bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La violencia invisible. Hechicería, agresión y persona en los Andes
Authors: Viotti Nicolás
Published: June 2015

La hechicería constituye un elemento central en la socialidad de las poblaciones rurales y urbanas del noroeste de Argentina. Este trabajo pretende poner en relación las prácticas de hechicería (o daño) en el horizonte más amplio de un orden socio-cosmológico contrastivo propio del contexto andino. Para ello se insiste en el recurso analítico de la noción de persona como una llave interpretativa situada y comparada para entender el lugar singular de la práctica del daño y el contra-daño como modos de producir aflicción o bienestar. Se insiste también en el lugar de la agresión en el horizonte amplio de un contexto relacional, usualmente entendido únicamente a la luz de la solidaridad y la ayuda mutua.
Mitos e Mitopoiesis
Authors: Gow Peter , Pougy Henrique
Published: June 2015

Capítulo 3 da obra Um mito amazônico e sua história, de Peter Gow. Neste capítulo, Peter Gow inicia o esforço, delineado na Introdução de Um Mito Amazônico e sua História e perseguido ao longo do livro, de unir as tradições intelectuais de Malinowski e Lévi-Strauss, com vistas a uma melhor compreensão dos modos específicos de transformação da mitologia Piro (Yine), em especial da maneira como estes se transformam ao longo do ciclo de vida do narrador. Partindo dessa problemática, Gow apresenta o conceito etnográfico de mitopoiesis, uma das principais contribuições da obra no campo da etnologia ameríndia.Tradutor: Henrique PougyRevisão Técnica: Prof. Dr. Renato SztutmanReferência: GOW, Peter. "Myths and Mythopoiesis", In: _____. An Amazonian Myth and its History, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2001, p. 78-100.
A parte de que se é parte. Notas sobre individuação e divinização (a partir dos Guarani)
Authors: Macedo Valéria , Sztutman Renato
Published: June 2015

Tendo como inspiração o problema do “ser feito no santo” nas religiões afro-brasileiras, este artigo propõe discutir a relação entre processos de individuação e divinização entre os Guarani Mbya. Elegemos como foco as práticas guarani de nominação que, efetuadas sob a mediação de xamãs, consistem na conexão de uma criança (mas também de um adulto) com potências divinas distribuídas em diferentes regiões do cosmos. De modo a conceitualizar essa conexão em termos mais propriamente guarani – o que nos aproxima de uma ideia de “parentesco intensivo” – perguntamo-nos quem seriam, afinal, para eles, esses deuses/divindades (Nhanderu e Nhandexy kuery). Este ponto reenvia, ademais, para um tema clássico dos estudos guarani: o conceito de nhe’ẽ, “alma-palavra” ou “afeto-linguagem”.
Mímesis de si mesmos: a construção da autorrepresentação imagética dos Paresi
Authors: Silva Lorena França Reis e
Published: June 2015

Inserido numa reflexão sobre a construção da autorrepresentação imagética dos Paresi (grupo indígena Aruak, do Mato Grosso), esse artigo traz reflexões sobre a mímesis empreendia em mise-en-scènes fotográficas do grupo e na mise-en-scène performatizada do concurso de beleza Miss Paresi Haloti, ocorrido em 2012. A pesquisa mostra que o modo como manejam suas representações hoje possui um diálogo, por vezes explícito, com as primeiras imagens feitas sobre eles no início do século XX, na Comissão Rondon. Os contextos abordados indicam como essa etnia controla os traços distintivos de visualidade para reforçar a identidade étnica “tradicional” e, assim, ganhar visibilidade perante seus outros.
DAUSTER, Tânia; TOSTA, Sandra Pereira; ROCHA, Gilmar (orgs.). Etnografia e Educação
Authors: Oliveira Amurabi
Published: June 2015

DAUSTER, Tânia; TOSTA, Sandra Pereira; ROCHA, Gilmar (orgs.). Etnografia e educação. Rio de Janeiro: Lamparina, 2012, 248p.
Uma aventura antropológica: a perda da inocência
Authors: Gerber Rose Mary
Published: June 2015

Este artigo é resultado de minha pesquisa com pescadoras no doutorado em Antropologia Social pelo PPGAS/UFSC. O objetivo é apresentar algumas reflexões sobre o exercício do trabalho de campo e da escrita como elementos que se interconectam continuamente e que compõem nossa construção como antropólogos, tendo como exercício central a etnografia.
A produção ritual da candidatura política
Authors: Procópio Carlos Eduardo Pinto
Published: June 2015

Quando os processos eleitorais são instaurados, os aspirantes a cargos políticos emplacam uma ação ritual que tem por intenção agregar ao candidato não apenas apoio, mas também colocá-lo como um representante legítimo de determinados coletivos. Durante esse processo, buscam uma agenda de contato face-a-face, em que suas bases de apoio e aquilo que se diz dele pelos coletivos que lhe conferem crédito, possam ser estendidas aos demais votantes de uma localidade. Em cada cidade que passam, os candidatos inauguram um comitê, depois voltam, fazem uma reunião, rezam, comungam, realizam uma caminhada ou uma carreata, conversam com as pessoas, apresentam-se junto de notáveis da localidade ou que dentro dela possam ter alguma projeção, e aos poucos vão marcando seu território no corpo e no imaginário da cidade. A proposta deste texto é apresentar como esse processo ritual ocorreu numa candidatura a deputado federal na região sul do estado de Minas Gerais, durante as eleições de 2010.
Circulating FABP4 Is a Prognostic Biomarker in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome but Not in Asymptomatic Individuals
Authors: Reiser Hans , Klingenberg Roland , Hof Danielle , Cooksley-Decasper Seraina , Fuchs Nina , Akhmedov Alexander , Zoller Stefan , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Marti Soler Helena , Heg Dik , Landmesser Ulf , Rodondi Nicolas , Mach Francois , Windecker Stephan , Vollenweider Peter , Matter Christian M. , Lüscher Thomas F. , von Eckardstein Arnold , Gawinecka Joanna
Published: June 2015

Objective—

Blood-borne biomarkers reflecting atherosclerotic plaque burden have great potential to improve clinical management of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Approach and Results—

Using data integration from gene expression profiling of coronary thrombi versus peripheral blood mononuclear cells and proteomic analysis of atherosclerotic plaque–derived secretomes versus healthy tissue secretomes, we identified fatty acid–binding protein 4 (FABP4) as a biomarker candidate for coronary artery disease. Its diagnostic and prognostic performance was validated in 3 different clinical settings: (1) in a cross-sectional cohort of patients with stable coronary artery disease, ACS, and healthy individuals (n=820), (2) in a nested case–control cohort of patients with ACS with 30-day follow-up (n=200), and (3) in a population-based nested case–control cohort of asymptomatic individuals with 5-year follow-up (n=414). Circulating FABP4 was marginally higher in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (24.9 ng/mL) compared with controls (23.4 ng/mL;
P
=0.01). However, elevated FABP4 was associated with adverse secondary cerebrovascular or cardiovascular events during 30-day follow-up after index ACS, independent of age, sex, renal function, and body mass index (odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–2.5;
P
=0.02). Circulating FABP4 predicted adverse events with similar prognostic performance as the GRACE in-hospital risk score or N-terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide. Finally, no significant difference between baseline FABP4 was found in asymptomatic individuals with or without coronary events during 5-year follow-up.

Conclusions—

Circulating FABP4 may prove useful as a prognostic biomarker in risk stratification of patients with ACS.
Day-by-Day Blood Pressure Variability and Functional Outcome After Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Fukuda Kenji , Kai Hisashi , Kamouchi Masahiro , Hata Jun , Ago Tetsuro , Nakane Hiroshi , Imaizumi Tsutomu , Kitazono Takanari ,   The steering committee of the Fukuoka Stroke Registry included, Ishitsuka Takao , Fujimoto Shigeru , Ibayashi Setsuro , Kusuda Kenji , Arakawa Shuji , Irie Katsumi , Fujii Kenichiro , Okada Yasushi , Yasaka Masahiro , Nagao Tetsuhiko , Ooboshi Hiroaki , Omae Tsuyoshi , Toyoda Kazunori , Sugimori Hiroshi , Kuroda Junya , Wakisaka Yoshinobu , Matsuo Ryu , Fukushima Yoshihisa
Published: June 2015

Background and Purpose—

The relationship between blood pressure (BP) variability and functional outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate whether in-hospital day-by-day BP variability is associated with functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Using the Fukuoka Stroke Registry, we included 2566 patients with a first-ever ischemic stroke who had been functionally independent before the onset and were hospitalized within 24 hours. BP was measured daily, and its variability was assessed by SD, coefficients of variance, and variations independent of mean. Poor functional outcome was assessed by modified Rankin Scale scores ≥3 at 3 months.

Results—

After adjustment for multiple confounding factors including age, sex, risk factors, stroke features, baseline severity, thrombolytic therapy, antihypertensive agents, and mean BP, day-by-day BP variability during the subacute stage (4–10 days after onset) was independently associated with a poor functional outcome (multivariable-adjusted odds ratios [95% confidence interval] in the top versus bottom quartile of systolic BP variability, 1.51 [1.09–2.08] for SD; 1.63 [1.20–2.22] for coefficients of variance; 1.64 [1.21–2.24] for variations independent of mean). Similar trends were also observed for diastolic BP variability. These trends were unchanged in patients who were not treated with antihypertensive drugs. In contrast, no association was found between indices of BP variability during the acute stage and functional outcome after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions—

These data suggest that intraindividual day-by-day BP variability during the subacute stage is associated with the 3-month functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke.
Scholarly Culture and Occupational Success in 31 Societies
Authors: Evans M. D. R. , Kelley Jonathan , Sikora Joanna , Treiman Donald J.
Published: June 2015

Prior research shows that coming from a book-oriented family is a great advantage for children’s education, especially for the “ordinary success” of children from disadvantaged families. Focusing on the next career stage, our multi-level analysis (58,944 respondents in 31 societies) shows that it furthers children’s later occupational career even more than parents’ education or occupation, especially in developing nations where there is a small additional advantage beyond the educational gains. This evidence supports the scholarly culture hypothesis that book-oriented socialization provides a “toolkit” of competencies, skills, and knowledge (Kohn, Spaeth). It is not consistent with elite closure/cultural capital theories that elites use cultural signals to recognize members and hoard advantages by discriminating on the basis of culture (Bourdieu, Goblot).
Evidence-based instruction:
Authors: Carbery Alan , Leahy Sean
Published: June 2015

This paper presents the findings of a study carried out by librarians in Champlain College who developed a two-pronged authentic assessment approach to measure the information literacy (IL) levels and determine the information seeking habits of students while conducting research for academic purposes. Librarians devised and developed an IL rubric and a citation analysis checklist for the assessment of first-year annotated bibliography assignment papers. This paper illustrates the merits of rubric-based, citation analysis assessment measures using authentic student coursework as a highly effective method of determining student outcomes assessment and information seeking habits while engaging in academic research. Findings from this study also suggest that authentic assessment is an extremely useful tool for instruction librarians to identify areas of IL that require further instructional support. This study is of importance to librarians wishing to adopt rubric-based and citation analysis authentic methods for student outcomes assessment.
How much do first-year undergraduate students in Norway know about information literacy?
Authors: Nierenberg Ellen , Gjems Fjeldbu Øyvind
Published: June 2015

This study aims to document first-year undergraduate students’ information literacy (IL) skills at a typical university college in Norway. This research is the first of its kind in Norway as previous studies on new students have focused mainly on the literature search. Prior to library instruction a selection of these students completed a survey with questions on the critical evaluation of sources, on plagiarism and on citing sources. Survey questions were designed to reflect the content of the library course in IL. Although most students were confident that they could avoid plagiarism when writing, many had large gaps in their knowledge, and lacked essential skills. Results also show that new students are better at evaluating sources than they are at citing them. Ethical aspects of plagiarism are discussed and comparisons drawn between students coming directly from upper secondary school and those who have some previous higher education.
Alpheopsis balaeniceps sp. nov., an unusual alpheid shrimp (Decapoda: Caridea) from French Polynesia
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR
Published: June 2015

Alpheopsis balaeniceps sp. nov. is described based on a single male specimen from Moorea, French Polynesia. The new species is unique within the genus Alpheopsis Coutière, 1896 in possessing balaeniceps-type setae on the fingers of both chelipeds, being especially well developed on the major chela. Within the family Alpheidae, this feature exists only in some species of the distantly related genus Alpheus Fabricius, 1798, however, only on the minor cheliped. This convergence between Alpheopsis and Alpheus is another example of the remarkable diversity and plasticity of the alpheid chelipeds.
A taxonomic revision of the seed-harvester ant genus Pogonomyrmex (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) on Hispaniola
Authors: JOHNSON ROBERT A. , COVER STEFAN P.
Published: June 2015

We revise species of seed-harvester ants in the genus Pogonomyrmex (subfamily Myrmicinae) that occur on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. Three species are recognized: P. aterrimus Wheeler (new status), P. saucius Wheeler and Mann, and P. schmitti Forel. Pogonomyrmex schmitti sublaevigatus Wheeler (= schmitti) and P. schmitti darlingtoni Wheeler (= aterrimus) are synonomized. We also describe the queen of P. aterrimus and P. saucius, and provide information on biology, distribution maps, and a key to workers and queens.
Three new species of Neuraphes in eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: June 2015

Three new ant-like stone beetle species: Neuraphes (Pararaphes) sichuanus sp. n., N. (P.) tuyuhun sp. n., and N. (P.) miniqinghaiensis sp. n. are described from Sichuan and Qinghai provinces of China. Another species, close to N. qinghaiensis Jałoszyński, is illustrated, but not formally described because of unclear diagnostic characters. The placement of Neuraphes species that inhabit mountain ranges surrounding Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in the subgenus Pararaphes is discussed and their distribution is summarized.
Governing Social Orders, Unfolding Rationality, and Jesuit Accounting Practices
Authors: Quattrone Paolo
Published: June 2015

This paper questions a key assumption in the organizations literature that the dynamism of institutional logics and practice variations is the result of rivalry among logics and actors, of tensions and institutional shifts, and of the agency of institutional entrepreneurs. This study examines in rich historical detail the development of accounting in the Jesuit Order, illustrating how Jesuit accounting started from a rationality that did not presuppose an external ordering principle; instead, Jesuit rationality was unfolding—founded in continuous interrogations informed by common, purposeful procedural logics stemming from rhetorical practices used to classify, recall, and invent knowledge. I examine this concept of unfolding rationality in two areas of Jesuit practices: spiritual self-accountability and administrative accounting and recordkeeping. In this Jesuit rationality, the relationships between means and ends, and how and why behaviors take place, were not anchored permanently in a substantive logic. Instead, procedural logics left individual Jesuits and the community to imagine modes of action in the specific social and organizational contexts in which their missions operated. Jesuit rationality was thus unfolding, a persistent and recursive mode of governing social behavior and searching for organizational order that generated large-scale administrative routines and institutional dynamism while never fully achieving that order. The analysis brings into question our understanding of the historical and institutional genealogies of modern rationality and its taken-for-granted link with Protestant ethics.
Jute fiber reinforced chemically functionalized polypropylene self-compatibilizing composites by Palsule process
Authors: Anjali Singh Anshu , Palsule Sanjay
Published: June 2015

Jute fiber reinforced chemically functionalized polypropylene composites with in situ fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion have been developed by Palsule process. A chemically functionalized maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene acts as self-compatibilizing matrix eliminating requirements of compatibilizers or any fiber treatment. In situ fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion in the composites, imparted by Palsule process, has been established by field emission scanning electron micrograph and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Mechanical properties of the jute fiber reinforced chemically functionalized polypropylene composites are higher than those of the chemically functionalized polypropylene matrix and increase with increasing amounts of jute fibers in the composite compositions. Measured tensile modulus of jute fiber reinforced chemically functionalized polypropylene composites has been compared with values predicted by rule of mixtures, Hirsch’s model, Halpin–Tsai equations, Nielsen equation, and Palsule equation.
Nanoclay infused banana fiber and its effects on mechanical and thermal properties of composites
Authors: Mohan TP , Kanny K
Published: June 2015

The objective of this work is to infuse nanoclay particles into the banana fiber and study the morphological and structural characteristics. Nanoclays were infused into the fibers by shear induced force with the aid of alkaline (NaOH) chemical treatment. About 6 wt.% of nanoclays were infused into the banana fibers by this method. The short banana fiber reinforced epoxy composites were prepared by resin casting method in which the critical length ( lc) and critical volume fraction ( Vfc) of the fibers were determined. The nanoclay infused fibers were compared with untreated and alkaline treated fibers. The result suggests a positive effect on tensile, interfacial, and thermal properties of fibers due to nanoclay infusion. The tensile, shear, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) of composites were studied, and the result shows superior improvement of these properties in nanoclay infused fiber composites.
Gifted Students with Disabilities
Authors: Abramo Joseph Michael
Published: June 2015

Many music educators teach students who are both gifted and possess a learning disability—what is commonly referred to as “twice exceptionality.” This article describes some characteristics of twice-exceptional students, the challenges these students often face in school, and some strategies music educators can use to properly differentiate instruction and curricula. The strategies offered include highlighting strengths and mitigating areas of challenge; emphasizing integrative thinking and deemphasizing dispersive thinking; allowing students flexibility of choice; overtly teaching organizational skills, self-regulation, and compensation strategies; and building relationships. While the differentiation strategies suggested are specifically for twice-exceptional students, they can benefit all students.
Empathy in the Classroom
Authors: Laird Lynda
Published: June 2015

Empathy has captured attention in diverse fields, such as the arts, education, medicine, and entertainment. This article provides insight into the development of empathy through music-making experiences. Recent research has suggested that music educators can play a valuable role in promoting empathy in their students through specific music learning processes. In addition, the personal empathic connections that are made in the creation and performance of music can influence teaching strategies. This article offers definitions of empathy, reviews recent studies of empathy and music-making, and provides applications for teachers.
How and Why Does Music Move Us?
Authors: Hodges Donald A. , Wilkins Robin W.
Published: June 2015

What scientific evidence can music educators share with their community stakeholders concerning how and why music moves us so powerfully? Five key points derived from recent psychological and neuroscientific findings are (1) Network Science is a new technique that allows researchers to examine the brain’s interconnectivity as people listen to music; (2) the Default Mode Network is a set of interconnecting brain networks that are involved in conscious awareness, self-reflection, and autobiographical memories and emotions; (3) when people listen to preferred music, there is dynamic interconnectivity in the Default Mode Network, linking music to self-awareness, along with associated personal histories, core emotional memories, and empathy; (4) musical training leads to numerous changes in the brain that have implications for music learning; and (5) scientific evidence supports the powerful role that music plays in enhancing quality of life.
Protective Behavioral Strategies and Alcohol Use Outcomes Among College Women Drinkers
Authors: Landry Alicia S. , Moorer Kayla D. , Madson Michael B. , Zeigler-Hill Virgil
Published: June 2015

The current study examined the degree to which associations that protective behavioral strategy use had with alcohol consumption and alcohol-related negative consequences were moderated by disordered eating and race. Participants were 382 female undergraduates (ages 18–25) who had consumed alcohol at least once within the previous month. Participants completed online self-report measures concerning their use of protective behavioral strategies, disordered eating, weekly alcohol consumption, harmful drinking patterns, and alcohol-related negative consequences. White non-Hispanic women who used the fewest protective behavioral strategies reported the highest levels of alcohol consumption and harmful drinking patterns. Protective behavioral strategy use was associated with lower levels of alcohol-related negative consequences except for African American women with low levels of disordered eating behaviors. For interventions targeting drinking among college women, disordered eating behaviors may increase risky behaviors and qualify relationships between protective behavioral strategies and alcohol-related negative consequences. Thus, assessment of disordered eating behavior as part of drinking interventions may be helpful.
Examining Drinking Patterns and High-Risk Drinking Environments Among College Athletes at Different Competition Levels
Authors: Marzell Miesha , Morrison Christopher , Mair Christina , Moynihan Stefanie , Gruenewald Paul J.
Published: June 2015

This study examined drinking patterns of three different college student groups: (a) intercollegiate athletes, (b) intramural/club athletes, and (c) nonathletes. Additionally, we investigated whether a relationship exists between drinking setting and risk of increased drinking. We analyzed data on the athletic involvement, drinking behaviors, and drinking settings of 16,745 undergraduate students. The findings revealed that drinking patterns for intramural/club athletes remained relatively consistent at all quantity levels; however, intercollegiate athletes consumed alcohol in higher quantities. Further, intramural/club athletes drank in almost every drinking setting, whereas intercollegiate athletes were more limited. The drinking patterns and settings suggest a stronger social motivation for drinking among intramural/club athletes than among intercollegiate athletes and point to a need to specify competition level when studying college athletes.
Self-expandable CoreValve implantation without contrast media
Authors: Bruschi Giuseppe , Colombo Paola , De Marco Federico , Barosi Alberto , Mauri Silvia , Klugmann Silvio
Published: June 2015

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation has been designed to treat high-risk surgical patients affected by severe aortic stenosis, many of whom are affected by chronic kidney disease. To perform transcatheter self-expandable valve implantation, multiple contrast injections are required to monitor the procedure, so these patients are at increased risk of acute kidney injury. We described self-expandable transcatheter aortic valve implantation without contrast media in an 80-year-old man affected by severe aortic stenosis and endstage chronic kidney disease.
Assessment of arterial stiffness in patients with chronic lower extremity venous disease: An observational study
Authors: Aykan Ahmet Çağrı , Menteşe Seda , Doğan Emre , Çavuşoğlu İsmail Gökhan , Aykan Duygun Altıntaş , Kalaycıoğlu Ezgi , Gökdeniz Tayyar , Menteşe Ümit
Published: June 2015

Objectives

Arterial stiffness is associated with major adverse cardiovascular events. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is severe form of chronic venous disease (CVD). The aim of this study is to investigate arterial stiffness by cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) in patients with CVI.

Methods

This observational and cross-sectional study involved 87 subjects with CVI and 86 healthy subjects. All subjects underwent ultrasonography examination. CAVI was measured by VaSera-1000 CAVI instrument.

Results

High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) was significantly lower in patients with CVI than controls (46.83 ± 9.25 mg/dl vs 51.33 ± 11.13 mg/dl, p = 0.004). Body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher in CVI patients than controls (28.53 ± 4.10 kg/m2 vs 26.37 ± 5.16 kg/m2, p = 0.003). Ankle brachial index (ABI) was significantly lower in patients with CVI compared to controls (1.08 ± 0.08 vs 1.14 ± 0.11, p < 0.001). CAVI was significantly higher in patients with CVI than controls (7.94 ± 1.37 vs 6.73 ± 1.16, p < 0.001). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was significantly higher in patients with CVI than control group (105.41 ± 10.77 mmHg vs 99.70 ± 11.17 mmHg, p = 0.001). CAVI ( p < 0.001, Odds ratio (OR) = 2.033, 95% Confidence interval (CI) = 1.493–2.768), ABI ( p = 0.003, OR = 0.003, 95% CI = 0.001–0.137), female sex ( p < 0.001, OR = 3.949, 95% CI = 1.613–9.663), and HDL ( p < 0.001, OR = 0.923, 95% CI = 0.883–0.964) were the independent predictors of CVI. A CAVI value > 7.9 had a sensitivity 64.4% and a specificity of 94.7% for predicting the presence of CVI in ROC analysis (area under curve = 0.791, 95% CI = 0.723–0.849, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

CAVI is independently increased in CVI patients. Therefore CVI may be accepted a form of vascular sclerosis and vascular system should be evaluated in continuum not isolated.
Tunisia at its crossroad: The role of a local development contextualised entrepreneurship training at universities
Authors: Kuhle Holger
Published: June 2015

Tunisia faces major problems of unemployment or precariously employed. As in many countries, entrepreneurship has also found its way into higher education in Tunisia. It is often said here as elsewhere that the universities have a crucial role as potential drivers for a locally inspired and contextualised promotion of entrepreneurship. Today, the graduate business start-up support arrangements within the universities or at the public promotion agencies are strongly focused on the early stages of business launch. They neglect later support to overcome critical thresholds during business development and growth that contribute to ensuring longer term survival and business development. Also, the relationship between these support services within the various regions and the respective business communities is not well established. The local economic context varies between economically strong coastal areas and poorly developed interior regions. The lesson is that Tunisian higher education institutions can play an essential role in creating jobs for graduates and building a dynamic base of growth-oriented businesses if they recognise entrepreneurship promotion as a strategic objective and develop appropriate activities in close relation with their local economic context.
EAPC White Paper on outcome measurement in palliative care: Improving practice, attaining outcomes and delivering quality services – Recommendations from the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) Task Force on Outcome Measurement
Authors: Bausewein Claudia , Daveson Barbara A , Currow David C , Downing Julia , Deliens Luc , Radbruch Lukas , Defilippi Kath , Lopes Ferreira Pedro , Costantini Massimo , Harding Richard , Higginson Irene J
Published: June 2015

Background:

Outcome measurement plays an increasing role in improving the quality, effectiveness, efficiency and availability of palliative care.

Aim:

To provide expert recommendations on outcome measurement in palliative care in clinical practice and research.

Methods:

Developed by a European Association for Palliative Care Task Force, based on literature searches, international expert workshop, development of outcome measurement guidance and international online survey. A subgroup drafted a first version and circulated it twice to the task force. The preliminary final version was circulated to wider expert panel and 28 international experts across 20 European Association for Palliative Care member associations and the European Association for Palliative Care Board of Directors and revised according to their feedback. The final version was approved by the European Association for Palliative Care Board for adoption as an official European Association for Palliative Care position paper.

Results:

In all, 12 recommendations are proposed covering key parameters of measures, adequate measures for the task, introduction of outcome measurement into practice, and national and international outcome comparisons and benchmarking. Compared to other recommendations, the White Paper covers similar aspects but focuses more on outcome measurement in clinical care and the wider policy impact of implementing outcome measurement in clinical palliative care. Patient-reported outcome measure feedback improves awareness of unmet need and allows professionals to act to address patients’ needs. However, barriers and facilitators have been identified when implementing outcome measurement in clinical care that should be addressed.

Conclusion:

The White Paper recommends the introduction of outcome measurement into practice and outcomes that allow for national and international comparisons. Outcome measurement is key to understanding different models of care across countries and, ultimately, patient outcome having controlled for differing patients characteristics.
An Empirical Investigation of Student Acceptance of Synchronous E-Learning in an Online University
Authors: Kang Minseok , Shin Won sug
Published: June 2015

This study proposes an extended technology acceptance model to predict acceptance of synchronous e-learning by examining relationships among variables associated with factors influencing the technology acceptance of synchronous e-learning. Learners at an online university participated through an online survey; there were 251 respondents in all. Employing structural equation modeling, we tested a hypothesized model, and the resulting model was found to have a good fit. Self-efficacy, subjective norm, and system accessibility have an effect on learners’ technology acceptance of synchronous e-learning, whereas systematic lecture content does not affect it. In addition, the perceived ease of use also has an effect on behavioral intention, whereas perceived usefulness does not. This study examined the acceptance structure of synchronous e-learning. The findings are expected to enhance the understanding of synchronous e-learning for instructors and school administrators and also provide empirical evidence that can be used to establish effective strategies.
An Investigation of Game-Embedded Handheld Devices to Enhance English Learning
Authors: Hung Hui-Chun , Young Shelley Shwu-Ching
Published: June 2015

This study proposed and implemented a system combining the advantages of both educational games and wireless handheld technology to promote the interactive English learning in the classroom setting. An interactive English vocabulary acquisition board game was designed with the system being implemented on handheld devices. Thirty sixth-grade elementary students in Northern Taiwan were assigned to the experimental group and the control group and played the game with or without handheld devices. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from surveys, interviews, and observations. The results revealed that game-embedded handheld devices could increase the interdependence of the group and lead the learners into better immersion and interactions. We further proposed the cross-device-mediated interaction in the game-embedded face-to-face mobile computer-supported collaborative learning model that could be considered as one of the new literacies in the participatory culture. Six essential elements to develop a successful interactive game-embedded environment were identified from the interplay among the face-to-face environment, handheld devices, and educational game.
L’analyse des effets de médiation modérée : Applications en marketing
Authors: Borau Sylvie , El Akremi Assâad , Elgaaied-Gambier Leila , Hamdi-Kidar Linda , Ranchoux Charlotte
Published: June 2015

L’objectif de cet article est d’expliquer et d’illustrer la démarche méthodologique qu’il convient de suivre pour tester les effets dits de médiation modérée (effets indirects conditionnels) en marketing. Un effet de médiation modérée désigne la présence, dans un même modèle, d’une ou plusieurs variables médiatrices et d’une ou plusieurs variables modératrices. Après avoir décrit les principales approches méthodologiques permettant de tester les effets de médiation modérée en mettant l’accent sur leurs avantages et inconvénients respectifs, nous préconisons la méthode de Hayes (2013a, 2013b), que nous illustrons à travers plusieurs applications en marketing. Cette méthode permet de tester simultanément et de manière rigoureuse les effets médiateurs et les effets modérateurs. Des recommandations sont également formulées pour éclairer les chercheurs en marketing engagés dans des analyses de médiation modérée.
Finite-time coordination control for formation flying spacecraft without unwinding
Authors: Guo Yong , Song Shen-Min , Yan Zhibin
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates three distributed coordination control laws by using sliding mode control for formation flying spacecraft based on the rotation matrix. The first and second robust finite-time controllers can compensate external disturbances with known and unknown bounds, respectively, while the third one could compensate both external disturbances with unknown bounds and the uncertainty of the model parameters by using an adaptive control method. Through introducing two novel sliding modes, exchange of control signals between neighboring spacecraft becomes unnecessary in all three controllers, and it is able to reduce the communication burden. Because the controllers are designed based on the rotation matrix which represents the set of attitudes both globally and uniquely, the system can overcome the drawback of unwinding which results in extra fuel consumption. Theoretical analysis shows that the coordinated controllers can guarantee the finite-time stability of the overall closed-loop system through local information exchange and numerical simulations also demonstrate their effectiveness.
An observational study of comorbidity and healthcare utilisation among HIV-positive patients aged 50 years and over
Authors: Patel Roshani , Moore Thomas , Cooper Vanessa , McArdle Conor , Perry Nicky , Cheek Elizabeth , Gainsborough Nicola , Fisher Martin
Published: June 2015

The number of HIV-positive people aged ≥50 years is rising each year. We measured the prevalence of non-infectious illnesses and their risk factors and described healthcare use in this UK population. A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted at an outpatient HIV specialist clinic in south east England. Patients age ≥50 years were invited to complete questionnaires measuring demographics, non-infectious illnesses, medication use, lifestyle and healthcare utilisation. The response rate was 67%. Of 299 participants, 84% reported ≥1 comorbid condition and 61% reported ≥2 (multimorbidity). Most commonly reported were high cholesterol, sexual dysfunction, hypertension and depression. In multivariate analyses, age, number of years HIV-positive and duration of antiretroviral therapy remained significant predictors of comorbidity when controlling for lifestyle factors (exercise, smoking and use of recreational drugs and alcohol). Use of non-HIV healthcare services was associated with increasing comorbidity, a longer duration of HIV and recreational drug use. The majority of HIV-patients aged ≥50 years reported multiple comorbidities and this was associated with polypharmacy and increased use of non-HIV services. Further research examining the quality, safety and patient experience of healthcare is needed to inform development of services to optimally meet the needs of older HIV-positive patients.
Antibody responses to Borrelia burgdorferi outer surface proteins C and F in experimentally infected Beagle dogs
Authors: Callister Steven M. , LaFleur Rhonda L. , Jobe Dean A. , Lovrich Steven D. , Wasmoen Terri L.
Published: June 2015

Antibody levels to outer surface proteins C and F (OspC and OspF, respectively) in sera collected from laboratory Beagle dogs at 1, 2, and 4 months after challenge with infected black-legged ticks ( Ixodes scapularis) were determined. Each dog was confirmed by culture to harbor Borrelia burgdorferi in the skin ( n = 10) or the skin and joints ( n = 14). Significant levels of immunoglobulin M (Ig)M or IgG anti-OspC antibodies were detected in single serum samples from only 3 (13%) dogs. Similarly, IgM anti-OspF antibodies were detected in only 1 (4%) serum sample collected from a dog with B. burgdorferi in the skin and joints. In contrast, 4 (29%) dogs with skin and joint infections produced IgG anti-OspF antibodies after 2 months, and the response expanded to include 2 (20%) dogs with skin infection and 4 additional dogs with skin and joint infections (overall sensitivity = 62%) after 4 months. The findings failed to support the utility of OspC-based antibody tests for diagnosing canine Lyme disease, but demonstrated that dogs with B. burgdorferi colonizing joint tissue most often produced significant levels of IgG anti-OspF antibodies. Therefore, additional studies to more thoroughly evaluate the clinical utility of OspF-based antibody tests are warranted.
Comparison between available serologic tests for detecting antibodies against Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi in horses in Canada
Authors: Schvartz Gili , Epp Tasha , Burgess Hilary J. , Chilton Neil B. , Lohmann Katharina L.
Published: June 2015

To investigate the agreement between available serologic tests for the detection of antibodies against Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi, 50 serum samples from horses of unknown clinical status and at low risk for infection were tested. In addition to a point-of-care enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (pocELISA), the evaluated tests included 2 indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFATs) for antibodies against A. phagocytophilum and an IFAT, an ELISA confirmed with Western blot, and the Lyme multiplex assay for antibodies against B. burgdorferi. For each pair-wise comparison between serologic tests, the difference in the proportion of seropositive results as well as kappa and the prevalence-adjusted, bias-adjusted kappa were calculated. The proportion of seropositive results differed significantly in each pairwise comparison of tests for detection of antibodies against A. phagocytophilum, and between the pocELISA and IFAT as well as between the pocELISA and Lyme multiplex assay for detection of antibodies against B. burgdorferi. Agreement based on kappa varied from poor to fair while agreement was improved when evaluating prevalence-adjusted, bias-adjusted kappa. Lack of agreement may be explained by differences in methodology between the evaluated tests, cross-reactivity or false-positive and false-negative tests. In addition to the limitations of serologic test interpretation in the absence of clinical disease, this data suggest that screening of horses for exposure to tick-borne diseases in nonendemic areas may not be warranted.
Multilateral Boundary Spanners
Authors: Patru Daniela , Lauche Kristina , van Kranenburg Hans , Ziggers Gerrit Willem
Published: June 2015

Understanding how health care networks achieve their goals is critical for managers and researchers alike. Our study addresses this issue by applying qualitative methods to retrospectively study the involvement of boundary spanners in the setup and implementation of a health care network in the Netherlands. We found that boundary spanners who acted multilaterally, that is, both within and across organizations, could successfully represent their organizations’ interests at the network level and implement the required intraorganizational developments. By acting multilaterally, these boundary spanners generated virtuous cycles in the development of the network, whereby their successful actions supported the actions of their subordinates in setting up and implementing network agreements. In contrast, boundary spanners who had not been acting multilaterally before the network’s kickoff were insufficiently prepared to enact their network-related tasks, and only successfully did so once they began operating both within and across organizations.
The truth of experience and its communication: Reflections on Mapuche epistemology
Authors: González Gálvez Marcelo
Published: June 2015

This paper explores certain ideas among rural Mapuche people in southern Chile regarding the epistemological status of experience. Drawing on a notion I call ‘the singularity of personal experience’, I explore why each experience, as something inherently personal, is understood as always necessarily true. I then move forward to look at how this diversity of experiential truths is manifest in social life, giving it a characteristic sense of uncertainty. Finally, I examine how rural Mapuche people believe it possible to overcome this singularity of experience, in order to create a sense of collectiveness, by establishing and nurturing social relationships.
Two thematic manifestations of neotribal capitalism in the United States
Authors: W Rose Samuel
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how Elizabeth Rata’s (2000) concept of neotribal capitalism can be used to better understand and illuminate the nature and practices of contemporary indigenous governments in the United States. The focus is especially on the workings of neotraditionalist ideology: how it conceals and depoliticizes the class relations at the heart of neotribal society; how this ideology serves to insulate these neotribes from criticism; and how it serves to promote capital accumulation. This is done through an examination of two thematic groupings of relevant issues in contemporary indigenous and scholarly discourses: the interconnected and interrelated issues around labor, class consciousness, and unionization within indigenous communities; and the issues of indigenous identity, tribal citizenship, and the politics around the movement for disenrollment.
Emile the citizen? A reassessment of the relationship between private education and citizenship in Rousseau’s political thought
Authors: Gomes Bjorn
Published: June 2015

It is often said that the claims of man and citizen are irreconcilable in the philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This view, most famously articulated by Judith Shklar, holds that the making of a man and the making of a citizen are to be understood as rival enterprises or competing alternatives. This reading has recently been challenged by Frederick Neuhouser. He argues that one can make a man and a citizen, but only if the education of each is performed in the absence of the other. In his view, Emile is raised to be a man first (Books I–IV) before his subsequent instruction in citizenship (Book V). This paper challenges both views. I argue that the making of man and citizen are, in principle, neither rival enterprises nor competing alternatives, and that although Neuhouser is indeed correct to argue for a successive system of education, the making of a citizen is not completed in Emile, but extends into the Social Contract. His account diminishes the crucial role the Lawgiver plays in the fashioning of citizens capable of discerning the general will. I show that although raising individuals under a system of private instruction does not preclude their transformation into citizens but makes such a transformation possible, it is on its own incapable of making citizens.
Discomfort glare prediction by different methods
Authors: Sawicki D , Wolska A
Published: June 2015

A comparison of methods for determining unified glare rating was performed. An analysis was made based on the results of experiments carried out for a typical office workstation under a controlled lighting environment. The DIALux simulation software and the LMK measuring system were used to calculate the unified glare rating. The main aim of the research was to verify the correctness of these two methods through a subjective glare assessment made by a group of 65 people. A comparison of the unified glare rating values determined by the different objective techniques with the subjective estimation shows that the LMK measurement is the more accurate method.
Carbon black/ polyurethane nanocomposite-coated fabric for microwave attenuation in X & Ku-band (8–18 GHz) frequency range
Authors: Gupta KK , Abbas SM , Abhyankar AC
Published: June 2015

In the present study, coating formulations based on carbon nanoparticle (125–150 nm) and two component polyurethane resin [Polyester polyol-8 and hexamethylene diisocyanate [C8H12N2O2 (NCO-(CH2)6–NCO)] have been prepared in concentration of 5,6,7,8, 9 and 10 g of carbon black in 100 ml of polyurethane solution and was applied on cotton fabric adopting knife over roller coating technique. The coated fabrics were evaluated for surface resistivity and relevant microwave properties i.e. permittivity, scattering parameters, reflection, transmission, absorption, reflection loss and electromagnetic interference shielding in HVS free-space microwave measurement system. It is observed that increasing the carbon content increases the permittivity values and decreases the impedance. It is seen that with increase of carbon content up to 7 g, absorption increases due to increase of permittivity while with further increase of carbon content from 8 to 10 g, absorption decreases due to increase of conductivity and thereby increased reflection. The coated fabric at 6.55 wt% carbon and 93.45 wt% PU in thickness of 1.3 mm has shown about 46% absorption, 29.49% transmission and 24.5% reflectance in X (8.2–12.4 GHz) and Ku (12–18 GHz) frequency band. When electrical thickness of coated fabric equals λ/4, a peak of reflection loss is observed due to Salisbury absorption mechanism. Highest reflection loss of –31.39 dB at 17 GHz, more than 20 dB in bandwidth of 16–18 GHz and more than 10 dB in entire Ku- band is achieved. Coated fabric may be used as apparel for protecting human being from hazardous microwave and for radar absorbing structural materials for defence applications.