bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Controlling Rain on Small Tropical Islands: Diurnal Cycle, Large-Scale Wind Speed, and Topography
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Sobel Adam H.
Published: August 2017

A set of idealized cloud-permitting simulations is performed to explore the influence of small islands on precipitating convection as a function of large-scale wind speed. The islands are situated in a long narrow ocean domain that is in radiative–convective equilibrium (RCE) as a whole, constraining the domain-average precipitation. The island occupies a small part of the domain, so that significant precipitation variations over the island can occur, compensated by smaller variations over the larger surrounding oceanic area.

While the prevailing wind speeds vary over flat islands, three distinct flow regimes occur. Rainfall is greatly enhanced, and a local symmetric circulation is formed in the time mean around the island, when the prevailing large-scale wind speed is small. The rainfall enhancement over the island is much reduced when the wind speed is increased to a moderate value. This difference is characterized by a change in the mechanisms by which convection is forced. A thermally forced sea breeze due to surface heating dominates when the large-scale wind is weak. Mechanically forced convection, on the other hand, is favored when the large-scale wind is moderately strong, and horizontal advection of temperature reduces the land–sea thermal contrast that drives the sea breeze. Further increases of the prevailing wind speed lead to strong asymmetry between the windward and leeward sides of the island, owing to gravity waves that result from the land–sea contrast in surface roughness as well as upward deflection of the horizontal flow by elevated diurnal heating. Small-amplitude topography (up to 800-m elevation is considered) has a quantitative impact but does not qualitatively alter the flow regimes or their dependence on wind speed.
Causes of Interannual and Interdecadal Variations of the Summertime Pacific–Japan-Like Pattern over East Asia
Authors: Tao Li , Li Tim , Ke Yuan-Hui , Zhao Jiu-Wei
Published: August 2017

A Pacific–Japan (PJ) pattern index is defined based on the singular value decomposition (SVD) analysis of summertime 500-hPa height in East Asia and precipitation in the tropical western North Pacific (WNP). The time series of this PJ index shows clearly the interannual and interdecadal variations since 1948. Idealized atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) experiments were carried out to understand the remote and local SST forcing in causing the interannual variations of the PJ pattern and interdecadal variations of the PJ-like pattern. It is found that the PJ interannual variation is closely related to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). A basinwide warming occurs in the tropical Indian Ocean (TIO) during El Niño mature winter. The TIO warming persists from the El Niño peak winter to the succeeding summer. Meanwhile, a cold SST anomaly (SSTA) appears in the eastern WNP and persists from the El Niño mature winter to the succeeding summer. Idealized AGCM experiments that separate the TIO and WNP SSTA forcing effects show that both the remote eastern TIO forcing and local WNP SSTA forcing are important in affecting atmospheric heating anomaly in the WNP monsoon region, which further impacts the PJ interannual teleconnection pattern over East Asia. In contrast to the interannual variation, the interdecadal change of the PJ-like pattern is primarily affected by the interdecadal change of SST in the TIO rather than by the local SSTA in the WNP.
Can Bias Correction of Regional Climate Model Lateral Boundary Conditions Improve Low-Frequency Rainfall Variability?
Authors: Rocheta Eytan , Evans Jason P. , Sharma Ashish
Published: August 2017

Global climate model simulations inherently contain multiple biases that, when used as boundary conditions for regional climate models, have the potential to produce poor downscaled simulations. Removing these biases before downscaling can potentially improve regional climate change impact assessment. In particular, reducing the low-frequency variability biases in atmospheric variables as well as modeled rainfall is important for hydrological impact assessment, predominantly for the improved simulation of floods and droughts. The impact of this bias in the lateral boundary conditions driving the dynamical downscaling has not been explored before. Here the use of three approaches for correcting the lateral boundary biases including mean, variance, and modification of sample moments through the use of a nested bias correction (NBC) method that corrects for low-frequency variability bias is investigated. These corrections are implemented at the 6-hourly time scale on the global climate model simulations to drive a regional climate model over the Australian Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) domain. The results show that the most substantial improvement in low-frequency variability after bias correction is obtained from modifying the mean field, with smaller changes attributed to the variance. Explicitly modifying monthly and annual lag-1 autocorrelations through NBC does not substantially improve low-frequency variability attributes of simulated precipitation in the regional model over a simpler mean bias correction. These results raise questions about the nature of bias correction techniques that are required to successfully gain improvement in regional climate model simulations and show that more complicated techniques do not necessarily lead to more skillful simulation.
Toward a Noninvasive, Label-Free Screening Method for Determining Spore Inoculum Quality of Penicillium chrysogenum Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Wieland Karin , Kuligowski Julia , Ehgartner Daniela , Ramer Georg , Koch Cosima , Ofner Johannes , Herwig Christoph , Lendl Bernhard
Published: August 2017

We report on a label-free, noninvasive method for determination of spore inoculum quality of Penicillium chrysogenum prior to cultivation/germination. Raman microspectroscopy providing direct, molecule-specific information was used to extract information on the viability state of spores sampled directly from the spore inoculum. Based on the recorded Raman spectra, a supervised classification method was established for classification between living and dead spores and thus determining spore inoculum quality for optimized process control. A fast and simple sample preparation method consisting of one single dilution step was employed to eliminate interfering signals from the matrix and to achieve isolation of single spores on the sample carrier (CaF2). Aiming to avoid any influence of the killing procedure in the Raman spectrum of the spore, spores were considered naturally dead after more than one year of storage time. Fluorescence staining was used as reference method. A partial least squares discriminant analysis classifier was trained with Raman spectra of 258 living and dead spores (178 spectra for calibration, 80 spectra for validation). The classifier showed good performance when being applied to a 1 µL droplet taken from a 1:1 mixture of living and dead spores. Of 135 recorded spectra, 51% were assigned to living spores while 49% were identified as dead spores by the classifier. The results obtained in this work are a fundamental step towards developing an automated, label-free, and noninvasive screening method for assessing spore inoculum quality.
Theorising vulnerability and male sexual victimisation
Authors: Javaid Aliraza
Published: August 2017

This UK study is about perceptions and constructions of male rape among police officers and agency practitioners. This paper seeks to particularly understand and explain the relationship between vulnerability and male sexual victimisation in the UK. It employs gender and sexualities frameworks to elucidate the connection between vulnerability and male rape, offering primary data (N = 70). The data consist of police officers and voluntary agency practitioners. I aim to make sense of male rape discourse through the participants’ voices since they intimately serve male rape victims/offenders on a one-to-one basis. Because of the lack of male rape research specifically looking at this nuanced area that I seek to explore, this paper will attempt to open up a dialogue regarding male rape not only in an academic context but also in a policy and practice context. This paper also offers suggestions for policy and practice to better deal with male rape victims and to tackle gender inequality and injustice both in a social and criminal justice context. Ultimately, I argue that male rape is often mistakenly considered as a ‘homosexual issue’, so gay and bisexual men who have been raped are regarded as unmasculine or, in other words, not ‘real’ men. Myths and misconceptions of male rape have serious implications for the way societies, the criminal justice system and the voluntary sector view and treat these victims.
Care coordinator views and experiences of physical health monitoring in clients with severe mental illness: A qualitative study
Authors: Gronholm Petra C , Onagbesan Oluwadamilola , Gardner-Sood Poonam
Published: August 2017

Background:

Excess mortality among people with severe mental illness (SMI) is largely attributed to co-morbid physical illness. Improving the physical health of this population is critically important; however, physical health monitoring among people with SMI is often inadequate.

Aims:

This study aimed to facilitate an enhanced understanding of barriers to successfully attend to clients’ physical health in mental health settings, through exploring care coordinators’ views and experiences regarding their ability to monitor physical health in clients with SMI (specifically, psychosis).

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven care coordinators from a South East London (UK) community mental health team. Data were analysed using thematic analysis principles.

Results:

Three themes were identified in these data, capturing (1) how care coordinators viewed the professional roles of other clinical staff and themselves, (2) views on barriers to the provision of physical healthcare and (3) factors that motivated care coordinators to attend to clients’ physical health.

Conclusion:

Our findings can inform efforts to implement physical healthcare interventions within mental health settings. Such insights are timely, as academic literature and guidelines regarding clinical practice increasingly promote the value of integrated provision of mental and physical healthcare.
Proximate Determinants of Fertility in Ethiopia: Comparative Analysis of the 2005 and 2011 DHS
Authors: Lailulo Yishak Abraham , Sathiya Susuman A.
Published: August 2017

Fertility is one of the elements in population dynamics that makes a significant contribution towards changing population size and structure over time. In Ethiopia, for the last 10 years the total fertility rate (TFR) has declined slightly from 5.5 to 4.8 children in 2011. But, the TFR in urban areas has increased from 2.4 to 2.6 per 1000 live births. The Bongaarts model was applied to estimate the indices of the four main proximate determinants of fertility. Bongaarts defines the TFR of a population as a function of the total fecundity rate (TF), index of marriage (Cm), index of contraception (Cc), index of postpartum infecundability (Ci), and index of abortion (Ca); this can be written as TFR = Cm × Cc × Ci × Ca × TF. In 2005, the index of married women in urban areas was lower than rural, but it was unfortunately the same in urban and rural areas in 2011. For the last decade, the index of postpartum infecundability had a great fertility reduction effect compared with the contraception index and marriage index in rural Ethiopia. The lower the four indices of proximate determinants, the more fertility will be reduced. As such, the Ethiopian government, international non-governmental organizations and policy-makers must pay attention to increase the prevalence of contraceptive use and educate society to fight against child marriage. Permanent contraceptive use, such as female sterilization, should be promoted; moreover, legal organizations and the community must work together to raise the legal age of marriage to 18 years.
Institutions and collective action in divided labour movements: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Caraway Teri L , Ford Michele
Published: August 2017

Under what conditions do trade unions in divided labour movements cooperate? Does cooperation in one domain increase the likelihood of cooperation in the other? Do institutions facilitate or discourage cooperation? We explore these questions through an examination of collective action across federation and confederation lines in post-Suharto Indonesia. Using a comparison of union cooperation in the policy and electoral domains, we demonstrate that tripartite wage-setting institutions have played a central role in facilitating collective action in the policy domain, encouraging unions to look beyond shop-level issues to policy issues identified by their respective national organizations as affecting workers. The relative absence of collective action across organizational divides in the electoral domain, meanwhile, can be explained by the institutional context, which creates higher barriers to unions working together.
Yes and No: A Critical Response to F. Gerald Downing
Authors: Keith Chris
Published: August 2017

This essay replies to F. Gerald Downing’s critical response to my article ‘The Narratives of the Gospels and the Historical Jesus: Current Debates, Prior Debates and the Goal of Historical Jesus Research’ (Keith 2016). I focus on four matters: ‘authenticity’, ‘memory theory’, ‘tradition’ and the concept of going ‘behind’ the text.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Phosphate Binders in Hyperphosphatemia Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Yang Xiuqin , Bai Qingning , Li Yanguo , Liu Haijun , Guo Haiying , Zhang Xiaolei
Published: August 2017

Background: In this study, we coordinated a network meta‐analysis to establish the efficacy and safety of different agents used in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia patients with chronic kidney disease. Methods: PubMed, CNKI, and Embase were systematically searched to retrieve relevant studies. Outcomes were presented by mean differences, odds ratios, and corresponding 95% credible intervals for continuous outcomes and binary outcomes, respectively. Each therapy was ranked according to the value of surface under the cumulative ranking curve. Consistencies between direct and indirect comparisons were assessed with a node‐splitting plot. Results: In terms of efficacy end points (including levels of serum phosphate, serum calcium, serum intact parathyroid hormone, and serum calcium × phosphorus product), all 7 kinds of agents outperformed or performed at least equally to placebo, with iron‐based phosphate‐binding agents being potentially the most effective. As for safety end points (including mortality, adverse events, and all‐cause discontinuation), almost all agents were equivalent in term of mortality and all‐cause discontinuation except in the comparison between iron‐based phosphate‐binding agents and placebo. Meanwhile, iron‐based phosphate‐binding agents colestilan and nicotinic acid performed poorly compared with placebo in terms of adverse events. Furthermore, iron‐based phosphate‐binding agents were potentially the safest agents followed sequentially by calcium‐based phosphate‐binding agents and placebo. Conclusion: Iron‐based phosphate‐binding agents were the preferable agents when considering efficacy and safety simultaneously.
An investigation of skin perfusion in venous leg ulcer after exercise
Authors: Mutlak Omar , Aslam Mohammed , Standfield Nigel J.
Published: August 2017

Introduction:

A venous leg ulcer (VLU) has a major impact on the quality of life and functional ability of individuals, but no single treatment is yet effective. This study investigates the changes induced by dorsiflexion exercise on skin perfusion in VLU patients to achieve a better understanding of venous ulcer pathophysiology.

Methods:

Seventy-eight venous leg ulcer patients were randomised into four groups. The non-exercise groups included a control group (n = 18) and a compression therapy group (n = 20) and the exercise groups included an exercise-only group (n = 20) and a compression and exercise group (n = 20). The exercise groups were expected to perform exercise for three months. Measurements included transcutaneous oximetry (tcPO2) and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). Skin perfusion measurements for all groups were taken twice: at the beginning and end of the three-month period.

Results:

Initially, all participants showed a low level of tcPO2. The exercise groups showed a significant increase after three months of exercise (p<0.001), the tcPO2 level remained the same in the non-exercise groups. The LDF parameters decreased significantly (p<0.001) in the compression and exercise group and decreased to a lesser extent in the exercise-only group. There were no LDF changes in the non-exercise groups.

Conclusions:

Perfusion measurements showed significant changes after three months of regular exercise. We conclude that exercise has a significant effect on tissue perfusion parameters in venous leg ulcer and this effect may play a role in understanding the pathophysiology of VLU.
Large-scale cost function learning for path planning using deep inverse reinforcement learning
Authors: Wulfmeier Markus , Rao Dushyant , Wang Dominic Zeng , Ondruska Peter , Posner Ingmar
Published: August 2017

We present an approach for learning spatial traversability maps for driving in complex, urban environments based on an extensive dataset demonstrating the driving behaviour of human experts. The direct end-to-end mapping from raw input data to cost bypasses the effort of manually designing parts of the pipeline, exploits a large number of data samples, and can be framed additionally to refine handcrafted cost maps produced based on manual hand-engineered features. To achieve this, we introduce a maximum-entropy-based, non-linear inverse reinforcement learning (IRL) framework which exploits the capacity of fully convolutional neural networks (FCNs) to represent the cost model underlying driving behaviours. The application of a high-capacity, deep, parametric approach successfully scales to more complex environments and driving behaviours, while at deployment being run-time independent of training dataset size. After benchmarking against state-of-the-art IRL approaches, we focus on demonstrating scalability and performance on an ambitious dataset collected over the course of 1 year including more than 25,000 demonstration trajectories extracted from over 120 km of urban driving. We evaluate the resulting cost representations by showing the advantages over a carefully, manually designed cost map and furthermore demonstrate its robustness towards systematic errors by learning accurate representations even in the presence of calibration perturbations. Importantly, we demonstrate that a manually designed cost map can be refined to more accurately handle corner cases that are scarcely seen in the environment, such as stairs, slopes and underpasses, by further incorporating human priors into the training framework.
Enhanced load frequency control response with integration of supervisory controlled superconducting magnetic energy storage system in wind-penetrated two-area power system
Authors: Dar S Zahid Nabi , Mufti MD
Published: August 2017

This work concentrates on the integration of superconducting magnetic energy storage system with wind-penetrated two-area power systems. Each area is incorporated with a superconducting magnetic energy storage unit. The superconducting magnetic energy storage unit is controlled using an adaptive predictive control strategy, which takes care of constraints on converter power rating of superconducting magnetic energy storage unit. The proposed scheme is tested by carrying out simulation experiments in MATLAB and Simulink environment. The simulation results demonstrate the improvement in frequency and tie-power oscillations. In addition, the control objectives related to superconducting magnetic energy storage unit are also depicted.
Constructing solidarities at work: Relationality and the methods of emancipatory education
Authors: Cotton Elizabeth
Published: August 2017

Taking as its starting point the decline of ideological and class identifications in the United Kingdom, this article presents the case for reviving a model of emancipatory education to develop solidaristic relationships at work. The central argument of this article is that emancipatory education methods offer useful tools to build relationality that can act as a basis for mobilising solidarity in the UK context. In order to analyse the psychological and political impact of emancipatory education methods, this article explores the conceptual and methodological parallels between emancipatory education and psychoanalysis, namely, their capacities to build relationality between people through consciousness raising and collective problem solving using dialogic methods. This article goes on to argue that in the absence of class identity or shared ideology, emancipatory education practices offer realistic opportunities for working people to formulate conceptions of common interests and build solidaristic relationships sufficient to mobilise collective organisation and action.
Shoulder Bone Geometry Affects the Active and Passive Axial Rotational Range of the Glenohumeral Joint
Authors: Humphries Alexander , Cirovic Srdjan , Shaheen Aliah F.
Published: August 2017

Background:

The range of motion of the glenohumeral joint varies substantially among individuals and is dependent on humeral position. How variation in shape of the humerus and scapula affects shoulder axial range of motion at various positions has not been established.

Purpose:

To quantify variation in the shape of the glenohumeral joint and investigate whether the scapula and humerus geometries affect the axial rotational range of the glenohumeral joint.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

The range of active and passive internal-external rotation of the glenohumeral joint was quantified for 10 asymptomatic participants with optical motion tracking at 60º, 90º, and 120º humeral elevations in the coronal, scapular, and sagittal planes. Bone geometrical parameters were acquired from shoulder magnetic resonance image scans, and correlations between geometrical parameters and maximum internal and external rotations were investigated. Three-dimensional participant-specific models of the humerus and scapula were used to identify collisions between bones at the end of range.

Results:

Maximum internal and external rotations of the glenohumeral joint were correlated to geometric parameters and were limited by bony collisions. Generally, the active axial rotational range was greater with increased articular cartilage and glenoid curvature, while a shorter acromion resulted in greater passive range. Greater internal rotation was correlated with a greater glenoid depth and curvature in the scapular plane ( r = 0.76, P < .01, at 60° of elevation), a greater subacromial depth in the coronal plane ( r = 0.74, P < .01, at 90° of elevation), and a greater articular cartilage curvature in the sagittal plane ( r = 0.75, P < .01, at 90° of elevation). At higher humeral elevations, a greater subacromial depth and shorter acromion allowed a greater range of motion.

Conclusion:

The study strongly suggests that specific bony constraints restrict the maximum internal and external rotations achieved in active and passive glenohumeral movement.

Clinical Relevance:

This study identifies bony constraints that limit the range of motion of the glenohumeral joint. This information can be used to predict full range of motion and set patient-specific rehabilitation targets for those recovering from shoulder disorders. It can improve positioning and choice of shoulder implants during preoperative planning by considering points of collision that could limit range of motion.
An analytical hierarchy process-based study on the factors affecting legislation on plastic bags in the USA
Authors: Li Zhongguo , Zhao Fu
Published: August 2017

Annually, a large number of used plastic shopping bags are released into the environment, posing significant threats to public health and wildlife. Owing to these concerns, many local, regional, and national governments around the world have passed legislation to ban or restrict the use of plastic shopping bags. However, in the USA there are only 18 states that have approved plastic bag bans/fees, and even within these states these regulations do not cover all cities or counties. There are many factors that could affect the development and implementation of these regulations. This article employs an analytical hierarchy process to analyse the factors that could impact the enactment of plastic bag regulations. Five impact factors are identified based on statistical data, that is, geographical location, interest of industry achievable, cost of living, level of economic development, and educational level of population. The weights of the five impact factors are determined and it is found that the possibility of banning or restricting plastic bags in general follows a certain pattern among all states.
Demographic and spatial disparity in HIV prevalence among incarcerated population in the US: A state-level analysis
Authors: Bose Srimoyee
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore empirically the presence of any spatial and demographic disparity in the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection rate among the prison inmates across 48 states in the US and compare the results for 2000 and 2010. HIV infection is a severe health issue for incarcerated populations in the US. In 2010, the rate of diagnosed HIV infection among inmates in state and federal prisons was five times more than the nonincarcerated population. The National Prisoner Statistics database was used to find the demographic disparities in HIV prevalence rate based on incarceration rate, gender, race/ethnicity, the proportion of non-US citizens, and proportion of population below 18 years. State-level spatial mapping, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Moran’s I statistic (univariate and bivariate) were computed based on these demographic characteristics using QGIS and Geoda software. There was a statistically significant pattern of spatial disparity in overall, male and female HIV infection rates across the state prisoners, with South and South-Eastern states facing a higher risk of infection. There was also statistically significant bivariate spatial association of HIV infection rate with the covariates: whites (negative), blacks (positive), non-US citizen (positive), and prisoners under age 18 years (positive) for both 2000 and 2010. There was a statistically significant higher HIV infection rate among the female prisoners in comparison to the male prisoners. It is of prime importance to examine the state-level disparities in HIV infection rate based on place and demographics. This is because evaluating the spatial pattern will help in accessing the relevant local information and provide federal agencies with better knowledge to target interventions and prevention programs toward the subgroup of the population at higher risk and help in controlling and reducing HIV infection prevalence.
Value of troponin levels in the diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction in moderate scorpion envenomation
Authors: Chakroun-Walha O , Karray R , Jerbi M , Ben Rebeh A , Jammeli C , Bahloul M , Ammar R , Chabchoub I , Bouaziz M , Nasri A , Rekik N
Published: August 2017

Context:

Cardiac dysfunction is one of the most serious consequences of scorpion envenomation. The best tool to evaluate cardiac function is echocardiography, but it is not available at all emergency departments. Many studies aimed to describe biological predictive factors of cardiac dysfunction in scorpion envenomation. Troponin is one of these biomarkers but its correlation with myocarditis is not well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate correlation between troponin levels and cardiac dysfunction in moderate scorpion envenomation.

Methods:

A retrospective monocentric study including patients admitted in the emergency department for moderate scorpion envenomation with troponin measurement during their early management. On arrival, an electrocardiogram and a chest X-ray were realized for all patients.

Results:

We enrolled 132 patients with a mean age at 31.3 ± 24.4 years and a 1.35 sex-ratio. All patients had moderate systemic manifestations. There were 28 patients with clinical manifestations of cardiac dysfunction without life-threatening troubles (21.2%). Troponin was undetectable in 69 patients (56%). The mean value of troponin level (pg/ml) was higher in patients with clinical manifestations of left ventricular dysfunction (1.80 ± 3.8 vs. 0.11 ± 0.5; p = 0.02). Troponin levels were significantly higher in patients with positive T wave on electrocardiogram.

Conclusion:

In patients with moderate scorpion envenomation with positive T wave, high values of troponin suggest the presence of cardiac dysfunction.
The Terms of Ethnoracial Equality
Authors: Brännström Leila
Published: August 2017

This article initially accounts for the discussions concerning the notions ‘ethnic origin’ and ‘race’ that have taken place in the Swedish legislative context and places these within a wider European context. Next follows a mapping of the ways in which Swedish courts, in cases of alleged ethnic discrimination, read the notion of ‘ethnic affiliation’ – defined as ‘national or ethnic origin, skin colour, or other similar circumstance’ – and decide whether a statement or an act is related to it. The purpose, to borrow Michel Foucault’s words, is to ‘make visible precisely what is visible’. By bringing together, arranging and connecting what the courts have said about ‘ethnic affiliation’, the conclusions they have reached and the circumstances that they have ignored, three observations are made: (a) ethnic affiliation is treated as an authentic and stable personal individual attribute, (b) ethnic affiliation is seen as a question about body types and bloodlines solely and (c) discriminatory acts are connected to ‘ethnic affiliation’ only if related to visual appearance or accompanied by ‘incriminating words’. The article discusses and analyzes the significance and implications of these observations in engagement with theorists such as Barnor Hesse and David Theo Goldberg.
Impact of Forced Distribution System of Performance Evaluation on Organizational Citizenship Behaviour
Authors: Chattopadhyay Rachana
Published: August 2017

Organization can achieve excellence when employees go beyond the formal job requirements and show organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB). In one study, Moore and Love (2005) pointed out that information technology (IT) professionals are low in OCB. We have observed most of the IT companies using forced distribution system (FDS) of performance evaluation while categorizing their employees. Therefore, in this study, we were curious to investigate whether there is any impact of FDS on employees’ OCB. This study was conducted on 120 managers, and they were divided into two groups: one group was working under FDS of performance evaluation and the other group was not working under FDS of performance evaluation. Control was taken on managers’ age, gender and managerial experience. Our findings reveal that there is a significant impact of FDS of performance evaluation on OCB. As there are some implementation errors in FDS of performance evaluation, if it is adapted without considering the contingency factors, there might be a chance, after a certain period of working, people feels low satisfaction in their job. As a result, this group of people tries to limit themselves only within their formal job requirement and exhibit low OCB.
Frequency response analysis of magneto-rheological clutch designs
Authors: Yadmellat Peyman , Patel Rajni V
Published: August 2017

This article presents the frequency response analysis performed on two different geometrical configurations of magneto-rheological clutches including disk-based and drum-based configurations. For each configuration, two sub-configurations with inner coil and outer coil designs are studied. The configurations are thoroughly studied with respect to the effect of design parameters on the bandwidth of magneto-rheological clutches using finite element analysis and by considering the effect of eddy currents and the skin effect in the magnetic circuit. The N-way analysis of variance is used to study the effect of the main parameters as well as interaction between the parameters on the bandwidth. Furthermore, trade-offs between the effect of the main parameters and the torque capacity are discussed.
Immigrants as Symbolic Assailants
Authors: Jiang Jize , Erez Edna
Published: August 2017

Despite little evidence of an immigration-crime nexus, many American jurisdictions have adopted a punitive approach to undocumented immigrants and an increasingly restrictive and exclusive system of immigration control. The extensive deployment of criminal justice measures to address the immigration “problem” led to the growth of a crimmigration apparatus—a mesh of immigration and criminal justice systems. Drawing on extant literature and applying the framework of the penal field, the article examines the social dynamics, processes, and consequences of crimmigration. It is argued that the portrayal of immigrants as “symbolic assailants” has facilitated the creation and operation of crimmigration under the guise of crime prevention rather than for addressing terrorism and national security—the presumed purpose of utilizing crimmigration practices. The current configuration of crimmigration across the United States is the interactive product of minority threat, partisan politics, and federalism of the American government system, which have jointly formed a “multilayered patchwork” of immigration control. The article first outlines the analytical framework; reviews the social construction of immigrant “criminality”; and describes the punitive and exclusive laws, policies, and enforcement practices established as responses to this “threat.” The dilemmas, contradictions, and contestations associated with crimmigration, including collateral impacts on immigrants, their families and communities, and the criminal justice system, are analyzed; and policy implications are drawn and discussed.
Thrombotic and Hemorrhagic Conditions Due to a Gain of Function of Coagulation Proteins: A Special Type of Clotting Disorders
Authors: Girolami Antonio , Cosi Elisabetta , Ferrari Silvia , Lombardi Annamaria , Fabris Fabrizio
Published: August 2017

Coagulation disorders can be classified into 2 types, namely, type I and type II. In the former, there is a concomitant decrease in factor activity and antigen (activity–antigen ratio is 1), whereas in the latter, there is a discrepancy between factor activity which is always low and antigen which is normal or near normal (activity–antigen ratio is <1, eg, 0.5). Recently, several gain-of-function disorders have been described. These are characterized by an increased activity with respect to the antigen level. The condition involves polymorphisms of factor V and factor II, factor IX, von Willebrand disease, thrombomodulin, tissue factor pathway inhibitor, and thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor. The conditions could be subdivided into prothrombotic and prohemorrhagic. They should also be distinguished as cases of true gain of function (intrinsic increase activity without concomitant increase in protein level) and of “pseudo” gain of function (increase in both activity and protein level). This is a new concept of coagulation defects that has considerably enhanced our knowledge of blood coagulation and that should be familiar to all those interested in the mechanism of blood clotting and its disorders.
Start using a checklist, PRONTO: Recommendation for a standard review process for chemotherapy orders
Authors: Crandell Brian C , Bates Jill S , Grgic Tatjana
Published: August 2017

Chemotherapy order review by pharmacists requires careful attention to many details, and serious consequences can occur if errors are made. Other high-risk industries have long used checklists to improve accuracy and reduce the risk of errors. Despite the recent expansion of checklist use in other areas of medicine, there is currently no published evidence that checklists are being widely used by pharmacists in the evaluation of chemotherapy orders. This article explains a flexible checklist called PRONTO (Patient, Regimen, Organ Function, Numbers, Toxicity, Order Verification) that has been successfully used by pharmacists in variety of practice settings in two academic centers in North Carolina. Proposed benefits of using a checklist in order review include standardization of review for better communication between collaborating pharmacists, a training tool for new or cross-training pharmacists, and an educational tool for students.
Pulmonary Cryptococcosis Presenting With Lung Mass: Report of 7 Cases and Review of Literature
Authors: Kanjanapradit Kanet , Kosjerina Zdravko , Tanomkiat Wiwatana , Keeratichananont Warangkana , Panthuwong Siripen
Published: August 2017

Pulmonary cryptococcosis is commonly found in immunocompromised patients. This microorganism rarely infects immunocompetent individuals, and when it does, it causes mild symptoms. The radiological findings of this disease may involve an intrapulmonary mass that mimics lung tumor. The objective of this study was to review the clinicopathological information, radiological findings, and treatment of patients who presented with intrapulmonary mass due to cryptococcosis. This study collected data from 7 patients who were treated at Songklanagarind Hospital, Songkhla, Thailand, between 2009 and 2014. Their clinical data, radiological findings, pathological results, and treatment protocols were reviewed. The patients were 2 women and 5 men, ranging in age from 37 to 79 years old. One case was an immunocompromised host. Four cases experienced the chest symptoms of dyspnea, hemoptysis, and chronic cough. The most common location of mass was the left lower lobe (71%). Four cases had a history of bird contact. Lung lobectomy was performed in 3 cases (42%), and all of the patients were treated with oral fluconazole. An intrapulmonary mass caused by this microorganism is mainly found in immunocompetent patients. Treatment with the antifungal drug fluconazole is very effective.
Types of party members and their implications: Results from a survey of Portuguese party members
Authors: Lisi Marco , Cancela João
Published: August 2017

Scholars have emphasized the decline of party membership and a decrease in party activism. Yet these general patterns hide a diversity of party members with distinct profiles, attitudes and behavior. Using Portugal as a case study, this article examines the heterogeneity of party members based on the different motivations for joining the party and distinct levels of involvement. The findings support previous typologies that distinguished between more activist versus more passive party members. The results also suggest that different party types present a distinct proportion of the two types of affiliates. In addition, these two types of members display distinct levels of ideological congruence with the party.
Long-term outcomes in patients with critical limb ischemia and heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Khaira Kavita B , Brinza Ellen , Singh Gagan D , Amsterdam Ezra A , Waldo Stephen W , Tong Kathleen , Pandya Kruti , Laird John R , Armstrong Ehrin J
Published: August 2017

The impact of heart failure (HF) on long-term survival in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) has not been well described. Outcomes stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) are also unknown. A single center retrospective chart review was performed for patients who underwent treatment for CLI from 2006 to 2013. Baseline demographics, procedural data and outcomes were analyzed. HF diagnosis was based on appropriate signs and symptoms as well as results of non-invasive testing. Among 381 CLI patients, 120 (31%) had a history of HF and 261 (69%) had no history of heart failure (no-HF). Within the HF group, 74 (62%) had HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and 46 (38%) had HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The average EF for those with no-HF, HFpEF and HFrEF were 59±13% vs 56±9% vs 30±9%, respectively. The likelihood of having concomitant coronary artery disease (CAD) was lowest in the no-HF group (43%), higher in the HFpEF group (70%) and highest in the HFrEF group (83%) ( p=0.001). Five-year survival was on average twofold higher in the no-HF group (43%) compared to both the HFpEF (19%, p=0.001) and HFrEF groups (24%, p=0.001). Long-term survival rates did not differ between the two HF groups ( p=0.50). There was no difference in 5-year freedom from major amputation or freedom from major adverse limb events between the no-HF, HFpEF and HFrEF groups, respectively. Overall, the combination of CLI and HF is associated with poor 5-year survival, independent of the degree of left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
Evaluation of cultural responsiveness using a transcultural secondary consultation model
Authors: Santhanam-Martin Radhika , Fraser Natalie , Jenkins Anna , Tuncer Can
Published: August 2017

This article describes the expansion of a transcultural secondary consultation model run by a state-wide transcultural unit. The model aims to enhance cultural responsiveness in partnership with mental health services. We discuss a series of 12 consultations that occurred between 2011 and 2012. We outline the processes of setting up the structure of secondary consultation, the actual consultation-facilitation format, and methods of evaluation. Evaluations were done in two phases: the first immediately after the consult and the second after a period of 3–6 months. The discussion highlights the usefulness of a transcultural model of consultation and, based on the evaluations, identifies the benefits the model brings to understanding and intervening with clients, culture, and systems. The results emphasise the need for multidisciplinary collaboration and a facilitated space for clinical teams to explore culturally responsive therapeutic practices.
Tool, toy and tutor: Subjective experiences of digital self-tracking
Authors: Lyall Ben , Robards Brady
Published: August 2017

Since the advent of the smartphone, users have become accustomed to alerts, notifications and reminders to interact with their internet-connected devices. But how do people make sense of prompts to exercise, eat or sleep? Digital self-tracking is a phenomenon that has grown substantially in recent years. However, despite some notable exceptions, there is still little sociological research into how users of wearable devices and apps subjectively experience self-tracking. This article draws on findings from a small qualitative study with 11 participants to reveal eminent themes in how users make sense of their self-tracking. Utilising and extending Lupton’s theorising of self-tracking, we argue for triple roles of self-tracking devices; ‘tool’, ‘toy’ and ‘tutor’. This trichotomy helps to characterise the use of self-tracking devices and apps, allowing us to reflect on the wider, ongoing implications of self-tracking.
Valuing subjectivity in journalism: Bias, emotions, and self-interest as tools in arts reporting
Authors: Chong Phillipa
Published: August 2017

This article examines the meanings and norms surrounding subjectivity across traditional and new forms of cultural journalism. While the ideal of objectivity is key to American journalism and its development as a profession, recent scholarship and new media developments have challenged the dominance of objectivity as a professional norm. This article begins with the understanding that subjectivity is an intractable part of knowing (and reporting on) the world around us to build our understanding of different modes of subjectivity and how these animate journalistic practices. Taking arts reporting, specifically reviewing, as a case study, the analysis draws on interviews with 40 book reviewers who write for major American newspapers, including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and prominent blogs. Findings reveal how emotions, bias, and self-interest are salient – sometimes as vice and sometimes as virtue – across the workflow of critics writing for traditional print outlets and book blogs and that these differences can be conceptualized as different epistemic styles.
Qualitative interviewing and epistemics
Authors: Roulston Kathryn
Published: August 2017

Work on epistemics in conversation analysis (CA) has demonstrated how speakers attend closely to the knowledge claims they and others make and how this shapes interaction. This paper uses work on epistemics in CA to explore how interviewers and interviewees orient to knowledge claims involving the asking and answering of questions. Since research participants are recruited to represent a category identified by the researcher, interviewees are assumed to have greater knowledge relative to the research topic as compared to interviewers, who typically work to demonstrate that they are eager learners about others’ experiences, perceptions and beliefs and so forth. This paper examines sequences from research interviews to focus on the fine-grained work involved in asking questions and making knowledge claims within interviews. Epistemics provides a powerful tool to examine how speakers’ orientations to others’ knowledge claims is central to the interactional work of conducting interviews.
The Prejudiced Personality? Using the Big Five to Predict Susceptibility to Stereotyping Behavior
Authors: Chen Philip G. , Palmer Carl L.
Published: August 2017

Although long privileged by scholarship in psychology, personality has only recently been considered as an influential factor for political orientations and actions. In this article, we consider personality’s influence on another important tendency: the proclivity to engage in stereotyping and prejudicial thinking. Using a personality battery included for the first time on the 2012 American National Election Study (ANES), we examine the tendencies of particular personality types to stereotype. Results suggest that the two most politically relevant traits (Openness to Experience and Conscientiousness) are consistent predictors of authoritarian tendencies, which, in turn, produce indirect effects of personality on group-centric policy positions, over and above the effects through political predispositions such as partisanship. Our findings demonstrate the important role of group stereotyping in mediating the effects of personality on policy support.