bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convex optimization of nonlinear feedback controllers via occupation measures
Authors: Majumdar Anirudha , Vasudevan Ram , Tobenkin Mark M. , Tedrake Russ
Published: June 2014

The construction of feedback control laws for underactuated nonlinear robotic systems with input saturation limits is crucial for dynamic robotic tasks such as walking, running, or flying. Existing techniques for feedback control design are either restricted to linear systems, rely on discretizations of the state space, or require solving a nonconvex optimization problem that requires feasible initialization. This paper presents a method for designing feedback controllers for polynomial systems that maximize the size of the time-limited backwards reachable set (BRS). In contrast to traditional approaches based on Lyapunov’s criteria for stability, we rely on the notion of occupation measures to pose this problem as an infinite-dimensional linear program which can then be approximated in finite dimension via semidefinite programs (SDPs). The solution to each SDP yields a polynomial control policy and an outer approximation of the largest achievable BRS which is well suited for use in a trajectory library or feedback motion planning algorithm. We demonstrate the efficacy and scalability of our approach on six nonlinear systems. Comparisons to an infinite-horizon linear quadratic regulator approach and an approach relying on Lyapunov’s criteria for stability are also included in order to illustrate the improved performance of the presented technique.
Subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee: review of imaging findings
Authors: Jose Jean , Pasquotti Giulio , Smith Marvin K , Gupta Akhil , Lesniak Bryson P , Kaplan Lee D
Published: June 2014

Subchondral insufficiency fracture of the knee (SIFK) is a potentially devastating disorder that may progress rapidly to osteoarthritis with articular surface collapse. It should be suspected in the appropriate clinical setting, as in early stages it is usually indistinct on initial plain radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging is required for a definitive diagnosis. Outcome of SIFK depends on several factors, including the initial subchondral fracture size, patient BMI, degree of osteopenia, as well as early diagnosis and initial treatment. The purpose of this paper is to review the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, image findings, complications and outcome of SIFK.
Image quality and radiation dose of lower extremity CT angiography at 70 kVp on an integrated circuit detector dual-source computed tomography
Authors: Qi Li , Zhao Yan’E , Zhou Chang Sheng , Spearman James V , Renker Matthias , Schoepf U Joseph , Zhang Long Jiang , Lu Guang Ming
Published: June 2014

Background

Despite the well-established requirement for radiation dose reduction there are few studies examining the potential for lower extremity CT angiography (CTA) at 70 kVp.

Purpose

To compare the image quality and radiation dose of lower extremity CTA at 70 kVp using a dual-source CT system with an integrated circuit detector to similar studies at 120 kVp.

Material and Methods

A total of 62 patients underwent lower extremity CTA. Thirty-one patients were examined at 70 kVp using a second generation dual-source CT with an integrated circuit detector (70 kVp group) and 31 patients were evaluated at 120 kVp using a first generation dual-source CT (120 kVp group). The attenuation and image noise were measured and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated. Two radiologists assessed image quality. Radiation dose was compared.

Results

The mean attenuation of the 70 kVp group was higher than the 120 kVp group (575 ± 149 Hounsfield units [HU] vs. 258 ± 38 HU, respectively, P < 0.001) as was SNR (44.0 ± 22.0 vs 32.7 ± 13.3, respectively, P = 0.017), CNR (39.7 ± 20.6 vs 26.6 ± 11.7, respectively, P = 0.003) and the mean image quality score (3.7 ± 0.1 vs. 3.2 ± 0.3, respectively, P < 0.001). The inter-observer agreement was good for the 70 kVp group and moderate for the 120 kVp group. The dose-length product was lower in the 70 kVp group (264.5 ± 63.1 mGy × cm vs. 412.4 ± 81.5 mGy × cm, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Lower extremity CTA at 70 kVp allows for lower radiation dose with higher SNR, CNR, and image quality when compared with standard 120 kVp.
Sciatic nerve injection injury
Authors: Jung Kim Hyun , Hyun Park Sang
Published: June 2014

Nerve injury is a common complication following intramuscular injection and the sciatic nerve is the most frequently affected nerve, especially in children, the elderly and underweight patients. The neurological presentation may range from minor transient pain to severe sensory disturbance and motor loss with poor recovery. Management of nerve injection injury includes drug treatment of pain, physiotherapy, use of assistive devices and surgical exploration. Early recognition of nerve injection injury and appropriate management are crucial in order to reduce neurological deficit and to maximize recovery. Sciatic nerve injection injury is a preventable event. Total avoidance of intramuscular injection is recommended if other administration routes can be used. If the injection has to be administered into the gluteal muscle, the ventrogluteal region (gluteal triangle) has a more favourable safety profile than the dorsogluteal region (the upper outer quadrant of the buttock).
The shipwreck of the singular
Authors: Healy David , Mangin Derelie , Applbaum Kalman
Published: June 2014

In 1962, Louis Lasagna was one of the central figures in the creation of our current drug regulation systems. His influence on the practice of modern medicine, through a series of unanticipated consequences of these systems, has been profound. In the 1960s, he was one of the most progressive thinkers in medicine. By the 1980s, he had apparently become one of the most reactionary. This article attempts to delineate the dilemmas he believed he was dealing with, dilemmas that stemmed from a system he had helped create, that produced this apparent change in orientation. The problems with which he grappled are ones that remain unresolved and, indeed, have become more acute. The example of how he attempted to remedy what had gone wrong may provide pointers as to how to solve or how not to solve current difficulties.
Exploring the Experiences of Female Emerging Adult Mentors
Authors: McGill Julianne , Adler-Baeder Francesca , Sollie Donna L. , Kerpelman Jennifer L.
Published: June 2014

While mentoring programs are prevalent, limited research focused on the mentors’ experiences exist, particularly during critical periods of development. Using a qualitative, grounded theory approach, this study explores the elements of the mentoring experience for a cohort of late adolescent/emerging adult women in a long-term program. Outcomes described were both personal and work related, as well as relationally and individually focused. In addition, a number of individual, relational, and programmatic challenges, along with associated emotional challenges, were reported. The influence of these challenges on outcomes, however, depend on a number of elements that appear to buffer the negative experiences. The organization of the findings into a conceptual model informs both research and practice.
Osteoinduction of biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds in a nude mouse model
Authors: Miramond T , Corre P , Borget P , Moreau F , Guicheux J , Daculsi G , Weiss P
Published: June 2014

Bioceramics combined with isolated stem cells, or with total bone marrow, constitute the main strategies under consideration in the field of bone tissue engineering. In the present preclinical study, two biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds currently on the market, MBCP® and MBCP+®, with different hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate ratio, were implanted ectopically in a nude mouse model. These scaffolds were supplemented either with human mesenchymal stromal cells, or with human total bone marrow, or rat total bone marrow. Biomaterials alone were found to have potentially low, but non-zero, osteoinductive properties, while biomaterials associated with total bone marrow consistently improved osteoinduction in comparison with high concentrations of isolated human stromal cells.
Feeding Relationships
Authors: Smoyer Amy B.
Published: June 2014

Research has demonstrated the importance of supportive relationships and social networks to prisoners’ psychosocial outcomes, especially for women. Understanding how these relationships are constructed, negotiated, and sustained is, therefore, critical for social workers and other professionals who work with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated clients, and/or their family and friends. This article analyzes formerly incarcerated women’s narratives about prison foodways, demonstrating the centrality of these systems to prisoners’ relationships and building knowledge about everyday inmate interactions with people inside and outside of prison. Research, clinical, and policy recommendations suggest ways prison foodways could be altered to strengthen prisoners’ relationships.
The Normalization of Sibling Violence
Authors: Khan Roxanne , Rogers Paul
Published: June 2014

Despite its pervasive and detrimental nature, sibling violence (SV) remains marginalized as a harmless and inconsequential form of familial aggression. The present study investigates the extent to which perceptions of SV differ from those of other types of interpersonal violence. A total of 605 respondents (197 males, 408 females) read one of four hypothetical physical assault scenarios that varied according to perpetrator–victim relationship type (i.e., sibling vs. dating partner vs. peer vs. stranger) before completing a series of 24 attribution items. Respondents also reported on their own experiences of interpersonal violence during childhood. Exploratory factor analysis reduced 23 attribution items to three internally reliable factors reflecting perceived assault severity, victim culpability, and victim resistance ratings. A 4 × 2 MANCOVA—controlling for respondent age—revealed several significant effects. Overall, males deemed the assault less severe and the victim more culpable than did females. In addition, the sibling assault was deemed less severe compared to assault on either a dating partner or a stranger, with the victim of SV rated just as culpable as the victim of dating, peer, or stranger-perpetrated violence. Finally, respondents with more (frequent) experiences of childhood SV victimization perceived the hypothetical SV assault as being less severe, and victim more culpable, than respondents with no SV victimization. Results are discussed in the context of SV normalization. Methodological limitations and applications for current findings are also outlined.
Sexual Victimization History, Depression, and Task Physiology as Predictors of Sexual Revictimization
Authors: Waldron Jonathan C. , Wilson Laura C. , Patriquin Michelle A. , Scarpa Angela
Published: June 2014

The current study examined depression and physiological reactivity to a sexual threat task as longitudinal predictors of sexual revictimization in women with sexual victimization histories. The sample included 14 young adult women ( Mage = 19.15) who reported child sexual abuse. Heart rate and root mean square of the successive differences were measured at baseline and during the presentation of sexual victimization–related words during an Emotional Stroop task. Results indicated that women who reported a greater history of childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual victimization were at increased risk for sexual revictimization 6 months after initial data collection. Furthermore, even after accounting for their childhood and adult sexual victimization histories and depression symptoms, women who exhibited reduced, or blunted, physiological activity during the sexual victimization stimuli of the Stroop task were more likely to report sexual revictimization during the 6-month follow-up. The findings suggest that sexual victimization survivors may benefit from interventions that address physiological blunting and the recognition of sexual threat cues in their environment.
Risk Levels, Treatment Duration, and Drop Out in a Clinically Composed Outpatient Sex Offender Treatment Group
Authors: Smid Wineke J. , Kamphuis Jan H. , Wever Edwin C. , Verbruggen Maud C. F. M.
Published: June 2014

Previous research in the Netherlands documented that clinical judgment may yield a substantial amount of treatment referrals for sexual offenders that are inconsistent with actuarial risk assessment and the Risk Need Responsivity (RNR) principles. The present study tested the risk level distribution of a high-intensity, open-format outpatient treatment group. Eighty patients were enrolled during a 620-week period, and their STATIC-99R risk levels were retrospectively determined. The distribution of risk levels in this treatment group did not differ from the distribution of a representative sample of sex offenders referred to outpatient treatment in the Netherlands between 1996 and 2002 ( n = 145), nor from the combined Canadian samples ( n = 2011) used to assess STATIC-99R normative percentile. These findings suggest that no selection in terms of actuarial risk level occurred between conviction and treatment, leading to over-inclusion of low risk offenders in this high-intensity outpatient treatment group. It is concluded that the standard use of structured risk assessment for the compilation of treatment groups may improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of sex offender treatment in the Netherlands.
The Association Between Substance Use and Intimate Partner Violence Within Black Male Same-Sex Relationships
Authors: Wu Elwin , El-Bassel Nabila , McVinney L. Donald , Hess Leona , Fopeano Mark V. , Hwang Hyesung G. , Charania Mahnaz , Mansergh Gordon
Published: June 2014

Compared with the extant research on heterosexual intimate partner violence (IPV)—including the knowledge base on alcohol and illicit drug use as predictors of such IPV—there is a paucity of studies on IPV among men who have sex with men (MSM), especially Black MSM. This study investigates the prevalence of experiencing and perpetrating IPV among a sample of Black MSM couples and examines whether heavy drinking and/or illicit substance use is associated with IPV. We conducted a secondary analysis on a data set from 74 individuals (constituting 37 Black MSM couples) screened for inclusion in a couple-based HIV prevention pilot study targeting methamphetamine-involved couples. More than one third ( n= 28, 38%) reported IPV at some point with the current partner: 24 both experiencing and perpetrating, 2 experiencing only, and 2 perpetrating only. IPV in the past 30 days was reported by 21 (28%) of the participants: 18 both experiencing and perpetrating, 1 experiencing only, and 2 perpetrating only. Heavy drinking and methamphetamine use each was associated significantly with experiencing and perpetrating IPV throughout the relationship as well as in the past 30 days. Rock/crack cocaine use was significantly associated with any history of experiencing and perpetrating IPV. Altogether, IPV rates in this sample of Black MSM couples equal or exceed those observed among women victimized by male partners as well as the general population of MSM. This exploratory study points to a critical need for further efforts to understand and address IPV among Black MSM. Similar to heterosexual IPV, results point to alcohol and illicit drug use treatment as important avenues to improve the health and social well-being of Black MSM.
Mental Health and Bullying in the United States Among Children Aged 6 to 17 Years
Authors: Turcotte Benedict Frances , Vivier Patrick M. , Gjelsvik Annie
Published: June 2014

This article examines the association between mental health disorders and being identified as a bully among children between the ages of 6 and 17 years. Data from the 2007 National Survey of Children’s Health were examined. A total of 63,997 children had data for both parental reported mental health and bullying status. Bivariate analysis and logistic regression was performed to assess the association between mental health status and being identified as a bully with an age-stratified analysis and sub-analysis by type of mental health disorder. In 2007, 15.2% of U.S. children ages 6 to 17 years were identified as bullies by their parent or guardian. Children with a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, or depression had a threefold increased odds of being a bully. The diagnosis of depression is associated with a 3.31 increased odds (95% CI = [2.7, 4.07]) of being identified as a bully. Children with anxiety and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) had similar odds. The diagnosis of a mental health disorder is strongly associated with being identified as a bully. In particular, depression, anxiety, and ADHD are strongly associated with being identified as a bully. These findings emphasize the importance of providing psychological support to not only victims of bullying but bullies as well. Understanding the risk profile of childhood bullies is essential in gaining a better grasp of this public health problem and in creating useful and appropriate resources and interventions to decrease bullying.
Development and Validation of the Belief in Female Sexual Deceptiveness Scale
Authors: Rogers Darrin L. , Cervantes Emanuel , Espinosa Joanna C.
Published: June 2014

This article describes the development of a scale measuring the extent of men’s belief in female sexual deceptiveness. This belief has been postulated as a component of hostile masculinity and a precursor to more serious sexual-assault-facilitating cognitions, though it has not yet been studied empirically. From a final pool of 22 items, the 14-item Belief in Female Sexual Deceptiveness (BFSD) scale was constructed. Data were collected via online survey from 131 predominantly Hispanic college males; scale items were selected by exploratory factor analysis. Three moderately strongly correlated factors emerged, though they overlapped strongly and are currently considered only for future study. An 8-item short form of the BFSD scale (the BFSD-S) was created, as well. The full BFSD scale showed strong internal consistency and significant correlations with gender role attitudes, unequal/coercive relationship attitudes, history of misperceiving women’s platonic interest as sexual, history of sexual frustration in relationships, adult attachment, belief in immanent justice, attitudes toward intimate partner violence, and rape myth acceptance. Patterns of divergent correlations with other measures also supported the scale’s validity. The BFSD-S performed nearly identically to the BFSD. Limitations, future directions, and implications are discussed.
Intervertebral disc characterization by shear wave elastography: An in vitro preliminary study
Authors: Vergari Claudio , Rouch Philippe , Dubois Guillaume , Bonneau Dominique , Dubousset Jean , Tanter Mickael , Gennisson Jean-Luc , Skalli Wafa
Published: June 2014

Patient-specific numerical simulation of the spine is a useful tool both in clinic and research. While geometrical personalization of the spine is no more an issue, thanks to recent technological advances, non-invasive personalization of soft tissue’s mechanical properties remains a challenge. Ultrasound elastography is a relatively recent measurement technique allowing the evaluation of soft tissue’s elastic modulus through the measurement of shear wave speed. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of elastographic measurements in intervertebral disc. An in vitro approach was chosen to test the hypothesis that shear wave speed can be used to evaluate intervertebral disc mechanical properties and to assess measurement repeatability. In total, 11 oxtail intervertebral discs were tested in compression to determine their stiffness and apparent elastic modulus at rest and at 400 N. Elastographic measurements were performed in these two conditions and compared to these mechanical parameters. The protocol was repeated six times to determine elastographic measurement repeatability. Average shear wave speed over all samples was 5.3 ± 1.0 m/s, with a repeatability of 7% at rest and 4.6% at 400 N; stiffness and apparent elastic modulus were 266.3 ± 70.5 N/mm and 5.4 ± 1.1 MPa at rest, respectively, while at 400 N they were 781.0 ± 153.8 N/mm and 13.2 ± 2.4 MPa, respectively. Correlations were found between elastographic measurements and intervertebral disc mechanical properties; these preliminary results are promising for further in vivo application.
The Moral Ties That Bind . . . Even to Out-Groups: The Interactive Effect of Moral Identity and the Binding Moral Foundations
Authors: Smith Isaac H. , Aquino Karl , Koleva Spassena , Graham Jesse
Published: June 2014

Throughout history, principles such as obedience, loyalty, and purity have been instrumental in binding people together and helping them thrive as groups, tribes, and nations. However, these same principles have also led to in-group favoritism, war, and even genocide. Does adhering to the binding moral foundations that underlie such principles unavoidably lead to the derogation of out-group members? We demonstrated that for people with a strong moral identity, the answer is “no,” because they are more likely than those with a weak moral identity to extend moral concern to people belonging to a perceived out-group. Across three studies, strongly endorsing the binding moral foundations indeed predicted support for the torture of out-group members (Studies 1a and 1b) and withholding of necessary help from out-group members (Study 2), but this relationship was attenuated among participants who also had a strong moral identity.
A multiphase non-linear mixed effects model: An application to spirometry after lung transplantation
Authors: Rajeswaran Jeevanantham , Blackstone Eugene H
Published: June 2014

In medical sciences, we often encounter longitudinal temporal relationships that are non-linear in nature. The influence of risk factors may also change across longitudinal follow-up. A system of multiphase non-linear mixed effects model is presented to model temporal patterns of longitudinal continuous measurements, with temporal decomposition to identify the phases and risk factors within each phase. Application of this model is illustrated using spirometry data after lung transplantation using readily available statistical software. This application illustrates the usefulness of our flexible model when dealing with complex non-linear patterns and time-varying coefficients.
Quantitative imaging biomarkers: A review of statistical methods for computer algorithm comparisons
Authors: Obuchowski Nancy A , Reeves Anthony P , Huang Erich P , Wang Xiao-Feng , Buckler Andrew J , Kim Hyun J (Grace) , Barnhart Huiman X , Jackson Edward F , Giger Maryellen L , Pennello Gene , Toledano Alicia Y , Kalpathy-Cramer Jayashree , Apanasovich Tatiyana V , Kinahan Paul E , Myers Kyle J , Goldgof Dmitry B , Barboriak Daniel P , Gillies Robert J , Schwartz Lawrence H , Sullivan Daniel C ,   (for the Algorithm Comparison Working Group)
Published: June 2014

Quantitative biomarkers from medical images are becoming important tools for clinical diagnosis, staging, monitoring, treatment planning, and development of new therapies. While there is a rich history of the development of quantitative imaging biomarker (QIB) techniques, little attention has been paid to the validation and comparison of the computer algorithms that implement the QIB measurements. In this paper we provide a framework for QIB algorithm comparisons. We first review and compare various study designs, including designs with the true value (e.g. phantoms, digital reference images, and zero-change studies), designs with a reference standard (e.g. studies testing equivalence with a reference standard), and designs without a reference standard (e.g. agreement studies and studies of algorithm precision). The statistical methods for comparing QIB algorithms are then presented for various study types using both aggregate and disaggregate approaches. We propose a series of steps for establishing the performance of a QIB algorithm, identify limitations in the current statistical literature, and suggest future directions for research.
Peer Interaction and Its Influence on Family Purchase Decision: A Study among Indian Teenagers
Authors: Singh Rashmi , Nayak J.K.
Published: June 2014

The paper aims to clarify the impact of Teenager–peer interaction and Enduring Product involvement (measured in terms of pleasure and sign associated with the possession of product) in the family purchase decision for the electronic items. It proposes that how the teenagers interaction with peer have an impact on family decision making process. The study aims to expand the domain of Consumer (family/Household) decision making by including a broader range of teenagers influence and the product involvement in day to day life.

The study is based on the teenagers influence in the family’s purchase decision making in the purchase of electronic items. The study was done in India. A sample of 230 students has been taken. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) has been used for analysis.

The paper provides a significant relationship among Teen-peer interaction and family purchase decision making process. As per the findings of this paper we conclude that the more the teenagers interact with peer, the more they contribute in the initiation stage of the family decision-making process. Similarly the teenager’s enduring involvement (measured in terms of pleasure) construct have a significant influence on the final decision making i.e. it significantly explains teen’s contribution to the purchase decision.
A Study of the Participation of the Private Sector Companies of India in Corporate Social Responsibility Activities through Conjoint Analysis
Authors: Ghosh Sumona
Published: June 2014

This paper aims to explore into the aspect of establishment of a pattern of participation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities amongst the private sector companies as reflected in the respective company documents in the public domain, taking rate of growth of profit as the parameter. An empirical and analytical study was undertaken whereby the corporate official websites of the companies were analyzed. Data were then generated from such an analysis using qualitative document analysis. For this study, we used ‘number of sentences’ as the unit for measurement of CSR participation. Data were entered into SPSS to generate descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression analysis and conjoint analysis. The most preferred CSR activities were observed to be education, health and environment. Drinking water and sanitation was least preferred activity. A high level of dispersion was observed with respect to drinking water and sanitation and a low level with respect to education, health, environment and ‘others’. The pattern across the deciles was observed to be random with respect to average sentences spent as well as coefficient of variance (CV). The activities that had an impact on the deciles at different levels as per the multiple regression analysis were: education, health, environment, disaster relief, employability, drinking water and sanitation, rural upliftment and others. Companies belonging to the manufacturing sector and the services sector have shown the highest responsiveness towards all the activities. Companies had attached the highest importance (Level 1) to the following CSR activities: education, environment and ‘others’.
Survey of Qualitative Research Methodology in Strategy Research and Implication for Indian Researchers
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sandip , Gupta Rajen K.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this article is to review the acceptance and popularity of qualitative research designs in contrast to quantitative research designs in strategic management domain. The researchers also make a case for accommodating more qualitative research methods in strategic management research and identify the areas where qualitative research methods would be highly useful.

In terms of research design for this survey, all peer-reviewed academic papers published in top three journals of strategic and general management ( Strategic Management Journal, Academy of Management Journal and Administrative Science Quarterly) and published between 2007 and 2012 were covered for this survey. Those papers that have used qualitative methods are selected for further detailed analysis.

The finding suggests that, in terms of actual number of published articles, the qualitative methodology is far behind dominant quantitative methodology. Out of 847 empirical research articles published in the above three journals, only 9 per cent used qualitative research design, while 7 per cent used mixed method, but overwhelming 84 per cent uses quantitative research designs. There is variation among the three journals surveyed on their approach towards qualitative articles, while Administrative Science Quarterly and Academy of Management Journal provided more coverage for qualitative research articles; 14 per cent of total empirical research articles are qualitative. Strategic Management Journal has published least in terms of percentage; only 4 per cent of total empirical research articles are qualitative. Within qualitative methodology, case study is found to be most popular method among the researchers across all the three journals. In terms of paradigm, though interpretive paradigm is used for 75 per cent of the research design, positivist paradigm is used for half of the case study-based research design.
Sadakalo: Marketing of Traditional Fashion in the Modern Fashion Industry
Authors: Ahmed Jashim Uddin , Chowdhury Md. Humayun Kabir , Uddin Mohammad Jasim , Ferdous Mirza M.
Published: June 2014

The traditional fashion had always been just apparelling need for most of the people of Bangladesh. Over the last decade, unique contrives of apparelling has been adapting substantially to cope with the changing needs of the society but keeping in mind an inducing sense of traditional fashion which people can differentiate themselves from others. Interestingly, the traditional fashion has reached to a very competitive market in Bangladesh. As a consequence, some of the fashion houses such as, Aarong, Prabartana, Nipun, Anjans, Kay Kraft, Deshal, Rang, Sadakalo and Nabarupa have been successful to create a brand value. Specifically, Sadakalo is one of the leading fashion houses with particular focus on traditional clothes. The main aim of this article is to demonstrate how a fashion house can gain competitive advantages despite unpredictable market challenges. The article focuses on origin of Sadakalo, their products and retailing, markets and customers, planning, sourcing and warehousing, design and production, distribution, store operations, marketing and management issues and competitive challenges of Sadakalo that specially led to achieve competitive advantages. The article also explores the dynamic ideas and capabilities of the entrepreneur of Sadakalo.
Book Review: Susan A. Wheelan, Creating Effective Teams: A Guide for Members and Leaders
Authors: Sharma Anshu
Published: June 2014

Susan A. Wheelan, Creating Effective Teams: A Guide for Members and Leaders (4th edn). New Delhi: SAGE Publications India Pvt Ltd, 2013, 144 pp., ₹325. ISBN: 978-81-321-1086-6 (Paperback).
The unusual tale of an auditing spiritualist
Authors: Chandler Roy A , Macniven Louise
Published: June 2014

The London and General Bank case is well known in auditing history. Less familiar are some of the characters involved in the group of companies financed by the Bank and its sister institution, the Liberator Building Society. At the centre of the group was a Victorian rogue, Jabez Spencer Balfour, who ensured that only those he could dominate and manipulate were chosen to take part in his complex and fraudulent schemes. Two chartered accountant brothers were drawn into Balfour’s web. One of these, Morell Theobald, had an interest in the supernatural, although his claims about supernatural activities were disputed and he was more or less branded a fraud and a liar by fellow spiritualists. Using correspondence between Balfour and Theobald and between Theobald’s wife and the Home Secretary, we reveal insights to the psychology of the main character in the scheme and one of his weak-willed disciples. The evidence shows that Theobald knew enough about accounting and finance to realize that the strategy adopted by Balfour could not be sustained.
Evolution of information content from an institutional perspective: El Alcázar brewery (1928–1993)
Authors: Moreno Alonso , Cámara Macario
Published: June 2014

This article examines the evolution of the information provided by El Alcázar, a private Spanish company, over the period 1928–1993. This information includes: Memoria, that is, qualitative information contained in the annual report, which is a Management Report to shareholders; the minutes of the Board of Directors; and the minutes of the Shareholder General Meeting. We apply a longitudinal thematic content analysis with the aim of understanding how the content of these documents adapts to the different institutional settings experienced by the company. Following Meyer (1986), different environments may determine the amount of accounting information a particular company produces beyond the variation determined by its intrinsic technical needs. The period studied bears witness to a number of relevant institutional conditions involving deep social, economic, cultural and political changes. The results show that these documents change between the stages identified in response to the pressures of different institutional environments.
The erosion of psychiatrist-patient confidentiality by subpoenas
Authors: Levy John , Galambos Gary , Skarbek Yvonne
Published: June 2014

Objectives:

We explore the reasons for the prolific use of subpoenas to gain access to psychiatric records in Australia. We examine the applicable legal principles and practices at the New South Wales (NSW) and Commonwealth levels, aiming to develop recommendations for Australian Governments to curb the inappropriate and harmful use of subpoenas.

Conclusion:

Unfettered legal access to psychiatric records is inconsistent with professional ethical guidelines and risks undermining the provision of quality psychiatric care to the community. The existing legal provisions are failing to protect psychiatrist-patient confidentiality. In NSW, the onus is placed on the psychiatrist and/or patient to make a complicated application to the court, to direct that a subpoena be set aside on the grounds of “Professional Confidential Relationship Privilege.” An absence of Commonwealth legislation to protect psychiatrist-patient confidentiality is used by some litigants in family law proceedings to disadvantage patients by stigmatising them, because they have consulted psychiatrists. We recommend that uniform legislation be implemented, giving effect to a primary rule of privilege with exceptions.
Factors Affecting Job Satisfaction of Immigrant Korean Nurses
Authors: An Ji-Young , Cha Sunkyung , Moon Hyunjung , Ruggiero Jeanne S. , Jang Haeran
Published: June 2014

Purpose: An increasing number of foreign-born nurses are working in the United States. Nurses’ job satisfaction is a critical issue for quality patient care. The purpose of this study was to examine factors affecting the job satisfaction of immigrant Korean nurses. Design: We used a cross-sectional mailed survey design. A convenience sample ( n = 105) of members of the Greater New York Korean Nurses Association currently working or had previously worked in the United States completed the questionnaires. We used hierarchical regression to test the effects of acculturation and life satisfaction on job satisfaction. Results: Most participants were female ( n = 98, 93.3%) aged 27 to 70 years (mean = 52.27 years, SD = 10.67). In the regression model, life satisfaction, self-esteem, and perceived stress predicted job satisfaction ( F = 5.127, p < .001) and explained 44.5% of the variance of job satisfaction. Discussion and Conclusion: U.S. nurses need to gain insight into factors influencing job satisfaction in Korean nurses to promote retention and quality care.
Meeting the Complex Needs of Urban Youth and Their Families Through the 4Rs 2Ss Family Strengthening Program
Authors: Small Latoya A. , Jackson Jerrold , Gopalan Geetha , McKay Mary McKernan
Published: June 2014

Background: Youth living in poverty face compounding familial and environmental was challenges in utilizing effective community mental health services. Ongoing stressors increase their drop-out rate in mental health service use. Difficulties also exist in staying engaged in services when involved with the child welfare system. This study examines the 4Rs 2Ss Family Strengthening Program developed across four broad conceptual categories related to parenting skills and family processes that form a multiple family group service delivery approach. Methods: Families randomly assigned to the experimental condition received a 16-week intervention. Data was collected at baseline, midtest, posttest, and follow-up. Results: There was a higher engagement rate in the experimental condition and improved effects for child behaviors. Family stress and parental depression were also related to engagement. No moderation effects on family stress, child welfare involvement, or parental needs were found. This intervention appeared to be able to engage families with more complex “real-world” needs.
Prediction of crack density and electrical resistance changes in indium tin oxide/polymer thin films under tensile loading
Authors: Mora Angel , Khan Kamran A , El Sayed Tamer
Published: June 2014

We present unified predictions for the crack onset strain, evolution of crack density, and changes in electrical resistance in indium tin oxide/polymer thin films under tensile loading. We propose a damage mechanics model to quantify and predict such changes as an alternative to fracture mechanics formulations. Our predictions are obtained by assuming that there are no flaws at the onset of loading as opposed to the assumptions of fracture mechanics approaches. We calibrate the crack onset strain and the damage model based on experimental data reported in the literature. We predict crack density and changes in electrical resistance as a function of the damage induced in the films. We implement our model in the commercial finite element software ABAQUS using a user subroutine UMAT. We obtain fair to good agreement with experiments.
Propagation of micro-cracks in viscoelastic materials: Analytical and numerical methods
Authors: Nguyen ST , Dormieux L
Published: June 2014

In the case of micro-cracked viscoelastic materials, the numerical approach is required to solve the problem of crack propagation. The step-by-step method is used to model, using the finite element method, a morphologically representative pattern of the media. The computation of the effective behaviour of the material in the case without crack propagation shows a very good validation with respect to the Burger effective model obtained by the analytical method. The case of crack propagation is solved numerically considering a morphologically representative pattern containing a single crack. We also develop the concept of critical rate of kinematic loading and of asymptotic damage.
Evidence Summarized in Attorneys’ Closing Arguments Predicts Acquittals in Criminal Trials of Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Stolzenberg Stacia N. , Lyon Thomas D.
Published: June 2014

Evidence summarized in attorney's closing arguments of criminal child sexual abuse cases ( N = 189) was coded to predict acquittal rates. Ten variables were significant bivariate predictors; five variables significant at p < .01 were entered into a multivariate model. Cases were likely to result in an acquittal when the defendant was not charged with force, the child maintained contact with the defendant after the abuse occurred, or the defense presented a hearsay witness regarding the victim’s statements, a witness regarding the victim’s character, or a witness regarding another witnesses’ character (usually the mother). The findings suggest that jurors might believe that child molestation is akin to a stereotype of violent rape and that they may be swayed by defense challenges to the victim’s credibility and the credibility of those close to the victim.
On the Relationships Between Commercial Sexual Exploitation/Prostitution, Substance Dependency, and Delinquency in Youthful Offenders
Authors: Reid Joan A. , Piquero Alex R.
Published: June 2014

Researchers have consistently linked commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) of youth and involvement in prostitution with substance dependency and delinquency. Yet, important questions remain regarding the directionality and mechanisms driving this association. Utilizing a sample of 114 CSE/prostituted youth participating in the Pathways to Desistance study—a longitudinal investigation of the transition from adolescence to adulthood among serious adolescent offenders—the current study examined key criminal career parameters of CSE/prostitution including age of onset and rate of recurrence. Additionally, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore concurrent associations and causal links between CSE/prostitution and drug involvement. Findings show a general sequential pattern of the ages of onset with substance use and selling drugs occurring prior to CSE/prostitution, evidence that a small group with chronic CSE/prostitution account for the majority of CSE/prostitution occurrences, and high rates of repeated CSE/prostitution. SEM results suggest CSE/prostituted youth persist in drug involvement from year to year but infrequently experience perpetuation of CSE/prostitution from year to year. Concurrent associations between CSE/prostitution and drug involvement were found across the length of the study. Additionally, drug involvement at one year was linked to CSE/prostitution during the subsequent year during early years of the study.
I’m Still Left Here With the Pain
Authors: Mastrocinque Jeanna M. , Metzger Jed W. , Madeira Jody , Lang Kay , Pruss Heather , Navratil Peter K. , Sandys Marla , Cerulli Catherine
Published: June 2014

Limited research has focused on the aftermath of the homicide, namely, the families and friends of homicide victims left in the wake of the tragedy. The present study is a multisite study involving focus groups of families and friends of homicide victims and assessing participants’ resulting biopsychosocial consequences, their experiences with service providers, and whether or how their needs were met. This study is important to better understand their needs and to create a holistic systematic response to those most affected by homicide. The findings present recommendations regarding what approaches, resources, and services would be helpful for people who have had a loved one die by homicide, which may prove beneficial for academics, policymakers, practitioners, and medical responders.
Childhood Maltreatment and Educational Outcomes
Authors: Romano Elisa , Babchishin Lyzon , Marquis Robyn , Fréchette Sabrina
Published: June 2014

Children (0–18 years) with maltreatment histories are vulnerable to experiencing difficulties across multiple domains of functioning, including educational outcomes that encompass not only academic achievement but also mental well-being. The current literature review adopted Slade and Wissow’s model to examine (1) the link between childhood maltreatment and academic achievement, (2) the link between childhood maltreatment and mental health outcomes (i.e., emotional and behavioral difficulties), and (3) the bidirectional relationship between childhood academic achievement and mental health. In addition, we reviewed variables that might influence or help explain the link between childhood maltreatment and educational outcomes, drawing on developmental perspectives and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model. Finally, whenever possible, we presented findings specific to maltreated children in out-of-home care to highlight the unique challenges experienced by this population. Results indicated that children with maltreatment histories often experience impairments in both their academic performance (e.g., special education, grade retention, lower grades) and mental well-being (e.g., anxiety, low mood, aggression, social skills deficits, poor interpersonal relationships). These impairments appeared to be particularly pronounced among maltreated children in out-of-home care. Findings, albeit sparse, also indicated that mental health difficulties are negatively associated with children’s academic achievement and, similarly, that academic achievement deficits are linked with mental health problems. The link between childhood maltreatment and educational outcomes may be partly explained through the disruption of key developmental processes in children, such as attachment, emotion regulation, and sense of agency. As well, maltreatment characteristics and the functioning of various systems in which children are embedded (e.g., family, school, child welfare) can serve to positively or negatively influence the educational outcomes of maltreated children. The theoretical, research, and applied implications stemming from the findings are considered.
Judgment beyond Jurisdiction: Spinoza’s “Freedom to philosophize” and the Politics of Immunity
Authors: Skeaff Christopher
Published: June 2014

This article turns to Spinoza to shed new light on what Roberto Esposito, among others, has diagnosed as modernity’s “immunitary dialectic,” whereby juridical-political measures taken to safeguard or immunize individual and collective life threaten to debase and even destroy the life in question. I argue that Spinoza’s treatment of the “freedom to philosophize” offers a window onto the plural politics of immunity – that is, the institutions and practices that convert the power to preserve life into tendentially dominative and emancipatory forms.
Vitamin D Status and Associations With Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes in Children Enrolled in a Medical Weight Management Program
Authors: Hanson Corrine , Anderson-Berry Ann , Hoskins Shelby , Lyden Elizabeth , Bilek Laura , Dolphens Tamara , Hartmann Krystal , Hawkins Mary Jane , Fernandez Cristina
Published: June 2014

Background. Studies of vitamin D status have linked low 25(OH)D levels with biomarkers of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Obese children and adolescents are at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency as vitamin D is thought to be sequestered in adipose tissue. The objective of this analysis was to examine the associations between 25(OH)D status and risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes in a population of overweight and obese children enrolled in a medical management program. Materials and Methods. A retrospective chart review was conducted of 161 children enrolled in a medical weight management program. Pearson correlation coefficient were used to evaluate associations of biochemical measurements and 25(OH)D status. Multiple regression was used to evaluate 25(OH)D levels as a predictor of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Results. The mean body mass index (BMI) of the population was 34 kg/m2, mean 25(OH)D levels were 21.8 ng/mL. White subjects had significantly higher 25(OH)D levels than non-whites (24.1 vs 19.2, P = .004). 25(OH)D levels were inversely related to BMI ( r = −0.21, P = .03) and waist circumference ( r = −0.23, P = .02). After adjustment for BMI and age, 25(OH)D was significantly associated with total cholesterol ( P = .0003), triglycerides ( P = .0007), homeostasis model assessment–estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; P = .005) and insulin ( P = .0003). The decrease in each unit of cholesterol, triglycerides, and insulin for each 1% increase in log transformed 25(OH)D were 0.3, 0.65, and 0.1,1 respectively. Each 1% increase in 25(OH)D levels was associated with a 0.05% decrease in HOMA-IR values. Conclusion. Vitamin D status was associated with risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease in an obese pediatric population.