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Terms modified by Menu Selected AbstractsBeyond Stages of Change: Multi-Determinant Continuum Models of Action Readiness and Menu-Based InterventionsAPPLIED PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 1 2008Charles Abraham The merits of modelling action readiness as a series of stages is discussed, focusing on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) which postulates a motivational stage (for non-intenders) and a volitional stage (for intenders). The HAPA helpfully clarifies that the relationship between self-efficacy and action may be different for inexperienced intenders and experienced actors. This model also usefully distinguishes between different types of planning undertaken by intenders and it is suggested that further specification of planning tasks could explain why some intenders act while others do not. Despite the advantages of the HAPA, it is argued that the distinction between intenders and non-intenders is fuzzy and unstable and that demarcation of the stage boundary is arbitrary. A multi-determinant, multi-goal continuum approach is recommended. Such modelling recognises graded discontinuities throughout the development of action readiness from attitude formation to behaviour change maintenance. It is argued that menu-based interventions designed to deliver different messages and materials to people with different action-readiness deficits may be more cost effective than stage-tailored interventions. On discute de l'intérêt qu'il y a de modéliser la préparation à l'action en une série de stades à partir de l'Approche des Processus d'Action en faveur de la Santé (HAPA) qui pose l'existence d'une phase motivationnelle (pour ceux qui n'ont pas l'intention d'agir) et d'une phase volitionnelle (pour ceux qui l'ont). L'HAPA met utilement en évidence que la relation entre l'auto-efficience et l'action peut différer selon que l'on a affaire à un acteur expérimenté ou à une personne sans expérience qui pense agir. Ce modèle fait aussi une distinction utile entre les différentes sortes de planification qui s'offrent à ceux qui ont l'intention d'agir et laisse entendre qu'un approfondissement de la planification des tâches pourrait expliquer pourquoi certains passent à l'action et d'autres pas. En dépit de l'intérêt de l'HAPA, on peut penser que la distinction entre l'intention et l'absence d'intention est floue et instable et que le découpage en stades est arbitraire. On recommande une approche retenant un continuum à déterminants et à buts multiples. Cette modélisation reconnaît l'existence de discontinuités échelonnées tout au long du développement de la préparation à l'action depuis la formation de l'attitude jusqu'au changement effectif du comportement. On défend l'idée que les interventions à la carte conçues pour procurer différents messages et fournitures aux gens qui présentent différentes carences de préparation à l'action peuvent être plus rentables que les interventions basées sur les stades. [source] A pilot study comparing a type 1 nurse-led diabetes clinic with a conventional doctor-led diabetes clinicEUROPEAN DIABETES NURSING, Issue 1 2004J Charlton Diabetes Nurse Specialist Abstract A prospective comparative pilot study was designed to assess and compare care delivered by a diabetes specialist nurse (DSN) and standard doctor-led care for patients with type 1 diabetes. The philosophy was to provide an individualised, patient-centred, lifestyle-based approach. In all, 60 patients with type 1 diabetes were randomised to either the nurse-led clinic (NLC) or a conventional clinic. NLC patients received medical input during their annual screening appointment. In the nurse-led system patients prioritised relevant issues with the aid of a ,Waiting Area Menu'. The menu consisted of pertinent topics relevant to living with diabetes. Care interventions were then agreed and targets discussed. To date the results of DSN intervention include: 60% of patients changing to a more appropriate insulin regimen; 36% changing equipment following update from the DSN; 20% needing initiation of cardiovascular medication; and 26% being referred to other health care professionals. The mean HbA1c changed by -0.25% in the NLC group and by -0.06% in the control group (ns). During the pilot there were several barriers which we had not anticipated. These included staffing resources, and organisational and time management issues. However, feedback from patient questionnaires demonstrated that the majority of patients preferred the NLC. Copyright © 2004 FEND. [source] What Do Corporate Default Rules and Menus Do?JOURNAL OF EMPIRICAL LEGAL STUDIES, Issue 2 2009An Empirical Examination Much of corporate law consists of nonmandatory statutes. Although scholars have examined the effect of nonbinding corporate law from a theoretical perspective, only inconclusive event studies explore the real-world impact of these laws. This article empirically examines the impact of nonmandatory state anti-takeover statutes. Several conclusions emerge. Despite its nonbinding nature, corporate law makes an enormous difference in outcomes, contradicting those who claim that corporate law is trivial. Two types of nonmandatory corporate laws have particularly important effects. Corporate default laws that favor management are considerably less likely to be changed by companies than default laws favoring investors, supporting those who believe that corporate default laws can ameliorate asymmetries in incentives or bargaining power between managers and investors. Corporate "menu" laws,opt-in laws that are drafted by the state but do not apply as default rules,also facilitate the use of some provisions, supporting those who believe that nonmandatory corporate law reduces transaction costs, such as the cost of updating corporate charters to reflect developments in the economy. [source] Good Enough Governance RevisitedDEVELOPMENT POLICY REVIEW, Issue 5 2007Merilee S. Grindle The concept of good enough governance provides a platform for questioning the long menu of institutional changes and capacity-building initiatives currently deemed important (or essential) for development. Nevertheless, it falls short of being a tool to explore what, specifically, needs to be done in any real world context. Thus, as argued by the author in 2004, given the limited resources of money, time, knowledge, and human and organisational capacities, practitioners are correct in searching for the best ways to move towards better governance in a particular country context. This article suggests that the feasibility of particular interventions can be assessed by analysing the context for change and the implications of the content of the intervention being considered. [source] Anticipating Regret: Why Fewer Options May Be BetterECONOMETRICA, Issue 2 2008Todd Sarver We study preferences over menus which can be represented as if the agent selects an alternative from a menu and experiences regret if her choice is ex post inferior. Since regret arises from comparisons between the alternative selected and the other available alternatives, our axioms reflect the agent's desire to limit her options. We prove that our representation is essentially unique. We also introduce two measures of comparative regret attitudes and relate them to our representation. Finally, we explore the formal connection between the present work and the literature on temptation. [source] A Quantitative Theory of Unsecured Consumer Credit with Risk of DefaultECONOMETRICA, Issue 6 2007Satyajit Chatterjee We study, theoretically and quantitatively, the general equilibrium of an economy in which households smooth consumption by means of both a riskless asset and unsecured loans with the option to default. The default option resembles a bankruptcy filing under Chapter 7 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Competitive financial intermediaries offer a menu of loan sizes and interest rates wherein each loan makes zero profits. We prove the existence of a steady-state equilibrium and characterize the circumstances under which a household defaults on its loans. We show that our model accounts for the main statistics regarding bankruptcy and unsecured credit while matching key macroeconomic aggregates, and the earnings and wealth distributions. We use this model to address the implications of a recent policy change that introduces a form of "means testing" for households contemplating a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. We find that this policy change yields large welfare gains. [source] Ten years after the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS): assessing drug problems, policies and reform proposalsADDICTION, Issue 4 2009Peter Reuter ABSTRACT In 1998 the United Nations General Assembly Special Session resolved that governments would reduce drug production and consumption greatly within 10 years. With that period now elapsed, there is an interest in reviewing how successful this was and considering how drug policy could be improved. The demand for drugs in the world has stabilized mainly as a result of the interaction of epidemic forces, culture and economic development. Supply has become more concentrated and the menu of drugs has changed surprisingly slowly. Drug policy is shifting to a more explicitly tolerant configuration in Europe and a few other countries, but retains its ferocity in most of the world. The most prominent innovations under discussion have limited potential effects (heroin maintenance), have as yet been unproductive of policy interventions (,addiction is a brain disease') or have no political appeal (legalization). The option with the most scope is increased effort at diverting arrested drug users out of criminal justice systems. No prevention, treatment or enforcement strategies have demonstrated an ability to substantially affect the extent of drug use and addiction. The best that government interventions can do is to reduce the damaging consequences of drug use and drug control. More attention should be given to reductions in the intensity of drug enforcement, which has many unintended adverse consequences and yields few of the claimed gains. [source] Accelerated leadership development tops the talent management menu at McDonald'sGLOBAL BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE, Issue 4 2008Audrey Williams-Lee The fast-food giant played catch-up after unprecedented top management turnover drew down its pool of high-potential "ready now" leaders. By aggressively focusing on talent management and leadership development, the company now has a tempting selection of accelerated leadership development programs for high potentials, and is rapidly building bench strength around the globe. The evolution of its efforts began with its first leadership competency model and the integration of key talent processes. Regional, functional, and global leadership development initiatives soon followed, along with a rigorous companywide talent planning process. The company is now turning its attention to high potential talent at lower organizational levels. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Social networks at Sempra Energy's IT division are key to building strategic capabilitiesGLOBAL BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE, Issue 2 2007Chris Chen How does an IT division, faced with new and challenging strategic goals, get technical people to understand and appreciate the impact of human relationships on individual and organizational performance? It turns to social network analysis (SNA),a nifty tool for quantifying and visualizing the number and strength of connections between people. Taking advantage of a large menu of SNA's analytical options, this organization learned how it could better identify succession candidates, build social capital, lessen dependence on the senior leadership team, and improve interdepartmental collaboration and communication,in short, move to the next level of organization effectiveness. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] A simulation model for design and evaluation of micro-irrigation systemsIRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE, Issue 4 2001C.M.G. Pedras goutteurs; micro-aspersion; modèle AVALOC; analyse des performances Abstract The rational use and conservation of water resources require that irrigation performance, including emission uniformity, be as high as possible. Simulation models can help achieve these objectives. The AVALOC model has been developed for design and performance analysis of microirrigation systems, adopting the sector as the unit for analysis. The model works with the Windows operating system and is explored interactively through a simple dialogue structure consisting of a sequence of user-friendly interfaces. Model computations are supported by a database containing updated information on the emitters and pipes available on the market, and where the information relative to the sectors being designed or evaluated is stored. The databases allow easy introduction, visualization and correction of data through a user-friendly menu. In the design mode, the model provides for the selection of pipes and emitters that permit the attainment of the target performance, including emitter discharge uniformity. In the performance analysis mode, a hydraulics simulation is executed and several system performance parameters are then computed. The simulation can be performed using data created during design or data collected from field system evaluation. The present paper describes the main features of the model and shows a design example applied to an olive orchard. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. L'utilisation rationnelle des ressources en eau et la conservation des ressources naturelles requiert que les performances des systèmes d'irrigation soient les plus hautes que possible. L'utilisation des modèles de simulation pour le projet et l'évaluation des systèmes de microirrigation peut aider à atteindre un tel objectif. Ainsi, le modèle AVALOC a été développé pour le projet de ces systèmes et aussi pour leur analyse de performance. Le modèle utilise le language Visual Basic pour le système opératif Windows et il est exploré à travers d'un ensemble d'interfaces de dialogue avec l'utilisateur. L'unité d'analyse est le secteur d'irrigation. Les calculs font appel à une base de données contenant de l'information actualisée sur les caractéristiques des émisseurs , gouteurs et microasperseurs , et des conduites disponibles sur le marché et où l'on emmagasine l'information relative aux secteurs en cours de projet ou d'évaluation. Les bases de données sont accedées par une interface de dialogue qui permet l'introduction, visualisation ou correction des données. Le mode de projet permet la selection des emisseurs et tuyaux qui donnent satisfaction aux objectfs de performance fixés à priori. La simulation du fonctionnement hydraulique du secteur en projet permet le calcul de plusieurs indicateurs de performance et, donc, de vérifier si la solution considérée doit être retenue ou modifiée, le modèle étant utilisé de façon interactive. Le mode de simulation hydraulique est aussi utilisé avec des données de terrain pour évaluer la performance des systèmes en operation. Cet article décrit les caractéristiques principales du modèle en même temps qu'on présente un exemple d'application à un système de goutte à goutte pour un olivier. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Raising Adult Vaccination Rates over 4 Years Among Racially Diverse Patients at Inner-City Health CentersJOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 7 2008Mary Patricia Nowalk PhD OBJECTIVES: To increase adult immunizations at inner-city health centers serving primarily minority patients. DESIGN: A before,after trial with a concurrent control. SETTING: Five inner-city health centers. PARTICIPANTS: All adult patients at the health centers eligible for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. INTERVENTION: Four intervention sites chose from a menu of culturally appropriate interventions based on the unique features of their respective health centers. MEASUREMENTS: Immunization and demographic data from medical records of a random sample of 568 patients aged 50 and older who had been patients at their health centers since 2000. RESULTS: The preintervention influenza vaccination rate of 27.1% increased to 48.9% (P<.001) in intervention sites in Year 4, whereas the concurrent control rate remained low (19.7%). The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) rate in subjects aged 65 and older increased from 48.3% to 81.3% (P<.001) in intervention sites in Year 4. Increase in PPV in the concurrent control was not significant. In logistic regression analysis, the likelihood of influenza vaccination was significantly associated with the intervention (odds ratio (OR)=2.07, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.77,2.41) and with age of 65 and older (OR=2.0, 95% CI=1.62,2.48) but not with race. Likelihood of receiving the pneumococcal vaccination was also associated with older age and, to a lesser degree, with intervention. CONCLUSION: Culturally appropriate, evidence-based interventions selected by intervention sites resulted in increased adult vaccinations in disadvantaged, racially diverse, inner-city populations over 2 to 4 years. [source] Dietary specialization and climatic-linked variations in extant populations of Ethiopian wolvesAFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 2 2010Jorgelina Marino Abstract Understanding of the biology of rarity is central to the conservation of some endangered species. Rare taxa are often reported to be specialized, but they are usually poorly studied. The Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis) is endemic to the Ethiopian highlands and in two major populations, Bale and Arsi in the southern range of the species, it preys almost exclusively upon diurnal rodents all year round, mainly molerats Tachyoryctes macrocephalus and common molerats T. splendens, respectively. Where these large rodents are absent or rare, wolves are expected to rely more heavily on nocturnal rats or livestock. Prey remains in 161 scats from five newly studied populations confirmed that wolves are indeed specialist rodent hunters elsewhere, and that their narrow diets are dominated by diurnal Murinae rats (60,83% of prey occurrences). Swamp rats Otomys typus were the main prey, followed by grass rats Arvicanthis abyssinicus. Common molerats, Lophuromys rats and nocturnal Stenocephalemys spp. constituted the variable portion of the diets, and their proportional contributions varied across populations in relation to elevation and latitude. Towards the north, where the climate is drier and human populations more dense, wolves predate more frequently on rat-sized prey, including nocturnal species, with implications for the survival of small populations in the Northern Highlands. Résumé Pour la conservation de certaines espèces en danger, il est essentiel de bien comprendre la biologie de la rareté. On rapporte souvent que des taxons rares sont spécialisés, mais ils sont généralement peu étudiés. Le loup d'Ethiopie Canis simensis est endémique des hauts plateaux éthiopiens et deux populations majeures, Bale et Arsi, dans la partie sud de leur aire de répartition, se nourrissent toute l'année presque exclusivement de petits rongeurs diurnes, surtout des rats-taupes géants Tachyoryctes macrocephalus et, plus communs, des rats taupes des montagnes T. splendens. Là où ces rongeurs sont absents ou rares, on s'attend à ce que les loups se nourrissent davantage de rats nocturnes ou de bétail. Des restes de proies identifiées dans 161 crottes de cinq nouvelles populations étudiées récemment ont confirmé que les loups sont bien, ailleurs, des chasseurs spécialisés en rongeurs et que leur régime alimentaire peu varié est dominé par des Murinae diurnes (60,83% des proies observées). Les rats des marais Otomys typusétaient les proies principales, suivis par les rats des herbes Arvicanthis abyssinicus. Les rats-taupes communs, les rats Lophuromys et les nocturnes Stenocephalemys spp. constituaient des portions variables du menu, et la proportion de leur contribution variait pour les populations en fonction de l'elevation et de la latitude. Vers le nord, là où le climat est plus sec et où la population humaine est plus dense, les loups s'attaquent plus souvent à des proies de la taille des rats, y compris des espèces nocturnes, ce qui a des implications pour la survie des petites populations des hauts plateaux du nord. [source] Illegal meat hunting in serengeti: dynamics in consumption and preferencesAFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2008Vedasto G. Ndibalema Abstract Although wild meat is an important source of protein across Africa, patterns and reasons for its demand are poorly defined. A study was conducted on consumption by inhabitants of ten villages in five districts to the west of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. The first sample of 600 villagers was systematically selected from village registers and surveyed using a questionnaire. The second sample consisted of 341 arrested illegal meat hunters. Nine species dominated by eland (Taurotragus oryx) and wildebeest (Connachaetes taurinus) in terms of meat taste and hunting vulnerability respectively were found to be most preferred or consumed. There were remarkable variations in consumption and preferences for each species amongst ethnic groups and localities. The economics of protein consumption indicates that wild meat is consistently cheaper and hence consumed more frequently than other meats. Respondents' topmost tasty meat , eland and topi (Damaliscus lunatus) , were rare; consequently, common species e.g. buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and wildebeest were the substitutes mostly consumed to supplement beef and fish. Presence of carnivore species on the menu clearly demonstrates survival techniques when availability changes. Wildlife managers should, therefore, bestow attention to the conservation of all species for a balanced ecosystem and species survival. Résumé Bien que la viande de brousse soit une importante source de protéines dans toute l'Afrique, le schéma et les raisons de cette demande sont mal définis. On a réalisé une étude sur la consommation des habitants de dix villages dans cinq districts situés à l'ouest du Parc National de Serengeti, en Tanzanie. Le premier échantillon de 600 villageois fut systématiquement sélectionné sur les registres du village et suivi au moyen d'un questionnaire. Le second échantillon se composait de 341 chasseurs illégaux qui avaient été arrêtés. On a découvert que neuf espèces, dominées par l'éland (Taurotragus oryx) et le gnou (Connochaetes taurinus) en ce qui concerne le goût et la vulnérabilitéà la chasse, avaient la préférence et étaient plus consommées. Il y avait de remarquables variations de consommation et de préférences pour chaque espèce selon les groupes ethniques et les localités. L'économie de la consommation de protéines indique que la viande de brousse est notablement moins chère et donc consommée plus fréquemment que les autres viandes. La viande la plus appréciée des répondants, l'éland et le topi (Damaliscus lunatus) était rare. Par conséquent, les espèces communes comme le buffle (Syncerus caffer) et le gnou étaient les substituts les plus consommées pour compléter le b,uf et le poisson. La présence de carnivores au menu montre bien les techniques de survie lorsque la disponibilitéévolue. Les gestionnaires de la faune sauvage devraient donc accorder leur attention à la conservation de toutes les espèces pour la survie des espèces elles-mêmes et d'un écosystème équilibré. [source] Perinatal nursing education for single-room maternity care: an evaluation of a competency-based modelJOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 1 2005Patricia A Janssen PhD Aims and objectives., To evaluate the success of a competency-based nursing orientation programme for a single-room maternity care unit by measuring improvement in self-reported competency after six months. Background., Single-room maternity care has challenged obstetrical nurses to provide comprehensive nursing care during all phases of the in-hospital birth experience. In this model, nurses provide intrapartum, postpartum and newborn care in one room. To date, an evaluation of nursing education for single-room maternity care has not been published. Design., A prospective cohort design comparing self-reported competencies prior to starting work in the single-room maternity care and six months after. Methods., Nurses completed a competency-based education programme in which they could select from a menu of learning methods and content areas according to their individual needs. Learning methods included classroom lectures, self-paced learning packages, and preceptorships in the clinical area. Competencies were measured by a standardized perinatal self-efficacy tool and a tool developed by the authors for this study, the Single-Room Maternity Care Competency Tool. A paired analysis was undertaken to take into account the paired (before and after) nature of the design. Results., Scores on the perinatal self-efficacy scale and the single-room maternity care competency tool were improved. These differences were statistically significant. Conclusions., Improvements in perinatal and single-room maternity care-specific competencies suggest that our education programme was successful in preparing nurses for their new role in the single-room maternity care setting. This conclusion is supported by reported increases in nursing and patient satisfaction in the single-room maternity care compared with the traditional labour/delivery and postpartum settings. Relevance to clinical practice., An education programme tailored to the learning needs of experienced clinical nurses contributes to improvements in nursing competencies and patient care. [source] Nutrient intake of children consuming breakfast at school clubs in LondonJOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 5 2003S. Waddington Introduction: Research into the effectiveness of breakfast clubs has most commonly focused on social benefits to the child and school, such as improved attendance at school, punctuality and improved concentration levels in the classroom (UEA, 2002). Limited research has been undertaken to investigate the nutritional value of the breakfast foods on offer, or the nutritional content of foods consumed by the child. The aim of this study was to find out what children eat and drink at school breakfast clubs in London. Method: The sample population consisted of 98 children (39 boys and 59 girls) aged 5,11 years attending four primary schools in London. Data were collected about the food on offer and the pricing of different food items, demographic data about the children attending the school club, qualitative data on food preferences and a weighed food intake on two different occasions for each child. Statistical tests (anova and chi-squared tests) and nutrient analysis using Comp-Eat were carried out. Results: The average nutrient content of the breakfast meal consumed was 330 kcal, 12 g protein, 11 g fat and 49 g carbohydrate. Variation was seen between schools. Generally intakes of vitamin C, calcium and sodium were high and intakes of iron were average. anova between schools showed statistically significant results for a number of nutrients , protein, fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, sugar, calcium and sodium. Boys were consuming statistically significantly more fat, saturated fat and calcium than girls. One in five children did not have a drink at breakfast. Menu options and pricing of food items varied between the schools and it was noted to influence children's food choice and consumption. Mean energy intakes equated to 18% of the estimated average requirement for boys and 20% for girls, with girls consuming more carbohydrate and sugar, and boys consumed more fat and protein. Discussion: The findings suggest that careful planning of menus should be undertaken with cereal-based options being offered daily and cooked options only occasionally, and that healthier eating messages can be incorporated effectively into school clubs when supported by the whole school approach to healthy eating. Conclusion: Food offered at school breakfast clubs can contribute substantial nutrients to a child's daily intake and therefore a varied menu, and guided food choices, should be developed incorporating healthier nutrient rich options. This work was supported by Brooke Bond working in partnership with the BDA Community Nutrition Group. [source] When Production and Consumption Meet: Cultural Contradictions and the Enchanting Myth of Customer SovereigntyJOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES, Issue 4 2004Marek Korczynski ABSTRACT The central cultural contradiction of capitalism, argued Bell some 25 years ago, was the existence of rationalized, disciplined production alongside free and hedonistic consumption. This paper argues that this thesis, although overstated, has resonance within contemporary capitalism. The paper then considers the question of how this contradiction is managed when production and consumption meet directly within the service interaction. On the production-side rationalization is joined by customer-orientation, and on the consumption-side management promotes consumption of the enchanting myth of sovereignty. Here the customer is meant to experience a sense of being sovereign. At the same time the space is created for the customer to be, potentially, substantively directed and influenced to follow the requirements that flow from the rationalized elements of production. Key aspects of the service interaction, including the menu and its presentation, the display of empathy and aesthetic labour, and the use of naming within the service interaction, are analysed in terms of the promotion of the enchanting myth of sovereignty. Consumption, however, is a fragile process, and remains, to an important degree, ,unmanageable'. The analysis, therefore, also examines how the promotion of the enchanting myth of sovereignty systematically creates the conditions for the myth's negation. [source] XAS-Collect: a computer program for X-ray absorption spectroscopic data acquisitionJOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION, Issue 4 2000Martin J. George A computer program for X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) data acquisition, called XAS-Collect, is described. The software employs the X Windows system to provide a pull-down menu, dialog-box style of graphical user interface. The software provides state-of-the-art features while still being sufficiently simple for novice users. [source] Transplantation for transition , discussion on a concept around Russian reform of the law on reorganisationLEGAL STUDIES, Issue 2 2003Frederique Dahan This paper drawls on the experience of the authors during a TACIS project in Russia. Part of the project involved assisting Russian legal experts in drafting a law on the reorganisation of companies. The methodology adopted was split into three stages: identification of the concepts of reorganisation in different jurisdictions, the policy and economic context of the proposed reform and examination of the institutional background. At each of these stages it was necessary to discover the underlying cultural, economic and philosophical issues which were formative of laws in each of the five jurisdictions that were examined and offer a menu of possible solutions to the risk-balancing exercise which this area of law presents. [source] Accommodating differences: variations in differentiated literacy instruction in Grade 2/3 classroomsLITERACY, Issue 1 2008Ruthanne Tobin Abstract Although teachers are acutely aware of variance in students' literacy needs, many are unsure exactly how to support these needs in the dynamic classroom. This study reports on compelling evidence from Grade 2/3 classrooms in which teachers differentiated instruction in a variety of ways to benefit all students. In particular, teachers provided additional scaffolding for struggling literacy learners by offering a menu of tiered work products, expert tutoring and additional supports. At the base of instruction were common essential understandings grounded in best literacy practices: shared reading and writing, guided reading, excellent texts and literacy centres. The article emphasises the critical importance of responding to the needs of diverse and at-risk learners in the regular classroom. Differentiated instruction is suggested as a powerful organising framework in the language arts classroom. [source] Modifications to improve the accuracy of a four-ball test apparatusLUBRICATION SCIENCE, Issue 1 2000P. I. Lacey Abstract The four-ball wear test machine is one of the most widely used tribological tools in both research and industry. In general, the test geometry is self-aligning and minimises the opportunity for random variation. Nonetheless, accurate control of the test parameters remains vital to repeatability and reproducibility. The present paper details a number of modifications to a commercially available test apparatus that have been found to improve accuracy. The applied load on some apparatus was found to vary from the correct value, probably due to frictional drag in the loading system. A feedback control loop was designed and fitted to the applied load mechanism, which resulted in significantly improved accuracy. Finally, the apparatus was fully automated, with complete computer control of all test parameters. Under this, following cleaning and assembly of the test specimens, the required test procedure could be selected from a menu of standard methods, and the computer program then adjusted the test parameters according to the method selected, greatly reducing the possibility of operator error. [source] A conceptual framework for developing teaching cases: a review and synthesis of the literature across disciplinesMEDICAL EDUCATION, Issue 9 2006Sara Kim Context, Case-based teaching is regarded as a superior instructional method compared with lectures in promoting a learner's critical thinking skills. While much is known about the role a discussion facilitator plays in case-based teaching, the debate on the influence of the format and structure of cases on learning is controversial. Objectives, We sought to identify strategies for constructing cases based on studies from multiple disciplines, which report the development and use of cases in teaching and learning. The purpose was to offer the medical and other educational communities a conceptual framework that can be examined in future research. Results, Based on a review of 100 studies, we synthesised 17 strategies around 5 core attributes of cases: relevant (level of learner, goals and objectives, setting of case narrative); realistic (authenticity, distractors, gradual disclosure of content); engaging (rich content, multiple perspectives, branching of content); challenging (difficulty, unusual cases, case structure, multiple cases), and instructional (build upon prior knowledge, assessment, feedback, and teaching aids). Discussion, Despite the wide use of cases in disparate disciplines, there has been no overarching study that synthesises strategies of case development or tests these strategies in research settings. The framework we developed can serve as a menu of case development options that educators and researchers can pilot and evaluate in their local settings. [source] Supply contracts in manufacturer-retailer interactions with manufacturer-quality and retailer effort-induced demandNAVAL RESEARCH LOGISTICS: AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL, Issue 3 2008Haresh Gurnani Abstract We consider a decentralized distribution channel where demand depends on the manufacturer-chosen quality of the product and the selling effort chosen by the retailer. The cost of selling effort is private information for the retailer. We consider three different types of supply contracts in this article: price-only contract where the manufacturer sets a wholesale price; fixed-fee contract where manufacturer sells at marginal cost but charges a fixed (transfer) fee; and, general franchise contract where manufacturer sets a wholesale price and charges a fixed fee as well. The fixed-fee and general franchise contracts are referred to as two-part tariff contracts. For each contract type, we study different contract forms including individual, menu, and pooling contracts. In the analysis of the different types and forms of contracts, we show that the price only contract is dominated by the general franchise menu contract. However, the manufacturer may prefer to offer the fixed-fee individual contract as compared to the general franchise contract when the retailer's reservation utility and degree of information asymmetry in costs are high. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2008 [source] Since we seem to agree, why are the outcomes so difficult to achieve?NEW DIRECTIONS FOR TEACHING & LEARNING, Issue 121 2010Terry Rhodes There is mounting evidence from faculty and employers that a broad set of skills and abilities are essential for student success as graduates, citizens, and employees. The traditional approach to general education with an emphasis on exposure to a menu of knowledge no longer suffices. Graduates need to be able to integrate their learning, apply it in real-world settings, and use it to address complex and unscripted problems. Examining the emergent research on student learning and key factors that deepen and enhance learning in essential areas for all students at our institutions leads us to developing new modes of measuring and assessing for learning among our students. One such new approach, the VALUE project, using rubrics and portfolios of student work, is described and discussed as a way to engage students in assessing their own leaning, while giving faculty useful information, and institutions reportable results for accountability. [source] Outcomes of genetics services: Creating an inclusive definition and outcomes menu for public health and clinical genetics services,AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS, Issue 3 2009Kerry Silvey Abstract Third party payers, funding agencies, and lawmakers often require clinicians and public health agencies to justify programs and services by documenting results. This article describes two assessment tools,"Defining Genetics Services Framework" and "Genetics Services Outcomes Menu," created to assist public health professionals, clinicians, family advocates, and researchers to plan, evaluate, and demonstrate the effectiveness of genetics services. The tools were developed by a work group of the Western States Genetics Services Collaborative (WSGSC) consisting of public health genetics and newborn screening professionals, family representatives, a medical geneticist, and genetic counselors from Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The work group created both tools by an iterative process of combining their ideas with findings from a literature and World Wide Web review. The Defining Genetics Services Framework reflects the diversity of work group members. Three over-lapping areas of genetics services from public health core functions to population screening to clinical genetics services are depicted. The Genetics Services Outcomes Menu lists sample long-term outcomes of genetics services. Menu outcomes are classified under impact areas of Knowledge and Information; Financing; Screening and Identification; Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management; and Population Health. The WSGSC incorporated aspects of both tools into their Regional Genetics Plan. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Usability and effectiveness evaluation of a course-advising chat botPROCEEDINGS OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR INFORMATION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (ELECTRONIC), Issue 1 2007Hyekyung Kim This research compares the usability and efficiency of a course-advising chat bot with menu driven FAQs (frequently asked questions). Based on a survey and user interviews, a text-based FAQ system was created and compared with a chat bot that was developed to address library and information science (LIS) graduate student course and program related questions. The students conducted tasks with both the chat bot and FAQ systems. The usability and effectiveness of the functionality and user-interface of both systems is assessed. [source] Beyond Stages of Change: Multi-Determinant Continuum Models of Action Readiness and Menu-Based InterventionsAPPLIED PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 1 2008Charles Abraham The merits of modelling action readiness as a series of stages is discussed, focusing on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) which postulates a motivational stage (for non-intenders) and a volitional stage (for intenders). The HAPA helpfully clarifies that the relationship between self-efficacy and action may be different for inexperienced intenders and experienced actors. This model also usefully distinguishes between different types of planning undertaken by intenders and it is suggested that further specification of planning tasks could explain why some intenders act while others do not. Despite the advantages of the HAPA, it is argued that the distinction between intenders and non-intenders is fuzzy and unstable and that demarcation of the stage boundary is arbitrary. A multi-determinant, multi-goal continuum approach is recommended. Such modelling recognises graded discontinuities throughout the development of action readiness from attitude formation to behaviour change maintenance. It is argued that menu-based interventions designed to deliver different messages and materials to people with different action-readiness deficits may be more cost effective than stage-tailored interventions. On discute de l'intérêt qu'il y a de modéliser la préparation à l'action en une série de stades à partir de l'Approche des Processus d'Action en faveur de la Santé (HAPA) qui pose l'existence d'une phase motivationnelle (pour ceux qui n'ont pas l'intention d'agir) et d'une phase volitionnelle (pour ceux qui l'ont). L'HAPA met utilement en évidence que la relation entre l'auto-efficience et l'action peut différer selon que l'on a affaire à un acteur expérimenté ou à une personne sans expérience qui pense agir. Ce modèle fait aussi une distinction utile entre les différentes sortes de planification qui s'offrent à ceux qui ont l'intention d'agir et laisse entendre qu'un approfondissement de la planification des tâches pourrait expliquer pourquoi certains passent à l'action et d'autres pas. En dépit de l'intérêt de l'HAPA, on peut penser que la distinction entre l'intention et l'absence d'intention est floue et instable et que le découpage en stades est arbitraire. On recommande une approche retenant un continuum à déterminants et à buts multiples. Cette modélisation reconnaît l'existence de discontinuités échelonnées tout au long du développement de la préparation à l'action depuis la formation de l'attitude jusqu'au changement effectif du comportement. On défend l'idée que les interventions à la carte conçues pour procurer différents messages et fournitures aux gens qui présentent différentes carences de préparation à l'action peuvent être plus rentables que les interventions basées sur les stades. [source] Making Waves at East Beach CaféARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, Issue 2 2008Howard Watson Abstract Howard Watson describes how Littlehampton on the Sussex coast has become the unlikely home to a cutting-edge structure. The ,rippling, ribbed, brown steel mollusc' form of this year-round café-restaurant, realised by Heatherwick Studio and Adams Kara Taylor, celebrates its fresh seafood menu and beachside site. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Spectroscopic orbits of potential interferometric binariesASTRONOMISCHE NACHRICHTEN, Issue 6-8 2004F. C. Fekel Abstract We are obtaining high-resolution, red-wavelength spectra at McDonald and Kitt Peak National Observatory to improve the orbits of known spectroscopic binaries that are potential targets for ground-based optical interferometers. The combination of such observations will produce three-dimensional orbits from which very accurate masses and orbital parallaxes can be obtained for double-lined systems. This spectroscopic program will be expanded and placed on the menu of the 2 meter Automatic Spectroscopic Telescope of Tennessee State University once it commences routine operation. (© 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] On the diabetic menu: Zebrafish as a model for pancreas development and functionBIOESSAYS, Issue 2 2009Mary D. Kinkel Abstract Development of the vertebrate pancreas is a complex stepwise process comprising regionalization, cell differentiation, and morphogenesis. Studies in zebrafish are contributing to an emerging picture of pancreas development in which extrinsic signaling molecules influence intrinsic transcriptional programs to allow ultimate differentiation of specific pancreatic cell types. Zebrafish experiments have revealed roles for several signaling molecules in aspects of this process; for example our own work has shown that retinoic acid signals specify the pre-pancreatic endoderm. Time-lapse imaging of live zebrafish embryos has started to provide detailed information about early pancreas morphogenesis. In addition to modeling embryonic development, the zebrafish has recently been used as a model for pancreas regeneration studies. Here, we review the significant progress in these areas and consider the future potential of zebrafish as a diabetes research model. [source] e-Learning: The student experienceBRITISH JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2007Jennifer Gilbert The paper draws on in-depth qualitative. comments from student evaluation of an e-learning module on an MSc in Information Technologies and Management, to develop a picture of their perspective on the experience. Questionnaires that yielded some basic quantitative data and a rich seam of qualitative data were administered. General questions on satisfaction and dissatisfaction identified the criteria that student used in evaluation, while specific questions of aspects of the module generated some insights into the student learning process. The criteria used by students when expressing satisfaction are: synergy between theory and practice; specific subject themes; discussion forums and other student interaction; and, other learning support. The themes that are associated with dissatisfaction include: robustness and usability of platform; access to resources (such as articles and books); currency of study materials; and, student work scheduling. Aspects of the student learning experience that should inform the development of e-learning include: each student engages differently; printing means that students use the integrated learning environment as a menu; discussion threads and interaction are appreciated, but students are unsure in making contributions; and, expectations about the tutor's role in e-learning are unformed. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||