bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sending an Avatar to Do a Human's Job: Compliance with Authority Persists Despite the Uncanny Valley
Authors: Patel Himalaya , MacDorman Karl F.
Published: May 2015

Just as physical appearance affects social influence in human communication, it may also affect the processing of advice conveyed through avatars, computer-animated characters, and other human-like interfaces. Although the most persuasive computer interfaces are often the most human-like, they have been predicted to incur the greatest risk of falling into the uncanny valley, the loss of empathy attributed to characters that appear eerily human. Previous studies compared interfaces on the left side of the uncanny valley, namely, those with low human likeness. To examine interfaces with higher human realism, a between-groups factorial experiment was conducted through the internet with 426 midwestern U.S. undergraduates. This experiment presented a hypothetical ethical dilemma followed by the advice of an authority figure. The authority was manipulated in three ways: depiction (digitally recorded or computer animated), motion quality (smooth or jerky), and advice (disclose or refrain from disclosing sensitive information). Of these, only the advice changed opinion about the ethical dilemma, even though the animated depiction was significantly eerier than the human depiction. These results indicate that compliance with an authority persists even when using an uncannily realistic computer-animated double.
A Surround Video Capture and Presentation System for Preservation of Eye-Gaze in Teleconferencing Applications
Authors: Pan Ye , Oyekoya Oyewole , Steed Anthony
Published: May 2015

We propose a new video conferencing system that uses an array of cameras to capture a remote user and then show the video of that person on a spherical display. This telepresence system has two key advantages: (i) it can capture a near-correct image for any potential observer viewing direction because the cameras surround the user horizontally; and (ii) with view-dependent graphical representation on the spherical display, it is possible to tell where the remote user is looking from any viewpoint, whereas flat displays are visible only from the front. As a result, the display can more faithfully represent the gaze of the remote user. We evaluate this system by measuring the ability of observers to accurately judge which targets the actor is gazing at in two experiments. Results from the first experiment demonstrate the effectiveness of the camera array and spherical display system, in that it allows observers at multiple observing positions to accurately tell at which targets the remote user is looking. The second experiment further compared a spherical display with a planar display and provided detailed reasons for the improvement of our system in conveying gaze. We found two linear models for predicting the distortion introduced by misalignment of capturing cameras and the observer's viewing angles in video conferencing systems. Those models might be able to enable a correction for this distortion in future display configurations.
Methodology for Emotional Assessment of Product Design by Customers in Virtual Reality
Authors: Katicic Jurica , Häfner Polina , Ovtcharova Jivka
Published: May 2015

The presented six-step methodology suggests a novel, integrated way of emotional assessment of future products during the early conceptual design stages by the customer. In the first step, the product developers create virtual product concepts. These will be evaluated by the lead user group, which is defined by market researchers within the second step. The third step is the design of the immersive emotional assessment environment, which combines compatible technological solutions for virtual reality and measurements of psycho-physiological data. The experiment in the fourth step consists of preparation and calibration sub-steps and of the product case scenario. After completing the statistical analysis of the experimental results in the fifth step, the variant space is reduced in a customer-centered way. The goal of this methodology is to provide relevant emotional customer feedback during the interactive experience of only virtually existing conceptual product designs at very early development stages and thus to identify emotionally suitable designs. Its novelty aspect lies in the holistic approach through the structured integration of experts from the areas of product development, marketing, virtual reality, and psychology. The presented validation study proved the coherence of the methodology. Furthermore, it showed clear preferences for the application of simple interaction gestures, the PA emotional model, and the measurement of psycho-physiological parameters—especially the zygomaticus major muscle activity—as suitable state-of-the-art solutions for capturing relevant customer emotional feedback in an immersive environment.
Hieracium barrelieri, a new hawkweed species from S Italy, with notes on Tenore’s Hieracium murorum var. barrelieri (Asteraceae)
Authors: Gottschlich Günter , Raimondo Francesco Maria , Greuter Werner , Di Gristina Emilio
Published: May 2015

A new species from Montevergine in Campania, Hieracium barrelieri, is described in detail. It is closest to H. acanthodontoides of . H. murorum var. barrelieri, an obsolete taxon described by Tenore, is also discussed, as it was partly based on the same population.
The Tokar Gap Jet: Regional Circulation, Diurnal Variability, and Moisture Transport Based on Numerical Simulations
Authors: Davis Shannon R. , Pratt Lawrence J. , Jiang Houshuo
Published: May 2015

The structure, variability, and regional connectivity of the Tokar Gap jet (TGJ) are described using WRF Model analyses and supporting atmospheric datasets from the East African–Red Sea–Arabian Peninsula (EARSAP) region during summer 2008. Sources of the TGJ’s unique quasi-diurnal nature and association with atypically high atmospheric moisture transport are traced back to larger-scale atmospheric dynamics influencing its forcing. These include seasonal shifts in the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), variability of the monsoon and North African wind regimes, and ties to other orographic flow patterns. Strong modulation of the TGJ by regional processes such as the desert heating cycle, wind convergence at the ITCZ surface front, and the local land–sea breeze cycle are described. Two case studies present the interplay of these influences in detail. The first of these was an “extreme” gap wind event on 12 July, in which horizontal velocities in the Tokar Gap exceeded 26 m s−1 and the flow from the jet extended the full width of the Red Sea basin. This event coincided with development of a large mesoscale convective complex (MCC) and precipitation at the entrance of the Tokar Gap as well as smaller gaps downstream along the Arabian Peninsula. More typical behavior of the TGJ during the 2008 summer is discussed using a second case study on 19 July. Downwind impact of the TGJ is evaluated using Lagrangian model trajectories and analysis of the lateral moisture fluxes (LMFs) during jet events. These results suggest means by which TGJ contributes to large LMFs and has potential bearing upon Sahelian rainfall and MCC development.
Projected Twenty-First-Century Changes in the Length of the Tropical Cyclone Season
Authors: Dwyer John G. , Camargo Suzana J. , Sobel Adam H. , Biasutti Michela , Emanuel Kerry A. , Vecchi Gabriel A. , Zhao Ming , Tippett Michael K.
Published: May 2015

This study investigates projected changes in the length of the tropical cyclone season due to greenhouse gas increases. Two sets of simulations are analyzed, both of which capture the relevant features of the observed annual cycle of tropical cyclones in the recent historical record. Both sets use output from the general circulation models (GCMs) of either phase 3 or phase 5 of the CMIP suite (CMIP3 and CMIP5, respectively). In one set, downscaling is performed by randomly seeding incipient vortices into the large-scale atmospheric conditions simulated by each GCM and simulating the vortices’ evolution in an axisymmetric dynamical tropical cyclone model; in the other set, the GCMs’ sea surface temperature (SST) is used as the boundary condition for a high-resolution global atmospheric model (HiRAM). The downscaling model projects a longer season (in the late twenty-first century compared to the twentieth century) in most basins when using CMIP5 data but a slightly shorter season using CMIP3. HiRAM with either CMIP3 or CMIP5 SST anomalies projects a shorter tropical cyclone season in most basins. Season length is measured by the number of consecutive days that the mean cyclone count is greater than a fixed threshold, but other metrics give consistent results. The projected season length changes are also consistent with the large-scale changes, as measured by a genesis index of tropical cyclones. The season length changes are mostly explained by an idealized year-round multiplicative change in tropical cyclone frequency, but additional changes in the transition months also contribute.
Recent Rainfall Trends in the Aegean Region of Turkey
Authors: Asikoglu Omer Levend , Ciftlik Dogangun
Published: May 2015

This study is intended to determine potential trends in annual rainfall series with the parametric Student’s t test and the nonparametric Mann–Kendall, Spearman’s rho, and Sneyers tests. The study includes a trend analysis of annual rainfall data from 47 rain gauges, mostly located at rural sites, in the Aegean region of Turkey. The chi-square and Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests showed that the null hypothesis of normality for the majority of the data (45 out of 47 stations) is acceptable. Moreover, the serial independence assumption, based on the lag-1 sample autocorrelations, is rejected in 14 datasets. The parametric Student’s t test detected significant downward trends at 15 rain gauge stations; 14 of them were also confirmed by the three nonparametric tests and by the trend-free version of the Mann–Kendall test. The results of the Sneyers test revealed that the approximate start years of significant downward trends were in the early 1970s and, sometimes, in the early 1980s. Moreover, the testing found that the normalized slopes of linear downward trends were significantly dependent on the station’s longitude, which meant that the farther the station was located from the coast, the smaller the decreasing trend in annual rainfall was. Additional studies carried out on the normalized regional data and on the 5-yr running means showed that a considerable portion of the detected downward trends were mainly due to interactions of the particular start and end times of a large number of stations with interdecadal fluctuations and the dry conditions over the Mediterranean region during the last 25–30 years.
Endoscopic Versus “No-Touch” Saphenous Vein Harvesting for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Kopjar Tomislav , Dashwood Michael R.
Published: May 2015

The advantage in terms of wound infection, wound healing, and scarring has resulted in the recent adoption of endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) as a standard of care for coronary artery bypass grafting in some centers. However, concerns regarding the quality of these grafts have been raised after recent evidence of decreased graft patency, increased reoperation rate, and myocardial infarct, problems that are associated with vascular trauma caused when using this technique. Simultaneously, an atraumatic, “no-touch” technique for harvesting the saphenous vein was developed producing grafts with improved patency comparable to the internal thoracic artery. However, wound complications remain a problem using this technique. This review outlines the need to consider the poor graft quality that may result from EVH and raises the question what is likely to be the “best practice principle” in saphenous vein harvesting?
Durkheim’s theory of anomie and crime: A clarification and elaboration
Authors: DiCristina Bruce
Published: May 2015

In contemporary criminology, the proposal of a relationship between anomie and crime typically is traced to the work of Émile Durkheim. Yet, despite the prominence of anomie theory in this field, Durkheim’s theory of anomie and crime has not been carefully explicated and elaborated. Durkheim did not provide an extensive discussion of how anomie affects crime rates, and he certainly did not present anomie as the only cause of crime. Nonetheless, a careful examination of his rather elusive concept of anomie, together with a few small inferences, yields a relatively coherent theory of crime that differs from the popular interpretations of his work. The analysis begins with an inquiry into five different conceptions of anomie that can be abstracted from Durkheim’s writings. This is followed by an examination of what he implied regarding anomie as a cause of property crime, violent crime, and “juvenile crime.” The final section explores the effects of anomie on criminal law—that is, on decisions to define and treat various actions as criminal. Unlike most contemporary anomie theories, Durkheim’s theory, as elaborated in this article, integrates a theory of crime causation with an account of criminal law.
Prevalence and impact of comorbid alcohol use disorder in bipolar disorder: A prospective follow-up study
Authors: Simhandl Christian , Radua Joaquim , König Barbara , Amann Benedikt L
Published: May 2015

Objective:

Alcohol use disorder may very well increase the likelihood of affective episodes in bipolar disorder, but prospective data on survival are inconsistent.

Method:

The authors examined the prevalence of alcohol use disorders and their impact on the risk of relapse. A total of 284 consecutively admitted International Classification of Diseases-10 bipolar I ( n = 161) and II ( n = 123) patients were followed up naturalistically over a period of 4 years.

Results:

The prevalence of alcohol use disorders was higher in bipolar II disorder than in bipolar I disorder (26.8% vs 14.9%; χ2 = 5.46, p = 0.019), with a global prevalence of alcohol use disorders of 20.1% in the whole sample. A total of 8.7% of bipolar I patients suffered from alcohol abuse and 6.2% from alcohol dependency, whereas 13% bipolar II patients had alcohol abuse and 13.8% alcohol dependency. Male bipolar subjects had a higher prevalence of alcohol use disorders than female patients (38.3% vs 12.8%; χ2 = 21.84, p-value < 0.001). The presence of alcohol use disorders was associated with an increased risk of depressive relapse in bipolar I patients (Cox regression analysis hazard ratio = 2.7, p = 0.005). The increased risk was not modulated by medication.

Conclusion:

Our data underline the negative long-term impact of alcohol use disorders on bipolar disorder with more depressive bipolar I episodes and the importance of its detection and treatment.
Hip Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Malheiros Cristiane Dias , Lisle Luanne , Castelar Marilda , Sá Katia Nunes , Matos Marcos Almeida
Published: May 2015

Objective. To evaluate the influence of hip dysfunction on quality of life of pediatric patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Methods. Clinical demographic, Charnley hip score, Barthel scale and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0) questionnaires were used. Results. Seventeen patients were placed into the group “with hip dysfunction,” and 54 into the group “without hip dysfunction.” The group “with hip dysfunction” had a higher average age ( P = .026), weight ( P = .029), and height ( P = .019) than the group “without hip dysfunction.” There was also a higher prevalence of hip trauma ( P = .05) and pain ( P = .00). The study demonstrated that hip dysfunction negatively influenced quality of life in the physical activity ( P = .11) and psychosocial ( P = .003) domains. Conclusion. Hip dysfunction and previous hip trauma negatively influenced quality of life, especially in the physical activity and psychosocial domains.
“White Flight” or Positive Contact? Local Diversity and Attitudes to Immigration in Britain
Authors: Kaufmann Eric , Harris Gareth
Published: May 2015

Does the local presence of immigrant groups increase White hostility to immigration? Most research finds that diverse neighborhoods reduce White opposition to minorities and immigration. However, most studies at higher geographies find the reverse effect. We confirm this pattern for England and Wales for 2009-2012. Yet, contextual studies are open to selection bias, which is where this article makes its main contribution. Is White tolerance in diverse neighborhoods the result of a positive effect of inter-ethnic contact, or does it arise from White flight, with anti-immigrant Whites exiting diverse areas but remaining within wider geographies as radicalized opponents of immigration? We provide the first attempt we are aware of to track the opinions of in- and out-migrants, as well as stayers, from local areas over an extended period. We use 20 years of large-scale geocoded British longitudinal data and find only limited evidence of selection effects associated with White flight.
A smart fabric with increased insulating properties
Authors: Michalak Marina , Krucińska Izabella
Published: May 2015

A new textile fabric prototype providing more heat insulation composed of shape-memory elements was investigated. The shape-memory elements in the form of spirals characterized by two-way action were made of nitinol (NiTi) one-way wires with the inner state transition temperature of 35℃. The fabric prototype developed was made of three layers of nonwovens manufactured from the blends of flax and steel fibers and the two interlayers included spirals, made from NiTi or a reference copper (Cu) wire. The inner layer (heater) was heated by electrical current. The external prototype layers imitated the fabric. Mirrors and an infrared camera were used to measure the thermal properties. The temperature of the external surfaces was analyzed as a function of heating time. At approximately 35℃, a change in the curve of the dependence of temperature on the heating time of the prototype with NiTi elements could be observed; the rate of the temperature increase began to decrease. The width of the interlayer with air and NiTi elements increases by approximately 2.5 mm during heating. The observed phenomenon is caused by the expansion of the NiTi spirals and did not occur with the prototype composed of non-active reference Cu elements. In the final second of heating, the temperature on the external surface of the prototype with NiTi elements was lower by 2–3℃ than that on the prototype with Cu elements. A theoretical model of the system was developed and a satisfactory agreement between the experimental and theoretical results was obtained.
The Reversed Role of Magnets in St. Louis
Authors: Grooms Ain A. , Williams Sheneka M.
Published: May 2015

Magnet schools were originally created to attract a diverse student population. Using data from the 23 magnet schools in St. Louis, this longitudinal study is twofold: first, to review the performance outcomes of the magnet schools across a 5-year period, between 2005-2006 and 2009-2010, and second, to examine whether the magnet schools are fostering segregation among the city’s Black families. The relationship between a school’s demographics, its surrounding community, and student outcomes is investigated. Finally, these data are used to question whether student demographics should matter for Black students if appropriate academic outcomes are being met.
Late reoperations after acute aortic dissection repair: Single-center experience
Authors: Luciani Nicola , De Geest Raphael , Lauria Giuseppe , Farina Piero , Luciani Marco , Glieca Franco , Massetti Massimo
Published: May 2015

Background

After repair of acute type A aortic dissection, aortic complications can develop, and reoperations might be necessary. In our retrospective study, we wanted to assess early and late outcomes in this cohort of patients.

Methods

From September 2005 to July 2012, 21 consecutive patients previously operated on for acute type A aortic dissection underwent 27 redo aortic surgical procedures. Indications for redo procedures were: enlargement of the false lumen in the residual aorta (18 events), severe aortic regurgitation with or without aortic root dilatation (8 events), suture dehiscence and pseudoaneurysm at the proximal or distal aortic graft anastomosis (5 events) or at the coronary button anastomosis in patients who previously underwent a Bentall procedure (1 patient). In all cases, total or partial cardiopulmonary bypass was used. Hypothermic cardiocirculatory arrest was needed in 22 (81%) procedures.

Results

Hospital mortality was 3.7% (1/27), reexploration for bleeding and paraplegia rates were 7.4% and 7.4%, respectively. Marfan patients received 3.2 procedures per patient vs. 1.5 in non-Marfan patients ( p < 0.01). At a mean follow-up of 6.5 years, 2 aortic events occurred: 1 aortic death, and 1 additional aortic redo surgery.

Conclusions

When procedures are carried out on elective basis, redo aortic surgery can be performed in all segments of the aorta with good early and late outcomes. Close lifelong clinical and radiological follow-up is mandatory. After repair of acute type A aortic dissection, Marfan patients are more prone to develop late complications, with a more rapid evolution.
Early postoperative arrhythmias after pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Talwar Sachin , Patel Kartik , Juneja Rajnish , Choudhary Shiv Kumar , Airan Balram
Published: May 2015

Background

This prospective study proposed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and management protocols for early postoperative arrhythmias after pediatric cardiac surgery, with focus on outcomes, using a uniform protocol, and also to see if children operated on at a later age have different issues from those operated on earlier.

Methods

Of 224 consecutive pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery from September 2013 to July 2014, 24 were excluded because their procedures were performed without cardiopulmonary bypass.

Results

The median age was 24 months (mean 50.1 ± 62.4 months, range 0.5–216 months). Fifteen (7.5%) patients developed arrhythmia, the most common was junctional ectopic tachycardia ( n = 7, 46.6%) followed by supraventricular tachycardia ( n = 5, 33.3%). All junctional ectopic tachycardias occurred within 24 h of intensive care unit admission. Of the 7 patients with junctional ectopic tachycardia, 5 responded to conventional measures and 2 required amiodarone infusion. There was a significant longer cardiopulmonary bypass time in patients with arrhythmias compared to those without arrhythmias.

Conclusion

We observed a very low incidence of arrhythmias, particularly junctional ectopic tachycardia, after open heart surgery in children. Other than a longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, no specific predictors were identified. It appears that the cause of arrhythmias following pediatric cardiac surgery is multifactorial and needs further study with a greater number of patients.
Mediatization of politics: The case of the former German chancellor Helmut Schmidt
Authors: Birkner Thomas
Published: May 2015

Mediatization is one of the modern buzzwords in communication science. Despite this, empirical research faces enormous problems, both intellectual and methodological. As mediatization is a process, it has to be analysed from a historical perspective. The case of the former German chancellor Helmut Schmidt gives us the opportunity to research nearly the whole history of the Federal Republic of Germany from its beginnings in the late 1940s until today, following Strömbäck’s four phases of mediatization. After World War II, Schmidt, chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany from 1974 to 1982, started to write newspaper articles. Since 1983, he is copublisher of the weekly newspaper Die Zeit. The analysis of one special politician over six decades offers new insights into the interactions between media and politics on the micro-level. Under certain historical circumstances, media-conscious politicians initiate the mediatization of politics, without submitting politics to the logic of the mass media.
Developmental stages in receptive grammar acquisition: A Processability Theory account
Authors: Buyl Aafke , Housen Alex
Published: May 2015

This study takes a new look at the topic of developmental stages in the second language (L2) acquisition of morphosyntax by analysing receptive learner data, a language mode that has hitherto received very little attention within this strand of research (for a recent and rare study, see Spinner, 2013). Looking at both the receptive and productive side of grammar acquisition, however, is necessary for a better understanding of developmental systematicity and of the relationship between receptive and productive grammar acquisition more widely, as well as for the construction of a comprehensive theory of second language acquisition (SLA). In the present exploratory study, the receptive acquisition of L2 English grammar knowledge is studied cross-sectionally within a Processability Theory (PT) framework (Pienemann, 1998, 2005b), a theory of L2 grammar acquisition which makes explicit predictions about the order in which L2 learners learn to productively process different morphosyntactic phenomena. Participants are 72 francophone beginning child L2 learners (age 6–9) acquiring English in an immersion program. The learners’ ability to process six morphosyntactic phenomena situated at extreme ends of the developmental hierarchy proposed by PT was tested by means of the ELIAS Grammar Test, a picture selection task. Overall, the developmental orders obtained through implicational scaling for the six target phenomena agreed with PT’s predictions, suggesting that similar mechanisms underlie the acquisition of receptive and productive L2 grammar processing skills.
The impact of colorectal cancer on leisure participation: A narrative study
Authors: Shipp Sarah , McKinstry Carol , Pearson Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

Introduction

The prevalence of cancer is increasing and, with enhanced early detection and treatment, survival rates have also improved. During cancer treatment and survivorship, occupational participation is significantly impacted, with leisure affected. This field has attracted limited research interest however, particularly involving men with colorectal cancer. Symptoms including cancer-related fatigue and pain may reduce ability to engage in usual leisure occupations.

Method

A qualitative narrative study was conducted to enhance understanding of leisure participation during and following cancer treatment. In-depth interviews were undertaken with four men with colorectal cancer attending for review at a specialist cancer centre. Audio-recorded interview data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Results

All men interviewed reported significant disruption to their usual leisure occupations. Participants described participating in passive leisure occupations during treatment over more active or community-based occupations due to challenges such as having a colostomy bag and fatigue. The men described generally returning to their chosen leisure occupations and the significance this held for their wellbeing.

Conclusion

Given the impact of colorectal cancer on participation in leisure occupations for men, occupational therapists can assist these men to either resume previous leisure occupations or commence alternative leisure occupations to improve their quality of life.
Implications of DSM-5 for recognising adults with developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
Authors: Purcell Catherine , Scott-Roberts Sally , Kirby Amanda
Published: May 2015

Introduction

The latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has attempted to recognise the pervasiveness of developmental coordination disorder across the lifespan. However, it falls short at describing the non-motoric symptomology such as executive functioning, social, emotional and psychiatric difficulties commonly reported in adults. Consequently, at the point of entry the self-reported functional difficulties of an adult with developmental coordination disorder may not be immediately associated with an underlying deficit within a motor domain, potentially resulting in inappropriate referrals.

Method

This study aimed to explore the reasons why 16 adults without a previous diagnosis of developmental coordination disorder referred themselves for a clinical assessment and consider whether their significant motor difficulties would be apparent.

Results

The primary self-reported concerns related to executive functioning difficulties, activities of daily living, changes in routine and social interaction and engagement. The least common self-reported concerns included gross motor skills.

Conclusion

Practitioners at the point of entry need to be mindful that adults with significant motor difficulties may not identify motor difficulties as their primary concern. It is, therefore, important to include screening for motor difficulties and for a future clinical landscape to comprise a referral pathway to adult neurodevelopmental clinics incorporating multidisciplinary teams.
Implementing evidence-based supported employment in Sussex for people with severe mental illness
Authors: van Veggel Rhonda , Waghorn Geoffrey , Dias Shannon
Published: May 2015

Introduction

The aim of this research was to evaluate a large-scale implementation of evidence-based supported employment for people with severe mental illness, at 17 locations throughout Sussex, England.

Method

A parallel group observational design was used to evaluate an implementation of the individual placement and support approach to supported employment. Three sites provided both a comparison pre-individual placement and support cohort ( n = 140), and a new post-individual placement and support cohort ( n = 107) as part of the individual placement and support implementation ( n = 446). All individual placement and support sites involved community mental health teams forming partnerships with Southdown Supported Employment to co-locate an employment specialist into each mental health team. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants commencing competitive employment during the follow-up period.

Results

The new individual placement and support sites attained higher fidelity with respect to individual placement and support principles and practices (mean 97 of 125) than the pre-individual placement and support sites (mean 77 of 125). Significantly more individual placement and support participants commenced competitive employment than pre-individual placement and support participants (24.9% vs 14.3%). Individual placement and support participants experienced less delay before commencing their first job (153 vs 371 days), and when employed, worked more hours per week (24.3 vs 15.4 hours).

Conclusion

This implementation of individual placement and support in Sussex improved on the previous vocational services. Although progress is encouraging there is much room for improvement. More resources appear needed to support programme development, specifically to strengthen site-level management, training, technical support, fidelity assessment, programme monitoring, and outcome evaluation.
Optimising occupational performance through sensory modulation interventions: Case reports of two young adults diagnosed with juvenile Huntington's disease
Authors: Brown Anahita , Fisher Caroline
Published: May 2015

Statement of context

People with juvenile Huntington's disease often experience difficulty engaging in occupations due to neuropsychiatric sequelae, such as impulse control difficulties, agitation and aggression. Occupational therapy using sensory modulation intervention strategies may be utilised to assuage behavioural symptoms in this population.

Critical reflection on practice

Through case reports, this practice analysis explores changes in occupational performance for two young adults diagnosed with juvenile Huntington's disease who received sensory modulation treatment.

Implications for practice

These inspiring reports could encourage occupational therapists to consider sensory modulation intervention to decrease psychiatric disturbance, thus optimising performance capacity among this rare population.
Once more and for the last time
Authors: Kumar Krishan
Published: May 2015

Gellner is mostly known for his theory of nationalism, which he saw as antithetical to the principle of the multinational, hierarchical, empire. But like his LSE colleague Elie Kedourie, Gellner was fascinated by empire. In his last, posthumously published work, Language and Solitude, Gellner returned to the region of his childhood, the former Habsburg Empire, to explore its impact on the work of Malinowski and Wittgenstein. This essay will reflect on Gellner’s thoughts about empire, and the way in which he assessed their necessary disappearance – as he thought – in the modern world.
Using Social Networking Sites for Teaching and Learning
Authors: Albayrak Duygu , Yildirim Zahide
Published: May 2015

This study investigates students' involvement in Facebook® as a course management system (CMS), Facebook acceptance, and the relationships between the two. The study used Facebook as a CMS in two freshman courses and employed mixed method as part of an action-research approach. Forty-two students participated in the study, and 12 of those students were selected for face-to-face interviews through maximum variation sampling. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires and course Facebook page logs. Qualitative data were collected through the interviews. The quantitative data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics and correlation analyses. The findings indicate that the relationships between course Facebook page involvement and Facebook acceptance differed according to the course. The findings support that Facebook as a CMS has the potential to increase student involvement in discussions and out-of-class communication among instructors and students.
Interactive and Multimedia Contents Associated with a System for Computer-Aided Assessment
Authors: Paiva Rui C. , Ferreira Milton S. , Mendes Ana G. , Eusébio Augusto M. J.
Published: May 2015

This article presents a research study addressing the development, implementation, evaluation, and use of Interactive Modules for Online Training (MITO) of mathematics in higher education. This work was carried out in the context of the MITO project, which combined several features of the learning and management system Moodle, the computer-aided assessment for mathematics STACK, the mathematical software GeoGebra, several packages from the type-setting program LaTeX, and tutorial videos. A total of 1,962 students participated in this study. Two groups of students taking a calculus course were selected for a deeper analysis. With regard to usability and functionality, the results indicate that MITO scored well in almost all aspects, which is fundamental for their introduction into formal university courses. The analysis of the data reveals that the use of MITO educational contents by students mainly occurs about 1 week and a half prior to the evaluations. Moreover, there is a strong correlation between the results of online assessments on MITO in a continuous assessment model and the final grade on the course.
How Cognitive Styles Affect the Learning Behaviors of Online Problem-Solving Based Discussion Activity
Authors: Wu Sheng-Yi , Hou Huei-Tse
Published: May 2015

Cognitive styles play an important role in influencing the learning process, but to date no relevant study has been conducted using lag sequential analysis to assess knowledge construction learning patterns based on different cognitive styles in computer-supported collaborative learning activities in online collaborative discussions. This study applies Pask's cognitive styles (holist–serialist dimension) as the grouping basis for students who performed an online problem-solving based discussion activity to analyze how cognitive styles affect learning behaviors. By using quantitative content analysis and lag sequential analysis, the study attempts to identify the distribution structure of the knowledge construction activities demonstrated by students with different cognitive styles, as well as the sequential pattern of those behaviors. The results suggest that, with respect to the quantitative content analysis, students who are holists demonstrate sharing, comparing, and discovery tendencies while neglecting the negotiation and coconstruction of knowledge. As a result of their preference for sequential discussion behavior patterns, students who are serialists may find they have limited time for subsequent discussions because they often tend to continue the discussion of previous, unresolved topics. With respect to the pattern of knowledge construction behaviors, students grouped as serialists may remain at the stage of communication and integration during discussions, throughout which process such students may bring up different viewpoints for each topic step by step, conduct resolution-oriented discussions, and then come to an understanding. The holist students, on the other hand, lack such sequential discussion behavior patterns and hence require more intensive intervention and instruction from teachers for the purpose of improving the diversity of their knowledge construction behavior.
A Systematic Review of the Critical Factors for Success of Mobile Learning in Higher Education (University Students' Perspective)
Authors: Alrasheedi Muasaad , Capretz Luiz Fernando , Raza Arif
Published: May 2015

The phenomenon of the use of a mobile learning (m-Learning) platform in educational institutions is slowly gaining momentum. However, the enthusiasm with which mobile phones have been welcomed into every aspect of our lives is not yet apparent in the educational sector. To understand the reason, it is important to understand user expectations of the system. This article documents a systematic review of existing studies to find the success factors for effective m-Learning. Our systematic review collates results from 30 studies conducted in 17 countries, where 13 critical success factors were found to strongly impact m-Learning implementation. Using these results within the framework of the diffusion of innovation model for innovation adoption and the critical success factors together help us see what aspects of the innovation decision process are the likely causes of the reduced take-up of m-Learning by university students.
Effect of Prematurity on Cerebellar Growth
Authors: Sancak Selim , Gursoy Tugba , Imamoglu Ebru Yalın , Karatekin Güner , Ovali Fahri
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate cerebellar growth of preterm infants. Vermis height and transverse cerebellar diameter were measured by cranial ultrasonography in 38 preterm infants (27-32 weeks) at birth and term equivalent age. Measurements were compared with 40 term appropriate-for-gestational-age infants. Preterms at term equivalent age had larger vermis height than term infants (2.39 ± 0.25 cm vs 2.25 ± 0.18 cm, P = .005), whereas no significant difference was found in the transverse cerebellar diameter (5.32 ± 0.38 cm vs 5.44 ± 0.23 cm, P = .13). Vermis height and transverse cerebellar diameter of appropriate-for-gestational-age preterm infants (n = 29) were found larger than small-for-gestational-age ones (n = 9). Vermis height and transverse cerebellar diameter at term equivalent age of appropriate-for-gestational-age preterm infants born before and after 29 weeks of age showed no significant difference. Cerebellar growth is preserved in extreme preterms. However, being small for gestational age may have deleterious effects on cerebellar development.
Sol–gel processing of novel bioactive Mg-containing silicate scaffolds for alveolar bone regeneration
Authors: Goudouri Ourania-Menti , Vogel Caroline , Grünewald Alina , Detsch Rainer , Kontonasaki Eleana , Boccaccini Aldo R
Published: May 2015

Periodontal tissue regeneration is an important application area of biomaterials, given the large proportion of the population affected by periodontal diseases like periodontitis. The aim of this study was the synthesis of a novel porous bioceramic scaffold in the SiO2–CaO–MgO system with specific properties targeted for alveolar bone tissue regeneration using a modification of the traditional foam replica technique. Since bioceramic scaffolds are considered brittle, scaffolds were also coated with gelatin in order to increase their mechanical stability. Gelatin was chosen for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, low-cost, and low immunogenicity. However, gelatin degrades very fast in water solutions. For this reason, two different cross-linking agents were evaluated. Genipin, a non-toxic gardenia extract and the chemical compound 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) in combination with N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS), which is also considered non-toxic. The results of the investigation indicated that all scaffolds presented an open, interconnected porosity and pores' sizes in the range of 300–600 μm, fast apatite-forming ability, biocompatibility, and suitable mechanical stability.
Threatened by Violence
Authors: Jackson Jonathan , Gouseti Ioanna
Published: May 2015

Stranger violence can have a variety of different physical, psychological, social, and economic effects on the victim. In this article, we address one possible impact, namely, a heightened sense of uncertainty, risk, and fear of violent crime. Drawing on recent advances in the psychology of risk, we make three contributions. First, we differentiate in our analysis between primary experience of violence (where the individual in question has been attacked by a stranger in the local streets) and secondary experience of violence (where the individual knows somebody who has been attacked in the local streets by a stranger). Second, we assess whether risk perception (beliefs about the likelihood, impact, and controllability of future victimization) mediates the empirical links between primary and secondary experience of violence and worry about violent crime. Finally, we examine whether victimization experience seems to have a greater impact on risk perception and worry among people with a high need for cognitive closure (who are averse to uncertainty and desire order and structure in their lives). Our findings indicate a number of potentially important mediating and moderating effects regarding the impact of stranger violence on fear of violent crime. We conclude with some implications for research and policy.
Sustainability in supply chain with focus on efficiency, safety, and industrial emission factors
Authors: Kamyabniya Afshin , Fakhrzad Mohammad
Published: May 2015

In this article, efficiency, safety, and industrial emission factors are incorporated into a sustainable supply chain by constructing a multi-objective programming model that jointly minimizes costs, emissions, and employee injuries. The purpose is to give supply chain managers a tool for decision making that is not only based on reducing costs (maximizing profit) but also focuses on environmental protection and social responsibility. Using the weighted-sum approach with weights setting by the analytic hierarchy process, the model is solved by normalization of the minima of the three objectives. A numerical example is presented to test the model. This article has developed a multi-objective model for multi-modes of production facilities. The results show that the developed model for optimizing supply chain improved supply chain sustainability. A new multi-dimension perspective for optimizing supply chain will help experts improve their insights, ideas to have a sustainable supply chain.
Fast chatter stability prediction for variable helix milling tools
Authors: Sims Neil D
Published: May 2015

Regenerative chatter is a well-known form of self-excited vibration that limits the productivity of machining operations, in particular for milling. Variable helix tools have been previously proposed as a means of avoiding regenerative chatter, and although recent work has analysed the stability of such tools there has not always been a strong agreement with experimentally observed behaviour. Furthermore, the analysis of variable helix tool stability can be tedious and numerically slow, compared to standard tools. Consequently it has been difficult to gain insight into the potential advantages of variable helix tools. The present work attempts to address these issues, by first developing an efficient approach to variable helix tool stability based upon the Laplace transform. Then, this new analysis method is used to demonstrate the importance of multi-frequency effects and nonlinear cutting stiffness. The work suggests that whilst variable-helix tools can have more operating regions that are stable, un-modelled behaviour (such as nonlinearity and multi-frequency effects) can have a critical influence on the accuracy of model predictions.
Railway track degradation: The contribution of rolling stock
Authors: Steenbergen Michaël , de Jong Edward
Published: May 2015

During train operation, geometrical irregularities develop in soil-supported ballasted railway tracks as a function of the carried tonnage. This form of degradation is combatted by periodic tamping using specially equipped trains, in order to guarantee predefined levels of structural performance. The growth of irregular settlements depends on both track properties (such as sleeper spacing, bending stiffness of the rail, and geotechnical properties of the subsoil) and the intensity of variations in the longitudinal stiffness (variations in soil profile, switches and crossings, transitions, etc.). These variations affect both the static and dynamic, frequency-dependent stiffness of the track under the moving wheels. In addition, the nature of the loading exerted by the rolling stock has an important influence. Trains running at a constant speed exert quasi-static loads on the infrastructure due to the constant axle loading. Also, a dynamic loading component may occur as a result of non-perfect wheels, with frequencies that are a function of both the speed and the wheel tread geometry. In general, the design of a railway track can be optimized with respect to its structural performance over the whole lifecycle. However, for existing lines this is difficult, and the only way to limit degradation and associated costs is to influence the condition of the rolling stock. The present study discusses the theoretical background of track degradation in the form of differential settlements. It then shows the results of an analysis of the loading conditions on Dutch railway lines, at network and local levels, based on actual measurements. Conclusions are drawn regarding deterioration and the effects of different loading types. The obtained results show that huge improvements are possible on mixed lines, and in particular, on freight lines, with reductions in geometrical degradation up to 52% of actual values. The main driver of excessive degradation appears to be the low-frequency component of the dynamic axle loading.
Germany’s industrial family firms: Prospering islands of social capital in a financialized world?
Authors: Lehrer Mark , Schmid Stefan
Published: May 2015

The international expansion and employment growth of many German family firms has made family enterprise a component of the German political economy that can no longer be ignored. A theory of ‘social capital enterprises’ is developed to explain the competitive advantages of many family firms over ‘capital market enterprises’, i.e., publicly traded, ‘financialized’ large companies. The theory takes account of multiple contingencies: (1) not all sectors are propitious for family firms; (2) not all family firms base their competitive advantage on social capital; (3) not all owning families are able to maintain effective family control when the firm grows large, albeit the number that do is surprising. For this reason, we focus on the industrial Mittelstand of Germany as having an especially high concentration of family firms that meet all three of these contingencies. Family firm ownership appears to be especially advantageous in capital goods segments where accumulated social capital forms an important competitive asset.