the USA, sponsored jointly by employers and unions, with those sponsored unilaterally by employers. It reviews enrolment and graduation rates, including participation of women and minorities. The article also looks behind the numbers to examine the operation of apprenticeship. It reviews the evolution of joint programs, including institutional arrangements and recent innovations to cope with the challenging characteristics of construction labor markets.Design/methodology/approachStatistical comparisons by type of program sponsor are carried out using individual‐level data on registered apprenticeship for the period 1996‐2003. Evolution of apprenticeship programs is discussed in a historical perspective.FindingsJoint programs (with union participation) were found to have much higher enrolments and greater participation of women and ethnic/racial minorities. Joint programs also exhibit markedly better performance for all groups on rates of attrition and completion. Joint programs have developed various innovations, including college credit for training and scholarship loans to expand apprenticeship and improve quality and retention, although there are no quantitative evaluations of the effectiveness of many of these specific measures.Research limitations/implicationsStatistical information includes about 65 percent of all registered apprentices in the USA.Practical implicationsThe paper shows that alternative forms of training sponsorship have substantially different effects on enrolment and graduation. Identification of the practices, that improve enrolment and retention, and their widespread adoption would enhance the effectiveness of training programs.Originality/valueThe dataset used in this paper has not yet been used in any publications. The findings regarding joint programs are notable, in view of the skilled labor shortages facing the construction industry in the USA.
The business benefits of apprenticeships: the English employers’ perspective
Authors: Kenyon Rod 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to present the Apprenticeships Task Force's (ATF's) evaluation of the business case for recruiting and training apprentices. The focus is on whether they provide employers in the UK with a positive return on investment in key performance areas.Design/methodology/approachThe ATF asked nine members, senior executives of large and smaller companies across various sectors in the economy, to provide evidence that their apprentices add value to business performance. Their information was based on company research, including financial and other performance data comparing apprentices with non‐apprentices.FindingsThe case studies provide compelling evidence that apprenticeships deliver strong business benefits such as increased productivity and staff retention, reduced costs and a more diverse workforce. Other benefits include: increased profits – BT estimated they gained a higher annual net profit of over £1,300 per apprentice when compared with non‐apprentices; higher quality of work – at BAE Systems apprentices fulfilled tasks correctly at a rate of 85 per cent right first time after completing their training; external recruits had a rate of 60 per cent; and career progression – over 90 per cent of line managers in British Gas's engineering operations trained as apprentices.Originality/valueThe case studies offer employers without apprentices a real insight into the apprentices’ enhancement of skills within an economy. They also provide a unique contribution to the body of knowledge used to assess the value of apprenticeships to employers.
The best of intentions: future plans of Young Enterprise Scheme participants
Authors: Lewis Kate 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report on an evaluation of the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) in New Zealand. In particular, it aims to present data relating to what influence the YES has on the career intentions and employability of student participants.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected via a questionnaire disseminated to YES participants. A total of 512 responses were received, which equated to 29 per cent of all participants in 2001.FindingsThe findings show that, to some extent, participating in the YES does influence the choices students make about further study and future work opportunities. The YES appears to have a greater impact on those students who are exposed to enterprising role models through their family and friends.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of the evaluation are not generalisable beyond the YES programme or the New Zealand context.Originality/valueThe paper addresses a gap in the knowledge regarding enterprise education by reporting on an evaluation of the New Zealand YES. It also contributes to the growing evidence about the value of such schemes world‐wide.
Teaching students with autistic spectrum disorders in HE
Authors: Taylor M.J. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the research reported in this paper was to examine the type of adjustments to delivery appropriate for students with an autistic spectrum disorder in a UK higher education setting.Design/methodology/approachA case study in a UK university was conducted over a two‐year period.FindingsA variety of adjustments may be required for students with an autistic spectrum disorder in a UK higher education environment, including adjustments to teaching delivery, assessment and pastoral care.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the case study reported in this paper focused on just three students with an autistic spectrum disorder, the number of students entering UK higher education with such disorders is likely to increase and institutions need to be aware of the adjustments that may potentially be required.Originality/valuePreviously very few students with an autistic spectrum disorder had attended university in the UK. However, growing numbers of such students are now attending university, but thus far little, if any, research has been conducted regarding the adjustments that may need to be made for such students.
Support for working undergraduates: the view of academic staff
Authors: Curtis Susan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo investigate the attitudes of academic staff towards providing practical support for full‐time students working on a part‐time basis during term‐time.Design/methodology/approachA case study of a rural faculty of a large metropolitan university in the UK. In‐depth semi‐structured interviews were held with 22 members of staff, drawn from every department in the case study faculty.FindingsSupport for working students is arbitrary and accidental. The majority of staff are unaware of the extent of student employment and of the possibilities of providing support.Research limitations/implicationsOnly a small proportion of the total university staff were interviewed, coupled with the fact that the faculty is rural and therefore the sample may not be representative of the majority of universities which have city centre campuses.Practical implicationsImproved awareness of students' total university experience on the part of academics may encourage practical measures to assist the undergraduates to cope more effectively with their dual roles of student and worker. However, some forms of support, such as greater flexibility in the timetable, may be very difficult, if not impossible, to accommodate.Originality/valueNo other research appears to have been carried out in the UK on this topic.