bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family and Schooling Experiences in Racial/Ethnic Academic Achievement Gaps
Authors: Potter Daniel , Morris David S.
Published: February 2016

The gap in academic skills between white and historically disadvantaged racial/ethnic minority children exists at school entry and grows over time. Research over the last two decades has identified the important role of schools in perpetuating these disparities and the limited role of family experiences. Much of this research, however, has relied on strategies that consider only snapshots of children’s experiences and has assumed that family and schooling experiences have the same benefit for everyone. For this study, we examine racial/ethnic differences in children’s achievement through a cumulative framework that focuses on differences in the overall amounts of accumulated experiences and whether these experiences have similar benefits for all children. Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Kindergarten Class of 1998–1999 (ECLS-K), we find that cumulative experiences explain a moderate portion of the gap in reading and math gains between white and historically disadvantaged minority children. In addition, there is evidence that family and schooling experiences matter differently by race/ethnicity.
Acculturation and Hope as Predictors of Career Decision Self-Efficacy Among Korean International Undergraduate Students
Authors: In Hyoyeon
Published: February 2016

This study examined the role of acculturation to the host culture, acculturation to the home culture, and dispositional hope in career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) in a sample of 213 Korean international undergraduate students enrolled in U.S. universities. The findings revealed that hope and acculturation to the host culture uniquely and positively predicted CDSE. Acculturation to the home culture was positively related to CDSE but did not account for unique variance in CDSE beyond that accounted for by hope. Hope was the strongest predictor of CDSE. As expected, acculturation to the host culture and acculturation to the home culture were not significantly related, suggesting that one does not necessarily require sacrifice of the other. No interaction effects were found between hope and acculturation variables on CDSE. Limitations of this study and implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Attrition of Women in STEM
Authors: Xu Yonghong Jade
Published: February 2016

Data from a national survey are used to examine how individual characteristics and social structural factors may influence college graduates choosing an occupation that is congruent with their undergraduate field of study. Analysis is conducted separately for males and females and for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and non-STEM majors. Comparisons between the subgroups help to identify factors that may contribute to improving career outcomes and, in particular, lowering the attrition rates in STEM at transition from college to employment. The results suggest that positive career outcomes, such as better earnings and greater job satisfaction, are associated with individuals having an occupation congruent with their college major. STEM graduates have a lower unemployment rate than non-STEM graduates, but female presence in STEM majors remains low; and gender inequality (salary and employment status) in STEM occupations is significant from the very beginning of postbaccalaureate employment.
Influence of mistuning on aerodynamic damping of blade in transonic compressor
Authors: Yang XD , Hou AP , Li ML , Wang R , Li JX
Published: February 2016

A three-dimensional full-annulus computational model for aerodynamic damping prediction based on energy method is demonstrated by the consideration of a transonic rotor which is designed for experimental research of flutter to improve understanding the influence of frequency mistuning and inter-blade phase angle mistuning on aeroelastic stability of transonic compressor. Each individual blade is capable of vibration with its own independent frequency and phase angle, thus modeling a full-annulus rotor with arbitrary mistuned blades. The numerical analyses of alternate, random, linear frequency mistuning, and random inter-blade phase angle mistuning are performed in detail. The studies of tuned rotor show that the aerodynamic damping for the blade first bending mode is most sensitive to inter-blade phase angle. Further investigations on various frequency mistuning and inter-blade phase angle mistuning indicate that inter-blade phase angle mistuning has almost no effect on average aerodynamic damping of rotor, while frequency mistuning significantly changes it. Especially, the aerodynamic damping is about 7 to 11 times at the least stable conditions of the study rotor. Furthermore, the divergence of individual blade aerodynamic damping enlarges due to both frequency and inter-blade phase angle mistuning. The individual blade aerodynamic damping for frequency mistuned blade is affected significantly by the blade local mistuned pattern and mistuning amount. Even more remarkable, the local instability of blade is induced by inter-blade phase angle mistuning at some case. It is beneficial to improve understanding the blade response and onset time differences of flutter in turbomachinery flutter problem.
Book Review: Avinash Kirpal, Womentrepreneurs: Inspiring Stories of Success
Authors: Goyal Sonu
Published: February 2016

Avinash Kirpal, Womentrepreneurs: Inspiring Stories of Success. New Delhi: SAGE Response (SAGE Publications India Private Limited), December 2015, 176 pp., ₹ 345 (ISBN: 978-93-515-0554-9) (Paperback)
Ecopedagogy: A Movement between Critical Dialogue and Complexity: Proposal for a Categories System
Authors: Norat María de los Ángeles Vilches , Herrería Alfonso Fernández , Rodríguez Francisco Miguel Martínez
Published: February 2016

This qualitative research has been undertaken with the purpose of developing an integrated system of categories based on ecopedagogy. Founded on the critical pedagogy of Paulo Freire, this movement moves towards complex thinking and holism. Its theoretical bases are set on principles of sustainability, biosensibility, ethics of care and global citizenship to offer an alternative project for society and the neoliberal economy. The methodological design of this research is supported by the content analysis technique. The qualitative sample includes the Ecopedagogy Charter, the narrations of eight experiences of the Earth Charter International and four from the Centre for Ecoliteracy, and documents that offer a great scope for the categorical system. Among the most important findings is that ecopedagogy’s principles comprehend ecoliteracy, solidarity and a culture of sustainability; aspects arising from the ecological paradigm in education.
Breast Carcinoma With Unrecognized Neuroendocrine Differentiation Metastasizing to the Pancreas
Authors: Christensen Lene , Mortensen Michael Bau , Detlefsen Sönke
Published: February 2016

The current World Health Organization classification recognizes 3 subtypes of breast carcinomas with neuroendocrine features. Their reported prevalence is highly variable, ranging from <1% to up to 20% of all breast carcinomas. We report the case of a 73-year-old woman who underwent lumpectomy with a postoperative diagnosis of invasive ductal breast carcinoma. Six weeks after lumpectomy, pancreatic biopsies showed tumor cells with neuroendocrine features. The first immunohistochemical panel showed positivity for synaptophysin and cytokeratins, raising suspicion of a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. However, a second panel revealed positivity for estrogen receptors and GATA3. On review of the lumpectomy specimen, a significant neuroendocrine component was found, leading to the final diagnosis of breast carcinoma with neuroendocrine features metastasizing to the pancreas. Neuroendocrine markers are not routinely analyzed in breast tumors. Hence, metastases from breast carcinomas with unrecognized neuroendocrine features may lead to false diagnoses of primary neuroendocrine tumors at different metastatic sites, such as the pancreas.
Malakoplakia Associated With Multiple Adenomas of the Colon
Authors: Zanelli Magda , Ragazzi Moira , Serra Silvia , Bellafiore Salvatore , Ascani Stefano , De Marco Loredana
Published: February 2016

Malakoplakia in the colon has been described either as part of a systemic disease with a diffuse presentation or as a rare incidental finding associated usually with an adenocarcinoma. To our knowledge, the association of malakoplakia with colonic adenoma is very rare and only 5 cases, including the present case, have been reported so far. Here, we describe a case of malakoplakia coexisting with multiple sigmoid colonic adenomas in a 67-year-old patient without any underlying inflammatory or infectious disease and with no history of immunosuppressive treatment. As far as we are concerned, this is the first description of malakoplakia associated with multiple colonic adenomas.
Social skills group training in high-functioning autism: A qualitative responder study
Authors: Choque Olsson Nora , Rautio Daniel , Asztalos Jenny , Stoetzer Ulrich , Bölte Sven
Published: February 2016

Systematic reviews show some evidence for the efficacy of group-based social skills group training in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, but more rigorous research is needed to endorse generalizability. In addition, little is known about the perspectives of autistic individuals participating in social skills group training. Using a qualitative approach, the objective of this study was to examine experiences and opinions about social skills group training of children and adolescents with higher functioning autism spectrum disorder and their parents following participation in a manualized social skills group training (“KONTAKT”). Within an ongoing randomized controlled clinical trial (NCT01854346) and based on outcome data from the Social Responsiveness Scale, six high responders and five low-to-non-responders to social skills group training and one parent of each child (N = 22) were deep interviewed. Interestingly, both high responders and low-to-non-responders (and their parents) reported improvements in social communication and related skills (e.g. awareness of own difficulties, self-confidence, independence in everyday life) and overall treatment satisfaction, although more positive intervention experiences were expressed by responders. These findings highlight the added value of collecting verbal data in addition to quantitative data in a comprehensive evaluation of social skills group training.
Examination of Age-Related Differences on Clinical Tests of Postural Stability
Authors: Breen Erin O. , Howell David R. , Stracciolini Andrea , Dawkins Corey , Meehan William P.
Published: February 2016

Background:

The modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS) and Y-Balance Test are common clinical measurements of postural control, but little is known about the effect of age on performance of these tasks. The purpose of this study was to examine how healthy child and adolescent athletes perform on 2 common clinical measurements of postural control.

Hypothesis:

Younger athletes would demonstrate poorer postural control compared with older athletes.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Three hundred eighty-nine athletes between the ages of 10 and 18 years underwent an evaluation of postural control. Each participant completed the mBESS in the double-leg, single-leg, and tandem stances as well as the Y-Balance Test. Postural stability data were analyzed between age groups (10-12, 13-15, and 16-18 years) using univariate analyses of covariance.

Results:

The youngest athletes (10-12 years) had a greater mean number of errors in the single-leg stance of the mBESS than the 13- to 15-year-old and 16- to 18-year-old athletes (3.8, 3, and 2.5 errors, respectively; P < 0.01). They also had greater right to left asymmetry compared with the 16- to 18-year-old athletes on the Y-Balance Test in the posterolateral (6.8 and 3.8 cm, respectively; P = 0.006) and posteromedial (5.3 and 3.6 cm, respectively; P = 0.014) directions of movement.

Conclusion:

Athletes between the ages of 10 and 12 years performed worse on the single-leg stance of the mBESS and demonstrated more asymmetry on the Y-Balance Test in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions compared with older athletes.

Clinical Relevance:

In the absence of a baseline balance test for athletes younger than the age of 13 years, caution should be used in interpreting postural stability assessments, as age may be a modifying factor in performance.
Micro Agenda Setters: The Effect of Social Media on Young Adults’ Exposure to and Attitude Toward News
Authors: Wohn Donghee Yvette , Bowe Brian J
Published: February 2016

Social media services like Facebook and Twitter are playing an increasingly large role as sources of news. This article investigates the ways the composition of social media networks affects people’s exposure to and attitude toward news. Focus groups ( N = 31) and in-depth interviews ( N = 15) with young adults of varying ethnicity and country of origin showed that people’s networks on social media function as micro agenda setters. The characteristics of people in one’s network can facilitate negative effects such as echo chambers and spirals of silence but can also unfold new perspectives and create awareness of topics not covered by legacy media.
Nurses’ emotional challenges in providing home care in Norway
Authors: Eilertsen Ingrid , Kiik Riina
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to examine registered nurses’ experiences of emotional challenges when providing home care for older patients. Previous studies have shown that home care nurses encounter increased responsibilities and emotional challenges when caring for older patients with multiple diagnoses. However, to date, what these emotional challenges consist of has been insufficiently investigated. A qualitative study, inspired by a phenomenological approach, was conducted. Eleven registered nurses employed in home care services in Norway were selected for semi-structured interviews, and three main challenges were identified using meaning condensation: time pressure, feeling provoked by the behaviour of a patient and feeling overpowered by emotions when a patient was in the terminal stage of his or her illness. Our conclusion is that when nurses are confronted with a patient’s vulnerability, they are also confronted with their own vulnerability.
Co-creation of Socio-economic Values in Islamic Banking Service: Case Study Research in Pakistan
Authors: Javed Amna , Kohda Youji , Masuda Hisashi
Published: February 2016

This study examines the case study research in Pakistan to show the importance of socio-economic values in the banking world by citing the case of Islamic banking. Following Sharia traditions, Islamic banking is more concerned with socio-economic values, such as well-being, trust, ethics and partnership than with economic values, such as money in terms of interest.

To investigate the unique value, service system and value proposition in Islamic banking, we combined the results from literature review, press releases and interviews. The literature review showed that the Islamic banks ensure secure investments and profit or loss sharing. The press releases on banking websites showed that Islamic banking focuses on socio-economic values rather than economic values. The interview analysis showed that Islamic banking is mostly focused on justice and transparency of projects, achieved under the benevolent watch of the Sharia board, over all banking activities.

These findings reveal that the backbone of value co-creation in Islamic banking is contract-based projects which create economic opportunities and social experiences, and ensure that in Islamic banks, values create value for the customer. This concept is typically seen even in modern services.
Issues of Reforming Local Government in the Russian Neoliberal Political-Legal Doctrine in the Early XX Century
Authors: Popova Anna
Published: February 2016

On the basis of comparative legal analysis of the main postulates of the Russian neoliberal politicallegal doctrine and legislation of the party of constitutional democrats for consideration to the State Duma I — IV convocations in the early XX century the problem of reforming the system of local selfgovernment, which relied integral part of state and legal development of Russia and its transformation into a legal social state is reconstructed in the article. The author reveals the concept of evolutionary development of Russia in the early XX century, stated in works of neo-liberal thinkers, the final aim of which was to be a social state in which a special role was played by local institutions in the Russian Empire.
Motivational Spillovers from Awards: Crowding Out in a Multitasking Environment
Authors: Gubler Timothy , Larkin Ian , Pierce Lamar
Published: February 2016

This paper uses data from an attendance award program implemented at one of five industrial laundry plants to show the complex costs of corporate awards previously ignored in the literature. We show that although the attendance award had direct, positive effects on employees who previously had punctuality problems, it also led to strategic gaming behavior centered on the specific eligibility criteria for the award. The award program temporarily changed behavior in award-eligible workers but did not habituate improved attendance. Furthermore, we show that the extrinsic reward from the award program crowded out the internal motivation of those employees who had previously demonstrated excellent attendance, generating worse punctuality during periods of ineligibility. Most novelly, we show that the attendance award program also crowded out internal motivation and performance in tasks not included in the award program. Workers with above average pre-program attendance lost 8% efficiency in daily laundry tasks after the program’s introduction. We argue that these motivational spillovers result from the perceived inequity of internally motivated workers’ previously unrewarded superior attendance contributions. Our paper suggests that even purely symbolic awards can generate gaming and crowding out costs that may spill over to other important tasks.
Evaluating a nurse mentor preparation programme
Authors: Gray Olivia , Brown Donna
Published: February 2016

Following the introduction of a regional nurse mentor preparation programme, research was undertaken within a health and social care trust to explore both the trainee mentors' and their supervisors' perception of this new programme. A qualitative study involving focus groups was undertaken. The focus groups comprised a total of twelve participants including five trainee mentors and seven supervisors (experienced mentors) who had recently completed a mentor preparation programme. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Three themes were identified from the data: personal investment (including the emotional impact of mentoring) contextual perceptions (environmental factors such as time) and intellectual facets (related to personal and professional growth). Comprehensive preparation for mentors appears to be effective in developing mentors with the ability to support nursing students in practice. However, further study is required to explore how to support mentors to balance the demands of the mentoring role with the delivery of patient care.
Finding the connections between native-speakerism and authenticity
Authors: Lowe Robert J. , Pinner Richard
Published: February 2016

Native-speakerism and authenticity are two subjects that have been written on extensively in the field of English language teaching, but the links between the two have yet to be explored in any great depth. This paper extensively reviews the literature on native-speakerism and authenticity and outlines where the connections between these two concepts, both practical and theoretical, may lie. Native-speakerism and authenticity are first briefly introduced and contextualised separately, and a theoretical framework is then presented to explain the connections between them based on the key foundational topics of authority, culturism, and cultural capital. Following this, the paper moves on to explain how these connections manifest in the ELT industry to influence the lives of ‘non-native speaker’ teachers in terms of student perceptions, self-perceptions, and professional discrimination, and how these are both influential on, and propagated by, the sales rhetoric of the ELT industry. Finally some suggestions are given for possible avenues of future research.
The Study of Seasonal Changes of Permanent Stations Coordinates based on Weekly EPN Solutions
Authors: Maciuk Kamil
Published: February 2016

Daily and weekly coordinates solutions of GNSS permanent stations operating within EPN network allows to track long-term changes of coordinates caused e.g. by the local and global movements of tectonic plates. They are therefore an excellent tool for testing stability and repeatability of stations position. The article presents an analysis of coordinates changes of selected reference stations based on weekly EPN solutions. In addition the author proposes parameters of approximating function by assuming an existence of periodic, annually repeatable trend. The author performed also an independent fitting function for two different periods of two ITRF frames of routine time analysis and reprocessing.
A Monte Carlo Analysis for Collision Risk Assessment on Vega Launcher Payloads and LARES Satellite
Authors: Sindoni G. , Ciufolini I. , Battie F.
Published: February 2016

This work has been developed in the framework of the LARES mission of the Italian Space Agency (ASI). The LARES satellite has been built to test, with high accuracy, the frame–dragging effect predicted by the theory of General Relativity, specifically the Lense–Thirring drag of its node. LARES was the main payload in the qualification flight of the European Space Agency launcher VEGA. A concern arose about the possibility of an impact between the eight secondary payloads among themselves, with LARES and with the last stage of the launcher (AVUM). An impact would have caused failure on the payloads and the production of debris in violation of the space debris mitigation measures established internationally. As an additional contribution, this study allowed the effect of the payload release on the final manoeuvers of the AVUM to be understood.
Equivalência semântica do Questionário Pediatric Subjective Global Nutritional Assessment para triagem nutricional em pacientes pediátricos com câncer
Authors: SARAIVA Danúbia da Cunha Antunes , AFONSO Wanélia Vieira , PINHO Nivaldo Barroso de , PERES Wilza Arantes Ferreira , PADILHA Patricia de Carvalho
Published: February 2016

Objetivo: Realizar a equivalência semântica da Avaliação Nutricional Subjetiva Global Pediátrica e sua adaptação para a língua portuguesa para aplicação em pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados com câncer. Métodos: O processo de equivalência semântica envolveu as seguintes etapas: tradução, síntese das traduções, retrotradução, discussão com comitê de especialistas e pré-teste, etapas que aconteceram na Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro e no Instituto Nacional de Câncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva. O questionário foi pré-testado em 32 pacientes pediátricos com câncer, de 2 a 18 anos, para verificar sua adequação nessa população. Resultados: Todas as etapas fundamentaram a equivalência semântica do instrumento. Foram necessárias discretas alterações no instrumento Avaliação Nutricional Subjetiva Global Pediátrica para o contexto brasileiro. Na avaliação das 56 assertivas traduzidas para o português, 81% das respostas dos especialistas classificaram como "inalterado" o significado geral. Evidenciou-se uma boa equivalência semântica entre a tradução e a retrotradução e a versão original. Conclusão: A versão brasileira da Avaliação Nutricional Subjetiva Global Pediátrica foi bem compreendida pela população do estudo e mostrou-se adequada para seguir com as demais etapas de adaptação transcultural e validação da ferramenta para posterior aplicação na população pediátrica hospitalizada com câncer.
The Role of Research in the Family Service Agency: Reflections Some 30 Years Later
Authors: Caputo Richard K.
Published: February 2016

“The role of research in the Family Service Agency” is a topic that encompasses a variety of seemingly paradoxical, if not contraindicative, issues: social science research versus social work research, the researcher versus the practitioner, practice versus policy, academic research versus agency-based research, the generation of knowledge versus the application of research findings, and empirical research versus theoretical research. The issues exist in part because of the historical influences that shaped the development of the social sciences and the profession of social work and in part because of the differences in the size, structure, function, and resources of an agency. They are also due to differences in the nature, purpose, methodology, and design of research as well as to differences in the affinity of administrators and practitioners for the findings of research activities. (Caputo, 1985, p. 205)
Phase II Trial of Bevacizumab in Combination With Temozolomide as First-Line Treatment in Patients With Metastatic Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Piperno-Neumann Sophie , Diallo Alhassane , Etienne-Grimaldi Marie-Christine , Bidard François-Clément , Rodrigues Manuel , Plancher Corine , Mariani Pascale , Cassoux Nathalie , Decaudin Didier , Asselain Bernard , Servois Vincent
Published: February 2016

Lessons Learned

Trials dedicated to metastatic uveal melanoma are needed because of the poor prognosis of this rare cancer and because its biology is distinct from that of cutaneous melanoma. Agents targeting the MEK/ERK/MAP kinase pathways are being tested.

Background.

In experimental models, bevacizumab suppressed in vitro growth and in vivo hepatic metastasis of ocular melanoma cells. Additional preclinical data suggested a potential benefit when combining bevacizumab with dacarbazine.

Methods.

This noncomparative phase II study evaluated a combination of bevacizumab (10 mg/kg on days 8 and 22) with temozolomide (150 mg/m2 on days 1–7 and 15–21) in 36 patients with metastatic uveal melanoma (MUM). The primary endpoint was the progression-free rate (PFR) at 6 months. Using a modified 2-step Fleming plan, at least 10 of 35 patients were required to support a predefined PFR at 6 months of 40%. Secondary objectives were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety; liver perfusion computed tomography (CT) for response imaging; and impact of VEGF-A gene polymorphisms on bevacizumab pharmacodynamics.

Results.

First- and second-step analyses revealed nonprogression at 6 months in 3 of 17 and 8 of 35 patients, respectively. Finally, the 6-month PFR was 23% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10–39), with long-lasting stable disease in 5 patients (14%). Median PFS and OS were 12 weeks and 10 months, respectively. No unexpected toxicity occurred. Liver perfusion CT imaging was not useful in assessing tumor response, and VEGF-A gene polymorphisms were not correlated with toxicity or survival.

Conclusion.

In patients with MUM, a combination of bevacizumab plus temozolomide achieved a 6-month PFR of 23%.
Research Methods: Bibliometrics
Authors: Wilson Virginia
Published: February 2016

No abstract.
An Examination of the Failure Rate and Content Equivalency of Electronic Surrogates and the Implications for Print Equivalent Preservation
Authors: Ladd Ken
Published: February 2016

Objective – This study sought to determine whether evidence indicates a need to preserve print equivalent journal collections. In addition, this research aimed to provide data on the failure rate of print equivalent materials for possible digitization to replace existing poor quality or defective electronic surrogates.

Methods – The project compared the content of randomly selected journal titles, volumes, and issues from seven electronic journal archives and their print equivalents held at the University of Saskatchewan Library. The archives were obtained from five separate vendors representing humanities, social sciences, science, technology, and medicine. Data were collected on the frequency and types of failure of electronic surrogates, supplemental content missing from electronic surrogates, and frequency and types of failure of print equivalent materials.

Results – Across all electronic journal archives the failure rate of electronic surrogates was 7.5% for all PDF documents and 11.5% for scholarly PDF documents. For individual electronic journal archives the failure rate ranged from 0.7% to 19.5% for all PDF documents and from 0.3% to 26.5% for scholarly PDF documents. Data is presented on the failure rate of individual electronic journal archives, types of failure, and missing supplemental content. An examination of print equivalent titles found 1.7% of print scholarly articles could not be used or were not optimal for digitization.

Conclusions – The study demonstrates the need for preserving print equivalent journal titles for at least the short (less than 5 years) to medium term (up to 10 years), while poorly digitized materials are identified, replaced, and digitally preserved. While electronic surrogates of image-rich scholarly papers are more likely to have quality issues, the study found some text-only PDF scholarly documents were illegible, indicating the need for caution against liberally applying this as a criterion for disposal of print equivalent titles. There is significant supplemental content absent from electronic surrogates which indicates a need for further discussion of the necessity for such information or for incorporating it into the digitization process to ensure a complete record of the print equivalent journals for future use. The failure rate of print equivalent titles for possible digitization provides additional data for discussions related to the determination of optimal overlap. It also suggests that the number of copies required for a full set of preserved journals over a specified time horizon may be greater than anticipated, unless page level validation is performed.
Addressing the Challenge: Cataloguing Electronic Books in Academic Libraries
Authors: Zhao Shuzhen , Zhao Wei
Published: February 2016

This paper explores the various issues and challenges arising from e-book cataloguing experienced at the University of Windsor’s Leddy Library and the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL). This discussion uses an evidence -based approach to identify and resolve issues relevant to academic libraries as well as to consortia. With the ever rising popularity of e-books within academic libraries, cataloguing librarians are actively seeking more effective methods of managing this new electronic medium, including the development of new cataloguing policies and procedures. This paper will explore the various issues and challenges surrounding e-book cataloguing and processing within academic libraries, and will identify new policies and procedures that may be used to effectively assist in e-book management.
Non-use of Library Services by Students in a UK Academic Library
Authors: Toner Lisa Jane
Published: February 2016

Objective – This study examined low or non-use of the library at St. Martin’s College, UK and determined the possible reasons for this. Additionally, this study investigated the other sources of information non-users were accessing. The results were then fed into the library’s future strategic planning cycle.

Methods – Using data from the TALIS management system, a postal survey was distributed to students who registered as low or non-users. Non-users were considered a hard-to-reach target group, and a further classroom-based survey was administered.

Results – The findings showed that students in part-time and distance learning courses were the largest group of non-users. Other factors influencing non-use included the purchase of books, use of the Internet, and a lack of awareness of services available.

Conclusions – The library service needs to target non-traditional student groups, particularly those taught off-campus, with innovative induction techniques. This survey highlighted the need to embed information skills teaching into the curriculum and a recent restructure of the department has enabled this to happen with a more focused approach to academic liaisonship.
Still Bound for Disappointment? Another Look at Faculty and Library Journal Collections
Authors: Rutner Jennifer , Self James
Published: February 2016

Objective – To examine why faculty members at Columbia University are dissatisfied with the library’s journal collections and to follow up on a previous study that found negative perceptions of journal collections among faculty at Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member institutions in general.

Methods – In 2006, Jim Self of the University of Virginia published the results of an analysis of LibQUAL+® survey data for ARL member libraries, focusing on faculty perceptions of journal collections as measured by LibQUAL+® item IC-8: “print and/or electronic journal collections I require for my work.” The current analysis includes data from 21 ARL libraries participating in the LibQUAL+® survey from 2006 through 2009. Notebooks for each library were accessed and reviewed for the Information Control and overall satisfaction scores. At Columbia, the results were used to identify departments with negative adequacy gaps for the IC-8 item. Follow-up phone interviews were conducted with 24 faculty members in these departments, focusing on their minimum expectation for journal collections, their desired expectations, and preferences for print or electronic journals.

Results – Analysis of the 2009 LibQUAL+® scores shows that faculty across ARL libraries remain dissatisfied with journal collections. None of the libraries achieved a positive adequacy gap, in which the perceived level of service exceeded minimum expectations. There was no significant change in the adequacy gap for the IC-8 item since 2006, and satisfaction relative to expectations remained consistent, showing neither improvement nor decline. While most of the faculty members interviewed at Columbia stated that the journal collections met their minimum expectations, 15 of 24 reported that the library did not meet their desired level of service in this area. Key issues identified in the interviews included insufficient support from library staff and systems regarding journal acquisition and use, the need for work-arounds for accessing needed journals, problems with search and online access, collection gaps, insufficient backfile coverage, and the desire for a discipline-specific “quick list” to provide access to important journals.

Conclusion – The issue of satisfaction with journal collections is complex, and faculty members have little tolerance for faulty systems. The evolution of the electronic journal collections and the inherent access challenges will continue to play a critical role in faculty satisfaction as libraries strive to provide ever-better service.
Images Of Online Versus Store Shopping: Have The Attitudes Of Men And Women, Young And Old Really Changed?
Authors: Passyn Kirsten A. , Diriker Memo , Settle Robert B.
Published: February 2016

This study examines the effect of the consumers' sex and age on their perceptions of the problems and the benefits of shopping and buying online, compared to doing so in a traditional retail store. Overall image profiles can be viewed, but the principal focus is on the similarities and differences between gender and age groups. Along with perceptions of problems and benefits of online buying, a direct comparison between store versus online buying sharply reveals the contrasts among men and women of different ages.
Real-Time Intensity Domain Characterization of Fibre Lasers Using Spatio-Temporal Dynamics
Authors: Sugavanam Srikanth , Tarasov Nikita , Churkin Dmitry
Published: February 2016

Fibre lasers are light sources that are synonymous with stability. They can give rise to highly coherent continuous-wave radiation, or a stable train of mode locked pulses with well-defined characteristics. However, they can also exhibit an exceedingly diverse range of nonlinear operational regimes spanning a multi-dimensional parameter space. The complex nature of the dynamics poses significant challenges in the theoretical and experimental studies of such systems. Here, we demonstrate how the real-time experimental methodology of spatio-temporal dynamics can be used to unambiguously identify and discern between such highly complex lasing regimes. This two-dimensional representation of laser intensity allows the identification and tracking of individual features embedded in the radiation as they make round-trip circulations inside the cavity. The salient features of this methodology are highlighted by its application to the case of Raman fibre lasers and a partially mode locked ring fibre laser operating in the normal dispersion regime.
Sandwiched Long-Period Fiber Grating Fabricated by MEMS Process for CO2 Gas Detection
Authors: Wu Chao-Wei , Chiang Chia-Chin
Published: February 2016

This paper presents an optical fiber gas sensor based on sandwiched long-period fiber grating (SLPFG) that is fabricated via the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) process and coated with amino silica adsorbent for carbon dioxide (CO2) gas sensing. The amine-modified nanoporous silica foams were coated onto the SLPFG for CO2 adsorption. To characterize the CO2 adsorption of the SLPFG sensor, a gas sensing test was conducted with a mixed gas consisting of 15% CO2 and 85% nitrogen at a flow rate of 0.2 L/min. The results showed that the spectra of the SLPFG were varied with the gas flow within 21 min. After that, the transmission spectra of the SLPFG held steady and exhibited no further change. This phenomenon was caused by the adsorption saturation of the amine-modified nanoporous silica foams which were coated onto the SLPFG. During the absorption process, the transmission was increasing by about 11.27 dB (from −23.11 to −11.84 dB), and the increasing rate of transmission was 0.4598 dB/min. Repeatable adsorption and desorption experiment results showed that the SLPFG CO2 gas sensor exhibited good repeatability and a short response time. The recovery rate for each cycle was about 85%, and the required recovery time was short. Therefore, elaborated SLPFG gas sensor could potentially be used as a gas sensor for monitoring CO2 adsorption in the context of various industrial, agricultural, and household applications.
Association between Knowledge about Comprehensive Food Education and Increase in Dental Caries in Japanese University Students: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kunitomo Muneyoshi , Ekuni Daisuke , Mizutani Shinsuke , Tomofuji Takaaki , Irie Koichiro , Azuma Tetsuji , Yamane Mayu , Kataoka Kota , Taniguchi-Tabata Ayano , Mizuno Hirofumi , Miyai Hisataka , Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Morita Manabu
Published: February 2016

In Japan, comprehensive food education (shokuiku) programs are carried out with the aim of improving dietary practices and thereby reducing the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases, including dental caries. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the association between knowledge about shokuiku and the increase in dental caries among Japanese university students who had attended a shokuiku program while in junior/senior high school. A total of 562 students volunteered to undergo oral examinations over a three-year follow-up period, during which the number of cases of dental caries were recorded. Additional information was collected using a questionnaire survey regarding knowledge about shokuiku, dietary habits, and oral health behaviors. In logistic regression analysis, males who lacked knowledge about shokuiku had significantly higher odds for dental caries than those who did not (odds ratio (OR), 2.00; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.12–3.58; p = 0.019). On the other hand, among females, those who frequently consumed sugar-sweetened soft drinks had significantly higher odds for dental caries than those who did not (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.05–3.42; p = 0.035). These results suggest that having no knowledge about shokuiku is associated with a risk of increase in dental caries in Japanese male university students.
Co-Ingestion of Whey Protein with a Carbohydrate-Rich Breakfast Does Not Affect Glycemia, Insulinemia or Subjective Appetite Following a Subsequent Meal in Healthy Males
Authors: Allerton Dean , Campbell Matthew , Gonzalez Javier , Rumbold Penny , West Daniel , Stevenson Emma
Published: February 2016

We aimed to assess postprandial metabolic and appetite responses to a mixed-macronutrient lunch following prior addition of whey protein to a carbohydrate-rich breakfast. Ten healthy males (age: 24 ± 1 years; body mass index (BMI): 24.5 ± 0.7 kg/m2) completed three trials in a non-isocaloric, crossover design. A carbohydrate-rich breakfast (93 g carbohydrate; 1799 kJ) was consumed with (CHO + WP) or without (CHO) 20 g whey protein isolate (373 kJ), or breakfast was omitted (NB). At 180 min, participants consumed a mixed-macronutrient lunch meal. Venous blood was sampled at 15 min intervals following each meal and every 30 min thereafter, while subjective appetite sensations were collected every 30 min throughout. Post-breakfast insulinemia was greater after CHO + WP (time-averaged area under the curve (AUC0––180 min): 193.1 ± 26.3 pmol/L), compared to CHO (154.7 ± 18.5 pmol/L) and NB (46.1 ± 8.0 pmol/L; p < 0.05), with no difference in post-breakfast (0–180 min) glycemia (CHO + WP, 3.8 ± 0.2 mmol/L; CHO, 4.2 ± 0.2 mmol/L; NB, 4.2 ± 0.1 mmol/L; p = 0.247). There were no post-lunch (0–180 min) effects of condition on glycemia (p = 0.492), insulinemia (p = 0.338) or subjective appetite (p > 0.05). Adding whey protein to a carbohydrate-rich breakfast enhanced the acute postprandial insulin response, without influencing metabolic or appetite responses following a subsequent mixed-macronutrient meal.
New Automated Method to Develop Geometrically Corrected Time Series of Brightness Temperatures from Historical AVHRR LAC Data
Authors: Pareeth Sajid , Delucchi Luca , Metz Markus , Rocchini Duccio , Devasthale Abhay , Raspaud Martin , Adrian Rita , Salmaso Nico , Neteler Markus
Published: February 2016

Analyzing temporal series of satellite data for regional scale studies demand high accuracy in calibration and precise geo-rectification at higher spatial resolution. The Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) sensor aboard the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) series of satellites provide daily observations for the last 30 years at a nominal resolution of 1.1 km at nadir. However, complexities due to on-board malfunctions and orbital drifts with the earlier missions hinder the usage of these images at their original resolution. In this study, we developed a new method using multiple open source tools which can read level 1B radiances, apply solar and thermal calibration to the channels, remove bow-tie effects on wider zenith angles, correct for clock drifts on earlier images and perform precise geo-rectification by automated generation and filtering of ground control points using a feature matching technique. The entire workflow is reproducible and extendable to any other geographical location. We developed a time series of brightness temperature maps from AVHRR local area coverage images covering the sub alpine lakes of Northern Italy at 1 km resolution (1986–2014; 28 years). For the validation of derived brightness temperatures, we extracted Lake Surface Water Temperature (LSWT) for Lake Garda in Northern Italy and performed inter-platform (NOAA-x vs. NOAA-y) and cross-platform (NOAA-x vs. MODIS/ATSR/AATSR) comparisons. The MAE calculated over available same day observations between the pairs—NOAA-12/14, NOAA-17/18 and NOAA-18/19 are 1.18 K, 0.67 K, 0.35 K, respectively. Similarly, for cross-platform pairs, the MAE varied between 0.5 to 1.5 K. The validation of LSWT from various NOAA instruments with in-situ data shows high accuracy with mean R2 and RMSE of 0.97 and 0.91 K respectively.
A New Method for the Estimation of Broadband Apparent Albedo Using Hyperspectral Airborne Hemispherical Directional Reflectance Factor Values
Authors: Calleja Javier , Recondo Carmen , Peón Juanjo , Fernández Susana , De la Cruz Fernando , González-Piqueras José
Published: February 2016

The broadband albedo values retrieved from satellite sensors are usually compared directly to ground measurements. Some authors have noted the necessity of high spatial resolution albedo estimates to fill the gap between ground measurements and satellite retrievals. In this respect, hyperspectral airborne data with high spatial resolution is a powerful tool. Here, a new operational method for the calculation of airborne broadband apparent albedo over the spectral range of 350–2500 nm is presented. This new method uses the Hemispherical Directional Reflectance Factor (HDRF) as a proxy for the narrowband albedo, assuming a Lambertian approximation. The broadband apparent albedo obtained is compared to that estimated using theapparent albedo equation devised for the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Airborne data were collected using the Airborne Hyperspectral Scanner (AHS). Field data were acquired at three sites: a camelina field, a green grass field, and a vineyard. The HDRF can be used to approximate the narrowband albedo for all View Zenith Angle (VZA) values for flights parallel to the solar principal plane (SPP); for flights orthogonal to the SPP, discrepancies are observed when the VZA approaches −45°. Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values in the range 0.009–0.018 were obtained using the new method, improving upon previous results over the same area (RMSEs of 0.01–0.03). The relative error in the albedo estimation using the new method is 12% for −36.2° < VZA < 40.8° in the case of flights parallel to the SPP and less than 15% for −13° < VZA < 45° and 45% for VZA = −45° for flights orthogonal to the SPP. The good performance of the new method lies in the use of the at-surface solar irradiance and the proposed integration method.
THE TALE OF THE TWO TAILS OF THE OLDISH PSR J2055+2539
Authors: Marelli Martino , Pizzocaro Daniele , Luca Andrea De , Gastaldello Fabio , Caraveo Patrizia , Parkinson Pablo Saz
Published: February 2016

We analyzed a deep XMM-Newton observation of the radio-quiet γ-ray PSR J2055+2539. The spectrum of the X-ray counterpart is nonthermal, with a photon index of Γ = 2.36 ± 0.14 (1σ confidence). We detected X-ray pulsations with a pulsed fraction of 25% ± 3% and a sinusoidal shape. Taking into account considerations on the γ-ray efficiency of the pulsar and on its X-ray spectrum, we can infer a pulsar distance ranging from 450 to 750 pc. We found two different nebular features associated with PSR J2055+2539 and protruding from it. The angle between the two nebular main axes is ∼162.°8 ± 0.°7. The main, brighter feature is 12′ long and <20″ thick, characterized by an asymmetry with respect to the main axis that evolves with the distance from the pulsar, possibly forming a helical pattern. The secondary feature is 250″ × 30″. Both nebulae present an almost flat brightness profile with a sudden decrease at the end. The nebulae can be fitted by either a power-law model or a thermal bremsstrahlung model. A plausible interpretation of the brighter nebula is in terms of a collimated ballistic jet. The secondary nebula is most likely a classical synchrotron-emitting tail.