Showing papers by "Northampton Community College published in 1997"

Spectromorphology: explaining sound-shapes

Abstract: The art of music is no longer limited to the sounding models of instruments and voices. Electoacoustic music opens access to all sounds, a bewildering sonic array ranging from the real to the surreal and beyond. For listeners the traditional links with physical sound-making are frequently ruptured: electroacoustic sound-shapes and qualities frequently do not indicate known sources and causes. Gone are the familiar articulations of instruments and vocal utterance: gone is the stability of note and interval: gone too is the reference of beat and metre. Composers also have problems: how to cut an aesthetic path and discover a stability in a wide-open sound world, how to develop appropriate sound-making methods, how to select technologies and software.

Pattern of neuronal activity associated with conscious and unconscious processing of visual signals

Abstract: Following striate cortex damage in monkeys and humans there can be residual function mediated by parallel visual pathways. In humans this can sometimes be associated with a “feeling” that something has happened, especially with rapid movement or abrupt onset. For less transient events, discriminative performance may still be well above chance even when the subject reports no conscious awareness of the stimulus. In a previous study we examined parameters that yield good residual visual performance in the “blind” hemifield of a subject with unilateral damage to the primary visual cortex. With appropriate parameters we demonstrated good discriminative performance, both with and without conscious awareness of a visual event. These observations raise the possibility of imaging the brain activity generated in the “aware” and the “unaware” modes, with matched levels of discrimination performance, and hence of revealing patterns of brain activation associated with visual awareness. The intact hemifield also allows a comparison with normal vision. Here we report the results of a functional magnetic resonance imaging study on the same subject carried out under aware and unaware stimulus conditions. The results point to a shift in the pattern of activity from neocortex in the aware mode, to subcortical structures in the unaware mode. In the aware mode prestriate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (area 46) are active. In the unaware mode the superior colliculus is active, together with medial and orbital prefrontal cortical sites.

Overview of the Okapi projects

Abstract: This paper gives a brief description of the Okapi projects and the work of the Centre for Interactive Systems research, as an introduction to this special issue of the Journal of Documentation. Okapi is the name given to an experimental text retrieval system (or rather, family of systems, as will be discussed below), based at City University, London. The current systems and their predecessors have been used as the basis for a series of projects, generally addressing aspects of user information‐seeking behaviour and user‐system interaction, as well as system design. The projects have been supported extensively by the British Library, and to some degree by a number of other funders. They have been at City since 1989; for the previous seven years they were based at the Polytechnic of Central London (now the University of Westminster). In order to give a picture of the system(s) that now constitute Okapi, it is appropriate to describe one version containing some of the features that have become central to the Okapi projects, and then to indicate the variety of systems now implemented or implementable within the present setup, as well as the directions it may go in the future. In what follows, papers in this issue are referred to by brief titles.

On relevance weights with little relevance information

Abstract: S.E. Robertson and S. Walker Centre for Interactive Syetema Research Department of Information Scienee City University, Northampton Square

Learning from errors in nursing practice

Abstract: Little attention is paid to the issue of errors in nursing practice. Staff are reluctant to discuss or publicize them. However, as clinical audit and quality management become more important and established in the health service, there is now a greater need to investigate and monitor the incidence of errors. The purpose of this study was to examine the causes and consequences of errors as well as the potential for errors to initiate changes in practice. One hundred and twenty-nine nurses answered a 22-item questionnaire relating to an error they had made. Nurses reported that the most common causes of errors were lack of knowledge or information, work overload, stressful atmosphere and lack of support from senior staff. Nurses were found to have recourse to a number of coping strategies in the aftermath of the error. Accepting responsibility and planful problem-solving were found to lead to positive changes in practice, whereas distancing and self-controlling strategies were associated with defensive changes, particularly with a tendency not to divulge the error. The findings also showed that errors had the potential to effect learning. The study suggests the need for staff to be encouraged to accept responsibility for their error within the framework of support. Strategies should be developed so that errors can be managed in a more constructive manner.

Failure strengths of suture versus biodegradable arrow for meniscal repair: an in vitro study

Abstract: Advances in our understanding of meniscal function and consequences of menisectomy have spawned meniscal repair techniques that yield success rates approaching 90% in properly selected patients. Biodegradable implants have been fashioned for meniscal fixation to simplify the technique and minimize neurovascular complications. We performed the current study to determine the in vitro biomechanical behavior of the BIOFIX Meniscal Arrow, a polylactic acid tack developed for meniscal repair. Eight pairs of menisci were harvested from cadaveric knees kept frozen before testing. Peripheral vertical tears were created in the posterior horn of all menisci, and each was subsequently repaired using a vertical loop suture of 2-0 Ethibond and a Meniscal arrow. Ultimate load to failure of each method was determined on a Hounsfield H25KM Universal Testing machine. The mean failure load for the suture group was 58.3 N compared with the Arrow group mean of 29.6 N (P < .001). All sutures failed by rupture at the knot but did not pull through the meniscus. All but one of the arrows failed by pulling out of the meniscus. The Arrows also permitted gapping at the repair site at considerably lesser loads than the sutures subject to strain. The concept of a biodegradable tack is appealing. Vertical loop sutures should be the standard by which their biomechanical performance is judged. We suggest modifications to the Arrow design that could enhance the fixation strength of this implant.

Team roles and team performance: Is there ‘really’ a link?

Abstract: Belbin's (1981, 1993) team role theories are evaluated in terms of the claim that high team performance is associated with teams which are balanced in terms of the team roles represented amongst team members. Eleven teams from a mixture of private and public organizations were surveyed to test the proposition that a balanced team will be a high performing team and vice versa. Issues of measurement of team balance and team performance are addressed. The research is believed to be unique in including a number of criteria for team role balance rather than the single, simplistic measure frequently used. An innovative measure of team performance is used. The results of the investigation give some support to the link Belbin makes between team role balance and team performance. These are discussed in the light of the paucity of rigorous research in this area to date.

Experiments on interfaces to support query expansion

Abstract: This paper focuses on the user and human‐computer interaction (HCI) aspects of the research based on the Okapi text retrieval system. Three experiments implementing different approaches to query expansion are described, highlighting the close relationship between the system’s functionality and different interface designs. The projects evaluated the retrieval effectiveness and usability of an automatic query expansion facility in a VT100 character‐based interface, and two different forms of interactive query expansion implemented in graphical user interface (GUI) environments with different windowing techniques. The experimental conditions, variables and constraints in undertaking operational user testing are discussed in relation to the interface features, and in terms of: the visibility of the system’s operations; the system/user control; and the cognitive load on the user. It is suggested that the quality and effectiveness of the search interaction for query expansion is dependent on resolving the tension between seemingly opposing interface and functional aspects, e.g. automatic vs interactive query expansion, explicit vs implicit use of a thesaurus, document vs query space.

A comparison of usability techniques for evaluating design

Abstract: We report on a series of experiments designed to compare usability testing methods in a novel information retrieval interface. The purpose of this ongoing work is to investigate the problems people encounter while performing information retrieval tasks, and to assess evaluation methods by looking at the problem focus, the quality of the results and the cost effectiveness of each method. This ftrst communication compares expett evaluation using heuristics [15] with end user testing [24].

Use of a modified version of the Overt Aggression Scale in the measurement and assessment of aggressive behaviours following brain injury

Abstract: Aggressive behaviour creates a significant challenge in neurorehabilitation. Despite the success in using behaviour modification principles in the treatment of post-acute behavioural problems, psychopharmacological approaches to the management of aggression are more frequently reported. However, inconsistencies apparent in the literature hinder inter-study comparisons of treatment methods. These include severity of brain injury, neuropsychological status and rigour of experimental methodology used. Data about aggression is also inconsistently reported, especially with regard to classification and severity. Descriptions of how aggressive behaviour responded to pre-treatment is also generally absent. In this paper an observational rating scale is described in an attempt to address these inconsistencies. The Overt Aggression Scale has been modified by increasing the range of interventions to reflect current practice in neurorehabilitation, and by changing the language to make it suitable for UK users. A range of antecedents has also been added to make the scale useful in behavioural analysis. Preliminary results indicate inter-rater reliability is good, and it is a valid indicator of type and severity of aggression. Antecedents and interventions used in the management of aggressive behaviours in neurorehabilitation are also illustrated. Clinical use of the scale is also discussed.

Pollination systems in the Asclepiadaceae: a survey and preliminary analysis☆

Abstract: Using published and unpublished records of pollination in the dicot family Asclepiadaceae (the ‘milkweeds’) we offer a preliminary analysis of present-day pollination systems in the family. Variation in principal pollinators is apparent at and below the tribal level. The tribes Marsdenieae and Stapelieae and Asclepiadeae subtribe Gonolobineae are primarily Diptera-pollinated, a tentative conclusion also for the tribe Periploceae, and we emphasize the ubiquity and importance of fly pollination in the family. The rest of the tribe Asclepiadeae is pollinated in the main by Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. Lack of data makes it impossible to draw even initial conclusions for the remaining tribes, Secamoneae and Fockeeae. Within the Asclepiadeae, there has been a trend towards more diverse pollination systems (incorporating butterflies and wasps) in the New World compared to the Old World. In terms of the taxonomic breadth of pollinators of individual species, Stapelieae is the most specialized tribe. We emphasize that this is only a preliminary account of pollination in the Asclepiadaceae, and detail areas where further work is urgently required.

Testing Survey Questions: New Directions in Cognitive Interviewing:

Abstract: Tester les questions d'enquete - Nouvelles perspectives dans l'entretient cognitif. Les quatres articles suivants de ce numero ont ete presentes en premier lieu comme contribution invitees a une session sur les methodes congnitives dans la construction de questionnaires que l'auteur a organise lors du Quatrieme Conference Internationale sur la Methodologie en Sciences Sociales, les 1-5 juillet 1996. a l'Universite d'Essex en Angleterre. Cet article fournit une introduction au sujet et un cadre d'interpretation pour les articles qui suivent.

Assessment of bog‐body tissue preservation by pyrolysis‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry

Abstract: Flash pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (py-GC/MS) was used to assess the quality and mechanism of protein preservation in the tissue of Iron Age bog bodies from Lindow, UK, and south-eastern Drenthe, The Netherlands. Abundant pyrolysis products of the fresh skin tissue, including 2,5-diketopiperazines of Pro-Gly, Pro-Ala, Pro-Val, Pro-Pro and Hyp, were readily assigned to specific amino acid or dipeptide moieties. Comparison of the pyrolysates of the bog-body tissues with that of modern samples revealed qualitative similarities suggesting good preservation of the collagen and non-collagenous proteins in the ancient tissues. Examination of the pyrolysates of samples of fresh calf skin, which had been treated with various vegetable tanning agents, clearly revealed markers of non-hydrolysable tannins including 1,2-benzenediol, 1,3-benzenediol and 1,2,3-benzenetriol, although chromatographic quality inevitably diminished with increasing functionalization of the compounds. Such markers were not detected in the pyrolysates of the bog-body tissues. Instead 4-isopropenylphenol, a characteristic pyrolysis product of Sphagnum moss, was detected in both solvent-extracted and base-treated samples of tissue. The presence of 4-isopropenylphenol in the pyrolysates of the bog-body tissues provides evidence that their preservation involves reactions of amino acids with spagnum acid, and possibly other agents derived from the peat. The study constitutes the first chemical characterization of the pyrolysis products of modern and ancient collagen. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Stability results for steady, spatially periodic planforms

Abstract: We consider the symmetry-breaking steady state bifurcation of a spatially-uniform equilibrium solution of E(2)-equivariant PDEs. We restrict the space of solutions to those that are doubly-periodic with respect to a square or hexagonal lattice, and consider the bifurcation problem restricted to a finite-dimensional center manifold. For the square lattice we assume that the kernel of the linear operator, at the bifurcation point, consists of 4 complex Fourier modes, with wave vectors K_1=(a,b), K_2=(-b,a), K_3=(b,a), and K_4=(-a,b), where a>b>0 are integers. For the hexagonal lattice, we assume that the kernel of the linear operator consists of 6 complex Fourier modes, also parameterized by an integer pair (a,b). We derive normal forms for the bifurcation problems, which we use to compute the linear, orbital stability of those solution branches guaranteed to exist by the equivariant branching lemma. These solutions consist of rolls, squares, hexagons, a countable set of rhombs, and a countable set of planforms that are superpositions of all of the Fourier modes in the kernel. Since rolls and squares (hexagons) are common to all of the bifurcation problems posed on square (hexagonal) lattices, this framework can be used to determine their stability relative to a countable set of perturbations by varying a and b. For the hexagonal lattice, we analyze the degenerate bifurcation problem obtained by setting the coefficient of the quadratic term to zero. The unfolding of the degenerate bifurcation problem reveals a new class of secondary bifurcations on the hexagons and rhombs solution branches.

Emotional abuse of children : issues for intervention

Abstract: This study is an examination of the emotional abuse of children, where it is the main or sole form of abuse. The ultimate aim of this applied social work project is to make a contribution to intervention in cases of psychological maltreatment. Intervention lacks credibility without some definition of the problem and an understanding of its prevalence, location and manifestation, as well as an appreciation of the type of intervention required. At the outset of the current project, an exploration of professional concerns, the wider context of child abuse and a review of the relevant literature revealed that, although defining emotional abuse has been partially addressed, there are substantial gaps and deficiencies in the knowledge of the prevalence, location, manifestation and intervention relating to emotional abuse. In order to facilitate intervention, these deficiencies were addressed in the current project. Both quantitative and qualitative data was required in order to address different aspects of the issues to be explored. Triangulation was therefore an integral part of the design, information being obtained from three sources: semi-structured interviews with child protection professionals, a population survey and in-depth interviews with adult emotional abuse survivors. The main outcome of the study was an increase in empirical knowledge in the areas of deficit and, consequently, a contribution to credible intervention. Specifically, a suggested operational definition and an indication of prevalence were both provided. Emotional abuse was found to occur in a broad range of families although it was more frequently located in those exposed to multiple stressors. It was most clearly manifested through behaviours which constituted a misuse of power. Concerning intervention itself, a notable contribution of the study was the identification of important life-lines for emotionally abused children. These provided the children with unconditional, positive regard and countered their sense of isolation and rejection

Assessing information needs: a case study of journalists

Abstract: A structure for analysing information needs is outlined. The purpose of the structure is to enable data on users to be collected in a systematic and routine manner. The form of analysis is demonstrated through a consideration of the information needs of newspaper journalists — a group for which user surveys are lacking. The aspects of information need considered are: subject, nature, function, viewpoint, authority, quantity, quality, place of origin, speed of delivery, and processing/packaging. Considered as well are the barriers to meeting information needs — training, time, resources, access and information overload. The library's role in meeting information needs is also assessed. The data used to illustrate the structure are taken from interviews with journalists. Journalists have a need for large volumes of information, for very current and authoritative information, and they require their information very quickly. They are generally very well provided for in terms of information systems, sources and channels; the key problem they face is a shortage of time. Shifts in newspaper coverage, the harsh economic climate newspapers find themselves in and the information flood unleashed by IT, are changing journalists' information requirements and information seeking behaviour.

Domestic technologies: Cinderella and the engineers

Abstract: Domestic technologies are seldom accorded their true significance either by engineers or sociologists, partly due to an undervaluing of the feminine and the private sphere. Drawing on recent feminist research the article examines the failure of designers and manufacturers to understand and respond to user needs. It shows how in neither Eastern nor Western Europe has domestic equipment been designed thoughtfully within appropriate technological systems, as a sensitive interface between household, community and environment. The sociology of technology too is shown to have neglected the technologies of everyday life, which should be the starting point of a technology policy.

Tool and fastener holder with detachable holding belt

Abstract: A tool and fastener holder with detachable holding belt to both of which a plurality of male couplers are affixed and able to line a bucket both inside and out and both holder and belt each being amenable to receipt of a plurality of detachable pouches containing various species of fasteners, one species per pouch with the belt able to via a plurality of tool holding components detachably hold various hammers, crowbars, screwdrivers and the like.

Reconciling requirements: a method for managing interference, inconsistency and conflict

Abstract: This paper outlines a method, called reconciliation, for managing interference between partial specifications or viewpoints. The method supports the detection, verification and tracking of ontological overlaps. The paper describes the heuristics on which the method is based and illustrates the application of the method using a scenario.

Receptor recognition sites reside in both lobes of human serum transferrin.

Abstract: The binding of iron by transferrin leads to a significant conformational change in each lobe of the protein. Numerous studies have shown that the transferrin receptor discriminates between iron-saturated and iron-free transferrin and that it modulates the release of iron. Given these observations, it seems likely that there is contact between each lobe of transferrin and the receptor. This is the case with chicken transferrin, in which it has been demonstrated unambiguously that both lobes are required for binding and iron donation to occur [Brown-Mason and Woodworth (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 1866-1873]. Further support to this contention is added by the ability of both N- and C-domain-specific monoclonal antibodies to block the binding of a solution containing both lobes [Mason, Brown and Church (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 9011-9015]. In the present study a similar conclusion is reached for the binding of human serum transferrin to the transferrin receptor. With the use of recombinant N- and C-lobes of human transferrin produced in a mammalian expression system, we show that both lobes are required to achieve full binding. (Production of recombinant C-lobe in the baby hamster kidney cell system is reported here for the first time.) Each lobe is able to donate iron to transferrin receptors on HeLa S3 cells in the presence of the contralateral lobe. The results are not identical with the chicken system, because the C-lobe alone shows a limited ability to bind to receptors and to donate iron. Further complications arise from the relatively weak re-association between the two lobes of human transferrin compared with the re-association of the ovotransferrin lobes. However, domain-specific monoclonal antibodies to either lobe block the binding of N- and C-lobe mixtures in the human system, thus substantiating the need for both.

Task-related information analysis

Abstract: Task analysis methods have paid little attention to specification of information displays. A method is described for analysing task-related information needs linked to design of information displays. The method starts by defining users' requirements with information types. These are added to the task model to specify what type of information is required during the task. The next step selects appropriate means of information delivery according to the users' needs. Different information access and display paradigms, e.g. hypertext, data retrieval and display media are considered. The method is illustrated with a case study of a shipboard information system.

An empirical study of attending and comprehending multimedia presentations

Abstract: The paper reports two studies concerning attention to and comprehension of Multimedia presentations. The MM sequence used was taken from a commercially produced CD-ROM, ‘The Etiology of Cancer’. First, an eye tracking study of the presentation is reported. A second study was then cortductekl ml the memorisation of the materials used in the eye tracking study. The results of the studies are used to propose guidelines to improve design of MM presentations.

Balancing Home and Employment: Stress Reported by Social Services Staff

Abstract: The paper aims to contribute to an understanding of how stress from the combined responsibilities of home and employment varies according to the family circumstances and employment characteristics of women and men.For women, family responsibilities are associated with shorter hours of employment and lower occupational achievement, whereas for men, marriage is a career asset. Yet the reason for women's underachievement is disputed: some researchers claim that women's part-time work in low-paid, low-status jobs represent women's voluntary choice. Others argue that women's employment options are constrained by their domestic responsibilities; and that reducing hours of work and modifying career aspirations may represent one way of balancing home and employment so as to minimise stress.Data are used from the National Institute of Social Work (NISW) Workforce Survey of over 1000 women and men in four broad types of work in the social service departments of five English local authorities. Information is availab...

Guidelines for corrective replacement based on low stochastic structure assumptions

Abstract: This paper presents corrective replacement decisions, e.g. for machines in a production process or other technical systems. In an attempt to base decisions on observed failure times only, some guidelines are provided for replacing failed machines. The method does not provide an optimal strategy in all situations, indicating that sometimes more information or assumptions are needed. The optimal policy indicates how to act if the low assumptions model recommends action. If the model does not strongly indicate an action, more data need to be collected or more sophisticated modelling is needed. Further modelling would require additional assumptions or input from expert judgements, and could be an expensive exercise. A method that gives clear guidelines if the data are strongly indicative may save time and money. This paper presents the model in an elementary form and is intended as a first step towards modelling more realistic maintenance situations.

The effectiveness of DRL in the management and treatment of severe behaviour disorders following brain injury

Abstract: Effective management of behaviour disorders following brain injury is essential if individuals are to achieve their rehabilitation potential Best practice dictates that the intrusiveness of any operant approach used be minimal remain in operation for the shortest time possible and emphasize skill building Ideally treatment gains should maintain following its withdrawal Reinforcement methods fulfil these criteria in that they are less intrusive concerned with the establishment of pro social behaviours and encourage positive staff patient interaction While their efficacy has been well docu mented with other clinical populations less is known regarding treatment of behaviour disorders in survivors of brain injury Some existing studies are characterized by methodological weaknesses that limit understanding of any contribution made to observed improvement and little is known regarding maintenance of treatment effects In this paper the effectiveness of a variant of differential reinforce ment DRL will be examin...

Landfill as a Future Waste Management Option in England: the view of landfill operators

Abstract: Municipal solid waste (MSW) management issues have moved to the fore of the public agenda, with levels of concern and activity by citizens and governments world-wide reaching unprecedented levels. New waste management techniques are being developed in response to this situation, but many are in their infancy and are not proving to be economic in England. Landfill remains the dominant waste management method employed by waste disposal authorities in England, whilst recycling and waste to energy schemes have struggled due to the historically cheap nature of landfill. The opinions and views of both waste disposal authorities and private disposal contractors were obtained using a postal survey, allowing an assessment to be made of the potential role of landfill as a waste management option for municipal waste in England. This survey provides an insight into the broader issues of current interest to the waste industry, focusing upon the take-up rates of alternative treatment routes to landfill by the private and public sectors, and their attitudes towards the various `carrots and sticks' that are currently being used by the Government to shape the management of municipal solid waste in England. By the year 2010 many regions of England will be suffering from a shortage of landfill void and it is in (part) response to this scenario that the Government has begun to actively promote the development and use of alternative strategies, through the initiation of the recycling credit scheme and the imposition of the landfill tax, to preserve landfill void for the future disposal of untreatable residues.