bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teenaged Internet tutors’ use of scaffolding with older learners
Authors: Tambaum Tiina
Published: October 2016

This study analyses how teenaged instructors paired with older learners make use of scaffolding. Video data were categorised according to 15 types of direct scaffolding tactics, indirect scaffolding, and unused scaffolding opportunities. The results show that a teenager who is unprepared for the role of an instructor of Internet skills for older person uses scaffolding tactics, but does so inconsistently, and the gradual appearance of fading of non-scaffolding tactics is relatively modest. Some possible reasons why scaffolding is not used, as well as the implications of spontaneous scaffolding are discussed.
Photovoice
Authors: Kelly Kathleen J.
Published: October 2016

This illustrated article shares insights regarding American Indian youths’ perceptions of their daily environments with regard to their diet and eating healthily. Researchers used a community-based participatory research method, “photovoice.” Fourteen American Indian youth aged 11–14 were given cameras to capture opportunities and barriers to eating healthily in their environments (school, home, and community), culture, and traditional foods and customs. Images highlight challenges in youths’ nutritional understanding and environment. The study results suggest gaps in American Indian youths’ basic nutritional understanding and opportunities for strategic social marketing to overcome barriers while reinforcing benefits of healthy eating traditions. Insights gleaned can inform future health interventions. Researchers used insights to adapt an established intervention, Cooking with Kids (CWK). Under a larger grant, guided by social and cognitive learning theories, which identifies processes and determinants of health behaviors, CWK aims to increase the intake of healthy foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, and to increase youth nutritional and cooking competencies. This article illustrates the value of photovoice for researchers and decision makers to visualize issues from participants’ point of view, specifically the American Indian obesity issue.
Empty Seats or Empty Threats? Examining the Effects of the 1994-1995 and 2004-2005 Lockouts on Attendance and Revenue in the National Hockey League
Authors: Treber Jaret , Mulcahy Lawrence , Sharma Manjul Bhusal
Published: October 2016

Labor-related work stoppages in professional sports have the potential to alienate fans—but whether they generate sustained reductions in demand remains an open question. Existing evidence generally indicates work stoppages may negatively impact attendance but only for a short period of time. Focusing on the 1994, 2004, and 2012 lockouts in the National Hockey League, this article finds evidence consistent with sustained decreases in attendance following the 1994-1995 lockout and revenue following the 2004-2005 and 2012-2013 lockouts. Back-of-the-envelope estimates suggest work stoppages may still be optimal even if there is a sustained negative impact on fan demand.
Association Between the IL-6 rs1800795 Polymorphism and the Risk of Cervical Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of 1210 Cases and 1525 Controls
Authors: Liu Haiping , Lyu Dan , Zhang Yan , Sheng Lianbing , Tang Ning
Published: October 2016

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related death among females in less developed countries. Studies have shown that the single-nucleotide polymorphisms of interleukin 6 might be associated with cervical cancer risk. A total of 710 articles from EMBASE, EBSCO, Web of science, PubMed, Springer link, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were reviewed in our study. A meta-analysis on the associations between interleukin 6 rs1800795 polymorphism and cervical cancer risk was carried out by comparison using 5 genetic models. In this systematic review, 5 studies were analyzed. The pooled population included 2735 participants (1210 cases and 1525 controls). The overall odds ratio (G vs C alleles) using fixed-effects model was 0.85 (95% confidence interval 0.75-0.97), P = .02. Our results show that the C genotype of interleukin 6 rs1800795 is associated with higher cervical cancer risk. Our results indicate that interleukin 6 rs1800795 polymorphism might be associated with susceptibility to cervical cancer.
Comparison of Open Drainage Versus Closed Catheter Irrigation for Treatment of Suppurative Flexor Tenosynovitis
Authors: Born Trevor R. , Wagner Eric R. , Kakar Sanjeev
Published: October 2016

Background: The purpose of this study was to review the outcomes associated with different surgical treatments in the management of suppurative flexor tenosynovitis (SFT). Methods: Patients treated by open drainage (OD) through a single incision and closed catheter irrigation (CCI) of the tendon sheath were evaluated from 2003 to 2009 at a single institution. Variables examined included culture results, time to surgery, duration of hospitalization and antibiotic therapy, pain, reoperation, and functional outcomes were recorded. Statistical analyses used included parametric and nonparametric t tests. Results: Twenty-four patients were treated for SFT with a mean follow-up of 3 ± 2 years. There were 13 (100%) males in the OD group compared to 8 (72%) males within the CCI group. Ninety-two percent of patients who underwent OD and 100% who underwent CCI reported none or mild pain. There were no differences between the 2 groups with regard to functional outcome scores. Factors leading to worse functional outcomes included prolonged time to receiving antibiotics and Staphylococcus aureus infection. Smokers required prolonged antibiotic treatment compared to nonsmokers. Accounting for planned returns to the operating room, there was no difference in reoperation rates between the OD or CCI groups. Conclusions: Surgical treatment of SFT with either OD or CCI resulted in similar outcomes for pain, function, and need for reoperation. Factors that lead to poor outcomes include S aureus culture, prolonged time to antibiotics, and smoking.
Predictors of Nerve Injury After Gunshot Wounds to the Upper Extremity
Authors: Pannell William C. , Heckmann Nathanael , Alluri Ram K. , Sivasundaram Lakshmanan , Stevanovic Milan , Ghiassi Alidad
Published: October 2016

Background: The purpose of this study is to examine the incidence of nerve injury, clinical variables associated with nerve palsy, and predictive factors of nerve laceration after gunshot wounds to the upper extremity. Methods: Forty-one patients from a level I trauma center with gunshot wounds to the upper extremity who underwent surgical exploration between 2007 and 2014 were identified retrospectively. Patients with proximal ipsilateral injuries, inadequate documentation, imaging, or with a pre-existing neurologic deficit were excluded. Patient demographics, clinical sensory and motor examination, the presence of retained bullet fragments, fracture, vascular injury, and compartment syndrome were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed to determine significant predictors of intraoperative nerve laceration. Significance was set at P < .05. Results: Fifty-nine nerves were explored in 41 patients. There were higher frequencies of fractures, retained fragments, vascular injury, and compartment syndrome in patients with nerve palsies, although none were associated with nerve laceration. Patients with palsies on presentation were significantly more likely to have a nerve laceration found intraoperatively. Conclusions: Gunshot wounds to the upper extremity with focal nerve deficits remain a difficult problem for orthopedic surgeons. The present study provides evidence that may help guide operative decision making in treatment of these injuries.
Redundancy analysis of cooperative dual-arm manipulators
Authors: Freddi Alessandro , Longhi Sauro , Monteriù Andrea , Ortenzi Davide
Published: October 2016

This paper presents the redundancy analysis of two cooperative manipulators, showing how they can be considered as a single redundant manipulator through the use of the relative Jacobian matrix. In this way, the kinematic redundancy can be resolved by applying the principal local optimization techniques used in the single manipulator case. We resolve the redundancy by using the Jacobian null space technique, which permits us to perform several tasks with different execution priority levels at the same time; this is a useful feature, especially when the manipulators are to be mounted on and cooperate with a mobile platform. As an illustrative example, we present a case study consisting of two planar manipulators mounted on a smart wheelchair, whose degrees of redundancy are employed to move an object along a pre-defined path, while avoiding an obstacle in the manipulator’s workspace at the same time.
Brazilian Robotics Olympiad
Authors: Aroca Rafael V , Pazelli Tatiana FPAT , Tonidandel Flavio , Filho Azamor CA , Simes Alexandre S , Colombini Esther L , Burlamaqui Aquiles MF , Goncalves Luiz MG
Published: October 2016

This article introduces the successful methodology adopted for the realization of the Brazilian Robotics Olympiad. Organizational and scientific issues are presented and discussed as well as results of statistical surveys performed with participants that verify the benefits brought by this robotics Olympiad. The Brazilian Robotics Olympiad is a nine-year-old nation-wide initiative created with the mission of promoting robotics among Brazilian students with or without previous knowledge of robotics, fostering their interest to engage in science, technology and engineering studies and careers. The Olympiad is fully free for participants, being annually organized by hundreds of volunteers from several Brazilian universities. It is divided into practical and theoretical components with several levels, each one designed for a certain student age. More than 300,000 students have already participated in the Brazilian Robotics Olympiad and, according to 58% of these students, the Brazilian Robotics Olympiad helped them to decide which university course to pursue.
Developing new behavior strategies of robot soccer team SjF TUKE Robotics
Authors: Hajduk Mikuláš , Sukop Marek , Jánoš Rudolf , Semjon Ján , Tuleja Peter , Rusnak Rudolf , Špak Michal
Published: October 2016

There are too many types of robotic soccer approaches at present. SjF TUKE Robotics, who won robot soccer world tournament for year 2010 in category MiroSot, is a team with multiagent system approach. They have one main agent (master) and five agent players, represented by robots. There is a point of view, in the article, for code programmer how to create new behavior strategies by creating a new code for master. There is a methodology how to prepare and create it following some rules.
Analysis and optimization of a camber morphing wing model
Authors: Li Bing , Li Gang
Published: October 2016

This article proposes a camber morphing wing model that can continuously change its camber. A mathematical model is proposed and a kinematic simulation is performed to verify the wing’s ability to change camber. An aerodynamic model is used to test its aerodynamic characteristics. Some important aerodynamic analyses are performed. A comparative analysis is conducted to explore the relationships between aerodynamic parameters, the rotation angle of the trailing edge, and the angle of attack. An improved artificial fish swarm optimization algorithm is proposed, referred to as the weighted adaptive artificial fish-swarm with embedded Hooke–Jeeves search method. Some comparison tests are used to test the performance of the improved optimization algorithm. Finally, the proposed optimization algorithm is used to optimize the proposed camber morphing wing model.
An automated procedure for identification of a person using gait analysis
Authors: Galajdová Alena , Šimšík Dušan , Rákay Róbert
Published: October 2016

Different biometric methods are available for identification purpose of a person. The most commonly used are fingerprints, but there are also other biometric methods such as voice, morphology of ears, structure of iris and so on. In some cases, it is required to identify a person according to his/her biomechanical parameters or even his/her gait pattern. Gait is an outstanding biometric behavioural characteristic that is not widely used yet for identification purposes because efficient and proven automated processes are not yet available. Several systems and gait pattern databases have been developed for rapid evaluation and processing of gait. This article describes an original automated evaluation procedure of gait pattern and identification of unique gait parameters for automatic identification purposes.
A critique of current developments in simultaneous localization and mapping
Authors: Huang Shoudong , Dissanayake Gamini
Published: October 2016

The number of research publications dealing with the simultaneous localization and mapping problem has grown significantly over the past 15 years. Many fundamental and practical aspects of simultaneous localization and mapping have been addressed, and some efficient algorithms and practical solutions have been demonstrated. The aim of this paper is to provide a critical review of current theoretical understanding of the fundamental properties of the SLAM problem, such as observability, convergence, achievable accuracy and consistency. Recent research outcomes associated with these topics are briefly discussed together with potential future research directions.
Exploring the backward swimming ability of a robotic fish
Authors: Li Liang , Wang Chen , Fan Ruifeng , Xie Guangming
Published: October 2016

This article investigates the capability for backward swimming of a carangiform-fish-like robot with only three joints. A simple dynamic model based on a fixed point, a point in the body without perpendicular oscillation, is first developed to analyze the feasibility of backward motion for the robot. Through this theoretical analysis, we find that the fixed point lies closer to the robotic fish tail with higher backward swimming speeds. Combining the theoretical analysis with experimental optimization, we further explore backward swimming patterns using particle swarm optimization. After a series of online optimal experiments, we find several locomotion gaits that can make the robotic fish swim backward, and the corresponding fixed points are similarly located near the tail. The backward swimming velocity is strongly correlated with the fixed point position along the robotic fish body, which verifies the effectiveness of our fixed-point model.
Comparison of moisture diffusion coefficients for pine, oak and linden wood
Authors: Perkowski Zbigniew , Świrska-Perkowska Jadwiga , Gajda Marek
Published: October 2016

This article presents experimental research on the moisture diffusivity in wood within the range of hygroscopic moisture. This research was carried out on samples of three types of trees: Scots pine, small-leaved linden and pedunculate oak. It included measurements of kinetics of moisture adsorption within the range of air relative humidity from 25% to 85%. For each type of wood, the experiment was carried out with unidirectional flow of moisture, in each of the material principal orthotropic directions, by examining the diffusion coefficient along the fibres, in the tangential direction and in the radial direction. Values of moisture diffusion coefficients and mass surface emission coefficient were found with the use of method of minimizing the objective function, that is, by fitting the computational adsorption kinetics curves to the experimental ones. At the same time, three cases of variations of the moisture diffusion coefficient together with moisture content of the material have been analysed each time: in the form of a constant, linear function and a quadratic function, assuming a constant value of mass surface emission coefficient on the absorbing surface of samples. The performed calculations allowed determining whether the moisture diffusion coefficients have extreme values within the analysed range of moisture content and what is the impact of various diffusion mechanisms on the whole process of transferring moisture in the considered cases.
Two decades of nation-wide community-based stroke support – The Singapore National Stroke Association
Authors: Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Yin Ann , Lee Lay B , De Silva Deidre A
Published: October 2016

The Singapore National Stroke Association, registered in 1996, offers support and information to stroke survivors and caregivers, and aims to raise public stroke awareness. In the last 20 years, we have developed programs to equip stroke survivors and caregivers with knowledge, life skills, comfort, and opportunities for socialization and reintegration. We have on-going public education and advocacy initiatives. Obtaining funding, member recruitment, volunteer retention, and leadership renewal are on-going challenges. Singapore National Stroke Association will continue to strive for the betterment of stroke survivors, their caregivers, and the public.
Conceptualizing journalistic self-censorship in post-conflict societies: A qualitative perspective on the journalistic perception of news production in Serbia, Kosovo and Macedonia
Authors: Jungblut Marc , Hoxha Abit
Published: October 2016

Post-conflict societies are subject to other societal forces than non-conflict or conflict societies. As a result, news production might differ between these three societal forms. In conflict, news is influenced either by the affiliation with a conflict party or at gunpoint. In non-conflict, it is shaped by manifold influences that are mostly connected to journalistic routines. In addition, post-conflict news production can be characterized by a high relevance of the conflict context and an emerging importance of routines. This article analyzes how journalists perceive self-censorship as an influence on post-conflict news production. It conceptualizes self-censorship as an analytic category and introduces different forms of self-censorship. Finally, the authors demonstrate the relevance of self-censorship as a force in post-conflict news production with the help of qualitative interviews conducted with journalists in Macedonia, Kosovo and Serbia.
The Effect of Operating Lamps on the Protected Area of a Unidirectional Down Flow (UDF) System
Authors: Traversari A. A. L. , Bottenheft C. , Louman R. , van Heumen S. P. M. , Böggemann J.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Operating lamps are often seen as the most disruptive factors within the protective area in the operating theater (OT). The effect of the operation lamps (with different shapes) should be demonstrated in an OT by trial, since research on the effects of the lamps is still limited.

Objectives:

The main aim of this study was to determine the effects of a skirt, different lamps, and the position of the lamp on the protected area.

Methods:

The concentration of airborne particles was measured under different circumstances, in order to determine the size and quality of the protected area. This entrainment/segregation test is based on the deliberate and controlled emission of particles outside the zone that is protected.

Findings and Conclusions:

The degree of protection (DP) at the center of the protected area was higher for the case with the skirt. This skirt stimulates more down flow and prevents the early entry of particles into the protected area. It can also be concluded that Lamp Y, due to its open shape, has the most positive effect on the DP at the center. It has also been shown that the position of the lamp has an effect on the protected area.
Integrating Lean Exploration Loops Into Healthcare Facility Design
Authors: Johnson Kendra , M. Mazur Lukasz , Chadwick Janet , Pooya Pegah , Amos Alison , McCreery John
Published: October 2016

Purpose:

To explore how Lean can add value during the schematic phase of design through providing additional resources and support to project leadership and the architectural design team.

Background:

This case study–based research took place at one large academic hospital during design efforts of surgical tower to house 19 operating rooms (ORs) and support spaces including pre- and post-op, central processing and distribution, and materials management. Surgical services project leadership asked for Lean practitioners’ support during the design process.

Methods:

Lean Exploration Loops (LELs) were conducted to generate evidence to support stakeholders, as they made important decisions about the new building design. The analyses conducted during LELs during the schematic phase were primarily conducted using express workouts (EWOs) and were focused on the flow of patients, staff, and family throughout the pavilion.

Results:

LELs resulted in recommendations for key design features (e.g., number of pre- and post-op bays per OR floor, location of doors, scrub sinks, stretcher alcoves, equipment storage, and sterile core areas). Two-sided pre- and post-op bays with an inner clinical workspace and an outer patient transport corridor were recommended. Communicating elevator and a centrally located stairwell for staff to alleviate stress on the main bank of elevators at peak usage times were also suggested.

Conclusions:

We found Lean tools and methods to be of most value during schematic phase when focused on detailed process and layout analysis, while acknowledging the usefulness of focused EWOs to generate the evidence needed for the decision-making.
Conjugate Eye Deviation on CT Associated With Worse Outcomes Despite IV Thrombolysis
Authors: Shah Nirav H. , Bhatt Nirav , Tipirneni Anita , Condes Diego , Khandelwal Priyank , Romano Jose G.
Published: October 2016

Introduction:

Rapid stroke management has significant implications in patient outcomes. Ipsilateral computed tomography conjugate eye deviation (CT-CED) has been associated with worse outcomes but has never been evaluated as predictive of vascular occlusion. To test the hypothesis that CT-CED is a marker for vascular occlusion, we evaluated patients treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA).

Methods:

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with IV tPA at a large tertiary care hospital over an 18-month period. A waiver of informed consent was granted. Two examiners evaluated baseline brain CTs blinded to the location of infarct to assess the presence of CT-CED and follow-up imaging for the location of infarct and the presence of intracranial large vessel occlusion. Demographics, initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scales (mRSs), and hospital length of stay (LOS) were collected.

Results:

Among 104 patients treated with IV tPA, 36 had CT-CED. Inter-rater reliability for CT-CED was excellent (κ = 0.97; 95% confidence interval: 0.98-1.0). The CT-CED group was older (69.8 vs 64 years; P = .038), had higher initial NIHSS (14.6 vs 11; P = .01), worse mRS (3.2 vs 2.4; P = .03), and longer LOS (8.4 vs 6.4; P = .05) compared with those without CT-CED. A vascular occlusion in the territory of the infarct was seen in 58% of patients with CT-CED versus 32% without CT-CED ( P < .01). Atrial fibrillation (AF) was diagnosed in 61% patients with CT-CED versus 22% without ( P < .01).

Conclusion:

The CT-CED is associated with higher initial NIHSS, large vessel occlusion, and AF. Prospective studies are needed to ascertain whether CT-CED may be utilized part of a screen for endovascular therapy.
Efficacy and safety of the target-specific oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: the real-life evidence
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Rago Anna , Proietti Riccardo , Di Meo Federica , Antonio Papa Andrea , Calabrò Paolo , D’Onofrio Antonio , Nigro Gerardo , AlTurki Ahmed
Published: October 2016

The aim of our article is to provide a concise review for clinicians entailing the main studies that evaluated the efficacy and safety of target-specific oral anticoagulants (TSOAs) for thromboembolic stroke prevention in the real-world setting. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common supraventricular arrhythmias that requires anticoagulation therapy to prevent stroke and systemic embolism. TSOAs, dabigatran, apixaban and rivaroxaban have become available as an alternative to warfarin anticoagulation in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Randomized clinical trials showed non-inferior or superior results in efficacy and safety of the TSOAs compared with warfarin for stroke prevention in NVAF patients. For this reason, the 2012 update to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines for the management of AF recommends TSOAs as broadly preferable to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in the vast majority of patients with NVAF [Camm et al. 2012]. Although the clinical trial results and the guideline’s indications, there is a need for safety and efficacy data from unselected patients in everyday clinical practice. Recently, a large number of studies testing the efficacy and the safety of TSOAs in clinical practice have been published. The aim of our article is to provide a concise review for clinicians, outlining the main studies that evaluated the efficacy and safety of TSOAs for thromboembolic stroke prevention in the real-world setting.
Relapsing optic neuritis and isolated transverse myelitis are the predominant clinical phenotypes for patients with antibodies to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein in India
Authors: Pandit Lekha , Sato Douglas Kazutoshi , Mustafa Sharik , Takahashi Toshiyuki , D’Cunha Anitha , Malli Chaithra , Sudhir Akshatha , Fujihara Kazuo
Published: October 2016

Background

Clinical phenotypes of patients with antibodies to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (anti-MOG+) are unknown in India.

Objectives

Retrospectively to characterise anti-MOG+ patients with inflammatory central nervous system disorders in India.

Method

A total of 87 patients with non-multiple sclerosis demyelinating disorders (excluding acute disseminated encephalomyelitis) who were seronegative for anti-aquaporin 4 antibody were retrospectively analysed using a cell-based assay for anti-MOG+ status.

Results

Twenty-five patients were anti-MOG+ in this cohort. They represented 28.7% (25/87) of patients who tested negative for anti-AQP4+. Sixty-four per cent (16/25) of anti-MOG+ patients were men and had a relapsing course. Patients with recurrent optic neuritis and those with a single attack of acute longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis were the most common phenotypes.

Conclusion

Relapsing optic neuritis was the most common phenotype, contrasting with a lower risk of relapses in transverse myelitis.
Media education in the School 2.0 era: Teaching media literacy through laptop computers and iPads
Authors: Lee Alice Y. L.
Published: October 2016

In the School 2.0 era in Hong Kong, students are using laptop computers and iPads to explore and discuss media issues in the classroom. Using the innovation theory, this study investigates this new way of teaching and learning. It examines the effectiveness and challenges of learning media literacy through new media technologies. The results show that students are highly motivated by the new media and express great interest in the media literacy curriculum. The new methods not only enhance students’ media literacy, but they also strengthen their 4C skills (critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration). Using new information technologies to teach media education is effective because the new curriculum can create “meaning” and “relevance” for the Net-Generation students.
Uncovering interactions in multivariate contingency tables: a multi-level modelling exploratory approach
Authors: Jones Kelvyn , Johnston Ron , Manley David
Published: October 2016

Much quantitative behavioural social science – a great deal of it exploratory in nature – involves the analysis of multivariate contingency tables, usually deploying logistic binomial and multinomial regression models with no exploration of interaction effects, despite arguments that this should be a crucial element of the analysis. This article builds on suggestions that the search for interaction effects should employ multi-level modelling strategies and outlines a procedure for modelling patterns in data sets with small numbers of observations in many, if not all, of their multivariate contingency table cells; all expected cells must be non-zero. The procedure produces precision-weighted estimates of the observed:expected rates for each and every cell, together with associated Bayesian credible intervals, and is illustrated using a large survey data set relating voting (and abstaining) at the 2015 UK general election to age, sex and educational qualifications. Crucially, while fine detail can be explored in the analysis, unreliable rates for particular subgroups are automatically down-weighted to what is happening generally. The identification of reliable differential rates then allows a simpler hybrid model that captures the main trends to be fitted and interpreted.
A Giacometti portrait, postmodern emergence, and creativity
Authors: Rae John
Published: October 2016

The notion of “postmodern emergence” is being used increasingly to frame and inform investigations into a diverse range of topics, and it is likely that this will continue. Postmodern emergence offers promise to researchers who seek alternative ways of generating new knowledge and want to work with creativity. However, the nature of the relationship between postmodern emergence and creativity has not been fully explored. Using a particular creative act, the painting of a portrait by artist Alberto Giacometti, and drawing on my own arts-based research, the synergies between postmodern emergence and a practice-theoretical approach to creativity are identified and unpacked from ontological and epistemological positions. Recognizing the place and value of creativity in postmodern emergence serves to support the work of postmodern emergence researchers, and indeed other qualitative researchers.
Covert Diplomacy Between Israel and Egypt During Nasser Rule
Authors: Yahel Ido
Published: October 2016

The history of Egypt and Israel consists of four wars and hundreds of border incidents that have taken the lives of tens of thousands of people. It seems that only the rise to power of a leader in the stature of Anwar Sadat could put an end to this bloody circle, because the previous president, Gamal Abdel Nasser, was not willing to hold any kind of political contact with Israel. But Nasser’s reign involved constant political contact between Egypt and Israel, most of whom remain confidential. This article attempts to examine whether any of these contacts were likely to succeed and yield a peace treaty between the two countries, an agreement that could have prevented three wars and saved the lives of so many people on both sides. It will do so by examining these contacts, their characteristics, and the reasons for their failure, while dividing them into three periods: the 1948 war to the 1956 war, the 1956 war to the 1967 war, and the 1967 war to the death of Nasser in 1970.
Attitudes Toward Physical Intimate Partner Violence Against Women in Nigeria
Authors: Okenwa-Emegwa Leah , Lawoko Stephen , Jansson Bjarne
Published: October 2016

Attitudes toward intimate partner violence (IPV) are known predictors of IPV victimization and perpetration with more women generally believed to justify IPV than men. An understanding of the determinants of justification of IPV may provide information necessary for holistic interventions. This study sought to examine the magnitude, extent, and predictors of justification of physical IPV against women among men and women in Nigeria. Data from 33,385 women and 15,486 men from the 2008 Nigerian demographic and health surveys were analyzed using chi-square test and multiple logistic regressions. Results show that although larger proportions of women justified physical IPV, certain categories of men such as poor, illiterate men, and men with secondary education justified abuse more than women. Contrary to expectations, access to radio/TV increased the odds of justifying abuse among women thus casting doubts on program content. The gender differences observed for predictors of attitudes to physical IPV suggest a need for gender-tailored interventions to change attitudes toward partner violence in Nigeria.
Multiple Imputation of Multilevel Missing Data
Authors: Grund Simon , Lüdtke Oliver , Robitzsch Alexander
Published: October 2016

The treatment of missing data can be difficult in multilevel research because state-of-the-art procedures such as multiple imputation (MI) may require advanced statistical knowledge or a high degree of familiarity with certain statistical software. In the missing data literature, pan has been recommended for MI of multilevel data. In this article, we provide an introduction to MI of multilevel missing data using the R package pan, and we discuss its possibilities and limitations in accommodating typical questions in multilevel research. To make pan more accessible to applied researchers, we make use of the mitml package, which provides a user-friendly interface to the pan package and several tools for managing and analyzing multiply imputed data sets. We illustrate the use of pan and mitml with two empirical examples that represent common applications of multilevel models, and we discuss how these procedures may be used in conjunction with other software.
New Media and the Development of Education Sector
Authors: Udoudo Aniefiok J. , Ojo Gbemisola O.
Published: October 2016

This study appraised the use of the new media by students in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to identify extent of use of new media and to find out challenges experienced while using new media for learning in schools in the Local Government Area. The study adopted survey and quasi experiment as research designs. The population of the study stood at 5,609 representing entire population of the students and heads of schools studied. Sample size of 568 was used in the study. Findings showed that some of the schools were truly new media based but under utilized by the students in learning. The challenges experienced by students differed from one school to another. It was recommended that teachers should be retrained. Adequate new media facilities should be made available in school curriculum to include new media practice in all subjects.
Islamic Economics and the Relevance of Al-Qawā‘id Al-Fiqhiyyah
Authors: Mustafa Daud A. , Abdulsalam Hashir A. , Yusuf Jibrail B.
Published: October 2016

Islamic economics, as part of the Islamic body of knowledge, has emerged as a new social science discipline that has gained currency and recognition in various institutions of higher learning in the contemporary Muslim world. Different sources of Islamic knowledge have significantly contributed to shape its evolution and development. The Islamic legal maxims, however, do not seem to have received much attention in terms of their contextualization in the present economic thinking. Using the content analysis approach, this article examines the relevance of qawā‘id al-fiqhiyyah, placing emphasis on the five normative maxims and some of their variants, to the understanding of Islamic economics. The aim is to assess their relevance to Islamic economic life and their contextualization within time and space. It was found that qawā‘id al-fiqhiyyah significantly contributes to the understanding of Islamic economics as a discipline in the Islamic tertiary educational pursuits. They help to understand certain economic theories from the Islamic ethical perspective. Therefore, it is concluded that if Muslim social scientists, especially, Muslim economists, embrace and pursue this branch of fiqh with an utmost concern and commitment, it would facilitate a better appreciation of economic theories from the Islamic perspective.
Relationship Between Household Livestock Keeping and Nutritional Status of Under-5 Children in Rural Parts of the Eastern Province of Zambia
Authors: Banda Yolani , Simuunza Martin C. , Mumba Chisoni
Published: October 2016

A case-control study was conducted to determine the relationship between household livestock keeping and malnutrition levels of under-5 children. A questionnaire was used to capture data on the hypothesized risk factors. Fisher’s Exact test was used to determine associations between categorical variables and binary logistic regression analysis to determine predictors of malnutrition among under-5 children. A total of 145 households were sampled using a stratified random sampling method. About 72.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [63.9%, 81.0%]) of households in the study area kept livestock and the overall level of malnutrition was 34.5% (CI = [21.3%, 47.7%]). Livestock keeping among households that were cases was 31.4% (95% CI = [22.5%, 40.3%]) and slightly lower than those from households that were controls at 68.6% (95% CI = [57.9%, 59.3%]) although this was not statistically significant ( p = .243). Crop farming alone was also found not to be significantly associated with malnutrition of under-5 children at household level ( p = .447). However, mixed farming (growing crops and keeping livestock) at household level was found to be significantly associated with malnutrition levels of the under-5 children ( p = .008). The level of mixed farming among the cases, 31.6% (95% CI = [17.7%, 45.5%]), was lower than those among the controls, which was 68.3% (95% CI = [59.1%, 77.5%]). There was no association between livestock keeping and malnutrition in both the cases and control groups. However, mixed farming (crop farming and keeping livestock) was associated with a significant reduction in malnutrition among under-5 children.
Immigration, Women, and Japan—A Leap Ahead and a Step Behind
Authors: Paillard-Borg Stéphanie , Holmgren Jessica
Published: October 2016

Japan has become a super-aged society, facing demographic challenges resulting in societal and economic consequences. In its political structural reform, the Japanese government presented the urgency to consider the increase in labor mobility that includes the issues of immigration and female employment, both domestic and foreign. The aim of this study was to explore, from a Japanese woman’s perspective, the intertwined issues of immigration. An in-depth interview was performed and analyzed by content analysis with a methodological departure in qualitative journalistic interviewing. The case was a Japanese woman with a unique profile. The results of this study, family permanency and group cohesiveness, can contribute to understand the potential interdependency between the roles, within the Japanese society, of foreign female domestic workers and Japanese women. In conclusion, it appears that the pivotal role of women in the Japanese society and the global feminization of migration challenge Japanese social consistency.
Critical Medical Anthropology in Midwifery Research
Authors: Newnham Elizabeth C. , Pincombe Jan I. , McKellar Lois V.
Published: October 2016

In this article, we discuss the use of critical medical anthropology (CMA) as a theoretical framework for research in the maternity care setting. With reference to the doctoral research of the first author, we argue for the relevance of using CMA for research into the maternity care setting, particularly as it relates to midwifery. We then give an overview of an existing analytic model within CMA that we adapted for looking specifically at childbirth practices and which was then used in both analyzing the data and structuring the thesis. There is often no clear guide to the analysis or writing up of data in ethnographic research; we therefore offer this Critical analytic model of childbirth practices for other researchers conducting ethnographic research into childbirth or maternity care.
Effects of Conjugated Linoleic Acid and Metformin on Insulin Sensitivity in Obese Children: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Garibay-Nieto Nayely , Queipo-García Gloria , Alvarez Flor , Bustos Mayra , Villanueva Erendira , Ramírez Fernando , León Mireya , Laresgoiti-Servitje Estibalitz , Duggirala Ravindranath , Macías Teresa , Cuevas Sergio , Jalife Abel , Fonseca-Sánchez Miguel , Serratos Fabiola , López-Alvarenga Juan Carlos
Published: October 2016

Context:

Insulin resistance precedes metabolic syndrome abnormalities and may promote cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in children with obesity. Results of lifestyle modification programs have been discouraging, and the use of adjuvant strategies has been necessary.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of metformin and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on insulin sensitivity, measured via euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique and insulin pathway expression molecules in muscle biopsies of children with obesity.

Design:

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted.

Setting:

Children with obesity were randomly assigned to receive metformin, CLA, or placebo.

Results:

Intervention had a positive effect in all groups. For insulin sensitivity Rd value (mg/kg/min), there was a statistically significant difference between the CLA vs placebo (6.53 ± 2.54 vs 5.05 ± 1.46, P = 0.035). Insulinemia and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance significantly improved in the CLA group (P = 0.045). After analysis of covariance was performed and the influence of body mass index, age, Tanner stage, prescribed diet, and fitness achievement was controlled, a clinically relevant effect size on insulin sensitivity remained evident in the CLA group (37%) and exceeded lifestyle program benefits. Moreover, upregulated expression of the insulin receptor substrate 2 was evident in muscle biopsies of the CLA group.

Conclusions:

Improvement of insulin sensitivity, measured via euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp and IRS2 upregulation, favored patients treated with CLA.
Hyperinsulinemia and Insulin Resistance in Dopamine β-Hydroxylase Deficiency
Authors: Arnold Amy C. , Garland Emily M. , Celedonio Jorge E. , Raj Satish R. , Abumrad Naji N. , Biaggioni Italo , Robertson David , Luther James M. , Shibao Cyndya A.
Published: October 2016

Context:

Dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder characterized by failure to convert dopamine to norepinephrine. DBH-deficient patients lack sympathetic adrenergic function and are therefore predisposed to orthostatic hypotension. DBH-deficient mice exhibit hyperinsulinemia, lower plasma glucose levels, and insulin resistance due to loss of tonic sympathetic inhibition of insulin secretion. The impact of DBH deficiency on glucose homeostasis in humans is unknown.

Case Description:

We describe the metabolic profile of an adolescent female DBH-deficient patient. The patient underwent genetic testing, cardiovascular autonomic function testing, and evaluation of insulin secretion and sensitivity with hyperglycemic clamp under treatment-naive conditions. All procedures were repeated after 1 year of treatment with the norepinephrine prodrug droxidopa (300 mg, 3 times a day). Genetic testing showed a homozygous mutation in the DBH gene (rs74853476). Under treatment-naive conditions, she had undetectable plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine levels, resulting in sympathetic noradrenergic failure and orthostatic hypotension (−32 mm Hg supine to seated). She had high adiposity (41%) and fasting plasma insulin levels (25 μU/mL), with normal glucose (91 mg/dL). Hyperglycemic clamp revealed increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and insulin resistance. Droxidopa restored plasma norepinephrine and improved orthostatic tolerance, with modest effects on glucose homeostasis.

Conclusions:

We provide evidence for impairment in cardiovascular autonomic regulation, hyperinsulinemia, enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and insulin resistance in a DBH-deficient patient. These metabolic derangements were not corrected by chronic droxidopa treatment. These findings provide insight into the pathophysiology and treatment of DBH deficiency and into the importance of catecholaminergic mechanisms to resting metabolism.
Απόψεις εκπαιδευτικών για το Ερευνητικό Πρόγραμμα “Καλλιεργώντας την επικοινωνιακή διάσταση της Γλώσσας στην παραγωγή γραπτού λόγου”
Authors: Μανιάτη Έλενα , Μάσσου Μαρία
Published: October 2016

Περίληψη

Στην παρούσα εισήγηση παρουσιάζονται οι απόψεις εκπαιδευτικών Πρωτοβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης της 25ης Περιφέρειας Αττικής που συμμετείχαν σε Ερευνητικό Πρόγραμμα με τίτλο “Καλλιεργώντας την επικοινωνιακή διάσταση της Γλώσσας στην παραγωγή γραπτού λόγου”, κατά το σχολικό έτος 2014-2015. Οι απόψεις τους αφορούν στο Πρόγραμμα και στην ανάπτυξη επικοινωνιακών δεξιοτήτων των μαθητών στην παραγωγή γραπτού λόγου, στο πλαίσιο καθοδηγούμενων εφαρμογών. Στόχος του Ερευνητικού Προγράμματος υπήρξε η διερεύνηση του τρόπου αξιοποίησης από τους μαθητές γλωσσικού υλικού που είχε παραχθεί για πραγματικές επικοινωνιακές ανάγκες και χρησιμοποιήθηκε στην τάξη για την παραγωγή γραπτού λόγου. Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας καταδεικνύουν ότι μέσω αυθεντικών παραγωγικών και προσληπτικών δραστηριοτήτωνπου διέπονται από επικοινωνιακή σκοπιμότητα και τοποθετούνται σε δεδομένο καταστασιακό πλαίσιο, καλλιεργούνται μεν γραμματικές και λεξιλογικές γνώσεις, με τελικό στόχο, όμως, την καλλιέργεια επικοινωνιακών πρακτικών, αντίστοιχων προς τις ανάγκες και την ηλικία των μαθητών.
Διαχείριση και αντιμετώπιση του αυτισμού μέσα από διαδικασίες παράλληλης στήριξης
Authors: Μαστρογιάννης Αλέξιος , Ξανθοπούλου Ευθυμία
Published: October 2016

Οι διαταραχές του αυτιστικού φάσματος δεν είναι ασθένεια αλλά μια σύνθετη αναπτυξιακή δυσλειτουργία, με αυξητικούς, τελευταία, ρυθμούς, που εντοπίζεται στα 3 πρώτα έτη της ζωής, επακόλουθο γενετικών και νευρολογικών διαταραχών, τραυματισμού του εγκεφάλου ή ακόμα και έκθεσης σε περιβαλλοντικούς παράγοντες, κατά το εμβρυακό στάδιο. Στις δομές των θεραπευτικών προσεγγίσεων για τον αυτισμό, εντάσσονται και οι εκπαιδευτικές παρεμβάσεις που υλοποιούνται στα ειδικά σχολεία, στα τμήματα ένταξης αλλά και μέσω διαδικασιών παράλληλης στήριξης. Δεδομένου ότι η πλειονότητα των αυτιστικών μαθητών εμφανίζει και δυσκολίες μάθησης, η δημιουργία ενός φιλικού, κατανοητού και προβλέψιμου μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος, στο πλαίσιο μιας, κυρίως, δομημένης εκπαίδευσης αποτελεί ισχυρή σχολική πλεονεκτικότητα. Η παρούσα εργασία θα ασχοληθεί με τη μελέτη περίπτωσης ενός δεκάχρονου μαθητή με Διαταραχές Αυτιστικού Φάσματος, ο οποίος φοιτούσε σε τάξη γενικού σχολείου, με παράλληλη στήριξη-συνεκπαίδευση, από εκπαιδευτικό Ειδικής Αγωγής και Εκπαίδευσης (ΠΕ71). Οι παρεμβάσεις, οι οποίες διήρκησαν ένα ολόκληρο διδακτικό έτος, αφορούσαν όλους σχεδόν τους τομείς και περιλάμβαναν πολύ μικρά, κρίσιμα βήματα, χρησιμοποιώντας, κατά βάση, οπτική και λεκτική υποστήριξη, σε αυστηρά εξατομικευμένα πλαίσια. Εντέλει, τα εκπαιδευτικά και μαθησιακά αποτελέσματα αυτής της ετήσιας παρέμβασης ήταν, οπωσδήποτε, εποικοδομητικά και ουσιαστικά, μια παραδοχή που επιβεβαίωσαν πλήρως και πολλαπλώς και οι γονείς του μαθητή.