bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Carnoya Gilson, 1898 (Rhigonematida: Carnoyidae) parasite of a spirobolid (Diplopoda: Spirobolida) from Cuba
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ NAYLA GARCÍA , RODRÍGUEZ JANS MORFFE
Published: May 2014

Carnoya isabelica n. sp. is described parasitizing Nesobolus piedra from Eastern Cuba. The new species is characterized by the presence of 13 copulatory papillae in males (the post-cloacal arranged in two trios, with two lateral papillae and one median papilla that can be laterally displaced), the presence of collars of spines in the both sexes and females with 23–25 collars of spines, cephalic end not swollen and lateral alae extending from the end of spines to the base of the tail. SEM images of both sexes are given.
Flexitibia, a new genus of Harpactorinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae), with a discussion on the functional morphology of fore legs of the related genera
Authors: ZHAO PING , PHAM MINHLAN , TRUONG XUAN LAM , CAI WANZHI
Published: May 2014

Flexitibia, a new genus, in the division Euagorasaria of the assassin bug subfamily Harpactorinae from Yunnan Province of China is described. The type species, Flexitibia orientalis sp. nov., is described and illustrated. A key to the closely related genera is provided. The type specimens are kept in the Entomological Museum of China Agricultural University, Beijing.
A new species of Hoeneidia (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae, Noctuinae: Noctuini) from China
Authors: BABICS JÁNOS , BENEDEK BALÁZS , SALDAITIS AIDAS
Published: May 2014

The monotypic genus Hoeneidia Boursin, 1954 was erected by Ch. Boursin for the H. cidarioides. In his article, Boursin (1954) included the genus Hoeneidia (Höneidia in the original description) with the trifine noctuids of the subfamily Noctuinae and between the genera Rhyacia Hübner, [1821] and Standfussiana Boursin, 1946. In his original description, Boursin (1954) indicated that the new genus was only provisional but several basic Hoeneidia characters did differentiate it from the other two genera.
Variability of Regional TOA Flux Diurnal Cycle Composites at the Monthly Time Scale
Authors: Taylor Patrick C.
Published: May 2014

Diurnal variability is a fundamental component of Earth’s climate system. Clouds, temperature, and precipitation exhibit robust responses to the daily cycle of solar insolation. Recent work indicates significant variability in the top-of-the-atmosphere (TOA) flux diurnal cycle in the tropics associated with monthly changes in the cloud diurnal cycle evolution. It has been proposed that the observed month-to-month variations in the TOA flux diurnal cycle are caused by anomalies in the atmospheric dynamic and thermodynamic state. This hypothesis is tested using a regression analysis to quantify the relationship between diurnal cycle shape and the atmospheric dynamic and thermodynamic state. TOA radiative fluxes are obtained from Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) Edition 3 data and the atmospheric dynamic and thermodynamic state is taken from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Re-Analysis. Four regions representing traditional diurnal cycle regimes are used in this analysis: North Africa (land nonconvective), central South America (land convective), Peru marine stratocumulus (ocean nonconvective), and Indian Ocean (ocean convective). The results show a statistically significant diurnal cycle shape change and cloud response related to monthly atmospheric state anomalies. Using the single-variable regression relationships to predict monthly diurnal cycle variability shows improvements of 1%–18% over assuming a climatological diurnal cycle shape; the most significant gains are found in North Africa. The proposed hypothesis, therefore, contributes to diurnal cycle variability explaining at least 10%–20% of the total monthly-mean diurnal cycle variability.
Interdecadal Variations in ENSO Influences on Northwest Pacific–East Asian Early Summertime Climate Simulated in CMIP5 Models
Authors: Hu Kaiming , Huang Gang , Zheng Xiao-Tong , Xie Shang-Ping , Qu Xia , Du Yan , Liu Lin
Published: May 2014

The present study investigates interdecadal modulations of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influence on the climate of the northwest Pacific (NWP) and East Asia (EA) in early boreal summer following a winter ENSO event, based on 19 simulations from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). In the historical run, 8 out of 19 models capture a realistic relationship between ENSO and NWP early summer climate—an anomalous anticyclone develops over the NWP following a winter El Niño event—and the interdecadal modulations of this correlation. During periods when the association between ENSO and NWP early summer climate is strong, ENSO variance and ENSO-induced anomalies of summer sea surface temperature (SST) and tropospheric temperature over the tropical Indian Ocean (TIO) all strengthen relative to periods when the association is weak.

In future projections with representative concentration pathways 4.5 and 8.5, the response of TIO SST, tropospheric temperature, and NWP anomalous anticyclone to ENSO all strengthen regardless of ENSO amplitude change. In a warmer climate, low-level specific humidity response to interannual SST variability strengthens following the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. The resultant intensification of tropospheric temperature response to interannual TIO warming is suggested as the mechanism for the strengthened ENSO effect on NWP–EA summer climate.
Modulation of Daily Precipitation over East Africa by the Madden–Julian Oscillation*
Authors: Berhane Fisseha , Zaitchik Benjamin
Published: May 2014

Spatiotemporal variability in East African precipitation affects the livelihood of tens of millions of people. From the perspective of floods, flash droughts, and agriculture, variability on intraseasonal time scales is a critical component of total variability. The principal objective of this study is to explore subseasonal impacts of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) on tropospheric circulations affecting East Africa (EA) during the long (March–May) and short (October–December) rains and associated variability in precipitation. Analyses are performed for 1979–2012 for dynamics and 1998–2012 for precipitation. Consistent with previous studies, significant MJO influence is found on wet and dry spells during the long and short rains. This influence, however, is found to vary within each season. Specifically, indices of MJO convection at 70°–80°E and 120°W are strongly associated with precipitation variability across much of EA in the early (March) and late (May) long rainy season and in the middle and late (November–December) short rainy season. In the early short rains (October) a different pattern emerges, in which MJO strength at 120°E (10°W) is associated with dry (wet) spells in coastal EA but not the interior. In April the MJO influence on precipitation is obscured but can be diagnosed in lead time associations. This diversity of influences reflects a diversity of mechanisms of MJO influence, including dynamic and thermodynamic mechanisms tied to large-scale atmospheric circulations and localized dynamics associated with MJO modulation of the Somali low-level jet. These differences are relevant to problems of subseasonal weather forecasts and climate projections for EA.
Extending Extended Logistic Regression: Extended versus Separate versus Ordered versus Censored
Authors: Messner Jakob W. , Mayr Georg J. , Wilks Daniel S. , Zeileis Achim
Published: May 2014

Extended logistic regression is a recent ensemble calibration method that extends logistic regression to provide full continuous probability distribution forecasts. It assumes conditional logistic distributions for the (transformed) predictand and fits these using selected predictand category probabilities. In this study extended logistic regression is compared to the closely related ordered and censored logistic regression models. Ordered logistic regression avoids the logistic distribution assumption but does not yield full probability distribution forecasts, whereas censored regression directly fits the full conditional predictive distributions. The performance of these and other ensemble postprocessing methods is tested on wind speed and precipitation data from several European locations and ensemble forecasts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Ordered logistic regression performed similarly to extended logistic regression for probability forecasts of discrete categories whereas full predictive distributions were better predicted by censored regression.
How the Framing of Instructional Coaching as a Lever for Systemic or Individual Reform Influences the Enactment of Coaching
Authors: Mangin Melinda M. , Dunsmore KaiLonnie
Published: May 2014

Purpose: Instructional coaching is framed as both a means for systemic and individual reform. These competing conceptualizations of coaching as a mechanism for change have not been systematically examined, and therefore, we know little about how the framing of instructional coaching initiatives affects the enactment of coaching. In response to this gap in the literature, we examined one district’s efforts to use literacy coaching as a means to facilitate system-wide changes in literacy practice. Our investigation asks: How does the framing of coaching as a lever for systemic and/or individual reform influence the enactment of literacy coaching? Research Methods: Qualitative data were collected from four literacy coaches in one district including time allocation logs, interviews ( n = 32), recorded discussions, and written documentation. Additional data related to the coaches’ training program included observations of 22 training sessions, interviews with the program leaders ( n = 7) and regional district leader ( n = 3), and survey data from training participants. Findings: Although the coaches in this study aimed to support system-wide changes in literacy practice, the training they received framed coaching as a means to support individual learning. In turn, the change strategies that the coaches employed mirrored this theory of change and focused on being responsive to individual teachers’ particular needs, often at the expense of school and district goals. Thus, the findings from this research suggest that the framing of coach roles may influence enactment in consequential ways and raise questions about how coaching can be framed to support both individual and systemic reform. Implications: The findings from this research have implications for the framing of coach roles, the skills and knowledge needed for coaching, and the kinds of professional learning opportunities available to coaches.
How Wrong were the Disciples about the Kingdom? Thoughts on Acts 1:6
Authors: Maston Jason
Published: May 2014

Just before his ascension, the disciples ask Jesus, ‘Lord will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?’ (Acts 1:6). Commentators have been quick to criticise the disciples’ question as ignorant and mistaken. Three arguments are usually offered for why the disciples are wrong: they were expecting a political and territorial kingdom; envisaging a national kingdom; and assuming it would come immediately. Despite the popularity and long shelf life of these arguments (dating back at least to Calvin), they are not as strong as often claimed. This paper will show that the first two arise from mistaken views about the kingdom of God, and the third, while having some basis, overlooks the eschatological expectations that have been created following the resurrection and prior to the ascension.
Yahweh, the Bad Shepherd? Defamiliarization and Pastoral Symbolism in Zechariah 11:7-17
Authors: Tran Quang D.
Published: May 2014

Defamiliarization is transformative exegesis. More than a search for meaning, the process of defamiliarization attempts to revitalize scriptural symbolism and let symbols do what they do, namely, to push back, refusing to be pinned down and mediating an ongoing, transformative relationship that can always go deeper.

When Scripture is defamiliarized, Scripture defamiliarizes, resulting in a revitalization of certain symbols that facilitate a life-giving exchange between text and reader especially for personal prayer and preaching that enriches the community of faith. In this essay, I will explore the application of this thesis to Zechariah 11:4-17, a most enigmatic passage. Analysis of the pastoral symbolism and its rhetorical function in this passage reveals how the process of defamiliarization revitalizes biblical pastoral symbolism. Since God is dynamic, the symbols that represent him should be dynamic. No symbol reveals the whole truth, but the possibilities to reveal different aspects of the same truth can be limitless.
National transparency: Global trends and national variations
Authors: Jang Yong Suk , Cho Munseok , Drori Gili S
Published: May 2014

Nation-states worldwide are institutionalizing a culture of transparency and accountability. In our analyses of data reported in the United Nations (UN) Statistical Yearbooks since 1970, we identify two main trends: (1) national governments are providing a greater amount of data on a larger set of social, political, and economic domains, and (2) national governments increasingly offer such data in accordance with international standards introduced by the UN. In addition, we find that the overall cross-national trend toward transparency and accountability, as measured by the standard reporting of national accounts to the UN from 1970 to 2000, is driven by a unique set of factors in each time period. Specifically, domestic and economic conditions drove the trend toward transparency before 1990, whereas political factors have driven transparency since then. Throughout the period studied, the presence of links between a given country and world society has increased the likelihood that it will engage in transparent reporting. We conclude that active networking with international governmental organizations, such as the UN, teaches governments the norm of transparency, inculcating them with the rationales of public accountability and proper governance.
Institutional change and the evolution of the regulatory state: evidence from the Swiss case
Authors: Maggetti Martino
Published: May 2014

This article examines institutional change in a case that was expected to be particularly resilient but showed considerable structural transformation: the institutionalization of the regulatory state in Switzerland. This process is illustrated through the establishment of independent regulatory agencies (IRAs) in four areas: banking and finance; telecommunications; electricity; and competition. The theoretical framework developed by Streeck, Thelen and Mahoney is used to explore hypotheses about the modes of institutional change, with the methodology of diachronic within-case study. Results confirm only partially the expectations, pointing to layering and displacement as the prevalent modes of change. The concluding part discusses the type and the direction of change as additional explanatory factors.

Points for practitioners

This article examines the institutional development of the regulatory state in Switzerland through the establishment of independent regulatory agencies (IRAs). Different modes of change are illustrated through the analysis of the processes leading to agencification in four areas: banking and finance; telecommunication; electricity; and competition. Results suggest that the dynamics of re-regulation follow a quite different logic compared to the general trend towards liberalization. What is more, the empirical analysis indicates that independent regulatory agencies are mostly created by importing exogenous models in the case of the ‘positive’ reform of previously self-regulated sectors, while they are established along existing institutional arrangements when reforming former state-owned enterprises or publicly regulated sectors.
Response Styles and Personality Traits
Authors: He Jia , Bartram Dave , Inceoglu Ilke , van de Vijver Fons J. R.
Published: May 2014

In two studies, we examined the shared and unique meaning of acquiescent, extreme, midpoint, and socially desirable responding in association with the Occupational Personality Questionnaire (OPQ32), a forced-choice format personality measure designed to be less affected by these response styles, compared with personality inventories with Likert-type scales. Country-level response style indexes were derived from six waves of the International Social Survey Programme and from a meta-analysis of a social desirability scale. In the country-level correlational analysis, the four response styles formed a general response style (GRS) factor which was positively associated with (a) dominance (vs. submission) in interpersonal relationships, (b) competitive (vs. modest and democratic) feelings and emotions, and (c) data rational thinking. In a multilevel analysis, age showed a positive and education a negative effect on the individual-level GRS. Negative effects of country-level socioeconomic development and individualism and positive effects of competitiveness and data rational thinking on the individual-level response style were found. We conclude that country-level response styles are systematically associated with country personality measured by the OPQ32, suggesting that they can be viewed as having substantive meaning (i.e., culturally influenced response amplification vs. moderation). Implications are discussed.
Untreated Depression Predicts Higher Suicide Rates in U.S. Honor Cultures
Authors: Crowder Marisa K. , Kemmelmeier Markus
Published: May 2014

Osterman and Brown demonstrated that U.S. honor states had higher rates of suicide than non-honor states and related this phenomenon to the higher incidence of depression and a reduced readiness to seek antidepression treatment in honor states. The present study critiques their research and re-examines the origin of the association between honor culture and suicide using a more expansive multi-year data set and controlling for culturally relevant factors (i.e., climate, gun ownership, population density, collectivism, access to health care, economic deprivation). Replicating some of their findings, higher rates of depression were related to higher levels of suicide in honor states but not non-honor states. In addition, we found state levels of antidepressant drug prescriptions to be related to lower levels of suicide in honor states but not non-honor states. A mediation analysis further revealed that levels of antidepressant drug prescriptions, but not levels of depression, mediated the relationship between honor culture and suicide, consistent with higher suicide rates in honor states being the result of a lack of treatment. The discussion focuses on clinical and cultural implications for suicide prevention in honor states.
Prospective Study of Serum 25-hydroxy Vitamin D and Tooth Loss
Authors: Zhan Y. , Samietz S. , Holtfreter B. , Hannemann A. , Meisel P. , Nauck M. , Völzke H. , Wallaschofski H. , Dietrich T. , Kocher T.
Published: May 2014

Vitamin D deficiency and oral diseases (periodontitis, caries, and tooth loss) are highly prevalent in Germany. Previous studies suggested that vitamin D might be a modifiable and protective factor for periodontitis, caries, and tooth loss. However, prospective studies investigating such associations are limited. We explored the association between the concentration of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) and incidence of tooth loss, progression of clinical attachment loss (CAL) ≥ 3 mm, and progression of restorative and caries status in a population-based longitudinal study. We analyzed data from 1,904 participants from the Study of Health in Pomerania with a five-year follow-up. Generalized estimating equation models were applied to evaluate tooth-specific associations between serum 25OHD and incidence of tooth loss, progression of CAL ≥ 3 mm, and progression of restorative and caries status. Age, sex, education, smoking status, alcohol drinking, waist circumference, dental visit frequency, reasons of dental visit, vitamin D or calcium supplements, and season of blood draw were considered as confounders. Serum 25OHD was inversely associated with incidence of tooth loss. A significant dose-response relationship ( p = .0022) was observed across the quintiles of serum 25OHD. After adjusting for multiple confounders, each 10-µg/L increase of serum 25OHD was associated with a 13% decreased risk of tooth loss (risk ratio: 0.87; 95% confidence interval: 0.79, 0.96). The association was attenuated for changes of CAL ≥ 3 mm when adjusting for multiple confounders. No significant association was found between serum 25OHD and caries progression. Vitamin D might be a protective factor for tooth loss. The effect might partially be mediated by its effect on periodontitis.
Sex Differences of Tooth Loss and Obesity on Systemic Markers of Inflammation
Authors: Meisel P. , Holtfreter B. , Völzke H. , Kocher T.
Published: May 2014

Sex-specific differences in the incidence of periodontitis and tooth loss may be related to different phenotypes of obesity and their associations with low-grade inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate associations of adiposity and low-grade inflammation with tooth loss in men and women. Follow-up data of 2,714 participants from the cohort of Study of Health in Pomerania were analyzed for anthropometric measures, periodontitis, tooth loss, C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin 6. Regression analyses were used to estimate the effect of obesity on tooth loss within sex strata. During the follow-up period, men lost more teeth in relation to their obesity status than did women. In contrast, there was a steeper increase in CRP levels across obesity levels in women as compared to men. Incidence rate ratio (IRR) of tooth loss associated with elevated CRP, however, was higher in men (IRR = 1.50; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27, 1.77) than women (IRR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.37). Negative binomial regression with number of lost teeth as outcome revealed dose-response dependencies on body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio. Adjusted for covariates, the IRR of tooth loss associated with the third tertile of waist-to-hip ratio was 1.37 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.80) and 1.53 (95% CI: 1.14, 2.05) in men and women, respectively. Tooth loss related to CRP cutoff of 2 mg/L was significant in men (IRR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.66; p = .006) but not in women (IRR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.73, 1.17; p = .689). This study suggests that both adiposity and subclinical inflammation affect tooth loss, with distinct differences between men and women. Obesity as a risk factor of tooth loss is particularly related to CRP in men but not in women.
Good news to the poor: A Lukan leitmotif
Authors: Green Joel B.
Published: May 2014

The phrase “good news to the poor” summarizes Jesus’ mission in Luke’s Gospel, with issues of poverty and wealth deeply implicated in issues of belonging, power, and social privilege, in addition to more narrowly defined economic concerns. Following Jesus raises pressing questions concerning possessions, with Luke calling for forms of distribution in which the needy receive care and friendship and the wealthy give without expectation of return.
Prophetic public theology
Authors: Williams Byron
Published: May 2014

In 1985 South Africa adopted the Kairos Document, which is in essence a prophetic public theology, to use as a guide for their civil rights battle against Apartheid. This article establishes an argument for as well as an example of a prophetic public theology for the US to use as a guide as it addresses the never-ending battle against entrenched poverty and the growing concern(s) around a developing “plutonomy,” the fading middle class and the “new poor.”
System dynamics modeling for the land transportation system in a port city
Authors: Yu Bin , Zhang Chao , Kong Lu , Bao Hong-Li , Wang Wen-Si , Ke Shuiping , Ning Guobao
Published: May 2014

Land transportation systems in a port city could contribute to the competitiveness of the port and the economic development of the city. However, in port cities the land transportation system, which includes many interrelated factors, is complex. A system dynamics approach was applied to analyze the land transportation system, which was divided into economy, transport network and transportation investment subsystems. Then, system dynamics models were built to simulate the interactive relationship between the land transportation system in a port city and the economy in the port. The proposed system dynamics models analyze the impact of different transportation levels and the proportion of road and railway investment on the land transportation systems in a port city. Finally, the research takes Tianjin city as an example for numerical analysis, and analyzes the impact of different combinations of transport investment on the land transportation system in a port city.
Higher Education Institutions and Regional Development
Authors: Peer Verena , Penker Marianne
Published: May 2014

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and their relations to regional development have raised political expectations and scientific interest since the middle of the twentieth century. The high number of scientific surveys conducted calls for a meta-analysis that integrates multidisciplinary case study results. This secondary case survey analysis offers new insights into the scientific knowledge base on HEI-region relations. Knowledge gaps as well as uncertain, single and cross case verified knowledge could be identified. Whereas the unilateral HEIs’ impacts on the region have been broadly analyzed, there still is little knowledge on how to improve the HEIs-region relations. The article discusses the role of HEIs, which—being initially perceived as mere location factor—evolved to an active actor in the regional innovation and governance system. The article furthermore offers recommendations for policy makers and practitioners on how to use the knowledge gained for the further development of the HEI-region relations but also how to deal with knowledge gaps and context-specific research results.
Midlife as a pivotal period in the life course
Authors: Lachman Margie E. , Teshale Salom , Agrigoroaei Stefan
Published: May 2014

We provide evidence for multidirectionality, variability, and plasticity in the nature and direction of change in physical health, cognitive functioning, and well-being during the middle years of the life course. The picture of well-being in midlife based on longitudinal data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study is a more positive one than portrayed in previous cross-sectional studies. We present middle age as a pivotal period in the life course in terms of balancing growth and decline, linking earlier and later periods of life, and bridging younger and older generations. We highlight the role of protective factors and multisystem resilience in mitigating declines. Those in middle age play a central role in the lives of those who are younger and older at home, in the workplace, and in society at large. Thus, a focus on promoting health and well-being in middle age can have a far-reaching impact.
Deep sternal wound infection after coronary artery bypass: How to manage?
Authors: Badawy Mohamed Abdelrahman , Shammari Fahad Al , Aleinati Tareq , Eldin Moataz Salah , Tarazi Riyad , Alfadli Jamal
Published: May 2014

Mediastinitis is a devastating sternal wound complication. The aim of this study was to identify the incidence, risk factors, mortality, and different treatment modalities of mediastinitis after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting. From January 2007 to May 2010, 1424 patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting were studied retrospectively; 1398 (group 1) had no mediastinitis, and 26 (group 2) developed mediastinitis. The diagnosis and classification of mediastinitis were based on the criteria of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Emory classification, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed only 4 risk factors: diabetes mellitus, obesity, prolonged postoperative intensive care unit stay, and prolonged intubation time. On univariate analysis, female sex, renal failure, and reexploration for bleeding were also significant risk factors. The incidence of mediastinitis (1.83%) and the subsequent mortality rate (7.69%) were comparable to those of previous reports. Early detection and aggressive management of mediastinitis play major roles in decreasing the related mortality and morbidity. The Emory classification with some modification is very helpful in choosing the proper treatment modality.
Measuring both procalcitonin and C-reactive protein for a diagnosis of sepsis in critically ill patients
Authors: Li Hong-Xiang , Liu Zhong-Min , Zhao Shu-Jie , Zhang Dong , Wang Shi-Ji , Wang Yu-Shan
Published: May 2014

Background

The usefulness of procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as individual biomarkers, and in combination, for the identification of infections in a critically ill patient cohort was evaluated retrospectively.

Methods

Best cut-off values for PCT and CRP for a diagnosis of sepsis in critically ill patients were determined using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Both combined tests and individual tests were performed for PCT and CRP, with positive and negative results recorded, and accuracy evaluated using odds ratios (OR).

Results

In the 55 critically ill patients studied, the best cut-off value for PCT for a diagnosis of sepsis was 1.1 ng/ml (sensitivity, specificity and negative predictive values [NPV] were 82%, 68% and 71%, respectively). In addition, the best cut-off value for CRP was 50.7 mg/l ( sensitivity, specificity and NPV of 90%, 68% and 83%, respectively). Measuring PCT and CRP in combination provided a sensitivity of 79%, a specificity of 86%, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 90%. Diagnostic OR for the combination of biomarkers versus CRP alone (19 and 18, respectively) were greater than that for PCT (9).

Conclusion

For critically ill patients, CRP and CRP in combination with PCT were found to be suitable biomarkers for diagnosing sepsis, based on their NPV and PPV.
Work-Related Communication Technology Use Outside of Regular Work Hours and Work Life Conflict
Authors: Wright Kevin B. , Abendschein Bryan , Wombacher Kevin , O’Connor Michaela , Hoffman Megan , Dempsey Molly , Krull Christopher , Dewes Audrey , Shelton Audrey
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate employee perceptions of the influence of communication technology use outside of regular work hours on perceptions of work life conflict, burnout, turnover intentions, and job satisfaction. An online survey of 168 employees from more than 30 companies in a Midwestern city was conducted to assess relationships among these variables. The results indicated that hours of work-related communication technology use outside of regular work hours contributed to perceptions of work life conflict. However, positive attitudes toward communication technologies predicted decreased work life conflict. Controlling for worker age, perceived life stress, and attitudes toward communication technologies, work life conflict was found to predict job burnout and job satisfaction, but not turnover intentions. The authors discuss implications of the study findings for management practices, limitations of the study, and directions for future research.
Role of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes on mechanical properties of epoxy-based composites at cryogenic temperature
Authors: He Yuxin , Chen Guowei , Zhang Li , Sang Yafei , Lu Chang , Yao Dahu , Zhang Yuqing
Published: May 2014

In order to obtain multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)/epoxy composites with good mechanical properties at cryogenic temperature, two methods were adopted to modify MWNTs. MWNTs were first treated by acid mixture (oxidized MWNTs, O-MWNTs) and then maleic anhydride (MA) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) grafting was carried out. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses proved the effectiveness of acid mixture treatment and confirmed the grafting reaction of MA and IPDI with MWNTs. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis indicates that MA and IPDI chain were grafted onto the MWNTs surface, creating a rigid covalent bond between MWNTs and epoxy resin and forming a thin layer. The tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and impact strength of composites at liquid nitrogen temperature (77 K) are all enhanced by the addition of MWNTs. Results of dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that introducing a small amount of functionalized MWNTs to epoxy can enhance their storage modulus at 77 K and glass transition temperature of composites. The results indicated that surface-modified MWNTs can be effectively utilized to improve the properties of epoxy-based composites at cryogenic temperature.
Sustainable heavy haul traction energy: A review of systemic issues
Authors: van der Meulen Dave , Möller Fienie
Published: May 2014

After defining energy sustainability, the authors developed a theoretical framework within which to examine relations among the vertical alignment of a heavy haul railway, the minimum energy consumption, the recoverable surplus energy, the symmetry of the grade and the line voltage stability. Thereafter, the review moved from on-board power generation, as in diesel electric locomotives, through positive and negative change agents, to external power generation, as in electric locomotives. The change agents included non-renewable liquid fuel availability; energy storage quanta, devices and systems; harmful emissions; throughput scalability; and the potential impact of hydrogen as a fuel. Ideal external generation visualises electric traction within an open system: comprising a smart grid supported by bulk electricity storage, to enable heavy haul railways to manage optimally their traction energy through symbiotic interaction with external generators, consumers and storage providers. The high cost of electricity distribution infrastructure, buoyant availability of diesel fuel, and challenges of up-scaling electrically hauled throughput tonnage, oppose that ideal. To conclude, system design will likely reflect the vertical alignment's potential to regenerate energy, its ability to recover fully instantaneously surplus energy, whether the train brake system supports electric braking priority, and whether there is equitable access to a smart grid.
Development of a design for a crash energy management system for use in a railway passenger car
Authors: Meran Ahmad Partovi , Baykasoglu Cengiz , Mugan Ata , Toprak Tuncer
Published: May 2014

A design approach for a crash energy management (CEM) system for a N13-type railway passenger car used by the Turkish State Railway Company is developed in this paper. The components of the CEM system are honeycomb-structured boxes, primary energy absorbers, shear bolts, a sliding sill mechanism and a fixed sill mechanism that are located in the passenger-free space at the end of the passenger car. In order to investigate the benefits provided by the CEM system, a full-scale railway passenger car collision with a rigid wall is simulated by using dynamic/explicit finite element (FE) methods. The crushing force, secondary impact velocity, acceleration and velocity curves, and deformation modes are computed to allow a comparison of the crashworthiness performance of a passenger car equipped with the proposed CEM system with that of a conventional passenger car. Comparisons of FE analysis results show that a passenger car incorporating the CEM system has a superior crashworthiness performance to that of the conventional passenger car.
Quantitative evaluation of wetness losses in steam turbines based on three-dimensional simulations of non-equilibrium condensing flows
Authors: Li Liang , Li Yu , Xie Xiaolong , Li Jun
Published: May 2014

Wet steam flow in steam turbines leads to degraded efficiency and blade erosion in the turbine stages. The Baumann rule, which has been used to predict wetness losses, is increasingly being questioned. More recently, the non-equilibrium condensation model is being increasingly applied to analyse wet steam flow. However, most of the influences caused by wetness losses on the aerodynamics of a wet steam turbine are excluded when this approach is used. Therefore, the efficiency of a wet steam turbine calculated by the non-equilibrium approach does not match the experimentally obtained values. To improve the accuracy of evaluating a wet steam turbine as well as the wetness losses, a quantitative evaluation program of wetness losses has been developed based on the calculation results of wet steam flow with non-equilibrium condensation using the FORTRAN language. Three-dimensional (3D) simulation of the wet steam flow with non-equilibrium condensation in turbine stages is first conducted. Then the 3D results are circumferentially averaged in the meridian plane, which are subsequently used to quantitatively evaluate the wetness losses. The wetness losses are divided into five categories: thermodynamic loss, droplet drag loss, braking loss, capturing loss and centrifuge loss. The wetness losses in the low pressure (LP) cylinder of a fossil steam turbine are calculated. The results show that the thermodynamic loss is mainly generated in the nucleation stage and the last stage of the turbine where non-equilibrium condensation occurs. The droplet drag loss is small in all wet steam stages. The braking loss is the most important component of the wetness losses, except in the nucleation stage. The capturing and centrifuge losses are moderate in the wet steam stages. The total wetness losses in the LP cylinder account for 3.65% of the total output power. This is less than the 5.14% losses predicted by the Baumann rule.
Leininger’s Ethnonursing Research Methodology and Studies of Cancer Survivors
Authors: Farren Arlene T.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this article is to present the findings of a literature review regarding the use of Leininger’s ethnonursing research methodology (ENRM) in studies addressing adult cancer survivors. It is important to learn about differences and similarities among cancer survivors’ experiences so that patient-centered, culturally congruent care can be provided. A review of the literature was conducted using databases such as CINAHL and MEDLINE. Search terms included variations on ENRM and cancer survivors. The results were a small number of published studies that used the ENRM examining breast cancer survivors’ perceptions and experiences. A review instrument was developed to estimate study quality based on established criteria. The studies are critiqued in relation to the theory-based methodology, evaluation criteria for qualitative research, and study findings are summarized. The author concludes that although there is a paucity of research using ENRM with adult cancer survivors, the preliminary findings of the included studies contribute to what is known about breast cancer survivors. Implications for research include recommendations to increase the use of ENRM to discover the universal and diverse experiences of care practices in adult cancer survivors and use the evidence to develop patient-centered, culturally congruent, quality care for cancer survivors.
Piezo-viscoelastically damped nonlinear frequency response of functionally graded plates with a heated plate-surface
Authors: MS Aravinda Kumar , Panda Satyajit , Chakraborty Debabrata
Published: May 2014

A geometrically nonlinear frequency-domain analysis of functionally graded plates integrated with an active constrained layer damping (ACLD) arrangement is performed by developing an incremental nonlinear closed-loop dynamic finite element model of the overall plate. The active constraining layer is made of piezoelectric fiber reinforced composite (PFRC) and a heated substrate-plate surface is considered. The analysis is mainly for investigating the effect of temperature on the nonlinear vibration characteristics of the overall plate in the frequency domain and also, on the corresponding control authority of the PFRC constraining layer. A negative velocity feedback control strategy is utilized to achieve active damping. The temperature dependent material properties of the substrate plate are graded in the thickness direction according to a power law, and expressed in terms of the power law exponent and the constituent material (metal and ceramic) properties. Using the Golla-Hughes-McTavish method for modeling the viscoelastic material, the incremental nonlinear finite element equations of motion are derived in the frequency domain assuming periodic motion of the overall plate. An arc-length extrapolation solution technique is used in combination with a new strategy for determination of incremental arc-length. The numerical illustrations show a potential use of PFRC actuator in the ACLD arrangement and suggest an optimal thickness of viscoelastic layer for more effective use of PFRC. The analysis reveals the significant effects of initial thermal bending of the overall smart plate on its nonlinear dynamic behavior in the frequency domain. The effects of temperature, metal-volume fraction in substrate, fiber volume fraction in PFRC and the fiber orientation angle in the PFRC on the control authority of the ACLD layer are presented. For the use of the ACLD layer in the form of a patch, a new numerical strategy for determining its optimal location and optimal size for effective control is presented.
Fault detection in a multistage gearbox by time synchronous averaging of the instantaneous angular speed
Authors: Roy Sankar K , Mohanty Amiya R , Kumar Cheruvu S
Published: May 2014

The paper deals with an instantaneous angular speed (IAS) based algorithm for fault detection in a multistage gearbox. Fast Fourier transform (FFT) is a well established technique for analysis of a stationary signal. However, the IAS signal from the multistage gearbox is a combination of periodic signal and structure borne noise. This structure borne noise makes the IAS signal non stationary. Hence, FFT is no longer suitable for this non stationary signal analysis. Therefore in this paper, the IAS signal is time synchronously averaged with respect to lay shaft speed and then followed by FFT reveals the gear mesh frequency and rotational frequencies which are synchronous with the gearbox’s rotating speed. Thus, the algorithm can accurately and reliably detect the fault in multistage gearbox using the IAS. The paper also investigated the behavior of IAS signal for three different gearboxes (healthy, one tooth and two teeth broken) under two different speeds and three different loading conditions.
Obinutuzumab for chronic lymphocytic leukemia: promise of the first treatment approved with breakthrough therapy designation
Authors: Kakkar Ashish Kumar , Balakrishnan Sadasivam
Published: May 2014

Obinutuzumab (also known as GA101, afutuzumab, Gazyva) is a humanized, glycoengineered type II monoclonal antibody targeted against CD20. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved obinutuzumab for use with chlorambucil in patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The drug is the first treatment to receive approval under the agency's breakthrough therapy designation, a program intended to facilitate and expedite the review and development of therapies for serious and life-threatening conditions. In preclinical studies, obinutuzumab has showed superior efficacy, as compared with rituximab, by inducing direct cell death and increased antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity with less complement-dependent cytotoxicity. Regulatory approval of obinutuzumab is based on a phase III (CLL11) study that demonstrated improved outcomes with a combination of obinutuzumab with chlorambucil in previously untreated patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and comorbidities. Obinutuzumab plus chlorambucil induced deeper and longer remissions than rituximab plus chlorambucil combination as evidenced by prolongation of progression-free survival and higher complete response and molecular response rates. Marketing applications for obinutuzumab have also been submitted to other regulatory authorities including the European Medicines Agency.
Effects of Physical Activity Intervention on Motor Proficiency and Physical Fitness in Children With ADHD: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Pan Chien-Yu , Chang Yu-Kai , Tsai Chia-Liang , Chu Chia-Hua , Cheng Yun-Wen , Sung Ming-Chih
Published: May 2014

Objective: This study explored how a 12-week simulated developmental horse-riding program (SDHRP) combined with fitness training influenced the motor proficiency and physical fitness of children with ADHD. Method: Twelve children with ADHD received the intervention, whereas 12 children with ADHD and 24 typically developing (TD) children did not. The fitness levels and motor skills of the participants were assessed using standardized tests before and after the 12-week training program. Results: Significant improvements were observed in the motor proficiency, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility of the ADHD training group following the intervention. Conclusion: Children with ADHD exhibit low levels of motor proficiency and cardiovascular fitness; thus, using the combined 12-week SDHRP and fitness training positively affected children with ADHD.
The effects of perceived stress on biological parameters in healthcare professionals: A systematic review
Authors: Dawe Karen , Montgomery Anthony , McGee Hannah , Panagopoulou Efharis , Morgan Karen , Hackshaw Lucy , Vedhara Kavita
Published: May 2014

We synthesised evidence on biological correlates of psychological stress in hospital-based healthcare professionals, and examined whether there was evidence of consistent biological changes. Electronic databases were searched for empirical studies; 16 articles (0.6%) met the inclusion criteria. Evidence of a relationship between indices of psychological stress and biological parameters was limited and inconsistent. There was some evidence of a consistent relationship between natural killer cells and lymphocyte subpopulations. Considerable heterogeneity in the methods used was seen. Future prospective studies examining the relationship between indices of psychological stress and natural killer cells, including lymphocyte subsets, is required.
Understanding Women’s Preconception Health Goals
Authors: Lynch Molly , Squiers Linda , Lewis Megan A. , Moultrie Rebecca , Kish-Doto Julia , Boudewyns Vanessa , Bann Carla , Levis Denise M. , Mitchell Elizabeth W.
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the social marketing planning process and strategies used to design a preconception health campaign, Show Your Love, launched in February 2013. Developing a social marketing strategy for preconception health is a challenging endeavor, in part because preconception health represents a set of diverse behaviors and the audience for the campaign is quite large, encompassing all women of childbearing age whether they intend to become pregnant or not. The network of organizations implementing the campaign, the National Preconception Health Consumer Workgroup, required a broad audience segmentation strategy; therefore, two large audiences were selected. This commentary describes the two primary audiences selected for the campaign based on the Transtheoretical Model—intenders (those in contemplation, preparation, and action) and nonintenders (precontemplators)—and explores how levels of knowledge, motivations, the campaign product, and the campaign goals are distinct for each audience. Additionally, the authors describe potential extensions to the segmentation strategy that could offer finer grained approaches for social marketers who may be building on the Show Your Love campaign or designing other programs in this area.