bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Study of Mid-Atlantic Nocturnal Boundary Layer Events during WAVES 2006
Authors: Rabenhorst S. , Whiteman D. N. , Zhang D.-L. , Demoz B.
Published: August 2014

The Water Vapor Variability-Satellite/Sondes (WAVES) 2006 field campaign provided a contiguous 5-day period of concentrated high-resolution measurements to examine finescale boundary layer phenomena under the influence of a summertime subtropical high over the mid-Atlantic region that is characterized by complex geography. A holistic analytical approach to low-level wind observations was adopted to identify the low-level flow structures and patterns of evolution on the basis of airmass properties and origination. An analysis of the measurements and the other available observations is consistent with the classic depiction of the daytime boundary layer development but revealed a pronounced diurnal cycle that was categorized into three stages: (i) daytime growth of the convective boundary layer, (ii) flow intensification into a low-level jet regime after dusk, and (iii) interruption by a downslope wind regime after midnight. The use of the field campaign data allows for the differentiation of the latter two flow regimes by their directions with respect to the orientation of the Appalachian Mountains and their airmass origins. Previous studies that have investigated mountain flows and low-level jet circulations have focused on regions with overt geographic prominence, stark gradients, or frequent reoccurrences, whereby such meteorological phenomena exhibit a clear signature and can be easily isolated and diagnosed. The results of this study provide evidence that similar circulation patterns operate in nonclassic locations with milder topography and atmospheric gradients, such as the mid-Atlantic region. The new results have important implications for the understanding of the mountain-forced flows and some air quality problems during the nocturnal period.
New Reconstruction of Antarctic Near-Surface Temperatures: Multidecadal Trends and Reliability of Global Reanalyses*,+
Authors: Nicolas Julien P. , Bromwich David H.
Published: August 2014

A reconstruction of Antarctic monthly mean near-surface temperatures spanning 1958–2012 is presented. Its primary goal is to take advantage of a recently revised key temperature record from West Antarctica (Byrd) to shed further light on multidecadal temperature changes in this region. The spatial interpolation relies on a kriging technique aided by spatiotemporal temperature covariances derived from three global reanalyses [the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim), Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA), and Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR)]. For 1958–2012, the reconstruction yields statistically significant annual warming in the Antarctic Peninsula and virtually all of West Antarctica, but no significant temperature change in East Antarctica. Importantly, the warming is of comparable magnitude both in central West Antarctica and in most of the peninsula, rather than concentrated either in one or the other region as previous reconstructions have suggested. The Transantarctic Mountains act for the temperature trends, as a clear dividing line between East and West Antarctica, reflecting the topographic constraint on warm air advection from the Amundsen Sea basin. The reconstruction also serves to highlight spurious changes in the 1979–2009 time series of the three reanalyses that reduces the reliability of their trends, illustrating a long-standing issue in high southern latitudes. The study concludes with an examination of the influence of the southern annular mode (SAM) on Antarctic temperature trends. The results herein suggest that the trend of the SAM toward its positive phase in austral summer and fall since the 1950s has had a statistically significant cooling effect not only in East Antarctica (as already well documented) and but also (only in fall) in West Antarctica.
Underwater Glider Reliability and Implications for Survey Design
Authors: Brito Mario , Smeed David , Griffiths Gwyn
Published: August 2014

It has been 20 years since the concept of the Autonomous Ocean Sampling Network (AOSN) was first introduced. This vision has been brought closer to reality with the introduction of underwater gliders. While in terms of functionality the underwater glider has shown to be capable of meeting the AOSN vision, in terms of reliability there is no communitywide hard evidence on whether persistent presence is currently being achieved. This paper studies the reliability of underwater gliders in order to assess the feasibility of using these platforms for future AOSN. The data used are taken from nonunderwater glider developers, which consisted of 205 glider deployments by 12 European laboratories between 2008 and 2012. Risk profiles were calculated for two makes of deep underwater gliders; there is no statistically significant difference between them. Regardless of the make, the probability of a deep underwater glider surviving a 90-day mission without a premature mission end is approximately 0.5. The probability of a shallow underwater glider surviving a 30-day mission without a premature mission end is 0.59. This implies that to date factors other than the energy available are preventing underwater gliders from achieving their maximum capability. This reliability information was used to quantify the likelihood of two reported underwater glider surveys meeting the observation needs for a period of 6 months and to quantify the level of redundancy needed in order to increase the likelihood of meeting the observation needs.
Errors of Mean Dynamic Topography and Geostrophic Current Estimates in China’s Marginal Seas from GOCE and Satellite Altimetry
Authors: Jin Shuanggen , Feng Guiping , Andersen Ole
Published: August 2014

The Gravity Field and Steady-State Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE) and satellite altimetry can provide very detailed and accurate estimates of the mean dynamic topography (MDT) and geostrophic currents in China’s marginal seas, such as, the newest high-resolution GOCE gravity field model GO-CONS-GCF-2-TIM-R4 and the new Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales mean sea surface model MSS_CNES_CLS_11 from satellite altimetry. However, errors and uncertainties of MDT and geostrophic current estimates from satellite observations are not generally quantified. In this paper, errors and uncertainties of MDT and geostrophic current estimates from satellite gravimetry and altimetry are investigated and evaluated in China’s marginal seas. The cumulative error in MDT from GOCE is reduced from 22.75 to 9.89 cm when compared to the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) gravity field model ITG-Grace2010 results in the region. The errors of the geostrophic currents from GRACE are smaller than from GOCE with the truncation degrees 90 and 120. However, when the truncation degree is higher than 150, the GRACE mean errors increase rapidly and become significantly larger than the GOCE results. The geostrophic velocities based on GOCE-TIM4 have higher accuracy and spatial resolution, and the mean error is about 12.6 cm s−1, which is more consistent with the in situ drifter’s results than using GRACE data.
A Multisatellite Investigation of the Convective Properties of Developing and Nondeveloping Tropical Disturbances
Authors: Zawislak Jonathan , Zipser Edward J.
Published: August 2014

A comprehensive passive microwave satellite dataset is analyzed to quantify and compare the time evolution of convective properties of the pregenesis stage of developing disturbances (12 cases) and nondeveloping disturbances (3 cases), to determine whether the properties within the day prior to formation are unique, and to determine whether there is a credible connection between convection and the organization of the incipient circulation. Cases examined were the focus of recent (since 2005) field programs, and include those investigated during the triagency field programs in the Atlantic during 2010 [NASA’s Genesis and Rapid Intensification Processes (GRIP) project, the National Science Foundation (NSF)/NCAR Pre-Depression Investigation of Cloud-Systems in the Tropics (PREDICT) program, and NOAA’s Intensity Forecasting Experiment (IFEX)]. Among the properties examined (raining area, intensity, areal coverage of “strong” and “intense” convection, frequency, and proximity to the disturbance center), the results indicate that the area and frequency of rainfall within 3° are distinguishably greater in developing disturbances. Except for the fact it occurs in a more organized disturbance, there does not appear to be anything special about strong [polarization corrected temperature (PCT) ≤ 210 K] or intense (PCT ≤ 160 K) convection occurring in the day before genesis. Strong and intense convection events are observed throughout the pregenesis stage, do not necessarily increase (in intensity and area) as genesis nears, and are not necessarily very close (within 1°) to the center within a day of genesis. Likewise, while the areal coverage of strong and intense convection during the pregenesis stage is typically greater in developing disturbances, the overall intensity of convection in nondeveloping disturbances is comparable to the developing cases examined.
Association Between MTHFR C677T Polymorphism and Venous Thromboembolism Risk in the Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Peijin , Gao Xiuyin , Zhang Yanyan , Hu Yuewen , Ma He , Wang Wei , Wang Hui , Zhang Jing , Xu Hao , Lu Zhaojun
Published: August 2014

The association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms and venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in the Chinese population has been widely reported, but results were inconsistent and underpowered. To elucidate the variable results, a meta-analysis and systematic review were performed from all case-controlled studies relating MTHFR C677T polymorphism by pooling data on them. We estimated the pooled odds ratio with its 95% confidence intervals to assess this possible association. Finally, a total of 24 studies with 2339 cases and 4048 controls were included in the current meta-analysis. Significant association was found with VTE risk for all genetic models. Subgroup analyses by type of VTE further identified the above-mentioned association in deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism and splanchnic vein thrombosis. The findings from our meta-analysis support the associations of MTHFR C677T polymorphism with VTE risk in the Chinese population.
Electoral Systems and Legislators’ Constituency Effort
Authors: André Audrey , Depauw Sam , Martin Shane
Published: August 2014

In so far as legislators value re-election, electoral institutions are said to shape their strategic behavior. Yet, the empirical evidence linking legislators’ behavior to electoral institutions is weak at best. Previous studies, we argue, have either ignored or misspecified how legislators’ vulnerability to electoral defeat mediates the expected effect of electoral institutions. To test this argument, we develop and operationalize a new comparative measure of electoral vulnerability which we combine with new individual-level data on legislators’ constituency effort in 14 (mostly European) countries. Our data demonstrate that the effect of electoral institutions on constituency effort is different dependent on legislators’ electoral precariousness. In party-centered systems, district magnitude’s negative effect grows weaker among those most vulnerable. In candidate-centered systems, by contrast, district magnitude’s positive effect grows even stronger among those most vulnerable. The results suggest the need to revisit studies focusing exclusively on the impact of institutions on legislators’ constituency-oriented behavior.
Due inediti dell’illuminismo italiano: Scritti giovanili di Giuseppe Maria Galanti
Authors: Iermano Toni
Published: August 2014

L’economista, giurista, geografo e letterato Giuseppe Maria Galanti, allievo brillante della scuola di Antonio Genovesi, fu uno dei protagonisti della fertile stagione riformatrice che visse Napoli tra gli inizi del regno del piccolo Ferdinando IV e lo scoppio della Rivoluzione francese. Nei suoi viaggi nel Contado del Molise, in Calabria, nelle tante città e villaggi dello Stato borbonico l’illuminista esplorò e descrisse con metodo scientifico le ragioni del ritardo del Mezzogiorno rispetto all’Europa coeva; i suoi studi furono un fondato tentativo per trovare rimedio alle contraddizioni sociali, economiche e culturali di una capitale popolosa e disordinata e di province dilaniate tra gli eccessi del potere regio e gli abusi dei baroni. Il ritratto intellettuale del molisano Galanti viene a definirsi meglio grazie alla pubblicazione di due preziosi inediti giovanili ritenuti perduti, ritrovati nei sotterranei del palazzo di famiglia a Santa Croce del Sannio, e ora pubblicati in un volume arricchito da un cospicuo apparato filologico e un ampio saggio storico-critico.
Age of Substance Use Onset as a Predictor of Early Adult Substance Dependence and Offending in Male and Female Delinquents
Authors: Walters Glenn D. , Urban Heather
Published: August 2014

This study was designed first, to test whether sex moderated the effect of substance use onset on early adult substance dependence and offending and second, to identify the factors responsible for this effect. Structured equation modeling with 1,281 adjudicated delinquents (1,104 males, 177 females) from the Pathways to Desistance study revealed that sex moderated the onset–substance dependence and onset–offending relationships. Whereas age of substance use onset predicted early adult substance dependence in both males and females, it only predicted early adult offending in males. Out of six putative mediators, only one, adolescent moral disengagement, satisfied the criteria for mediated moderation. Mediation of the moderated onset–offending relationship was the result of moral disengagement correlating with both age of substance use onset and early adult offending in male but not female delinquents. Moral disengagement displayed similar patterns of correlation in the onset–substance dependency relationship but failed to satisfy all criteria for mediated moderation.
Mentoring Person-Centered Spiritual Maturation
Authors: Kass Jared D. , Baxter Jonathan , Lennox Susan
Published: August 2014

Person-centered spiritual maturation is a developmental process with prosocial potential for individuals and communities with diverse belief systems (including secular humanism). Investigation of this process has historical roots in Kass’s work with Dr. Carl Rogers on the Person-Centered Approach Project. Previous work identifies this construct’s conceptual properties. This article reports the effectiveness of a curriculum to mentor this learning process in higher education. We conducted a quasi-experimental, mixed methods study (triangulated qualitative and quantitative data) with experimental and control groups. Qualitative analysis (written student narratives, experimental group) documented five dimensions of growth (behavioral, cognitive, social–emotional, contemplative, and integrative) that culminated in a resilient worldview and prosocial behavior. Statistical analysis (experimental and control groups, pre–post intervention) confirmed these findings, demonstrating significant improvement in quantifiable elements of person-centered spiritual maturation. Effect sizes were meaningful, indicating 15% to 21% greater improvement in the experimental group. These results suggest that person-centered spiritual maturation can serve as a prevention-oriented, community-building intervention for higher education. It offers an integrative model of learning through which faculty in the social sciences and other disciplines can mentor social–emotional growth and contemplative self-inquiry, helping university communities build sustainable cultures of health, social justice, and peace. Further research is necessary and justified.
Adaptive control of stochastic Hammerstein systems with dead-zone input non-linearity
Authors: Zhang Bi , Mao Zhizhong
Published: August 2014

This article presents a new control scheme for H systems with symmetric dead-zone input non-linearity and coloured noise. Based on the parameterized H model, we derive a dead-zone compensating control law and a recursive estimator. Theoretical analysis shows that global convergence and closed-loop stability can be guaranteed using the proposed algorithms. What is more, theoretical results show that the output tracking error is convergent with a specific residue, which is related to the variance of the noise and the parameter estimate. Simulation results confirm that the proposed method leads to satisfactory output tracking performance.
Ownership and Participation
Authors: Flint Adrian , Natrup Christian Meyer zu
Published: August 2014

This article makes the case for a development paradigm shaped and determined by the people affected directly by aid and assistance programs: in essence, it is a call for beneficiary-led aid (BLA). Over the past two decades, input from beneficiaries has become increasingly important in the design of development programs. At the same time, the donor model remains one that is top-down, agenda driven, and expert led. Similarly, the use of information and communications technology (ICT) by donors in the interests of facilitating closer engagement with beneficiaries has been ongoing for over a decade. However, while the ICT4D (ICT for development) model has generated a great deal of enthusiasm within the donor community, the approach has yet to generate a discernible paradigm shift where the provision of aid and assistance is concerned. Taking inspiration from initiatives both within and outwith the field of development, we explore the extent to which ICT can indeed offer a route through which to revolutionize the meaning of “participation” in an aid context, for beneficiaries, donors, and development experts alike.
A Theoretical Framework for Engaging with Religion in Development Projects
Authors: Butt Atif Ikram
Published: August 2014

In academic debates and at practical level too, there is a degree of polarization between those who view religion, particularly Islam, as a developmental obstacle and those who regards it as a developmental solution. It is contended that such a polarized debate is unhelpful for the study and practice of development. A dispassionate analysis of the role and effect of religion, which could bring the rationalist and post-development discourses closer, can better help development practitioners. Based on the theory of social capital and its offshoots, a theoretical framework is proposed to help development institutions and practitioners for the evaluation of their programs and polices of engagement with religion and religious actors, particularly in Muslim-majority countries.
Flaws in Evaluations of Social Programs
Authors: Greenberg David , Barnow Burt S.
Published: August 2014

Background:

This article describes eight flaws that occur in impact evaluations.

Method:

The eight flaws are grouped into four categories on how they affect impact estimates: statistical imprecision; biases; failure of impact estimates to measure effects of the planned treatment; and flaws that result from weakening an evaluation design. Each flaw is illustrated with examples from social experiments. Although these illustrations are from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), they can occur in any type of evaluation; we use RCTs to illustrate because people sometimes assume that RCTs might be immune to such problems. A summary table lists the flaws, indicates circumstances under which they occur, notes their potential seriousness, and suggests approaches for minimizing them.

Results:

Some of the flaws result in minor hurdles, while others cause evaluations to fail—that is, the evaluation is unable to provide a valid test of the hypothesis of interest. The flaws that appear to occur most frequently are response bias resulting from attrition, failure to adequately implement the treatment as designed, and too small a sample to detect impacts. The third of these can result from insufficient marketing, too small an initial target group, disinterest on the part of the target group in participating (if the treatment is voluntary), or attrition.

Conclusion

To a considerable degree, the flaws we discuss can be minimized. For instance, implementation failures and too small a sample can usually be avoided with sufficient planning, and response bias can often be mitigated—for example, through increased follow-up efforts in conducting surveys.
Can FESS Combined with Submucosal Resection (SMR)/Septoplasty Reduce Revision Rate?
Authors: Chang Chan‐Chi , Tai Chih‐Jaan , Ng Teik‐Ying , Tsou Yung‐An , Tsai Ming‐Hsui
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Our study was designed to ascertain the outcomes of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) combined with submucosal resection (SMR)/septoplasty in reducing FESS revision rates.

Study Design

Retrospective population‐based study.

Setting

Academic tertiary medical center.

Subjects and Methods

By using the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database, we obtained the patients who underwent FESS for chronic rhinosinusitis. These patients were divided into 2 groups: the control group (FESS alone) and the study group (FESS combined with SMR). The primary outcome was the revision operative rate.

Results

In total, 4484 patients who had undergone FESS were recruited into this study. The number of patients who underwent revision FESS was 528 (11.78%). In our sample, 80.45% of patients received FESS alone, whereas 19.54% of the patients underwent concurrent SMR/septoplasty during FESS. There are more female patients and older patients in the control group than in the study group. The revision rates of these 2 groups were significantly different (12.36% vs 9.36%, respectively; P =. 016). Moreover, logistic regression analysis came out that patients in the control group had a higher revision rates than those in the study group. Male patients and younger patients were found to have higher revision rates. In addition, patients with asthma or allergic rhinitis had higher revision rates compared with those patients without these 2 comorbidities.

Conclusions

This study showed an association between FESS combined with concurrent SMR/septoplasty and less incidence of revision rate of FESS. Patients with asthma or allergic rhinitis have an increased risk of requiring more revision surgeries after FESS.
Interrogating the construct of aviation English: Feedback from test takers in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyejeong , Elder Catherine
Published: August 2014

This paper explores the underlying construct of both the English proficiency test for pilot and air traffic controller radiotelephony communication developed and administered in Korea and the ICAO language proficiency testing policy on which the test in Korea is based. It does so by canvassing the opinions of Korean airline pilots and air traffic controllers through 400 questionnaire and 22 interview sources. Results reveal a lack of fit between the policy construct and the reality through which the goals and objectives of the policy are accomplished and strong disapproval of the ICAO’s espoused construct and the associated Korean English test from language users in the target domain. This study confirms the importance of eliciting views from such stakeholders (i.e., domain experts) who are well-placed to determine what really matters for communicative success in the context of concern.
A randomized, single-blind cross-over design evaluating the effectiveness of an individually defined, targeted physical therapy approach in treatment of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Franki Inge , Van den Broeck Christine , De Cat Josse , Tijhuis Wieke , Molenaers Guy , Vanderstraeten Guy , Desloovere Kaat
Published: August 2014

Objective:

A pilot study to compare the effectiveness of an individual therapy program with the effects of a general physical therapy program.

Design:

A randomized, single-blind cross-over design.

Participants:

Ten ambulant children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy, age four to nine years.

Intervention:

Participants were randomly assigned into a ten-week individually defined, targeted or a general program, followed by a cross-over.

Main outcome measures:

Evaluation was performed using the Gross Motor Function Measure-88 and three-dimensional gait analysis. General outcome parameters were Gross Motor Function Measure-88 scores, time and distance parameters, gait profile score and movement analysis profiles. Individual goal achievement was evaluated using z-scores for gait parameters and Goal Attainment Scale for gross motor function.

Results:

No significant changes were observed regarding gross motor function. Only after individualized therapy, step- and stride-length increased significantly ( p = 0.022; p = 0.017). Change in step-length was higher after the individualized program ( p = 0.045). Within-group effects were found for the pelvis in transversal plane after the individualized program ( p = 0.047) and in coronal plane after the general program ( p = 0.047). Between-program differences were found for changes in the knee in sagittal plane, in the advantage of the individual program ( p = 0.047). A median difference in z-score of 0.279 and 0.419 was measured after the general and individualized program, respectively. Functional goal attainment was higher after the individual therapy program compared with the general program (48 to 43.5).

Conclusion:

The results indicate slightly favorable effects towards the individualized program. To detect clinically significant changes, future studies require a minimal sample size of 72 to 90 participants.
Relationship of childhood headaches with preferences in leisure time activities, depression, anxiety and eating habits: A population-based, cross-sectional study
Authors: Bektaş Ömer , Uğur Cağatay , Gençtürk Zeynep Bıyıklı , Aysev Ayla , Sireli Özlem , Deda Gülhis
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The objective of this article is to determine the relationship between headache frequency and socio-demographic data, personal characteristics, habits, daily activities, daily loss of ability, depression and anxiety in the headache subtypes in the pediatric population.

Patients and methods

Our sample group was composed of approximately 5355 children aged between 9 and 18 years. An eight-stage questionnaire was administered to the children. In the second stage of the study, headache subtypes were created according to the ICHD-II criteria. The resulting data were compared according to the results of the headache subtypes.

Results

In school-age children, the prevalence of recurrent headaches was 39.4%, and the prevalence of migraine was 10.3%. The subjects with migraine mostly preferred sedentary activities in their leisure time, and preferred less exercise than the subjects with the other headache types. The PedMIDAS score of the children who preferred to play sports was significantly lower than those who did not prefer to play sports. In the group that preferred reading books, an opposite relationship was found. In overweight and obese migraine sufferers, other types of headache were found to be significantly higher.

Conclusions

In the management of treating childhood headaches, the association of psychiatric comorbidities should be considered. To minimize disability, children should be directed to more useful physical activities.
Motivation and Engagement in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and China
Authors: Martin Andrew J. , Yu Kai , Papworth Brad , Ginns Paul , Collie Rebecca J.
Published: August 2014

This study explored motivation and engagement among North American (the United States and Canada; n = 1,540), U.K. ( n = 1,558), Australian ( n = 2,283), and Chinese ( n = 3,753) secondary school students. Motivation and engagement were assessed via students’ responses to the Motivation and Engagement Scale–High School (MES–HS). Confirmatory factor analysis using M plus found good fit for each of the four samples. Multi-group invariance tests demonstrated comparable factor structure, reliability, distributional properties, and correlations with a set of validational factors across the four groups. Results hold implications for international assessment of motivation and engagement, research, and data analysis.
Effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on human fetal scleral fibroblasts
Authors: Zhu Huang , Wang Jie , Cui Jiefeng , Fan Xianqun
Published: August 2014

This study investigated the effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) on human fetal scleral fibroblasts (HFSFs). HFSFs were subjected to 50 Hz artificial ELF-EMFs generated by Helmholtz coils with 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 mT field intensities for 6 to 48 h. The viability and factors involved in scleral structuring of HFSFs were determined. The growth rate of HFSFs significantly decreased after only 24 h of exposure to ELF-EMFs (0.2 mT). The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of collagen type I (COL1A1) decreased and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) increased significantly. There was a decrease in tissue inhibitor of MMP-2 mRNA levels between treated and control cells only at the 1.0 mT intensity level. Transforming growth factor beta-2 mRNA increased in exposed cells, and, simultaneously, fibroblast growth factor-2 mRNA levels decreased. The protein expressions of COL1A1 and MMP-2 were also significantly altered subsequent to exposure ( p < 0.05). This study shows that ELF-EMFs had biological effects on HFSFs and could cause abnormality in scleral collagen.
Revisiting the First-Level Digital Divide in the United States: Gender and Race/Ethnicity Patterns, 2007–2012
Authors: Campos-Castillo Celeste
Published: August 2014

With the narrowing of Internet access divide, researchers have focused on Internet usage, taking for granted access issues. However, questions remain regarding who has Internet access in the United States: What is the status of the racial divide? Is there still a gender divide? How do Latinos compare to other racial and ethnic minority groups? How does gender intersect with race and ethnicity? I analyze nationally representative data to compare Internet access among adults from 2007 to 2012. I find that women are more likely to report having Internet access than men. Blacks and Latinos are equally likely to report having Internet access, and both groups are less likely to report having Internet access than Whites. Finally, Black men exhibited the greatest increase in access. This research complements Internet usage studies with a recent assessment of Internet access trends, important trends to monitor as policies and technological innovations aim for universal access.
Committees and Controversy
Authors: Gabriel Rachael , Paulus Trena
Published: August 2014

The increasingly common practice of engaging consulting firms to assist states with educational policy agendas requires an analysis of the role these consultants play in what is positioned as a democratic decision-making process. In this study, we examine the discourse of a state-level advisory committee formed to develop a new teacher evaluation policy under Race to the Top. We used discourse analysis methods to analyze audio recordings of 11 meetings of this committee. We identified two patterns of consultant talk as it related to committee decision making: making decisions through validationand deferring and redirecting decisions, and we describe their implications.
Evaluating College Readiness
Authors: Kramer Steven L. , Osgood Jeffery , Bernotsky Lorraine , Wolff Edward , Merlino F. Joseph , Garcia Tanya I. , Kramer Helen M.
Published: August 2014

This article investigates the utility and availability of college data to evaluate the impact of high school interventions. It reports results of a pilot study that collected information about the college experiences of graduates from four high schools in the northeast United States. Using these results as a lens, the article examines what information is available from Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems (SLDS). It identifies the contrary interactions of the development of SLDS and federal law. The article reviews the legal and practical constraints on improving the national data system, as well as possible policy changes that might improve the data environment.
Review of recent advances on energy efficiency of machine tools for sustainability
Authors: Zhang Yingjie
Published: August 2014

Due to the high power consumption of machine tools in the manufacturing plants, study of the energy efficiency of machine tools has been the urgent need for sustainability. This article is focused on a comprehensive literature review about energy-efficient machine tools, including the analysis of energy loss, the modeling, and evaluating of energy efficiency of machine tools. These techniques are applicable for the design of new machine tools, and the analysis or redesign of the existing machine tools. Furthermore, some limitations and barriers of the previous studies on reducing machine tool energy consumption are discussed and outlined. The significant potential toward improving the energy efficiency of machine tools is presented, and some challenges are identified and summarized.
Predict human body indentation lying on a spring mattress using a neural network approach
Authors: Zhong Shilu , Shen Liming , Zhou Lijuan , Guan Zhongwei
Published: August 2014

This article presents a method to predict and assess the interaction between a human body and a spring mattress. A three-layer artificial neural network model was developed to simulate and predict an indentation curve of human spine, characterized with the depth of lumbar lordosis and four inclination angles: cervicothoracic, thoracolumbar, lumbosacral and the back-hip (β). By comparing the spinal indentation curves described by the optimal evaluation parameters (depth of lumbar lordosis, cervicothoracic, thoracolumbar and lumbosacral), a better design of five-zone spring mattresses was obtained for individuals to have an effective support to the main part of the body. Using such approach, an operating process was further introduced, in which appropriate stiffness proportions were proposed to design mattress for the normal body types of Chinese young women. Finally, case studies were undertaken, which show that the method developed is feasible and practical.
The utility of genotypic tropism testing in clinical practice
Authors: Wyatt H , Herman OM , Macartney M , Conibear T , Garcia-Diaz A , Booth C , McCormick A , Smith C , Johnson MA , Irish D , Webster DP
Published: August 2014

A review of a large number of HIV-1 tropism test requests ( n = 1148) performed at a London tertiary referral centre was carried out. The aim was to establish whether these were being performed in line with recommendations from published guidelines and whether this represented the most cost-effective use of these tests in informing prescribing decisions of the CCR5 antagonist drug, maraviroc. The cost of these assays within the UK was covered by commercial funding until April 2013 which has subsequently been withdrawn. Furthermore, all healthcare settings are under increasing cost constraints and hence establishing the real utility and appropriate use of these tests is of vital importance.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome in a pregnant woman with systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report
Authors: Chen Y-J A , Tseng J-J , Yang M-J , Tsao Y-P , Lin H-Y
Published: August 2014

When the disease activity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is controlled appropriately, a pregnant woman who has lupus is able to carry safely to term and deliver a healthy infant. While the physiology of a healthy pregnancy itself influences ventilatory function, acute pulmonary distress may decrease oxygenation and influence both mother and fetus. Though respiratory failure in pregnancy is relatively rare, it remains one of the leading conditions requiring intensive care unit admission in pregnancy and carries a high risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, not to mention the complexity caused by lupus flare. We report a case of SLE complicated with lupus pneumonitis and followed by acute respiratory distress during pregnancy. Though there is a high risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, maternal respiratory function improved after cesarean section and treatment of the underlying causes. The newborn had an extremely low birth weight but was well at discharge.
Comparing creative industries in Europe
Authors: Boix Rafael , Capone Francesco , De Propris Lisa , Lazzeretti Luciana , Sanchez Daniel
Published: August 2014

Creative industries are increasingly understood to contribute to localised innovation and dynamism. This paper provides a methodologically consistent comparison of creative industries across France, Great Britain, Italy and Spain. We map spatial agglomerations of creative activities showing evidence of urban concentration, which for Britain and France coincides with the dominance of capital cities, whilst for Spain and Italy, significant concentrations can also be found in secondary cities. The four countries also differ in the specialisation profiles and in the role played by policy makers. A lack of dove-tailing with the European Union smart agenda is argued to be a cause of concern.
Solution modification of a piezoelectric bimorph cantilever under loads
Authors: Shi Zhifei , Li Jinli , Yao Ruixiang
Published: August 2014

Most of the previous investigations on the static performances of piezoelectric bimorph cantilevers are based on the elementary theory of piezo-elasticity. In fact, one fundamental problem has not been solved yet from the view of the theory of piezo-elasticity, that is, a piezoelectric bimorph cantilever covered fully with electrodes on the upper and lower surfaces and subjected to a transversely concentrated load at the free end of the beam. The major obstacle to find the solution is the equipotential conditions on both the upper and lower surfaces of the cantilever. In this article, by establishing suitable boundary conditions and introducing an appropriate Airy stress function, the analytical solutions of a piezoelectric bimorph cantilever under three different loading conditions have been obtained. Numerical analysis is also conducted and the results are consistent with the present theoretical predictions. This investigation amends the corresponding works given by other investigations based on the elementary theory. It is found that the amendments to the end deflections of a PZT-4 piezoelectric bimorph cantilever caused by an end shear force, an end moment, or a voltage difference between the upper and lower surfaces are about 10.46%, 12.78%, and 3.52%, respectively. In addition, it is also found that these amendments depend just on the material parameters, have nothing to do with the geometric parameters of the bimorph cantilever. The Airy stress function proposed in this article can also be used to study other different piezoelectric cantilevers including multilayer piezoelectric cantilevers under corresponding loads.
Consumer-Operated Service Program Members’ Explanatory Models of Mental Illness and Recovery
Authors: Hoy Janet M.
Published: August 2014

Incorporating individuals’ understandings and explanations of mental illness into service delivery offers benefits relating to increased service relevance and meaning. Existing research delineates explanatory models of mental illness held by individuals in home, outpatient, and hospital-based contexts; research on models held by those in peer-support contexts is notably absent. In this article, I describe themes identified within and across explanatory models of mental illness and recovery held by mental health consumers ( N = 24) at one peer center, referred to as a consumer-operated service center (COSP). Participants held explanatory models inclusive of both developmental stressors and biomedical causes, consistent with a stress–diathesis model (although no participant explicitly referenced such). Explicit incorporation of stress–diathesis constructs into programming at this COSP offers the potential of increasing service meaning and relevance. Identifying and incorporating shared meanings across individuals’ understandings of mental illness likewise can increase relevance and meaning for particular subgroups of service users.
Untangling the Nonrecyclable Citizen
Authors: Vandekinderen Caroline , Roets Griet , Van Hove Geert
Published: August 2014

Over the last decades, international research, policy, and practice in the field of mental health care and a complementary variety of social work and social service delivery methods have been focused on recovery as a dominant concept. Emphasizing the service user’s responsibility appears to be a central component in the empowering process of recovery. Using a critical disability studies perspective, we aimed to untangle the relationship between the individual citizen with mental health problems and the society in which the recovery discourse operates in Belgium. In this article we explore the social dynamics in the unique life story of Jimmy Sax and analyze a diversity of discourses and practices that turned him into a nonrecyclable citizen. While exploring the different modes through which Jimmy’s subjectivity was transformed throughout the course of his life, we expose the convoluted nature of the recovery paradigm, which leads to a reconceptualization of the notion of responsibility in recovery.
When Reality Meets Ideal
Authors: Hagmaier Tamara , Abele Andrea E.
Published: August 2014

The present research investigated the short- and long-term relation between calling and life satisfaction and tested new mechanisms underlying this relation. Based on self-discrepancy theory and the calling model of career success, we assumed that people who are living their calling feel high self-congruence between their actual and ideal self and a high engagement orientation, which, in turn, enhances life satisfaction. In two studies, Study 1 with a cross-sectional design ( N = 235 professionals) and Study 2 with three points of measurement ( N = 248 nurses), we employed structural equation models to test our hypotheses as well as alternative models. Results showed that the realization of one’s calling in the world of employment affects not only a person’s current life satisfaction but also his or her life satisfaction measured 16 weeks later. Further, in both studies, the relation between calling and life satisfaction was mediated by self-congruence and engagement orientation. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Underrepresented First-Generation, Low-Income College Students’ Pursuit of a Graduate Education
Authors: Tate Kevin A. , Fouad Nadya A. , Marks Laura Reid , Young Gary , Guzman Eddie , Williams Eric G.
Published: August 2014

Access to and success in higher education significantly impact occupational stability and mental wellness in the United States, with higher levels of education contributing to increased employability and wellness. Underrepresented first-generation, low-income (UFGLI) college students face particular challenges in attaining higher levels of education, which poses a problem of inequality in their pursuit of educational and career goals. This study investigated the influence of graduate school self-efficacy, self-efficacy for coping with barriers, and family influence on UFGLI students’ pursuit of graduate school. Only one subconstruct of graduate school self-efficacy (research self-efficacy) and family influences (family values) was found to be predictive of students’ pursuit of graduate school. We discuss these findings and provide recommendations for research and practice.
Levels of Soluble TREM-Like Transcript 1 in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department With Chest Pain
Authors: Esponda Omar L. , Hunter Robert , Río José R. Rivera Del , Washington A. Valance
Published: August 2014

Objective:

Recent studies suggest that the soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-like transcript 1 (sTLT-1) facilitate atherothrombosis. Therefore, we evaluated sTLT-1 as a functional measure of atherothrombosis in acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods:

Levels of sTLT-1 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on plasma from patients with potential ACS and compared with an age-matched control group with similar risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Results:

Of 53 patients enrolled, 19 patients were undergoing ACS (15 unstable angina, 2 non–ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction, and 2 ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction), 5 patients were found with noncardiac chest pain, and 29 were in the control group. The mean plasma sTLT-1 values in the ACS group were 4.644 ng/mL ± 1.277 standard error of the mean (SEM), in the noncardiac chest pain group were 0.708 ng/mL ± 0.427 SEM, and in the control group were 1.007 ng/mL ± 0.098 SEM.

Conclusion:

A statistically significant difference exists between patients experiencing cardiogenic chest pain versus controls ( P < .05), suggesting sTLT-1 as a potential tool for understanding atherothrombosis in ACS.
“Something Decent to Wear”
Authors: Blix Bodil Hansen
Published: August 2014

The point of departure for this article is the commitment in Indigenous research to reflect Indigenous contexts and worldviews. Based on an analysis of a story from my research, I argue that Indigenous contexts (rather than being things-unto-themselves that pre-exist description) are complex constructions comprised of social structures, historical events, and cultural meta-narratives that are rendered relevant in local interview contexts by both the interviewees and the interviewers. Such contexts are relevant for the interviewers’ performances as insiders and outsiders in interview situations. I argue that as a consequence of applying a performance perspective to Indigenous research, one must accept that the complex question regarding insiderness and outsiderness cannot be finalized. Rather, the researcher’s identities are performed continuously in every interview situation.
Health at the Intersections of Precarious Documentation Status and Gender-Based Partner Violence
Authors: Parson Nia , Escobar Rebecca , Merced Mariam , Trautwein Anna
Published: August 2014

This article is based on qualitative research investigating Spanish-speaking immigrant women’s experiences of gender-based intimate partner violence (GBPV) and help seeking in New Jersey (2006-2008). Methods included interviews with these women, health care and social service providers, and community members. This article reveals that as many immigrant women live at the intersections of structural, normalized, and gender-based partner violence, integrated social service responses emerge as key health care responses to GBPV. The health impacts of undocumented and precariously documented migration and GBPV demand policy interventions and dedication of resources to address the multi-faceted needs of this population.
Meeting the Public Administration Goals
Authors: Smirnova Olga V.
Published: August 2014

Public policy has multiple trade-offs between equity and efficiency, or liberty and security. This article discusses the emerging empirical evidence that in the case of effectiveness and efficiency, there is certain complementarity. The empirical evidence shows that multiple goals can be achieved simultaneously. In the public transit, there is also certain order to how the goals could be achieved, which requires prioritization of the goals.