bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sowing Peace, Reaping Violence: Understanding the Resurgence of Kidnapping in Post-amnesty Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Aghedo Iro
Published: June 2015

Kidnapping for ransom has resurfaced in the oil-producing Niger Delta region of Nigeria where the state has since 2009 launched the most comprehensive and expensive peace-building policy in the nation’s history. Since 2009, about 30,000 fighters had been disarmed and demobilised and their reintegration is ongoing to both local and international acclaim. However, this study reveals that while the amnesty programme and its disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) corollary have drastically reduced direct confrontation between insurgents and state troops, the peace deal indirectly promotes further violence. Politicised peace building has transformed many youth who took to rebellion into millionaires to the envy of others who now resort to violent activities such as oil theft, sea piracy and ransom kidnapping. In addition, many of the initial grievances that led to conflict in the region, including socio-economic marginalisation, youth unemployment, relative poverty and environmental damage, still subsist and continue to propel violence. It is suggested that the state should accelerate massive infrastructure development that maximises benefits to Niger Delta communities rather than individuals, and reinvigorate basic services at the grass roots to minimise the incentives for violence.
BRICS as an Important Actor in Africa
Authors: Deych Tatiana
Published: June 2015

Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) play a growing role in the world economy. This entity is deepening its engagement with African countries and has gained great success in their development in recent years. BRICS’ attention to Africa is determined by the important role of African resource potential and also by the continent’s growing influence in contemporary international relations. BRICS countries are now the largest trade partners of Africa (China has overtaken the US as Africa’s first trade partner). Africa’s trade with BRICS is growing faster than its trade with the traditional partners and Africa has become the main destination for BRICS’ development aid. Investments from BRICS into Africa accounted for 25 per cent of Africa’s inflows in 2012. BRICS countries widely use ‘soft power’, developing cultural, scientific and humanitarian ties with Africa and take an active part in African conflicts resolution. Although there is a competition between BRICS’ member countries in Africa, all of them contribute considerably to the African economics.
FOUNTAINS
Authors: Männamaa Ivar
Published: June 2015

The simulation game FOUNTAINS was designed to help young students understand that we have more than one way for ethnic groups to tackle the task of becoming acculturated to the context in which they have chosen to live. The design principles and process are described in more detail in this issue. While its original objective was to explore cultural integration strategies, the game may also be used for other purposes. Although the FOUNTAINS was designed to be used in upper secondary schools in the context of regular learning activities it can also be played with younger learners and naturally also with university students and adults. The suggested number of participants is 12 to 18, but the game can also be played with as few as 6 or as many as 24 participants. The operational rules of the game are quite explicit. The participants’ rules are available in Dutch, English, Estonian, German, Hebrew, Italian, Russian and Spanish. The game-kit includes a set of simple cardboard shapes that are easy to make. FOUNTAINS needs no computer support and is playable in regular classroom settings. Guidelines for both in- and post-game debriefing are outlined in this article and the written rules for the players are included.
Incorporating English Language Learner Instruction Within Special Education Teacher Preparation
Authors: More Cori M. , Spies Tracy Griffin , Morgan Joseph John , Baker Joshua N.
Published: June 2015

The number of students who are English language learners (ELL) is increasing significantly across the United States. As this number increases, so does the number of students who are ELL and being identified as having disabilities. The intersection of English language instruction and special education is an emerging field of scholarship, and it is important that special education teacher preparation programs incorporate theoretical frameworks and evidence-based practice for students who are ELL into their teacher preparation programs. Indeed, there are several topics and techniques that can be incorporated into special education teacher preparation coursework that have natural connections to topics typically addressed. This article provides a framework to support the inclusion of these strategies as well as specific examples of activities that could be incorporated in coursework to strengthen the preparation of special educators to meet the needs of students who are ELL.
Stability and convergence analysis for different harmonic control algorithm implementations
Authors: Zazas Ilias , Daley Steve
Published: June 2015

In many engineering systems there is a common requirement to isolate the supporting foundation from low frequency periodic machinery vibration sources. In such cases the vibration is mainly transmitted at the fundamental excitation frequency and its multiple harmonics. It is well known that passive approaches have poor performance at low frequencies and for this reason a number of active control technologies have been developed. For discrete frequencies disturbance rejection Harmonic Control (HC) techniques provide excellent performance. In the general case of variable speed engines or motors, the disturbance frequency changes with time, following the rotational speed of the engine or motor. For such applications, an important requirement for the control system is to converge to the optimal solution as rapidly as possible for all variations without altering the system's stability. For a variety of applications this may be difficult to achieve, especially when the disturbance frequency is close to a resonance peak and a small value of convergence gain is usually preferred to ensure closed-loop stability. This can lead to poor vibration isolation performance and long convergence times. In this paper, the performance of two recently developed HC algorithms are compared (in terms of both closed-loop stability and speed of convergence) in a vibration control application and for the case when the disturbance frequency is close to a resonant frequency. In earlier work it has been shown that both frequency domain HC algorithms can be represented by Linear Time Invariant (LTI) feedback compensators each designed to operate at the disturbance frequency. As a result, the convergence and stability analysis can be performed using the LTI representations with any suitable method from the LTI framework. For the example mentioned above, the speed of convergence provided by each algorithm is compared by determining the locations of the dominant closed-loop poles and stability analysis is performed using the open-loop frequency responses and the Nyquist criterion. The theoretical findings are validated through simulations and experimental analysis.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor-associated syndrome of inappropriate secretion of anti-diuretic hormone
Authors: Hill Jordan , Shields Jenna , Passero Vida
Published: June 2015

Hyponatremia is a common complication among cancer patients. Certain antineoplastic agents have been associated with syndrome of inappropriate secretion of anti-diuretic hormone-induced hyponatremia. The most common agents associated with secretion of anti-diuretic hormone are vinca alkaloids, platinum compounds, and alkylating agents. We report a case of secretion of anti-diuretic hormone associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Pectus excavatum: computed tomography and medium-term surgical outcome in a prospective cohort of 10 kittens
Authors: Charlesworth Timothy M , Schwarz Tobias , Sturgess Christopher P
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study was to report the use of computed tomography (CT) in conjunction with clinical signs to assess the severity of pectus excavatum (PE) in kittens and to guide surgical decision-making; also to report medium-term outcome in a prospective cohort of kittens undergoing surgical correction.

Methods

This was a prospective study of 10–15-week-old kittens (n = 10) diagnosed with moderate/severe PE.

Results

CT provides additional information that is useful for selecting patients for surgical correction and for planning the surgery. Traditional radiographic indices (vertebral, frontosagittal) provide reasonable approximations of the CT-determined dimensions but these seem to correlate poorly with the severity of clinical signs. Kittens commonly have lateralised deformities, which are associated with less severe clinical signs, while those with midline deformities are associated with more severe clinical signs. Six of seven kittens with severe PE that had a ventral splint applied for 4 weeks had excellent medium-term outcomes.

Conclusions and relevance

Restriction of diastolic filling by midline sternal deviation may be an important cause of exercise intolerance in cats with PE. CT can be used to assess affected kittens and to plan surgery when indicated.
Characterization of pica and chewing behaviors in privately owned cats: a case-control study
Authors: Demontigny-Bédard Isabelle , Beauchamp Guy , Bélanger Marie-Claude , Frank Diane
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterize pica behavior in cats.

Methods

Cat owners were recruited to participate in a questionnaire survey on pica behavior exhibited by their cats. Emphasis was put on the type of item ingested. Questions on early history and environment, as well as general health and gastrointestinal signs, were asked. Owners of healthy cats not showing pica were also recruited into a control group. Associations between variables and groups were statistically tested.

Results

Pica was directed most commonly at shoelaces or threads, followed by plastic, fabric, other items, rubber, paper or cardboard and wood. Some cats ingested specific items but only chewed others. A significant positive association was found between sucking and ingesting fabric ( P = 0.002). Ad libitum feeding was significantly lower in the pica group than the control group ( P = 0.01). Prevalence of self-sucking behavior was significantly higher in the pica group than the control group ( P = 0.001). Cats with pica vomited significantly more often than control cats ( P = 0.01).

Conclusions and relevance

Pica, the ingestion of inedible items, does not seem to be the consequence of a suboptimal environment or early weaning. Cats with pica were less commonly fed ad libitum than healthy cats. As frequently reported, pica and vomiting were related, but the causative association is not well established and thus warrants further investigation.
Culture, morality and the law
Authors: Adebanjo Adetoun Teslimat
Published: June 2015

Nigeria’s Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act was signed into law in January 2014, leading to a hailstorm of reactions. This article examines the role that culture and morality play in shaping Nigerian society and law, focusing on the enduring victimization of the sexual minority. It examines the background to Nigeria’s anti-gay law, noting the strong support of the Nigerian people for this law and the condemnation this action has received from human rights groups and the international community. The article discusses Nigeria’s contravention of international human rights obligations as a result of its stance on same-sex relationships, noting the existence in the country, prior to this law, of previous laws criminalizing same-sex relationships. The article discusses the causative effects of this law on Nigeria’s gay community and draws examples from other African countries to show that Nigeria is not alone in its homophobic stance. The protection of gay rights in South Africa as an exception is also discussed. The article postulates reasons why the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act should be repealed or why, at least, a compromise should be reached. It then concludes with suggestions on ways to uphold the rights of the sexual minority in Nigeria.
From referral to discharge: Young people and parents’ experience of a systemic paediatric psychology service
Authors: Girling Isabella , Colville Susie , Borrelli Mimi , Bowman Nicola , Christie Deborah
Published: June 2015

Objectives:

The paediatric and adolescent clinical psychology service at the University College London Hospital provides age-appropriate services to young people up to 19 years of age under the care of a hospital consultant. This short report describes how young people and parents experience what we provide as a systemic paediatric psychology team from referral to discharge.

Method:

A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to gather service user perspectives on the systemic clinical psychology service. The questionnaire included open and closed questions to generate qualitative and quantitative data about the different stages of the treatment process.

Results:

A total of 44/79 families discharged in the previous year were contacted by phone. The majority of young people and parents were happy being called to discuss the referral before being offered an appointment and liked the way in which the psychologist worked with the family. The majority of young people and parents reported their situation had improved as a result of the work offered by the psychology team. Negative aspects of the experience reflected the realities of service driven constraints including having to travel a long distance for the appointment, lack of rooms and having to be discharged at 19 years of age.

Conclusion:

Service user feedback is imperative to providing a high standard of care. This study highlighted positive experiences of a systemic service and indicated areas for future improvement that we are attempting to address
Recasts, field dependence/independence cognitive style, and L2 development
Authors: Rassaei Ehsan
Published: June 2015

While previous research has indicated that learners with field-dependence (FD) and field-independence (FI) cognitive styles benefit differentially from different instructional modes, previous corrective feedback studies have ignored the issue of matching error correction strategies to learners’ cognitive style. To shed some light on this issue, the current study examined the hypothesis that learners with FI and FD cognitive styles benefit differently from recasts. Seventy-six intermediate level EFL learners in four intact classes constituted the experimental and control groups, which differed from each other in terms of the presence or absence of recasts for their errors during classroom interactions. The participants were also classified as FD or FI based on their scores on the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT). Thus, four groups were formed: recasts–FD, recasts–FI, control–FD, and control–FI. The results of a writing task and a picture description task administered as pretest, posttest and delayed posttest indicated that the recasts–FI group significantly outperformed the other three groups in both posttests and delayed posttests, while no statistical difference was observed among the other three groups. In other words, as the results showed, only FI learners benefited from recasts.
Predictive validity of self-report questionnaires in the assessment of autism spectrum disorders in adults
Authors: Sizoo Bram B , Horwitz EH , Teunisse JP , Kan CC , Vissers CTWM , Forceville EJM , Van Voorst AJP , Geurts HM
Published: June 2015

While various screening instruments for autism spectrum disorders are widely used in diagnostic assessments, their psychometric properties have not been simultaneously evaluated in the outpatient setting where these instruments are used most. In this study, we tested the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale–Revised and two short versions of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, the AQ-28 and AQ-10, in 210 patients referred for autism spectrum disorder assessment and in 63 controls. Of the 210 patients, 139 received an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and 71 received another psychiatric diagnosis. The positive predictive values indicate that these tests correctly identified autism spectrum disorder patients in almost 80% of the referred cases. However, the negative predictive values suggest that only half of the referred patients without autism spectrum disorder were correctly identified. The sensitivity and specificity of each of these instruments were much lower than the values reported in the literature. In this study, the sensitivity of the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale–Revised was the highest (73%), and the Autism-Spectrum Quotient short forms had the highest specificity (70% and 72%). Based on the similar area under the curve values, there is no clear preference for any of the three instruments. None of these instruments have sufficient validity to reliably predict a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in outpatient settings.
Social well-being of young adults with type 1 diabetes since childhood. The Oulu cohort study of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Hannula Virva , Hautala Nina M , Tossavainen Päivi , Falck Aura AK
Published: June 2015

Aim: To evaluate the social performance of young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) since childhood with particular interest in its relation to the severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods: The prevalence of DR was evaluated in a population-based Finnish cohort of children with T1D during 1989–1990. The subjects were contacted 18 years later for evaluation of DR, education, employment, and family relations. Results: 136 of 216 subjects participated in the study in 2007 (mean age 30±3 years, mean diabetes duration 23±4 years, 78 men). There were 42 subjects (31%) with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). A university degree was held by 9%, a degree from a university of applied sciences by 33%, and 45% had a vocational school education; 7% were full-time students while 4% had received no education after comprehensive school. PDR was associated with lower education. Sixty percent of the subjects with PDR and 68% of those with non-PDR held full-time jobs. Four percent of the non-PDR group were unemployed while 26% of subjects with PDR were outside working life because of either unemployment or retirement. Seventy-one percent of the subjects had a spouse, and 60 subjects had a total of 119 children. PDR did not compromise the likelihood of having a spouse and children. Conclusions: The majority of young adults with T1D take active roles in society by working and raising families. However, patients with PDR lacked secondary education significantly more often and were less likely to work than those with non-PDR.
Poverty and the risk of leukemia and cancer in the central nervous system in children: A cohort study in a high-income country
Authors: Del Risco Kollerud Ruby , Blaasaas Karl Gerhard , Claussen Bjørgulf
Published: June 2015

Aims: The association between childhood cancer and socioeconomic status is inconclusive. Family income has seldom been included in large population-based studies, and the specific contributions of it remain unknown. Methods: A total of 712,674 children born between 1967 and 2009 in the Oslo region were included. Of these, 864 were diagnosed with leukemia or cancer in the central nervous system before the age of 15 years. The association between poverty and childhood leukemia or brain cancer was analyzed using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. Family income was stratified according to poverty lines. Parents’ educational level and several perinatal variables were also examined. Results: Family poverty during the first 2 years of life was associated with lymphoid leukemia before the age of 15 years: odds ratio 1.72, 95% confidence interval 1.11–2.64. In the same age group we found a significant dose response, with a 21% increased risk of lymphoid leukemia with increasing poverty. The risk for intracranial and intraspinal embryonal tumors in the whole study period was lower for children in the middle family income category. For astrocytomas there was a more than 70% increased risk in the medium income category when analyzing the two first years of life. The observed increase was reduced when all years each child contributed to the study were included. The risk of cancer in the central nervous system overall was 20% higher in the medium income category compared to the high-income category. Conclusions: Being born into a household of low family income the first 2 years of life was found to be a risk factor for development of lymphoid leukemia. For astrocytomas we observed an increased risk among children born into the medium income category throughout the first two years of life.
Get bill smart: A community-partnership approach to supporting low-income households to achieve home energy savings
Authors: Watson Phillipa , Gabriel Michelle , Rooney Millie
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we report on early findings from a low-income energy efficiency programme, get bill smart (GBS). The project trials a community-partnership approach to supporting low-income households to pursue energy savings and comfort improvements in their home. In our discussion, we examine the role of community action in facilitating improvements to the indoor built environment. Here, we reflect on the challenges and opportunities that have arisen in seeking to build community-capacity in a disadvantaged community. We observe that: the project design was effective in facilitating local ownership; its objectives did align with local priorities; and there was some translation of energy saving messages. However, challenges were encountered with facilitating the emergence of leadership and an ongoing community network around affordable warmth and energy use. While a temporary network has emerged through the delivery of GBS, early insights from the project indicate that, on balance, there are more inhibitors rather than facilitators of this outcome within the neighbourhood. Tipping this balance may require further investment and support beyond the project parameters.
The “Voice of Industry”: Why management researchers should pay more attention to trade associations
Authors: Rajwani Tazeeb , Lawton Thomas , Phillips Nelson
Published: June 2015

Trade associations work to influence regulation, government policy, and public opinion on behalf of the collective needs and objectives of their members. They also serve as agents for disseminating and exchanging information within industries, and often act as informal regulators by setting voluntary standards of behavior for industry members. Yet, despite the obvious importance of trade associations for firms, industries, and societies, management and organization researchers have devoted surprisingly little attention to understanding them. In this essay, we argue that researchers must develop a deeper understanding of their purpose, sources of influence, and impact on companies, industries, and society. We go on to discuss three examples of areas of management research—institutional theory, collective identity, and nonmarket strategy—where we believe trade associations are of particular relevance and where existing theoretical perspectives remain limited without an explicit consideration of these important organizations.
Young children’s initiation into family literacy practices in the digital age
Authors: Marsh Jackie , Hannon Peter , Lewis Margaret , Ritchie Louise
Published: June 2015

This article reports a study that explored young children’s digital literacy in the home. The aim of the study was to identify the range of digital literacy practices in which children are engaged in the home and to explore how these are embedded into family life and involve family members. Four children, two girls and two boys aged between 2 and 4 years, were the focus for study. Parents were co-researchers in the study in that they made written observations on children’s activities and captured practices using a digital camera and a digital camcorder over the period of 1 month. They took part in a series of interviews during the study in which they reflected on this data and were asked about related practices. Findings suggest that children were immersed in a range of multimedia, multimodal practices which involved extensive engagement with other family members who scaffolded their learning and delighted in the children’s technological capabilities. The article suggests that, in the light of socio-cultural developments in the new media age, a change in focus from ‘family literacy’ to ‘family digital literacy’ is required.
Mesenchymal stem cell aging: Mechanisms and influences on skeletal and non-skeletal tissues
Authors: Liu Huijuan , Xia Xuechun , Li Baojie
Published: June 2015

The aging population and the incidence of aging-related diseases such as osteoporosis are on the rise. Aging at the tissue and organ levels usually involves tissue stem cells. Human and animal model studies indicate that aging affects two aspects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC): a decrease in the bone marrow MSC pool and biased differentiation into adipocyte at the cost of osteoblast, which underlie the etiology of osteoporosis. Aging of MSC cells is also detrimental to some non-skeletal tissues, in particular the hematopoietic system, where MSCs serve as a niche component. In addition, aging compromises the therapeutic potentials of MSC cells, including cells isolated from aged individuals or cells cultured for many passages. Here we discuss the recent progress on our understanding of MSC aging, with a focus on the effects of MSC aging on bone remodeling and hematopoiesis and the mechanisms of MSC aging.
Roxithromycin inhibits nuclear factor kappaB signaling and endoplasmic reticulum stress in intestinal epithelial cells and ameliorates experimental colitis in mice
Authors: Choi Younjeong , Koh Seong-Joon , Lee Hee Sook , Kim Ji Won , Gwan Kim Byeong , Lee Kook Lae , Kim Joo Sung
Published: June 2015

Roxithromycin is known to have anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activity. However, little information is available on the effect of roxithromycin in intestinal inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of roxithromycin on NF– κB signaling and ER stress in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) and the effect of roxithromycin on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis in a murine model. HCT116 cells and COLO205 cells were pretreated with roxithromycin and then stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Interleukin (IL)-8 expression was determined by real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) DNA-binding activity and IκB phosphorylation/degradation were evaluated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay and Western blot analysis. The molecular markers of endoplasmic reticulum stress, including p-JNK, phosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (p-eIF2α), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) were evaluated using western blotting and PCR. Mice were given 4% DSS for five days with or without roxithromycin. Primary IECs were isolated from mice with DSS-induced colitis. Roxithromycin significantly inhibited the upregulated expression of IL-8. Pretreatment with roxithromycin markedly attenuated NF-κB DNA-binding activity and IκB phosphorylation/degradation. CHOP and XBP1 mRNA expression were enhanced in the presence of TNF-α, and it was dampened by pretreatment of roxithromycin. c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation and the level of p-eIF2α were also downregulated by the pretreatment of roxithromycin. Roxithromycin significantly reduced the severity of DSS-induced murine colitis, as assessed by the disease activity index, colon length, and histology. In addition, the DSS-induced phospho-IκB kinase activation was significantly decreased in roxithromycin-pretreated mice. Finally, IκB degradation was reduced in primary IECs from mice treated with roxithromycin. These results suggest that roxithromycin may have potential usefulness in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Administration of microparticles from blood of the lipopolysaccharide-treated rats serves to induce pathologic changes of acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Li Hongxia , Meng Xiangyu , Liang Xiaoyan , Gao Yue , Cai Shaohua
Published: June 2015

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of intratracheal and intravenous administration of microparticles (MPs) on developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The blood MPs from lipopolysaccharide-treated rats were collected and examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cellular source of the MPs was identified by fluorescent-labeled antibodies after the circulating MPs were delivered to naïve rats. Levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-10 productions in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and plasma were determined 24 h after the rats received intratracheal and intravenous administration of the MPs. Histopathologic examination of lungs was performed by light microscope. A TEM image of MPs showed spherical particles at a variable diameter from 0.1 to 0.5 µm. Endothelial- and leukocyte-derived vesicles were abundant in the investigated samples. Treatment with MPs may lead to significant increases in MPO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10 productions in BALF and plasma of the rats (all P < 0.001). Morphological observation indicated that alveolar structures were destroyed with a large amount of neutrophil infiltration in the lungs of the MP-treated rats. Perivascular and/or intra-alveolar hemorrhage were serious and hyaline membrane formed in the alveoli. Intratracheal and intravenous approaches to delivery of the circulating MPs to naïve recipient rats may induce ARDS. This presents an inducer of the onset of ARDS and provides potential therapeutic targets for attenuating lung injury.
Anticipating the Anthropocene and greening criminology
Authors: South Nigel
Published: June 2015

Responding to Clifford Shearing’s discussion of the criminological significance of ‘the Anthropocene’, this article elaborates on the development of a ‘green criminology’ and the concept of ‘environmental (in)security’. It then begins a debate with Shearing about the extent to which the insurance industry, itself a cornerstone of the finance sector, can effectively regulate corporate risk-takers as a means of reducing environmental harm. The article argues that consumerism and insurance both encourage ‘de-responsibilization’ and hence risk-taking and anthropogenic damage to the environment.
China’s urban underclass population and penal policy
Authors: Li Enshen
Published: June 2015

China’s economic modernization has created a new underclass population characterized by destitution and dispossession. This group is linked to social instability that intimidates the state’s control of the society. This article examines Chinese penal policy changes in the face of the rising underclass in urban areas. It sets a preliminary comparative analysis on the penal strategies of this new disadvantaged group in the USA and China. In reviewing the penal practices in both realms, the article argues that China shares an ideological affinity with its western counterparts for imposing punitive and managerial justice on the underclass. However, this rationale is realized in different ways. In China it is realized through the operation of an extensive system of administrative detention (different from criminal punishment), which is run by public security officials and is not part of the judicial system. Being located outside the judicial system enables greater efficiency by channelling the underclass through more flexible and cost-effectiveness forms of incarceration and control.
Applicability of the current hypertension guidelines in Latin America
Authors: Alcocer Luis , Meaney Eduardo , Hernandez-Hernandez Hector
Published: June 2015

Recent research has focused on the development of evidence-based guidelines that are intended to regulate the conduct of physicians in the diagnosis and control of hypertension, with the goal of achieving greater effectiveness and equity at the lowest possible cost. In Latin America, guidelines are available for the management of hypertension at three levels: national, regional and international. The national and regional Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) guidelines are in fact adaptations of the international guidelines. The potential benefit of applying guidelines developed in other regions to local healthcare decision making is that it will enable decision makers to take advantage of existing analyses and transfer or adapt them to their local contexts. However, this adaptation precludes the assessment of their generalizability and potential transferability. In addition, this region is characterized by wide socioeconomic differences between its inhabitants, both among and within nations. Therefore, new guidelines for the LAC region must include recommendations that are common to all hypertensive patients in the region. Moreover, we advocate the inclusion of a specific section that makes comprehensive recommendations and provides strategies for implementation according to the socioeconomic conditions of particular groups. In addition to developing guidelines that are truly applicable to the LAC region, it seems sensible to consider information that is specific to this region. Furthermore, developing evidence-based guidelines is not enough to affect positively the burden of disease caused by hypertension. Therefore, professional programs are required for the implementation of such guidelines as well as the auditing of their results. Achieving these ambitious goals will require collaborative efforts by many groups including policymakers, international organizations, healthcare providers, universities and society.
A comparison of four typical green exercise environments and prediction of psychological health outcomes
Authors: Rogerson Mike , Brown Daniel K , Sandercock Gavin , Wooller John-James , Barton Jo
Published: June 2015

Aims:

‘Green exercise’ (GE) is physical activity while simultaneously being exposed to nature. GE comprises three physical components: the individual, the exercise and the environment, and one processes component encompassing a range of psychological and physiological processes. Previous research has consistently shown affective benefits of GE compared to equivalent non-GE. Investigating the possibility of optimum GE environments may help maximise health benefits. The aim of this study was to compare affective outcomes of GE participation between four different typical GE environments (beach, grasslands, riverside, heritage), and further examine influences of several physical component–related variables and one processes component–related variable, on these outcomes.

Method:

Participants ( N = 331) completed questionnaires before and after a 5km run, at one of four parkrun event locations.

Results:

Self-esteem (Δ = 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.30, 1.93)), stress (Δ = −2.36, 95% CI = (−3.01, −1.71)) and mood (Δ = −5.25, 95% CI = (−7.45, −3.05)) all significantly improved from pre- to post-run ( p < .05). Improvements in these measures were not significantly different between environments. Several component-related variables significantly predicted these improvements, accounting for 9% of self-esteem improvement, 1.6% of perceived stress improvement, and 9.5% of mood improvement.

Conclusion:

GE offers accessible provision for improving acute psychological wellbeing. Although nature-based exercise environments can facilitate affective outcomes, the overall type of nature may be less critical. Other characteristics of the individual, exercise and environment can significantly influence attainment of psychological GE benefits. However, the results support a greater importance of the processes component in attaining previously reported affective outcomes.
Does Self-Regulatory Efficacy Matter? Effects of Punishment Certainty and Punishment Severity on Organizational Deviance
Authors: Kura Kabiru Maitama , Shamsudin Faridahwati Mohd. , Chauhan Ajay
Published: June 2015

Extant empirical research has reported conflicting findings with respect to the effects of punishment certainty and punishment severity on organizational deviance, suggesting the need to introduce a moderator. The present study tested whether self-regulatory efficacy matters on the relationships among punishment certainty, punishment severity, and organizational deviance. Drawing on deterrence and self-efficacy theories, this study examined the effects of punishment certainty, punishment severity, and self-regulatory efficacy on organizational deviance among 197 employed postgraduate students who enrolled in the Master of Business Administration program at two large universities located in the north-west geopolitical zone of Nigeria. We used self-administered questionnaires to collect data. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), we found a significant negative relationship between punishment certainty and organizational deviance. Similarly, the results indicated that punishment severity had a significant negative relationship with organizational deviance. The study also found a significant negative relationship between self-regulatory efficacy and organizational deviance. As expected, self-regulatory efficacy was found to moderate the relationship between punishment certainty and organizational deviance. On the contrary, no significant interaction effect was found between self-regulatory efficacy and punishment severity. Implications of the study in the Nigerian context have been discussed.
Dispositional Optimism as a Correlate of Decision-Making Styles in Adolescence
Authors: Magnano Paola , Paolillo Anna , Giacominelli Barbara
Published: June 2015

Despite the numerous psychological areas in which optimism has been studied, including career planning, only a small amount of research has been done to investigate the relationship between optimism and decision-making styles. Consequently, we have investigated the role of dispositional optimism as a correlate of different decision-making styles, in particular, positive for effective styles and negative for ineffective ones (doubtfulness, procrastination, and delegation). Data were gathered through questionnaires administered to 803 Italian adolescents in their last 2 years of high schools with different fields of study, each at the beginning stages of planning for their professional future. A paper questionnaire was completed containing measures of dispositional optimism and career-related decision styles, during a vocational guidance intervention conducted at school. Data were analyzed using stepwise multiple regression. Results supported the proposed model by showing optimism to be a strong correlate of decision-making styles, thereby offering important intervention guidelines aimed at modifying unrealistically negative expectations regarding their future and helping students learn adaptive decision-making skills.
Follow Me, Like Me, Tweet Me!
Authors: Olszewski Kimberly , Wolf Debra M.
Published: June 2015

Occupational health nurses can advance their professional practices through virtual platforms (e.g., social media and mobile applications). Virtual platforms allow occupational health nurses to disseminate occupational safety and health information efficiently to employees, families, and other stakeholders. Occupational health nurses exchange information with employees, enhancing communication and disseminating appropriate and accurate safety and health information to workers and their families. This article assists occupational health nurses in understanding how to use social media and other mobile applications to enhance their practices.
In Pursuit of the Spectacles of Success: Implications of the Dominant Rationality in the Domain of Education
Authors: Pathak Dev
Published: June 2015

The pursuit of success is a leitmotif in the domain of education in India like anywhere else. It is, however, fraught with manifold anomalies. The latter consistently manifest in the news reports, advertisements of the institutes of education, popular cinematic tales, excerpted mythological instance and institutional manoeuvrings of the schools. The anomaly, in short, is expressed in the spectacles of success, a kind of fetish, sustained by the dominant rationality of our times. This article attempts to raise a critical debate on the dominant rationality of spectacular success presiding over the popular conscience and institutions of education in India. The dominant rationality, arguably, ennobles the idea of spectacular success to the level of a fetish. The objective in this paper is to interpretatively explore the critical issues pertaining to the regime of success, and thereof notion of calculability, impinging on the idea of education.
A Pamphlet and its (Dis)contents: A Case Study of Rangila Rasul and the Controversy Surrounding it in Colonial Punjab, 1923–29
Authors: Raj Richa
Published: June 2015

This article aims to study the communal tension generated by the publication of inflammatory literature by the extreme factions of two important religious groups in colonial Punjab, the Hindus and the Muslims. It would particularly examine the tension fuelled by the controversy surrounding the pamphlet entitled, Rangila Rasul, a product of the reformist zeal of an Arya Samajist, and attempts to gain political mileage from the controversy by the leaders of the ‘victimised’ community, in this case the Khilafatists and the Ahmadis. This paper would give a general impression of the effect such publications had on the masses who most of the times could not remain immune to religious attacks of this kind and study the judicial interpretation by the colonial state of Article 153A of the Indian Penal Code which dealt with such cheap productions of the ‘gutter press’, called so by the colonial government.
From Acharam to Knowledge: Claims of Caste Dominance in Twentieth-century Malabar
Authors: K.N. Sunandan
Published: June 2015

Exploring the caste practices of Namboothiris (Kerala Brahmins) in the first half of the twentieth century, this article analyses the transformation of Brahminical claims of superiority over other castes, in interaction with colonial knowledge practices. The article maps the historical process by which claims of Brahminical superiority transformed from ritual to knowledge—from claims based on acharam (the daily practices of rituals) into a claim of possession of traditional knowledge. By analysing the upper caste world of Namboothiris, the article explores the tension between emerging order of colonial knowledge and the existing order of acharam. The article shows that until the reform movement in the 1920s, Namboothiris as a community were not part of either traditional or colonial knowledge practices. Even in the reform movement the attempt was not to wholeheartedly enter into the domains of knowledge but to incorporate the elements of acharam into the order of colonial knowledge.
India Legal Aid Clinics: Creating Service Learning Research Projects to Study Social Justice
Authors: Tushaus David W. , Gupta Shailendra Kr. , Kapoor Sumit
Published: June 2015

Law school legal aid clinics serve two main purposes. The first is to provide a better legal education to students. The second is to provide access to justice in the community. This article will provide some background on the importance of both of these missions. We will then discuss the results of a study of legal aid clinics across India in 2012–13. Indian undergraduate law school students 4 designed and conducted this study under the direction of Dr Shailendra K. Gupta and Fulbright-Nehru Scholar David Tushaus at Banaras Hindu University. The research team obtained both quantitative and qualitative data from legal aid clinic directors for a view of the state of clinical legal education in India at this time. The service learning process of forming the team and conducting the research is described here.

Findings show the global legal clinic movement has reached India. There are some excellent models for clinical legal education in India and abroad. However, there is great room for improvement. Some legal aid clinics provide excellent educational opportunities. Service learning, where students apply their knowledge in service to the community, is more effective in teaching analytical skills and critical thinking. Much more can be done in India’s clinics, where representation is more restrictive than in some countries. Providing legal education in the community through various means, including specialized advocacy, can be effective and educational. There are suggestions for reforms to improve clinical legal education in India, from providing elective credit to allowing direct representation.
Chinese Clinical Education—Examinations and Expectations
Authors: Zhang Lining
Published: June 2015

The article examines clinical education in Chinese law schools for the purpose of understanding reasons for its under-development and proposing corresponding approaches for improvement. The article starts with a historical look at the origin of Chinese law clinics when Ford Foundation brought the concept of clinical education from American law schools, and asserts that this manner of beginning is fundamentally deficient in that there was no local impetus or acknowledgement of its dual mission—legal education reform and social justice. The article continues to compare the social, regulatory and systemic background where clinical education operated in China and in countries of the first wave of clinical movement, as well as differences in their source of funding, treatment of clinical faculty, operational mode. The article concludes that there need to be a recognition on the part of Chinese law schools and universities in general of the legitimacy and significance of clinical education, proper academic placement of clinical faculty who are now not part of the regular faculty system, broader source of funding, and a more interactive clinical network for exchange, collaboration and culture building. The article also calls for a stronger leadership role from Chinese Clinical Committee of Legal Educators, the only network of clinicians in China.
Legal Education in Iraq: An Analytical and Critical Introduction
Authors: Muhamad Najmadeen A.
Published: June 2015

This article intends to provide a general overview of the current state of legal education in Iraq and some of its historical foundation. It focuses on the main characteristics and the processes of Iraqi system of legal education. In doing so, it has been divided into six sections. The first part presents the historical background. The second part examines the institutional arrangement and law schools. The third part explains the types of degrees, programmes, curricula and courses that are offered. The fourth part critically examines the methodology of educating law students. The fifth part investigates the model of Iraqi legal education as a part of civil law tradition and finally the last part concludes the article.