bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual Design of Deployable Space Structures from the Viewpoint of Symmetry
Authors: Chew M. , Kumar P.
Published: January 2017

The concept of symmetry is applied to the design of some existing as well as some new deployable space structures. Through the use of axis or plane symmetry, including anti-symmetry, a bay of a deployable structure may be reduced to an equivalent simple kinematic linkage. This axis of symmetry may be in the direction of deployment of the structure so that by providing a fictitious sliding joint along this axis, the problem of the design and analysis of such deployable structures can be simplified to the study of a plane or a face of the given structure. Such axis or plane of symmetry can also be used for the synthesis of new concepts. As an aid to synthesis, platonic solids can also be used for determining the orientation of these symmetric planes. Several examples are considered. A brief discussion on structural symmetry observed in graphs and dual graphs of some deployable structures will also be presented.
Active and Passive Cable Elements in Deployable/Retractable Masts
Authors: Kwan A.S.K. , You Z. , Pellegrino S.
Published: January 2017

This paper describes a new type of deployable masts for use in Space, based on the following elements. A deployable backbone, consisting of rods and/or plates, which can be folded or deployed freely. One or more active cable, following specially chosen routes along the mast, and running over small pulleys. The overall length of an active cable can vary between two extremes: a maximum length when the mast is fully folded; a minimum length when the mast is fully deployed. A set of passive cables joining pairs of points on the backbone. The passive cables are all slack when the backbone is partially folded and become taut when it is fully extended. A final, essential ingredient is structural prestress in the deployed state, so that all of the cables are in a state of pretension and therefore are able to carry any tensile or compressive force changes induced by external loads. An additional effect of this state of prestress is to remove backlash at the joints. Three deployable masts based on this approach are presented in the paper.
Deployability Conditions for Curved and Flat, Polygonal and Trapezoidal Deployable Structures
Authors: Gantes C.J. , Logcher R.D. , Connor J.J. , Rosenfeld Y.
Published: January 2017

Prefabricated, deployable space frames that exhibit self-standing and stress-free states in both the deployed and collapsed configurations are investigated in this paper. This type of deployable structures shows considerable advantages as compared to previous designs that either required external stabilizing or had members with residual stresses in the deployed configuration.

Following previous developments for flat deployable structures consisting of units with regular-polygon planviews, this study deals with flat structures made of trapezoidals, and curved structures assembled from regular-polygonal units. First, the general geometric constraints and deployability conditions for these units are formulated, and a methodology for using these constraints as geometric design criteria is presented. Furthermore, additional conditions for the assemblage of single units into larger structures are given. Then, structural analysis issues for this type of structures are discussed. The necessity of nonlinear analysis during deployment is emphasized. Finally, the above geometric design procedures are demonstrated with specific examples.
Branching of Equilibrium Paths in a Deployable Column
Authors: Hegedüs I.
Published: January 2017

The study deals with the static and kinematic analysis of a column-like structure composed of absolutely rigid hinged plane elements and of linear elastic bars. The elements form congruent space structural units which can be folded separately by using appropriate external loads.

The analysis shows that a chain of these units can work as a deployable column only if the cyclic symmetry of the structure is not disturbed by imperfections. The equilibrium paths for packaging or deploying the imperfect structure are not stable, thus the geometry of the column cannot be controlled by an axial force only.
A New Concept for Large Deployable Space Frames
Authors: Kwan A.S.K. , Pellegrino S.
Published: January 2017

This paper proposes a new concept for space frames that can be automatically deployed and regidified. Two functionally separate types of sub-structures are considered: active sub-structures, able to deploy automatically and to retain their stiffness when fully deployed, and passive sub-structures, structural mechanisms that become stiff in the deployed state, and whose deployment kinematics match those of the active sub-structures. A design methodology for space frames based on the new concept is presented and illustrated by an example, a square plate-like space frame that can be deployed by a single motor. In this example both types of sub-structures consist of bars, connected together by simple pin-joints, and cable elements. Most cables go slack when the space frame is folded, but become taut when it is fully deployed. A state of self-stress is set up in the deployed state, thus imposing a state of pretension onto all cables.
Design and Performance of the Octahedral Deployable Space Antenna (ODESA)
Authors: Kwan A.S.K. , Pellegrino S.
Published: January 2017

This paper describes the design and structural performance of a new deployable antenna reflector consisting of active and passive sub-structures based on octahedral modules made of bars and cables. A full description of the antenna structure is given, and the design and manufacture of a small scale (2 m × 2 m) physical model are discussed. The effects of finite joint size on the kinematics of folding and deployment are analysed. Structural tests have been carried out on the model to assess shape accuracy after a series of fold/deploy cycles, pre-stress accuracy and its control, and static stiffness. Results from these experiments are compared to theoretical predictions.
Retractable Spatial Structures for Swimming Pool Enclosures
Authors: Karni Eyal
Published: January 2017

Retractable spatial structures are modern buildings designed to comply with the user's flexibility needs – concerning the complete or partial opening of a building's enclosure. Most sport activities are usually preferred, by spectators as well as by competitors, to be held in open air. Swimming, a popular sport activity, is highly sensitive to cold and wind. The need for retractable structures arises since weather conditions vary with seasons while current market demand is for year-round activity.

Designing retractable enclosures for swimming pools involves specific criteria, resulting from the safety and operational demands of such facilities. The variety of swimming pool geometries and the nature of the user's needs has resulted in numerous solutions of retractable enclosures, varying in size, geometry, structural systems, building technology, opening and closing techniques, building materials, maintenance and cost.

This paper addresses current solutions of light-weight retractable spatial structures – designed to enclose swimming pool facilities. Swimming pool types are described, followed by a list of design criteria. Classification of structural methods is then brought forward, represented by specific projects and drawings.
Compression therapy for congenital low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities: A systematic review
Authors: Langbroek Ginger B , Horbach Sophie ER , van der Vleuten Carine JM , Ubbink Dirk T , van der Horst Chantal MAM
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Low-flow vascular malformations are congenital abnormalities of the veins, capillaries or lymphatic vessels or a combination of the previous. Compressive garments are frequently used as a first-line treatment option for low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities with the purpose of relieving symptoms. Yet, the benefits and harms of compression stockings remain unclear.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials including a hand search for studies measuring the benefits and harms of compression garments in treating low-flow vascular malformations. Two investigators performed study selection, quality assessment and data extraction independently.

Results

Of the 565 studies found, eventually five (totalling 101 patients with venous malformations or Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome receiving compression therapy) observational studies were included in the systematic review. Although the overall quality of these studies was poor, results suggest that compression garments might lessen intravascular coagulation, improve symptoms and appearance, diminish oedema, and protect against minor trauma. None of the studies quantified any harms of compression therapy.

Conclusion

Even though compression therapy is commonly used in the treatment of low-flow vascular malformations, available literature does not provide high-quality evidence to validate its use. We therefore advocate the need for prospective comparative trials with standardised outcome measures to study the benefits and harms of this treatment option.
Under the Influence: Trust and Risk in Biblical Family Drinking
Authors: Walsh Carey Ellen
Published: January 2017

This article examines three family banquet scenes (those celebrating the weaning of a child [Gen. 21], sibling bonds [2 Sam. 13], and marriage arrangement [Gen. 29]) to demonstrate that the narrative function of intoxication in the Bible is a subtle one bound up with the social matrix of the drinker. More than a mere narrative means for duping certain characters in order to advance others, intoxication reflects something of the implied social dynamics of a banquet. Twists and turns often took place at banquets precisely because of the safety and goodwill that drinking engendered, but could not guaranteed. In biblical banquets, drinking remained an act of intimacy, because it signaled a trust that should be there, but was not always. But the betrayals of trust under the influence are no accidents. Instead, intoxication functions to correct, rather than destroy, a social boundary.
Sexual Offences in Genesis
Authors: Miller James E.
Published: January 2017

This paper studies the narrative patterns of sexual impropriety in Genesis, in particular incest, adultery and rape, noting the distinctive narrative patterns of each type of impropriety. Though Genesis recognizes incest between generations, it ignores incest within a generation, and adultery is characterized by avoidance. Also adultery seems to be exclusive of incest, occurring only outside the family boundaries. For the most part the cases studied are traditionally ascribed to J and provide a window into the mores of the narrator and audience.
The Hebrew Book of Changes: Reflections on Hakkōl Hebel and Lakkōl Zemān in Ecclesiastes
Authors: Jarick John
Published: January 2017

This paper investigates the theme of change in the book of Ecclesiastes, taking its cue from the statements ‘everything is transient’ (which introduces the book as a whole in 1.2, as well as heralding its closure in 12.8) and ‘for everything a season’ (which introduces a famous poem on the changing of the times in 3.1). The first statement demonstrates within itself a clever orthographic change which can be seen as symbolizing the philosophical meaning it carries, while the second statement—a variation on the first—leads into an intricately woven tapestry in the passage 3.1–8. Change is a universal human experience, and the paper utilizes concepts found in the Chinese ‘Book of Changes’, the I Ching, to chart a fresh reading of the biblical ‘Book of Changes’, Ecclesiastes.
The Difficulty of Thinking in Greek and Speaking in Hebrew (Qoheleth 3.18; 4.13–16; 5.8)
Authors: Buhlman Alain
Published: January 2017

In this article, I try to analyze the possiblity of syntactic borrowings from the Greek language executed by Qoheleth in three passages of his book: 3.18; 4.13–16; 5.8. These passages present serious difficulties in Hebrew, which may perhaps be resolved through the detection of a syntactic Greek model.
Occupational Class and Female-Headed Households in Santiago Maior Do Iguape, Brazil, 1835
Authors: Díaz Arlene J. , Stewart Jeff
Published: January 2017

The vision of the patriarchal “Big House” as a model of the Brazilian family is fading in light of new research. In Iguape, a rural parish in the state of Bahia, one-third of the households were female-headed in a population in which the non-slave component comprised 33.8 percent. The number of female-headed households in this sugar zone increases as one descends both the occupational and the racial hierarchies. The living arrangements of the free/freed population, especially the young and the elderly, show that 43.5 percent lived under the roof of a female-headed household. These findings are illuminating in the context of other studies that propose that female-headed households and the patterns of gender segregation are common to Brazil, as well as, perhaps, to all of Latin America.
Socioeconomic Change, Peasant Household Structure and Demographic Behavior in a French Department
Authors: Lehning James R.
Published: January 2017

The article focuses on the relationship between social and economic structure and household structure, on the one hand, and household structure and demographic behavior on the other. The analysis provides some insight into the factors that determined household structure and demographic behavior in the two nineteenth-century villages in the Loire district in France-one village agricultural and the other with a protoindustrial sector. Labor needs imposed on the household by the economy helped to determine the structure of that household, and, especially by way of nuptiality, such considerations could also affect reproduction. Nevertheless, it would be pressing the evidence much too far to suggest that only household structure determined demographic behavior.
Measuring Adulthood: Adolescence and Gender in Renaissance Venice
Authors: Chojnacki Stanley
Published: January 2017

The perscriptive threshold of adulthood among late-medieval Venetian patricians appears very different for men and for women, centering on social (i.e., public) puberty as the gauge of male adulthood, physiological (i.e., childbearing) puberty that of female. Yet in practice men did not inevitably achieve the normative patriarchal outcome of a graduated, formalized adolescence; nor did adolescence end for all women with teenaged marriage and motherhood. Non-patriarchal male adulthoods and the graduated phases of the uxorial cycle for women modify the impression of sharp gender contrast that results from viewing age at marriage as the pivot of adulthood. Graduated adulthood in both sexes gave men and women alike the possibility of varied adult identities, responding to a range of choice and circumstance.
Accuracy of Caregiver Proxy Reports of Home Care Service Use
Authors: Chappell Neena L. , Kadlec Helena
Published: January 2017

Although much of the research on service use by older adults with dementia relies on proxy reports by informal caregivers, little research assesses the accuracy of these reports, and that which does exist, does not focus on home care services. This brief report compares proxy reports by family caregivers to those with dementia with provincial Ministry of Health records collected for payment and monitoring. The four home care services examined include home nursing care, adult day care, home support, and respite care. Data come from a province-wide study of caregivers in British Columbia, Canada. Caregiver reports are largely consistent with Ministry records, ranging from 81.0% agreement for home support to 96.6% for respite care. Spouses living with the care recipient (the vast majority of the sample) are the most accurate. Others, whether living with the care recipient or not, have only a 50-50 chance of being correct.
Editors, Educators Agree on Outcomes but Not Goals
Authors: Dickson Tom , Brandon Wanda , Topping Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

A survey of AEJMC Newspaper Division members and U.S. daily newspaper editors shows that they hold significantly different views on public journalism goals–listening to readers, initiating discussion about and solving community problems.
Relations of Classroom Structures and Teacher Behaviors to Social Orientation, Self-Esteem, and Classroom Climate Among Anglo American and Mexican American Children
Authors: Gumbiner Jann , Knight George P. , Kagan Spencer
Published: January 2017

This investigation examines the relationship of classroom structure and teacher behaviors to cooperative, competitive, and individualistic social orientation, self-esteem, and classroom climate among Mexican American and Anglo Anerican children. Fifteen teachers were systematically observed in their classrooms, and 107 children (77 Anglo and 30 Mexican American, ages 7–11) were tested on the social orientation choice card (SOCC), Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale, and Anderson's My Class Inventory. Results indicate that (a) the teachers frequently used cooperative group classroom structures, (b) teacher behaviors and classroom structures were related to social orientation and self-esteem of children in a culturally relative pattern, and (c) teacher behaviors were significantly related to positive classroom climates for both cultural groups. Results are discussed in terms of cultural relativity of the interrelations among the school and child variables, implications for desegregation, and the possible antecedents of the observed cultural differences.
Gross and Microscopic Findings with a Combination of Jessner Solution Plus 53% Resorcinol Paste in Chemical Peels
Authors: Hernández-Pérez Enrique , Jaurez-Arce Veronica
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and histopathologic response of photoaged skin to a series of combined Jessner solution and 53% resorcinol paste chemical peels.

Materials and Methods:

Five women aged 40–53 years were treated with 5 peels at weekly intervals. The peels consisted of applying Jessner solution followed by the application of 53% resorcinol paste for 1 minute initially. This was increased according to the patient's tolerance. Pre-, intra-, and posttreatment clinical signs were tabulated. Skin biopsies were taken before treatment and again 3 days after the fifth peel.

Results:

Both the clinical and histopathologic signs of photoaging were improved by the peels. Side effects and negative sequelae were minimal, consisting of pruritus and desquamation.

Discussion:

The peels were well tolerated and resulted in improvement of aged skin. The clinical and histopathologic evaluations indicate that the peel process, performed as presented, results in biological changes in the deep papillary to upper reticular dermis.
Invited Review: The Implications of the Cruzan Decision for Clinical Nutrition Teams
Authors: Capron Alexander Morgan
Published: January 2017

As the practice of medicine becomes more complex, the health care team will increasingly be exposed to bioethical dilemmas in the care of the seriously ill patient. Among other issues, the much publicized Cruzan case has highlighted the concept of “advanced directives” whereby patients make known their wishes concerning life‐sustaining therapies in the event they become incompetent during hospital treatment. This article will focus on the current form of these directives and the significance they have for the nutrition support team.
Managing Ethical Issues in Nutrition Support of Terminally Ill Patients
Authors: Gallagher‐Allred Charlette R.
Published: January 2017

Recent advances in nutrition support present new challenges to the clinician in terms of the management of ethical issues. Four ethical dilemmas are reviewed to illustrate how food and hydration can be used to control others (e.g., family members, caregivers, health care team members), accelerate death, prolong life, or prolong death. In each case, consideration is given to the patient as a unique individual with unique personal and family dynamics. Options and resources available to the health care provider are discussed.
Enhanced Surfaces for Endothelial Cell Seeding
Authors: Sato Hiroko , Tsuji Hiroshi , Ikemura Shinichi , Ikeda Shigeo , Ishikawa Junzo , Nishimoto Sei-Ichi
Published: January 2017

Silver negative ions (Ag−) were implanted to polystyrene (PS) and tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) by using neutral and ionized alkaline bombardment-type heavy negative ion sources, NIABNIS. Surface property and biocompatibility of Ag−-implanted TCPS and PS were investigated. Enhanced growth of vascular endothelial cells was observed on Ag−-implanted TCPS at a dose of 1016 ions·cm−2 at an ion energy of 10 keV and Ag−-implanted (at ca. 1015 ions·cm−2 dose and 10 keV energy) PS region. As a result of Ag−-implantation, PS and TCPS surfaces were considered to be more hydrophobic and to be more hydrophilic, respectively.
In Vivo Tissue Engineering: Part I. Concept Genesis and Guidelines for its Realization
Authors: Zdrahala Richard J. , Zdrahala Ivanka J.
Published: January 2017

A loss of function of an organ often represents a life-threatening situation. Transplantations are successful, but "replacement" availability, its compatibility with the host, and subsequent healing often pose serious questions. Tissue engineering, where a carefully prepared scaffold is populated, in vitro, by cells to form an artificial organ, addresses some of the problems mentioned above. Trauma associated with the implant introduction to the host often complicates the process.

The novel concept of in vivo tissue engineering which is designed to mediate the healing and tissue regeneration process by providing an in vitro formed porous, microcellular scaffold is proposed. The scaffold (part or entire organ) is then populated by cells either spontaneously (the surrounding cells will spread and populate to inhabit the scaffold) or by cellular augmentation (encapsulated cells are delivered to this in status nascendi scaffold). Minimally traumatic arthroscopic surgery combined with a unique polymer delivery system is envisioned for the introduction of this implant to a site to be repaired. Such an approach will require the formation of polymer in-situ, in a reasonable time. The scaffold-forming polymers will be, in principle, biodegradable.

We propose to utilize biodegradable polyurethane systems for in vivo tissue engineering. Diversity of their structure/property relationships, relative "ease" of their preparation, and excellent biocompatibility predetermine polyurethanes to be the materials of choice.

This paper describes the genesis of this concept and potentials for its realization. It is intended to initiate and stimulate discussion among the related scientific disciplines to form a basis for this field. The synthesis, application, and biodegradation of selected polyurethanes and variety of its medical utilization will be discussed in upcoming papers.
The STOP Violence Against Women Grants: Program Implementation and Initial Funding Strategies
Authors: Aron Laudan Y. , Newmark Lisa C.
Published: January 2017

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides for STOP (Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors) grants intended to assist states and localities “to develop and strengthen effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies to combat violent crimes against women, and to develop and strengthen victim services in cases involving violent crimes against women.” STOP grants will be made annually to states through FY 2000. Drawing on site visits to 12 states and analyses of data on the subgrants awarded with fiscal year 1995 funds, this paper describes the program's progress and major accomplishments through January 1997. It describes how states have planned for and are implementing their STOP grants program and how they are spending STOP grant funds-the number and size of subgrants, the recipient agencies, subgrant beneficiaries, and the activities being supported. The paper concludes with some preliminary policy recommendations and. describes plans to evaluate the program in future years
The Influence of Occupational Self-Efficacy on the Relationship of Leadership Behavior and Preparedness for Occupational Change
Authors: Schyns Birgit
Published: January 2017

A theoretical framework for the relationship between preparedness for occupational change, occupational self-efficacy, and leadership is presented. Preparedness for occupational change is defined as the wish to acquire higher task demands (i.e. greater complexity) in the sense that employees have thought about change but have not yet acted to seek change. It explained why preparedness for occupational change is central prior to, during, and after organizational change is introduced. A model of determinants of preparedness for occupational change is established. The application of this model in different stages of organizational change is demonstrated. Central aspects in this model are self-efficacy and leadership. Self-efficacy influences preparedness for occupational change in the different stages. This effect is demonstrated using the three assumed outcomes of self-efficacy (i.e., initiation of behavior, persistence, and effort) and their relationship to preparedness for occupational change. It is assumed that perceived leadership influences occupational self-efficacy. Three factors influencing self-efficacy (mastery experience, vicarious learning, and verbal persuasion) are regarded as possibly being responsible for this effect. The implications of the model for organizational practice are discussed.
The floating interface
Authors: Gillies Donald J.
Published: January 2017

The long-standing interface between industry and education is moving under new pressures from both sides of the relationship. This paper examines this fluid state of affairs from an international macroscopic and microscopic point of view, focusing on computer-aided learning, broadly defined, as a primary indicator of the resultant of forces at this interface.
The Contribution of National Laboratories to the European Scientific Labour Market
Authors: Smith Helen Lawton
Published: January 2017

This article deals with the ways in which differing government policies in relation to national laboratories affect training, employment and culture within the research establishment and consequently the preparedness of respective countries to deal with future skills needs in private and public sector science. Helen Lawton Smith bases her discussion around a study which tested the hypothesis that political decisions in the UK over the past few years regarding the role of national laboratories have inhibited the country's capacity to meet the labour resource needs of the science base. The study included an empirical investigation of nine national laboratories in Belgium, France and the UK. In light of the findings from this comparative analysis, she suggests that moves towards the commercialization of UK national laboratories have had a number of adverse effects on the potential supply of skills to both public and private sectors.
Recruitment of Non-National Scientists and Engineers in Europe
Authors: Court Gill , Jagger Nick
Published: January 2017

Over the past decade, a number of European Union initiatives have sought to increase the level of contact between scientists and engineers in member states. These initiatives have been associated with increased mobility within Europe, in particular at the student and post-doctoral levels. There has, however, been little research on trends in the recruitment and employment of non-national staff within Europe. This article draws on the results of a survey carried out to investigate the patterns of employment and recruitment of non-national scientists and engineers in European research centres and the factors which lie behind current trends.
Certifying Senior Technical Professionals
Authors: Alef Ed , Borbely Ed
Published: January 2017

The authors provide a concise summary of the background, content, and aims of an extensive study programme developed by the University of Michigan and General Motors (GM) in response to the potential dearth of qualified engineers with technical expertise in the important area of automotive body engineering. The programme leads to a formal certificate of completion from the University of Michigan, and combines GM training modules with a masters degree from Purdue University which includes four courses from the University of Michigan and three job experiences in consultation with faculty at the University of Michigan.
Redesigning Engineering Technology Education
Authors: Waintraub Jack L.
Published: January 2017

The New Jersey Center for Advanced Technological Education (NJCATE), is dedicated to the improvement of Engineering Technology education through: the development of innovative educational programmes, such as the Mecomtronics Engineering Technology curriculum; design and development of instructional methodologies and materials; student recruitment and retention strategies; strong partnerships among educational institutions and with industry, government and professional societies. Changes in any one facet of technician education are not sufficient to bring about the needed improvement in the preparation of a highly skilled technical workforce to meet current and future needs of industry in a highly competitive global economy NJCATE is creating systemic change by taking a holistic approach to the redesign of engineering technician education. The Center project is supported by funds from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education Program.
Links between Universities and Their Spin-Offs
Authors: Rappert Brian , Webster Andrew
Published: January 2017

The desire to find appropriate vehicles for the commercialization of university research has been an ongoing concern for those inside and outside universities. In this paper, the authors present follow-up findings into their research on the formation and management of university spin-off firms (USOs) in England. It is argued that variations in the types of USOs and their sectoral location have important implications for the significance of the science base to small firms, the science and technology inputs required by firms, and the strategies of intellectual property protection they pursue.
Interaction between Industry and Academia
Authors: Stock Günter
Published: January 2017

Drug research has evolved from a chemistry-dominated approach in the 1950s to a highly complex system involving genomics, combinatorial chemistry and high-throughput screening. This leaves industry with an almost infinite number of potential targets for new chemical entities and new technical approaches for the characterization of potential drug substances and targets. Such a complex and fast-changing structure necessitates close cooperation with research groups at universities and basic research institutes as well as with other companies. Current know-how has to be transferred into the research organization of the company and cannot be generated on a stand-alone basis. The transformation of Schering AG from a research and development orientation to a research, search and development orientation is described and the experiences of working in several networks and other models of cooperation with academia are outlined.
Modeling excess zeros and heterogeneity in count data from a complex survey design with application to the demographic health survey in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Dai Lin , Sweat Michael D , Gebregziabher Mulugeta
Published: January 2017

Purpose

To show a novel application of a weighted zero-inflated negative binomial model in modeling count data with excess zeros and heterogeneity to quantify the regional variation in HIV-AIDS prevalence in sub-Saharan African countries.

Methods

Data come from latest round of the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in three countries (Ethiopia-2011, Kenya-2009 and Rwanda-2010) using a two-stage cluster sampling design. The outcome is an aggregate count of HIV cases in each census enumeration area of each country. The outcome data are characterized by excess zeros and heterogeneity due to clustering. We compare scale weighted zero-inflated negative binomial models with and without random effects to account for zero-inflation, complex survey design and clustering. Finally, we provide marginalized rate ratio estimates from the best zero-inflated negative binomial model.

Results

The best fitting zero-inflated negative binomial model is scale weighted and with a common random intercept for the three countries. Rate ratio estimates from the final model show that HIV prevalence is associated with age and gender distribution, HIV acceptance, HIV knowledge, and its regional variation is associated with divorce rate, burden of sexually transmitted diseases and rural residence.

Conclusions

Scale weighted zero-inflated negative binomial with proper modeling of random effects is shown to be the best model for count data from a complex survey design characterized by excess zeros and extra heterogeneity. In our data example, the final rate ratio estimates show significant regional variation in the factors associated with HIV prevalence indicating that HIV intervention strategies should be tailored to the unique factors found in each country.
Between-within effects in survival models with cross-classified clustering: Application to the evaluation of the effectiveness of medical devices
Authors: Cafri Guy , Fan Juanjuan
Published: January 2017

In many medical applications involving observational survival data there will be a cross-classification of doctors and hospitals, as well as an interest in controlling for potentially confounding doctor and hospital effects when evaluating the effectiveness of a medical intervention. In this paper, we propose the use of a between-within model with cross-classified random effects and show through simulation that it performs better than alternative models. A real data example illustrates the application of the proposed model in a study of the survival of hip implants. The proposed model has broad utility in determining the effectiveness of medical interventions.
Hybrid copula mixed models for combining case-control and cohort studies in meta-analysis of diagnostic tests
Authors: Nikoloulopoulos Aristidis K
Published: January 2017

Copula mixed models for trivariate (or bivariate) meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies accounting (or not) for disease prevalence have been proposed in the biostatistics literature to synthesize information. However, many systematic reviews often include case-control and cohort studies, so one can either focus on the bivariate meta-analysis of the case-control studies or the trivariate meta-analysis of the cohort studies, as only the latter contains information on disease prevalence. In order to remedy this situation of wasting data we propose a hybrid copula mixed model via a combination of the bivariate and trivariate copula mixed model for the data from the case-control studies and cohort studies, respectively. Hence, this hybrid model can account for study design and also due to its generality can deal with dependence in the joint tails. We apply the proposed hybrid copula mixed model to a review of the performance of contemporary diagnostic imaging modalities for detecting metastases in patients with melanoma.
Beta-binomial analysis of variance model for network meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy data
Authors: N Nyaga Victoria , Arbyn Marc , Aerts Marc
Published: January 2017

There are several generalized linear mixed models to combine direct and indirect evidence on several diagnostic tests from related but independent diagnostic studies simultaneously also known as network meta-analysis. The popularity of these models is due to the attractive features of the normal distribution and the availability of statistical software to obtain parameter estimates. However, modeling the latent sensitivity and specificity using the normal distribution after transformation is neither natural nor computationally convenient.

In this article, we develop a meta-analytic model based on the bivariate beta distribution, allowing to obtain improved and direct estimates for the global sensitivities and specificities of all tests involved, and taking into account simultaneously the intrinsic correlation between sensitivity and specificity and the overdispersion due to repeated measures.

Using the beta distribution in regression has the following advantages, that the probabilities are modeled in their proper scale rather than a monotonic transform of the probabilities. Secondly, the model is flexible as it allows for asymmetry often present in the distribution of bounded variables such as proportions, which is the case with sparse data common in meta-analysis. Thirdly, the model provides parameters with direct meaningful interpretation since further integration is not necessary to obtain the meta-analytic estimates.
Sample size calculations for group randomized trials with unequal group sizes through Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Shi Yang , Lee Ji-Hyun
Published: January 2017

Group randomized trial design is common in cancer prevention and health promotion research with intervention development. Several methods have been developed to handle the design and analytical issues for group randomized trial including the intraclass correlation coefficient. The widely used methods for the sample size calculation for the group randomized trial assume equal sizes across groups. In practice this assumption often fails and group randomized trial studies suffer from considerably lower statistical power than as planned. A few studies have developed sample size calculation methods for unequal group sizes, but most of them are limited to continuous outcomes. In this study, we develop a method for sample size calculation for group randomized trial studies with unequal group sizes based on Monte Carlo simulation in the mixed effect model framework. This approach incorporates the variation of group sizes and can be applied to group randomized trials with different types of outcomes. Further, it is easy to implement and can be applied to most commonly used group randomized trial designs such as pre-and-post cross-sectional and cohort study designs. We demonstrate the application of the proposed approach to two-arm group randomized trial studies with continuous and binary outcomes through simulations and analysis of a real group randomized trial dataset.
Power comparison of Cochran-Armitage trend test against allelic and genotypic tests in large-scale case-control genetic association studies
Authors: Emily Mathieu
Published: January 2017

The Cochran-Armitage trend test (CA) has become a standard procedure for association testing in large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, when the disease model is unknown, there is no consensus on the most powerful test to be used between CA, allelic, and genotypic tests. In this article, we tackle the question of whether CA is best suited to single-locus scanning in GWAS and propose a power comparison of CA against allelic and genotypic tests. Our approach relies on the evaluation of the Taylor decompositions of non-centrality parameters, thus allowing an analytical comparison of the power functions of the tests. Compared to simulation-based comparison, our approach offers the advantage of simultaneously accounting for the multidimensionality of the set of features involved in power functions. Although power for CA depends on the sample size, the case-to-control ratio and the minor allelic frequency (MAF), our results first show that it is largely influenced by the mode of inheritance and a deviation from Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE). Furthermore, when compared to other tests, CA is shown to be the most powerful test under a multiplicative disease model or when the single-nucleotide polymorphism largely deviates from HWE. In all other situations, CA lacks in power and differences can be substantial, especially for the recessive mode of inheritance. Finally, our results are illustrated by the comparison of the performances of the statistics in two genome scans.
Significance of the Hygiene Charter Towards Different Sectors in Hong Kong
Authors: Lee A , Cheng FFK , Yuen HSK , Ho M , Ngan WP , Suen YP , Au SMY , Li SN , Tso CY , Ng PPY , Wong YP , Keung MW , Lo ASC , Wong WS , Siu DCH , Yuen WK , Mok KK , Fung WY , Wong KK
Published: January 2017

The occurrence of SARS in March 2003 has resulted in an increased interest, worldwide in emerging infectious diseases. The SARS experience provided us a lesson on the importance of promoting hygienic practices among individuals and different working sectors. In Hong Kong, a voluntary organization called the UNITE proposed a Hygiene Charter which aimed at taking hygiene to new levels. This action has been supported by individuals and different sectors including the Personal and Family, Management, Buildings, Catering, Education, Finance and Commercial, Industrial, Medical and Health, Public Transportation, Social Welfare, Sports and Culture and Tourism. As promotion and maintenance of environmental health requires input from different sectors, the signing of the Hygiene Charter provides an opportunity for individuals and the public to show their pledge and commitment to good hygiene practices. As a result, with environment improvement and good infectious disease control measures, prevention of epidemics of infectious diseases is deemed to be possible.
The Story of a School Participating in the Healthy School Award Scheme in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Robin M.B.
Published: January 2017

This article described why the Tsung Tsin College joined in the Hong Kong Healthy Schools Award Scheme, how it tried to live up to the expectations, and the gains it reaped from the experience. Operating in a less affluent district of Hong Kong, the school strived for whole-person education for its students, many of whom suffer from social deprivations, and turned its environment into one conducive to learning. Finding that the Scheme advocates similar themes, the school enrolled and hoped to strengthen its self-improvement capacity. The school won a Silver Award for its overall performance in health promotion. The audit it underwent has also revealed its weaknesses, which it is striving to remedy. On the other hand, the school has also acquired many benefits from the process. The school-community and even school-parent relationships have also been enhanced as a result of its participation in the Scheme.
Urban Service-Learning: An Authentic Teaching Strategy to Deliver a Standards-Driven Curriculum
Authors: Soslau Elizabeth G. , Yost Deborah S.
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this article is to describe the results of an action-research, service-learning project aimed at increasing and enhancing urban students' knowledge and motivation to learn. The project was an extension of the students' classroom experience through a community-based, service-learning project. The study sought understanding of how service-learning as an instructional method has the potential to increase student learning and motivation through real-life connections to content and experiential learning opportunities. The study was conducted by a fifth-grade teacher (first author) and guided by a university professor (second author) in the design and implementation of a service-learning, action-research project as part of a school/university partnership at a middle school located in a large urban school district. The results of this study support service-learning as a viable instructional strategy to increase student learning and motivation. Two urban fifth-grade groups of 33 students participated in the study and were taught by the same teacher. One group received traditional instruction as outlined by the core curriculum and the other group received traditional instruction that was augmented with a service-learning project.
Web-Based Documentation Systems
Authors: Jenkins Jennifer , Erdman Karl
Published: January 2017

Cost, compliance, quality, and accessibility are inseparable elements of successful managed care environments. The real-time collection, analysis, and use of information is necessary to make the rapid decisions and adaptations required in managed care. Traditional computerized information systems can rapidly process information and data, but can the small-to medium-sized agency afford them? A technology that has been in existence for over 40 years is emerging as the cost-effective solution for today and tomorrow-the Internet. Web-based home health care information/documentation systems make it possible for agencies of all sizes to successfully compete for managed care contracts.
How State Departments of Transportation Develop Research Work Programs: A Comparison of Three State Agencies
Authors: Schachter Hindy Lauer
Published: January 2017

This article explores some issues connected with how state departments of transportation develop research programs. The focus is on alternative processes for soliciting and prioritizing problem statements. Issues examined include how to increase the strategic direction of the solicitation and prioritization process and how to facilitate diverse participation in problem-statement development. Processes used in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia are explored.
Women in Public Works: The Engineering Pipeline
Authors: Grigg Neil S. , Andersen Christine F. , Daniels Jane Z. , Gessler Johannes , Levine Ann
Published: January 2017

Although engineering is a traditional route to public works management, the percentage of women in public works management is significantly less than the percentage of engineering graduates who are women, which seems stuck at under 20%. Serious change can be achieved when leaders in schools, colleges, and the workforce take action. A joint effort by public works and engineering communities could improve conditions for women in public works and provide opportunities to enter meaningful professions and contribute to society. Unless more women are attracted to public works management, students will lack role models and public works will remain “invisible” to them. APWA chapters working with local schools and colleges can provide leadership in programs to attract women to public works and to engineering and to increase the public's appreciation of the links between effective public works and a productive but fair society.
The New Urban Infrastructure Crisis Competition for Urban Space
Authors: Marvin Simon , Slater Simon
Published: January 2017

British cities are now experiencing unprecedented competition for surface and subsurface urban space. Restructuring of the utilities sector has created privately owned companies that are now engaged in major programs of infrastructure renewal while massive investments are underway in retrofitting new forms of telecommunications, energy, and transportation infrastructure. Above the ground, increasing mobility has created new demands for urban road space for the movement of goods and people. Focusing on a case study of Sheffield, the article identifies the competing demands for space, examines the broader implications of these new tensions, and evaluates how far the city is able to mediate between competing demands. The article concludes by raising serious questions about the ability of urban policy to mediate between private companies' demands for urban space in the United Kingdom.