bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Cultural Differences in Consistent Mapping Effects of Targets and Distractors
Authors: Lee Donghoon , Shin Hyun Jung , Weldon Rebecca B. , Sohn Myeong-Ho
Published: February 2016

Previous cross-cultural studies have shown that East Asians pay more attention to the background information and European Americans more to the focal object. However, it has not been well investigated what cognitive benefits can be achieved with these different attention allocation strategies. In the current study, we examined whether Koreans and European Americans differ in utilizing the regularity in targets and distractors by comparing consistent mappings (CMs) with varied mappings (VMs) of stimuli. Two experiments consistently revealed that European Americans showed a greater performance benefit with the consistency embedded within the targets (i.e., the CM target effect) but not within the distractors. In contrast, Koreans showed a greater performance benefit with the consistency within the distractors (i.e., the CM distractor effect), but not within the targets. These results imply that the East–West differences in attention allocation strategies reflect the cultural differences in utilizing the information that is potentially beneficial for task performance. We discuss what kinds of cognitive benefits can be achieved by differentially paying attention to the target and the background.
Assimilation and Contrast Effects of Culture Priming Among Hong Kong Chinese
Authors: Ng Ting Kin , Ng Sik Hung , Ye Shengquan
Published: February 2016

Although culture priming research has established consistently that individuals from a bicultural background shift toward one or the other culture that has been primed (assimilation effect), the opposite contrast effect is less clear. We postulated a general explanation covering both effects in terms of the moderation due to the strength of dual cultural selves, and tested it on a sample of Westernized Chinese in Hong Kong ( N = 416), whose Chinese and Western cultural selves varied in strength. To test the effects, we measured self-esteem as the dependent variable under three conditions: Chinese, Western, and neutral priming. The general expectation was that strong Chinese and Western selves would, respectively, engender assimilation to Chinese and Western priming, whereas weak Chinese and Western selves would engender contrast. The results showed that under Chinese priming, participants assimilated (lowered their self-esteem) or contrasted (raised their self-esteem) depending on their Chinese self as predicted. Similarly, Western self moderated the impact of Western priming, but only when Chinese self was strong. Implications of the current study and possible explanations for the unexpected findings are discussed.
Reimagining tenure reform from a teacher’s perspective
Authors: Hoffman Phylis
Published: February 2016

If we want to attract the best and brightest and those with the biggest hearts into the profession that educates all others, we must show today’s college graduates that they have something to look forward to if they choose to be a teacher. We want them to know that teaching is intrinsically gratifying but that there also are tangible rewards and recognition that teachers matter. This could be achieved if instead of vanquishing teacher tenure we reimagined it as a system that would have these traits: Identifies a distinct role for states with local flexibility; set a minimum for years of experience; requires demonstration of growth and development; revisits tenure determinations; and invests in mid- to late-career development and support.
Japan’s teachers earn tenure on Day One
Authors: Ahn Ruth , Asanuma Shigeru , Mori Hisayoshi
Published: February 2016

Teachers in Japan earn tenure on their first day of employment -- not after two years of experience based on evaluations of teaching performance or student test scores. This is almost too good to be true. If tenure is so easy to attain, how do the Japanese make sure their teachers, especially novice teachers hired with little teaching experience, provide effective instruction? How do they embed accountability among teachers? An equally amazing fact about Japan is the high retention rate of beginning teachers. In 2006, merely 1.35% of 1st-year teachers in Japan left the profession, compared to the U.S. where almost half leave teaching sometime during the first five years. Why is there such a difference? Is teaching any easier in Japan than in the U.S.?
Command filtered backstepping tracking control of uncertain nonlinear strict-feedback systems under a directed graph
Authors: Zhang Yi , Cui Guozeng , Zhuang Guangming , Lu Junwei , Li Ze
Published: February 2016

This paper studies the distributed consensus tracking control problem of multiple uncertain non-linear strict-feedback systems under a directed graph. The command filtered backstepping approach is utilised to alleviate computation burdens and construct distributed controllers, which involves compensated signals eliminating filtered error effects in the design procedure. Neural networks are employed to estimate uncertain non-linear items. Using a Lyapunov stability theorem, it is proved that all signals in the closed-looped systems are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded. In addition, consensus errors converge to a small neighbourhood of the origin by adjusting the appropriate design parameters. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed control design approach.
Continuous terminal sliding mode control with extended state observer for PMSM speed regulation system
Authors: Wang Huiming , Li Shihua , Lan Qixun , Zhao Zhenhua , Zhou Xingpeng
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we discuss the speed regulation problem of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) servo systems. Firstly, a continuous terminal sliding mode control (CTSMC) method is introduced for speed loops to eliminate the chattering phenomenon while still ensuring a strong disturbance rejection ability for the closed-loop system. However, in the presence of strong disturbances, the CTSMC law still needs to select high gain which may result in large steady-state speed fluctuations for the PMSM control system. To this end, an extended state observer (ESO)-based continuous terminal sliding mode control method is proposed. The ESO is employed to estimate system disturbances and the estimation is employed by the speed controller as a feed-forward compensation for disturbances. Compared to the conventional sliding mode control method, the proposed composite sliding control method obtains a faster convergence and better tracking performance. Also, by feed-forward compensating system disturbances and tuning down the gain of the CTSMC law, the fluctuation of steady-state speed of the closed-loop system is reduced while the disturbance rejection capability of the PMSM system is still maintained. Simulation and experimental results are provided to demonstrate the superior properties of the proposed control method.
Consensus seeking for multi-agent systems by hybrid output feedback protocol
Authors: Hu Jianqiang , Cao Jinde
Published: February 2016

Consensus seeking problems are investigated for linear multi-agent systems in this paper. Two kinds of state observers, the decentralized Luenberger observer and the distributed pinning networked observer, are proposed to estimate the group agents’ state. Then, based on the observed state information, a novel distributed hybrid output feedback protocol is proposed. Using an eigenvalue analysis method, necessary and sufficient criteria have been established such that asymptomatic consensus can be achieved for a linear multi-agent system under a fixed directed communication topology. Furthermore, two multi-step algorithms are provided to determine the observer gains and the feedback gains for the proposed observer and distributed hybrid protocol. Finally, a numerical example is given to demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of the proposed consensus protocol.
Adherence to the 2013 Blood Cholesterol Guidelines in Patients With Diabetes at a PCMH
Authors: Hinds April , Lopez Debra , Rascati Karen , Jokerst Jason , Srinivasa Maaya
Published: February 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess adherence to the 2013 blood cholesterol guideline in a population with diabetes based on the atherosclerotic cardiovascular (ASCVD) risk.

Methods

Patients with diabetes were assessed to see whether they received the appropriate intensity statin therapy via chart review. Patients seen by a physician or pharmacist at CommUnityCare, a PCMH, from December 2013 to October 2014 were included in this retrospective study. The ASCVD risks were calculated to determine if the patients received appropriate intensity statin.

Results

A total of 583 patients met the inclusion criteria; there were 475 in the physician only group and 108 with additional pharmacist visits. Statin therapy was prescribed in 71% of patients in the physician group and 88% of patients in the pharmacist/physician group. The appropriate intensity statin was prescribed in 32% of patients in the physician group and 35% of patients in the pharmacist/physician group. The appropriate intensity statin in statin naïve patients was prescribed in 45% of the physician group and 50% of patients in the pharmacist/physician group.

Conclusion

The proportion of patients prescribed an appropriate intensity statin did not differ between patients managed by physicians alone compared to those managed by pharmacists and physicians. Overall adherence to the 2013 blood cholesterol guidelines was 33%, and this measure can be used as a baseline assessment of current adherence with the guidelines.
Psychometric Evaluation of a Korean Version of the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS) in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kim Chun-Ja , Park Eunyoung , Schlenk Elizabeth A. , Kim Moonsun , Kim Dae Jung
Published: February 2016

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale-Korean (ARMS-K) among Korean adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The Korean translated ARMS-K was back-translated to ensure translation equivalency. A cross-sectional survey was used to evaluate the psychometric properties with exploratory factor analysis for validity and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for reliability.

Results

The factor analysis of construct validity identified 3 dimensions of the ARMS-K, explaining 54.7% of the total variance. The internal consistency reliability for the total instrument was acceptable with a Cronbach’s alpha of .801. There was good correlation between the ARMS-K and 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-Korean version ( r = −0.698), indicating that these scales measure theoretically related constructs as evidence of convergent validity. As evidence of known groups validity, there was a significant association between the ARMS-K score and glycemic control ( P = .048), indicating that the good glycemic controlled group was more likely to have a higher rate of adherence to refills and medications than the poor glycemic controlled group.

Conclusions

These results support the cross-cultural applicability of the concepts underlying the ARMS-K. The ARMS-K can be used not only to assess adherence to refills and medications in Koreans with diabetes but also to examine the potential role of adherence to refills and medications in enhanced glycemic control of people with diabetes in a variety of clinical settings.
Prospective, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Parallel‐Group, Comparative Effectiveness Clinical Trial Comparing a Powder Vehicle Compound of Vitamin D With an Oil Vehicle Compound in Adults With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Hermes Wendy A. , Alvarez Jessica A. , Lee Moon J. , Chesdachai Supavit , Lodin Daud , Horst Ron , Tangpricha Vin
Published: February 2016

Background: There is little consensus on the most efficacious vehicle substance for vitamin D supplements. Fat malabsorption may impede the ability of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) to absorb vitamin D in an oil vehicle. We hypothesized that vitamin D contained in a powder vehicle would be absorbed more efficiently than vitamin D contained in an oil vehicle in patients with CF. Methods: In this double‐blind, randomized controlled trial, hospitalized adults with CF were given a one‐time bolus dose of 100,000 IU of cholecalciferol (D3) in a powder‐based or oil‐based vehicle. Serum D3, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, and parathyroid hormone concentrations were analyzed at 0, 12, 24, and 48 hours posttreatment. The area under the curve for serum D3 and the 12‐hour time point were also assessed as indicators of D3 absorption. Results: This trial was completed by 15 patients with CF. The median (interquartile range) age, body mass index, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second were 23.7 (19.9–33.2) years, 19.9 (18.6–22.6) kg/m2, and 63% (37%–80%), respectively. The increase in serum D3 and the area under the curve was greater in the powder group (P = .002 and P = .036, respectively). Serum D3 was higher at 12 hours in the powder group compared with the oil group (P = .002), although levels were similar between groups by 48 hours. Conclusions: In adults with CF, cholecalciferol is more efficiently absorbed in a powder compared with an oil vehicle. Physicians should consider prescribing vitamin D in a powder vehicle in patients with CF to improve the absorption of vitamin D from supplements.
Seeking information in circles: The application of Chatman’s life in the round theory to the information small world of Catholic clergy in northern Nigeria
Authors: Dankasa Jacob
Published: February 2016

This study explores Chatman’s proposition of the theory of life in the round that members of a small world who live in the round will not cross the boundaries of their world to seek information. The study tests Chatman’s proposition to find out whether it is applicable to the special population of Catholic clergy. The study was conducted with Catholic clergy from northern Nigeria. Findings show that these clergy are not likely to cross boundaries of their small worlds to seek information about their ministry or private lives. They prefer to seek such information within their circle of clergy. The findings align with Chatman’s conclusion that life lived in the round has a negative influence on information seeking. This study advances the understanding of Chatman’s theory of life in the round and positions religious status as a factor that is capable of influencing the information-seeking process.
Depression, Fatigue, and QoL in Colorectal Cancer Patients During and After Treatment
Authors: Tung Hong-Yi , Chao Tung-Bo , Lin Yu-Hua , Wu Shu-Fen , Lee Hui-Yen , Ching Ching-Yun , Hung Kao-Wei , Lin Tuey-Jen
Published: February 2016

In this study, we sought to explore the prevalence of depression and fatigue in colorectal cancer patients during and after treatment to examine how these variables affect quality of life (QoL). In total, 170 patients with colorectal cancer participated in this study. The study population was divided into two groups: one receiving treatment and another that had finished treatment. The results showed that depression and fatigue measurements were higher in patients receiving treatment. Depression was a strong and significant predictor of QoL in both groups, whereas fatigue was not, with the exception of the symptom score. These findings underscore the importance of early detection and management of depression and fatigue during the treatment and survival stages of patients with colorectal cancer. Our findings indicate that health care professionals should provide appropriate nursing intervention to decrease depression and fatigue and enhance patient QoL.
Political communication and opinion formation in Germany: A comparative study of local and national issues
Authors: Metag Julia
Published: February 2016

Political communication is crucial for opinion formation about any kind of political issue. According to arguments in the literature on the local public sphere and in political science, processes of communication and opinion formation differ at the local and national levels. However, opinion formation about national and local issues has yet to be compared systematically. This study analyses differences in the communication processes at the local and national levels in Germany based on a survey ( n = 1014). The results demonstrate that opinions about local and national issues are predisposed, and hardly any media effects occur. Respondents’ opinions about local issues are formed more systematically, and interpersonal discussions can be influential while opinions about national issues are based less on personal relevance. In sum, opinion formation processes differ at local and national levels but not always in the way it is often assumed in the existing literature.
Responding to Incidents of Sexual Victimization in Correctional Institutions: Correctional Officer Perspectives
Authors: Cook Carrie L. , Lane Jodi
Published: February 2016

This study examined beliefs among correctional officers about responding to inmate-on-inmate sexual assault in jails. It is unique in its focus as no other published study has examined this topic using these variables in this setting. The authors utilize survey methodology to measure correctional officer perceptions about responding to sexual assaults among inmates. Results indicate that support for responding to instances of sexual assault among inmates differs somewhat by type of response and size of jail facility examined. Multivariate results suggest that while perceptions of inmate credibility are usually relevant, demographic factors matter more for those who work in larger jails, while beliefs about rape myths are somewhat more relevant in smaller jails. Implications for correctional policy and training and avenues for continued research are discussed.
Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Return to Sports After Arthroscopic Debridement and Microfracture of Osteochondral Talar Defects
Authors: Reilingh Mikel L. , van Bergen Christiaan J.A. , Gerards Rogier M. , van Eekeren Inge C. , de Haan Rob J. , Sierevelt Inger N. , Kerkhoffs Gino M.M.J. , Krips Rover , Meuffels Duncan E. , van Dijk C.N. , Blankevoort Leendert
Published: February 2016

Background:

Osteochondral defects (OCDs) of the talus usually affect athletic patients. The primary surgical treatment consists of arthroscopic debridement and microfracture. Various possibilities have been suggested to improve the recovery process after debridement and microfracture. A potential solution to obtain this goal is the application of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs), which stimulate the repair process of bone and cartilage.

Hypothesis:

The use of PEMFs after arthroscopic debridement and microfracture of an OCD of the talus leads to earlier resumption of sports and an increased number of patients that resume sports.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 68 patients were randomized to receive either PEMFs (n = 36) or placebo (n = 32) after arthroscopic treatment of an OCD of the talus. The primary outcomes (ie, the number of patients who resumed sports and time to resumption of sports) were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier curves as well as Mann-Whitney U, chi-square, and log-rank tests. Secondary functional outcomes were assessed with questionnaires (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, EuroQol, and numeric rating scales for pain and satisfaction) at multiple time points up to 1-year follow-up. To assess bone repair, computed tomography scans were obtained at 2 weeks and 1 year postoperatively.

Results:

Almost all outcome measures improved significantly in both groups. The percentage of sport resumption (PEMF, 79%; placebo, 80%; P = .95) and median time to sport resumption (PEMF, 17 weeks; placebo, 16 weeks; P = .69) did not differ significantly between the treatment groups. Likewise, there were no significant between-group differences with regard to the secondary functional outcomes and the computed tomography results.

Conclusion:

PEMF does not lead to a higher percentage of patients who resume sports or to earlier resumption of sports after arthroscopic debridement and microfracture of talar OCDs. Furthermore, no differences were found in bone repair between groups.

Registration:

Netherlands Trial Register NTR1636.
Intervention in School and Clinic
Authors: Hott Brittany , Berkeley Sheri , Fairfield Ambre , Shora Nelly
Published: February 2016

Decreasing the well-documented research-to-practice gap in special education is thought to partially depend on practitioner access to quality evidence-based interventions. Practitioner journals are one such resource for obtaining this information. The current study is a systematic review of articles published over the last 25 years (1990–2014) in a prominent special education practitioner journal, Intervention in School and Clinic. Findings from review of 925 articles showed that 64% focused specifically on information related to students with learning disabilities (LD) or other mild disabilities. Forty-three percent of articles focused on educational practices based on intervention research for students with LD or other mild disabilities. Another 32% focused on information relevant for teachers of these students including strategies for managing other non-instructional teaching responsibilities, practices in general education settings, and changes in special education law and policy. Overall, this journal provides a wide range of resources for teachers of students with LD.
Preparing Planners
Authors: Dawkins Casey J.
Published: February 2016

Little is known about the factors influencing the skills that planners utilize in practice. This study draws upon national survey data to identify the factors influencing skill acquisition and use, paying particular attention to the role of graduate planning education. The results of the analysis suggest that those holding a Planning Accreditation Board–accredited planning degree utilize a larger number of skills in practice, particularly skills pertaining to the core domains of planning knowledge. These findings suggest that PAB accreditation plays an important role in shaping the types of planners sought by employers.
Pressing the Buy Button
Authors: Loureiro Sandra Maria Correia , Breazeale Michael
Published: February 2016

The authors investigated the effect of the nine most accepted factors of online shopping orientation on online purchase intention through perceived behavioral control and attitude toward purchase of clothing. They suggest that in-home shopping tendency, convenience consciousness, and impulse purchase are the most significant constructs in building consumers’ online shopping orientation. Impulse and convenience for online shoppers appear to be more important than recreational shopping. Online shopping orientation seems to have a positive influence on perceived behavioral control and attitude toward purchase. Implications of the results are discussed to provide guidance for managers and future researchers.
The Role of Ballot Ranking
Authors: Spáč Peter
Published: February 2016

This article deals with ballot order effect in preferential voting in general elections in Slovakia. Previous research in this field has primarily focused on countries whose elections are based either on single-member districts or on lists with fewer candidates. This article aims to analyze a case of a different nature. Slovakia uses a proportional representation list system with a single nationwide constituency where all 150 members of parliament are elected. Hence, most of the political parties create lists with a high number of candidates, which according to theory should enhance the influence of ballot ranking. Using data from Slovak general elections between 2006 and 2012 with a sample of 7,587 candidates, this study provides strong evidence of the impact of ballot order on the results of preferential voting. The analysis in this article shows the existence of both the primacy and recency effects, that is, a positive bias of voters towards candidates listed at both top and bottom positions on a list. What is more, the multilevel models used in this article demonstrate that support for top-ranked candidates significantly increases as the size of the list increases. For the bottom-listed candidates, this trend is rather the opposite. These findings represent a valuable contribution to the debate in this area as they provide insight into the role of ballot order in electoral systems that use lists composed of numerous candidates.
Properties of polyurethane nanocomposite filaments for conductive textile applications
Authors: Mariappan Bharathi , Jaisankar Sellamuthu N
Published: February 2016

Composite filaments of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been fabricated via extrusion process and their properties were studied using various characterization techniques. Twin-screw extruder has been used for making the composite filaments and the processing parameters like temperature, screw speed, and pressure were optimized. Thermal, morphological, mechanical, and electrical properties were studied by varying the weight percentage of SWCNTs. Raman shift of SWCNTs is observed for the CNTs dispersed in TPU matrix. Thermal analysis shows that there is an increase in the degradation and melting temperature of the TPU/SWCNTs blends. With the addition of SWCNTs as small filler loadings of 1 wt%, the tensile strength of the blended materials increased from 13 MPa to 21.6 MPa. The electrical conductivity of the composite filaments starts with the addition of 0.01% of SWCNTs. The highest value of electrical conductivity (3.7 × 10−7 S cm−1) obtained with 2 wt% of SWCNTs. This melt extrusion process method could open up for the preparation of new high-performance nanotube composite materials.
Thruster fault identification based on fractal feature and multiresolution wavelet decomposition for autonomous underwater vehicle
Authors: Liu Weixin , Wang Yujia , Yin Baoji , Liu Xing , Zhang Mingjun
Published: February 2016

There exist some problems when the fractal feature method is applied to identify thruster faults for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Sometimes it could not identify the thruster fault, or the identification error is large, even the identification results are not consistent for the repeated experiments. The paper analyzes the reasons resulting in these above problems according to the experiments on AUV prototype with thruster faults. On the basis of these analyses, in order to overcome the above deficiency, an improved fractal feature integrated with wavelet decomposition identification method is proposed for AUV with thruster fault. Different from the fractal feature method where the signal extraction and fault identification are completed in the time domain, the paper makes use of the time-domain and frequent-domain information to identify thruster faults. In the paper, the thruster fault could be mapped multisource and described redundantly by the fault feature matrix constructed based on the time-domain and frequent-domain information. In the process of identification, different from the fractal feature method where the fault is identified based on fault identification model, the fault sample bank is built at first in the paper, and then pattern recognition is achieved by calculating the relative coefficients between the constructed fault feature matrix and the elements in the fault sample bank. Finally, the online pool experiments are performed on an AUV prototype, and the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated in comparison with the fractal feature method.
A model-predictive-control-based power management strategy for a power-split electromechanical transmission
Authors: Wang Weida , Xiang Changle , Liu Hui , Jia Shipeng
Published: February 2016

A power management strategy is a key necessity for power-split electromechanical transmission systems. A model predictive control strategy which is based on finite-horizon optimization and can combine the advantages of instantaneous optimization and global optimization is a good solution for online optimization of the power management. Therefore, a model-predictive-control-based power management strategy is proposed for a two-mode electromechanical transmission. A model predictive control strategy consists of two parts: a predictive model and a receding-horizon optimization algorithm. A predictive model is used for predicting future information on the electromechanical transmission states, and real-time receding-horizon optimization with a finite horizon is adopted for optimal decision making. First, the predictive model, including the battery state and the transmission output torque, which provides a priori knowledge for optimal calculation, is proposed. Then, to ensure optimal operating areas of the engine and the motors, a novel overall efficiency calculation method for the whole powertrain including the engine, the motors, the power-split coupled machine and the battery is proposed and regarded as the optimization objective. The overall efficiency not only is focused on the engine fuel economy but also determines the power loss of the motors, the battery and the planetary gears together, which enhances the fuel economy and the transmission efficiency significantly. Based on the predictive model and receding-horizon optimization, the MPC strategy is established and tested by hardware-in-the-loop simulations under Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule and New European Driving Cycle conditions. The test results showed that the power management strategy can enhance the fuel economy and proved to be a potential real-time optimization method for power distribution in the electromechanical transmission system; this strategy can provide theoretical support for actual application of electromechanical transmission systems.
Inclusive urbanization: Can the 2030 Agenda be delivered without it?
Authors: McGranahan Gordon , Schensul Daniel , Singh Gayatri
Published: February 2016

Governments are wary of rapid urbanization, yet eager for the economic benefits that cities bring. The resulting tension is reflected in exclusionary cities created through strategies that privilege economic growth and result in many people being left behind. There is both exclusion from the city and exclusion and segregation in the city. This paper’s redefinition of inclusion moves beyond a focus on identity-based disadvantage, to frame inclusion as a counter to both overt discrimination and structurally created disadvantage. It explores three levels of inclusive urbanization: eliminating discriminatory exclusion, giving the disadvantaged a bigger voice in existing institutions, and guaranteeing human rights.

 Drawing on examples of emerging economies, the paper points to the dangers of pursuing a growth-first strategy for urbanization, as exclusion can become entrenched and difficult to reverse, even with increased prosperity. It then examines how more inclusive urbanization can be achieved and how this relates to the Sustainable Development Goals (part of the 2030 Agenda). The world’s governments have committed themselves to balanced development that integrates economic, social and environmental goals, and have pledged that “no one will be left behind”. Inclusive urbanization is needed to achieve this balance, and to move the world towards the progressive realization of human rights for all.
A position measurement method for 3-degree-of-freedom motion based on magnetic detection
Authors: Chen Longmin , Hu Jinchun , Zhu Yu , Cheng Rong
Published: February 2016

Generally, optical methods for precision measurement have limitations when rotation of large angle (larger than 10°) and translation of large range occur simultaneously. To deal with the problem, an improved method based on spatial magnetic detection is proposed for planar 3-degree-of-freedom position measurement with large ranges in this article. The position-solving algorithm of the method calculates position by decoupling 3 degrees of freedom with the magnetic flux densities of the inherent magnetic field of the permanent-magnet synchronous planar motor detected by the proposed Hall-sensor array. On the basis of previous work, the calculation approach of decoupling is improved; as a result, the calculations for solving position are simplified. The characteristics of the sensor topology are exploited further, and a new calculation approach of decoupling is introduced to compensate the original one, achieving better robustness to noise. The ability of solving 3-degree-of-freedom position and the robustness to noise and magnetic-field imperfections are evaluated by simulation; the results show that the accuracies of translational and rotational motions are 10 µm scale and 0.1° scale in the case with noise of 0.01% of signal amplitude, while they are 100 µm scale and 10° scale in the case with the magnetic-field imperfections caused by parameter deviations. Comparison experiments with commercial sensors are conducted on a self-developed testing platform to verify the feasibility of the method, and the results show that the method can achieve sensing a large rotational angle and a large translational range with a simple implementation.
Spiritual development in Iranian nurses
Authors: Davoodvand Shirmohammad , Abbaszadeh Abbas , Ahmadi Fazlollah
Published: February 2016

Background:

Spiritual development is one of the most important aspects of socialization that has attracted the attention of researchers. It is needed to train nursing student and novice nurses to provide high-quality care for patients. There is ambiguity in the definition of spiritual development and its relations, especially in the eastern countries.

Research objectives::

To explore the concept of spiritual development in Iranian nurses.

Research design:

Qualitative content analysis approach. Data were gathered from semi-structured interviews. Participants and research context: The participants were 17 Iranian Muslim nurses selected using a purposeful sampling. The place of interviews was on their choice.

Ethical considerations:

Based on the principles of the Helsinki declaration, the focus was on preserving the participants’ autonomy, confidentiality, and anonymity. The participants were told the study purposes and trends, and their rights were emphasized; they were then asked to sign written consent forms. Formal research approval was obtained from Kerman University of Medical Sciences. Ethical approval was granted by the University Ethics Committee before the study was conducted (K/92 etc).

Findings:

Three themes for spiritual development were defined: obligation to religion, commitment to ethics, and commitment to law. From the results, factors such as connection to the limitless divine power, personal and society-oriented ethical codes, and commitment to the law are proposed.

Discussion:

There are some differences between these findings and previous study, especially in the relation of the spirituality, religion, and law. Some studies, mostly Iranian, support these findings partially.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that it is better to teach nursing education based on humanistic principles, ethics, and law to the new generation of nurses to improve community health and development. More studies are needed to examine the relation between these themes.
Development of Two Instruments Measuring Social Support for Siblings of Children With Cancer
Authors: Murray John S.
Published: February 2016

The literature on childhood cancer provides a very limited understanding of healthy siblings' perceptions of supportive interventions during the childhood cancer experience. The purpose of this article is to discuss the development of the Nurse-Sibling Social Support Questionnaire (NSSSQ). Instrument methodology for the study involved item development, face and content validation, and internal consistency reliability as described by Hockenberry-Eaton, Manteuffel, and Bottomley (1997). Item development for the research instrument evolved from an extensive review of the literature and clinical experience of the principal investigator. Content validity of the instrument was accomplished by five experienced pediatric oncology nurses according to the methodology described by Lynn (1986). Using the content validity index, each nurse rated each item as either 4 or 5, indicating 100% agreement among experts that these items measured the concept of social support. Readability for the instrument was determined by using a computerized program. Results showed that readability was concordant with the grade school level for all items. Twenty-five school-age siblings of children with cancer and their mothers were asked to complete the questionnaire. Instrument completion was accomplished in less than 1 hour. The NSSSQ showed high internal consistencies (alpha coefficients > .90). Results indicated that siblings' perceptions of social support differed from those of their mothers. Siblings perceive emotional and instrumental support as greater in importance, whereas mothers perceive emotional and informational support as more beneficial to siblings. Support issues for siblings of children with cancer have been difficult to assess because of the lack of appropriate instruments. This study finding provides exploratory evidence to suggest that the new instrument can help measure siblings' perceptions of social support during the childhood cancer experience. © 2000 by Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses
Father-to-Father Support: Fathers of Children with Cancer Share Their Experience
Authors: Neil-Urban Sherry , Jones Jill B.
Published: February 2016

Fathers are important to the stability of the family and to the coping of mothers and their children when there is a child in treatment with cancer. The vulnerability they experience is stupefying and causes self-doubt, general worry, and frustra tion with the medical care they receive. Fathers' experiences are relatively unreported in the literature, and even less so, the experiences of fathers with children who have cancer. This research is based on two focus groups of five men each who spoke unabashedly for more than 2 hours about their grief, their struggle to come to terms with the diagnosis and the role strain, and role confusion they experienced as fathers and husbands. The findings could be described as reflecting the following themes: (1) impact on the provider role, (2) the emotional impact: I cry privately, (3) its the fight of our lives, (4) tag-team parenting, (5) hypervigilance, (6) that place is scary!, and (7) what happens next—coping and moving on. The group format was powerful in terms of what these men were willing to share of themselves and their experience. These groups could be characterized as the coming together of strangers, bound by the common experience of "cancer," who actively supported each other and each other's process. Implications for holistic nursing practice are provided.
Promoting Parental Use of Distraction and Relaxation in Pediatric Oncology Patients During Invasive Procedures
Authors: Christensen Joy , Fatchett Debora
Published: February 2016

Treatment of children with cancer involves many painful procedures. Invasive procedures such as bone marrow aspiration and lumbar punctures can be very traumatic, painful, and anxiety-producing for both parents and child. The use of distraction and relaxation techniques is a nonpharmacologic strategy to promote comfort and decrease anxiety and procedural pain. This article describes the development of a parent education booklet that promotes the use of distraction and relaxation techniques during invasive procedures across pediatric oncology inpatient and outpatient settings. Promoting parents' use of these techniques with their child can add to the parent and child's repertoire of coping skills that can be used throughout the course of their treatment or during other painful procedures. These techniques in combination with traditional methods of practice enhance quality patient care and significantly decrease the cost and risk associated with performing these procedures under general anesthesia.
Nursing Care of the Child with Neutropenic Enterocolitis
Authors: King Nancy
Published: February 2016

Neutropenic enterocolitis (NE) is a serious complication in neutropenic patients. Once exclusively thought to be found in patients with leukemia and lymphoma, it is now being seen with increased frequency during bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy for solid tumors, and in patients suffering from acquired immune deficiency syndrome and cyclic neutropenia. The pathophysiology of NE is not completely understood, but unquestionably involves neutropenia, mucosal bar rier damage, and infection resulting in a necrotizing process of the bowel wall. The cecum, ileus, and ascending colon are most commonly involved. Initial symptoms are usually nonspecific abdominal pain and fever. Localized, severe right lower quadrant pain, sepsis, and bowel perforation may rapidly develop. Once considered a fatal complication, the outcome for the child with NE has improved with better diagnostic imaging techniques and antibiotics. Most children can be successfully managed conservatively with early introduction of broad- spectrum antibiotics and supportive care. However, a significant number will need surgical intervention. Nursing care of these children requires knowledge of the disease process, excellent clinical assessment skills, and a compassionate, family-centered approach.
Understanding Culture Care Practices of Caregivers of Children with Cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Liang Hwey-Fang
Published: February 2016

This ethnonursing method (Leininger, 1985) was used to explore the emic perspectives (insider's perspectives) of cultural care practices of caregivers who have children with cancer in Taiwan. Forty key and general informants, including 34 family caregivers and 6 nurses, were interviewed in a medical center located in the central region of Taiwan. The results and conclusions included the emer gence of significant themes such as caregivers' use of all cultural knowledge (folk and Western) that was available to them and that became available to promote the best and most appropriate methods of health care for the child. The second theme was the influence of cultural context on caregivers' decision-making for the child's overall health and care. The third theme was the caregivers' promotion and expectation of a care practice of unconditional giving for the purpose of recovery from the illness and well-being for the child with cancer. The results of this study could promote culturally competent care for Taiwanese caregivers and children with cancer. Nurses would be able to understand and integrate generic and professional care and promote culturally congruent professional care to Taiwanese caregivers who have children with cancer.
The Care of My Child with Cancer: Parents' Perceptions of Caregiving Demands
Authors: James Kelly , Keegan-Wells Diane , Hinds Pamela S. , Kelly Katherine P. , Bond Dana , Hall Brenda , Mahan Rosemary , Moore Ida M. , Roll Lona , Speckhart Beth
Published: February 2016

Parents are actively involved in the direct care of their ill child receiving cancer treatment by providing and monitoring therapy and by managing symptoms related to the therapy or to the disease itself. Little is known about parents' perception of what helps or hinders them with their caregiving responsibilities or what effect the caregiving role has on the parent. In this descriptive, exploratory study, 151 parents responded to one or more of six open-ended questions that were part of the newly developed instrument, Care of My Child with Cancer. The 1,280 responses were analyzed using a semantic content analysis technique. The most frequently reported effect on parental caregiving involved negative physical and emotional health. One parent responded, "You feel like you lose all control over your life. It's no longer your own." The most desired forms of assistance with the caregiving role were periodic relief from direct caregiving, ongoing assistance with household responsibilities, and different forms of conveniences that could save time and energy. Two types of actual assistance found to be most helpful by parental caregivers included timely education about their child's health status from health care providers and emotional support from family members, friends, and others. These study findings provide the basis for future interventions that may diminish the effect that caregiving demands place on parents of children with cancer.
Perceptions of a Primary Nursing Care Model in a Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit
Authors: Nadeau Katie , Pinner Kerri , Murphy Katie , Belderson Kristin M.
Published: February 2016

The primary nursing care model optimizes relationship-based care. Despite using a primary nursing model on a pediatric hematology/oncology inpatient unit, it was hypothesized patients and nurses were dissatisfied with the structure of primary care teams and inconsistency of primary assignments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patient/family and nurse perceptions of our current care model through assessing gaps in its operationalization and satisfaction. This study used a descriptive cross-sectional design featuring patient/family and nurse surveys. Of the 59 patient/family respondents, 93.2% prefer to have a primary nurse care for them and 85% are satisfied with how often they are assigned a primary care team member. Similarly, 63% of the 57 nurse respondents are satisfied with the current implementation of our primary nursing model and 61% state the model reflects good continuity of care. Yet 80.7% of nurses believe safety would improve for a patient whose nurse works shifts consecutively even if not a primary nurse. Overall, patients, families, and nurses value care continuity and meaningful nurse–patient relationships, which is fundamental to primary nursing.
Evaluation of Pre–Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT) Brain MRI and Neurologic Complications of Pediatric Patients Undergoing HCT for Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Bailey-Olson Mara , Cowan Morton , Dvorak Christopher , Mueller Sabine , Owens Abigail , Wahlstrom Justin , Horn Biljana
Published: February 2016

Adverse neurologic complications (NC) occur commonly in pediatric patients with hematologic malignancies both pre- and post–allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT). Given this known risk, we previously obtained pre-HCT brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to document baseline abnormalities but utility of this and findings are not well described. This study aimed to ( a) determine the prevalence and risk factors for abnormal brain MRI and ( b) determine prevalence and risk factors for development of new NC during and 2 years post-HCT. Retrospective chart review included 102 patients with hematologic malignancies who underwent allogeneic HCT between 2000 and 2009 at University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Children’s Hospital and included standard HCT data, brain MRI reports, and NC and symptoms pre- and post-HCT. Forty-three percent of patients had abnormal findings on pre-MRI, most commonly nonspecific white matter changes. Neurologic symptoms pre-HCT was the only significant risk factor for abnormal MRI. Eleven patients (11%) developed post-HCT NC. Non-Caucasian race was the only significant risk factor for new NC. Although abnormal pre-HCT brain MRI is common, these findings are not predictive of subsequent NC post-HCT. Therefore routine surveillance may not be informative for that purpose, particularly when general anesthesia is required, which can have detrimental neurocognitive effects. Etiology of NC in pediatric HCT is likely multifactorial and may include genetic and ethnic predispositions.