bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fathers’ Involvement: Correlates and Consequences for Child Socioemotional Behavior in the United Kingdom
Authors: McMunn Anne , Martin Peter , Kelly Yvonne , Sacker Amanda
Published: December 2015

This study investigated longitudinal relationships between fathers’ involvement, as measured by reading, and child socioemotional behavior between infancy and age 7 in 9,238 intact two-parent families from the U.K. Millennium Cohort Study, a national cohort of British children born between 2000 and 2002. Once a variety of covariates and the potential bidirectional nature of relationships were taken into account, a path model showed that fathers’ involvement with their children in infancy significantly predicted better socioemotional behavior at age 3, although the relationship was not strong. Fathers’ reading with their children between ages 3 and 7 was not significantly associated with child socioemotional behavior, but mothers’ reading with their children at age 3 was significantly associated with improved child socioemotional behavior at ages 3 and 5. Results also suggested that parenting in the 21st-century British context remains fairly gendered. Both mothers and fathers were more likely to engage in physical activities with their sons and artistic activities with their daughters. Fathers’ reading was socially patterned in predicted directions.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Professional Hockey Players
Authors: Sikka Robby , Kurtenbach Chad , Steubs J. Tyler , Boyd Joel L. , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Performance outcomes and return-to-play data have been reported after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in professional football and basketball, but they have rarely been reported in professional hockey.

Hypothesis:

The hypothesis was that performance after ACL reconstruction would be comparable to prior levels of play in a series of National Hockey League (NHL) players.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The NHL Injury Surveillance System (ISS) was utilized to identify all players with an ACL injury between 2006 and 2010. Medical staff members for all NHL teams were surveyed regarding these injuries. The medical staff completed a questionnaire for each injury, and statistics were analyzed using multiple analyses of variance to compare outcomes, performance, and the complication rate. A control group was identified and matched based on performance, career length before injury, age, height, and weight.

Results:

There were 47 players identified by the NHL ISS. There were 3 goalies, 8 defensemen, and 36 wings or centers. The average age of these players was 27.69 years. The average length of time played after the injury was 2.8 years, which was less than that of the control group (4.4 years) ( P = .004). The presence of a meniscal injury was associated with a decreased length of career compared with the control group ( P = .012) and with patients with an isolated ACL injury ( P = .002). For wings and centers, the number of games played decreased from 71.2 to 58.2 in the first full season after the injury ( P = .05) and to 59.29 in the second season ( P = .03). In the first season after the injury, for forwards and wings, assists and total points decreased from 20.3 and 35.2 to 13.8 ( P = .005) and 25.9 ( P = .018), respectively. In the second season after the injury, assists and goals decreased to 10.0 ( P = .002) and 10.0 ( P = .013), respectively. Compared with controls, the per-season averages of goals ( P = .001), assists ( P = .010), and total points ( P = .004) decreased. Four players (8.5%) had subsequent failure of reconstruction, and there was a total reoperation rate of 20%. Five players (10.6%) did not return to play, and 4 (8.5%) were unable to return to play for a full season.

Conclusion:

Most players are able to return to play in the NHL after an ACL injury. However, career length and performance may be significantly decreased compared with controls. This may represent a more severe initial injury, and more focused return-to-play pathways may identify barriers to return to play.
Labeling quality and molecular characterization studies of products containing Lactobacillus spp. strains.
Authors: Blandino Giovanna , Fazio Davide , Petronio Giulio Petronio , Inturri Rosanna , Tempera Gianna , Furneri Pio Maria
Published: December 2015

The objective of the study was to characterize at species level by phenotypic and different molecular methods the strains of Lactobacillus spp. used as constituents of five oral and four vaginal products. Susceptibilities to representative antibiotics were evaluated. In addition, total viable counts at mid and 3 months to deadline of shelf life, in the different formulations and the presence of eventual contaminant microorganisms were investigated.

In all oral products the molecular characterization at species level of the strains of Lactobacillus spp. confirmed the strains stated on the label, except for one strain cited on the label as Lactobacillus casei, that our study characterized as Lactobacillus paracasei. In oral products total viable cell content complied with content claimed on the label. In three out four vaginal products (one product claimed “bacillo di Döderlein”), molecular characterization complied with the bacterial name stated on the label. Two vaginal products reported viable counts on the label that were confirmed by our study. The other vaginal products, which did not report bacterial counts on the label, showed a similar decrease of viable counts at different dates to deadline compared to the others. From all the tested products, contaminant microorganisms and acquired resistance to representative antibiotics by the probiotic strains were not detected.
Historical narratives and post-conflict reconciliation: An experiment in Azerbaijan
Authors: Radnitz Scott
Published: December 2015

How malleable are the attitudes of people in a post-conflict society toward their former adversaries? I conduct a laboratory experiment in Azerbaijan, which fought a war against its neighbor Armenia in the 1990s, to investigate whether reconsideration of the roots of the conflict can influence interethnic attitudes. Subjects are assigned differing interpretations of the conflict and asked to think about or discuss their reactions. The results indicate that the most effective interventions work through, rather than against, existing beliefs. Discussion also plays a critical role in provoking the introspection that is necessary to challenge longstanding prejudices. The analysis provides insight into the social psychological processes of prejudice reduction and offers caveats to conventional policy interventions to encourage reconciliation.
Life Expectancy and the Search for a Bag Lady Effect in Charitable Giving
Authors: Brown Eleanor , Mesch Debra J. , Hayat Amir Daniel
Published: December 2015

The popular press has speculated on the existence of a “bag lady” effect in which women, irrationally fearful of outliving their resources, become exceptionally frugal with their money. We use panel data from the 2003, 2005, and 2007 waves of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) to estimate giving functions for single men and single women born before 1965, looking for evidence of exceptionally frugal behavior. Because the spending decisions of older persons may be influenced by the adequacy of their resources relative to their remaining years of life, we convert stocks of unannuitized wealth to equivalent consumption flows that reflect remaining life expectancy. Controlling for access to resources and demographic characteristics, we find no evidence that women are less likely to give to charitable causes, less generous in their giving, or overrepresented among persons who give much less than predicted.
An ant colony approach to operation sequencing optimization in process planning
Authors: Hu Quanwei , Qiao Lihong , Peng Guanwei
Published: December 2015

Computer-aided process planning is an important component for linking design and manufacturing in computer-aided design/computer-aided process planning/computer-aided manufacturing integrated manufacturing systems. Operation sequencing in computer-aided process planning is one of the most essential tasks. To solve the problem and acquire optimal process plans, operation sequencing is modeled as a combinatorial optimization problem with various constraints, and a novel modified ant colony optimization algorithm is developed to solve it. To ensure the feasibility of process plans, constrained relationships considered among operations are classified into two categories called precedence constraint relationships and clustering constraint relationships. Operation precedence graph based on constrained relationships is formed to get visual representation. To ensure good manufacturing economy, in the mathematical model for optimization, total weighted production cost or weighted resource transformation time related to machine changes, setup changes, tool changes, machines and tools is utilized as the evaluation criterion. To avoid local optimum and enhance global search ability, adaptive updating method and local search mechanism are embedded into the optimization algorithm. Case studies of three parts are carried out to demonstrate the feasibility and robustness of the modified ant colony optimization algorithm, and some comparisons between the modified ant colony optimization algorithm and previous genetic algorithm, simulated annealing algorithm, tabu search and particle swarm optimization algorithm are discussed. The results show that the modified ant colony optimization algorithm performs well in the operation sequencing problem.
Finite element analysis of burr formation and an automatic online micro-deburring method in precise end-face grinding process
Authors: Dong Dapeng , Song Jinbang , Yu Dedong , Chen Ming
Published: December 2015

A new approach is presented in this article for modeling and analysis of precise end-face grinding burr formation. The aim of this approach is to develop an automatic online deburring method that utilizes a precision motion control mechanism and effective deburring tools. Servo valve cores widely used in aerospace industry were employed as the workpiece in this study. After precision external grinding process, as a rule, the way of end-face grinding is adopted to get qualified working edges; the precision of these edges are generally required to be micron level or higher. However, after end-face grinding, the outside circle of the working edges will have burrs whose heights range from a few to dozens of microns, and the manual offline burr removal method currently adopted is not only uneasy to control accuracy but also easy for the working edges of the workpiece to lose its integrity and lead to a high rejection rate. In this article, the burr modeling and analysis procedure were used to get the corresponding formation mechanism of burr, and the online precision burr removal equipment was designed reasonably. Therefore, the effective removal of arising micro-burr from end-face grinding and the accuracy of the working edges were very well guaranteed, so as to improve the production efficiency.
A new hybrid mechanism for dynamic wind tunnel test of high maneuverable air vehicle
Authors: Geng Xi , Shi Zhiwei , Cheng Keming , Li Luyang
Published: December 2015

A new dynamic test mechanism has been developed in the unsteady low-speed wind tunnel at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics to enhance the abilities of experiments in the unsteady flow cases. The structure of the new test mechanism is described in detail in this paper and the equations used to control the performance of test model’s motions are also listed here. Then a wing-body model was tested in the new test system for the first time, including the forced oscillation tests and free-to-roll test at high angle of attack region. The test results are also discussed.
Flooding in the suburbs of Dakar: impacts on the assets and adaptation strategies of households or communities
Authors: Cissé Oumar , Sèye Moustapha
Published: December 2015

Since 2005, Senegal has experienced severe and recurrent flooding. In Pikine, the most populous suburb of Dakar, the 2009 floods affected a third of the population. The government mobilized major investment for drainage and water retention infrastructure, as well as for development of resettlement sites for affected households. However, little is known about the responses, expectations and solutions of those affected. To address this gap we examine the experiences of people living in the commune of Yeumbeul Nord in the city of Pikine around the flood events of 2005, 2009 and 2012. In response to flood hazard and its impact, local residents developed a set of actions to preserve their housing, workplace, goods, family health and security, and children’s schooling. Household mobilization was focused on flood water management and physical adaptations, including raising septic tanks and toilets. Affected households preferred the strategy of housing upgrading and neighbourhood improvement over the option of resettlement.
From Habitat II to Pachamama: a growing agenda and diminishing expectations for Habitat III
Authors: Cohen Michael A
Published: December 2015

Preparations for the upcoming United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in Quito in October 2016 have included a wide range of meetings and work on a negotiated outcome document entitled “The New Urban Agenda”. This is intended to present a global consensus on the significance and challenges of human settlements, as well as a Global Plan of Action. What can reasonably be expected from these activities? Will a meaningful and substantively appropriate “new urban agenda” emerge from the discussions? If so, what is the likelihood that it can actually be implemented? Or is all this activity and expense a waste of time and human energy? This article examines the results of the Habitat I and Habitat II conferences, the weakness of the associated monitoring and evaluation, and the changing dynamics of human settlements since 1996. It provides a forward-looking assessment of both the likely results of Habitat III and the issues to be faced subsequently.
Evaluation of the mutagenic and genotoxic effects of the ALC67 thiazolidine compound in Salmonella strains and human lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Charehsaz M , Onen-Bayram FE , Sipahi H , Buran K , Giri AK , Aydin A
Published: December 2015

ALC67 is an N-acylated thiazolidine compound with promising anticancer activity that led to the recent discovery of a series of 3-propionyl thiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid ethyl esters as a family of novel antiproliferative agents. Since the mutagenic and genotoxic properties of marketed anticancer molecules constitute a main issue to be addressed, this study focused on the analysis of the mutagenicity, antimutagenecity, and genotoxicity of this molecule. The mutagenicity and antimutagenicity of ALC67 were evaluated by Ames test performed on Salmonella TA98 and TA100 strains. The genotoxicity of this molecule was investigated in the chromosomal aberration assay on human lymphocytes. All results revealed that the analyzed structure is not mutagenic in the two Salmonella strains tested and was not genotoxic in human lymphocytes in vitro. On the other hand, it showed a weak antimutagenic effect in these two bacterial strains. The above results indicate that after performing some more mutagenicity assays using the other recommended strains, this compound can be safely used for the development of new structures exhibiting anticancer activities.
Iron and carbon monoxide prevent degradation of plasmatic coagulation by thrombin-like activity in rattlesnake venom
Authors: Nielsen VG
Published: December 2015

Thousands suffer poisonous snake bite, often from defibrinogenating species annually. Three rattlesnake species in particular, the timber rattlesnake, Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, and Southern Pacific rattlesnake, cause clinically relevant hypofibrinogenemia via thrombin-like activity in their venom. It has been demonstrated that iron (Fe) and carbon monoxide (CO) change the ultrastructure of plasma thrombi and improve coagulation kinetics. Thus, the present investigation sought to determine if pretreatment of plasma with Fe and CO could attenuate venom-mediated catalysis of fibrinogen via thrombin-like activity. Human plasma was pretreated with ferric chloride (0–10 μM) and CO-releasing molecule-2 (0–100 μM) prior to exposure to 2.5–10 μg/ml of venom obtained from the aforementioned three species of rattlesnake. Coagulation kinetics were determined with thrombelastography. All three snake venoms degraded plasmatic coagulation kinetics to a significant extent, especially diminishing the speed of clot growth and strength. Pretreatment of plasma with Fe and CO completely abrogated the effects of all three venoms on coagulation kinetics. Further in vitro investigation of other pit viper venoms that possess thrombin-like activity is indicated to see if there is significant conservation of venom enzymatic target recognition of specific amino acid sequences such that Fe and CO can reliably attenuate venom-mediated catalysis of fibrinogen. These data also serve as a rationale for future preclinical investigation.
Performance of informative priors skeptical of large treatment effects in clinical trials: A simulation study
Authors: Pedroza Claudia , Han Weilu , Thanh Truong Van Thi , Green Charles , Tyson Jon E
Published: December 2015

One of the main advantages of Bayesian analyses of clinical trials is their ability to formally incorporate skepticism about large treatment effects through the use of informative priors. We conducted a simulation study to assess the performance of informative normal, Student- t, and beta distributions in estimating relative risk (RR) or odds ratio (OR) for binary outcomes. Simulation scenarios varied the prior standard deviation (SD; level of skepticism of large treatment effects), outcome rate in the control group, true treatment effect, and sample size. We compared the priors with regards to bias, mean squared error (MSE), and coverage of 95% credible intervals. Simulation results show that the prior SD influenced the posterior to a greater degree than the particular distributional form of the prior. For RR, priors with a 95% interval of 0.50–2.0 performed well in terms of bias, MSE, and coverage under most scenarios. For OR, priors with a wider 95% interval of 0.23–4.35 had good performance. We recommend the use of informative priors that exclude implausibly large treatment effects in analyses of clinical trials, particularly for major outcomes such as mortality.
Education, Income Distribution and Intergenerational Mobility
Authors: Mohanty Alekha Chandra
Published: December 2015

The prevalence of widespread poverty and the increasing inequality in income distribution across nations point to the failure of the trickle-down theory. The long-held faith in the growth of income as the sole policy instrument to achieve the national objective of growth with equity has been put to the test. The increasing numbers of the poor, accompanied by the widening gap between the upper- and lower-income strata, have prompted researchers to explore the reasons for these shifts so that policies to address the problem can be formulated and implemented. Recent experience shows that micro-level intervention policies that empower individuals have been successful in achieving better results on this count. One such policy intervention is educational expansion, in terms of both quantity and quality. Education is considered to be a significant factor in building better human skills and hence largely affects the earning ability of an individual. This article explores the role of education as an intervening instrument for bringing about a socio-economic transformation. On the basis of primary data collected from the state of Odisha (in India), an attempt has been made to examine the possibility of achieving better income distribution and increased intergenerational movements through educational expansion and changes in educational policy.
The Evolution of Trade Policy in Botswana
Authors: Malefane Malefa R. , Odhiambo Nicholas M.
Published: December 2015

This article aims to assess the developments in Botswana’s trade sector, starting from the period after its independence in 1966. The assessment shows that while Botswana had initially adopted import substitution industrialization as the key strategy for its economy, the country now functions under the export-led strategy. This transformation has been supported by pro-trade policies and legislation, such as, the Vision 2016, the National Development Plan 10 (NDP 10), and the Industrial Development Policy, which have been implemented by the government in the recent years. The country’s membership in various trade agreements has also been of critical importance in influencing the country’s trade sector. Of these trade agreements, the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have influenced the country’s trade policy instruments significantly as Botswana is mandated to adopt free trade arrangements with its Southern African trading partners.
Brazil’s Challenges of Post-interventionist Bargaining
Authors: Lanoszka Anna
Published: December 2015

The article examines the dynamics of post-interventionist domestic bargaining in Brazil in order to understand the recent increase in its trade protectionism and escalating economic problems. By examining Brazil’s economic history, it can be shown that decades of economically and politically oppressive rule have left the country institutionally weak and vulnerable to internal power struggles. The subsequent domestic bargaining over policy pattern has shifted Brazil’s trajectory from a pro-liberal orientation toward a model of state capitalism. According to this model, the state selectively supports those business sectors and societal groups that the government identifies as strategic. The resulting challenges to the state governability have implications for Brazil’s standing on the international stage. While the state functions as a dominant economic player, Brazil’s credibility as a progressive emerging economy is eroded. Finally, the enduring influence of domestic stakeholders who are primarily interested in unilateral gains means that Brazil’s developmental priorities are increasingly skewed to serve those narrow interests.
Employee participation and involvement: the Italian case and trade union issues
Authors: Leonardi Salvo
Published: December 2015

Among Europe’s industrial relations systems, that of Italy stands out because of its high degree of voluntarism. Despite the existence of a specific – albeit never implemented – article in the 1948 Constitution, in the following decades employee participation has remained limited to the sphere of contractually established information and consultation rights, without in any way envisaging more formalized and incisive forms of co-determination at both workplace and board levels, prescribed by law only in very few cases. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of worker participation in Italy from the post-war period to the present day, outlining the links between the ideologies of the players involved, the prevailing production models and industrial relations practices, both formal and informal, that have been implemented at sectoral and company level. The article also provides an overview of best practices and the legislative measures in the pipeline, as well as outlining opportunities for and obstacles to real change in the near future.
Building Bridges From Hospital to Home
Authors: Branowicki Patricia A. , Vessey Judith A. , Temple Kendal L. Jackson , Lulloff Amanda J.
Published: December 2015

Caregivers of pediatric oncology patients are expected to understand and adhere to a complex medical plan of care while at home; yet little is known about how to assess and evaluate the caregivers’ abilities to adequately meet these demands. The purpose of this study was to describe the issues and daily challenges faced by caregivers as they transition from hospital to home after their child’s cancer diagnosis. Patients and caregivers received a home visit by an expert pediatric oncology nurse within 72 hours postdischarge after initial diagnosis. The nursing narrative notes from these visits were analyzed using content analysis. Four explanatory themes emerged: (1) “We’re doing okay,” (2) “This isn’t going so well,” (3) “I could use a little help with this,” and (4) “An RN in the house makes you feel safe and know what is correct.” These analyses revealed many caregivers achieved mastery of caring for the child at home; however, an overwhelming majority of caregivers expressed questions or concerns to the nurse during the home visit, even those achieving mastery of care. A home visit by an expert pediatric oncology nurse assisted the caregiver in transitioning to caring for the child at home. Such programs should be considered when planning transition programs from hospital to home.
Real-time monitoring of a variable-camber aileron rib by original strain-angle transducer
Authors: Amendola Gianluca , Ciminello Monica , Dimino Ignazio , Ameduri Salvatore
Published: December 2015

The object of this work is the conceptual design and modelling of a transducer based on fibre optic sensor and conceived to measure rotations of rigid components around a pivot. The device, namely, post-buckling-fibre Bragg grating, is constituted of a flexible metal plate hosting a fibre Bragg grating strain sensor; the edges of the plates are hinged onto the rotating rigid bodies, eccentrically with respect to the pivot. In this way, any increase in rotation produces a further bending of the plate corresponding to a fibre Bragg grating wavelength shift. Among the different applications, an aileron morphing architecture is considered. This architecture is composed of a rib made of three rigid parts, hinged each other and moved through a dedicated kinematic chain. Two post-buckling-fibre Bragg grating devices are installed between the adjacent rib blocks giving a measure of their current angular rotation. A peculiarity of the proposed device is its ability in working in post-buckling configuration, with two main advantages: (1) easy, plug-and-play, installation (the device supporting plate can be manually bent and plugged within the connection hinges) and (2) tuning of the sensitivity or range of measure, on the basis of the fibre Bragg grating location onto the plate and of the initial post-buckling level. At first, the conceptual design was dealt with a theoretical model describing the post-buckling behaviour of beams, highlighting the effect of the main design parameters; then, the plate displacement field was related to rotation angle of the rib; a dedicated numerical (finite element) model was thus realized to prove the concept feasibility and simulate in detail its functionality. Finally, experimental set-up was provided in order to validate the design.
The Marikana Massacre
Authors: Bell Terry
Published: December 2015

The massacre of thirty-four striking platinum miners on the 16 August 2012 near the village of Marikana in South Africa revealed the collusion of the state, mining capital, and sections of the labor movement. Analysis of the buildup to the killings highlight the way the mining industry systematically ignored evidence of the potential for social conflict as a result of its labor policies over many years. Further, the way in which the killings unfolded and were covered up are evidence that justice was denied to workers and their families. It should provide a sobering reminder of the power of elite alliances and the elite capture of seemingly democratic institutions within the labor movement, even in a post-apartheid South Africa.
Through Their Eyes
Authors: Balbale Salva N. , Locatelli Sara M. , LaVela Sherri L.
Published: December 2015

In this methodological article, we examine participatory methods in depth to demonstrate how these methods can be adopted for quality improvement (QI) projects in health care. We draw on existing literature and our QI initiatives in the Department of Veterans Affairs to discuss the application of photovoice and guided tours in QI efforts. We highlight lessons learned and several benefits of using participatory methods in this area. Using participatory methods, evaluators can engage patients, providers, and other stakeholders as partners to enhance care. Participant involvement helps yield actionable data that can be translated into improved care practices. Use of these methods also helps generate key insights to inform improvements that truly resonate with stakeholders. Using participatory methods is a valuable strategy to harness participant engagement and drive improvements that address individual needs. In applying these innovative methodologies, evaluators can transcend traditional approaches to uniquely support evaluations and improvements in health care.
Clinical and Economic Impact of Formulary Conversion From Inhaled Flolan to Inhaled Veletri for Refractory Hypoxemia in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Torbic Heather , Szumita Paul M. , Anger Kevin E. , Nuccio Paul , Lagambina Susan , Weinhouse Gerald
Published: December 2015

Background: Flolan (iFLO) and Veletri (iVEL) are 2 inhaled epoprostenol formulations. There is no published literature comparing these formulations in critically ill patients with refractory hypoxemia. Objective: To compare efficacy, safety, and cost outcomes in patients who received either iFLO or iVEL for hypoxic respiratory failure. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center analysis of adult, mechanically ventilated patients receiving iFLO or iVEL for improvement in oxygenation. The primary end point was the change in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio after 1 hour of pulmonary vasodilator therapy. Secondary end points assessed were intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, duration of study therapy, duration of mechanical ventilation, mortality, incidence of adverse events, and cost. Results: A total of 104 patients were included (iFLO = 52; iVEL = 52). More iFLO patients had acute respiratory distress syndrome compared with the iVEL group (61.5 vs 34.6%; P = 0.01). There was no difference in the change in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio after 1 hour of therapy (33.04 ± 36.9 vs 31.47 ± 19.92; P = 0.54) in the iFLO and iVEL groups, respectively. Patients who received iVEL had a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation ( P < 0.001) and ICU LOS ( P < 0.001) but not hospital LOS ( P = 0.86) and duration of therapy ( P = 0.36). No adverse events were attributed to pulmonary vasodilator therapy, and there was no difference in cost. Conclusions: We found no difference between iFLO and iVEL when comparing the change in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio, safety, and cost in hypoxic, critically ill patients. There were differences in secondary outcomes, likely a result of differences in underlying indication for inhaled epoprostenol.
A Focus on Others and Commitment to Social Justice
Authors: Autin Kelsey L. , Duffy Ryan D. , Allan Blake A.
Published: December 2015

As the importance of social justice advocacy is increasingly emphasized in vocational psychology, it is imperative for researchers to explore the development of individuals’ interest in and commitment to social justice work. With a diverse sample of 298 undergraduate students, this study sought to replicate findings from Miller et al. which supported the use of social cognitive career theory in predicting social justice interest and commitment from social justice self-efficacy and outcome expectations. In addition, person inputs related to a focus on others were examined as predictors of social justice variables. Specifically, we explored whether collectivistic values and a calling orientation toward work predicted social justice outcomes. Results demonstrated replicability of Miller et al.’s model. Additionally, collectivism and sense of calling were each found to directly and indirectly predict social justice variables. Findings indicate that extent to which individuals endorse collectivism and a sense of calling may be useful in predicting how committed they are to social justice work.
Limit cycle oscillation and multiple entrainment phenomena in a duffing oscillator under time-delayed displacement feedback
Authors: Mitra RK , Chatterjee S , Banik AK
Published: December 2015

The Duffing oscillator under time-delayed displacement feedback is investigated to study the effect of intentional time-delay on the global dynamics of the oscillator. From the free vibration study performed by employing the describing function method it is observed that for the undamped oscillator, an infinite number of limit cycles is present for all possible values of gain and delay. The number of stable and unstable limit cycles in the gain versus delay plane is studied region wise with the help of limit cycle stability lines. Secondly, in a damped system, the number of limit cycles is finite and depends upon the values of gain, delay and damping coefficient from which the maximum number of limit cycles, their frequencies and amplitudes are obtained. When the system is excited by harmonic forcing, these limit cycles exhibit the phenomena of multiple entrainments and their frequency response curves become very complex and most often results in the very high amplitude oscillations. The study of the forced damped oscillator is therefore carried out by applying the method of slowly varying parameter and the frequency response curves for period-1 responses are analyzed. Further, with the a priori knowledge of possible stable and unstable limit cycles obtained by the application of semi-analytical methods, the various instability phenomena due to subharmonic and quasiperiodic responses have also been investigated by numerical simulation using Simulink in the different parametric ranges.
Placebo-controlled study in neuromyelitis optica—Ethical and design considerations
Authors: Cree Bruce AC , Bennett Jeffrey L , Sheehan Mark , Cohen Jeffrey , Hartung Hans-Peter , Aktas Orhan , Kim Ho Jin , Paul Friedemann , Pittock Sean , Weinshenker Brian , Wingerchuk Dean , Fujihara Kazuo , Cutter Gary , Patra Kaushik , Flor Armando , Barron Gerard , Madani Soraya , Ratchford John N , Katz Eliezer
Published: December 2015

Background:

To date, no treatment for neuromyelitis optica (NMO) has been granted regulatory approval, and no controlled clinical studies have been reported.

Objective:

To design a placebo-controlled study in NMO that appropriately balances patient safety and clinical–scientific integrity.

Methods:

We assessed the “standard of care” for NMO to establish the ethical framework for a placebo-controlled trial. We implemented measures that balance the need for scientific robustness while mitigating the risks associated with a placebo-controlled study. The medical or scientific community, patient organizations, and regulatory authorities were engaged early in discussions on this placebo-controlled study, and their input contributed to the final study design.

Results:

The N-MOmentum study (NCT02200770) is a clinical trial that randomizes NMO patients to receive MEDI-551, a monoclonal antibody that depletes CD19+ B-cells, or placebo. The study design has received regulatory, ethical, clinical, and patient approval in over 100 clinical sites in more than 20 countries worldwide.

Conclusion:

The approach we took in the design of the N-MOmentum trial might serve as a roadmap for other rare severe diseases when there is no proven therapy and no established clinical development path.
Cognitive and partisan mobilization in new democracies
Authors: Choi Jun Young , Kim Jiyoon , Roh Jungho
Published: December 2015

This study investigates the voting behavior of Korean the electorate using Dalton’s four concepts of contemporary voters. We demonstrate that cognitive partisans, who possess strong party identification and high levels of cognitive skills, respond to regional party cue and ideology when voting. Ritual partisans and cognitive partisans behave alike but, for ritual partisans, ideology plays a diminished role due to their low cognitive skills. Two independent groups—apartisans and apoliticals—are prone to swing votes from election to election. Unlike apoliticals, apartisans are influenced by ideology as they possess higher levels of cognitive abilities. Our findings suggest that Dalton’s framework can be useful to understand voting patterns of electorates in new democracies as well as advanced democracies.
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy for adolescents experiencing depression and/or anxiety: A therapist’s perspective
Authors: Wilson Kaitlyn , Buultjens Melissa , Monfries Melissa , Karimi Leila
Published: December 2015

Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) are thought to overcome some of the limitations of traditional therapies as they do not rely exclusively on language as a medium for change. One such Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) approach involves horses as a therapeutic medium. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) comprises a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional working with clients to address treatment goals. The purpose of the present Australian-based qualitative study was to examine EAP facilitators’ perspectives on the biospychosocial benefits and therapeutic outcomes of EAP for adolescents experiencing depression and/or anxiety. The findings suggest a range of improvements within adolescent clients, including increases in confidence, self-esteem and assertiveness, as well as a decrease in undesirable behaviours. The effectiveness of the therapy was thought to be due to the experiential nature of involving horses in therapy. The lack of understanding in the wider community about EAP was seen as a barrier to recognition and acceptance of EAP as a valid therapeutic intervention.
A randomized trial comparing two approaches to weight loss
Authors: Carels Robert A , Borushok Jessica , Taylor Maija , Rossi James , Hoffmann Debra , Burmeister Jacob , Hinman Nova , Marx Jenna
Published: December 2015

Weight loss programs evidence considerable variability in treatment outcomes, and weight regain is common, signaling the need for the refinement of effective treatments. This study compared the recently developed Transforming Your Life program to the Diabetes Prevention Program, considered the “Gold Standard” in behavioral weight loss treatment. A total of 98 participants (Transforming Your Life = 51; Diabetes Prevention Program = 47) were randomized to the two weight loss interventions. The Transforming Your Life program and Diabetes Prevention Program produced comparable weight loss and maintenance outcomes. Individuals may benefit from engagement in the Transforming Your Life program, if they are searching for a somewhat novel approach to losing weight other than that offered by the Diabetes Prevention Program.
Other neoliberal penalities: Marching Powder and prison tourism in La Paz
Authors: Whitfield Joey
Published: December 2015

For Loïc Wacquant ‘neoliberal penality’ is epitomized by the ‘penal state’ in the USA. As a decentring of this assumption, this article examines the 2003 ‘cult’ memoir Marching Powder, Rusty Young and Thomas Mcfadden’s account of the five years that Mcfadden, a British cocaine smuggler, spent in San Pedro prison La Paz in the late 1990s, where he became famous for organizing ‘prison tours’ for foreign backpackers. Marching Powder offers a vision of the extreme end of neoliberal penal logic whereby Bolivia displaces the USA as the site of a possible neoliberal ‘extreme’ as San Pedro becomes a synecdoche for an alternative neoliberal penal order. Drawing on debates from critical criminology and tourism studies, I suggest that as the correlate of the prison tours which it continues to promote, Marching Powder feeds the touristic desire for the spectacle of punishment.
Amami park and island tourism: Sea, land and islandness at a site of simulation
Authors: Johnson Henry
Published: December 2015

Amami Park is a nature and culture centre located in the Amami islands in the southwest of Japan. Objects are displayed on one site and marketed for tourists, whether on-island, in the Amami islands or more distant. This article discusses Amami Park in terms of the themes of sea, land and islandness, which emerged as topics for discussion during the research process with regard to how Amami Park represents itself, and the cultural meaning of such presentation and its relevance in the tourist industry. Amami Park offers a range of media through which to showcase the history, nature and culture of the Amami islands, and it offers numerous objects, audiovisual displays and other types of media with much description, representation and celebration of local and archipelagic identity. In this island setting, the article discusses the objects and their presentation, focussing on theme park analysis, cultural tourism and self-representation. Drawing on theoretical ideas pertaining to the notion of “simulation”, as applied to the recontextualization of disparate items in one location, the article shows how this particular nature and culture centre can be viewed as a microcosm of broader social and touristic themes in Japan, particularly with regard to the process of traveling to “other” locations within the domestic tourism industry. The article divides into three main parts that describe, analyze and discuss Amami Park, respectively through an ethnographic and critical lens.
An exploratory study of expectation–importance–performance analysis with cultural tourists in Havana, Cuba
Authors: Kline Carol , Bulla Brian , Rubright Heather , Green Erin , Harris Erin
Published: December 2015

Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) is an efficient method for measuring two dimensions of a person’s attitude on a given topic. The current study added a third dimension, Expectation, to determine if an individual’s expectation about a cultural tourism experience impacts their rating of that experience’s performance. The study, based in Havana, Cuba, gathered impressions from international visitors regarding 30 types of cultural tourism activities and amenities through an intercept survey. Results indicated that many Expectation and Performance scores were correlated. Additionally, some differences arose in Expectations and perceived Performance among varying age groups and length of stay. The use of this new scale (EIPA) would be valuable to local tourism managers as well as tourism researchers wishing to explore expanded uses of IPA, and should be tested in a variety of cultural contexts.
Queer de-participation: reframing the co-production of scholarly knowledge
Authors: Bain Alison L , Payne William J
Published: December 2015

This article critically examines the play of power in the co-production of scholarly knowledge in the context of a queer, feminist Participatory Action Research (PAR) project. By unpacking the power relations inherent in crafting a narrative of a collective project for a broader audience, we consider the conflicts, silences, and erasures that we experienced as participants, gatekeepers, and co-authors. We analyze iterations of a co-produced conference and journal article papers to recall the power dynamics that framed and reframed the outcomes of this project. In so doing, we critique what ‘co-’ and ‘with’ actually mean in the practice of publishing queer feminist PAR. We argue that there is an accelerating process of de-participation and exclusion that can work to erode the progressive, inclusive politics of feminist participatory methodologies.
Construction and reification in nation building: The case of Yugoslavia fully explained?
Authors: Flere Sergej , Klanjšek Rudi
Published: December 2015

The study of nations and ethnicities has been subject to recent trends, particularly, those denying substance to ethnicity and nation, but focusing on the way ethnicity and nation are socially constructed and ‘reified’ (constructivism–reificationism). In this article, this idea is tested on the Yugoslav case, where cases of reification are said to have been ‘arbitrary’. Such a position suggests that members of the Yugoslav federation went on their own ways because of ‘reification’ in the form of the republics and provinces. Although it is found that the republics and one province did enhance the process of national constitution, and although ‘ethnic entrepreneurs’ were active in the 1980s—a fact that is in line with a constructivist–reificationist theoretical position—there is one distinctive case that directly challenges such a position: Vojvodina did not opt for independence but, because of its Serb majority, it swiftly became integrated into Serbia. Moreover, the current article presents additional information to suggest that, although constructionist–reificationist approaches are relevant, they do not suffice to explain ‘nation’.
Clustering of the inland waterway navigational environment and its effects on ship energy consumption
Authors: Fan Ailong , Yan Xinping , Yin Qizhi , Sun Xing , Zhang Di
Published: December 2015

This article examines the distribution characteristics of the navigational environment in the Yangtze River trunk line using several information collection sensors installed on ships that navigate in this line. Through experiments on these ships, data of energy consumption and the navigational environment are collected. Water flow and waterway depth are proved to be the main influencing factors on the ship energy consumption via Spearman’s correlation analysis. Next, data of water velocity and waterway depth that cover the entire trunk line are graded using the k-means clustering algorithm. To build an evaluation matrix of navigational environment, the frequency distribution of each grade in different Yangtze River legs is counted statistically, and on this basis, similar legs are clustered using the hierarchical clustering algorithm. In this way, the waterway partition in the Yangtze River trunk line is completed. Furthermore, the distribution of the energy consumption of ships in different legs is also calculated. The study results indicate that not only the navigational environment of the Yangtze River trunk line but also the energy consumption level of ships have distinctive regional differences. Finally, the laws of the Yangtze River navigational environment are analyzed, and the corresponding energy-saving navigation strategies are proposed, which are useful for crews to operate their ships in energy-efficient and safe conditions.
Platform Studies’ Epistemic Threshold
Authors: Apperley Thomas , Parikka Jussi
Published: December 2015

In recent methodological scholarship on digital games, a strong connection is noted between “platform studies” and media archaeology. While platform studies has its critics, who primarily lament the limitations of the project, a recent spate of publications in the field suggests considerable dynamism in platform studies as the concept is further developed. This article argues that by examining platform studies from the perspective of media archaeology, it becomes apparent that platform studies establishes an “epistemic threshold”. Additionally, platform studies is a historical method which both establish continuities and mark breaks with previous platforms and technologies. From the perspective of this threshold, this article explores epistemic questions that arise from how platform studies forms an archive, and how media archaeology can enrich the method’s explicit concerns and engagements with technology and culture.