bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Higher Cardiothoracic Ratio Is Associated with 2-Year Mortality after Hemodialysis Initiation
Authors: Ito Kiyonori , Ookawara Susumu , Ueda Yuichiro , Miyazawa Haruhisa , Yamada Hodaka , Goto Sawako , Ishii Hiroki , Shindo Mitsutoshi , Kitano Taisuke , Hirai Keiji , Yoshida Masashi , Kaku Yoshio , Hoshino Taro , Nabata Aoi , Mori Honami , Yoshida Izumi , Kakei Masafumi , Morishita Yoshiyuki , Tabei Kaoru
Published: December 2015

A high cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) is indicative of a cardiac disorder. However, few reports have revealed an association between the CTR and mortality in patients starting hemodialysis (HD). Methods: Patients with HD initiation (n = 387; mean age, 66.7 ± 12.7 years) were divided into the following three groups according to their CTR at HD initiation: CTR <50%, 50% ≤ CTR < 55%, and CTR ≥55%. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to compare 2-year all-cause mortality among these groups. Furthermore, we investigated the factors affecting their 2-year mortality using a Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. Results: Sixty-five patients (17%) died within 2 years after HD initiation. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with CTR ≥55% had a higher mortality rate than those in the other groups. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed using parameters with p values <0.1 among these three groups [sex, age, presence or absence of ischemic heart disease, hemoglobin levels, serum albumin levels, CTR, body mass index (BMI)] and confounding factors [presence or absence of diabetes mellitus, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)]. Age, eGFR, BMI, and CTR ≥55% at HD initiation were identified as factors influencing 2-year mortality. Conclusion: CTR >55% is one of the most important independent factors to affect 2-year all-cause mortality. Thus, confirming the cardiac condition of patients at HD initiation with a CTR >55% may improve their survival.
Treatment of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: Results of a Phase 2 Trial Evaluating an Intravenous Peptide Agonist of the Calcium-Sensing Receptor
Authors: Bushinsky David A. , Block Geoffrey A. , Martin Kevin J. , Bell Gregory , Huang Saling , Sun Yan , Spiegel David M. , Walsh Liron , Mix T. Christian , Kewalramani Reshma
Published: December 2015

Background/Aims: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of AMG416 (etelcalcitide), a novel peptide agonist of the calcium (Ca)-sensing receptor given intravenously (IV) after each hemodialysis session for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). Methods: Adult subjects with SHPT on hemodialysis enrolled in a 12-week, dose titration (parent) study followed by an open-label extension phase. AMG416 was administered IV, thrice weekly starting at 5 mg/session and titrated based on the subject's parathyroid hormone (PTH) and albumin-corrected Ca (cCa) to target a PTH of 150-300 pg/ml. Efficacy (percent PTH change from baseline to the efficacy analysis period during the parent study) and safety (open-label extension phase) endpoints were evaluated. Results: Baseline (n = 37) mean (standard error [SE]) PTH was 853 (106 pg/ml). The mean (95% CI) percent change from baseline to the efficacy analysis period in PTH concentration was -53.6% (-60.8, -46.4). The proportion of subjects with ≥30% reduction in PTH from baseline to the efficacy assessment period (EAP) was 89% (32/36; 95% CI 73.9, 96.9). Results by the baseline PTH subgroup (≤700 vs. >700 pg/ml) were comparable for both analyses. The proportion of subjects achieving a PTH ≤300 pg/ml was 56% (n = 20/36) at the efficacy assessment period. The mean (SE) percent changes from baseline to EAP were observed for cCa -15% (1.0%) and phosphorus -10% (3.3%). Adverse events were mild to moderate in severity. The PTH reductions achieved in the parent study were maintained in the open-label extension phase. Conclusion: AMG416 was well tolerated and appears to be an effective agent for the treatment of SHPT in patients on hemodialysis.
Narrar Boedo desde el Ocio hiperactivo
Authors: Rolle Carolina
Published: December 2015

Neste artigo construímos um diálogo entre o filme Permanent Vacation (1980), ópera prima de Jim Jarmusch e o romance de iniciação de Fabián Casas, Ocio (2000). Para isto, propomos pensar a noção de transmedialidade como uma ferramenta que nos habilite criar um diálogo intermedia e transgender ao interior de uma mesma poética, mas também de uma mesma problematização dos sujetos protagonsitas entre duas obras.
"Los rubios" e os limites da noção de pós-memória
Authors: Seliprandy Fernando
Published: December 2015

A noção de pós-memória, de Marianne Hirsch, é recorrente nas análises dos documentários realizados por filhos de vítimas das ditaduras do Cone Sul. Articulando a carga afetiva da lembrança, os laços consanguíneos e a indicialidade fotográfica, suas premissas dão concretude à transmissão intergeracional de memórias traumáticas. Por sua vez, o documentário Los rubios (Os loiros, 2003), de Albertina Carri, filha de desaparecidos da ditadura argentina, é radicalmente reflexivo. O filme se recusa a herdar uma visão épica da resistência, questionando a própria possibilidade da rememoração. O objetivo do artigo é problematizar a noção de pós-memória a partir da análise de Los rubios. A hipótese é que, ao invés de um legado natural, o que existe entre as gerações é um espaço cruzado por heranças e apropriações, transmissões de memória e transferências culturais.
Un ojo responsable frente al dolor de los demás: imágenes de la violencia en dos films del Grupo Ukamau
Authors: Aimaretti María Gabriela
Published: December 2015

A revelação das diferentes expressões da violência política —institucional, económica, social e simbólica–, e a problematización do exercício da força “desde abaixo” em pos de uma mudança revolucionária, têm sido tópicos recorrentes na produção de Jorge Sanjinés e o Grupo Ukamau (GU). Este trabalho analisa em dois de seus filmes, Revolução (Jorge Sanjinés, 1963) e Yawar mallku (Jorge Sanjinés, 1969), o tratamento de sua representação e as modalidades de denúncia e impugnación da ordem hegemónico. Ambas produções põem em crises as formas e relatos da História e repõem o não dito-não visto da violência contra os corpos e as identidades culturais dos sectores indígenas e populares.
Assessment of Venous Thrombosis in Animal Models
Authors: Grover Steven P. , Evans Colin E. , Patel Ashish S. , Modarai Bijan , Saha Prakash , Smith Alberto
Published: December 2015

Deep vein thrombosis and common complications, including pulmonary embolism and post-thrombotic syndrome, represent a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Experimental models of venous thrombosis have provided considerable insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate thrombus formation and subsequent resolution. Here, we critically appraise the ex vivo and in vivo techniques used to assess venous thrombosis in these models. Particular attention is paid to imaging modalities, including magnetic resonance imaging, micro–computed tomography, and high-frequency ultrasound that facilitate longitudinal assessment of thrombus size and composition.
Interaction of Hereditary Thrombophilia and Traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors on the Risk of Arterial Thromboembolism
Authors: Mahmoodi Bakhtawar K. , Veeger Nic J.G.M. , Middeldorp Saskia , Lijfering Willem M. , Brouwer Jan-Leendert P. , ten Berg Jur , Hamulyák Karly , Meijer Karina
Published: December 2015

Background—

Hereditary thrombophilia is associated with a slightly increased risk of arterial thromboembolism (ATE). Whether hereditary thrombophilia interacts with traditional cardiovascular risk factors on the risk of ATE has yet to be established.

Methods and Results—

A total of 1891 individuals belonging to 4 family cohorts from the Netherlands were included in the analyses. Five hereditary thrombophilic defects, including factor V Leiden, prothrombin G20210A defect, and deficiencies of the natural anticoagulants (ie, antithrombin, protein C, and protein S), were assessed, and data on risk factors and previous ATE were collected. Thrombophilia was associated with elevated risk of ATE (hazard ratio =1.74, 95% confidence interval, 1.18–2.58;
P
=0.005). Overall, the association of thrombophilia with ATE tended to be stronger in the presence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, especially the synergistic effect of thrombophilia with diabetes mellitus was striking (hazard ratio of thrombophilia–ATE association was 1.41 in nondiabetics versus 8.11 in diabetics). Moreover, the association of thrombophilia with ATE tended to be stronger in females and before the age of 55 years as compared with males and individuals >55 years of age, respectively.

Conclusions—

Thrombophilia is associated with ATE. This association may be stronger in the presence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in particular in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Future studies on thrombophilia–ATE risk should focus on high-risk populations with high prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Defining Cultural Agents for Virtual Heritage Environments
Authors: Champion Erik
Published: December 2015

This article describes the primary ways in which intelligent agents have been employed in virtual heritage projects and explains how the special requirements of virtual heritage environments necessitate the development of cultural agents. How do we distinguish between social agents and cultural agents? Can cultural agents meet these specific heritage objectives?
A new species of Anacroneuria Klapálek 1909 (Plecoptera: Perlidae) and notes on the altitudinal distribution of the genus in Costa Rica
Authors: GUTIÉRREZ-FONSECA PABLO E. , SPRINGER MONIKA
Published: December 2015

Anacroneuria is the most widespread genus of Perlidae throughout the Neotropical region and 30 species have been reported from Costa Rica. In this paper, we describe and illustrate a new species from a high elevation cloud forest, A. quetzali sp.n., increasing to 31 the number of described species for Costa Rica. In addition, we examine the altitudinal distribution of Anacroneuria in Costa Rica to determine possible patterns, using the data available on its altitudinal range (10–2700 masl). We divided the elevational range in seven categories, using 500 m intervals. We found that most species (90.3%) are distributed in elevations that range from 500 to 1500 masl, followed by low-elevations (35.5%). Interestingly, despite the fact that Plecoptera are known to inhabit clean, fast flowing water at high elevations, only 16.1% of the species have been found at high elevations in Costa Rica (above 2000 masl). Thus, it seems that most Anacroneuria species are distributed in middle elevations, which are the areas that have a high diversity of freshwater habitats.
Description and DNA barcoding of a new Iberian species of Pijnackeria (Scali, 2009) from Sierra Nevada, Spain (Phasmida: Diapheromeridae)
Authors: VALERO PABLO , ORTIZ ANTONIO S.
Published: December 2015

Male, female and egg of Pijnackeria recondita sp. n. are described from specimens collected at about 2,000 m in Sierra Nevada (Spain) feeding on Cytisus scoparius. The number of antennae segments in males, the smooth thorax in females and the different sculpturing of the egg capsule are the main differences from the other species of the genus. In addition, DNA barcode sequences (COI and COII) clearly differ from the other Iberian species of the genus. For COI, K2P minim-um distance between the new species and the most morphological related species, Pijnackeria hispanica (Bolívar, 1878), showed a mean of 8%. In the case of COII, comparison with the other species of Pijnackeria, showed a K2P minimum distance range from 8 to 10.5% (mean 9.2%); and comparison with the species of the related genus Leptynia, showed a K2P minimum distance range from 7.1 to 10.5%.
Review of the Megauchenia Macleay of India (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae: Prometopinae)
Authors: DASGUPTA J. , PAL T.K. , HEGDE V.D.
Published: December 2015

Three species of Megauchenia Macleay [M. angustata (Erichson, 1843), M. quadricollis (Reitter, 1883) and M. indica (Grouvelle, 1908)] were studied based on a collection from India. The genus and the species are re-described. A key to the species of Megauchenia from India is appended.
Two new species of Cyanopenthe Nikitsky from Taiwan (Coleoptera, Tetratomidae, Penthinae)
Authors: HSIAO YUN , POLLOCK DARREN A. , BARCLAY MAXWELL V. L.
Published: December 2015

Two new species of Cyanopenthe Nikitsky, 1998 are described from Taiwan, under the names of Cyanopenthe taiwana sp. nov. and Cyanopenthe leei sp. nov., representing the first documented occurrence of the genus in Taiwan. Descriptions of both species, including the first description of males of Cyanopenthe, are supplemented with photos of habitus, antennae and abdomens of females, and illustrations of pronotum, genitalia of both sexes and abdominal ventrite V of females. Additionally, for Cyanopenthe metallica (Champion, 1916), photos of habitus and antenna of the holotype, supplementary description and illustrations of genitalia and abdominal ventrite V of females are provided. A key for the identification of Cyanopenthe species is given.
Ethnic Identity, Procedural Justice, and Offending: Does Procedural Justice Work the Same for Everyone?
Authors: McLean Kyle
Published: December 2015

Identity judgments are central to the theoretical arguments of procedural justice theory. Perceptions of procedural injustice have been argued to compromise an individual’s social identity and contribute to disengagement from group values and norms. Thus, it is important to clarify the relationship between perceptions of procedural justice and specific facets of social identities, such as ethnic identity. This study attempts to evaluate the relationship between these concepts by examining the potential interaction effect between procedural justice and ethnic identity on two measures of offending, self-report and number of arrests, in a longitudinal study of serious juvenile delinquents.
The Best Laid Plans
Authors: Strunk Katharine O. , Marsh Julie A. , Bush-Mecenas Susan C. , Duque Matthew R.
Published: December 2015

Purpose: A common strategy used in school improvement efforts is a mandated process of formal planning, yet little is known about the quality of plans or the relationship between plan quality and implementation. This mixed-methods article investigates plan quality, factors associated with plan quality, and the relationship between plan quality and implementation, drawing on the first 3 years of a Los Angeles Unified School District school improvement initiative that relied on formal school planning. Research Design: Our research team rated all 206 school plans submitted to the district in the first 3 years of the initiative and drew on surveys of applicant teams and principals implementing the plans. We use these data in descriptive analyses to explore relationships between plan quality and various inputs and outcomes. We also utilized school- and system-level qualitative data to contextualize and explain our findings. Findings: We find that, although average plan quality was relatively low throughout the reform, quality increased during the first phase of the initiative but decreased in the second phase. The two critical elements of the reform intended to drive plan quality, competition and technical support, were negatively or not associated with higher quality plans. However, we find positive relationships between plan quality and reported implementation outcomes in the first phase of the reform, but not in the second. Conclusions: We explore possible explanations for these patterns using qualitative case study and interview data. In the conclusion of the article, we discuss the implications for future school improvement initiatives and research.
Information and the gaining of understanding
Authors: Bawden David , Robinson Lyn
Published: December 2015

It is suggested that, in addition to data, information and knowledge, the information sciences should focus on understanding, understood as a higher-order knowledge, with coherent and explanatory potential. The limited ways in which understanding has been addressed in the design of information systems, in studies of information behaviour, in formulations of information literacy and in impact studies are briefly reviewed, and future prospects considered. The paper is an extended version of a keynote presentation given at the i3 conference in June 2015.
A conceptual study of spirituality in selected writings of Émile Jaques-Dalcroze
Authors: Habron John , van der Merwe Liesl
Published: December 2015

Several authors have noted that one of Émile Jaques-Dalcroze’s aims was to dissolve the mind–body dualism, typical of Cartesianism. However, there has been little research on the spirit–body connection, as it appears in Jaques-Dalcroze’s writings. The purpose of this document analysis is to understand how a hermeneutic phenomenological model for spirituality in music education can inform our understanding of spirituality in selected writings by Jaques-Dalcroze. In the adapted model holism, balance, aesthetic experience, and movement in time, space, and with energy emerged as core concepts. This gives us a much richer understanding of the Dalcroze approach than has hitherto been available and adds to a growing narrative about the spiritual as it pertains to Jaques-Dalcroze and the approach he initiated.
Contesting African landscapes: A critical reappraisal of Sierra Leone’s competing forest cover histories
Authors: Munro Paul George , van der Horst Greg
Published: December 2015

In the late-1990s anthropologists James Fairhead and Melissa Leach declared in a series of seminal publications that mainstream understandings of Sierra Leonean forest cover history had greatly exaggerated its past extent and rate of conversion to other land uses. Using archival evidence, they recast the ‘official’ story as a product of antiquated European environmental philosophy rather than empirical data. Moreover, they found that it distorted environmental policy by perpetuating images of a mythological past in which once nearly universal forest cover had been (and continued to be) denuded and degraded by irrational, primitive rural agricultural practices. Building on this foundation, they developed a trenchant critique of the existing academic literature describing land cover change in Sierra Leone, discounting most findings on the grounds of the authors’ uncritical engagement with the colonial-era narrative. In this article we present a re-evaluation of this influential thesis, arguing that while their broader critique is quite sound, historical deforestation in Sierra Leone has most certainly been considerably exaggerated, Fairhead and Leach overreached in their dismissal of prior works. Drawing upon new empirical data, we revisit these debates and develop a more nuanced critical platform from which to understand Sierra Leone’s forest cover history.
Does devolution crowd out development? A spatial analysis of US local government fiscal effort
Authors: Xu Yuanshuo , Warner Mildred E
Published: December 2015

Devolution to the subnational state and local level has increased reliance on locally raised revenue to provide basic social, infrastructural, and economic development services. We conduct multilevel regression models of local government fiscal effort (locally raised revenue normalized by population and income) of all county areas in the continental United States for the period 2002–2007. Spatial regression and geographically weighted regression are used to understand differential spatial effects of subnational state policies on local fiscal effort across counties. In contrast to conventional fiscal federalism theory, which argues local government is the developmental state, we find increased spatial inequality as expenditures driven by local need may crowd out expenditures related to growth and development. Nonmetropolitan counties and older suburbs exhibit higher local effort, while suburban outlying areas have lower effort. State rescaling requires more attention to policies of the subnational state, particularly state aid and state centralization of fiscal responsibility to ensure that both redistributive and developmental expenditures can be maintained under devolution.
Persistence Is Cultural
Authors: Seron Carroll , Silbey Susan S. , Cech Erin , Rubineau Brian
Published: December 2015

Why does sex segregation in professional occupations persist? Arguing that the cultures and practices of professional socialization serve to perpetuate this segregation, the authors examine the case of engineering. Using interview and diary entry data following students from college entry to graduation, the authors show how socialization leads women to develop less confidence that they will “fit” into the culture of engineering. The authors identify three processes that produce these cultural mismatches: orientation to engineering at college entry, initiation rituals in coursework and team projects, and anticipatory socialization during internships and summer jobs. Informal interactions with peers and everyday sexism in teams and internships are particularly salient building blocks of segregation.
After the trawl: Memory and afterlife in the wake of Hull’s distant-water fishing industry
Authors: Byrne Jo
Published: December 2015

This paper offers an overview of Byrne’s recent research into the economic, social, spatial and cultural consequences of the decline of Hull’s distant-water trawl fishery after the 1976 Cod Wars. The research combines documentary sources with oral history narratives to examine memories of decline and adjustment, at sea and on shore, as a once localised industry turned towards a global arena. In cultural terms, Byrne establishes the longstanding ties between industry, district and workforce in the dockside neighbourhood of Hessle Road, before engaging narratives of fractured place-based relationships to explore the ensuing divorce between a maritime industry and its cultural landscape. Finally, as Hull’s trawl fishery recedes in terms of popular memory, the research examines how fishing heritage is currently represented by groups in the modern city and seeks the ‘right place’ for a fishing past as the city looks to the future.
Sacred vessels: British church ship models
Authors: Greiling Meredith
Published: December 2015

What is the significance of ship models hanging in British churches today? What is their function and what can they tell us about maritime culture, trade, and art in the context of the church through the ages?

My doctoral research will examine the purpose and prevailing contemporary interpretation of ship models in Scottish churches and how these have altered from pre-Reformation church practice to the present day. Through a chronological study of the geographical spread of the practice of hanging ship models in churches, and by examining the folklore of the sculpture within a church context, my research explores the societies and individuals that commissioned these unique forms of sculpture and for what purpose, how the public’s interpretation of ship models in churches has developed and how the historical value placed on them has changed in recent years.
The Norwegian Seamen’s Mission in two North Sea ports 1864–1920: A national ‘home’ in an international maritime world
Authors: Hoel Virginia
Published: December 2015

This study illuminates how the the identity and functioning of the Norwegian Seamen’s Mission was influenced by developing national sentiments in the period from the start of the Mission in 1864, until the aftermath of World War I c. 1920. The central hypothesis that the Mission must be understood within the broader cultural, political and economic context of Norway in the 19th century, was confirmed on the basis of extensive research of the correspondence between the pastors of the Mission working in the field and its headquarters in Bergen, Norway.
Inclusive Branding Strategies for Domestic Violence Agencies: Embracing Opportunities to Reach and Better Serve Male-Identified Survivors
Authors: Dewey Morgan , Heiss Sarah N.
Published: December 2015

Successful strategies for branding that are inclusive of male-identified survivors were identified in this qualitative study through semi-structured interviews with leaders from six domestic violence agencies across the United States: four represented traditional domestic violence agencies and two represented specialized agencies with expertise in providing services to nontraditional survivors. The strategic implementation of (a) inclusive language, (b) visual diversity, (c) community outreach, and (d) communication channels emerged as successful strategies in branding in an inclusive way for male-identified survivors. The implementation of these successful strategies provides the opportunity for domestic violence agencies to create an inclusive environment for male-identified survivors and would contribute to a paradigm shift in how domestic violence is viewed.
“Correcting an Erring Wife Is Normal”: Moral Discourses of Spousal Violence in Ghana
Authors: Adjei Stephen Baffour
Published: December 2015

This study draws insights from discursive psychology to explore moral discourses of spousal violence in Ghana. In particular, it investigates how sociocultural norms and practices are invoked in talk of perpetrators and victims as moral warrants for husband-to-wife abuse in Ghana. Semi-structured focus group and personal interviews were conducted with a total of 40 participants: 16 victims, 16 perpetrators, and eight key informants from rural and urban Ghana. Participants’ discursive accounts suggest that husbands have implicit moral right and obligation to punish their wives for disobedience and other infractions against male authority in marriage. Both perpetrators and victims build their talk around familiar normative discourses and practices that provide tacit support for spousal violence in Ghana. While perpetrators mobilize culturally resonant and normative repertoires to justify abuse, blame their victims, and manage their moral accountability; victims position husband-to-wife abuse as normal, legitimate, disciplinary, and corrective. These moral discourses of spousal violence apparently serve to relieve perpetrators of moral agency; prime battered women to accept abuse; and devastate their agency to leave abusive marital relationships. The findings contribute to our understanding of how cultural and social norms of spousal violence are morally constituted, reproduced, and sustained in talk of perpetrators, victims, and other key members of society.
On the comparative cutting performance of nature-inspired structured cutting tool in dry cutting of AISI/SAE 4140
Authors: Fatima Anis , Mativenga Paul T
Published: December 2015

In this study, femtosecond laser was used to create micro-structures on the flank face of a cutting tool. For the first time, a nature-inspired design (shape) of structure was created and explored. The inspiration for the nature-inspired design was the ball python (snake). This is because these creatures have high resistance to damage, originating from skin surface design feature. This was the main reason in replicating its scale design on cutting tool surface. Orthogonal cutting test was performed on AISI/SAE 4140 at the cutting speeds of 283 and 628 m/min and a feed of 0.1 mm/rev to study the effects of structure shapes. Results showed that nature-inspired design structures significantly reduced forces, temperature, compression ratio, contact length and power consumption. Characterisation of sticking and sliding contact was also made.
A harmonic drive model considering geometry and internal interaction
Authors: Zou Chuang , Tao Tao , Jiang Gedong , Mei Xuesong , Wu Junhui
Published: December 2015

A new harmonic drive model considering the geometry, internal interactions and assembly error of key parts is proposed in this paper. In this model, a single tooth pair is used to represent the transmission mechanism of harmonic drive. The meshing stiffness between the flexspline and the circular spline, the torsional stiffness of the flexspline cylinder, and the radial stiffness of the thin-walled ball bearing are included and formulated. The kinematic error is fitted using a low-velocity test, and its generating mechanism is analysed. The friction of the harmonic drive is formulated at the tooth meshing section and at the ball bearing, where its parameters are identified based on experimental results. Based on the new model, velocity step simulations are conducted. For comparison, velocity step experiments at eight different velocities from 60 to 3000 r/min are performed, and the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results. The new model reveals the dynamic behaviour of the harmonic drive system; therefore, it will be useful for the dynamic design and precision control of harmonic drive systems.
Stability of a four-degree-of-freedom rotor on homopolar electrodynamic passive magnetic bearings
Authors: Girardello Detoni Joaquim , Impinna Fabrizio , Amati Nicola , Tonoli Andrea
Published: December 2015

Electrodynamic bearings exploit repulsive forces due to eddy currents to produce positive stiffness by passive means without violating the Earnshaw stability criterion. This remarkable characteristic makes this type of bearing a suitable alternative to other contactless bearing technologies in applications where active control is not strictly necessary, such as kinetic energy storage flywheels, turbo pumps, high-speed compressors, among others. However, the suspension can become unstable due to rotating damping. To obtain deeper understanding of this instability phenomenon the present paper presents the analysis of stability of a four-degree-of-freedom (4dof) rotor supported by homopolar electrodynamic bearings. The 4dof rotor model is coupled to the dynamic model of the eddy current forces generated by the electrodynamic bearing and the stability of the complete system is analyzed. This model is used to study the stability of cylindrical and conical whirling motions of the rotor. In addition to the well-known cylindrical whirl instability the possible occurrence of conical instability is demonstrated. Finally the effects of two stabilization strategies are analyzed.
Heparin Versus Bivalirudin Monotherapy in the Setting of Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Faulkenberg Kathleen D. , Beavers Janna C. , Finks Shannon W.
Published: December 2015

Objective: To evaluate direct comparisons of bivalirudin versus unfractionated heparin (UFH) as anticoagulants during ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Data Sources: Relevant information was identified through a search of MEDLINE (1966-September 2015), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1960-September 2015), and Cochrane Databases (publications archived until September 2015) using the terms bivalirudin, unfractionated heparin, ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, and primary percutaneous coronary intervention.Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses were eligible for inclusion for data review of STEMI where PPCI was performed. Data Synthesis: Either bivalirudin or UFH is recommended in the setting of STEMI where PPCI is to be performed. Bivalirudin is touted for its predictable pharmacokinetics, effects on thrombin-mediated platelet inhibition, and favorable outcomes with regard to adverse bleeding profiles, whereas UFH, the gold standard anticoagulant during PPCI, remains a viable treatment strategy. Only recently have direct comparisons of UFH and bivalirudin during PPCI become available. The evidence available is complicated by variances in use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs), P2Y12 inhibitors, access sites, and anticoagulant dosing strategies. We provide a review of contemporary trials and advancements in this area. Conclusions: When compared to UFH with limited use of GPI, available evidence demonstrates that bivalirudin reduces bleeding at the expense of increasing risk for acute stent thrombosis. Further randomized studies are needed to determine the potential benefits of a post-PCI infusion of bivalirudin to reduce the risk for acute stent thrombosis, long-term follow-up beyond 30 days, and mortality.
Quadrotor multibody modelling by vehiclesim: adaptive technique for oscillations in a PVA control system
Authors: Estelles Silvia , Tomas-Rodriguez M
Published: December 2015

The work presented here covers the detailed modelling and trajectory control for an elastic bladed quadrotor vehicle. The benefits of using VehicleSim modelling software are also discussed. The authors present a full elastic structural and dynamical model as well as two different aerodynamic models. These two aerodynamic models differ from each other on their level of complexity and therefore, accuracy. The control methodology employed to stabilize and guide the vehicle is Proportional-Velocity-Acceleration (PVA), derived and implemented by using Simulink. As it will be shown, it stabilises and provides satisfactory quadrotor trajectory tracking. Since the control methodology feeds back the acceleration of the vehicle, and this acceleration has an oscillating nature, an adaptive process has been designed and introduced into the vehicle’s model in order to avoid the oscillations’ transmission to the control system, showing how it reduces the amplitude of the control actions oscillations. Results of simulations and discussion on them are also provided at the end of this article.
The Revised Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests: Predictive and Concurrent Validity
Authors: Seto Michael C. , Sandler Jeffrey C. , Freeman Naomi J.
Published: December 2015

This study examined the predictive and concurrent validity of the Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests (SSPI) and its recent revision (SSPI-2), using a large sample of 2,416 sex offenders deemed not to be in need of civil management in New York State. Both SSPI and SSPI-2 scores were significantly and positively related to sexual rearrest, but the SSPI-2 provided greater discrimination in rearrest within 5 years across possible scores. Neither measure significantly added to the prediction of sexual rearrest provided by the Static-99R. We also found evidence of concurrent validity, as both measures were positively and significantly correlated with clinician ratings of sexual preoccupation, emotional identification with children, and sexual offense–related cognitions (convergent validity), but were not significantly related to clinician ratings of self-regulation problems, noncompliance with supervision, or antisocial personality (divergent validity). Overall, the results suggest that the SSPI-2 is a specific and useful screening measure of pedophilic sexual interests among sex offenders with child victims.
Semi-inverse method à la Saint-Venant for two-dimensional linear isotropic homogeneous second-gradient elasticity
Authors: Placidi Luca , El Dhaba Amr Ramadan
Published: December 2015

This semi-inverse method is similar to that used in the so-called Saint-Venant problem for cylindrical three-dimensional first-gradient linear homogeneous and isotropic materials. This semi-inverse method is similar to that used by Saint-Venant to solve the omonimus problem for cylindrical three-dimensional first-gradient linear homogeneous and isotropic materials. Two examples are also presented. It is found that wedge forces are necessary to maintain the body in equilibrium and that these are not an artefact of the double application of the divergence theorem in the second-gradient material derivations.
Safety Assessment of Panax spp Root-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Becker Lillian C. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan
Published: December 2015

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) reviewed the safety of 13 Panax spp root-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. Panax “spp” indicates that multiple species within the genus are used in cosmetics, but not all species within that genus. Four species are being considered in this safety assessment. These ingredients function mostly as skin-conditioning agents—miscellaneous, fragrance ingredients, skin-conditioning agents—humectant, skin-conditioning agents—emollient, and cosmetic astringents. The Panel reviewed available data related to these ingredients and addressed the issue of pulegone, a constituent of these ingredients and other ingredients, such as peppermint oil. The Panel concluded that these Panax spp root-derived ingredients are safe in the practices of use and concentration as given in this safety assessment.
Using Acrostic Guides in Teaching Proactive Reporting
Authors: Loo Eric
Published: December 2015

Proactive journalists focus on asking ‘why’ and ‘why not’, ‘so what’, and ‘what now’ in their investigative work. They critically observe, reflect, analyse, contextualize, elucidate, expound and communicate what they have learned, and in the process, educate and enlighten their readers on the complexities of issues that affect their living conditions. This article introduces a model to illustrate how reporters can become more proactive in their reporting of community issues.
Ideological Neutrality(!)
Authors: Nair Pradeep , Sharma Navneet
Published: December 2015

Journalism as a practice is mandated to disseminate information. It plays the role of an intermediary between the power ‘haves’, the power ‘less’ and the marginalized. This commentary considers how journalism, being a political activity, cannot be bereft of ideology, particularly in a country—India—where many journalists openly allow their ideological beliefs to be reflected in their reporting of political issues. Subsequently, the authors question the pedagogy of teaching political journalism in an environment in which there is a clear divide between the academicians and the practitioners.
The Politics of Representing Disability
Authors: Burns Shawn , Haller Beth
Published: December 2015

Twenty-five years on from the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), media representation of people with disability has become even more significant. More recently, the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia has placed people with disability, and the issues they face, at the forefront of political discourse. This study looks at the media coverage of the ADA and the NDIS as significant social and political landmarks in their respective countries. Using content analysis, this article explores how media representations of people with disability are substantial factors within social reform, societal inclusion and equal rights. Because of numerous barriers to participation in many countries, people with disability may only be known to the larger society through media representations. Disability rights-focused news coverage is important to a society’s awareness of disability issues, so this research contributes to a better understanding of how political issues regarding people with disabilities play out in two countries’ news media.
Predictors of change in sexual activity after cardiac diagnosis: Elements to inform sexual counseling
Authors: Mosack Victoria , Hill Twyla J , Steinke Elaine E
Published: December 2015

Safely returning to sexual activity after being diagnosed with a cardiac condition is at the core of sexual counseling strategies. To further inform sexual counseling, this study examined changes in sexual activity before and after a cardiac diagnosis. Logistic analysis was used to suggest factors that can contribute to a change in sexual activity among cardiac patients. Reduced frequency in sexual activity after a cardiac diagnosis was influenced by greater sexual concerns and a history of smoking, as well as by education and employment status. These findings suggest that cardiac patients experiencing significant concerns about resuming sexual activity need added support through the mental health system.
Vexatious voice: The politics of downward accountability and subnational governance reform in Afghanistan
Authors: Blunt Peter , Khamoosh Saeed
Published: December 2015

This article analyzes events surrounding a strike by Afghanistan’s provincial councils in 2015. It argues, first, that the events reflected competition between patronage networks in the country’s main institutions of representative government and their successful opposition to the president’s attempts to curb corruption – illustrating the difficulties of introducing even modest governance reforms in neopatrimonial states. Second, the evidence suggests that government should not establish district councils until it has sufficient resources to do so and until provincial councils can be properly regulated. However, third, in order to establish legally the position of executive prime minister and allow the president to fulfil his side of the election bargain a loya jirga – whose membership should include district councillors – will need to approve a change to the constitution. Fourth, donors will support district council establishment for this reason, but also because it facilitates ‘concrete’ measurement of progress and ‘democratic’ display and is therefore good for (donor) home consumption, though not necessarily for poverty or inequality reduction. Fifth, donor behaviour is seen as integral to neoliberal design, whose real interests are served best by state acquiescence rather than state sovereignty or sustainable and equitable development and should therefore be resisted.
“What are you?”: Mixed race responses to the racial gaze
Authors: Paragg Jillian
Published: December 2015

Mixed race scholarship considers the deployment of the term “mixed race” as an identification and theorizes that the operation of the external racial gaze is signaled through the “what are you?” question that mixed race people face in their everyday lives. In interviews conducted with mixed race, young adults in a Western Canadian urban context, it was evident that the “what are you?” question is the verbal form of the external racial gaze’s production of ambivalence on mixed race bodies. However, this study also found that mixed race people have “ready” identity narratives in response to the “what are you?” question. This paper shows the importance of these narratives (the very existence of the “ready” narratives, as well as the content of the “ready” narrative) for fleshing out the operation of the external racial gaze in the Canadian context. Respondents draw on two closely related modes of narrating origin when responding to the “what are you?” question: they respond through a kinship narrative that is heteronormative and they narrate that they inherit “national origin” “through blood.” I argue that these responses point to how the gaze produces the multiracialized body through the desire to imagine and “know” its originary point of racial mixing. Yet, the “ready” narratives are also agential: while at times they narrate to the expectations of the gaze, they also “play on” the gaze.
Implementing Tobacco Control Programs in Homeless Shelters
Authors: Vijayaraghavan Maya , Hurst Samantha , Pierce John P.
Published: December 2015

Background. Tobacco-related chronic diseases contribute significantly to the increased morbidity and mortality observed in the homeless population. Few homeless service settings address tobacco use among their clients. Method. Directors and staff from emergency and transitional shelters in San Diego County completed a questionnaire on no-smoking policies and smoking cessation services and participated in in-depth, semistructured interviews to examine the barriers to and facilitators of implementing smoke-free policies and cessation services in their facilities. Results. Facilities differed in outdoor restrictions around smoking: 61.5% reported having an outdoor designated smoking zone, and 25% reported having a campus-wide ban on smoking. About one-third of the facilities offered on-site resources for smoking cessation. Although directors and staff supported smoke-free policies, they reported that the increased resources needed to “police” the policy created barriers to implementation. Almost all directors and staff expressed interest in developing an on-site tobacco control program, but they reported that lack of expertise among staff posed challenges to implementing such a program. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that for a tobacco control program to be effective in homeless shelters, it should include training and incentives for staff to implement smoke-free policies and cessation services.
Effects of High Doses of Vitamin C on Cancer Patients in Singapore
Authors: Raymond Yuen Chuen Fong , Glenda Chong Sze Ling , Meng Lim Kah
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Intravenous high-dose vitamin C therapy is widely used in naturopathic and integrative oncology; however, a study reviewing its effects has never been performed in Singapore. This article serves to document administration of supportive vitamin C therapy for cancer patients in Singapore. Methods. The clinical response of 9 cancer patients of differing stages to the regular administration of large doses (25-100 g/d) of intravenous vitamin C (IVC; ascorbic acid) is outlined. Tumor pathology and patient health were verified by doctors who do not practice vitamin C treatment. Results. Cases suggesting survival beyond prognosis, improvement in quality of life, safe coadministration with and improved tolerance of conventional therapy, and deterioration in clinical condition following withdrawal of vitamin C therapy are documented clinically. Some patients experience the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction—the release of endotoxin from microorganism death resulting in pimples, fever, and body odor—for a few hours after the therapy, but these are resolved quickly with no lasting effects. Conclusion. Randomized trials of IVC therapy are recommended because it has minimal side effects and has shown promising results.
The Cognitive Spectrum of Transformative Learning
Authors: Dix Michael
Published: December 2015

Although different transformative learning theories have been described in the literature, a detailed integrative theory is yet to emerge. I argue that unduly intellectualist assumptions regarding cognition have hampered current understandings and have obscured transformative learning's cognitive and metacognitive essence. Firstly, Mezirow's implied restriction of his Socratic/Habermasian model to discursive rationality unnecessarily excludes transformative learning accomplished through enactive, non-discursive modes of cognition, metacognition, and rationality. Likewise, a narrow conception of cognition prevents theorists of depth transformation from recognising the essential cognitive roles at depth of metaphors deriving from embodied experience and their rational elaboration at depth through metaphoric implication. In the light of current theory, I reconsider J.H. Newman's nineteenth-century insights regarding notional-to-real transformation, showing how a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of cognition and metacognition reveals transformative learning's essential cognitive and metacognitive dynamic, in confirmation of Kegan's “subject-object” model and Mezirow's stress on the importance of metacognition.
The group-sphere model of international news flow: A cross-national comparison of news sites
Authors: Segev Elad
Published: December 2015

Why are some countries mentioned very frequently in international news while others are not? Seeking to improve previous explanations in the literature, this study employs a large corpus of news sites in 11 countries and 10 languages over a 3-year period. A systematic computer-driven analysis revealed a similar pattern common to international news in all countries. The best explanation for the prominence of a foreign country in the news included variables from three groups (national traits, relatedness, and events), each representing different spheres (economic, social, and political), respectively. The conceptual contribution and empirical implications for future studies are discussed.