bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Is It Like to Be a Psalmist? Unintentional Sin and Moral Agency in the Psalter
Authors: Strawn Brent A.
Published: September 2015

This article takes up the problem of unintentional sin in Psalms 19, 90, and 119 to ask what it was like to be a psalmist on the issue of moral agency. In contrast to some reconstructions of ancient Israelite (and Near Eastern) religion, I argue that concerns about intentionality—specifically its lack—indicate that the psalmists were not akin to philosophical zombies: what psalmists did mattered along with how they did it, with knowledge or without. I situate this psalmic way of being with reference to sin vis-à-vis Carol Newsom's work on moral agency in the Hebrew Bible, arguing that moral agency in the Psalms (at least on this matter) nuances some of the categories offered thus far.
Space for Moral Agency in the Book of Ruth
Authors: Fewell Danna Nolan
Published: September 2015

As moral agents, the characters in the book of Ruth operate under pronounced circumstantial constraints. Examining how characters' speeches project a ‘self’ that ‘answers the glance of the other’ (Monika Fludernik), and utilizing Michel de Certeau's notion of narrative's spatial syntax, this article examines how geographical, social, and bodily spaces encourage and discourage certain self-identifications and actions and how the crossing of, and tactical behaviors within, these spatial boundaries inform our perceptions of moral agency. Bakhtin's concept of ‘event-ness’ also contributes to our understanding of how the book's plotting of human behavior invites further moral reflection.
Island morphology, reef resources, and development paths in the Maldives
Authors: Naylor Alexander K.
Published: September 2015

Maldivian paths for economic development have historically been constrained by the morphology of atoll islands and the availability of material resources. These constraints are most evident when examining the development of Male’, the Maldives’ capital and most populous island. Before the 1970s, Male’ was a rather typical atoll island, consisting of accumulated rubble and sand with an underlying lagoonal reef (faro) structure. Rising population and standard-of-living expectations in Male’ led to accelerated coral mining of Male’s reefs in the 1970s and 80s for both landfill and construction material, extending the island’s land surface across Male’s lagoon and reef flats, close to the edge of its underlying faro. This combination of mining and fill degraded the island’s natural defenses against wave events, resulting in disastrous floods in April 1987 and the fortification of the coastline with seawalls shortly thereafter. The degree of degradation to natural defenses and amount of investment in urban building stock have jointly locked Male’ into a “hard path” for coastal resilience engineering, and both the damage patterns and response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami demonstrate that the Male’ model of development and degradation has spread to smaller Maldivian islands. While hard measures have proven successful in preventing further damage, their expense has led to greater interest in “soft path,” ecosystem-based resilience measures. The degree of local ecosystem damage, combined with high vulnerability to climate change and Male’s continued growth, means that such measures can only be seen as supplements to heavier fortification in the future, including raised (Th. Vilufushi) or artificial islands (Hulhumale’). The intersecting role hydrological stress on Maldivian groundwater has played in Male’s development path is also discussed.
Deepening Trochleoplasty With a Thick Osteochondral Flap for Patellar Instability
Authors: McNamara Iain , Bua Nelson , Smith Toby O. , Ali Khameinei , Donell Simon T.
Published: September 2015

Background:

In patients with patellar instability and severe trochlear dysplasia, trochleoplasty has become increasingly used as part of its surgical management.

Hypothesis:

Deepening trochleoplasty for severe dysplasia in patellofemoral instability improves function and increases sports participation.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between 1995 and 2010, deepening trochleoplasty with a thick flap was performed in 90 patients (107 knees) with severe trochlear dysplasia. Data were collected prospectively preoperatively, at 6 weeks, and at 1-year follow-up. The patients were surveyed retrospectively to determine the clinical and functional outcomes including sports and exercise participation at a minimum of 2 years, with complete data available in 92%.

Results:

The average follow-up was 6 years (range, 2-19 years). The median Kujala score was 63 (interquartile range [IQR], 47-75) preoperatively, rising to 79 (IQR, 68-91) at 1-year follow-up and 84 (IQR, 73-92) at final follow-up ( P < .05). Seventy-two percent were satisfied with their knee function at 1-year follow-up, rising to 83% at final follow-up ( P < .0001). Sports and exercise participation increased from 36 patients (40%) preoperatively to 60 (67%) at final follow-up. The number of patients involved in competitions increased slightly from 10 (11%) to 11 (12%). Of those sports that involved twisting (eg, soccer, cricket, badminton), the number of patients participating increased from 16 (18%) to 22 (24%), whereas in nontwisting sports (eg, running, swimming, cycling), it increased from 24 (27%) to 47 (52%), of whom 12 (16%) used walking as exercise. Two patients who had undergone medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction as the index operation needed the MPFL revised, and a further 8 patients needed MPFL reconstruction subsequently for instability symptoms and a mediolateral glide in extension of more than 2 quadrants’ displacement. At final follow-up, no patient had mechanical patellofemoral instability.

Conclusion:

Deepening trochleoplasty with a thick flap improves clinical and functional outcomes for patients with symptomatic patellar instability with severe trochlear dysplasia. These results improve over time and beyond 1-year clinical follow-up. However, trochleoplasty does not lead to a significant improvement in sports participation at a competitive level. It does improve patient participation in sports and exercise, principally in nontwisting sports activities.
Lack of Association Between Polymorphisms in Dopa Decarboxylase and Dopamine Receptor-1 Genes With Childhood Autism in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Yu Hong , Liu Jun , Yang Aiping , Yang Guohui , Yang Wenjun , Lei Heyue , Quan Jianjun , Zhang Zengyu
Published: September 2015

Genetic factors play an important role in childhood autism. This study is to determine the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in dopa decarboxylase ( DDC) and dopamine receptor-1 ( DRD1) genes with childhood autism, in a Chinese Han population. A total of 211 autistic children and 250 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were recruited. The severity of disease was determined by Children Autism Rating Scale scores. TaqMan Probe by real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine genotypes and allele frequencies of single-nucleotide polymorphism rs6592961 in DDC and rs251937 in DRD1. Case-control and case-only studies were respectively performed, to determine the contribution of both single-nucleotide polymorphisms to the predisposition of disease and its severity. Our results showed that there was no significant association of the genotypes and allele frequencies of both single-nucleotide polymorphisms concerning childhood autism and its severity. More studies with larger samples are needed to corroborate their predicting roles.
The labour of learning: overcoming the obstacles facing union-worker centre collaborations
Authors: Hetland Gabriel
Published: September 2015

In the USA, the UK and elsewhere, community unionism appears a potentially fruitful strategy for organizing the growing numbers of workers holding precarious employment. In the USA there is increasing interest in a form of community unionism that may gain traction in the UK: union-worker centre collaborations. Unions and worker centres have struggled to collaborate, however, because of their structural, cultural and ideological differences. This article examines a rare case of successful union-worker centre collaboration, asking why this collaboration emerged, what challenges it has faced, and why it has succeeded. Data show this collaboration emerged due to organizational crises, linked to broader economic changes, and individual learning following semi-successful organizing campaigns. The collaboration overcame challenges stemming from the differences between unions and worker centres through intra- and inter-organizational learning. Two conditions facilitated this outcome: bridge builders and state support for unionization. This case is used to explore broader questions about union revitalization.
Psalms of Solomon as Solomonic Discourse: The Nature and Function of Attribution to Solomon in a Pseudonymous Psalm Collection
Authors: Gordley Matthew E.
Published: September 2015

This article explores the significance of an author or later editor's decision to ascribe the psalms collected in Psalms of Solomon explicitly to Solomon. Drawing on the work of Hindy Najman, this study concludes that associations with Solomon (and particularly with earlier psalms and prayers ascribed to Solomon) are central to the discourse of Psalms of Solomon and critical to promoting the teaching of this psalm collection. In particular, the attribution of these psalms to Solomon appears to have provided a means of undermining the claims of Herod the Great as a Jewish king in the tradition of Solomon, while at the same time reinforcing the authors’ Deuteronomic perspective on the events of their era.
Tobit's Context and Contacts in the Qumran Aramaic Anthology
Authors: Perrin Andrew B.
Published: September 2015

The debate over Tobit's compositional language was invigorated by the discovery of Aramaic and Hebrew copies of the work in Qumran cave four. The growing position among scholars, however, is that Tobit's literary-linguistic makeup is best accounted for by its origination in the Aramaic language. The now widened collection of some thirty Aramaic texts available from among the Qumran collection provides a fresh opportunity to re-read Tobit with an eye for aspects of the book's message and outlook that come into sharper relief when contrasted and compared with its closest counterparts in the Aramaic Dead Sea Scrolls. This exploratory study details the central theological emphases and literary motifs that Tobit shares with a core group of Aramaic writings including, but not limited to, 1 Enoch, Genesis Apocryphon, Aramaic Levi Document, Testament of Qahat, Visions of Amram, and New Jerusalem. Five points of correspondence with the aforementioned writings will be described: (1) the preference for first-person voices, (2) ancestral instruction on Israelite religious duties and observance, (3) insistence on endogamous marriages, (4) eschatological outlooks of a ‘new’ Jerusalem, and (5) the awareness of idioms and motifs drawn from dream-vision traditions. Tobit may be viewed as an important representative of the Aramaic heritage of ancient Judaism, since in it we find the confluence of several key components of the thought world of the broader Aramaic collection, of which Tobit was an essential part.
Nanofinishing of freeform surfaces using abrasive flow finishing process
Authors: Sarkar Mithun , Jain VK
Published: September 2015

Freeform complex surfaces have become an essential part of many devices to perform the required functions. Many of these components require nanometer-level surface finish to perform the desired functions efficiently. In this work, an attempt has been made to improve the external morphology of freeform surfaces, especially knee joint, by abrasive flow finishing process. A uniform mirror finished surface with improved finishing rate is achieved for stainless steel knee joint. Extrusion pressure is varied to reduce final surface roughness value and finishing time. Experimentally, good surface finish ranging from ( Ra) 42.9 to 62.5 nm is achieved at various locations of the knee joint which are within the recommended American Society for Testing and Materials standard (≈100 nm) of knee joint prosthesis. Effects of abrasive flow finishing process parameters are investigated to develop “know how” of the process on the freeform surfaces. Abrasive flow finishing process has given 76.56% reduction in finishing time as compared to the time required by “ball end” type tool used for finishing knee joint.
Experimental investigations of cutting parameters’ influence on cutting forces and surface roughness in turning of Inconel alloy X-750 with biodegradable vegetable oil
Authors: Tazehkandi Ahmadreza Hosseini , Shabgard Mohammadreza , Pilehvarian Farid , Farshfroush Nakisa
Published: September 2015

Nickel-based Inconel X-750 superalloy is widely applied in aerospace industry and manufacturing of gas turbine blades, power generators and heat exchangers due to its exclusive properties. As a consequence of low heat transfer coefficient and work-hardening properties, this alloy is known as a poorly machinable alloy. In this work, effect of machining parameters (cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut) on cutting forces and surface roughness was investigated during turning of Inconel alloy X-750 with coated carbide tool. In order to meet the demands of the environment-friendly cutting processes and human health, biodegradable vegetable oil (BioCut 4600) was selected as the cutting fluid. The results were analyzed using response surface methodology and statistical analysis of variance, and mathematical models for cutting forces and surface roughness were proposed. Results indicated that feed rate and cutting speed were the most effective parameters on the surface roughness. However, depth of cut was the most effective parameter on cutting forces in comparison with cutting speed and feed rate. Eventually, in order to achieve the main aims of industrial production in large amounts and green manufacturing, the ranges for the best cutting conditions were presented.
Energy management strategy for a power-split hydraulic hybrid wheel loader
Authors: Wang Feng , Mohd Zulkefli Mohd Azrin , Sun Zongxuan , Stelson Kim A
Published: September 2015

Energy management strategies for a power-split hydraulic hybrid wheel loader are studied in this paper. The differences between the powertrain and the energy management system for on-road vehicles and the powertrain and the energy management system for off-road vehicles are first identified. Unlike on-road vehicles where the engine powers only the drivetrain, the engine in a wheel loader powers both the drivetrain and the working hydraulic system. In a non-hybrid wheel loader, the two subsystems interfere with each other since they share the same engine shaft. By using a power-split powertrain, this not only allows for optimal engine operation and regenerative braking but also greatly reduces the interference between the drivetrain and the working functions. An energy management strategy based on dynamic programming is developed to give full system optimization including both the drivetrain and the working functions. Both a long loading cycle and a short loading cycle are studied in this paper. The dynamic-programming-based strategy is compared with a rule-based strategy using simulation studies.
Effects of adjustment devices on the fore-and-aft mode of an automobile seat system: headrest, height adjuster, recliner and track slide
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Jin Kaili , Li Feng , Lu Congda , Chai Guozhong , Ye Dong
Published: September 2015

The automobile seat is an important and unique device in the automobile system, which directly contacts the human body. The dynamic characteristics of the automobile seat are the key parameters for its vibration security and dynamic performance. Both experiments and finite element simulations are conducted to analyse the fore-and-aft operating modes of a new type of automobile seat system in this paper. The results and their correlation analysis between the experimental data and the computational models are given. By using finite element simulations, the computational results of the modes with the first 12 orders for the automobile seat are in the range 0–100 Hz, including the integral modes and the local modes of the automobile seat. An experimental method was designed to measure the seat frame mode using an impact hammer, a triaxial accelerometer, uniaxial accelerometers and a 24-channel LMS vibration test system. The experimental data were analysed by estimating the frequency response function and the modal parameters and validated using LMS Test.Lab software. The experimental results for five integral modal parameters of the automobile seat between 0 Hz and 100 Hz are given. The orthogonal experimental method is used to design nine different working states of the automobile seat with variations in the positions of different adjustable devices (the headrest, the height adjuster, the recliner and the track slide). Finally, the influences of the above-mentioned adjustable devices on the fore-and-aft operating mode are analysed by the single-factor analysis method using finite element simulations.
Optimal rail profile design for a curved segment of a heavy haul railway using a response surface approach
Authors: Wang Jianxi , Chen Siyi , Li Xiangguo , Wu Yanjie
Published: September 2015

To determine the optimal design of the rail profile for a curved segment of a heavy haul railway, an optimization method that considers the extent of rail wear over the entire design cycle was developed. The approach is based on wheel–rail rolling contact theory, vehicle–track dynamic theory and nonlinear programming theory. The changes in the rail profile were analyzed using an updating strategy that considers random irregularities in the railway track. The minimum average metal loss from the vehicle in terms of wear and grinding for the whole design cycle was regarded as the design objective, and discrete point coordinates on the rail were regarded as the design variables. A radial basis function was used to establish an approximate model, which formed an explicit function between design variables and design objectives. The optimization model was established on this basis, and a genetic algorithm was used to solve the optimization model for the optimized profile. The maximum passing gross load for the whole design cycle reached 150.74 x106 t, an increase of 139.73% compared with the standard profile, which achieved the purpose of prolonging the service life of the rail.
Multiphase trajectory optimization for gun-launched glide guided projectiles
Authors: Chen Qi , Wang Zhongyuan , Chang Sijiang , Fu Jian
Published: September 2015

In this paper, an approach that considered both the continuous and discrete variables using the Gauss pseudospectral method is presented for multiphase trajectory optimization of gun-launched glide guided projectiles. The entire projectile trajectory is divided into four flight phases that connect to each other sequentially to ensure continuity. Continuous variables are utilized to describe the projectile’s state and control. Meanwhile, discrete variables are proposed to express the initial flight path angle and switching times between different flight phases. The trajectory optimization problem is posed as a constrained multiphase nonlinear optimal control problem, which is then transcribed into a nonlinear programming problem using the Gauss pseudospectral method and is finally solved using the interior point algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach, as well as a detailed analysis of the key features of the trajectory parameters.
Numerical study on vibration stress of rotating fan blade under aerodynamic load at critical speed
Authors: Kou Hai-jun , Lin Jian-sheng , Zhang Jun-hong
Published: September 2015

The vibration stress caused by resonance is the main cause of failure in aircraft engine blades. The study investigated the vibration stress of a single-stage fan blade influenced by the interaction of aerodynamic and structural behavior at multiple critical speeds. A numerically based analysis through the interfacing of computational fluid dynamics and finite element modeling analysis, referred to as fluid–structure interaction was performed. A three-dimensional finite element model of the blade which was verified by modal test was established to carry out response analysis when blade resonates. A single flow channel model of the blade was constructed to simulate the aerodynamic pressure loads that result in vibration of the fan blades. The Campbell diagram was introduced to determine the critical conditions of the blade. The results show that resonance phenomenon appears for several times between 2000 and 3600 r/min, and further analyses of the blade mode shape as well as dynamic stress at these speeds indicate that vibration stress at critical speed is obviously higher than those at the adjacent speeds. But there is no positive correlation between the peak stress and critical speed, while it is determined by the comprehensive action of critical speed, vibration mode and synchronous excitation. The peak stress distribution is closely linked to the mode shape of the blade, and it always appears at the leading edge and changes along the blade height. It also illustrates that the leading edge of the blade is most prone to vibration fatigue.
Income Inequality Explains Why Economic Growth Does Not Always Translate to an Increase in Happiness
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro , Kesebir Selin
Published: September 2015

One of the most puzzling social science findings in the past half century is the Easterlin paradox: Economic growth within a country does not always translate into an increase in happiness. We provide evidence that this paradox can be partly explained by income inequality. In two different data sets covering 34 countries, economic growth was not associated with increases in happiness when it was accompanied by growing income inequality. Earlier instances of the Easterlin paradox (i.e., economic growth not being associated with increasing happiness) can thus be explained by the frequent concurrence of economic growth and growing income inequality. These findings suggest that a more even distribution of growth in national wealth may be a precondition for raising nationwide happiness.
Moving It Along: A study of healthcare professionals’ experience with ethics consultations
Authors: Crigger Nancy , Fox Maria , Rosell Tarris , Rojjanasrirat Wilaiporn
Published: September 2015

Background:

Ethics consultation is the traditional way of resolving challenging ethical questions raised about patient care in the United States. Little research has been published on the resolution process used during ethics consultations and on how this experience affects healthcare professionals who participate in them.

Objectives:

The purpose of this qualitative research was to uncover the basic process that occurs in consultation services through study of the perceptions of healthcare professionals.

Design and Method:

The researchers in this study used a constructivist grounded theory approach that represents how one group of professionals experienced ethics consultations in their hospital in the United States.

Results:

The results were sufficient to develop an initial theory that has been named after the core concept: Moving It Along. Three process stages emerged from data interpretation: moral questioning, seeing the big picture, and coming together. It is hoped that this initial work stimulates additional research in describing and understanding the complex social process that occurs for healthcare professionals as they address the difficult moral issues that arise in clinical practice.
Adaptive simulation of hysteresis using neuro-Madelung model
Authors: Farrokh Mojtaba , Dizaji Mehrdad S
Published: September 2015

Hysteretic phenomena have been observed in different branches of engineering sciences. Although each of them has its own characteristics, Madelung’s rules are common among most of them. Based on Madelung’s rules, we propose a general approach to the simulation of both the rate-independent and rate-dependent hystereses with either congruent or non-congruent loops. In this approach, a static function accommodates different properties of the hystereses. Using the learning capability of the neural networks, an adaptive general model for hysteresis is introduced according to the proposed approach and it is called the neuro-Madelung model. Using various hystereses from different areas of engineering with different properties, the proposed model has been evaluated and the results show that the model is successful in the simulation of the considered hystereses. Comparison of the performance of the proposed model with different hysteresis models on experimental data indicates that the neuro-Madelung model has much better performance than them and its results are in excellent agreement with experimental data. In addition, an implicit inverse of the neuro-Madelung model is introduced. Its application in an open-loop control of a rate-dependent hysteresis is assessed and the results show its success.
Dying With Dyspnea in the Hospital
Authors: Morris Deborah , Galicia-Castillo Marissa
Published: September 2015

Background:

While many patients hope to die at home, many die in hospitals. Patients die with unrecognized and untreated symptoms including dyspnea.

Objective:

We sought to determine prevalence of dyspnea at end of life in patients dying in acute hospital care and examine treatment patterns.

Design/Participants:

A retrospective chart review of deaths at tertiary care hospital over a 3-month period evaluated dyspnea in last 24 hours of life, opioid orders and administration as well as presence of palliative care consultation.

Results:

Of 106 decedents, 88 experienced dyspnea or tachypnea in last 24 hours of life. Health care providers noted only 50% as dyspneic, even those undergoing terminal comfort extubation. Almost all patients with dyspnea documented by staff had orders and received opioids; however, few orders described treatment specifically for dyspnea. Patients with palliative care consultations more often received opioids ( P = .0007), and opioid orders more often specified treatment of dyspnea ( P = .013).

Conclusion:

These findings support that previous work noting many patients experience dyspnea at end of life. Despite national guidelines, health care providers may still be underrecognizing and likely not optimally treating dyspnea at the end of life in the hospital. Collaboration with palliative medicine providers may improve assessments and treatments for quality end-of-life care for hospitalized patients.
RADAR
Authors: Voyer Philippe , Champoux Nathalie , Desrosiers Johanne , Landreville Philippe , McCusker Jane , Monette Johanne , Savoie Maryse , Carmichael Pierre-Hugues , Richard Hélène , Richard Sylvie
Published: September 2015

The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of RADAR (Recognizing Active Delirium As part of your Routine) as a measure of the sixth vital sign. This study was a secondary analysis of a study ( N = 193) that took place in one acute care hospital and one long-term care facility. The primary outcome was a positive sixth vital sign, defined as the presence of both an altered level of consciousness and inattention. These indicators were assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method. RADAR identified 30 of the 43 participants as having a positive sixth vital sign and 58 of the 70 cases as not, yielding a sensitivity and specificity of 70% and 83%, respectively. Positive predictive value was 71%. RADAR’s characteristics, including its brevity and acceptability by nursing staff, make this tool a good candidate as a measure of the sixth vital sign. Future studies should address the generalizability of RADAR among various populations and clinical settings.
Epithelioid Hemangioma (Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia With Eosinophilia) of the Heart With Peripheral Eosinophilia and Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Machado Isidro , Chong Agustín , Serrano Anisia , Naranjo Ugalde Alfredo Mario , Pineda Damian , Savón Laynes , Olivera Ever , Llombart-Bosch Antonio
Published: September 2015

Epithelioid hemangioma (EH) is a rare benign vascular lesion, characterized by endothelial cells with epithelioid/histiocytoid appearance. Heart involvement is extremely rare. We present an unusual case of cardiac EH in a young woman with supraventricular arrhythmia, nephrotic syndrome (membranous glomerulopathy), and peripheral eosinophilia after a pregnancy and normal partum resembling Kimura disease. Echocardiogram showed a large tumor mass in the right cardiac ventricle. The cardiac tumor was removed and the histopathology revealed an endothelial proliferation associated with abundant eosinophils. The neoplastic endothelial cells were eosinophilic and polygonal with epithelioid/histiocytoid morphology. Lymphoid nodules were occasionally seen. The neoplastic cells were positive for CD34, CD31, ERG, and factor VIII and negative for CK. A diagnosis of EH was rendered. The patient was alive and well after surgical resection. EH and Kimura disease represent separate entities, but clinical and/or histological overlapping can be observed. Epithelioid/histiocytoid endothelial cells constitute the hallmark feature that favors a final diagnosis of EH.
Coexistent Nodal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma With Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Sachdev Ritesh , Duggal Rajan , Agrawal Krati , Goel Shalini
Published: September 2015

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis coexistent with lymphomas in the same organ are rare and have been reported in the literature. The most common organs that are involved are small bowel, bronchus, kidney, and lymph nodes. Interestingly, the lymphoma that is commonly present with extrapulmonary tuberculosis is Hodgkin’s lymphoma followed by low-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In the present study, we report a 60-year-old man with complaints of fever, loss of appetite, and generalized weakness. On investigation, generalized lymphadenopathy was noted, and the biopsy of cervical lymph node revealed coexistence of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with extrapulmonary tuberculosis. This case is the second reported case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with extrapulmonary tuberculosis in the world and the first in India.
Cross-Sectional Contrast Between Individuals With Foot/Ankle vs Knee Osteoarthritis for Obesity and Low Education on Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Perruccio Anthony V. , Gandhi Rajiv , Lau Johnny T. C. , Syed Khalid A. , Mahomed Nizar N. , Rampersaud Y. Raja
Published: September 2015

Background:

Improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL) necessitates an understanding of the influence of patient characteristics on, and interrelationship among, HRQoL domains. In osteoarthritis (OA), these associations have predominantly been examined in hip/knee populations. We investigated whether there were differences in these associations between foot/ankle and knee OA samples.

Methods:

Individuals seeking orthopedic care for foot/ankle or knee OA completed a questionnaire pre-consultation, including HRQoL domains (bodily pain [BP], physical [PF] and social functioning [SF], and mental [MH] and general health [GH]), obesity, comorbidity, and sociodemographic characteristics. Associations were examined via stratified path analysis (foot/ankle vs knee). Foot/ankle: n = 180, mean age = 55 (range: 25 to 82), 52% female. Knee: n = 253, mean age = 62 (range: 26 to 92), 51% female.

Results:

The interrelationship among HRQoL domains was generally similar between groups. However, the influence of patient characteristics differed. Low educational status was associated with worse scores for GH, MH, and SF in the foot/ankle group, whereas no significant effects were found in the knee group. Obesity was associated with worse scores for SF, BP, and GH in the foot/ankle compared to the knee group. Patient characteristics explained considerably more of the variation in domain scores in the foot/ankle group.

Conclusion:

There are significant differences in the impact of patient characteristics on HRQoL domains in foot/ankle versus knee OA patients. Therefore, a universal approach to patient education/intervention to improve HRQoL in lower-extremity OA is not likely to achieve optimal results. Based on these findings, we recommend joint-specific patient education, with a particular emphasis on patient characteristics among the foot/ankle OA population.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Objectified Body Consciousness (OBC) in Eating Psychopathology
Authors: Dakanalis Antonios , Timko Alix C. , Clerici Massimo , Riva Giuseppe , Carrà Giuseppe
Published: September 2015

Objectified body consciousness (OBC) appears to play a crucial role in eating and body-related disturbances, which typically emerge during adolescence. The 24-item OBC Scale (OBCS) has been employed in eating disorder (ED) research and school-based adolescent samples, but evidence for its psychometric proprieties exists only in adult (nonclinical) populations. We evaluated (a) the construct validity and reliability of the 24-item OBCS with data collected from 1,259 adolescent girls and boys from the community (Study 1) and 643 adolescents of both genders with an ED (Study 2) and (b) whether the instrument functions similarly and equivalently measures the underlying construct(s) across gender and samples (i.e., test of measurement equivalence/invariance; Study 3). Results upheld the three-factor structure and measurement equivalence/invariance of the 24-item OBCS across gender and samples. OBCS subscale scores were internally consistent and stable over a 4-week period. OBCS subscales discriminated community participants with high and low ED symptom levels with fair accuracy, as well as community participants from those with an ED. They were also associated with five constructs closely related to both OBC and ED psychopathology. Latent mean comparisons across samples and gender were performed and discussed. Implications and directions for future research are also outlined.
Higher-Order and Bifactor Models of the Drinking Motives Questionnaire
Authors: Lac Andrew , Donaldson Candice D.
Published: September 2015

The Drinking Motives Questionnaire, previously postulated and documented to exhibit a measurement structure of four correlated factors (social, enhancement, conformity, and coping), is a widely administered assessment of reasons for consuming alcohol. In the current study ( N = 552), confirmatory factor analyses tested the plausibility of several theoretically relevant factor structures. Fit indices corroborated the original four-factor model, and also supported a higher-order factor model involving a superordinate motives factor that explicated four subordinate factors. A bifactor model that permitted items to double load on valence type (positive or negative reinforcement) and source type (external or internal) generated mixed results, suggesting that this 2 × 2 motivation paradigm was not entirely tenable. Optimal fit was obtained for a bifactor model depicting a general factor and four specific factors of motives. Latent factors derived from this structure exhibited criterion validity in predicting frequency and quantity of alcohol usage in a structural equation model. Findings are interpreted in the context of theoretical implications of the instrument, alternative factor structures of drinking motives, and assessment applications.
Doping the Mind
Authors: Ranganath Ajit , Jacob Simon N.
Published: September 2015

The prefrontal cortex is the center of cognitive control. Processing in prefrontal cortical circuits enables us to direct attention to behaviorally relevant events; to memorize, structure, and categorize information; and to learn new concepts. The prefrontal cortex receives strong projections from midbrain neurons that use dopamine as a transmitter. In this article, we review the crucial role dopamine plays as a modulator of prefrontal cognitive functions, in the primate brain in particular. Following a summary of the anatomy and physiology of the midbrain dopamine system, we focus on recent studies that investigated dopaminergic effects in prefrontal cortex at the cellular level. We then discuss how unregulated prefrontal dopamine signaling could contribute to major disorders of cognition. The studies highlighted in this review demonstrate the powerful influence dopamine exerts on the mind.
Direct evaluation of jumps for nonlinear systems under external and multiplicative impulses
Authors: Di Matteo A , Di Paola M , Pirrotta A
Published: September 2015

In this paper the problem of the response evaluation of nonlinear systems under multiplicative impulsive input is treated. Such systems exhibit a jump at each impulse occurrence, whose value cannot be predicted through the classical differential calculus. In this context here the correct jump evaluation of nonlinear systems is obtained in closed form for two general classes of nonlinear multiplicative functions. Analysis has been performed to show the different typical behaviors of the response, which in some cases could diverge or converge to zero instantaneously, depending on the amplitude of the Dirac's delta.
Robust control of an active magnetic bearing system using H∞ and disturbance observer-based control
Authors: Noshadi Amin , Shi Juan , Lee Wee Sit , Shi Peng , Kalam Akhtar
Published: September 2015

Active magnetic bearing systems (AMBs) have many potential industrial applications where extremely fast and accurate operations are required. However, AMBs are often subject to disturbances in the form of synchronous vibrations due to unmodeled dynamics such as the rotor mass-imbalance and centrifugal forces while the rotor is in rotation. Several methods such as variable notch filters, gain scheduling controllers, and linear parameter varying controllers have been proposed recently to reject the disturbances while the system is operating at high rotational speeds. These methods are practical only if the frequencies of these sinusoidal-like disturbances are directly measurable or accurately known in advance. In this paper, a hybrid control scheme comprised of a feedback H∞ controller and an inner-loop disturbance observer-based control is proposed. The effectiveness of this control scheme is verified by simulation and real-time experiments on an AMB system. Both constant and sinusoidal disturbances are taken into consideration while the rotor is stationary as well as while it is rotating at different speeds. The results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid control scheme exhibits significantly improved performance in comparison to single-loop controllers in the presence of unknown but bounded disturbances.
Nonlinear vibration and stability analysis of an electrically actuated piezoelectric nanobeam considering surface effects and intermolecular interactions
Authors: Mehrdad Pourkiaee S , Khadem Siamak E , Shahgholi Majid
Published: September 2015

This paper investigates the nonlinear vibration and stability analysis of a doubly clamped piezoelectric nanobeam, as a nano resonator actuated by a combined alternating current and direct current loadings, including surface effects and intermolecular van der Waals forces. The governing equation of motion is obtained using the extended Hamilton principle. The multiple scales method is used to solve nonlinear equations of motion. The influence of van der Waals forces, piezoelectric voltages and surface effects are investigated on the static equilibria, pull-in voltages and dynamic primary resonances of the nano resonator. It is shown that for accurate and exact investigation of the system response, it is necessary to consider the surface effects. To validate the analytical results, numerical simulation is performed. It is seen that the perturbation results are in accordance with numerical results.
The End of an Academic Career
Authors: Pelias Ronald J.
Published: September 2015

In keeping with H. L. Goodall’s articulation of the “new ethnography,” I write into the tension I feel as I approach the end of my academic career. I consider the question of whether or not to retire by offering conflicting narratives organized under the headings of hanging on and letting go. Framed as a familiar life script, I search for a satisfying narrative that will hold still.
Neighborhood Revitalization and the Anchor Institution
Authors: Ehlenz Meagan M.
Published: September 2015

Universities are increasingly faced with central city decline; anchored by their assets—primarily real estate—and, sometimes, institutional missions, many have felt threatened by neighborhood deterioration. In response, several universities have intervened in neighborhood decline over the last two decades, initiating revitalization and physical improvement strategies. Since 1996, the University of Pennsylvania has been a leader in this work, investing in the West Philadelphia Initiatives (WPI) to address safety, vacancy, and disinvestment concerns. This study utilizes Census data to evaluate changes in the character of University City between 1990 and 2010. Analysis suggests that, contrary to popular belief, the neighborhood improved but did not gentrify. The story, however, does not end there. While the neighborhood did not gentrify as a whole, the portion served by the Penn-sponsored public K-8 school experienced drastic change. As the blocks inside the school’s catchment grew wealthier, more homogeneous, and more educated, these upward trends masked continued socioeconomic decline in the remainder of the neighborhood.
Youth Arrested for Trading Sex Have the Highest Rates of Childhood Adversity: A Statewide Study of Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Naramore Rachel , Bright Melissa A. , Epps Nathan , Hardt Nancy S.
Published: September 2015

A history of childhood adversity is associated with high-risk behaviors and criminal activity in both adolescents and adults. Furthermore, individuals with histories of child maltreatment are at higher risk for engaging in risky sexual behavior, experiencing re-victimization, and in some cases, becoming sexual offenders. The purpose of the current study was to examine the prevalence of individual and cumulative adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) reported by 102 offending youth who were arrested for trading sex and 64,227 offending youth who were arrested for various other crimes, using Florida’s Positive Achievement Change Tool. Youth with violations related to sex trafficking had higher rates for each ACE as well as number of ACEs, particularly sexual abuse and physical neglect. These findings have implications for identifying adverse experiences in both maltreated and offending youth as well as tailoring services to prevent re-victimization.
Homosexuality and Pro-Gay Ideology as Pathogens? Implications of a Disease-Spread Lay Model for Understanding Anti-Gay Behaviors
Authors: Filip-Crawford Gabrielle , Neuberg Steven L.
Published: September 2015

Negative behaviors targeting gay men and lesbians range from violent physical assault to casting a vote against gay marriage, with very different implications for those targeted. Existing accounts of such actions, however, are unable to differentially predict specific anti-gay behaviors, leaving a large theoretical hole in the literature and hindering the design of effective interventions. We propose (a) that many sexually prejudiced laypersons conceptualize homosexuality and pro-gay ideology as “contaminants” analogous to infectious pathogens and (b) that anti-gay behaviors can thus be viewed as strategic attempts to prevent, contain, treat, or eradicate the “pathogens” of homosexuality and pro-gay ideology. By considering analogues to disease-spread processes (e.g., susceptibility of specific subpopulations, inoculation procedures, prevalence in the local environment, interconnections among community members), we derive novel predictions regarding the incidence and nature of anti-gay behaviors and provide leverage for creating more tailored interventions to reduce such discrimination.
The aspiration for holism in the medical humanities: Some historical and philosophical sources of reflection
Authors: Pilgrim David
Published: September 2015

The relationship between the arts and health is now of interest to policy makers, patients, professionals and health researchers. This article historicises the potential for holism, a current aspiration within the medical humanities. This contemporary debate in the research community reflects philosophical positions about idealism and realism, with their traceable historical roots. This article summarises those roots and draws attention to their current relevance for health researchers. Starting with the recognition within the medical humanities that biomedical reductionism now attracts criticism, it moves to exploring the history of ideas in philosophy, the arts and science about holism and the challenge of researching health and illness within the complexity of being fully human.
Beneath rationalization: Elias, Foucault, and the body1
Authors: Paulle Bowen , Emirbayer Mustafa
Published: September 2015

Elias and Foucault ended up making the same core discovery about the same fundamental social process, which we term the ‘social constraints towards self-discipline’ process. We show how three distinct biographical and intellectual factors were important in guiding them toward this discovery: (1) their shared exposure to philosophical traditions associated with Heidegger’s break from Husserl; (2) their common, sustained contact with ‘clinical’ practices; and (3) the traumatic events each experienced in relation to intentional injury and death.
A call for evidence-based trauma care: BestBETs
Authors: Smith Jason E , Mackway-Jones Kevin , Wylie Katharine , Carley Simon
Published: September 2015

In order to achieve optimal care for patients, it is essential that care is based on the best available evidence. Best Evidence Topics are short digests of the available research, summarised in a systematic format, accessible for the busy professional. Trauma will now add to the collection of journals that feature BestBETs. All clinicians involved in the care of the injured can contribute to this process by defining and disseminating the knowledge basis for our clinical practice. The invitation for you to derive, submit and publish is now open.
On-orbit identification of flexible parameters of spacecraft
Authors: Xie Yong , Liu Pan , Cai Guo-Ping
Published: September 2015

This paper studies the on-orbit identification of flexible parameters of spacecraft using a typical spacecraft as research object. First, the coupled dynamic equation of the system is established with the Lagrange method and the model order of the solar array is reduced using the inertia complete criterion. Then, the particle swarm optimization is adopted to determine the optimal positions of acceleration sensors on the solar array. Finally, the observer/Kalman filter identification and eigensystem realization algorithm are applied to identify the flexible parameters of the system. In the simulations, three types of external excitations, including white noise, sine and impulse, are considered as system input, respectively. Simulation results indicate that the presented method in this paper is effective in identifying the flexible parameters of the spacecraft.