bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delivering strategic economic development in a time of urban austerity: European Union structural funds and the English city regions
Authors: Nurse Alexander , Fulton Matthew
Published: May 2017

Supranational funding such as that from the European Union has become a key ingredient of the economic development of many major cities. Set across comparatively short time frames, these schemes are constantly evaluated and realigned to reflect current priorities, becoming increasingly competitive as cities deploy every strategy available to mitigate the effects of urban austerity. In the United Kingdom, European Union funding is currently allocated through a multi-level structure involving the state, subregional structures and cities, all conforming to supranational (i.e. European Union) guidelines. Considering this, this paper explores the extent to which funds such as the European Regional Development Fund can be effectively drawn down to focus upon issues deemed to be locally important. The paper achieves this through a case study of policy making in Liverpool, United Kingdom which, having successfully used Objective One funding to support an economic recovery in the 1990–00s, is now fully engaged with European Regional Development Fund agendas. In doing so, the paper explores how successful European Regional Development Fund-funded schemes are developed, drawing out the experiences of key stakeholders working at each level of the funding process. This allows for a reflection on the effects of Britain’s decision to leave the European Union and, moreover, makes a series of policy recommendations as to how future funding strategies might be improved.
The geography of Brexit – What geography? Modelling and predicting the outcome across 380 local authorities
Authors: Manley David , Jones Kelvyn , Johnston Ron
Published: May 2017

Most of the analysis before the 2016 referendum on the UK’s continued membership of the European Union based on opinion polling data focused on which groups were more likely to support each of the two options, with less attention to the geography of that support – although some regions, especially London and Scotland, were expected to provide substantial support for Remain. Using a recently developed procedure for detailed exploration of large tables derived from survey data, this paper presents the result of a prediction of the outcome across local authorities in Great Britain using just two variables – age and qualifications. In relative terms, that prediction was reasonably accurate – although, reflecting the polls’ overestimate of support for Remain it underestimated the number of places where Leave gained a majority, as was also the case within local authorities where data were published by ward. The model’s predictive value was enhanced by post hoc incorporation of information on turnout and the number of registered electors, and taking these into account there was little evidence of substantial, additional regional variation in levels of support for Leave. Overall, regions were relatively unimportant as influences on the referendum outcome once the characteristics of the people living there were taken into account.
The Brexit environment demands that deliberative democracy meets inclusive growth
Authors: Barber Stephen
Published: May 2017

This article proposes the convergence of two concepts both as intrinsically useful and to help explain the ‘Brexit environment’. Deliberative democracy and inclusive growth have existed separately in different disciplines and this article identifies and combines their core virtues for the first time to argue that it is difficult to conceive of a deliberative democratic system that fails to enable inclusive economic growth. It reassesses the divisions exposed in the wake of the referendum on UK membership of the EU to demonstrate the deliberative and inclusive shortcomings of Britain’s political economy and shows the weakness of the Westminster model which has myopically focussed on aggregate economic outcomes and vote at the expense of broader participation and voice. As a result many citizens have found themselves excluded and opportunities for innovation, enterprise and skill development inhibited. To achieve more sustainable business, a stronger economy and greater social justice the article concludes normatively with the case for reform in the direction of a more deliberative democracy set in local economies capable of widening participation in economic success.
Local economies of Brexit
Authors: North Peter
Published: May 2017

Liverpool is a city which has, in many ways, undoubtedly and observably benefited from Objective One EU funding to the extent that there is pretty much universal agreement that this has underpinned the city’s recent renaissance. That said, outside the city centre persistent long-term economic problems endure. This paper reviews the mixed experiences of Merseyside’s Objective One ‘Pathways to Inclusion’ programme as an attempt to solve problems of concentrated deprivation, arguing that the success of conventional approaches has been mixed. Brexit provides an opportunity for a rupture with forms of local economic development that have been progressively neoliberalised through time. It argues for a focus on opportunities, not deficits and absences, using asset-based community development, diverse economies, and solidarity economy approaches.
Caregiver and Provider Experiences With Coaching and Embedded Intervention
Authors: Salisbury Christine , Woods Juliann , Snyder Patricia , Moddelmog Kierstin , Mawdsley Helena , Romano Mollie , Windsor Kelly
Published: May 2017

Despite an emphasis in the field on triadic approaches to the delivery of early intervention (EI), remarkably little is known about the shared experiences of caregivers (CGs) and providers during home visits. Within the context of developing, refining, and evaluating the Embedded Practices and Intervention With Caregivers (EPIC) approach, two studies were undertaken with 11 EI providers and 19 CGs of infants/toddlers with moderate–severe delays/disabilities to gather their perspectives about and experiences with the EPIC approach. The EPIC intervention has two components: CG coaching and a five-question (5Q) process for supporting embedded practices. Interview, focus group, and rating scale data were collected in both studies and aggregated for reporting purposes in the present article. Findings are described with regard to the coaching and 5Q components and the extent to which participants found the intervention to be feasible, acceptable, and useful. Implications for future research and professional development on coaching and embedded intervention practices are discussed.
Examining the Evolution of Cross-National Fiscal Transparency
Authors: Arapis Theodore , Reitano Vincent
Published: May 2017

Over the past two decades, global institutions, including the International Monetary Fund and the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development, have linked fiscal transparency to better governance, improved economic performance, and increased civic participation in government decision making. As a result, scholars and practitioners have attempted to systematically study the factors associated with a country’s fiscal transparency. At the international level, extant research employs cross-sectional analysis, which limits an understanding of how fiscal transparency evolves over time. We address this limitation by offering a cross-national longitudinal analysis of the factors associated with fiscal transparency as measured by the open budget index. Our study spans the years 2006 to 2012, using data on political, fiscal, information access, and economic conditions among 59 countries from nearly every part of the world. Using a first-difference panel regression and robust standard errors clustered by country, we found a positive association between economic recessions and fiscal transparency, indicating that fiscal crises may serve as opportunities for furthering transparency efforts. In addition, our study extends empirical documentation on the positive relationship between fiscal imbalance and fiscal transparency from the United States to the international arena, and provides support for a positive association between development aid and fiscal transparency. We also offer evidence for a negative association between democracy and fiscal transparency, which builds upon an emerging area of research suggesting selective release of government information by democratically elected officials.
Real-time natural language corrections for assistive robotic manipulators
Authors: Broad Alexander , Arkin Jacob , Ratliff Nathan , Howard Thomas , Argall Brenna
Published: May 2017

We propose a generalizable natural language interface that allows users to provide corrective instructions to an assistive robotic manipulator in real-time. This work is motivated by the desire to improve collaboration between humans and robots in a home environment. Allowing human operators to modify properties of how their robotic counterpart achieves a goal on-the-fly increases the utility of the system by incorporating the strengths of the human partner (e.g. visual acuity and environmental knowledge). This work is applicable to users with and without disability. Our natural language interface is based on the distributed correspondence graph, a probabilistic graphical model that assigns semantic meaning to user utterances in the context of the robot’s environment and current behavior. We then use the desired corrections to alter the behavior of the robotic manipulator by treating the modifications as constraints on the motion generation (planning) paradigm. In this paper, we highlight four dimensions along which a user may wish to correct the behavior of his or her assistive manipulator. We develop our language model using data collected from Amazon Mechanical Turk to capture a comprehensive sample of terminology that people use to describe desired corrections. We then develop an end-to-end system using open-source speech-to-text software and a Kinova Robotics MICO robotic arm. To demonstrate the efficacy of our approach, we run a pilot study with users unfamiliar with robotic systems and analyze points of failure and future directions.
Gout Can Increase the Risk of Receiving Rotator Cuff Tear Repair Surgery
Authors: Huang Shih-Wei , Wu Chin-Wen , Lin Li-Fong , Liou Tsan-Hon , Lin Hui-Wen
Published: May 2017

Background:

Gout commonly involves joint inflammation, and clinical epidemiological studies on involved tendons are scant. Rotator cuff tears are the most common cause of shoulder disability, and surgery is one of the choices often adopted to regain previous function.

Purpose:

To investigate the risk of receiving rotator cuff repair surgery among patients with gout and to analyze possible risk factors to design an effective prevention strategy.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors studied a 7-year longitudinal follow-up of patients from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 (LHID2005). This included a cohort of patients who received a diagnosis of gout during 2004-2008 (gout cohort) and a cohort matched by propensity scores (control cohort). A 2-stage approach that used the National Health Interview Survey 2005 was used to obtain missing confounding variables from the LHID2005. The crude hazard ratio (HR) and adjusted HR were estimated between the gout and control cohorts.

Results:

The gout and control cohorts comprised 32,723 patients with gout and 65,446 people matched at a ratio of 1:2. The incidence of rotator cuff repair was 31 and 18 per 100,000 person-years in the gout and control cohorts, respectively. The crude HR for rotator cuff repair in the gout cohort was 1.73 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23-2.44; P < .01) during the 7-year follow-up period. After adjustment for covariates by use of the 2-stage approach, the propensity score calibration-adjusted HR was 1.60 (95% CI, 1.12-2.29; P < .01) in the gout cohort. Further analysis revealed that the adjusted HR was 1.73 (95% CI, 1.20-2.50; P < .001) among patients with gout who did not take hypouricemic medication and 2.70 (95% CI, 1.31-5.59; P < .01) for patients with gout aged 50 years or younger.

Conclusion:

Patients with gout, particularly those aged 50 years or younger and without hypouricemic medication control, are at a relatively higher risk of receiving rotator cuff repair surgery. Strict control of uric acid levels with hypouricemic medication may effectively reduce the risk of rotator cuff repair.
Vestibular rehabilitation in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: Reality or fiction?
Authors: Bressi Federica , Vella Paola , Casale Manuele , Moffa Antonio , Sabatino Lorenzo , Lopez Michele Antonio , Carinci Francesco , Papalia Rocco , Salvinelli Fabrizio , Sterzi Silvia
Published: May 2017

The objective of this article is to systematically review the evidence on the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation (VR) in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Relevant published studies about VR in BPPV were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar and Ovid using various keywords. We included trials that were available in the English language and did not apply publication year or publication status restrictions. Studies based on the VR in other peripheral and/or central balance disorders are excluded. Primary outcome was the effect on vertigo attacks and balance. Of 42 identified trials, only 12 trials fulfilled our inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Three of them investigated the role of VR in patients with BPPV comparing with no treatment, two of them evaluated the efficacy of VR versus medications, seven of them have highlighted the benefits of the VR alone or in combination with canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) compared to CRP alone. The studies differed in type of intervention, type of outcome and follow-up time. VR improves balance control, promoting visual stabilization with head movements, improving vestibular–visual interaction during head movement and expanding static and dynamic posture stability. CRP and VR seem to have a synergic effect in patients with BPPV, especially in elderly patients. VR does not reduce the recurrence rate, but it seems to reduce the unpleasantness. So VR can substitute CRP when spine comorbidities contraindicate CRP and can reduce the uptake of anti-vertigo drugs post CRP. Further studies are needed to confirm these encouraging results.
The Role of Aspirations and Obligations in Explaining the Relationship between Identity Discrepancies and Psychological Distress
Authors: Marcussen Kristen , Gallagher Mary
Published: May 2017

Using a national sample of adults, we examine the relationship between identity discrepancies and mental health in spouse and worker identities. Building on previous research, we predict that discrepancies between how individuals want to be with respect to a particular identity ( aspirations) and perceptions of how others view them in that identity ( reflected appraisals) will be associated with depressive symptoms. Alternatively, discrepancies between how individuals feels they should be ( obligations) and reflected appraisals will be associated with anxiety symptoms. We further examine whether identity salience moderates the relationship between discrepancies and distress. We find aspiration discrepancies are associated with depression as predicted in the spouse identity but not for the worker identity. With respect to obligation discrepancies, we find evidence for the predicted relationships for the spouse and worker identity only when identities are considered salient. We discuss the implications of our findings for the development of identity models of distress.
The Impact of Prior Programming Knowledge on Lecture Attendance and Final Exam
Authors: Veerasamy Ashok Kumar , D’Souza Daryl , Lindén Rolf , Laakso Mikko-Jussi
Published: May 2017

In this article, we report the results of the impact of prior programming knowledge (PPK) on lecture attendance (LA) and on subsequent final programming exam performance in a university level introductory programming course. This study used Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, multiple regression, Kruskal–Wallis, and Bonferroni correction statistical techniques via SPSS software to analyze the student data for academic years 2012, 2013, and 2014 to test the hypotheses. Only LA, PPK, and final exam (FE) scores were considered for this analysis. Research suggests that PPK influences student LA and FE performance. Similar analysis was conducted on the impact of LA on FE results regardless of students’ PPK levels. The results delivered mixed conclusions. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient results indicated that LA and FE were negatively correlated. However, the coefficient value was not sufficiently statistically significant to conclude that LA does not have an impact on FE results. On the other hand, the results of average LA on student FE results, with linear regression results, revealed that nonattendance of lectures had no effect on student performance in the FE. The multiple regression results of our study identified that, PPK in a regression model, is a good fit of the data, but LA in a regression model is not a good fit of the data.
Utilization of a Mobile App to Assess Psychiatric Patients With Limited English Proficiency
Authors: Villalobos Oscar , Lynch Stephanie , DeBlieck Conni , Summers Linda
Published: May 2017

The interactions in mental health involve a significant exchange of information to identify symptoms and formulate a working diagnosis. The inability of patients to communicate due to language limitations may lead to situations that will be detrimental, such as receiving the wrong diagnosis or treatment due to the inadequate translation from English to Spanish. A practice change was proposed where health care personnel utilized mobile technology such as the Canopy Translation App to assess the psychiatric symptoms of Spanish-speaking patients with limited English proficiency. Participants completed the System Usability Scale (SUS) to determine whether they found the Canopy Translation App useful during their assessments of Spanish-speaking patients. According to the SUS scores, participants found the Canopy Translation App useful during their interactions with Spanish-speaking patients. The findings emphasize the importance of exploring new resources and technologies to ameliorate language barriers.
Executive Function, Social Emotional Learning, and Social Competence in School-Aged Boys With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Berard Nathalie , Loutzenhiser Lynn , Sevigny Phillip R. , Alfano Dennis P.
Published: May 2017

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an aetiologically complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social functioning. Children with ASD display a wide range of social competence and more variability in social domains as compared with either communication or repetitive behaviour domains. There is limited understanding of factors that contribute to the heterogeneity of social abilities in ASD. A modified version of McKown and colleagues’ social competence model was used to examine social competence in 49 8- to 13-year-old boys with ASD without cognitive disability. The relations between executive function (EF), social emotional learning (SEL), and parent reports of child social competence were examined. Results showed that EF but not SEL predicted parent-reported child social competence. Although many interventions target SEL skills, these findings support specifically targeting EF in both assessment and interventions of school-aged children with ASD.
Institutions and port performance: A case study of the Port of Tauranga, New Zealand
Authors: Pyvis Justin , Tull Malcolm
Published: May 2017

This article examines the impact of path dependency and changing institutions on the Port of Tauranga. Through an institutional lens it examines the port’s development in five stages from 1945, through periods of amalgamation and containerisation in the 1960s and 1970s, and then looks at the period of reform and privatisation in the 1980s, and the legacy this created.
Santiago de Galicia and the Illyrian squadron: Characteristics, dimensions and tonnages of Mediterranean-built galleons for Philip’s II Atlantic fleets (1593–1597)
Authors: Casabán José Luis
Published: May 2017

This article discusses the characteristics, dimensions and tonnages of the Mediterranean-built galleons of the Illyrian squadron, focusing on its vice-flagship, Santiago de Galicia. In 1590 Philip II signed an asiento (contract) with two Ragusan noblemen – Pedro de Ivella, and his nephew, Estefano de Oliste – for the construction of 12 galleons to serve in the Spanish Atlantic fleets. According to Ivella’s correspondence, these galleons were designed and built as ocean-going warships. Contemporary documents located in the General Archive of Simancas (Spain), however, reveal the Mediterranean influence, rather than ocean-going qualities, of the vessels’ form and construction. Their dimensions, tonnages and ratios were more like the Mediterranean navi of the Great Armada than the ocean-going galleons built in Spain, Portugal or England. Discrepancies are also present regarding the composition of the squadron and of the tonnages for the same galleons between these documents – these subtle changes could be interpreted as an attempt to swindle the Spanish Crown by increasing the ships’ tonnages for Ivella’s own benefit. Despite these discrepancies, Santiago de Galicia and other galleons of the Illyrian squadron served in Phillip II’s Atlantic fleets only to be lost, or badly damaged, due to storms in the Armadas of 1596 and 1597.
Sailors in wonderland: Dutch sperm whaling during the nineteenth century, 1827–1849
Authors: Schokkenbroek Joost CA
Published: May 2017

The Dutch engaged in whaling between 1612 and 1964, with intervals of non-activity in the last quarter of the nineteenth and first half of the twentieth centuries. Under varied circumstances, the Dutch have relied upon the expertise of foreign whalemen. The involvement of Basque whalers in the foundation and organisation of Dutch whaling expeditions during the first half of the seventeenth century is fully documented. Less well known is the collaboration between the Dutch and whaling experts from the United States during the first half of the nineteenth century. This article relates to a number of expeditions undertaken by Dutch and American whalemen, who headed for hunting grounds unfamiliar to the Dutch. It examines the political and economic contexts within which American involvement should be considered, and identifies the results of this involvement.
Shanty singing and the Irish Atlantic: Identity and hybridity in the musical imagination of Stan Hugill
Authors: Smyth Gerry
Published: May 2017

In three major book-length contributions to the field during the 1960s and 1970s, leading folklorist Stan Hugill developed a peculiar understanding of the role of Ireland and Irish music in the international shanty tradition. Born on the Wirral peninsula, 15 miles from Liverpool, Hugill was deeply influenced by the port’s experience as a hub for the Irish diaspora. This article will examine Hugill’s characterisation of ‘Irish’ elements (lyrical, musical and performative) within selected examples, and will suggest that this representation of Irish music as central to the shanty repertoire engages with a range of insights emerging from Liverpool’s status as a key location within the spatial imagination of the Atlantic archipelago.
A Chinese perspective on filling the big ‘blue hole’
Authors: Sheng Fei
Published: May 2017

Although maritime history studies in China is still a subject to be strengthened, it is promoted by both the consciousness of academe and the need for national strategy. Traditionally, Chinese history study focuses on events in continental and agricultural civilization while the local historical records have shown an active interaction between ordinary people’s living and the maritime environment for centuries. Chinese maritime historical study needs to build a framework that discerns the different perceptions between the central government and the local marine societies towards the blue hole. It also should be integrated into the whole story of Chinese historical narrative.
The interdisciplinarity of maritime history from an Australian perspective
Authors: Tull Malcolm
Published: May 2017

Ingo Heidbrink has claimed that maritime history is an unpopular sub-discipline, with a serious ‘branding issue’ and challenged maritime historians to ‘close the blue hole’. This article attempts to respond to his challenge by highlighting the interdisciplinary potential and other strengths of maritime history. It also provides an Australian perspective on the ‘blue hole’.
Clinical and Radiologic Spectrum of Septo-optic Dysplasia: Review of 17 Cases
Authors: Alt Callie , Shevell Michael I. , Poulin Chantal , Rosenblatt Bernard , Saint-Martin Christine , Srour Myriam
Published: May 2017

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and radiologic characteristics of 17 individuals with septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) and attempted to identify correlations between imaging findings, clinical features, and neurodevelopmental outcome. Surprisingly, only 1 (6%) individual was classified as classic SOD (with septum pellucidum/corpus callosum dysgenesis), 3 (18%) as SOD-like (with normal septum pellucidum/corpus callosum) and the majority, 13 (76%), as SOD-plus (with cortical brain malformation). Cortical abnormalities included schizencephaly, polymicrogyria, and gray matter heterotopias. All individuals had optic nerve hypoplasia, 11 (65%) had endocrinologic deficits, and 13 (76%) had abnormal cerebral midlines. Seven individuals (41%) had all 3 features. Neurodevelopmental outcome was abnormal in 13 (78%), ranging from mild to severe developmental delay. Individuals with SOD-plus did not have more severe neurologic deficits than individuals with classic or SOD-like subgroups. Thus, SOD is clinically and radiologically heterogeneous, and cortical abnormalities are very common. Neurodevelopmental deficits are very prevalent, and of wide-ranging severity.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in 22 Children With Microcephaly of Different Etiologies
Authors: Gordon-Lipkin Eliza , Gentner Maura Blakemore , German Rebecca , Leppert Mary L.
Published: May 2017

We examined longitudinal neurodevelopmental outcomes in a series of infants with microcephaly. Retrospective review identified neonatal intensive care unit follow-up clinic patients with a diagnostic code of microcephaly, verified by head circumference less than the fifth precentile (WHO growth curves). Data were collected regarding clinical history and developmental assessments by Capute Scales and gross motor age equivalent. Developmental Quotient (DQ) was age adjusted up until 2 years for preterm infants. Twenty-two infants had microcephaly. At latest follow-up (3-66 months, mean 27.2), 73% had delay (DQ < 70) in ≥1 area of development: gross motor 65% (mean DQ 56.8), visual-motor 59% (mean DQ 62.7), and language 59% (mean DQ 65.9). In this sample, postnatal onset and diagnosis of epilepsy were associated with lower DQs. We conclude that infants with microcephaly are at significant risk for delay across all aspects of development and for long-term disability. Postnatal etiologies of microcephaly and infants with comorbid epilepsy had worse outcomes.
Amplitude Integrated Electroencephalography Compared With Conventional Video EEG for Neonatal Seizure Detection: A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Rakshasbhuvankar Abhijeet , Rao Shripada , Palumbo Linda , Ghosh Soumya , Nagarajan Lakshmi
Published: May 2017

This diagnostic accuracy study compared the accuracy of seizure detection by amplitude-integrated electroencephalography with the criterion standard conventional video EEG in term and near-term infants at risk of seizures. Simultaneous recording of amplitude-integrated EEG (2-channel amplitude-integrated EEG with raw trace) and video EEG was done for 24 hours for each infant. Amplitude-integrated EEG was interpreted by a neonatologist; video EEG was interpreted by a neurologist independently. Thirty-five infants were included in the analysis. In the 7 infants with seizures on video EEG, there were 169 seizure episodes on video EEG, of which only 57 were identified by amplitude-integrated EEG. Amplitude-integrated EEG had a sensitivity of 33.7% for individual seizure detection. Amplitude-integrated EEG had an 86% sensitivity for detection of babies with seizures; however, it was nonspecific, in that 50% of infants with seizures detected by amplitude-integrated EEG did not have true seizures by video EEG. In conclusion, our study suggests that amplitude-integrated EEG is a poor screening tool for neonatal seizures.
Impact of Child Life Services on Children and Families Admitted to Start the Ketogenic Diet
Authors: Kossoff Eric H. , Sutter Lindsay , Doerrer Sarah C. , Haney Courtney A. , Turner Zahava
Published: May 2017

Traditionally the ketogenic diet is started as an inpatient admission to the hospital. Starting in January 2015, child life services were made formally available during ketogenic diet admissions to help families cope. One-page surveys were then provided to 15 parents on the day of discharge and again after 3 months. Every family believed that the child life services were helpful. Children who were developmentally appropriate/mildly delayed had higher parent-reported anxiety scores than those who were moderate to severely delayed (4.4 vs 1.0, P = .02). At 3 months, child life services were deemed very helpful for the parents (mean score: 8.9, range: 5-10), and were more helpful for the parent than the child (mean 6.2, range 1-10, P = .047). One of the most helpful services was a prior phone call to parents 1 week prior. In this small pilot study, child life involvement during the start of the ketogenic diet was highly useful.
Engine nacelles design – Problems and challenges
Authors: Kozaczuk Konrad
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a design approach for large passenger aircraft nacelles. It describes nacelle functions, configurations, and major components. Design criteria for particular components of the nacelle are presented. Typical materials used for structure build including composites are elaborated. Certification requirements are shown. The paper presents challenges for nacelle design and build, including weight, aerodynamic smoothness, nacelle integration, and cost.
Nonsingular terminal sliding mode control for reusable launch vehicle with atmospheric disturbances
Authors: You Ming , Zong Qun , Tian Bailing , Zeng Fanlin
Published: May 2017

The controller design for reusable launch vehicles is challenging due to enormous amounts of model parameter uncertainties and atmospheric disturbances. This paper first derives six-degree-of-freedom model of a reusable launch vehicle with atmospheric disturbances. Next, four kinds of atmospheric disturbances are introduced and wind models are established respectively. For attitude control of the reusable launch vehicle, a nonsingular terminal sliding mode controller is designed with stability guaranteed. Finally, simulation results show a satisfactory performance for the attitude tracking of the reusable launch vehicle with atmospheric disturbances.
Hermeneutic caring conversations in forensic psychiatric caring
Authors: Rydenlund Kenneth , Lindström Unni Å , Rehnsfeldt Arne
Published: May 2017

Background:

In forensic psychiatric care, a hermeneutic caring conversation between caregivers and patients can improve health outcomes. The hermeneutic approach entails starting from the whole and involves openness for what is shown as well as paying attention to the different parts. One way to deepen these conversations is to take advantage of both the caregivers’ and the patients’ life experiences.

Research questions:

The purpose of the study is to discuss and reflect on what hermeneutic caring conversations can mean for a deepened understanding of the movement in the health processes of patients in forensic care, patients who are in deep suffering.

Research design:

This study uses a hermeneutic methodology. Conversations with patients receiving care in forensic psychiatry are deepened using texts from philosophy, caring science, and poetry. The outcome emerges through a phase of creating patterns.

Participants:

Three patients in forensic care.

Ethical considerations:

This study builds on a doctoral thesis approved by The Ethical Review Board at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping, Sweden.

Findings:

Hermeneutic caring conversations provide a possibility for rich caring conversations with patients who are often not given a voice. These conversations are seen as ethical expressions of hermeneutic caring communion that affect patients’ health processes in a positive way.

Discussion:

It takes courage and responsibility to initiate and conduct these conversations as the patients volunteer to share their suffering. In hermeneutic caring conversations, the caregiver’s attitude is crucial for the transference of knowledge.

Conclusion:

This study provides a preliminary outline for hermeneutic caring conversations. A caring culture that provides time and space to prepare hermeneutic caring conversations is a prerequisite for the implementation of hermeneutic caring conversations.
A Sectoral Analysis of the Role of Stock Market Development on Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Indian Economy
Authors: Sehrawat Madhu , Giri A.K.
Published: May 2017

The present study examines the relationship between Indian stock market and economic growth from a sectoral perspective using quarterly time-series data from 2003:Q4 to 2014:Q4. The results of the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach bounds test confirm the existence of a cointegrating relationship between sector-specific gross domestic product (GDP) and sector-specific stock indices. The empirical results reveal that sector-specific economic growth are significantly influenced by changes in the respective sector-specific stock price indices in the long run as well as in the short run. Apart from that, the control variables, such as trade openness and inflation, act as the instrument variables in explaining the variations in the sector-specific GDP of the economy. The results of Granger causality test demonstrate unidirectional long-run as well as short-run causality running from sector specific stock prices to respective sector GDP. The findings suggest that economic growth of the country is sensitive to respective sub-sector stock market investments. The findings highlight the reasons for cyclical and counter-cyclical business phase for the overall economy.
To Gear Up Firm Performance in Banking Industry: The Role of Dynamic Capability
Authors: Singh Bindu , Rao M.K.
Published: May 2017

This article aims to examine the performance implications of dynamic capabilities in the banking firms and explain the degree of influence that learning, integration, reconfiguration and alliance management dynamic capabilities are likely to have on a bank’s financial and non-financial performance. Using 439 samples of managers in Indian banking firms, structural equation modelling (SEM) was directed and found that dynamic capability is a vital driver of banks’ performance. Learning, integration and alliance management dynamic capabilities have significant relationship with banks’ financial and non-financial performance. The insignificance of reconfiguration capability for financial performance is also revealed. Practically, findings will serve banking sector, useful course-of-action to overcome the present competitive-pressures as well counter the future challenges through depth knowledge on specific dynamic capability investment and respective performance-improvement. Stranded on these findings, practical implications, limitations and future research directions are also conversed.
Bronchopneumonia associated with Mannheimia granulomatis infection in a Belgian hare (Lepus europaeus)
Authors: Britton Ann P. , Redford Tony , Zabek Erin , Sojonky Ken R. , Scouras Andrea P. , Lewis Danielle , Joseph Tomy
Published: May 2017

Mannheimia granulomatis was first isolated from pneumonic European hares in the 1980s and has since been reported sporadically in pneumonic Swedish roe deer and Australian cattle. Although the pneumonic lesions caused by M. haemolytica in livestock have been extensively studied and reported, little is published with regard to the pneumonic lesions associated with M. granulomatis infection in any species. We describe the histopathology of purulent bronchopneumonia associated with M. granulomatis in a Belgian hare ( Lepus europaeus) resident in British Columbia, Canada, and compare the lesions with those caused by M. haemolytica in livestock.
Citation Impact Factors Among Faculty in Canadian Social Work Programs
Authors: Holosko Michael J. , Mishna Faye , Graham John R. , Allen Junior L.
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

We report impact data on faculty ( N = 454) working in 30 of Canada’s accredited social work programs during 2016.

Method:

Using the Publish or Perish website, faculty member’s h and g indices, and their most frequently cited articles published in the last decade were analyzed both individually and by school.

Findings:

(a) computed h scores were Ra 0.8–11.9, M = 4.4 and g scores were Ra 1.3–21.3, M = 7.7; (b) the top-ranked citation impact for programs were the University of Toronto, Dalhousie University, and the University of British Columbia; (c) larger programs had significantly higher citation impact for both h and g scores than smaller programs; (d) 17 (27%) of these authors had 10-year citation counts ranging from 176 to 666; and (e) their topics related to children/youth/adolescents (35%) and health care (35%).

Discussion:

Based on our work in this area, we offer some constructive recommendations to Canadian social work programs and faculty.
Optimal Starting Point for Fifth Metatarsal Zone II Fractures: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Watson Geoffrey I. , Karnovsky Sydney C. , Konin Gabrielle , Drakos Mark C.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Identifying the optimal starting point for intramedullary fixation of tibia and femur fractures is well described in the literature using a retrograde or anterograde technique. This technique has not been applied to the fifth metatarsal, where screw trajectory can cause iatrogenic malreduction. The generally accepted starting point for the fifth metatarsal is “high and inside” to accommodate the fifth metatarsal’s dorsal apex and medial curvature. We used a retrograde technique to identify the optimal starting position for intramedullary fixation of fifth metatarsal fractures.

Methods:

Five matched cadaveric lower extremity pairs were dissected to the fifth metatarsal neck. An osteotomy was made to access the intramedullary canal. A retrograde reamer was passed to the base of the fifth metatarsal to ascertain the ideal entry point. Distances from each major structure on the lateral aspect of the foot were measured. Computed tomography scans helped assess base edge measurements.

Results:

In 6 of 10 specimens, the retrograde reamer hit the cuboid with a cuboid invasion averaging 0.7 mm. The peroneus brevis and longus were closest to the starting position with an average distance of 5.1 mm and 5.7 mm, respectively. Distances from the entry point to the dorsal, plantar, medial, and lateral edges of the metatarsal base were 8.3 mm, 6.9 mm, 9.7 mm, and 9.7 mm, respectively.

Conclusion:

Optimal starting position was found to be essentially at the center of the base of the fifth metatarsal at the lateral margin of the cartilage. Osteoplasty of the cuboid or forefoot adduction may be required to gain access to this site.

Clinical Relevance:

This study evaluated the ideal starting position for screw placement of zone II base of the fifth metatarsal fractures, which should be considered when performing internal fixation for these fractures.
Stress and free vibration analysis of piezoelectric hollow circular FG-SWBNNTs reinforced nanocomposite plate based on modified couple stress theory subjected to thermo-mechanical loadings
Authors: Mohammadimehr Mehdi , Atifeh S Javad , Rousta Navi Borhan
Published: May 2017

In this article, stresses and free-vibration behaviors of annular circular piezoelectric nanocomposite plate reinforced by functionally graded single-walled boron nitride nanotubes (FG-SWBNNTs) embedded in an elastic foundation based on modified couple stress theory (MCST) are explored. The mechanical properties of FG-SWBNNT-reinforced nanocomposite plate are assumed to be graded in the direction of thickness and estimated through the micro-mechanical approach. The governing equations are obtained using the energy method. The natural frequencies and stresses of FG-SWBNNT-reinforced nanocomposite plate are computed using the differential quadrature method (DQM). An excellent agreement is observed between the obtained results and the results in the literature. Influences of the internal radius to the external radius, the thickness to the internal radius ratio, the material length scale parameter, the functionally graded parameter, temperature changes and elastic coefficients on the natural frequencies and stresses of the hollow circular nanocomposite plate are investigated. The results of this research show that the natural frequencies of the piezoelectric nanocomposite plate increase by increasing the material length scale parameter, the elastic foundation parameters, the ratio of the inner radius to the outer radius, the ratio of the thickness to the inner radius, and decreasing the power index and temperature change. The radial stress of the nanocomposite plate varies proportionally to its mode shape. The results can be employed to design smart structures in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS).
Moderating Effects of Patient Characteristics on the Impact of Financial Incentives
Authors: Rosenthal Meredith B. , Troxel Andrea B. , Volpp Kevin G. , Stewart Walter F. , Sequist Thomas D. , Jones James B. , Hirsch AnneMarie G. , Hoffer Karen , Zhu Jingsan , Wang Wenli , Hodlofski Amanda , Finnerty Darra , Huang Jack J. , Asch David A.
Published: May 2017

While financial incentives to providers or patients are increasingly common as a quality improvement strategy, their impact on patient subgroups and health care disparities is unclear. To examine these patterns, we analyzed data from a randomized clinical trial of financial incentives to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. Patients with higher baseline LDL experienced greater cholesterol reductions in the shared incentive arm (0.23 mg/dL per unit change in baseline LDL, 95% CI [−0.46, −0.00]) but were also less likely to have medication potency increases in the physician incentive arm ( OR = 0.98, 95% CI [0.97, 0.996]). Uninsured patients and those of race other than Black or White were less likely to have potency increases in the shared incentive arm ( OR = 0.15, 95% CI [0.03, 0.70] and OR = 0.09, 95% CI [0.01, 0.93], respectively). These findings suggest some differential response to incentives, particularly in the form of targeted medication changes.
Lack of Association Between Adrenoreceptor Genotype and the Vasoconstriction Response to Dexmedetomidine
Authors: Friesen Robert H. , Slavov Dobromir , Miyamoto Shelley D. , John Ing Richard , LaRiviere Wells B. , Taylor Matthew R. G.
Published: May 2017

An exaggerated vasoconstriction response to dexmedetomidine, an α-2 adrenergic agonist, has been associated with 2 genotypes: a deletion in the α-2B adrenoreceptor gene ( ADRA2B deletion) and SNP rs9922316 in the gene for protein kinase C type β ( PRKCB). We hypothesized that children with a marked systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) increase following intravenous dexmedetomidine bolus would carry these genotypes. Following institutional review board approval, DNA samples from 16 children with transplanted hearts who participated in a study in the cardiac catheterization laboratory of hemodynamic responses to dexmedetomidine boluses underwent genotyping by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and PCR Sanger sequencing for the ADRA2B deletion and for PRKCB rs9922316. A wide range of SVRI (−12% to +76%, median 33%) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP; −7% to +50%, median 26%) responses to dexmedetomidine was observed. The responses were not significantly different among genotype groups. An association between exaggerated SVRI or MAP responses and either ADRA2B deletion or PRKCB rs9922316 was not observed.
Surgical Considerations in Atrioventricular Canal Defects
Authors: Malik Mahim , Khalid Nuri Muhammad
Published: May 2017

Atrioventricular canal defects represent a diverse and challenging group of defects. Timing and surgical technique is greatly dependent on morphology of the valve as well as symptoms. Surgical options for repair of these defects are reviewed and presented below.
Architectural Generosity: A Preliminary Attempt at a Qualitative Definition
Authors: Carta Silvio
Published: May 2017

Although in several forms and in different terms, the notion of generosity in architecture has recently received increased attention in contemporary debates, definitions of generosity and its cognates remain sparse and perfunctory, and their connotations generally unclear and in most cases subjective, hinged in the emotional sphere and thus resistant to being measurably related to projects. Moreover, no theoretical framework of architectural generosity has to date been articulated. This article collects the various definitions of generosity, including such cognate terms as abundance, surplus, or superfluity, and deduces the patterns therein to produce a schema of the qualitative characteristics of architectural generosity. By qualitatively describing how scholars apply the notion of architectural generosity, this article provides a theoretical framework for further studies of the phenomenon.
Peer connectedness in the middle school band program
Authors: Rawlings Jared R. , Stoddard Sarah A.
Published: May 2017

Previous research suggests that students participating in school-based musical ensembles are more engaged in school and more likely to connect to their peers in school; however, researchers have not specifically investigated peer connectedness among adolescents in school-based music ensembles. The purpose of this study was to explore middle school band students’ perceptions of peer connectedness. Participants ( N = 317) indicated moderately high levels of peer connectedness both within the concert band and school. Levels of peer connectedness differed between schools; however, no statistical difference was found by grade/band level or SES. Suggestions for future research and implications for youth development and music education professions are discussed.