The development of a new methodology for knowledge sharing in the interface between university and society--an example from the meat sector

Design science research was used for the generation, use and evaluation of a model for knowledge sharing in the user community through open educational resources (OER). The focus of interest was on the development process of a model for knowledge sharing that emphasizes the characteristics and the needs of the user community; the empowerment and democratic issues of openness; the collaboration between institutions and dialog with society; and the consideration of quality and sustainability issues. Initially, the community needs were analyzed through surveys and workshops, and the findings used, through negotiations, to formulate the development process. An open-training platform served as an infrastructure and included a repository with OER, a wiki and a discussion forum. The purpose of this article is an attempt to provide universities with a plan and template for integrated knowledge sharing that responds to societal needs. Usability and usefulness has not been evaluated.

How to Manage Rejected Scientific Papers? UNAIS as Final Solution

Before publication, biomedical papers might undergo a very complex process, from journal selection, authors' motivations for submissions, modifications, and final publication or refusal. UNAIS (Unpublished Articles In Science) is an online repository in which authors can publish previously rejected scientific articles or articles that have never been submitted for publication. At UNAIS, authors can also publish the reasons behind the refusals to publication. UNAIS is more than an e-journal: it is a scientific drop box in which scientists can find indicative and negative results, as well as ideas that can inspire others. UNAIS's goal is also to help students and scientists who want to learn how to write scientific articles. UNAIS' aim is to exchange and promote knowledge. Have a look on www.unais.net.

India's first public cord blood repository - looking back and moving forward

Umbilical cord blood is an established source of stem cells useful for hematopoetic reconstitution. The first clinical transplantation in France by Eliane Gluckman in 1988 using HLA matched umbilical cord blood from a sibling on a 6-year-old boy with Fanconi's anemia is an example of a successful transplantation. So far, more than 8,000 patients worldwide have been treated for malignant and inherent blood disorders [1, 2]. Our cord blood repository (CBR) was established as the part of the Life Sciences initiative, almost 7 years ago. The cord blood program consisted of developing a good network of obstetricians and social workers, develop manpower in various aspects of the banking activity, develop methods of process and analysis and above all, increase the level of awareness among the medical, paramedical fraternity and the general public on the cord blood program. The present paper gives a detailed account of our experience as we set up the repository.