bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoring and Overturning Athenian Democracy in Aristophanes: Paradigmatic Truths and ‘Carnival’ Reversals
Authors: Sonnino Maurizio
Published: November 2017

The two historical examples used by Lysistrata in her peace speech (Ar. Lys. 1137-1156) are not comical distortions, but, just as in actual assembly orations, they rather represent a characteristic ‘modulation du paradigme’, according to which the examples are adapted to support the orator’s objective. The aim of Lysistrata’s speech, in particular, is to enable a shift from the upside-down world of gynecocracy that she herself established, to a full restoration of democratic Athens. Quite different is the situation in Ecclesiazusai, where the upside-down world created by Praxagora is an anti-democratic state from which it is impossible to return. It seems necessary to distinguish Aristophanes’ older dramas in which the subverted society returns to normal democracy, from his later works (Ecclesiazusai, Plutus), the only ones in which the overturning is permanent.
New species of Xiphoniscus and new record of Androdeloscia escalonai (Isopoda, Scutocoxifera, Oniscidea, Philosciidae) from Brazilian Amazon
Authors: GRANGEIRO DANIELA C. , SOUZA LEILA A. , CHRISTOFFERSEN MARTIN L.
Published: November 2017

A new species in the previously monotypic genus Xiphoniscus Vandel, 1968, X. adisi sp. nov. is described. Both X. mirabilis Vandel, 1968 from Ecuador and X. adisi sp. nov. from Brazil occur in the Amazon rainforest. The new species shows a prolonged coxal plate II drawn out caudally, an autapomorphy of Xiphoniscus. Xiphoniscus adisi sp. nov. differs from X. mirabilis mainly in the characteristics of buccal appendages and male pleopods. A diagnosis of the genus Xiphoniscus is provided. The species Androdeloscia escalonai is reported from the Brazilian Amazon for the first time.
Characterization of Heat Diffusion Properties of Rubberized Two-Layer Systems Using Open Photoacoustic Cell Spectroscopy
Authors: Moreno Thiago V. , Souza Filho Nilson E. , Novatski Andressa , Malacarne Luis C. , Dias Gustavo S. , Volnistem Eduardo A. , Astrath Nelson G.C.
Published: November 2017

We applied the open photoacoustic cell method operating at high frequency as an efficient and highly precise tool for the measurement of thermal properties of rubberized two-layer systems. The heat-coupling between the two layers is treated using the analogy between thermal and electrical resistances widely used in heat transfer problems. The thermal resistance between the two layers is considered effective and the problem is decoupled for each layer. Measurements are performed in two-layer samples of aluminum foil coated with layers of rubberized paint with different thicknesses. Thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity are determined for the paint. The results are retrieved from the thermal resistance model assuming the effective thermal diffusivity of the composite material.
Composition- and Temperature-Resolved Raman Shift of Silicon
Authors: Yang XueXian , Liu Yonghui , Liu Xin Juan , Peng Jin Zhang , Zhao Heping , Sun Chang Qing
Published: November 2017

We formulated the composition and temperature dependence of the Si and Si1– xGe x Raman shift from the perspectives of bond order–length–strength correlation and local bond average approach. It is verified that the Raman shift Δω varies in the form of Δω ∝ zE1/2/ d, with inclusion of bond length d and energy E changing with temperature and composition. Numerical reproduction of the thermally induced Si1– xGe x phonon softening indicates that bond thermal expansion and energy loss dictate the frequency redshift, which resulted in quantitative information on the bond energy and the reference frequencies from which the Raman shifts proceed. Observations not only gain deeper insight into the mechanism of the Raman shift but also demonstrate the revealing power of Raman technique for the bonding thermodynamics.
Was something rotten in the state of Denmark? Three narratives of the active internationalism in Danish foreign policy
Authors: Pedersen Rasmus
Published: November 2017

The Danish decision to enter US-led coalitions in Afghanistan and Iraq significantly consolidated and strengthened the Atlantic dimension in Danish foreign policy in the period 2001–2009. The period has attracted considerable academic interest, but there seems to be a lack of consensus about how to interpret the Danish decision, which has been characterised as everything from an indication of adaptation, to continuation of the Danish acquiescence to great powers, to path-breaking change in Danish foreign policy to an expression of small state independence. Part of the confusion in the literature is due to the lack of clear conceptual awareness regarding the concepts in use. This article identifies three frames in the literature and contributes to our understanding of the question of change and continuity in small state foreign and security policy by identifying the analytical implications of adopting a clearer understanding of analytical concepts such as adaptation, determinism, activism and internationalism in the Scandinavian context in general and the Danish context more specifically.
Environmental samples make soiled bedding sentinels dispensable for hygienic monitoring of IVC-reared mouse colonies
Authors: Miller Manuel , Brielmeier Markus
Published: November 2017

Accurate knowledge of the health status of experimental animals is pivotal to high scientific and ethical standards in biomedical research. Individually ventilated cages (IVCs) are becoming the predominant system for housing laboratory mice, as they prevent cage-to-cage infections. However, this feature constitutes a major drawback for hygienic monitoring of mouse colonies, as traditional screening programs build on reliable transmission of infectious agents from experimental animals to sentinel mice commonly tested as representatives for the mouse colonies. In recent years, the laboratory animal community has realized that sentinels are ineffectual for screening mouse colonies in IVC systems because infections are often not transmitted to sentinels and therefore remain undetected. Furthermore, sentinel monitoring results in high numbers of used animals. In contrast, environmental monitoring provides a more reliable approach to identify and exclude pathogens in rodent colonies. In recent studies we provided evidence that polymerase chain reaction analysis of exhaust air particles is superior to soiled bedding sentinels for different agents. In this study, we show that testing pooled environmental samples generates more meaningful information compared to soiled bedding sentinels during routine hygienic monitoring in different barriers.
Sin, Authority, and Community in 1 John
Authors: Sheeley Steven M.
Published: November 2017

The author of 1 John addresses the serious schism within the community of faith. As he calls his readers back to the received Johannine tradition, he reminds them that sin has the power to damage their fellowship with each other and their fellowship with God and Jesus. He argues that sin is still a reality in the life of the Christian that must be dealt with, and he uses the concept of sin to characterize the divisive apostasy of those who have left the community.
No fear in love: Pastoral reflections on 1 John 4:18
Authors: Massey Denise M.
Published: November 2017

This article argues that perfect love does indeed cast out fear. First, it details the social context of 1 John. It then highlights the Johannine community’s need for love to counteract the fear of schism and how that lesson applies to contemporary life.
Hyperventilation and breath-holding test with indocyanine green kinetics predicts cerebral hyperperfusion after carotid artery stenting
Authors: Nakagawa Ichiro , Yokoyama Shohei , Wajima Daisuke , Nishimura Fumihiko , Yamada Shuichi , Yokota Hiroshi , Motoyama Yasushi , Park Young Su , Wada Takeshi , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Nakase Hiroyuki
Published: November 2017

Cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome (CHS) is a serious complication following carotid artery stenting (CAS), but definitive early prediction of CHS has not been established. Here, we evaluated whether indocyanine green kinetics and near-infrared spectroscopy (ICG-NIRS) with hyperventilation (HV) and the breath-holding (BH) test can predict hyperperfusion phenomenon after CAS. The blood flow index (BFI) ratio during HV and BH was prospectively monitored using ICG-NIRS in 66 patients scheduled to undergo CAS. Preoperative cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) and the postoperative asymmetry index (AI) were also assessed with single-photon emission computed tomography before and after CAS and the correlation with the BFI HV/rest ratio, BFI BH/rest ratio was evaluated. Twelve cases (18%) showed hyperperfusion phenomenon, and one (1.5%) showed CHS after CAS. A significant linear correlation was observed between the BFI HV/rest ratio, BFI BH/rest ratio, and preoperative CVR. A significant linear correlation was observed between the BFI HV/rest ratio and postoperative AI (r = 0.674, P < 0.0001). A BFI HV/rest ratio of 0.88 or more was the optimal cut-off point to predict hyperperfusion phenomenon according to receiver operating characteristic curve analyses. HV and BH test under ICG-NIRS is a useful tool for detection of hyperperfusion phenomenon in patients who underwent CAS.
Experimental Transmission of Bovine Digital Dermatitis to Sheep: Development of an Infection Model
Authors: Wilson-Welder Jennifer H. , Nally Jarlath E. , Alt David P. , Palmer Mitchell V. , Coatney John , Plummer Paul
Published: November 2017

Digital dermatitis is an infectious cause of lameness primarily affecting cattle but also described in sheep, goats, and wild elk. Digital dermatitis is a polymicrobial infection, involving several Treponema species and other anaerobic bacteria. Although the exact etiology has not been demonstrated, a number of bacterial, host, and environmental factors are thought to contribute to disease development. To study host–bacterial interactions, a reproducible laboratory model of infection is required. The objective of this study was to demonstrate key aspects of bovine digital dermatitis lesions in an easy-to-handle sheep model. Crossbred sheep were obtained from a flock free of hoof disease. Skin between the heel bulb and dewclaw was abraded before wrapping to emulate a moist, anaerobic environment. After 3 days, abraded areas were inoculated with macerated lesion material from active bovine digital dermatitis and remained wrapped. By 2 weeks postinoculation, experimentally inoculated feet developed erosive, erythematous lesions. At 4 weeks postinoculation, microscopic changes in the dermis and epidermis were consistent with those described for bovine digital dermatitis, including erosion, ulceration, hyperkeratosis, ballooning degeneration of keratinocytes, and the presence of neutrophilic infiltrates. Silver staining of lesion biopsy sections confirmed that spirochetes had penetrated the host epidermis. The model was then perpetuated by passaging lesion material from experimentally infected sheep into naïve sheep. This model of bovine digital dermatitis will allow for future novel insights into pathogenic mechanisms of infection, as well as the development of improved diagnostic methods and therapeutics for all affected ruminants.
Migraine triggers and habituation of visual evoked potentials
Authors: Lisicki Marco , Ruiz-Romagnoli Emiliano , Piedrabuena Raúl , Giobellina Roberto , Schoenen Jean , Magis Delphine
Published: November 2017

Background

Identifying specific subsets of patients within the clinical spectrum of migraine could help in personalizing migraine treatment. Profiling patients by combining clinical characteristics and neurophysiological biomarkers is largely unexplored. We studied the association between migraine attack triggers and habituation of visual evoked potentials.

Methods

We personally interviewed 25 patients about their migraine triggers following a structured list, and measured the N1-P1 habituation slope over six blocks of 100 averaged pattern-reversal VEP afterwards.

Results

The mean number of triggers per patient was 4.52 ± 1.42. Habituation slopes differed significantly between subjects who reported stress as a migraine trigger (deficient VEP habituation) and subjects who did not (preserved VEP habituation). For the remaining categories, the mean amplitude slope was always positive, indicating deficient habituation, and was not significantly different between subgroups.

Conclusions

Migraine patients not reporting perceived stress as a trigger for their attacks might constitute a distinct clinic-physiological subset within the migraine spectrum.
Axiomatic design of a reflective multilayer high-temperature insulator
Authors: Torabi Amin , Abedian Ali , Farsi Mohammad Ali , Kalantarinezhad Reza
Published: November 2017

High-temperature insulators protect structures against extreme thermal loads in various industries such as energy and space-related areas. For such insulations, radiation is the dominant mode of heat transfer. The intended multilayer high-temperature insulator utilizes reflection as the controlling mechanism for the radiative heat transfer. In the current study, the axiomatic design methodology is used to map the design process of a reflective multilayer high-temperature insulator. In addition, an analytical model is developed to simulate the combined radiation and conduction heat transfer in the reflective multilayer high-temperature insulator. The model was solved numerically and validated with the existing experimental results. The obtained results depict that design process of the multilayer high-temperature insulator would be decouple if two reflection surfaces are used for the insulator. Also, the reflective surfaces control the transmission of the radiation in two ways: they control thermal emittance to the insulator’s cold side and control conversion of radiation to conduction, as well. Radiation emittance and conversion will be minimized where the reflective surface is located near the cold and hot side of the insulator, respectively. This issue justifies different results in the literature about most effective location of the inserted reflective layers.
Being a mother with multiple sclerosis: Negotiating cultural ideals of mother and child
Authors: Parton Chloe , Ussher Jane M , Natoli Simone , Perz Janette
Published: November 2017

Multiple sclerosis can impact affected women’s experiences of motherhood through physical and cognitive impairment. This study examined how women construct and experience motherhood while living with multiple sclerosis. Twenty mothers diagnosed with multiple sclerosis took part in semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were analysed using theoretical thematic analysis, drawing on feminist poststructuralist theory to organise and interpret themes. Two main themes were identified: “Performing motherhood in the context of MS” and “Bringing up a ‘good’ child”. “Performing motherhood in the context of MS” comprises the subthemes, “The self-sacrificing mother: Negating women’s needs”, “The unreliable mother: Adjusting day-to-day mothering practices”, and “Resisting discourses of idealised motherhood”. “Bringing up a ‘good’ child”, comprises the subthemes, “The damaging mother: Fear of harming the child” and “The good mother: Caring and building resilience in the child”. Women positioned themselves as failing to be good mothers, because of limitations to their mothering, and fear of damaging children. Focusing on building children’s emotional resilience functioned to restore constructions of “good” mothering. Acknowledging how Western cultural ideals influence women’s experience of mothering when living with chronic illness is important. Health professionals can provide support by addressing women’s feelings of failure as mothers and supporting communication with children.
Encounters on the eastern front: The Royal Naval Armoured Car Division in Russia 1915–1920
Authors: Alston Charlotte
Published: November 2017

The Royal Naval Armoured Car Division was dispatched to fight with the Russian Army in 1915. In diaries, letters, and post-war exercises in autobiography, members of the unit expressed a sense of disconnection from the ‘real war’ in the west. In fact, their tour of Russia exemplified many aspects of the wartime Anglo-Russian alliance: the profusion of channels of authority; the logistics of wartime supply; the interventionist schemes designed to keep Russia in the war at all costs. This article examines how the connections between the western and eastern fronts were understood and navigated by diplomats and strategists, and by soldiers encountering an unfamiliar theatre of war.
Incentivising investment through accelerated depreciation: Wartime use, economic stimulus and encouraging green technologies
Authors: Koowattanatianchai Nattawoot , Charles Michael B , Eddie Ian
Published: November 2017

This study looks at historical evidence of national jurisdictions from the First World War onwards using accelerated depreciation as a means to encourage investment, particularly in new technologies. In particular, it provides an overarching analysis of previous scholarly and technical literature on the implementation of these schemes. Overall, the study finds that approaches to the precise accounting methods used to encourage this innovation were dictated, in the main, by three predominant social discourses. In chronological order, these were national defence, economic growth and environmentalism. The historical evidence reveals a number of potential pitfalls associated with accelerated depreciation’s introduction, together with its more positive effects. Although the emphasis is on the historical application of accelerated depreciation schedules, the study reveals a number of problems associated with accelerated depreciation that should be borne in mind by future policymakers interested in the possibility of using accelerated depreciation to encourage investment.
Fundamental performance of a smart structural system utilizing thermal expansion for pointing
Authors: Shimada Takeshi , Ishimura Kosei , Taro Kawano
Published: November 2017

This study involved designing and developing a smart structural system for pointing control of large-scale trusses. The system consisted of a pointing control mechanism, an internal displacement-sensor, and a controller. The significant points of the system included the following: (1) artificial thermal expansions of truss members were utilized as linear actuators, (2) elastic hinges were employed instead of ball joints, and (3) the internal displacement-sensor that did not require external jigs and possessed high measuring accuracy was applied. The study involved conducting a feasibility study and an experimental demonstration. The results indicated that the pointing control mechanism produced a sufficient tilt angle to satisfy typical requirements of recent scientific satellites. Furthermore, the findings confirmed that the hysteresis of the pointing control mechanism could be kept sufficiently small due to the absence of sliding parts. The difference between the finite element analysis and the measured value corresponded to [Formula: see text] for a [Formula: see text] long truss. Additionally, the results suggested that the proposed smart structural system for pointing exhibited high control accuracy and tracking performance for a periodic motion. The root mean square error value for a circular trajectory with a radius of [Formula: see text] for a period of [Formula: see text] corresponded to [Formula: see text] for the [Formula: see text] long truss.
Decline of Physical Activity in Terminally Ill Patients Could Be Useful for Predicting Short-Term Survival
Authors: Yasui Hiroki , Iwase Satoru , Ariyoshi Keisuke , Nojima Masanori , Yoshiuchi Kazuhiro
Published: November 2017

Background:

Although it is recommended that all terminally ill patients receive advance care planning (ACP), this is occasionally challenging because of the difficulty in predicting survival. There are some indexes for predicting survival, but few are accurate, especially at the terminal stages of illness.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients at the terminal stages of cancer were retrospectively analyzed. We assessed their physical activity and condition using activities of daily living (ADL) scores for 1 month before the death. The ADL scores included 7 items: walking, bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, transferring, and toileting.

Results:

Survival time after the first decline of physical activity was calculated (median: 13 days, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 5.6-20.4 days). Survival time after the second (median: 5 days, 95% CI: 0-10.9 days), third (median: 5 days, 95% CI: 0-13.4 days), and fourth (median time: 1 day, 95% CI: not applicable due to small size) decline of physical activity was also calculated.

Conclusion:

Change in physical activity seems helpful for estimating survival time, especially at the end of life, and this index could be useful for coordinating final ACP.
Birth as Restorative
Authors: LoGiudice Jenna A.
Published: November 2017

A woman’s past history of sexual trauma is inextricably woven into her pregnancy and birth experience. Two cases are presented by a practicing certified nurse midwife to demonstrate trauma-informed care in the childbearing setting. Providing trauma-informed care universally in the women’s healthcare setting is imperative given not all women disclose their history. Empowering survivors may allow for a restorative birth, in which trust of one’s own body can be regained.
Monitoring Volatile Homicide Trends Across U.S. Cities
Authors: Wheeler Andrew P. , Kovandzic Tomislav V.
Published: November 2017

While U.S. homicide rates remain at near historical lows, large percentage increases in homicide in 2015 have generated much speculation about its causes among policy makers, academics, criminal justice practitioners, media representatives, and other social commentators. In this article, we show how two data visualization tools, funnel charts, and time series fan charts can show the typical volatility in homicide rates in different cities over time. Many of the recent increases are not out of the norm given historical patterns, and so one need not rely on various ex ante hypotheses to explain homicide spikes occurring in many U.S. cities.
The Munik—Reteaming Method is a Way to Rehabilitate Psychosomatic and Work-Related Diseases and a Way to Create Healthy Psychosocial Workplaces
Authors: von Vultée Pia
Published: November 2017

Background:

Mental illness and stress are increasing at work. Sick leaves escalate. It is suggested to be due to organizational factors. There are a few methods to identify the organizational factors creating the negative psychosocial atmosphere at work. In Sweden, the work-related diseases have increased by 70% since 2010.

Methods:

Munik is a validated assessment instrument to identify psychosocial status among employees and find weak and strong organizational factors involved in the individual psychosocial well-being. We measure psychosocial well-being as mental energy, work-related exhaustion, and work satisfaction.

Conclusions:

In this study, we evaluate the treatment of employees at risk with low values on mental energy, high risk for developing work-related exhaustion, and reporting poor work satisfaction.

Originality:

We used Ben Furman’s positive solution-based coaching/therapy. This resulted in a more satisfied work group, and even though this group showed a large risk of developing work-related exhaustion in the start, none of the participants got on sick leave during the coaching/therapy period. After 3 months, 8 of 10 reported higher values on all 3 psychosocial levels measured.
‘… The point is to change it’ – Yes, but in what direction and how? Intellectual activism as a way of ‘walking the talk’ of critical work in business schools
Authors: Contu Alessia
Published: November 2017

This article is a call to embrace and work towards a specific form of intellectual activism in business schools. Based on the inspiring work of Professor Patricia Hill Collins and other Black feminist and post-colonial scholars, intellectual activism is here defined as ‘the myriad ways in which people place the power of their ideas in service to social justice’. This article calls for and delineates a positive response to the current crisis by identifying key features and areas of work that scholars can engage with in ‘walking the talk’ of critical work in business schools.
The assessment of the rural tourism development in the Valbona Valley National Park
Authors: Kortoci Ylli , Kortoci (Kellezi) Mirvjena
Published: November 2017

Mountain tourism takes place in rural areas, contributing to the protection of the natural, social and cultural environment. The purpose of the research is to support the development of sustainable rural tourism in the mountainous areas of Valbona. The survey is carried out by interviewing the most successful business owners, visitors and representatives of the local government. In the recent years, there has been a growing interest by tourists to visit the Albanian Alps. The number of domestic Albanian visitors is slightly higher than the number of foreign visitors. Tourists, who visit the area, mostly stay for a few nights. Hiking is the most popular activity. The tourists’ average expenditure (all included) per night is quite affordable. The number of inns, guest houses, hotels and tourists has seen important growth between 2004 and 2013. The total income generated by mountain tourism is considerable.
Quality of life following treatment for PTSD: Comparison of videoconferencing and in-person modalities
Authors: Glassman Lisa H , Mackintosh Margaret-Anne , Talkovsky Alexander , Wells Stephanie Y , Walter Kristen H , Wickramasinghe Induni , Morland Leslie A
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Quality of life (QOL) is significantly impaired among individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, few treatment outcome studies examine QOL following treatment. Furthermore, the use of videoconferencing to deliver evidence-based treatments for PTSD is increasing dramatically. Although videoconferencing has demonstrated non-inferiority to in-person treatment modalities for improving PTSD symptom severity, no studies to date have directly compared QOL outcomes of an evidence-based intervention delivered via videoconferencing to one delivered in-person.

Methods

This study presents a secondary data analysis of two randomized controlled trials comparing cognitive processing therapy (CPT) delivered via videoconferencing or a traditional in-person modality. The Men’s study delivered group CPT to 125 male veterans with PTSD, whereas the Women’s study delivered individuals CPT to 126 female civilians and veterans. Multigroup latent growth curve models were used to model changes in QOL Inventory (QOLI) scores over time.

Results

There was no effect of treatment modality on changes in QOLI scores over time (modality effect on slope estimate = 0.004 (–0.60, 0.61) and on quadratic estimate = 0.001 (–0.18, 0.20); all ps > 0.33). Model fit was the same for both genders (Δ χ2 (2) = 2.28, p = 0.32) and for the gender × treatment modality interaction (Δ χ2 (2) = 2.87, p = 0.24). QOLI scores improved at post-treatment and three-month follow-up assessments, but declined at the six-month follow-up assessment.

Discussion

This secondary analysis extends the findings of the parent studies by establishing the efficacy of the videoconferencing platform in improving QOL. Clinical implications of findings are discussed.
Consumer engagement with and perceptions of offshore online gambling sites
Authors: Gainsbury Sally M , Russell Alex MT , Hing Nerilee , Blaszczynski Alex
Published: November 2017

Many jurisdictions have legalized and licensed online gambling sites. Nonetheless, a notable proportion of the online gambling market operates offshore. Offshore sites pose risks for consumers in terms of unsafe and disreputable practices, compete with domestically licensed sites and do not participate in the economies in which they operate. This study aimed to explore the extent to which Australian online gamblers use offshore as compared to domestic gambling sites, consumer attitudes and gambling-related harms. Participants ( N = 3199) completed an online survey assessing gambling behaviour, reasons for choosing sites, awareness of and impact of online gambling legislation, and problem gambling. Results show that 25.8% of online gamblers used offshore sites, and that these were more involved gamblers overall than domestic gamblers, and had greater problem gambling severity. Most online gamblers preferred domestic sites, indicating that regulation of online gambling with associated consumer protection measures may benefit those who wish to gamble online.
Distinction recapped: Digital news repertoires in the class structure
Authors: Lindell Johan
Published: November 2017

This article mobilizes Pierre Bourdieu’s full theory-method to study how class shapes our news orientations in a digital, high-choice media environment. An online survey ( N = 3850) was used to create a statistical representation of the contemporary Swedish social space with variables measuring access to economic, cultural, social, and cosmopolitan capital. A range of digital news preferences and practices were then given co-ordinates in that space. Results highlight the importance of class habitus for the formation of digital news repertoires. Since different groups form altogether different news repertoires—and distaste the preferences of the groups most different to themselves (in terms of access to capitals)—news practices and preferences solidify the positions of groups in the social structure. The study sheds light on the relationship between social and digital inequality and challenges the psychological and individualistic bias in contemporary research on news media use.
The power of one-to-one coaching: Preparing pre-service teachers for the early childhood literacy classroom
Authors: Morphis Elizabeth A
Published: November 2017

This article focuses on a shift in the author’s approach to teaching a literacy course to a coaching-based model after observing pre-service teachers “struggle” to implement the teaching practices during on-site fieldwork with a kindergarten, first-, or second-grade child partner. The author discusses how she provided more timely feedback and instruction by coaching the undergraduate students who were taking a course she taught while the students were working with an elementary child partner and preparing a running-record assessment. Coaching provided the pre-service teachers with a deeper level of understanding of specific literacy practices in the early childhood classroom, and it afforded them the opportunity to reflect on the objective of the literacy practice in a way that let them better use it during their own teaching.
Quantity of Movement as a Measure of Engagement for Dementia: The Influence of Motivational Disorders
Authors: Perugia Giulia , Rodríguez-Martín Daniel , Boladeras Marta Díaz , Mallofré Andreu Català , Barakova Emilia , Rauterberg Matthias
Published: November 2017

Engagement in activities is crucial to improve quality of life in dementia. Yet, its measurement relies exclusively on behavior observation and the influence that behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) have on it is overlooked. This study investigated whether quantity of movement, gauged with a wrist-worn accelerometer, could be a sound measure of engagement and whether apathy and depression negatively affected engagement. Fourteen participants with dementia took part in 6 sessions of activities: 3 of cognitive games (eg, jigsaw puzzles) and 3 of robot play (Pleo). Results highlighted significant correlations between quantity of movement and observational scales of engagement and a strong negative influence of apathy and depression on engagement. Overall, these findings suggest that quantity of movement could be used as an ancillary measure of engagement and underline the need to profile people with dementia according to their concurrent BPSD to better understand their engagement in activities.
Will Analytics Suppress a Diversity of Ideas in Psychological Science?
Authors: De Rosa Eve
Published: November 2017

In this article, I suggest that an overreliance on analytics to assess faculty productivity and the diffusion of ideas may inadvertently suppress innovation. Even when these productivity-diffusion metrics are used to promote an individual’s work, the use of such external guideposts may bias scientific choices and curb a psychological scientist’s earnest inclination to synthesize or take scientific risks. Analytics are not inert but can change the path and progress of science itself, potentially reducing the diversity of ideas in psychological science. This potential harm may most affect new scholars at the beginning of their independent research careers.
Afterword: In the Matter of Judging Scientific Merit
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: November 2017

In this afterword, I suggest expanding upon some of the criteria for judging scientific merit that have been discussed in the two symposia on “judging scholarly merit in psychological science.” I discuss in particular the value of creativity, analysis, common sense, and wisdom and ethics in scientific contributions and discourse. In the course of this discussion, I consider where the field of judging scientific merit has been, where it is now, and where it may go.
Spectacular ‘nationism’ in modern Colombia: Mediating commitment to the military option
Authors: Lobo Gregory J
Published: November 2017

This article analyzes three commercials, part of the ‘Heroes in Colombia really do exist’ media campaign commissioned in 2004 as the country’s armed forces pursued the military option against leftist guerrillas. The author uses qualitative media content analysis, grounding his reading and interpretation of the commercials in a representation of their symbolic and historical environment, and he argues specifically that the commercials were/are spectacular vehicles of what he calls ‘nationism’ (not nationalism). The article thus contributes to our understanding of how meaning was mediated in the attempt to produce commitment to the military option in Colombia during the first decade of the 21st century.
The contradictions of Diaspora: A reflexive critique of the Jewish Diaspora’s relationship with Israel
Authors: Baron Ilan Zvi
Published: November 2017

This article explores a question that is often assumed but rarely addressed: What does Israel provide ideationally for Diaspora Jews that serves as the basis for Diaspora/Israel relations and justifies the importance of Israel for Jewish identity? Whereas past literature on this topic has either assumed an answer to this question or debated survey results and demographics, this article takes a different approach by not assuming an answer to this question. The article argues that Diaspora Jews’ relationship with Israel is best understood phenomenologically. The significance of Israel for Diaspora Jews is found in a type of obligation that is political but is not based in sovereignty or law but instead in meaning that serves as a form of authority and functions as part of the phenomenological structure characterizing Jewish being-in-the-world in the age of Israel. Using a combination of personal reflection, empirical research, and theoretical investigation, the article concludes by suggesting that critique serves as an activity that reveals the normative character of Israel’s meaningful authority, but that Israel’s authority in this phenomenological sense needs to be undermined if it will be possible to move beyond the increasingly polarizing role that Israel is having in Jewish communities today.
Interorganizational innovation networks of Brazilian and Spanish biotechnology companies
Authors: Gomes Ricardo Cruz , Galina Simone Vasconcelos Ribeiro , Vicentin Flávia Oliveira do Prado , Porto Geciane Silveira
Published: November 2017

This study has the purpose of conducting a dynamic comparative analysis of interorganizational innovation networks of Brazilian and Spanish biotechnology companies. It aims to explore the differences between the network characteristics and their actors’ positions and types as well as to analyze the temporal evolution of these networks. Although analyses of the evolution of networks are relevant in supporting comprehension of paths for innovation, they are incipient, particularly as cross-country studies. Considering that, this comparison between Brazil and Spain, which are at different levels of biotechnology development, may contribute to the advancement of this area. Social network analysis techniques are employed to draw and measure the network characteristics constructed under the information of patent applications by biotechnology companies located in Brazil and Spain in the period of 1990–2012. The results demonstrate an impressive growth of innovation networks from both countries but show an inferior position for Brazilian data in terms of constancy, volume of partnerships, partner diversity, and main actor types. Thus, this article reveals patterns of evolution over time for each country, which allows for the determination of the implications for public policy and managerial experts.
Living Without OTAs—Goodbye Columbus: Putting the Jenie Back in the Bottle
Authors: Anderson Chris K. , Han Saram
Published: November 2017

A recent Cornell Hospitality Quarterly article highlighted a unique natural experiment where an entire city had all its hotel delisted from all online travel agents for more than 4 years. The article provides great background to the delisting and highlights the impacts on hotel revenue and accommodation taxes for the county. The article estimates that even though the hotels relisted at all online travel agents (OTAs), there was a substantial gain to both hotels and accommodation tax collectors during the OTA delisting period. The impact estimates are based solely on the loss of demand realized in neighboring Phenix City, AL, once Columbus is relisted at OTAs. In the following, we highlight some concerns with these estimates and indicate that the losses may in fact be quite substantive and perhaps more indicative of why Columbus hotels relisted at the OTAs.
Depth Without a Surface: Observations From a “Finger Spinner” Depth Illusion
Authors: Crognale Michael A.
Published: November 2017

A trending novelty toy that is spun between the fingers induces a striking depth illusion from specular reflections. Further examination of the phenomenon suggests that when surface features are obscured by spinning, depth from disparity of reflections is enhanced.
The ‘making of a soldier’: Masculinity and soldierhood as portrayed in the New Zealand School Journal, 1907–1925
Authors: Bingham Rosemary Jean
Published: November 2017

This article discusses how early curriculum resources available to all school children in New Zealand attempted to shape children’s attitudes to the First World War. The study reviewed issues of the New Zealand School Journal between the years 1907 and 1925. It found evidence of overt and covert attempts to influence children’s attitudes towards the Great War. In particular, the School Journals perpetuated the masculine ideals essential for the making of a soldier and the creation of ‘war ready men’. They reinforced a patriotic ideal and duty to Empire as well as introducing a strong sense of nationhood through the creation of a new Anzac identity.
Services aimed at achieving desirable clinical outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus: A narrative review
Authors: Gardiner Fergus William , Nwose Ezekiel Uba , Bwititi Phillip Taderera , Crockett Judith , Wang Lexin
Published: November 2017

There is a large number of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus (DM), and hypertension (HT) but whether the targets on blood pressure (BP) control in patients with DM and/or CKD are met is not clear. This narrative review therefore investigated evidence on services aimed at achieving desirable clinical results in patients with CKD and DM, and HT in Australia. Literature pertaining to pathology diagnosis and management of these patients as well as the complexities in management were considered. This involved evidence from PubMed-listed articles published between 1993 and 2016 including original research studies, focusing on randomised controlled trials and prospective studies where possible, systematic and other review articles, meta- analyses, expert consensus documents and specialist society guidelines, such as those from the National Heart Foundation of Australia, American Diabetes Association, the Department of Health, The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia, and The Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. Based on the literature reviewed, it is yet unknown as to how effective programs, such as diabetes inpatient services, endocrine out-patient services, and cardiac rehabilitation services, are at achieving guideline recommendations. It is also not clear how or whether clinicians are encumbered by complexities in their efforts of adhering to DM, HT, and glucose control recommendations, and the potential reasons for clinical inertia. Future studies are needed to ascertain the extent to which required BP and glucose control in patients is achieved, and whether clinical inertia is a barrier.
Comparison of Lumbar Total Disc Replacement With Surgical Spinal Fusion for the Treatment of Single-Level Degenerative Disc Disease: A Meta-Analysis of 5-Year Outcomes From Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zigler Jack , Gornet Matthew F. , Ferko Nicole , Cameron Chris , Schranck Francine W. , Patel Leena
Published: November 2017

Study Design:

Meta-analysis.

Objectives:

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of total disc replacement (TDR) compared with fusion in patients with functionally disabling chronic low back pain due to single-level lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) at 5 years.

Methods:

PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for randomized controlled trials reporting outcomes at 5 years for TDR compared with fusion in patients with single-level lumbar DDD. Outcomes included Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) success, back pain scores, reoperations, and patient satisfaction. All analyses were conducted using a random-effects model; analyses were reported as relative risk (RR) ratios and mean differences (MDs). Sensitivity analyses were conducted for different outcome definitions, high loss to follow-up, and high heterogeneity.

Results:

The meta-analysis included 4 studies. TDR patients had a significantly greater likelihood of ODI success (RR 1.0912; 95% CI 1.0004, 1.1903) and patient satisfaction (RR 1.13; 95% CI 1.03, 1.24) and a significantly lower risk of reoperation (RR 0.52; 95% CI 0.35, 0.77) than fusion patients. There was no association with improvement in back pain scores whether patients received TDR or fusion (MD −2.79; 95% CI −8.09, 2.51). Most results were robust to sensitivity analyses. Results for ODI success and patient satisfaction were sensitive to different outcome definitions but remained in favor of TDR.

Conclusions:

TDR is an effective alternative to fusion for lumbar DDD. It offers several clinical advantages over the longer term that can benefit the patient and reduce health care burden, without additional safety consequences.
A Renal Arteriovenous Malformation Case Study: The Importance of Utilizing Color Doppler During Point-of-Care Sonography
Authors: Namouz Tariq , Carsten Christopher G. , Hale Allyson L. , Walker Eric J. , Springhart W. Patrick
Published: November 2017

We report the successful diagnostic and observational treatment of a renal arteriovenous malformation (RAVM) diagnosed with point-of-care color Doppler imaging. The patient presented with clinical symptoms suggestive of hydronephrosis. A physician-performed point-of-care sonography demonstrated gray-scale imaging that initially appeared to confirm renal pelvis dilatation. However, the addition of color Doppler revealed color blooming resembling a vascular turbulence within the kidney and the renal pelvis. A computed tomography angiogram was used to confirm the diagnosis of RAVM as the etiology of renal pelvic dilation. This case highlights the potential value of using color Doppler as a standard component for physicians who evaluate patients believed to have hydronephrosis.
AVision and ChangeReform of Introductory Biology Shifts Faculty Perceptions and Use of Active Learning
Authors: Auerbach Anna Jo , Schussler Elisabeth
Published: November 2017

Increasing faculty use of active-learning (AL) pedagogies in college classrooms is a persistent challenge in biology education. A large research-intensive university implemented changes to its biology majors’ two-course introductory sequence as outlined by the Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education final report. One goal of the curricular reform was to integrate core biological concepts and competencies into the courses using AL pedagogical approaches. The purpose of this study was to observe the instructional practices used by faculty (N = 10) throughout the 3-year process of reform to determine whether the use of AL strategies (including student collaboration) increased, given that it can maximize student learning gains. Instructors participated in yearly interviews to track any change in their perceptions of AL instruction. Instructors increased their average use of AL by 12% (group AL by 8%) of total class time throughout the 3-year study. Interviews revealed that instructors shifted their definitions of AL and talked more about how to assess student learning over the 3 years of the project. Collaboration, feedback, and time may have been important factors in the reform, suggesting that small shifts over time can accumulate into real change in the classroom.
Impact of Prognostic Discussions on the Patient-Physician Relationship: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fenton Joshua J. , Duberstein Paul R. , Kravitz Richard L. , Xing Guibo , Tancredi Daniel J. , Fiscella Kevin , Mohile Supriya , Epstein Ronald M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Some research has suggested that discussion of prognosis can disrupt the patient-physician relationship. This study assessed whether physician discussion of prognosis is associated with detrimental changes in measures of the strength of the patient-physician relationship.

Methods

This was a longitudinal cohort study of 265 adult patients with advanced cancer who visited 38 oncologists within community- and hospital-based cancer clinics in Western New York and Northern California. Prognostic discussion was assessed by coding transcribed audio-recorded visits using the Prognostic and Treatment Choices (PTCC) scale and by patient survey at 3 months after the clinic visit. Changes in the strength of the patient-physician relationship were computed as differences in patient responses to The Human Connection and the Perceived Efficacy in Patient-Physician Interactions scales from baseline to 2 to 7 days and 3 months after the clinic visit.

Results

Prognostic discussion was not associated with a temporal decline in either measure. Indeed, a one-unit increase in PTCC during the audio-recorded visit was associated with improvement in The Human Connection scale at 2 to 7 days after the visit (parameter estimate, 0.10; 95% CI, −0.02 to 0.23) and 3 months after the visit (parameter estimate, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.35) relative to baseline. Standardized effect sizes (SES) associated with an increase of two standard deviations in the PTCC at each time point were consistent with small beneficial effects (SES, 0.14 [95% CI, −0.02 to 0.29] at 2 to 7 days; SES, 0.24 [95% CI, 0.02 to 0.45] at 3 months), and lower bounds of CIs indicated that substantial detrimental effects of prognostic discussion were unlikely.

Conclusion

Prognostic discussion is not intrinsically harmful to the patient-physician relationship and may even strengthen the therapeutic alliance between patients and oncologists.