bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovery of Percent Vital Capacity by Breathing Training in Patients With Panic Disorder and Impaired Diaphragmatic Breathing
Authors: Yamada Tatsuji , Inoue Akiomi , Mafune Kosuke , Hiro Hisanori , Nagata Shoji
Published: July 2017

Slow diaphragmatic breathing is one of the therapeutic methods used in behavioral therapy for panic disorder. In practice, we have noticed that some of these patients could not perform diaphragmatic breathing and their percent vital capacity was initially reduced but could be recovered through breathing training. We conducted a comparative study with healthy controls to investigate the relationship between diaphragmatic breathing ability and percent vital capacity in patients with panic disorder. Our findings suggest that percent vital capacity in patients with impaired diaphragmatic breathing was significantly reduced compared with those with normal diaphragmatic breathing and that diaphragmatic breathing could be restored by breathing training. Percent vital capacity of the healthy controls was equivalent to that of the patients who had completed breathing training. This article provides preliminary findings regarding reduced vital capacity in relation to abnormal respiratory movements found in patients with panic disorder, potentially offering alternative perspectives for verifying the significance of breathing training for panic disorder.
The Usefulness of MD&A Disclosures in the Retail Industry
Authors: Cole Cathy J. , Jones Christopher L.
Published: July 2017

The SEC believes that MD&A disclosures provide investors with useful information that clarifies and supplements the financial statements. In this study, we use data from retail firms to examine the predictive ability and value relevance of MD&A discussion of the results of operations and capital resources. In particular, we examine the usefulness of information on the sources of revenue changes (comparable store sales growth, store openings, and store closings) and of two measures of future capital resource plans (planned store openings and capital expenditures). We find that these variables contribute incremental explanatory power in future revenues, future earnings, and contemporaneous stock return regressions that include financial statement variables.
Reference-Day Risk: Observations and Extensions
Authors: Dimitrov Valentin , Govindaraj Suresh
Published: July 2017

Our paper confirms and extends the central result of Acker and Duck (2007) on reference-day risk. Using data from Datastream, they show substantial variations in the estimated monthly returns, variances, and betas across series beginning on different (reference) days of the same month. We show that the results are similar when we use data from the Center for Research in Security Prices daily files. We also show that reference-day risk extends to estimations based on daily returns. Finally, we find variations across series of daily returns computed using prices at different times of the day (reference-time risk). These findings carry potential implications for prior papers that rely on monthly or daily returns for analysis.
Limiting Executive Compensation: The Case of CEOs Hired after the Imposition of 162(m)
Authors: Balsam Steven , Ryan David H.
Published: July 2017

This study analyzes the effect of Internal Revenue Code section 162(m) on the compensation package of those chief executive officers (CEOs) hired after the imposition of this code section. Research documents that CEO compensation has increased dramatically since the imposition of section 162(m); yet, this research has not distinguished between the effects on the compensation of CEOs already in place when section 162(m) was imposed from those CEOs hired post-162(m) imposition. We focus our analysis on the compensation of CEOs hired after the imposition of section 162(m), because when firms hire a new CEO, they have a better opportunity to redesign the executive pay package. Consequently, we posit that section 162(m) will have its greatest effect when the affected companies change CEOs. Our analysis provides evidence that the increase in salary normally associated with the hiring of a new CEO has been mitigated and there has been an increase in the sensitivity of firm performance to bonus pay for CEOs appointed after 1994 in affected firms.
The Association of Preaudit Engagement Risk with Discretionary Accruals
Authors: Manry David L. , Mock Theodore J. , Turner Jerry L.
Published: July 2017

In an archival study of audits by multiple offices of three international audit firms, we examine whether preaudit engagement risk assessments made by the auditor are associated with estimated postaudit discretionary accruals. We find that preaudit engagement risk is significantly and positively associated with the estimated level of discretionary accruals reported in audited financial statements. As higher levels of discretionary accruals have been shown to be associated with higher risk of post-audit litigation, it appears that rather than taking actions that result in higher-risk clients reporting less aggressive discretionary accruals, auditors instead are accepting a higher postaudit risk for these clients.
Changes in SEC Disclosure Rules for Executive Stock Options: Implications for Valuation
Authors: Banerjee Ajeyo
Published: July 2017

Outstanding (unexercised and unexpired) executive stock options held by top managers of public corporations are an important indicator of accumulated compensation motivating their near-term behavior. In the process of radically overhauling disclosure requirements relating to executive compensation in the proxy rules in 1983, the SEC discontinued the requirement of disclosure of any particulars relating to outstanding executive stock options held by top managers. This has resulted in imprecisions in the measurement of key particulars of outstanding executive stock options of top managers since 1984. Although we have suggested some procedures for consistent valuation of these options over time, the SEC has since reintroduced the requirements regarding disclosure of unexercised and unexpired executive stock options in annual proxy statements, so that investors remain aware of the full extent of top managers' wealth.
Earnings and Risk Changes around Private Placements of Equity
Authors: Hertzel Michael , Rees Lynn
Published: July 2017

This paper investigates earnings and risk changes for a sample of firms that issued equity in a private placement. The study is motivated by empirical findings that announcements of public and private sales of equity are associated with opposite stock price effects. We find that earnings increase significantly subsequent to the equity offer and that postoffer earnings changes are positively correlated with announcement period stock price effects. We do not find evidence that private equity sales convey information about the underlying riskiness of firms' assets. These results suggest that private placements of equity convey favorable information to investors about future earnings and contrast with evidence from earlier studies that announcements of public equity issues convey unfavorable information about future prospects.
Efficacy of Early Enteral Immunonutrition on Immune Function and Clinical Outcome for Postoperative Patients With Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Luo Zhenzhen , Wang Junxia , Zhang Zhen , Li Hong , Huang Lan , Qiao Yamin , Wang Dan , Huang Jingjing , Guo Luwei , Liu Jinbo , Liu Yanhua , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2017

Background: Nutrition support is crucial for patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer after the operation. However, the controversy over the application of parenteral nutrition (PN) and early enteral immunonutrition (EEIN) has no determinate conclusion. Materials and Methods: We compared the effects of PN and EEIN on the postoperative nutrition condition, immune status, inflammation level, long‐term survival, and quality of life of the patients with GI cancer. Seventy‐eight patients were randomly divided into the PN group (n = 44) or EEIN group (n = 34). After an 8‐day nutrition treatment, clinical and immunological parameters were evaluated. Results: The EEIN group had a significantly shorter hospital stay and higher body mass index level on postoperative day 30 than those in the PN group (P < .05). However, total hospital cost and incidences of short‐term postoperative complications had no significant difference (P > .05). The percentages of CD4+, natural killer, and natural killer T lymphocyte cells and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ in peripheral blood were significantly increased. Compared with the PN group, the EEIN group had a higher expression of activated cell surface markers such as CD27 and CD28. In addition, the secretion of interleukin (IL)–2 and interferon‐γ was significantly higher, and the secretion of tumor necrosis factor–α and IL‐10 was lower. Complication‐free survival in the EEIN group were longer than those in the PN group (P = .04). Conclusion: EEIN is superior to PN in improving nutrition status, enhancing immune function, and elevating quality of life.
Parenteral Nutrition with Essential Amino Acids in Pretransplantation Anephrics
Authors: Kaminski M.V. , Light J.A. , Briggs W.A.
Published: July 2017

The effect of intravenous hyperalimentation with essential amino acids and hypertonic dextrose on nitrogen metabolism, total body urea and creatinine was studied in 16 patients with end‐stage renal disease prior to and after bilateral nephrectomy, splenectomy and appendectomy. Parenteral essential amino acids and hypertonic dextrose are effective in lowering blood urea nitrogen in anephric patients who are incapable of improving renal function. The inclusion of essential amino acids in hypertonic dextrose increases nutritional value far beyond that which can be attributed to the caloric concentration of the amino acids themselves.
Numerical Simulation of Multicomponent Isobaric Adsorption in Fixed Bed Columns
Authors: Roušar I. , Ditl P.
Published: July 2017

A model has been formulated for multicomponent isobaric adsorption in fixed bed columns. The following mass transfer mechanisms were used: convective flow, axial dispersion, external particle mass transfer and intraparticle diffusion.

Analysis was applied on the system of governing equations to obtain controlling dimensionless criteria for the fixed bed adsorber. The derived criteria can be divided into three groups, namely: main dynamic criteria, equilibrium criteria and multicomponent dynamic criteria, their physical meaning has been discussed.

The system of equations has been numerically solved using a finite difference method with an implicit conservative scheme. On the basis of this model a numerical simulation has been made to determine the influence of external particle mass transfer, axial dispersion, intraparticle diffusion and adsorption equilibrium on adsorber dynamics.
Adsorption of Aromatic Mixtures from Solutions by Molecular Sieve 13X
Authors: Al-Zaid Khairya , Akashah Saed , Owaysi Fathi , Jeffreys G.V. , Mumford C. , Eltekov Yu. A.
Published: July 2017

Adsorption isotherms of 3 extracts (concentrated aromatics) have been determined on molecular sieve 13X from solution in iso-octane at 303 and 343 K. The concentration of aromatic compounds before and after adsorption was determined using ultraviolet spectroscopic method of analysis. Values of the adsorption capacity and adsorption coefficient were determined from an equation for pore filling model. The three extract fractions showed a strong affinity for adsorption by molecular sieve. Heats of adsorption of the 3 extract fractions were calculated from adsorption and found to be in the range of 4-20 kJ mol-1.
Thermodynamics of High-Pressure Tian-Calvet Adsorption Calorimetry and the Heats of Adsorption of Xe on Na-X Zeolite over the Temperature Range 299-467 K
Authors: Gusev V. Yu. , Fomkin A.A.
Published: July 2017

The development of Tian-Calvet adsorption calorimetry for studies of a bulk fluid at elevated pressures is demonstrated by a calorimetric investigation of Xe adsorption on Na-X zeolite. A thermodynamic analysis of the system examined and a discussion of the relationship between isosteric and calorimetric differential heats of adsorption are given. The strong dependence of differential calorimetric heats of adsorption on temperature at sufficiently high surface loadings is interpreted in terms of adsorbate-adsorbate interactions and the adsorption deformation of the adsorbent Overcertain regions of comparatively low pressure and temperature, differential calorimetric heats and isosteric heats of adsorption, determined on the basis that the adsorbent is inert, are in good agreement with each other, thus confirming the validity of the above assumptions. Outside such regions, however, interaction of the adsorbent is considerable.
A Computer Program for Analyzing Nitrogen Adsorption Isotherms on Porous Solids
Authors: Rives V.
Published: July 2017

A computer program capable of analyzing nitrogen adsorption isotherms following the commonest methods in the literature is presented. From the data provided, the BET specific surface area, the cumulative surface area, the pore size distribution curve and the t-plot may be calculated; the single-point method can also be used to determine the specific surface area. In addition, if data for two or more samples are provided, f-plot and α-plot analyses can also be performed. Speed and accuracy are the most important features of this easily used program.
A Phenomenological Study of the Reduction Potential of Porous and Non-Porous Carbons
Authors: Barton Stuart S. , Evans Michael J.B.
Published: July 2017

A method is described for obtaining a value at the potential of a carbon bed which can be related to the pH of the electrolyte and the initial state of oxidation of the carbon surface. The results are interpreted according to a simplified picture of the ‘mixed electrode’ potential. This approach also indicates that the surface area of the carbon is an important potential-determining parameter.
The Isosteric Heat of Adsorption of Sr2+, Ce3+, Sm3+, Gd3+, Th4+ and UO22+ Ions on Activated Charcoal
Authors: Qadeer Riaz , Hanif Javed
Published: July 2017

The values of the isosteric heat of adsorption (qst) of Sr2+, Ce3+, Sm3+, Gd3+, Th4+ and UO22+ ions on activated charcoal have been calculated at different surface coverages and temperatures by applying the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. The variation of qst with surface coverage indicates the heterogeneous nature with varying activities of the activated charcoal surface. The behaviour of qst values with temperature suggests that two types of adsorption processes occur simultaneously; one with a small activation energy and the other with a large activation energy. A large increase in the qst values indicates that increasing temperature changes the physical adsorption process to chemisorption.
Application of the Simplified Equation for Micropore Size Distribution to the Study of Water Vapour Adsorption on Activated Carbon
Authors: Nickolov R.N. , Mehandjiev D.R.
Published: July 2017

Water vapour adsorption on activated carbon has been investigated by an analysis of the nitrogen isotherms determined on carbon samples after their initial wetting at the same relative pressure followed by freezing. The simplified equation for micropore size distribution has been used. A relatively narrow range of pre-adsorbed water values has been found, within which the microporous space of the initial activated carbon changes as a result not only of filling but also of elimination (blocking) of parts of the texture.
Characterization of Manganese Oxide/Alumina Catalysts
Authors: El-Hakam S.A.
Published: July 2017

The effect of heat treatment of manganese oxide/alumina catalysts of various manganese content on the structural and textural properties and the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide were investigated. The FT-IR results have shown that depending on the calcination temperature and metal loading MnO2 and MnO3 are formed on the investigated samples. No spinel structure was detected under the experimental conditions. The surface areas were found to decrease with increasing calcination temperature and metal content up to 30 wt.% Mn. The mean pore radius increased with both calcination temperature and Mn content. The rate of catalytic decomposition of H2O2 was found to depend on the pH, the calcination temperature and the state of Mn on the catalyst surface.
Some Peculiarities of Silica Modification under High Reagent Pressure. II. Influence of Chemical Nature of Modifying Reagent
Authors: Sidorchuk V.V. , Tertykh V.A. , Leboda R. , Hubicki Z.
Published: July 2017

The modes of interaction between organic substances and aerosilogel at high pressures and high temperatures were considered. The analysis was performed on the basis of data from IR spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis, and the porous structure characteristics of the modified aerosilogel. The following types of substances were used as modifiers of the silica surface: (a) substances which did not interact chemically with the silica surface; (b) substances capable of polymerization or polycondensation; and (c) substances capable of chemical reaction with the surface.

From an analysis of data obtained for 26 adsorbents, it results that depending on the nature of the substance used for modification such substances can promote the process of silica mass transfer. During this process, the possibility occurs of the occlusion of the substances inside silica globules, changes in the parameters of the porous structure, physical or chemical bonding of the modifier molecules with the aerosilogel surface, destruction of the reaction products, etc. The mechanism of the reaction was discussed.
Removal of Cobalt from Aqueous Solutions using Haro River Sand
Authors: Hasany Syed Moosa , Chaudhary Munawar Hussain
Published: July 2017

The sorption of cobalt on Haro river sand has been optimized with respect to shaking time, amount of sand and concentration of cobalt. Maximum sorption (>94%) was achieved from deionized water at a v/w ratio of 90 cm3/g. Among the ions tested, EDTA, citrate, thiosulphate, tartrate, PbII, ZnII, CrIII, AlIII, CdII and MnII reduced the sorption significantly.

Manganese(II), ZnII, SeIV, CrIII and HlIV showed low sorption affinity towards the sand whereas ScIII, AuIII and ZrIV were strongly sorbed. Cobalt, along with elements having higher sorption, could be separated from metal ions showing low sorption. The sand could be used for the preconcentration and removal of cobalt from aqueous solutions. The sand may be exploited for wastewater treatment and water pollution abatement. The sorption data followed the Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The characteristic parameters 1/n = 0.81 ± 0.03 and A = 14.2 ± 0.5 mmol/g were evaluated for the system.
Selective Adsorption Studies of Ytterbium on Sand from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Rauf M.A. , Hasany S.M. , Ellahi I.
Published: July 2017

Adsorption studies of ytterbium on sand from dilute nitric acid solutions have been studied in relation to the properties of both adsorbate and adsorbent. The conditions for maximum adsorption were optimized. The effect of added cations, anions and other metal ions were also investigated. Ytterbium was found to separate well from solutions containing CoII, EuIII and ZnII in appreciable amounts under given conditions.
Surface Properties and Catalytic Activity of CuO–AlPO4 Catalysts
Authors: El-Hakam S.A. , Mostafa M.R. , Youssef A.M.
Published: July 2017

CuO–AlPO4 samples containing varying amounts of CuO were prepared at 25°C. The catalysts were obtained by thermal treatment, in air, at 500°C. The textural properties of the catalysts were determined from nitrogen adsorption measurements at –196°C. The surface acidity was determined by a calorimetric method. The conversion of isopropanol was measured on CuO–AlPO4 samples using microcatalytic techniques. An enormous change in the textural properties was found as a result of the effect of CuO on the structure of AlPO4. The surface acidity decreased with increasing CuO content. The catalytic dehydration of isopropanol is related to the surface acidity while dehydrogenation of the alcohol depends on the CuO content.
Adsorption of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ Ions on to Waste Fluidized Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Catalyst
Authors: Yubin Tang , Fangyan Chen , Honglin Zhang
Published: July 2017

Batch adsorption experiments of Pb2+ Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions on to waste fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) catalyst were performed. The results obtained indicate that adsorption time, temperature and pH were the main factors influencing the adsorptive capacities. The adsorption data for each ion were well described by the Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption models.

The mechanisms for the adsorption of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions on to waste FCC catalyst involved ion-exchange adsorption of the three kinds of heavy metallic ions studied or the formation of hydroxo complexes. Under the experimental conditions employed, the removal of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions attained values of 97.0%, 90.5% and 91.5%. respectively.

In addition, dynamic adsorption of the respective ions on to a column of FCC catalyst was investigated together with studies of the regeneration of the adsorbent. The results of such column tests showed that Pb2+ ions can be effectively removed from aqueous solutions by waste FCC catalyst in a packed bed. The adsorbent was easily regenerated by the use of a flow of hydrochloric acid through the packed bed under the experimental conditions employed.
Fixed-Bed Adsorption of Dyes on Bagasse Pith
Authors: McKay G. , Yee T.F. , Nassar M.M. , Magdy Y.
Published: July 2017

The adsorption of a number of basic dyes on to bagasse pith has been studied using fixed-bed adsorption. Pith is a waste material produced from the crushed cane (depithing operation) during the extraction of sugar from sugar cane. The results show that pith can adsorb basic dyes and breakthrough curves are reported at various heights in the fixed beds. The bed depth service time model has been used to assess the results.
Immobilization of Arsenic on Rice Husk
Authors: Khalid Nasir , Ahmad Shujaat , Toheed Aqidat , Ahmed Jamil
Published: July 2017

The adsorption potential of rice husk was investigated for arsenic ions from aqueous solution as a function of the appropriate electrolyte, contact time, concentrations of the adsorbent and adsorbate, effect of diverse ions and temperature. A radiotracer technique has been used to determine the distribution of arsenic employing a batch method. Maximum adsorption was observed at 0.01 mol/l acid solution (HNO3, HCl, H2SO4 and HClO4) using 1.0 g of adsorbent for 5.97 × 10−3 mol/l arsenic concentration and an equilibration time of 5 min. Studies showed that adsorption decreased with an increase in the concentration of all the acids studied. The adsorption data conformed to the Freundlich isotherm over the concentration range from 8.69 × 10−5 to 1.73 × 10−3 mol/l arsenic. Characteristic Freundlich constants, i.e. 1/n = 0.83 ± 0.06 and K = 4.43 ± 0.16 mmol/g were computed for the sorption system. The uptake of arsenic increased with increasing temperature. Thermodynamic quantities, i.e. ΔG0. ΔS0 and ΔH0, were also calculated for the system. The sorption process was found to be endothermic.
Reactions to “patriotic” and “protest” songs in individuals differing in political orientation
Authors: Ziv Naomi
Published: July 2017

Music is commonly used in political contexts, to strengthen attitudes and group cohesion. The reported research examined reactions to music representing national values or contesting them in individuals with different political orientations, on issues related to national pride, cohesion and free expression. In Study 1, 100 Israeli participants heard three “patriotic” or “protest” songs and rated their agreement with statements regarding them. Beyond a number of main effects of music and of political orientation, several interactions between these two variables were found. For right-wing participants, patriotic music increased pride whereas protest music increased shame and fear of social disintegration. For left-wing participants, protest music led to higher agreement with the right to free expression. Study 2 included 78 participants and repeated the procedure with parallel texts. Main effects of texts were found, but no main effects of political orientation or interactions were found. Results are discussed in terms of the role and impact of music in political settings.
Popular music and the role of vocal melody in perceived emotion
Authors: Beveridge Scott , Knox Don
Published: July 2017

The voice plays a crucial role in expressing emotion in popular music. However, the importance of the voice in this context has not been systematically assessed. This study investigates the emotional effect of vocal features in popular music. In particular, it focuses on nonverbal characteristics, including vocal melody and rhythm. To determine the efficacy of these features, they are used to construct a computational Music Emotion Recognition (MER) system. The system is based on the circumplex model that expresses emotion in terms of arousal and valence. Two independent studies were used to develop the system. The first study established models for predicting arousal and valence based on a range of acoustical and nonverbal vocal features. The second study was used for independent validation of these models. Results show that features describing rhythmic qualities of the vocal line produce emotion models with a high level of generalizability. In particular these models reliably predict emotional valence, a well-known issue in existing Music Emotion Recognition systems.
Singing in later life: The anatomy of a community choir
Authors: Lamont Alexandra , Murray Michael , Hale Rebecca , Wright-Bevans Katie
Published: July 2017

Previous research has highlighted the individual and social benefits of participation in arts activities for physical, psychological and social well-being. However, less is known about the transformative community aspects of the arts and very few studies have investigated arts participation over a substantial period. This article reports a case study of an older people’s choir over a 4-year period, involving interviews, focus groups, observations and a World Café participatory discussion. In support of previous literature, choir members highlighted many individual and interpersonal benefits of being part of the choir. They also emphasised the importance of developing social relationships within a supportive community, and the importance of musical achievement was central to the ongoing development of the choir. Our analysis identified five main themes: personal investment and reward; inclusive community; always evolving yet fundamentally unchanged; a desire to connect; and leadership and organisation. Considering these with reference to Seligman’s PERMA framework from positive psychology, it is apparent that social relationships, meaning and accomplishment are particularly emphasised as reasons why older people find singing in a community choir so beneficial for well-being. Sustainability is a major concern, and factors such as an expert music leader to support this are identified.
On Slippery Ground
Authors: Gill Bir Good
Published: July 2017

The article attempts to look at some of the aspects of 1857 in the Punjab and in particular at the British position in the Punjab during 1857. It explains why Punjab was such an important province for the British to hold on to India and why they could not let it go up in flames. Contrary to the general perception, the British position in the Punjab was not secure. In spite of the pre-emptive steps taken to prevent the uprising in Punjab, the situation was very grim. The article looks at the situation prevailing in different cities of Punjab such as Peshawar, Multan, Lahore, Amritsar, Ludhiana and others. It illustrates the manipulations, intrigues and cruelty resorted to by the British in order to keep the situation under control, and how despite all this, they failed to prevent the people and the infantry from expressing their discontent and disaffection for the British rule. The article also exposes the precariousness of the British position in the Punjab as expressed in the words of its own officers.
Recursive Cointegration Analysis of Purchasing Power Parity: An Application to Asian Countries
Authors: Nusair Salah A. , Abumustafa Naser I.
Published: July 2017

Previous studies have utilized conventional cointegration tests that are based on the assumption that the long-run purchasing power parity (PPP) relationship is stable over the sample period. This assumption can be misleading if there were significant economic and policy changes over the sample period. To allow for the possibility of instability in the long-run PPP relationship, we utilize recursive cointegration analysis to test for the stability of cointegrating ranks and parameters. The results indicate evidence of cointegration for Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore, and a short window for Thailand around the 1997/98 Asian crisis with no evidence of structural breaks in the cointegrating vectors. Evidence of turbulence is detected around the 1997/98 crisis, the 1985 Plaza Accord, and around 1978-1984. Longrun parameters appear to have been stable for Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, whereas instable for Indonesia, Korea, and Thailand.
The Effects of Alcohol Use on High School Absenteeism
Authors: Austin Wesley A.
Published: July 2017

Controversy has surrounded the effects of alcohol use on educational outcomes such as GPA, and, while some issues have been addressed, important questions regarding human capital effects remain. For example, might drinking causally increase school absenteeism (which is arguably connected to educational outcomes), or merely be correlated via unobservable factors? This paper will shed further light on the issue by estimating the causal impact of drinking on the number of school days missed due to “skipping” and due to illness or injury. Utilizing data from the NSDUH (National Survey on Drug Use and Health), an instrumental variable model is estimated to study the effects of several drinking measures on these outcomes and extensive testing is conducted to verify instrument strength and exogeneity. Results indicate that alcohol use increases absenteeism among high school students (which could have deleterious effects on educational outcomes). And the results are generally consistent across instrument specifications.
Examining the Application of the Opening Minds Survey in the Community Health Centre Setting
Authors: van der Maas Mark , Stuart Heather , Patten Scott B. , Lentinello Emily K. , Bobbili Sireesha J. , Mann Robert E. , Hamilton Hayley A. , Sapag Jamie C. , Corrigan Patrick , Khenti Akwatu
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Stigma has been identified as a complex and problematic issue. It acts as a major barrier to accessing care and can exacerbate the experience of a health condition, particularly for clients with mental illness and substance use issues. Scales designed to assess stigmatising attitudes towards those with mental illness and substance use problems among health care providers are necessary to evaluate programs designed to reduce that stigma. The goal of this study was to evaluate the internal reliability and external validity of the Opening Minds Survey for Health Care Providers (OMS-HC).

Methods:

The current study examined the use of the OMS-HC in assessing stigma held by Community Health Centre (CHC) staff towards clients with mental and/or substance use problems. Participants represented staff from 6 CHCs in the Greater Toronto Area ( n = 190).

Results:

The OMS-HC was found to have acceptable internal reliability for the 15-item version of the scale (α = 0.766) and mixed reliability for its subscales (α = 0.792-0.673). Confirmatory factor analysis showed good absolute (root mean square error of approximation = 0.013) and relative fit (Tucker-Lewis index = 0.996) for the current data. The OMS-HC was also shown to correlate with a series of scales commonly used in stigma research.

Conclusions:

After testing for internal validity and comparing the OMS-HC to other commonly used scales for assessing stigma and attitudes concerning recovery, the scale was found to be appropriate for the CHC setting and may be advantageous over the use of multiple scales.
Effective Tensile Stiffness of Finite-Width Quasi-Isotropic Laminates
Authors: Kress Gerald , Becker Wilfried
Published: July 2017

Finite width laminate tensile specimens cut out of a plate with a quasiisotropic [I 30'/900]s-layup are considered in regard to their effective axial stiffness properties. Due to the existing free-edge effect, the effective coupon stiffness can be clearly reduced in comparison to the predictions of classical laminated plate theory. The respective stiffness reduction depends on both the width of the given laminate specimen and also the applied uniaxial tensile direction. This means that the quasi-isotropic laminate as a finite width specimen actually does not show an isotropic uniaxial tensile stiffness. For the description of this effect a closed-form analysis is presented and the respective stiffness reduction is derived in a consistent way. For comparison and validation purposes detailed finite element analyses have also been performed showing good agreement with the closed-form results.
Decoupling the Effects of the Matrix Properties and Foam Structure on the Mechanical Properties of Microcellular Foam by Sub-Tg Annealing
Authors: Seeler Karl A. , Kumar Vipin
Published: July 2017

Sub-T, annealing microcellular polycarbonate for 100 hours at 135°C increases yield strength but decreases fatigue life and ductility. Annealing reverses the effect of CO2 saturation-cycling on the mechanical properties of the foam matrix by decreasing the free volume created by the saturation-cycle. Consequently, annealing decouples the effects of the matrix properties and the microstructure on the mechanical behavior of microcellular foam.
Permeability Measurement of Bidirectional Woven Glass Fibers
Authors: Young W. -B. , Wu S. F.
Published: July 2017

In the composites manufacturing processes such as resin transfer molding (RTM), pultrusion, autoclave, and compression molding, the mechanism and resistance of resin flow through fiber reinforcements have an important effect on the final part quality. Because of the anisotropic characteristics of the fiber reinforcements, the flow resistance is different in various directions. To study the mechanisms of resin impregnation during the fabrication of the fiber reinforced composites, it is important to investigate the permeabilities of the fiber reinforcements first. This study proposes an indirect measuring method to obtain the fiber permeabilities. The proposed method can avoid the edge effect and greatly simplify the procedures in the permeability measurements. Reliable and repeatable permeability data can be obtained using this technique.
Optimized Design of Pultruded Composite Beams
Authors: Mantell Susan C. , Hoiness Brent
Published: July 2017

An optimization method, based on classical lamination theory and a numerical search, for the minimum cost design of a glass fiber reinforced composite box beam is discussed. A sequential unconstrained minimization technique is utilized to find the lowest cost box beam which satisfies particular geometric, loading, and failure criteria. In formulating the optimization problem, the deflection and stresses of a box beam during loading must be predicted. A composite box beam model is presented which provides bending stiffness, midpoint deflection, and load at failure for the beam. The box beam model is validated by comparing model predictions with experimental data for a commercially available (proprietary) box beam design. An optimization code is developed, incorporating this box beam model, which yields a new box beam design with a 6 percent reduction in raw material cost as compared to the current commercial beam design. Similar beam bending models for circular and elliptical hollow cross sections are presented. A methodology to optimize these cross sections is discussed.
Making Performance Pay Work: The Impact of Transparency, Participation, and Fairness on Controlling Perception and Intrinsic Motivation
Authors: Wenzel Anne-Kathrin , Krause Tobias A. , Vogel Dominik
Published: July 2017

Performance pay has been one of the main trends in public sector reform over the last decade and aims to increase employees’ motivation. However, positive results are sparse. In a majority of cases, pay scheme designers neglect that intrinsic motivation may be distorted by the introduction of extrinsic rewards (crowding out). Nevertheless, under certain conditions, performance pay schemes may also enhance intrinsic motivation (crowding-in). The perception of rewards has proven to be an especially crucial factor for the outcome of performance pay. Based on psychological contract theory, this paper analyzes the relationships between intrinsic motivation, public service motivation (PSM), personality characteristics, and the design of the performance- appraisal scheme. The empirical analysis relies on a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. Model findings reveal that a fair, participatory, and transparent design reduces the controlling perception while fostering the intrinsic motivation of employees. In addition, participants who score high on neuroticism perceive performance pay schemes to be more controlling and have lower values of intrinsic motivation.
Determinants of Home Death in Patients With Cancer
Authors: Raziee Hamid , Saskin Refik , Barbera Lisa
Published: July 2017

Aim:

To determine factors associated with home death in patients with cancer in Ontario, particularly to assess the association between death at home and (1) patients’ rural/urban residence and (2) neighborhood income in urban areas.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study in Ontario (2003-2010) using linked administrative databases. In order to account for clustering phenomenon, multivariable generalized estimating equation model was used to evaluate factors associated with home death. Analysis was performed in both rural and urban areas. For urban areas, neighborhood income was tested as a determinant of the place of death.

Results:

A total of 193 783 deaths were analyzed, 9.1% of which occurred at home. In urban areas, home death was more likely for patients living in richer neighborhoods (odds ratio 1.69 for the highest compared to lowest neighborhood income quintile, 95% confidence interval: 1.54-1.86). The odds of dying at home when living in a rural area were no different from those living in the poorest urban neighborhood. Other variables associated with lower odds of home death were comorbidity index, certain cancers, and year of death.

Conclusion:

The likelihood of dying at home significantly increases with living in higher-income urban neighborhoods and decreases with rural residence. Urban neighborhoods with lowest income have odds of home death similar to rural areas. These findings underline the importance of targeting proper populations for public support at the end of life.
Integrating Fat Embolism Syndrome Scoring Indices in Sickle Cell Disease: A Practice Management Review
Authors: Bailey Keneisha , Wesley Jagila , Adeyinka Adebayo , Pierre Louisdon
Published: July 2017

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) has been described in the literature as a rare complication of sickle cell disease (SCD). A review article published in 2005 reported 24 cases of FES associated with SCD. In many cases, a definitive diagnosis of FES in SCD is made on autopsy because of the lack of early recognition and the paucity of sensitive and specific testing for this syndrome. Patients with FES usually have a fulminant, rapidly deteriorating clinical course with mortality occurring within the first 24 hours. We postulate that FES is not well recognized in SCD and that FES scores are useful diagnostic tools in patients with SCD. We queried the electronic medical records with the diagnostic codes for SCD with acute chest syndrome (ACS), pulmonary embolism, or acute respiratory distress syndrome admitted to our hospital from 2008 to 2016 to identify patients suspected of having FES. In addition, we performed an extensive literature review to evaluate the management practice of pediatric patients with FES and SCD from 1966 to 2016. Six patients met our selection criteria from the hospital records, and 4 case reports from the literature search were also included. We applied the Gurd and Wilson criteria and the Schonfeld Fat Embolism Index to identify patients who met the criteria for FES. Nine patients fulfilled Gurd and Wilson criteria, and 9 patients who were evaluable met the Schonfeld criteria for FES. A rapidly deteriorating clinical course in a patient with SCD presenting with ACS or severe vaso-occlusive crisis should trigger a high index of suspicion for FES. Gurd and Wilson criteria or the Schonfeld Fat Embolism Index are useful diagnostic tools for FES in SCD.
Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Infant Temperament
Authors: Edhborg Maigun , E-Nasreen Hashima , Kabir Zarina Nahar
Published: July 2017

Intimate partner violence (IPV) during the first year postpartum is common in Bangladesh, and many infants are exposed to hostile and aggressive environment. The aim of the current study was to investigate how IPV (physical, emotional, and sexual) impacts on the mother’s perception of her infant’s temperament 6 to 8 months postpartum, and whether maternal depressive symptom at 6 to 8 months postpartum is a mediator in this association. A total of 656 rural Bangladeshi women and their children 6 to 8 months postpartum were included in this study. Data were collected by structured interviews. The women were asked about physical, sexual, and emotional IPV; depressive symptoms (Edinburgh Postnatal Depressive Symptoms [EPDS]); and their perception of infant temperament assessed by the Infant Characteristic Questionnaire (ICQ). Descriptive analyses were conducted for prevalence of IPV and maternal depressive symptoms. Mediation analysis was conducted with a series of linear regressions with types of IPV as independent variables, ICQ including its subscales as dependent variables and maternal depressive symptoms as potential mediator. All the analyses were adjusted for the woman’s and her husband’s ages and number of children of the couple. Nearly 90% of the mothers reported some kind of IPV at 6 to 8 months postpartum. All types of IPV were directly associated with the mother’s perception of her infant as unadaptable. Maternal depressive symptom was a mediating factor between physical IPV and the ICQ subscales fussy-difficult and unpredictable. In addition, depressive symptoms mediated between sexual and emotional IPV, and the mother’s perception of the infant as unpredictable. The results showed that IPV influenced how mothers perceived their infant’s temperament. It is important that health care professionals at maternal and child health services enquire about IPV with possibilities to refer the family or the mother and infant for appropriate support.
Racial/ethnic disparities in disability outcomes among post-acute home care patients
Authors: Chase Jo-Ana D. , Huang Liming , Russell David , Hanlon Alexandra , O’Connor Melissa , Robinson Keith M. , Bowles Kathryn H.
Published: July 2017

Objective: To examine activities of daily living (ADL) disability outcomes among racially/ethnically diverse elders receiving home care (HC) after hospitalization. Method: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of single-agency, 2013-2014 Outcome and Assessment Information Set data from older adults who received post-hospitalization HC ( n = 20,674). We measured overall change in ADL disability by summing the difference of standardized admission and discharge scores from nine individual ADL. Associations between race/ethnicity and overall ADL change scores were modeled using general linear regression, adjusting for covariates consistent with the Disablement Model. Results: Overall, patients experienced improvement in ADL disability from HC admission to discharge. However, Asian, African American, and Hispanic patients experienced significantly less improvement compared with non-Hispanic Whites (all p < .001), even after controlling for covariates. Discussion: Racial/ethnic disparities exist in ADL disability improvement among HC patients. Research is needed to clarify mechanisms underlying these disparities. Disablement Model factors may be targets for clinical intervention.
The hot plate impactor: A novel instrument for continuous characterization of liquid sprays
Authors: Wilkinson D
Published: July 2017

A method is described to continuously characterize sprays of volatile liquids. Liquid drops are impacted inertially from a flowing gas stream onto collectors of different sizes, hence having differing collection characteristics. Electric heating of the collectors both removes the liquid by evaporation and also allows measurement of its rate of deposition from the heat required to maintain a given temperature of the collector. By using collectors of various sizes, different components of the drop size spectrum are impacted on different collectors thus allowing an indication of the distribution of drop sizes to be obtained. Experiments have been conducted using water sprays having mass median diameters in the range 5–20 μm at liquid fluxes from 10−4 to 0.1 kg/m2s in air at a velocity of 3 m/s. The measurable drop size range may be altered by selecting appropriately sized collectors.
Updating of aerodynamic reduced order models generated using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Griffiths LM , Gaitonde AL , Jones DP , Friswell MI
Published: July 2017

Reduced order models of computational fluid dynamics codes have been developed to decrease computational costs; however, each reduced order model has a limited range of validity based on the data used in its construction. Further, like the computational fluid dynamics from which it is derived, such models exhibit differences from experimental data due to uncertainty in boundary conditions and numerical accuracy. Model updating provides the opportunity to use small amounts of additional data to modify the behaviour of a reduced order model, which means that the range of validity of the reduced order model can be extended. Whilst here computational fluid dynamics data have been used for updating, the approach offers the possibility that experimental data can be used in future. In this work, the baseline reduced order models are constructed using the Eigensystem realisation algorithm and the steps used to update these models are given in detail. The methods developed are then applied to remove the effects of wind tunnel walls and to include viscous effects.