bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferula divaricata (Umbelliferae), a new species from Central Anatolia, Turkey
Authors: PIMENOV MICHAEL G. , KLJUYKOV EUGENE V.
Published: May 2013

A new species, Ferula divaricata from Central Anatolia, is described and illustrated. The new species is closely related to F. rigidula and F. parva but differs in characters of stem, nodes, leaf dissection and pubescence, sheath and terminal segment shape and size.
Hindcast of the 1976/77 and 1998/99 Climate Shifts in the Pacific
Authors: Ding Hui , Greatbatch Richard J. , Latif Mojib , Park Wonsun , Gerdes Rüdiger
Published: May 2013

The use of a coupled ocean–atmosphere–sea ice model to hindcast (i.e., historical forecast) recent climate variability is described and illustrated for the cases of the 1976/77 and 1998/99 climate shift events in the Pacific. The initialization is achieved by running the coupled model in partially coupled mode whereby global observed wind stress anomalies are used to drive the ocean/sea ice component of the coupled model while maintaining the thermodynamic coupling between the ocean/sea ice and atmosphere components. Here it is shown that hindcast experiments can successfully capture many features associated with the 1976/77 and 1998/99 climate shifts. For instance, hindcast experiments started from the beginning of 1976 can capture sea surface temperature (SST) warming in the central-eastern equatorial Pacific and the positive phase of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) throughout the 9 years following the 1976/77 climate shift, including the deepening of the Aleutian low pressure system. Hindcast experiments started from the beginning of 1998 can also capture part of the anomalous conditions during the 4 years after the 1998/99 climate. The authors argue that the dynamical adjustment of heat content anomalies that are present in the initial conditions in the tropics is important for the successful hindcast of the two climate shifts.
Frequency Domain Multimodel Analysis of the Response of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation to Surface Forcing
Authors: MacMartin Douglas G. , Tziperman Eli , Zanna Laure
Published: May 2013

The dynamics of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) vary considerably among different climate models; for example, some models show clear peaks in their power spectra while others do not. To elucidate these model differences, transfer functions are used to estimate the frequency domain relationship between surface forcing fields, including sea surface temperature, salinity, and wind stress, and the resulting AMOC response. These are estimated from the outputs of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) and phase 3 (CMIP3) control runs for eight different models, with a specific focus on Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Climate Model, version 2.1 (GFDL CM2.1), and the Community Climate System Model, version 4 (CCSM4), which exhibit rather different spectral behavior. The transfer functions show very little agreement among models for any of the pairs of variables considered, suggesting the existence of systematic model errors and that considerable uncertainty in the simulation of AMOC in current climate models remains. However, a robust feature of the frequency domain analysis is that models with spectral peaks in their AMOC correspond to those in which AMOC variability is more strongly excited by high-latitude surface perturbations that have periods corresponding to the frequency of the spectral peaks. This explains why different models exhibit such different AMOC variability. These differences would not be evident without using a method that explicitly computes the frequency dependence rather than a priori assuming a particular functional form. Finally, transfer functions are used to evaluate two proposed physical mechanisms for model differences in AMOC variability: differences in Labrador Sea stratification and excitation by westward-propagating subsurface Rossby waves.
Regional, Very Heavy Daily Precipitation in CMIP5 Simulations
Authors: Kawazoe Sho , Gutowski William J.
Published: May 2013

The authors analyze the ability of global climate models (GCMs) from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) multimodel ensemble to simulate very heavy daily precipitation and its supporting processes, comparing them with observations. Their analysis focuses on an upper Mississippi region for winter (December–February), when it is assumed that resolved synoptic circulation governs precipitation. CMIP5 GCMs generally reproduce well the precipitation versus intensity spectrum seen in observations to intensities as strong as 20 mm day−1. Most models do not produce the highest precipitation intensities seen in observations. Models show good agreement at the 95th percentile, while the coarsest resolution models generally show lower precipitation at high-intensity thresholds, such as the 99.5th percentile. There is no dominant month for simulated very heavy events to occur, although observed very heavy events occur most frequently in December. Further analysis focuses on precipitation events exceeding the 99.5th percentile that occur simultaneously at several points in the region, yielding so-called “widespread events.” Examination of additional fields during widespread very heavy events shows that the models produce these events under the same physical conditions seen in the observations. The coarsest models generally produce similar behavior, although features have smoother spatial distributions. However, the resolution in itself could not be identified as a major reason that separates one model from another. The capabilities of the CMIP5 GCMs examined here support using them to assess changes in very heavy precipitation under future climate scenarios.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Cross-Shelf Exchange across the Inner Shelf of Monterey Bay, California
Authors: Woodson C. Brock
Published: May 2013

Cross-shelf exchange resulting from wind- and wave-driven flows across the inner shelf has been the focus of a considerable body of work. This contribution extends recent analyses to the central California coastline using 5-yr of moored current observations. Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) data from stations across the Monterey Bay (two in the northern bay and one in the southern bay), in water depths of ~20 m, showed net offshore transport throughout the year. For the northern bay sites, cross-shelf exchange was dominated by Ekman transport driven by along-shelf diurnal sea breezes during the upwelling season. Intense stratification in the northern bay leads to very shallow observed Ekman layers (~5–8 m), and consequently no overlap between bottom and surface Ekman layers within a few hundred meters of the coast. The total transport is less than predicted by theory consistent with models of shallow-water Ekman transport. The observed transport (~42% of full Ekman transport) is shown to be caused by the influence of a positive vorticity that effectively increases the Coriolis parameter. Wave-driven return flow estimated from an offshore buoy was strongly correlated with observed transport during nonupwelling conditions for the northern, outer bay site, but not for the two inner bay sites (northern and southern). In the southern bay, winds and waves have a significantly reduced effect on the cross-shelf exchange. Internal tidal bores are believed to contribute most of the observed cross-shelf exchange in this region.
Optimization techniques applied in a tuning process of a feedwater heater’s first-principle data-driven model
Authors: Barszcz Tomasz , Czop Piotr
Published: May 2013

Work related to the tuning of the first-principle model of a feedwater heater operating in a coal-fired power unit is presented, along with discussion concerning the most efficient and accurate tuning algorithms based on direct-search, first- and second-order optimization techniques. The objective of this work is to find the most efficient and accurate algorithm to tune the model parameters, that is, heat transfer coefficients based on the algorithms’ benchmarking study. The model variables (e.g. variability of the power rate of energy exchange) and estimated parameter values were used to formulate key performance indicators intended for a model-driven diagnostics approach. The computational process was organized in an iterative process of updating model parameters and indicators. The validation was successfully performed using operational data from a 225 MW coal-fired power unit.
From theory to practice: utilizing integrative seminars as bookends to the Master of Public Administration program of study
Authors: Stout Margaret , Holmes Maja Husar
Published: May 2013

Integrative seminar style courses are most often used as an application-oriented capstone in place of a thesis or comprehensive exam requirement in Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree programs. This article describes and discusses the benefits of a unique approach of one National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)–accredited U.S. MPA program that employs integrative seminar style courses at both the start and end of the program of study. The first seminar integrates theory while the last seminar integrates practice, while both utilize reflection as a synthesizing pedagogy. The other core courses in the program of study use distinct theories to analyze practice while building core competencies. This article explores the importance of theory in a professional degree program, describes and explains both integrative seminars, and discusses the value fostered by the pattern of synthesis-analysis-synthesis facilitated through integrative seminars and reflective pedagogies.
Performance contracting as a performance management tool in the public sector in Kenya
Authors: Hope Kempe Ronald
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this article is to provide an assessment and analysis of public sector performance contracting as a performance management tool in Kenya. It aims to demonstrate that performance contracting remains a viable and important tool for improving public sector performance as a key element of the on-going public sector transformation strategy for achieving the country’s long-term development goals. The work is based on a performance management assessment and an analysis of performance contracting and its implementation through practice and learning in the public sector in Kenya. Key challenges and benefits of the performance contracting process have been identified and the findings indicate that the use of performance contracting as a management tool to improve public sector performance has provided, and can continue to provide, significant benefits to Kenya.
Similar Psychological Distance Reduces Temporal Discounting
Authors: Kim Hyunji , Schnall Simone , White Mathew P.
Published: May 2013

People often prefer inferior options in the present even when options in the future are more lucrative. Five studies investigated whether decision making could be improved by manipulating construal level and psychological distance. In Studies 1a, 1b, and 2, temporal discounting was reduced when future rewards (trips to Paris) were construed at a relatively concrete level, thus inducing a similar level of construal to present rewards. By contrast, Studies 3 and 4 reduced temporal discounting by making present financial rewards more psychologically distant via a social proximity manipulation, and thus linked to a similar high level of construal as future rewards. These results suggest that people prefer the more lucrative option when comparing two intertemporal choices that are construed on a similar level instead of on a different level. Thus, changes in construal level and mental representations can be used to promote more desirable choices in economic decision making.
Shattered Schemata and Fragmented Identities
Authors: Dheensa Sandi , Williams Robert , Metcalfe Alison
Published: May 2013

While pregnant women’s views about antenatal screening have been widely researched, those of expectant fathers remain underexplored. Interviews were thus conducted with 12 men and 6 women, either during pregnancy or soon after birth. Findings suggested that the men started to construct a schema of their child and a paternal identity even before she/he was born. One of the paternal responsibilities men encountered was to participate in screening. However, men’s ideas, beliefs, and feelings about being a father and about the future child were challenged by the receipt of screening results. Their child-schema became splintered into a wanted, imagined child and the at-risk fetus. Moreover, their paternal identity became fragmented into genetic and social components. Screening thereby caused some disruption in men’s experience of impending fatherhood and of pregnancy, eliciting ambivalence and confusion. Further research is now required to explore the issues raised in the study.
Onset of Puberty and Normal Histological Appearances of the Reproductive Organs in Peripubertal Female Göttingen Minipigs
Authors: Tortereau Antonin , Howroyd Paul , Lorentsen Helle
Published: May 2013

In preclinical studies, it is important to know whether the animals used are sexually mature or not. Precise data have not yet been published, however, about the histological features of the female reproductive organs during the peripubertal period or about the age of acquisition of sexual maturity in the minipig. The histological characteristics of the genital organs of female control minipigs from toxicology studies were described and, based on the presence of ovarian corpora lutea, used to assess the age at which maturity was reached. Only 50% of females can be considered mature at about 6.5 months old (a body weight of 11.8 kg), and 100% were not mature until about 7.5 months old (13.1 kg), although it is said that females reach sexual maturity at the age of approximately 5 months, by the time the body weight is about 10 to 12 kg. The uterine weights of mature females were higher than 94.4 g, whereas the maximum weight reached in the immature females was 55.2 g. In contrast, the differences between immature and mature ovarian weights were not significant. The histological appearance of the mature vagina in the various stages of the estrous cycle is also described.
Marketing in the Flourishing Society Megatrend
Authors: Varey Richard J.
Published: May 2013

“New science” has profound implications for business. Industrial capitalism can no longer power prosperity. The mass society worldview is giving way to individualisation. The “standard enterprise logic” is challenged. Marketing has operated as an attention technology for sellers competing to capture customers. However, in an intention economy buyers are a scarce commodity, and it is intentions that drive production for specific needs. Change in marketing is overdue. Despite increased social disharmony and the mounting evidence of looming environmental disasters, progress is stagnant, often negative, as marketing exacerbates the problem by misallocating negative value goods. The commonality in the contemporary crises of financial meltdown, human-made climate change, economic inequality, distrust of government, and the social corrosion of consumerism is the moral limits of markets in civic society. Sustainable living provides the higher purpose of marketing: well-being and human flourishing. Sustainability is a socio-cultural, inherently ethical, respectful, intellectual construct for a life of careful and equitable resource use within limits and inter-dependencies. It is not the antithesis of competitive business, indeed business can flourish by competing on, and being rewarded for, the accomplishment of enduringly valuable outcomes. Sustainability is a transcendent societal “mega”-megatrend.
Th1-, Th2-, and Th17-Related Cytokine and Chemokine Receptor mRNA and Protein Expression in the Brain Tissues, T Cells, and Macrophages of Dogs With Necrotizing and Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Park E.-S. , Uchida K. , Nakayama H.
Published: May 2013

Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), necrotizing leukoencephalitis (NLE), and granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME) are idiopathic inflammatory diseases in the central nervous system (CNS) of dogs. In our previous study, the proportion of inflammatory cells, except for CD3-positive T cells, were not different in parenchymal and perivascular lesions in the brain. However, breed specificities, clinical courses, and specific lesions were distinct among these diseases. Thus, similarities and differences in the pathologies of these diseases have been implied. In this study, the messenger RNA (mRNA) and/or protein expression levels of cytokines and chemokine receptors were investigated in NME ( n = 2), NLE ( n = 4), and GME ( n = 2) cases, and their relationship in the formation of specific lesions was discussed. The mRNA and protein expression levels of interferon (IFN)–γ and interleukin (IL)–17 were marked in NME and GME, respectively. The mRNA expression levels of CXCR3 and CCR2 were also marked in NME and GME, respectively. The results of double-labeling immunofluorescence, used to identify cells producing IL-17 in these lesions, showed that most CD163-positive macrophages/microglia but fewer CD3-positive T cells were IL-17 positive in GME. These results indicate that IFN-γ plays a key role in NME lesions and that the macrophages/microglia that infiltrate brain lesions producing IL-17 are more important in GME than T cells.
The Materiality of State Failure: Social Contract Theory, Infrastructure and Governmental Power in Congo
Authors: Schouten Peer
Published: May 2013

Congo’s state failure is usually analysed in terms of a ‘broken social contract’, reflecting the degree to which mainstream understandings of state failure are conditioned by classical social contract theory. This article takes a different route to understanding Congo’s predicament by building on insights from actor-network theory (ANT). ANT’s insistence on society as a socio-material entanglement, it shows, translates into increasing attention to the role of material infrastructures in constituting governmental power. Conversely, this approach also allows the highlighting of the importance of the absence of the material underpinnings of rule in drawing up more nuanced accounts of state failure.
Anchor ice in polar oceans
Authors: Mager Sarah M. , Smith Inga J. , Kempema Edward W. , Thomson Benjamin J. , Leonard Gregory H.
Published: May 2013

One feature of high-latitude areas is the formation of ice clusters attached to the beds of rivers, lakes and the sea. This anchor ice, as it is widely known, plays an important role in mobilizing bed sediments, as well as ecological roles as a food source, habitat and potentially fatal environment. Much work has been devoted to fluvial anchor ice in the Northern Hemisphere, yet comparatively little work has described anchor ice in polar marine environments, despite its description by Antarctic expedition scientists over a century ago. In this paper, we review the current understanding of anchor ice formation in polar marine environments. Supercooled water is a necessity for anchor ice to form and frazil adhesion is the most likely common mechanism for initial anchor ice growth. Strong biological zonation has led some authors to suggest that anchor ice does not form to depths of greater than 33 m, yet in Antarctica there appear to be no physical reasons for such a limit given the production of supercooled water to substantial depths associated with ice shelves. Future work should focus on the potential extent of anchor ice production and identify the key oceanographic, glaciological and meteorological conditions conducive to its formation.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of mycophenolate mofetil for the treatment of severely active lupus nephritis
Authors: Kittanamongkolchai W , Rukrung C , Supasiri T , Lertjirachai I , Somparn P , Chariyavilaskul P , Avihingsanon Y
Published: May 2013

Background

Plasma mycophenolic acid (MPA) concentrations may predict therapeutic response in active lupus nephritis (LN). We determined the efficacy and safety of a concentration-controlled MPA regime in the treatment of severely active LN.

Methods

In this prospective study, 19 biopsy-proven class III/IV LN patients were treated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for 48 weeks. The MMF dosage was based on maximal plasma MPA concentration at 1-hour post dose (MPA-C1). All patients had plasma MPA-C1 levels monitored weekly until achieving the targeted level of >13 mg/L. A low-dose steroid protocol was started at 0.5 mg/kg/day and rapidly tapered to 5 mg/day. Therapeutic response was evaluated at week 24 and week 48. MPA area-under-the curve (MPA-AUC0–12h) was measured at week 12 to verify the optimum dosage.

Results

No death or end-stage kidney disease occurred in this study. Seventeen patients (89%) responded to therapy at week 24 with four (21%) patients having complete response. There was no renal relapse at week 48 and four more patients had converted from partial response to complete response. Seventy eight percent of patients achieved the recommended MPA-AUC0–12h level. No association between plasma MPA concentrations and adverse reactions or infections was found.

Conclusions

MPA-C1 may be a practical monitoring of MPA levels in patients with LN. It is convenient to monitor and may facilitate an optimum estimate of MPA exposure.
“We Inform the Experience of Health”
Authors: Wall Sarah
Published: May 2013

Nursing work has evolved tremendously over the last century, raising ongoing questions about nursing’s professional status. Through various strategies, professionalization in nursing has to some extent been accomplished, although autonomy over nursing practice has been elusive. This is especially so in the contemporary health care system, in which managerial control is emphasized and physician dominance continues. In response to professional constraints in traditional work settings, nursing self-employment is growing. In this study I used focused ethnography to explore the professional experiences of Canadian self-employed nurses and to reconsider nursing knowledge, ethics, and professionalism in this unique context. Despite the barriers they faced, these nurses offered a perspective on nursing professionalism that transcends classic professional traits, showing how the concept of professionalism can be invoked not as a way to “prove” status but as a way to describe a sense of commitment and the contribution to societal well-being.
Perceived Social Support Levels Among Medical Staff Working at the Medical Faculty Hospital of Van Following the 2011 Van-Turkey Earthquake
Authors: Guner Sukriye Ilkay , Sevimli Sukran , Bulduk Bahattin , Orakci Hakan
Published: May 2013

The aim of the study was to evaluate the “perceived social support levels” of the medical staff after the earthquake. The sample of this study is made up of 300 of the 490 medical staff of the Medical Faculty Hospital of Van. The data were collected using a survey that included the personal information and the “multidimensional perceived social support scale.” It was observed that since the houses of the medical staff were being repaired or rebuilt, 55% of the medical staff were not residing in their homes. It was determined that 41.3% of the staff were residing in different cities away from their families. Among those, 52.4% was obliged to live apart from their families for more than 6 months. The medical staff whose families did not relocate, those who stayed with their spouses, and those who lived in containers were reported to have high social support.
A Workgroup Climate Perspective on the Relationships Among Transformational Leadership, Workgroup Diversity, and Employee Creativity
Authors: Wang Peng , Rode Joseph C. , Shi Kan , Luo Zhengxue , Chen Wenjing
Published: May 2013

Previous research on the effects of workgroup diversity and workgroup functioning and outcomes has produced mixed results. We address these inconsistencies by proposing a model that considers the effects of both transformational leadership and workgroup climate on one workgroup outcome believed particularly relevant to diversity: employee creativity. Multilevel analyses of 172 individuals working in 31 teams found that innovation workgroup climate level mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and employee creativity. Furthermore, results indicated that diverse groups had higher innovation climate strength when transformational leadership was high, and that innovation climate level was more strongly related to employee creativity when innovation climate strength was high. Overall, these results suggest that transformational leadership may lessen the negative effects associated with workgroup diversity. Implications for both theory and practice are discussed.
Keeping Adolescents Busy With Extracurricular Activities
Authors: Kao Tsui-Sui Annie , Salerno Jennifer
Published: May 2013

Adolescent participation in academic/extracurricular activities is related to fewer diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections during adolescence. The role parents play in motivating participation in such activities is unclear. This mixed-methods study explored parental influences on academic/extracurricular activity participation, and the relationship of such participation to adolescents’ future aspirations and sexual behavior, over a 4-year period. We utilized semistructured interviews with 28 White and Asian American adolescents (age 17–19) and event history calendar self-reports of activities, part-time jobs, and sexual behaviors. Data triangulation was used to integrate qualitative and quantitative data. Increased participation was correlated with abstinence and later sexual onset. Many adolescents reported that parents were reluctant to talk with them about sexual risks and instead preferred to keep them busy and ensure that they had the “right” friends. Adolescents endorsed the parental strategy of keeping them busy with activities. Findings and implications for school nursing practice are discussed.
Optimizing product architecture for complex design
Authors: Ko Yao-Tsung
Published: May 2013

Determining product architecture is a key activity in new product development. This article presents a quantifying and planning method for new product development based on an algebraic matrix technique. A fuzzy design structure matrix that combines fuzzy set theory and the design structure matrix is established. The proposed fuzzy design structure matrix is a Boolean matrix that can quantify the dependency strength between product components and optimize product architecture. Partitioning and tearing algorithms are utilized to restructure a fuzzy design structure matrix, allowing the interdependent relationships within the product components in the new product development process to be obtained. A systematic clustering method that is efficient and yet flexible is developed for new product development from an informational structure perspective. The fuzzy design structure matrix can enhance the performance of new product development management by reducing the costs, offering product variety, decreasing the number of component iterations, and reducing the product development time. A case study is employed to illustrate the proposed method.
Theoretical and experimental investigation on decomposed dynamic control for a flexible manipulator based on nonlinearity
Authors: Yin Haibin , Kobayashi Yukinori , Xu Jinli , Huang Fengyun
Published: May 2013

This paper presents a theoretical and experimental investigation on a flexible robotic arm. The dynamic processes of the arm involve flexible and rigid motion components. The associated dynamic equations can be decomposed into two corresponding subsets that form the basis for the proposed decomposed dynamic controller for a flexible robotic arm. One-link and two-link manipulators are used in experimental investigations to examine the accuracy of the theoretical analysis of the robotic arms. Finally, a comparison between the experimental and calculated results is made to verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
A Matlab toolbox for positive fractional time derivative modeling of arbitrarily frequency-dependent viscosity
Authors: Cai Wei , Chen Wen , Zhang Xiaodi
Published: May 2013

This paper introduces a new Matlab toolbox for the numerical solution of power law frequency-dependent damped vibration and dissipative wave equations involving the positive fractional time derivative. The classical integer-order derivative models have long encountered huge difficulty in describing such complex thermoviscous behaviors, particularly if a broadband excitation is involved. Recent decades have seen a growing interest in the fractional derivative modeling of such anomalous viscosity. Among various time fractional derivative models, the positive fractional derivative model has clear advantages to hold causality of wave problems thanks to its positive definition. However, the numerical methods and software available today are mostly for the standard fractional derivative equations. This paper will present a finite difference method for positive fractional vibration and acoustic equations, and then focus on a new Matlab toolbox of its implementations, which is very easy to use with a friendly graphical user interface. The toolbox is freely available as an open source software and will help promote the application of the positive fractional derivative models to diverse dynamic problems where the viscosity plays an essential role.
Fractional/distributed-order systems and irrational transfer functions with monotonic step responses
Authors: Tavazoei Mohammad Saleh
Published: May 2013

This paper deals with irrational transfer functions having monotonic nondecreasing step responses. Firstly, some results on the monotonicity of step responses in irrational transfer functions describing fractional- or distributed-order systems are presented. Then, some conditions guaranteeing the existence of monotonic nondecreasing step responses in more general forms of irrational transfer functions are found. Various examples are brought to show the usefulness of the obtained results in time response analysis of fractional/distributed-order systems. The achievements of the paper can be used in the design of control systems having monotonic step responses.
The Impact of Sexual Enhancement Alcohol Expectancies and Risky Behavior on Alcohol-Involved Rape Among College Women
Authors: Messman-Moore Terri L. , Ward Rose Marie , DeNardi Kathleen A.
Published: May 2013

A structural equation model examined sexual enhancement alcohol expectancies, heavy episodic drinking (HED), and risky sexual behavior as correlates of alcohol-involved rape in a sample of 353 college women. Prevalence of alcohol-involved rape was 15.6%. Sexual enhancement alcohol expectancies were indirectly associated with alcohol-involved rape via increased levels of HED, greater likelihood of sex while intoxicated, and number of sex partners. All forms of risky behavior were associated with alcohol-involved rape although HED had the strongest relationship. Findings suggest continued focus on women’s positive alcohol expectancies and HED as risk factors for alcohol-involved rape. Implications for intervention will be discussed.
College Women’s Experiences With Rape Disclosure
Authors: Paul Lisa A. , Walsh Kate , McCauley Jenna L. , Ruggiero Kenneth J. , Resnick Heidi S. , Kilpatrick Dean G.
Published: May 2013

Disclosure of a rape to informal support sources (e.g., friends) is a relatively common experience, but it is not well understood. This study expands our limited knowledge of the characteristics and life experiences of disclosure recipients among a national sample of 2,000 female college students. Over 40% of respondents reported having received a rape disclosure, and more than two thirds of these recipients encouraged victims to formally report their rapes to the police or other authorities. Correlates of disclosure receipt and encouragement of reporting, including personal assault history, mental health history, and substance use, are presented and discussed.
Investigating Coxiella burnetii infection in a breeding cattery at the centre of a Q fever outbreak
Authors: Kopecny Lucy , Bosward Katrina L , Shapiro Amanda , Norris Jacqueline M
Published: May 2013

The potential role of cats in transmitting Coxiella burnetii to humans was highlighted in a Q fever outbreak, linked to a caesarean section in a breeding queen, in an Australian small animal veterinary hospital. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the C burnetii seroreactivity of the breeding queen and other cats residing at the same breeding cattery (n = 27) and to evaluate C burnetii infection of the breeding queen by molecular and histological methods. Three assays [complement fixation test (CFT), indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)] were used for serological evaluation. Additionally, uterine and ovarian samples collected from the breeding queen 11 weeks post-parturition were assessed by routine and specialised histological methods and polymerase chain reaction. The breeding queen showed strong seropositivity using CFT (titre 1/32), IFA (titre phase I 1/8192 and phase II 1/8192) and ELISA; however, the reproductive tract showed no evidence of pathology or C burnetii infection. A number of cattery-confined cats were identified as seropositive to phase II and/or phase I C burnetii. Serological detection of C burnetii in a breeding cattery linked to a Q fever outbreak indicates likely infection by this bacterium in Australian feline populations, re-confirming the relevance of this zoonosis.
Feline anaplastic oligodendroglioma: long-term remission through radiation therapy and chemotherapy
Authors: Tamura Masahiro , Hasegawa Daisuke , Uchida Kazuyuki , Kuwabara Takayuki , Mizoguchi Shunta , Ochi Naoko , Fujita Michio
Published: May 2013

A 10-year-old spayed female Abyssinian cat was presented with cluster limbic focal seizures with secondary generalisation. From magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, the cat was diagnosed clinically as having a glioma in the left piriform lobe, and hypofractionated radiation therapy (RT) was performed using a linear accelerator. Although the tumour size had reduced significantly at 4 months after RT, recurrence was observed at 11 months after RT. Additional RT was performed and was effective; however, recurrence was observed at 11 months after the additional RT. Chemotherapy was started using nimustine (ACNU; 30 mg/m2, every 6 weeks). Tumour regression was confirmed by follow-up MRIs from 2 to 5 months after starting chemotherapy. Four years and 2 months after the first presentation the cat died as a result of tumour lysis syndrome following treatment of a high-grade lymphoma. Histopathological diagnosis of the brain tumour confirmed anaplastic oligodendroglioma.
Trouble Comes to Me
Authors: Lloyd Justine
Published: May 2013

This essay explores the role of media production within a framework of urban citizenship. Urban citizenship is defined in terms of strategies rather than location: not as a “bundle of rights, but as a struggle for expanding the public sphere.” The possibilities of using media narratives and images to negotiate a place in the city are explored through a set of short films produced by participants in community arts projects in Sydney. I trace how media forms are a key to attending to the “unreal” materialities and temporalities of everyday dimensions of citizenship within states of exclusion.
Clinical impact of early brain atrophy in clinically isolated syndromes
Authors: Pérez-Miralles F , Sastre-Garriga J , Tintoré M , Arrambide G , Nos C , Perkal H , Río J , Edo MC , Horga A , Castilló J , Auger C , Huerga E , Rovira A , Montalban X
Published: May 2013

Background:

The impact of global and tissue-specific brain atrophy on conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS) after a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is not fully gauged.

Objectives:

We aimed to determine the magnitude and clinical relevance of brain volume dynamics in the first year after a CIS.

Methods:

We assessed 176 patients with CIS within 3 months of onset, clinically and by conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, at baseline and 1 year after clinical onset. We determined the percentage of brain volume change (PBVC) and the brain parenchymal (BPF), grey matter (GMF) and white matter (WMF) fractions.

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 53 months (SD = 16.8): 76 patients (43%) experienced a second attack, 32 (18%) fulfilled MRI-only 2005 McDonald criteria and 68 (39%) remained as CIS. Statistically significant decreases in the volume measures tested were observed in patients with a second attack, for BPF and PBVC; in both MS groups for GMF; whereas in all groups, the WMF was unchanged. Patients with a second attack had larger PBVC decreases (− 0.65% versus + 0.059%; p < 0.001). PBVC decreases below − 0.817% independently predicted shorter times to a second attack.

Conclusions:

Global brain and grey matter volume loss occurred within the first year after a CIS; brain volume loss predicted conversion to MS.
Parametric optimization of the investment casting process using utility concept and Taguchi method
Authors: Pattnaik Sarojrani , Karunakar DB , Jha PK
Published: May 2013

Investment casting process, also known as lost wax process, is utilized when complex detail, undercuts or non-machinable features and accurate parts are desired. It begins with a wax pattern which is an exact replica of the as cast part. So the properties of the wax patterns are ultimately passed on to the castings. This article highlights the application of utility concept with Taguchi method for the multi-response optimization of wax patterns made by the investment casting process. The wax injection process parameters considered are injection temperature, injection pressure and injection time, whereas the responses are linear shrinkage, surface roughness and penetration, respectively. The experiments are planned as per Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array. The utility concept converts multi-response optimization problem into single response optimization problem and thereafter Taguchi method is applied. The results indicate that injection pressure is the most significant process parameter influencing the quality characteristic of the wax patterns. The confirmation tests with optimal levels of injection process parameters are carried out to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed method. The results are found to be within the confidence interval. The optimization results revealed that a combination of lower level of injection temperature and injection time along with higher level of injection pressure leads to overall improvement in the quality of the wax patterns. It has also been established that there is some quality loss in terms of surface finish of the wax patterns in multi-response optimization as compared to single response optimization, though an overall improvement in the process is being observed.
The interactive researcher as a virtual participant: A Habermasian interpretation
Authors: Sandberg Fredrik , Wallo Andreas
Published: May 2013

This article explores the role of the interactive researcher by drawing on Jürgen Habermas’s theory of communicative action to develop the concept of virtual participant. An ideal interactive research project is used to explore the issues faced by interactive researchers in three phases – initial, implementation and conclusion. In each phase, an interactive research project is used to demonstrate the issues that are discussed. First, this article argues that the concept of communicative rationality can be helpful in understanding how mutually trusting relationships between practitioners and researchers can be established at the beginning of a project. Second, it argues that the idea of taking a virtual stand on validity claims can be used during a project to engage a performative attitude and achieve mutual understanding with actors in the practice system. Third, this article argues that the concept of the virtual participant can explain how the interactive researcher can engage in performative action without becoming captive to the practice system. The concept of the virtual participant helps to enhance understanding of the complexity of the role of the interactive researcher.
Using Narrative Therapy to Treat Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
Authors: Scott Ned , Hanstock Tanya L. , Patterson-Kane Lisa
Published: May 2013

Eating disorders have proved resistant to therapy with high relapse rates. Enhanced cognitive behavior therapy (CBT-E) is the favored treatment of choice but has been criticized for placing a similar emphasis on controlling eating behavior as the psychopathology it seeks to counter. In contrast, narrative therapy focuses on the development of an anti-eating disorder lifestyle and values. Evidence for this approach primarily consists of informal case study material. This case study describes a 28-year-old woman with a recurring history of anorexia nervosa, who self-referred to a university psychology clinic, due to fears of imminent relapse. The client received 10 sessions of narrative therapy and made significant progress in externalizing her eating disorder, in lessening her adherence to the ascetic values underpinning it, and in developing/expressing her non-eating disorder character and values. This case study provides evidence of the potential effectiveness of narrative therapy and contains valuable learning for clinicians regarding its implementation.
In Situ Aortobiiliac Reconstruction of Infected Aneurysm Using a Single Superficial Femoral Vein
Authors: Grass Fabian , Deglise Sébastien , Corpataux Jean-Marc , Saucy François
Published: May 2013

Objective:

To demonstrate successful in situ aortoiliac reconstruction of an infected infrarenal aneurysm using one single superficial femoral vein (SFV).

Methods:

In situ reconstruction using the right SFV sutured in end-to-end anastomosis with the aorta and distally with the right common iliac artery and in end-to-side anastomosis with the left common iliac artery.

Results:

The operating time was less than reported for aortic in situ reconstruction with bilateral SFV harvesting. The duplex scan 3 months postoperatively showed permeability of the bypass without any anastomotic stenosis or pseudoaneurysm. The right common femoral, popliteal, and greater saphenous veins were patent without thrombus, and the patient did not complain about peripheral edema.

Conclusions:

The use of only one instead of both the SFVs for aortobiiliac in situ reconstruction might be a way to reduce operating time and allow autogenous venous reconstruction even in patients with limited availability of venous material.
Game for Peace: progressive education in peace operations
Authors: Nannini Christopher J , Appleget Jeffrey A , Hernandez Alejandro S
Published: May 2013

We present a modeling and simulation approach that clearly increases the efficacy of training and education efforts for peace support operations. Our discussion involves how a computer simulation, the Peace Support Operations Model, is integrated into a training and education venue in Kyrgyzstan for a “ Game for Peace.” On September 12–23, 2011 members of NATO’s Partnership for Peace Training and Education Centers collaborated to instruct a United Nations’ Peacekeeping Operations course at the Kyrgyz Separate Rifle Battalion in Bujum, Kyrgyzstan. Phase II of the course was also conducted on October 17–21, 2011 for members of the Peacekeeping Brigade of the Kazakhstan Army (KAZBRIG) in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Although such courses are a mainstay in NATO support in preparing member nations for peace support operations, the application of a computer simulation is unique. We relate the decision to use a computer simulation to support the training event and provide an overview of the methodology for planning and executing the game. Insights from the game about training and educating future peacekeepers and lessons for using computer simulations are instructive for future efforts and mark the way to leverage the advantages of computer simulations.
Validating indirect fire models with field experiments
Authors: Åkesson Bernt M. , Lappi Esa , Pettersson Ville H. , Malmi Eric , Syrjänen Sampo , Vulli Marko , Stenius Kari
Published: May 2013

Field experiments were used to evaluate three different indirect fire models: the cookie cutter and the Carleton damage functions and a simplified physical model for fragmenting ammunition. Data from three field tests, in which a total of 66 mortar bombs (120 mm high explosive) were fired in flat terrain, is used for validation.

The results imply that no universal parameters, that would fit the results, can be found for the damage function models while the physical model predicted the field test results consistently without parameter fitting.
Unexpected but Most Welcome
Authors: Daigneault Pierre-Marc , Jacob Steve
Published: May 2013

Although combining methods is nothing new, more contributions about why and how to mix methods for validation purposes are needed. This article presents a case of validating the inferences drawn from the Participatory Evaluation Measurement Instrument, an instrument that purports to measure stakeholder participation in evaluation. Although the process was intended to be almost exclusively quantitative, one of its components unexpectedly turned into a mixed methods study. This, in turn, spurred on a cycle of instrument revision and further quantitative validation. Whereas the validation evidence is modest and tentative, it suggests that the revised version of the Participatory Evaluation Measurement Instrument offers a better fit with the respondents’ opinions regarding the participation level of selected evaluation cases. The article concludes with a brief discussion on the added value of mixed methods for validation purposes.
The utility of an online diagnostic decision support system (Isabel) in general practice: a process evaluation
Authors: Henderson Emily J , Rubin Greg P
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the utility of Isabel, an online diagnostic decision support system developed by Isabel Healthcare primarily for secondary medical care, in the general practice setting.

Design

Focus groups were conducted with clinicians to understand why and how they used the system. A modified online post-use survey asked practitioners about its impact on their decision-making. Normalization process theory (NPT) was used as a theoretical framework to determine whether the system could be incorporated into routine clinical practice.

Setting

The system was introduced by NHS County Durham and Darlington in the UK in selected general practices as a three-month pilot.

Participants

General practitioners and nurse practitioners who had access to Isabel as part of the Primary Care Trust's pilot.

Main outcome measures

General practitioners’ views, experiences and usage of the system.

Results

Seven general practices agreed to pilot Isabel. Two practices did not subsequently use it. The remaining five practices conducted searches on 16 patients. Post-use surveys ( n = 10) indicated that Isabel had little impact on diagnostic decision-making. Focus group participants stated that, although the diagnoses produced by Isabel in general did not have an impact on their decision-making, they would find the tool useful if it were better tailored to the primary care setting. Our analysis concluded that normalization was not likely to occur in its current form.

Conclusions

Isabel was of limited utility in this short pilot study and may need further modification for use in general practice.