bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Analysis of Bleeding Phenotype in PT-VWD Compared to Type 2B VWD Using an Electronic Bleeding Questionnaire
Authors: Kaur Harmanpreet , Ozelo Margareth , Scovil Stephen , James Paula D. , Othman Maha
Published: July 2014

Objective:

To investigate the utility of an electronic version of the condensed molecular and clinical markers for the diagnosis and management of type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) bleeding questionnaire (eBQ) in assessing the bleeding phenotype in platelet-type VWD (PT-VWD) and compare it to its closely similar disorder, type 2B VWD.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of the clinical bleeding and laboratory phenotype of 13 patients with PT-VWD and 12 type 2B VWD.

Results:

Bleeding score (BS) was significantly lower in PT-VWD as compared to type 2B. Bleeding score correlated with platelet count and von Willebrand factor:Ristocetin cofactor activity in PT-VWD but not in type 2B with a significant reduction in platelet count in type 2B VWD compared to PT-VWD. The eBQ had sensitivity of 62% in PT-VWD and 92% in type 2B VWD.

Conclusion:

Objective analysis of bleeding symptoms further the understanding of the phenotype of 2 closely similar bleeding disorders for better diagnosis and follow-up. Larger international prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the utility of the eBQ in PT-VWD and other rare bleeding disorders.
Bifurcation results for a class of fractional Hamiltonian systems with Liouville–Weyl fractional derivatives
Authors: Nyamoradi Nemat , Zhou Yong
Published: July 2014

In this paper, by using variational methods, we prove the existence for a class of fractional Hamiltonian systems with Liouville–Weyl fractional derivatives [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the right and left inverse operators of the corresponding Liouville–Weyl fractional integrals of order α respectively, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are real parameters and [Formula: see text] is a function that satisfies some suitable conditions.
Enhancement of particle damping effectiveness using multiple cell enclosure
Authors: Jadhav Tushar A , Awasare Pradeep J
Published: July 2014

Particle damping is a passive damping technique in which small metal particles are placed in the enclosure attached to the vibrating structure at the highest amplitude region. The damping effectiveness of the particle damper has been studied using particle-filled enclosure attached to the free end of a cantilever beam. The optimum size of the single cell enclosure is selected based on experimental analysis and modified as a multiple cell enclosure, which enhances the damping effectiveness. The single cell and multiple cell enclosures are tested keeping the mass of particles constant, which reveals that damping effectiveness is increased significantly using a multiple cell enclosure. A mathematical model has been proposed for a single cell enclosure using the dimensional analysis method. This model is modified for multiple cell enclosure based on a correlation between displacement amplitudes corresponding to resonance for single cell and multiple cell enclosures. It is observed that there is a good correlation between analytical and experimental results.
Solutions of dynamic and acoustic responses of a clamped rectangular plate in thermal environments
Authors: Geng Qian , Li Yueming
Published: July 2014

This work presents an investigation of vibration and acoustic response characters of a clamped rectangular thin plate in thermal environments. The general form of governing equation of plate flexural vibration with considering thermal loads is established, and the influence of uniform temperature change on response characters is studied in detail. A set of double sinusoidal mode shape functions for fully clamped boundaries is used to describe the displacement distribution. The governing equation is solved with Fourier series expansion to discuss the natural vibration and dynamic responses of a clamped plate in thermal environments. Accordingly, acoustic radiation characteristics are obtained based on Rayleigh integral. Results show that natural frequencies decrease with the increment of plate temperature, and the first natural frequency is much more sensitive to thermal environment changes. Response curves of plate vibration and radiated sound power shift toward lower frequency range, and the response amplitudes of the first resonant peak of the two responses present opposite variation tendencies. These phenomena are verified with finite element and boundary element simulations. Thermal loads reduce the radiation efficiency of the plate obviously below the critical frequency, but the maximum value almost remains unchanged.
Structural multimode vibration absorbing with electromagnetic shunt damping
Authors: Yan Bo , Luo Yajun , Zhang Xinong
Published: July 2014

This paper presents multimode vibration absorbing methods which employ negative resistance (NR) and negative inductance negative resistance (NINR) electromagnetic shunt damping vibration absorbers. The NR and NINR shunts can change the impedance of an electromagnet so as to change the control force of the absorber. The governing equation of the coupling system is established. What is more, some numerical simulations are carried out and the results show that the absorbers with NR or NINR shunt can effectively suppress the multimode vibration. Furthermore, the root locus is analyzed to design the resistance of a shunt.
A CMAC-PID based on pitch angle controller for direct drive permanent magnet synchronous wind turbine
Authors: Chen Diyi , Xu Peng , Zhou Rui , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: July 2014

The efficiency of wind power conversions systems can be greatly improved using an appropriate control algorithm. This paper deals with a cerebellar model articulation controller coupling with a proportional-integral-derivative controller for a direct drive permanent magnet synchronous wind turbine generator. First, the aerodynamic characteristics of the wind turbine have been studied in detail. Moreover, the transfer function from pitch angle to the speed of the wind turbine is established. Finally, some tests on the proposed method are carried out including random wind speed using numerical simulation. From these tests, several operating conditions are simulated, and satisfactory results are obtained.
Neighborhood Characteristics and Sexual Intimate Partner Violence Against Women Among Low-Income, Drug-Involved New York City Residents
Authors: Frye Victoria , Blaney Shannon , Cerdá Magdalena , Vlahov David , Galea Sandro , Ompad Danielle C.
Published: July 2014

We assessed relations among neighborhood characteristics and sexual intimate partner violence against women (SIPVAW), among low-income, drug-involved, women ( n = 360) and men ( n = 670) in New York City between 2005 and 2009. Six percent of women ( n = 22) and 5% of men ( n = 33) reported experiencing and perpetrating SIPVAW in the past year with a main partner. In adjusted mixed models among women, neighborhood ethnic heterogeneity was significantly negatively associated with SIPVAW victimization. In adjusted logistic models among men, neighborhood collective efficacy was significantly positively associated with SIPVAW perpetration. Novel theoretical frameworks are needed to guide research on neighborhoods and partner violence.
Acute jugular vein thrombosis during rituximab administration: Review of the literature
Authors: Dada Reyad , Zekri Jamal , Ramal Bilal , Ahmad Kamel
Published: July 2014

Rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody is licensed for the treatment of CD20 positive lymphomas. Previous studies have found rituximab, in combination with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone chemotherapy, is superior to cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone alone in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and many other B-cell lymphomas. Acute hypersensitivity reactions have been reported in patients receiving rituximab infusion and usually manifesting as headache, fever, chills, sweats, skin rash, dyspnea, mild hypotension, and nausea. Acute major venous thrombosis and seizures have not been reported as manifestation of acute hypersensitivity reaction. We report on a 22-year-old woman, who was diagnosed with stage III B CD20 positive B-cell diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. During the first cycle of treatment, she developed grand-mal seizure while receiving rituximab infusion without any other features of acute hypersensitivity reaction. Imaging confirmed new onset jugular vein thrombosis with normal coagulation parameters. These events were managed by anticonvulsants and anticoagulation therapy. The patient completed eight cycles of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone without rituximab and achieved complete remission. No further complications were noted. To our knowledge, this is the first case in the literature describing grand-mal seizures and acute thrombosis while on rituximab treatment. Clinicians should be aware of this rare side effect, as stopping rituximab can prevent recurrence of these complications.
Choroid plexus papilloma—A case highlighting the challenges of extrapolating pediatric chemotherapy regimens to adult populations
Authors: Barman Stephen L , Jean Gary W , Dinsfriend William M , Gerber David E
Published: July 2014

The treatment of adults who present with rare pediatric tumors is not characterized well in the literature. We report an instance of a 40-year-old African American woman with a diagnosis of choroid plexus carcinoma admitted to the intensive care unit for severe sepsis seven days after receiving chemotherapy consisting of carboplatin (350 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 2 plus etoposide 100 mg/m2 on Days 1–5). Her laboratory results were significant for an absolute neutrophil count of 0/µL and blood cultures positive for Capnocytophagia species. She was supported with broad spectrum antibiotics and myeloid growth factors. She eventually recovered and was discharged in stable condition. The management of adults with malignancies most commonly seen in pediatric populations presents substantial challenges. There are multiple age-specific differences in renal and hepatic function that explain the need for higher dosing in pediatric patients without increasing the risk of toxicity. Furthermore, differences in pharmacokinetic parameters such as absorption, distribution, and clearance are present but are less likely to affect patients. It is expected that the pediatric population will have more bone marrow reserve and, therefore, less susceptible to myelosuppression. The extrapolation of pediatric dosing to an adult presents a problematic situation in treating adults with malignancies that primarily effect pediatric patients. We recommend extrapolating from adult treatment regimens with similar agents rather than extrapolating from pediatric treatment regimens to reduce the risk of toxicity. We also recommend the consideration of adding myeloid growth factors. If the treatment is tolerated without significant toxicity, dose escalation can be considered.
Successful treatment of severe thrombocytopenia with the use of thrombopoeitin receptor agonist eltrombopag in a patient with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Modi Yashpal , Shaaban Hamid , Gauchan Dron , Maroules Michael
Published: July 2014

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a clonal disorder of hematopoietic stem cells often occurring in elderly patients. The combination of CMML with autoimmune manifestations, including immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, has been described before in a number of case reports. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of the successful treatment of CMML-related thrombocytopenia with a thrombopoeitin receptor agonist, eltrombopag.
Pitchfork and octopus bifurcations in a hyperelastic tube subjected to compression: Analytical post-bifurcation solutions and imperfection sensitivity
Authors: Dai Hui-Hui , Wang Fan-Fan , Wang Jiong , Xu Jian
Published: July 2014

This paper studies the axisymmetric deformations of a nonlinearly hyperelastic tube subjected to axial compression. We aim at investigating the critical buckling stresses and modes, deriving the analytical solutions for the post-bifurcation deformations and studying the imperfection sensitivity. For a general isotropic hyperelastic tube, a coupled series-asymptotic method is utilized to derive two simplified model equations with specified constraints on the tube geometry. Then, we specialize to the Blatz–Ko material. With greased end conditions, through linear bifurcation analysis, we obtain the critical stress values and the corresponding mode numbers. The analytical solutions for the post-bifurcation states are constructed by the multiple scales method. By examining the solution behavior in the post-bifurcation regime, it is found that a thick tube could be considerably softer than a thin one. The singularities theory is used to consider the imperfection sensitivity, which reveals the mechanism is the existence of two modes corresponding to the same critical stress. Numerical solutions are also obtained which confirm the validity of the analytical solutions.
Interactions Between Early Trauma and Catechol-O-Methyltransferase Genes on Inhibitory Deficits in Children With ADHD
Authors: Park Subin , Kim Bung-Nyun , Kim Jae-Won , Shin Min-Sup , Yoo Hee Jeong , Cho Soo-Churl
Published: July 2014

Objective: To investigate the interaction between childhood trauma exposure with the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) polymorphisms in relation to neuropsychological measures in children with ADHD. Method: A cross-sectional examination of early traumatic experiences and the continuous performance test (CPT) were performed in 55 children with ADHD. Participants were also genotyped for the DRD4 exon III 48-bp variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphism and the COMT Val158-Met (rs4680) polymorphism. Results: There was significant interaction between the effects of the COMT genotype and trauma in commission errors. In participants with ADHD carrying the COMT Val/Val genotype, the group exposed to trauma showed significantly higher commission errors than the non-traumatized group. However, for the participants with other genotypes, no significant differences were found. Conclusion: This study suggests that there exists a genetic influence on the association between childhood trauma and the severity of inhibitory deficits in children with ADHD.
Statistical Approaches for Enhancing Causal Interpretation of the M to Y Relation in Mediation Analysis
Authors: MacKinnon David P. , Pirlott Angela G.
Published: July 2014

Statistical mediation methods provide valuable information about underlying mediating psychological processes, but the ability to infer that the mediator variable causes the outcome variable is more complex than widely known. Researchers have recently emphasized how violating assumptions about confounder bias severely limits causal inference of the mediator to dependent variable relation. Our article describes and addresses these limitations by drawing on new statistical developments in causal mediation analysis. We first review the assumptions underlying causal inference and discuss three ways to examine the effects of confounder bias when assumptions are violated. We then describe four approaches to address the influence of confounding variables and enhance causal inference, including comprehensive structural equation models, instrumental variable methods, principal stratification, and inverse probability weighting. Our goal is to further the adoption of statistical methods to enhance causal inference in mediation studies.
What Is Implicit Self-Esteem, and Does it Vary Across Cultures?
Authors: Falk Carl F. , Heine Steven J.
Published: July 2014

Implicit self-esteem (ISE), which is often defined as automatic self-evaluations, fuses research on unconscious processes with that on self-esteem. As ISE is viewed as immune to explicit control, it affords the testing of theoretical questions such as whether cultures vary in self-enhancement motivations. We provide a critical review and integration of the work on (a) the operationalization of ISE and (b) possible cultural variation in self-enhancement motivations. Although ISE measures do not often vary across cultures, recent meta-analyses and empirical studies question the validity of the most common way of defining ISE. We revive an alternative conceptualization that defines ISE in terms of how positively people evaluate objects that reflect upon themselves. This conceptualization suggests that ISE research should target alternative phenomena (e.g., minimal group effect, similarity-attraction effect, endowment effect) and it allows for a host of previous cross-cultural findings to bear on the question of cultural variability in ISE.
How Much Compensation Should a Firm Offer for a Flawed Service? An Examination of the Nonlinear Effects of Compensation on Satisfaction
Authors: Gelbrich Katja , Gäthke Jana , Grégoire Yany
Published: July 2014

This research examines the nonlinear effects of compensation on customer satisfaction in order to determine the optimal compensation after a flawed service. As our core contribution, we argue that the nature of this nonlinear effect depends on the way customers handle a flawed service. Building on the Service-Dominant (S-D) logic, this research introduces two specific failure handling tactics—when customers reject versus accept a flawed value proposition—that affect the shape of the nonlinear function of compensation on satisfaction. Our key hypotheses are tested with two experiments that manipulate 11 compensation levels (0–200%) and the two failure handling tactics (rejection vs. acceptance). Consistent with our logic, both studies reveal an S-shaped curve progression for service rejection and a concave shape for service acceptance. For service rejection, the highest incremental effect of compensation on satisfaction lies in between 60% and 120%. For service acceptance, the highest return in satisfaction is obtained with the first dollars invested in partial compensation. As a major managerial takeaway, firms can use these findings to determine the compensation level that provides the best satisfaction return.
Business as usual: The role of norms in alliance management
Authors: Hofmann Stephanie C. , Yeo Andrew I.
Published: July 2014

How do allies successfully manage their alliance partnership in times of political crisis? We argue that the procedural norm of political contestation and the substantive norm of security consensus set the parameters for non-detrimental disagreement among democratic alliance partners. Rather than interpreting sharp disagreements with the US as signs of soft-balancing or alliance decline, we explain the seeming contradictions in alliance behavior — maintenance of the alliance versus sharp disagreements within the alliance — by drawing norms and institutions into the power equation. We use within- and cross-regional case comparisons of alliance disputes in East Asia and Europe to test our argument in both bilateral and multilateral contexts, respectively.
Changes in attachment representations for young people in long-term therapeutic foster care
Authors: Dallos Rudi , Morgan-West Kate , Denman Katie
Published: July 2014

This article reports on a 1-year follow-up study exploring changes in attachment security of children placed in long-term therapeutic foster care over three data collection time points. A group of eight children (age 14 to 17) were assessed over a period of 1 year using a modified version of the Separation Anxiety Test (SAT). Interviews were also conducted to explore the young people’s and the carers’ experiences of the placements and their personal perspectives of changes. The findings indicated some positive changes in the young people’s attachment security over time, for example, a reduction in extreme reactions and a trust that adults could understand their feelings (PAE – parental accurate empathy). However, despite this PAE, the young people did not expect adults to enact this by offering them support, and this lack of expectation persisted over the 1-year period. Specific differences in relation to placement success were suggested in that young people for whom their placements broke down indicated more initial fearful and aggressive representations of adults. Overall, young people emphasised positive aspects of their placements as including being treated as adults, listened to and made to feel safe.
“Why are you here?” Seeking children’s accounts of their presentation to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
Authors: Stafford Victoria , Hutchby Ian , Karim Khalid , O’Reilly Michelle
Published: July 2014

The area of child mental health has a developing evidence base, with much of this focused on outcomes and a growing recognition for the value of process research. Despite this growth, however, there has still been little work conducted on first assessments in spite of their importance in establishing therapeutic rapport and engagement with services. We explore naturally occurring first assessments in a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) to explore the beliefs that children hold regarding their reasons for attendance and the implications this has for the trajectory of the appointment and later engagement with interventions. It was found that when children were asked for their reasons they either offered explanations using diagnostic labels or used lay descriptions, or they claimed to not know the reasons for attending the assessment. This has broader implications regarding the nature and type of information children may require in preparing them for service visits.
The effect of image quality training on reading comprehension of EFL students using the keyword method
Authors: Wang Lihui , Lawson Michael J , Curtis David D
Published: July 2014

Imagery training has been shown to improve reading comprehension. Recent research has also shown that the quality of visual mental imagery used is important for reading comprehension. A review of literature shows that there has been relatively little detailed research on the quality of imagery used by learners, especially in the case of students learning English as a foreign language (EFL). This study was designed to examine the influence of image quality on reading comprehension in EFL students, comparing the effects of training in the use of a focused, constrained imagery relative to that of a more standard form of visual mental imagery training. The study also examined the impact of individual differences such as gender, ability to make images, working memory capacity, and motivational beliefs on the training outcome. The findings provide evidence that constrained imagery strategy training helped EFL learners improve reading comprehension. Female participants showed higher comprehension performance than males. Other individual difference variables did not emerge as having a significant impact on change in reading comprehension performance over time.
Exploring teacher beliefs and classroom practices through reflective practice: A case study
Authors: Farrell Thomas SC , Ives Jessica
Published: July 2014

This article presents a case study that explored and reflected on the relationship between the stated beliefs and observed classroom practices of one second language reading teacher. The findings of this study revealed that this particular teacher holds complex beliefs about teaching reading that were evident to some extent in many of his classroom practices. Additionally, this study found that by articulating and reflecting on his beliefs, the teacher became more aware of the meaning and impact of these beliefs on his classroom practices. Findings from this study correlate with findings from previous studies in first language (L1) reading research that examined the relationship between teacher beliefs and classroom practices. Implications for future research are also discussed.
Ethnic differences in suicide behavior in Singapore
Authors: Mak Kwok-Kei , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Chua Vincent , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: July 2014

This study examined the ethnic differences in stressors, risk, and protective factors among people who attempted suicide in Singapore. A retrospective chart review of 626 attempted suicide cases at a hospital in Singapore between 2004 and 2006 collected information on diagnosis according to DSM-IV-TR criteria. Chi-square tests was used to compare the sociodemographic characteristics, stressors, risk factors, and protective factors among Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnic groups. Logistic regression was used to determine the odds ratios of having two or more stressors, risk factors, or protective factors for the four ethnic groups. Women were more likely than men to attempt suicide, although they also were more likely to have two or more suicide protective factors than men. In general, older people were more likely to have two or more suicide risk factors than the younger groups. Ethnic differences were found in history of psychiatric illnesses and unemployment among the risk factors, and for most of the protective factors, but none of the stressors. Indians were more likely to have two or more protective factors than were Chinese (OR of 7.74, 95% CI [1.04, 8.72]. Future suicide prevention programs should target young adults and strengthen the protective factors among different ethnic groups.
Imaging of skeletal extremity trauma: A review
Authors: Bashir Waseem A , Aziz Akhmid , Jidaal Isman
Published: July 2014

Successful treatment of trauma to the skeletal system begins with accurate diagnosis, which entails the need for a thorough clinical assessment in addition to a well-performed and correctly interpreted radiographic examination. The physician dealing with skeletal trauma should be aware that certain activities (falls, sports, etc.) lead to particular types of limb injury as well as the fact that specific bony injuries can be associated with underlying visceral damage and/or other remote skeletal injuries (e.g. lumbar fractures with calcaneal trauma). Extremity trauma is a vast subject to tackle and this article is but a short synopsis of imaging in skeletal limb injuries in adults for those involved in the care and management of victims of trauma. It is not intended to be an exhaustive atlas of fractures. We have deliberately not discussed management of particular skeletal injuries or complications of fracture repair as this obviously necessitates a surgical rather than purely radiological judgement and is beyond the scope of this current review article.
Places nearby: Facebook as a location-based social media platform
Authors: Wilken Rowan
Published: July 2014

This article examines the growing importance of Facebook as a location-focused platform. Facebook’s approach has been cautious but deliberate. However, following the strategic acquisitions of location-sharing start-ups Gowalla and Glancee, Facebook has ramped up its location-based services: they launched their Nearby feature in December 2012, and adjusted their application programming interface (API) in early 2013 to enable ‘seamless’ location-sharing across third-party applications. These, and more recent acquisitions, are part of ambitious, longer-term moves that reposition Facebook as a local recommendation service (taking on Foursquare and Yelp), and, significantly, establish Facebook as a key local, and increasingly mobile-centred, advertising portal (taking on Google).
Facebook for self-empowerment? A study of Facebook adoption in urban India
Authors: Kumar Neha
Published: July 2014

This article presents an ethnographic study of the adoption and use of Facebook among urban Indian youth from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. Mobile-centric use of the Internet is widely prevalent here as general packet radio service (GPRS)-enabled mobile phones and data plans have become increasingly affordable. Less privileged youth are the lead adopters of these new technologies, and typically the first generation of Internet users, in their communities. My research uncovers their leisure-driven engagement with new media, seen through the lens of Facebook use, and the development-friendly outcomes that result from it. By examining the direct and indirect affordances of Facebook perceived by these youth, this article highlights how they swiftly negotiate social boundaries and technological hurdles, transitioning into legitimate members of a global community.
Multiphysics computational analysis of white-etch cracking failure mode in wind turbine gearbox bearings
Authors: Grujicic M , Ramaswami S , Yavari R , Galgalikar R , Chenna V , Snipes JS
Published: July 2014

Wind energy is currently one of the most promising and the fastest-growing installed alternative-energy production technologies. It is anticipated that by 2030, at least 20% of the US energy needs will be provided by this form of energy. The economics of wind energy require that wind turbines (convertors of wind energy into electrical energy) be able to operate for at least 20 years, with only regular maintenance. Unfortunately, many wind turbines require major repairs after only 3–5 years in service, mainly due to the failure of their gear boxes. It is this lack of gear box reliability which is currently compromising wind energy economics. In the present work, a multiphysics computational methodology has been developed and used to analyze the problem of white-etch cracking, one of the key processes responsible for the premature failure of gearbox roller bearings. The multiphysics methodology includes: (a) quantum-mechanical calculations of the hydrogen dissolution and the accompanying grain boundary embrittlement phenomena; (b) atomistic-level kinetic Monte Carlo analysis of hydrogen diffusion from the crack wake into the adjacent unfractured material; (c) cohesive zone type modeling of the intergranular fracture processes; and (d) a conventional displacement-based finite element analysis of the kinematic and structural response of the bearing under service loading conditions. The results obtained clearly revealed the operation of the white-etch cracking phenomena and their possible interaction with the conventional rolling-contact fatigue damage processes.
Determinants of tourism hotel profitability in Tunisia
Authors: Sami Ben Aissa , Mohamed Goaied
Published: July 2014

This study uses panel regression tests to examine the impact of the economic performance on the financial one. The retained measures for the economic performance and the financial one are, respectively, the operational efficiency score estimated with data envelopment analysis and the return on assets. This investigation leads to four major conclusions. First, the test results confirm that hotel financial performance is linked to its economic performance that is evaluated by its technical efficiency. Second, hotels affiliated to an international chain, hotels operating under a franchise contract, and hotels located in coastal areas or situated in scenic areas present a better financial performance than others. Third, the managers’ high intellectual level positively affects financial performance. However, hotel size and indebtedness have negative impacts. Fourth, hotel financial performance is linked to its contextual factors such as the tourism region attractiveness. Finally, this study ensures the significant impact of national and international crises, such as terrorist attacks on hotel financial performance.
Use of a multiparty web based videoconference support group for family caregivers: Innovative practice
Authors: Austrom Mary Guerriero , Geros Kristin N , Hemmerlein Kimberly , McGuire Siobhan M , Gao Sujuan , Brown Steven A , Callahan Christopher M , Clark Daniel O
Published: July 2014

This article describes a pilot of a weekly web based videoconference support group for five caregivers of persons with dementia. All participants reported positive views of the group and videoconference medium. Improvements in caregiver anxiety, depression, and physical health scores were observed. Depression scores remained the same with difficulties experienced by the caregiver increasing slightly. Self-efficacy for controlling upsetting thoughts and responding to disruptive behavior improved but worsened slightly for obtaining respite. We concluded that web based support was a positive experience for caregivers, providing them with an acceptable, feasible, low-cost technological alternative to in person support that reduced barriers to attendance by being available in homes.
A forsaken and foreclosed utopia: Rousseau and international relations
Authors: Falaky Fayçal
Published: July 2014

In the field of international relations, Rousseau is generally considered an antiutopian and an exponent of the realist tradition. This view is based on his distrust of alliances and peace plans but also on the fact that he never offered any solution to how to lastingly ban war from the international scene. In this article, I argue instead that Rousseau's failure to propose any solutions in international politics lies rather in the utopian nature of his political philosophy. Rousseau intended to find remedies to the question of international law; if he never articulated them, it is, I submit, because the mere discussion of international relations would have undermined the lack of relationality which characterizes his model Republic. By envisioning the ideal state as self-sufficient and isolated (i.e. in the image of the unsociable man in the state of nature), Rousseau renders impractical the aspiration he had of resolving the question of sociability between states.
Underwater explosion research on ship with polymer hull coating
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Hua , Chen Yong , Hua Hong-Xing , Wang Yu
Published: July 2014

A polymer coating applied to the wet surface of a ship’s hull can reduce some types of damage to a ship subjected to a far-field underwater explosion. Results from numerical simulations are compared with full-scale underwater explosion test data for a ship with and without polymer coating to study the effectiveness of such coatings in blast-resistant design. The polymer coating is a thin wall structure applied to the wet surface of the ship hull, while the ship is a relatively large structure. Hence, an effective approximate simulation method for the full-scale ship with polymer coating is developed. Based on the homogenization theory of polymer coating, a continuum model that takes into account the strain rate dependence is introduced. The shock response subjected to underwater explosion of the finite element ship model is investigated. The results obtained from underwater explosion tests and numerical simulation are compared and discussed. The blast-resistant property of polymer coating is elaborated. Mesh sensitivity and the validity of the polymer coating equivalent continuum model are studied.
Machine learning approaches for improving condition-based maintenance of naval propulsion plants
Authors: Coraddu Andrea , Oneto Luca , Ghio Aessandro , Savio Stefano , Anguita Davide , Figari Massimo
Published: July 2014

Availability, reliability and economic sustainability of naval propulsion plants are key elements to cope with because maintenance costs represent a large slice of total operational expenses. Depending on the adopted strategy, impact of maintenance on overall expenses can remarkably vary; for example, letting an asset running up until breakdown can lead to unaffordable costs. As a matter of fact, a desideratum is to progress maintenance technology of ship propulsion systems from breakdown or preventive maintenance up to more effective condition-based maintenance approaches. The central idea in condition-based maintenance is to monitor the propulsion equipment by exploiting heterogeneous sensors, enabling diagnosis and, most of all, prognosis of the propulsion system’s components and of their potential future failures. The success of condition-based maintenance clearly hinges on the capability of developing effective predictive models; for this purpose, effective use of machine learning methods is proposed in this article. In particular, authors take into consideration an application of condition-based maintenance to gas turbines used for vessel propulsion, where the performance and advantages of exploiting machine learning methods in modeling the degradation of the propulsion plant over time are tested. Experiments, conducted on data generated from a sophisticated simulator of a gas turbine, mounted on a Frigate characterized by a COmbined Diesel eLectric And Gas propulsion plant type, will allow to show the effectiveness of the proposed machine learning approaches and to benchmark them in a realistic maritime application.
Online analysis process on Automatic Identification System data warehouse for application in vessel traffic service
Authors: Tsou Ming-Cheng
Published: July 2014

The widespread application of the Automatic Identification System has had a revolutionary impact on navigation technology. In terms of its impact on a vessel traffic service, it provides rich and real-time data on the vessels, which can be used for identification, tracking, and monitoring of vessels. The Automatic Identification System rapidly accumulates large volumes of data, and these data contain a very large number of implicit maritime traffic rules and characteristics, and thus, effective methods are needed to discover the knowledge contained therein. In this research, data warehouse and online analysis process technologies, which are utilized by ordinary business entities for large-quantity business information analysis, are applied to analyze Automatic Identification System information collected through a vessel traffic service. Automatic Identification System raw data collected in a harbor area are used for analysis and post-processing using the geographic information system and database technology, and the processed data with time and space characteristics are stored in an Automatic Identification System data warehouse. In addition, online analysis process technology, the Geographic Information System, and pivot analysis are utilized to perform rapid multidimensional, meaningful high-level information inquiries, analysis of marine traffic characteristics, and rule discovery in marine traffic. These can be used as references for port development planning, traffic forecasting, navigation safety assessment, and making other policy decisions.
Design methodology using topology optimization for anti-vibration reinforcement of generators in a ship’s engine room
Authors: Daifuku Masafumi , Nishizu Takafumi , Takezawa Akihiro , Kitamura Mitsuru , Terashita Haruki , Ohtsuki Yasuaki
Published: July 2014

Structural optimization for reinforcing the anti-vibration characteristics of the generators in the engine room of a ship is presented. To improve the vibration characteristics of the structures, topology optimization methods can be effective because they can optimize the fundamental characteristics of the structure with their ability to change the topology of the target structure. Topology optimization is used to improve the characteristics of the anti-vibration reinforcement of the generators in the engine room. First, an experimentally observed vibration phenomenon is simulated using the finite element method for frequency response problems. Next, the objective function used in topology optimization is set as the dynamic work done by the load based on the energy equilibrium of the structural vibration. The optimization problem is then constructed by adding the volume constraint. Finally, based on finite element analysis and the optimization problem, topology optimization is performed on several vibration cases to improve their performance and reduce weight.
Measurements of abatement of particles and exhaust gases in a marine gas scrubber
Authors: Fridell Erik , Salo Kent
Published: July 2014

Measurements of exhaust gases from a marine engine equipped with an open-loop wet scrubber using seawater for sulphur dioxide (SO2) abatement are reported. The scrubber reduces the SO2 emissions effectively to levels corresponding to <0.1% S in the fuel (the level that applies to sulphur emission control areas from 2015). The scrubber also reduces the emissions of particulate matter by mass by 75%. The impact on the number of particles is studied for the total particle number and the solid fraction. The total number of particles is reduced by about 92% and the solid fraction by 48% in the scrubber indicating most effective abatement of volatile particles. Also, the content of polycyclic aromatic compounds in the exhaust is significantly reduced by the scrubber. The captured SO2 gives a low pH and high sulphate content in the scrubber water. The reduction in particulate matter is of the same order as what is obtained with a fuel switch from heavy fuel oil to marine gas oil.
Community Health Workers as an Integral Strategy in the REACH U.S. Program to Eliminate Health Inequities
Authors: Cosgrove Shannon , Moore-Monroy Martha , Jenkins Carolyn , Castillo Sheila R. , Williams Charles , Parris Erlinda , Tran Jacqueline H. , Rivera Mark D. , Brownstein J. Nell
Published: July 2014

Mounting evidence indicates that community health workers (CHWs) contribute to improved behavioral and health outcomes and reductions in health disparities. We provide an overview (based on grantee reports and community action plans) that describe CHW contributions to 22 Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) programs funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2007 to 2012, offering additional evidence of their contributions to the effectiveness of community public health programs. We then highlight how CHWs helped deliver REACH U.S. community interventions to meet differing needs across communities to bridge the gap between health care services and community members, build community and individual capacity to plan and implement interventions addressing multiple chronic health conditions, and meet community needs in a culturally appropriate manner. The experience, skills, and success gained by CHWs participating in the REACH U.S. program have fostered important individual community-level changes geared to increase health equity. Finally, we underscore the importance of CHWs being embedded within these communities and the flexibility they offer to intervention strategies, both of which are characteristics critical to meeting needs of communities experiencing health disparities. CHWs served a vital role in facilitating and leading changes and will continue to do so.
The Development of a Brief Jail-Based Cervical Health Promotion Intervention
Authors: Ramaswamy Megha , Simmons Rebekah , Kelly Patricia J.
Published: July 2014

The primary objective of this article was to describe the development and pilot implementation of a brief jail-based cervical health promotion intervention. The intervention was guided by a preliminary study of incarcerated women’s cervical health knowledge, awareness, and health literacy, as well as a social and feminist approach to intervention development. We developed and conducted a pilot implementation of the Sexual Health Empowerment Project to increase cervical health knowledge, reduce barriers related to beliefs about cervical cancer, and improve self-efficacy and confidence in navigating health systems. This article offers a framework for how empirically and theory-based interventions are developed and tailored for a jail setting. Future work should include the evaluation of the long-term effects of such a disease-specific program on health behaviors and outcomes among high-risk and vulnerable groups of women as they leave jails and enter communities.
Variation in the BDNF Gene Interacts With Age to Predict Mortality in a Prospective, Longitudinal Cohort with Severe TBI
Authors: Failla Michelle D. , Kumar Raj G. , Peitzman Andrew B. , Conley Yvette P. , Ferrell Robert E. , Wagner Amy K.
Published: July 2014

Background. Mortality predictions following traumatic brain injury (TBI), and our understanding of TBI pathology, may be improved by including genetic risk in addition to traditional prognostic variables. One promising target is the gene coding for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a ubiquitous neurotrophin important for neuronal survival and neurogenesis. Objective. We hypothesized the addition of BDNF genetic variation would improve mortality prediction models and that BDNF Met-carriers (rs6265) and C-carriers (rs7124442) would have the highest mortality rates post-TBI. Methods. This study examined BDNF functional single nucleotide polymorphisms rs6265 (val66met) and rs7124442 (T>C) in relation to mortality in a prospective, longitudinal cohort with severe TBI. We examined 315 individuals receiving care for a closed head injury within the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, aged 16 to 74 years. Mortality was examined acutely (0-7 days postinjury) and postacutely (8-365 days postinjury). A gene risk score (GRS) was developed to examine both BDNF loci. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios for survivability post-TBI while controlling for covariates. Results. BDNF GRS was significantly associated with acute mortality, regardless of age. Interestingly, subjects in the hypothesized no-risk allele group had the lowest survival probability. Postacutely, BDNF-GRS interacted with age such that younger participants in the no-risk group had the highest survival probability, while older participants in the hypothesized no-risk group had the lowest probability of survival. Conclusions. These data suggest complex relationships between BDNF and TBI mortality that interact with age to influence survival predictions beyond clinical variables alone. Evidence supporting dynamic, temporal balances of pro-survival/pro-apoptotic target receptors may explain injury and age-related gene associations.
The impact of governance on the performance of the higher education sector in Australia
Authors: De Silva Lokuwaduge Chitra , Armstrong Anona
Published: July 2014

Australian government concern for improved governance in the higher education sector over recent years has driven the implementation of governance protocols. However, there has been little evidence of any evaluation of the impact of the governance structures on the performance of universities. This paper presents an analysis of the impact of the governance structures on performance in government-funded universities since the Australian National Governance Protocols were introduced in 2004. The methodology involved analysing the relationships between indices of governance structures namely board size, board independence and board committees, and financial, research and teaching performances. Results showed that the board size did not relate to financial, research or teaching performance in any way. In terms of board independence, the more independent the boards, the less impact they had on both research and teaching performances. Financial performances were not impacted. This finding may suggest that boards dominated by internal members rather than independent ones could have a better influence on teaching and research performances. While stronger board committees positively impacted financial and research performances, this was not the case for teaching performance. Board committees showed a negative relationship with teaching performance, suggesting that excessive monitoring may negatively influence teaching quality.