Showing papers by "Northampton Community College published in 2003"

Reviewing the knowledge management literature: towards a taxonomy

Abstract: Academic and practitioner interpretations of knowledge management are captured through a comprehensive taxonomy of knowledge models. How knowledge is absorbed raises the question as to whether focus should be placed on knowledge transfer or knowledge management. It is concluded that the contextual demands for knowledge application dictate which pathway to pursue.

Speech and language therapy interventions for children with primary speech and language delay or disorder

Abstract: Primary speech and language delay/disorder is a common developmental difficulty which, if unresolved, can cause difficulties of both learning and socialisation lasting into adolescence and beyond. This review examines the effectiveness of speech and language therapy interventions for children with primary speech and language delay/disorder. The review concludes that whilst there may be some support for the effectiveness of speech and language therapy for children with expressive phonological and expressive vocabulary difficulties, the evidence concerning the effectiveness of interventions for expressive syntax is mixed, and no evidence is available concerning interventions for children with receptive language difficulties.

Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale-39 (SAQOL-39): evaluation of acceptability, reliability, and validity.

Abstract: Background and Purpose— Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is a key outcome in stroke clinical trials. Stroke-specific HRQL scales (eg, SS-QOL, SIS) have generally been developed with samples of stroke survivors that exclude people with aphasia. We adapted the SS-QOL for use with people with aphasia to produce the Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale (SAQOL). We report results from the psychometric evaluation of the initial 53-item SAQOL and the item-reduced SAQOL-39. Methods— We studied 95 people with long-term aphasia to evaluate the acceptability, reliability, and validity of the SAQOL and SAQOL-39 using standard psychometric methods. Results— A total of 83 of 95 (87%) were able to complete the SAQOL by self-report; their results are reported here. Results supported the reliability and validity of the overall score on the 53-item SAQOL, but there was little support for hypothesized subdomains. Using factor analysis, we derived a shorter version (SAQOL-39) that identified 4 subdomains (physical, ...

Ecological validity of a simplified version of the multiple errands shopping test

Abstract: Shallice and Burgess (1991) reported the utility of the Multiple Errands Test (MET) in discriminating executive deficits in three frontal lobe patients with preserved high IQ, who were otherwise unimpaired on tests of executive function. The aim of this study was to ascertain the value of a simplified version of the MET (MET‐SV) for use with the range of people more routinely encountered in clinical practice. Main findings were as follows: 1) The test discriminated well between neurological patients and controls, and the group effects remained when the difference in current general cognitive functions (WAIS‐R FSIQ) was taken into account. 2) The best predictors of performance in the healthy control group (n 5 46) were age and the number of times participants asked for help (with more requests associated with poorer performance). 3) In the neurological group, two clear patterns of failure emerged, with performance either characterized by rule breaking or failure to achieve tasks. These two patterns were associated with different dysexecutive symptoms in everyday life. 4) The patients not only made more errors than controls, but also different ones. A scoring method that took this into account markedly increased test sensitivity. 5) Many patients passed traditional tests of executive frontal lobe function but still failed the MET‐SV. This pattern was strongly associated with observed dysexecutive symptoms in everyday life. The results demonstrate the clinical utility of the test, and suggest that there are two common and independent sources of failure on multitasking tests in a general neurological population: memory dysfunction, and initiation problems. (JINS, 2003, 9, 31‐44.)

Reinventing the Democratic Governance Project through Information Technology? A Growing Agenda for Debate

Abstract: Postindustrial societies have arrived at a moment of immense democratic and entrepreneurial opportunities that has been made possible by information technology. At the same time, however, these opportunities pose potential threats if they are not debated and planned for in consensually–legitimate ways. This article examines the current problems of representative democracy and the impact of information technology on the current and future quality of democratic governance. Four generic models of “electronic democracy” that are made possible by interactive information Technologies—electronic bureaucracy, information management, populist, and civil society—are analyzed in terms of their applicability and impact. Information technology’s impact on the roles, responsibilities, and accountability of citizens, elected representatives, the media, and corporations is also examined. This article proposes strategies for reinventing democratic governance, including recognizing community values, accommodating critical debate, and providing access for citizen participation in policy analysis.

Sponsorship: perspectives on its strategic role

Abstract: Advertising and sponsorship are both key areas of concern to management scholars. In the dynamic and sophisticated market world in which integrated marketing communication strategies play roles of increasing importance, this paper reflects on the extent to whcih sponsorship has moved away from being a philanthropic approach to communication and has taken a key role as a strategic approach to marketing (and thus corporate) strategies. The article note the problem prestented by the lack of a clear theoretical definition, considers the strategic objectives that result in sponsorship programmes, reflects on the difficulties (or downright lack) of measuring the success of sponsorship programmes (noting that organizations will judge success in different ways), reflects on the controversial aspects of some sponsorship programmes and examines groups at which sponsorship might be targeted. It concludes that sponsorship has a significant (some would say major) role to play in increasing sales, enhancing corporate image and leveraging employee morale. It concludes by suggesting significant areas that merit further research in this greatly neglected academic area.

Structure-Activity Relationships in the Hydrophobic Interactions of Polyphenols with Cellulose and Collagen

Abstract: Polyphenol interactions with both cellulose and collagen in the solid state have been studied by using chromatography on cellulose and by evaluating the hydrothermal stability of the polyphenol treated sheepskin collagen. Twenty-four polyphenolic compounds were studied, including seven glucose-based gallotannins, five polyalcohol-based gallotannins, and twelve ellagitannins. In the cellulose-polyphenols systems, the polyphenol's affinity to cellulose is positively correlated with their molecular masses, the number of galloyl groups, and their hydrophobicity (logP). The polyphenol treatment increased the hydrothermal stability of collagen samples, and such effects are also positively correlated with the molecular masses, total number of galloyl groups and the hydrophobicity of polyphenols. Ellagitannins showed much weaker interactions with both biopolymers than gallotannins having similar molecular mass, the same number of galloyl groups, and the same number of phenolic hydroxyl groups. It is concluded that, for the polyphenol interactions with both cellulose and collagen, (1) the galloyl group of polyphenols is the functional group; (2) the strength of interactions are positively correlated with molecular size, the number of galloyl groups and the hydrophobicity of polyphenols; (3) the hydrophobic interactions are of great significance; and (4) the interactions are strongly dependent on the flexibility of galloyl groups.

Contemporary approaches to the management of irritability and aggression following traumatic brain injury

Abstract: In this paper, the principal means of managing irritability and aggression following traumatic brain injury (TBI) will be briefly reviewed. The paper will initially consider the prevalence of irritability, what it is and some of the likely causes that drive the condition. Aggression will then be similarly contemplated. Prior to a discussion regarding those methods most regularly employed in their management, the attention of the reader will be directed to a range of methodological issues that need to be considered in relation to reporting treatment efficacy, including lack of homogeneity and the need to use standardised assessment tools. Three principal management approaches will then be described and appraised, these being pharmacology, psychotherapy, and behaviour therapy. Within the discussion of psychotherapeutic methods, special mention will be made with regard to use of cognitive behaviour therapy, and two detailed case studies will be employed to illustrate issues relating to both cognitive behaviour therapy and behaviour therapy.

Children and regeneration: setting an agenda for community participation and integration

Abstract: Unlike other marginalised groups children are often not in a position to enter into dialogue with adults about their community needs and environmental concerns. Despite the current emphasis on involving communities in the regeneration of their own neighbourhoods, young people are still seemingly invisible in decision-making processes. This paper looks at recent attempts to increase public participation in local decision-making, proposes a typology of community action that recognises the different ways in which children may be drawn into the process of neighbourhood renewal and offers a set of recommendations that, if taken up, provide an agenda that will strengthen the active social commitment of young people in general. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Correlates of Relative Lethality and Suicidal Intent among Deliberate Self-Harm Patients

Abstract: Conflicting findings have been reported regarding the relationship between the potential lethality of acts of deliberate self-harm (DSH) and suicidal intent, and how each relates to patient characteristics. This study examines the relationship of suicidal intent of DSH to lethality, the relationship of both to patient characteristics, and determines if intent or lethality are risk factors for repetition of DSH. Potential lethality and Suicide Intent Scale (SIS) scores for DSH episodes were examined in a representative sample of 150 patients presenting to a general hospital. Follow-up interviews were completed 12 to 20 months later. Lethality was strongly associated with high intent. Both lethality and intent were associated with male gender. Suicidal intent but not lethality was associated with the presence of psychiatric disorder and depression. Intent was significantly correlated with hopelessness scale score. Although intent was correlated with both depression and self-esteem scale scores, these correlations became nonsignificant when the effect of hopelessness was removed. Repetition of DSH during the follow-up period was related to neither lethality nor intent scores for the original episodes. Lethality and suicidal intent, although related, have somewhat different correlates. Both should be considered when assessing DSH patients, but their relationship to further suicidal behavior does not appear to be straightforward.

“bumps and boobs”: fatness and women's experiences of pregnancy

Abstract: The primacy of women's physical appearance in the modern Western world is well documented within the literature, but it is assumed that this is no longer significant during pregnancy. In this paper, I will argue that this supposition is based on scant empirical evidence and suggest that the reverse may be true. This paper is based on a qualitative research study, which draws on 40 in-depth interviews with 19 pregnant women in the West Midlands, UK. It explores their perceptions of fatness, weight, and body shape during pregnancy, and explores the extent to which their concerns reflect either a resistance to the asexualisation of the pregnant body or the continued oppression of women's embodiment. The paper concludes by arguing that pregnant women adopt a pragmatic approach of both selective resistance to asexualisation and selective compliance with the pressure to be slim.

Modelling Access with GIS in Urban Systems (MAGUS): capturing the experiences of wheelchair users

Abstract: Access and mobility are important dimensions of quality of life. For wheelchair users, everyday trips are often fraught with problems, with many barriers imperceptible to the able-bodied, hindering or totally restricting movement. This paper describes a project undertaken with wheelchair users, which has developed, tested and applied a Geographic Information System model. This model acts both as a navigational device for wheelchairs users 2013 enabling them to make informed route choices through urban places 2013 and as a decision support and planning tool for urban planners 2013 making visible the ways in which built environments are often distorted and hostile spaces for wheelchair users.

Has there been a "feminization" of gambling and problem gambling in the United States?

Abstract: This paper examines the question of whether there has been a "feminization" of gambling and problem gambling in the United States. Feminization refers to the idea that more women are gambling, developing problems and seeking help for problems related to gambling than in the past. Data from a theoretically derived sample of four states are examined to identify patterns in the distribution of gambling participation and the prevalence of problem gambling in the general population. Despite widespread acceptance of the notion of the feminization of gambling and problem gambling, men remain significantly more likely than women to participate regularly in most types of gambling. Most gambling activities remain highly gendered; however, in the United States, the widespread introduction of gaming machines is associated with increases in gambling and problem gambling among women. The present analysis highlights the importance of taking socio-demographic characteristics besides gender into account when considering the distribution of gambling and problem gambling in the general population.

Benefit of higher closed-loop bandwidths in ocular adaptive optics

Abstract: We present an ocular adaptive optics system with a wavefront sampling rate of 240 Hz and maximum recorded closed-loop bandwidth close to 25 Hz, but with typical performances around 10 Hz. The measured bandwidth depended on the specific system configuration and the particular subject tested. An analysis of the system performance as a function of achieved bandwidth showed consistently higher Strehl ratios for higher closed-loop bandwidths. This may be attributed to a combination of limitations on the available technology and the dynamics of ocular aberrations. We observed dynamic behaviour with a maximum frequency content around 30 Hz.

Information management and knowledge integration for enterprise innovation

Abstract: The key trends in emerging ICT integration choices for cost‐effective, flexible knowledge integration, work‐flow‐embedded evaluation and eCRM‐driven value innovation are examined. Enterprise knowledge integration initiatives can create socio‐technical and cultural tensions as well as possible straitjacketing of business process architectures thus suppressing responsive business re‐engineering and causing loss of competitive advantage for some companies. A framework, C‐assure, is presented for optimising knowledge integration, impact analysis and evaluation to support innovation throughout the various interacting enterprise lifecycles.

Chemical Stabilisation of Collagen as a Biomimetic

Abstract: Collagen is the most abundant protein in animals and because of its high mechanical strength and good resistance to degradation has been utilized in a wide range of products in industry whilst its low antigenicity has resulted in its widespread use in medicine Collagen products can be purified from fibres, molecules reconstituted as fibres or from specific recombinant polypeptides with preferred properties A common feature of all these biomaterials is the need for stable chemical cross-linking to control the mechanical properties and the residence time in the body, and to some extent the immunogenicity of the device This can be achieved by a number of different cross-linking agents that react with specific amino acid residues on the collagen molecule imparting individual biochemical, thermal and mechanical characteristics to the biomaterial In this review we have summarised the major techniques for testing these characteristics and the mechanisms involved in the variety of cross-linking reactions to achieve particular properties

Ethics, values and behaviours: comparison of three case studies examining the paucity of leadership in government

Abstract: Three societies with similar initiatives for public service re-configuration and reform – the UK, Canada and Australia – are examined to highlight the many-faceted issues of public service ethics and the different approaches these governments have taken to re-building public trust and enhancing public service ethics in times of rapid change. These efforts for re-building an ethical public service are scrutinized according to four criteria for effectively leading change. Changes of public service values are also analysed as well as their implications for public servants. Effectively, applied leadership is identified as the pillar of ethical practice – emphasizing the need for quality leadership development through on-the-job experience. Although legislation and codification are seen as necessary for building an ethical infrastructure that can help employees out of encountered dilemmas, the way forward is seen as nurturing an environment of trust and vigilance in which ethics are promoted through exemplary behaviour of leaders and employees alike.

Sex Steroids and Human Behavior: Prenatal Androgen Exposure and Sex‐Typical Play Behavior in Children

Abstract: Gonadal hormones, particularly androgens, direct certain aspects of brain development and exert permanent influences on sex-typical behavior in nonhuman mammals. Androgens also influence human behavioral development, with the most convincing evidence coming from studies of sex-typical play. Girls exposed to unusually high levels of androgens prenatally, because they have the genetic disorder, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), show increased preferences for toys and activities usually preferred by boys, and for male playmates, and decreased preferences for toys and activities usually preferred by girls. Normal variability in androgen prenatally also has been related to subsequent sex-typed play behavior in girls, and nonhuman primates have been observed to show sex-typed preferences for human toys. These findings suggest that androgen during early development influences childhood play behavior in humans at least in part by altering brain development.

To tell or not to tell: the decision-making process of egg-donation parents.

Abstract: Little research has examined the views of parents of children conceived as a result of the use of donated eggs (egg-donation parents) on whether, what and how to tell their children about the way in which they were conceived. Thus, the aim of the present study was to assess the pattern of disclosure in egg-donation families. A representative sample of 17 egg-donation families with a 3-8-year-old child was recruited through UK fertility clinics. All mothers were administered a standardized interview assessing the extent of their disclosure and the main reasons for their decision. Content analysis was carried out on the transcripts from the interviews with the mothers. Not one set of parents had told their child at this stage, and 47% had no intention of telling their child about the way in which they were conceived. Twenty-nine per cent intended to tell their child in the future. Nearly two-thirds had told a friend or family member. Non-disclosure largely stemmed from a desire to protect the child, a belief that there was no need to tell, and a desire to protect the mother. Reasons for intending to disclose to the child included the belief that he or she had a right to know, and to avoid disclosure from someone else. Egg-donation parents with a 3-8-year-old child appear to resemble donor insemination parents in that they tend to favour a position of non-disclosure. The findings demonstrate the importance of understanding the views of egg-donation parents themselves, if openness is to be encouraged in these families.

Generalized Blob Algebras and Alcove Geometry

Abstract: A sequence of finite-dimensional quotients of affine Hecke algebras is studied. Each element of the sequence is constructed so as to have a weight space labelling scheme for Specht⁄standard modules. As in the weight space formalism of algebraic Lie theory, there is an action of an affine reflection group on this weight space that fixes the set of labelling weights. A linkage principle is proved in each case. Further, it is shown that the simplest non-trivial example may essentially be identified with the blob algebra (a physically motivated quasihereditary algebra whose representation theory is very well understood by Lie-theory-like methods). An extended role is hence proposed for Soergel's tilting algorithm, away from its algebraic Lie theory underpinning, in determining the simple content of standard modules for these algebras. This role is explicitly verified in the blob algebra case. A tensor space representation of the blob algebra is constructed, as a candidate for a full tilting module (subsequently proven to be so in a paper by Martin and Ryom-Hansen), further evidencing the extended utility of Lie-theoretic methods. Possible generalisations of this representation to other elements of the sequence are discussed.

Outcome of surgical treatment of medial tibial stress syndrome.

Abstract: Background: Medial tibial stress syndrome is a common chronic sports injury characterized by exercise-induced pain along the posteromedial border of the tibia. The reported outcomes of surgical treatment of this condition have varied. Methods: Of seventy-eight patients who underwent surgery for medial tibial stress syndrome, forty-six (thirty-one men and fifteen women) returned for follow-up. The outcomes of the surgery were determined by comparing preoperative and postoperative pain levels as indicated on a visual analog pain scale and ascertaining the ability of the athletes to return to presymptom levels of exercise. Results: The mean duration of postoperative follow-up was thirty months (range, six to sixty-three months). Surgery significantly reduced pain levels (p < 0.001) by an average of 72% as indicated on the visual analog pain scale. An excellent result was achieved in 35% of the limbs; a good result, in 34%; a fair result, in 22%; and a poor result, in 9%. Despite the success with regard to pain reduction, for a variety of reasons only nineteen (41%) of the athletes fully returned to their presymptom sports activity. Conclusions: Surgery can significantly reduce the pain associated with medial tibial stress syndrome. Despite this reduction in pain, athletes should be counseled that a full uninhibited return to sports is not always achieved. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series [no, or historical, control group]). See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

SOGS and DSM-IV in the British Gambling Prevalence Survey: Reliability and Factor Structure

Abstract: This article examines the psychometric performance and reliability of two problem gambling scales (the South Oaks Gambling Screen [SOGS], and a scale based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (4th edn) [DSM-IV]) and their constituent items, based upon data from the first British Gambling Prevalence Survey (Sproston et al ., 2000). Separate factor analyses of SOGS items and DSM-IV items suggested the existence of two independent factors in each case: dependence and gambling-related problems. Scores based upon SOGS and DSM factors correlated only moderately. It is concluded that no single existing screening questionnaire adequately reflects the multi-dimensional nature of problem gambling.