bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
US oil strategy in the Caspian Basin: Hegemony through interdependence
Authors: Raphael Sam , Stokes Doug
Published: May 2014

President Obama has continued to emphasise the strategic importance of stable energy supplies to US national security interests, with the oil-rich Central Asian region a key part of global energy markets. This region has seen significant economic and strategic inroads by the United States over the last decade in a broad attempt to integrate it within the US-led liberal order. This article examines these policy developments and draws upon theoretical debates on US grand strategy to argue that, rather than necessarily signalling increasing geopolitical rivalry with other powers such as China and Russia, US policy is designed primarily to incorporate the region through deepening market interdependence. As such, while there is a complex mix of geopolitical rivalry and economic interdependence developing in the Caspian, even in the face of purported US decline and increase of its domestic supplies through fracking, Washington remains committed to acting as a hegemonic stabiliser in the Caspian.
Employee Perceptions of the Effectiveness of Diversity Management in the Australian Public Service
Authors: Soldan Zhanna , Nankervis Alan
Published: May 2014

The changing demographics of Australian society and its workforce have propelled Australian Public Service (APS) organizations to proactively engage in diversity management (DM). Despite this growing imperative for DM in the APS, there has been little inquiry into the effectiveness of such programs. The aim was to investigate how an APS agency was transforming its commitment to DM into action. The findings revealed that a significant gap exists between the rhetoric of what the DM policy seeks to achieve and the reality experienced by employees in the areas of targeted recruitment, employee retention, and employee development. The practical implications of findings for wider stakeholders responsible for designing and implementing DM are discussed and limitations are noted together with recommendations for future research.
“How Much Economic Value Does My Credential Have?”
Authors: Stuart G. Rob , Rios-Aguilar Cecilia , Deil-Amen Regina
Published: May 2014

Community colleges play a key role in educating the large number of non-traditional, low-income, and under-prepared students who have entered higher education in the past several decades. Despite increased access, community colleges are struggling to graduate students. Most, if not all, strategies provided by scholars to improve college completion rates assume increased student engagement will enhance persistence and success. Existing theories of persistence overlook the dynamic influence of job markets for the students community colleges serve. Using National Center for Education Statistics and the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, this article draws on Tinto’s theory of persistence and proposes a new framework that acknowledges the role of job opportunities and of work–family–schooling quandaries in community college students’ choices about persistence. Our model builds on the following relevant notions: (a) human capital theory, (b) social integration, and (c) socio-academic integration. Our model has important implications for leaders who aim to better align students’ college experiences with their desired careers and available jobs.
Effect of combined fatigue and chemical aging conditions on the mechanical property, structure, and morphology of styrene–butadiene–styrene elastomer
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Chen Jian , Li Guangxian , Liu Xiaolin , Liao Xia , Yang Qi
Published: May 2014

The mechanical property, structure, and morphology of styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) thermoplastic elastomer under the combined fatigue and chemical aging conditions were investigated. The results indicated that under the fatigue condition alone, the tensile strength of SBS increased initially and then decreased with the increase in fatigue time. Cracks formed on the surface of samples. Through transmission electron microscopy analysis, it was found that the phase morphology was influenced by fatigue condition. However, there was no significant change in the molecular weight and chemical structure of SBS. Under combined fatigue and chemical aging conditions, the chemical aging process could be accelerated by the fatigue condition. Molecular weight and gel content significantly increased with the increase of fatigue condition. Under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation alone, there was no crack on the surface of SBS. After adding the fatigue condition, a large deterioration formed on the surface of SBS sample. The chemical aging condition such as UV light and temperature could also promote the fatigue aging process. With the addition or increase of chemical aging condition, the tensile strength of SBS greatly decreased. The oxygen content and gel content significantly increased, and there were a lot of cracks forming on the surface of SBS sample.
Influence of different organomodified clays on the viscoelastic response of ethylene vinyl acetate//poly(vinyl chloride)/organoclay nanocomposites
Authors: Gehlen Aline , Ornaghi Junior Heitor Luiz , Pistor Vinicius , Covas José António , Zeni Mara , Zattera Ademir José
Published: May 2014

Nanocomposites were prepared by melt mixing in a twin-screw extruder 5% by weight of Cloisite® Na+, 15A or 30B, with an ethylene vinyl acetate/poly(vinyl chloride) (EVA/PVC) blend (90/10% by weight). The dispersion was assessed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), oscillatory rheometry, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). XRD and TEM analyses revealed an intercalated morphology and an exfoliated morphology for the composites containing Cloisite 15A and 30B, respectively. Rheometrical and DMA data demonstrated that the presence of PVC in the blend not only improved the interaction with Cloisite 30B but also acted as a mechanical reinforcement.
Inequality, the welfare system and satisfaction with democracy in South Korea
Authors: Kang WooJin
Published: May 2014

In an emerging democracy one of the most important components of democratic consolidation is the public’s attitude toward democracy. In this regard, emerging democracies in the East Asian region pose an interesting puzzle, because satisfaction with democracy is higher in authoritarian countries than in democratic countries. Scholars have praised Korean democracy as a miraculous case due to its successful democratic consolidation. Paradoxically, Korean democracy has shown weakness in dealing with rapidly increasing inequality after the International Monetary Fund economic crisis of 1997 and Korean citizens’ satisfaction with democracy has eroded. How does one explain these perplexing results? The empirical findings of this study indicate that citizens’ concerns about rapidly increasing inequality and dissatisfaction with the welfare regime were significantly related to their level of satisfaction with democracy. These results suggest that new democracies faced with similar economic challenges need to respond more competently to citizens’ demands for effective policy performance in order to achieve unwavering support for democracy.
The gender gap in political participation in Muslim-majority countries
Authors: Coffé Hilde , Dilli Selin
Published: May 2014

This study offers a comprehensive investigation of the gender gap in political participation among 13 Muslim-majority nations using World Values Survey data and applying multilevel analyses. It reveals a substantial gender gap, with men being significantly more likely to be politically active compared to women. As suggested in studies on advanced Western democracies, this gap can be partly explained by gender differences in socioeconomic characteristics and political attitudes. Furthermore, our analysis shows major cross-national differences in the extent of the gender gap among Muslim-majority nations. In contrast to what we had expected, these cross-national differences cannot be explained by levels of state Islamisation, modernisation or societal gender equality. Implications of these findings and suggestion for further research are discussed.
Mobile learning: Using application Auralbook to learn aural skills
Authors: Chen Chi Wai Jason
Published: May 2014

This study is to investigate the effectiveness of using mobile devices such as iPhone/iPad/android phone/tablet to facilitate mobile learning in aural skills. The application Auralbook was designed in 2011 by an engineer/musician to use mobile devices to learn aural skills. This application enables students to sing, record, clap and answer questions generated by the computer based on the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) syllabus for more than 100,000 users worldwide. This study is to a) examine the effectiveness of using application Auralbook to learn aural skills, b) observe the progress of learning during the aural musicianship development, and c) propose a theoretical framework in using mobile devices to learn aural skills. The performance scores in each area, such as clapping, singing, feature (stylistic recognition), are analyzed. Research findings indicate that the functions clapping and singing score better than the other function – feature (stylistic recognition). The frequent users show significant progress in clapping and feature (stylistic recognition) at the beginner level, and singing at the intermediate level in this study.
Influence of Communication Partner’s Gender on Language
Authors: Hancock Adrienne B. , Rubin Benjamin A.
Published: May 2014

Forty participants (20 male) had 3-minute conversations with trained male and female communication partners in a repeated-measures, within-subject design. Eighty 3-minute conversations were transcribed and coded for dependent clauses, fillers, tag questions, intensive adverbs, negations, hedges, personal pronouns, self-references, justifiers, and interruptions. Results suggest no significant changes in language based on speaker gender. However, when speaking with a female, participants interrupted more and used more dependent clauses than when speaking with a male. There was no significant interaction to suggest that the language differences based on communication partner was specific to one gender group. These results are discussed in context of previous research, communication accommodation theory, and general process model for gendered language.
Patterns of psychological adaptation to divorce after a long-term marriage
Authors: Perrig-Chiello Pasqualina , Hutchison Sara , Morselli Davide
Published: May 2014

Despite the increase in divorces after a long relationship, this trend remains a neglected research topic. The present contribution seeks to identify patterns of psychological adaptation to divorce after a long-term marriage. Data from a questionnaire study with 308 persons aged 45–65 years, who divorced after having been married for an average of 25 years, are presented. Exploratory latent profile analysis with various well-being outcomes revealed five groups: one with average adapted, one with resilients, and three small groups with seriously affected individuals. Discriminant variables between the groups were personality, time since separation, a new relationship, and financial situation. Age, gender, and length of marriage played a marginal role; satisfaction with the former marriage and initiator status were not relevant.
Patients’, family caregivers’, and professionals’ perspectives on quality of palliative care: A qualitative study
Authors: Vedel Isabelle , Ghadi Véronique , Lapointe Liette , Routelous Christelle , Aegerter Philippe , Guirimand Frédéric
Published: May 2014

Background:

The quality of palliative care is the foremost preoccupation of clinicians, decision-makers, and managers as well as patients and families. Major input from healthcare professionals is required to develop indicators for the quality of palliative care, but the involvement of patients and families is also recognized as essential, even though this is rarely achieved in practice.

Aim:

The objectives of this study were to identify (1) convergences and divergences in the points of view of different stakeholders (patients, families, healthcare professionals) relative to key elements of the quality of palliative care and (2) avenues for refining existing indicators of quality of palliative care.

Design:

Cross-sectional qualitative study.

Setting/participants:

There were six settings: two hospital-based palliative care units, one hospice, and three other medical units where a mobile palliative care team intervene. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 61 patients, families, healthcare professionals, and managers.

Results:

Four major dimensions of quality of care are deemed critical by patients, their families, and professionals: comprehensive support for the patients themselves, clinical management, involvement of families, and care for the imminently dying person and death. Differences exist between various stakeholders regarding perceptions of some dimensions of quality of care. Avenues for improving current quality of care indicators are identified.

Conclusion:

Our study results can be used to refine or develop quality indicators that truly mirror the points of view of patients and their families and of healthcare professionals.
1.5-T multiparametric MRI using PI-RADS: a region by region analysis to localize the index-tumor of prostate cancer in patients undergoing prostatectomy
Authors: Reisæter Lars A , Fütterer Jurgen J , Halvorsen Ole J , Nygård Yngve , Biermann Martin , Andersen Erling , Gravdal Karsten , Haukaas Svein , Monssen Jan A , Huisman Henkjan J , Akslen Lars A , Beisland Christian , Rørvik Jarle
Published: May 2014

Background

The use of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) to detect and localize prostate cancer has increased in recent years. In 2010, the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) published guidelines for mpMRI and introduced the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) for scoring the different parameters.

Purpose

To evaluate the reliability and diagnostic performance of endorectal 1.5-T mpMRI using the PI-RADS to localize the index tumor of prostate cancer in patients undergoing prostatectomy.

Material and Methods

This institutional review board IRB-approved, retrospective study included 63 patients (mean age, 60.7 years, median PSA, 8.0). Three observers read mpMRI parameters (T2W, DWI, and DCE) using the PI-RADS, which were compared with the results from whole-mount histopathology that analyzed 27 regions of interest. Inter-observer agreement was calculated as well as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predicted value (NPV) by dichotomizing the PI-RADS criteria scores ≥3. A receiver-operating curve (ROC) analysis was performed for the different MR parameters and overall score.

Results

Inter-observer agreement on the overall score was 0.41. The overall score in the peripheral zone achieved sensitivities of 0.41, 0.60, and 0.55 with an NPV of 0.80, 0.84, and 0.83, and in the transitional zone, sensitivities of 0.26, 0.15, and 0.19 with an NPV of 0.92, 0.91, and 0.92 for Observers 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The ROC analysis showed a significantly increased area under the curve (AUC) for the overall score when compared to T2W alone for two of the three observers.

Conclusion

1.5 T mpMRI using the PI-RADS to localize the index tumor achieved moderate reliability and diagnostic performance.
A Radiographic Assessment of Failed Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Waltz Robert A. , Solomon Daniel J. , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: May 2014

Background:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showing an “intact” anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft may not correlate well with examination findings. Reasons for an ACL graft dysfunction may be from malpositioned tunnels, deficiency of secondary stabilizers, repeat injuries, or a combination of factors.

Purpose:

To evaluate the concordance/discordance of an ACL graft assessment between an arthroscopic evaluation, physical examination, and MRI and secondarily to evaluate the contributing variables to discordance.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 50 ACL revisions in 48 patients were retrospectively reviewed. The ACL graft status was recorded separately based on Lachman and pivot-shift test data, arthroscopic findings from operative reports, and MRI evaluation and was categorized into 3 groups: intact, partial tear, or complete tear. Two independent evaluators reviewed all of the preoperative radiographs and MRI scans, and interrater and intrarater reliability were evaluated. Concordance and discordance between a physical examination, arthroscopic evaluation, and MRI evaluation of the ACL graft were calculated. Graft position and type, mechanical axis, collateral ligament injuries, chondral and meniscal injuries, and mechanism of injury were evaluated as possible contributing factors using univariate and multivariate analyses. Sensitivity and specificity of MRI to detect a torn ACL graft and meniscal and chondral injuries on arthroscopic evaluation were calculated.

Results:

The interobserver and intraobserver reliability for the MRI evaluation of the ACL graft were moderate, with combined κ values of .41 and .49, respectively. The femoral tunnel position was vertical in 88% and anterior in 46%. On MRI, the ACL graft was read as intact in 24%; however, no graft was intact on arthroscopic evaluation or physical examination. The greatest discordance was between the physical examination and MRI, with a rate of 52%. An insidious-onset mechanism of injury was significantly associated with discordance between MRI and arthroscopic evaluation of the ACL ( P = .0003) and specifically with an intact ACL graft on MRI ( P = .0014). The sensitivity and specificity of MRI to detect an ACL graft tear were 60% and 87%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Caution should be used when evaluating a failed ACL graft with MRI, especially in the absence of an acute mechanism of injury, as it may be unreliable and inconsistent.
A Canada-Wide Examination of the Criteria Employed for Learning Disability Documentation in English Speaking Postsecondary Institutions
Authors: Gyenes Judit , Siegel Linda S.
Published: May 2014

An examination was conducted to address issues concerning the assessment of students with learning disabilities (LD) in English speaking Canadian postsecondary institutions. These issues concern the nature of appropriate and evidence-based assessment and whether there is fair access to academic accommodations for students with LD. Access to academic accommodations is granted when an acceptable psycho-educational assessment provides an LD diagnosis, but what “acceptable” means appears very inconsistent across settings. This examination has ascertained that there is still no commonly accepted and empirically based procedure for the assessment of LD. Instead, a confusing variety of assessment practices exist, resulting in Canadian postsecondary accommodations practices being opaque and, therefore, discriminatory and vulnerable to legal challenges.
Managing Sales Compensation Across the Economic Cycle
Authors: Madhani Pankaj M.
Published: May 2014

Sales organizations need to closely scrutinize the role of their sales force and its overall compensation costs. If organizations adapt to the changing internal and external environment, they are likely to be more successful and profitable. The sales force compensation plan should be compatible with the changing nature of the job, depending on stages of economic cycle. The economic life cycle stages are likely to be a key determinant of sales compensation strategies and their effectiveness in achieving organizational goals. Sales organizations must design a compensation strategy based on sales efforts and market dynamics according to economic cycle. Sales organizations must reassess their sales force structure and associated compensation plan across the economic cycle. This article illustrates economic as well as a noneconomic analysis for optimal choice between direct sales reps and independent reps. Various frameworks provided in this article will help managers of sales organizations in effectively managing compensation costs across the economic cycle.
Semi-Markov models for interval censored transient cognitive states with back transitions and a competing risk
Authors: Wei Shaoceng , Kryscio Richard J
Published: May 2014

Continuous-time multi-state stochastic processes are useful for modeling the flow of subjects from intact cognition to dementia with mild cognitive impairment and global impairment as intervening transient cognitive states and death as a competing risk. Each subject's cognition is assessed periodically resulting in interval censoring for the cognitive states while death without dementia is not interval censored. Since back transitions among the transient states are possible, Markov chains are often applied to this type of panel data. In this manuscript, we apply a semi-Markov process in which we assume that the waiting times are Weibull distributed except for transitions from the baseline state, which are exponentially distributed and in which we assume no additional changes in cognition occur between two assessments. We implement a quasi-Monte Carlo (QMC) method to calculate the higher order integration needed for likelihood estimation. We apply our model to a real dataset, the Nun Study, a cohort of 461 participants.
The Association Between Passive Smoking and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhu Bo , Wu Xiaomei , Wang Xin , Zheng Quanmei , Sun Guifan
Published: May 2014

The number of people with diabetes has been exponentially increasing. A number of reports in the literature have suggested that exposure to passive smoke may play a key role in the development of diabetes; however, the association has not been jointly summarized yet. In this meta-analysis, 2 databases were searched to identify studies, and the references of these studies were scanned for further studies. Fourteen studies on the relationship between passive smoking and diabetes were included. After all the studies were pooled, the results showed that passive smoking was significantly associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in a random model. The subgroup analysis results were consistent with overall results regardless of type of study design, age, gender, adjustment of dependent variables, area, or study quality. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the overall results were reliable. There was no publication bias observed in the selected studies.
Towards level playing fields? A time trend analysis of young people’s participation in club-organised sports
Authors: Vandermeerschen Hanne , Vos Steven , Scheerder Jeroen
Published: May 2014

Over the last 40 years, Sport for All policies – aiming at encouraging the sports participation of all citizens, regardless of age, sex, social class, ethnic origin, etc. – were implemented in a number of European countries. This study examines the extent to which a democratisation of club-organised youth sports has occurred. The data are drawn from a large repeated cross-sectional survey among high school boys and girls (aged 13–18) in Flanders, Belgium. Data collected in 1989 ( N = 2088), 1999 ( N = 1820) and 2009 ( N = 1420) are analysed, using multilevel logistic regression. Results indicate that social stratification of club-organised sports participation still persists. Age, sex and socio-economic status (SES) continue to determine the likelihood of club involvement by Flemish youth. For boys, the impact of SES has increased. Also parental sporting capital affects club participation. However, in terms of sex, differences in participation have diminished over time.
Struggling on the Newstart unemployment benefit in Australia: The experience of a neoliberal form of employment assistance
Authors: Morris Alan , Wilson Shaun
Published: May 2014

The low level of the Newstart (unemployment benefit) payment has become a major source of concern about Australia’s willingness and ability to protect unemployed Australians from poverty. Despite this disquiet, there has been little scholarly examination of the implications of living on Newstart. In this article, through the use of a survey and in-depth interviews, we examine features of everyday life for Newstart recipients in the Sydney area, experiences that reveal the scarring potential of low benefits. The article illustrates that for a majority of interview participants, the most basic items were difficult to purchase and many of the interviewees were living in inadequate and even unsafe situations owing to an inability to afford satisfactory accommodation. For some, their lack of disposable income had severe health implications. Social isolation was a common phenomenon, and many of the interviewees found that the low payment made finding employment a lot more challenging.
The use of restraint in four general hospital emergency departments in Australia
Authors: Gerace Adam , Pamungkas Dewi R , Oster Candice , Thomson Del , Muir-Cochrane Eimear
Published: May 2014

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate restraint use in Australian emergency departments (EDs).

Method:

A retrospective audit of restraint incidents in four EDs (from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2011).

Results:

The restraint rate was 0.04% of total ED presentations. Males and females were involved in similar numbers of incidents. Over 90% of restrained patients had a mental illness diagnosis and were compulsorily hospitalised. Mechanical restraint with the use of soft shackles was the main method used. Restraint was enacted to prevent harm to self and/or others. Median incident duration was 2 hours 5 minutes.

Conclusions:

In order to better integrate the needs of mental health clients, consideration is needed as to what improvements to procedures and the ED environment can be made. EDs should particularly focus on reducing restraint duration and the use of hard shackles.
Nocardia cyriacigeorgica as the causative agent of mandibular osteomyelitis (lumpy jaw) in a cat
Authors: Soto Esteban , Arauz Maziel , Gallagher Christa Ann , Illanes Oscar
Published: May 2014

An unusual case of osteomyelitis caused by Nocardia cyriacigeorgica infection and resulting in mandibular osteomyelitis and cellulitis (lumpy jaw) is described in a young cat. A 1-cm hard nodular mass was an incidental finding in the right mandible of a 14-month-old cat during routine physical examination. The lesion was fast growing, reaching up to 6 cm in its largest dimension over a 5-week period. A core biopsy of the affected mandible revealed foci of osteolysis, woven bone formation, and a few large clusters of filamentous bacteria surrounded by fine eosinophilic amorphous material bordered by neutrophils, plasma cells, macrophages, and occasional multinucleated giant cells. Pure cultures of acid-fast variable, Gram-positive filamentous bacteria were recovered on blood and chocolate agar plates at 48-hr postinoculation. On amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA and 65-kDa heat shock protein genes, the microorganisms were identified as N. cyriacigeorgica, within the actinomycetes.
Feline spinal cord gliomas: Clinicopathologic and diagnostic features of seven cases
Authors: Hammond James J. , deLahunta Alexander , Glass Eric N. , Kent Marc , Summers Brian A. , Miller Andrew D.
Published: May 2014

Intraparenchymal spinal cord tumors in the cat are rarely reported and often as single case reports. In the current study, the clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), histologic, and immunohistochemical features of 7 cases of intraparenchymal spinal cord tumors in the cat are described. All cats were domestic breed, ranged from 4 to 12 years of age (median 8 years), and included spayed females (5/7) and neutered males (2/7). The duration of clinical signs ranged from 2 weeks to 3 months. MRI revealed lesions that were hyperintense on T2-weighted images with variable contrast enhancement. All 7 tumors had histologic features consistent with glial origin: 3 were astrocytic (gemistocytic or fibrous), and 2 were oligoastrocytic. Single cases of oligodendroglioma and gliomatosis cerebri were also present in the study. Glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity was robust in the tumors that were predominately astrocytic, and the gliomatosis cerebri case had extensive BLA.36 and Iba1 immunoreactivity. Ki-67 immunoreactivity was variable and most abundant in the case of malignant oligoastrocytoma. The majority of peritumoral lymphocytes were CD3 positive. The current study expands upon the known reports of spinal cord neoplasia in the cat, confirms a caudal cervical segment predilection, and includes a report of gliomatosis cerebri in the spinal cord of a cat.
“It Is My Destiny as a Woman”
Authors: Afiyanti Yati , Solberg Shirley M.
Published: May 2014

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to provide a greater understanding of the experience of the new Indonesian mother. Design: This study was a hermeneutic phenomenological study. Data were obtained from 13 first time Indonesian mothers through semi-structured interviews. Findings: Two main themes were identified: “trying to be a good mother “ and “confirming my destiny as a woman.” A number of subthemes were identified to understand of how women in rural West Java perceived the meaning of being a new mother. These themes and subthemes described the woman’s responsibilities as a new mother and some of the challenges that she accepted as a part of her destiny. Conclusion: This study provides nurses and others with insights into the experiences of Indonesian women with early motherhood, their feelings about taking on the mothering role, and some of their needs during this period.
Teaching Our Own Racism
Authors: Brookfield Stephen
Published: May 2014

Anti-racist pedagogy typically focuses on helping learners identify and counter racist ideas and actions they detect in themselves and others. Sympathetically and skillfully, the leader of this activity is charged with helping people detect subtle racism as evident in racial micro-aggressions and aversive racism. This pedagogic process is crucial and valuable, but risks avoiding a powerful dynamic of how educators can use their own personal, autobiographical experience to model how they themselves struggle to detect and immobilize (as much as that is possible) racist instincts in themselves. If racism is understood as a learned ideology, then it is reasonable to expect that even adult educators committed to dismantling racism have internalized aspects of this ideology. Instead of trying to purge themselves of these, conceal, or damp them down, an alternative educational approach is to make these racist inclinations public and to engage learners in a consideration of how to recognize and challenge these.
Knowledge and Emotions in Cross-Racial Dialogues
Authors: Manglitz Elaine , Guy Talmadge C. , Merriweather Lisa R.
Published: May 2014

Our society reflects a kaleidoscope of differences in terms of race, ethnicity, class, religion, and gender identity. These differences are evident from the boardroom to the classroom in higher education and can result in impaired communication when race is the topic of discussion. To effectively facilitate race-based dialogues, adult educators must deliberately and intentionally build their cognitive and emotive capacity. Capacity building involves adult educators acknowledging their privilege and systems of advantage, attaining cultural knowledge, taking emotional risks, and developing the ability to better organize formal learning and capitalize on informal learning opportunities, to engage in more genuine and appropriate racial dialogues. As we are ushered through the 21st century, issues of race and racism will remain as salient as ever as long as the disturbing silence, surrounding them in our work and school spaces, is allowed to persist. Considerations for the development of cognitive and emotive capacities are described to assist adult educators in contributing to a more just society.
Finite element simulation of shape memory alloy wires using a user material subroutine: Parametric study on heating rate, conductivity, and heat convection
Authors: Alipour Amin , Kadkhodaei Mahmoud , Ghaei Abbas
Published: May 2014

In this work, the thermal and mechanical responses of shape memory alloys are studied under different loading and boundary conditions. To this end, a common one-dimensional constitutive model for shape memory alloys capturing both pseudoelasticity and shape memory effect is implemented into ABAQUS commercial finite element package via a user material subroutine. The main benefit of this one-dimensional user material is its capability to simulate any mechanical as well as thermal loading path. Hence, it can be utilized in finite element simulation of any complicated smart structure consisting of shape memory alloy wires. To validate the proposed numerical approach, its predictions are shown to be in a good agreement with those obtained by analytical and other approved numerical solutions under different thermal and mechanical loading and boundary conditions. Since shape memory alloys are integrated into many applications as actuation elements, the actuation response of an axial shape memory alloy actuator heated from one end is studied using finite element method. Finally, the developed user material is employed in finite element simulation of a smart landing gear as a real-world smart structure.
Experimental analysis of radiation heat–based energy harvesting through pyroelectricity
Authors: Erturun Ugur , Green Christopher , Richeson Matthew L , Mossi Karla
Published: May 2014

Fluctuating heat radiating from the environment is an unused and unknown source. This study investigates pyroelectric energy harvesting as a way to tap a fluctuating radiation heat source. Appropriate circuitry coupling and the frequency of the radiation source play a key role in the ability to harvest this energy. Hence, a design of experiment approach that limits factors to temperature change frequency, electrical resistance, and capacitance is utilized to develop a full-factorial model at three levels for each factor. In order to quantify and maximize the harvested energy, a response surface model was developed. The optimum values for temperature change frequency, resistance, and capacitance were predicted to be 0.05 Hz, 7330 kΩ, and 100 µF, respectively, for a PZT-5A sample with a volume of 0.684 cm3. The maximum response of 62.89 µJ was predicted for the optimum values.
Changes in the Attitude and Practice Toward End-of-Life Care
Authors: Lam K. W. , Yeung K. W. Au , Lai K. Y. , Cheng F.
Published: May 2014

Introduction:

End-of-life care is affected by the attitude and cultural influence of doctors.

Methods:

To investigate the attitudes and practices of doctors on end-of-life care by questionnaire survey in 2004 and 2008.

Results:

In 2004, 31.7% of the respondents agreed that they “do not attempt resuscitation” (DNAR) form was useful and it rose to 54.4% in 2008. A higher proportion of respondents in 2008 claimed that they signed the DNAR form for documentation and accepted withholding noninvasive life-sustaining treatment compared to 2004. In 2004, 50% of the respondents regarded their training and education on handling DNAR issue as inadequate.

Conclusion:

Documentation by DNAR form is gaining wider acceptance. Many doctors are expected to have more training and coaching on communication for handling such sensitive issues.
Effect of high-dose ciclosporin on the immune response to primary and booster vaccination in immunocompetent cats
Authors: Roberts Elizabeth S , VanLare Karen A , Roycroft Linda M , King Stephen
Published: May 2014

Ciclosporin (Atopica oral solution for cats 100 mg/ml; Novartis Animal Health) was recently approved for use in cats with feline hypersensitivity dermatitis. The immunosuppressant effect of ciclosporin on the ability of cats to mount an immune response following vaccination was determined. Thirty-two healthy, immunocompetent adult cats (16 cats/group) were treated with either ciclosporin for 56 days at a dose of 24 mg/kg once daily or sham dosed. Prior to treatment, cats had an adequate antibody response to primary vaccination against feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and rabies. Booster vaccination or novel vaccination with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) was administered 28 days after initiation of treatment with ciclosporin. There were no differences between the ciclosporin-treated and control cats for FCV and FPV antibody titers following booster vaccination. There were delays/reductions in antibody response to FHV-1, FeLV and rabies in treated cats; however, adequate protection was achieved in response to all booster vaccinations. Following primary vaccination with FIV, control cats showed a response, but treated cats showed no antibody production. Adverse events commonly associated with ciclosporin treatment, including diarrhea/loose stool, vomiting, salivation and regurgitation, were reported. In adult cats treated with 24 mg/kg/day of ciclosporin (more than three times the therapeutic dose), vaccine titer levels were adequate for protection following booster vaccination. In contrast, treated cats failed to mount a humoral response to a novel (FIV) vaccination, suggesting that memory B-cell immune responses remain intact during repeated high-dose ciclosporin administration in cats, but that primary immune responses are impaired.
Analgesic effects of maxillary and inferior alveolar nerve blocks in cats undergoing dental extractions
Authors: Aguiar Joana , Chebroux Alexandre , Martinez-Taboada Fernando , Leece Elizabeth A
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effects of maxillary and/or inferior alveolar nerve blocks with lidocaine and bupivacaine in cats undergoing dental extractions. Twenty-nine cats were enrolled. Using an adapted composite pain scale, cats were pain scored before the dental procedure and 30 mins, and 1, 2 and 4 h after isoflurane disconnection. Cats were sedated with buprenorphine (20 µg/kg), medetomidine (10 µg/kg) and acepromazine (20 µg/kg) intramuscularly. Anaesthesia was induced using alfaxalone (1–2 mg/kg) intravenously and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Each cat was randomly assigned to receive maxillary and/or inferior alveolar nerve blocks or no nerve blocks prior to dental extractions. Each nerve block was performed using lidocaine (0.25 mg/kg) and bupivacaine (0.25 mg/kg). Heart rate, systolic arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate, end tidal carbon dioxide and isoflurane vaporiser settings were recorded 5 mins before and after the dental extractions, and the difference calculated. Group mean differences (mean ± SD) for heart rate (−9.7 ± 10.6 vs 7.6 ± 9.5 beats/min [nerve block vs control group, respectively], P <0.0001), systolic arterial blood pressure (−10.33 ± 18.44 vs 5.21 ± 15.23 mmHg, P = 0.02) and vaporiser settings (−0.2 ± 0.2 vs 0.1 ± 0.4, P = 0.023) were significantly different between groups. The control group had higher postoperative pain scores (median [interquartile range]) at 2 h (3 [1.75–4.00] vs 1 [0–2], P = 0.008) and 4 h (4 [2–6] vs 2 [1–2], P = 0.006) after the dental extractions. Maxillary and inferior alveolar nerve blocks with lidocaine and bupivacaine administered prior to dental extractions resulted in a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure while allowing for a reduction in isoflurane. Cats receiving nerve blocks had lower postoperative pain scores than the group without nerve blocks.
Numerical study of parametric effects on joint wear in the flexible multibody systems with different flexibilities and clearance sizes
Authors: Zhao Bo , Dai Xu-Dong , Zhang Zhi-Nan , Wu Shi-Hao , Xie You-Bai
Published: May 2014

This paper proposes a numerical approach for the modeling and prediction of wear at revolute clearance joint in flexible multibody mechanical systems by integrating the procedures of wear prediction with multibody dynamics. In the approach, the flexible component was modeled by using absolute nodal coordinate formulation-based element, while the rigid component was described by employing the natural coordinate formulation. The clearance joint was modeled as a dry contact pair, in which the continuous contact force model proposed by Lankanrani and Nikravesh was applied to evaluate the normal contact force, and the friction effect was considered using the LuGre friction model. The calculation of wear was performed by an iterative wear prediction procedure based on Archard’s wear model. Using this approach, a planar slider–crank mechanism including a flexible rod and clearance joint was numerically investigated as a demonstrative example. Furthermore, the effects of the flexibility of the mechanism and the clearance size on the wear at clearance joint were also studied.
Interferon beta treatment of multiple sclerosis increases serum interleukin-7
Authors: Lundström Wangko , Hermanrud Christina , Sjöstrand Maria , Brauner Susanna , Wahren-Herlenius Marie , Olsson Tomas , Karrenbauer Virginija , Hillert Jan , Fogdell-Hahn Anna
Published: May 2014

Background:

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a non-redundant cytokine for T-cell development and survival. The IL-7 signaling pathway has been genetically and functionally associated with several autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to elucidate the effect of the widely used immunomodulatory MS therapy interferon beta (IFNβ) on IL-7 homeostasis.

Methods:

Swedish MS patients were screened for IL-7 concentration in serum and blood cell counts. IL-7 receptor alpha chain (IL-7Rα) expression was determined by semi-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and flow cytometry.

Results:

IFNβ treatment led to significantly increased serum IL-7 levels (mean: 17 pg/ml) compared with healthy controls (mean: 7.6 pg/ml) and natalizumab-treated patients (mean: 5.3 pg/ml). In vitro and in vivo, peripheral blood leukocytes showed decreased IL-7Rα expression and IL-7 consumption upon IFNβ exposure, suggesting that their IL-7 responsiveness is impaired during treatment.

Conclusions:

MS patients undergoing IFNβ treatment have increased serum IL-7 levels and decreased IL-7 consumption. Given IL-7’s important role in T-cell immunity, this relationship may be highly relevant for IFNβ’s treatment efficacy.
Cost-effectiveness of a physiotherapist-led service for orthopaedic outpatients
Authors: Comans Tracy , Raymer Maree , O'Leary Shaun , Smith David , Scuffham Paul
Published: May 2014

Objective

Non-surgical treatment can be effective for many musculoskeletal conditions. Improving access to these options may improve the efficiency of hospitals. The Orthopaedic Physiotherapy Screening Clinic and Multidisciplinary Service offers early comprehensive assessment and coordinated, patient-centred care within a multidisciplinary framework. Our aim was to assess its cost-effectiveness compared with usual orthopaedic care.

Methods

A Markov model was constructed to estimate the quality-adjusted life years and health care costs from the perspective of health care payers for outpatients with low back, knee or shoulder conditions compared to usual orthopaedic care. Data were obtained from a retrospective chart review, administrative sources, literature and expert opinion. The time frame was five years and all costs were reported in 2011 $AUD.

Results

Compared with usual orthopaedic care, the physiotherapist-led service costs an additional $495 per Quality Adjusted Life Year gained. The model remained cost-effective over a range of one-way sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

The physiotherapist-led service is likely to be highly cost-effective. Determining the optimal mix of hospital orthopaedic outpatient services may require more advanced modeling techniques to be applied.
Timescapes of obesity: Coming to terms with a complex socio-medical phenomenon
Authors: Felt Ulrike , Felder Kay , Öhler Theresa , Penkler Michael
Published: May 2014

Obesity is generally considered to be a growing global health problem that results from changes in the way we live in late modern societies. In this article, we argue that investigating the complexities of contemporary timescapes (i.e. the entanglement of physical, culturally framed and personally experienced times) is of key importance for understanding how ‘the obesity phenomenon’ is conceptualised, performed and acted upon. Analysing both focus groups and print-media articles, we identified three major groups of temporal narratives that shape our perception of obesity: trajectories, temporalities and timing. Each group of narratives follows a different logic and performs a specific kind of ordering work: ontological work that defines what obesity ‘really is’, diagnostic work that assesses the state of contemporary society and moral work that assigns responsibility to act. We show how the narratives are assembled into distinct timescapes that distribute agency in specific ways. Combining data from both focus groups and media articles allows us to analyse how these two discursive arenas are intertwined, as it makes visible how stories travel and converge, but also diverge in quite important ways. This highlights the importance of a multi-arena approach to fully understand the tensions between different framings of health-related issues. The article argues that the difficulties of controlling body weight are closely entangled with a perceived lack of control over time on both collective and individual levels. In conclusion, we suggest time-sensitive approaches for the analysis of health phenomena and the development of corresponding policy measures.
The development of the specialism of emergency medicine: Media and cultural influences
Authors: Timmons Stephen , Nairn Stuart
Published: May 2014

In this article we analyse, via a critical review of the literature, the development of a relatively new medical specialism in the United Kingdom, that of emergency medicine. Despite the high media profile of emergency care, it is a low-status specialism within UK medicine. The creation of a specialist College in 2008 means that, symbolically, recognition as a full specialism has now been achieved. In this article, we will show, using a sociology of professions approach, how emergency medicine defined itself as a specialism, and sought to carve out a distinctive jurisdiction. While, in the context of the UK National Health Service, the state was clearly an important factor in the development of this profession, we wish to develop the analysis further than is usual in the sociology of professions. We will analyse the wider cultural context for the development of this specialism, which has benefited from its high profile in the media, through both fictional and documentary sources.