bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Association of INMT Nonsynonymous Variant (His46Pro) with Hirschsprung's Disease
Authors: Kim Jason Yongha , Seo Jeong-Meen , Kim Dae-Yeon , Oh Jung-Tak , Park Kwi-Won , Kim Hyun-Young , Jung Kyuwhan , Park Byung Lae , Kim Jeong-Hyun , Shin Hyoung Doo
Published: July 2015

Background: Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a congenital disorder which is characterized by the lack of ganglion cells in part of or the entire colon, resulting in intestinal obstruction and other related symptoms. Recently, our group has conducted a genome-wide association study in Korean HSCR cases and controls to identify novel markers in other genes. Objectives: The present research aimed to further study the potential association of INMT with HSCR by conducting a replication study. Methods: A total of 15 INMT single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed for the association with HSCR in 187 HSCR patients and 283 controls. Analyses were also conducted for subtypes of HSCR (short-segment, long-segment, and total colonic aganglionosis). Results: A nonsynonymous SNP rs77743549 (His46Pro) was significantly associated with the increased risk of HSCR (odds ratio = 1.77; corrected p = 0.002). Furthermore, this rs77743549 retained its association with all subtypes of HSCR (p = 0.006-0.002 under the codominant model). A global test showed that rs77743549 was associated with the length of aganglionosis (p = 0.00004). Conclusion: Although further replications and functional evaluations are needed, our study suggests that rs77743549 of INMT may be associated with the risk for HSCR and/or the development of the enteric nervous system.
Relationship of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Serum Albumin Levels with C-Reactive Protein in Hemodialysis Patients: Results from 2 International Cohort Studies
Authors: Malhotra Rakesh , Marcelli Daniele , von Gersdorff Gero , Grassmann Aileen , Schaller Mathias , Bayh Inga , Scatizzi Laura , Etter Michael , Guinsburg Adrian , Barth Claudia , Marelli Cristina , Carioni Paola , van der Sande Frank , Kooman Jeroen P. , Liu Eric , Toffelmire Ted , Wang Yuedong , Thijssen Stephan , Usvyat Len A. , Kotanko Peter
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), defined as the neutrophil count divided by lymphocyte count, is an inexpensive and readily available parameter, which may serve as a surrogate for inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). The aim of this study was to determine the utility of NLR in the prediction of elevated CRP levels in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Methods: We analyzed 43,272 HD patients from 2 distinct cohorts within the Monitoring Dialysis Outcomes research collaboration in whom contemporaneous measurements of neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, serum albumin and CRP levels were available. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship of trichotomized NLR (<2.5, 2.5-5 and >5.0) and albumin levels (<3.1, 3.1-4.0 and >4.0 g/dl) with elevated CRP levels (>10.0, >20.0 and >30.0 mg/l). Congruence of the prediction models was examined by comparing the regression parameters and by cross-validating each regression equation within the other cohort. Results: We found that NLR >5.0 vs. <2.5 (cohort 1: OR 2.3; p < 0.0001 and cohort 2: OR 2.0; p < 0.0001) was associated with CRP levels >10.0 mg/l. Stepwise increase in odds ratio for CRP >10.0 mg/l was observed with the combination of high NLR and low albumin levels (NLR >5.0 and albumin <3.1) (cohort 1: OR 7.6; p < 0.0001 and cohort 2: OR 11.9; p < 0.0001). Cross-validation of the 2 regression models revealed a predictive accuracy of 0.68 and 0.69 in the respective cohorts. Conclusion: This study suggests that NLR could serve as a potential surrogate marker for CRP. Our results may add to diagnostic abilities in settings where CRP is not measured routinely in HD patients. NLR is easy to integrate into daily practice and may be used as a marker of systemic inflammation.
Evaluation of a Self-Test Device Used in Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Elsner Peter , Bjarnøe Henriette , Aberer Werner , Brasch Jochen
Published: July 2015

Considering the scarcity of dermatologic resources in many parts of the world, self-testing by patients is not only of interest for internal medicine but also for dermatology. In this open, nonrandomized, multicenter diagnostic trial involving subjects with suspected contact sensitization to nickel and/or a fragrance mix, we assessed the agreement of self-testing by subjects with readings made by dermatologists. The self-test product (NixemaTM) is based on Thin-Layer Rapid Use Epicutaneous Test (TRUE Test®) technology. One hundred and sixty-five subjects self-tested the ready-made patch-test product. The test was applied for 48 h and then read after 3 or 4 days. It was also evaluated independently by experienced dermatologists after 3 or 4 days. In the 162 evaluable subjects, the proportion of agreement for both allergens together was 89.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 83.7-93.8], the sensitivity was 97.5 % (95% CI 86.8-99.9) and the specificity was 86.9% (95% CI 79.6-92.3). Cohen's kappa was also high at 0.749 (95% CI 0.637-0.862). Discrepancies between the subjects' readings and the dermatologists' readings were mainly due to the subjects interpreting reactions of ‘irritant' or ‘doubtful' as ‘positive'. Apart from itching and burning sensations and tape irritation, no side effects were observed. In conclusion, this study showed a high rate of agreement between the self-reading of the upper arm and the readings made by the dermatologists. The upper arm proved to be an appropriate area for self-testing. Self-testing may improve the screening for contact sensitization for patients, particularly where dermatologic health resources are scarce.
The Effect of a Stricter Academic Dismissal Policy on Course Selection, Student Effort, and Grading Leniency
Authors: Keng Shao-Hsun
Published: July 2015

This paper uses data from a four-year college in Taiwan to examine the effect of adopting a stricter dismissal policy on course selection, student effort, and grading practices. Under the new rule, students are dismissed if they fail 50 percent or more credits in any two semesters as opposed to two consecutive semesters. The results show students who had failed 50 percent or more credit hours in a semester are more likely to strategically enroll in leniently graded courses after the policy change, especially in classes with a low failure rate. Study time and class attendance increase significantly after the policy change, suggesting the policy has achieved its goal of encouraging student effort. Instructors are found to grade more leniently after the policy change and the effect remains strong after student effort is controlled for. More importantly, instructors lower grading standards mainly through failing fewer students, as opposed to giving higher grades.
Statistical Mechanics Approximation of Biogeography-Based Optimization
Authors: Ma Haiping , Simon Dan , Fei Minrui
Published: July 2015

Biogeography-based optimization (BBO) is an evolutionary algorithm inspired by biogeography, which is the study of the migration of species between habitats. This paper derives a mathematical description of the dynamics of BBO based on ideas from statistical mechanics. Rather than trying to exactly predict the evolution of the population, statistical mechanics methods describe the evolution of statistical properties of the population fitness. This paper uses the one-max problem, which has only one optimum and whose fitness function is the number of 1s in a binary string, to derive equations that predict the statistical properties of BBO each generation in terms of those of the previous generation. These equations reveal the effect of migration and mutation on the population fitness dynamics of BBO. The results obtained in this paper are similar to those for the simple genetic algorithm with selection and mutation. The paper also derives equations for the population fitness dynamics of general separable functions, and we find that the results obtained for separable functions are the same as those for the one-max problem. The statistical mechanics theory of BBO is shown to be in good agreement with simulation.
Nine new Zingiber species (Zingiberaceae) from Vietnam
Authors: Leong-Skornickova Jana , Nguyễn Quốc Bình , Trần Hữu Đăng , Šída Otakar , Rybková Romana , Trương Bá Vương
Published: July 2015

Nine new Zingiber species from Vietnam are reported here. Of these, Z. lecongkietii belongs to the sect. Cryptanthium, five species, Z. atroporphyreus, Z. cardiocheilum, Z. castaneum, Z. mellis and Z. plicatum, are terminally flowering species belonging to the sect. Dymczewiczia, and three species, Z. discolor, Z. microcheilum and Z. yersinii, belong to sect. Zingiber. Detailed descriptions, colour plates and preliminary IUCN assessments are given for all species. As the five terminally flowering novelties more than double the previously known number of species in the Z. sect. Dymczewiczia in Vietnam, a key to this section is provided.
Morphological diversity of benthic Nostocales (Cyanoprokaryota/Cyanobacteria) from the tropical rocky shores of Huatulco region, Oaxaca, México
Authors: González-Resendiz Laura , León-Tejera Hilda , Gold-Morgan Michele
Published: July 2015

The supratidal and intertidal zones are extreme biotopes. Recent surveys of the supratidal and intertidal fringe of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, have shown that the cyanoprokaryotes are frequently the dominant forms and the heterocytous species form abundant and conspicuous epilithic growths. Five of the eight special morphotypes (Brasilonema sp., Myochrotes sp., Ophiothrix sp., Petalonema sp. and Calothrix sp.) from six localities described and discussed in this paper, are new reports for the tropical Mexican coast and the other three (Kyrtuthrix cf. maculans, Scytonematopsis cf. crustacea and Hassallia littoralis) extend their known distribution.
Hoya yingjiangensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideaea), a new campanulate-flowered species from Yunnan, China
Authors: Zhang Jingfeng , Bai Lin , Xia Nianhe , Peng Zeqiu
Published: July 2015

Hoya yingjiangensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species possesses a large campanulate corolla, but is distinguished from all the other species of Hoya with similar corollas by the peduncle annual, deciduous, and the inflorescence single-flowered. The provisional IUCN assessment of ‘Data Deficient’ for H. yingjiangensis is provided.
A new species of the genus Sovia (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) from Qinling-Daba Mountains of China
Authors: XUE GUO-XI , LI MENG , NAN WEN-HAO , JIA XING-LONG , HUANG SI-YAO , SUN HAO , LI XIAO-JUAN
Published: July 2015

In this paper, a new species Sovia lii spec. nov. is described from Qinling-Daba Mountains in S. Gansu province and S. Shaanxi province, W. China. Variability of wing pattern, differences with its similar congeners and some biological information of this new taxon are introduced. External variability of Sovia lucasii, which is discovered from Shaanxi for the first time and is sympatric with the new species there, is illustrated and discussed. A brief analysis of the distributional pattern of the genus Sovia is provided. A key to the genus is given.
A Crossroad Between West, East and Orient – The Case of Albanian Culture
Authors: Sawicka Irena
Published: July 2015

A Crossroad Between West, East and Orient – The Case of Albanian CultureAlbania is a unique example of authentic mentally-coded multiculturalism. The influence of a certain type of culture on believes shared by all Albanians is connected with either a specific period in history or specific territory. Modern Albania inherits various influences. As a unique European society Albanians do not define their identity through affiliation to a specific cultural (religious) circle. Nowadays Albanian national identity is devoid of religious context. It is based on the idea of Illyrian origin, great figures of Albanian history, mythology, language separateness. Religious components make up a surface of purely ethnographic character. Albanians attach greater importance to traditional values connected with the medieval clan law (besa ‘a word, a promise of keeping the word, commitment’, honor, the cult of a visitor, clan vengeance, the institution of a sworn virgin and so on). Kultura albańska – zderzenie Zachodu, Wschodu i Orientu Albania jest unikalnym przykładem prawdziwej, zakodowanej mentalnie multikulturowości. Wpływ określonego typu kultury na poglądy wspólne wszystkim Albańczykom związany jest bądź z określonym okresem historycznym, bądź z określonym terytorium. Dzisiejsza Albania dziedziczy różne wpływy i, jako unikalne w Europie społeczeństwo, Albańczycy nie określają swojej tożsamości poprzez przynależność do określonego kręgu kulturowego (religijnego). Współcześnie tożsamość narodowa Albańczyków zbudowana jest więc bez kontekstu religijnego. Opiera się na koncepcji pochodzenia od Ilirów, wielkich postaciach historii albańskiej, mitologii, odrębności językowej. Elementy religijne stanowią warstwę powierzchowną, czysto etnograficzną. Większą wagę przywiązują Albańczycy do wartości tradycyjnych, związanych ze średniowiecznym prawem rodowym (besa ‘słowo, obietnica, zobowiązanie’, honor, kult gościa, danego słowa i in.).
Empire, Colony, and Globalization. A Brief History of the Nahuatl Language
Authors: Olko Justyna , Sullivan John
Published: July 2015

Empire, Colony, and Globalization. A Brief History of the Nahuatl LanguageThis paper is the first attempt to outline the cultural and sociopolitical history of Nahuatl, one of the most important native languages of America, beginning with preconquest times, focusing on its role in the Aztec empire, and continuing through the colonial period until the present. We discuss the most important elements of the Nahua writing tradition, its changes under contact with European culture and Spanish, as well as modern threats to its survival. We finish with current prospects for revitalization. Imperium, kolonia i globalizacja. Krótka historia języka nahuatl Artykuł jest pierwszą próbą zarysowania kulturowej i społeczno-politycznej historii języka nahuatl, jednego z najważniejszych języków tubylczych Ameryki, począwszy od czasów przedhiszpańskich, a zwłaszcza jego roli w imperium azteckim, przez czasy kolonialne aż po sytuację obecną. Przedmiotem dyskusji są najważniejsze elementy związane z tradycją piśmiennictwa w tym języku, jego zmiany pod wpływem kontaktu z kulturą europejską i językiem hiszpańskim, aktualne zagrożenia oraz możliwe scenariusze jego rewitalizacji.
"In the Pleats of Great Languages": Minor Romance Literatures in Europe
Authors: Łukaszyk Ewa
Published: July 2015

"In the Pleats of Great Languages": Minor Romance Literatures in EuropeThis text is a review of the book: „Literatury mniejsze” Europy romańskiej, Mirosław Loba, Barbara Łuczak, Alfons Gregori (eds), Wydawnictwo Naukowe UAM, Poznań 2012, 236 pp.
A Lagrangian Method to Isolate the Impacts of Mixed Layer Subduction on the Meridional Overturning Circulation in a Numerical Model
Authors: Thomas Matthew D. , Tréguier Anne-Marie , Blanke Bruno , Deshayes Julie , Voldoire Aurore
Published: July 2015

Large differences in the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) exhibited between the available ocean models pose problems as to how they can be interpreted for climate policy. A novel Lagrangian methodology has been developed for use with ocean models that enables a decomposition of the AMOC according to its source waters of subduction from the mixed layer of different geographical regions. The method is described here and used to decompose the AMOC of the Centre National de Recherches Météorologiques (CNRM) ocean model, which is approximately 4.5 Sv (1 Sv = 106 m3 s−1) too weak at 26°N, compared to observations. Contributions from mixed layer subduction to the peak AMOC at 26°N in the model are dominated by the Labrador Sea, which contributes 7.51 Sv; but contributions from the Nordic seas, the Irminger Sea, and the Rockall basin are also important. These waters mostly originate where deep mixed layers border the topographic slopes of the Subpolar Gyre and Nordic seas. The too-weak model AMOC can be explained by weak model representations of the overflow and of Irminger Sea subduction. These are offset by the large Labrador Sea component, which is likely to be too strong as a result of unrealistically distributed and too-deep mixed layers near the shelf.
Subgrid-Scale Variability for Thermodynamic Variables in an Offline Land Surface Prediction System
Authors: Rochoux Mélanie C. , Bélair Stéphane , Abrahamowicz Maria , Pellerin Pierre
Published: July 2015

This study presents a numerical analysis of the impact of the horizontal resolution on the forecast capability of the Canadian offline land surface prediction system (SPS; formerly known as GEM-Surf) forced by the 15-km Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) atmospheric model. This system is used to quantify on a statistical basis the subgrid-scale variability of (near-)surface variables for 25-km grid spacing based on the 2.5- or 10-km SPS run at regional scale over the 2012 summer season. The model bias and the distributions characterizing the subgrid-scale variability drastically depend on the geographic areas as well as on the diurnal cycle. These results show the benefits of high-resolution land surface simulations to account for length scales that are more consistent with the scales at which the actual land surface balance is affected by the heterogeneous geophysical fields (i.e., roughness length, land–water mask, glacier mask, and soil texture). The model bias results highlight the potential of an SPS–GEM two-way coupling strategy for refining predictions near the surface through the upscaling of high-resolution surface heat fluxes to the coarser atmospheric grid spacing, with these fluxes being significantly different from those explicitly resolved at 25 km and featuring nonlinear behavior with respect to the horizontal resolution. Since the computational power of meteorological operational centers progressively increases, making it possible to run high-resolution limited-area models, solving the surface at high resolution in a surface–atmosphere fully coupled system becomes a key aspect for improving numerical weather and environmental forecast performance.
Spontaneous Generation of Near-Inertial Waves by the Kuroshio Front
Authors: Nagai Takeyoshi , Tandon Amit , Kunze Eric , Mahadevan Amala
Published: July 2015

While near-inertial waves are known to be generated by atmospheric storms, recent observations in the Kuroshio Front find intense near-inertial internal-wave shear along sloping isopycnals, even during calm weather. Recent literature suggests that spontaneous generation of near-inertial waves by frontal instabilities could represent a major sink for the subinertial quasigeostrophic circulation. An unforced three-dimensional 1-km-resolution model, initialized with the observed cross-Kuroshio structure, is used to explore this mechanism. After several weeks, the model exhibits growth of 10–100-km-scale frontal meanders, accompanied by O(10) mW m−2 spontaneous generation of near-inertial waves associated with readjustment of submesoscale fronts forced out of balance by mesoscale confluent flows. These waves have properties resembling those in the observations. However, they are reabsorbed into the model Kuroshio Front with no more than 15% dissipating or radiating away. Thus, spontaneous generation of near-inertial waves represents a redistribution of quasigeostrophic energy rather than a significant sink.
Healthcare choice: Discourses, perceptions, experiences and practices
Authors: Gabe Jonathan , Harley Kirsten , Calnan Michael
Published: July 2015

Policy discourse shaped by neoliberal ideology, with its emphasis on marketisation and competition, has highlighted the importance of choice in the context of healthcare and health systems globally. Yet, evidence about how so-called consumers perceive and experience healthcare choice is in short supply and limited to specific healthcare systems, primarily in the Global North. This special issue aims to explore how choice is perceived and utilised in the context of different systems of healthcare throughout the world, where choice, at least in policy and organisational terms, has been embedded for some time. The articles are divided into those emphasising: embodiment and the meaning of choice; social processes associated with choice; the uncertainties, risks and trust involved in making choices; and issues of access and inequality associated with enacting choice. These sociological studies reveal complexities not always captured in policy discourse and suggest that the commodification of healthcare is particularly problematic.
The ‘empty choice’: A sociological examination of choosing medical research participation in resource-limited Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kingori Patricia
Published: July 2015

This article explores the views of frontline research staff in different Sub-Saharan African contexts on the notion of choice in biomedical research. It argues that the current emphasis on individual choice, in the conduct of biomedical research, ignores significant structural and contextual factors in resource-limited settings. These factors severely constrain individual options and often make biomedical research enrolment the most amenable route to healthcare for the world’s poorest. From the position of frontline research staff, local contextual factors and structural issues narrowly frame the parameters within which many prospective participants are asked to choose, to such an extent that individuals are effectively presented with an ‘empty choice’. The article draws on ethnographic and interview data and insights gained through graphic elucidation techniques. It demonstrates that for frontline research staff, macro-level structural factors and their bearing on everyday realities shape what choice in biomedical research participation means in practice.
Firefighter Hand Anthropometry and Structural Glove Sizing
Authors: Hsiao Hongwei , Whitestone Jennifer , Kau Tsui-Ying , Hildreth Brooke
Published: July 2015

Objective:

We evaluated the current use and fit of structural firefighting gloves and developed an improved sizing scheme that better accommodates the U.S. firefighter population.

Background:

Among surveys, 24% to 30% of men and 31% to 62% of women reported experiencing problems with the fit or bulkiness of their structural firefighting gloves.

Method:

An age-, race/ethnicity-, and gender-stratified sample of 863 male and 88 female firefighters across the United States participated in the study. Fourteen hand dimensions relevant to glove design were measured. A cluster analysis of the hand dimensions was performed to explore options for an improved sizing scheme.

Results:

The current national standard structural firefighting glove-sizing scheme underrepresents firefighter hand size range and shape variation. In addition, mismatch between existing sizing specifications and hand characteristics, such as hand dimensions, user selection of glove size, and the existing glove sizing specifications, is significant. An improved glove-sizing plan based on clusters of overall hand size and hand/finger breadth-to-length contrast has been developed.

Conclusion:

This study presents the most up-to-date firefighter hand anthropometry and a new perspective on glove accommodation. The new seven-size system contains narrower variations (standard deviations) for almost all dimensions for each glove size than the current sizing practices.

Application:

The proposed science-based sizing plan for structural firefighting gloves provides a step-forward perspective (i.e., including two women hand model–based sizes and two wide-palm sizes for men) for glove manufacturers to advance firefighter hand protection.
Experimental analysis of the low cycle fatigue of a spray-coated layered multi-walled carbon nanotubes/polyvinyl chloride nanocomposite
Authors: Parvaneh Vali , Shariati Mahmoud
Published: July 2015

Polymer-based nanocomposites are among the most popular nanocomposites and have been investigated with the use of different polymers, reinforcements, and methods. In this research, a new approach is applied to produce multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanocomposite using a hot press mold and an automatic spray. The resulting nanocomposite, consisting of polymer and carbon nanotubes, is obtained using the layer-by-layer spray method. The Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength of standard samples is obtained using a tensile test experiment. A considerable increase of more than 100% is achieved in these parameters by adding carbon nanotubes to the nanocomposite. The study is followed by performing low cycle fatigue tests in order to study the effect of adding carbon nanotubes to PVC. The effect of various parameters influencing the composition of the processed nanocomposites, as well as their fatigue strength, is identified in an optimal condition as well. A comparison is drawn between the mechanical properties of pure polymer and the nanocomposites. The results indicated that carbon nanotubes significantly add to the fatigue strength. Moreover, the effect of the weight percent and the number of carbon nanotube layers added to the PVC matrix is studied.
Accounting for Complexity
Authors: Ackerman Sara L. , Darling Katherine Weatherford , Lee Sandra Soo-Jin , Hiatt Robert A. , Shim Janet K.
Published: July 2015

Scientists now agree that common diseases arise through interactions of genetic and environmental factors, but there is less agreement about how scientific research should account for these interactions. This paper examines the politics of quantification in gene–environment interaction (GEI) research. Drawing on interviews and observations with GEI researchers who study common, complex diseases, we describe quantification as an unfolding moral economy of science, in which researchers collectively enact competing “virtues.” Dominant virtues include molecular precision, in which behavioral and social risk factors are moved into the body, and “harmonization,” in which scientists create large data sets and common interests in multisited consortia. We describe the negotiations and trade-offs scientists enact in order to produce credible knowledge and the forms of (self-)discipline that shape researchers, their practices, and objects of study. We describe how prevailing techniques of quantification are premised on the shrinking of the environment in the interest of producing harmonized data and harmonious scientists, leading some scientists to argue that social, economic, and political influences on disease patterns are sidelined in postgenomic research. We consider how a variety of GEI researchers navigate quantification’s productive and limiting effects on the science of etiological complexity.
The challenge of flow: state socialist television between revolutionary time and everyday time
Authors: Mihelj Sabina , Huxtable Simon
Published: July 2015

This article contributes to the growing literature on diverse television cultures globally and historically by examining selected aspects of television cultures in the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Being part of a political, economic and cultural system that self-consciously set out to develop an alternative form of modern society, state socialist television offers a particularly apposite case study of alternative forms of modern television. State socialist television was inevitably drawn into the Cold War contest between two rival visions of modernity and modern life: one premised on liberal democracy and the market economy, the other on communist rule and the planned economy. As a result, its formats, content and uses were different from those familiar from western television histories. The analysis, based on 70 life-story interviews, schedule analysis and archival sources, focuses on the temporal structures of television and on the challenges posed by television’s ability to offer an instantaneous connection to the unfolding present. We argue that the nature of television temporality had ambiguous consequences for the communist project, allowing citizens of state socialist countries to disconnect from communist ideals, while synchronising their daily life with the ongoing march towards the radiant communist future.
An Evaluation of the Reliability, Construct Validity, and Factor Structure of the Static-2002R
Authors: Jung Sandy , Ennis Liam , Hermann Chantal A. , Pham Anna T. , Choy Alberto L. , Corabian Gabriela , Hook Tarah
Published: July 2015

The fundamental psychometric properties of the subscales found in the Static-2002R, an actuarial measure of sexual recidivism risk, were evaluated in the current study. Namely, the reliability, concurrent and construct validity, and factor structure of the Static-2002R subscales were examined with a sample of 372 adult male sex offenders. In addition to using validated measures of sexual violence risk to examine concurrent validity, construct-related measures taken from extant risk measures and psychometric tests were correlated with three of the subscales to assess overall construct validity. Moderate support was found for the reliability of the Static-2002R. The concurrent and construct validity of the General Criminality, Persistence of Sexual Offending, and Deviant Sexual Interest subscales were supported. Generally, these findings further support the Static-2002R as a valid sex offender risk appraisal instrument that encompasses multiple distinct, clinically relevant, risk domains.
Examining the Level of Convergence Among Self-Regulated Learning Microanalytic Processes, Achievement, and a Self-Report Questionnaire
Authors: Cleary Timothy J. , Callan Gregory L. , Malatesta Jaime , Adams Tanya
Published: July 2015

This study examined the convergent and predictive validity of self-regulated learning (SRL) microanalytic measures. Specifically, theoretically based relations among a set of self-reflection processes, self-efficacy, and achievement were examined as was the level of convergence between a microanalytic strategy measure and a SRL self-report questionnaire targeting similar strategic behaviors. Using a sample of 49 college students, we found that SRL microanalytic self-reflection measures evidenced high inter-correlations and demonstrated medium to large relations with self-efficacy and achievement, respectively. Although non-significant relations were observed between a microanalytic strategy measure and a SRL self-report questionnaire, the microanalytic measure was shown to be a more robust predictor of future performance in the college course. Consideration for the types of scoring procedures used with microanalysis and the implications and limitations of our results are also discussed.
Top Ten Standardized Tests Used Internationally With Children and Youth by School Psychologists in 64 Countries
Authors: Oakland Thomas , Douglas Sara , Kane Harrison
Published: July 2015

This article provides a 24-year update on the 10 standardized tests used most frequently with children and youth by school psychologists. Data were acquired from 64 countries through an international survey, with one respondent from each country. The informants were solicited due to their expertise in the area of assessment. The data from the current 2013 survey are described and discussed as well as contrasted with the 1989 survey data. The 2013 survey data led to the following rank order of tests based on data from the 64 countries: the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children, Ravens Progressive Matrices, Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scales of Intelligence, Child Behavior Checklist, Bender–Gestalt Test, Child and Adult Apperception Tests, Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, Draw-a-Person Test, Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scales, and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales. Survey data from advanced, developing, and emerging counties also are compared and discussed. Results are discussed in the broader context of international test development and use.
The 1930s Dust Bowl: Geoarchaeological lessons from a 20th century environmental crisis
Authors: Cordova Carlos , Porter Jess C.
Published: July 2015

The Dust Bowl of the 1930s was an environmental crisis of epic proportions characterized by unprecedented soil erosion, population redistribution, and profound transformation of the landscape in the Great Plains region of the United States. Therefore, one might expect that this event left a mark in the sedimentary and geomorphological record of the region. This study is a field reconnaissance of sedimentary and landscape changes that can be linked to the event. To achieve this objective, the Dust Bowl is analyzed as a climatic event, a geomorphic event, and a socioeconomic event. The geoarchaeological approach taken here is based on that of the archaeology of the contemporary past (Harrison and Schofield, 2010), which incidentally coincides with the Anthropocene, as defined by Crutzen (2002). The results of this survey can be useful to those who search for geomorphic evidence of environmental crises in the more distant past.
Lithotomists, cataract-curers, and hernia-carvers: The Surgical School of Preci
Authors: Davidson Fiona
Published: July 2015

From the 13th to the 18th centuries, a small village in Umbria produced a remarkable multifamily dynasty of highly proficient surgeons. Skilled in lithotomy (cutting for the stone), couching cataracts, repair of hernias, and castration, the Surgeons of Preci or the Norcini, were preeminent in Europe, famous, and wealthy. Sophisticated instruments, use of cautery, knowledge of analgesics, and narcotics were passed down from father to son over 400 years: the most dextrous were summoned by crowned heads, including Charles V1 of France and Elizabeth of England. Yet, the history of their activities is almost forgotten, the result of vicious personal rivalries and the impact of professionalization of 18th-century surgery. Today in Italy, the name Norcini means only pork butcher, ironically the original skill from which the dynasty developed.
Moving Beyond “Bookish Knowledge”
Authors: Olson Joann S. , Autry Linda , Moe Jeffry
Published: July 2015

This article investigates the effectiveness of a film-based assignment given to adult learners in a graduate-level group counseling class. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four students; data analysis suggested film-based assignments may promote deep approaches to learning (DALs). Participants indicated the assignment helped them draw connections between the film and the course material as well as helped make course concepts more concrete and applicable to their professional settings. The article also presents instructional design strategies for incorporating film-based assignments in adult learning settings.
Regional Homogeneity
Authors: Jiang Lili , Zuo Xi-Nian
Published: July 2015

Much effort has been made to understand the organizational principles of human brain function using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methods, among which resting-state fMRI (rfMRI) is an increasingly recognized technique for measuring the intrinsic dynamics of the human brain. Functional connectivity (FC) with rfMRI is the most widely used method to describe remote or long-distance relationships in studies of cerebral cortex parcellation, interindividual variability, and brain disorders. In contrast, local or short-distance functional interactions, especially at a scale of millimeters, have rarely been investigated or systematically reviewed like remote FC, although some local FC algorithms have been developed and applied to the discovery of brain-based changes under neuropsychiatric conditions. To fill this gap between remote and local FC studies, this review will (1) briefly survey the history of studies on organizational principles of human brain function; (2) propose local functional homogeneity as a network centrality to characterize multimodal local features of the brain connectome; (3) render a neurobiological perspective on local functional homogeneity by linking its temporal, spatial, and individual variability to information processing, anatomical morphology, and brain development; and (4) discuss its role in performing connectome-wide association studies and identify relevant challenges, and recommend its use in future brain connectomics studies.
How Has the Internet Reshaped Human Cognition?
Authors: Loh Kep Kee , Kanai Ryota
Published: July 2015

Throughout our evolutionary history, our cognitive systems have been altered by the advent of technological inventions such as primitive tools, spoken language, writing, and arithmetic systems. Thirty years ago, the Internet surfaced as the latest technological invention poised to deeply reshape human cognition. With its multifaceted affordances, the Internet environment has profoundly transformed our thoughts and behaviors. Growing up with Internet technologies, “Digital Natives” gravitate toward “shallow” information processing behaviors characterized by rapid attention shifting and reduced deliberations. They engage in increased multitasking behaviors that are linked to increased distractibility and poor executive control abilities. Digital natives also exhibit higher prevalence of Internet-related addictive behaviors that reflect altered reward-processing and self-control mechanisms. Recent neuroimaging investigations have suggested associations between these Internet-related cognitive impacts and structural changes in the brain. Against mounting apprehension over the Internet’s consequences on our cognitive systems, several researchers have lamented that these concerns were often exaggerated beyond existing scientific evidence. In the present review, we aim to provide an objective overview of the Internet’s impacts on our cognitive systems. We critically discuss current empirical evidence about how the Internet environment has altered the cognitive behaviors and structures involved in information processing, executive control, and reward-processing.
Development of a rotation-based negative stiffness device for seismic protection of structures
Authors: Attary Navid , Symans M , Nagarajaiah S
Published: July 2015

Researchers worldwide have developed various semi-active control devices for seismic protection of structures. Most of these devices are electromechanical in nature and thus require a power source for their operation. In this paper, a newly developed rotation-based mechanical adaptive passive device is presented. These unique devices are able to mechanically change stiffness, either by adding positive or negative stiffness, by using different types of rotational elements. The devices are compact due to their use of rotational elements, facilitating their implementation in structures. The conceptual development of these devices is presented herein along with analytical models and numerical simulation results that demonstrate their potential for providing seismic protection. In addition, an extension of the stiffness modulation concept is introduced wherein damping is modulated.
A robust observer design for a flexible manipulator based on a PDE model
Authors: Jiang Tingting , Liu Jinkun , He Wei
Published: July 2015

This paper proposes a robust observer for a flexible single-link manipulator based on the partial differential equation (PDE) dynamic model. Unlike observers for the PDE model introduced by previous researchers, this observer is designed to estimate the distributed spatiotemporally varying states with unknown boundary disturbance and spatially distributed disturbance. The asymptotic stability of the proposed observer is proved by theoretical analysis and demonstrated by simulation results.
Adaptive control of tonal disturbance in mechanical systems with nonlinear damping
Authors: Zilletti Michele , Elliott Stephen J , Ghandchi Tehrani Maryam
Published: July 2015

This paper describes an adaptive system for controlling the tonal vibration of a single-degree-of-freedom system with nonlinear damping. The adaptive control system consists of a force actuator in parallel with the suspension, which includes the nonlinear damper, and a velocity sensor mounted on the mass. The adaptation of the controller is done once every period of the excitation. Because the response of the nonlinear system changes with excitation level, conventional adaptive algorithms, with a linear model of the plant, can be slow to converge and may not achieve the desired performance. An on-line observer is used to obtain a describing function model of the plant, which can vary with the excitation level. This allows the adaptive control algorithm to converge more quickly than using a fixed plant model, although care has to be taken to ensure that the dynamics of the observer do not interfere with the dynamics of the adaptive controller.
‘Y’all need to hide your kids, hide your wife’: Mobile applications, risk and sex offender databases
Authors: Mowlabocus Sharif
Published: July 2015

This article reflects upon recent developments in sex offender tracking and monitoring. Taking as its focus a suite of mobile applications available for use in the United States, the author explores the impact and consequences of remediating the data held by State offender databases. The article charts the recent history of techno-corrections as it applies to this category of criminal, before then undertaking an analysis of current remediation of this legally obtained data. In doing so, the author identifies how the recontextualizing of data serves to (re)negotiate the relationship between the user, the database and registered sex offenders. The author concludes by arguing that the (mobile) mapping of offender databases serves to obscure the original intentions of these recording mechanisms and might hinder their effectiveness in reducing sex offending.
The ‘child’s best interests’ as an argumentative resource in family mediation sessions
Authors: Smithson Janet , Barlow Anne , Hunter Rosemary , Ewing Jan
Published: July 2015

We used Discursive Psychology to study the claims and arguments which occur when ‘the child’s best interests’ is produced as a resource in family mediation settings. Analysis draws on data from three pairs of separated or separating parents attempting to resolve child contact or residency disputes through mediation. Our analysis focuses on the tendency of claims to the abstract notion of the child’s best interests to exacerbate conflict, especially as parents drew on conflicting research in this area. Changing expectations of fathering could be observed in the men’s argumentative positioning, and this was taken up in different ways by ex-partners and by mediators. Participants aligned themselves with mediators’ statements by picking up details of mediators’ language, hampering mediators’ attempted neutrality. The problematic nature of acknowledging the intensity of emotions in this process was also highlighted.
‘Not everybody walks around and thinks “That’s an example of othering or stigmatisation”’: Identity, pedagogic rights and the acquisition of undergraduate sociology-based social science knowledge
Authors: McLean Monica , Abbas Andrea , Ashwin Paul
Published: July 2015

This article places itself in conversation with literature about how the experience and outcomes of university education are structured by intersections between social class, ethnicity, gender, age and type of university attended. It addresses undergraduate students’ acquisition of sociological knowledge in four diverse university settings. Basil Bernstein’s concepts of pedagogic identity, pedagogic rights, classification and framing are employed to analyse curriculum and interviews with 31 students over the period of their undergraduate degree. The nature of a sociology-based disciplinary identity is described and illustrated, and it is shown how the formation of this identity gives access to pedagogic rights and the acquisition of valuable capabilities. Addressing the question of whether pedagogic rights are distributed unequally in a stratified university system, it was found that they were not distributed, as might be expected, according to institutional hierarchy. It is argued that the acquisition of university sociological knowledge can disrupt social inequality.
Effect of Modifying Intervention Set Size With Acquisition Rate Data While Practicing Single-Digit Multiplication Facts
Authors: Burns Matthew K. , Zaslofsky Anne F. , Maki Kathrin E. , Kwong Elena
Published: July 2015

Incremental rehearsal (IR) has consistently led to effective retention of newly learned material, including math facts. The number of new items taught during one intervention session, called the intervention set, could be used to individualize the intervention. The appropriate amount of information that a student can rehearse and later recall during one intervention session is called the acquisition rate (AR). The current study taught single-digit multiplication facts with factors of 6, 7, and 8 to 55 third- and fourth-grade students. Each student was randomly assigned to be taught two multiplication math facts, eight multiplication math facts, or a set size determined by each student’s AR. The average AR was 4.05 ( SD = 0.71). Set size led to a significant and large effect on retention, percentage of multiplication math facts retained, and efficiency as computed by math facts retained per minute of intervention time. IR appeared to be an effective intervention when AR data were used to determine the intervention set size, and it was more efficient to do so.
The Heartbleed bug: Insecurity repackaged, rebranded and resold
Authors: Banks James
Published: July 2015

The emergence of a post-industrial information economy shaped by and around networked communication technology has presented new opportunities for identity theft. In particular, the accidental leakage or deliberate harvesting of information, via either hacking or social engineering, is an omnipresent threat to a large number of commercial organisations and state agencies who manage digital databases and sociotechnical forms of data. Throughout the twenty-first century the global media have reported on a series of data breaches, fuelling anxiety among the public concerning the safety and security of their personal and financial data. With concern outpacing reliable information, a reassurance gap has emerged between the public’s expectations and the state’s ability to provide safety and security online. This disparity presents a significant opportunity for a commercial computer crime control industry that has sought to position itself as being able to offer consumer citizens the antidotes for such ills. This paper considers how neoliberal discourses of cybercrime control are packaged, branded and sold, through an examination of the social construction of the Heartbleed bug. It demonstrates how security company Codenomicon masterfully communicated the vulnerability, the product of a simple coding error, through its name, a logo and an accompanying website, in turn shaping news coverage across the mainstream media and beyond.