bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigations of rotating instability and fluctuating tip clearance flow in a low-speed axial compressor
Authors: Wang Hao , Wu Yadong , Ouyang Hua , Tian Jie , Du Zhaohui
Published: September 2015

To investigate the relationship between rotating instability and fluctuating tip clearance flow, experimental tests as well as numerical studies are conducted on a 1.5 stage low-speed axial compressor rig. The rotating instability is detected through casing mounted dynamic pressure sensors. The phase-locked and root-mean-square pressure contours show that the interaction of tip clearance flow with the neighboring blade is the most likely cause of casing flow field fluctuation. From the calculated results of entire-annulus cascade, it is found that the tip clearance vortex structures oscillate periodically at low flow rate conditions. That leads to intense fluctuation of the casing flow field. Further, phase lag of pressure fluctuations exists between two neighboring passages, which induces a rotating pressure pattern of multiple frequencies. The frequency characteristics of this rotating pressure pattern caused by fluctuating tip clearance flow is coincident with the frequency of rotating instability. This suggests that the fluctuating tip clearance flow is the major contributor to the initiation of rotating instability.
Computational fluid dynamics-based virtual flight simulation of a flying wing micro air vehicle
Authors: Cai Hongming , Wu Zhilin , Li Zhongxin , Xiao Tianhang
Published: September 2015

In this article, a computational fluid dynamics -based computational method is developed to simulate the virtual flight of a flying wing micro air vehicle. The virtual flight simulation model is composed of unsteady Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations, motion equations, and flight control equations. The flow solver is established based on low Mach number preconditioning method, momentum source method, implicit dual time-stepping algorithm, and lower upper symmetric Gauss–Seidel iteration scheme on hybrid dynamic meshes. S-A turbulence model is also introduced to close the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations. Fourth-order Adams prediction-correction method is adopted to couple computational fluid dynamics and rigid body dynamics. The multidisciplinary computational method is validated as a reliable tool for virtual flight simulation through simulating wing-rock motion of a delta wing. Finally, the developed method is used to simulate the virtual flight of the micro air vehicle. The effectiveness of the computational method is proved in the virtual flight simulation.
Development and application of a methodology to assess sanitary risks in Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Campos Luiza C , Ross Philippa , Nasir Zaheer A , Taylor Huw , Parkinson Jonathan
Published: September 2015

Sanitation-related health risks in low-income urban areas are concentrated in localities in which sanitation facilities and infrastructure are poorly developed and maintained. A simple and systematic approach to quantify these risks can be used to identify vulnerable communities and to support decisions about the types of interventions to mitigate these risks. The methodology described in this paper utilizes local stakeholder knowledge in a participatory process to score sanitation risks, using a framework of indicators that provides a quantitative assessment of the intensity and distribution of risk. The approach considers the extent of hazardous events related to faecal contamination of the environment, the level of local community exposure to this hazard, and vulnerability factors that exacerbate the impacts of infection. The paper describes the development of the methodology and its application in Maputo and outlines how this approach might be used to support the preparation of city sanitation plans. The approach is validated through the use of a conventional household survey, the results of which are compared with those from the community workshops.
Increased False-Memory Susceptibility After Mindfulness Meditation
Authors: Wilson Brent M. , Mickes Laura , Stolarz-Fantino Stephanie , Evrard Matthew , Fantino Edmund
Published: September 2015

The effect of mindfulness meditation on false-memory susceptibility was examined in three experiments. Because mindfulness meditation encourages judgment-free thoughts and feelings, we predicted that participants in the mindfulness condition would be especially likely to form false memories. In two experiments, participants were randomly assigned to either a mindfulness induction, in which they were instructed to focus attention on their breathing, or a mind-wandering induction, in which they were instructed to think about whatever came to mind. The overall number of words from the Deese-Roediger-McDermott paradigm that were correctly recalled did not differ between conditions. However, participants in the mindfulness condition were significantly more likely to report critical nonstudied items than participants in the control condition. In a third experiment, which tested recognition and used a reality-monitoring paradigm, participants had reduced reality-monitoring accuracy after completing the mindfulness induction. These results demonstrate a potential unintended consequence of mindfulness meditation in which memories become less reliable.
Pressure fluctuation signal analysis of a hydraulic turbine based on variational mode decomposition
Authors: An Xueli , Zeng Hongtao
Published: September 2015

Due to the nonstationarity of the pressure fluctuation signal from a hydraulic turbine draft tube, this research proposes a pressure fluctuation signal analysis method based on variational mode decomposition (VMD). Firstly, the research was used to compare VMD with empirical mode decomposition (EMD) by using a simulation signal, which shows that the VMD method could effectively inhibit mode mixing, but EMD method could not. This could improve the accuracy of such analysis. Then, the VMD method was applied to analyze the real pressure fluctuation signal from a hydraulic turbine. The results showed that VMD produced clearer time–frequency spectra. This allowed accurate analysis of pressure fluctuation signals. This research provided a new method of pressure fluctuation signal analysis for hydraulic turbine draft tubes.
Home country advantage? The influence of Italian, German and Austrian employee representatives in the UniCredit European Works Council
Authors: Cavallini Michela , Gold Michael , Royle Tony , Senatori Iacopo
Published: September 2015

This article examines the first European Works Council (EWC) to be established in the Italian banking sector, at UniCredit. It focuses on the interaction between Italian, German and Austrian delegations of employee representatives and on the perspectives and practices that reflect their different cultural and institutional backgrounds in industrial relations. Much of the literature suggests that employee representatives from the home country of a multinational company are likely to mould EWC structures in accordance with their own national backgrounds and have greater confidence in dealing with central management in EWC meetings. Our findings partly substantiate this argument, but also suggest that minority delegations, when they have the benefit of strong national institutional arrangements and less fragmented union patterns, are more likely to be cohesive and experienced and therefore are able to challenge management and sometimes win significant arguments over strategy.
Optic nerve involvement in childhood onset systemic lupus erythematosus: Three cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Suri D , Abujam B , Gupta A , Rawat A , Saikia B , Walker Minz R , Gupta V , Bansal R , Kaushik S , Singh S
Published: September 2015

The ocular system can be affected in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in one third of patients. However, optic nerve involvement is relatively uncommon, but is more so in pediatric SLE patients, where it can occur in 1% of cases. We report three children with SLE who presented with optic nerve involvement. Two children had optic neuritis, with optic neuritis being the first manifestation in one child. The third child had ischaemic optic neuropathy secondary to antiphospholipid syndrome. A careful work up for SLE should be performed in every child with optic nerve disease. Prompt diagnosis and early treatment results in a better prognosis.
Legislating for advocacy: The case of whistleblowing
Authors: Watson Chanel L , O’Connor Tom
Published: September 2015

Background:

The role of nurses as patient advocates is one which is well recognised, supported and the subject of a broad body of literature. One of the key impediments to the role of the nurse as patient advocate is the lack of support and legislative frameworks. Within a broad range of activities constituting advocacy, whistleblowing is currently the subject of much discussion in the light of the Mid Staffordshire inquiry in the United Kingdom (UK) and other instances of patient mistreatment. As a result steps to amend existing whistleblowing legislation where it exists or introduce it where it does not are underway.

Objective:

This paper traces the development of legislation for advocacy.

Conclusion:

The authors argue that while any legislation supporting advocacy is welcome, legislation on its own will not encourage or enable nurses to whistleblow.
How Individual Values and Attitude Influence Consumers’ Purchase Intention of Electric Vehicles—Some Insights from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Afroz Rafia , Rahman Ataur , Masud Muhammad Mehedi , Akhtar Rulia , Duasa Jarita Bt
Published: September 2015

This article observes how the individual values and attitudes of consumers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia influence their purchase intention of electric vehicles (EVs) using the well-known theory of reasoned action (TRA). This study analyzed the data collected from 200 respondents from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These respondents were asked about their views concerning their value sets, attitudes and purchase intention of EV using the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. Findings of this study indicate that individual consequences relating to cost and convenience of consumers is negatively related to intention to purchase EVs. Environmental consequences are not a significant predictor of purchase intention. Conservation value was found to be positively related to the attitude of the respondents on environmental consequences but less intensely with individual consequences, while both self-transcendence value and self-enhancement value were positively related to individual consequences. Individual consequences and self-enhancement values were negatively related to environmentally responsible purchase intention. This article shows that the extended TRA might be applicable to the Malaysian context. The results of the study also suggest that domestic and foreign manufacturers of EVs should also take into consideration the perceptible easiness and convenience of users to recycle and reuse battery by using special materials that are recyclable and not harmful to the users.
Informal Rental Housing Typologies and Experiences of Low-income Migrant Renters in Gurgaon, India
Authors: Naik Mukta
Published: September 2015

A significant proportion of the working poor in Asian cities live in slums as renters. An estimated 60–90 per cent of low-income rentals in Asia are in the informal sector; 25 per cent of India’s housing stock comprises informal rentals. Yet informal rentals remain an understudied area. Through an empirical study, this article illustrates the typologies of informal rental housing in urban villages and unauthorized colonies in Gurgaon, a city of 1.2 million located within India’s National Capital Region (NCR). Further, through qualitative fieldwork, the article sheds light on how renters, usually low-income migrants, leverage informal rentals to negotiate the city. The research finds that while informal rentals offer advantages of affordability, flexibility and proximity to livelihoods for migrants, they are also sites of exploitation and poor living conditions. Further, the study reveals that social networks that carry over from places or origin as well as household migration strategies strongly influence housing choices in the informal rentals market.
Measuring the mechanical properties of polymer–carbon nanotube composites by artificial intelligence
Authors: Sabouhi Rahman , Ghayour Hamid , Abdellahi Majid , Bahmanpour Maryam
Published: September 2015

Polymer-Carbon nanotube composites (PCNCs) are a new class of composite materials, which is receiving significant attention both in academia and industry. In this paper, the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the measurement of the elastic modulus of PCNCs was investigated. This is the first time that an AI-based modeling algorithm is used as an alternative tool for nano-indentation methods such as depth-sensing indentation (DSI). To build the model, 138 pair input-target data were gathered from the literature, randomly divided into 88 and 50 data sets and then were respectively trained and tested by the proposed AI model. In the set of the models, matrix type, nanofiller type, processing method, nanofiller content and method of analysis were introduced to the AI model as input layers, while the elastic modulus (either quasi-static E or dynamic [Formula: see text]) is used as output parameter. Although the modeling process is done with a nanometer sensitivity, the training and testing set results of the explicit formulations obtained by the AI model showed that artiﬁcial intelligent methods have strong potential and can be applied for the measurement of the elastic modulus of PCNCs as a non-destructive testing.
Effects of Statins on Hospital Length of Stay and All-Cause Readmissions Among Hospitalized Patients With a Primary Diagnosis of Sepsis
Authors: Nkemdirim Okere Arinze , Renier Colleen M.
Published: September 2015

Background: There is little information on the impact of statins on hospital length of stay (LOS) or readmission among patients with sepsis. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between statin use and LOS and all-cause readmissions among sepsis patients hospitalized in the medical unit. Methods: The design was a retrospective propensity score–matched study of adult patients with a primary diagnosis of sepsis from 2007 to 2013. Information was extracted from the electronic health record. Sepsis patients were identified using ICD-9CM codes. Propensity scores estimated the probability that a patient would be on statins, and patients who were on statins were then matched with those who were not, within ±0.05. Additional greedy matching criteria were organ dysfunction (yes/no) and all patient refined diagnosis-related group (APR-DRG) medical/surgical. The primary outcome was LOS, and the secondary outcomes were all-cause readmission at 30, 60, and 90 days, adjusted for age, sex, modified Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index, APR-DRG severity of illness (SOI), and APR-DRG medical/surgical, as appropriate. Results: Patients taking statins had a shorter LOS than patients not taking statins, 8.7 ± 3.7 and 10.3 ± 2.7 days, respectively (P value = 0.018). There was no significant difference (P> 0.05) in all cause readmissions between statin and nonstatin patients. Presence of comorbidities and SOI were significant factors for 60- and 90-day readmissions. Conclusions: The use of statins among patients admitted with primary sepsis in the medical unit was associated with shorter length of hospital stay. However, it did not affect frequency of readmissions.
Complexities of Clinical Decision Support Illustrated by Pediatric Dosing Alerts
Authors: Stultz Jeremy S. , Nahata Milap C.
Published: September 2015

Health information technologies, such as computerized clinical decision support (CDS) systems, are being utilized increasingly in pediatric health care institutions as a means of medication error prevention. Most studies have suggested a positive impact of CDS on medication safety, but others have identified complexities that have prevented full optimization of these systems. Recent studies regarding the implementation of pediatric dosing alerts have illustrated the complexities that can be associated with the design, implementation, and refinement of CDS systems. Although CDS dosing alerts have likely improved the safety of medication use in pediatric patients, it is important to be aware of certain limitations of the dosing alert systems. A collaborative effort is required to optimize the effectiveness of CDS dosing alerts.
Extended-Duration Thromboprophylaxis Among Acute Medically Ill Patients
Authors: Korjian Serge , Daaboul Yazan , Halaby Rim , Goldhaber Samuel Z. , Cohen Alexander T. , Singh Kiran , Susheela Ammu T. , Harrington Robert A. , Hull Russell D. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Gibson C. Michael
Published: September 2015

Acute medical illnesses are associated with a prolonged elevation in inflammatory markers that predisposes patients to thrombosis beyond the duration of their hospital stay. In parallel, both observational and randomized data have demonstrated a rate of postdischarge venous thromboembolic events that often exceeds that observed in the hospital setting. Despite this significant residual risk of venous thromboembolic events following discharge among acute medically ill patients, no therapeutic strategies have been recommended to address this unmet need. Available randomized trials have demonstrated the efficacy of extending the duration of thromboprophylaxis with available anticoagulants; however, the efficacy is offset, at least in part, by an increase in bleeding events. Identification of the optimal therapeutic strategies, treatment duration, and risk assessment tools that reconcile both efficacy and safety of extended-duration thromboprophylaxis among acute medically ill patients is an area of ongoing investigation.
Impact of Digoxin on Mortality in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Stratified by Heart Failure
Authors: Al-Zakwani Ibrahim , Panduranga P. , Zubaid M. , Sulaiman K. , Rashed W. A. , Alsheikh-Ali A. A. , AlMahmeed W. , Shehab A. , Al Qudaimi A. , Asaad N. , Amin H.
Published: September 2015

Objective:

The use of digoxin in patients having atrial fibrillation (AF) with or without heart failure (HF) is not without controversy. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of digoxin therapy on mortality stratified by HF.

Methods:

Gulf Survey of Atrial Fibrillation Events was a prospective, multinational, observational registry of consecutive patients with AF recruited from the emergency department of 23 hospitals in 6 countries in the Middle East. Patients were recruited between October 2009 and June 2010 and followed up for 1 year after enrollment. Analyses were performed using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques.

Results:

The study included a total of 1962 patients with AF, with an overall mean age of 56 ± 16 years, and 52% (n = 1026) were males. At hospital discharge, digoxin was prescribed in 36% (n = 709) of the patients, whereas HF was present in 27% (n = 528) of the cohort. A total of 225 (12.1%) patients died during the 12-month follow-up period after discharge (5.3% [n = 104] were lost to follow-up). Patients with HF were consistently associated with higher mortality at 1 month (5.1% vs 2.1%; P < .001), 6 months (17.2% vs 5.0%; P < 0.001), and 12 months (24.3% vs 7.6%; P < .001) when compared to those without HF. When stratified by HF, digoxin therapy was associated with significantly higher mortality in those without HF at 6 months (8.7% vs 3.7%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 5.07; P < .001) and 12 months (12.3% vs 6.0%; aOR, 4.22; P < .001) but not in those with HF (6 months: 18.6% vs 14.7%; aOR, 1.62; P = .177 and 12 months: 25.4% vs 22.4%; aOR, 1.37; P = .317).

Conclusions:

In patients with AF and HF, digoxin did not offer any survival advantages. However, in those without HF, digoxin therapy was, in fact, associated with significantly higher long-term mortality.
Challenges of Bystander Intervention in Male-Dominated Professional Sport
Authors: Corboz Julienne , Flood Michael , Dyson Sue
Published: September 2015

Programs aimed at preventing violence against women have increasingly adopted bystander approaches, yet large gaps remain in our knowledge about what drives bystanders to act or not, particularly in settings where there is an increased risk of violence against women occurring. This article contributes to this gap by examining data from research with professional male athletes from the Australian Football League. Drawing from a mixed methods approach, including a survey and interviews with football players, we outline some of the challenges to bystander intervention faced by professional athletes and discuss some of the possible similarities and differences between these and other groups of men.
A Field Experiment on the Impact of Incentives on Milk Choice in the Lunchroom
Authors: List John A. , Samek Anya
Published: September 2015

Almost a third of US children ages two to nineteen are deemed overweight or obese, and part of the problem is the habitual decision to consume high-calorie, low-nutrient foods. We propose that the school lunchroom provides a “teachable moment” to engage children in making healthful choices. We conduct a field experiment with over 1,500 participants in grades K to 8 from low-income households in the Chicago Heights, Illinois, School District and then evaluate the impact of small nonmonetary incentives on the selection of milk in the school lunchroom. At baseline, only 16 percent of children select white milk relative to 84 percent choosing chocolate milk. We find a significant effect of incentives, which increase white milk selection by 2.5 times, to 40 percent. One concern with incentives is that they may decrease intrinsic motivation to eat healthy, called “crowd-out of intrinsic motivation.” However, we do not find evidence of “crowd-out”; rather, we see some suggestive evidence of the positive habit forming effect of incentives.
Learning About and From a Distribution of Program Impacts Using Multisite Trials
Authors: Raudenbush Stephen W. , Bloom Howard S.
Published: September 2015

The present article provides a synthesis of the conceptual and statistical issues involved in using multisite randomized trials to learn about and from a distribution of heterogeneous program impacts across individuals and/or program sites. Learning about such a distribution involves estimating its mean value, detecting and quantifying its variation, and estimating site-specific impacts. Learning from such a distribution involves studying the factors that predict or explain impact variation. Part I of the article introduces the concepts and issues involved. Part II focuses on estimating the mean and variation of impacts of program assignment. Part III extends the discussion to variation in the impacts of program participation. Part IV considers how to use multisite trials to study moderators of program impacts (individual-level or site-level factors that influence these impacts) and mediators of program impacts (individual-level or site-level “mechanisms” that produce these impacts).
Audit Culture
Authors: Owczarzak Jill , Broaddus Michelle , Pinkerton Steven
Published: September 2015

Evaluation has become expected within the nonprofit sector, including HIV prevention service delivery through community-based organizations (CBOs). While staff and directors at CBOs may acknowledge the potential contribution of evaluation data to the improvement of agency services, the results of evaluation are often used to demonstrate fiscal prudence, efficiency, and accountability to funders and the public, rather than to produce information for the organization’s benefit. We conducted 22 in-depth, semistructured interviews with service providers from four agencies implementing the same evidence-based HIV prevention intervention. We use the lens of “audit culture” to understand how the evaluation and accountability mandates of evidence-based program implementation within HIV prevention service provision affect provider–client relations, staff members’ daily work, and organizational focus in natural settings, or contexts without continuous support and implementation monitoring. We conclude with recommendations for improving the use and methods of evaluation within HIV prevention service delivery.
Analytical solution of Reynolds equation under dynamic conditions
Authors: Gong Ru-Zhi , Li De-You , Wang Hong-Jie , Han Lei , Qin Da-Qing
Published: September 2015

The flow in the clearance heavily influences the lubrication performance of journal bearing. Therefore, it is important to study the flow mechanism in journal bearing. As known, the pressure distribution in bearing clearance can be described with Reynolds equation. In this paper, unsteady form of Reynolds equation was simplified and nondimensionalized at first, based on certain assumptions. Then, the equation was solved with regular perturbation method, obtaining the analytical solution. At the end, the results of our work were compared with the results of “infinitely short journal bearing” model, Vignolo et al. (Approximate analytical solution to Reynolds equation for finite length journal bearings. Tribol Int 2011; 44: 1089–1099), and numerical simulations. The comparison implies that our results show more coincidence with the numerical results in a wider range.
An accurate calculation method for heat generation rate in grease-lubricated spherical roller bearings
Authors: Ma Fangbo , Li Zhengmei , Wu Baojie , An Qi
Published: September 2015

A mathematical model for accurately calculating heat generation rate in a grease-lubricated spherical roller bearing (SRB) is established in this paper by adopting the local heat source analysis approach, which involves in calculating heat generation rates of roller–raceway contact, cage and inner ring land contact, roller and cage pocket contact, and power loss of roller churning. Numerical calculating results show that the total heat generation rate of SRB increases as the inner ring rotating speed and radial load increase. The heat generated by roller–raceway contact is the dominant part in the total heat generation rate of the SRB. Some SRB geometrical parameters, such as diametral clearance and roller–raceway osculation, also have some effect on SRB heat generation rate.
Friction and wear behavior of nanoeutectic Fe1.87C0.13 under air and vacuum conditions
Authors: Li Fei , Kang Yonghai , Fu Licai , Qiao Zhuhui , Liu Weimin , Yang Jun
Published: September 2015

In this paper, the tribological behavior of nanoeutectic Fe1.87C0.13 alloy and its coarse-grained-eutectic counterpart under air and vacuum was investigated. The results showed that the wear rate of both alloys was lower in air than in vacuum, and their friction coefficient was related to applied load and testing atmosphere. The nanoeutectic Fe1.87C0.13 alloy exhibited lower wear rate than the coarse grained counterpart in both environments. The wear rate of both alloys increased but the friction coefficient decreased with increasing applied load under both air and vacuum. The dominant wear mechanisms were adhesion wear in vacuum but oxidation wear along with slight delamination in air.
The puzzling success of populist parties in promoting women’s political representation
Authors: Kostadinova Tatiana , Mikulska Anna
Published: September 2015

Previous research dismisses the possibility that populist, male-dominated parties could positively affect gender equality. Yet, evidence from Eastern Europe points at the opposite: Center-rightist formations, led by notable men, have effectively nominated women to office. What can explain such a puzzling phenomenon? This study argues that i) the centralized structure and practices in these populist parties make it possible to avoid the reluctance of gatekeepers to let female candidates run; and that ii) regardless of ideological or cultural predispositions, supporters loyally approve the nomination decisions made by their charismatic leader. We analyze data on three populist parties in Bulgaria and Poland. Our findings confirm that these formations elected more women than the leftist parties because of strategies to nominate female candidates higher on the list. Voters were also more likely to favor female candidates in the open-list system in Poland.
Impact of employee benefits on families with children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Gnanasekaran Sangeeth , Choueiri Roula , Neumeyer Ann , Ajari Ogheneochuko , Shui Amy , Kuhlthau Karen
Published: September 2015

The objectives of this study are to evaluate the employee benefits parents of children with autism spectrum disorders have, how benefits are used, work change, and job satisfaction. We conducted a cross-sectional mailed survey study of 435 families with children with autism spectrum disorders residing in the United States. We received 161 surveys for a response rate of 37%. Families reported using the following benefits: 39% paid family leave, 19% unpaid family leave, 91% flexible work arrangements, and 86% telecommuting. Of respondents, 43% reported stopping work, cutting down on hours worked, or changing jobs because of their child’s condition. Having paid family leave was a positive predictor for job satisfaction. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders have an interest and need for alternative work arrangements.
Examining playground engagement between elementary school children with and without autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Locke Jill , Shih Wendy , Kretzmann Mark , Kasari Connie
Published: September 2015

Little is known about the social behavior of children with and without autism spectrum disorder during recess. This study documented the naturally occurring recess engagement and peer interaction behaviors of children with and without autism spectrum disorder in inclusive school settings. Participants included 51 children with autism spectrum disorder and 51 classmates without autism spectrum disorder who served as peer models matched on gender, classroom, grade, age, and ethnicity. Using a timed-interval behavior-coding system, children with autism spectrum disorder spent approximately 30% of their recess time engaged in solitary activities, whereas their classmates only spent approximately 9% of recess unengaged. In addition, children with autism spectrum disorder spent about 40% of the recess period jointly engaged with peers in a reciprocal activity, conversation, or game as compared to 70% for matched classmates. These findings provide a context for which to interpret intervention outcomes and gains for children with autism spectrum disorder in inclusive settings.
Exploring domestic violence and social distress in Australian-Indian migrants through community theater
Authors: O’Connor Manjula , Colucci Erminia
Published: September 2015

In many parts of the world, young adult women have higher levels of common mental disorders than men. The exacerbation of domestic violence (DV) by migration is a salient social determinant of poor mental health. Ecological models describe factors contributing to DV as operating at individual, family, cultural, and societal levels. We explored the interplay among these factors in an Indian community living in Melbourne, Australia, in a qualitative participatory action research study using a modified Forum Theater approach. We here present findings on connections between migration, societal factors, and social/family/cultural factors in DV. The study captured the voices of women living in the community as they describe how DV contributes to their emotional difficulties. Improved understanding of the sociocultural dynamics of DV and the associated social distress in this migrant Indian community can be used to guide the development of culturally sensitive prevention and response programs to assist migrant women from the Indian subcontinent who present with psychopathology and suicidal behaviors associated with DV.
Anomie’s Eastern origins
Authors: Gunderson Ryan
Published: September 2015

Durkheim’s claim in Suicide that humanity’s ‘inextinguishable thirst’ ( soif inextinguible) causes suffering was adopted from Arthur Schopenhauer’s argument that the will-to-live’s ‘unquenchable thirst’ ( unlöschbaren Durst) causes suffering, which was previously adopted from the Buddha’s argument that ‘ceaselessly recurring thirst’ ( tṛṣṇā) causes suffering. This article retraces this demonstrable though seemingly unlikely history of ideas and reveals that the philosophical underpinnings of Durkheim’s theory of anomie are rooted, through Schopenhauer, whose thought influenced many thinkers during the Neo-Romantic fin de siècle period, including Durkheim, in the Buddha’s Second Noble Truth – a doctrine made available to Schopenhauer in European translations of Buddhist texts during the previous turn of the century’s ‘Oriental Renaissance’. By achieving a more thorough understanding of the ambiguous concept of anomie through its Eastern intellectual origins, this project shows that the common conceptualization of anomie as ‘normlessness’ is inconsequential without presupposing that humans thirst and unconstrained thirst causes pain.
The impact of new forms of digital communication on press-based TV critics and the emergence of new forms of critical debate
Authors: Rixon Paul
Published: September 2015

This article explores the question of whether we are seeing the end of newspaper-based TV critics as we know them and, if so, what might be taking their place? The first part of this work explores the role of the (TV) critic and raises the question of what might be missed if they disappear. The second part of the article analyses the impact of new forms of digital communication on newspaper-based TV critics and the emergence of new forms of critical debate about television. The article concludes by arguing that the critic still has a role, but a new balance is appearing, one in which the public will play a more important part. ‘The TV critic is dead. Long live the TV critic!’
Experimental study on partially premixed compression ignition combustion fueled with a low octane number primary reference fuel using two-stage fuel supplying
Authors: Qian Yong , Wang Xiaole , Ji Libin , Huang Zhen , Lu Xingcai
Published: September 2015

An experimental study of partially premixed compression ignition combustion with low octane fuel was conducted on a single-cylinder engine. The effects of the external exhaust gas recirculation and intake boost on this partially premixed compression ignition combustion and emissions were investigated. During the experiments, a trade-off relationship between the NOx and smoke emissions was observed in this partially premixed compression ignition combustion. However, heavy exhaust gas recirculation usage has the potential to decrease NOx and soot emissions simultaneously at the expense of the fuel economy. It is determined that at an increased intake port pressure, the maximum in-cylinder pressure increases, and the ignition timing of the high-temperature combustion is retarded. Also, the peak value of the low-temperature combustion is slightly depressed, the peak value of the high-temperature heat release decreases significantly, and the maximum value of the diffusing burn increases to some extent. Compared to natural aspirated condition, the partially premixed compression ignition combustion with intake boost has the capability of simultaneously reducing NOx and soot emissions to ultra-low levels, that is, the intake boost could be an important strategy for the combustion and emission improvement in this advanced engine combustion mode.
Discretion and domination in criminal procedure
Authors: Chiao Vincent
Published: September 2015

Philip Pettit’s conception of freedom as nondomination is modally robust in that it requires not simply reducing the probability of uncontrolled interference by others but entirely eliminating that possibility. In this article, I consider whether freedom as nondomination provides an attractive analysis of official discretion, particularly in the context of the criminal law, an area of recurring interest for Pettit. I argue that not only does the modally robust character of freedom as nondomination have some rather unattractive implications in the criminal law, but that it sits poorly with Pettit’s more general ambitions to provide a consequentialist framework for the evaluation of social institutions. Drawing on recent work by Niko Kolodny, I develop an ‘anti-deference’ interpretation of nondomination and contrast it to Pettit’s modally robust conception.
Citizenship, reciprocity, and the gendered division of labor
Authors: Schouten Gina
Published: September 2015

Despite women’s increased labor force participation, household divisions of labor remain highly unequal. Properly implemented, gender egalitarian political interventions such as work time regulation, dependent care provisions, and family leave initiatives can induce families to share work more equally than they currently do. But do these interventions constitute legitimate uses of political power? In this article, I defend the political legitimacy of these interventions. Using the conception of citizenship at the heart of political liberalism, I argue that citizens would accept political interventions aimed at protecting the ‘genuinely available option’ to enact gender egalitarian lifestyles. More strongly still, I argue that under certain circumstances, citizens would insist on the enactment of political interventions to protect this option. According to political liberalism’s constraints on legitimacy, this insistence renders these interventions not only legitimate but positively mandatory. It is legitimate for a state to exercise power to preserve the genuinely available option to enact a gender egalitarian lifestyle, and under certain circumstances, it is illegitimate for a state to fail to do so.
Issue Frames, Personality, and Political Persuasion
Authors: Luttig Matthew D. , Lavine Howard
Published: September 2015

We argue that individuals’ personality dispositions influence the relative success of different rhetorical strategies of political persuasion on policy issues, and thus function to constrain the behavior of elite actors in their attempts to win support for favored policy outcomes. Drawing on the psychological concept of functional matching, we propose that policy persuasion can be understood in terms of the “fit” between the regulatory focus of the individual on prevention or promotion and the framing of policies in terms of losses or gains. Using an experimental research design, we find that the success of policy appeals is conditional on the interaction of the policy frame and citizens’ personality. These effects are especially pronounced among the less politically sophisticated. Implications for the role of personality in politics, scholarly work on persuasion and framing, and constraints on elite behavior are discussed.
Perspectives of People with Dementia About Meaningful Activities
Authors: Han Areum , Radel Jeff , McDowd Joan M. , Sabata Dory
Published: September 2015

Qualitative studies were synthesized to describe perspectives of people with dementia regarding meaningful activities. Themes of connectedness were identified using a meta-ethnography approach. The theme of being connected with self encompasses engagement for continuity, health promotion, and personal time. The theme of being connected with others includes being with others not to feel alone, doing an activity with others, and meaningful relationships. The theme of being connected with the environment encompasses being connected to one’s familiar environment, community, and nature. This synthesis suggests that connectedness is an important motivation for engagement in daily activities. Findings indicate that identifying the underlying motivation for an individual with dementia to engage in different activities is important for matching a person with activities that will be satisfying. This review may inform the development of interventions for engaging people with dementia in meaningful, daily activities and creating connectedness to self, others, and the environment.
A Meta-Analysis of C-Reactive Protein in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Gong Changguo , Wei Daixin , Wang Ying , Ma Ji , Yuan Chonggang , Zhang Wei , Yu Guohua , Zhao Yulan
Published: September 2015

Inflammation may be associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This meta-analysis aimed to compare the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients having AD to healthy controls. A total of 10 cross-sectional studies (n = 2093) were identified from PubMed and EMBASE after systematic searching and evaluation. The combined standardized mean difference (SMD) of CRP level between the disease and control group was analyzed. In the meta-analysis, there was no significant difference in serum between the CRP level of patients with AD and that of healthy controls (SMD: −0.400, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.827 to 0.027, P = .066). However, when we stratified the studies by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, the level of CRP in the mild and moderate dementia subgroup (MMSE ≥ 10) was significantly lower than that in the control group (SMD: −0.582, 95% CI: −0.957 to −0.208, P = .002). Therefore, the diagnostic value of CRP for mild and moderate AD may be useful in clinical practice.
C282Y and H63D Polymorphisms in Hemochromatosis Gene and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Duan Chunhong , Wang Meiyun , Zhang Yan , Wei Xuxia , Huang Yan , Zhang Hongxia , Cheng Lu , Gai Zhongtao
Published: September 2015

Objective:

A meta-analysis was performed to better clarify the association between hemochromatosis (HFE) gene and the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods:

Pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated from fixed- and random-effect models. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using the I2 and Q test. Egger’s test was used to estimate the publication bias.

Results:

We identified 8 articles with 9 independent studies for this meta-analysis. The present meta-analysis showed no significant association of Y allele with the risk of PD in dominant (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.70-1.09), recessive (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 0.61-4.10), and codominant (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.72-1.09) models for C282Y. There were also no significant associations of D allele with the risk of PD in dominant (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.87-1.24), recessive (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 0.70-2.18), and codominant (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.89-1.22) genetic models for H63D. No publication bias was detected.

Conclusion:

The meta-analysis indicated that C282Y and H63D polymorphisms in the HFE gene might not be associated with PD.
Diagnostic Profiles of Patients Differentially Failing Executive Functioning Measures
Authors: Hammers Dustin , Ramirez Gabriela , Persad Carol , Heidebrink Judith , Barbas Nancy , Giordani Bruno
Published: September 2015

Objective:

Limited research exists to explain differential executive functioning impairment in clinical populations, particularly between the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) and the Trail Making Test (TMT).

Methods:

The distribution of clinical diagnoses was examined in patients failing none, one, or both tasks, and executive task performance was compared among dementia-related diagnoses. Two hundred and sixty-six participants received evaluations through an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, which included executive tasks. Dementia-related diagnoses were established through consensus.

Results:

Chi-square analyses indicated that TMT failure, with or without WCST failure, possessed higher associations with dementia diagnoses. Repeated measures analysis of variance similarly indicated that participants with dementia, especially mild and moderate severity, performed worse on TMT.

Conclusions:

Executive dysfunction was observed in dementia-related diagnoses, and TMT failure was implicated in dementia in higher proportions than WCST impairment. Trail Making Test appears more sensitive than WCST for assessing executive impairment across diagnoses, especially when time and resources are limited in screening and clinical settings.
Assessing Fluctuating Cognition in Dementia Diagnosis
Authors: Van Dyk Kathleen , Towns Stephanie , Tatarina Oksana , Yeung Philip , Dorrejo Jhedy , Zahodne Laura B. , Stern Yaakov
Published: September 2015

Fluctuating cognition (FC) is a core feature of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) but is challenging to assess. This study assessed the reliability and validity of the Clinician Assessment of Fluctuation (CAF), which assesses FC in patients with dementia. Interrater agreement of CAF outcomes (FC present and FC severe) was evaluated between physicians and nonphysicians in 141 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or DLB. Frequency of CAF outcomes by clinical and neuropathological diagnosis was examined. We found that interrater reliability was fair on FC present and almost perfect on FC severe, and both outcomes were higher in patients with clinical DLB than with clinical AD and were qualitatively more often endorsed in cases with neuropathological evidence of Lewy bodies. We conclude that the CAF is a reliable measure of FC and can be valuable in differential dementia diagnosis.
131I therapy for 345 patients with refractory severe hyperthyroidism: Without antithyroid drug pretreatment
Authors: Ding Yong , Xing Jialiu , Fang Yi , Wang Yong , Zhang Youren , Long Yahong
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and long-term results of 131I therapy alone for patients with refractory severe hyperthyroidism without antithyroid drug pretreatment. From January 2002 to December 2012, 408 patients with refractory severe hyperthyroidism were treated with 131I alone. Among them, 345 were followed up for 1 to 10 years for physical examination, thyroid function, and thyroid ultrasound. Complete Blood Count (CBC) liver function, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and Emission Computed Tomography (ECT) thyroid imaging were performed as indicated. The 345 patients had concomitant conditions including thyrotoxic heart disease, severe liver dysfunction, enlarged thyroid weighing 80 to 400 g, severe cytopenia, and vasculitis. One to two weeks prior to 131I therapy, all patients were given low-iodine diet. The dose of 131I therapy was 2.59 to 6.66 MBq (70 to180 µCi) per gram of thyroid with an average of 3.83 ± 0.6 MBq (103.6 ± 16.4 µCi); and the total 131I activity administrated for the individuals was 111 to 3507.6 MBq (3.0 to 94.8 mCi, mean 444 ± 336.7 MBq (12.0 ± 9.1 mCi)). Out of the 408 patients, 283 were cured, 15 with complete remission, and 47 with incomplete remission. No treatment failure or significant clinical worsening was noted in these patients. Our data indicated that 131I therapy alone for patients with refractory severe hyperthyroidism without antithyroid drug pretreatment is safe and effective.