bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identity of Salvia weihaiensis (Lamiaceae) from China
Authors: HU GUO-XIONG , PENG HUA
Published: March 2015

Salvia Linnaeus (1753: 23) (tribe Mentheae, subfamily Nepetoideae) is by far the largest genus of Lamiaceae with approximately 1000 species (Alziar 1988–1993). Molecular phylogeny researches demonstrate that the genus is polyphyletic, and the clade “Salvia” in effect includes four distinct lineages, with intercalation of five other genera of tribe Mentheae (Walker et al. 2004, Walker & Sytsma 2007, Takano & Okada 2011, Will & Claßen-Bockhoff 2014). East Asia is one of three centers of diversity of Salvia with approximately 100 species (Walker et al. 2004), 82 species are native to China (Li & Hedge 1994, Hu et al. 2014). Additionally, S. coccinea Buc’hoz ex Etlinger (1777: 23) and S. tiliifolia Vahl (1794: 3), which are native to Central and South America, have naturalized successfully in China (Li & Hedge 1994, Hu et al. 2013).
A taxonomic revision of the Capparis spinosa group (Capparaceae) from eastern Africa to Oceania
Authors: Fici Silvio
Published: March 2015

The variability, autecology and distribution of the Capparis spinosa group have been studied in eastern Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, Australia and Oceania. In these areas the taxonomic treatment of the group, also represented in holoarctic Regions of the Old World, is still critical. The forms widespread in the study area are here referred to four subspecies of C. spinosa. The recognized subspecies mostly show geographical vicariance, except in some contact areas of the Middle East and western Himalaya. Two nomenclatural novelties, i. e. C. spinosa subsp. cordifolia comb. et stat. nov. and C. spinosa subsp. himalayensis stat. nov., are proposed. Among the recognized taxa, C. spinosa subsp. cartilaginea shows a wide distribution range including eastern Africa, Madagascar, south-western Asia to Pakistan and India, C. spinosa subsp. cordifolia is widespread in the Pacific from Indonesia eastwards to Pitcairn Islands and Hawaii, C. spinosa subsp. nummularia is recorded from western, central and northern Australia, C. spinosa subsp. himalayensis is known from Pakistan, India and Nepal.
Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy of Fibroporia (Basidiomycota) in China
Authors: CHEN YUAN-YUAN , LI HAI-JIAO , Cui Bao-Kai
Published: March 2015

Taxonomic and phylogenetic studies on the Chinese species of Fibroporia were carried out. Fibroporia albicans sp. nov. is described and illustrated on the basis of collections originating from Jiangxi and Xizang provinces, based on morphology and phylogenetic analysis of ITS rDNA sequences. Morphologically, it is characterized by resupinate, annual basidiocarps, white to cream-colored pore surface when fresh, becoming cream to cream-buff upon drying, small pores (6–8 per mm), presence of white to cream rhizomorphs, a dimitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, fusoid cystidioles, and oblong to ellipsoid basidiospores; moreover, it causes a brown rot. Molecular data suggested a close relationship between Fibroporia albicans and F. citrina. Six species of Fibroporia form a monophyletic entity with 100% MP and 1.00 BPP supports. An identification key to the Chinese species of Fibroporia is provided.
Type specimens in the Port Elizabeth Museum, South Africa, including the historically important Albany Museum collection. Part 1: Amphibians
Authors: CONRADIE WERNER , BRANCH WILLIAM R. , WATSON GILLIAN
Published: March 2015

The Port Elizabeth Museum houses the consolidated herpetological collections of three provincial museums of the Eastern Cape, South Africa: the Port Elizabeth Museum (Port Elizabeth), the Amatole (previously Kaffarian) Museum (King Williams Town), and the Albany Museum (Grahamstown). Under John Hewitt, Albany Museum was the main centre of herpetological research in South Africa from 1910–1940, and he described numerous new species, many based on material in the museum collection. The types and other material from the Albany Museum are now incorporated into the Port Elizabeth Museum Herpetology collection (PEM). Due to the vague typification of much of Hewitt’s material, the loss of the original catalogues in a fire and the subsequent deterioration of specimen labels, the identification of this type material is often troublesome. Significant herpetological research has been undertaken at the PEM in the last 35 years, and the collection has grown to be the third largest in Africa. During this period, numerous additional types have been deposited in the PEM collection, generated by active taxonomic research in the museum. As a consequence, 43 different amphibian taxa are represented by 37 primary and 151 secondary type specimens in the collection. This catalogue provides the first documentation of these types. It provides the original name, the original publication date, journal number and pagination, reference to illustrations, current name, museum collection number, type locality, notes on the type status, and photographs of all holotypes and lectotypes. Where necessary to maintain nomenclatural stability, and where confused type series are housed in the PEM collection, lectotypes and paralectotypes are nominated.
Palaearctic Hoplitis bees of the subgenus Platosmia (Megachilidae, Osmiini): biology, taxonomy and key to species
Authors: MÜLLER Andreas
Published: March 2015

Platosmia, a subgenus of the osmiine bee genus Hoplitis (Megachilidae), contains ten species, which are confined to desertic and semidesertic areas of the Palaearctic region. Analysis of female pollen loads and field observations indicate that several H. (Platosmia) species are strictly oligolectic on Reseda (Resedaceae) and possibly Hedysareae (Fabaceae), while others are mesolectic on both Reseda and Fabaceae. The few data available so far suggest that preexisting cavities in stones and rocks serve as nesting sites of H. (Platosmia). The taxonomic revision of H. (Platosmia) revealed the existence of an undescribed species from the Arabian peninsula, H. arabiae spec. nov.. Hoplitis incognita Zanden, 1996 and H. quarzazati (Zanden, 1998) are newly synonymized with H. maghrebensis (Zanden, 1992) and H. platalea (Warncke, 1990), respectively. Identification keys for all H. (Platosmia) species are given including the hitherto unknown male or female sex of three species.
Two new species of Lysianassidae Dana, 1849 from Australia: Riwo zeidleri and Socarnella delectabilis (Crustacea: Peracarida: Amphipoda)
Authors: HUGHES L. E. , LOWRY J. K.
Published: March 2015

The new species Riwo zeidleri and Socarnella delectabilis are described. Prior to this study Riwo Lowry & Stoddart, 1995 was a monotypic genus, while Socarnella Walker, 1904 consisted of only two described species. The distribution of Riwo is expanded southwards from northern Papua New Guinea and the Great Barrier Reef to the south coast of Australia and the distribution of Socarnella is expanded further southward from Sri Lanka and the South China Sea, to the west coast of Australia.
New species and new records of Xenelmis Hinton (Coleoptera: Elmidae)
from Southeastern Brazil
Authors: SAMPAIO BRUNNO HENRIQUE LANZELLOTTI , PASSOS MARIA INÊS DA SILVA DOS , FERREIRA-JR NELSON
Published: March 2015

The genus Xenelmis is found in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Currently, seven out of thirteen species are registered from Brazil. Here, two new species of Xenelmis from Brazil are described and illustraded—Xenelmis sinecarina sp. nov. and Xenelmis granatoides sp. nov. Additionaly, X. granata and X. micros are characterized and illustrated.
A new species of the “mexicanus” group of the genus Vaejovis C. L. Koch, 1836 from the Mexican state of Aguascalientes (Scorpiones: Vaejovidae)
Authors: CONTRERAS-FÉLIX GERARDO A. , FRANCKE OSCAR F. , BRYSON ROBERT JR. W.
Published: March 2015

A new species of Vaejovis is described from the Mexican state of Aguascalientes. It is assigned to the “mexicanus” group and compared with similar species from Jalisco, Guanajuato, and San Luis Potosí. A map with their known distributions is provided.
Description of a new tracheline spider, Trachelas mombachensis sp. n., in the T. bispinosus species group from the Mombacho Volcano in Nicaragua (Araneae: Trachelidae)
Authors: LEISTER MATTHEW , MILLER KELLY B.
Published: March 2015

Trachelas L. Koch, 1872 is a large and diverse genus of sac spiders, originally placed in the family Drassidae Koch. Simon (1897) transferred Trachelas to the family Clubionidae Wagner, 1887 in the Tracheleae group Karsch, 1880, under the subfamily Corinninae Karsch, 1880. Corinninae was elevated to family rank by Lehtinen (1967). Lehtinen (1967) did not refer to the Trachelineae group in that publication; however, in a later publication he refers to the family Trachelidae, without justification for family elevation (Lehtinen 1996). Therefore, Trachelinae remained a subfamily of Corinnidae Karsch, 1880 until 2014 when it was elevated to family rank by Ramírez (2014).
Linear Depolarization Ratios of Columnar Ice Crystals in a Deep Precipitating System over the Arctic Observed by Zenith-Pointing Ka-Band Doppler Radar
Authors: Oue Mariko , Kumjian Matthew R. , Lu Yinghui , Verlinde Johannes , Aydin Kultegin , Clothiaux Eugene E.
Published: March 2015

This study demonstrates that linear depolarization ratio (LDR) values obtained from zenith-pointing Ka-band radar Doppler velocity spectra are sufficient for detecting columnar ice crystals. During a deep precipitating system over the Arctic on 7 December 2013, the radar recorded LDR values up to −15 dB at temperatures corresponding to the columnar ice crystal growth regime. These LDR values were also consistent with scattering calculations for columnar ice crystals. Enhancements in LDR were suppressed within precipitation fallstreaks because the enhanced LDR values of columnar ice crystals were masked by the returns from the particles within the fallstreaks. However, Doppler velocity spectra of LDR within the fallstreak distinguished populations of slower-falling particles with high LDR (>−15 dB) and faster-falling particles with much lower LDR, suggesting that columnar ice crystals with high LDR coexisted with larger isometric particles that produced low LDR while dominating the total copolar reflectivity, thereby decreasing LDR. The measurements suggest that the columnar ice crystals originated in liquid-cloud layers through secondary ice production.
Comparison of Single- and Dual-Polarization–Based Rainfall Estimates Using NEXRAD Data for the NASA Iowa Flood Studies Project
Authors: Seo Bong-Chul , Dolan Brenda , Krajewski Witold F. , Rutledge Steven A. , Petersen Walter
Published: March 2015

This study compares and evaluates single-polarization (SP)- and dual-polarization (DP)-based radar-rainfall (RR) estimates using NEXRAD data acquired during Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS), a NASA GPM ground validation field campaign carried out in May–June 2013. The objective of this study is to understand the potential benefit of the DP quantitative precipitation estimation, which selects different rain-rate estimators according to radar-identified precipitation types, and to evaluate RR estimates generated by the recent research SP and DP algorithms. The Iowa Flood Center SP (IFC-SP) and Colorado State University DP (CSU-DP) products are analyzed and assessed using two high-density, high-quality rain gauge networks as ground reference. The CSU-DP algorithm shows superior performance to the IFC-SP algorithm, especially for heavy convective rains. We verify that dynamic changes in the proportion of heavy rain during the convective period are associated with the improved performance of CSU-DP rainfall estimates. For a lighter rain case, the IFC-SP and CSU-DP products are not significantly different in statistical metrics and visual agreement with the rain gauge data. This is because both algorithms use the identical NEXRAD reflectivity–rain rate (Z–R) relation that might lead to substantial underestimation for the presented case.
Validation of Dual-Doppler Wind Profiles with in situ Anemometry
Authors: Gunter W. Scott , Schroeder John L. , Hirth Brian D.
Published: March 2015

Typical methods used to acquire wind profiles from Doppler radar measurements rely on plan position indicator (PPI) scans being performed at multiple elevation angles to utilize the velocity–azimuth display technique or to construct dual-Doppler synthesis. These techniques, as well as those employed by wind profilers, often produce wind profiles that lack the spatial or temporal resolution to resolve finescale features. If two radars perform range–height indicator (RHI) scans (constant azimuth, multiple elevations) along azimuths separated by approximately 90°, then the intersection of the coordinated RHI planes represents a vertical set of points where dual-Doppler wind syntheses are possible and wind speed and direction profiles can be retrieved. This method also allows for the generation of high-resolution wind time histories that can be compared to anemometer time histories. This study focuses on the use of the coordinated RHI scanning strategy by two high-resolution mobile Doppler radars in close proximity to a 200-m instrumented tower. In one of the first high-resolution, long-duration comparisons of dual-Doppler wind synthesis with in situ anemometry, the mean and turbulence states of the wind measured by each platform were compared in varying atmospheric conditions. Examination of mean wind speed and direction profiles in both clear-air (nonprecipitating) and precipitating environments revealed excellent agreement above approximately 50 m. Below this level, dual-Doppler wind speeds were still good but slightly overestimated as compared to the anemometer-measured wind speeds in heavy precipitation. Bulk turbulence parameters were also slightly underestimated by the dual-Doppler syntheses.
Driven to the Bottle
Authors: Bamberger Peter A. , Cohen Ayala
Published: March 2015

This study examines the role of workplace risk factors associated with stress, social availability, and policy enforcement in explaining the severity of alcohol misuse among truck and bus drivers. Using a sample of 227 commercial (i.e., bus and truck) drivers drawn randomly from the employees of eight Israeli transportation enterprises, findings indicate that less than 6% of drivers engage in hazardous drinking, with a far smaller proportion engaging in more risky forms of misuse (i.e., harmful or dependent drinking). Key work-related factors associated with the severity of drivers’ alcohol misuse include the perception of permissive coworker drinking norms, role conflict, and supervisory abuse. Consistent with tension relief models of alcohol misuse, felt strain mediated the association between driver stressors and the severity of alcohol misuse. Perceptions of coworker drinking norms moderated the associations between stressors and supervisory monitoring (on one hand) and alcohol misuse (on the other). Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
The Occupational Health of Correctional Officers in Peru
Authors: Clemente Miguel , Reig-Botella Adela , Coloma Raúl
Published: March 2015

Correctional facility staff are subject to an organizational environment that often causes health problems. This article explores variation in correctional officers’ psychosocial health, including assessments of burnout syndrome, job satisfaction, work–family life harmony, role ambiguity, and role conflict. In all, 536 Peruvian correctional officers, 10% of the nation’s correctional employees, were administered psychological tests to measure the aforementioned variables and the impact of a length of work experience variable. Findings confirm a relationship between occupational health and length of work experience. The article offers future directions for research and suggested programs to promote corrections officer health.
Developing a Leisure Time Management Program to Aid Successful Transition to Community
Authors: McMay Dani , Cotronea Michael
Published: March 2015

One area of focus in new federal guidelines for inmate reentry skills development is the ability to use leisure time for stress relief and development of positive relationships. A model program was developed at a federal prison to teach the use of leisure time activities for coping with various stressors during the difficult transition from incarceration to community. Based on initial offering course evaluation responses, the program was revised and offered again. Feedback from the second course offering evaluation and recommendations for design of leisure time programming in other facilities are discussed.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in Ayrshire, Scotland: a comparison of two age cohorts
Authors: Pericleous Stephanos , Smith Laura Isobel , Karim Muhammad Ali , Middleton Nicos , Musbahi Aya , Ali Abdulmajid
Published: March 2015

Background and aims

There is an increased trend in prevalence of pancreato-biliary disease in the elderly population. Consequently there is an increasing demand for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The aims of this study were to compare ERCP outcomes in patients over 80 with those aged between 60 and 79 years and with the published literature.

Methods and results

Data were collected from a prospectively maintained database. All patients over the age of 60 years who underwent ERCP from May 2010 to May 2012 were identified. Two cohorts were formed, group A: 60–79 years ( n = 66) and group B: > 80 years old ( n = 49). Data on indications for ERCP, outcome, complications and repeat procedures were collected. One hundred and fifteen patients between the age of 60 and 92 years were identified. Group A had a total of 89 ERCPs and group B 69. Cannulation, overall procedure success, complication and mortality rates were comparable between both groups. Group B contained two cases of perforation with one associated mortality (1.4%) which did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

ERCP in octogenarians is safe and effective when compared to patients aged 60–79.
Glycolysis of rigid polyurethane–polyisocyanurate foams with reduced flammability
Authors: Paciorek-Sadowska Joanna , Czupryński Bogusław , Liszkowska Joanna
Published: March 2015

Waste of foam containing tri( N, N ′-dimethyleneoxy-3-hydroxypropyl)urea as a polyol was subjected to glycolysis process. After glycolysis, a liquid tea-coloured product, with high viscosity of 17,040 mPa·S, density of 1529 kg/m3, water content of 0.4% and boron and nitrogen content of about 14%, was obtained. New rigid polyurethane–polyisocyanurate foams containing glycolysis product of foam waste with reduced flammability were obtained. It was used as a polyol raw material, simultaneously fulfilling the role of flame retardant in the new foams.
Maternal parenting and social, school, and psychological adjustment of migrant children in urban China
Authors: Zhao Siman , Chen Xinyin , Wang Li
Published: March 2015

This study examined the relations of maternal warmth, behavioral control, and encouragement of sociability to social, school, and psychological adjustment in migrant children in China. The participants were 284 rural-to-urban migrant children ( M age = 11 years, 149 boys) in migrant children’s schools and their mothers. Data on parenting were collected from mothers’ reports. Data on children’s adjustment were collected from multiple sources including peer assessments, teacher ratings, self-reports, and school records. It was found that maternal warmth was associated with children’s social and school performance, and that maternal encouragement of sociability was associated with children’s psychological adjustment. Maternal behavioral control was not associated with children’s adjustment. The results indicate that maternal warmth, behavioral control, and encouragement of sociability may serve different functions in different domains of adjustment among migrant Chinese children.
Social Networks and Inter-professional Knowledge Transfer: The Case of Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Tasselli Stefano
Published: March 2015

This study examines the relationship between the structure of professional networks and patterns of inter-professional knowledge transfer in the healthcare setting. Collecting survey data and qualitative evidence from 118 professionals in a hospital department, we used theory on the sociology of professions and social networks to investigate patterns of knowledge transfer between doctors and nurses. First we found that members of different professions tend to be embedded in distinctive professional cliques, which in turn inhibit effective inter-professional knowledge transfer. Network structure, however, combines with individual characteristics in predicting knowledge transfer patterns. By occupying central positions in closely knit networks, clinical directors can facilitate knowledge transfer patterns between doctors and nurses. And actors who are legitimated both intra-professionally and inter-professionally to occupy brokerage positions in social networks, namely junior doctors and nurse managers, are more likely to gain access to non-redundant, valuable knowledge. The overall picture is one of network structure interplaying with the characteristics of individual actors in shaping the dynamics of professional interactions.
Mors ex Machina: Technology, Embodiment and the Organization of Destruction
Authors: Bloomfield Brian P. , Vurdubakis Theo
Published: March 2015

The article argues that the organization of destruction requires the same level of attention that organization studies have typically accorded to the organization of production. Taking as its starting point recent debates in the field concerning the embodied character of organizational ethics, the present paper sets out to explore what we might call the contemporary ‘automation of warfare’ by focusing on the proposed deployment of autonomous robots capable of exercising lethal force while governed by the ‘ethical constraints’ dictated by the Laws of War. Acknowledging the ‘technical’ challenges inherent in the development of ‘ethical warrior robots’, we propose that the importance of such technological fixes for the management of human conflict primarily lies not in their status as (potentially) functional artefacts but rather in their role as material expressions of the moral and philosophical conflicts haunting Atlantic (post?)modernity.
Organizations as Penetrated Hierarchies: Environmental Pressures and Control in Professional Organizations
Authors: Bleiklie Ivar , Enders Jürgen , Lepori Benedetto
Published: March 2015

Organizational control and environmental influences on organizational behavior are central themes in organization studies, yet little effort has been made to bring them together. In this paper we seek to contribute to filling this gap by investigating and conceptualizing environmental influences on organizational control. The paper examines patterns of organizational control and their environmental couplings through three parallel case studies of public universities in three European countries. We provide a systematic characterization of the space of configurations of control in professional knowledge-intensive organizations along the two axes of centralization of power and formalization of social relationships. We show that environmental characteristics do matter for the contestation and selection of control models. Finally, we unpack and conceptualize the synergetic influence of three environmental characteristics (institutional pressures, resource environment, and external social relationships) as providing sources of legitimacy and power for specific control regimes.
Outcomes and Resource Utilization of Endoscopic Mass‐Closure Technique for Laryngeal Clefts
Authors: Balakrishnan Karthik , Cheng Esther , de Alarcon Alessandro , Sidell Douglas R. , Hart Catherine K. , Rutter Michael J.
Published: March 2015

Objective

To compare resource utilization and clinical outcomes between endoscopic mass‐closure and open techniques for laryngeal cleft repair.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Pediatric patients undergoing repair for Benjamin‐Inglis type 1‐3 laryngeal clefts over a 15‐year period. All 20 patients undergoing endoscopic repair were included. Eight control patients undergoing open repair were selected using matching by age and cleft type. Demographic, clinical, and resource utilization data were collected.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients were included (20 endoscopic, 8 open). Mean age, rates of tracheostomy and vocal fold immobility, and distribution of cleft types were not different between the 2 groups (all P >. 2). Mean operative time (P =. 004) and duration of hospital stay (P <. 001) were significantly shorter in the endoscopic group. All repairs were intact in both groups at final postoperative endoscopy. Rates of persistent laryngeal penetration or aspiration on swallow study were not different between groups (P = 1.000), although results were available for only 11 patients.

Conclusion

Endoscopic laryngeal cleft repair using a mass‐closure technique provides a durable result while requiring significantly shorter operative times and hospital stays than open repair and avoiding the potential morbidity of laryngofissure. However, open repair may allow the simultaneous performance of other airway reconstructive procedures and may be a useful salvage technique when endoscopic repair fails. Postoperative swallowing results require further study.
How do young students with different profiles of reading skill mastery, perceived ability, and goal orientation respond to holistic diagnostic feedback?
Authors: Jang Eunice Eunhee , Dunlop Maggie , Park Gina , van der Boom Edith H.
Published: March 2015

One critical issue with cognitive diagnostic assessment (CDA) lies in its lack of research evidence that shows how diagnostic feedback from CDA is interpreted and used by young students. This mixed methods research examined how holistic diagnostic feedback (HDF) is processed by young learners with different profiles of reading skills, goal orientations, and perceived ability. HDF provides three learner profiles: learners’ current skill mastery levels; self-assessed skill proficiency; and goal orientations. It also has a section for plans for future learning. A total of 44 Grades 5 and 6 students (aged 11–12) from two classrooms, their parents and teacher received individually customized HDF reports. Students’ reading skill mastery profiles were determined based on the application of cognitive diagnostic modeling to their performance on a provincial reading achievement measure, while their perceived ability and goal orientation profiles were created by using self-assessment and goal-orientation questionnaires. Students and parents provided written responses to their HDF reports.

The study findings show the dynamic influence of young students’ profiles on the ways in which they perceive, interpret and use HDF. Students’ responses to diagnostic feedback did not differ substantially across reading mastery levels; however, psychological factors most strongly impacted the efficacy of learner feedback processing. Furthermore, the result that it was not students’ actual goal orientations but their perceived parent goal orientations that showed significant relationships with their skill mastery levels strongly indicates that young students’ responses to HDF are likely to be influenced by broader learning environments, and such influences are further filtered through their own perceptions. Understanding students’ interactions with diagnostic feedback is critical for maximizing its effect because their perceptions about ability and orientations to learning strongly influence the ways in which they process diagnostic feedback on their learning.
A comparison of three test formats to assess word difficulty
Authors: Culligan Brent
Published: March 2015

This study compared three common vocabulary test formats, the Yes/No test, the Vocabulary Knowledge Scale (VKS), and the Vocabulary Levels Test (VLT), as measures of vocabulary difficulty. Vocabulary difficulty was defined as the item difficulty estimated through Item Response Theory (IRT) analysis. Three tests were given to 165 Japanese students, resulting in five measures of vocabulary knowledge and four measures of word difficulty. Analyses included item and score factor analysis, unidimensionality, local independence, and correlations. Results indicate that these are reliable tests. Tests of unidimensionality suggest these tests are essentially measuring one major latent trait, which can be interpreted as a factor for word knowledge. Strong correlations of the scores with each other provide evidence of concurrent validity, and for the interpretation of the scores as indicative of word knowledge. Correlations with other methods of estimating word difficulty, such as transformed frequency, length of word, or number of syllables, suggest that of these methods, the log of frequencies from very large corpora gives the best estimate of word difficulty. However, direct testing of vocabulary difficulty appears to, in the words of Kreuz (1987), “provide a better account of recognition latencies than do counts based on printed word frequency” (p. 159).
Community-based palliative care is associated with reduced emergency department use by people with dementia in their last year of life: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Rosenwax Lorna , Spilsbury Katrina , Arendts Glenn , McNamara Bev , Semmens James
Published: March 2015

Objective:

To describe patterns in the use of hospital emergency departments in the last year of life by people who died with dementia and whether this was modified by use of community-based palliative care.

Design:

Retrospective population-based cohort study of people in their last year of life. Time-to-event analyses were performed using cumulative hazard functions and flexible parametric proportional hazards regression models.

Setting/participants:

All people living in Western Australia who died with dementia in the 2-year period 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2010 (dementia cohort; N = 5261). A comparative cohort of decedents without dementia who died from other conditions amenable to palliative care ( N = 2685).

Results:

More than 70% of both the dementia and comparative cohorts attended hospital emergency departments in the last year of life. Only 6% of the dementia cohort used community-based palliative care compared to 26% of the comparative cohort. Decedents with dementia who were not receiving community-based palliative care attended hospital emergency departments more frequently than people receiving community-based palliative care. The magnitude of the increased rate of emergency department visits varied over the last year of life from 1.4 (95% confidence interval: 1.1–1.9) times more often in the first 3 months of follow-up to 6.7 (95% confidence interval: 4.7–9.6) times more frequently in the weeks immediately preceding death.

Conclusions:

Community-based palliative care of people who die with or of dementia is relatively infrequent but associated with significant reductions in hospital emergency department use in the last year of life.
Readiness for Independent Living Among Youth on the Verge of Leaving Juvenile Correctional Facilities
Authors: Melkman Eran , Refaeli Tehila , Bibi Batya , Benbenishty Rami
Published: March 2015

A growing body of literature has documented the dismal outcomes of youth placed in juvenile correctional facilities (JCFs) upon their return to the community. However, very little is known as to how well equipped are the youth with the necessary skills for reintegration. In the current study, the authors examine self-reports of readiness for independent living among adolescents in correctional settings on the verge of leaving care, and explore how individual, placement, and social support characteristics predict such perceived readiness. A sample of 116 adolescents (aged 15-20) placed in Israeli JCFs responded to structured self-report questionnaires. The results indicated that most adolescents perceived their readiness to leave care as high, with girls showing significantly lower levels of perceived readiness when compared with boys. Higher levels of self-esteem and optimism as well as support from peers and staff were related to better readiness. From these findings, implications for theory and practice are proposed.
Sod, Straw, Logs, and Mud
Authors: Rollings-Magnusson Sandra
Published: March 2015

Hundreds of thousands of individuals and their families made the western prairie region their home during the Canadian homesteading era. In order to build their first homes, many had to rely on the natural materials that were readily at hand on their quarter section. As such, homes made of logs chinked with mud and straw were common as were residences that were made of sod. Using results obtained from a survey that was administered in the 1950s to individuals who had pioneered in the province of Saskatchewan between 1867 and 1914, this article will detail the house-building process. Describing materials that were used, the amount of labor that was involved, and the positive and negative experiences that were encountered by the settlers during the build will all be discussed.
The Relationships Between Employability, Emotional Exhaustion, and Turnover Intention
Authors: Lu Chang-qin , Sun Jing-wei , Du Dan-yang
Published: March 2015

In the boundaryless career era, employability is valued by both employees and employers. In this study, we investigated the effects of employability on employees’ strain and turnover intention in the Chinese setting, focusing on the moderating role of perceived career opportunity (PCO). We collected two-wave data from a sample of 214 employees over a three-month period. The results showed that employability was negatively related to emotional exhaustion and nonsignificantly related to turnover intention after controlling for baseline levels. Further, we found that PCO moderated the relationships between employability, emotional exhaustion, and turnover intention. Specifically, the negative relationship between employability and emotional exhaustion was strong (weak) when PCO within the organization was high (low). Employability was negatively related to turnover intention only when PCO was high. Our study highlights that PCO should be given more attention in the employability research.
Composite guidance laws using higher order sliding mode differentiator and disturbance observer
Authors: He Shaoming , Wang Jiang , Lin Defu
Published: March 2015

This paper has proposed a new composite robust guidance law to intercept maneuvering targets without line-of-sight (LOS) angular rate information. The presented guidance law is constructed through a combination of second-order sliding mode, higher-order sliding mode (HOSM) differentiator, and finite-time convergent disturbance observer (FTDOB). More specifically, the HOSM differentiator is used to extract the LOS angular rate information from LOS angle measurement, while the FTDOB is used to estimate and compensate the unknown target maneuvers. The finite-time stability of the closed-loop guidance system is established using finite-time bounded function and Lyapunov function methods. Next, the proposed guidance law is applied to three-dimensional homing engagement, where the FTDOB is used to estimate the target maneuver as well as the cross-coupling terms between the elevation and the azimuth motions. Numerical simulations with some comparisons are carried out to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method.
A novel stable deviation quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization to optimal piezoelectric actuator and sensor location for active vibration control
Authors: Moghaddam Jalal Javadi , Bagheri Ahmad
Published: March 2015

In this article, a novel stable deviation quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization for solving global optimization problem is presented. The proposed stable deviation quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization algorithm uses interpolation and stable deviation function. The method of recombination operator is employed to generate a new solution vector in the search space. Therefore, the chance of fast converging can be improved. The performance of the proposed stable deviation quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization algorithm is compared with a quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization and a quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization with quadratic interpolation recombination operator, which is an advanced variant of quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization. Finally, the proposed stable deviation quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization algorithm is applied to constrained optimal piezoelectric actuator and sensor location for active vibration control of a simply supported plate under the different periodic loads.
Robust controls for ship-mounted container cranes with viscoelastic foundation and flexible hoisting cable
Authors: Tuan Le Anh , Lee Soon-Geul , Nho Luong Cong , Cuong Hoang Manh
Published: March 2015

This study proposes two robust controllers for a ship-mounted container crane based on the back-stepping sliding mode control technique. The ship crane system is operated under complex conditions, in which the disturbances caused by the viscoelasticity of seawater and the flexibility of handling wire ropes are fully considered. With two actuators consisting of a trolley-moving force and container-hoisting torque, the controllers concurrently stabilize six states: trolley displacement, container-lifting motion, container swing, axial container oscillation, ship roll, and heave. The quality of the control algorithms is investigated through simulation. The results show that the responses of the crane are asymptotically stabilized and that the ship vibrations are significantly reduced.
Present and Norse Greenlandic hayfields – Insect assemblages and human impact in southern Greenland
Authors: Panagiotakopulu Eva , Buchan Ashley L
Published: March 2015

This study uses new data on insect biodiversity from a modern sheep farm environment in southern Greenland, and compares the results with fossil assemblages from the same region and other relevant sites in Greenland. The study was conducted on sheep farms at Tasiusaq and Qorlortup Itinnera in southern Greenland (61°N, 45°W). Data have also been drawn from 17 Quaternary and archaeological sites from Greenland with an emphasis on Norse insect assemblages from the same area. Species diversity and abundance of Coleoptera from the modern samples were relatively low, while Hemiptera were dominant in all habitats sampled around the hayfields. The first local extinctions in the natural beetle fauna appear with the initiation of Norse settlement. The diversity of Coleoptera in the modern samples is lower compared with the Norse faunas, and this could partly be a result of mechanised agriculture. The Hemiptera demonstrate the exact opposite pattern. The modern samples include a similar range of Hemiptera species to their Norse equivalent, although the intensification in grass production is evident in the modern faunas. The increase of diversity in Hemiptera coincides with Landnám, with four additional species recorded from the Norse assemblages; the hemipterous faunas provide a signal for haymaking in the fossil record of Greenland.
2,2′,4,4′-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether promotes human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells migration via the GPER/PI3K/Akt signal pathway
Authors: Tian P-C , Wang H-L , Chen G-H , Luo Q , Chen Z , Wang Y , Liu Y-F
Published: March 2015

Neuroblastoma is the predominant tumor of early childhood. 2,2′,4,4′-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) has the highest concentration among all polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners in human body, particularly for children. Considering that accumulating evidences showed developmental neurotoxicity of PBDE, there is an urgent need to investigate the effects of BDE-47 on the development of neuroblastoma. This study revealed that BDE-47 had limited effects on the cytotoxicity while significantly increased the in vitro migration and invasion of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. This was further confirmed by the results that BDE-47 treatment significantly downregulated the expression of E-cadherin and zona occludin-1 and upregulated the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Silencing of MMP-9 by specific small interfering RNA significantly abolished the BDE-47-induced migration and invasion of SH-SY5Y cells. Further, the signals G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER)/phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) mediated the BDE-47-induced upregulation of MMP-9 and in vitro migration of SH-SY5Y cells since G15 (GPER inhibitor) and LY 294002 (PI3K/Akt inhibitor) significantly abolished the effects of BDE-47. Our results revealed that BDE-47 significantly triggered the metastasis of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells via upregulation of MMP-9 by the GPER/PI3K/Akt signal pathway. This study revealed for the first time that BDE-47 can promote the migration of SH-SY5Y cells. It also provided a better understanding about the metastasis of human neuroblastoma induced by environmental endocrine disruptors.
First-in-human trial of the safety, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of a PEGylated anti-CD40L antibody fragment (CDP7657) in healthy individuals and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Tocoian A , Buchan P , Kirby H , Soranson J , Zamacona M , Walley R , Mitchell N , Esfandiari E , Wagner F , Oliver R
Published: March 2015

Objective

The objective of this paper is to investigate the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and immunogenicity of CDP7657, a PEGylated anti-CD40L antibody fragment, in healthy individuals and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, single-dose, dose-escalation phase I study consisted of two parts. In part 1, 28 healthy individuals received CDP7657 IV (0.004–5 mg/kg) or placebo. In part 2, 17 patients with SLE received CDP7657 IV (5–60 mg/kg) or placebo. The CDP7657:placebo ratio was 3:1.

Results

Adverse events (AEs) were reported by 76% of healthy individuals and 100% of patients with SLE treated with CDP7657; most were mild or moderate in intensity. Two healthy individuals reported serious AEs (SAEs), one of which was considered treatment related (infusion-related reaction; 5 mg/kg cohort). One patient with SLE (60 mg/kg cohort) experienced three SAEs, one of which was considered treatment related (herpes zoster infection). No thromboembolic events were reported. CPD7657 exposure increased in a dose-proportional manner. Low anti-CDP7657 antibody titres were detected in the majority of CDP7657-treated participants with no apparent impact on the PK of CDP7657.

Conclusion

Single doses of CDP7657 showed predictable PK in healthy individuals and patients with SLE and were well tolerated, with no safety signals of concern. These findings support further investigation of CDP7657 as a therapy for SLE.
R&D Policy for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Korea
Authors: Kang Hyein , Mah Jai S.
Published: March 2015

The Korean government has taken various measures to promote R&D activities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) since the 1980s. It has provided a series of financial and tax incentives to reduce their financial burden, and also taken measures to enhance human resources requirements. SMEs’ performance has grown remarkably over the past three decades. Thus, the Korean government’s active promotion of SMEs’ R&D activities has led to significant outcomes. Korea’s experience in R&D promotion of SMEs presents several important policy implications for developing countries.
Assessment of Technological Capabilities of OIC Countries
Authors: Ali Tariq Mahmood , Bashir Tariq , Kiani Adiqa Kausar
Published: March 2015

For reviewing science and technology policies of a country, an advisable beginning point is a pragmatic evaluation of its current state in technology progress. An appropriate tool used to measure the technology progress is the composite index of technology achievement which enlightens the level of technological progress and the readiness of a country to participate in knowledge-based economy. Technology achievement index (TAI) assists a country to check status of its technological progress relative to others. In the current study, TAI 2014 of OIC member states (TAI-14-OIC) is developed to analyse the situation of technological progress of OIC countries. Countries have been ranked on the basis of TAI which stands on four pillars, namely, technology creation, diffusion of old innovations, diffusion of recent innovations and development of human skills. Ranking of countries in these dimensions on the basis of their indices is also presented. Comparative analysis of some S&T indicators of OIC countries with OECD countries is presented which should be very helpful for S&T policy makers in the OIC countries. Some concluding thoughts for development of technological capabilities in OIC countries are presented at end of the article.
A qualitative evaluation of leadership development workshops for mental health workers from four Pacific Island Countries
Authors: Fung Paul , Montague Ros
Published: March 2015

Objective:

This paper provides a qualitative evaluation of a series of leadership development workshops held at the New South Wales Institute of Psychiatry (NSWIOP) for mental health workers from Papua New Guinea, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Marshall Islands, and Palau.

Method:

Fourteen mental health workers attended the week-long training focused on project management and partnership development skills. In-depth interviews were conducted with participants at the commencement and conclusion of the training, and questionnaires were completed. A focus group was conducted with the NSWIOP organisers. The data was analysed using qualitative techniques to identify emergent themes for both participants and NSWIOP project team.

Findings:

All Pacific Island participants responded positively to the training. All reported greater confidence in taking on formal or informal leadership roles in the workplace, developing project planning skills and interpersonal skills such as networking and partnerships. The NSWIOP organisers identified strengths and weaknesses in the delivery of this training.

Conclusions:

The strong partnerships developed between NSWIOP and the Ministry of Health in all four countries contributed to the success of the training. Leadership Development Programs are an important aspect of building capacity in the mental health services of Pacific Island Countries.
Additive manufacturing of active struts for piezoelectric shunt damping
Authors: Mayer Dirk , Stoffregen Hanns Alexander , Heuss Oliver , Thiel Jennifer , Abele Eberhard , Melz Tobias
Published: March 2015

One strategy to deal with unwanted vibrations of lightweight structures is to actively control systems using integrated actuators, such as piezoceramic multilayer actuators. In the presented research work, selective laser melting is used to manufacture active struts by integrating multilayer actuator into a metallic, monolithic housing. Besides the fulfilment of manufacturing constraints (e.g. low volume and individualization), a major objective of this study is to demonstrate the potential of selective laser melting for application tailored smart components. A truss structure is used as demonstration platform. Based on experimentally validated numerical models of the truss structure, a beneficial position of the active strut and the mode to be damped are determined. A model of the multilayer actuator and corresponding housing allows the dimensioning of the housing stiffness to maximize the electromechanical coupling. Thus, an efficient resistive resonant shunted system can be achieved. Numerically designed active struts with specific stiffnesses are manufactured and experimentally characterized. Measurements with connected RL-shunts using the active struts are performed and compared to the original system. Results indicate an efficient damping of the desired mode by means of application tailored active struts. The presented procedure allows rapid design of versatile actuator housings for an optimized electromechanical coupling.