bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Realizing collaborative systems design for missile seekers by combining design margin analysis with multi-disciplinary optimization
Authors: Cross Patrick L , Mulford Mike
Published: June 2015

Collaborative design is a recursive process, wherein multiple engineering disciplines iteratively pursue targeted goals. The collaborative process mandates the sharing of information, enabling performance assessments for negotiation of requirement trade-offs. A layered architecture supports collaboration across the missile’s subsystems allowing for optimization of critical product parameters. The multi-disciplinary optimization expedites trades between performance and product resources such as mission performance, system cost, computational throughput, and memory capacity. We propose an innovative process for missile design using collaborative system design margin analysis with multi-disciplinary optimization. A core principle of design margin analysis is the disciplined allocation of performance margins to critical parameters at the system level. This paradigm assures consistent performance and reliability while optimizing key metrics, especially cost. Critical to attaining that core principle is the ready access and traceability of all critical parameters at each subsystem level and for all hardware, software, and firmware components. Additionally, the collaborative system design margin analysis with multi-disciplinary optimization framework analyzes and re-allocates design margins to optimize performance parameters in a collaborate manner. This article proposes to demonstrate engineering methods for rigorous evaluation and effective communication of system performance between design disciplines. Communication begins with consistent terminology throughout the design process. Our demonstration will consist of two focus areas: reliable performance measurement and robust design evaluation. Specifically, the article will show collaborative system design margin analysis with multi-disciplinary optimization effectivity using signal processing examples. Prior robust design methodologies by Taguchi in conjunction with a common view of system performance lay a framework for collaborative design margin with a constrained optimization approach. Each critical engineering decision is viewed with a perspective of overall system performance, quality, and cost. The following design trades are used for demonstration; probability of target acquisition, as a function of seeker complexity and target classification capability; signal processing distortion, as a function of computational complexity; and using phase noise margin to optimize the signal processing electronics. Currently, the authors have developed a collaborative design infrastructure to demonstrate collaborative system design margin analysis with multi-disciplinary optimization principles and their efficacy. The analyses and trade results of each of the design examples will highlight design options with acceptable performance as a function of applicable resources.
Comparison of Neurological and Cognitive Deficits in Children With ADHD and Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Yurtbaşı Pınar , Aldemir Seçil , Teksin Bakır Meryem Gül , Aktaş Şule , Ayvaz Fatma Betül , Piştav Satılmış Şeyma , Münir Kerim
Published: June 2015

Objective:To compare the neuro-cognitive profiles among initial clinic referred medication naive sample of children with anxiety disorders (ANXs) and ADHD in a youth sample. Method: Three groups of patients, ANX ( n = 40), ADHD ( n = 48), and ANX + ADHD ( n = 33), aged 7 to 12 years, were compared with respect to their Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs (PANESS) and cognitive measures (digit span, digit symbol, Trail Making Test [TMT]-A and TMT-B, Stroop test). Results: ADHD group performed worse than the other two groups with regard to soft signs and cognitive test performance; ANX + ADHD were impaired relative to ANX but better than ADHD. Significant differences were found for gait and station problems, overflows and timed movements, TMT error points, and Stroop interference scores. ADHD patients had more difficulty in warding off irrelevant responses and lower speed of time-limited movements. Conclusion: This clinical evaluation study suggested that ANX and ADHD seem to have significantly different neuro-cognitive features: Poorest outcomes were observed among children with ADHD; rather than problems of attention, inhibitory control deficits were the most prominent differences between ANX and ADHD; and the presence of ANX appears to have mitigating effect on ADHD-related impairments.
Plasma Leptin, Adiponectin, Neuropeptide Y Levels in Drug Naive Children With ADHD
Authors: Özcan Özlem , Arslan Müjgan , Güngör Serdal , Yüksel Tuğba , Selimoğlu Mukadder Ayşe
Published: June 2015

Objective: ADHD is one of the most common childhood psychiatric disorders. Research indicates that there is some link between obesity/overweight and ADHD, though the mechanism of this association remains uncertain. It is the aim of the present study to explore the association between ADHD, obesity, and plasma leptin, neuropeptide Y (NPY), and adiponectin levels. Method: Thirty-six patients diagnosed with ADHD were included in the study. The control group consisted of 40 healthy children and adolescents who had similar age and gender features with the patient group. Plasma leptin, adiponectin, NPY levels were measured, and body mass index (BMI), weight for height, and standard deviation scores (SDS) of height, weight, and BMI were calculated. Results: No significant difference was found between patients and healthy children in terms of BMI and BMI percentile. Participants were classified into three groups according to their weight to height values. There was no significant difference between the two groups, but 10% of the control group and 30.6% of the ADHD group were classified as overweight, which was 3 times higher than the control group. The adiponectin plasma level was significantly lower and leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio was significantly higher in the ADHD group. There was no significant difference between serum NPY levels. In the ADHD group, the mean leptin plasma level was high, but was not statistically significant. Conclusion: We think that a low adiponectin level and high L/A ratio may be the underlying mechanism of the obesity in ADHD patients.
Men’s Emotions
Authors: Holmes Mary
Published: June 2015

This article focuses on the underresearched topic of how masculinity relates to emotional forms of caring within heterosexual relationships. Both scholarly and common sense thinking, often present heterosexual male partners as unable and/or unwilling to do emotion work, leaving women burdened with this task. However, contemporary relational complexity increasingly requires emotional reflexivity. Such reflexivity entails interpretations of one’s own and others’ emotions, and acting in light of those interpretations. The question here is to what extent and how that emotional reflexivity might effect a reshaping of heteromasculinity toward more caring forms of emotionality? Drawing on interviews with heterosexual couples in distance relationships, it is argued that emotional reflexivity may produce a variety of ways of relationally gendering emotions. Those who seem to adhere to ideas of men as emotionally restricted may claim tactile forms of emotional expression. However, there may be limitations to these forms in certain circumstances, and this may prompt a reflexive reorientation of heteromasculine emotionalities toward more verbal forms of support. The point of seeking to illustrate that masculinity and emotionality are open to such reflexive shifts is to debunk essentialist views of gendered emotionality which undermine efforts to achieve greater gender equality in intimate life.
Bros before Ho(mo)s
Authors: Brook Heather
Published: June 2015

This article considers whether mainstream Hollywood “bromance” movies offer potential for sex/gender transgression and/or progressive representations of masculinity. Bromances resemble the heavily feminized genre of romantic comedy (or “rom-coms”) except that the action centers on male friendships rather than heterosexual romance. On the surface, at least, bromances promise opportunities for gender subversion and seem to offer richly heterodoxical possibilities. Using The Hangover (2009), Wedding Crashers (2005), and I Love You, Man (2009) as examples of mainstream bromance, this article argues that while it is possible to observe crevices in the representation of monolithically heteronormative masculinity in each of these films, their subversive potential is decidedly limited. These limitations suggest that while considering heterodox masculinities in bromantic movies may be productive, heterodoxies are complex and, perhaps, even contradictory. While the concept of heterodoxy seems to have potentially exciting applications in masculinity studies, this articles argues for care and caution in its adoption.
Can the Accountable Care Organization model facilitate integrated care in England?
Authors: Ahmed Faheem , Mays Nicholas , Ahmed Naeem , Bisognano Maureen , Gottlieb Gary
Published: June 2015

Following the global economic recession, health care systems have experienced intense political pressure to contain costs without compromising quality. One response is to focus on improving the continuity and coordination of care, which is seen as beneficial for both patients and providers. However, cultural and structural barriers have proved difficult to overcome in the quest to provide integrated care for entire populations. By holding groups of providers responsible for the health outcomes of a designated population, in the United States, Accountable Care Organizations are regarded as having the potential to foster collaboration across the continuum of care. They could have a similar role in England’s National Health Service. However, it is important to consider the difference in context before implementing a similar model, adapted to suit the system’s strengths. Working together, general practice federations and the Academic Health Science Networks could form the basis of accountable care in England.
Family caregiving for adults with sickle cell disease and extremely high hospital use
Authors: Brown Shan-Estelle , Weisberg Daniel F , Sledge William H
Published: June 2015

This study investigated coping with chronic illness in the adult patient–caregiver relationship for sickle cell disease, marked by debilitating acute and chronic pain. One-on-one interviews ( N = 16) were conducted with eight primary caregivers of eight adults with extremely high hospital use, severe sickle cell disease with hospital admissions several times monthly over successive years. Caregivers were predominantly parents; two were romantic partners. Caregivers attributed disruptions to the disease’s variability, tensions in how much support to give, and adults’ inability to fulfill parental obligations. Both groups expressed fears of patients’ increasing age, declining health, and early death. Targeted counseling and resilience training is recommended.
The voice of youths about school and its mark on their lives
Authors: Pomar Maria Isabel , Pinya Carme
Published: June 2015

The work we present is a qualitative study of the school experience and its repercussions on the current lives of ex-students from Mallorca. The work has two purposes: (a) to learn about the school’s influence on the identity development of the students and (b) to incorporate the voices of former students regarding their reflection on the present and with a look towards the future and the challenges they face. The study is part of the movement known as Student Voice, which considers students to be valuable experts whose opinions should be sought for the betterment of school. For this study, the interpretations of ex-students were collected through in-depth interviews. The findings reveal information regarding what the participants felt was most important to learn at school, the conditions that favour learning and the teaching strategies that enhance it. In this sense, these opinions are indicators for assessing long-term educational goals and school practices.
Ethnic differences in youth well-being: The role of sociodemographic background and social support
Authors: Runarsdottir Eyrun Maria , Vilhjalmsson Runar
Published: June 2015

Aims. The aim of this study is to explore the psychological well-being of Polish and Asian immigrant youth in Iceland in comparison with their native peers, and the role of sociodemographic background and social support in explaining ethnic differences. Method. The study is based on a dataset from the research network Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC), collected in the school year 2009–2010. A total of 11,561 students aged 11, 13, and 15 years participated in the study. Immigrant status was determined by parents’ birthplace dividing the two non-native groups into four: non-mixed Polish, mixed-Polish (one parent born in Poland), non-mixed Asian, and mixed-Asian (one parent born in Asia). Data were analyzed by means of hierarchical multiple regression. Results. Less life-satisfaction and more distress was reported in all non-native groups compared with natives. The outcomes were more negative for youth of mixed ethnic origin. Initial ethnic differences in life-satisfaction and distress disappeared or were substantially reduced when sociodemographic background and social support were controlled. A key finding is that non-native youth more often live in challenging socioeconomic circumstances and experience less access to social support than their native peers. Conclusions. Emphasis should be placed on actions that aim to create better sociodemographic conditions and supportive environments for immigrant families. In particular, special effort to foster a supportive school environment for immigrant youth is suggested.
Exploring the effects of a universal classroom management training programme on teacher and child behaviour: A group randomised controlled trial and cost analysis
Authors: Hickey Grainne , McGilloway Sinead , Hyland Lynda , Leckey Yvonne , Kelly Paul , Bywater Tracey , Comiskey Catherine , Lodge Anne , Donnelly Michael , O’Neill Donal
Published: June 2015

Teachers frequently struggle to cope with conduct problems in the classroom. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management Training Programme for improving teacher competencies and child adjustment. The study involved a group randomised controlled trial which included 22 teachers and 217 children (102 boys and 115 girls). The average age of children included in the study was 5.3 years (standard deviation = 0.89). Teachers were randomly allocated to an intervention group (n = 11 teachers; 110 children) or a waiting-list control group (n = 11; 107 children). The sample also included 63 ‘high-risk’ children (33 intervention; 30 control), who scored above the cut-off (>12) on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire for abnormal socioemotional and behavioural difficulties. Teacher and child behaviours were assessed at baseline and 6 months later using psychometric and observational measures. Programme delivery costs were also analysed. Results showed positive changes in teachers’ self-reported use of positive classroom management strategies (effect size = 0.56), as well as negative classroom management strategies (effect size = −0.43). Teacher reports also highlight improvements in the classroom behaviour of the high-risk group of children, while the estimated cost of delivering the Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management Training Programme was modest. However, analyses of teacher and child observations were largely non-significant. A need for further research exploring the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management Training Programme is indicated.
Measuring in action research: Four ways of integrating quantitative methods in participatory dynamics
Authors: Martí Joel
Published: June 2015

Although action research uses both qualitative and quantitative methods, few contributions have addressed the specific role of the latter in this kind of research. This paper focuses on how quantitative methods can be integrated with participatory dynamics in action research designs. Four types of integration are defined and exemplified. The paper concludes with some reflections on how the integration of quantitative methods in these designs must address epistemological and methodological issues.
Using a Novel Emotional Skills Module to Enhance Empathic Responding for a Child With Conduct Disorder With Limited Prosocial Emotions
Authors: Datyner Amy , Kimonis Eva R. , Hunt Elizabeth , Armstrong Kathleen
Published: June 2015

Children with conduct problems benefit less from empirically supported interventions for disruptive behaviors when callous-unemotional (CU) traits (i.e., lack of empathy/guilt) are also present. Traditional “gold-standard” interventions for disruptive behavior disorders that focus primarily on improving parenting skills fail to address the core deficits in emotional processing and empathic responding unique to children with co-occurring conduct problems and CU traits (CP + CU). This case study presents a follow-up of the treatment of a young boy with severe disruptive behavior and pronounced CU traits using a novel, brief adjunctive treatment called Coaching and Rewarding Emotional Skills (CARES). Findings (a) indicate short-term improvements in empathic responding and emotion recognition with CARES and (b) provide preliminary support for supplementing parent training with a brief adjunctive intervention to improve socio-emotional behavior and CU traits. Novel targeted interventions for children with CP + CU are critically needed given their poor prognosis and long-term impairment.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy With Older Adults
Authors: Roberts Sarah L. , Sedley Ben
Published: June 2015

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is gaining traction as an effective therapy for a wide range of presenting concerns. Limited research and discussion has been published focused on utilizing ACT with older adults. The ACT model is proposed to be a good fit for this population because many older adults may already be values orientated due to awareness that their lifetime is limited. A trans-diagnostic approach that normalizes experiences common to older age may be advantageous given older adults often present with heterogeneous issues and life experiences. A case study of an 89-year-old woman experiencing late-life clinical depression and generalized anxiety disorder is presented. A significant factor contributing to her distress was her struggle with the cognitive and physical changes associated with aging. Results suggest that a brief ACT course implemented by a relative novice ACT therapist was effective in reducing psychological inflexibility as well as reducing distress to non-clinical levels at 6 weeks post therapy. Potential implications for adapting ACT with older adults are discussed, as well as reflections on some of the potential challenges for clinicians who are ACT beginners.
Effects of Testosterone Level on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Authors: Crawford E. David , Poage Wendy , Nyhuis Allen , Price David A. , Dowsett Sherie A. , Muram David
Published: June 2015

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common in older men and are frequently associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The relationship between BPH and endogenous total testosterone (TT) levels has been widely studied. The aim of this post hoc analysis was to determine the association between LUTS and endogenous TT levels in a subset of men participating in the 2013 Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, a U.S. community-based prostate cancer screening program. Men completed the International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) questionnaire, prostate size was estimated by a digital rectal examination, and serum TT and prostate-specific antigen levels were measured. Mean TT levels (ng/dl) did not significantly correlate with prostate size category ( r = +.03, p = .69): normal, 419.2 ( n = 106); enlarged, 394.7 ( n = 71); abnormal, 416.4 ( n = 7); and abnormal/suspicious, 515.2 ( n = 19). Mean TT levels (ng/dl) did not significantly correlate with I-PSS category ( r = −.06, p = .40): none, 468.5 ( n = 15); mild, 414.0 ( n = 138); moderate, 397.4 ( n = 66); and severe, 437.9 ( n = 7). Mean TT levels (ng/dl) did not significantly correlate with I-PSS quality of life rating ( r = −.13, p = .055): delighted, 474.5 ( n = 43); pleased, 424.6 ( n = 65); mostly satisfied, 361.2 ( n = 63); mixed, 448.2 ( n = 29); mostly dissatisfied, 337.2 ( n = 17); and unhappy, 435.8 ( n = 6). Adjustment for prostate size or prostate-specific antigen levels yielded similar findings. In conclusion, endogenous TT levels did not correlate with LUTS or prostate size, and these findings support the saturation theory in which TT is not able to induce further androgen-stimulated prostate tissue growth due to receptor saturation. Any worsening of LUTS following testosterone replacement therapy in hypogonadal men may be related to stimulation of prostatic cells previously deprived of testosterone.
Closing the barn door: Coping with findings of research misconduct by trainees in the biomedical sciences
Authors: Redman Barbara K , Caplan Arthur L
Published: June 2015

The proportion of research misconduct cases among trainees in the biomedical sciences has risen, raising the question of why, and what are the responsibilities of research administrators and the research community to address this problem. Although there is no definitive research about causes, for trainees the relationship with a research mentor should play a major role in preventing actions that constitute research misconduct (fabrication, falsification and plagiarism). Examination of the limited literature and of the number of cases closed by the US Office of Research Integrity (ORI) between 2009 and 2013 raises questions about the mentor-student relationship and what it should be accomplishing. But many gaps in policy and its implementation inhibit this role. There is no acknowledgement of mentorship in federal regulations and research on how to teach research integrity is woefully underdeveloped, especially for international trainees. And some institutional research integrity officers may have had little preparation for the role.
College student racial and ethnic stereotype-based humor as a cultural domain
Authors: Caparoso Jenna T , Collins Christopher S
Published: June 2015

This study explored college student perceptions of racial and ethnic stereotype-based humor in Hawai’i where humor is salient to the local culture. It has been suggested elsewhere that perceptions may be understood through eliciting a cultural domain or mental category including a set of items that are perceived to belong in the same category. For the present study, 72 students participated in interviews or focus groups to explore characterizations of racial and ethnic stereotype-based humor among university students in Hawai’i. The interviews consisted of generating free lists, rank orders and pile sorts, and were analyzed using ANTHROPAC software to convert textual data into matrices and cluster analyses to interpret the cultural domain. The findings indicated that students’ understanding of local stereotypes and humor aligned with the conceptualization of a social stratification in Hawai’i, because they acknowledged more derogatory stereotypes for certain racial and ethnic populations. As colleges continue to work towards diverse learning environments, humor is likely to be one of the more complex areas to address. Future research may involve a content analysis that examines campus fliers, events and media to understand better the role of the institution in developing and perpetuating existing stereotypes.
Sensitivity of Traditional and Risk-Based Glycemic Variability Measures to the Effect of Glucose-Lowering Treatment in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kovatchev Boris , Umpierrez Guillermo , DiGenio Andres , Zhou Rong , Inzucchi Silvio E.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Here we assess associations between glycemic variability (GV) measures and outcomes from glucose-lowering therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) to identify the metrics most sensitive to treatment response.

Methods:

Data from 1699 patients in 6 previously reported studies in adults with T2DM treated with basal insulin and/or oral glucose-lowering drugs were included in a post hoc meta-analysis. Using 7-point blood glucose (BG) profiles we compared the GV metrics standard deviation (SD), mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE), mean absolute glucose (MAG), low and high BG risk indices (LBGI, HBGI), and average daily risk range (ADRR). Treatment-related changes in GV and risk status and associations between end-of-trial GV/risk metrics with treatment outcomes (end-of-trial glycated hemoglobin A1c[A1C] level ≥7.0%, hypoglycemia, and composite outcome of A1C <7.0% and no hypoglycemia), were evaluated.

Results:

Significant changes from baseline to end of treatment were observed in all measures (all P < .0001), with the largest reduction following treatment for HBGI (–65.5%) and ADRR (–43.3%). The baseline risk classification for hyperglycemia based on the risk categories of HBGI improved for 66.8%, remained unchanged for 29.8%, and deteriorated for 3.3% of patients (chi-square P < .0001), while the risk for hypoglycemia did not change. HBGI showed the strongest association with A1C ≥7.0% at the end of treatment, and LBGI showed the strongest association with symptomatic hypoglycemia.

Conclusions:

During glucose-lowering therapy in T2DM, HBGI and LBGI offer insights into hyperglycemia and trends toward hypoglycemia, respectively; ADRR may be the optimal GV measure responsive to hypo- and hyperglycemic treatment effects.
Managing the Human-Milk-Fed, Preterm, VLBW Infant at NICU Discharge
Authors: Cohen Ronald S. , Mayer Olivia , Fogleman April D.
Published: June 2015

Feeding prematurely born infants after their stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) remains problematic. Growth in the NICU is almost always well below the intrauterine rate, and extrauterine growth restriction is common. Breastfeeding is difficult in the NICU, and human milk alone may not always provide adequate protein or minerals for optimal growth. At the time of NICU discharge, a regimen is needed that is supportive of both ongoing lactation and optimal nutrition. However, there is no one regimen that suits all babies and families. We propose a simplified algorithm to help guide the clinical team in deciding what dietary regimen is best suited for their patients.
Diet-induced increases in chemerin are attenuated by exercise and mediate the effect of diet on insulin and HOMA-IR
Authors: Lloyd Jesse W. , Zerfass Kristy M. , Heckstall Ebony M. , Evans Kristin A.
Published: June 2015

Objectives:

Chemerin concentrations are elevated in obesity and associated with inflammation and insulin resistance. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, which may be facilitated by changes in chemerin. We explored the effects of chronic exercise on chemerin levels in diet-induced obese mice.

Methods:

We divided 40 mice into 4 groups: high-fat diet/exercise, high-fat diet/sedentary, normal diet/exercise, and normal diet/sedentary. A 9-week dietary intervention was followed by a 12-week exercise intervention (treadmill run: 11 m/min for 30 min, 3×/week). We analyzed blood samples before and after the exercise intervention. We used t-tests and linear regression to examine changes in chemerin, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers, and associations between changes in chemerin and all other biomarkers.

Results:

Chemerin increased significantly across all mice over the 12-week intervention (mean ± SD = 40.7 ± 77.8%, p = 0.01), and this increase was smaller in the exercise versus sedentary mice (27.2 ± 83.9% versus 54.9 ± 70.5%, p = 0.29). The increase among the high-fat diet/exercise mice was ~44% lower than the increase among the high-fat diet/sedentary mice (55.7 ± 54.9% versus 99.8 ± 57.7%, p = 0.12). The high-fat diet mice showed significant increases in insulin (773.5 ± 1286.6%, p < 0.0001) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; 846.5 ± 1723.3%, p < 0.01). Mediation analyses showed that increases in chemerin explained a substantial amount of the diet-induced increases in insulin and HOMA-IR.

Conclusion:

Chronic exercise may attenuate diet-driven increases in circulating chemerin, and the insulin resistance associated with a high-fat diet may be mediated by diet-induced increases in chemerin.
A Rasch Re-Analysis of the Partnership Questionnaire
Authors: Kliem Sören , Beller Johannes , Kröger Christoph , Stöbel-Richter Yve , Hahlweg Kurt , Brähler Elmar
Published: June 2015

The Partnership Questionnaire (PFB) is used favorably in the German language area to measure partnership quality. The goal of the present study is to re-analyze the subscales of the PFB ( Conflict Behavior, Tenderness, Communication) via the Rasch model. Polytomous and dichotomous Rasch models were calculated in a population sample ( N = 1,123) and a student-based cross-validation sample ( N = 250) for the three subscales of the PFB. Final models were chosen based on several fit criteria. Good to very good model fit was obtained with symmetrical (Conflict Behavior) or nonsymmetrical (Tenderness, Communication) dichotomously collapsed categories. After adapting the instruction and dichotomizing the categories, the PFB can be used as a checklist ( PFB-checklist). An additional cross-validation is needed to substantiate the obtained results.
Promoting Special Educator Teacher Retention
Authors: Vittek Jeremy E.
Published: June 2015

This article is a critical review of the literature on special education teacher attrition and retention. The research focused on journal articles from 2004 to present. The results of the study helped define special educator attrition and retention. The major themes present in the findings were job satisfaction, administrative support, induction programs, and mentoring. The literature shows a clear need for comprehensive administrative support to improve job satisfaction and the likelihood a special educator will remain in their job.
Bully University? The Cost of Workplace Bullying and Employee Disengagement in American Higher Education
Authors: Hollis Leah P.
Published: June 2015

Workplace bullying has a detrimental effect on employees, yet few studies have examined its impact on personnel in American higher education administration. Therefore, two central research questions guided this study: (a) What is the extent of workplace bullying in higher education administration? and (b) What is the cost of workplace bullying specifically to higher education administration? Participants from 175 four-year colleges and universities were surveyed to reveal that 62% of higher education administrators had experienced or witnessed workplace bullying in the 18 months prior to the study. Race and gender were not parameters considered in the sample. A total of 401 ( n = 401) higher education respondents completed the instrument from various departments on a campus: academic affairs, student affairs, athletics, development/advancement, admissions/financial aid, information technology, arts faculty, sciences faculty, and executives. Employment disengagement served as the theoretical lens to analyze the financial cost to higher education when employees mentally disengage from organizational missions and objectives. With this lens, the study examined staff hours lost through employee disengagement and the associated costs.
Toward a Biology of Collectivism
Authors: Hertler Steven C.
Published: June 2015

The signs of mating competition are written into the physiology of the human male, but they are not written equally into the physiology of all racial groupings of human males. It seems that Asian males are different, different in that they are more fully dissimilar from the gorilla than are other races, showing less sexual dimorphism, muscularity, and less marked secondary sexual characteristics, and different in that they are more fully dissimilar from the chimpanzee than are other races, showing less sexual drive and activity as well as smaller testicles and lower sperm counts. It is presently argued that such anatomical differences are a testament to a more peaceably monogamous mating history. In turn, it is then argued that such physiological markers are directly associated with the collectivist ethos that has been historically, anthropologically, and sociologically observed among the Asian people.
Development of a Rubric to Assess Academic Writing Incorporating Plagiarism Detectors
Authors: Razı Salim
Published: June 2015

Similarity reports of plagiarism detectors should be approached with caution as they may not be sufficient to support allegations of plagiarism. This study developed a 50-item rubric to simplify and standardize evaluation of academic papers. In the spring semester of 2011-2012 academic year, 161 freshmen’s papers at the English Language Teaching Department of Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Turkey, were assessed using the rubric. Validity and reliability were established. The results indicated citation as a particularly problematic aspect, and indicated that fairer assessment could be achieved by using the rubric along with plagiarism detectors’ similarity results.
From Unfinished Adolescent to Young Adult
Authors: Lieb Robert J. , Auld W. David
Published: June 2015

The distinct time in life known as emerging adulthood presents its own unique developmental challenges, most centrally the creation of an adult identity. However, an increasing number of young adults today are not living on their own, as would be expected, but instead are living with their families of origin. For some, co-residence is largely a function of current economic forces. For others, it is evidence of problems with the separation-individuation process. Assessing relational maturity and the development of autonomously valued goals is crucial in forming a treatment plan. Constructivist control mastery theory is a treatment approach that integrates psychodynamic and narrative paradigms and is especially well suited for the treatment of this population, whether applied as a family therapy or individual therapy. This approach focuses on fostering mastery-oriented conversations that facilitate the emergence of adult identity.
The Consequences of Emotional Burnout Among Correctional Staff
Authors: Lambert Eric G. , Barton-Bellessa Shannon M. , Hogan Nancy L.
Published: June 2015

The vast majority of past correctional staff burnout studies have focused on the possible antecedents of job burnout. Far fewer studies have been published on the possible outcomes of burnout among correctional staff. This study examined the effects of the emotional exhaustion dimension of burnout on life satisfaction, support for treatment, support for punishment, absenteeism, views on use of sick leave, and turnover intent among 272 staff at a state-run Midwestern maximum security prison. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis of survey data indicated that emotional burnout had significant negative associations with life satisfaction and support for treatment and significant positive relationships with support for punishment, absenteeism, views on use of sick leave (i.e., a right to be used however the employee wishes), and turnover intent. The results indicate that job burnout has negative outcomes for both staff and correctional institutions.
Evaluation of a University-Based Mandatory Vaccine Program
Authors: Lang Yolanda C. , Stitt-Fischer Molly
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of an educational program for the University’s mandatory vaccination program. The study examined the relationship between level of education, gender, and/or job classification and information retention and perceptions of the mandatory vaccination program. The hypothesis was that understanding and information retention level was increased in personnel with increased levels of basic and higher education and job classification complexity. The outcomes identified will be used to revise and improve the vaccine education program and materials, as well as develop recommendations to be used as a model by other institutions that may require a similar mandatory vaccination program.
Results of an Academic, Health Care Worksite Weight Loss Contest for Southeastern Americans
Authors: Breaux-Shropshire Tonya L. , Whitt Lauren , Oster Robert A. , Lewis Dwight , Shropshire Toneyell S. , Calhoun David A.
Published: June 2015

Few studies have assessed the effectiveness of competitive incentivized worksite weight loss programs. Scale Back Alabama (SBA) is a free, state-supported program designed to promote weight loss among overweight and obese citizens. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the design and preliminary findings of SBA as a worksite intervention among employees at a collegiate institution and university hospital. In teams of 4 employees, SBA participants volunteered to engage in a 10-week competitive weight loss contest; both teams and individuals who lost significant weight were eligible for randomly drawn cash incentives. Trained staff objectively measured participants’ weight before and at the conclusion of the contest. Preliminary analyses suggest that SBA as a worksite program can promote weight loss among employees, but future analyses are warranted to understand the context of these findings and determine if current results are confounded by unmeasured factors.
The Impact of International Joint Venture on Local Economy: A Case Study of Hero Honda
Authors: Saha Aritra , Chattopadhyay Utpal
Published: June 2015

The Indian two-wheeler industry has undergone a long journey since its humble beginning in the late 1940s. During these eventful years, it has experienced great advancements in technology, tremendous increments in production volume and opening up of the market for global trade. India has now emerged as a global leader in two-wheeler production and trade. A key factor behind the creditable progress of this industry has been the operation of several international joint ventures (IJVs) such as Kawasaki Bajaj, TVS Suzuki, Kinetic Honda and Hero Honda. Of all IJVs, the partnership between Hero and Honda has been the longest and perhaps the most remarkable too. This article gives a brief overview of the Indian two-wheeler industry and presents a glimpse of the IJVs therein. It analyzes the impact of Hero Honda case, in detail, to showcase how a local manufacturer can team up with a global player and still achieve a synergy between their core competencies for enhancing efficiency, productivity and quality. The article narrates the transition from interfirm competition to cooperation and aims at finding out how management innovations by both the partners can help reduce conflicts of interest, avoid cannibalization of the products of individual firms and derive mutual benefits by aligning their individual targets to a common goal of market success.
Who Says Elephants Can’t Dance? Uttar Pradesh Women Power Line 1090
Authors: Dwivedi Neeraj , Saxena Nishant
Published: June 2015

Women Power Line 1090 was a facility set up by the government of Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state of India, for eradicating the menace of harassment of women in the state. The case briefly presents the genesis of the 1090 project and traces the journey of the project from an idea to the creation of an innovative and agile organization within the normally bureaucratic police force. The case concludes by presenting the challenges faced by the protagonist while analyzing the first seven months performance of his brainchild. The first challenge discussed is how he can extend 1090 to address more severe problems of eve-teasing, domestic violence and cyber crimes related to women. The second challenge he is thinking about is scaling up the operations without losing quality. The third challenge he is looking at is to find ways to create awareness and mobilization in the rural areas, which are home to 77 per cent of the state’s population.
Designing a Cellular Organization: A Case Study of Sense Making at the National Prosperity Gold Production Group Ltd.
Authors: Lynn Nandy , Hanson Bruce
Published: June 2015

The country of Myanmar opened up to the outside world a little over three years ago. As part of that process, many of the industries in the country changed hands from state owned to private. Such was the case with large-scale gold mine, which had formerly been explored by a Canadian company with mining experience and restored under the government to indigenous control. In early September 2011, tender bids from citizens were invited for the concession rights of the mine. There had been about 300,000 illegal miners working in the restricted area, but were being kicked out as the new operator took over the mine. There were many challenges, each answered by trial and error of the National Prosperity Gold Production Group. One of the current challenges is to maintain continuous production to fulfil the payment schedule to the government. This case is a constantly unfolding situation of sense making that the National Prosperity is trying its best to successfully operate the mine.
Sustainability Reporting Trend in Indian Companies as per GRI Framework: A Comparative Study
Authors: Godha Anurodh , Jain Prerna
Published: June 2015

Sustainable development implies development that meets the need of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. As a result of the global upsurge of interest in sustainable development, the sustainability reporting system has emerged. Sustainability reporting enables the creation of long-term value for organizations. It is forward-looking and includes quantitative and qualitative reporting measures. It is a key platform for communicating the organization’s economic, social, environmental and governance performance, reflecting positive and negative impacts. It can be undertaken by all types, sizes and sectors of organizations. Through the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability Reporting Framework, the GRI works to increase the transparency and exchange of sustainability-related information. The present study conceptually reviews sustainability reporting and its benefits for the entities. Here, an attempt has been made to examine the development in the Indian regulatory environment for sustainability reporting along with finding out trend, application level and status of the sustainability reporting practice of Indian entities as per the GRI reporting framework. The findings reveal that the development of the corporate governance standard is maturing in India. Amendments in laws and changes in the regulatory mechanism are creating pressure on entities to respond to and communicate for their sustainability concerns. With globalization, Indian companies are increasingly realizing that they have much to lose by not following sustainability reporting. In fact, many respected companies already get their sustainability reports audited by a third party to ensure its credibility. Sustainability reporting is therefore a vital step of managing change towards a sustainable global economy—one that combines long-term profitability with environmental care and social justice.
Udyogini and Lac Producers in Jharkhand: Catalyzing Inclusive Value Chains at the Base of the Pyramid
Authors: Arakal Jeevan J. , Roy Rajeev
Published: June 2015

Dr Vanita Viswanath, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Udyogini, and her team have been working with lac producers in the Indian state of Jharkhand. The protagonists in the case have been helping the lac producers overcome the productivity and transactional constraints in their value chain. This case captures the key facets of the intervention, the outcomes and the various perspectives the team had taken in evaluating its intervention in the lac value chain. The process of measuring the impact at the base of the pyramid and the impact for the small producers on parameters of institution building, wealth creation and poverty reduction are the focal points of this case. Vital decisions have to be taken by Dr Viswanath and team based on this evaluation from the point of view of the lac producers.
Child In Need Institute (CINI): Changing Lives of Homeless Children on Railway Stations
Authors: Mitra Suddhachit , Yadav Vanita , Biswas Saswata
Published: June 2015

The case is about a non-profit organization named Child In Need Institute (CINI), based at Kolkata, India. CINI is a respected name in the voluntary sector in India and has good credentials in nutrition, health, education and protection of women, children and adolescents. The case raises global concerns of child protection and homeless children. It discusses in detail CINI’s child protection programme at an Indian railway station. The programme was funded largely by a UK-based charity. Following the Indian government’s policy of disbursing funds to non-profits in the broad area of child protection, the funding pattern could substantially change. The case engages learners to comprehend the nature and extent of issues relating to homeless children on railway platforms in India, form a broad idea about the external environment and strategy of a non-profit engaged in child protection and understand the merits and disadvantages associated with governmental funding.
Revisiting the case for genetically engineered mouse models in human myelodysplastic syndrome research
Authors: Zhou Ting , Kinney Marsha C. , Scott Linda M. , Zinkel Sandra S. , Rebel Vivienne I.
Published: June 2015

Key Points

With a few exceptions, the histologic and cytologic characteristics of myelodysplasia are similar in humans and mice. As in humans, MDS and MDS/MPN are distinct diseases in mice; mouse models of these diseases can serve as useful research tools.
Complement C3dg-mediated erythrophagocytosis: implications for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Lin Zhuoer , Schmidt Christoph Q. , Koutsogiannaki Sophia , Ricci Patrizia , Risitano Antonio M. , Lambris John D. , Ricklin Daniel
Published: June 2015

Key Points

The complement opsonin C3dg, which is found on PNH erythrocytes of patients under anti-C5 therapy, can bind to complement receptor 3 (CR3). Interaction of C3dg with CR3 on activated monocytes induces erythrophagocytosis, thereby corroborating a model of extravascular hemolysis.
Strong convergence of a general iterative algorithm for a finite family of accretive operators in Banach spaces
Authors: Song Yanlai , Ceng Luchuan
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this paper is to present a new iterative scheme for finding a common solution to a variational inclusion problem with a finite family of accretive operators and a modified system of variational inequalities in infinite-dimensional Banach spaces. Under mild conditions, a strong convergence theorem for approximating this common solution is proved. The methods in the paper are novel and different from those in the early and recent literature.