bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving pulmonary vessel image quality with a full model-based iterative reconstruction algorithm in 80kVp low-dose chest CT for pediatric patients aged 0–6 years
Authors: Sun Jihang , Zhang Qifeng , Hu Di , Duan Xiaomin , Peng Yun
Published: September 2014

Background

Full model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) algorithm decreasing image noise and improving spatial resolution significantly, combined with low voltage scan may improve image and vessels quality.

Purpose

To evaluate the image quality improvement of pulmonary vessels using a full MBIR in low-dose chest computed tomography (CT) for children.

Material and Methods

This study was institutional review board approved. Forty-one children (age range, 28 days–6 years, mean age, 2.0 years) who underwent 80 kVp low-dose CT scans were included. Age-dependent noise index (NI) for a 5-mm slice thickness image was used for the acquisition: NI = 11 for 0–12 months old, NI = 13 for 1–2 years old, and NI = 15 for 3–6 years old. Images were retrospectively reconstructed into thin slice thickness of 0.625 mm using the MBIR and a conventional filtered back projection (FBP) algorithm. Two radiologists independently evaluated images subjectively focusing on the ability to display small arteries and diagnosis confidence on a 5-point scale with 3 being clinically acceptable. CT value and image noise in the descending aorta, muscle and fat were measured and statistically compared between the two reconstruction groups.

Results

The ability to display small vessels was significantly improved with the MBIR reconstruction. The subjective scores of displaying small vessels were 5.0 and 3.7 with MBIR and FBP, respectively, while the respective diagnosis confidence scores were 5.0 and 3.8. Quantitative image noise for the 0.625 mm slice thickness images in the descending aorta was 15.8 ± 3.8 HU in MBIR group, 57.3% lower than the 37.0 ± 7.3 HU in FBP group. The signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio for the descending aorta were 28.3 ± 7.9 and 24.05 ± 7.5 in MBIR group, and 12.1 ± 3.7 and 10.6 ± 3.5 in FBP group, respectively. These values were improved by 133.9% and 132.1%, respectively, with MBIR reconstruction compared to FBP reconstruction.

Conclusion

Compared to the conventional FBP reconstruction, the image quality and diagnostic performance for pulmonary vessels was significantly improved by the MBIR reconstruction in low-dose chest CT in children.
Does Limited Internal Femoral Rotation Increase Peak Anterior Cruciate Ligament Strain During a Simulated Pivot Landing?
Authors: Beaulieu Mélanie L. , Oh Youkeun K. , Bedi Asheesh , Ashton-Miller James A. , Wojtys Edward M.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Many factors contributing to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk have been investigated. Recently, some ACL-injured individuals have presented with a decreased range of hip internal rotation compared with controls. The pathomechanics of why decreased hip range of motion increases risk of ACL injury have not yet been studied.

Hypothesis:

Peak relative strain of the anteromedial bundle of the ACL (AM-ACL) during a simulated single-leg pivot landing is inversely related to the available range of internal femoral rotation.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A series of pivot landings were simulated in 10 female and 10 male human knee specimens with a testing apparatus that applied a 2-bodyweight impulsive load, inducing knee compression, flexion moment, and internal tibial torque. The range of internal femoral rotation was (1) locked at ~0°, (2) limited with a hard stop to ~7°, (3) limited with a hard stop to ~11°, or (4) free, with rotation resisted by 2 springs to simulate the resistance of the active hip rotator muscles to stretch. The AM-ACL strain was quantified with a differential variable reluctance transducer. A linear mixed model was used to determine whether a significant linear relation existed between peak AM-ACL relative strain and range of internal femoral rotation.

Results:

Peak AM-ACL relative strain was inversely related to the available range of internal femoral rotation ( R2 = 0.91; P < .001), with strain increasing 1.3% for every 10° decrease in rotation; this represented a 20% increase in peak relative strain, given an average range of femoral rotation of 15° upon landing in healthy athletes.

Conclusion:

Peak AM-ACL relative strain was inversely proportional to the available range of internal femoral rotation during simulated single-leg pivot landings.

Clinical Relevance:

Decreased range of internal femoral rotation results in greater ACL strain and may therefore increase the susceptibility to ACL rupture with athletic cutting and pivoting activities. Screening for a limited range of hip internal rotation should therefore become a component of not only ACL injury prevention programs but also evaluation protocols for those with ACL injuries and/or reconstructions.
Inhibition of 5-LOX, COX-1, and COX-2 Increases Tendon Healing and Reduces Muscle Fibrosis and Lipid Accumulation After Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Oak Nikhil R. , Gumucio Jonathan P. , Flood Michael D. , Saripalli Anjali L. , Davis Max E. , Harning Julie A. , Lynch Evan B. , Roche Stuart M. , Bedi Asheesh , Mendias Christopher L.
Published: September 2014

Background:

The repair and restoration of function after chronic rotator cuff tears are often complicated by muscle atrophy, fibrosis, and fatty degeneration of the diseased muscle. The inflammatory response has been implicated in the development of fatty degeneration after cuff injuries. Licofelone is a novel anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), as well as cyclooxygenase (COX)–1 and COX-2 enzymes, which play important roles in inducing inflammation after injuries. While previous studies have demonstrated that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and selective inhibitors of COX-2 (coxibs) may prevent the proper healing of muscles and tendons, studies about bone and cartilage have demonstrated that drugs that inhibit 5-LOX concurrently with COX-1 and COX-2 may enhance tissue regeneration.

Hypothesis:

After the repair of a chronic rotator cuff tear in rats, licofelone would increase the load to failure of repaired tendons and increase the force production of muscle fibers.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Rats underwent supraspinatus release followed by repair 28 days later. After repair, rats began a treatment regimen of either licofelone or a vehicle for 14 days, at which time animals were euthanized. Supraspinatus muscles and tendons were then subjected to contractile, mechanical, histological, and biochemical analyses.

Results:

Compared with controls, licofelone-treated rats had a grossly apparent decrease in inflammation and increased fibrocartilage formation at the enthesis, along with a 62% increase in the maximum load to failure and a 51% increase in peak stress to failure. Licofelone resulted in a marked reduction in fibrosis and lipid content in supraspinatus muscles as well as reduced expression of several genes involved in fatty infiltration. Despite the decline in fibrosis and fat accumulation, muscle fiber specific force production was reduced by 23%.

Conclusion:

The postoperative treatment of cuff repair with licofelone may reduce fatty degeneration and enhance the development of a stable bone-tendon interface, although decreases in muscle fiber specific force production were observed, and force production in fact declined.

Clinical Relevance:

This study demonstrates that the inhibition of 5-LOX, COX-1, and COX-2 modulates the healing process of repaired rotator cuff tendons. Although further studies are necessary, the treatment of patients with licofelone after cuff repair may improve the development of a stable enthesis and enhance postoperative outcomes.
Ex-situ method for toughening glass/epoxy composites by interlaminar films made of polyetherketone cardo and calcium sulfate whisker
Authors: Guo Zhenhan , Li Ziquan , Liu Jinsong , Chen Mudan , Zu Qun , Zhang Yan , Liu Ying , Chen Jiankang
Published: September 2014

Epoxy matrix composites were toughened by introducing films into fiberglass fabric layers based on an ex-situ vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding technique. The mixture films were made of a certain polyetherketone cardo and calcium sulfate whiskers with different mass percent. The toughening mechanism was studied by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The addition of calcium sulfate whisker changed glass transition temperatures of Epoxy Resin (EP) and polyetherketone cardo, indicating that films with calcium sulfate whisker were melting during the curing of epoxy resin and forming the mixture of EP phase, polyetherketone cardo phase, and calcium sulfate whisker between the layers of composites. Meanwhile, the results indicated that calcium sulfate whiskers and fiberglass fabric formed three-dimensional structure between the layers of composites to toughen the composites. The results of the mechanical properties show that the interlaminar shear strength and fracture toughness ( GIC) were obviously improved meanwhile tensile strength and flexural strength kept stable whether the addition of films or not. Maximum values of the interlaminar shear strength and fracture toughness ( GIC) were 22% and 95% higher than that of the controlled specimens without films, respectively. The interlaminar mechanical properties improved with the addition of films made of polyetherketone cardo and calcium sulfate whisker, which is benefit for the improvement of whole mechanical properties and wide usage of laminate composites.
Factors Associated With Preferences for Institutionalized Care in Elderly Persons
Authors: Werner Perla , Segel-Karpas Dikla
Published: September 2014

Objective: To study the willingness to use institutional care versus home care in hypothetical situations of permanent disability and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Method: A convenience sample of 484 adults aged 45 and older was obtained. Respondents were asked about their care preferences in case they were diagnosed with AD or became permanently disabled. Based on Andersen’s extended behavioral model, a large group of correlates was examined. Results: Institutional care was preferred in the situation of becoming sick with AD, whereas being cared for at home by the family was preferred in a situation of permanent disability. Fear of losing one’s independence and concern over burdening the family were associated with care preferences in both situations. Discussion: Although some similarities exist between the correlates for care preferences in the two distinct situations, there are noticeable differences. These are discussed and implications for practice are suggested.
Social Capital and Sexual Risk-Taking Behaviors Among Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Amin Iftekhar
Published: September 2014

Using the General Social Survey (GSS) 2012, a national household-based probability sample of non-institutionalized U.S. adults, this study examined the association of social capital and sexual risk behaviors among older adults aged 55 years and older. Of the 547 respondents, 87% reported not using condoms during their last intercourse, and nearly 15% reported engaging in sexual risk behaviors, such as casual sex, paid sex, male to male sex, and drug use. Binary logistic regression results showed that age, gender, marital status, education, race, sexual orientation, and sexual frequencies were significant predictors of older adults’ unprotected sex. Social capital was not a predictor of unprotected sex but was positively associated with other human immunodeficiency virus/sexually transmitted disease (HIV/STD) risk behaviors such as sex with strangers, having multiple sex partners, injecting drugs, and having male to male sex. Findings of this study highlight the importance of HIV/STD prevention programs for older adults.
The Adoption of Homeland Security Initiatives in Texas Police Departments: A Contextual Perspective
Authors: Stewart Daniel M. , Oliver Willard M.
Published: September 2014

The application of theory has been lacking in explaining the advent of homeland security in post–September 11 policing. This study examines the utility of contingency and resource dependency theories in understanding the adoption of homeland security initiatives in Texas police departments. While attending state-mandated leadership training, Texas police chiefs ( n = 208) were surveyed as to structural and managerial changes implemented in their respective departments following September 11, 2001. Particular attention was given to the number of homeland security-related initiatives adopted, as reported by the participants. Using zero-inflated negative binomial regression, support was found for resource dependency but not for contingency theory; that is, the extent of homeland security initiatives was significantly associated with homeland security-related grant receipts but not with experience regarding homeland security–related incidents or threat levels.
Design jeans for recycling: A supply chain case study in The Netherlands
Authors: van Bommel Harrie , Goorhuis Maarten
Published: September 2014

Because the insight is raising that waste prevention needs an integral product chain approach, a product chain project was awarded with an International Solid Waste Association grant. The project decided to focus on jeans because of the large environmental impacts of cotton and the low recycling rates. The project used an open innovative approach by involving many actors from the different phases of the chain and included student and applied researchers. In a ‘design jeans for recycling’ students’ workshop, prototypes of jeans that are easier to recycle have been developed. Integrating the new generation from different disciplines in the project proved to be very successful. The results show that an open innovation process can lead to very creative ideas and that lessons learned from this project could be used to develop new chain projects for other products. An important condition is that key actors are willing to cooperate in an open innovation approach.
Sample preparation and determination of biomass content in solid recovered fuels: A comparison of methods
Authors: Schnöller Johannes , Aschenbrenner Philipp , Hahn Manuel , Fellner Johann
Published: September 2014

The biomass content of material from pulp and paper production (a mixture of waste and paper and thin layer packaging plastics) is determined by the adapted balance method. This novel approach is a combination of combustion elemental analysis (CHNSO) and a data reconciliation algorithm based on successive linearisation for evaluation of the analysis results. It also involves less effort and expense than conventional procedures. However, the CHNSO technique only handles small mass amounts (few hundred milligrams), so cryogenic impact milling was applied for particle size reduction below 200 µm in order to generate homogeneous, representative analysis samples. The investigation focuses on the parameters biogenic content as a percentage of the total mass xB and xBTC, which is the biomass stated as a fraction of the total carbon value. The results are within 1%–5% of the data obtained by the reference methods, namely the selective dissolution method and 14C- method. Additionally, advantages and drawbacks of the adapted balance method in comparison with standard methods are discussed, showing that the adapted balance method is a method to be considered for the determination of biomass content in solid recovered fuels or similar materials.
Three Cases of Palatal Tics and Gilles De La Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Rizzo Renata , Cath Danielle , Pavone Piero , Tijssen Marina , Robertson Mary M.
Published: September 2014

Five patients with palatal tics and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome have been previously reported. Little is known about the characteristics of palatal tics given that there are so few reports. On one hand, palatal tics may be rare. Alternatively, they may be less well recognized than repetitive eye blinking or sniffing, which are both obvious and, therefore, more often reported. We describe 3 patients with palatal tics and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. We also review the 5 patients reported in the literature and explore whether there are characteristic features among this group of 8 cases. The 8 patients had the following features: (1) Personal history of other multiple motor/vocal tics, (2) the presence of typical Gilles de la Tourette syndrome comorbidities, (3) positive family history of tics and/or Gilles de la Tourette syndrome comorbidities, (4) the presence of audible “ear clicks,” (5) younger age at onset (2 years). We suggest that palatal tics are underreported.
A Possible Genotype-Phenotype Correlation in Ashkenazi-Jewish Individuals With Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome Associated With SAMHD1 Mutation
Authors: Straussberg Rachel , Marom Daphna , Sanado-Inbar Esther , Lakovsky Yaniv , Horev Gadi , Shalev Stavit A. , Lev Dorit , Lerman-Sagie Tally , Leshinsky-Silver Esther
Published: September 2014

Aicardi-Goutières syndrome is a genetic neurodegenerative disorder with clinical symptoms mimicking a congenital viral infection. Mutations in 6 genes are known to cause the disease: 3 prime repair exonuclease1, ribonucleases H2A, B, and C, SAM domain and HD domain 1, and most recently ADAR1. HD domain 1 mutations were previously reported in the Ashkenazi-Jewish community. We report an additional patient of Ashkenazi-Jewish descent and review the other 3 cases affected with Aicardi-Goutières syndrome due to SAM domain and HD domain 1 ( SAMHD1) mutations described in Israel. We propose that there may be a phenotypic-genotypic correlation in accordance with the type of mutations inherited in the SAMHD1 genotype and suggest that Aicardi-Goutières syndrome may not be a rare disease in the Ashkenazi-Jewish population.
The Influence of a Multisensory Intervention for Preterm Infants Provided by Parents, on Developmental Abilities and on Parental Stress Levels
Authors: Gabis Lidia V. , Hacham-Pilosof Keren , Yosef Omer Bar , Rabinovitz Gila , Leshem Gili , Shilon-Hadass Aya , Biran Yael , Reichman Brian , Kuint Jacob , Bart Orit
Published: September 2014

Evaluation of a multisensory intervention based on the developmental approach provided by parents, during neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization of their preterm infants. After guidance of parents and implementation of intervention program, children were followed up to 2 to 3 years using scales for evaluation of parental stress levels and child’s development. Our 2 to 3 years’ follow-up study included 41 infants (20 controls and 21 who received parental-guided intervention) as part of a group of 95 preterm infants who participated in a short-term study. The intervention group showed significantly higher scores in receptive language and fine-motor domains of the Bayley Scale of Infant and Toddler Development–3rd Edition. Boys showed superior improvements in language skills. No differences were found in the cognitive and adaptive domains. There were no differences in parental stress levels. A multisensory intervention program for preterm infants provided by trained and supervised parents may improve language and motor outcomes at 2 to 3 years.
Efficacy and Safety of Zonisamide in Thai Children and Adolescents With Intractable Seizures
Authors: Thampratankul Lunliya , Khongkhatithum Chaiyos , Visudtibhan Anannit
Published: September 2014

This retrospective study examined the efficacy and safety of zonisamide for Thai children and adolescents with intractable seizures. The medical records of 24 patients (13 male, 11 female), aged 2 to 18 years (median 11.5, mean 10.4) who received zonisamide were reviewed. The underlying illness, etiology of epilepsy, seizure types, previous and concomitant antiepileptic drugs, dosage, and adverse effects of the drug were collected. Zonisamide’s efficacy was evaluated on the basis of seizure reduction rates. At final evaluation, 7 patients were still taking zonisamide from 4.7 to 10.3 mg/kg/d (median 8). One patient became seizure-free and the other 6 experienced favorable seizure control. The median duration of zonisamide therapy was 23.75 months (range 20.5-25 months). Minor adverse effects were reported in 41.6% of patients during the first 3 months of therapy. Zonisamide is an option for the treatment of intractable seizures with favorable seizure control in children and adolescents.
Comparison of Effects of Different Dexmedetomidine and Chloral Hydrate Doses Used in Sedation on Electroencephalography in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Gumus Hakan , Bayram Ayşe Kacar , Poyrazoglu Hatice Gamze , Canpolat Dilek Gunay , Per Huseyin , Canpolat Mehmet , Yildiz Karamehmet , Kumandas Sefer
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of different oral chloral hydrate and dexmedetomidine doses used for sedation during electroencephalography (EEG) in children. One hundred sixty children aged 1 to 9 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II who were uncooperative during EEG recording or who were referred to our electrodiagnostic unit for sleep EEG were included to the study. The patients were randomly assigned into 4 groups. In groups D1 and D2, patients received oral dexmedetomidine doses of 2 and 3 µg/kg, respectively. In group C1 and C2, patients received oral chloral hydrate doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively. The induction time was significantly shorter in group C2 compared with other groups ( P = .000). The rate of adverse effects was significantly higher in group C2 compared with the dexmedetomidine groups (D1 and D2; P = .004). In conclusion, dexmedetomidine can be used safely for sedation during EEG in children.
Electrospun polyurethane as an alternative ventricular catheter and in vitro model of shunt obstruction
Authors: Suresh Supraja , Black Richard A
Published: September 2014

Intracranial pressure and volume vary considerably between hydrocephalic patients, and with age, health and haemodynamic status; if left untreated, intracranial pressure rises and the ventricular system expands to accommodate the excess cerebrospinal fluid, with significant morbidity and mortality. Cerebrospinal fluid shunts in use today have a high incidence of failure with shunt obstruction being the most serious. Conventional proximal shunt catheters are made from poly(dimethyl)siloxane, the walls of which are perforated with holes for the cerebrospinal fluid to pass through. The limited range of catheters, in terms of material selection and flow distribution, is responsible in large part for their poor performance.

In this study, we present an alternative design of proximal catheter made of electrospun polyether urethane, and evaluate its performance in the presence of glial cells, which are responsible for shunt blockage. The viability and growth of cells on catheter materials such as poly(dimethyl)siloxane and polyurethane in the form of cast films, microfibrous mats and porous sponges were studied in the presence of proteins present in cerebrospinal fluid after 48 h and 96 h in culture. The numbers of viable cells on each substrate were comparable to untreated poly(dimethyl)siloxane, both in the presence and absence of serum proteins found in cerebrospinal fluid. A cell culture model of shunt obstruction was developed in which cells on electrospun polyether urethane catheters were subjected to flow during culture in vitro, and the degree of obstruction quantified in terms of hydraulic permeability after static and perfusion culture. The results indicate that a catheter made of electrospun polyether urethane would be able to maintain cerebrospinal fluid flow even with the presence of cells for the time period chosen for this study. These findings have implications for the design and deployment of microporous shunt catheter systems for the treatment of hydrocephalus.
Fresh-frozen allografts combined with bovine bone mineral enhance bone formation in sinus augmentation
Authors: Sehn Felipe Perraro , Dias Rafael Rodrigues , de Santana Santos Thiago , Silva Erick Ricardo , Salata Luiz Antonio , Chaushu Gavriel , Xavier Samuel Porfírio
Published: September 2014

We evaluated histologically, histomorphometrically, and tomographically the effects of the association of fresh-frozen bone allograft (FFB) with bovine bone mineral (BBM) in maxillary sinus floor augmentation. In total, 34 maxillary sinuses from 29 patients, with a mean age of 51.32 (±6.44) years, underwent sinus augmentation. Patients were divided into control and test groups (17 sinuses each). The controls were grafted with allograft bone, and the test group received a combination of FFB and BBM at a 2:1 ratio. After 6 months, bone samples were collected for histological and histomorphometric examinations. The implant survival rates were 93.02% (control group) and 100% (test group) at 6 months after functional loading. Median volumetric reductions of 28.32% (17.05–44.05) and 12.62% (5.65–16.87) were observed for the control and test groups, respectively. Statistically significant histomorphometric differences were found between the control and test groups regarding newly formed bone 12.54% (10.50–13.33) vs. 24.42% (17.62–35.92), p < 0.001, total bone 48.34% (39.03–54.42) vs. 61.32% (50.61–64.96), p = 0.007, and connective tissue 51.66% (45.57–60.97) vs. 39.30% (35.03–49.37), p = 0.007. The addition of BBM to allograft bone in maxillary sinus augmentation resulted in higher percentages of new bone formation and total bone, and permitted implant placement with a low rate of osseointegration failure at the 6-month follow-up.
Reexamining Issues of Conceptualization and Willing Consent
Authors: Conroy Nicole E. , Krishnakumar Ambika , Leone Janel M.
Published: September 2014

This study problematizes the literature’s conceptualization of sexual compliance, predominantly defined as willing participation in, and consent to, unwanted sexual activity in the absence of immediate partner pressure. Using a feminist theoretical framework, we argue that covert forms of social coercion, including normalized expectations for heterosexual women to participate in sexual activity and maintain relationship satisfaction, ultimately pressure women into participating in unwanted sexual activity. In other words, immediate partner pressure is not necessary for a sexually coercive experience to occur. Results of the current study indicate that relationship control and media influence significantly predict sexual acquiescence, and women acquiesce to unwanted sexual activity in an effort to maintain relationships and partner satisfaction as well as to avoid negative outcomes. Women cite various forms of social coercion, such as fulfilling sexual scripts and relationship obligations, as primary reasons for participating in unwanted sexual activity without resisting their partners.
“Catching Flies With Honey”
Authors: Moylan Carrie A. , Lindhorst Taryn
Published: September 2014

Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) are models of service delivery characterized by coordination between rape crisis, health care, and criminal justice sectors. Expanding on research documenting the extent and nature of conflict in SARTs, this study qualitatively explores the strategies used to manage conflict and variations in the use of strategies between professions. Analysis of interviews with SART members ( n = 24) revealed five types of strategies: (a) preventative strategies sought to prevent conflict and build capacity for resolving conflict, (b) problem-solving strategies identified and responded directly to conflicts, (c) forcing strategies involved one person attempting to force a perspective or solution on others, (d) unobtrusive strategies covertly worked toward change, and (e) resigned strategies limited direct responses to conflict to protect the coordination. Rape crisis advocates talked the most about conflict management strategies and were almost exclusively responsible for unobtrusive and resignation strategies.
Newman’s Health as Expanded Consciousness in Baccalaureate Education
Authors: Sethares Kristen A. , Gramling Kathryn L.
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this article is to describe the use of Newman’s theory of health as expanding consciousness by baccalaureate nursing students in clinical learning experiences. After a brief overview of Newman’s perspective, the authors report the context, the process, the challenges, and possibilities of participating in theory-based nursing care as reflected by students and faculty. Two exemplars of student-client partnerships highlight the process. The authors underscore the significance of early exposure to application and reflection on discipline-specific knowledge in the socialization of the future nurse.
Appreciative Inquiry with Nurses who Work with Children of Incarcerated Parents
Authors: Falk Kathleen J.
Published: September 2014

An appreciative inquiry study was conducted with 12 nurse-mentors who worked with children of incarcerated parents. The aim was to generate best practice knowledge for working with these children. The nurse-mentoring program, based on theorists Peplau and Erickson and colleagues, was implemented to promote optimum health outcomes among children at high risk for incarceration. Through this study method, nurse mentors discovered what was effective as they created a collective vision for future practice. An action plan was implemented, evaluated, and conclusions were drawn. Data from this study imply that nurse-mentoring can be used with other vulnerable populations. Nurses should use appreciative inquiry to transform healthcare, particularly in situations with seemingly intransigent solutions.
Thoughts About Conceptual Models, Theories, and Quality Improvement Projects
Authors: Fawcett Jacqueline
Published: September 2014

This essay focuses on how a conceptual model of nursing can be the basis for identification of the phenomenon of interest for a quality improvement project and how a theory of quality improvement or a theory of change is the methodological guide for the project. An explanation and examples of conceptual-theoretical-empirical structures for quality improvement projects are given.
The Creative Élan of Nursing Theory
Authors: Donohue-Porter Patricia
Published: September 2014

The author discusses how nursing theoretical knowledge contributes to nursing leadership and how the use of nursing theory can build confidence in nurse leaders in all settings, drawing on examples from selected theorists’ work. It is suggested that when nursing theory is not fully valued by the profession, not only knowledge is lost but also the language that helps nurses to lead. However, the vision and the voice of nursing theory will allow nurses to lead with creativity and to tap into innovation that facilitates contributions to healthcare. To be firmly, intellectually, and enthusiastically grounded in one’s disciplinary knowledge sets the stage to being able to lead effectively. Four aspects of leadership are addressed: clinical, interdisciplinary, nursing education, and interpersonal nursing. Our accumulated nursing theories can help nurse leaders to meet contemporary healthcare challenges by providing answers that help to focus on improvement, patient-centered care, critical reflection, and caring.
Moving with Mediocrity and Excellence
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: September 2014

Through the use of story, this article explores the notion of moving with mediocrity and excellence. Insights gleaned from the stories presented are identified for nursing and healthcare. Parse’s humanbecoming community change model and family model are utilized as the perspectives for developing a deeper understanding of mediocrity and excellence.
Ethics and Social Media
Authors: Milton Constance L.
Published: September 2014

Nurses’ use of social media has increased significantly with growing numbers of media-sharing opportunities, platforms, and emerging forms of electronic applications. With the proliferation, opportunities and limitations surface regarding the responsibilities and accountability that nurses have in choosing technology applications with an embedded philosophical ethos that is consistent with the discipline’s societal mandate of serving humankind in ways that honor human dignity. This article begins a discussion addressing possible disciplinary obligations and responsibilities for the implementation of social media platforms and possible implications for its future use in the discipline of nursing.
The Elusive Profession Called Nursing
Authors: Karnick Paula M.
Published: September 2014

As a discipline, nursing continues the struggle to be recognized by others as a profession. Despite the fact that nursing has a unique body of knowledge with theory, scientific inquiry, practice, and a code of ethics, the litmus test for defining the profession remains elusive. The discipline is not valued. Much of the struggle is in part due to the criteria developed by non- nurses regarding what the nursing profession should be, not what it truly is.
The Evolution of U.S. e-Learning Policy
Authors: Roumell Elizabeth Anne , Salajan Florin Daniel
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was threefold: to expand on existing reviews of 20 years of educational technology policy in the United States, to perform an empirical content analysis of the four National Education Technology Plan (NETP) documents issued by the Department of Education since 1996, and to provide a dialectic analysis of the evolution of U.S. e-learning policy. The content analysis revealed that, as the United States aims to reestablish its leadership role internationally, with a focus on global competitiveness, a sense of urgency is communicated in the development of e-learning policy and general education reform over time throughout each of the NETP documents, justifying the need for increased funding and support for federal level initiative in terms of educational technology policy. Through a dialectical analysis, endemic tensions within the NETP discourse become apparent in the competing visions of education as a means of both conferring economic fluency and mobility to individuals within the society.
Statewide Mathematics Professional Development
Authors: Carney Michele B. , Brendefur Jonathan L. , Thiede Keith , Hughes Gwyneth , Sutton John
Published: September 2014

We examined the impact of a state-mandated K-12 mathematics professional development course on knowledge, self-efficacy, and beliefs of nearly 4,000 teachers and administrators. Participants completed the Mathematical Thinking for Instruction course, emphasizing student thinking, problem-solving, and content knowledge specific to mathematics instruction. Inventories utilizing items from the Learning Mathematics for Teaching project measured changes in participants’ Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching (MKT) and an end-of-course self-evaluation enabled analysis of changes self-efficacy and beliefs. Statistically significant changes were found in all three variables. This study adds to our understanding of the potential usefulness of mandating large-scale professional development as a policy vehicle for influencing educators’ mathematics knowledge and beliefs.
Video Making, Production Pedagogies, and Educational Policy
Authors: Smythe Suzanne , Toohey Kelleen , Dagenais Diane
Published: September 2014

The promise of “21st century learning” is that digital technologies will transform traditional learning and mobilize skills deemed necessary in an emerging digital culture. In two case studies of video making, one in a Grade 4 classroom, and one in an adult literacy setting, the authors develop the concept of “production pedagogies” as complex multiliteracies embedded in video production oriented to meaningful social ends. Drawing upon concepts of translation in Actor Network Theory (ANT) and the “workaround,” the authors trace how in spite of the imaginary of “21st Century Literacy,” policy regimes privileged networks oriented to “minimal proficiency” print literacy. They theorize that the workarounds in which practitioners engaged illuminate three nodes or sites of action to strengthen production pedagogy networks: how learners are defined or problematized in literacy projects, how people get access to powerful digital literacy tools for learning, and how time-space regimes of traditional schooling are reconfigured.
Effects of Using Nintendo Wii™ Exergames in Older Adults
Authors: Chao Ying-Yu , Scherer Yvonne K. , Montgomery Carolyn A.
Published: September 2014

Objective: The purpose of this review is to summarize and synthesize the impact of using the Nintendo Wii™ exergames in older adults. Method: A database search was conducted to identify relevant studies. The search was limited to empirical studies, with particular attention paid to the effects of Wii exergames intervention on cognition, physical function, and psychosocial outcomes in older adults. Results: A total of 22 empirical studies met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Positive effects included improving physical function, decreasing depression, and increasing cognition and quality of life in older adults. Improved socialization and motivation to exercise were also reported. Discussion: Using Wii exergames does show promise as an intervention to improve physical function, cognition, and psychosocial outcomes in older adults. Evidence supports that Wii exergames is a safe and feasible tool to encourage older adults to engage in exercise.
Experimental investigation on the aerodynamic interaction between a helicopter and ground obstacles
Authors: Gibertini G , Grassi D , Parolini C , Zagaglia D , Zanotti A
Published: September 2014

In this study, experiments were performed to investigate the aerodynamic interaction between a helicopter and ground obstacles. A new experimental set-up was realised and validated. The motorised helicopter model, which included the fuselage, was positioned in different positions relative to a model building in order to replicate different hovering configurations. The use of a helicopter model with a six-component balance and a building model with several pressure taps allowed a database to be compiled for the loads on the helicopter and obstacle. First several tests were performed without the building in order to develop a reference database and assess the experimental set-up through a comparison with results in the literature. The measured loads were analysed to investigate the interference effects of the building model on the helicopter performance. A physical interpretation of the flow phenomena was obtained through analysis of the obstacle pressure measurements and particle image velocimetry surveys of relevant configurations.
Synthesizing individualistic and collectivistic perspectives on environmental and collective action through a relational perspective
Authors: van Zomeren Martijn
Published: September 2014

Theorizing about environmental or collective action relies on individualistic or collectivistic assumptions, respectively. Thus, a unified explanation for lowering one’s thermostat (a form of environmental action) and participating in mass protest (a form of collective action) is lacking. Building on a broad literature that views humans as relational beings, I aim to show that (a) a relational perspective synthesizes these two perspectives by reconceptualizing environmental and collective action as types of social interaction that regulate social relationships and (b) therefore, environmental and collective action have a similar motivational profile. This implies that both collective and environmental action are ultimately relational phenomena; that any assumption that environmental action is motivated by individualistic concerns and collective action by collectivistic concerns, limits our understanding of either type of action; and that future theorizing and research on environmental and collective action will benefit from adopting a relational perspective.
Persecution or Play? Law and the Ethical Significance of Sadomasochism
Authors: Bennett Theodore
Published: September 2014

Long-standing debates about the ethical significance of sadomasochism have been raised by two recent legal cases, Pay v. United Kingdom and Mosley v. News Group Newspapers Limited. The judgements in these cases rely on the unexplained assumption that a person’s participation in sadomasochistic activities can call into question their suitability for certain social or public roles. The article evaluates this assumption by referring to developments within feminist and general academic thinking about the normative nature of sadomasochism, focusing in particular on key issues such as whether sadomasochism is sexist or racist and whether participating in sadomasochistic activities reflects negatively on a person’s character. After working through the various theoretical models of sadomasochism as replication, simulation, game playing and context dependent, the article contends that this assumption lacks both a compelling theoretical basis and a practical rationale. Instead, this article argues that law should more fully recognize the critical distinctions that exist between the ethical significance of sadomasochistic activities and the ethical significance of the frameworks of power inequality and narratives of oppression that sadomasochistic activities explicitly invoke or implicitly negotiate.
The contemporary fictional police detective as critical security analyst: Insecurity and immigration in the novels of Henning Mankell and Andrea Camilleri
Authors: Macleod Alex
Published: September 2014

This article argues that popular culture can make an important contribution to security studies, and especially critical security studies, either by offering alternative narratives that challenge the dominant view of security or by deconstructing the process of securitization. It then examines a genre of popular culture that until now has been largely ignored by security studies, noir police procedural novels, and shows how the contemporary police detective can no longer be viewed in the same way as the defender of the status quo depicted in the traditional police procedural. At the same time, he or she does not correspond to the portrait of the security professional, a member of those forces that contribute to the way security is officially defined. He or she has become, instead, a critic of prevailing security practices. To illustrate how this has happened, the article takes novels from two well-known authors of noir procedurals – Faceless Killers by Sweden’s Henning Mankell and Rounding the Mark by Italy’s Andrea Camilleri – and explores how their two very different police detectives, Kurt Wallander and Salvo Montalbano, treat the fears, anxieties and insecurities aroused by immigration in their respective societies and, in doing so, assume in their own way the role of critical security analyst.
‘Yam’ Between Two Boulders: Re-Assessing India–Bhutan Relationship
Authors: Mitra Debamitra
Published: September 2014

For India, her ‘beneficial bilateralism’ with Bhutan cannot be taken for granted on the assumption of Bhutan’s perpetual dependence on India. Taking into consideration Bhutan’s strategic location, its local level economic viability along the borders, trade potentials, counter-terrorism in the northeast corridor, and the new balance of power that has been created with China trying to be the dominant economic and military power in the Asia-Pacific, India’s prudent foreign policy needs to assess her relationship with Bhutan more on a realistic paradigm instead of pre-conceived idealism. Though both are powerful, the fundamental contradictions between India and China in South Asia are too apparent to permit any ‘strategic partnership’. A buffer state like Bhutan, by its sheer existence might prevent conflict between two rival powers, but their manipulation is an element of diplomatic game played between the giant neighbors. Moreover, in balance of power model, states try to secure own safety, to reach an equilibrium for self-preservation. Trying to avoid the dominance of one particular state, they may ally with other states until equilibrium is reached. Hence India’s inappropriate assessment of Bhutan’s strategic importance might induce the Himalayan country to seek for new equilibrium by shifting its alliance, jeopardizing the Indian interest. Hence India’s Bhutan policy must be far more nuanced from now on.
Negotiating an Intractable Climate Deal: The Kyoto Process and Beyond
Authors: Das Satabdi
Published: September 2014

Climate change, commonly known as global warming, has threatened the very survival of the planet earth. Being a global problem it requires global actions but international actions to combat the climate cataclysm have been largely unsuccessful due to countries’ self-interested behavior. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol itself have tried to control emission of heat-trapping gases but failed due to incomplete participation. Such grim situation is also evident in other landmark climate summits where the rift between developed North and impoverished South and their bargaining over burden-sharing responsibility for climate change have contributed to the inefficacy of any effort to reduce emission. However, now the clash of interest is not only limited to developed and developing worlds, there are other shades of conflict and signs of political regrouping. This article will briefly narrate the landmark climate conferences, held under the aegis of United Nations, the positive outcome of them as well as the lacunae in order to highlight the political battle underlying global environmental parleys.
Book Review: Ramchandra Guha, ed., Patriots and Partisans
Authors: Kothari Raj Kumar
Published: September 2014

Ramchandra Guha, ed., Patriots and Partisans. New Delhi: Allen Lane, 2012, pp. 334, ₹699.
Emergency Response to and Preparedness for Extreme Weather Events and Environmental Changes in China
Authors: Wang Li , Liao Yongfeng , Yang Linsheng , Li Hairong , Ye Bixiong , Wang Wuyi
Published: September 2014

China has achieved impressive rapid economic growth over the past 30 years but accompanied by significant extreme weather events and environmental changes caused by global change and overfast urbanization. Using the absolute hazards index (AHI), we assessed the spatial distribution patterns and related health effects of 4 major extreme natural disasters, including drought, floods (landslides, mudslides), hails, and typhoons from 2000 to 2011 at the provincial level in China. The results showed that (1) central and south China were the most affected by the 4 natural disasters, and north China suffered less; (2) the provinces with higher AHI suffered most from total death, missing people, collapse, and emergently relocated population; (3) the present health emergency response system to disasters in China mainly lacks a multidisciplinary approach. In the concluding section of this article, suggestions on preparedness and rapid response to extreme health events from environmental changes are proposed.
Design optimization for passive adaptive structural networks
Authors: Lee Soobum , Semperlotti Fabio
Published: September 2014

The increasing interest in mechanical systems exhibiting enhanced vibration control and shock mitigation characteristics has motivated the study of novel design approaches for the synthesis of scalable systems with passive adaptive dynamic characteristics. In this article, we present a modular design concept to synthesize passive adaptive structures having concurrent high stiffness and high damping capabilities. The goal of this concept is to select linear and nonlinear structural constitutive elements from a predefined set and interconnect them depending on the overall scale and static/dynamic characteristics requested to the final structural assembly. To achieve this goal, an optimization design tool based on the genetic algorithm is developed. The design optimization problems are formulated with both single- and multi-objective functions subject to design constraints on both stiffness and damping characteristics. Using the predefined set of constitutive elements, this design tool synthesizes optimal structural networks in order to meet prescribed structural and damping requirements while exhibiting dynamic characteristics that passively adapt to variable external loading conditions.