bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformational Leadership, Goal Setting, and Work Motivation
Authors: Bronkhorst Babette , Steijn Bram , Vermeeren Brenda
Published: December 2013

Many studies have recently been devoted to transformational leadership in public sector organizations. However, these seldom address the relationship between transformational leadership and work motivation. By combining separate findings in the public administration literature about transformational leadership style and goal setting and about the work motivation of public employees, we construct hypotheses on how transformational leadership style and work motivation are related in a public sector context. Building on this, our analysis, based on a survey in a Dutch municipality, shows several linkages between this leadership style and work motivation. In addition to a direct effect, we anticipated and indeed found two indirect ones. First, goal setting mediates this relationship, with transformational leaders able to set more challenging and more specific goals. Second, transformational leaders seem able to reduce perceptions of procedural constraints among their employees. This is especially important as such constraints can hamper the use of goal setting.
Is There Space for Better Planning in a Neoliberal World? Implications for Planning Practice and Theory
Authors: Campbell Heather , Tait Malcolm , Watkins Craig
Published: December 2013

Planning’s normative aspirations are open to criticism for their idealism and impracticality in the face of economic forces. The question underlying this article therefore is how far space—conceptual and practical—exists for better planning? The argument uses empirical evidence drawn from an unremarkable planning case not as a source of explanation but to probe how events (and hence planning) might have been different and therefore could be different in the future. What choices were overlooked? What questions might have been asked? What alternative outcomes were possible?
Enzymatic and histopathologic biomarkers in the flatfish Euryglossa orientalis from the northwestern Persian Gulf
Authors: Chupani Latifeh , Savari Ahmad , Zolgharnein Hossein , Rezaie Anahita , Zeinali Majid
Published: December 2013

Most of the chemicals in the petrochemical sewages cause oxidative stress in marine organisms. Antioxidant enzymes (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) as biomarkers of oxidative stress and liver histopathological alterations were investigated in the current study to evaluate the toxic effects of petrochemical pollutions in flatfish, Euryglossa orientalis. The enzymatic and histopathological changes were assessed in the liver of E. orientalis from Khowr-e Jafari (one of the creeks from Khowr-e Musa estuary) and Sajafi harbor as polluted and clean areas, respectively. A significant increase in the antioxidant enzyme activities was observed in response to aquatic pollutions of Khowr-e Jafari. Liver lesions were diagnosed and categorized using standard methods. The results of histopathological examinations showed more lesion scores in the fish from Khowr-e Jafari. Various histopathological changes including hepatocyte degeneration, inflammatory lesions, peliosis hepatis and pancreatic acinar cell adenoma, and increase in the number of pigmented macrophage aggregates were observed in the fish from polluted site. It is suggested that activities of CAT and SOD along with semi-quantitative histopathologic analysis of E. orientalis can be used for biomonitoring programs in Persian Gulf.
Neuroimaging Findings in 41 Low-Functioning Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Erbetta Alessandra , Bulgheroni Sara , Contarino Valeria , Chiapparini Luisa , Esposito Silvia , Vago Chiara , Riva Daria
Published: December 2013

The data on the rate of brain imaging abnormalities in autistic spectrum disorders are still inconsistent. A recent study on patients with high-functioning autism found that approximately 90% of children had normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans whereas an unexpected high rate of MRI abnormalities was reported in 77 nonsyndromic autistic children with or without intellectual disability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of neuroradiologic findings in low-functioning autistic children compared to controls matched for age. Minor brain abnormalities were found in 44% of patients and 22% of controls. Our main result is the high rate of mega cisterna magna in autistic patients. High rate of minor neuroradiologic abnormalities in low-functioning autistic patients could contribute to the research about the various endophenotypes and complete the clinical assessment of children with autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube Replacement Unexpected Serious Events
Authors: Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Papanikolaou Ioannis S. , Stasinos Ioannis , Polymeros Dimitrios , Dimitriadis George D.
Published: December 2013

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes are replaced due to clogging, breaking, and dislodgement. There are potential complications associated with these procedures, including intraperitoneal placement of the tube and peritonitis, which can occur even in the presence of a well established stoma site. Herein we present a case series of 3 patients with mature gastrocutaneous tracks, who developed peritonitis following tube replacement. In the absence of a consensus or international guidelines regarding the management of patients requiring percoutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube replacement, emphasis should be given on prevention of severe adverse events and on early anticipation of their occurrence. Clinical experience indicates that recognition of high‐risk procedures, selection of the appropriate replacement method and confirmation of correct tube placement can improve patients' safety and reduce the complications rate.
Athletes in the Pool, Girls and Boys on Deck
Authors: Musto Michela
Published: December 2013

Few studies have examined how groups of individuals enact different patterns of gender relations within and across contexts. In this article, I draw upon nine months of fieldwork and 15 semistructured interviews conducted with eight- to 10-year-old swimmers on a co-ed youth swim team. During focused aspects of swim practice, gender was less salient and structural mechanisms encouraged athletes to interact in ways that illuminated girls’ and boys’ similar athletic abilities, undermining categorical, essentialist, and hierarchical gender beliefs pertaining to athleticism. However, in the swimmers’ unfocused free time, the salience of gender was high and structural mechanisms encouraged swimmers to engage in “borderwork.” In this context, similarities between the genders were obscured and girls and boys instead interacted in ways that affirmed essentialist and categorical—but nonhierarchical—meanings of gender. By paying attention to structural mechanisms and the variable salience of gender, we can thus see the various conditions under which children deploy different patterns of gender relations, and how less oppressive gender relations can potentially “spill over” from one context to the next.
On the Coevolution of Stereotype, Culture, and Social Relationships
Authors: Joseph Kenneth , Morgan Geoffrey P. , Martin Michael K. , Carley Kathleen M.
Published: December 2013

The theory of constructuralism describes how shared knowledge, representative of cultural forms, develops between individuals through social interaction. Constructuralism argues that through interaction and individual learning, the social network (who interacts with whom) and the knowledge network (who knows what) coevolve. In the present work, we extend the theory of constructuralism and implement this extension in an agent-based model (ABM). Our work focuses on the theory’s inability to describe how people form and utilize stereotypes of higher order social structures, in particular observable social groups and society as a whole. In our ABM, we formalize this theoretical extension by creating agents that construct, adapt, and utilize social stereotypes of individuals, social groups, and society. We then use this model to carry out a virtual experiment that explores how ethnocentric stereotypes and the underlying distribution of culture in an artificial society interact to produce varying levels of social relationships across social groups. In general, we find that neither stereotypes nor the form of underlying cultural structures alone are sufficient to explain the extent of social relationships across social groups. Rather, we provide evidence that shared culture, social relations, and group stereotypes all intermingle to produce macrosocial structure.
Organizational Commitment and Involvement
Authors: Wang Lili , Ashcraft Robert F.
Published: December 2013

Charitable gifts provide vital support for the operation of many associations. Using data collected from members of six professional associations, this study examines the factors that influence charitable donations to this particular type of organization. The results of logistic regression models suggest that the decision to give to associations is not driven by the inducement of tax deduction but by members’ commitment to associations, their level of engagement in these organizations, and whether they were solicited for a charitable gift. In addition, retired non-U.S. members who have supported other community organizations are more likely to donate to associations as are members working for government and those holding higher job positions. The results suggest that soliciting donations significantly increases the propensity to give, particularly among members with low educational attainment. Practical implications of the empirical findings are discussed.
Implementation and governance: Current and future research on climate change policies
Authors: Rykkja Lise H , Neby Simon , Hope Kristin L
Published: December 2013

Central policymakers, governments, climate researchers, and research funders emphasize the necessity to develop, design, and implement climate change policies. This article investigates how this is dealt with in current social science research by analyzing relevant articles published in international academic journals. The search covers both interdisciplinary and more discipline-specific journals, focusing on publications within international relations, political science, public administration, and sociology. The results show that although climate change is a major contemporary research topic, there seems to be a lack of research focusing on existing government actions, multilevel governance, and implementation. The existing research is largely empirical and case-oriented. Cross-country comparisons are rare, and relatively few studies explicitly focus on theory development. A major proportion of the research is published in interdisciplinary journals, where vital insights from political science and public administration research might be lacking. This paper, through an analysis of extant research, will add to the body of literature on climate change policy from a public policy implementation perspective.
Influence of an orifice plate on gas pulsation in a reciprocating compressor piping system
Authors: Jia Xiaohan , Liu Boxiang , Feng Jianmei , Peng Xueyuan
Published: December 2013

This paper presents an investigation of the influence of the orifice plate parameters and installation positions on the attenuation of gas pulsation in a reciprocating compressor piping system. The acoustic wave theory and transfer matrix approach were applied to establish the simulation model, in which the valve chamber was assumed to be the pipe–volume–pipe element. Based on the model, the effects of the size and installation positions of the orifice plate on the gas column natural frequencies and pressure pulsation amplitudes were analyzed for the discharge piping system of a two-stage reciprocating air compressor. A test rig was built to validate the simulation results. The gas column natural frequencies and pressure pulsation amplitudes at different locations of the piping system were measured to verify the model. A favorable agreement was noted, with a maximum error of 2.1% for the natural frequencies and 6.3% for the pulsating amplitudes. The influence of the orifice plate on the gas column natural frequency varied according to its position and parameters. The results showed that all orders of natural frequencies decreased slightly as the inner diameter of the orifice plate decreased when the orifice plate was installed downstream of the vessel. However, the distribution of the gas column natural frequency changed when the orifice plate was installed upstream of the vessel. The pressure fluctuations in the piping system could be attenuated substantially by placing an orifice plate of reasonable parameter downstream of the vessel, within a distance of 0.4 m. The degree to which the orifice plate could attenuate the gas pulsation varied under different operating conditions. However, its attenuation effect was more sensitive to the compressor speed than to the discharge pressure.
A real-time simple light detection application for a flying robot in extreme noise and interference
Authors: Shah Syed Irtiza Ali , Wu Allen D , Johnson Eric N
Published: December 2013

In this work, a real-time vision-based algorithm has been developed and implemented on a flying robot, in order to detect and identify a light beacon in the presence of excessive colored noise and interference. Starting from very basic and simple image analysis techniques including color histograms, filtering techniques, and color space analyses, typical pixel-based characteristics or a model of the light beacon has been progressively established. It has been found that not only are various color space-based characteristics significant, but also the relationships between various channels across different color spaces are of great consequence, in a beacon detection problem, specifically referring to a blue light-emitting diode. A block-based search algorithm comprising of multiple thresholds and linear confidence level calculation has been implemented to search established model characteristics in real-time video image data. During implementation, once excessive noise was encountered during flight tests, a simple and low cost noise and interference filter was developed. This filter very effectively handled all noise encountered in real time. The proposed work was successfully implemented and utilized on GeorgiaTech’s participating aircraft for the International Aerial Robotics Competition by Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International for detection of a blue light-emitting diode problem. Major contributions of this work include establishing a multiple threshold search and detection algorithm based on not only various color channels but also their relationships and handling of as much as 40% noisy or interfered video data with successful practical implementation and demonstration of proposed approach.
Fertile and Selectively Flirty
Authors: Cantú Stephanie M. , Simpson Jeffry A. , Griskevicius Vladas , Weisberg Yanna J. , Durante Kristina M. , Beal Daniel J.
Published: December 2013

Past research shows that men respond to women differently depending on where women are in their ovulatory cycle. But what leads men to treat ovulating women differently? We propose that the ovulatory cycle alters women’s flirting behavior. We tested this hypothesis in an experiment in which women interacted with different types of men at different points in their cycle. Results revealed that women in the ovulatory phase reported more interest in men who had purported markers of genetic fitness as short-term mates, but not as long-term mates. Furthermore, behavioral ratings of the interactions indicated that women displayed more flirting behaviors when they were at high than at low fertility. Importantly, fertile women flirted more only when interacting with men who had genetic-fitness markers, not with other men. In summary, fertility not only alters women’s behavior but does so in a context-dependent way that follows adaptive logic.
Heart Rate Variability Predicts Control Over Memory Retrieval
Authors: Gillie Brandon L. , Vasey Michael W. , Thayer Julian F.
Published: December 2013

Stopping retrieval of unwanted memories has been characterized as a process that requires inhibition. However, little research has examined the relationship between control over memory retrieval and individual differences in inhibitory control. Higher levels of resting heart rate variability (HRV) are associated with greater inhibitory control, as indicated by better performance on a number of cognitive, affective, and motor tasks. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that higher levels of resting HRV predict enhanced memory inhibition as indexed by performance on the think/no-think task. Efforts to suppress no-think word pairs resulted in impaired recall for those items, as in past studies. Moreover, higher levels of resting HRV were associated with more successful suppression, as indicated by lower recall of the to-be-avoided stimuli relative to baseline stimuli. These findings are among the first to suggest that physiological markers of inhibitory control can be used to index a person’s capacity to control unwanted memories.
Vasorelaxant effects of mercury on rat thoracic aorta
Authors: Omanwar S , Saidullah B , Ravi K , Fahim M
Published: December 2013

Mercury, a heavy metal, is widespread and persistent in the environment and has been elucidated as a possible risk factor in cardiovascular diseases. Mercury has been reported to selectively impair the nitric oxide (NO) pathway in the vascular endothelium as a consequence of oxidative stress. Conversely, mercury per se causes endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation at lower concentration via the NO pathway. Little is known about the effects of mercury per se on other endothelial mediators. To elucidate possible mechanisms involved in this action, isometric tension was measured in aortic rings precontracted with phenylephrine (10 µM) from Wistar rats. Responses to increasing concentrations of inorganic mercuric chloride (10−12–10−5 M) were obtained in the presence and absence of endothelium. Inorganic mercury produced a biphasic response in endothelium-intact aortic rings and produced only vasoconstriction in endothelium-denuded aortic rings. To study the possible underlying mechanisms for the biphasic response of mercury, increasing concentrations of mercuric chloride (10−12–10−5 M) were used before and after NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME (10−4 M)), glybenclamide (10−5 M), superoxide dismutase (10 U/ml) + catalase (100 U/ml), and nifedipine (10−4 M) treatment. Results suggest that mercury produces endothelium-dependent relaxation at low concentration mediated by endothelial-generated NO and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor and endothelium-independent contraction resulting from the blockade of l-type Ca2+ channels by generation of free radicals.
The needs of persons with lupus and health care providers: a qualitative study aimed toward the development of the Lupus Interactive Navigator™
Authors: Neville C , Costa D Da , Mill C , Rochon M , Aviña-Zubieta JA , Pineau CA , Eng D , Fortin PR
Published: December 2013

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an inflammatory autoimmune disease associated with high morbidity and unacceptable mortality. A major challenge for persons with lupus is coping with their illness and complex care. Our objective was to identify the informational and resource needs of persons with lupus, rheumatologists, and allied health professionals treating lupus. Our findings will be applied toward the development of an innovative web-based technology, the Lupus Interactive Navigator (LIN™), to facilitate and support engagement and self-management for persons with lupus.

Methods

Eight focus groups were conducted: four groups of persons with lupus ( n = 29), three groups of rheumatologists ( n = 20), and one group of allied health professionals ( n = 8). The groups were held in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec. All sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative analysis was performed using grounded theory. The transcripts were reviewed independently and coded by the moderator and co-moderator using 1) qualitative data analysis software developed by Provalis Research, Montreal, Canada, and 2) manual coding.

Results

Four main themes emerged: 1) specific information and resource needs; 2) barriers to engagement in health care; 3) facilitators of engagement in health care; and 4) tools identified as helpful for the self-management of lupus.

Conclusion

These findings will help guide the scope of LIN™ with relevant information topics and specific tools that will be most helpful to the diverse needs of persons with lupus and their health care providers.
Safer Sex Negotiation and Its Association With Condom Use Among Clients of Female Sex Workers in Bangladesh
Authors: Kamal S. M. Mostafa , Hassan Che Hashim , Salikon Roslan Hj
Published: December 2013

This study examines safer sex negotiation and its association with condom use among clients of female sex workers (FSWs) in Bangladesh. Data were collected from 484 FSWs living in Dhaka city following a convenient sampling procedure. Overall, 47% of the clients were suggested to use condom during last sexual intercourse and 21% did so. Both bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses yielded significantly increased risk of negotiation for safer sex with clients among FSWs with higher education. The power bargaining significantly ( P < .001) increased the risk of condom use by 2.15 times (95% confidence interval = 1.28-3.59). The odds of condom use were significantly higher among the FSWs with higher education, unmarried, hotel-based, and among those with higher level of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge. The Bangladeshi FSWs have little control over their profession. HIV prevention programs should aim to encourage FSWs through information, education, and communication program to insist on condom use among clients.
Using Photographs to Integrate Liberal Arts Learning in Business Education
Authors: Madden Laura T. , Smith Anne D.
Published: December 2013

The inclusion of photographic approaches in the business classroom can incorporate missing elements of liberal education into business education, which were highlighted in a recent Carnegie study of undergraduate business education. Building on photographic methods in social science research, we identify three categories of photographic approaches that can enhance undergraduate liberal arts modes of thinking: (a) archival or researcher-created images translated into in-class activities, (b) photo-elicitation course projects in which students envision future careers and step into the shoes of another, and (c) photovoice courses built around semester-long projects to generate student self-reflection. These in-class, grassroots efforts allow professors to provide undergraduate business students the opportunities to learn through multiple framing and reflective exploration of meaning.
Promoting Homework Independence for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Hampshire Patricia Korzekwa , Butera Gretchen D. , Dustin Timothy J.
Published: December 2013

For students with autism, homework time may be especially challenging due to problems in self-organization and difficulties generalizing skills from one setting to another. Although often problematic, homework can provide a valuable context for teaching organizational skills that become essential as students become more independent. By learning to self-manage, students develop a set of skills necessary for self-determination. This article describes the process for developing an intervention plan for students who may be struggling to complete homework successfully.
Capitalism in Question
Authors: Adler Paul S.
Published: December 2013

Paul Adler was Program Chair for the 2013 meeting of the Academy of Management in Orlando, Florida, in August. In this capacity, he organized the “All-Academy Theme” component of the meeting program, helped by a committee of Tom Kochan (MIT), Jerry Davis (U. Michigan), Carrie Leana (U. Pittsburgh), and Stella Nkomo (U. Pretoria). The theme was “Capitalism in Question.” The essay below is an edited version of Paul’s presentation of the theme at the Presidential breakfast session, August 11, 2013. He argues that recurrent economic and financial crises and the emergence of protest movements around the world should encourage us as management scholars to consider more carefully the broader “political–economic” context of business and management—how organizational behavior, structure, and strategy differ across societies characterized by different political–economic structures, whether variants of capitalism or alternatives to it.
Unambiguous syntactic eXtensible Markup Language query matching on eXtensible Markup Language streams
Authors: Chou Chien-Ping , Jea Kuen-Fang
Published: December 2013

We propose a method of syntactic pattern recognition for e Xtensible Markup Language query matching on e Xtensible Markup Language streams. A set of declarative grammar rules is generated, and then its parser, which is produced by full-fledged compiler tools, can be used to match multiple queries concurrently with only one-time scan on e Xtensible Markup Language streams. The grammar is proved unambiguous with lemmas and theorems. We also analyze the time complexity and prove the correctness of multiple-query matching. Several experiments were conducted to demonstrate the efficiency and scalability of the proposed method in various aspects. As a result, the proposed method is beneficial for building efficient e Xtensible Markup Language–based publish/subscribe applications.
Journalists in the Age of ICTs
Authors: Veglis Andreas , Pomportsis Andreas
Published: December 2013

This paper discusses in detail the issue of journalists’ usage of information and communication technologies (ICTs). More precisely, it proposes a model describing the information space available for journalists. It also describes thoroughly the necessary ICT skills that a journalist must possess to cope successfully with the work demands. A survey concerning ICT usage by professional journalists is also presented. The results of the survey indicate a lack of knowledge in certain areas of ICTs. The reasons behind this lack of ICT skills are discussed and a solution to this problem is proposed, which is based on continuing education programs that can foster the adoption of novel ICT tools and services by professional journalists.
A two-dimensional peridynamic model for thin plates
Authors: Taylor Michael , Steigmann David J
Published: December 2013

A general plate model based on the peridynamic theory of solid mechanics is presented. The model is derived as a two-dimensional approximation of the three-dimensional bond-based theory of peridynamics via an asymptotic analysis. The resulting plate theory is demonstrated using a specially designed peridynamics code to simulate the fracture of a brittle plate with a central crack under tensile loading.
The Routine of Mass Murder in China
Authors: Hilal Susan M. , Densley James A. , Li Spencer D. , Ma Yan
Published: December 2013

Using data obtained from 165 mass murders in China, this research examines the crime of mass murder through a routine activities perspective as it relates to the location of where they occur (rural areas), while taking into consideration the motivation (revenge and profit), and most common weapon (knife) used. This adds to the literature on mass murders and routine activities theory from an area (China) where little academic research has been published regarding this crime.
Illness perceptions in patients with somatoform disorders: Examining the role of comorbidity
Authors: Wiborg Jan F , Löwe Bernd
Published: December 2013

We examined the role of comorbidity in models that use the illness perceptions of patients with somatoform disorders to explain their outcomes. A total of 138 primary care patients with somatoform disorders completed the Patient Health Questionnaire and Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and rated their general health status. Medical comorbidity was rated by the general practitioner. Patients’ illness perceptions were consistently related to their outcomes independent of medical and psychological comorbidity in our models. At the same time, inclusion of comorbidity enhanced our models, revealing differences in the relevance of the specific comorbidity depending on the outcome measure.
A Q-methodology study of parental understandings of infant immunisation: Implications for health-care advice
Authors: Harvey Hannah , Good James , Mason James , Reissland Nadja
Published: December 2013

This study used Q-methodology to explore systematically parental judgements about infant immunisation. A total of 45 parents completed a 31-statement Q-sort. Data were collected after vaccination in general practitioner practices or a private day nursery. Q factor analysis revealed four distinct viewpoints: a duty to immunise based on medical benefits, child-orientated protection based on parental belief, concern and distress and surprise at non-compliance. Additionally, there was a common view among parents that they did not regret immunising their children. Implications of these results are discussed in terms of health-care policy and future research.
Broken windows, mediocre methods, and substandard statistics
Authors: Wicherts Jelte M. , Bakker Marjan
Published: December 2013

Broken windows theory states that cues of inappropriate behavior like litter or graffiti amplify norm-violating behavior. In a series of quasi-experiments, Keizer, Lindenberg, and Steg altered cues of inappropriate behavior in public places and observed how many passersby subsequently violated norms. They concluded that particular norm violations transgress to other misdemeanors (e.g., graffiti leads to littering or even theft) and that the presence of prohibition signs heightens the saliency of norm violations, thereby aggravating the negative effects of cues such as litter and graffiti. We raise several methodological and statistical issues that cast doubt on Keizer et al.’s results. Problems include confounding factors, observer bias, lacking scoring protocols, a failure to establish interobserver reliabilities, inflated Type I error rates due to dependencies, sequential testing, and multiple testing. We highlight results of a highly similar study that does not support the notion that prohibition signs aggravate the effects of observed norm violations. We discuss potential improvements of the paradigm.
Social exclusion and xenophobia: Intolerant attitudes toward ethnic and religious minorities
Authors: Aydin Nilüfer , Krueger Joachim I. , Frey Dieter , Kastenmüller Andreas , Fischer Peter
Published: December 2013

The present research investigates the effects of social exclusion on attitudes toward ethnic and religious minorities. Native-born German participants who were socially excluded rather than included reported greater approval for stricter legislation regarding the naturalization of immigrants (Study 1), reported greater prejudice against openly observant Muslims (Studies 2 and 3), and stronger agreement with the view that immigrants are financial burdens to the state (Study 4). Social exclusion threatens the sense of personal control, which in turn leads to stronger rejection of stigmatized outgroups (Study 3). When perceived control was experimentally enhanced, the social exclusion effect disappeared (Study 4). The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Delay to surgery does not influence the pathological outcome of acute appendicitis
Authors: Hornby S. T. , Shahtahmassebi G. , Lynch S. , Ladwa N. , Stell D. A.
Published: December 2013

Introduction:

Emergency surgery is performed on patients with appendicitis in the belief that inflammation of the appendix may progress to necrosis and perforation. Many cases of appendicitis, however, resolve with conservative treatment, and necrotic appendicitis may represent a different disease rather than the end result of inflammation of the appendix. We wished to explore the relationship between the interval to surgery after admission to hospital with appendicitis and the proportion of patients developing necrosis.

Methods:

Appendicectomy operations performed between 2005 and 2010 were reviewed. End points included age, sex, interval from admission to surgery, and final pathological diagnosis.

Results:

A total of 2403 evaluable patients were identified (1266 females). Necrotic appendicitis occurred more commonly in children (17.5%) and the elderly (25.4%) compared with adults (10.5%). The median interval to surgery of patients with normal histology (17.1 h) was longer than the time to removal of inflamed (13 h) or necrotic (13.5 h) appendices (p < 0.001).The ratio of necrotic to inflamed appendicitis in the entire cohort was 0.24. Multivariate analysis reveals that necrosis of the appendix is more common in children and the elderly and that the proportion of patients with necrosis does not change with increasing interval to surgery.

Discussion:

Our observations show that appendicitis is not more likely to lead to perforation if a short delay prior to surgery is allowed. In addition, our findings add weight to the increasing volume of data showing that necrosis of the appendix is a disease different from simple inflammation.
The friendly barbarians: Professional norms and work routines of online journalists in the United States
Authors: Agarwal Sheetal D , Barthel Michael L
Published: December 2013

As online publications increasingly serve as professional entry points into journalism, online journalists are being trained in a professional environment markedly different from traditional publications. Through in-depth interviews with online journalists, this study investigates the professional identities of this new cohort of media workers. We find they respect some established norms but participate in a mutual shaping of the processes of creating news as new technologies are adapted into existing newsroom practices and environments. They are also forming new norms, emphasizing transparency, individualism and risk taking. Overall, a “new normal” appears to be coalescing.
Gestures of seeing: Amateur photographers in the news
Authors: Becker Karin
Published: December 2013

This article examines the amateur photographer as a common figure in contemporary news photographs, focusing on how the amateur’s gestures signify in journalism’s coverage of media events. Drawing on theories of photography as performance and ritual, I argue that the presence of the non-professional in the news photograph destabilizes journalistic discourse by challenging the role of the professional photographer and by redefining the event and its meanings. This is especially critical in coverage of catastrophic events, when the amateur’s gestures become a form of witnessing from a participant’s perspective, carrying both private and collective meanings for how the event will be understood in the future, and undermining the authority of journalism.
(On)Line Dancing
Authors: Menn Mindy , Chaney J. Don
Published: December 2013

Online-delivered distance education is a burgeoning component of professional development and continuing education. Distance education programs allow individuals to learn in a different location and/or at a different time from fellow learners, thereby increasing the flexibility and number of learning options. Selecting the “right” program for personal development from the ever-growing body of online-delivered education is an individualized decision that can become an overwhelming and challenging process. This Tool presents four important definitions for navigating distance education program description materials and outlines a five-step process to assist in identifying an appropriate program for personal development. The five-step process includes key questions and points to consider while conducting a candid self-assessment, identifying and investigating distance education programs, and then compiling information, comparing programs, and prioritizing a list of programs suitable for application. Furthermore, this Tool highlights important websites for distance education degree program reviews, accreditation information, and open educational resources.
Measuring the Progress of Capacity Building in the Alberta Policy Coalition for Cancer Prevention
Authors: Raine Kim D. , Sosa Hernandez Cristabel , Nykiforuk Candace I. J. , Reed Shandy , Montemurro Genevieve , Lytvyak Ellina , MacLellan-Wright Mary-Frances
Published: December 2013

The Alberta Policy Coalition for Cancer Prevention (APCCP) represents practitioners, policy makers, researchers, and community organizations working together to coordinate efforts and advocate for policy change to reduce chronic diseases. The aim of this research was to capture changes in the APCCP’s capacity to advance its goals over the course of its operation. We adapted the Public Health Agency of Canada’s validated Community Capacity-Building Tool to capture policy work. All members of the APCCP were invited to complete the tool in 2010 and 2011. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t tests. Qualitative comments were analyzed using thematic content analysis. A group process for reaching consensus provided context to the survey responses and contributed to a participatory analysis. Significant improvement was observed in eight out of nine capacity domains. Lessons learned highlight the importance of balancing volume and diversity of intersectoral representation to ensure effective participation, as well as aligning professional and economic resources. Defining involvement and roles within a coalition can be a challenging activity contingent on the interests of each sector represented. The participatory analysis enabled the group to reflect on progress made and future directions for policy advocacy.
Results From a Pilot Promotora Program to Reduce Depression and Stress Among Immigrant Latinas
Authors: Tran Anh N. , Ornelas India J. , Kim Mimi , Perez Georgina , Green Melissa , Lyn Michelle J. , Corbie-Smith Giselle
Published: December 2013

The stressful experiences that Latino immigrants face throughout the migration process to the United States put them at increased risk for poor mental health. Latinas are at heightened risk due to stigma, limited access to mental health resources, domestic violence, and gender role expectations. In addition, for those who live in new immigrant settlement areas, such as the Southeast, these disparities are magnified by even fewer culturally appropriate services and limited social support. This study evaluates the impact of ALMA ( Amigas Latinas Motivando el Alma/Latina Friends Motivating the Soul), a pilot promotora intervention offered in three North Carolina counties to improve mental health among Latinas by offering coping skills training. The intervention trained community-based promotoras to conduct outreach to Latina women in their social network (compañeras). Using a pre–post test design, we assessed the mental health outcomes of compañeras. Compañeras improved on the following outcomes: depressive symptoms, attitudes of depression treatment, perceived and acculturative stress, perceived social support, and positive coping responses. Our findings suggest that promotora interventions, such as ALMA, that focus on building self-care strategies can be valuable to reducing preclinical symptoms and addressing health care disparities that are exacerbated by unavailable or underused mental health services.
Barriers to Bicycle Helmet Use in Young Children in an Urban Elementary School
Authors: Pierce Samuel R. , Palombaro Kerstin M. , Black Jill D.
Published: December 2013

Purpose. Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death in bicycle crashes. The factors associated with bicycle helmet use in young children with diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to helmet use in young children in an urban elementary school. Design. Qualitative content analysis with semistructured interviews, observational field notes, and artifacts. Setting. Urban elementary school. Participants. Seventeen students whose age ranged from 5 to 7 years and whose ethnic background was identified as African American (14) or Caucasian (3). Method. Children participated in a brain safety fair that included presentations and activities. Semistructured, pre- and postexperience interviews were completed. Observations of the students participating in the activities and reflective art projects from the students were collected. Results. The analysis found the following barriers to helmet use: (a) lack of access to a helmet, (b) poor fit of helmets due to hairstyles, and (c) lack of knowledge regarding helmet use. Conclusion. The present study suggests that the issue of helmet design and comfort for younger children with variable hairstyles needs to be addressed in order to increase helmet use in this population.
A natural fungal extract for improving dyeability and antibacterial activity of silk fabric
Authors: Manickam Parthiban , Thilagavathi G
Published: December 2013

The aim of this research is to improve the dyeability and antibacterial activity of silk fabric using natural fungal extract. The natural fungal pigment is extracted from the thermophilic fungi-basedspecies, namely Thermomyces, purified and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectra, and subjected for the dyeing process. An experiment using Box and Behnken is designed with three levels and three variables using pH, temperature, and time as independent variables and with wash fastness, rubbing fastness, light fastness, and bacterial reduction (%) as dependent variables, and the conditions are optimized. Regression equations are obtained to analyze the fastness properties and bacterial reduction (%), and the optimum process parameters are identified. The result shows that the optimum conditions for dyeing the silk fabric by fungal pigmentation is 2% owm at 60℃ for 30 min, maintaining a pH of 3.
Introduction to AEI’s Special Issue on Special Education Teacher Evaluations
Authors: Johnson Evelyn , Semmelroth Carrie Lisa
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this introductory article is to provide an overview to the special issue on special education teacher evaluation. This special issue features five articles that collectively present a comprehensive review of the current state of understanding about the issues concerning devising and implementing special education teacher evaluation systems. Within this special issue are articles that provide a discussion of some of the primary challenges associated with evaluating special education teachers; an overview of the issues associated with using observation tools to measure special education teachers; and three studies that each feature a unique approach to special education teacher evaluation via opportunities to learn (My Instructional Learning Opportunities Guidance System; Classroom Observations of Student-Teacher Interactions–Mathematics) and evidence-based instructional practices (Recognizing Effective Special Education Teachers). Because of the current gap in special education teacher evaluation research, we hope that this special issue will contribute to the field, and advance existing research.
Evaluating and Advancing the Effective Teaching of Special Educators With a Dynamic Instructional Practices Portfolio
Authors: Elliott Stephen N. , Roach Andrew T. , Kurz Alexander
Published: December 2013

We describe the concept of a dynamic instructional practices portfolio to evaluate special education teachers. This portfolio features the My Instructional Learning Opportunities Guidance System (MyiLOGS) as the core component. MyiLOGS is an online, daily self-report measure of opportunity to learn (OTL) that provides detailed information on teachers’ use of instructional time, curricular content covered, and instructional practices, all of which are known to influence student achievement. This measure and its related support measures have evolved from professional development research. To use MyiLOGS, teachers must pass a qualifying assessment to document their knowledge of effective instruction. An observation tool called My Instructional Observation System (MyiOBS) is based on the same instructional framework as MyiLOGS and provides a third-party account of the reliability of a teacher’s self-reported practices. Finally, after using MyiLOGS to document daily instruction, teachers receive detailed instructional feedback every 40 days that can be used to create an Instructional Growth Plan (IGP). This IGP then can be used to document instructional improvement within a school year. Collectively, the three assessment tools—MyiLOGS Qualifying Assessment, MyiLOGS, and MyiOBS—provide substantial data about teachers’ knowledge and daily instructional actions. Coupled with a personalized instructional feedback report and structured improvement plan for designing and measuring changes in instructional actions, the MyiLOGS Instructional Practices Portfolio has the potential to provide special education teachers a personalized and data-rich evaluation tool. All the elements in this Instructional Practices Portfolio have been used with both general and special educators in research and technical assistance projects, but not as part of a formal evaluation system. We conclude with an examination of proof of concept issues to address for the proposed teacher evaluation tool.
Endovascular Stent Graft Repair of Suture-Line Pseudoaneurysm Following Ascending Aorta Replacement
Authors: Zicho David , Cartwright Neil , Bizzarri Federico , Malkin Christopher , Cross Michael , Mcpherson Simon , Kaul Pankaj , Puppala Sapna
Published: December 2013

Ascending aorta pseudoaneurysm (AAPA) is an uncommon complication following replacement of the ascending aorta with a prosthetic graft, carry a high risk of rupture, and warrant urgent intervention. The open surgical procedure “gold standard” of care is not always favorable, as the reoperations are technically more difficult or patient’s general condition doesn’t allow proceeding. Case discussed is an 80-year-old male patient who presented with worsening cough and hemoptysis. He underwent ascending aorta replacement 10 years ago. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a contrast-filled mediastinal mass communicating with the ascending aorta and extended into the right lung. Due to the patient’s advanced age, friability and clinical condition, combined with the position of the AAPA behind the sternum, surgery was deemed to be high risk. However, favorable anatomical conditions provided a safe landing zone for an endovascular stent. The patient underwent closed procedure. Postprocedure CT showed complete obliteration of the AAPA.