bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross-Cultural Study of Explicit and Implicit Motivation for Long-Term Volunteering
Authors: Aydinli Arzu , Bender Michael , Chasiotis Athanasios , van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Cemalcilar Zeynep , Chong Alice , Yue Xiaodong
Published: April 2015

We propose a model of volunteering and test its validity across four cultural groups. We hypothesize that individuals’ explicit prosocial motivation relates positively to sustained volunteering, which is conceptualized as a latent factor comprising activity as a volunteer, service length, service frequency, and hours of volunteering. Moreover, we introduced implicit prosocial motivation and hypothesized that the relationship between explicit prosocial motivation and sustained volunteering would be amplified by implicit prosocial motivation. Data were collected from samples in China, Germany, Turkey, and the United States. Results confirmed our expectation that, across cultures, sustained volunteering was associated with explicit prosocial motivation and that the relationship between explicit prosocial motivation and sustained volunteering was strongest when implicit prosocial motivation was also high. By including implicit prosocial motivation, our study offers a novel approach to identifying sustained volunteer involvement, which can be of particular relevance for recruitment activities of voluntary organizations across various cultural contexts.
Being Christian in the World: The Tertius Usus Legis as the Starting Point of a Reformed Ethic
Authors: Aus der Au Christina
Published: April 2015

In Protestant theology, the law of the Old Testament still has two functions for Christians: as God’s containment of the chaos in the form of political order and as confronting self-righteous humans in their inability to comply and pointing them to the necessity of grace. For Reformed Protestants however, there is a third use of the law, directed to the renatus, the ‘born again’ Christian, to the iustus and not to the peccator in order for him to keep growing in insight and the practice of God’s will. Different from the Lutheran usus politicus, it is not limited to being God’s containment of evil through the orders of creation, but the realisation of and the public responsibility for those possibilities of life that were disclosed for men/women as partners in God’s covenant by God’s law. Those possibilities are perceived and realised by living in the spirit of God.
New stratigraphic and geochemical data on the Holocene environment and climate from a tufa deposit at Direndall (Mamer Valley, Luxembourg)
Authors: Dabkowski Julie , Brou Laurent , Naton Henri-Georges
Published: April 2015

Tufa deposits are proven to record high quality palaeoenvironmental and palaeoclimatic information. They also appear to be influenced by human activities as indicated by the ‘late Holocene tufa decline’ observed in Europe from the Atlantic optimum, when tufa should be well developed regarding climatic conditions. The studied tufa comes from the Mamer Valley in Luxembourg: Direndall. As it covers a broad part of the Holocene, this deposit offered a great opportunity to discuss modalities and timing of the tufa decline and the human impact on fluvial formations since the early Holocene. Recent fieldwork at Direndall allowed the collection of new stratigraphic data and samples for a geochemical study. We investigate calcite stable isotopes as records of past temperature and humidity conditions. Comparisons with the environmental reconstructions from a previous malacological study show strong consistency with the δ13C record and suggest humidity might have been the main factor controlling environment evolution at Direndall. Despite the climatic variations observed, none explains the environmental change towards open conditions while optimum forest develops as recorded by molluscs at the top of the sequence. This episode is likely to be linked to local anthropogenic forest clearance during the Roman occupation. However, no clear impact of human activity has been observed in the tufa stratigraphy or precipitation rate. The exceptionally long Direndall tufa sequence thus provided outstanding palaeoenvironmental and palaeoclimatic data and might become, together with the underlying fluvial and colluvial deposits, a reference site for the Holocene and Tardiglacial in Luxembourg and surrounding areas.
Late Holocene climate variability on the eastern flank of the Patagonian Andes (Chile): A δ18O record from mollusks in Lago Cisnes (47°S)
Authors: Álvarez Denisse , Fagel Nathalie , Araneda Alberto , Jana-Pinninghoff Patricia , Keppens Edward , Urrutia Roberto
Published: April 2015

Stable isotopes in mollusk shells have been widely used for hydrological balance reconstructions. However, their use is restricted to lakes that preserve the calcareous material of the shells. Lago Cisnes is located in Patagonia (47°S) and shows a continuous record of three species of mollusk during the past 5000 years. The isotopic records of δ18O in Pisidium sp., Lymnaea sp., and Biomphalaria sp. show discrepancies among them, which can be explained by the differential effect that evaporation has on the habitat where each species lives. Between 1800 and 500 cal. yr BP, the three species show similar isotopic variations, suggesting that climatic condition affecting in the same way the different microhabitats in the lake. Around 1700 cal. yr BP, an enrichment of 18O on mollusks shells indicates drier conditions that prevails until 1100 cal. yr BP. Later on, isotopic signal tends to decrease, suggesting a humid period between 750 and 500 cal. yr BP. Such humid conditions lasted until 170 cal. yr BP, which were evidenced only by Biomphalaria sp. and Pisidium sp. Climate variability during the late Holocene in Lago Cisnes is in agreement with marine records from northern Patagonia, which would suggest westerlies weakening during a northward migration after 1100 cal. yr BP and/or an important temperature control on the evaporation, where low temperatures could decrease the evaporation driven by the westerlies. Additional records in this area would be requested to clarify the westerlies effects on the east flank of the Andes.
Politics or Leisure? A Day in the Life of King Charles V of France (1364–80)
Authors: Brauer Michael
Published: April 2015

The present article examines the daily routine of King Charles V of France as a case study on the political aspects of medieval rule. In contrast to the view of conventional scholarship which states that the king’s schedule included more leisure than work, a whole array of representative and symbolic activities will be uncovered. To suit his ceremonial needs, Charles V even had his main residence, the Louvre in Paris, rebuilt. According to a new and wider approach to the history of politics, these actions form a crucial part of political communication. As for the share of leisure and recreation, the analysis of Christine de Pizan, who recounted the daily routine of Charles V, arrives at a surprising result: Only a king with a balanced lifestyle, which includes recreation, is able to govern a realm. It is an all-encompassing, pre-modern notion of politics that might, in turn, stimulate research on modern politics.
Building a Buddhist Canon in Early Medieval China
Authors: Storch Tanya
Published: April 2015

This article analyses catalogues of the Chinese translations of Buddhist scriptures. The main goal for compiling these scriptural catalogues was to prove authenticity of the Chinese Buddhist canon. The influence of Confucian bibliographic tradition that developed long before Buddhism spread to China was one of the main reasons why Chinese Buddhists decided to preserve the orally-transmitted Buddha-word in a form of a critically evaluated bibliographic collection of written texts. In both Confucian and Buddhist catalogues, criteria of authenticity were found in the knowledge about the transmitter of the text. While Confucians proclaimed that only those versions of the classics that can be traced back to Confucius were authentic, Chinese Buddhists scholars declared that only those scriptures that came from known translators were true words of the Buddha. This approach appears to be typologically similar to that used by Christian scholars who attributed most important books to the apostles. This is why I conclude my analysis of the Chinese Buddhist catalogues by discussing certain parallel developments in the history of the Chinese Buddhist and Christian canons.
The Geographies of ͨAjam
Authors: Gould Rebecca
Published: April 2015

With the consolidation of Persian literary culture across the eastern Islamic ecumene, Persian poets gained confidence in the power of their craft to shape their world. Alongside other genres, the medieval Persian prison poem ( habsīyyāt) strikingly illustrates how shifts in the geography of Persian extended the scope of Persian literature, aesthetically, politically and spatially. This article turns to the dissemination of the prison poem to shed light on the extensive contacts between South Asia and the Caucasus that Persian poetry facilitated. Examining the scope of medieval Persian literary culture from two peripheries of the Islamic world, I concentrate on how Persianate culture’s capacious geographical imagination enables us to rethink received assumptions concerning the circulation of power, cultural exchange, and the role played by literary form in stimulating political change.
Analyzing Data Generated Through Deliberative Dialogue
Authors: Plamondon Katrina M. , Bottorff Joan L. , Cole Donald C.
Published: April 2015

Deliberative dialogue (DD) is a knowledge translation strategy that can serve to generate rich data and bridge health research with action. An intriguing alternative to other modes of generating data, the purposeful and evidence-informed conversations characteristic of DD generate data inclusive of collective interpretations. These data are thus dialogic, presenting complex challenges for qualitative analysis. In this article, we discuss the nature of data generated through DD, orienting ourselves toward a theoretically grounded approach to analysis. We offer an integrated framework for analysis, balancing analytical strategies of categorizing and connecting with the use of empathetic and suspicious interpretive lenses. In this framework, data generation and analysis occur in concert, alongside engaging participants and synthesizing evidence. An example of application is provided, demonstrating nuances of the framework. We conclude with reflections on the strengths and limitations of the framework, suggesting how it may be relevant in other qualitative health approaches.
Vibration response analysis of blade-disk dovetail structure under blade tip rubbing condition
Authors: Ma Hui , Wang Di , Tai Xingyu , Wen Bangchun
Published: April 2015

A cyclic sector corresponding to blade-disk structure with dovetail connection (1/38 blade-disk) is studied and the finite element (FE) model of this structure is established based on ANSYS software. A revised normal rubbing force model is developed and a pulse force model is established to simulate the local rubbing phenomenon between the blade and elastic casing based on the revised model. The effects of the rubbing under different rotating speeds and penetration depths on the blade vibration response and contact behaviors of dovetail interface are analyzed. The results show that the rubbing will cause amplitude amplification phenomenon when the multiple frequency components are close to the first bending and first torsion natural frequencies. The arch bending of the blade caused by blade-tip rubbing can be identified by evaluating the displacement and stress of the blade in the radial direction ( y-direction). The dynamic stress in the process of rubbing gradually changes from alternation between tension and compression stress to the tension stress with the increasing rotating speed. Maximum contact sliding distance may change dramatically when the rubbing force is greater than the centrifugal force. With the increase of rotating speed, the contact pressure increases under the centrifugal force and its fluctuation under rubbing is smaller at higher rotating speeds.
An interval-consistency-based hybrid optimization algorithm for automatic loop shaping in quantitative feedback theory design
Authors: Jeyasenthil R , Nataraj PSV
Published: April 2015

A computationally efficient method for automatic synthesis of quantitative feedback theory (QFT)-based robust controllers is proposed. The synthesis problem consists of obtaining a fixed structure QFT controller that ensures stability and achieves the performance specifications in the presence of disturbances and parametric uncertainty. The proposed method uses an interval consistency technique (hull consistency HC4) and hybrid optimization. The HC4 method is used to remove inconsistent values, which are not part of the solution in the controller parameter regions. The hybrid part incorporates interval global optimization and nonlinear local optimization methods. The proposed algorithm is illustrated by means of two examples. The first one concerns the longitudinal motion control of an aircraft system (flexible), while the second one describes the experimental study of the position control of the industrial plant emulator setup. The robustness of the designed control system for emulator setup is validated by adding extra weights on the load disk in the presence of disturbances. The experimental results show that the designed controller satisfies the robust performance specifications.
Modeling vegetable fractals by means of fractional-order equations
Authors: Lopes António M , Machado JA Tenreiro
Published: April 2015

Abstract:

This paper characterizes four ‘fractal vegetables’: (i) cauliflower ( brassica oleracea var. Botrytis); (ii) broccoli ( brassica oleracea var. italica); (iii) round cabbage ( brassica oleracea var. capitata) and (iv) Brussels sprout ( brassica oleracea var. gemmifera), by means of electrical impedance spectroscopy and fractional calculus tools. Experimental data is approximated using fractional-order models and the corresponding parameters are determined with a genetic algorithm. The Havriliak-Negami five-parameter model fits well into the data, demonstrating that classical formulae can constitute simple and reliable models to characterize biological structures.
Juvenile Sex Offending Through a Developmental Life Course Criminology Perspective
Authors: Lussier Patrick
Published: April 2015

Current American policies and responses to juvenile sex offending have been criticized for being based on myths, misconceptions, and unsubstantiated claims. In spite of the criticism, no organizing framework has been proposed to guide policy development with respect to the prevention of juvenile sex offending. This article proposes a developmental life course (DLC) criminology perspective to investigate the origins, development, and termination of sex offending among youth. It also provides a review of the current state of knowledge regarding various parameters characterizing the development of sex offending (e.g., prevalence, age of onset, frequency, persistence, continuity in adulthood, and versatility). The review highlights some heterogeneity across these developmental parameters suggesting the presence of different sex offending patterns among youth. In fact, it is proposed that, based on the current knowledge, such heterogeneity can be accounted for by a dual taxonomy of adolescents involved in sexual offenses: (a) the adolescent-limited and (b) the high-rate/slow-desister. The DLC criminology approach and the dual taxonomy are proposed as organizing frameworks to conduct prospective longitudinal research to better understand the origins and development of sex offending and to guide policy development and responses to at-risk youth and those who have committed sexual offenses.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Children and Adolescents With ADHD: The Significance of Comorbidities and Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Racicka Ewa , Hanć Tomasz , Giertuga Katarzyna , Bryńska Anita , Wolańczyk Tomasz
Published: April 2015

Objective: Assessment of the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents with ADHD with emphasis on pharmacological treatment and comorbid disorders. Method: We analyzed 408 medical records of patients with ADHD aged 7 to 18. Results: The prevalence of overweight (14.71% vs. 12.83%, χ2 = 3,586.43, p < .001) and obesity (6.37% vs. 3.45%, χ2 = 3,588.19, p < .001) was significantly higher in children with ADHD compared with the population. There was significantly higher incidence of obesity in patients with comorbid diagnosis of adjustment disorder (22.22% vs. 4.42%, χ2 = 5.66, p = .02) and mental retardation (19.05% vs. 4.42%, χ2 = 7.63, p = .005). Pharmacological treatment was associated with a higher incidence of obesity (8.37% vs. 2.76%, χ2 = 4.92, p = .03). Conclusion: Standardized body mass index (BMI), prevalence of overweight, and obesity was higher in patients with ADHD compared with the population. Higher incidence of obesity was shown in patients with analyzed comorbidities.
The Correlates of Similarity Estimates Are Often Misleadingly Positive
Authors: Wood Dustin , Furr R. Michael
Published: April 2015

Research on similarity constructs (e.g., dyadic similarity, personality stability, judgment agreement and accuracy) frequently find them to be associated with positive outcomes. However, a methodological pitfall associated with common “overall similarity” indices, which we term the normative-desirability confound (NDC), will regularly result in similarity constructs apparently having more positive effects than they do in reality. In essence, when an individual is estimated to be similar to another person by common indices, this will strongly indicate that the individual has desirable characteristics. Consequently, the correlates of overall similarity indices can often be interpreted as indicating the beneficial effects of having desirable characteristics, without needing to attribute any additional salutary effect to similarity. We show that this confound is present in overall similarity estimates for a wide range of constructs (e.g., personality traits, attitudes, emotions, behaviors, values), how it can be accounted for, and discuss larger implications for our understanding of similarity constructs.
Telehealth Consultations in Rheumatology: Cost-Effectiveness and User Satisfaction
Authors: Davis Paul , Howard Ray , Brockway Pam
Published: April 2015

We conducted a feasibility study to assess user satisfaction with and the cost-effectiveness of a rheumatology telehealth clinic in northern Alberta. Six telehealth clinics were organized between a rural health centre and the specialist rheumatology centre, which was about a 4h drive away. Fifty-two new patients were seen. Their median age was 54 years (range 7–81 years). After the teleconsultation, no patient required a conventional face-to-face consultation. Overall, patients agreed that the teleconsultation met their needs and that the care they received was as good as conventional care. The physicians involved in the study thought the process practical and effective. The total costs of service delivery would be equal for teleconsultation and for traditional consultation at a workload of 247 consultations a year.
Utilization and Practical Aspects of Tele-Ophthalmology between South Africa and the UK
Authors: Kennedy Craig , Van Heerden Anton , Cook Colin , Murdoch Ian
Published: April 2015

A tele-ophthalmology service was established between a regional hospital in South Africa and a specialist eye hospital in the UK. The aim of the service was to provide secondary specialist advice in the diagnosis and treatment of difficult ophthalmology cases in South Africa. Over 12 months, the South African medical officers saw 16, 458 ophthalmology patients and would have liked a second opinion in 5.7% of these cases. Case discussions conducted by videoconferencing at 384 kbit/s were carried out in 0.5% of cases. No significant connection problems were experienced during the 12-month study period. On 4% of occasions, the case discussions were conducted at a bandwidth of 256 kbit/s, but this did not affect the quality of the still images. The South African medical officers valued the educational benefits gained from the case discussions with the UK specialists.
Subspecialty Adnexal Ophthalmological Examination Using Telemedicine
Authors: Rayner Sandra , Beaconsfield Michele , Kennedy Craig , Collin Richard , Taylor Paul , Murdoch Ian
Published: April 2015

We studied the clinical outcome of examination of a group of patients with adnexal (eyelid and orbit) conditions. Seventeen patients with adnexal problems were assessed by an ophthalmologist at a distance using telemedicine, and then subsequently by an ophthalmologist in a face-to-face consultation. Measurements such as palpebral aperture, levator muscle function and eyelid skin crease position were recorded. The clinical outcomes from both consultations were recorded independently by the consultants and then compared. The study showed that certain adnexal conditions, such as congenital and involutional ptosis, could be accurately assessed using telemedicine, but that other conditions, such as socket problems in patients who had a previous enucleation or those with non-specific ocular pain with less clear-cut features, were better assessed in a face-to-face consultation. Overall, teleconsultations appeared to be suitable for the assessment of uncomplicated ptosis but not for less well defined conditions. Other factors, such as family dynamics and language problems, also limited the usefulness of the technique.
Hospital-Managed Advanced Care of Children in Their Homes
Authors: Bergius H , Eng A , Fagerberg M , Gut T , Jacobsson U , Lundell B , Palmquist Y , Rylander E
Published: April 2015

A hospital-managed project for the advanced care of children in their homes (SABH) has been established in Sweden. The aim was to provide an alternative to inpatient paediatric care by providing hospital-at-home care to stable infants and children using mobile units based on advanced information and communication technology. The Karolinska Hospital children's ward and emergency room referred children to SABH care. A medical care plan was drawn up by the physicians and nurses responsible for the patient while in hospital, in conjunction with the parents and the patient. In one year, 350 episodes of care requiring 3000 bed-days were managed by SABH in the children's homes rather than at hospital. Forty-two per cent of the patients were aged less than one year, 41 % were between one and six years old, and 17% were older than six years. SABH care was at least 30% cheaper than conventional hospital care and patient satisfaction with the service was high. At the conclusion of the two-year project, the SABH became a permanent unit at the Karolinska Hospital.
Clinical Outcomes in a Prison Telepsychiatry Clinic
Authors: Zaylor Charles , Nelson Eve-Lynn , Cook David J
Published: April 2015

The effectiveness of a prison telepsychiatry service was evaluated from a user perspective. Forty-five inmates (41 male, 4 female) completed the Symptom Rating Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) on three occasions, once before the teleconsultation and twice during treatment. The psychiatrist completed the Clinical Global Impression Scale—Severity Index (CGI) after each teleconsultation. Forty-nine per cent of inmates were aged under 30 years, 24% were aged between 30 and 39 vears while 27% were aged over 40 years. The inmates' mean SCL-90-R scores decreased over time, indicating less psychiatric distress. The psychiatrist reported patient improvement over time as assessed by the CGI. Telepsychiatry is an effective means of delivering mental health services to the prison population.
A Knowledge-Based Multimedia Telecare System to Improve the Provision of Formal and Informal Care for the Elderly and Disabled
Authors: Wallace J C , Chambers M G A , Hobson R A
Published: April 2015

We have developed a knowledge-based multimedia telecare system, based on a multimedia PC connected by ISDN at 128 kbit/s. The user display is a television. Multimedia material is accessed through a browser-based interface. A remote-control handset is used as the main means of interaction, to ensure ease of use and overcome any initial reservations resulting from ‘technophobia’ on the part of the informal carer. The system was used in 13 family homes and four professional sites in Northern Ireland. The evaluations produced positive comments from the informal carers. There are plans to expand the use of the system.
Experience with a Low-Cost Telemedicine System in Three Developing Countries
Authors: Vassallo D J , Swinfen P , Swinfen R , Wootton R
Published: April 2015

The Swinfen Charitable Trust was established in 1998 with the aim of helping the poor, sick and disabled in the developing world. It does this by setting up simple telemedicine links based on email to support doctors in isolated hospitals. The first telemedicine link was established to support the lone orthopaedic surgeon at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) in Savar, near Dhaka in Bangladesh, in July 1999. An evaluation of the 27 referrals made during the first year of operation showed that the telemedical advice had been useful and cost-effective. Based on the success of the Bangladesh project, the Swinfen Charitable Trust supplied digital cameras and tripods to more hospitals in other developing countries. These are Patan Hospital in Nepal (March 2000), Gizo Hospital in the Solomon Islands (March 2000), Helena Goldie Hospital on New Georgia in the Solomon Islands (September 2000) and LAMB Hospital in Bangladesh (September 2000).
The Development of a New Model for Community Telemedicine Services
Authors: McIntosh A , Thie J
Published: April 2015

Two trials of a telemedicine monitoring system were conducted in the UK. The SAFE21 system records the patient's physioloaical data which are transmitted via a modem to the health service provider. The first trial was conducted on nine muscular dystrophy patients under 1 years of age. Eight of the patients felt that the monitoring system was reliable and were happy with it as it avoided the need to go to hospital for monitoring. The second trial was carried out on 14 patients suffering from respiratory illness. Thirteen of these patients felt that the service was useful and 12 reported satisfaction with the system. The SAFE21 telemedicine monitoring system appears to be an acceptable means of delivering care.
The Use of a New Continuous Wireless Cardiorespiratory Telemonitoring System by Elderly Patients at Home
Authors: Johnson P , Andrews D C , Wells S , de Lusignan S , Robinson J , Vandenburg M
Published: April 2015

The diagnosis and management of increasing numbers of patients with chronic diseases in the community require new technologies and strategies of care. We have used a new wireless cardiorespiratory telemonitoring system to monitor 14 elderly patients with a variety of chronic diseases at home. The electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rate and variability, and breathing were recorded on two separate occasions for 24 h. There was no difference in the data recorded when a research nurse applied the monitoring system and when the patients applied it themselves. The ECG and heart rate were recorded for 98% of the monitored time, and the frequency and periodicities of breathing were recorded for 74% and 61 % of sleep and rest time by visual and automatic analysis, respectively. The results show that 24 h activity and cardiorespiratory telemonitoring can be performed by elderly patients at home. Significant unsuspected abnormalities of breathing and heart rhythm, amenable to treatment, were also detected.
Telehealth delivery of cognitive-behavioral intervention to youth with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety: A pilot study
Authors: Hepburn Susan L , Blakeley-Smith Audrey , Wolff Brian , Reaven Judy A
Published: April 2015

Youth with autism spectrum disorders frequently experience significant symptoms of anxiety. Empirically supported psychosocial interventions exist, yet access is limited, especially for families in rural areas. Telehealth (i.e. videoconferencing) has potential to reduce barriers to access to care; however, little is known about the feasibility or efficacy of directly intervening with youth with autism spectrum disorders through this modality. This study details the pilot testing of a telehealth version of an empirically supported intervention targeting anxiety in youth with autism spectrum disorders. The primary focus of this study is on feasibility, with evaluation of outcomes as a starting point for future randomized trials. In all, 33 families of youth with autism spectrum disorders and significant anxiety symptoms participated in this study (Telehealth Facing Your Fears (FYF) Intervention: n = 17; Wait-list control: n = 16). Youth of all functioning levels were included. Acceptability was strong; however, the usability of the technology was problematic for some families and impeded some sessions significantly. Fidelity of the telehealth version to the critical elements of the original, in vivo version was excellent. More work is needed to improve delivery of exposure practices and parent coaching. Preliminary efficacy analyses are promising, with improvements observed in youth anxiety over time (relative to a comparison group waiting for live intervention) and parent sense of competence (within group). Clearly, stronger designs are necessary to evaluate efficacy sufficiently; however, this study does provide support for further investigation of clinic-to-home videoconferencing as a direct intervention tool for youth with autism spectrum disorders and their parents.
Efficacy of caregiver-mediated joint engagement intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Chiang Chung-Hsin , Chu Ching-Lin , Lee Tsung-Chin
Published: April 2015

Joint attention intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders was focused on improving joint engagement and joint attention skills. The purpose of this study was to develop a caregiver-mediated joint engagement intervention program combined with body movement play to investigate the effects of joint engagement/joint attention skills in young children with autism spectrum disorders. A quasi-experimental research design was conducted. A total of 34 young children with autism spectrum disorders aged 2–4 years were separated into an intervention and a control group. The program consisted of 20 sessions, 60 min per session, twice a week, for the target child and his or her parent. The results indicated that child-initiated supportive and coordinated joint engagement was greater for the intervention group compared with the control group at 3-month follow-up. This demonstrated that our joint engagement intervention could enhance joint engagement, especially coordinated joint engagement for young children with autism spectrum disorders. The limitations of the study and future directions were discussed.
Cosmopolitan risk community and China’s climate governance
Authors: Zhang Joy Yueyue
Published: April 2015

Ulrich Beck asserts that global risks, such as climate change, generate a form of ‘compulsory cosmopolitanism’, which ‘glues’ various actors into collective action. Through an analysis of emerging ‘cosmopolitan risk communities’ in Chinese climate governance, this article points out a ‘blind spot’ in the theorization of cosmopolitan belonging and an associated inadequacy in explaining shifting power relations. The article addresses this problem by engaging with the intersectionality of the cosmopolitan space. It is argued that cosmopolitan belonging is a form of performative identity. Its key characteristic lies in a ‘liberating prerogative’, which enables individuals to participate in the solution of common problems creatively. It is this liberating prerogative that forces the state from a position of political monopoly and marks the cosmopolitan moment.
Mixed-Method Exploration of Social Network Links to Participation
Authors: Kreider Consuelo M. , Bendixen Roxanna M. , Mann William C. , Young Mary Ellen , McCarty Christopher
Published: April 2015

The people who regularly interact with an adolescent form that youth’s social network (SN), which may impact participation. We investigated the relationship of SNs to participation using personal network analysis and individual interviews. The sample included 36 youth, aged 11 to 16 years. Nineteen had diagnoses of learning disability, attention disorder, or high-functioning autism, and 17 were typically developing. Network analysis yielded 10 network variables, of which 8 measured network composition and 2 measured network structure, with significant links to at least 1 measure of participation using the Children’s Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE). Interviews from youth in the clinical group yielded description of strategies used to negotiate social interactions, as well as processes and reasoning used to remain engaged within SNs. Findings contribute to understanding the ways SNs are linked to youth participation and suggest the potential of SN factors for predicting rehabilitation outcomes.
Quantifying Real-World Upper-Limb Activity in Nondisabled Adults and Adults With Chronic Stroke
Authors: Bailey Ryan R. , Klaesner Joseph W. , Lang Catherine E.
Published: April 2015

Background. Motor capability is commonly assessed inside the clinic, but motor performance in real-world settings (ie, outside of the clinic) is seldom assessed because measurement tools are lacking. Objective. To quantify real-world bilateral upper-limb (UL) activity in nondisabled adults and adults with stroke using a recently developed accelerometry-based methodology. Methods. Nondisabled adults (n = 74) and adults with chronic stroke (n = 48) wore accelerometers on both wrists for 25 to 26 hours. Motor capability was assessed using the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Accelerometry-derived variables were calculated to quantify intensity of bilateral UL activity (ie, bilateral magnitude) and the contribution of both ULs to activity (magnitude ratio) for each second of activity. Density plots were used to examine each second of bilateral UL activity throughout the day. Results. Nondisabled adults demonstrated equivalent use of dominant and nondominant ULs, indicated by symmetrical density plots and a median magnitude ratio of −0.1 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.3), where a value of 0 indicates equal activity between ULs. Bilateral UL activity intensity was lower ( P < .001) and more lateralized in adults with stroke, as indicated by asymmetrical density plots and a lower median magnitude ratio (−2.2; IQR = 6.2, P < .001). Density plots were similar between many stroke participants who had different ARAT scores, indicating that real-world bilateral UL activity was similar despite different motor capabilities. Conclusions. Quantification and visualization of real-world bilateral UL activity can be accomplished using this novel accelerometry-based methodology and complements results obtained from clinical tests of function when assessing recovery of UL activity following neurological injury.
Val66Met BDNF Polymorphism Implies a Different Way to Recover From Stroke Rather Than a Worse Overall Recoverability
Authors: Di Pino Giovanni , Pellegrino Giovanni , Capone Fioravante , Assenza Giovanni , Florio Lucia , Falato Emma , Lotti Fiorenza , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo
Published: April 2015

In search for individualized predictors of stroke recovery, the Val66Met polymorphism of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is attracting great interest, because it has a negative impact on neurotrophin function. Since stroke recovery relies on brain plastic processes, on which BDNF is permissive, the dominant thought is in favor of a worse recovery in Met carriers. Conversely, we suggest that Met carriers do not differ in terms of absolute ability to recover from stroke, but they do differ on the way they recover. In particular, Met carriers rely more on subcortical plasticity, while ValVal patients more on intracortical plastic processes. Indeed, the direct evidence of impaired Met carrier recovery is inconsistent, as a high worldwide diffusion of the polymorphism suggests. The plasticity taking place in cortex, which is the one targeted by noninvasive brain stimulation strategies aimed at enhancing recovery, is less pronounced in Met carrier stroke patients, who have instead spared global recovery potential. Enhanced subcortical plasticity sustains better stroke recovery of Met carrier mice: this may also happen in humans, explaining the weaker interhemispheric cortical excitability imbalance recently described in Met carriers. Thus, BDNF haplotype determines mechanisms and structures involved in stroke recovery. The less pronounced cortical plasticity of Met carrier implies that plastic changes induced by interventional neurophysiological protocols would be better predictors of ValVal chronic outcome and those protocols would be more effective to boost their recovery. Other strategies, more focused on subcortical mechanisms, should be used in Met carriers.
Optimal element loading for linear sliding window systems
Authors: Xiao Hui , Peng Rui , Wang Wenbin , Zhao Fei
Published: April 2015

Many engineering systems are designed to support load with different amounts. The load carried by the system has a significant effect on the deterioration of the system elements. This article presents an algorithm for determining the optimal load given to each multi-state element in a linear sliding window system such that the reliability of the system can be maximized. The model considers both the effect of load on the failure rate and the relationship between load and performance for each element. A reliability evaluation algorithm based on universal generating function is suggested for the proposed load-dependent linear sliding window system. The optimal load distribution problem is solved using genetic algorithms. Numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the proposed methods.
An efficient Kriging method for global sensitivity of structural reliability analysis with non-probabilistic convex model
Authors: Zhang Yishang , Liu Yongshou , Yang Xufeng , Zhao Bin
Published: April 2015

The convex model which only needs to know the variation bound of the uncertainty domain is competent to deal with the reliability analysis for the engineering problems lacking sufficient information. However, compared with the researches in solving non-probabilistic reliability index with convex model, the non-probabilistic reliability sensitivity analysis is less available. In this article, the moment-independent global sensitivity analysis of the basic variable based on convex model is performed for investigating the effect of non-probabilistic variable of the structure or system on the dangerous degree in reliability engineering. The proposed sensitivity index inherits the advantages of the traditional moment-independent global sensitivity index. For the problems of which the computational cost of the Monte Carlo simulation is too high, an active learning Kriging solution is established to solve the global sensitivity index. Several examples are adopted to illustrate the correctness of this global reliability sensitivity describing the effect on the reliability of the structure system of the convex model variable and the applicability and feasibility of the active learning Kriging–based solution.
Intersemiotic relationships in Spanish-language media in the United States: A critical analysis of the representation of ideology across verbal and visual modes
Authors: Strom Megan
Published: April 2015

This study critically explores the representation of ideologies across the verbal and visual modes in 15 articles and photographs from local Spanish-language print media with the goal of determining the potential for minoritized semiotic texts to challenge the negative semiotic treatment of Latin@ immigrants in the United States. Following a critical social semiotic approach, the analysis of intersemiotic relationships demonstrates that approximately half of the semiotic texts analyzed communicate an overall transformative message by challenging the negative representations of Latin@s in the mainstream media. The strong presence of transformative ideologies in the verbal and visual modes underscores the potential for Spanish-language media to represent Latin@s as powerful social actors who stand up to negative treatment through activism. Moreover, the contrast of ideologies across the verbal and visual modes may incite the audience to participate in activism that supports Latin@ immigrants in the United States.
Chronic opioid induced constipation in patients with nonmalignant pain: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Nelson Alfred D. , Camilleri Michael
Published: April 2015

With the recent introduction and approval of medications directed at the treatment of opioid induced constipation (OIC) in patients with nonmalignant pain, there is increased interest and understanding of the unmet need and opportunities to enhance patient management. The high incidence of OIC is associated with rapid increase of narcotic analgesic prescriptions for nonmalignant chronic pain. This review addresses briefly the mechanisms of action of opioids that lead to OIC, the differential tolerance of gastrointestinal organs to the effects of opioids, the size and scope of the problem, the definition and outcome measures for OIC, current differential diagnosis and management algorithms, and the pharmacology and efficacy of treatments for OIC in patients with nonmalignant pain.
Hygiene Knowledge of Food Staff in Catering Industry
Authors: Yardımcı Hülya , Hakli Gülperi , Çakiroğlu Funda Pinar , Özçelik Ayşe Özfer
Published: April 2015

This study, designed as a cross-sectional study, was carried out to determine the hygiene knowledge of the staff ( N = 317) employed in kitchen and service departments of catering firms in Ankara. It was found that the mean scores of the staff with regard to personal hygiene, food hygiene, and kitchen and equipment hygiene were 10.7 ± 1.6, 19.8 ± 4.0, and 13.6 ± 2.0, respectively. Male staff achieved higher mean scores in personal hygiene knowledge test compared with female staff ( p < .01). The staff receiving a hygiene training were determined to have higher mean scores in terms of hygiene knowledge tests compared with those who have not received, and the production staff had higher knowledge as to hygiene than the other groups ( p < .01). The mean scores for hygiene knowledge tests were found to be increasing with age. Hygiene knowledge scores of the staff were quite lower than what must be taken. For that reason, periodical training programs should be organized to increase the awareness of the staff about hygiene.
Maternal and Child Health in South Sudan
Authors: Mugo Ngatho , Zwi Anthony B. , Botfield Jessica R. , Steiner Caitlyn
Published: April 2015

The Republic of South Sudan continues to face considerable challenges in meeting maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) care needs and improving health outcomes. Ongoing instability and population displacement undermine scope for development, and damaged infrastructure, low coverage of health services, and limited government capacity and a human resource base have resulted in a fragmented health system. Despite considerable attention, effort and support, the issues and challenges facing South Sudan remain deep and sustained, and urban–rural disparities are considerable. There is a need to maintain investments in MNCH care and to support developing systems, institutions, and programs. This review of the literature offers a commentary and appraisal of the current MNCH situation in South Sudan. It explores the barriers and challenges of promoting MNCH gains, and identifies priorities that will contribute to addressing the Millennium Development Goals and the emerging health priorities for the post-2015 development agenda.
Limited specificity of IRF3 and ISGF3 in the transcriptional innate-immune response to double-stranded RNA
Authors: Ourthiague Diana R , Birnbaum Harry , Ortenlöf Niklas , Vargas Jesse D , Wollman Roy , Hoffmann Alexander
Published: April 2015

The innate immune response is largely initiated by pathogen-responsive activation of the transcription factor IRF3. Among other target genes, IRF3 controls the expression of IFN-β, which triggers the activation of the transcription factor ISGF3 via the IFNAR. IRF3 and ISGF3 have been reported to control many of the same target genes and together, control the antimicrobial innate-immune program; however, their respective contributions and specificities remain unclear. Here, we used genomic technologies to characterize their specificity in terms of their physical DNA-binding and genetic function. With the use of ChiP-seq and transcriptomic measurements in WT versus ifnar−/− versus ifnar−/−irf3−/− macrophages responding to intracellular dsRNA, we confirmed the known ISGF3 DNA-binding motif and further specified a distinct IRF3 consensus sequence. The functional specificity of IRF3 is particularly pronounced in cytokine/chemokine regulation; yet, even in the control of IFN-β, that specificity is not absolute. By mathematically modeling IFN-β production within an abstracted tissue layer, we find that IRF3 versus ISGF3 specificity may be critical to limiting IFN-β production and ISGF3 activation, temporally and spatially, but that partial overlap in their specificity is tolerable and may enhance the effectiveness of the innate-immune response.
Overall Survival and Long-Term Safety of Nivolumab (Anti–Programmed Death 1 Antibody, BMS-936558, ONO-4538) in Patients With Previously Treated Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gettinger Scott N. , Horn Leora , Gandhi Leena , Spigel David R. , Antonia Scott J. , Rizvi Naiyer A. , Powderly John D. , Heist Rebecca S. , Carvajal Richard D. , Jackman David M. , Sequist Lecia V. , Smith David C. , Leming Philip , Carbone David P. , Pinder-Schenck Mary C. , Topalian Suzanne L. , Hodi F. Stephen , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Sznol Mario , McDermott David F. , Pardoll Drew M. , Sankar Vindira , Ahlers Christoph M. , Salvati Mark , Wigginton Jon M. , Hellmann Matthew D. , Kollia Georgia D. , Gupta Ashok K. , Brahmer Julie R.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

Programmed death 1 is an immune checkpoint that suppresses antitumor immunity. Nivolumab, a fully human immunoglobulin G4 programmed death 1 immune checkpoint inhibitor antibody, was active and generally well tolerated in patients with advanced solid tumors treated in a phase I trial with expansion cohorts. We report overall survival (OS), response durability, and long-term safety in patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving nivolumab in this trial.

Patients and Methods

Patients (N = 129) with heavily pretreated advanced NSCLC received nivolumab 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg intravenously once every 2 weeks in 8-week cycles for up to 96 weeks. Tumor burden was assessed by RECIST (version 1.0) after each cycle.

Results

Median OS across doses was 9.9 months; 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates were 42%, 24%, and 18%, respectively, across doses and 56%, 42%, and 27%, respectively, at the 3-mg/kg dose (n = 37) chosen for further clinical development. Among 22 patients (17%) with objective responses, estimated median response duration was 17.0 months. An additional six patients (5%) had unconventional immune-pattern responses. Response rates were similar in squamous and nonsquamous NSCLC. Eighteen responding patients discontinued nivolumab for reasons other than progressive disease; nine (50%) of those had responses lasting > 9 months after their last dose. Grade 3 to 4 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 14% of patients. Three treatment-related deaths (2% of patients) occurred, each associated with pneumonitis.

Conclusion

Nivolumab monotherapy produced durable responses and encouraging survival rates in patients with heavily pretreated NSCLC. Randomized clinical trials with nivolumab in advanced NSCLC are ongoing.