bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RRTX: Asymptotically optimal single-query sampling-based motion planning with quick replanning
Authors: Otte Michael , Frazzoli Emilio
Published: September 2015

Dynamic environments have obstacles that unpredictably appear, disappear, or move. We present the first sampling-based replanning algorithm that is asymptotically optimal and single-query (designed for situation in which a priori offline computation is unavailable). Our algorithm, RRTX, refines and repairs the same search-graph over the entire duration of navigation (in contrast to previous single-query replanning algorithms that prune and then regrow some or all of the search-tree). Whenever obstacles change and/or the robot moves, a graph rewiring cascade quickly remodels the existing search-graph and repairs its shortest-path-to-goal sub-tree to reflect the new information. Both graph and tree are built directly in the robot’s state-space; thus, the resulting plan(s) respect the kinematics of the robot and continue to improve during navigation. RRTX is probabilistically complete and makes no distinction between local and global planning, yet it reacts quickly enough for real-time high-speed navigation through unpredictably changing environments. Low information transfer time is essential for enabling RRTX to react quickly in dynamic environments; we prove that the information transfer time required to inform a graph of size n about an ε-cost decrease is O( n log n) for RRTX—faster than other current asymptotically optimal single-query algorithms (we prove RRT* is [Formula: see text] and RRT# is [Formula: see text]( n log2 n)). In static environments RRTX has the same amortized runtime as RRT and RRT*, Θ(log n), and is faster than RRT#, [Formula: see text](log2 n). In order to achieve O(log n) iteration time, each node maintains a set of O(log n) expected neighbors, and the search-graph maintains ε-consistency for a predefined ε. Experiments and simulations confirm our theoretical analysis and demonstrate that RRTX is useful in both static and dynamic environments.
Number As a Primary Perceptual Attribute: A Review
Authors: Anobile Giovanni , Cicchini Guido Marco , Burr David C.
Published: September 2015

Although humans are the only species to possess language-driven abstract mathematical capacities, we share with many other animals a nonverbal capacity for estimating quantities or numerosity. For some time, researchers have clearly differentiated between small numbers of items—less than about four—referred to as the subitizing range, and larger numbers, where counting or estimation is required. In this review, we examine more recent evidence suggesting a further division, between sets of items greater than the subitizing range, but sparse enough to be individuated as single items; and densely packed stimuli, where they crowd each other into what is better considered as a texture. These two different regimes are psychophysically discriminable in that they follow distinct psychophysical laws and show different dependencies on eccentricity and on luminance levels. But provided the elements are not too crowded (less than about two items per square degree in central vision, less in the periphery), there is little evidence that estimation of numerosity depends on mechanisms responsive to texture. The distinction is important, as the ability to discriminate numerosity, but not texture, correlates with formal maths skills.
Abyssal intimacies and temporalities of care: How (not) to care about deformed leaf bugs in the aftermath of Chernobyl
Authors: Schrader Astrid
Published: September 2015

Prompted by a classroom discussion on knowledge politics in the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, this article offers a reading of Hugh Raffles’ Insectopedia entry on Chernobyl. In that entry, Raffles describes how Swiss science-artist and environmental activist Cornelia Hesse-Honegger collects, studies, and paints morphologically deformed leaf bugs that she finds in the proximity of nuclear power plants. In exploring how to begin to care about beings, such as leaf bugs, this article proposes a notion of care that combines an intimate knowledge practice with an ethical relationship to more-than-human others. Jacques Derrida’s notion of ‘abyssal intimacy’ is central to such a combination. Hesse-Honegger’s research practices enact and her paintings depict an ‘abyssal intimacy’ that deconstructs the oppositions between concerns about human suffering and compassion for seemingly irrelevant insects and between knowledge politics and ethics. At the heart of such a careful knowledge production is a fundamental passivity, based on a shared vulnerability. An abyssal intimacy is not something we ought to recognize; rather, it issues from particular practices of care that do not identify their subjects of care in advance. Caring or becoming affected thus entails the dissociation of affection not only from the humanist subject, but also from movements in time: from direct helping action and from the assumption that advocacy necessarily means speaking for an other, usually assumed to be inferior.
Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for PREVention and Acute treatment of chronic cluster headache (PREVA): A randomised controlled study
Authors: Gaul Charly , Diener Hans-Christoph , Silver Nicholas , Magis Delphine , Reuter Uwe , Andersson Annelie , Liebler Eric J , Straube Andreas ,   on behalf of the PREVA Study Group
Published: September 2015

Background

Chronic cluster headache (CH) is a debilitating disorder for which few well-controlled studies demonstrate effectiveness of available therapies. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) was examined as adjunctive prophylactic treatment of chronic CH.

Methods

PREVA was a prospective, open-label, randomised study that compared adjunctive prophylactic nVNS ( n = 48) with standard of care (SoC) alone (control ( n = 49)). A two-week baseline phase was followed by a four-week randomised phase (SoC plus nVNS vs control) and a four-week extension phase (SoC plus nVNS). The primary end point was the reduction in the mean number of CH attacks per week. Response rate, abortive medication use and safety/tolerability were also assessed.

Results

During the randomised phase, individuals in the intent-to-treat population treated with SoC plus nVNS ( n = 45) had a significantly greater reduction in the number of attacks per week vs controls ( n = 48) (−5.9 vs −2.1, respectively) for a mean therapeutic gain of 3.9 fewer attacks per week (95% CI: 0.5, 7.2; p = 0.02). Higher ≥50% response rates were also observed with SoC plus nVNS (40% (18/45)) vs controls (8.3% (4/48); p < 0.001). No serious treatment-related adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

Adjunctive prophylactic nVNS is a well-tolerated novel treatment for chronic CH, offering clinical benefits beyond those with SoC.
The Prevalence of Symptomatic Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Gaskill Trevor , Pullen Michael , Bryant Brandon , Sicignano Nicholas , Evans Amber M. , DeMaio Marlene
Published: September 2015

Background:

Arthroscopically assisted anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common orthopaedic procedure. The incidence and risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after ACL reconstruction remain unclear.

Purpose:

To define the incidence of VTE after ACL reconstruction and identify associated risk factors in a large cohort of patients.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods:

All patients aged ≥18 years who underwent ACL reconstruction between 2005 and 2011 were identified from the Department of Defense Medical Data Repository. The prevalence of VTE, including deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), within 3 months of ACL reconstruction was queried. Univariate analyses were performed to define odds ratios (ORs) for demographic, medication use, and procedural-related risk factors.

Results:

A total of 87 VTE events (0.53% [95% CI, 0.42%-0.65%]) occurred after 16,558 ACL reconstructions performed on 15,767 patients. DVT was documented after 55 procedures and PE after 35 procedures. Three patients were documented to have both DVT and PE within the study period. The odds of VTE increased in patients aged ≥35 years (OR, 1.96 [95% CI, 1.27-3.04]; P = .003). Nicotine history increased the odds of DVT (OR, 1.99 [95% CI, 1.15-3.43]; P = .014). Concomitant high tibial osteotomy (HTO) increased the odds of PE (OR, 18.31 [95% CI, 2.4-139.6]; P = .005), whereas concomitant posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction increased the odds of both VTE (OR, 3.43 [95% CI, 1.07-11.2]; P = .38) and DVT (OR, 5.57 [95% CI, 1.71-18.14]; P = .004). Nonsteroidal drug use was associated with decreased odds for VTE and DVT (OR, 0.44 [95% CI, 0.28-0.70]; P < .001 and OR, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.22-0.69]; P < .001, respectively). Anticoagulants were associated with increased odds for VTE, DVT, and PE (OR, 98.32 [95% CI, 61.63-156.86]; P < .001; OR, 111.93 [95% CI, 63.95-195.92]; P < .001; and OR, 47.84 [95% CI, 22.55-101.52]; P < .001, respectively). No detectible difference in odds was found for sex, body mass index, or aspirin or cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor use.

Conclusion:

The incidence of VTE after ACL reconstruction in this large population was low. Increased odds of VTE was identified in patients aged ≥35 years with a history of nicotine use, anticoagulant use, concomitant HTO, or concomitant PCL reconstruction. Controlled studies are necessary to determine the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis and to develop evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to minimize VTE after ACL reconstruction.
Innovative market-based policy instruments for waste management: A case study on shredder residues in Belgium
Authors: Dubois Maarten , Hoogmartens Rob , Van Passel Steven , Van Acker Karel , Vanderreydt Ive
Published: September 2015

In an increasingly complex waste market, market-based policy instruments, such as disposal taxes, can give incentives for sustainable progress while leaving flexibility for innovation. However, implementation of disposal taxes is often criticised by domestic waste handlers that fear to be outcompeted by competitors in other countries. The article discusses three innovative market-based instruments that limit the impact on international competitiveness: Tradable recycling credits, refunded disposal taxes and differentiated disposal taxes. All three instruments have already been implemented for distinct environmental policies in Europe. In order to illustrate how these instruments can be used for waste policy, the literature review is complemented with a case study on shredder residues from metal-containing waste streams in Belgium. The analysis shows that a conventional disposal tax remains the most efficient, simple and transparent instrument. However, if international competition is a significant issue or if political support is weak, refunded and differentiated disposal taxes can have an added value as second-best instruments. Tradable recycling credits are not an appropriate instrument for use in small waste markets with market power. In addition, refunded taxes create similar incentives, but induce lower transactions costs.
Effects of alkalinity sources on the stability of anaerobic digestion from food waste
Authors: Chen Shujun , Zhang Jishi , Wang Xikui
Published: September 2015

This study investigated the effects of some alkalinity sources on the stability of anaerobic digestion (AD) from food waste (FW). Four alkalinity sources, namely lime mud from papermaking (LMP), waste eggshell (WES), CaCO3 and NaHCO3, were applied as buffer materials and their stability effects were evaluated in batch AD. The results showed that LMP and CaCO3 had more remarkable effects than NaHCO3 and WES on FW stabilization. The methane yields were 120.2, 197.0, 156.2, 251.0 and 194.8 ml g−1 VS for the control and synergistic digestions of CaCO3, NaHCO3, LMP and WES added into FW, respectively. The corresponding final alkalinity reached 5906, 7307, 9504, 7820 and 6782 mg l−1, while the final acidities were determined to be 501, 200, 50, 350 and 250 mg l−1, respectively. This indicated that the synergism between alkalinity and inorganic micronutrients from different alkalinity sources played an important role in the process stability of AD from FW.
Sources of Support for Immigration Restriction
Authors: Shin Heeju , Leal David L. , Ellison Christopher G.
Published: September 2015

Are attitudes toward Latinos associated with public views of immigration policies more generally? In this study, we examine whether measures of derogation, disrespect, and discomfort toward Latinos shape support for restrictive immigration policies. We analyze the opinions of Anglo (non-Hispanic White) and African American respondents from the 2000 National Opinion Research Center (NORC) General Social Survey (GSS), which contained a special module on ethnicity and diversity issues. Our findings reveal that prejudicial attitudes toward Latinos (as measured by the derogation, disrespect, and discomfort variables) are the most consistently significant factors in shaping opinions about the number of immigrants to admit and the consequences of immigration. However, individual-level economic factors and group threat measures are insignificant. In addition, personal contact with Latinos is insignificant in the models. This study suggests that support for immigration restrictions stems in large measure from a common source: negativity toward Latinos. Policy opinions are therefore not solely shaped by evaluations of policy qua policy but also by attitudes toward the group most commonly associated with immigration.
The Influence of Microdeletions and Microduplications of 16p11.2 on Global Transcription Profiles
Authors: Kusenda Mary , Vacic Vladimir , Malhotra Dheeraj , Rodgers Linda , Pavon Kevin , Meth Jennifer , Kumar Ravinesh A. , Christian Susan L. , Peeters Hilde , Cho Shawn S. , Addington Anjene , Rapoport Judith L. , Sebat Jonathan
Published: September 2015

Copy number variants (CNVs) of a 600 kb region on 16p11.2 are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and changes in brain volume. The authors hypothesize that abnormal brain development associated with this CNV can be attributed to changes in transcriptional regulation. The authors determined the effects of 16p11.2 dosage on gene expression by transcription profiling of lymphoblast cell lines derived from 6 microdeletion carriers, 15 microduplication carriers and 15 controls. Gene dosage had a significant influence on the transcript abundance of a majority (20/34) of genes within the CNV region. In addition, a limited number of genes were dysregulated in trans. Genes most strongly correlated with patient head circumference included SULT1A, KCTD13, and TMEM242. Given the modest effect of 16p11.2 copy number on global transcriptional regulation in lymphocytes, larger studies utilizing neuronal cell types may be needed in order to elucidate the signaling pathways that influence brain development in this genetic disorder.
Coach Expectations About Off-Field Conduct and Bystander Intervention by U.S. College Football Players to Prevent Inappropriate Sexual Behavior
Authors: Kroshus Emily , Paskus Tom , Bell Lydia
Published: September 2015

The objective of the present study was to assess whether there is a positive association between expectations about off-field conduct set by the team coach and the likelihood that college football players intend to engage as prosocial bystanders in the prevention of what they consider to be inappropriate sexual behavior. In a sample of U.S. collegiate football players ( N = 3,281), a path analysis model tested the association between coach expectations, perceived likelihood of discipline for off-field transgressions, and likelihood of intending to intervene to prevent inappropriate sexual behavior. Mediation of these relationships by the athlete’s sense of exploitative entitlement and their attitudes about intervening were also assessed. Findings supported the hypothesized relationships, with expectations and discipline associated with bystander intentions both directly and indirectly through the mediating pathways of entitlement and attitudes about intervening. These findings provide evidence about the important role that sports team coaches can play in encouraging bystander intervention by clarifying expectations and consequences for conduct off the field of play. Athletic departments can provide a framework within which coaches are informed about the importance of setting and enforcing standards for off-field behavior, and are appropriately incentivized to do so.
Sex, Parental Incarceration, and Violence Perpetration Among a Sample of Young Adults
Authors: Muftić Lisa R. , Smith Molly
Published: September 2015

Limited attention has been directed at adult children with a history of parental incarceration. The goal of the current study is to expand our understanding of the gendered effects of imprisonment on the adult offspring of incarcerated parents through the exploration of violence perpetration among a sample of young adults. Congruent with problem behavior theory, it is hypothesized that young adults who have been affected by parental incarceration will report greater aversive outcomes (i.e., more risk factors and violence perpetration) than their peers without a history of parental incarceration. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that parental incarceration predicts violent perpetration even after controlling for individual and familial risk factors and demographic characteristics. A series of bivariate and multivariate statistical models utilizing self-report data from 534 college students were generated to test said hypotheses. In addition, the moderating effects of students’ sex and exposure to parental incarceration on the relationship between violence perpetration and risk factors were explored through the utilization of split logistic regression models. Roughly 1 in 10 (13.3%) students surveyed had experienced parental incarceration. As expected, students affected by parental incarceration were significantly more likely to perpetrate violence than their peers not affected by parental incarceration, net individual and familial risk. Although only a small percentage of students had experienced the imprisonment of a parent, parental incarceration predicted violence perpetration in young adulthood. These findings highlight the need to explore the long-lasting effects of parental incarceration on prisoners’ offspring across the life course.
Diagnostic Validity and Factor Analysis of Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale in Parkinson Disease Population
Authors: Ketharanathan Tharini , Hanwella Raveen , Weerasundera Rajiv , de Silva Varuni Asanka
Published: September 2015

Background:

The Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) is commonly used to assess major depression in Parkinson disease (PD), but studies on its utility are few. This study examines the validity and factor structure of MADRS in population with PD.

Methods:

In 104 patients with idiopathic PD, major depression was diagnosed by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, Text Revision; DSM-IV-TR) criteria, and all patients were rated by MADRS.

Results:

The MADRS showed good concurrent validity with DSM-IV-TR criteria. The diagnostic cutoff was established as 16/17 (sensitivity 97.43, specificity 100%, positive predictive value 100%, and negative predictive value 98.48%). Factor analysis identified 3 factors, accounting for 76% of total variance: “sadness-anhedonia” comprising apparent sadness, reported sadness, concentration difficulties, lassitude, inability to feel, pessimistic thoughts, and suicidal ideas; “anxiety” with reduced sleep and inner tension; and “vegetative symptoms” with reduced appetite.

Conclusion:

The MADRS has diagnostic utility in major depression in PD. The 3-factor structure of MADRS may help to understand the different dimensions of major depression and identify distinct symptom subgroups in this population.
Development of carbon fibre/polyamide 6,6 commingled hybrid yarn for textile-reinforced thermoplastic composites
Authors: Hasan MMB , Staiger E , Ashir M , Cherif C
Published: September 2015

With increased use of carbon fibre (CF)-based textile-reinforced thermoplastic composites, the demand of hybrid yarns consisting of carbon filament yarns (CFYs) and thermoplastic filament yarns with improved properties is also high. Hybrid yarn manufacturing using commingling process by means of compressed air shows some distinct advantages over other hybrid yarn manufacturing processes. However, the potential of commingling process for the production of CF-based thermoplastic hybrid yarns is not yet fully explored. In this article, extensive investigations have been carried out for the development of commingled hybrid yarns manufactured from CFY and polyamide 6,6 (PA 6,6) filament yarns with improved adhesion properties between CFY and matrix in composites. Hybrid yarns are manufactured by varying air pressure and keeping overfeeds and delivery speed constant. Moreover, an additional heat treatment on CFY is done online for a better opening of CFY prior to the mixing with PA 6,6 filament yarn. The tensile properties of hybrid yarns as well as different mechanical properties of unidirectional composite, such as tensile, flexural, impact and interlaminar shear strength are investigated. The results show good potential for the development of hybrid yarns produced from CFY and thermoplastic filament yarns with improved adhesion properties for their application in textile-reinforced thermoplastic composites.
The Science of Unitary Human Beings in a Creative Perspective
Authors: Caratao-Mojica Rhea
Published: September 2015

In moving into a new kind of world, nurses are encouraged to look ahead and be innovative by transcending to new ways of using nursing knowledge while embracing a new worldview. “We need to recognize that we’re going to have to use our imagination more and more” (Rogers, 1994). On that note, the author in this paper explicates Rogers’ science of unitary human beings in a creative way relating it to painting. In addition, the author also explores works derived from Rogers’ science such as Butcher’s (1993) and Cowling’s (1997), which are here discussed in light of an artwork. A painting is presented with the unpredictability, creativity, and the “dance of color and light” (Butcher, 1993) is appreciated through comprehending essence, pandimensionality, and wholeness.
The Nordic Tradition of Caring Science
Authors: Arman Maria , Ranheim Albertine , Rydenlund Kenneth , Rytterström Patrik , Rehnsfeldt Arne
Published: September 2015

The Nordic tradition of caring science has had a significant influence on healthcare research, healthcare education and clinical development in the Nordic countries from 1990 to the present. Theoretical contributions from the professors and scientists Katie Eriksson, Kari Martinsen and Karin Dahlberg form the basis for this paper. The tradition has established a paradigm of ethics, ontology and epistemology for the caring science domain. Short introductions present the scientific background of Eriksson, Martinsen, and Dahlberg, and show how interpretive teamwork has led to the formation of an intertwining of the essential qualities of the theories. The synthesis emphasizes caring science as a human science, and views caring as a natural phenomenon where the patient’s world, vulnerability, health, and suffering are primary. In the art and act of caring, relationships and dialogue are essential; they provide parameters where caring becomes visible in its absence.
Camp Hope
Authors: Delis Pamela Coombs , Leger Robin R. , Longton Fran , Chandler David Lynn
Published: September 2015

This article is about Camp Hope, a two-week summer day program for children age 6-12 from low income families and violent neighborhoods and for children who are struggling academically or identified as having behavioral health issues. The camp is operated by House of Peace and Education (HOPE) a 501(c)(3) nonprofit company that began in 1996. The program is designed to offer enrichment activities in a caring community for young children. The theoretical framework behind the vision and policies is Parse’s humanbecoming paradigm. In particular, the camp administrators and staff try to see all persons as co-creating of their everchanging humanuniverse process.
Freedom
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: September 2015

The idea of freedom as a promise of possibility is explored in this column. The core concepts from a research study on considering tomorrow (Bunkers, 1998) coupled with humanbecoming community change processes (Parse, 2003) are used to illuminate this notion. The importance of intentionality in human freedom is discussed from both a human science and a natural science perspective.
Evolution of Nursing Science
Authors: Clarke Pamela N. , Garcia Jenny
Published: September 2015

The open access movement where journal content is made freely available over the Internet is purported to increase scientific exchange, yet has pros and cons. There are issues related to quality that need to be examined in relation to evolution of nursing science.
Leading-Following Perspectives
Authors: McBride Angela Barron
Published: September 2015

When I think of my own leadership journey, I credit philosopher Simone De Beauvoir with having shaped my thinking in fundamental ways. Not only did her groundbreaking book The Second Sex (1952) provide the theoretical underpinnings for my book The Growth and Development of Mothers (1973), the first well-regarded analysis of motherhood in light of the women’s movement, but her critique of masculine-feminine universals has proven useful in a continuing way to my development as a leader. She was the first person I read to question the notion that the man is destined to be the head of the family and the woman the heart. Her reflections on how this kind of dualistic thinking gets in the way of fully realizing one’s potential got me to thinking early in my career about nurse leadership (McBride, 1972).
Evaluating Long-Term Care Through the Humanbecoming Lens
Authors: Hart Judith D.
Published: September 2015

The author describes evaluating long-term care from the humanbecoming perspective. Three core ideas are presented related to dignity and living quality, and how the humanbecoming perspective can be incorporated into long-term care evaluations that make a difference to the residents, caregivers, management, and to the outcomes of long-term care. This approach from the humanbecoming perspective can enrich evaluative information, influence long-term care outcomes, and ensure human dignity for all concerned.
The ontological practices of child culture
Authors: Sparrman Anna , Samuelsson Tobias , Lindgren Anne-Li , Cardell David
Published: September 2015

This article asks questions about the ontology of child culture. It aims to position the concept of child culture at the forefront of theoretical research without creating a ‘true’ or singular definition of the concept. It is rather a conceptual exploration of partial consistencies of child culture in and through practices. The focus of the analyses is on five institutional cultural practices created for children: two children’s museums, a science centre, a theme park and an amusement park. A cross-analysis of these practices provides the empirical material for proposing the notion of ‘child culture multiple’.
The land is my school: Children, history, and the environment in the Canadian province of British Columbia
Authors: Díaz-Díaz Claudia , Gleason Mona
Published: September 2015

This article explores archival letters written by children and their parents to the Elementary Correspondence School in the Canadian province of British Columbia in the early 20th century. Parents, anxious for their children to be formally educated, expressed concern about their remote location in rugged parts of the province. Children focused their letter writing on their informal learning with, and on, the land. This history invites adults to recognize the varieties of ways that children, on their own terms, connect with the natural environment.
Integrating core concepts from the institutional analysis and development framework for the systematic analysis of policy designs: An illustration from the US National Organic Program regulation
Authors: Carter David P , Weible Christopher M , Siddiki Saba N , Basurto Xavier
Published: September 2015

Public policies are structured by policy designs that communicate the key elements, linkages, and underlying logic through which policy objectives are to be realized. This paper operationalizes and integrates core concepts from the institutional analysis and development framework, including the institutional grammar, the rule typology, action situations, and levels of decision making, to provide a systematic approach for analyzing policy designs. The approach is illustrated through an application to the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program regulation, which outlines an unusual semi-voluntary regulatory program that relies on independent third-party organizations for Program administration. The conclusion identifies opportunities and a research agenda for the institutional analysis of policy designs.
Estimation of the inertial parameters of vehicles with electric propulsion
Authors: Albinsson Anton , Bruzelius Fredrik , Pettersson Pierre , Jonasson Mats , Jacobson Bengt
Published: September 2015

More accurate information about the basic vehicle parameters can improve the dynamic control functions of a vehicle. Methods for online estimation of the mass, the rolling resistance, the aerodynamic drag coefficient, the yaw inertia and the longitudinal position of the centre of gravity of an electric hybrid vehicle is therefore proposed. The estimators use the standard vehicle sensor set and the estimate of the electric motor torque. No additional sensors are hence required and no assumptions are made regarding the tyre or the vehicle characteristics. Consequently, all information about the vehicle is available to the estimator. The estimators are evaluated using both simulations and experiments. Estimations of the mass, the rolling resistance and the aerodynamic drag coefficient are based on a recursive least-squares method with multiple forgetting factors. The mass estimate converged to within 3% of the measured vehicle mass for the test cases with sufficient excitation that were evaluated. Two methods to estimate the longitudinal position of the centre of gravity and the yaw inertia are also proposed. The first method is based on the equations of motion and was found to be sensitive to the measurement and parameter errors. The second method is based on the estimated mass and seat-belt indicators. This estimator is more robust and reduces the estimation error in comparison with that obtained by assuming static parameters. The results show that the proposed method improves the estimations of the inertial parameters. Hence, it enables online non-linear tyre force estimators and tyre-model-based tyre–road friction estimators to be used in production vehicles.
Antiphospholipid antibody-mediated effects in an arterial model of thrombosis are dependent on Toll-like receptor 4
Authors: Laplante P , Fuentes R , Salem D , Subang R , Gillis M-A , Hachem A , Farhat N , Qureshi S T , Fletcher C A , Roubey R A S , Merhi Y , Thorin É , Levine J S , Mackman N , Rauch J
Published: September 2015

Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) produce antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and develop vascular thrombosis that may occur in large or small vessels in the arterial or venous beds. On the other hand, many individuals produce aPL and yet never develop thrombotic events. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) appears to be necessary for aPL-mediated prothrombotic effects in venous and microvascular models of thrombosis, but its role in arterial thrombosis has not been studied. Here, we propose that aPL alone are insufficient to cause thrombotic events in an arterial model of APS, and that a concomitant trigger of innate immunity (e.g. TLR4 activation) is required. We show specifically that anti-β2-glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI) antibodies, a subset of aPL, accelerated thrombus formation in C57BL/6 wild-type, but not TLR4-deficient, mice in a ferric chloride-induced carotid artery injury model. These aPL bound to arterial and venous endothelial cells, particularly in the presence of β2GPI, and to human TLR4 by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Arterial endothelium from aPL-treated mice had enhanced leukocyte adhesion, compared to control IgG-treated mice. In addition, aPL treatment of mice enhanced expression of tissue factor (TF) in leukocytes induced by the TLR4 ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS). aPL also enhanced LPS-induced TF expression in human leukocytes in vitro. Our findings support a mechanism in which aPL enhance TF expression by leukocytes, as well as augment adhesion of leukocytes to the arterial endothelium. The activation of TLR4 in aPL-positive individuals may be required to trigger thrombotic events.
Defining dignity in end-of-life care in the emergency department
Authors: Fernández-Sola Cayetano , Cortés María Mar Díaz , Hernández-Padilla José Manuel , Torres Cayetano José Aranda , Terrón José María Muñoz , Granero-Molina José
Published: September 2015

Background:

Respecting dignity is having a profound effect on the clinical relationship and the care framework for terminally ill patients in palliative care units, hospices and their own homes, with particular consequences for the emergency department. However, dignity is a vague and multifaceted concept that is difficult to measure.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to define the attributes of dignity in end-of-life care in the emergency department, based on the opinions of physicians and nurses.

Research design:

A hermeneutic phenomenological approach utilising Gadamer's philosophical underpinnings guided the study.

Participants and research context:

This research was conducted in Spain in 2013–2014. Participants included 10 physicians and 16 nurses with experience working in the emergency department. Two focus groups and 12 in-depth interviews were carried out.

Ethical considerations:

The study was approved by the Research Centre Ethical Committee (Andalusian Health Service, Spain).

Findings:

The results point to the person's inherent value, socio-environmental conditions and conscious actions/attitudes as attributes of dignity when caring for a dying patient in the emergency department.

Discussion:

Dying with dignity is a basic objective in end-of-life care and is an ambiguous but relevant concept for physicians and nurses. In line with our theoretical framework, our results highlight care environment, professional actions and socio-family context as attributes of dignity.

Conclusion:

Quality care in the emergency department includes paying attention to the dignity of people in the process of death. The dignity in the care of a dying person in the emergency department is defined by acknowledging the inherent value in each person, socio-environmental conditions and social and individual acceptance of death. Addressing these questions has significant repercussions for health professionals, especially nurses.
Truth Telling as an Element of Culturally Competent Care at End of Life
Authors: Rising Margaret L.
Published: September 2015

Purpose: Nondisclosure of terminal prognosis in the context of intercultural interactions can cause moral distress among health care providers guided exclusively by informed consent. However, cultural humility can show that revealing and withholding prognostic information are two equally valid paths to the goal of protecting the patient from harm. Design: Assumptions and history giving rise to the preference for truth telling in the United States(US) are examined. Principles of biomedical ethics are described within the context of US, Chinese, and Latin American cultures. The process of cultural competence in the delivery of health care services is explained and introduces the concept of cultural humility. Implications for Practice: By focusing more on biases and assumptions brought forth from the dominant culture, health care providers may experience less moral distress and convey increased caring in the context of intercultural interactions and nondisclosure of prognosis of a terminal illness.
Diverse Work Groups and Employee Performance
Authors: Zhang Yan , Huai Ming-Yun
Published: September 2015

This study is a report of an investigation of group diversity—particularly informational diversity and social diversity—revealing its effects on individual performance through communication ties. Two studies, one using 127 groups of employees from six firms and another using 104 groups of part-time students from a training program, demonstrate that informational diversity affects individual task and creative performance through communication ties, whereas social diversity does not. Future research and practical implications are discussed.
Social Work Science and Knowledge Utilization
Authors: Marsh Jeanne C. , Reed Martena
Published: September 2015

Objective:

This article advances understanding of social work science by examining the content and methods of highly utilized or cited journal articles in social work.

Methods:

A data base of the 100 most frequently cited articles from 79 social work journals was coded and categorized into three primary domains: content, research versus nonresearch, and, for research articles only, method used.

Results:

Findings show that knowledge utilization occurs on a conceptual level (related to professional developments, theory, and service needs of specific populations) as well as an instrumental level (such as related to intervention effectiveness). Fifty-one percent of highly cited articles were empirical and, of these, 33% relied on descriptive methods, 45% on explanatory methods, and 22% on control methods used primarily to study intervention effectiveness.

Conclusion:

Operationalizing the utilization of scientific knowledge in terms of the demand for specific journal articles reveals the content and methodological domains that characterize extant social work science. Six strategies in research, practice, and education are proposed to advance the further development of social work science.
Psychological Interventions to Facilitate Employment Outcomes for Cancer Survivors
Authors: Fong Carlton J. , Murphy Kathleen M. , Westbrook John D. , Markle Minda M.
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

The objective was to examine experimental and quasi-experimental studies about interventions that (i) included behavioral, psychological, educational, or vocational components; (ii) involved cancer survivors aged 18 years or older; and (iii) assessed employment outcomes.

Methods:

The aims were both to describe the variety of interventions that have been studied using rigorous methods and to estimate intervention effects using systematic review and meta-analysis methodologies.

Results:

We found 12 studies evaluating the effects of psychosocial interventions on the employment of cancer survivors ( N = 2,151). Overall, there were positive effects on employment status but no evidence of an effect on hours worked and sick leave.

Discussion:

Despite the positive effect of psychosocial interventions, methodological shortcomings of the included studies overall make it likely that there was bias in the results and too few studies to provide sufficient evidence to recommend particular practices. This review brings attention to the need for additional rigorous studies.
A regularized Miner’s rule for fatigue reliability analysis with Mittag-Leffler statistics
Authors: Liang Yingjie , Chen Wen
Published: September 2015

This paper aims to develop a regularized Miner’s rule to assess the fatigue reliability of composites in conjunction with the Mittag-Leffler Monte Carlo method. The proposed strategy is validated by analyzing experimental data to investigate the fatigue reliability of carbon fiber/epoxy composites under different stress amplitudes. The estimated results are feasible for preliminary analysis at the design stage. The regularized Miner’s rule, a scale transform of fatigue life simulations, accurately describes the damage accumulation rate. It is stressed that the Mittag-Leffler Monte Carlo method is mathematically simple and easy-to-program for researchers and nonexpert engineers.
Gender Targeting in Political Advertisements
Authors: Holman Mirya R. , Schneider Monica C. , Pondel Kristin
Published: September 2015

Campaigns invoke identity appeals to specific groups of voters, including women. To understand whether these campaign appeals matter in affecting voters’ choices, we must better understand how women respond to these appeals, the causal mechanism driving responses, and whether male and female candidates can use these ads with equal effectiveness. Using a nationally representative sample of American voters and an experimental design, we test an identity-based appeal aimed at women. We find that, although candidates of either gender can use these ads to affect women’s votes, only female candidates are able to prime female voters’ gender identity. The use of these appeals by male candidates persuades female voters of their positive traits. Male voters are generally unaffected by the appeals. Given the integration of women and men in the general population, our results demonstrate the utility of targeted appeals in encouraging support from a specific group and avoiding backlash from others.
Psychometric Properties of the Spanish PID-5 in a Clinical and a Community Sample
Authors: Gutiérrez Fernando , Aluja Antón , Peri Josep M. , Calvo Natalia , Ferrer Marc , Baillés Eva , Gutiérrez-Zotes Jose Alfonso , Gárriz Miguel , Caseras Xavier , Markon Kristian E. , Krueger Robert F.
Published: September 2015

The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5) measures the trait part (Criterion B) of the alternative model for personality disorders proposed in Section III of DSM-5. Although its psychometric properties have proven adequate thus far, evidence is limited in other languages and in clinical samples. The Spanish PID-5 was examined in two samples comprising 446 clinical and 1,036 community subjects. Facet scales showed good internal consistency in both samples (median α = .86 and .79) and were unidimensional under exploratory and confirmatory approaches. They were also able to distinguish between clinical and community subjects with a mean standardized difference of z = 0.81. All facets except for Risk Taking were unipolar, such that the upper poles indicated pathology and the lower poles reflected normality, rather than the opposite pole of abnormality. The entire PID-5 hierarchical structure, from one to five factors, was confirmed in both samples with Tucker’s congruence coefficients over .95.
Meeting the Needs of Students With 2e
Authors: Coleman Mary Ruth , Gallagher Shelagh
Published: September 2015

The provision of flexible, multidimensional, customized supports and services for a twice-exceptional (2e) child requires a system of education that is capable of dynamic and personalized interventions that respond to a 2e student’s learning strengths and challenges. We believe that this kind of educational response entails more than an excellent individual teacher . . . it takes a team.
Twice-Exceptional Learners
Authors: Baldwin Lois , Baum Susan , Pereles Daphne , Hughes Claire
Published: September 2015

For more than 50 years, the unique needs of twice-exceptional (2e) learners have challenged educators. Because of this challenge, much work has been done in different areas across the country in creating appropriate learning environments for serving this population. However, no unified way has been developed to bring together the best research and thinking regarding practice. Most importantly, no one definition has been embraced by both researchers and practitioners. To address this issue, professional organizations and specialists in the field of twice-exceptionality formed a Community of Practice and a new definition was created. This definition and how it can be used to move the field forward is presented.
Into the Wilderness . . .
Authors: Nielsen M. Elizabeth , Higgins L. Dennis
Published: September 2015

This article describes the importance that having a clear definition and clear guidelines associated with gifted children with disabilities will have for parents, educators, and legislators.
Making It Real
Authors: Brownstein Beth
Published: September 2015

This is a personal story of a twice-exceptional high school student.
Elementary Teacher’s Role
Authors: Fry Tamara
Published: September 2015

As a recent college graduate with my bachelor’s and master’s degrees completed within the last 2 years, I am currently in my first full year of teaching. My first experience working with a twice-exceptional student was during my college practicum, and it was that student who changed my whole outlook on teaching.
Voices From the Field
Authors: King Emily W. , Schanding Thomas , Elmore Gail
Published: September 2015

As school psychologists, educators and parents most often approach us with questions relating to a concern. We have the privilege of serving students in their natural learning environment where skills and behaviors can be observed and analyzed, where interventions can be created and tested, and, hopefully, where a positive change can be made within a student’s school day. However, we must also balance our ideas for intervention with education laws requiring us to determine that an evaluation is necessary or an intervention is appropriate. It is when working with students who are twice exceptional (2e) that we must advocate the most for examining the whole child. Therefore, we have set out to share our experiences as school psychologists and offer reflections on working with and expanding support for the 2e population.
Voices From the Field
Authors: Foley-Nicpon Megan
Published: September 2015

As a licensed psychologist, educator, and researcher, my primary focus is on twice-exceptional individuals. I am interested in identifying their multifaceted needs, both in their talent domains and areas for growth, and in disseminating research-based intervention strategies that help them reach their full potential. As a psychologist, this focus manifests itself in providing comprehensive assessment, consultation, and therapy services; as an educator, in training future psychologists to understand and best work with this population; and as a researcher, in creating and critiquing the research basis for the other two domains. I truly believe we, as parents, educators, and psychologists, need to become better equipped to understand twice-exceptional students’ individual differences. We need to set them up for success instead of letting them fall through the cracks.
The Principal
Authors: Fahey Julie
Published: September 2015

An administrator of an elementary school shares her experience with students exhibiting signs of twice-exceptionality.
Thinking Big When Funding Is Local
Authors: Weinreich David
Published: September 2015

Insufficient federal transportation funds have forced counties and cities to propose local taxes to fund new transportation, meaning poor coordination across jurisdictions. This article examines similar taxes conducted multi-jurisdictionally as a potential solution. This study uses archival evidence, legal statutes, and interviews to understand how a seven-county Bay Area proposal was put together, and how this process compared with what is known about local option tax processes. It concludes that this multi-jurisdictional funding measure shared a similar process to single-county ones, but lacked blanket authorization for a regional agency to place the proposal on the ballot, which made the process overly dependent on a single well-connected politician to put it together. This makes it hard to propose a regional process with great frequency, and gives the politician great influence over the projects selected. The study concludes with recommendations to facilitate institutionalization and greater use of multi-jurisdictional funding mechanisms.