University of Salford

About: University of Salford is a education organization based out in Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Thin film. The organization has 13049 authors who have published 22957 publications receiving 537330 citations. The organization is also known as: University of Salford Manchester & The University of Salford Manchester.

Quantitative and qualitative research in the built environment: application of “mixed” research approach

Abstract: Built environment research consists of cognitive and affective, as well as behavioural, components. Existing built environment research utilises either strong qualitative or, more often, strong quantitative methodologies. Aims to discuss some of the philosophical issues that would be considered when undertaking academic research into the built environment. Considers the available research options or paradigms and suggests ways in which a researcher can make an informed and sensible decision as to how to proceed. The main dimensions of the debate about the relative characteristics and merits of quantitative and qualitative methodology are outlined, developing the argument that the use of a single methodology often fails to explore all of these components. The use of a mixed methods approach is suggested to counteract this weakness and to enhance research into the built environment.

Photocatalytic disinfection using titanium dioxide: spectrum and mechanism of antimicrobial activity

Abstract: The photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide are well known and have many applications including the removal of organic contaminants and production of self-cleaning glass. There is an increasing interest in the application of the photocatalytic properties of TiO2 for disinfection of surfaces, air and water. Reviews of the applications of photocatalysis in disinfection (Gamage and Zhang 2010; Chong et al., Wat Res 44(10):2997–3027, 2010) and of modelling of TiO2 action have recently been published (Dalrymple et al. , Appl Catal B 98(1–2):27–38, 2010). In this review, we give an overview of the effects of photoactivated TiO2 on microorganisms. The activity has been shown to be capable of killing a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, filamentous and unicellular fungi, algae, protozoa, mammalian viruses and bacteriophage. Resting stages, particularly bacterial endospores, fungal spores and protozoan cysts, are generally more resistant than the vegetative forms, possibly due to the increased cell wall thickness. The killing mechanism involves degradation of the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane due to the production of reactive oxygen species such as hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide. This initially leads to leakage of cellular contents then cell lysis and may be followed by complete mineralisation of the organism. Killing is most efficient when there is close contact between the organisms and the TiO2 catalyst. The killing activity is enhanced by the presence of other antimicrobial agents such as Cu and Ag.

The Delphi technique: a methodological discussion.

Abstract: As in nursing, recent curriculum reform in radiographer education has resulted in the development of undergraduate programmes, and a study referred to in this paper investigated the activities of supervising radiographers in support of the undergraduate curriculum. Following on from 'ward learning environments' research in nursing, the most important activities which assist radiography students' clinical learning were investigated by means of the Delphi technique. At the design stage, a deficiency in previous work using the technique was identified, in that decisions relating to consensus among research respondents appeared to be based on arbitrary or post hoc rationales rather than predetermined or objective criteria. As the Delphi technique is being increasingly employed in nursing and similar research, it is important to explore issues of consensus, validity and reliability. The paper makes recommendations for improving these aspects in future studies.

Applying Case-Based Reasoning: Techniques for Enterprise Systems

Abstract: Chapter 1: What Is Case-Based Reasoning? Chapter 2: Understanding CBR Chapter 3: The Application of CBR Chapter 4: Industrial Applications of CBR Chapter 5: CBR and Customer Service Chapter 6: CBR Software Tools Chapter 7: Building a Diagnostic Case-Base Chapter 8: Building, Testing, and Maintaining Case-Bases Chapter 9: Conclusion Chapter 10: Bibliography

Clinical tests: sensitivity and specificity

Abstract: Many clinical tests are used to confirm or refute the presence of a disease or further the diagnostic process. Ideally such tests correctly identify all patients with the disease, and similarly correctly identify all patients who are disease free. In other words, a perfect test is never positive in a patient who is disease free and is never negative in a patient who is in fact diseased. Most clinical tests fall short of this ideal.