bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Job Satisfaction—Job Performance Relationship Vary Across Cultures?
Authors: Ng Thomas W. H. , Sorensen Kelly L. , Yim Frederick H. K.
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this study is to examine whether culture moderates the relationship between job satisfaction and job performance. Multiple theoretical frameworks regarding culture are used as the theoretical guide. Based on meta-analytical moderator tests, the authors find some support for their hypotheses that the effect size for the job satisfaction—job performance relationship is likely to be stronger in individualistic (vs. collectivistic) cultures, in low-power-distance (vs. high-power-distance) cultures, in low-uncertainty-avoidance (vs. high-uncertainty-avoidance) cultures, and in masculine (vs. feminine) cultures. They also observe stronger evidence of these effects for task performance than for contextual performance. Implications for theory, practice, and future research are discussed.
Sociocultural Influences on German and Turkish Immigrant Mothers’ Long-Term Socialization Goals
Authors: Durgel Elif S. , Leyendecker Birgit , Yagmurlu Bilge , Harwood Robin
Published: June 2009

The major aims of this study were (a) to investigate the differences and similarities in long-term socialization goals of German mothers and Turkish immigrant mothers living in Germany and (b) to examine socialization goals of Turkish immigrant mothers in relation to their acculturation attitudes. Participants were composed of 79 Turkish mothers who were either raised in Germany or migrated to Germany and 91 German mothers of preschoolers living in Germany. Turkish immigrant mothers were more likely to expect their children to have close relations with the family and to be well-mannered and they were less likely to value autonomy than were German mothers. Turkish mothers who were more integrated into German culture were found to value individualistic goals such as self-control more than Turkish mothers who were more separated from the German culture, yet both groups valued mutual support within the family very highly. The findings reveal that socialization goal patterns of Turkish immigrant mothers represent the pattern depicted in the psychological interdependence model proposed by Kagitcibasi (2007).
Helping Strangers Is Lower in Embedded Cultures
Authors: Knafo Ariel , Schwartz Shalom H. , Levine Robert V.
Published: June 2009

The embeddedness cultural value orientation regards the extended in-group, not the individual, as the key social unit. Embedded cultures focus on the welfare of the in-group, limiting concern for outsiders’ well-being. Therefore, the authors hypothesized that people in high-embeddedness cultures are less helpful to strangers in need. They related countries’ embeddedness scores to rates of helping strangers in three field experiments across 21 countries. Large cross-national differences in helping strangers related strongly and negatively to cultural embeddedness in subsets of wealthy and developing countries. This suggests that prevailing cultural values affect the way people relate to needy others outside their in-group.
Burnout, Perceived Stress, and Resources Among Educated, Working Jews and Moslem Arabs in Israel
Authors: Liat Kulik
Published: June 2009

This study deals with differences in levels of burnout and in the variables that explain it (perceived stress, personal resources, and social resources) among 109 Jews and 122 Moslem Arabs belonging to dual-earner families in Israel. Levels of burnout and variables that explain it are similar for the Jews and Moslem Arabs. The variables that most significantly explain levels of burnout in the two sociocultural contexts are hardiness, perceived stress, and gender.
Rollo May’s Critical Position in Psychology
Authors: De Castro Alberto
Published: June 2009

In this article, the author refers to Rollo May’s critical position in psychology regarding the need of comprehending human experiences before explaining them. The author also shows how this position helps clarify the existential foundations theorists can use to understand both dysfunctional experiences and the constructive and healthy development of human potential. Furthermore, to be consistent with this perspective on human beings, the author offers an explanation pertinent to the existential foundations of psychotherapy generally. As a rule, to comprehend a person properly, we should start by grasping and clarifying the intentions, lived meaning, and values that a person tries to affirm or preserve in and through each daily experience. After we have clarified those aspects of the experience, we can then appropriately concern ourselves with searching for the causes of the experience by relating it to a theoretical standpoint.
Licensure Tests for Special Education Teachers
Authors: Stotsky Sandra
Published: June 2009

To determine the extent to which knowledge of evidence-based reading instruction and mathematics is assessed on licensure tests for prospective special education teachers, this study drew on information provided by Educational Testing Service (ETS), the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, and National Evaluation Systems (now Evaluation Systems group of Pearson). It estimated the percentage of test items on phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary knowledge and on mathematics content. It also analyzed descriptions of ETS’s tests of “principles of teaching and learning.” Findings imply that prospective special education teachers should be required to take both a dedicated test of evidence-based reading instructional knowledge, as in California, Massachusetts, and Virginia, and a test of mathematical knowledge, as in Massachusetts. States must design their own tests of teaching principles to assess knowledge of evidence-based educational theories.
Tracing the Effects of Hurricane Katrina on the Population of New Orleans
Authors: Sastry Narayan
Published: June 2009

The Displaced New Orleans Residents Pilot Study is designed to examine the current location, well-being, and plans of people who lived in the city of New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina struck on August 29, 2005. The study is based on a representative sample of pre-Katrina dwellings in the city. Respondents were administered a short paper-and-pencil interview by mail, by telephone, or in person. The pilot study was fielded in the fall of 2006, approximately 1 year after Hurricane Katrina. This article describes the motivation for the pilot study, outlines its design, and describes the fieldwork results using a set of fieldwork outcome rates and multivariate logistic models. It ends with a discussion of the lessons learned from the pilot study for future studies of the effects of Hurricane Katrina on the population of New Orleans. The results point to the challenges and opportunities of studying this unique population.
“Aren’t We Proud of Our Language?”
Authors: King Ruth , Wicks Jennifer
Published: June 2009

This article involves an analysis of a television commercial set in rural Newfoundland, Canada in which the main actor’s performance of Vernacular Newfoundland English is accompanied by subtitles consisting of ostensibly humorous nonparallelisms rendered in Standard English. The discursive strategy employed by the ad’s creators, of highlighting difference, “others” the character and by extension actual speakers of the local variety. The appearance of the commercial on national television resulted in intense debate, particularly in Newfoundland and to some extent in mainland Canada. A video parody responding to the original commercial and an online discussion of the issues on a variety of Web sites are also analyzed. The debate focuses on (in)authenticity (in particular, on who has the right to perform the vernacular) and on the commodification of regional language and culture in media representations.
Pharmacological Aspects and Potential New Clinical Applications of Ketamine: Reevaluation of an Old Drug
Authors: Aroni Filippia , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Dontas Ismene , Pourzitaki Chryssa , Xanthos Theodoros
Published: June 2009

Ketamine, the phencyclidine derivative described in 1965, is an intravenous anesthetic with a variety of applications. The enthusiasm following its initial release subsided due to side effects from the central nervous system. New anesthetics limited the role of ketamine in anesthetic practice. However, its hemodynamically stable profile, along with its beneficial respiratory properties and analgesic potency, rendered the drug invaluable in battlefield medicine, sedation of the uncooperative child, analgesia, and sedation in burn units. Reevaluation, though, of analgesic properties of ketamine resulted in new interest regarding its use in perioperative and chronic pain management. Moreover, recent studies in the effects of the substance on intracranial pressure and cerebral blood flow led to revising the recommendation against its use in brain injury. Furthermore, the bronchodilating effects of the substance led to increasing interest for potential use in asthma treatment. In addition, separation of the 2 enantiomers and subsequent separate studies indicated beneficial results of the S(+) one. Thus, new controlled multicentered clinical trials are to be conducted to justify approval for new uses of ketamine and take advantage of its unique range of applications.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analyses to Evaluate the Influence of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors on Exposure of Prasugrel Active Metabolite in TRITON‐TIMI 38
Authors: Wrishko Rebecca E. , Ernest C. Steven , Small David S. , Li Ying G. , Weerakkody Govinda J. , Riesmeyer Jeffrey R. , Macias William L. , Rohatagi Shashank , Salazar Daniel E. , Antman Elliott M. , Wiviott Stephen D. , Braunwald Eugene , Ni Lan
Published: June 2009

Serial pharmacokinetic (PK) sampling in 1159 patients from TRITON‐TIMI 38 was undertaken. A multilinear regression model was used to quantitatively predict prasugrel's active metabolite (Pras‐AM) concentrations from its 2 downstream inactive metabolites. Population‐based methods were then applied to Pras‐AM concentration data to characterize the PK. The potential influence of body weight, body mass index, age, sex, renal function, diabetes, tobacco use, and other disease status on Bayesian estimates of Pras‐AM exposures was assessed. The PK of Pras‐AM was adequately described by a multicompartmental model and consistent with results from previous studies. The systemic exposure of prasugrel was not appreciably affected by body mass index, gender, diabetes, smoking, and renal impairment. Pras‐AM mean exposure in patients weighing <60 kg (4.1%) was 30% (90% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–1.45) higher than exposure in patients ≥60 kg. Mean Pras‐AM exposures for patients ≥75 years (10.5%) were 19% (90% CI: 1.11–1.28) higher compared with patients <75 years.
An accessible electrical impedance tomograph for 3D imaging
Authors: Grieve B.D. , Murphy S. , Burnett-Thompson A. , York T.A.
Published: June 2009

A new electrical tomograph that is designed specifically for low-cost and accessibility is described. It offers a unique environment for three-dimensional (3D) electrical impedance imaging. Using a cross-bar switch, the hardware can support ad hoc measurement strategies and is linked to control software, which integrates the complete process from 3D finite element modelling through to image reconstruction and generation of movie files. Digital signal processing algorithms are used to derive measurements of complex impedance from the measurement of amplitude and phase difference between the driven and received signals. This is achieved by rapid sampling of sinusoidal signals having frequencies between 1.0 Hz and 1.0 MHz. The instrument can deliver about 100 measurements per second, corresponding to a typical 16-electrode tomography frame, and is targeted at processes with modest dynamics or for laboratory development of tomographic applications and algorithms. The latest version (LCT2) is described here and uses a USB2 link to provide data transfer rates up to 20 MBytes per second. Sinusoidal excitation signals are derived using a direct digital synthesis chip. Voltage measurements are digitized to 16-bit accuracy and the standard system can accommodate 64 electrodes. The software embraces the EIDORS-3D soft-field reconstruction algorithms and the resulting impedance imaging capability of the device and characterization of the signals are described.
Embodied Interventions—Interventions on Bodies: Experiments in Practices of Science and Technology Studies and Hemophilia Care
Authors: Zuiderent-Jerak Teun
Published: June 2009

Science and technology studies (STS) analyses of emerging forms of treatment often result in the detailed display of complexities and at times lead to explicit critiques of particular healthcare practices. Simultaneously, there seems to be an increasing interest in exploring more experimental engagements by STS researchers in the proactive construction of such practices. In this article, I explore the relevance of experimental interventions in health care practices for both these care practices and for issues of the normativity of STS research. By analyzing my involvement in changes in the practice of hemophilia home treatment, I indicate how this care practice was reconfigured, partly by drawing on STS insights on the issue of compliance. I also claim that experimenting with forms of ‘‘artful contamination’’ allow STS researchers to do normativity in the practices they engage with. Such practices of interventionist STS research may be of value for refiguring debates in which constructivism has been accused of being normatively deficient. This may make interventionist STS research a fruitfully risky business.
Confronting the WTO: Intervention Strategies in GMO Adjudication
Authors: Halfon Saul
Published: June 2009

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has been the target of social justice activists since its inception in 1994, with many seeking to reshape or rescind the WTO agreements. This article instead explores possible interventions into WTO adjudication by compelling the reinterpretation of existing WTO documents. Such an approach can take several forms: mobilizing professional expertise, engaging technical standards, and constructing companion regimes. Using the recent United States/European Community genetically modified organisms (GMO) case as a reference point, this article explores opportunities for implementing the last two strategies. The Codex Alimentarius, an international food standards regime, seems to provide a particularly promising location for reconstructing WTO risk and governance procedures. The Cartagena Biosafety Protocol, an international environmental regime, deeply challenges narrow readings of WTO texts but may not have enough legal force in the WTO. These alternative locations for intervention hold promise and risks for activists seeking international justice in environment, food, and trade.
The prevalence of depression in hereditary spastic paraplegia
Authors: Vahter L. , Braschinsky M. , Haldre S. , Gross-Paju K.
Published: June 2009

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of depression and sensitivity and specificity of the single-item interview ‘Are you depressed?’ for people with hereditary spastic paraplegia in Estonia.

Design: Single-item interview ‘Are you depressed?’ was used as a screening question for depression; all participants then completed the Beck Depression Inventory.

Setting: People with hereditary spastic paraplegia identified from the epidemiological database who agreed to participate in the study.

Main measures: Beck Depression Inventory, clinical interview.

Results: The epidemiological database consisted of 59 patients with clinically confirmed diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia. Forty-eight of these consented to participate in the study. The Beck Depression Inventory score was higher than cut-off point in 58% (28/48) and lower in 42% (20/48). Of the study group, 44% (21/48) had mild, 13% (6/48) moderate and one person revealed severe depression. There was a statistically significant correlation between Beck Depression Inventory score and level of mobility; no other significant correlations with other measures were detected. Of the participants, 54% (26/48) had subjective complaints about depression and answered ‘Yes’ to the single-item interview ‘Are you depressed?’. The sensitivity of the one-item interview in the hereditary spastic paraplegia group was 75% and specificity 75%.

Conclusions: Our results show that mild depression is prevalent among people with hereditary spastic paraplegia. Although the single question may be helpful, it cannot be relied upon entirely when assessing a person for depression.
Friction-Induced Velocity Fields for Point Parts Sliding on a Rigid Oscillated Plate
Authors: Vose Thomas H. , Umbanhowar Paul , Lynch Kevin M.
Published: June 2009

We show that small-amplitude periodic motion of a rigid plate causes point parts in frictional contact with the plate to move as if they are in a position-dependent velocity field. Further, we prove that every periodic plate motion maps to a unique velocity field. By allowing a plate to oscillate with six degrees of freedom, we can create a large family of programmable velocity fields. We examine in detail the class of plate motions described by sinusoidal linear and angular accelerations with a single frequency. We hypothesize that this simple class can generate all velocity fields that have constant and linear terms with respect to position, as well as some quadratic fields with respect to position. This set includes fields with isolated sinks and squeeze lines that can be used to perform tasks such as sensorless part orientation. Several of these fields have been verified on our programmable parts-feeding oscillatory device (PPOD). The PPOD is a parallel manipulator similar to a Stewart platform, but with flexures as joints. An iterative learning control algorithm is described that moves the platform with the six-degree-of-freedom periodic motion that creates the desired velocity field.
Planning and Control of Ensembles of Robots with Non-holonomic Constraints
Authors: Michael Nathan , Kumar Vijay
Published: June 2009

In this paper we focus on the construction of distributed formation control laws that permit the control of individual mobile robots in a formation to a desired distribution with minimal knowledge of the global state. As in previous work, we consider an abstraction of the team that is derived from a shape descriptor of the ensemble and the position and orientation of the ensemble. We consider the control of the abstract state with decentralized control laws which are independent of the number of agents. However, we incorporate an important departure from previous work by explicitly modeling the shape of the robot, the geometric, non-interpenetration constraints and non-holonomic, kinematic constraints. Further, we propose a motion planning technique to plan motions for ensembles of robots. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithms on a team of differential drive robots in simulation and on real hardware.
Probabilistic Models of Object Geometry with Application to Grasping
Authors: Glover Jared , Rus Daniela , Roy Nicholas
Published: June 2009

Robot manipulators typically rely on complete knowledge of object geometry in order to plan motions and compute grasps. However, when an object is not fully in view it can be difficult to form an accurate estimate of the object's shape and pose, particularly when the object deforms. In this paper we describe a generative model of object geometry based on Mardia and Dryden's “Probabilistic Procrustean Shape”, which captures both non-rigid deformations and object variability in a class. We extend their shape model to the setting where point correspondences are unknown using Scott and Nowak's COPAP framework. We use this model to recognize objects in a cluttered image and to infer their complete two-dimensional boundaries with a novel algorithm called OSIRIS. We show examples of learned models from image data and demonstrate how the models can be used by a manipulation planner to grasp objects in cluttered visual scenes.
A systematic inventory of motives for becoming an orchestra conductor: a preliminary study
Authors: Makris Ioannis , Mullet Etienne
Published: June 2009

The study examined the various motives (reasons) that may have led an individual to become an orchestra conductor interpreting classical works, using Apter’s (2001) Metamotivational Theory framework. Questionnaires derived from the theory, consisting of 92 possible motives for becoming an orchestra conductor, were presented to 101 orchestra conductors. Data were analysed through confirmatory factor techniques. An eight-factor motivational structure reflecting eight of the dimensions suggested by Apter’s theory was evidenced. The motives most strongly evoked were the ones linked with emotion and emotional needs: making the audience feel the same strong emotions; feeling in communion with one’s orchestra, on the one hand; and experiencing uncommon events in a permanently challenging way and, as a result, experiencing intense joy, on the other. In addition, clearly endorsed motives included being able to perform one’s own interpretations of the classical works and, more generally, considering oneself as a maestro, a link to the great tradition of senior conductors interpreting classical music.
Preparing for memorized cello performance: the role of performance cues
Authors: Chaffin Roger , Lisboa Tânia , Logan Topher , Begosh Kristen T.
Published: June 2009

An experienced cello soloist recorded her practice as she learned and memorized the Prelude from J.S. Bach’s Suite No. 6 for solo cello and gave 10 public performances over a period of more than three years. She described the musical structure, decisions about basic technique (e.g., bowing), interpretation (e.g., dynamics), and five kinds of performance cues she attended to during performance (expressive, interpretive, intonation, and basic technique separately for left and right hand). The 38 hours of practice provide the most comprehensive empirical account to date of preparation of a new piece of music for performance. The cellist repeatedly took the piece apart section-by-section and then re-integrated the sections into practice performances in each of five stages: exploration, smoothing out, listening, reworking and preparation for performance. The location of starts, stops and repetitions identified the changing focus of practice in each stage. The cellist organized her practice around the musical structure, developed interpretation before working on technique and practised memory retrieval at each stage. When she wrote out the score from memory, better recall of expressive and structural performance cues showed that they served as landmarks in a hierarchical memory retrieval organization.
From death metal to R&B? Consistency of music preferences among Dutch adolescents and young adults
Authors: Mulder Juul , Ter Bogt Tom F.M. , Raaijmakers Quinten A.W. , Nic Gabhainn Saoirse , Sikkema Paul
Published: June 2009

The structure of music preferences has been investigated extensively. However, development of music preferences in terms of consistency of music taste is as yet understudied. In this study, intra-individual consistency of music taste was assessed among Dutch adolescents and young adults over three points in time in a 21-month period. An internet-based panel of 236 participants was asked to list their top three favourite artists or bands, and to rate their preferences for a range of music genres. Genre ratings were grouped into five styles: pop, urban, elite, rock and dance, using factor analysis. Thus there were three measures of music taste for each participant over time: favourite artists, preference for musical genres and styles. Findings indicated that favourite artists tended to have a high turnover rate, that genres were rated relatively consistently with moderate to high q-correlations (between .41 and .67), and that style preferences were highly consistent (q-correlations between .77 and .86). Differences in consistency over time across gender and educational level were not substantive, but age was positively related to music taste consistency. It is concluded that music taste is already well developed in early adolescence, and crystallizes further during late adolescence and early adulthood.
Perceptions and predictions of expertise in advanced musical learners
Authors: Papageorgi Ioulia , Creech Andrea , Haddon Elizabeth , Morton Frances , De Bezenac Christophe , Himonides Evangelos , Potter John , Duffy Celia , Whyton Tony , Welch Graham
Published: June 2009

The aim of this article was to compare musicians’ views on (a) the importance of musical skills and (b) the nature of expertise. Data were obtained from a specially devised web-based questionnaire completed by advanced musicians representing four musical genres (classical, popular, jazz, Scottish traditional) and varying degrees of professional musical experience (tertiary education music students, portfolio career musicians). Comparisons were made across musical genres (classical vs. other-than-classical), gender, age and professional status (student musicians vs. portfolio career musicians). Musicians’ ‘ideal’ versus ‘perceived’ levels of musical skills and expertise were also compared and factors predicting musicians’ self-reported level of skills and expertise were investigated. Findings suggest that the perception of expertise in advanced musical learners is a complex phenomenon that relates to each of four key variables (gender, age, musical genre and professional experience). The study also shows that discrepancies between advanced musicians’ ideal and self-assessed levels of musical skills and expertise are closely related to gender and professional experience. Finally, characteristics that predict and account for variability in musicians’ views and attitudes regarding musical expertise and self-assessments of personal expertise levels are highlighted. Results are viewed in the context of music learning and implications for music education are discussed.
Perceptions and Coping With Punishment
Authors: Tewksbury Richard , Zgoba Kristen M.
Published: June 2009

This study examines how registered sex offenders (RSOs) experience, respond to, and attribute stress regarding sex offender registration and notification process and policies. In addition, the frequency and reasons for Internet access is assessed, with a focus on how new legislation in New Jersey (P.L. 2007, C.219) limits or blocks such access. Drawing on survey data from a random sample of 1,000 RSOs in New Jersey, responses from 107 RSOs show significant levels of stress, significant losses due to restrictions on Internet access, and coping methods associated with higher and lower stress levels. The most significant loss reported by the sample related to employment search difficulties. Factors associated with increased levels of stress include using self-distraction for coping and not accepting the situation. Surprisingly, being forced to move because of financial reasons is associated with lower levels of stress.
Of care and commodities: breast milk and the new politics of mobile biosubstances
Authors: Boyer Kate
Published: June 2009

Advances in lactation technology in recent years have changed the ontological status of breast milk, giving it new-found mobility. This paper considers the contested meanings over breast milk’s ‘proper place’ in US and UK society. By synthesizing scholarship from geography, gender studies and science and technology studies, I use the case of mobile breast milk to propose a new framework for how geographers might conceptualize mobile biosubstances. Drawing on the work of Waldby and Mitchell (2006), I suggest that the ways in which breast milk now travels reflect how mobile biosubstances increasingly function as a hybrid form, drawing together elements of both gift-exchanges and commodity-exchanges.
The Docking Technique for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Ahmad Christopher S. , Brown Gabriel D. , Stein Beth Shubin
Published: June 2009

Background

Current techniques of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction vary with respect to methods of fixation on the femur and the patella. This article presents the outcomes of a surgical technique for reconstruction of the MPFL that uses a soft tissue graft with interference screw fixation on the femur and a docking technique for fixation on the patella.

Hypothesis

Patients with patellar instability who are treated with the docking technique for MPFL reconstruction will have improvements in knee symptoms and function, with a high percentage achieving good to excellent results at early follow-up.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Twenty consecutive patients with patellar instability underwent reconstruction of the MPFL. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively by physical and radiographic examination and subjectively with the IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee), Tegner, Kujala, and Lysholm questionnaires. Nineteen patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively.

Results

The average follow-up was 31 months (range, 24–39). No recurrent episodes of dislocation or subluxation were reported. A firm endpoint to lateral patellar translation was noted in all patients at most recent follow-up. The IKDC subjective knee evaluation score improved from 42 preoperatively to 82 postoperatively ( P< .001); Kujala, from 50 to 88 ( P< .001); Lysholm, from 50 to 89 ( P< .001); and Tegner, from 3.6 to 5.6 ( P< .001).

Conclusion

The docking technique for MPFL reconstruction is an effective surgical procedure for the treatment of patellar instability.
Current Concepts in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Ankle
Authors: O'Loughlin Padhraig F. , Heyworth Benton E. , Kennedy John G.
Published: June 2009

Osteochondral lesions of the ankle are a more common source of ankle pain than previously recognized. Although the exact pathophysiology of the condition has not been clearly established, it is likely that a variety of etiological factors play a role, with trauma, typically from ankle sprains, being the most common. Technological advancements in ankle arthroscopy and radiologic imaging, most importantly magnetic resonance imaging, have improved diagnostic capabilities for detecting osteochondral lesions of the ankle. Moreover, these technologies have allowed for the development of more sophisticated classification systems that may, in due course, direct specific future treatment strategies. Nonoperative treatment yields best results when employed in select pediatric and adolescent patients with osteochondritis dissecans. However, operative treatment, which is dependent on the size and site of the lesion, as well as the presence or absence of cartilage damage, is frequently warranted in both children and adults with osteochondral lesions. Arthroscopic microdrilling, micropicking, and open procedures, such as osteochondral autograft transfer system and matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation, are frequently employed. The purpose of this article is to review the history, etiology, and classification systems for osteochondral lesions of the ankle, as well as to describe current approaches to diagnosis and management.
Moving Governance Research Forward: A Contingency-Based Framework and Data Application
Authors: Ostrower Francie , Stone Melissa M.
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this article is to present an initial framework for understanding nonprofit board governance and then, using findings from the Urban Institute National Survey of Nonprofit Governance, explore relationships between variables presented in the framework. The framework is based on a recent review of the literature and highlights the ways in which internal organizational characteristics, board attributes, and the external environment influence board roles and responsibilities. In brief, our results confirm the importance of developing a more systematic body of knowledge about relationships between specific elements of context and board practices. The results suggest that the proposed contingency-based framework is a useful beginning point for future research.
The Emerging Role of Nonprofit Associations in Advocacy and Public Policy: Trends, Issues, and Prospects
Authors: Balassiano Katia , Chandler Susan M.
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this article is to review the emerging role and development of state and national associations of nonprofit organizations. The question this article explores is, “Do these associations increase the role of nonprofits in advocacy and participation in community decision making, and if so, to what degree do they help the sector exert influence in the public policy arena?” Many nonprofit organizations in America are now joining state and national associations that specifically focus on building organizational capacity and training in policy advocacy. During the past decade, these associations have grown not only in number but also in strength, and now provide platforms for their members to collectively influence public policies at the local, state, and national levels. This article examines the roles and levels of advocacy and public policy by the National Association of Nonprofit Organizations (NCNA) and a few statewide nonprofit associations ranked by NCNA as “high performers.”
A twenty-first century Citizens’ POLIS: introducing a democratic experiment in electronic citizen participation in science and technology decision-making
Authors: Williams Simon N.
Published: June 2009

Related to ongoing debates concerning the future of “deliberative democracy” and “public sociology,” this article introduces a new approach to citizen participation in science and technology decision-making. The Citizens’ POLIS (Participatory On-Line Interactive System) is a multi-method, multi-stage, semi-structured, electronic public participation process. This pragmatic experiment is influenced by the philosophy of John Dewey and James Bohman, and sees the citizen as the primary democratic inquirer and the social scientist as the key organizer and creator of the “institutional space for deliberation.” This article discusses the role of the social scientist in organizing an electronic participation experiment, one which seeks to reach a compromise between democratic legitimacy and political effectiveness. A recently completed pilot study on “Mobile Phones, Risk and Health” is used to illustrate the approach. In conclusion, the need for further empirical experimentation with this, and other processes for electronic citizen participation, is asserted.
Analyzing acceptance politics: Towards an epistemological shift in the public understanding of science and technology
Authors: Barben Daniel
Published: June 2009

Reviewing the main research approaches on the acceptance of science and technology (S&T) developed in the last decades, I will (1) summarize advances achieved and persisting problems concerning the understanding of both the public and S&T. I will show that the acceptance-centered framework has, at least implicitly, been linked to practical efforts in acceptance politics, i.e., attempts to improve a lack of acceptance. In order to investigate conflicts relating to S&T in a more reflective way, I will (2) suggest an epistemological shift towards the analysis of acceptance politics. Building on the distinction between the relevance and resonance of S&T, the ways in which S&T are valuated and gain legitimacy are investigated from a regime analytical perspective. I will (3) exemplify the advantages of this approach by comparatively analyzing the acceptance politics of three biotechnology applications in the USA and Germany. I will (4) conclude with an outlook on future research.
Biobanking, public consultation, and the discursive logics of deliberation: Five lessons from British Columbia
Authors: Walmsley Heather
Published: June 2009

Genomics-related “deliberative” public consultations are all the rage. Drawing from theories of deliberative democracy, run by social scientists, governments and non-profit organizations globally, these events can produce valuable insights and governance solutions. There is a danger, however, of “deliberation” being viewed by its new practitioners as a homogenous “tool” due to a marked lack of analysis of the discursive processes at play. This paper addresses this gap, employing the discourse theory of Laclau to analyze small and large group deliberation at a public consultation on biobanking in British Columbia (BC), Canada, during 2007. Ethnographic and transcript analysis reveals small group deliberation to be a two-stage process, operating according to two different discursive logics. The paper concludes with five lessons for theorists and practitioners of deliberative public engagement with science.
Out of the laboratory and into the knowledge economy: A context for the evolution of New Zealand science centres
Authors: Hodder Peter
Published: June 2009

The establishment of science centres in New Zealand coincided with reforms of the way scientific research was conducted and funded and a low-point in career prospects for scientists. For political and financial reasons, most New Zealand science centres sacrificed their independence and became associated with museums and now receive much of their funding through local authorities. This could have assisted in their promotion of the public understanding of science; but the availability of educational funding through a “Learning Experiences Outside the Classroom” scheme motivated the development of educationally oriented programmes targeted to school-children. Despite this emphasis, there is no firm evidence that the centres have had any influence in increasing the popularity of science within education. Moreover, the centres have become perceived predominantly as places for children. International trends suggest that regaining the adult audience might be possible through greater emphasis on scientific research outcomes and their social and economic implications, rather than interactive exhibits portraying scientific principles through idealized and simplified laboratory experiments. In New Zealand, the popularity of science festivals — initiated a few years ago — and the recent growth of café scientifiques, offer promise in this direction. Additional funding for these and research-based exhibitions might yet come from a component of research grants being required to be spent on the promotion of research to the public.
Emerging Concept of Internationalisation in South African Higher Education: Conversations on Local and Global Exposure at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Authors: Cross Michael , Mhlanga Ehpraim , Ojo Emmanuel
Published: June 2009

Rather than paying attention to the specific approaches emerging from different contexts, current debates tend to privilege Western-universalizing concepts of internationalisation, unproblematically accepted as globally established truths. In South Africa, where the legacy of isolation and the dominance of Eurocentricism in academia have inspired considerable scepticism regarding internationalisation, the challenge is to find innovative approaches that account for its specific context. This article responds to this challenge by examining the emerging concept of internationalisation at Wits. It does so with reference to three questions: What conceptions inform the internationalisation practice at Wits? Does Wits have appropriate strategies in place to promote internationalisation? How do these match its particular circumstances?
Science Policy and the Internationalisation of Research in Portugal
Authors: Patricio Maria Teresa
Published: June 2009

This article will examine Portuguese and European science and higher education policies and their impact on international collaborations. It will do so by looking at two key indicators: international academic mobility and the coauthored international scientific publications. The data show Portugal as an attractive country for foreign students and the increasing participation of Portuguese undergraduates in exchange programmes. The increase in the number of new PhDs in the last decade has been accompanied by an international academic experience. The analysis of international publications (Thomson Scientific) over a 25-year period show that Portugal is one of the most collaborative countries in Europe and that the highest rate of collaboration is now occurring with Spain.
What Types of Designs are We Using in Social Work Research and Evaluation?
Authors: Holosko Michael J.
Published: June 2009

This article addresses a void in the literature about social work research and evaluation (R&E) designs, in particular related to the quality of its published work. Data were collected by reviewing three empirically oriented journals, Research on Social Work Practice, Journal of Social Service Research, and Social Work Research over three publication years 2005, 2006, and 2007. A total of N = 329 articles were content analyzed accordingly: research versus nonresearch, designs used, design objectives, sample sizes, primary statistics used, and outcomes. Main findings were (a) social work’s R&E is uniquely characterized by a cohort of nonresearch studies, which assist in understanding our empirically published work; (b) the most frequently used designs were preexperimental (82.2%) and least frequently used were experimental (2.3%); (c) design objectives were equally dispersed across exploration, variable relationships, instrument development, and program/evaluation; (d) primary statistics used were parametric (82.2%); and (e) 96.7% of the studies specified outcomes within them. Implications are directed to better understanding the context of where social work R&E is conducted, not apologizing for the designs the author uses, and how one can and should strengthen our study designs to offset their concerns.
Nonstandard Thermodynamics Framework for Robust Computations with Induced Anisotropic Damage
Authors: Desmorat R. , Gatuingt F. , Ragueneau F.
Published: June 2009

Many anisotropic damage models have been proposed for different materials, ductile as well as quasi-brittle. The main drawback of the corresponding analyzes is that a large number of material parameters is often introduced, leading to identification difficulties and also to model complexity and associated numerical difficulties. It is also sometimes difficult to ensure the continuity of the stresses if the quasi-unilateral effect of microcracks closure and the dissymmetry tension/ compression are represented. In order to solve those difficulties, one proposes to write the damage models in a specific nonstandard thermodynamics framework. The damage states are represented by a symmetric second-order tensor and the damage rate is assumed governed by a positive second-order tensor having a clear meaning: the absolute or the positive value of the plastic strain rate tensor for ductile materials, the positive part of the total strain tensor in quasi-brittle materials. Such a nonstandard feature makes the proof of the the positivity of the intrinsic dissipation necessary. This important proof is given in the considered framework for any damage law ensuring (anisotropic) damage increase and for any case, 3D, proportional or nonproportional. This extends then to induced anisotropy the isotropic case property of a positive damage rate as a sufficient condition for the thermodynamics second principle to be fulfilled. Altogether with the fact that the thermodynamics potential can be continuously differentiated, the example of an anisotropic damage model for concrete (build in this framework) is given. It allows for robust finite element implementation. Both space (classical nonlocal with internal length, nonlocal with internal time) and time regularizations (visco- or delay-damage) are used and applied to quasi-static and dynamic cases. Examples on concrete and reinforced concrete structures are given.
Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of Size Effects on the Ductile/Brittle Fracture Toughness of a Pressure Steel
Authors: Wang Zhao-Xi , Fei Xue  , Jian Lu  , Shi Hui-Ji , Shu Guo-Gang
Published: June 2009

Detailed un-standard experiments of fracture toughness in which SENB specimens of five different thicknesses were included, were carried out to investigate the size effect on the ductile and brittle fracture. It is found that the fracture toughness on the upper shelf increases with the size of the specimens, which have the similar geometry and then decreases gradually to the plane strain fracture toughness. The ductile fracture toughness increases with the size in the range of 4—16 mm for the increment of the plastic deformation zone size and plastic fracture strain under general yielding conditions, and then drops down from 16—22 mm for the increase of the high-stress triaxiality zone and the plastic deformation zone size not changing much which is less than the residual ligament width. While the fracture toughness of the lower shelf increases with the thickness in the range of 4—8 mm for the plastic deformation zone size increasing under small-scale yielding conditions, and then drops down from 8 to 22 mm for the increase of the high out-of-plane constraint. Theoretical analysis with the primary definition of the fracture toughness J integral, the constraint level and the plastic deformation volume was performed to investigate the different size effects for different temperatures. Finite Element Analysis simulations with continuum damage model to get the distribution and variety of the stress triaxiality as an important factor of fracture strain and fracture toughness.
An Introduction to Crisp Set QCA, with a Comparison to Binary Logistic Regression
Authors: Grofman Bernard , Schneider Carsten Q.
Published: June 2009

The authors focus on the dichotomous crisp set form of qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). The authors review basic set theoretic QCA methodology, including truth tables, solution formulas, and coverage and consistency measures and discuss how QCA (a) displays relations between variables, (b) highlights descriptive or complex causal accounts for specific (groups of) cases, and (c) expresses the degree of fit. To help readers determine when QCA’s configurational approach might be appropriate, the authors compare and contrast QCA to mainstream statistical methodologies such as binary logistic regressions done on the same data set.
Active Vibration Suppression in Multi-degree-of-freedom Systems by Disturbance Observers
Authors: Shahruz S.M.
Published: June 2009

A novel approach to active vibration suppression in multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems is proposed based on disturbance observers for multi-input multi-output (MIMO) systems. The disturbance observer presented here has a simple structure equivalent to that of the internal model control (IMC), so there is therefore no need for the system inversion. Techniques to design the proposed disturbance observer are given. Furthermore, examples are given to illustrate the design of disturbance observers for MIMO systems, and to prove their efficacy in suppressing vibration in MDOF systems.