bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulation control of an armed Ballbot with stabilizer
Authors: Asgari Pouya , Zarafshan Payam , Moosavian S Ali A
Published: January 2015

Combination of a mobile platform and a manipulator which is known as a mobile manipulator can be used in lots of applications. Motion control with respect to stability of dynamically stable mobile manipulators is one of the interesting challenges in robotics. In addition, servant robots are becoming widespread, from local uses as robotic cleaner to field applications as flexible robots, also for farming, martial, and space exploration. One of the servant robots that are designed to operate specially in indoor places is the Ballbot. A Ballbot is an under-actuated system with non-holonomic dynamic constraints. It is as tall as human height until it could interact by people. Moreover, it can be equipped with a manipulator for grasping and manipulating objects. So, manipulation control of such system is highly complicated due to severe under-actuated condition and non-linear dynamics which is considered in this article. Therefore, developing a compact dynamic model is highly practical for controller design, developing simulation studies in support of design improvement, and for useful applications. To this end, the Ballbot has been equipped with a Programmable Universal Machine for Assembly–type manipulator. This manipulator adds new advantages to the Ballbot such as an object manipulation operation and better stability. So, the dynamic model of the proposed system without any simplicity is presented, and then, the validation of this extracted model is studied. Next, the manipulator reconfiguration is used to help the system move without flutter. Because of the passive joints, the Ballbot cannot maintain its stability and follows the desired end-effector trajectory. Therefore, a stabilizing pendulum is proposed to help the stability of the system when the manipulator handles an object on the desired path. Finally, a manipulation control algorithm is proposed to reach the system to its desired position. Simulation results show the capability of the presented controllers.
Reynolds number–dependent mass flow rate calculation for pneumatic pipes
Authors: Chabane Saïd , Sesmat Sylvie , Hubert Daniel , Gautier Didier , Wartelle Claude , Bideaux Eric
Published: January 2015

In fluid power applications, pipes may have important effects on the system performances. In hydraulics, simple pipe models could give a good approximation of the pressure drop, but in pneumatics, accurate approximations are more complex because of the fluid compressibility. Therefore, simple but accurate models of air mass flow rate in pipes are still needed for system design and control purposes. The main contribution of this article is to propose a novel analytical formulation of the mass flow rate in pneumatic pipes by taking into account the pipe friction factor and more specifically its dependency on the flow Reynolds number. Accordingly, it makes it applicable to any circuit conditions (variable pressure at upstream or downstream pipe sides). The proposition here is a physically based adaptation of the flow approximations as defined in the first edition of the ISO 6358 standard and only uses the two conventional flow rate parameters; the novelty is to introduce a specific relationship between these flow parameters and the pipe friction factor. The proposed formulation provides a simple analytical way to predict accurately pipe behaviour in pneumatic circuits for sonic and subsonic flows. Based on this formulation, the calculated mass flow rates show a good agreement with measurements obtained with pipes of different diameters and lengths, even for variable upstream pressure conditions. Finally, limitations of existing formulations are discussed and advantages of the proposed approach highlighted.
Stop-go policies of governments and employers
Authors: Bussat Virginie , Soleymani Dagmar
Published: January 2015

Since the European Racial Equality Directive (2000/43/EC) came into force, government anti-discrimination policies have tended to be steered by political agendas. The five countries surveyed here – Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Italy and the UK – have introduced legislation and supervisory authorities as the tools for transposing the European Directive at a national level. From a management point of view, these tools show that the approach of tackling situations of racial discrimination in practice is evolving into the promotion of diversity through charters which employers’ organizations and businesses have been adopting to varying degrees since 2004. This article explains the benchmarks of government action in France and the employers’ initiatives which this has led to, adding examples drawn from the other European countries surveyed in order to shed light on specific aspects. The impact of the financial crisis on the struggle for equality is also examined.
Still no problem here? Responses to anti-discrimination legislation among trade unions in EU countries
Authors: Wrench John
Published: January 2015

This article looks at the responses of European trade unions to EU legislation against racial discrimination. Previous research has revealed great variety between EU countries in the nature and extent of union responses to immigration and issues of racial discrimination. However, the EU Racial Equality Directive, adopted in 2000, has become a factor for potential convergence in trade union policies in this field. All EU countries now have in place legislation forbidding racial discrimination in employment, and for some this has been an entirely new development. The article draws on research by two EU agencies – the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions and the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights – carried out 14 years apart, covering all EU Member States. Their research throws light on the differences that exist between EU Member States in trade unions’ awareness of, and receptiveness to, the Racial Equality Directive, as well as on changes in union attitudes and policies that have occurred since the 1990s.
Analyzing the Validity of the Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory for Low-Income Populations
Authors: Lawson Michael A. , Alameda-Lawson Tania , Byrnes Edward
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to examine the construct and predictive validity of the Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory (AAPI-2).

Methods:

The validity of the AAPI-2 was evaluated using multiple statistical methods, including exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and latent class analysis. These analyses were conducted using data collected from a culturally diverse sample of 2,160 low-income parents.

Results:

Although the AAPI-2 yielded high reliability coefficients, analyses of the instrument’s validity diverged significantly from the results reported by the instrument’s developers. Specifically, the instruments’ reported five-factor structure was not supported in this study. Moreover, parents’ AAPI-2 scores were not associated with child abuse as originally hypothesized. However, when the AAPI-2 was analyzed as a categorical latent variable, the results were useful in identifying parents who were unlikely to abuse or neglect their children.

Conclusion:

Further replication and extension research on the AAPI-2 with other low-income populations is warranted.
Testing Map Features Designed to Convey the Uncertainty of Cancer Risk
Authors: Severtson Dolores J.
Published: January 2015

Barriers to communicating the uncertainty of environmental health risks include preferences for certain information and low numeracy. Map features designed to communicate the magnitude and uncertainty of estimated cancer risk from air pollution were tested among 826 participants to assess how map features influenced judgments of adequacy and the intended communication goals. An uncertain versus certain visual feature was judged as less adequate but met both communication goals and addressed numeracy barriers. Expressing relative risk using words communicated uncertainty and addressed numeracy barriers but was judged as highly inadequate. Risk communication and visual cognition concepts were applied to explain findings.
Gatekeeping the 2012 Olympic Games
Authors: Nee Rebecca Coates
Published: January 2015

Due to rising consumer interactions with televised events through social media, NBC proclaimed that the 2012 Olympics would be the “social Games.” The economically motivated gatekeeping decisions made by the network, however, generated a social media backlash as viewers demanded to see the Games broadcast live. This case study presents a content analysis of all news items posted online regarding NBC’s 2012 Olympic coverage during the three-week period surrounding the Games. Findings illustrate the growing tension between mass media producers, who seek to maximize economic returns, and audiences, who increasingly expect transparency and participation in the digital age.
Effects of Antenatal Corticosteroids on Cortisol and Heart Rate Reactivity of Preterm Infants
Authors: Weiss Sandra J. , Niemann Sandra
Published: January 2015

Administration of glucocorticoids (GCs) during pregnancy is an established practice for reducing morbidity and mortality of fetuses at risk of preterm delivery. However, preliminary research indicates that exposure to exogenous GCs in utero may be associated with suppressed hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity. The aim of this study was to determine whether preterm neonates who are exposed to antenatal corticosteroids show evidence of a suppressed stress-response system during their first few weeks of life, in contrast to infants who are not exposed. The sample (51% female) included 57 neonates, with 74% exposed to steroids. Mean gestational ages (GAs) were 32.6 weeks for exposed and 34.7 weeks for nonexposed infants. Although neonates in the two groups differed in gender, birth weight, and morbidity, these factors were controlled for in data analyses. Infants’ salivary cortisol and heart rate (HR) were measured before and after they received a standardized caregiving “stressor” while in the newborn intensive care unit. Infants exposed to GCs in utero had lower basal cortisol levels and higher HRs than their nonexposed peers. In contrast to infants who received no GCs, they also exhibited minimal HR or cortisol reactivity to the stressor. Findings suggest that preterm infants who were exposed to antenatal corticosteroids experience a suppressed response to stress. As preterm children develop, this dysregulation has numerous implications for later development of stress-related cardiovascular and mental health problems. Further research is needed to determine whether these postnatal effects of antenatal corticosteroids persist over time.
Friendships between men across sexual orientation: The management of sexual difference through humour
Authors: Barrett Timothy
Published: January 2015

Drawing upon qualitative interview data examining friendships between men across sexual orientation, this article contributes to our understanding of the management of sexual difference within interpersonal relationships. In seeming contradistinction to substantial bodies of research that emphasise the significance of maintaining boundaries between homosocial and homosexual desire within male friendship relations, research participants commonly subverted socially constructed distinctions between romantic and platonic relationships as a form of humour. While these joking behaviours seemingly challenged the conventional norms and practices of same-sex male friendship, this article contends that they paradoxically expressed and reinforced fixed sexual identities.
Exploring healthy eating among ethnic minority students using mobile technology: Feasibility and adherence
Authors: Rodgers Rachel F , Franko Debra L , Shiyko Mariya , Intille Stephen , Wilson Kelcey , O’Carroll Dympna , Lovering Meghan , Matsumoto Atsushi , Iannuccilli Alyssa , Luk Stephanie , Shoemaker Helen
Published: January 2015

Interventions aiming to help ethnically diverse emerging adults engage in healthy eating have had limited success. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of and adherence to an intervention capitalizing on mobile technology to improve healthy eating. Participants created an online photo food journal and received motivational text messages three times a day. Satisfaction with the intervention was assessed, as were control variables including depression and body dissatisfaction. In addition, weight and height were measured. Levels of adherence to the photo food journal were high with approximately two photos posted a day at baseline. However, adherence rates decreased over the course of the study. Body dissatisfaction positively predicted adherence, while body mass index negatively predicted study satisfaction. Mobile technology provides innovative avenues for healthy eating interventions. Such interventions appear acceptable and feasible for a short period; however, more work is required to evaluate their viability regarding long-term engagement.
Second homes as sites for the consumption of luxury
Authors: Walters Trudie , Carr Neil
Published: January 2015

This paper provides a critical longitudinal analysis of media representations of luxury in second homes in New Zealand and is designed to assess the validity of traditional definitions of second homes as anti-consumerist and the identification of ‘luxury’ second homes as a recent phenomenon. Using a thematic analysis of Home New Zealand magazine since its inception in 1936, this paper finds that second homes in New Zealand have always been sites for the consumption of luxury, as evidenced through representations of luxury in architectural design features, interior decoration and outdoor elements in the magazine. Generalised portrayals of second homes as anti-consumerist are therefore shown to be flawed. Furthermore, the paper finds that the architect-designed second home with its markers of luxury has existed since at least the mid-1930s in New Zealand and is therefore not a new phenomenon. The findings of this paper suggest that home and lifestyle magazines may be a valuable resource for second home research as they both influence and reflect societal values.
Self-sensing properties of smart composite based on embedded buckypaper layer
Authors: Zhang Zhichun , Wei Hanqing , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: January 2015

Advanced polymer matrix composite is a brittle material, and local fibre, matrix fracture and bonding delamination will cause the catastrophic failure of the composite. So, the strain and damage structural health monitoring of the composite material and its structures is very important for its applications. Based on the piezo-resistivity effect, micro-pore structure and resin infiltration properties of buckypaper, in this study, we develop a self-sensing composite based on embedded buckypaper, which only acts as a sensing layer to monitor the strain and damage of the composite. The strain and damage of the composite are reflected by the resistance change in the embedded buckypaper. The strain sensing properties of the buckypaper/epoxy film with different buckypaper aspect ratios 3:1, 6:1, 9:1, 12:1 and 15:1 were studied with voltammetry method, and the results indicated that there were two-stage relation between resistance change and strain, and under low strain level (~2000 µε), the strain sensitivity was nonlinear and unstable, but in the high strain level, the strain sensitivity was high with strain factor about 6.2, which was independent of the dimension of buckypaper layer. The self-sensing composite made of glass fibre–reinforced composite with embedded buckypaper shows the same strain sensing properties as buckypaper/epoxy film; at same time the damage revolution of the composite could be monitored by resistance development. The scanning electron microscope characterization demonstrated that the resin can penetrate into buckypaper of the composite and form strong bonding interface. The self-sensing composite can be applied in further large-scale advanced polymer composite materials and structures structural health monitoring (strain monitoring and damage detecting).
Building knowledge democracy from the university: A case study in Spain
Authors: Lucio-Villegas Emilio
Published: January 2015

The main aim of this article is to describe a singular experience in the University of Seville, Spain which connects universities and communities. It is a descriptive paper which strives to explore the work done to break the gap between universities and people in communities. Perhaps, one of the most important problems in our societies is a lack of democracy in matters such as knowledge, its construction and dissemination. On the other hand, it is important to break the dominant discourse that universities always teach communities. According to Freire, teaching and learning are two steps of the process of creating knowledge. Thus, universities have to learn from communities as well as teach them. The Paulo Freire Chair at the University of Seville was created in 2008. In the article I describe the work done by the Chair, which, within the framework of an alliance between the people and the public institution, works to edify a knowledge which is truly beneficial. In the conclusions, I reflect on some findings in order to explain how the Paulo Freire Chair, as a university tool, can help to edify knowledge democracy and how it can be done from methodological approaches such as participatory research.
Explaining officer compliance: The importance of procedural justice and trust inside a police organization
Authors: Haas Nicole E , Van Craen Maarten , Skogan Wesley G , Fleitas Diego M
Published: January 2015

The extent to which police officers obey instructions and policies is of permanent concern to police leaders and the community. This is especially the case when it comes to preventing police misconduct, such as the use of excessive force. In the current study we examined officer compliance from a procedural justice and social exchange perspective. Using data collected among 536 police officers of the Metropolitana Police in Buenos Aires, we explored to what extent internal procedural justice and trust are related to: (1) officer compliance with supervisors and policies; and (2) officer endorsement of regulations on the use of force. The results indicate that perceptions of fair treatment by supervisors and trust in supervisors are positively associated with (stated) compliance. Our findings suggest that a procedural justice approach may facilitate the implementation of police policies and contribute to preventing police violence.
Effects of breech bolt movement on felt recoil of a gas-operated semi-automatic sporting gun
Authors: Hall Matthew J
Published: January 2015

The recoil forces characteristic of shoulder-mounted firearms can create discomfort and distraction for the shooter. A modified version of a previously developed system for measuring felt recoil was adapted to approximate the force interaction between gun and shooter with the aid of high-speed imaging. The high-speed imaging was used to find a combination of damping materials for the measurement system that would approximate the gun dynamics of a particular shooter. The recoil measurement system was then used to characterize the recoil of a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun, comparing the recoil to a fixed breech version, quantifying the effect of the bolt movement on recoil forces. It was found that the time scale of the bolt movement relative to the main recoil event was important to the recoil force profile, increasing its duration, and for the particular gun examined, peak recoil forces were reduced between 20% and 25% by the bolt movement.
Deepening Financial Inclusion Beyond Account Opening: Road Ahead for Banks
Authors: Ranjani K.S. , Bapat Varadraj
Published: January 2015

Though access to bank accounts has increased owing to several positive initiatives by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and banks, the bank account penetration rate in India continues to be around 48 percent, as against a rate of close to 100 percent in several developed nations like Germany. This article seeks to answer the question as to whether people who have bank accounts along with access to other sources of credit use bank accounts effectively and whether holding bank accounts facilitate banking habits in these people. The study was conducted across 550 respondents in Maharashtra who belonged to the poor and marginalized section of society and who were borrowers of microfinance institutions to ascertain whether they had bank accounts and what their perceptions about banks were. This study concludes that merely having an account with a bank did not result in the borrowers using banking services and that they preferred to deal with institutions that offered more flexible services than the bank. To be able to achieve inclusion, it is not enough if bank accounts are opened. Banks must look at flexibility and timeliness in services to be able to give a complete package to this segment of the population.
African Americans’ Culturally Specific Approaches to the Management of Diabetes
Authors: Spruill Ida J. , Magwood Gayenell S. , Nemeth Lynne S. , Williams Tiffany H.
Published: January 2015

Spirituality is an important multidimensional cultural resource and coping strategy used by many African Americans for managing chronic diseases such as diabetes. Yet, few studies examine meaning and interpretation of colloquial terms frequently used for coping within the context of a community culture. We designed an interpretive qualitative study to gain a deeper understanding of a colloquial phrase, “I ain’t claiming it,” used among Project SuGar research participants when discussing diabetes. Thematic analysis revealed two major themes, Acknowledgment and Denial, as coping mechanisms through an active or passive relationship with God. Sub-theme of acknowledgment was presented as front seat driver and sub-theme for denial of the disease presented as back seat driver. These meanings encompass a range of culturally specific coping strategies for self-management that health providers should consider and implement as part of providing patient-centered care to enhance better outcome strategies.
Estimating Weight in Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Talib Nasreen J. , Rahm Ginny , Abdel-Rahman Susan M.
Published: January 2015

Objective. Significant attention has been paid to weight estimation in settings where scales are impractical or unavailable; however, no studies have evaluated the performance of published weight estimation methods in children with Down syndrome. This study was designed to evaluate the predictive performance of various methods in this population with well-established differences in height and weight for age. Methods. This was a prospective study of children aged 0 to 18 years with Down syndrome. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight, humeral length, and mid-upper arm circumference were collected and applied to 4 distinct weight estimation strategies based on age (APLS), length (Broselow), habitus (Cattermole), and length plus habitus (Mercy). Predictive performance was evaluated by examining residual error (RE), percentage error (PE), root mean square error (RMSE), limits of agreement, and intraclass correlation coefficients. Results. A total of 318 children distributed across age, gender, and body mass index percentile were enrolled. APLS and Mercy showed the smallest degree of bias (PE = 7.8 ± 24.5% and −3.9 ± 12.4%, respectively). Broselow suffered the most extreme underestimation (−63%), whereas the APLS suffered the greatest degree of overestimation (107%). Mercy demonstrated the highest intraclass correlation coefficient (0.987 vs 0.867-0.885) and predicted weight within 20% of actual in the largest proportion of participants (88% vs 40% to 76%). All methods were less robust in children with Down syndrome than reported for unaffected children. Conclusions. Mercy offered the best option for weight estimation in children with Down syndrome. Additional anthropometric data collected in this special population would allow investigators to refine existing weight estimation strategies specifically for these children.
Business-Incubation Process and Business Development in Kenya: Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Meru Abel Kinoti , Struwig Miemie
Published: January 2015

Since Kenya's independence, an array of business assistance programmes ranging from sheltered estates to export-processing zones, not forgetting the numerous financial-assistance schemes, have been introduced with the objective of empowering budding indigenous entrepreneurs and promoting economic development. Business incubation is one such instrument. In this article, we use a cross-sectional research design to find that there are disparities between how respondents rated the importance of business-incubation process with actual services received. Surprisingly, they received fewer services than anticipated and yet most of the suggestions made on how to promote business incubation in Kenya revolve around how to harness the business-incubation process. As the incubation concept is relatively new, clear macro policy guidelines would be necessary if the full potential of business incubation is to be exploited for the benefit of the nation. We suggest some guidelines that could help to identify pertinent elements of the incubation process, and how the different stakeholders can be connected effectively with incubation activities, while generating some measurable outcomes. Future research based on longitudinal studies may provide an in-depth analysis of the business situation in Kenya.
Developing Dynamic Innovative Capabilities: The Growing Role of Innovation and Learning in the Development of Organisations and Skills in Developed and Emerging Nations of Europe
Authors: Makó Csaba , Mitchell Brian , Illéssy Miklós
Published: January 2015

The concepts of ‘high performance working system' (HPWS) and lean production represent the theoretical and methodological foundations of this article. We make a distinction between three theoretical strands of the HPWS and the lean production approaches, namely: ( i) the diffusion of the Japanese-style management and organisational practices both in the US and in the Europe (Aoki, 1990; Ramsay, Scholarios and Harley, 2000; Wood, 1999); ( ii) the approach developed by advocates of the sociology of work, which deal with the learning/innovation capabilities of new forms of organisation of work (Makó, 2005; Valeyre et al., 2009); and ( iii) the various types knowledge and learning process and their relations with the innovation capabilities of the firm (Lam, 2005; Makó, Illéssy and Csizmadia, 2012). We develop our arguments in both spatial and temporal contexts. A micro-level analysis accompanying our macro-level enquiry enables us to illustrate the key factors driving or impeding innovation and learning at both country- and firm-specific scenarios.

We carry out international comparative analysis using both employer- and employee-focused surveys to demonstrate the diffusion and outcomes of workplace innovation in knowledge-based (information and communication technology [ICT] and business services) firms. We present the results of the various waves of the employers-oriented community innovation surveys (CIS) with special focus on the periods of ‘pre' and ‘after' financial crises and the economic downturn. We also draw on some of the empirical lessons on the innovation/learning capabilities of the work-organisations based on the European working conditions surveys (EWCS) and the views of employees. Finally, we select the fast-growing knowledge intensive business service (KIBS) sector to illustrate the key role of workplace/organisational innovations and their drivers in two selected post-social countries: Hungary and Slovakia.

The aggregated country-level data do not help us to understand the drivers and enablers of innovation. We contend that sector-focused analysis may help us to better understand the roles of these factors in the overall innovation performance of each country. For the purpose of illustration, the diffusion of organisational innovations and company knowledge development practices were analysed in the Hungarian and Slovak KIBS sector. Slovak firms had a leading position compared to the Hungarian firms implementing more radical forms of organisational innovations which were accompanied with more robust learning practices. Drivers explaining this variety were the degree of countries' involvement (embedding) in the internationalisation of the service activities and the development of networking (company group membership) process.
The European Spring of 1848 and the Arab Spring of 2011: Lessons to Be Learned?
Authors: Kramer Steven Philip , Yaphe Judith S.
Published: January 2015

The Arab Spring may be a historical turning point similar to the revolutions that swept Europe in 1848. The latter also began as a seemingly invincible wave demanding democratic reforms but turned into inglorious struggles with uncertain outcomes. They reshaped the map of Europe by replacing multinational empires with the relatively new concept of nationalism as the defining principle of governance. The Arab Spring of 2011 could do the same in the Middle East, where states are still defined according to the imperial principles laid out in World War I secret agreements. If 1848 proves anything, it is that the significance of great revolutionary upheavals emerges long after the barricades have been torn down. The year 1848 was not so much an end as a beginning; it is too early to tell how the Arab Spring will end.
Global Stability and the Geopolitical Vortex of the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Vamvakas Petros
Published: January 2015

The geopolitical game of the twenty-first century will be multilateral and multidimensional, placing great emphasis on political and commercial interests such as resources, markets, ecology, and finance than on military interests. This essay argues that the eastern Mediterranean as an area of geostrategic importance will continue to be vital to global geopolitics and that consigning it to the back burner is shortsighted. The three continents that meet at this crossroads account for almost 90 percent of the global population as well as over 60 percent of global gross domestic product.
The same, only different – DNA damage checkpoints and their reversal throughout the cell cycle
Authors: Shaltiel Indra A. , Krenning Lenno , Bruinsma Wytse , Medema René H.
Published: January 2015

Cell cycle checkpoints activated by DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are essential for the maintenance of the genomic integrity of proliferating cells. Following DNA damage, cells must detect the break and either transiently block cell cycle progression, to allow time for repair, or exit the cell cycle. Reversal of a DNA-damage-induced checkpoint not only requires the repair of these lesions, but a cell must also prevent permanent exit from the cell cycle and actively terminate checkpoint signalling to allow cell cycle progression to resume. It is becoming increasingly clear that despite the shared mechanisms of DNA damage detection throughout the cell cycle, the checkpoint and its reversal are precisely tuned to each cell cycle phase. Furthermore, recent findings challenge the dogmatic view that complete repair is a precondition for cell cycle resumption. In this Commentary, we highlight cell-cycle-dependent differences in checkpoint signalling and recovery after a DNA DSB, and summarise the molecular mechanisms that underlie the reversal of DNA damage checkpoints, before discussing when and how cell fate decisions after a DSB are made.
Chromogenic behaviors of the Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas) studied in situ with an animal-borne video package
Authors: Rosen Hannah , Gilly William , Bell Lauren , Abernathy Kyler , Marshall Greg
Published: January 2015

Dosidicus gigas (Humboldt or jumbo flying squid) is an economically and ecologically influential species, yet little is known about its natural behaviors because of difficulties in studying this active predator in its oceanic environment. By using an animal-borne video package, National Geographic's Crittercam, we were able to observe natural behaviors in free-swimming D. gigas in the Gulf of California with a focus on color-generating (chromogenic) behaviors. We documented two dynamic displays without artificial lighting at depths of up to 70 m. One dynamic pattern, termed ‘flashing' is characterized by a global oscillation (2–4 Hz) of body color between white and red. Flashing was almost always observed when other squid were visible in the video frame, and this behavior presumably represents intraspecific signaling. Amplitude and frequency of flashing can be modulated, and the phase relationship with another squid can also be rapidly altered. Another dynamic display termed ‘flickering’ was observed whenever flashing was not occurring. This behavior is characterized by irregular wave-like activity in neighboring patches of chromatophores, and the resulting patterns mimic reflections of down-welled light in the water column, suggesting that this behavior may provide a dynamic type of camouflage. Rapid and global pauses in flickering, often before a flashing episode, indicate that flickering is under inhibitory neural control. Although flashing and flickering have not been described in other squid, functional similarities are evident with other species.
Strategic Arrivals into Queueing Networks: The Network Concert Queueing Game
Authors: Honnappa Harsha , Jain Rahul
Published: January 2015

Queueing networks models typically assume that the arrival process is exogenous and unaffected by admission control, scheduling policies, etc. In many situations, however, users choose the time of their arrival strategically, taking delay and other metrics into account. In this paper, we develop a framework to study such strategic arrivals into queueing networks. We study the population game wherein users strategically choose when to arrive at a parallel queueing network and upon arrival, which of the queues to join. The queues start service at given times, which can potentially be different. We characterize the (strategic) arrival process at each of the queues and the price of anarchy of the ensuing strategic arrival game. We then extend the analysis to multiple populations of users, each with a different cost metric. The equilibrium arrival profile and price of anarchy are derived. Finally, we extend this to general feedforward network architectures by modeling the arrival timing game as a two-stage extensive form game. We prove the existence and essential uniqueness of equilibria. We also study more specific network topologies, like tandem and trellis networks, and we derive the equilibrium arrival and routing profiles. We show that there exists an equivalent parallel queueing network that has the same equilibrium arrival profile. Thus, the price of anarchy of the arrival game is then implied by that of the parallel queueing network.
Community Health Needs Assessments: Filling Data Gaps for Population Health
Research and Management
Authors: Alberti Philip
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Community health needs assessments (CHNA) are completed to meet
varied regulatory and statutory requirements for local public health departments,
tax-exempt 501(c)(3) hospitals, and Federally Qualified Health Centers. Although
compliance is a motivating factor, these entities are committed to understanding the
communities they serve and to developing strategies to address health needs and
inequities in health and health care.Filling Data Gaps: CHNAs have the potential to
improve the health of communities and populations by giving crucial qualitative and
quantitative context to hospital and patient data, thereby enhancing opportunities for
health services and clinical outcomes researchers. Filling in these data gaps can help
to improve population health by highlighting communityand social determinant-related
dynamics relevant to the improved health of the community.CHNAs and EHRs for Population
Health: Successful models exist that that have used CHNAs and the resulting data to
improve population health management and reduce inequities, as do health systems that
have used the EHR and community-based performance measurement data to achieve population
health goals.
Microlensless interdigitated photoconductive terahertz emitters
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Prabhu S. S.
Published: January 2015

We report here fabrication of interdigitated photoconductive antenna (iPCA) terahertz (THz) emitters based on plasmonic electrode design. Novel design of this iPCA enables it to work without microlens array focusing, which is otherwise required for photo excitation of selective photoconductive regions to avoid the destructive interference of emitted THz radiation from oppositely biased regions. Benefit of iPCA over single active region PCA is, photo excitation can be done at larger area hence avoiding the saturation effect at higher optical excitation density. The emitted THz radiation power from plasmonic-iPCAs is ~2 times more than the single active region plasmonic PCA at 200 mW optical excitation, which will further increase at higher optical powers. This design is expected to reduce fabrication cost of photoconductive THz sources and detectors.
El discurso profesional en servicios sociales comunitarios: una aproximación desde la identificación de repertorios interpretativos
Authors: Pacheco-Mangas Javier , Palma-García María de las Olas
Published: January 2015

Introducción: la presente investigación está orientada a ofrecer un análisis donde se establezcan los recursos lingüísticos utilizados por los participantes sobre el contenido y alcance de la prestación básica de información y orientación en los servicios sociales comunitarios, tal como la desarrollan los trabajadores sociales. Material y métodos: siguiendo una metodología cualitativa y la utilización del análisis del discurso en la propuesta de Wetherell y Potter (1996) con el empleo de la herramienta analítica de los repertorios interpretativos, se intentarán resaltar aquellos elementos definitorios, estrategias profesionales, valores, normas, prácticas organizacionales, elementos de la cultura institucional, entre otros, que dan forma a los escenarios donde desarrollan su labor los profesionales y que configuran el sistema de servicios sociales comunitarios. Resultados: las entrevistas realizadas a veinticinco trabajadores sociales de la provincia de Málaga muestran cuatro repertorios interpretativos que reflejan la construcción del sistema de servicios sociales por parte de los profesionales implicados: el olvido de lo comunitario, la eterna indefinición del sistema, el elefante encadenado y la escasez agudiza el ingenio. Discusión: se pone de manifiesto cómo se construye un modelo de intervención distante a lo establecido en las normas y códigos éticos a causa de los comportamientos organizacionales e institucionales, que los profesionales intentan minimizar mediante la puesta en práctica de habilidades personales.
Reflexiones sobre la investigación y la práctica narrativa en Trabajo Social
Authors: Guerrero Muñoz Joaquín
Published: January 2015

El propósito de este artículo es realizar una reflexión teórica sobre las aportaciones de la orientación narrativa en la práctica y en la investigación social. El enfoque narrativo en las ciencias sociales ha recibido la influencia de la sociolingüística, de la antropología o la psicología, y de otras teorías como el interaccionismo simbólico o el constructivismo social. En este trabajo se analizan las limitaciones y las posibilidades de la investigación narrativa, en un contexto científico en el que la investigación cualitativa se ha consolidado, a pesar del positivismo imperante. La orientación narrativa ha contribuido además a desarrollar una visión crítica de la práctica del trabajo social, de los discursos profesionales dominantes y de la relación entre el usuario y el trabajador social. El enfoque narrativo, a través de la generación de nuevas historias que facilitan el cambio personal y social, nos aproxima a las experiencias personales considerando que los relatos son creados por los actores sociales, y que éstos son el resultado de un proceso intencional y reflexivo mediado por la cultura.
El modelo de apoyo a las personas con capacidades modificadas judicialmente según Naciones Unidas
Authors: Rueda Estrada José Daniel , Zurro Muñoz José Juan , Fernández Sanchidrián José Carlos
Published: January 2015

Este artículo se basa en una investigación social sobre el sistema de protección jurídica de las personas con algún tipo de discapacidad o en situación de dependencia que se encuentran sometidas a las figuras de tutela o curatela, en aplicación de lo previsto y establecido en el Código Civil Español, en sus artículos 199 y 200, así como en la Ley de Enjuiciamiento Civil. La investigación se plantea como un estudio comparado entre diferentes países de la Unión Europea para ver su adecuación a lo establecido en el artículo 12 de la Convención de Naciones Unidas sobre derechos de las Personas con Discapacidad (en adelante, CDPD) en los procedimientos de incapacitación. Los resultados se analizan sobre la base de modelos técnico-sociales de intervención, los análisis jurídicos y la experiencia adquirida por las Fundación Tutelares de Castilla y León. Se proponen y diseñan algunas alternativas y servicios que pueden mejorar la calidad de vida de las personas adultas incapacitadas judicialmente y el tipo de apoyos que se les puede prestar, de acuerdo a lo establecido en la Convención de Naciones Unidas.
Trabajo Social, diversidad sexual y envejecimiento. Una investigación a través de una experiencia de aprendizaje-servicio
Authors: Mesquida González Josep Maria , Quiroga Raimúndez Violeta , Boixadós Porquet Adela
Published: January 2015

Se presentan los primeros resultados de una investigación centrada en la adquisición de conocimientos acerca de la realidad de las personas mayores LGTB en la ciudad de Barcelona. Se ha utilizado una metodología de carácter cualitativo, utilizando las técnicas de la entrevista, la entrevista grupal, el grupo de discusión y el relato de vida en una experiencia de aprendizaje-servicio en la que han participado profesores y estudiantes de Trabajo Social. En este artículo se hace una revisión de la situación del trabajo social con respecto a la diversidad sexual y se exponen elementos conceptuales que se ponen en relación con las voces de las personas que han participado en el estudio. Se constata que el grupo social del que se habla ha sido actor y testigo de excepción de una época de grandes cambios sociales habiendo realizado un proceso de tránsito desde un contexto de gran rechazo social hasta un entorno de mayor respeto y reconocimiento de derechos. También se profundiza en la homofobia y el edadismo como formas de opresión que pueden ser generadoras de déficits de salud y autonomía, así como en la inadecuación de los servicios geriátricos a las necesidades y expectativas de las personas LGTB.
Los espacios turísticos de la Comunidad Valenciana: ¿planificación territorial del turismo o evolución espontánea? Los planes regionales y el caso de Peñíscola
Authors: Navarro Ruiz Sandra
Published: January 2015

La ordenación territorial es la práctica que resulta imprescindible para organizar el uso turístico del espacio. Sin embargo, el objetivo pendiente de algunas autonomías continúa siendo la interrelación entre planificación territorial y planificación turística, dando paso al urbanismo como técnica de ordenación territorial del turismo.Este estudio plantea determinar si la ordenación territorial del turismo en la Comunidad Valenciana a escala autonómica, local e interrelación entre ambas, se encuentra en una etapa integradora o espontanea, y de igual modo, plasmar la problemática de la conceptualización del turismo desde la perspectiva territorial.Mediante la integración de los catorce indicadores propositivos, que Exceltur extrajo de Planes de Ordenación Territorial de distintas autonomías insulares y del litoral mediterráneo, se comprobaron las buenas prácticas en planificación territorial del turismo de la Estrategia Territorial, el Plan de Espacios Turísticos de la Comunidad Valenciana, así como del Plan General de Ordenación Urbana de Peñíscola.Asimismo un hecho que afecta a la elaboración, redacción y consecución de los planes territoriales y/o turísticos valencianos, es la conceptualización sesgada del término turismo, tal y como muestran los resultados de diversas entrevistas en profundidad realizadas a actores especializados en planificación.Los hallazgos de este estudio sugieren que la planificación territorial del turismo en la Comunidad Valenciana continúa su etapa espontánea, mientras que los municipios mantienen su independencia a la hora de gestionar la ordenación y la gestión territorial del turismo.
The crystal structure of 4-bromobenzoic acid — triphenylphosphane oxide — water (1:2:1), C79H69BrO8P4
Authors: Mukiza Janvier , Gerber Thomas I. A. , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: January 2015

C79H69BrO8P4, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 8.8310(4) Å, b = 9.7790(4) Å, c = 20.4514(8) Å, α = 87.361(2)°, β = 78.463(2)°, γ = 76.439(2)°, V = 1682.2 Å3, Z = 1, Rgt(F) = 0.0331, wRref(F2) = 0.0907, T = 200 K.
A Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Study on the Mechanisms of Amorphous Silicon Electrode Lithiation in Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hüger Erwin , Jerliu Bujar , Dörrer Lars , Bruns Michael , Borchardt Günter , Schmidt Harald
Published: January 2015

Electrodes made of amorphous silicon are a promising alternative to
graphite as anode material for the next generation of high-capacity
Li-ion batteries. In order to optimize such batteries the
mechanism of lithium incorporation into the electrode during charging
has to be elucidated. In the present study we measured the
modification of lithium distribution taking place during galvanostatic
lithiation of about 600 nm thick amorphous silicon film
electrodes at low current densities of about
30 μA/cm2 (∼ C/14) by Secondary Ion
Mass Spectrometry. The results were confirmed by X-ray Photoelectron
Spectroscopy. The results indicate a two-step lithiation procedure
where the electrode is transformed first into a homogeneously
lithiated Li
x
Si phase with a low Li content of
x ≈ 0.3. During later stages of the lithiation process, the
results are in agreement with the penetration of a highly lithiated
phase via a moving phase boundary, as also observed for crystalline
silicon.
Shared rhytidectomy continued to lateral canthoplasty in a Mastiff with excessive facial folding and macroblepharon
Authors: Steinmetz A.
Published: January 2015

A 3.5-year-old male Neapolitan Mastiff was presented with an obstructed visual axis because of excessive facial skin folds, brow droop, macroblepharon, upper eyelid entropion and lower ectropion-entropion. To address these major defects a technique was performed which combines rhytidectomy with shortening of the palpebral fissure and stabilization of the lateral canthus. Postoperatively the dog showed an unobstructed visual axis with comfortable and symmetrical eyes.