bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences between More Divergent and More Rotational Types of Convectively Coupled Equatorial Waves. Part II: Composite Analysis based on Space–Time Filtering
Authors: Yasunaga Kazuaki , Mapes Brian
Published: August 2011

This paper describes an analysis of multiyear satellite datasets to characterize the modulations of convective versus stratiform rain, rain system size, and column water vapor by convectively coupled equatorial waves. Composites are built around space–time filtered equatorial-belt data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42 rainfall product, while TRMM Precipitation Radar (PR) and passive microwave data are the composited variables. The results are consistent with the more reanalysis-dependent findings in Part I, indicating that higher-frequency (or more divergent) waves, such as Kelvin and inertia–gravity families, modulate mesoscale convective systems and stratiform rain relatively more, whereas slower (or more rotational) types such as Rossby, mixed Rossby–gravity, and tropical depression (TD) or “easterly” waves primarily modulate convective rain and smaller-sized precipitation systems.

Column water vapor composites indicate that the more rotational wave types modulate the moisture field more pronouncedly than do the divergent waves, leading the authors to speculate that the slow/rotational versus fast/wavelike distinction in precipitation characteristics may correspond to the different balances of two main convective coupling mechanisms: moisture control of cumulus cells versus convective inhibition control (via low-level density waves) of mesoscale convective systems.

The Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) is unique in that it exhibits prominent modulation of both stratiform precipitation (like the fast divergent waves) and small-sized precipitation features, convective rainfall, and moisture (like the other low-frequency, rotational waves). A composite of other waves’ amplitudes as a function of MJO amplitude and phase shows that divergent waves are more active in the developing phase and rotational waves are more active in the decaying rather than developing phase of the MJO.
Estimating the Orientation and Spacing of Midlatitude Linear Convective Boundary Layer Features: Cloud Streets
Authors: Melfi S. H. , Palm Stephen P.
Published: August 2011

Linear features in a clear convective boundary layer (CBL) over the North Atlantic Ocean were studied during a weak cold air outbreak using a down-looking airborne lidar. Sequential lidar profiles were placed together and color coded to provide images of aerosol and molecular scattering from below the aircraft to the ocean surface, over a 36-km segment of a flight track approximately 150 km off the coast of southern Virginia. The aircraft flew on a path approximately perpendicular to the expected orientation of cloud streets if they had formed. The lidar image clearly shows randomly sized convective cells in the CBL, grouping under the crests of a gravity wave in the stable troposphere. It is suggested that the wave develops as energetic convective cells in the CBL penetrate into the stable layer aloft and act as obstructions to the relative flow. An analytic study, published in 1965, demonstrates that vertical disturbances on the top of the CBL adjust to be in resonance with a horizontal gravity wave in the free troposphere. The results of the study along with an interpretation of the lidar images have led to the development of a simple conceptual model that is used to estimate the spacing and orientation of long linear convective features in the midlatitude CBL. In addition, the conceptual model can explain the change in cloud street patterns with increasing fetch, seen in satellite images. Comparisons with observations from this study and five other midlatitude field programs show good agreement. A suggestion for future research is presented.
The Independent Variable Interpolation Technique for Nonuniformly Sampled Shallow-Angle Lidar Data
Authors: Belmont M. R. , Ashwin P.
Published: August 2011

Shallow-angle lidar offers an attractive approach to acquiring spatial profiles of sea waves, which are of value in both oceanographic research and practical engineering applications, such as in the control of wave energy capture devices and for a variety of vessel operations. However, the wave elevation values produced by shallow-angle lidar are inevitably nonuniformly distributed in space and, given that most processing algorithms require uniformly sampled data, an equivalent set of uniformly distributed data must be derived from the lidar measurements. A new class of algorithm is introduced to achieve this goal and applied to experimental shallow-angle lidar data. Compared to traditional methods the new approach has advantages in terms of both computational cost and the degree of nonuniformity that can be accommodated.
Evaluation of a Spatial/Spectral Covariance Localization Approach for Atmospheric Data Assimilation
Authors: Buehner Mark
Published: August 2011

In this study, several approaches for estimating background-error covariances from an ensemble of error realizations are examined, including a new spatial/spectral localization approach. The new approach shares aspects of both the spatial localization and wavelet-diagonal approaches. This approach also enables the use of different spatial localization functions for the covariances associated with each of a set of overlapping horizontal wavenumber bands. The use of such scale-dependent spatial localization (more severe localization for small horizontal scales) is shown to reduce the error in spatial correlation estimates. A comparison of spatial localization, spatial/spectral localization, and wavelet-diagonal approaches shows that the approach resulting in the lowest estimation error depends on the ensemble size. For a relatively large ensemble (48 members), the spatial/spectral localization approach produces the lowest error. When using a much smaller ensemble (12 members), the wavelet-diagonal approach results in the lowest error. Qualitatively, the horizontal correlation functions resulting from spatial/spectral localization appear smoother and less noisy than those from spatial localization, but preserve more of the heterogeneous and anisotropic nature of the raw sample correlations than the wavelet-diagonal approach. The new spatial/spectral localization approach is compared with spatial localization in a set of 1-month three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3D-Var) experiments using a full set of real atmospheric observations. Preliminary results show that spatial/spectral localization provides a nearly similar forecast quality, and in some regions improved forecast quality, as spatial localization while using an ensemble of half the size (48 vs 96 members).
Police perceptions of their encounters with individuals experiencing mental illness: A Victorian survey
Authors: Godfredson Joel W , Thomas Stuart DM , Ogloff James RP , Luebbers Stefan
Published: August 2011

Objectives: Police have long played a central role in the management of people experiencing mental illness. This study explored: (1) the frequency of contact between the police and people experiencing mental illness; (2) the way in which police officers’ knowledge and the sources of information used relates to various dispositions; (3) the signs, symptoms and behaviours that police officers consider are associated with mental illness; and (4) the challenges police face in this respect when performing their duties.

Method: A survey was completed by 3,534 police officers in Victoria, Australia. Canonical correlations were used to explore the ‘approach styles’ of police when responding to people with a mental illness. Thematic analyses, based on grounded theory, were utilized to examine and code open-ended responses.

Results/conclusions: Police reported that a considerable amount of their time each week was spent dealing with people they believed to be mentally ill. These encounters were reportedly associated with considerable practical difficulties for police, both in terms of knowing how to deal with people experiencing mental illness and how to best find appropriate supports for them. The most common results of their encounters were instigating a mental health apprehension, followed by arrest, but decision-making was influenced by the differential weight police placed on different sources of information received at the scene. Recommendations for police training, while based on practical wisdom, need to be multi-modal and should engage mental health experts in design and delivery.
A comparison of expert evidence and judicial directions to counter misconceptions in child sexual abuse trials
Authors: Goodman-Delahunty Jane , Cossins Anne , O’Brien Kate
Published: August 2011

Studies on the influence of expert evidence and judicial instructions in child sexual abuse (CSA) cases have produced mixed outcomes. Using repeated measures, we tested the effectiveness of expert evidence and judicial directions in challenging common misconceptions about children’s memory and responses to sexual abuse. A CSA Misconceptions Questionnaire was administered to 118 psychology undergraduates who later served as virtual jurors in a simulated criminal trial. Specialized CSA knowledge was provided by a psychologist or via judicial directions. Expert evidence had two levels: clinical versus scientific testimony. Timing of judicial instructions had two levels: directions presented before the child testified versus during the judge’s summing up. In a fifth control condition, no specialized CSA information was included. After reading a trial transcript, mock-jurors assessed witness credibility, rendered verdicts and again completed the CSA Misconceptions Questionnaire. All four interventions significantly increased jurors’ CSA knowledge. The more they knew, the more likely they were to convict. Perceived victim credibility fully mediated the effect of CSA knowledge on verdict: information presented via expert testimony or judicial directions enhanced perceptions of victim credibility, which in turn increased convictions. Conviction rates were significantly higher in response to expert testimony from a clinical psychologist and a judicial instruction provided in the trial summation. These results are promising for courts and policy-makers grappling with low conviction rates in CSA jury trials.
Auditory Contrast versus Compensation for Coarticulation: Data from Japanese and English Listeners
Authors: Kingston John , Kawahara Shigeto , Mash Daniel , Chambless Della
Published: August 2011

English listeners categorize more of a [k-t] continuum as “t” after [ʃ] than [s] (Mann & Repp, 1981). This bias could be due to compensation for coarticulation (Mann & Repp, 1981) or auditory contrast between the fricatives and the stops (Lotto & Kluender, 1998). In Japanese, surface [ʃk, ʃt, sk, st] clusters arise via palatalization and vowel devoicing from /sik, sit, suk, sut/, and acoustic vestiges of the devoiced vowels remain in the fricative. On the one hand, compensation for coarticulation with the devoiced vowel would cancel out compensation for coarticulation with the fricative, and listeners would not show any response bias. On the other hand, if the stop contrasts spectrally with the fricative, listeners should respond “t” more often after [ʃi̥] than [su̥]. Experiment 1 establishes that [k] and [t] coarticulate with preceding voiced [i, u], voiceless [i̥, u̥], and [ʃ, s]. Experiment 2 shows that both Japanese and English listeners respond “t” more often after [ʃi̥] than [su̥], as predicted by auditory contrast. English listeners’ “t” responses also varied after voiced vowels, but those of Japanese listeners did not. Experiment 3 shows that this difference reflects differences in their phonetic experience.
A disability prevention programme for community-dwelling frail older persons
Authors: Daniels Ramon , van Rossum Erik , Metzelthin Silke , Sipers Walther , Habets Herbert , Hobma Sjoerd , van den Heuvel Wim , de Witte Luc
Published: August 2011

This series of articles for rehabilitation in practice aims to cover a knowledge element of the rehabilitation medicine curriculum. Nevertheless they are intended to be of interest to a multidisciplinary audience. The competency addressed in this article is ‘The trainee consistent demonstrates a knowledge of how evidence based methods and strategies can be incorporated in an integral and multidisciplinary programme for community-dwelling frail elderly.’

Abstract

Objective: To describe and justify a primary care interdisciplinary programme for community-dwelling frail older people aimed to prevent disability.

Background: Disability is a negative outcome of frailty among older persons. Policy reports and research studies emphasize the need for programmes to reduce disability progression. Between 2008 and 2010 we developed such a programme.

Development: Following the Intervention Mapping protocol, a research team and a multidisciplinary professional developed the programme. Literature reviews and an expert meeting led to identification of basic elements, theory-based methods and practical tools.

The programme: The general practitioner and the practice nurse comprise the core team that can be extended by other professionals such as occupational and physical therapist. The programme includes six steps: (1) screening, (2) assessment, (3) analysis and preliminary action plan, (4) agreement on an action plan, (5) execution of the action plan (toolbox parts) and (6) evaluation and follow-up. The main features are: identifying risks for developing disability and targeting risk factors using professional standards and the 5A Behavioural Change Model to support self management, and identifying problems in performing activities and enhancing meaningful activities based on the Model of Human Occupation. Screening, individual assessment, tailor-made and client-centred care, self-management support, case management and interdisciplinary cooperation are important principles in delivering the programme.

Discussion: The disability-prevention programme seems promising for addressing the needs of frail older people for independent living and for targeting risk factors. Its feasibility and effects are currently being tested in a randomized controlled trial.
Pelvic floor muscle exercises utilizing trunk stabilization for treating postpartum urinary incontinence: randomized controlled pilot trial of supervised versus unsupervised training
Authors: Kim Eun-Young , Kim Suhn-Yeop , Oh Duck-Won
Published: August 2011

Objective: To investigate the effect of supervised and unsupervised pelvic floor muscle exercises utilizing trunk stabilization for treating postpartum urinary incontinence and to compare the outcomes.

Design: Randomized, single-blind controlled study.

Setting: Outpatient rehabilitation hospital.

Subjects: Eighteen subjects with postpartum urinary incontinence.

Interventions: Subjects were randomized to either a supervised training group with verbal instruction from a physiotherapist, or an unsupervised training group after undergoing a supervised demonstration session.

Main measures: Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptom questionnaire (urinary symptoms and quality of life) and vaginal function test (maximal vaginal squeeze pressure and holding time) using a perineometer.

Results: The change values for urinary symptoms (−27.22 ± 6.20 versus −18.22 ± 5.49), quality of life (−5.33 ± 2.96 versus −1.78 ± 3.93), total score (−32.56 ± 8.17 versus −20.00 ± 6.67), maximal vaginal squeeze pressure (18.96 ± 9.08 versus 2.67 ± 3.64 mmHg), and holding time (11.32 ± 3.17 versus 5.72 ± 2.29 seconds) were more improved in the supervised group than in the unsupervised group ( P < 0.05). In the supervised group, significant differences were found for all variables between pre- and post-test values ( P < 0.01), whereas the unsupervised group showed significant differences for urinary symptom score, total score and holding time between the pre- and post-test results ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions: These findings suggest that exercising the pelvic floor muscles by utilizing trunk stabilization under physiotherapist supervision may be beneficial for the management of postpartum urinary incontinence.
Prediction of wrinkling in thin-walled tube push-bending process using artificial neural network and finite element method
Authors: Kami A , Dariani B M
Published: August 2011

The tube push bending process is a method that is mainly used to bend thin-walled tubes with a small bending radius. In this paper, artificial neural networks (ANNs) are used to predict the creation of wrinkling in a tube during the bending process. Since training the neural network involves many datasets and all of these data are difficult to generate using experiments, a credible finite element (FE) model is developed. The results obtained from the FE model are validated by conducting experimental tests. The results of the FE simulations are used to train, test, and validate the ANN models. Backpropagation neural networks based on the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm are constructed using five design parameters including: relative bending radius; relative tube diameter; friction between die and tube; friction between tube and mandrel; and pressure as the network inputs and the maximum wrinkling height (MWH) as the single output. Two different ANN models are trained for two types of tube materials: brass and stainless steel 304. The obtained results show that by using the hybrid method that combines the ANN and FE it is possible to predict the MWH created in the push bending method with a high degree of accuracy.
A fully coupled thermomechanical two-dimensional simulation model for orthogonal cutting: formulation and simulation
Authors: Agmell M , Ahadi A , Ståhl J-E
Published: August 2011

In this paper a fully coupled thermomechanical two-dimensional simulation model for orthogonal cutting is presented. The model is based on the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian formulation with the remeshing technique. The material model used for the workpiece material includes Johnson–Cook plasticity, and as the chip separation criterion the Johnson–Cook damage law is employed. The different friction zones are modelled by the Coulomb friction law with a maximum limit for the friction. The capability of the model to represent the cutting process realistically is validated by performing simulations for different feed depths. The model is validated by comparison of the simulated values and measured experimental data for several different important process parameters, such as the feed force, the cutting force, the chip thickness ratio, the relative deformation widths, and the temperature distribution. The results from the simulations showed very good agreement with the experimental data.
Adiabatic shear band formation as a result of cryogenic CNC machining of elastomers
Authors: Dhokia V G , Newman S T , Crabtree P , Ansell M P
Published: August 2011

The traditional method for producing polymer-based products is the use of moulding technologies such as injection moulding. CNC machining methods are predominantly used for metal part manufacture. The use of CNC machining methods for direct machining of polymers has been discussed in previous studies, particularly for hard polymers such as polypropylene. The CNC machining of soft elastomers, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), even at significantly reduced temperatures presents a number of challenges, with one being the formation of a machining phenomenon termed adiabatic shear bands, which can lead to increased part surface roughness and reduced part quality. The adiabatic shear band is an area on a chip where the ductile properties of the material being machined have been exceeded and the heat generated does not have sufficient time to be removed. This can lead to permanent material damage resulting in reduced fatigue resistance. The adiabatic shear formation has the potential to be even more evident with the machining of elastomers, leading to rapid material degradation, poor surface finish characteristics, and reduced material attenuation. In this paper the state of the art in cryogenic manufacturing is described and the concept of cryogenic CNC machining of elastomers is discussed. The experimental work consists of machining EVA and Neoprene utilizing the described cryogenic CNC machining facility. Sample chips are taken from the experimental testing and analysed using a scanning electron microscope to illustrate the adiabatic shear band formation in some cases. It is observed that in order to reduce this effect, correct machining parameters corresponding to the elasticity values need to be used and the glass transition temperature needs to be maintained.
Community-focused strategies
Authors: Fosfuri Andrea , Giarratana Marco S. , Roca Esther
Published: August 2011

This article introduces the notion of community-focused strategies to refer to the set of actions, activities and policies that firms undertake to establish connections or relational links with one or more target communities of (potential) customers. Drawing on social identity theory and strategy research, this study begins with a proposed taxonomy of different community-focused strategies. Then it illustrates how such strategies contribute to the creation of competitive advantage and explores their boundary conditions. Finally, the authors offer implications for theory development and practice, as well as suggestions for further research.
Improvement in pinch function after surgical treatment for thumb in the plane of the hand
Authors: Iba K. , Wada T. , Aoki M. , Yamashita T.
Published: August 2011

Thumb in the plane of the hand (TPH) is a congenital deformity in which the nail plane of the radial-most digit is parallel to that of other digits, but structurally the digit retains the characteristics of a thumb. Four hands from four patients were retrospectively diagnosed as having TPH, with the underlying congenital conditions being symbrachydactyly, cleft hand and constriction band syndrome. Thumb web-plasty was carried out in all hands; one required additional rotation osteotomy of the metacarpal. Postoperative hand function was markedly improved and pinch function was possible in all cases. In most cases of TPH, the thumb has the potential to act in opposition, indicating that a thumb web-plasty is worth considering as an initial procedure.
Combination therapy for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Levinson Andrew T. , Klinger James R.
Published: August 2011

Multiple medical therapies have been developed for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) over the last decade and a half. Unfortunately, none of these medications is curative and the majority of patients develop disease progression despite treatment. Presently available medications target one of three known pathways that have been implicated in disease pathogenesis. The multiplicity of pulmonary vascular abnormalities identified in PAH provides the rationale for a therapeutic strategy that targets more than one mechanism at a time. Although a handful of studies have demonstrated clinical improvement in PAH patients who have a second medication added to stable background therapy in a randomized, placebo-controlled fashion, it is unclear whether the derived benefit is due to the combination of two therapies or merely the response to the new agent. This review discusses the rationale for combination therapy, critically reviews the findings of presently completed combination studies and outlines the need for new studies that are better designed to determine whether combination therapy is more efficacious than single agent therapies for the treatment of PAH.
What Factors Are Associated With Grade Acceleration?: An Analysis and Comparison of Two U.S. Databases
Authors: Wells Ryan , Lohman David , Marron Maureen
Published: August 2011

The benefits of whole-grade acceleration for the highest achieving students in K-12 education are widely acknowledged. However, much less is known about which personal, family, and school factors are correlated with student acceleration. Which children are grade accelerated in K-7 education? Have factors associated with grade acceleration changed over time? We analyze data from the NELS (students from 1988-1992) and the ELS (students from 2002-2004) nationally representative and longitudinal databases to answer these questions. Other things being equal, females, Asian Americans, and students living on the U.S. east or west coast were more likely to be grade accelerated. For example, females had odds of being accelerated that were 1.3 times higher than the odds of males being accelerated. Students from the northeastern region of the U.S. had odds of acceleration that were nearly twice (1.9 times) as high as Midwest students’ odds of acceleration. When accelerated students were compared to older classmates of similar achievement who were not accelerated, the accelerated students showed greater gains in achievement than nonaccelerated classmates in and throughout high school. In other words, accelerated students do not just keep up with their older classmates, they actually perform better.
Underachievement Among College Students
Authors: Balduf Megan
Published: August 2011

Many high-achieving students do not question their academic success. They do well and are content with the study skills they have developed to ensure that they achieve their goals. However, these students, whose high schools considered them achievers, experience difficulties and sometimes failure in situations where they had previously experienced success. Using a sample of college freshmen who had earned academic warnings or had been placed on academic probation, this research examined each individual and his or her causes of underachievement. Participants attributed their high school successes to minor efforts. Not needing to do much to earn the success they wanted, these students were never taught, nor ever taught themselves, how to work through challenging issues. When these participants encountered challenging coursework in college, they were unprepared to deal with it. Additionally, several other aspects of participants’ experiences contributed to their college underachievement: inadequate study skills, poor time management, and internal versus external motivation. Participants felt that the intervention that would best reverse college underachievement was improving their own attitudes and behaviors. Through counseling and other means, gifted students need to learn how to motivate themselves to work when grades do not come easily. Colleges should be aware that even their high-achieving applicants may lack the skills necessary to succeed. In addition to offering study skills courses to underachieving students, colleges should include preemptive strategies for all incoming freshmen, including motivational and time management strategies.
An Investigation of the SOAR Study Method
Authors: Jairam Dharma , Kiewra Kenneth A.
Published: August 2011

Students are rarely taught how to study. When strategy instruction occurs, weak strategies are often advocated or strategies are presented in a hodgepodge, leaving students without a systematic study plan. Students’ weak study strategies include recording sketchy notes, organizing ideas linearly, learning in a piecemeal fashion, and employing redundant strategies. SOAR is an integrated study plan that includes the components of Selection, Organization, Association, and Regulation. Each SOAR component targets one of the aforementioned weak study strategies commonly used by students. In this experiment, college students read a text about wildcats and then studied provided materials using their preferred study method, the integrated SOAR method, or parts of the SOAR method in preparation for fact and relationship tests. Results confirmed that for relationship learning, the integrated SOAR study method was superior to preferred study methods or using parts of the SOAR method. For fact learning, the combination of Selection and Organization proved best. Association and Regulation processes were ineffective, perhaps because of divided attention or cognitive load. Overall, SOAR showed promise as an integrated study system that is easy to learn, easy to use, and effective.
Social Effects of Hispanic Students Enrolled in an AP Class in Middle School
Authors: Shiu Alexandra , Kettler Todd , Johnsen Susan K.
Published: August 2011

Waco Independent School District (WISD) initiated a project offering AP Spanish Language to Hispanic students in the eighth grade. The Hispanic students in this AP Spanish Language class and a similar comparison group answered survey questions on parental involvement, composition of peer group, sense of belonging at school, academic attitudes, and academic aspirations. Data gathered indicated that the students enrolled in the AP course made friends with peers who cared more about grades, enjoyed reading in English, and were more optimistic about their future family, future job, and their service to the community. These results suggest that Spanish-speaking skills can be viewed as a strength and can be used as a gateway, rather than a barrier, to academic success. Enrolling at-risk native Spanish-speaking students in an AP Spanish Language class during their eighth-grade year can create a peer group that honors the students’ native language. This academically supportive peer group can play a role in students’ decisions to enroll in higher level coursework in high school. Because beliefs about self and school are deep rooted and peer group influences are intensifying during middle school, the academic benefits of AP participation need to be extended to Spanish-speaking Hispanic students. AP Spanish Language programs such as this seems to be a feasible way to target Hispanic middle school students and create an academically supportive peer group that will positively influence students’ educational aspirations.
Characteristics of Academically Talented Women Who Achieve at High Levels on the Scholastic Achievement Test-Mathematics
Authors: O'Shea Margaret , Heilbronner Nancy N. , Reis Sally M.
Published: August 2011

Over the last few decades, researchers have studied the issue of gender differences in math achievement, especially among highly able females. The Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT), the most widely used instrument in the screening of college applicants, continues to show large and consistent differences among high-ability males and females, with profound implications for the educational opportunities and life choices of females. This research study, using qualitative research methods, examined the psychosocial, home, and school characteristics of female seniors in high school who achieved above the 95th percentile on the quantitative section of the SAT. The findings suggest that educators and parents can promote the strengths of mathematically talented females resulting in a number of positive psychosocial factors such as: a view of math as positive and useful, a style that encourages the attribution of success to talent, and confidence and persistence in tasks. In addition, educators who model a passion for mathematics, provide challenging learning activities, and occasionally enable their female students to work cooperatively may encourage these students’ talents. Parents who maintain high expectations for mathematics achievement, who are willing to donate their own time to work with their children on mathematics, and who seem excited and interested in the domain themselves may help their children to achieve at higher levels.
Academic Fit: Is the Right School the Best School or is the Best School the Right School?
Authors: Mattern Krista D. , Shaw Emily J. , Kobrin Jennifer L.
Published: August 2011

The purpose of the current study was to examine the academic consequences of attending an institution that is not considered an academic fit for a student. The results from the current study show that more able students perform better in college in terms of first-year GPA and retention to their second year regardless of the institution they attend. Additionally, after controlling for ability, students attending more selective institutions perform better in college. However, the results do not support an academic fit effect above and beyond individual and school effects. The results have implications for higher education admission policies. Specifically, institutions that want to maximize the percentage of admitted students that are successful and return for their second year should not minimize the academic qualifications of the applicants. They should not be worried about selecting “overqualified” applicants, who they believe may be bored or not challenged enough at their institution, as these students earn higher college first-year GPAs and are more likely to return for their second year. On the other hand, students who are not academically qualified are more likely to earn lower grades and leave the institution.
Examining the Unexpected: Outlier Analyses of Factors Affecting Student Achievement
Authors: McCoach D. Betsy , Goldstein Jessica , Behuniak Peter , Reis Sally M. , Black Anne C. , Sullivan Erin E. , Rambo Karen
Published: August 2011

In this study, we predicted achievement based on a variety of school demographic and background variables and identified schools that had achievement profiles that exceeded or fell short of their expected achievement levels. We identified schools that were over-or underper-forming and surveyed parents, teachers, and administrators in an effort to isolate factors that differ across the two types of schools. Across the three sets of surveys, perceptions of parents and perceptions about parents emerged as an interesting area of difference. Although parents in the positive and negative outlier schools reported similar perceptions about parent/teacher communication, teachers and administrators in the positive outlier schools appeared to have more positive perceptions of parents. Specifically, these teachers perceived the parents in their school as being more involved in their children's education, and they encouraged high levels of parent involvement. Certainly, these more positive attitudes may help educators work more effectively with parents, building a more effective partnership to increase student achievement. Perhaps consequently, parents in the positive outlier schools reported greater satisfaction with their schools than parents in the negative outlier schools did. This study found that parental involvement and parental perceptions were key variables that helped to explain differences of the over-and underachieving schools. Thus, communication and collaboration among parents, teachers, and staff appear to be critical factors predicting the success of low-SES schools.
What Determines High-and Low-Performing Groups?. The Superstar Effect
Authors: Nihalani Priya K. , Wilson Hope E. , Thomas Gregory , Robinson Daniel H.
Published: August 2011

The notion that greater learning outcomes will be achieved if the cognitive work is distributed amongst a group of individuals working together versus working alone has received mixed support when explored empirically (e.g., Daiute & Dalton 1993;Johnson & Johnson, 1991). This study examined the relationship between small-group collaborative learning structures and the potential predictors of groups' overall academic performance. We sought to identify specific factors that distinguished high-performing groups from low-performing groups in the classroom. Class attendance and individual-level academic performance were positively related to group-level academic performance. Further, it was predicted that groups consisting of an exceptionally high-performing member, or superstar, would achieve greater group-level academic performance than groups consisting of members who performed similarly. However, the greater the distance between the highest-performing member's score and the average of the other group members' scores on individual-level tasks, the lower the score on group-level tasks. This difference between the highest scoring group member and the rest of the members is referred to as the Superstar Difference Score. Qualitative and quantitative analyses indicated that the Superstar Difference Score is a reliable, negative predictor of group-level academic performance. Practical implications for classroom instructors and future directions for education research resultant from this study's superstar effect are discussed.
My Class Activities Instrument as Used in Saturday Enrichment Program Evaluation
Authors: Pereira Nielsen , Peters Scott J. , Gentry Marcia
Published: August 2011

My Class Activities (MCA) is an instrument that has been used for evaluation of university-based Saturday enrichment programs, but was originally normed using students in regular schools. A sample of MCA scores from 826 students in grades 3-8 from a Saturday enrichment program was used. Four different MCA models were evaluated: (a) the original MCA model containing interest, challenge, choice, and enjoyment; (b) a model including a second-order term connecting enjoyment and interest; (c) a three-factor model containing a combination of interest and enjoyment, challenge, and choice; and (d) the original MCA model after two items were removed. Results indicated that the original MCA four-factor structure provided a better fit when used with the Saturday enrichment sample than did the second-order and the three first-order factor models. However, the best solution regarding model fit was found using the original model, but with the removal of two poorly functioning items. This study highlighted the importance of evaluating an instrument whenever used with a different population than that on which it was originally normed. With two items deleted from the challenge scale, MCA is a potential tool for use in enrichment program evaluation that provides measures of four motivational dimensions often emphasized in programs for high-ability students.
Factors Influencing the Implementation of an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in a Diverse Urban High School
Authors: Mayer Anysia P.
Published: August 2011

This article identifies factors that promoted the successful implementation of an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in an urban high school. The study draws on data from an in-depth case study at a large high school serving an urban community in a Western state. The study investigates seven implementation mechanisms that research suggests encourage local-level stakeholders to eschew existing practices and adopt practices supported by the model. Data suggest six of the seven research-based best practices were present in the IB program. These were staff selection, preservice training, coaching, staff evaluation, program evaluation, and administrative supports. These practices were instrumental in moderating contextual factors that might have hindered model implementation. It is possible for high-quality academic programs to operate in low-performing schools and for a wide range of students to benefit from this type of program.
Foreign Language Learning Aptitudes, Attitudes, Attributions, and Achievement of Postsecondary Students Identified as Gifted
Authors: Bain Sherry K. , McCallum R. Steve , Bell Sherry Mee , Cochran Jeff L. , Sawyer Stephani Choate
Published: August 2011

We investigated the aptitudes, attitudes, attributions, and achievement of undergraduates identified as gifted who were taking a beginning Spanish course, and compared these characteristics to undergraduates in the same cohort group who had not been identified as gifted. There were differences in the aptitudes, attitudes, and achievement of post-secondary introductory Spanish students who had been identified as gifted and their nongifted peers. Gifted students had higher scores than nongifted students on the aptitude scale. The gifted group displayed a more positive attitude toward learning a foreign language than the nongifted group. Based on their performances on the attribution scale, the students identified as gifted and their nongifted peers did not differ in their attributions for ability, effort, teacher impact (context), or chance as explanations for their success in foreign language learning. Our findings seem to lead to suggestions for foreign language instructors to increase their focus on developing positive attitudes in all students, and on developing greater knowledge about native language skills (in this case, English) to enhance foreign language learning. However, research investigating the efficacy of such instruction is notably lacking. Therefore, studies investigating both of these areas would be welcome.
Meaningful and Maladaptive Homework Practices: The Role of Self-Efficacy and Self-Regulation
Authors: Bembenutty Héfer
Published: August 2011

To be successful in homework completion, learners need to be self-regulated by setting homework goals, selecting appropriate learning strategies, maintaining motivation, monitoring progress, and evaluating homework outcomes. This article examines the role of self-regulation of learning on assigned homework. The findings reveal positive relationships between homework activities and self-efficacy, responsibility for learning, and delay of gratification. A positive relationship between homework and a range of self-regulation skills exists that facilitates academic achievement and performance. Homework assignments can enhance the development of self-regulation processes and self-efficacy beliefs, as well as goal setting, time management, managing the environment, and maintaining attention. Some educational programs may be inadequately attuned to the self-regulatory needs of learners that are vital for effective learning. Students engage in multiple maladaptive homework behaviors to cope with homework demands. Those maladaptive behaviors call for more self-regulatory learning training for students and educators. In addition, the author demonstrated how we can use research to transform the public view of homework, which will result in a more positive disposition of learners. This article provides a starting point from which to launch renewed efforts to continue examining the strengths and limitations of current homework practices.
Psychology of Mentoring: The Case of Talented College Students
Authors: Lunsford Laura Gail
Published: August 2011

Mentoring is an important relationship that can transform talented students into elite performers. There has been limited empirical study on the psychology of the mentoring relationship. Most of the research focuses on mentee benefits, while the motivation and interests of the mentee have been relatively neglected. This study analyzed archival interview records ( N = 128) from three cohorts of academically talented students who had participated in a faculty mentorship program for six semesters. A mixed-methods analysis, guided by a grounded theory approach, was used to quantitize the qualitative data. Two themes emerged from the qualitative analysis. First, 1 in 4 of the students did not feel mentored for one of three reasons. Some students were mentored by faculty outside the program. Other students did not see the need for a mentor. The rest of the unmentored students were either unable or unwilling to identify another faculty mentor. Second, selecting a profession was related to the quality of their mentor relationship. Students who reported career certainty were more likely to report having a high-quality mentoring relationship. Great mentors provided career support to the students by involving them in research, taking them to conferences, and connecting them to other faculty. After quantitatively coding the qualitative data, multinomial logistic regression was used to predict student ratings of the quality of the mentor relationship from career certainty. Students were more likely to report a better mentor relationship as career certainty increased from no career plan to developing a career plan. Student career needs may influence mentor relationships with faculty and should be given greater consideration in mentoring practice.
Natural history of transient myeloproliferative disorder clinically diagnosed in Down syndrome neonates: a report from the Children's Oncology Group Study A2971
Authors: Gamis Alan S. , Alonzo Todd A. , Gerbing Robert B. , Hilden Joanne M. , Sorrell April D. , Sharma Mukta , Loew Thomas W. , Arceci Robert J. , Barnard Dorothy , Doyle John , Massey Gita , Perentesis John , Ravindranath Yaddanapudi , Taub Jeffrey , Smith Franklin O.
Published: August 2011

Transient myeloproliferative disorder (TMD), restricted to newborns with trisomy 21, is a megakaryocytic leukemia that although lethal in some is distinguished by its spontaneous resolution. Later development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) occurs in some. Prospective enrollment (n = 135) elucidated the natural history in Down syndrome (DS) patients diagnosed with TMD via the use of uniform monitoring and intervention guidelines. Prevalent at diagnosis were leukocytosis, peripheral blast exceeding marrow blast percentage, and hepatomegaly. Among those with life-threatening symptoms, most (n = 29/38; 76%) received intervention therapy until symptoms abated and then were monitored similarly. Organomegaly with cardiopulmonary compromise most frequently led to intervention (43%). Death occurred in 21% but only 10% were attributable to TMD (intervention vs observation patients: 13/14 vs 1/15 because of TMD). Among those solely observed, peripheral blasts and all other TMD symptoms cleared at a median of 36 and 49 days from diagnosis, respectively. On the basis of the diagnostic clinical findings of hepatomegaly with or without life-threatening symptoms, 3 groups were identified with differing survival: low risk with neither finding (38%), intermediate risk with hepatomegaly alone (40%), and high risk with both (21%; overall survival: 92% ± 8%, 77% ± 12%, and 51% ± 19%, respectively; P ≤ .001). Among all, AML subsequently occurred in 16% at a median of 441 days (range, 118-1085 days). The trial is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00003593.
A blood flow–dependent klf2a-NO signaling cascade is required for stabilization of hematopoietic stem cell programming in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Panpan , Wei Yonglong , Gao Ya , Patient Roger , Liu Feng
Published: August 2011

Blood flow has long been thought to be important for vessel development and function, but its role in HSC development is not yet fully understood. Here, we take advantage of zebrafish embryos with circulation defects that retain relatively normal early development to illustrate the combinatorial roles of genetic and hemodynamic forces in HSC development. We show that blood flow is not required for initiation of HSC gene expression, but instead is indispensable for its maintenance. Knockdown of klf2a mimics the silent heart (sih/tnnt2a) phenotype while overexpression of klf2a in tnnt2a morphant embryos can rescue HSC defects, suggesting that klf2a is a downstream mediator of blood flow. Furthermore, the expression of NO synthase (nos) was reduced in klf2a knockdown embryos, and ChIP analysis showed that endogenous Klf2a is bound to the promoters of nos genes in vivo, indicating direct gene regulation. Finally, administration of the NO agonist S-nitroso N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) can restore HSC development in tnnt2a and klf2a morphants, suggesting that NO signaling is downstream of Klf2a which is induced by hemodynamic forces. Taken together, we have demonstrated that blood flow is essential for HSC development and is mediated by a klf2a-NO signaling cascade in zebrafish.