bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated selection of bone texture regions on hand radiographs: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Wolski Marcin , Englund Martin , Stachowiak Gwidon , Podsiadlo Pawel
Published: November 2016

Manual selection of finger trabecular bone texture regions on hand X-ray images is time-consuming, tedious, and observer-dependent. Therefore, we developed an automated method for the region selection. The method selects square trabecular bone regions of interest above and below the second to fifth distal and proximal interphalangeal joints. Two regions are selected per joint (16 regions per hand). The method consists of four integral parts: (1) segmentation of a radiograph into hand and background, (2) identification of finger regions, (3) localization of center points of heads of distal phalanges and the distal interphalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and metacarpophalangeal joints, and (4) placement of the regions of interest under and above the distal and proximal interphalangeal joints. A gold standard was constructed from regions selected by two observers on 40 hand X-ray images taken from Osteoarthritis Initiative cohort. Datasets of 520 images were generated from the 40 images to study the effects of hand and finger positioning. The accuracy in regions selection and the agreement in calculating five directional fractal parameters were evaluated against the gold standard. The accuracy, agreement, and effects of hand and finger positioning were measured using similarity index (0 for no overlap and 1 for entire overlap) and interclass correlation coefficient as appropriate. A high accuracy in selecting regions (similarity index ≥ 0.79) and a good agreement in fractal parameters (interclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.58) were achieved. Hand and finger positioning did not affect considerably the region selection (similarity index ≥ 0.70). These results indicate that the method developed selects bone regions on hand X-ray images with accuracy sufficient for fractal analyses of bone texture.
Nonlinear homogenisation of trabecular bone: Effect of solid phase constitutive model
Authors: Levrero-Florencio Francesc , Manda Krishnagoud , Margetts Lee , Pankaj Pankaj
Published: November 2016

Micro-finite element models have been extensively employed to evaluate the elastic properties of trabecular bone and, to a limited extent, its yield behaviour. The macroscopic stiffness tensor and yield surface are of special interest since they are essential in the prediction of bone strength and stability of implants at the whole bone level. While macroscopic elastic properties are now well understood, yield and post-yield properties are not. The aim of this study is to shed some light on what the effect of the solid phase yield criterion is on the macroscopic yield of trabecular bone for samples with different microstructure. Three samples with very different density were subjected to a large set of apparent load cases (which is important since physiological loading is complex and can have multiple components in stress or strain space) with two different solid phase yield criteria: Drucker–Prager and eccentric–ellipsoid. The study found that these two criteria led to small differences in the macroscopic yield strains for most load cases except for those that were compression-dominated; in these load cases, the yield strains for the Drucker–Prager criterion were significantly higher. Higher density samples resulted in higher differences between the two criteria. This work provides a comprehensive assessment of the effect of two different solid phase yield criteria on the macroscopic yield strains of trabecular bone, for a wide range of load cases, and for samples with different morphology.
‘Out of the forest I come’: Lyric and dramatic tension in The World’s Wife
Authors: Roche-Jacques Shelley
Published: November 2016

This article looks at lyric and dramatic modes of poetic expression in Carol Ann Duffy’s collection The World’s Wife. The book is of particular interest because it is Duffy’s only volume devoted entirely to the dramatic monologue. In the opening sections of this article, lyric and dramatic modes are defined and discussed, and the work of Keith Green on deixis and the poetic persona is considered in relation to the dramatic monologue. Of particular use is Green’s elaboration on the traditional deictic categories of ‘time’ and ‘place’. Green incorporates the concepts of ‘coding time and place’ and ‘content time and place’ into his analysis of lyric poetry. These concepts are used here as tools to consider and describe the communicative contexts established in lyric and dramatic poetry respectively. Ina Beth Sessions’ early, taxonomic approach to defining the dramatic monologue, in particular her idea of ‘action in the present’, is also found to be useful in the identification of the ‘dramatic’.

The next section of the article is a close analysis of two poems from The World’s Wife, ‘Little Red Cap’ and ‘Mrs Sisyphus’. Other poems, and the communicative context evoked by the collection as a whole, are also considered in the light of Green, Sessions and the lyric and dramatic traditions in poetry.

The work of Duffy examined here is found to be more clearly rooted in lyrical and narrative than dramatic traditions. It is suggested that the indexicalisation of the symbolic elements of deictic terms is essential to the building of the dramatically realised coding environment necessary for a Browningesque dramatic monologue. A call is made for further work to be carried out in identifying the ‘dramatic’ in poetry, and for a more meaningful employment of the term dramatic monologue.
Bioethical and legal perspectives on cell reprogramming technologies
Authors: Mansnérus Juli Aninka
Published: November 2016

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been presented as a more ethical alternative to human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), which are surrounded by a significant ethical controversy. This article discusses some potential promises and perils of iPSCs for regenerative medicine. It also presents some ethical perspectives regarding the hypothetical use of iPSCs in reproductive applications. In particular, this article analyses whether iPSCs are a less problematic alternative to hESCs from an ethical viewpoint. In order to shed some light on this multidimensional question, the prospects of iPSCs for regenerative medicine will be discussed in light of the current scientific knowledge. In addition, paradoxical linkages between iPSC and hESC technologies will be analysed from a bioethical perspective. Finally, legal and ethical patentability considerations affecting the commercialization prospects of different pluripotent stem cell-based products will be discussed.
Addressing ethical concerns arising in nursing and midwifery students’ reflective assignments
Authors: McCarthy Bridie , McCarthy Joan , Trace Anna , Grace Pamela
Published: November 2016

Background:

Written reflections on practice are frequently requirements of nursing curricula. They are widely accepted as necessary for improving critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Faculty, are expected to review reflections and provide feedback that helps professional development and facilitates good practice. It is less clear what the actions of nurse educators should be when ethical infractions are revealed in the narratives.

Objectives:

We had two aims: 1) To combine insights from a literature review of empirical and theoretical research related to responding to ethical issues revealed in student reflections with our experiences reviewing the reflections of undergraduate nursing and midwifery students, and 2) to construct and analyze a hybrid case from these insights in order to develop guidelines for nurse educators.

Research Design:

A literature review was conducted using CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SocINDEX and ERIC databases and pertinent key words. A hybrid case was constructed of commonly encountered ethical issues using insights from the literature review and the authors’ experiences. The case was analyzed by combining Beauchamp and Childress’ principlist approach with Campbell and McCarthy’s ethical decision-making tool (Table 1).

Participants and Research Context:

No human participants

Findings:

A gap in the literature exists related to addressing ethical issues revealed in student practice reflections. However, a combination of insights from the literature and the authors’ experiences facilitated the development of a hybrid case. Subsequent case analysis facilitated the development of a series of guidelines that can be utilized to address a range of issues commonly emerging in the reflections of nursing students during practice experiences.

Discussion:

A number of recommendations and guidelines are provided to enable the safeguarding of students and staff and support them in practicing ethically.

Conclusion:

Structured ethical analysis of a constructed hybrid reflection of commonly revealed ethical issues was useful in developing guidelines for educators.
Factors that impact on emergency nurses’ ethical decision-making ability
Authors: Alba Barbara
Published: November 2016

Background:

Reliance on moral principles and professional codes has given nurses direction for ethical decision-making. However, rational models do not capture the emotion and reality of human choice. Intuitive response must be considered.

Research purpose:

Supporting intuition as an important ethical decision-making tool for nurses, the aim of this study was to determine relationships between intuition, years of worked nursing experience, and perceived ethical decision-making ability. A secondary aim explored the relationships between rational thought to years of worked nursing experience and perceived ethical decision-making ability.

Research design and context:

A non-experimental, correlational research design was used. The Rational Experiential Inventory measured intuition and rational thought. The Clinical Decision Making in Nursing Scale measured perceived ethical decision-making ability. Pearson’s r was the statistical method used to analyze three primary and two secondary research questions.

Participants:

A sample of 182 emergency nurses was recruited electronically through the Emergency Nurses Association. Participants were self-selected.

Ethical considerations:

Approval to conduct this study was obtained by the Adelphi University Institutional Review Board.

Findings:

A relationship between intuition and perceived ethical decision-making ability ( r = .252, p = .001) was a significant finding in this study.

Discussion:

This study is one of the first of this nature to make a connection between intuition and nurses’ ethical decision-making ability.

Conclusion:

This investigation contributes to a broader understanding of the different thought processes used by emergency nurses to make ethical decisions.
Land-use Change and Vocational Transition in East Kolkata Wetlands
Authors: Dey Debanjana , Banerjee Sarmila
Published: November 2016

The city of Kolkata is location-wise gifted by the existence of a wide wetland in its eastern fringe, popularly known as the East Kolkata Wetlands (EKW), where nearly 80 per cent of city sewer gets naturally treated in the shallow water bodies under abundant supply of sunshine in a hot and humid tropical climate and it provides outlet to the city’s excess rainwater run-off. During this process, the wastewater gets converted into nutrient-rich fish feed and creates favourable conditions for vocations like fisheries, garbage farming, animal husbandry, etc. However, due to aggressive urban encroachment in the buffer area of the EKW over time, the ecosystem-based livelihood practices are under threat. How that would affect the local people’s perception regarding their livelihood options in the core area of the wetlands where any change in the pattern of land use is legally prohibited? To investigate this issue, a time diary method has been applied to come up with an exhaustive listing of the types of jobs prevailing in the core area where most of the workers are employed temporarily, seasonally or sporadically, as self-employed or unpaid family worker, casual labour, home-based worker or simply home worker and where the works are so very closely tied together as part of their livelihood practices that respondents barely recognize those activities as distinct works. Entries from time diary have captured the imperceptible changes in vocational preferences across age, sex and the level of education with greater precision.
Creative artists, career patterns and career theory: insights from the Australian context
Authors: Daniel Ryan
Published: November 2016

Despite the challenges associated with the pursuit of a career as an artist, such as job insecurity and an oversupply of labour, many individuals continue to seek a career in this field. Australian artists also face additional challenges, such as geographic isolation from the major art centres of the world, resulting in perceptions of the need to migrate to large cities. This paper explores the push and pull factors influencing the career paths and geographic locations of a group of 20 creative arts graduates from one regional Australian higher education institution. The findings reveal that a range of complex factors, not just the lure of large cities, influences artists’ career decisions. In addition, the findings propose that the complex and highly uncertain nature of a career as an artist is best understood from multiple career theory perspectives.
Career maturity among university students in Jordan: The case for social studies
Authors: Jawarneh Mohammad
Published: November 2016

The main purpose of this study was to determine the level of career maturity in a sample of university students in one public university in Jordan. The study also sought to determine differences in career maturity based on gender and educational level. The sample of the study consisted of 284 students enrolled in social studies classes. Results of the study indicated that participants had high levels of career maturity on self-knowledge, career decision-making, and career implementation. However, participants exhibited moderate levels of career maturity on knowledge of occupations, knowledge of the world of work, and career planning. The results also showed no differences in levels of career maturity based on gender and educational level except for the career planning dimension where juniors and seniors were more mature than sophomores. Finally, this study provided several recommendations with regard to preparing university students for the work environment.
Development of a Synchronization Coefficient for Biosocial Interactions in Groups and Teams
Authors: Guastello Stephen J. , Peressini Anthony F.
Published: November 2016

Body movements, autonomic arousal, and electroencephalograms (EEGs) of group members are often coordinated or synchronized with those of other group members. Linear and nonlinear measures of synchronization have been developed for pairs of individuals, but little work has been done on measures of synchronization for groups. We define a new synchronization coefficient, SE, for a group based on pairwise correlations in time series data and employing the notions of a group driver, who most drives the group’s responses, and empath, who is most driven by the group. SE is developed here in the context of emotional synchronization based on galvanic skin response time series. A simulation study explores its properties, the balance between strong versus weak autocorrelational effects, transfer, group size, and direct versus oscillatory functions. Distributions of SE are not affected by group size up to 16 members. Norms for interpreting the coefficient are presented along with directions for new research.
The Story of Captain Baby Face and the Coffee Maker: An Entrepreneurial Narrative Perspective on Corruption
Authors: Pelly R. Duncan M.
Published: November 2016

This article calls into question the frequently used negative moral labels assigned to corruption by describing gift giving as a form of narrative entrepreneurship that bridges ontologies between public service organizations. To effectively make the comparison, this article utilizes a unique methodology to explore corruption: the layered account autoethnography. The empirical setting of this story is a jointly operated military corrections facility in Iraq. It illustrates how gaps were perceived in the U.S.–Iraqi joint bureaucracy creating a space for play, and how corrupt behavior metaphorically bridged these gaps. Engaging in a minute form of gift giving provided remarkable insight into how partner organizations respond to traditional and corruption-friendly practices. This article is of benefit to practitioners and academicians alike because it illustrates at an individual level how corrupt bureaucracies function and how to promote successful interactions between alternate organizational ontologies.
Does Establishing Sociopolitical Legitimacy Overcome Liabilities of Newness? A Longitudinal Analysis of Top Performers
Authors: Rutherford Matthew W. , Mazzei Matthew J. , Oswald Sharon L. , Jones-Farmer L. Allison
Published: November 2016

This work builds upon an existing stream of research that seeks to empirically elucidate the role of legitimacy in helping entrepreneurs overcome liabilities of newness. More specifically, we examine the relationship between legitimating activities and performance in new ventures. We add to the empirical literature on the legitimacy/performance relation by focusing on top performing firms (on multiple performance measures) during the initial phase of the organizational life cycle. Moreover, we submit that our longitudinal sample, which includes data from nearly 5,000 new ventures, offers an important opportunity to enhance the external validity of this base of literature. Interestingly, we find that the value of engaging in legitimating activities depends upon the outcome measure. With regard to top line performance, and in accordance with theory and extant literature, we find that companies engaging in more legitimating activities at start-up are more likely to be top performers as they move beyond the “birth” phase. However, with regard to profitability, engaging in these activities may actually be detrimental.
Multifocal Invasive Ductal Cancer: Distinguishing Independent Tumor Foci From Multiple Satellites
Authors: Alexander Melissa , Acosta Gonzalez Gabriel , Malerba Stefano , Hochman Tsivia , Goldberg Judith D. , Darvishian Farbod
Published: November 2016

Patients with multifocal breast cancers (MBCs) have a poorer prognosis than patients with unifocal breast cancers. Studies have attributed this to tumor size underestimation in MBC. An alternative hypothesis is that some MBCs behave in a fashion analogous to the “satellite” and “in-transit metastasis” observed in melanoma and, thereby, are more clinically aggressive. We identified 79 cases of MBC, which we classified into 2 groups: study cases defined as ≥2 morphologically similar tumor foci with ≥1 focus without in situ carcinoma (n = 21); and a control group defined as ≥2 morphologically similar or dissimilar foci with associated in situ carcinoma in all foci (n = 58). The odds of being a study case is 1.86 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-2.74) times greater per unit increase in number of tumor foci (median of 4 tumor foci; P = .002). Study cases were 73.33 (95% CI = 8.91-603.16) times more likely to have lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and 14.72 (95% CI = 4.37-49.61) times more likely to have nodal metastases. Grade I/II tumors were 0.20 (95% CI = 0.07-0.59) times less likely to be study cases. There was a significant positive interaction ( P < 0.001) indicated by the relationship of LVI status and nodal status with the study case and control group. We conclude that there is a subset of MBC that presents with more numerous tumor foci and a higher rate of nodal metastasis. The aggressive behavior of these cases may be attributed to their proclivity for LVI.
Thirty-Day Inpatient Readmissions for Asian American and Pacific Islander Subgroups Compared With Whites
Authors: Sentell Tetine , Ahn Hyeong Jun , Miyamura Jill , Taira Deborah A.
Published: November 2016

Asian and Pacific Islander (API) 30-day potentially preventable readmissions (PPRs) are understudied. Hawaii Health Information Corporation data from 2007-2012 statewide adult hospitalizations ( N = 495,910) were used to compare API subgroup and White PPRs. Eight percent of hospitalizations were PPRs. Seventy-two percent of other Pacific Islanders, 60% of Native Hawaiians, and 52% of Whites with a PPR were 18 to 64 years, compared with 22% of Chinese and 21% of Japanese. In multivariable models including payer, hospital, discharge year, residence location, and comorbidity, PPR disparities existed for some API subpopulations 65+ years, including Native Hawaiian men (odds ratio [OR] = 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04-1.24), Filipino men (OR = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.04-1.38), and other Pacific Islander men (OR = 1.30; 95% CI = 1.19-1.43) and women (OR = 1.23; 95% CI = 1.02-1.51) compared with Whites, while many API groups 18 to 64 years had significantly lower PPR odds. Distinct PPR characteristics across API subpopulations and age groups can inform policy and practice. Further research should determine why elderly API have higher PPR rates, while nonelderly rates are lower.
To What Extent Are State Scope of Practice Laws Related to Nurse Practitioners’ Day-to-Day Practice Autonomy?
Authors: Park Jeongyoung , Athey Erin , Pericak Arlene , Pulcini Joyce , Greene Jessica
Published: November 2016

We explore the extent to which state scope of practice laws are related to nurse practitioners (NPs)’ day-to-day practice autonomy. We found that NPs experienced greater day-to-day practice autonomy when they had prescriptive independence. Surprisingly, there were only small and largely insignificant differences in day-to-day practice autonomy between NPs in fully restricted states and those in states with independent practice but restricted prescription authority. The scope of practice effects were strong for primary care NPs. We also found that the amount of variation in day-to-day practice autonomy within the scope of practice categories existed, which suggests that factors other than state scope of practice laws may influence NP practice as well. Removing barriers at all levels that potentially prevent NPs from practicing to the full extent of their education and training is critical not only to increase primary care capacity but also to make NPs more efficient and effective providers.
Seamless Service? On the Role and Impact of Service Orchestrators in Human-Centered Service Systems
Authors: Breidbach Christoph F. , Antons David , Salge Torsten Oliver
Published: November 2016

How can value cocreation in complex human-centered service systems (HCSSs) like health care be facilitated? We address this question by introducing the novel role of service orchestrators as dedicated actors who facilitate and orchestrate resource integration, and thereby value cocreation, between other interdependent actors in HCSSs. Specifically, we draw on findings from four complementary studies that investigate the role and impact of case managers, an ideal-typical service orchestrator in health care, through the perspectives of HCSS actors (i.e., patients in Study 1 and clinical staff in Study 2) and structures (i.e., clinical departments in Studies 3 and 4). Our findings indicate that orchestrating value cocreation through case managers enhances patient satisfaction as well as the financial and operational performance of clinical departments. Service orchestration also increases the perception of clinical staff that patients are actively involved in the cocreation of their own health service but surprisingly not that of patients themselves. As such, introducing service orchestrators might contribute to reconciling the growing tension between the quality and cost of health care. We conclude by outlining how our work serves as a possible starting point for a novel research stream on effective coordination mechanisms for value cocreation in complex HCSSs.
Effect of exercise training in heart rate variability, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in kidney recipients: A preliminary study
Authors: Barroso Rodrigo , Silva-Filho Antonio C , Dias Carlos José , Soares Nivaldo , Mostarda Alessandra , Azoubel Luana Anaisse , Melo Leandro , Garcia Alessandra de MC , Rodrigues Bruno , Mostarda Cristiano Texeira
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to compare the sleep quality, depression, anxiety, and autonomic function of a group of kidney-transplanted recipients who joined a combined exercise program (KTRt) or remained sedentary (KTRs). A total of 20 kidney-transplanted recipients, split into two groups (10 KTRt and 10 KTRs), joined the study. Heart rate variability, cardiorespiratory capacity, depression, and sleep questionnaires were evaluated. KTRt presented lower Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and greater entropy, and increased parasympathetic and decreased sympathetic modulation than KTRs. Anxiety level was minimal and depression was absent in both groups. KTRt group presented better sleep quality and better autonomic modulation than KTRs.
Diffracting addicting binaries: An analysis of personal accounts of alcohol and other drug ‘addiction’
Authors: Pienaar Kiran , Moore David , Fraser Suzanne , Kokanovic Renata , Treloar Carla , Dilkes-Frayne Ella
Published: November 2016

Associated with social and individual harm, loss of control and destructive behaviour, addiction is widely considered to be a major social problem. Most models of addiction, including the influential disease model, rely on the volition/compulsion binary, conceptualising addiction as a disorder of compulsion. In order to interrogate this prevailing view, this article draws on qualitative data from interviews with people who describe themselves as having an alcohol or other drug ‘addiction’, ‘dependence’ or ‘habit’. Applying the concept of ‘diffraction’ elaborated by science studies scholar Karen Barad, we examine the process of ‘addicting’, or the various ways in which addiction is constituted, in accounts of daily life with regular alcohol and other drug use. Our analysis suggests not only that personal accounts of addiction exceed the absolute opposition of volition/compulsion but also that the polarising assumptions of existing addicting discourses produce many of the negative effects typically attributed to the ‘disease of addiction’.
Immersion, authenticity and the theme park as social space: Experiencing the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Authors: Waysdorf Abby , Reijnders Stijn
Published: November 2016

This article examines the visitor experience of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (WWOHP) theme park at Universal Studios Orlando. The park is hugely popular and has been embraced by the series’ devoted but critical fanbase. Prior research on theme parks has generally focused on critiques of their form, leading to a limited understanding of their appeal. This article asks how fan-visitors interpret this simulated environment, and what leads them to embrace it. It does this with an ethnographic approach, utilizing in-depth interviews with 15 visitors combined with participant observation. We show how WWOHP is understood by its visitors as an adaptation of the series into physical space, via the medium of the theme park, and how the visitor’s experience is shaped through use of ironic imagination. In doing so, we present a new understanding of the immersive media experience of theme parks.
A Welsh European: Golf, tourism and the remaking of national imaging
Authors: Harris John
Published: November 2016

The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf match between Europe and the USA that was staged in Wales for the first time in 2010. This article considers the representation of Wales within tourism texts through an analysis of the place of an individual. To date, little scholarship has examined the position of individuals within such discourse and explored the ways in which they can be (re)positioned as representative of a broader (supra)national configuration. In drawing upon the work of the cultural theorist Raymond Williams, it looks at narratives of Wales and the significance of an individual as relates to the interplay of nation, class and place. It argues that Ian Woosnam was centrally important as a ‘Welsh European’ in providing a physical and symbolic link to an event where no Welshman was a part of Team Europe.
From multiculturalism to civic integration: Citizenship education and integration policies in the Netherlands and England since the 2000s
Authors: Mattei Paola , Broeks Miriam
Published: November 2016

The article discusses one of the most compelling policy issues facing liberal democracies in Europe: What policy tools can be used to promote social cohesion in a pluralist multi-ethnic society with different moral and religious and ethical values, and cultural and linguistic traditions? We focus on the role that citizenship education has taken since the early 2000s in light of the integration of immigrant children in schools in the Netherlands and England. Citizenship education is designed to integrate immigrant groups socially, foster their loyalty to the state and encourage them to become engaged in democratic politics. Our empirical analysis advances our understanding of the policy ramifications of a new turn in integration policies directed towards stronger civic integration through sharing common values and moral standards.
Understanding the 4As of Social Marketing for HIV Prevention in India
Authors: Das Mahua
Published: November 2016

Social marketing has gained popularity in health used to achieve the “social good.” However, there is lack of research beyond the aggregated sales data exploring the debate on socioeconomic and cultural relevance of such programs in public health in a low middle income context. The purpose of this article is therefore (a) to understand the importance of socioeconomic context that moderate acceptability, affordability, accessibility, and availability (4As) of social marketing for HIV/AIDS prevention in India and (b) analyze the barriers they may pose during the operationalization of the programs. This article performed theory-driven evaluation using qualitative research tools like documentary analysis and in-depth interviews of relevant stakeholders. Thematic analysis was followed to classify the emergent data. The 4As comprising “acceptability,” “affordability,” “availability,” and “accessibility” proposed in this article encapsulate the important role played by socioeconomic and cultural dimensions in shaping the social marketing programs for HIV/AIDS prevention in India. Social marketing for “whom,” “at what cost,” and “under what circumstances” emerge as an interesting debate in this article. An enhanced understanding of how social marketing harnesses the prevalent sociocultural and economic dynamics in a heterogeneous context like India not only refines social marketing as a theory but also provides opportunities for effective health policy making resulting in better health outcomes.
Driving Intervention for Returning Combat Veterans
Authors: Classen Sherrilene , Winter Sandra , Monahan Miriam , Yarney Abraham , Link Lutz Amanda , Platek Kyle , Levy Charles
Published: November 2016

Increased crash incidence following deployment and veterans’ reports of driving difficulty spurred traffic safety research for this population. We conducted an interim analysis on the efficacy of a simulator-based occupational therapy driving intervention (OT-DI) compared with traffic safety education (TSE) in a randomized controlled trial. During baseline and post-testing, OT-Driver Rehabilitation Specialists and one OT-Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist measured driving performance errors on a DriveSafety CDS-250 high-fidelity simulator. The intervention group ( n = 13) received three OT-DI sessions addressing driving errors and visual-search retraining. The control group ( n = 13) received three TSE sessions addressing personal factors and defensive driving. Based on Wilcoxon rank-sum analysis, the OT-DI group’s errors were significantly reduced when comparing baseline with Post-Test 1 ( p < .0001) and comparing the OT-DI group with the TSE group at Post-Test 1 ( p = .01). These findings provide support for the efficacy of the OT-DI and set the stage for a future effectiveness study.
Automatic inspection and classification for thin-film transistor liquid crystal display surface defects based on particle swarm optimization and one-class support vector machine
Authors: Wu Ang , Zhu Juanhua , Tao Zeliu , Mao Cuili
Published: November 2016

Thin-film transistor liquid crystal display surface micro-defects are difficult to be detected using traditional threshold or edge detection methods. This article puts forward a non-destructive detection method using particle swarm optimization with one-class support vector machine to inspect thin-film transistor liquid crystal display surface micro-defects. An image acquisition system is constructed to acquire the surface micro-defects images of thin-film transistor liquid crystal display. Background textures are removed by the image preprocessing algorithm based on one-dimensional discrete Fourier transform. Moreover, the wavelet transform algorithm is used to eliminate the influence of uneven illumination. Effective characteristic parameters describing thin-film transistor liquid crystal display surface micro-defects are selected by the principal component analysis method. Classification model is developed based on one-class support vector machine using radial basis function. To validate the method above, other parameter optimization algorithms, including normal algorithm, genetic algorithm, and grid search algorithm, are used to optimize the support vector machine model parameters: penalty parameter C and kernel parameter g. In contrast, particle swarm optimization is proved to get the optimal model parameter, and the recognition accuracy of 91.7% is obtained from the particle swarm optimization–one-class support vector machine model. The results indicate the proposed system and method can accurately inspect thin-film transistor liquid crystal display surface detects.
Real-time bus travel speed estimation model based on bus GPS data
Authors: Weng Jiancheng , Wang Chang , Huang Hainan , Wang Yueyue , Zhang Ledian
Published: November 2016

Bus travel speed is the fundamental indicator for the bus operation dynamic monitoring, traveler’s information service, as well as the bus service evaluation. This article proposed a real-time travel speed calculation model for public transit based on global positioning system data. Combining the real-time bus global positioning system data with the bus geographical information system map, the study developed a series of processing procedures to match the bus location onto the map accurately, so that it could determine the bus position of the given arc and estimate the bus arrival time. Based on the estimated travel time and the actual distance between bus stops, a bus travel speed calculation model was established. In addition, the study designed a survey to verify the precision of the model. The error analysis results showed that the average precision of the travel speed between bus stops and the line speed estimation models were 88.4% and 97.9%, respectively. Finally, optimization strategies for the models were also made by keeping the stable high-frequency global positioning system data and modifying the stop position, and the precision of travel speed estimation was improved to 91.4%, which can meet the demand of the monitoring and evaluation of public transit operation.
“My pain grows as my life dwindles”: Women, poetry, and resisting state violence in Afghanistan
Authors: Collins Victoria E.
Published: November 2016

Western media reporting on the post-9/11 Taliban regime in Afghanistan propagated the image of Afghani women as being helpless, voiceless victims in desperate need of external intervention to rescue them from oppression—i.e. the faceless woman dressed in the all-encompassing blue burqa. Contrary to such symbolizing, and drawing on Hayward and Schuilenburg’s (2014) criteria for resistance, this article examines the longevity and endurance of Pashtun poetry as a vehicle of resistance for women and girls in their fight against state-sanctioned patriarchal oppression. Not only does this undermine the broader narrative of helplessness propagated by the West, but it illuminates the agency, resilience, and bravery of women who challenge the status quo and achieve greater participation in public and political life.
Influence of acoustic feedback on boat speed and crew synchronization in elite junior rowing
Authors: Schaffert Nina , Mattes Klaus
Published: November 2016

Coordination and crew synchronization are essential for a smooth boat run in rowing. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acoustic feedback on boat speed, rowing technique, and crew synchronization in elite junior rowing. Thirty junior athletes (A, B–squad) participated in the field study in two measuring series in a total of eight boats. Measuring included handle forces, rowing angle, boat acceleration, and distance traveled at two training intensities (20, 22 strokes/minute). Also, blood lactate and heart rate were collected. Boat acceleration–time traces were sonified into online acoustic feedback and presented via speakers during rowing. A repeated measures within-participant factorial analysis of variance compared sections with and without acoustic feedback (α = 0.05). Significantly faster boat speed with acoustic feedback compared to baseline was found for both squad levels. The time structure of rowing cycles was improved (prolonged duration of positive acceleration). No differences were found for handle power and physiological data. Parameters of crew synchronization showed reduced ranges for the time during drive and recovery phase, rhythm quotient, and handle speed during the drive phase with acoustic feedback compared to baseline. Questioning of athletes showed the benefits of acoustic feedback as supportive for technique training in elite junior rowing.
A corpus-aided ecological discourse analysis of the Rosemont Copper Mine debate of Arizona, USA
Authors: Poole Robert
Published: November 2016

This article reports a corpus-aided ecological discourse analysis (EDA) of texts from an international mining company and an environmental advocacy group regarding a proposal to build a massive open-pit copper mine in the Santa Rita Mountains of Arizona, USA. The analysis details the grammatical and semantic clusters within the controversial environmental debate and how these clusters reflect the values and beliefs of each group as well as their conceptualization of the mountains and the environment. The integration of the ecolinguistic framework with corpus linguistic methods of keyword analysis as well as part of speech (POS) and semantic tag analysis facilitated the identification of clusters of linguistic features perpetuating a dominant and ultimately destructive cultural discourse that places humans in a role of dominion and authority over the environment in the company texts. In contrast, clusters within the oppositional discourse forwarded by the environmental group promote the aesthetic value of the land and a need for responsible environmental stewardship.
Deconstructing the “Two Factors”: The Historical Origins of the Schachter–Singer Theory of Emotions
Authors: Dror Otniel E.
Published: November 2016

In this contribution, I interrogate the historical-intellectual narrative that dominates the history of the Schachter–Singer two-factor theory of emotion. In the first part, I propose that a social influence model became generalized to a cognitive view. I argue that Schachter and Singer presented a cognitive theory of emotions in enacting inside the laboratory Schachter’s preceding “social influence” model of emotions and that Schachter’s adoption of a cognitive model of emotion was driven by and was necessary for his previous research on social influence. In the second part, I argue that the Schachter–Singer theory is remarkable not because it introduced a cognitive turn in emotion, but because it presented sympathetic nervous system activation as an essential constitutive element of every emotion.
Varieties of Cognition-Arousal Theory
Authors: Reisenzein Rainer
Published: November 2016

Three main versions of cognition-arousal theory are distinguished depending on how they interpret the theory’s basic postulate, that an emotion is a function of cognition and arousal: objectivist causal theories, attributional theories, and fusion theories. The objectivist causal and attributional theories each comprise a causal-functional and a part-whole version, and the fusion theory subsumes in particular a categorization and a perceptual integration version. In addition, the attributional version of cognition-arousal theory can be reinterpreted as a theory of emotion self-ascription. Although arousal may in fact not be necessary for emotions, a modified cognition-feeling theory that replaces arousal with intrinsically affective feelings, seems still viable. Arguments are presented why the objectivist causal-functional version of this theory should be preferred.
Fuzzy indicators for customer retention
Authors: Valenzuela-Fernández Leslier , Nicolas Carolina , Gil-Lafuente Jaime , Merigó José M.
Published: November 2016

It is widely known that market orientation (MO) and customer value help companies achieve sustainable sales growth over time. Nevertheless, one cannot ignore the existence of a gap on how to measure this relationship. Following this idea, this study proposes six fuzzy key performance indicators that aims to measure customer retention and loyalty of the portfolio. The work uses 300 sales executives. This exploratory study concludes that indicators such as MO, customer orientation (CO), degree of CO value of sales force, innovation capability, lifetime value, and customer service quality positively influence customer retention and loyalty portfolio.
Comparison of Intra-articular Injection of Hyaluronic Acid and N-Acetyl Cysteine in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ozcamdalli Mustafa , Misir Abdulhamit , Kizkapan Turan Bilge , Uzun Erdal , Duygulu Fuat , Yazici Cevat , Kafadar Ibrahim Halil
Published: November 2016

Objective

To compare the relative effectiveness of intra-articular N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and hyaluronic acid (HA) on pain, function and cartilage degradation markers in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Design

We prospectively conducted a clinical trial with 20 patients having a diagnosis of Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-3 knee OA, and randomly allocated to the HA or NAC groups. Groups were matched on age, sex, and body mass index. Injections of 3-mL HA (Hylan G-F 20) or 3-mL NAC (Asist ampoule) were administered as a single shot. Functional status and pain were evaluated before and after injection, using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. Pre- and posttreatment concentrations of serum C-reactive protein (CRP), synovial fluid chondroitin-6-sulfate (C-6S), matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3), cross-linked C-terminal telopeptide of type 2 collagen (CTX-II), total oxidant status (TOS), and total antioxidant concentration (TAC) were obtained.

Results

WOMAC, VAS scores, and CRP levels were comparable between groups prior to treatment. Both HA and NAC produced comparable reductions in TOS and MMP-3. NAC was more effective in reducing C-6S and CTX-II ( P < 0.05). No effects on TAC were noted.

Conclusions

NAC is effective in lowering some cartilage degradation markers, with comparable outcomes to HA for pain and function. NAC could provide a cheaper alternative to HA for intra-articular injection treatment of mild to moderate knee OA. Future placebo controlled trials are warranted to evaluate effectiveness in a larger patient population with a wider range of age and OA severity.
Every question is open: Looking for paths beyond the clearing
Authors: Orsi Robert A
Published: November 2016

However challenging scholars of religion find it to talk across their respective subfields, they are responsible for doing so in order to consider future trajectories for research in religious studies. This contribution to the symposium considers what a 2014 seminar of younger scholars of religion see as urgent problems and issues in religious studies today in order to open a conversation about what is left of religion after “religion.” How do we approach the lived religious practices of men and women in particular times and places after the historical deconstruction of “religion” as the object of scholarly inquiry from modernity to the present? Do scholars of religion in the humanities, on one hand, and sociologists of religion, on the other, recognize their respective subfields in this discussion of problems and questions? This article is offered as a diagnostic to chart the fault lines between divergent methods and theories.
Redesigning care delivery with patient support personnel: Learning from accountable care organizations
Authors: Gorbenko Ksenia O , Fraze Taressa , Lewis Valerie A
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Accountable care organizations are a value-based payment model in the United States rooted in holding groups of health care providers financially accountable for the quality and total cost of care of their attributed population. To succeed in reaching their quality and efficiency goals, accountable care organizations implement a variety of care delivery changes, including workforce redesign. Patient support personnel—nonphysician staff such as care coordinators, community health workers, and others—are critical to restructuring care delivery. Little is known about how accountable care organizations are redesigning their patient support personnel in terms of responsibilities, location, and evaluation.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured 1-h interviews with 25 executives at 16 distinct accountable care organizations. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded for themes, using a qualitative coding and analysis process.

Results

Accountable care organizations deployed patient support personnel to perform four clusters of responsibilities: care provision, care coordination, logistical help with transportation, and social and emotional support. Accountable care organizations deployed these personnel strategically across settings (primary care, inpatient services, emergency department, home care, and community) depending on their population needs. Most accountable care organizations used personnel with the same level of training across settings. Few accountable care organizations planned to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of their patient support personnel to optimize their value.

Discussion

Accountable care organization strategies in workforce redesign indicate a shift from a physician-centered to a team-based approach. Employing personnel with varying levels of clinical training to perform different tasks can help further optimize care delivery. More robust evaluation of the deployment of patient support personnel and their performance is needed to demonstrate cost-saving benefits of workforce redesign.