bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Venice’s policy towards the Ionian and Aegean islands, c. 1204–1423
Authors: Gertwagen Ruthy
Published: September 2014

This paper discusses Venice’s policy between the thirteen and fifteenth centuries towards the Islands in the Ionian and Aegean seas. The traditional modern historiography attributes the establishment of the Stato da Mar or maritime empire by Venice to the outcomes of the Fourth Crusade (1202–1204) and to the partition agreement of the former Byzantine empire between the Venetian Doge and the Crusaders in October 1204, five months after the conquest of Constantinople by the host of the Fourth Crusade. Being a mercantile polity, Venice preferred ports and islands that ensured the Venetians safe anchorage on the way to the eastern Mediterranean as well as fertile islands that produced the products required in Venice. It is also argued that the Venetian empire was neither accidental nor philanthropic. The Venetian government actively worked to acquire and control territories beneficial to its own interests: to control the material and human resources of the Adriatic and Aegean in order to protect Venetian shipping and to bring honour and glory to the city. This paper revises these arguments and argues instead that, in the thirteenth century, Venice lacked the economic and military resources to create a maritime empire. While chronologically unfolding related events from the morrow of the conquest of Constantinople in 1204, this paper argues that only from the late fourteenth century did Venice follow a systematic policy of annexing islands that formed its Stato da Mar.
The dichotomy of insularity: islands between isolation and connectivity in medieval and early modern Europe, and beyond
Authors: Sicking Louis
Published: September 2014

The importance of islands in maritime and global history is not yet understood in a comparative and long term perspective. This article aims to contribute to understanding the role of islands for the establishment, preservation and extension of maritime connections in medieval and early modern Europe, and beyond. Recognising that the nature of pre-modern source material complicates a systematic comparative approach to pre-modern island history, it aims to contribute to this approach by studying the dichotomy of insularity, a concept which combines the two seemingly opposing aspects of isolation and connectivity. Using a variety of examples, mainly but not exclusively from Europe, this dichotomy will be considered for five topics relevant to the relations between islands and the outside world: the role of islands as anchorages, as trading posts, the insular economy, the significance of islands for sea power, and power projection from islands on the mainland ( peraia).
Measuring Disease Progression in Giant Axonal Neuropathy
Authors: Roth Lisa A. , Marra Jonathan D. , LaMarca Nicole H. , Sproule Douglas M.
Published: September 2014

As part of a natural history study of giant axonal neuropathy, we hypothesized that the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale and the Gross Motor Function Measure would show a significant change over 6 months, reflecting subjects’ decline in motor function. The Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale was performed on 11 subjects and the Gross Motor Function Measure was performed on 10 subjects twice with a six-month interval. A paired two-tailed t-test was used to assess the difference in each subject’s score. Significant changes were found over six months of 11.7 ± 11.0 ( P = 0.006) for the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale and –10.0 ± 13.5 ( P = 0.043) for the Gross Motor Function Measure, reflecting subjects’ decline in motor function on examination and by report. These standardized assessments of clinical function are the first to be validated in giant axonal neuropathy and will be used in an upcoming gene therapy clinical trial.
Improved cellular response of chemically crosslinked collagen incorporated hydroxyethyl cellulose/poly(vinyl) alcohol nanofibers scaffold
Authors: Zulkifli Farah Hanani , Jahir Hussain Fathima Shahitha , Abdull Rasad Mohammad Syaiful Bahari , Mohd Yusoff Mashitah
Published: September 2014

The aim of this research is to develop biocompatible nanofibrous mats using hydroxyethyl cellulose with improved cellular adhesion profiles and stability and use these fibrous mats as potential scaffold for skin tissue engineering. Glutaraldehyde was used to treat the scaffolds water insoluble as well as improve their biostability for possible use in biomedical applications. Electrospinning of hydroxyethyl cellulose (5 wt%) with poly(vinyl alcohol) (15 wt%) incorporated with and without collagen was blended at (1:1:1) and (1:1) ratios, respectively, and was evaluated for optimal criteria as tissue engineering scaffolds. The nanofibrous mats were crosslinked and characterized by scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. Scanning electron microscope images showed that the mean diameters of blend nanofibers were gradually increased after chemically crosslinking with glutaraldehyde. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was carried out to understand chemical interactions in the presence of aldehyde groups. Thermal characterization results showed that the stability of hydroxyethyl cellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol) and hydroxyethyl cellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol)/collagen nanofibers was increased with glutaraldehyde treatment. Studies on cell–scaffolds interaction were carried out by culturing human fibroblast (hFOB) cells on the nanofibers by assessing the growth, proliferation, and morphologies of cells. The scanning electron microscope results show that better cell proliferation and attachment appeared on hydroxyethyl cellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol)/collagen substrates after 7 days of culturing, thus, promoting the potential of electrospun scaffolds as a promising candidate for tissue engineering applications.
Response to Intervention Preparation for Preservice Teachers
Authors: Harvey Michael W. , Yssel Nina , Jones Ruth E.
Published: September 2014

In this study, the authors represent an exploratory investigation of current preparation of preservice teachers related to response to intervention (RTI) in institutions of higher education (IHEs) in the Office of Special Education Program (OSEP) Regional Resource and Federal Centers (RRFCs) North Central Region and Pennsylvania. In this study, they use a two-stage sampling process to identify IHEs and their education faculty. A survey was designed by the researchers and administered electronically via email. Three hundred eleven IHEs with 771 preservice education faculty members from their respective states, colleges, and departments were invited to participate in the study. There were 227 usable surveys returned for a 29.4% return rate. The authors found special education faculty indicating high agreement on many items related to preservice preparation to implement RTI. Recommendations for future IHE RTI training to better prepare preservice teacher educators for RTI in local educational settings are included.
Topology synthesis of three-legged spherical parallel manipulators employing Lie group theory
Authors: Qi Yang , Sun Tao , Song Yimin , Jin Yan
Published: September 2014

Driven by the requirements of the bionic joint or tracking equipment for the spherical parallel manipulators (SPMs) with three rotational degrees-of-freedom (DoFs), this paper carries out the topology synthesis of a class of three-legged SPMs employing Lie group theory. In order to achieve the intersection of the displacement subgroups, the subgroup characteristics and operation principles are defined in this paper. Mainly drawing on the Lie group theory, the topology synthesis procedure of three-legged SPMs including four stages and two functional blocks is proposed, in which the assembly principles of three legs are defined. By introducing the circular track, a novel class of three-legged SPMs is synthesized, which is the important complement to the existing SPMs. Finally, four typical examples are given to demonstrate the finite displacements of the synthesized three-legged SPMs.
A Review and Synthesis of Entrepreneurship Research: Towards an Integrative Model of Dependent Variables
Authors: Wang Xuequn , Jessup Leonard M.
Published: September 2014

To assess the progress of the burgeoning entrepreneurship research literature and whether the entrepreneurship research converges or diverges since Shane and Venkataraman ( 2000 , 2001 ), we conducted a systematic review of dependent variables in the entrepreneurship literature across the US and Europe. We find that the entrepreneurship literature becomes relatively stable since 2005 and that the US and the European literature converge on seven core categories of dependent variables. We then develop an integrative model of dependent variables to summarise previous research. We conclude our study with mentioning the implications for the existing literature and future studies in the field of entrepreneurship.
Exploring Entrepreneurs’ Motivation: Comparison of Croatia, European Post-socialist and Developed Countries
Authors: Borozan Djula , Pfeifer Sanja
Published: September 2014

This article explores the entrepreneurial profiles of Croatian entrepreneurs and compares them with the profiles of entrepreneurs of post-socialist and developed European countries. Specifically, logistic regression analysis was used to find the best descriptors of the opportunity and necessity-driven entrepreneurs in Croatia, post-socialist and developed European countries. Results indicate that chances for engaging in opportunity-driven entrepreneurship in Croatia are increasing for men and those who perceive their income level and competencies for running a business as high. The likelihood of engagement in opportunity-driven entrepreneurial activity in the post-socialist context has been related to the age rather than gender and innovations in the product/market matrix or higher export expectations. The developed countries’ datasets reveal that opportunity-driven entrepreneurs have been related to higher expectations of growth through new job openings.
Women’s Entrepreneurship, Barriers and Culture: Insights from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Tlaiss Hayfaa A.
Published: September 2014

This article explores the interplay of gender, cultural factors, Islamic teachings and agency in explaining the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Adopting social constructionist and interpretative approaches, this article draws on in-depth interviews with 20 women entrepreneurs in the UAE to explore the interplay between macro socio-cultural values using Hofstede’s ( 2001 ) typology of cultural values and the barriers faced during their entrepreneurial careers. The findings suggest a considerable socio-cultural impact: one that starts with family support and extends to the huge spill-over effect on the business venture itself and on women’s access to capital and business networks. They also highlight the role that women’s agency, self-confidence and persistence are playing in fostering the appetite of local women for entrepreneurship and overcoming the toll of barriers. Overall, the findings suggest that the winds of change, although mild, are nevertheless blowing through the UAE and the Arab Middle East by extension. The significance of the impact of culture on women entrepreneurs in the UAE and Middle East should not be underestimated or ignored by policymakers seeking a better understanding of women’s entrepreneurship in the Arab world.
Book Review: Manoj Kumar Sinha (Ed.), Business and Human Rights
Authors: Chand Vijaya Sherry
Published: September 2014

Manoj Kumar Sinha (Ed.), Business and Human Rights, New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2013, 401 pp.
Book Review: K. Vaidyanathan, Credit Risk Management for Indian Banks
Authors: Dwivedi Amit Kumar
Published: September 2014

K. Vaidyanathan, Credit Risk Management for Indian Banks, New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2013, 352 pp.
Book Review: Rajat K. Baisya, Branding in a Competitive Marketplace
Authors: Ganesh P.
Published: September 2014

Rajat K. Baisya, Branding in a Competitive Marketplace, New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2013, 229 pp.
Field Worker Evaluation of Dengue Vector Surveillance Methods
Authors: Azil Aishah H. , Ritchie Scott A. , Williams Craig R.
Published: September 2014

This qualitative study aimed to describe field worker perceptions, evaluations of worth, and time costs of routine dengue vector surveillance methods in Cairns (Australia), Kuala Lumpur and Petaling District (Malaysia). In Cairns, the BG-Sentinel trap is a favored method for field workers because of its user-friendliness, but is not as cost-efficient as the sticky ovitrap. In Kuala Lumpur, the Mosquito Larvae Trapping Device is perceived as a solution for the inaccessibility of premises to larval surveys. Nonetheless, the larval survey method is retained in Malaysia for prompt detection of dengue vectors. For dengue vector surveillance to be successful, there needs to be not only technical, quantitative evaluations of method performance but also an appreciation of how amenable field workers are to using particular methods. Here, we report novel field worker perceptions of dengue vector surveillance methods in addition to time analysis for each method.
Design, manufacturing, and testing of an adaptive composite panel with embedded shape memory alloy actuators
Authors: Lacasse Simon , Terriault Patrick , Simoneau Charles , Brailovski Vladimir
Published: September 2014

This article presents a novel design procedure leading to fabrication of a composite adaptive panel prototype with an embedded array of linear shape memory alloy actuators. This procedure allows determination of the panel’s radius of curvature as a function of the shape memory alloy actuators’ actuation temperature and panel configuration (number and orientation of plies, number and location of actuators, the materials’ properties, and the geometric arrangement). This design procedure integrates properties of the host structure (composite laminate) and of the actuators (shape memory alloy wires) in the framework of a unique design diagram. The performances of shape memory alloy actuators are obtained by experimental manipulations, whereas the rigidity of the host structure is calculated using the finite element numerical modeling approach. To validate the developed design procedure, a [90/90/90/wire/90] 425 × 425 × 5-mm adaptive panel prototype is fabricated using the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding method. The results obtained from experimental tests are used to monitor the global performance of the adaptive panel and to validate the developed design procedure.
“My Life as it is Has Value”
Authors: Ogden Lydia P.
Published: September 2014

I used thematic narrative analysis, informed by the developmental life course perspective, to formulate a line of semistructured questioning for interviews with 6 older adults who experienced ongoing symptoms of schizophrenia. From the 31 resulting interviews and 38 observation points, I developed life history narratives that yielded findings across four shared core themes. In this article I present my findings on the theme of narrative insight into schizophrenia in later years. Whereas only 2 of the participants had clinical insight into their mental illness, all had developed personal stories about their lives with schizophrenia. I discuss the significance of the shared narrative profile and the importance of using narrative insight to develop more effective clinical practices and to focus future research with older adults with schizophrenia.
Factors Associated With Acute Kidney Injury in Children Receiving Vancomycin
Authors: Sinclair Elizabeth A. , Yenokyan Gayane , McMunn Andrea , Fadrowski Jeffrey J. , Milstone Aaron M. , Lee Carlton K. K.
Published: September 2014

Background: As higher vancomycin doses have been used in children, concern for acute kidney injury (AKI) has increased. Data describing factors associated with AKI, particularly dose-related factors, are limited. Objective: To determine the incidence of AKI in children receiving intravenous vancomycin and to identify factors associated with increased odds of AKI. Methods: A retrospective review of patients admitted to a tertiary academic pediatric hospital from February 2009 to September 2010 was performed. Patients 3 months to <19 years old with normal kidney function, receiving vancomycin for at least 48 hours were included. Incidence of AKI was assessed as defined by the Pediatric-Modified RIFLE criteria. Patients with and without AKI were compared to determine factors associated with increased odds of AKI, focusing on vancomycin dose. Results: Of 175 patients included, 24 (13.7%) met AKI criteria. In a multivariate regression, likelihood of AKI increased with each 5 mg/kg increase in vancomycin dose (odds ratio [OR] = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.01-1.33). Odds of AKI increased with each additional day of therapy (OR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.01-1.22) and use of concomitant nephrotoxic medications (OR = 5.02; 95% CI = 1.09-23.19). The study was limited by small sample size and retrospective design. Conclusions: AKI was common in children receiving vancomycin. Higher doses of vancomycin were associated with increased odds of AKI. The risks and benefits of higher vancomycin dosing should be considered for each patient. Patients should be monitored closely for AKI, especially with higher doses, extended durations of therapy, or concomitant use of nephrotoxic medications.
Voices From the Street
Authors: Gültekin Laura , Brush Barbara L. , Baiardi Janet M. , Kirk Keri , VanMaldeghem Kelley
Published: September 2014

Homelessness threatens the health and well-being of thousands of families in the United States, yet little is known about their specific needs and how current services address them. To fill this knowledge gap, we explored the experiences of homelessness families in Detroit, Michigan. We targeted homeless mothers and their caseworkers for study to see if the perceptions of needs and services were in alignment. Using focus groups and content analysis, we identified four overarching themes that illustrate homeless mothers’ experience with homelessness. We then analyzed data from caseworkers to look specifically for similarities and differences in their perceptions. Key findings included reports of family histories of violence, poverty, social isolation, and a lack of informal support as contributing to homelessness. The differing perspectives of mothers and their caseworkers regarding how best to move forward highlight how current programs and services may not be meeting the needs of this growing and vulnerable cohort.
A numerical scheme for the solution of a class of fractional variational and optimal control problems using the modified Jacobi polynomials
Authors: Dehghan Mehdi , Hamedi Ehsan-Allah , Khosravian-Arab Hassan
Published: September 2014

The aim of this paper is to investigate, from the numerical point of view, the Jacobi polynomials to solve fractional variational problems (FVPs) and fractional optimal control problems (FOCPs). A direct numerical method for solving a general class of FVPs and FOCPs is presented. The fractional derivative in FVPs is in the Caputo sense and in FOCPs is in the Riemann–Liouville sense. The Rayleigh–Ritz method is introduced for the numerical solution of FVPs containing left or right Caputo fractional derivatives. Rayleigh–Ritz method is one of the well-known direct methods used for the solution of variational problems. In this technique, at first, we expand the unknown function in terms of the modified Jacobi polynomials and then we derive a compact form of fractional derivative of the unknown function in terms of the Jacobi polynomials. Examples indicate that the new technique has high accuracy and is very efficient to implement.
An equivalent cyclic energy indicator for bearing performance degradation assessment
Authors: Wang Dong , Shen Changqing
Published: September 2014

Bearing performance degradation assessment has attracted much attention in recent years because it is a key step to estimating the remaining useful life of bearings. Because cyclic spectral analysis has superior ability to characterize some kinds of non-stationary signals, such as non-stationary bearing fault signals, many efforts have been made to use cyclic spectral analysis for bearing fault diagnosis. However, the application of cyclic spectral analysis to bearing prognosis, especially bearing performance degradation assessment, is rarely reported. Recently, based on the integration of spectral correlation over spectral frequency, a novel bearing heath indicator, the cyclic energy indicator (CEI), was proposed by some scholars. In this paper, an equivalent cyclic energy indicator (ECEI) is introduced. It is mathematically proofed that the ECEI is equal to the CEI. Additionally, because the calculations of the ECEI do not involve spectral correlation, which is a two-dimensional power density function and requires searching an amount of cyclic frequencies to discover the cyclic evolution in signals, the time complexity of the ECEI is simpler than that of the CEI. This can prove to hold mathematically for the estimators of the ECEI and the CEI.
Effect of scaling effect parameters on the vibration characteristics of nanoplates
Authors: Behera Laxmi , Chakraverty S
Published: September 2014

The Rayleigh–Ritz method has been applied to solve governing differential equations of the free vibration of nonhomogeneous rectangular nanoplates. Nonhomogeneity is assumed by taking a variety of combinations of linear as well as quadratic variations in the Young's modulus and the density of the material. Boundary characteristic orthogonal polynomials in two variables are used in the Rayleigh–Ritz method and have been generated with the help of the Gram–Schmidt process. The generalized eigenvalue problem has been solved by employing MATLAB code. Both graphical and tabular results are given to show the effects of nonhomogeneous parameters, the nonlocal parameter, boundary conditions, aspect ratio and the length of the nanoplate on the frequency parameters. Results are compared in special cases and are found to be in good agreement.
Protective Factors in Male Adolescents With a History of Sexual and/or Violent Offending
Authors: van der Put Claudia E. , Asscher Jessica J.
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to examine the presence and impact of dynamic protective factors for delinquency in male adolescents with a history of sexual and/or violent offending. Bipolar factors (factors with risk and protective factors being the ends of the same continuum) were examined in male adolescents with a history of sexual offenses against younger children (CSOs; n = 341), a history of sexual offenses against peers and/or adult victims (PSOs; n = 207), and a history of nonsexual violent offenses (VOs; n = 1,356). We conducted secondary analyses on data collected with the Washington State Juvenile Court Assessment and on general recidivism data. ANOVA, correlations, Fisher’s z tests, and logistic regression analyses were applied. Results showed that, in VOs, the number of risk factors was greater than the number of protective factors, whereas in PSOs, and especially CSOs, the number of protective factors was greater than the number of risk factors. Protective factors appeared to be especially important for juveniles with a history of sexual offenses for two reasons. First, the impact of most protective factors on recidivism was larger among juveniles with a history of sexual offenses than among those with a history of violent offenses. Second, protective factors added to the predictive accuracy over and above risk factors in juveniles with a history of sexual offenses, but not in those with a history of violent offenses.
Educational Placement of Students With Autism
Authors: Kurth Jennifer A.
Published: September 2014

Typically, child characteristics such as IQ and severity of autism symptoms are thought to determine educational placement. The present study examines external factors, including state of residence and state funding formulas, to determine their potential influence on placement outcomes. Findings reveal that considerable variations exist among states in placing students with autism spectrum disorders in inclusive, mainstreaming, self-contained, and separate schools. This variation suggests that factors beyond child characteristics, such as IQ, play a major role in educational placement decisions. Furthermore, states in the Eastern United States tend to have more restrictive placement rates than states in the Western United States. State special education funding was found to have a minimal impact on placement outcomes. As a whole, it is unlikely that child characteristics alone determine placement outcomes.
The Influence of Agency Policies on Conducted Energy Device Use and Police Use of Lethal Force
Authors: Ferdik Frank V. , Kaminski Robert J. , Cooney Mikaela D. , Sevigny Eric L.
Published: September 2014

Law enforcement agencies across the United States, partly in response to public outcries over fatalities associated with police use of lethal force, have adopted numerous less lethal technologies, including conducted energy devices (CEDs). Although the device was intended to reduce citizen deaths resulting from police use of force, various human rights groups have linked its usage to increased fatalities. The present study adds to the literature on CEDs by examining (a) the relationship between the restrictiveness of CED-related policies and CED deployments and (b) the relationship between these policies and fatal police shootings. Using data from a nationally representative sample of American law enforcement agencies, this study estimates a series of count regression models to examine the influence of departmental policies on CED usage and fatal shootings by police. Findings illustrate that less restrictive CED policies are associated with increased CED usage and fewer fatal shootings by police. Although design limitations preclude causal arguments, these results suggest that police departments should at least consider adopting more liberal policies regarding the application of this less lethal technology. Future studies on this issue using more rigorous designs are warranted.
Self-determination and leader development
Authors: Solansky Stephanie T
Published: September 2014

Self-determination theory serves as the primary explanatory mechanism in this article of significant differences in the outcomes of leader development interventions. A total of 445 organizational administrators in a year-long leadership professional development programme are categorized based on their self-determination. Self-determination is categorized by the initial choice in programme participation and the pursuing choice in programme content and methods. The empirical results show differences based on self-determination categorizations in terms of self-assessments and subordinate assessments. However, the significant differences are not as expected in all cases. Theoretical and empirical contributions are discussed that inform researchers and practitioners.
The construction of workers’ rights consciousness through legal intermediations
Authors: Lejeune Aude , Orianne Jean-François
Published: September 2014

Through their different encounters with union, court and government equality agency lawyers, workers report diverse understandings of their personal experience of injustice in the workplace. This article examines workers’ experiences of discrimination and the role legal professionals play in litigating these issues in Belgium. Bringing together legal and rights consciousness studies and the sociology of intermediation and tracking different stages in the construction of discrimination cases, from the moment when a future litigant describes an event as an injustice to the moment when the judge recognizes a discriminatory behaviour (or conversely, dismisses a case), we suggest several possible empirical explanations of the way in which interactions with legal intermediaries affect workers’ rights consciousness. Because we refer to sociolegal studies from common law countries, this article also calls into question how best to import these studies to assist in analysing legal mobilisations and legal consciousness in continental Europe.
Life transitions and relevance of healthy living in late adolescence
Authors: Koehn Stefan , Gillison Fiona , Standage Martyn , Bailey Jacqueline
Published: September 2014

Using a cross-sectional qualitative design involving focus groups and interviews, we sought to gain a more detailed understanding of adolescents’ physical activity, eating habits and health perceptions during the transition from secondary school (or high school) to work. Based on thematic analyses, three themes were extracted: (1) perceptions of lifestyle and health, (2) changes in priorities and (3) passive acceptance of internal and external influences on physical activity and diet. Poor diet and physical inactivity appeared to reflect participants’ amotivation towards health behaviours, reluctance to divert from perceived peer norms and efforts to assert independence from parents.
Review of snowboarding injuries
Authors: Mirhadi Sara , Ashwood Neil , Karagkevrekis Babis
Published: September 2014

Snowboarding is a popular sport and can lead not only to various injuries including wrist fracture, closed head injury and acromioclavicular injuries but also to others such as scaphoid fracture or ulna collateral ligament injury which is often difficult to diagnose. Having a high suspicion for specific injuries from known injury patterns associated with snowboarding may help earlier diagnosis which can result in better outcomes for the patient. The severity of injuries will vary depending on the individual’s skill level and their use of protective equipment. Preventive methods for injuries among snowboarders may need to be devised based on differences in skill levels. This review focuses on injuries associated with the use of snowboards, draws comparisons with skiing injuries and suggests strategies for injury prevention.
Doing action research in organizations: Using communicative spaces to facilitate (transformative) professional learning
Authors: Eady Sandra , Drew Valerie , Smith Annetta
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the nature of professional learning arising through the processes of carrying out action research in professional organizations. It suggests that communicative space opened up outside of the professional context can lead to unanticipated professional learning. Such learning could be considered transformative in the way it leads professionals to reframe their understanding of the dilemma arising from doing action research. To illustrate this, two cases are presented to show the pivotal role university tutors can play not only in the way they create and maintain communicative space but also in the way they purposefully employ strategies to interrupt and challenge viewpoints, assumptions and practices held by professionals doing action research, enabling professional learning to become transformative.
Knowledge Management and E-Learning
Authors: Costarides Marina V.
Published: September 2014

The book Knowledge Management and E-Learning, which is intended for both scholars and practitioners, provides a historical perspective on the evolution of online learning and discusses the potential impact of implementing e-learning initiatives. Chapter authors also discuss the importance of technology in propelling learner contributions through a well-designed technologic platform or learning management system. Knowledge management specialists and e-learning advocates can gain insight into the expectations of adult learners and in how to use technology to develop effective training programs through the many illustrations of contemporary learning theories in practice.
Social exchange in Dutch schools for vocational education and training
Authors: Thomsen Maren , Karsten Sjoerd , Oort Frans J
Published: September 2014

In this study we examined the role of trust as a mediator in social exchange between teachers and their school, particularly between perceived procedural justice and perceived organizational support, on the one hand, and teachers’ affective organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behaviour, on the other hand. A model was developed that distinguished between trust in three agents: team members, the supervisor and higher management. The model was tested in the context of Dutch schools for vocational education and training on a sample of 845 teachers. Data was collected using questionnaires and was analysed with structural equation modelling. Results show that trust was a predictor for desirable teacher outcomes and a mediator in social exchange. In particular trust in team members was related to affective organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behaviour. Trust in the supervisor and trust in higher management were neither related to organizational commitment nor to organizational citizenship behaviour. Perceived organizational support was related to teachers’ trust in all trust targets. It also had a direct effect on organizational commitment. Procedural justice influenced trust in the supervisor and trust in higher management. The authors discuss the results in light of previous findings and the context of the study.
Pursuing the elusive construct of distributed leadership
Authors: Hairon Salleh , Goh Jonathan WP
Published: September 2014

Distributed leadership is one of the most prominent contemporary leadership theories in education. Its attraction in education is perhaps due to its potential to bring about school improvement. A review of the literature, however, reveals broadness in the way the construct is being conceptualized and operationalized; thus making it elusive. The elusive nature of distributed leadership could be down to the lack of attempts to unpack and measure this construct, and/or because of the contested definition of the term ‘leadership’ itself. The purpose of this article is to elucidate this construct by addressing possible dimensionality issues. To do this, exploratory factor analysis was performed using Rasch (linearized) standardized residuals to examine the factor structure of distributed leadership. The analysis provided a lucid interpretation of the data to build a theoretical (measurement) model of distributed leadership. The distributed leadership instrument consists of 25 items, and the sample involved 1,232 schools leaders from Singapore. The findings indicated the presence of four possible factors of distributed leadership which include bounded empowerment, developing leadership, shared decision and collective engagement.
Psychological contract formation: The influence of demographic factors
Authors: Adams Samuel , Adams Quagrainie Fanny , Klobodu Edem Kwame Mensah
Published: September 2014

The study surveyed 292 respondents from Tema (a major urban municipality and manufacturing hub in Ghana) to examine the determinants of psychological contract. The study sought to examine whether demographic factors (age and gender) mediate the formation and the effect of a psychological contract. Using a Structural Equation Modeling estimation technique, the results indicate a positive relationship between employees’ expectations and the obligations of employers. Further, the findings show that older employees perceive higher relational obligations than younger employees, whereas younger employees perceive higher transactional obligations than older employees. Also, while men score higher on transactional expectations, women score higher on relational expectations. There was no difference, however, in the expectations of employees concerning the obligations of the employers.
Carotid Stump Syndrome
Authors: Dakhoul Lara Toufic , Tawk Rabih
Published: September 2014

Objectives. To highlight the case of a patient with multiple transient ischemic attacks and visual disturbances diagnosed with carotid stump syndrome and managed with endovascular approach. Case Presentation. We present the case of a carotid stump syndrome in an elderly patient found to have moderate left internal carotid artery stenosis in response to an advertisement for carotid screening. After a medical therapeutic approach and a close follow-up, transient ischemic attacks recurred. Computed tomographic angiography showed an occlusion of the left internal carotid artery and the presence of moderate stenosis in the right internal carotid artery, which was treated by endovascular stenting and balloon insertion. One month later, the patient presented with visual disturbances due to the left carotid stump and severe stenosis of the left external carotid artery that was reapproached by endovascular stenting. Conclusion. Considerations should be given to the carotid stump syndrome as a source of emboli for ischemic strokes, and vascular assessment could be used to detect and treat this syndrome.
Severe Osteomalacia Related to Long-Term Intravenous Drug Abuse
Authors: Gamache Leslie , Burge Mark R.
Published: September 2014

Objective. We present the clinical, biochemical, and imaging findings of a woman with vitamin D deficiency and severe osteomalacia related to intravenous heroin addiction. Results. A 54-year-old woman with a medical history significant for long-standing heroin abuse presented with complaints of bone pain, muscle cramping, and a left hip ulcer. She had been bed bound for approximately 1 year secondary to pain of uncertain etiology, and her husband was bringing her both food and drugs. She was admitted to the hospital for debridement of a right ischial ulcer. Further workup revealed osteomyelitis of the left hip and severe vitamin D deficiency. Radiologic evaluation demonstrated diffuse osteopenia with pseudofractures, as well as true fractures. Conclusion. This is the first case reported in the English literature of advanced osteomalacia resulting from a debilitating narcotic dependency. Vitamin D deficiency should be considered in patients with poor nutrition and prolonged sunlight deprivation from any cause.
HOXA9 promotes hematopoietic commitment of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Ramos-Mejía Veronica , Navarro-Montero Oscar , Ayllón Verónica , Bueno Clara , Romero Tamara , Real Pedro J. , Menendez Pablo
Published: September 2014

Key Points

HOXA9 parallels blood development, but is restricted to HEP, and diminishes as they differentiate into blood cells. Functional assays reveal how HOXA9 enhances blood formation by promoting commitment of HEP to CD45+ cells with higher clonogenic potential.
Moderate-dose cyclophosphamide for severe aplastic anemia has significant toxicity and does not prevent relapse and clonal evolution
Authors: Scheinberg Phillip , Townsley Danielle , Dumitriu Bogdan , Scheinberg Priscila , Weinstein Barbara , Daphtary Maithili , Rios Olga , Wu Colin O. , Young Neal S.
Published: September 2014

Key Points

Moderate-dose cyclophosphamide is associated with an unacceptable rate of toxicity in SAA, as in high-dose cyclophosphamide. Moderate-dose cyclophosphamide is an active regimen but is associated with a low response and does not prevent relapse or clonal evolution.
Prospective validation of the endurance shuttle walking test in the context of bronchodilation in COPD
Authors: Borel Benoit , Pepin Véronique , Mahler Donald A. , Nadreau Éric , Maltais François
Published: September 2014

This study focused on repeatability data and minimal important difference (MID) estimates of the endurance shuttle walking test (ESWT).

255 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients (forced expiratory volume in 1 s 54.7±13.2% predicted) completed four ESWTs at different times during the 8-week study: two under baseline conditions with tiotropium (1 week apart), one after a single dose and one after 4 weeks of either fluticasone propionate/salmeterol combination or placebo in addition to tiotropium. 97 patients performed all the tests with a portable metabolic system. Reproducibility of test performance and cardiorespiratory response was investigated with the data obtained on the first two ESWTs.

The mean differences between the first two ESWT performances (-6.7±72.2 s and -7.3±113.1 m for endurance time and walking distance, respectively) were not statistically significant. The between-test end-exercise and isotime values for each cardiorespiratory parameter were not significantly different from each other. With the exception of arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry, the repeatability of cardiorespiratory adaptations to ESWT was also confirmed with strong Pearson and intraclass correlation coefficients. Finally, changes of 56–61 s and 70–82 m in endurance time and distance walked, respectively, were perceived by patients.

This study provides methodological information supporting the reliability of the ESWT and suggests MID estimates for this test.
The different clinical faces of obstructive sleep apnoea: a cluster analysis
Authors: Ye Lichuan , Pien Grace W. , Ratcliffe Sarah J. , Björnsdottir Erla , Arnardottir Erna Sif , Pack Allan I. , Benediktsdottir Bryndis , Gislason Thorarinn
Published: September 2014

Although commonly observed in clinical practice, the heterogeneity of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) clinical presentation has not been formally characterised.

This study was the first to apply cluster analysis to identify subtypes of patients with OSA who experience distinct combinations of symptoms and comorbidities. An analysis of baseline data from the Icelandic Sleep Apnoea Cohort (822 patients with newly diagnosed moderate-to-severe OSA) was performed.

Three distinct clusters were identified. They were classified as the “disturbed sleep group” (cluster 1), “minimally symptomatic group” (cluster 2) and “excessive daytime sleepiness group” (cluster 3), consisting of 32.7%, 24.7% and 42.6% of the entire cohort, respectively. The probabilities of having comorbid hypertension and cardiovascular disease were highest in cluster 2 but lowest in cluster 3. The clusters did not differ significantly in terms of sex, body mass index or apnoea–hypopnoea index.

Patients with OSA have different patterns of clinical presentation, which need to be communicated to both the lay public and the professional community with the goal of facilitating care-seeking and early identification of OSA. Identifying distinct clinical profiles of OSA creates a foundation for offering more personalised therapies in the future.
A self-management programme for COPD: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mitchell Katy E. , Johnson-Warrington Vicki , Apps Lindsay D. , Bankart John , Sewell Louise , Williams Johanna E. , Rees Karen , Jolly Kate , Steiner Michael , Morgan Mike , Singh Sally J.
Published: September 2014

Studies of programmes of self-management support for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been inconclusive. The Self-Management Programme of Activity, Coping and Education (SPACE) FOR COPD is a 6-week self-management intervention for COPD, and this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention in primary care.

A single-blind randomised controlled trial recruited people with COPD from primary care and randomised participants to receive usual care or SPACE FOR COPD. Outcome measures were performed at baseline, 6 weeks and 6 months. The primary outcome was symptom burden, measured by the self-reported Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ-SR) dyspnoea domain. Secondary outcomes included other domains of the CRQ-SR, shuttle walking tests, disease knowledge, anxiety, depression, self-efficacy, smoking status and healthcare utilisation.

184 people with COPD were recruited and randomised. At 6 weeks, there were significant differences between groups in CRQ-SR dyspnoea, fatigue and emotion scores, exercise performance, anxiety, and disease knowledge. At 6 months, there was no between-group difference in change in CRQ-SR dyspnoea. Exercise performance, anxiety and smoking status were significantly different between groups at 6 months, in favour of the intervention.

This brief self-management intervention did not improve dyspnoea over and above usual care at 6 months; however, there were gains in anxiety, exercise performance, and disease knowledge.
Ciliary beat pattern and frequency in genetic variants of primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Raidt Johanna , Wallmeier Julia , Hjeij Rim , Onnebrink Jörg Große , Pennekamp Petra , Loges Niki T. , Olbrich Heike , Häffner Karsten , Dougherty Gerard W. , Omran Heymut , Werner Claudius
Published: September 2014

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder leading to recurrent respiratory tract infections. High-speed video-microscopy analysis (HVMA) of ciliary beating, currently the first-line diagnostic tool for PCD in most centres, is challenging because recent studies have expanded the spectrum of HVMA findings in PCD from grossly abnormal to very subtle. The objective of this study was to describe the diversity of HVMA findings in genetically confirmed PCD individuals.

HVMA was performed as part of the routine work-up of individuals with suspected PCD. Subsequent molecular analysis identified biallelic mutations in the PCD-related genes of 66 individuals. 1072 videos of these subjects were assessed for correlation with the genotype.

Biallelic mutations (19 novel) were found in 17 genes:DNAI1, DNAI2,DNAH5,DNAH11,CCDC103,ARMC4,KTU/DNAAF2,LRRC50/DNAAF1,LRRC6,DYX1C1,ZMYND10,CCDC39, CCDC40, CCDC164, HYDIN,RSPH4AandRSPH1. Ciliary beat pattern variations correlated well with the genetic findings, allowing the classification of typical HVMA findings for different genetic groups. In contrast, analysis of ciliary beat frequency did not result in additional diagnostic impact.

In conclusion, this study provides detailed knowledge about the diversity of HVMA findings in PCD and may therefore be seen as a guide to the improvement of PCD diagnostics.
Effect of upper-airway stimulation for obstructive sleep apnoea on airway dimensions
Authors: Safiruddin Faiza , Vanderveken Olivier M. , de Vries Nico , Maurer Joachim T. , Lee Kent , Ni Quan , Strohl Kingman P.
Published: September 2014

Upper-airway stimulation (UAS) using a unilateral implantable neurostimulator for the hypoglossal nerve is an effective therapy for obstructive sleep apnoea patients with continuous positive airway pressure intolerance. This study evaluated stimulation effects on retropalatal and retrolingual dimensions during drug-induced sedation compared with wakefulness to assess mechanistic relationships in response to UAS.

Patients with an implanted stimulator underwent nasal video endoscopy while awake and/or during drug-induced sedation in the supine position. The cross-sectional area, anterior–posterior and lateral dimensions of the retropalatal and retrolingual regions were measured during baseline and stimulation.

15 patients underwent endoscopy while awake and 12 underwent drug-induced sedation endoscopy. Increased levels of stimulation were associated with increased area of both the retropalatal and retrolingual regions. During wakefulness, a therapeutic level of stimulation increased the retropalatal area by 56.4% (p=0.002) and retrolingual area by 184.1% (p=0.006). During stimulation, the retropalatal area enlarged in the anterior–posterior dimension while retrolingual area enlarged in both anterior–posterior and lateral dimensions. During drug-induced sedation endoscopy, the same stimulation increased the retropalatal area by 180.0% (p=0.002) and retrolingual area by 130.1% (p=0.008). Therapy responders had larger retropalatal enlargement with stimulation than nonresponders.

UAS increases both the retropalatal and retrolingual areas. This multilevel enlargement may explain reductions of the apnoea–hypopnoea index in selected patients receiving this therapy.