bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contentious politics, grassroots mobilization and the Icesave dispute
Authors: Hallgrímsdóttir Helga Kristín , Brunet-Jailly Emmanuel
Published: December 2014

In 2008 Iceland experienced the deepest and fastest economic crisis ever recorded in peacetime, which included the total collapse of its financial sector, as well as significant erosion of its currency. This paper concerns a localized protest movement that occurred in the wake of the 2008 crash in Iceland: the mobilization of protest to a settlement deal, known as the Icesave settlement. We interviewed just over 30 actors involved in the mobilization, including politicians, activists, and academics. Our data show that both sides of the Icesave dispute drew on a set of three interwoven narratives, or framings of the debate, that respectively drew on ideas around natural justice, citizenship, and nationalism. Several key discursive intersections between these narratives and the political and economic landscape in the post-economic crisis not only rendered the Icesave dispute salient and commensurate with the experiences of Icelanders living through the crash, but also gave greater credibility to the no-Icesave campaign. We conclude by arguing that the Icesave dispute provides a unique lens onto central questions concerning democracy and the possibilities of meaningful citizen engagement and participation in an era of increasing globalization and of neo-liberal forms of economic governance. Our findings contribute to this literature by revealing some of the particularities of the Icelandic context that were important in creating the socio-historical moment that led to the success of the anti-Icesave movement.
Taking the Missing Propensity Into Account When Estimating Competence Scores
Authors: Köhler Carmen , Pohl Steffi , Carstensen Claus H.
Published: December 2014

When competence tests are administered, subjects frequently omit items. These missing responses pose a threat to correctly estimating the proficiency level. Newer model-based approaches aim to take nonignorable missing data processes into account by incorporating a latent missing propensity into the measurement model. Two assumptions are typically made when using these models: (1) The missing propensity is unidimensional and (2) the missing propensity and the ability are bivariate normally distributed. These assumptions may, however, be violated in real data sets and could, thus, pose a threat to the validity of this approach. The present study focuses on modeling competencies in various domains, using data from a school sample ( N = 15,396) and an adult sample ( N = 7,256) from the National Educational Panel Study. Our interest was to investigate whether violations of unidimensionality and the normal distribution assumption severely affect the performance of the model-based approach in terms of differences in ability estimates. We propose a model with a competence dimension, a unidimensional missing propensity and a distributional assumption more flexible than a multivariate normal. Using this model for ability estimation results in different ability estimates compared with a model ignoring missing responses. Implications for ability estimation in large-scale assessments are discussed.
Assessing the Variation of Formal Military Alliances
Authors: Benson Brett V. , Clinton Joshua D.
Published: December 2014

Many critical questions involving the causes and consequences of formal military alliances are related to differences between various alliances in terms of the scope of the formal obligations, the depth of the commitment between signatories, and the potential military capacity of the alliance. Studying the causes and consequences of such variation is difficult because while we possess many indicators of various features of an alliance agreement that are thought to be related to the broader theoretical concepts of interest, it is unclear how to use the multitude of observable measures to characterize these broader underlying concepts. We show how a Bayesian measurement model can be used to provide parsimonious estimates of the scope, depth, and potential military capacity of formal military alliances signed between 1816 and 2000. We use the resulting estimates to explore some core intuitions that were previously difficult to verify regarding the formation of the formal alliance agreement, and we check the validity of the measures against known cases in alliances as well as by exploring common expectations regarding historical alliances.
The Index of Cultural Tightness and Looseness Among 68 Countries
Authors: Uz Irem
Published: December 2014

If a culture is characterized by pervasive norms and sanctioning of deviance from norms, it is a tight culture. In a tight culture, people’s values, norms, and behavior are similar to each other. Thus, cultural tightness can be conceptualized as homogeneity in values, norms, and behaviors. As such, the cultural tightness and looseness (CTL) can be captured by SD. In the present study, a theoretical framework to study CTL was suggested. Three different indices of CTL in 68 societies were developed based on cultural-level SDs: a domain-specific index, a domain-general index, and a combination index. The combination CTL index showed the greatest validity compared with the domain-specific index, domain-general index, and another measure based on aggregation of individual-level perceptions. With the CTL index at hand, further theoretical predictions pertaining to the CTL can be tested. In general, wider use of SD was advocated.
The Relationship Between Sexual Satisfaction and Psychological Health of Prison Inmates
Authors: Carcedo Rodrigo J. , Perlman Daniel , López Félix , Orgaz M. Begoña , Fernández-Rouco Noelia
Published: December 2014

Research has found a relationship between sexual satisfaction and psychological health in prisoners, although few studies have focused on possible moderators of this relationship. The main foci of this study of a sample of prison inmates were as follows: (a) the association between sexual satisfaction and psychological health and (b) the moderating effects of heterosexual activity level (abstinent vs. non-abstinent) and gender on the relationship between these two variables. In-person interviews were conducted with 82 males and 91 females who lived in separate modules in Spain’s Topas Penitentiary. Sexual satisfaction was a significant predictor of psychological health only for members of the sexually abstinent group. These findings point to the positive effect of sexual satisfaction on psychological health, especially for the inmates in a less favorable sexual situation (i.e., sexual abstinence).
Using General Strain Theory to Explore the Effects of Prison Victimization Experiences on Later Offending and Substance Use
Authors: Zweig Janine M. , Yahner Jennifer , Visher Christy A. , Lattimore Pamela K.
Published: December 2014

We examine the relationship between victimization during incarceration and the likelihood of former prisoners’ subsequent criminal behavior and substance use from a general strain theory (GST) perspective. Data from the multi-site evaluation of the Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative were used, involving interviews with 543 men and 168 women in 12 states at four time points: once before prison release and 3 times after release. Path analyses show support for GST by indicating that prisoners who are physically assaulted or threatened have negative emotional reactions to such experiences, specifically hostility and depression, which increases their likelihood of violent criminal behavior and substance use after release.
A New Approach to Migrant Labor Rights Enforcement
Authors: Bada Xóchitl , Gleeson Shannon
Published: December 2014

This paper examines the genesis and evolution of consular efforts to enforce the workplace rights of immigrant workers in the United States. We draw on a survey of 52 Mexican consulates in the United States, in-depth interviews with the initial cohort of 15 consular participants in the Semana de Derechos Laborales/Labor Rights Week, and several key informants who helped coordinate these efforts in the community. Our findings confirm a shift from “limited” to “active” engagement over the last decade on the part of the Mexican government (Délano 2011), placing special emphasis on the role played by non-governmental actors in producing this shift. We document how this new orientation evolved with respect to workplace rights, leading to the creation of an annual Labor Rights Week that today coordinates efforts between local consular offices, federal and state labor standards enforcement agencies, and other immigrant worker advocates. We argue that consular representatives, while endowed with unique resources and legitimacy, are constrained in their approach to defend the rights of immigrant workers. The configuration and extent of consular collaborations also depend on the maturity of local networks and on synergistic collaborations with local NGOs and labor unions to increase the efficacy and impact of their efforts in the communities they serve.
‘Reinventing modes of dreaming’ and doing
Authors: Woodford Clare
Published: December 2014

This article addresses two debates. First, there is the issue of how the left can (re)invigorate contemporary western democracies in the face of the growing apathy, disillusionment and violent antagonisms that emerge in the context of neo-liberal reforms, inequality, fundamentalism and terror. In positing the value of Jacques Rancière’s work to speak to this issue, it will also take up a position within a second debate over the precise implications of Rancière’s work for democratic politics today. The article will argue that it is worth revisiting Rancière’s work despite various conflicting interpretations. It will show that contra the claims of his critics, his conception of politics need be neither opposed to direct action, nor ineffective or too narrowly conceived. Instead, ‘politics’ understood as the moment that ruptures our social (police) order provides us with a vibrant, ever-adaptable strategy of resistance and renewal that could be used to inspire and revitalize a new left.
Culture beyond identity
Authors: Church Jeffrey
Published: December 2014

Liberal approaches to multiculturalism and cultural nationalism have met with severe criticism in recent years. This article makes the case for an alternative, Aristotelian approach developed in the work of the ‘founding father’ of culture, J. G. Herder. According to Herder, culture is worthy of political recognition because it contributes to the realization of our common but contradictory human telos. Only a plurality of cultures, each realizing a unique balance of our contradictory needs, can bring wholeness to our common nature. In conclusion, I argue for the merits of this Aristotelian approach in resolving some recurring problems of multiculturalism.
Twitter and Health Science Research
Authors: Finfgeld-Connett Deborah
Published: December 2014

Twitter is a communication platform that can be used to conduct health science research, but a full understanding of its use remains unclear. The purpose of this narrative literature review was to examine how Twitter is currently being used to conduct research in the health sciences and to consider how it might be used in the future. A time-limited search of the health-related research was conducted, which resulted in 31 peer-reviewed articles for review. Information relating to how Twitter is being used to conduct research was extracted and categorized, and an explanatory narrative was developed. To date, Twitter is largely being used to conduct large-scale studies, but this research is complicated by challenges relating to collecting and analyzing big data. Conversely, the use of Twitter to conduct small-scale investigations appears to be relatively unexplored.
An Anatomically Based Analysis of Objectively Measured Pediatric Snoring
Authors: Brietzke Scott E. , Pusz Max D.
Published: December 2014

Objective

To assess pediatric habitual snoring (PS) using home sleep test (HST) technology and attempt to correlate the objective components of PS to specific upper airway anatomy. In addition, the effects of adenotonsillectomy (± turbinoplasty) on objective measures of PS were evaluated.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Pediatric patients with a chief complaint of snoring and probable obstructive sleep apnea underwent an HST (SNAP Diagnostics, Wheeling, Illinois) with a detailed acoustical snoring analysis prior to adenotonsillectomy (± turbinoplasty). During surgery, detailed anatomical measurements were performed and correlated to snoring analysis results. After surgery, patients were offered another HST with snoring analysis. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and statistical correlation with attention to the multiple‐comparisons paradox.

Results

Twenty‐two patients (45% male; mean age, 5.4 years [range, 2.4‐8.4 years]) completed the preoperative HST and operative measurements. Unlike typical adult snoring, only a minority of PS was from palatal flutter (mean palatal component, 24%; median, 10%). The resistance occurrence percentage (ROP, percentage of breathing events with snoring noise) was associated with body mass index (BMI; Spearman ρ = 0.55; P =. 017), subjective turbinate size (0.54; P =. 032), palatal obstruction (0.63; P =. 008), and mean oxygen saturation (−0.729; P =. 0003) but not adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Twelve patients (54%) completed a postoperative HST. The ROP was significantly reduced (median, 20.5% vs 6.5%; P =. 006, sign rank test) postoperatively. The magnitude of the ROP reduction was proportional to the volume of the removed tonsils (0.74; P =. 022).

Conclusion

Pediatric snoring has different acoustical characteristics than adult snoring. Objective PS is associated with BMI, turbinate size, and palatal obstruction. Adenotonsillectomy (± turbinoplasty) may significantly reduce objective PS.
Whipping It Up! An Analysis of Audience Responses to Political Rhetoric in Speeches From the 2012 American Presidential Elections
Authors: Bull Peter , Miskinis Karolis
Published: December 2014

In the context of Hofstede’s distinction between collectivist and individualist societies, an analysis was conducted of rhetorical devices utilized to invite affiliative audience responses in 11 speeches delivered by the two principal candidates in the 2012 American presidential election (Barrack Obama and Mitt Romney). Results were compared with preexisting data on Japanese and British political speeches. Whereas Anglo American politicians principally utilized implicit rhetorical devices, the Japanese principally utilized explicit devices. Whereas individualized audience responses (isolated applause and individual remarks) occurred throughout the American speeches, Japanese audiences invariably responded together. Collective audience responses also occurred in the American speeches, but showed a greater diversity than those for the British or Japanese, with chanting and booing, as well as cheering, applause, and laughter. In the American speeches, a significant positive correlation was found between affiliative response rate and electoral success; this is the first study to demonstrate such a significant relationship.
Efficacy of the Lexicon Pirate strategy therapy for improving lexical learning in school-age children: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Motsch Hans-Joachim , Marks Dana-Kristin
Published: December 2014

Lexicon Pirate was originally developed as a strategy intervention programme to treat lexical disorders of pre-school children. To evaluate the therapy’s effectiveness for school-age students, a randomized controlled trial (RCT, N = 157) was conducted. Based on a pre–post-test design, the programme’s impacts were compared with a control group (CG) that did not receive the strategy training. Potential long-term impacts were analysed with a follow-up test (four months after the intervention was completed). Therapeutic success is interpreted by an improved performance in standardized tests compared to the CG. The experimental group (EG) made significant to highly significant progress on both lexical and syntactical levels. The improvements of the EG are statistically significantly higher compared to the control group’s performance (exception: Subtest 1, P-ITPA). Consequently, the trial proves the advantages of this strategy therapy compared to the CG, finding that the Lexicon Pirate is an effective approach for treating lexical disorders of school-age students.
Measuring Effective Teacher-Student Interactions From a Student Perspective
Authors: Downer Jason T. , Stuhlman Megan , Schweig Jonathan , Martínez José Felipe , Ruzek Erik
Published: December 2014

This study applies multi-level analysis to student reports of effective teacher-student interactions in 50 upper elementary school classrooms ( N = 594 fourth- and fifth-grade students). Observational studies suggest that teacher-student interactions fall into three domains: Emotional Support, Classroom Organization, and Instructional Support. Results of multi-level confirmatory factor analyses indicated that a three-factor model fits between- and within-classroom variability in students’ reports reasonably well. Multi-level regressions provide some evidence of criterion validity, with student reports at the classroom level related to parallel observations. Both classroom- and student-level student report data were associated with students’ reading proficiency and disciplinary referrals. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for future research on student reports of classroom interactions and their practical utility in teacher evaluation and feedback systems.
Two Narratives of Intergenerational Sustainability
Authors: Moldavanova Alisa
Published: December 2014

This article recognizes that institutional survival alone is an important, but ultimately insufficient, goal for public and non-profit organizations. Instead, the article approaches organizational sustainability as a two-level concept that includes both institutional survival, as a baseline for sustainability, and intergenerational or longer term sustainability, understood as the ability of public institutions to persist and fulfill their purpose in the long run. The article is based on the findings of research conducted on a variety of public and non-profit cultural organizations, including museums, music and performing arts, and literature. However, the case of museums is used to illustrate two narratives of intergenerational sustainability: institutional resilience and institutional distinctiveness. The article notes that these narratives co-exist, although at times they contradict each other. It is the task of museum managers to reconcile the tensions embedded in these narratives via sustainable management practices. The broader implication of the study is that truly long-term sustainability, which secures the rights of future generations, requires sustainable stewardship today, and organizational sustainability should be viewed not as an outcome but rather as a process and an ethic.
“She Posted It on Facebook”
Authors: Rueda Heidi Adams , Lindsay Megan , Williams Lela Rankin
Published: December 2014

We examined experiences with technology and dating conflict among Mexican American (MA) adolescents (ages 15-17 years) using mixed qualitative methodologies. Focus groups, divided by three levels of acculturation and gender ( N = 20), and videotaped observations of couples ( N = 34), found that technology (i.e., cell phones, social media) afforded adolescents increased visibility of their partners’ day-to-day peer interactions. Feelings of romantic jealousy resulted in text message harassment and the expectation of immediate technology-facilitated contact. Females were more flirtatious as well as emotionally affected by jealousy resulting from social media sites, and males set rules regarding other-sex texting. Social media was particularly salient among more highly acculturated youth. Online spaces offered an opportunity for outside parties to observe unhealthy relationships and to offer support.
When to Stop CPR and When to Perform Rhythm Analysis
Authors: Giberson Brandon , Uber Amy , F. Gaieski David , Miller Joseph B. , Wira Charles , Berg Katherine , Giberson Tyler , Cocchi Michael N. , S. Abella Benjamin , Donnino Michael W.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Health care providers nationwide are routinely trained in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), an American Heart Association program that teaches cardiac arrest management. Recent changes in the ACLS approach have de-emphasized routine pulse checks in an effort to promote uninterrupted chest compressions. We hypothesized that this new ACLS algorithm may lead to uncertainty regarding the appropriate action following detection of a pulse during a cardiac arrest.

Methods:

We conducted an observational study in which a Web-based survey was sent to ACLS-trained medical providers at 4 major urban tertiary care centers in the United States. The survey consisted of 5 multiple-choice, scenario-based ACLS questions, including our question of interest. Adult staff members with a valid ACLS certification were included.

Results:

A total of 347 surveys were analyzed. The response rate was 28.1%. The majority (53.6%) of responders were between 18 and 32 years old, and 59.9% were female. The majority (54.2%) of responders incorrectly stated that they would continue CPR and possibly administer additional therapies when a team member detects a pulse immediately following defibrillation. Secondarily, only 51.9% of respondents correctly chose to perform a rhythm check following 2 minutes of CPR. The other 3 survey questions were correctly answered an average of 89.1% of the time.

Conclusion:

Confusion exists regarding whether or not CPR and cardiac medications should be continued in the presence of a pulse. Education may be warranted to emphasize avoiding compressions and medications when a palpable pulse is detected.
Intrinsically radiopaque polyurethanes with chain extender 4,4′-isopropylidenebis [2-(2,6-diiodophenoxy)ethanol] for biomedical applications
Authors: Dawlee S , Jayabalan M
Published: December 2014

Radiopaque polyurethanes are used for medical applications as it allows post-operative assessment of the biomaterial devices using X-ray. Inherently, radiopaque polyurethanes based on polytetramethylene glycol (PTMG), polypropylene glycol, 4,4′-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate), and a new iodinated chain extender 4,4′-isopropylidenebis[2-(2,6-diiodophenoxy)ethanol] with flexible spacers were synthesized and characterized. The iodinated polyurethanes were clear, optically transparent, and had high molecular weights. The polyurethanes also possessed excellent radiopacity and high thermal stability. The biocompatibility of the most promising iodinated polyurethane was evaluated both in vitro (cytotoxicity evaluation by direct contact and MTT assay, using L929 mouse fibroblast cells) and in vivo (toxicology studies in rabbits and subcutaneous implantation in rats). The material was nontoxic and well tolerated by the animals. Thus, these radiopaque and transparent polyurethanes are expected to have potential for various biomedical applications.
New horizon in dialysis depuration: Characterization of a polysulfone membrane able to break the ‘albumin wall’
Authors: Cuoghi A , Caiazzo M , Monari E , Bellei E , Bergamini S , Sereni L , Aucella F , Loschiavo C , Atti M , Tomasi A
Published: December 2014

The uremic syndrome is attributed to the progressive retention of a large number of toxins, which under normal conditions are excreted by the healthy kidneys. Standard dialytic membranes do not purify middle-high molecular weight toxins. Haemodiafiltration with endogenous reinfusion coupled with a highly permeable membrane could break the limit of the ‘albumin wall’ improving the dialytic depuration without loss of important nutrients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of a new polysulfone membrane, Synclear 0.2, to remove uremic molecules. Surface Enhanced Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight was employed to evaluate the proteomic profile of ultrafiltrate and Electrospray Ionization-Quadruple-ToF coupled with on-chip elution was used for proteins identification.

A high and specific permeability for middle-high molecular weight molecules was revealed by mass spectrometry for the investigated membrane. The identified proteins are mostly uremic toxins: their relative abundance, estimated in the ultrafiltrate by exponentially modified protein abundance index, showed a high purification efficiency of the new membrane when compared with conventional ones.

In conclusion, Synclear 0.2, used as convective membrane in hemodiafiltration with endogenous reinfusion treatment, permits to break the ‘albumin wall’, clearing middle-high molecular weight uremic toxins, improving the dialytic treatment purification efficiency.
Attitudes Toward Intimate Partner Violence and Associations With Condom Use Among Men in Haiti
Authors: Conserve Donaldson F. , Whembolua Guy-Lucien S. , Surkan Pamela J.
Published: December 2014

Although men have substantial decision-making power regarding condom use, the majority of HIV knowledge and prevention studies in the general Haitian population have been conducted among youth and women. We investigated attitudes toward intimate partner violence, knowledge of, and use of condoms among 9493 men in Haiti using data from the 2012 nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey. Only 36% of HIV-negative and 44% of HIV-positive men reported using a condom the last time they had had sex. Logistic regression revealed that believing it was justified for a man to hit or beat his wife if she refuses to have sex with him was associated with a lower odds of condom use. The odds of using a condom during last sex was higher among men who reported knowing condoms can prevent HIV and who had been tested for HIV. Given the low rate of condom use among men in Haiti, these findings suggest that interventions promoting HIV knowledge, HIV testing, and gender-violence prevention among men may also increase condom use.
Children With Disability Are More at Risk of Violence Victimization
Authors: Chan Ko Ling , Emery Clifton R. , Ip Patrick
Published: December 2014

Although research tends to focus on whether children with disability are more at risk of violence victimization, conclusive evidence on the association, especially in non-Western settings, is lacking. Using a large and representative sample of school-aged children in Hong Kong ( N = 5,841, aged 9-18 years), this study aims to fill the research gap by providing reliable estimates of the prevalence of disability and the direct and indirect experiences of violence among children with disability. The study also compares the prevalence of child maltreatment, parental intimate partner violence (IPV), and in-law conflict to explore the factors related to the association between disability and violence victimization. The prevalence of disability among children was about 6%. Children with disability were more likely to report victimization than those without disability: 32% to 60% of the former had experienced child maltreatment, and 12% to 46% of them had witnessed IPV between parents or in-law conflict. The results of a logistic regression showed that disability increased the risk of lifetime physical maltreatment by 1.6 times. Furthermore, low levels of parental education and paternal unemployment were risk factors for lifetime child maltreatment. The risk of child maltreatment could have an almost sixfold increase when the child had also witnessed other types of family violence. Possible explanations and implications of the findings are discussed.
School-Based Victimization of Teachers in Korea
Authors: Moon Byongook , McCluskey John
Published: December 2014

Research has found that victimized teachers are more likely to suffer from psychological distress, experience impaired personal relationships, and report higher levels of fear, consequently yielding detrimental impacts on their job performance and relationships with students. However, limited empirical research has been conducted to understand the prevalence and predictors of violence against teachers. Using a nationally representative sample of 996 Korean teachers, the present study measured various types of victimization and examined predictors of teachers’ victimization, focusing on teachers’ socio-demographic characteristics, teachers’ student-oriented approach/classroom atmosphere, and school characteristics. The results suggest that teacher victimization is widespread in South Korea and show significant effects of individual socio-demographic factors (gender and being a homeroom teacher), classroom atmosphere, and school type on teachers’ victimization. Policy implications are discussed in the conclusion.
What Influences Public Support of Transitional Housing Facilities for Offenders During Reentry?
Authors: Garland Brett , Wodahl Eric , Saxon Caryn
Published: December 2014

Transitional housing facilities for released prison inmates have existed in the United States since the early 1800s and are a promising strategy to aid offender reintegration. One recurring obstacle to the successful implementation and sustainability of these facilities is public resistance. Unfortunately, very little is known regarding what influences public support or opposition specifically for offender-based transitional housing. The current study examines how support for transitional housing centers may vary among residents of a Midwestern state based on the proximity of the facility and the types of offenders living there. The study also examines a range of possible influences on support, including community factors, family-related considerations, correctional and political views, and demographic variables. The most consistent influence on acceptance of transitional housing centers was general support for helping offenders during reentry. Other variables with more limited effects were an emphasis on services and programming over monitoring and surveillance during reentry, having a close family member imprisoned, age, and education level. Implications of these findings and directions for future research are discussed.
Preparing to Provide MTM Services
Authors: Glenn Zandra M. , Mahdavian Soheyla L. , Woodard Todd J.
Published: December 2014

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) has been a way for pharmacist to enhance their position as an integral member of the health care team as the need for improved clinical and economic outcomes in relation to the US health care system became apparent. MTM Certificate training programs are provided by numerous organizations. Collaboration Practice Agreements (CPA) are gaining significance as the role of the pharmacist is expanding in the care of patients as part of a multidisciplinary health care team. One major hurdle that many pharmacists are faced with is receiving reimbursement for the services provided. The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 recognized that pharmacists play an important role in the management of patient care and that pharmacists bring an expertise and knowledge that will help to identify and resolve patient medication therapy problems.
The Nation, its populations and their re-calibration: South African affirmative action in a neoliberal age
Authors: Erasmus Zimitri
Published: December 2014

Studies of affirmative action in South Africa generally pay attention to its successes and failures in particular sectors of the economy and at various levels of the social division of labour. This article situates the outcomes of affirmative action at the nexus of a series of contradictory processes: (a) increased wealth concentration among a few South Africans concurrent with growing local struggles among the poor about social exclusion from basic rights; (b) occlusions produced by neoliberal globalisation, narrow African nationalism and injunctions to forget about ‘race’ and (c) the logics of debt inherent in neoliberalism, affirmative action and worn nationalism. This examination of the convergence of affirmative action with intensified neoliberal macroeconomic policies at South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy shows that affirmative action in post-1994 South Africa is about the state’s re-calibration of ‘populations of privilege’ and ‘populations of need’. These adjustments have meant a re-articulation of ‘race’, class, nation and meanings of liberation that sparks contestations of affirmative action from both its beneficiaries and its ‘victims’. When situated within this global and local matrix, these reconfigurations of power, domination and exclusion reveal post-colonial iterations of both the ‘ethnographic state’ and the well-worn statecraft of divide and rule.
The interface between affirmative action and neoliberalism: The case of Fiji
Authors: Ratuva Steven
Published: December 2014

The notions of affirmative action and neoliberalism may be theoretically contradictory since the former deals with state intervention and the latter with privatization, the reality can be quite complex as the case of Fiji suggests. In a situation where the state has an ideological obligation to pursue neoliberal policies and a political commitment to implement affirmative action programs, the role the state plays as political and economic mediator can be syncretic, that is, both accommodating and contradictory. The article examines the interface between affirmative action and neoliberalism in Fiji in the context of regime change through coups. It discusses the deployment of affirmative action programs as mitigation against neoliberal market competition and at the same time, how neoliberal policies were used as a means of achieving some objectives of affirmative action, in particular the economic empowerment of the indigenous Fijian middle class.
Social movement unionism in practice: organizational dimensions of union mobilization in the Los Angeles immigrant rights marches
Authors: Engeman Cassandra
Published: December 2014

To revitalize union movements globally, labour scholars frequently prescribe social movement unionism. This union strategy adopts social change goals beyond member representation and contract negotiations and often requires allying with community organizations in pursuit of these goals. As a term, however, social movement unionism is often described in opposition to union organizational functions, such as member representation. This article challenges this organization-movement dichotomy by demonstrating the important influence of union organizational dimensions on the dynamics of social movement unionism. Analysis is based on case study research of labour union involvement in the 2006 immigrant rights marches in Los Angeles. Unions that participated in organizing these marches – thus, practicing social movement unionism – allied with large community organizations, preferred reform goals and advocated tactics perceived as effective. Such strategic decisions were informed by organizational considerations regarding members’ interests and unions’ long-term capacity for mobilization.
Vibratory characteristic analysis of integral mistuned bladed disk assemblies for aeroengine
Authors: Bai Bin , Bai Guangchen , Li Chao , Zhao Heyang , Yao Wei
Published: December 2014

An improved hybrid interface substructural component modal synthesis method (IHISCMSM) is proposed to increase the computational efficiency of mistuned bladed disk assemblies (BDA) under the condition of meeting the computational accuracy for a large amount of calculation via the classical hybrid interface substructural component modal synthesis method (CHISCMSM). The parametric models of the blades and the disk are built to investigate each substructural finite element model. They are synthesized by the double coordinating conditions of the displacement and the force to obtain natural frequency and vibratory output response which will ensure the computational accuracy. Compared with the high fidelity integral structure finite element method (HFISFEM), the computational time is shortened by 23.86–31.56% and the modal deviation is 0.002–0.157% via IHISCMSM. It is faster by 4.46–10.57% than the CHISCMSM. Meanwhile, the factors which impact the frequency are researched by IHISCMSM, including rotational speed, gas temperature, and geometry size. It is shown that the rotational speed makes the frequency increased, the gas temperature makes it declined, the rotational speed has greater influence on the low-order modal, but the temperature has greater influence on the high-order modal. The frequency of the BDA does not change much when the rotational speed and temperature are both considered. However, the geometric dimensioning almost has no influence on the frequency. The vibratory output response is enlarged with the mistuned level increasing and multiple peaks are observed. The reason is that the combined action of the mistuning and the resonance. When the mistuned level is 0–3%, the incremental saltation of the output response is obvious. When the mistuned level is continuing increasing, the localization phenomenon of the output response does not much different from the mistuned level 3%. The above research lays a solid foundation for the further study on the probabilistic analysis of the mistuned BDA.
Performance test and analysis of the prototype of the electric motor-pump
Authors: Ji Hong , Wang Wenlu , Wang Jinlin , Zhang Jiming
Published: December 2014

An electric motor-pump prototype with compact structure has been developed, and a testing system for the prototype has been established to obtain testing data, such as noise, efficiency, and rotational speed. Compared with the performance of the electric-hydraulic power unit, the noise level of the prototype maximally decreases by 13.4 dB, the volumetric efficiency is nearly 1.3% higher during the delivery pressure rising from 0 MPa to 15 MPa. However, the total efficiency of the prototype is 4.9% lower due to the lower rotational speed and the oil-immersed loss. Aiming at the noise abatement and the decline in efficiency, CFD and Ansoft are used to analyze the suction flow field of main pump and the rotational speed, and then the key factors that impact on noise and efficiency of the prototype are presented. The research results show that adopting the charging effect measure, setting a centrifugal charging pump at the inlet of the main pump, can prevent the cavitation noise caused by insufficient oil suction of the main pump. And the electrical resistance of the squirrel-cage rotor has a great impact on the rotational speed and further impacts on the efficiency. Finally, an improved virtual prototype with improved rotor is presented to increase the total efficiency by 2.4%.
Development of a differential cable drive mechanism for acquiring tracking and pointing application
Authors: Lu Yafei , Liao Hongbo , Hei Mo , Liu Hua , Fan Dapeng
Published: December 2014

A brief overview of previously built acquiring tracking and pointing devices reveals a trend toward smaller, more agile systems. A differential cable drive mechanism is developed to realize large look angle, high precise and compact structures. The mechanical design, including structure configuration, transmission system, and feathers, is introduced. The kinetic principle is studied and the differential relation between the motors orientations and gimbals pointing positions is investigated. Dynamics of the differential cable drive mechanism is studied based on the Lagrange equations, and the dynamics coupling and kinetic coupling is analyzed. The differential cable drive mechanism is machined and assembled. Experimental setup is built, and the frequency response in different operating conditions is investigated and the transmission performance is tested. Studies and analysis in this paper could provide a basis for further decoupled control of the differential cable drive mechanism.
ECU-oriented models for NOx prediction. Part 2: adaptive estimation by using an NOx sensor
Authors: Guardiola Carlos , Climent Hector , Pla Benjamín , Blanco-Rodriguez David
Published: December 2014

The implantation of nitrogen oxide sensors in diesel engines is necessary in order to track emissions at the engine exhaust line for diagnosis and control of the after-treatment devices. However, the use of models is still necessary since the sensor outputs are delayed and filtered. The present paper deals with the problem of the nitrogen oxide estimation in two parts; Part 1 deals with a control-oriented model for the nitrogen oxide estimation, while Part 2 presents data fusion of the model and the sensor to improve the estimation, which is presented in the following. The use of models for the nitrogen oxide estimation is an alternative but the drift and the ageing are still issues. In order to overcome this problem, the fusion of different signals can be carried out in a smart way by means of a Kalman filter. There exist different ways of presenting this fusion, from directly tracking the bias to updating the model parameters. For this, different algorithms are proposed in this paper with the aim of correcting the model output. Furthermore, the estimation of the actual nitrogen oxide concentration, by preventing sensor delay and filtering, is also integrated in the algorithm, which is a suitable strategy for combining nitrogen oxide sensors and models on an onboard basis.
Sensitivity to model geometry in finite element analyses of reconstructed skeletal structures: Experience with a juvenile pelvis
Authors: Watson Peter J , Fagan Michael J , Dobson Catherine A
Published: December 2014

Biomechanical analysis of juvenile pelvic growth can be used in the evaluation of medical devices and investigation of hip joint disorders. This requires access to scan data of healthy juveniles, which are not always freely available. This article analyses the application of a geometric morphometric technique, which facilitates the reconstruction of the articulated juvenile pelvis from cadaveric remains, in biomechanical modelling. The sensitivity of variation in reconstructed morphologies upon predicted stress/strain distributions is of particular interest. A series of finite element analyses of a 9-year-old hemi-pelvis were performed to examine differences in predicted strain distributions between a reconstructed model and the originally fully articulated specimen. Only minor differences in the minimum principal strain distributions were observed between two varying hemi-pelvic morphologies and that of the original articulation. A Wilcoxon rank-sum test determined there was no statistical significance between the nodal strains recorded at 60 locations throughout the hemi-pelvic structures. This example suggests that finite element models created by this geometric morphometric reconstruction technique can be used with confidence, and as observed with this hemi-pelvis model, even a visual morphological difference does not significantly affect the predicted results. The validated use of this geometric morphometric reconstruction technique in biomechanical modelling reduces the dependency on clinical scan data.
Metrology test object for dimensional verification in additive manufacturing of metals for biomedical applications
Authors: Teeter Matthew G , Kopacz Alexander J , Nikolov Hristo N , Holdsworth David W
Published: December 2014

Additive manufacturing continues to increase in popularity and is being used in applications such as biomaterial ingrowth that requires sub-millimeter dimensional accuracy. The purpose of this study was to design a metrology test object for determining the capabilities of additive manufacturing systems to produce common objects, with a focus on those relevant to medical applications. The test object was designed with a variety of features of varying dimensions, including holes, cylinders, rectangles, gaps, and lattices. The object was built using selective laser melting, and the produced dimensions were compared to the target dimensions. Location of the test objects on the build plate did not affect dimensions. Features with dimensions less than 0.300 mm did not build or were overbuilt to a minimum of 0.300 mm. The mean difference between target and measured dimensions was less than 0.100 mm in all cases. The test object is applicable to multiple systems and materials, tests the effect of location on the build, uses a minimum of material, and can be measured with a variety of efficient metrology tools (including measuring microscopes and micro-CT). Investigators can use this test object to determine the limits of systems and adjust build parameters to achieve maximum accuracy.
Validity and reliability of the Lupus QoL index in Turkish systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Pamuk O N , Onat A M , Donmez S , Mengüs C , Kisacik B
Published: December 2014

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have seriously impaired quality of life (QoL). In addition to activity and damage indices used in the past, tools to evaluate QoL in SLE have been developed in recent years. In this study, we test the validity of the Turkish version of the Lupus-QoL (LupusQoL-TR) score, and investigate its association with clinical findings and activity indices.

Methods

A total of 132 patients diagnosed with SLE according to ACR 1997 criteria were included. The clinical and demographic features, and biochemical data were retrieved from hospital records. SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and damage score (SLICC-ACR) were determined at the time of administration of Lupus-QoL questionnaire. The Lupus-QoL includes 34 questions divided into eight domains. We reevaluated the LupusQoL-TR and pretested its understandability. SLE patients were concomitantly administered the LupusQoL-TR and generic SF-36. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity were calculated.

Results

The mean age of our SLE patients was 37.9 ± 12.8 years. Internal consistency reliability ranged from 0.88 to 0.93, and test-retest reliability from 0.84 to 0.94. LupusQoL-related domains in SF-36 were correlated (from 0.66 to 0.74). Most LupusQoL-TR domains, except planning, were able to discriminate between active and inactive SLE groups. Scores in all domains of the LupusQoL-TR were found to be discriminative for patients with and without damage according to SLICC-ACR score.

Conclusion

The LupusQoL-TR was found to be a valid patient-reported outcome measure method when evaluating QoL in Turkish SLE patients.