bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An exploratory study of best lean sustainability practices in higher education
Authors: Comm Clare L. , Mathaisel Dennis F.X. 
Published: August 2005

PurposeBecause of the ever‐expanding commercialization and marketing of higher education, a need now exists to apply the concepts of business process improvement to colleges and universities. Aims to explore this issue.Design/methodology/approachAn open‐ended qualitative questionnaire was developed, administered to 18 public and private university representatives and analyzed.FindingsThe participants at these surveyed universities shared with the interviewers the institutional lean “best practices” that they feel will contribute to the sustainability of their universities.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a preliminary study with a sample size of 18 universities in the Northeastern USA. Future research should include more universities in the USA, as well as in other countries.Practical implicationsOther institutions of higher education may learn from the successful implementation of the lean sustainability efforts at the institutions in this study.Originality/valueVery little past research, except in the area of green marketing, has focused on lean sustainability concepts in higher education. In a recent article by the same authors, a quantitative approach was taken in assessing lean sustainability practices in higher education. This current study explores the application of lean sustainability practices using a more in‐depth qualitative approach.
Longitudinal evaluation of innovation implementation in SMEs
Authors: Humphreys Paul , McAdam Rodney , Leckey Jonathon 
Published: August 2005

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to explore the application of a process of innovation within a small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME) case study organisation over a six‐year period, leading to improved understanding for further application and development.Design/methodology/approachThe development of the process of innovation at the case organisation is examined using a case study methodology combining quantitative and qualitative data gathered over the longitudinal period of the study.FindingsThe findings show that innovation implementation in the SME requires ongoing effort, commitment and understanding beyond that of continuous improvement. Moreover, different groupings within the SME had differing perceptions of the value and effectiveness of the innovation process. The findings indicate that innovation must be implemented using a broad range of perspectives and interventions.Originality/valueThere is a paucity of studies on the longitudinal implementation of innovation, especially amongst SMEs. In this context innovation is defined from a broad management perspective as distinct from being restricted to that of technical innovation.
Enabling intrapreneurship: the case of a knowledge‐intensive industrial company
Authors: Skovvang Christensen Karina 
Published: August 2005

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to provide an understanding of the various factors that enable intrapreneurship in established firms. The paper reports on a case study of intrapreneurship in a large knowledge‐intensive industrial firm.Design/methodology/approachBased on the existing literature, it is suggested that the use of different factors can either enable or inhibit intrapreneurship and five enabling factors that are identified. Based on interviews, on‐site observations and documents and reports the five factors with a potential influence on intrapreneurship are examined and alternative factors considered.FindingsThe five enabling factors that are identified in the literature are not sufficient to enable intrapreneurship in knowledge‐intensive companies, and it is concluded that three additional factors enabling intrapreneurship in established firms should also be taken into account.Practical implicationsThe knowledge of what makes factors either enablers or inhibitors are incomplete and to enhance the intrapreneurial ability of an organisation, managers must learn which factors to use in different situations.Originality/valueOnly very few papers have studied intrapreneurship in specific organisations. This paper contributes with a synthesis of the literature in the area and with a suggestion of a model that is used in the empirical analysis and augmented based on that. The paper furthermore contributes to the body of literature on the factors enabling intrapreneurship in general.
Assessing maturity and effectiveness of enterprise performance measurement systems
Authors: Van Aken Eileen M. , Letens Geert , Coleman Garry D. , Farris Jennifer , Van Goubergen Dirk 
Published: August 2005

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe and illustrate an application of a tool for assessing the maturity and effectiveness of enterprise performance measurement systems.Design/methodology/approachAssessment elements were defined based on the literature, and the scoring approach was designed based on performance excellence frameworks such as Baldrige and EFQM. A research case application in a Belgian public sector organization is used to illustrate how the tool can be used and the types of insights generated.FindingsThe case application indicates that the tool can be used to generate useful and actionable feedback for leadership to increase the maturity of enterprise performance measurement systems. The tool can also be used to longitudinally track progress in performance measurement system effectiveness.Research limitations/implicationsThe current paper represents the pilot application of the tool. Future work is needed to further test and refine the tool, refine the assessment process, and collect additional assessment data in other organizations.Originality/valueThis tool provides a more holistic yet detailed assessment of performance measurement systems. It assesses measurement system design quality, as well as implementation/use Specific feedback on process gaps can be used to detect and address problem areas, providing value for practitioners. The tool provides researchers with a standard, structured approach for collecting and codifying detailed observations and artifacts when studying measurement systems.
Interactions Between Public and Private Investment: Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: Atukeren Erdal 
Published: July 2005

SummaryThis study examines the linkages between public investments and private investments by using Granger‐causality and cointegration tests and probit analysis in a sample of 25 developing countries. The results from the cointegration and Granger‐causality tests are further analysed in a probit framework by assigning the dependent variable the value ‘1’ for the ‘crowding‐out’ cases and ‘0’ otherwise, and the explanatory variables are various components of Gwartney and Lawson's (2004) economic freedom of the world index. Using this approach, we find that the higher the share of government involvement in an economy, the lower the trade openness; the more restrictions there are on the use of foreign currencies, and the more stable and developed the macro and monetary environment is, the higher the likelihood that public investments may crowd out private investments. The model correctly predicts 10 out of 11 cases of crowding‐out and 13 out of 14 cases of no‐crowding‐out.
Patient attitudes to clinical trials: development of a questionnaire and results from asthma and cancer patients
Authors: Jenkinson Crispin , Burton John S. , Cartwright Julia , Magee Helen , Hall Ian , Alcock Chris , Burge Sherwood 
Published: August 2005

AbstractObjective  To develop a questionnaire to assess patients’ views of clinical trials, and to report the results from the questionnaire in two patient groups: asthma and cancer.Design  A 43 item questionnaire asking patients about their views to clinical trials was developed on the basis of interviews with trialists and focus groups with patients. The questionnaire was mailed to patients with a diagnosis of either asthma or cancer. A set of items was then selected, via statistical analyses, to form the core of the questionnaire.Participants  Patients with a diagnosis of cancer in one NHS Hospital Trust, and patients with a diagnosis of asthma in two NHS Hospital Trusts.Results  Completed questionnaires were received from 353 cancer patients and 578 asthma patients. Factor analyses of the data indicated that 22 items contributed to five dimensions: ‘positive beliefs’, ‘safety’, ‘information needs’, ‘negative expectations’ and ‘patient involvement’. Differences between asthma and cancer patients on these dimensions were small. A regression of these dimension scores against a variable asking if patients would be willing to take part in trials found that ‘safety’ and ‘information needs’ did not contribute significantly to the model for either asthma or cancer patients.Conclusions  A questionnaire has been developed for use in assessing patients’ views towards clinical trials. Results from the surveys reported here suggest that patient views about the importance of trials and beliefs about the value of patient involvement are likely to be predictive of whether or not patients will agree to take part in a study.
The time course of the bilateral release of cytokines and mediators after unilateral nasal allergen challenge
Authors: Wagenmann M. , Schumacher L. , Bachert C. 
Published: August 2005

Background:  Late phase reactions after allergen challenge can be understood as a correlate of the inflammatory reaction in allergic rhinitis.Methods:  To investigate which cytokines are involved in it and to dissect direct and indirect effects of nasal allergen challenge, we performed unilateral nasal allergen provocation with the disc method in 12 seasonal allergic volunteers. Symptom scores, nasal secretions and nasal airflow were quantified. In the secretions that were collected in the early phase and for 8 h after provocation, we measured histamine, and the cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐8, IL‐4, and the natural antagonist of IL‐1β, IL‐1 receptor type 1 (IL‐1Ra) using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent (ELISA)‐assays. Control challenges with diluent instead of allergen were performed in all subjects.Results:  We demonstrated a bilateral increase in nasal secretion weights in the early and late phase. Histamine was significantly increased in the early and late phase in nasal secretions from both nostrils. IL‐1β increased in the late phase only, where it was also found on the unchallenged, contralateral side. Its antagonist IL‐1Ra was found in very high quantities (1000‐fold higher than IL‐1β) but demonstrated only marginal changes after provocation. IL‐8 was increased in both nostrils early and late after challenge, whereas IL‐4 was significantly elevated in the late phase.Conclusions:  We described the time course of mediator and cytokine release into nasal secretions after allergen challenge. We hypothesize that the observed indirect effects on the unchallenged, contralateral side can be at least partially attributed to neuronal reflexes.
Passive IgE‐sensitization by blood transfusion
Authors: Johansson S. G. O. , Nopp A. , van Hage M. , Olofsson N. , Lundahl J. , Wehlin L. , Söderström L. , Stiller V. , Öman H. 
Published: August 2005

Background:  To study the mechanisms of passive sensitization of patients receiving plasma containing IgE antibodies to a defined allergen.Methods:  When required for medical reasons, regular donor plasma with IgE antibodies to timothy grass allergen (8–205 kUA/l), was given. Kinetics of IgE antibodies in the recipients’ serum and his/her basophil allergen threshold sensitivity, CD‐sens, was monitored up to 2–3 weeks after transfusion. The IgE antibodies were quantitated by ImmunoCAP. The CD‐sens in plasma recipients, determined by CD63 up‐regulation, was measured by flow cytometry and compared to CD‐sens of patients with allergic asthma and/or rhinitis.Results:  There was a significant correlation (r = 0.98; P < 0.001) between amount of IgE antibody given and recipient serum peak concentration. The T1/2 for IgE antibody in circulation was 1.13 days (95% confidence limit 0.35–1.91 days). The recipients became CD‐sens positive already 3 h after transfusion. The CD‐sens peak was observed after 3.4 days and the value were correlated (r = 0.68; P < 0.02) to the amount of IgE antibody transfused and were of the same magnitude as found in allergic patients. The T1/2 of CD‐sens indicated two populations of basophils; one with a CD‐sens decrease T1/2 of 4 days and one of 10 days.Conclusion:  Transfused IgE antibodies will sensitize mast cells and basophils to CD‐sens levels similar to those of allergic patients. The recipients expressed ‘slow’ or ‘rapid’ CD‐sens decline, indicating two different basophil populations. After transfusion of plasma with >10 kUA/l IgE antibody the recipient could have allergen reactive basophils for up to 7 weeks.
Public participation programme: The Akkar watershed study
Authors: Abdel‐Massih Youssef 
Published: July 2005

AbstractA social and environmental study of the Akkar watershed, on the northern boundary of Lebanon and Syria, was initiated in January 2001 and completed in January 2003. The study was a cooperative Lebanese–Syrian–Canadian research project funded by the Canadian International Development and Research Council. The aim of the project was to utilize scientific information and data derived from the watershed study to define issues and possible solutions to be included in a bilateral watershed management plan. The project consisted of four components: watershed maps from remote sensing and geographical information systems, sampling and analysis of water samples, analysis of applicable legislation and institutional arrangements, and a programme of public participation. The direct impact on the watershed by the daily activities of its communities implies that these communities should be involved in both evaluation and management of the watershed. It is very important that environmental management and conservation relate to land use and policies to assure sustainability. A successful conservation approach integrates institutional, geomatics and public participation aspects, leading to the communities themselves being self‐regulating. This will strengthen the sustainability within the watershed to enhance the quality of living of its inhabitants. This paper deals strictly with the aspects of the public participation programme on the Lebanese side of the watershed. This programme was designed to ensure wide public involvement and wide dissemination of information derived from the technical study of the watershed.
Environmental management of the waters of the El‐Kabir River and the associated Akkar watershed
Authors: Cadham John C. , Thomas Richard L. , Khawlie Mohamad , Kawass Issam 
Published: July 2005

AbstractThe Akkar watershed of the El‐Kabir River forms the northern boundary of Lebanon with Syria and drains into the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. This paper endeavours to provide a management plan tailored to the issues and needs of the Akkar watershed. It is not designed as a simplistic workbook of procedures but as a series of broad, thematic recommendations addressing the environmental problems identified by technical studies and interaction with the inhabitants of the watershed. It outlines a three‐phase (short, medium and long‐term) approach to address public health and water sustainability in the context of an enduring management system. In all phases, a set of underlying principles are utilized which incorporate a watershed approach, collaboration and cooperation, sustainability, a balance between water quantity and quality, equity and public involvement.
Percutaneous splanchnic nerve radiofrequency ablation for chronic abdominal pain
Authors: Garcea Giuseppe , Thomasset Sarah , Berry David P. , Tordoff Simon 
Published: August 2005

Background:  Splanchnic nerve block is a useful alternative to coeliac plexus block in the management of patients with chronic upper abdominal pain. The predictable relationship of the splanchnic nerves to other structures allows for accurate needle placement and hence a low risk of iatrogenic damage. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses a high frequency alternating current to heat tissues leading to thermal coagulation. It produces predictable and accurate lesions and hence is useful alternative to more conventional phenol and alcohol neurolytic methods.Methods:  The present study examined a series of 10 patients undergoing percutaneous RFA splanchnic nerve blockade for chronic pancreatitis. Pain levels, anxiety, quality of life, daily activity, mood and interpersonal relationships were all assessed pre‐ and postprocedure, using a visual analogue score. Median follow‐up was 18 months (range: 12−24 months). Statistical analysis was undertaken using non‐parametric Wilcoxon matched pair analysis, statistical significance was set at the 95% confidence intervals.Results:  Splanchnic nerve RFA not only led to a decrease in pain scores, opiate analgesia use and acute admissions for pain; but it also resulted in improvement of other parameters associated with long‐term debilitating chronic pain, such as anxiety levels, daily activity, overall mood and general perception of health. There were no major complications. All changes observed were statistically significant.Conclusion:  Although preliminary data regarding RFA ablation of splanchnic nerves are encouraging, further trials are also needed comparing percutaneous splanchnic nerve ablation with opiod analgesia and coeliac plexus blockade.
Sevoflurane (12% and 8%) inhalational induction in children
Authors: CHAWATHE M. , ZATMAN T. , HALL J.E. , GILDERSLEVE C. , JONES R.M. , WILKES A.R. , AGUILERA I.M. , ARMSTRONG T.S. 
Published: August 2005

SummaryBackground:  Sevoflurane induction of anesthesia is frequently used in children. Rapidly performed inhalational induction may reduce excitation during early anesthesia. Increasing the total anesthetic MAC delivered to patients can be achieved by increasing volatile concentration or adding nitrous oxide. The latter reduces inspired oxygen concentration delivered, which may not be desirable. Even 8% sevoflurane induction is associated with excitation. A system capable of delivering 12% sevoflurane using two tandem vaporizers has been developed.Methods:  A randomized double blind study was undertaken to assess whether 12% sevoflurane offered any advantage over 8% in time and quality of induction. Sixty children aged 5–10 years were recruited and received either 12 or 8% sevoflurane. Time to loss of eyelash reflex, central pupils, incidence of adverse events, induction quality, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were recorded.Results:  Twelve percent sevoflurane reduced time to loss of eyelash reflex compared with 8% [mean (sd): 35 (12) and 46 (14) P < 0.05], but the reduction was only 10% higher than the error in the measurement (assessment every 10 s). Twelve percent sevoflurane offered significantly better quality of induction (P < 0.05). There was no difference in cardiovascular stability between groups, although heart rate rose significantly in both groups. Maintaining sevoflurane at 12% for 4 min caused significant amounts of apnea (69% with 12% and 38% with 8%, P < 0.05).Conclusion:  Twelve percent sevoflurane offers a smoother anesthesia induction than 8% in children of this age with no additional consequences for the cardiovascular system.
Language‐specific effects on number computation in toddlers
Authors: Hodent Célia , Bryant Peter , Houdé Olivier 
Published: July 2005

Abstract A fundamental question in developmental science is how brains with and without language compute numbers. Measuring young children's verbal reactions in France (Paris) and in England (Oxford), here we show that, although there is a general arithmetic ability for small numbers that is shared by monkeys and preverbal infants, the development of such initial knowledge in humans follows specific performance patterns, depending on what language the children speak.
‘The illness is part of the person’: discourses of blame, individual responsibility and individuation at a centre for spiritual healing in the North of England
Authors: McClean Stuart 
Published: August 2005

AbstractWhile the growth in usage and practice of varying forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) continues apace, social science has increasingly turned to CAM's often individualistic approach to health and illness. CAM has been perceived as both partly a cause of and a response to the well‐documented ideology in modern healthcare of ‘individual responsibility for health’. This occasionally manifests in a ‘victim‐blaming’ ideology amongst both orthodox and CAM practitioners alike. These issues emerged as key themes in an ethnographic study of a Centre for spiritual healing in the North of England. By drawing upon a range of qualitative data gained through the researcher's participation at this healing centre, I argue that the healers’ focus on individual responsibility for health is not so much a part of the current socio‐political health ideology of ‘victim‐blaming’, rather, it is illustrative of an important contemporary social phenomenon: the movement towards the subjectification and personalisation of public life.
Opportunity is not everything
Authors: Hoff Karla , Pandey Priyanka 
Published: August 2005

AbstractWe experimentally investigate in village India how belief systems that hierarchize social groups affect the groups’ responses to economic opportunities. Earlier we found that making caste salient hurt low caste performance both absolutely and relative to the high caste's. To examine the possible role of mistrust, we manipulate the scope for discretion in rewarding performance. When offered a gamble in which success mechanically triggers rewards, making caste salient has no significant effect. Instead, it is in the case with scope for discretion that making caste salient creates a large caste gap in the proportion of subjects who refuse the gamble.
How Common Is Catamenial Epilepsy?
Authors: Duncan Susan , Read Carol L. , Brodie Martin J. 
Published: August 2005

Summary:Forty women of childbearing age with refractory epilepsy were asked to record their seizures, the first and last days of their menstrual periods, and symptoms of premenstrual tension for 3 consecutive months. By defining catamenial epilepsy as the occurrence of at least 75% of seizures each month in the 10‐day time frame, which included the 4 days preceding menstruation and the 6 days after its onset, only 5 women (12.5%) were identified who fulfilled the criterion. Nevertheless, after the study was completed, 31 (78%) of these patients claimed that most of their seizures occurred near the time of and were exacerbated by menstruation. The patients with catamenial epilepsy reported no more symptoms of premenstrual tension than did the rest of the group. Clustering outside the menstrual cycle was noted in 4 other patients. Catamenial epilepsy is an uncommon condition. Patient claims about frequency of seizures in relation to menstruation are not always accurate. A standard definition should be adopted because the diagnosis has implications for management.