The Implications for Regional Investment of Diversification Strategies in Commercial Real Estate Portfolios

A number of studies have examined the benefits of regional diversification strategies within commercial real estate portfolios with two approaches adopted; the first is based on primary contiguous geographical regions while the second employs areas based on economic function. In general, the conclusion is that diversifications strategies based on simple geographical areas adds little, if anything, while economic based regions have shown much greater potential. The economic regions approach to portfolio analysis appears to be a much more valuable tool in evaluating regional real estate investment opportunities and risks. The reason is that this method allows consistent risk measurement between aerial units and enables the portfolio manager to develop a geographically diversified portfolio through the use of economically cohesive regions. The aim of this paper is therefore to identify how the application of these portfolio investment techniques determines the flows of funds coming into regions, and the consequent impacts on regional investment in the regional built environment. Most previous research on this issue is based in the US with studies in other countries largely hampered by lack of real estate data and/or acceptable definitions of economic regions. This study therefore attempts to rectify this position in the UK using a large data set of real estate and socio-economic data.

Radiation environment and shielding for early manned Mars missions

The problem of shielding a crew during early manned Mars missions is discussed. Requirements for shielding are presented in the context of current astronaut exposure limits, natural ionizing radiation sources, and shielding inherent in a particular Mars vehicle configuration. An estimated range for shielding weight is presented based on the worst solar flare dose, mission duration, and inherent vehicle shielding

Impacto de las tecnologías de la información y comunicación en la educación superior

RESUMEN: En este documento se hace una reflexión sobre lo que significa el impacto de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en la educación superior. Primero se desarrollan ideas asociadas a los roles de estudiante y profesor en el proceso de formación en el espacio llamado aula, fundamentado en los elementos esenciales al quehacer de la mente humana. Luego se establece el significado de la tecnología, la información y las comunicaciones en este contexto para concluir como afecta el presente y el futuro del aula como la conocemos y el impacto que tiene este devenir en el rol de la docencia

A Quantitative Spectrographic Study of Magnesium Contamination in Calcium Oxalate Precipitates

Chemists have attempted quantitative spectrographic analysis repeatedly since 1863 when Miller first conducted his experiments. De Gramont added considerable information in a series of papers of about 1907. Leonard and Pollock, and Hartley also published much material about the same time. These methods depend on comparison with a standard of the same composition, containing the same elements. Gerlack and Schweitzer have recently developed a system which depends on comparison with lines of some other element which occur very nearby. The method used in our determinations is based on the earlier work

¿Cómo están acreditados los programas de la Facultad de Ingeniería de la Universidad de Antioquia?

RESUMEN: Se hace un recuento de lo que significa acreditación, de su importancia en el contexto educativo y, sobre todo, en la formación de los ingenieros. Se muestra cómo el proceso empezó en Estados Unidos, cómo se ha extendido la mundo entero y las características de los programas de Ingeniería en Latinoamérica. Se comparan los programas del grupo de las diez principales universidades de Colombia y otras que son parte importante de ACOFI. Se analiza la acreditación en las diferentes escuelas de Ingeniería y en la Facultad de Ingeniería de la Universidad señalando las ventajas y debilidades frente al contexto

The role of primary healthcare professionals in oral cancer prevention and detection

AIM: To investigate current knowledge, examination habits and preventive practices of primary healthcare professionals in Scotland, with respect to oral cancer, and to determine any relevant training needs. SETTING: Primary care. METHOD: Questionnaires were sent to a random sample of 357 general medical practitioners (GMPs) and 331 dental practitioners throughout Scotland. Additionally, focus group research and interviews were conducted amongst primary healthcare team members. RESULTS: Whilst 58% of dental respondents reported examining regularly for signs of oral cancer, GMPs examined patients' mouths usually in response to a complaint of soreness. The majority of GMPs (85%) and dentists (63%) indicated that they felt less than confident in detecting oral cancer, with over 70% of GMPs identifying lack of training as an important barrier. Many practitioners were unclear concerning the relative importance of the presence of potentially malignant lesions in the oral cavity. A high proportion of the GMPs indicated that they should have a major role to play in oral cancer detection (66%) but many felt strongly that this should be primarily the remit of the dental team. CONCLUSION: The study revealed a need for continuing education programmes for primary care practitioners in oral cancer-related activities. This should aim to improve diagnostic skills and seek to increase practitioners' participation in preventive activities