bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group Research in Special Education
Authors: Miller Paul M. , Drew Clifford J.
Published: July 2017

Special education research is an interdisciplinary field requiring a broad range of methodologies. This paper focuses on group research, which can be distinguished from single-subject design in several important ways: (1) group research involves the extensive and limited observations of many subjects rather than the intensive observations of a small number of subjects; (2) group research emphasizes the average performance of groups of subjects rather than the process of change itself; (3) results are evaluated through statistical analyses rather than visual interpretation of individual subject data; and (4) results are more broadly generalizable across subjects, settings, and occasions. The distinction between experimental and nonexperimental strategies is addressed within the context of group strategies. Four classes (Cook & Campbell, 1979) of threats to valid inference which may be controlled by experimental designs are identified: internal validity, statistical conclusion validity, external validity, and construct validity of causes and effects.
Fragile Findings, Complex Conclusions, and Meta-Analysis in Special Education
Authors: Kavale Kenneth A.
Published: July 2017

An introduction to meta-analysis as a method of research synthesis is presented. Research in special education is marked by many sources of variation that lead to fragile and complex findings. Although such outcome variation is valuable, controversy surrounds the best method for providing a comprehensive summary. Traditional review methods found in narrative and box-score techniques possess both theoretical and pragmatic difficulties that limit their usefulness. Quantitative methods like meta-analysis are suggested to achieve the scope and form necessary for accumulating evidence. The methods of meta-analysis are discussed, including problem formulation, study location, classifying and coding studies, data analysis, effective size interpretation, data aggregation, and conclusions. The advantages and problems of the meta-analysis approach are then discussed.
Guidelines for Evaluating Research in Special Education
Authors: Epstein Michael H. , Cullinan Douglas
Published: July 2017

This article presents guidelines for evaluating research in special education. Major parts of data-based articles—introduction, method, results, and discussion—are reviewed, and a series of questions for consumers of research is presented. A checklist of potential problem areas is provided for readers to use when examining data-based manuscripts.
Income, Gender, and Forms of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Ahmadabadi Zohre , Najman Jackob M. , Williams Gail M. , Clavarino Alexandra M.
Published: July 2017

Poverty and socioeconomic disadvantage place demands on intimate relationships and provide fertile ground for disagreements and conflicts. It is not known whether poverty also leads to intimate partner violence (IPV). This study investigates the association between income and forms of IPV victimization for both males and females. We also examine whether income inequalities are related to IPV and whether the gender balance of household income contributes to IPV victimization. Data are from a cohort of 2,401 young offspring (60.3% females) who participated at the 30-year follow-up of the Mater-University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy in Brisbane, Australia. Participants completed questionnaires including their income details and the Composite Abuse Scale. Within low-income families, both partners experience higher levels of IPV. Females’ income is not independently related to experiencing IPV either for females or males. Females and males experience a higher rate of IPV when the husband earns a low income. When considering partners’ relative income, families in which both partners earned a low income experienced higher levels of almost all forms of IPV. Income (im)balance in which females earn more or partners both have higher income was less often associated with the experience OF IPV IPV appears to be mutually experienced in the setting of the poverty. Objective economic hardship and scarcity create a context which facilitates IPV for both partners in a relationship.
Examining graduate skills in accounting and finance
Authors: Osmani Mohamad , Hindi Nitham , Al-Esmail Rajab , Weerakkody Vishanth
Published: July 2017

While many universities have implemented various initiatives and teaching and learning methods to embed the most in-demand skills into their degree programmes, there is little evidence in the literature of students’ opinions and awareness of these skills. The purpose of this article is to assess, through an empirical study, students’ perceptions of the skills commonly identified in the literature as important for the field of accounting and finance. A total of 462 surveys were collected and analysed using the SAS statistical analysis tool. According to the findings, the most important graduate skills are communication skills, followed by analytical skills and self-management. The findings also reveal that the language of instruction is statistically significant for a few graduate skills, including interpersonal, planning and organization, communication, self-management and analytical skills. Age is statistically significant for critical thinking skills and gender is statistically significant for leadership, technological and communication skills.
Joining by forming of additive manufactured ‘mortise-and-tenon’ joints
Authors: Silva Diogo FM , Bragança Ivo MF , Silva Carlos MA , Alves Luis M , Martins Paulo AF
Published: July 2017

This article is aimed at extending the ‘mortise-and-tenon’ joining concept commonly utilized in corner or tee joints to lap joints in which one sheet is partially placed over another without any change in their shape. The approach makes use of wire arc additive manufacturing to fabricate the tenons and allows various shapes and thicknesses to be made from a wide range of metallic materials. Upset compression of the tenons is utilized to mechanically lock the two sheets being joined. Experimental and finite element simulation works performed with monolithic (aluminium–aluminium) and hybrid (aluminium–polymer) ‘unit cells’ consisting of a single lap joint are utilized to investigate the deformation mechanics and the feasibility of the new proposed joining process. Tensile-shear loading tests were carried out to determine the maximum force that the new proposed joints are capable to withstand without failure. Pull-out forces of approximately 8 and 6 kN for the monolithic and hybrid joints allow concluding on the potential of additive manufactured ‘mortise-and-tenon’ lap joints to connect sheets made from similar and dissimilar materials.
Experimental investigation on the performance of compressor cascade using blended-blade-end-wall contouring technology
Authors: Yi Weilin , Ji Lucheng
Published: July 2017

Three-dimensional flow separations commonly occur in the corner region formed by the blade suction surface and end wall in compressors. How to control or reduce these separations is a vital problem for aerodynamic designers all the time. Blended blade and end wall contouring technology has been proposed to control flow separation for several years and validated in many cases using the numerical method, but experimental data was not obtained so far. So in this paper, the baseline cascade scaling from the NACA65 airfoil with 42° turning angle is designed, tested, and analyzed firstly. Then, based on the experimental results of the baseline cascade, blended blade and end wall contouring is applied to the suction surface and hub corner region of the baseline cascade and the detailed experiment is carried out. The results show that the blended blade and end wall contouring technology can decrease the total pressure loss by 8% and 7% at 0° and +10° incidence angles separately. The improved span range mainly focuses on the 10–25% span height. The rolling change of the passage vortex influenced by the accumulation of low energy fluid driven by cross flow in the hub corner should be the main reason for the performance improvement.
Hierarchical Bayes approach for subgroup analysis
Authors: Hsu Yu-Yi , Zalkikar Jyoti , Tiwari Ram C
Published: July 2017

In clinical data analysis, both treatment effect estimation and consistency assessment are important for a better understanding of the drug efficacy for the benefit of subjects in individual subgroups. The linear mixed-effects model has been used for subgroup analysis to describe treatment differences among subgroups with great flexibility. The hierarchical Bayes approach has been applied to linear mixed-effects model to derive the posterior distributions of overall and subgroup treatment effects. In this article, we discuss the prior selection for variance components in hierarchical Bayes, estimation and decision making of the overall treatment effect, as well as consistency assessment of the treatment effects across the subgroups based on the posterior predictive p-value. Decision procedures are suggested using either the posterior probability or the Bayes factor. These decision procedures and their properties are illustrated using a simulated example with normally distributed response and repeated measurements.
Influence of hosting a major sports event on patriotic attitudes: The EuroBasket 2013 competition in Slovenia
Authors: Ličen Simon
Published: July 2017

Countries with short histories of nationhood often resort to sport to (re-)invent a national identity. This study uses the nationalizing nationalism and social identity frameworks to examine whether hosting a major event such as the European basketball championship for men influenced national identification in Slovenia. Readers of the Slovenian public service website were surveyed at three points in time to determine changes in patriotism, nationalism, internationalism, and smugness in relation to the EuroBasket 2013. Results indicate the almost complete absence of influence on the population as a whole. Nationalistic attitudes did not change after the event based on the respondents’ gender and physical activity levels, and only high school graduates displayed an increase in smugness in the week following the competition. Significant differences were found with regard to live and televisual exposure to the event as spectators scored significantly higher on patriotism, nationalism (only TV viewers), and smugness, but not internationalism scales. While hosting this tournament did not contribute to nationalizing nationalism or nation-building, despite the national government’s assertion otherwise, even moderate exposure to it fed patriotism. Links between sport events and nationalistic attitudes are discussed in further detail and should inform researchers of sport events and patriotism especially in new democracies.
Psychiatric disorders and suicide attempts among adolescents victimized by school bullying
Authors: Bang Young Rong , Park Jae Hong
Published: July 2017

Objective:

We conducted a cross-sectional school-based study to investigate psychiatric disorders and suicide risk among adolescents victimized by bullying.

Method:

The study was designed in two stages. In the screening stage, 33,038 middle school students were screened for psychopathology. Next, in the face-to-face interview stage, 1196 participants were assessed for psychiatric disorders using a structured diagnostic instrument. We also collected information about the participants’ experiences of bullying and history of suicidal ideation/attempts.

Results:

The results indicate that adolescents with a history of bullying victimization were more likely to be diagnosed with depression and psychosis than those without such a history. Multivariate logistic regression models revealed that bullying victimization was significantly associated with suicide attempts even after adjusting for demographic characteristics, depression and psychosis.

Conclusions:

Bullying victimization is a risk factor for depression, psychosis, and suicide ideation and attempts. The findings warrant an early intervention and suicide prevention program for victimized students and anti-bullying policies in schools.
Damage detection based on system identification of concrete dams using an extended finite element–wavelet transform coupled procedure
Authors: Pirboudaghi Sajjad , Tarinejad Reza , Alami Mohammad Taghi
Published: July 2017

The aim of the present study is to propose a procedure for seismic cracking identification of concrete dams using a coupling of the extended finite element method (XFEM) based on cohesive crack segments (XFEM-COH) and continuous wavelet transform (CWT). First, the dam is numerically modeled using the traditional finite element method (FEM). Then, cracking capability is added to the dam structure by applying the XFEM-COH for concrete material. The results of both the methods under the seismic excitation have been compared and identified to damage detection purposes. In spite of predefined damage in some of the structural health monitoring (SHM) techniques, there is an advantage in the XFEM model where the whole dam structure is potentially under damage risk without initial crack, and may not crack at all. Finally, in order to evaluate any change in the system, that is, specification of any probable crack effects and nonlinear behavior, the structural modal parameters and their variation have been investigated using system identification based on the CWT. The results show that the extended finite element–wavelet transform procedure has high ability for the online SHM of concrete dams that by analysis of its results, the history of physical changes, cracking initiation time, and exact damage localization have been performed from comparing the intact (FEM) and damaged (XFEM) modal parameters of the structural response. In addition, any small change in the system is observable while the final crack profile and performance simulation of the dam body under strong seismic excitations have obtained.
HMOs and Health Services Research: The Penalty of Taking the Lead
Authors: Bernstein Amy B. , Bernstein Jill
Published: July 2017

Although health maintenance organization (HMO) structures and databases are not uniform across plans, there are unique characteristics of HMO data in general that make them useful in examining health policy and delivery issues. The authors examine differences in data generated by different types of HMOs. After discussing why health services research using HMO data is needed by HMOs, other providers, practitioners, payers, and consumers of health care, the authors examine ways in which HMOs can provide sound answers to crucially important questions about the future of health care. They conclude that although the need for research on HMOs is compelling, researchers need to understand the information needs of HMOs and the incentives that are shaping the industry's approach to system delivery and clinical outcomes research. If HMOs do not take the lead in conducting health services research, they will diminish their role in shaping policies that will shape their future evolution.
The Internal Economics of HMOs: A Research Agenda
Authors: Rice Thomas , Gabel Jon
Published: July 2017

As health maintenance organizations (HMOs) emerge as the dominant delivery system, the value of research on the fee-for-service sector will diminish. Health services researchers, purchasers, and HMOs will turn their attention to what makes some HMOs more effective than others. To understand this, researchers should take advantage of natural experiments that occur within an individual HMO. This strategy capitalizes on the diversity within an HMO; a single HMO offers different benefit packages, uses different methods for paying providers, and uses different utilization management programs with different employer groups. The authors reviewed the relatively few studies that take advantage of natural experiments. Findings indicate that patients and physicians respond to economic incentives, but no study has examined the relationship between changes in cost sharing or physician payment and quality of care. To achieve external validity, the authors recommend that funding organizations support consortia that replicate similar natural experiments at different HMOs.
A deliberative framework to identify the need for real-life evidence building of new cancer drugs after interim funding decision
Authors: Leung Leanne , de Lemos Mário L , Kovacic Laurel
Published: July 2017

Background

With the rising cost of new oncology treatments, it is no longer sustainable to base initial drug funding decisions primarily on prospective clinical trials as their performance in real-life populations are often difficult to determine. In British Columbia, an approach in evidence building is to retrospectively analyse patient outcomes using observational research on an ad hoc basis.

Methods

The deliberative framework was constructed in three stages: framework design, framework validation and treatment programme characterization, and key informant interview. Framework design was informed through a literature review and analyses of provincial and national decision-making processes. Treatment programmes funded between 2010 and 2013 were used for framework validation. A selection concordance rate of 80% amongst three reviewers was considered to be a validation of the framework. Key informant interviews were conducted to determine the utility of this deliberative framework.

Results

A multi-domain deliberative framework with 15 assessment parameters was developed. A selection concordance rate of 84.2% was achieved for content validation of the framework. Nine treatment programmes from five different tumour groups were selected for retrospective outcomes analysis. Five contributory factors to funding uncertainties were identified. Key informants agreed that the framework is a comprehensive tool that targets the key areas involved in the funding decision-making process.

Conclusions

The oncology-based deliberative framework can be routinely used to assess treatment programmes from the major tumour sites for retrospective outcomes analysis. Key informants indicate this is a value-added tool and will provide insight to the current prospective funding model.
An EEG Investigation of the Attention-Related Impact of Mindfulness Training in Youth With ADHD: Outcomes and Methodological Considerations
Authors: Sibalis Annabel , Milligan Karen , Pun Carson , McKeough Trish , Schmidt Louis A. , Segalowitz Sidney J.
Published: July 2017

Objective:The current study examined the impact of an activity-based mindfulness treatment on EEG indices of attention in youth with ADHD aged 11 to 17 years compared with a waitlist control group. Method: Pre- and post-treatment, EEG was recorded as participants completed a single-point focus rest task and two active attention tasks. Theta power, beta power, and theta/beta ratio (TBR) were calculated during each task. Results: A significant group by time by task interaction was found that indicated significant improvement in attentional ability, indexed by decreased TBR, for the treatment group but not controls. Conclusion: Findings support the benefit of mindfulness treatment for enhancing attentional control in youth with ADHD and extend the literature by providing evidence of these gains at a neural level. Findings also offer methodological support for the use of active attention tasks when examining mindfulness-related attentional gains in youth with ADHD. Directions for future research are discussed.
Cerebral Oximetry for Cardiac and Vascular Surgery
Authors: Edmonds Harvey L. , Ganzel Brian L. , Austin Erle H.
Published: July 2017

The technology of transcranial near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for the measurement of cerebral oxygen balance was introduced 25 years ago. Until very recently, there has been only occasional interest in its use during surgical monitoring. Now, however, substantial technologic advances and numerous clinical studies have, at least partly, succeeded in overcoming long-standing and widespread misunderstanding and skepticism regarding its value. Our goals are to clarify common misconceptions about near-infrared spectroscopy and acquaint the reader with the substantial literature that now supports cerebral oximetric monitoring in cardiac and major vascular surgery.
Temperature effects on buckling and vibration characteristics of sandwich plate with viscoelastic core and functionally graded material constraining layer
Authors: Joseph Shince V , Mohanty SC
Published: July 2017

This article deals with the buckling and free vibration analysis of a sandwich plate with viscoelastic core and functionally graded material constraining lamina under high temperature environment. The first-order shear deformation theory is used for the finite element formulation of the plate. Along with the shear deformation, the longitudinal and transverse deformation of the core is also taken into account. The rise in the external temperature is found to reduce the critical buckling loads and fundamental frequencies, and to increase the corresponding modal loss factors. Various parametric studies such as effect of aspect ratio, core thickness ratio and volume fraction index on static and dynamic behaviour of the sandwich plate are also examined.
Users’ perceptions on digital visualization of neuropathic cancer-related pain
Authors: Jaatun Ellen Anna Andreassen , Fallon Marie , Kofod-Petersen Anders , Halvorsen Kristin , Haugen Dagny Faksvåg
Published: July 2017

Quality pain management implies a thorough pain assessment with structured communication between patients and healthcare providers. Pain distribution is an important dimension of cancer pain. Assessment of pain distribution is commonly performed on a pain body map. This study explores how a computerized pain body map may function as a communication tool and visualize pain in patients with advanced cancer. In previous studies, we have developed a tablet-based computerized pain body map for use in cancer patients. The aim of this study was to adapt the computerized pain body map program to patients with neuropathic cancer-related pain, and to develop a separate interface for healthcare providers. We also wanted to investigate the perceived usefulness of this system among patients and healthcare providers. Both patients and healthcare providers perceived that the visualization of pain in the computerized pain body map system had potential to be a positive contribution to clinical pain management, and to improve collaboration between healthcare providers.
Hysteretic Poisson INGARCH model for integer-valued time series
Authors: Truong Buu-Chau , Chen Cathy WS , Sriboonchitta Songsak
Published: July 2017

This study proposes a new model for integer-valued time series—the hysteretic Poisson integer-valued generalized autoregressive conditionally heteroskedastic (INGARCH) model—which has an integrated hysteresis zone in the switching mechanism of the conditional expectation. Our modelling framework provides a parsimonious representation of the salient features of integer-valued time series, such as discreteness, over-dispersion, asymmetry and structural change. We adopt Bayesian methods with a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling scheme to estimate model parameters and utilize the Bayesian information criteria for model comparison. We then apply the proposed model to five real time series of criminal incidents recorded by the New South Wales Police Force in Australia. Simulation results and empirical analysis highlight the better performance of hysteresis in modelling the integer-valued time series.
An early-stage design model for estimating ship evacuation patterns using the ship-centric Markov decision process
Authors: Kana Austin A , Droste Koen
Published: July 2017

An early-stage design model is presented that estimates personnel locations on board a vessel during times of evacuation. This model takes into account various levels of uncertainty and pain that individuals may feel while heading toward safety, while simultaneously not requiring highly detailed information regarding the vessel layout. This makes this model suitable for analysis during early stages of design. To do this, principal eigenvector analysis is applied to the ship-centric Markov decision process model. Principal eigenvector analysis provides a leading indicator metric for forecasting and quantifying locations of individuals when coupled with the ship-centric Markov decision process model. For evacuation models suited for later stages of design, full temporal simulations may be required to understand long-term implications of personnel movement. This article proposes an alternative method that is able to identify some of these implications while not requiring full details of the vessel layout nor temporal simulations. To do this, a common theorem in Markov theory is applied that defines how the principal eigenvector represents the long-term steady-state behavior of the system. Metrics are defined that quantify the probability that an individual will congregate at specific locations on the vessels and highlight sensitivities to long-term behavior. A case study of a simplified vessel layout is presented that examines decision-making regarding ship egress analysis and general arrangements design. The results highlight specific areas of interest that cause significant changes to where individuals congregate and the probability they arrive safely at the exit. Sensitivity studies are performed varying the uncertainty in the movement of the individuals, how much pain they are experiencing, and one example where a passageway is blocked.
Adding school to work–family balance: The role of support for Portuguese working mothers attending a master’s degree
Authors: Andrade Cláudia , Matias Marisa
Published: July 2017

This qualitative study examines the work, family, and study experiences of Portuguese professional women in two different career stages: early career and mid-career. Using semi-structured interviews with a sample of 22 working mothers enrolled in a master’s degree, this study explores their experiences of combining the roles of mother, worker and student and the role of support for a successful integration of work–family and school. Support from peers was found to be a critical factor for successfully integrating work–family and school responsibilities. Differences in the use of partner and family support were found between early and mid-career women. Lack of or limited support from the workplace was a barrier that emerged in both groups.
Emergency Hartmann’s Procedure and Its Reversal: A Totally Laparoscopic 2-Step Surgery for the Treatment of Hinchey III and IV Diverticulitis
Authors: Cassini Diletta , Miccini Michelangelo , Manoochehri Farshad , Gregori Matteo , Baldazzi Gianandrea
Published: July 2017

Background. Hartmann’s procedure (HP) followed by reversal restoration is the first choice for treatment of diffuse diverticular peritonitis. There is no unanimous consensus regarding the use of laparoscopy to treat the same condition. Methods. Data from 60 patients with diverticular diffuse peritonitis who underwent urgent HP followed by laparoscopic reversal were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the open or laparoscopic HP (OHP, 24 patients; LHP, 36 patients). Outcomes were measured in terms of functional recovery, morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay. Results. HPs showed no differences among the groups in terms of operative time, blood loss, and length of intensive care unit stay. Overall morbidity was significantly lower in LHP than in OHP, corresponding to 33.3% and 66.7% respectively ( P = .018). The incidence of both surgical and medical complications was higher in OHP than in LHP (41.7% vs 22.2% [ P = .044] and 45.8% vs 24.3% [ P = .023], respectively). Mortality was 16.6% for each group. LHP showed a faster return to bowel movements and a shorter hospital stay than OHP. The secondary intestinal reversal was possible in 92% of cases, successfully completed laparoscopically in 91.3%. No patients of LHP group required a conversion to open intestinal reversal. Conclusion. LHP for treatment of diverticular diffuse peritonitis showed significantly lower morbidity, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, and higher rates of successful laparoscopic reversal when compared with OHP.
Promises Kept or Opportunities Lost: A Wicked Problem in Educational Leadership
Authors: Beard Karen Stansberry
Published: July 2017

A novice principal’s decision not to intervene on an ill-conceived policy prompts a parent to pursue a line of questioning administrators are not prepared for. In this case, a young man working through a high school transition while preparing for college is met with unexpected challenges in motivation. What the principal initially perceives as inconsequential becomes a Wicked Problem when the parent questions the ethics and legalities of the policy, teachers’ intent, and potential civil rights violations. Underscored are nuances in communication, decision making, motivation, and ethics. As the elements of the case unfold, matters pertaining to school and community relations, policy, law, race, and gender present themselves useful for discussing a variety of key issues related to school leadership.
Not Watching the Fight: Examining the Dynamics of School Turnaround
Authors: Corrales Antonio
Published: July 2017

This case describes how a newly appointed superintendent implemented systematic changes across the school district to increase academic performance and keep schools open and operational. The district superintendent and leadership team were forced by the state educational system to promote rapid and drastic organizational and academic changes to avoid district closure. These changes implied a new district performance policy, and it was promoted while navigating challenges related to local district politics, the internal culture of dysfunctionality and disarray, and the state educational system.
Empowering or frightening? Sharing uncertainty with patients
Authors: Danczak Avril , Lea Alison
Published: July 2017

When troubling symptoms or serious illness occur, patients can find it harder to cope with the uncertainty than their doctors, as their health, even their existence, is at stake. Patients’ concerns mirror the uncertainties doctors face and can be classified into analysing uncertainty, negotiating uncertainty, networking uncertainty and team-working uncertainty. This article focusses on understanding patients’ responses to uncertainty; then the impact of different doctor–patient relationship styles and interactions is explored. Skills and strategies for sharing uncertainty with patients follow.
Disproportionate Use of Lethal Force in Policing Is Associated With Regional Racial Biases of Residents
Authors: Hehman Eric , Flake Jessica K. , Calanchini Jimmy
Published: July 2017

Due to a lack of data, the demographic and psychological factors associated with lethal force by police officers have remained insufficiently explored. We develop the first predictive models of lethal force by integrating crowd-sourced and fact-checked lethal force databases with regional demographics and measures of geolocated implicit and explicit racial biases collected from 2,156,053 residents across the United States. Results indicate that only the implicit racial prejudices and stereotypes of White residents, beyond major demographic covariates, are associated with disproportionally more use of lethal force with Blacks relative to regional base rates of Blacks in the population. Thus, the current work provides the first macropsychological statistical models of lethal force, indicating that the context in which police officers work is significantly associated with disproportionate use of lethal force.
SPRINT trial: It’s not just the blood pressure!
Authors: Berkelmans Gijs FN , Visseren Frank LJ , Jaspers Nicole EM , Spiering Wilko , van der Graaf Yolanda , Dorresteijn Jannick AN
Published: July 2017

Background

The SPRINT trial showed a beneficial effect of systolic blood pressure treatment targets of 120 mmHg on cardiovascular risk compared to targets of 140 mmHg. However, differences in medication use, most importantly diuretics, are suggested as an alternative explanation. This post-hoc analysis aimed to determine whether the reduced event rate can be attributed to changes in systolic blood pressure (ΔSBP).

Methods

Analyses were based on all 9361 participants of the SPRINT trial. ΔSBP was defined as the change between baseline and 6-month follow-up systolic blood pressure. Major cardiovascular events were myocardial infarction, other acute coronary syndromes, stroke, heart failure, or cardiovascular death. Cox regression was used to describe the relation between ΔSBP and major cardiovascular events. Analyses were performed separately for patients in the lowest tertile of baseline systolic blood pressure, as the SPRINT trial reported the highest treatment effect in this subgroup.

Results

The relation between ΔSBP and major cardiovascular events was a hazard ratio per 10 mmHg decrease of 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.89–0.98). Similar results were found within the lowest tertile of baseline systolic blood pressure: hazard ratio per 10 mmHg decrease 0.91 (95% confidence interval 0.82–1.01).

Conclusion

Our results show that lowering blood pressure prevents cardiovascular disease. However, not all the positive effects in the SPRINT trial could be explained by ΔSBP. Alternative explanations, such as differences in medication use, should be considered for the positive findings of the SPRINT trial.
An atypical case of trigeminal trophic syndrome: A legal medicine perspective in medical responsibility
Authors: di Luca Alessandro , Ralli Massimo , Hemied Sara , de Vincentiis Marco , di Luca Natale Mario
Published: July 2017

Background:

Trigeminal trophic syndrome is a rare complication of peripheral or central damage to the trigeminal nerve characterized by anesthesia, paresthesia and a secondary persistent facial ulceration.

Methods:

We describe the case of a 40-year-old woman with previous history of Le Fort I osteotomy for a class III malocclusion who developed trigeminal trophic syndrome. Atypically, the cutaneous symptoms appeared bilaterally and 8 years after surgery.

Results:

Differential diagnosis was based on clinical history, tissue biopsy and serologic evaluation. Atypical findings could be linked to the surgical burdens of Le Fort I osteotomy, a procedure characterized by a bilateral incision on the maxillofacial bones with a reasonable probability of causing a bilateral injury of the peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve.

Conclusion:

Although the long delay between trigeminal trophic syndrome onset and surgery and the absence of adequate medical evidence cannot confirm a link with previous surgery in this case, the increasing number of maxillofacial surgery cases suggests that this complication may be more frequent in the next decades, and thus, involved specialists should be aware of this condition as a possible complication of maxillofacial surgery procedures.
Epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, tubulopathy syndrome in a European child with KCNJ10 mutations: A case report
Authors: Papavasiliou Antigone , Foska Katerina , Ioannou John , Nagel Mato
Published: July 2017

Background:

Epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, tubulopathy syndrome is a multi-organ disorder that links to autosomal recessive mutations in the KCNJ10 gene, which encodes for the Kir4.1 potassium channel. It is mostly described in consanguineous, non-European families.

Case Report:

A European male of non-consanguineous birth, with early-onset, static ataxic motor disorder, intellectual disability and epilepsy, imitating cerebral palsy, presented with additional findings of renal tubulopathy, sensorineural deafness and normal neuroimaging leading to the diagnosis of epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, tubulopathy syndrome. The patient was heterozygous for two KCNJ10 mutations: a missense mutation (p.R65C) that is already published and a not yet published duplication (p.F119GfsX25) that creates a premature truncation of the protein. Both mutations are likely damaging. Parental testing has not been performed, and therefore, we do not know for certain whether the mutations are on different alleles. This young man presents some clinical and laboratory features that differ from previously reported patients with epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, tubulopathy syndrome.

Conclusion:

The necessity of accurate diagnosis through genetic testing in patients with static motor disorders resembling cerebral palsy phenotypes, atypical clinical features and noncontributory neuroimaging is emphasized.
Efficacy of vedolizumab for induction of clinical response and remission in patients with moderate to severe inflammatory bowel disease who failed at least two TNF antagonists
Authors: De Vos Martine , Dhooghe Barbara , Vermeire Severine , Louis Edouard , Mana Fazia , Elewaut Ann , Bossuyt Peter , Baert Filip , Reenaers Catherine , Van Gossum Marc , Macken Elisabeth , Ferrante Marc , Hindryckx Pieter , Dewit Olivier , Holvoet Tom , Franchimont Denis ,   on behalf of Belgian Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research and Development (BIRD)
Published: July 2017

Background

Vedolizumab is a recently available monoclonal antibody targeting α4β7 integrin for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD).

Objective

The objective of this article is to evaluate the efficacy of vedolizumab induction therapy in anti-TNF-refractory/intolerant UC and CD patients in real life.

Methods

A cohort of 149 moderately to severely active UC and CD patients who failed or showed intolerance to at least two TNF antagonists participated in a medical need program and received vedolizumab in 37 Belgian centers (April–September 2015). Rates of clinical response and remission were retrospectively evaluated at Week 10 for UC and Week 14 for CD using the physician’s global assessment (PGA), Mayo score and Harvey Bradshaw index (HBI) or Crohn's disease activity score (CDAI) scores.

Results

Eighty-four patients (29 UC, 55 CD) had sufficient data for analysis. For UC patients, clinical response was observed in 76% based on PGA and 59% based on the Mayo score. The corresponding percentages for CD patients were 80% for PGA and 65% for HBI/CDAI. Clinical remission rates were 10% and 40% for UC and CD, respectively. Steroid-free remission was observed in respectively 10% and 35%. Globally, corticosteroids were stopped in 14 out of 48 patients (29%). No new safety signals were reported.

Conclusion

Up to 70% TNF-refractory/intolerant UC and CD patients achieved a clinical response after 10 to 14 weeks of vedolizumab treatment in this real-life cohort.
John 1.29, 36: The Meaning of Ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ and John’s Soteriology
Authors: de Lang Marijke H.
Published: July 2017

The phrase “Lamb of God” in John 1.29 and 36 has been explained from various Old Testament texts, but it has generally been taken for granted that the words should be understood as sacrificial terminology. Isaiah 53 comes closest because it uses the same term ἀμνός, which could be appropriated by early Christians, perhaps not so much as a reference to Jesus’ sacrificial death, but more as describing Jesus’ obedience and submission to the will of the Father. In the soteriology of the Fourth Gospel, the death of Jesus plays a less prominent role than elsewhere in the New Testament. John’s emphasis is more on the “yes” to Jesus in the encounter with him than on Jesus’ death as saving event. If we acknowledge this specific Johannine soteriology, we may need to rethink the translation of some of the key terms in the Fourth Gospel, such as the singular ἁμαρτία and the expression τίθεναι τὴν ψυχήν ὑπέρ.
Non-traumatic rupture of the superior thyroid artery with concomitant parathyroid adenoma and multinodular goiter
Authors: Hanashiro Natsuko , Yamashiro Tsuneo , Iraha Yuko , Karube Kennosuke , Matsumoto Hirofumi , Murayama Sadayuki
Published: July 2017

Cervical hemorrhage due to non-traumatic, spontaneous rupture of the thyroid artery is rare, which usually results from arterial abnormalities or parathyroid or thyroid disorders. This report describes a 72-year-old woman who presented with a sore throat and slight neck swelling. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a large hematoma in the neck and mediastinum, due to extravasation from the major branch of the left superior thyroid artery. A follow-up CT the next day demonstrated that the extravasation had resolved. Subsequent surgery revealed both parathyroid adenoma and multinodular goiter in the resected thyroid gland. A transient elevation of parathyroid hormone occurred immediately after the hemorrhage, suggesting that the hemorrhage may have been related to the parathyroid adenoma. However, ruptured thyroid arteries were not observed on histopathological examination of the resected tissue.
The Category Use Effect in Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: Hayes Brett
Published: July 2017

Conventionally, the process of clinical diagnosis is seen as distinct from subsequent clinical decisions. In the current study we challenge this distinction by examining a category use effect whereby diagnostic features that can be used to classify instances and make additional predictions are more likely to be used in diagnosis. During training, senior medical students ( n = 36) and undergraduates ( n = 44) learned to classify cases into one of two artificial disease categories. They were then asked to make an additional prediction about each instance. Some features were informative for both diagnosis and the additional prediction (relevant-use features) whereas others were useful only for diagnosis (irrelevant-use features). At test, all groups classified instances with relevant-use features more accurately and confidently than instances with irrelevant-use features. This effect was stronger in those with clinical training and when there was a plausible connection between diagnosis and prediction. The implications for clinical psychology diagnosis and judgment are discussed.
Factors Contributing to Unexpected Retirement and Unemployment in Adults Over 50 Years Old in Ireland
Authors: Schinkel-Ivy Alison , Mosca Irene , Mansfield Avril
Published: July 2017

Older adults are increasingly important to maintaining stable workforces. As such, factors contributing to early workforce exit must be identified. This study aimed to identify predictors of unexpected retirement and unemployment at older age, with respect to psychological constructs, resulting adverse behaviors, and health-related factors reflecting functional status. Data were extracted from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) to predict unexpected retirement and unemployment in older adults in Ireland. Increasing age, increasing number of impairments in activities of daily living, and frailty status of “pre-frail/frail” (relative to non-frail) increased the likelihood of unexpected retirement; while greater numbers of physical limitations and “pre-frail/frail” status significantly predicted unemployment at older age. Pre-frail/frail status or reduced physical capability for everyday tasks may adversely affect older individuals’ ability to obtain and/or maintain employment. These findings advance the current understanding of factors associated with unexpected retirement and unemployment at older ages. Findings may aid in identifying strategies to extend working life and to aid at-risk older adults, and may inform components of care on which to focus to minimize loss of function and mobility, and maintain independence, with aging.
Impact of No Child Left Behind's Highly Qualified Requirements on Both Rural and Non-Rural Schools in Ohio
Authors: Therrien William J. , Wasburn-Moses Leah
Published: July 2017

Recruiting and retaining “highly qualified” special education teachers (HQT) is of paramount concern for school districts across the country, particularly in a field with persistent teacher shortages (Boe & Cook, 2006). However, the effects of this mandate on special education, and rural special education in particular, remain unknown (McLeskey & Billingsley, 2008). The goals of this project were to determine how the HQT mandate was affecting rural and non-rural schools and how university and school personnel are attempting to meet the HQT requirement in the state of Ohio. The project involved surveying representatives from groups of key stakeholders in Ohio. Major facets of the survey included awareness, measures taken to ensure HQT status, and overall impact. Results suggested that few major efforts are being undertaken and that few major effects are expected. Recommendations include the need for better flow of communication and clarification of the roles of various systems in ensuring compliance.
Referral Criteria for Special Education: General Education Teachers’ Perspectives in Canada and the United States of America
Authors: Dunn Michael W. , Cole Cassandra M. , Estrada Armando
Published: July 2017

General education classroom teachers initiate the referral process of students who later become identified with a disability. With recent changes in educational assessment and programming (i.e., Response to Intervention [RTI] within the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act [IDEIA] [2004] and Canadian legislation, such as Ontario's Education Quality and Accountability [EQAO] Office Act [1996]), this study examined the psychometric properties of referral criteria used by teachers when referring students for special education services. The sample (N=97) consisted of Canadian and American general education classroom teachers from rural, suburban, and inner-city school districts. Exploratory factor analysis identified that the 15 referral criteria can be reduced into two subscales, inattention and aptitude, and, collectively, they accounted for 50% of the common variance in teachers’ ratings of referral criteria. Suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Assistive Technology Use with the Birth to Three Population: A Rural Perspective
Authors: Keramidas Cathy Galyon , Collins Belva C.
Published: July 2017

Previous research found infants and toddlers, age birth to three, capable of using assistive technology (AT), and the Federal Government mandates that AT be considered when a team creates an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Although this is an ideal time to introduce and begin AT use, practitioners use little AT with this population. Rural states have unique challenges to AT use. Through interviews, practitioners in West Virginia shared their experiences with AT use with this young population. Although there are barriers, one practitioner summed up the consensus of the group. “I think that excellence of service can and in many cases is being provided in West Virginia despite the fact that it is very rural.”
Issues in Special Education Teacher Recruitment, Retention, and Professional Development: Considerations in Supporting Rural Teachers
Authors: Berry Ann B. , Petrin Robert A. , Gravelle Maggie L. , Farmer Thomas W.
Published: July 2017

This study sought to obtain a current picture of special education teacher recruitment and retention in rural districts and to understand the professional development needs of rural special educators. Surveys, administered through telephone interviews with a national sample of special education administrators and teachers, confirmed the difficulties in hiring appropriately qualified teachers. Additional demands of the position may place teachers at risk for attrition. The authors identified important areas of professional development to support rural teachers in their positions: (a) working with paraprofessionals and parents, (b) low-incidence disabilities, (c) emotional and behavior disorders, (d) classroom management, (e) skills in collaboration and inclusive practices, and (f) curriculum content.