bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding newsworthiness of an emerging pandemic: International newspaper coverage of the H1N1 outbreak
Authors: Smith Katherine C. , Rimal Rajiv N. , Sandberg Helena , Storey John D. , Lagasse Lisa , Maulsby Catherine , Rhoades Elizabeth , Barnett Daniel J. , Omer Saad B. , Links Jonathan M.
Published: December 2012

Background and Objectives

During an evolving public health crisis, news organizations disseminate information rapidly, much of which is uncertain, dynamic, and difficult to verify. We examine factors related to international news coverage of H1N1 during the first month after the outbreak in late April 2009 and consider the news media's role as an information source during an emerging pandemic.

Methods

Data on H1N1 news were compiled in real time from newspaper websites across twelve countries between April 29, 2009 and May 28, 2009. A news sample was purposively constructed to capture variation in countries' prior experience with avian influenza outbreaks and pandemic preparation efforts. We analyzed the association between H1N1 news volume and four predictor variables: geographic region, prior experience of a novel flu strain (H5N1), existence of a national pandemic plan, and existence of a localized H1N1 outbreak.

Results

H1N1 news was initially extensive but declined rapidly (OR = 0·85, P < .001). Pandemic planning did not predict newsworthiness. However, countries with prior avian flu experience had higher news volume (OR = 1·411, P < .05), suggesting that H1N1 newsworthiness was bolstered by past experiences. The proportion of H1N1 news was significantly lower in Europe than elsewhere (OR = 0·388, P < 0·05). Finally, coverage of H1N1 increased after a first in‐country case (OR = 1·415, P < .01), interrupting the pattern of coverage decline.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate the enhanced newsworthiness of localized threats, even during an emerging pandemic. We discuss implications for news media's role in effective public health communication throughout an epidemic given the demonstrated precipitous decline in news interest.
Deep‐sea channel evolution and stratigraphic architecture from inception to abandonment from high‐resolution Autonomous Underwater Vehicle surveys offshore central California
Authors: Maier Katherine L. , Fildani Andrea , Paull Charles K. , McHargue Timothy R. , Graham Stephan A. , Caress David W.
Published: December 2012

The Lucia Chica channel system is an avulsion belt with four adjacent channels that progressively avulsed to the north‐east from a single, upslope feeder channel. Avulsion occurred from underfilled channels, leaving open channels that were reactivated by flows stripped from younger, adjacent channels. Differences in relief (height from channel thalweg to levée crest), sinuosity and levée stratigraphy between adjacent channels correspond to relative channel age, and indicate a change in channel morphology and architecture with time. Potential triggers for the change over time include differences in gradient, flow behaviour and characteristics, and channel evolution. Gradient does not appear to be a major control on channel formation and avulsion because adjacent channels formed on the same gradient. Based on available ultra‐high‐resolution remote imaging obtained with an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, differences in adjacent channel morphology are interpreted to be primarily a result of differences in channel maturity. The interpreted sequence of channel maturity involves erosional channel inception through scouring and incipient channels (defined by linear trains of scours) prior to development of continuous thalwegs. Channel narrowing, formation and growth of levées, increasing channel relief and development of sinuosity occurred as channels evolved. The evolutionary sequence interpreted from the high‐resolution Lucia Chica dataset provides a unique perspective on intrinsic controls of architecture for single channel elements. In addition to helping bridge the gap between outcrop and industry‐standard reflection‐seismic data resolutions and scopes, interpretations in this study also expose potential problems with hierarchical classifications in three‐dimensional imaging of distributary systems, and provide potentially important analogues for evolutionary morphologies not resolved in other deep‐water channel systems.
Static lung volumes and airway resistance reference values in healthy adults
Authors: KOCH BEATE , FRIEDRICH NELE , VÖLZKE HENRY , JÖRRES RUDOLF A. , FELIX STEFAN B. , EWERT RALF , SCHÄPER CHRISTOPH , GLÄSER SVEN
Published: December 2012

Background and objective: The assessment of static lung volumes and airway resistance is a frequently performed diagnostic procedure and considered as an important tool in medical surveillance to detect pulmonary diseases. The objectives of the study are to establish reference equations for body plethysmographic parameters in a representative adult population across a wide age range and to compare the normative values from this sample with previous ones.

Methods: Body plethysmography was applied in 1809 participants (885 males) of a cross‐sectional, population‐based survey (Study of Health in Pomerania). Individuals with cardiopulmonary disorders and/or a pack‐year smoking history >10 years and participants with a body mass index >30 kg/m2were excluded. In total, 686 healthy individuals (275 males) aged 25–85 years were assessed.

Results: Prediction equations for both genders were established by quantile regression analysis taking into account the influence of age, height and weight.

Conclusions: The study provides a novel set of prediction equations for static lung volumes and airway resistance obtained using body plethysmography. Compared with our findings, existing equations underestimated some normal values. The results emphasize the need for up‐to‐date reference equations.
ON GENDER GAPS AND SELF‐FULFILLING EXPECTATIONS: ALTERNATIVE IMPLICATIONS OF PAID‐FOR TRAINING
Authors: DOLADO JUAN J. , GARCÍA‐PEÑALOSA CECILIA , DE LA RICA SARA
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a model of self‐fulfilling expectations by firms and households which generates multiplicity of equilibria in pay and housework time allocation for ex‐ante identical spouses. Multiplicity arises from statistical discrimination exerted by firms in the provision of paid‐for training to workers, rather than from incentive problems in the labor market. Employers' beliefs about differences in spouses' reactions to housework shocks lead to symmetric (ungendered) and asymmetric (gendered) equilibria. We find that: (1) the ungendered equilibrium tends to prevail as aggregate productivity in the economy increases (regardless of the generosity of family aid policies), (2) the ungendered equilibrium could yield higher welfare under some scenarios, and (3) gender‐neutral job subsidies are more effective that gender‐targeted ones in removing the gendered equilibrium. (JEL J16, J70, J71)
The Lost Creek Fire: managing social relations under disaster conditions
Authors: Reimer Bill , Kulig Judith , Edge Dana , Lightfoot Nancy , Townshend Ivan
Published: December 2012

This paper examines some of the social processes associated with disaster conditions. Utilising an asset‐based perspective of community capacity, it focuses on four types of normative systems to interpret the ability of communities to manage disasters through market‐, bureaucratic‐, associative‐, and communal‐based norms. Drawing on experience of a wildfire in the Crowsnest Pass region of southwest Alberta, Canada, in 2003, the tensions and compatibilities among these normative systems are evaluated through interviews with 30 community leaders. The results confirm the contributions of all types of social capital to resiliency, the necessity for rapid use of place‐based knowledge, and the importance of communication among all types and levels of agents. In addition, they point to the value of identifying and managing potential conflicts among the normative systems as a means to maximising their contributions. The integration of local networks and groups into the more general disaster response minimised the impacts on health and property.
Measuring vulnerability to natural hazards: a macro framework
Authors: Joseph Jacquleen
Published: December 2012

The measurement of vulnerability—defined here as the asymmetric response of disaster occurrences to hazardous events—signifies a key step towards effective disaster risk reduction and the promotion of a culture of disaster resilience. One of the reasons for not being able to do the same in a wider context is related to conceptual, definitional, and operational issues. This paper presents an operationally feasible framework for conducting this task and measures revealed macro vulnerability as a function of disaster risk and hazard probability. The probabilities of hazard and its perceived disaster risk were obtained from past data and from probability distributions. In this paper, the corresponding analytical framework is constructed using the case study of floods in Assam, India. The proposed indicator will help policymakers to draw on available macro‐level data to identify the regions that are vulnerable to disasters, where micro‐level disaster vulnerability assessments could be performed in greater detail.
Evidence Based Policy: Principles of Transparency and Accountability
Authors: Argyrous George
Published: December 2012

This article provides a practical guide for improving the quality of evidence‐based policy. Rather than adopting an approach that gives priority to particular types of research methodologies, this paper argues that evidence drawn from any methodology will improve if standards of transparency and accountability are followed in the process of gathering, analysing, interpreting, and presenting evidence for policy. The papers details what these standards of transparency and accountability mean in practice, how these standards can be achieved, and possible limits to their adoption.
Public Value and the Ideal State: Rescuing Public Value from Ambiguity
Authors: Prebble Mark
Published: December 2012

Public value theory has had its supporters and critics, with debate about the use of strategic management by public managers and confusion about the meaning of public value. This paper formalises Moore (1995) into a simple theory. That theory introduces the concept of an ‘ideal state.’ The ideal state is a simple means of describing and analysing public value, using a graphical presentation. In an ideal state roles are clear and public value is optimised. Insights from that ideal state are then applied to a more real world to clarify the nature of public value and to consider the appropriate use of strategic management by public servants. The conclusion is that public value theory provides some justification for strategic management, but the paper also demonstrates the limits to strategic management by officials.
Looking for Sustainability in Not‐for‐Profit Program Delivery: An Experiment in Providing Post‐Bushfire Recovery Programs
Authors: Jones Kate , Webber Ruth
Published: December 2012

This article examines an experiment in delivering services and programs in communities that were affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires. Three not‐for‐profit agencies received funding to develop and deliver programs over a period of three years with the aim of achieving sustainability for the programs thus created. They were not constrained by the requirements of normal government funding, which is short term, subject to competitive tendering and targeted at specific programs and client groups. The nature of the funding allowed the three agencies to introduce innovative programs tailored to the needs of the community and with the aim of building community capacity. However the question of whether the programs are sustainable when existing funding runs out remains open.
Governance Disclosure on the Internet: The Case of Australian State Government Departments
Authors: Stewart Jenny , Asha Frances , Shulman Art , Ng Chew , Subramaniam Nava
Published: December 2012

This paper examines corporate governance disclosures on the websites of Australian state government departments. The study focuses on the nature and extent of governance information and the ease of finding this information directly on department websites and also in annual reports which are downloadable from websites. Our sample comprises six departments from each of the six states in Australia, giving a sample size of 36 departments. Our findings indicate considerable variability in both the level of disclosure and the accessibility of the information disclosed. The study also highlights a lack of consensus regarding the meaning of governance and what governance comprises, together with the need for a more structured approach to communicating governance information to stakeholders.
Trends in Australian and Canadian Public Service Perceptions from an Employee Survey Perspective
Authors: Althaus Catherine , Evans Bryan , Rathbone Emily
Published: December 2012

A comparative analysis of results from the 2011 Institute of Public Administration Australia and Institute of Public Administration of Canada surveys of public service leaders is mapped against related public sector employee survey tools results. Alignment of past results with current leader perceptions shows remarkable consistency across the jurisdictions over time. This overarching coherence points to two broad hypotheses: either senior public service leaders possess a common set of preoccupations in the modern global context, or a more critical perspective would question the shortcomings of the instruments given that remarkable change has occurred that one would expect should have driven result variance. Regardless of the conclusion brought to this preliminary analysis, ongoing identification and mapping of senior leader perceptions through such tools is celebrated as an important contribution to ongoing public service organizational health.
A Multilevel Framework for Effective Interagency Collaboration in Mental Health
Authors: Shepherd Nicole , Meehan Thomas J.
Published: December 2012

The difficulty of coordinating service provision in interagency programs is a challenge for many working in public policy. We reflect on lessons learned through evaluating two inter‐agency supported housing programs for people with mental illness and propose a framework outlining components needed for well co‐ordinated service provision. We specify collaborative mechanisms at the policy, agency, service and client level. The key component is the role of an ‘integration coordinator': a person who is able to facilitate relationships and ensure effective information flows. Relationships need to be actively maintained to meet the inevitable challenges that will arise in complex interagency systems. The framework is relevant to policymakers across the public sector, including mental health, drug and alcohol, aged care, and policing.
A Quantitative Assessment of the Amount of Prion Diverted to Category 1 Materials and Wastewater During Processing
Authors: Adkin Amie , Donaldson Neil , Kelly Louise
Published: December 2012

In this article the development and parameterization of a quantitative assessment is described that estimates the amount of TSE infectivity that is present in a whole animal carcass (bovine spongiform encephalopathy [BSE] for cattle and classical/atypical scrapie for sheep and lambs) and the amounts that subsequently fall to the floor during processing at facilities that handle specified risk material (SRM). BSE in cattle was found to contain the most oral doses, with a mean of 9864 BO ID50s (310, 38840) in a whole carcass compared to a mean of 1851 OO ID50s (600, 4070) and 614 OO ID50s (155, 1509) for a sheep infected with classical and atypical scrapie, respectively. Lambs contained the least infectivity with a mean of 251 OO ID50s (83, 548) for classical scrapie and 1 OO ID50s (0.2, 2) for atypical scrapie. The highest amounts of infectivity falling to the floor and entering the drains from slaughtering a whole carcass at SRM facilities were found to be from cattle infected with BSE at rendering and large incineration facilities with 7.4 BO ID50s (0.1, 29), intermediate plants and small incinerators with a mean of 4.5 BO ID50s (0.1, 18), and collection centers, 3.6 BO ID50s (0.1, 14). The lowest amounts entering drains are from lambs infected with classical and atypical scrapie at intermediate plants and atypical scrapie at collection centers with a mean of 3 × 10−7 OO ID50s (2 × 10−8, 1 × 10−6) per carcass. The results of this model provide key inputs for the model in the companion paper published here.
Description and Propagation of Uncertainty in Input Parameters in Environmental Fate Models
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Sarfraz , Öberg Tomas
Published: December 2012

Today, chemical risk and safety assessments rely heavily on the estimation of environmental fate by models. The key compound‐related properties in such models describe partitioning and reactivity. Uncertainty in determining these properties can be separated into random and systematic (incompleteness) components, requiring different types of representation. Here, we evaluate two approaches that are suitable to treat also systematic errors, fuzzy arithmetic, and probability bounds analysis. When a best estimate (mode) and a range can be computed for an input parameter, then it is possible to characterize the uncertainty with a triangular fuzzy number (possibility distribution) or a corresponding probability box bound by two uniform distributions. We use a five‐compartment Level I fugacity model and reported empirical data from the literature for three well‐known environmental pollutants (benzene, pyrene, and DDT) as illustrative cases for this evaluation. Propagation of uncertainty by discrete probability calculus or interval arithmetic can be done at a low computational cost and gives maximum flexibility in applying different approaches. Our evaluation suggests that the difference between fuzzy arithmetic and probability bounds analysis is small, at least for this specific case. The fuzzy arithmetic approach can, however, be regarded as less conservative than probability bounds analysis if the assumption of independence is removed. Both approaches are sensitive to repeated parameters that may inflate the uncertainty estimate. Uncertainty described by probability boxes was therefore also propagated through the model by Monte Carlo simulation to show how this problem can be avoided.
A Calibrated Human PBPK Model for Benzene Inhalation with Urinary Bladder and Bone Marrow Compartments
Authors: Knutsen Jeffrey S. , Kerger Brent D. , Finley Brent , Paustenbach Dennis J.
Published: December 2012

A physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of benzene inhalation based on a recent mouse model was adapted to include bone marrow (target organ) and urinary bladder compartments. Empirical data on human liver microsomal protein levels and linked CYP2E1 activities were incorporated into the model, and metabolite‐specific conversion rate parameters were estimated by fitting to human biomonitoring data and adjusting for background levels of urinary metabolites. Human studies of benzene levels in blood and breath, and phenol levels in urine were used to validate the rate of human conversion of benzene to benzene oxide, and urinary benzene metabolites from Chinese benzene worker populations provided model validation for rates of human conversion of benzene to muconic acid (MA) and phenylmercapturic acid (PMA), phenol (PH), catechol (CA), hydroquinone (HQ), and benzenetriol (BT). The calibrated human model reveals that while liver microsomal protein and CYP2E1 activities are lower on average in humans compared to mice, the mouse also shows far lower rates of benzene conversion to MA and PMA, and far higher conversion of benzene to BO/PH, and of BO/PH to CA, HQ, and BT. The model also differed substantially from existing human PBPK models with respect to several metabolic rate parameters of importance to interpreting benzene metabolism and health risks in human populations associated with bone marrow doses. The model provides a new methodological paradigm focused on integrating linked human liver metabolism data and calibration using biomonitoring data, thus allowing for model uncertainty analysis and more rigorous validation.
The Risk Perception Paradox—Implications for Governance and Communication of Natural Hazards
Authors: Wachinger Gisela , Renn Ortwin , Begg Chloe , Kuhlicke Christian
Published: December 2012

This article reviews the main insights from selected literature on risk perception, particularly in connection with natural hazards. It includes numerous case studies on perception and social behavior dealing with floods, droughts, earthquakes, volcano eruptions, wild fires, and landslides. The review reveals that personal experience of a natural hazard and trust—or lack of trust—in authorities and experts have the most substantial impact on risk perception. Cultural and individual factors such as media coverage, age, gender, education, income, social status, and others do not play such an important role but act as mediators or amplifiers of the main causal connections between experience, trust, perception, and preparedness to take protective actions. When analyzing the factors of experience and trust on risk perception and on the likeliness of individuals to take preparedness action, the review found that a risk perception paradox exists in that it is assumed that high risk perception will lead to personal preparedness and, in the next step, to risk mitigation behavior. However, this is not necessarily true. In fact, the opposite can occur if individuals with high risk perception still choose not to personally prepare themselves in the face of a natural hazard. Therefore, based on the results of the review, this article offers three explanations suggesting why this paradox might occur. These findings have implications for future risk governance and communication as well as for the willingness of individuals to invest in risk preparedness or risk mitigation actions.
Optimal Pricing Strategy in the Case of Price Dispersion: New Evidence from the Tokyo Housing Market
Authors: Deng Yongheng , Gabriel Stuart A. , Nishimura Kiyohiko G. , Zheng Diehang (Della)
Published: December 2012

We adopt a multistage search model, in which the home seller's reservation price is determined by her or his opportunity cost, search cost, discount rate and additional market parameters. The model indicates that a greater dispersion in offer prices leads to higher reservation and optimal asking prices. A unique dataset from the Tokyo condominium resale market enables us to test those modeled hypotheses. Empirical results indicate that a one percentage point increase in the standard deviation of submarket transaction prices results in a two‐tenths of a percent increase in the initial asking price and in the final transaction price. Increases in the dispersion of market prices enhance the probabilities of a successful transaction and/or an accelerated sale.
What Do Consumers’ Fund Flows Maximize? Evidence from Their Brokers’ Incentives
Authors: CHRISTOFFERSEN SUSAN E. K. , EVANS RICHARD , MUSTO DAVID K.
Published: December 2012

We ask whether mutual funds’ flows reflect the incentives of the brokers intermediating them. The incentives we address are those revealed in statutory filings: the brokers’ shares of sales loads and other revenue, and their affiliation with the fund family. We find significant effects of these payments to brokers on funds’ inflows, particularly when the brokers are not affiliated. Tracking these investments forward, we find load sharing, but not revenue sharing, to predict poor performance, consistent with the different incentives these payments impart. We identify one benefit of captive brokerage, which is the recapture of redemptions elsewhere in the family.
Analyst Forecast Consistency
Authors: HILARY GILLES , HSU CHARLES
Published: December 2012

We show empirically that analysts who display more consistent forecast errors have greater ability to affect prices, and that this effect is larger than that of stated accuracy. These results lead to three implications. First, consistent analysts are less likely to be demoted and are more likely to be nominated All Star analysts. Second, analysts strategically deliver downward‐biased forecasts to increase their consistency (if at the expense of stated accuracy). Finally, the benefits of consistency and of “lowballing” (accuracy) are increasing (decreasing) in institutional investors’ presence.
When does Stroke Rehabilitation End?
Authors: Korner-Bitensky Nicol
Published: December 2012

This article examines key evidence on intervention effectiveness late poststroke; provides discussion on how this evidence impacts stroke rehabilitation at a clinical and national level; and explores strategies that should improve the way in which chronic stroke is addressed internationally.
Improving Quality of Life by Increasing Outings after Stroke: Study Protocol for the Out-and-About Trial
Authors: McCluskey Annie , Ada Louise , Middleton Sandy , Kelly Patrick J. , Goodall Stephen , Grimshaw Jeremy M. , Logan Pip , Longworth Mark , Karageorge A.
Published: December 2012

Rationale

Almost one-third of Australians need help to travel outdoors after a stroke. Ambulation training and escorted outings are recommended as best practice in Australian clinical guidelines for stroke. Yet fewer than 20% of people with stroke receive enough of these sessions in their local community to change outcomes.

Aims

The Out-and-About trial aims to determine the efficacy and cost effectiveness of an implementation program to change team behavior and increase outings by people with stroke.

Design

A two-group cluster-randomized trial will be conducted using concealed allocation, blinded assessors, and intention-to-treat analysis. Twenty community teams and their stroke clients ( n = 300) will be recruited. Teams will be randomized to receive either the Out-and-About program or written guidelines only.

Study Outcomes

The primary outcome is the proportion of people with stroke receiving multiple escorted outings during therapy sessions, measured at baseline and 13 months postintervention. Secondary outcomes include number of outings and distance traveled, measured using a self-report diary at baseline and six months postbaseline, and a global positioning system after six months. Cost effectiveness will measure quality-adjusted life years and health service use, measured at baseline and six months postbaseline.

Discussion

A potential outcome of this study will be evidence for a costed, transferable implementation program. If successful, the program will have international relevance and transferability. Another potential outcome will be validation of a novel and objective method of measuring outdoor travel (global positioning system) to supplement self-report methods.
Predicting Activities after Stroke: What is Clinically Relevant?
Authors: Kwakkel G. , Kollen B. J.
Published: December 2012

Knowledge about factors that determine the final outcome after stroke is important for early stroke management, rehabilitation goals, and discharge planning. This narrative review provides an overview of current knowledge about the prediction of activities after stroke. We reviewed the pattern of stroke recovery for functions and activities, the impact of spontaneous recovery on activities, and the measurement of improvement in general. We explored the activities profiles during the chronic phase and predictors for activities of daily living independence after stroke, and finally, we discussed where to from here? Mathematical regularities explain the nonlinear patterns of recovery, making the outcome of activities of daily living highly predictable. Initial severity of disability and extent of improvement observed within the first weeks poststroke are important indicators of the outcome at six-months. The sequence of progress in activities is almost fixed in time. Studies showed that most motor recovery is almost completed within 10 weeks poststroke. On average, stroke recovery plateaus three- to six-months after onset. Strong evidence was found that age and scores on scales assessing severity of neurological deficits in the early poststroke phase are strongly associated with the final basic activities of daily living outcome after three-months poststroke. The validated prediction models using simple algorithms, such as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale or Barthel Index, need to be implemented in rehabilitation services and used for stratifying stroke patients in trials. Future studies should investigate the accuracy of dynamic models that includes time poststroke to optimize the application of prediction rules in individuals with stroke.
How Useful is Imaging in Predicting Outcomes in Stroke Rehabilitation?
Authors: Stinear Cathy M. , Ward Nick S.
Published: December 2012

Neuroimaging plays an important role In acute stroke diagnosis and management, but It Is not routinely used In rehabilitation settings. Incorporating Imaging Information In rehabilitation planning may eventually translate to better outcomes after stroke. Here we review the prediction of outcomes after stroke using magnetic resonance imaging. There are clear and specific relationships between the anatomy of the stroke lesion and impairments at the time of scanning, and at later time points in recovery. However, most studies demonstrate these relationships in groups of patients at the chronic stage. In order to be useful for rehabilitation, neuroimaging needs to provide prognostic information for individual patients at a much earlier stage. Recent studies have used diffusion tensor imaging and functional neuroimaging to address this, with promising results. Combining neuroimaging with clinical and neurophysiological assessments may also be useful. Future work in this area may support the tailoring of rehabilitation for individual patients based on their capacity for neural reorganization and recovery.
The Home Stroke Rehabilitation and Monitoring System Trial: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Linder Susan M. , Rosenfeldt Anson B. , Reiss Aimee , Buchanan Sharon , Sahu Komal , Bay Curtis R. , Wolf Steven L. , Alberts Jay L.
Published: December 2012

Rationale

Because many individuals poststroke lack access to the quality and intensity of rehabilitation to improve upper extremity motor function, a home-based robotic-assisted upper extremity rehabilitation device is being paired with an individualized home exercise program.

Aims/Hypothesis

The primary aim of this project is to determine the effectiveness of robotic-assisted home therapy compared with a home exercise program on upper extremity motor recovery and health-related quality of life for stroke survivors in rural and underserved locations. The secondary aim is to explore whether initial degree of motor function of the upper limb may be a factor in predicting the extent to which patients with stroke may be responsive to a home therapy approach. We hypothesize that the home exercise program intervention, when enhanced with robotic-assisted therapy, will result in significantly better outcomes in motor function and quality of life.

Design

A total of 96 participants within six-months of a single, unilateral ischemic, or hemorrhagic stroke will be recruited in this prospective, single-blind, multisite randomized clinical trial.

Study Outcomes

The primary outcome is the change in upper extremity function using the Action Research Arm Test. Secondary outcomes include changes in: upper extremity function (Wolf Motor Function Test), upper extremity impairment (upper extremity portion of the Fugl-Meyer Test), self-reported quality of life (Stroke Impact Scale), and affect (Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale).

Discussion

Similar or greater improvements in upper extremity function using the combined robotic home exercise program intervention compared with home exercise program alone will be interpreted as evidence that supports the introduction of in-home technology to augment the recovery of function poststroke.
Stroke, Cognitive Deficits, and Rehabilitation: Still an Incomplete Picture
Authors: Cumming Toby B. , Marshall Randolph S. , Lazar Ronald M.
Published: December 2012

Cognitive impairment after stroke is common and can cause disability with major impacts on quality of life and independence. There are also indirect effects of cognitive impairment on functional recovery after stroke through reduced participation in rehabilitation and poor adherence to treatment guidelines. In this article, we attempt to establish the following: • whether there is a distinct profile of cognitive impairment after stroke; • whether the type of cognitive deficit can be associated with the features of stroke-related damage; and • whether interventions can improve poststroke cognitive performance. There is not a consistent profile of cognitive deficits in stroke, though slowed information processing and executive dysfunction tend to predominate. Our understanding of structure-function relationships has been advanced using imaging techniques such as lesion mapping and will be further enhanced through better characterization of damage to functional networks and identification of subtle white matter abnormalities. Effective cognitive rehabilitation approaches have been reported for focal cortical deficits such as neglect and aphasia, but treatments for more diffusely represented cognitive impairment remain elusive. In the future, the hope is that different techniques that have been shown to promote neural plasticity (e.g., exercise, brain stimulation, and pharmacological agents) can be applied to improve the cognitive function of stroke survivors.
More Outcomes than Trials: A Call for Consistent Data Collection across Stroke Rehabilitation Trials
Authors: Ali M. , English C. , Bernhardt J. , Sunnerhagen K. S. , Brady M.
Published: December 2012

Stroke survivors experience complex combinations of impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. The essential components of stroke rehabilitation remain elusive. Determining efficacy in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is challenging; there is no commonly agreed primary outcome measure for rehabilitation trials. Clinical guidelines depend on proof of efficacy in RCTs and meta-analyses. However, diverse trial aims, differing methods, inconsistent data collection, and use of multiple assessment tools hinder comparability across trials. Consistent data collection in acute stroke trials has facilitated meta-analyses to inform trial design and clinical practice. With few exceptions, inconsistent data collection has hindered similar progress in stroke rehabilitation research. There is an urgent need for the routine collection of a core dataset of common variables in rehabilitation trials. The European Stroke Organisation Outcomes Working Group, the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Common Data Elements project, and the Collaborative Stroke Audit and Research project have called for consistency in data collection in stroke trials. Standardizing data collection can decrease study start up times, facilitate data sharing, and inform clinical guidelines. Although achieving consensus on which outcome measures to use in stroke rehabilitation trials is a considerable task, perhaps a feasible starting point is to achieve consistency in the collection of data on demography, stroke severity, and stroke onset to inclusion times. Longer term goals could include the development of a consensus process to establish the core dataset. This should be endorsed by researchers, funders, and journal editors in order to facilitate sustainable change.
From What We Know to What We Do: Translating Stroke Rehabilitation Research into Practice
Authors: Walker Marion F. , Fisher Rebecca J. , Korner-Bitensky Nicol , McCluskey Annie , Carey Leeanne M.
Published: December 2012

Despite the recent advances in stroke rehabilitation research, the translation of research evidence into practice remains a challenge. The purpose of this article is to communicate practical experience and describe research methodologies used to promote change and implementation of stroke rehabilitation research in three international settings. In England, the development of an evidence-based consensus document, combined with qualitative and quantitative methods, was used to promote practice change in community-based stroke services. The Canadian research program involved synthesis of evidence, creation of user friendly information, and development of multimodal knowledge transfer strategies to promote change at an individual clinician level. Australian researchers followed a multistep process, involving audit and feedback, identification of barriers, and tailored education to improve implementation of one clinical guideline recommendation. Reducing the evidence–practice gap requires the development of active management strategies. This article highlights the importance of close collaboration between stakeholders – both in terms of the transfer of evidence into clinical practice and for optimizing future Phase IV implementation research endeavours.
Haemoabdomen secondary to granulomatous periarteritis due to parasitism withHalicephalobus gingivalisin a mare
Authors: Rodriguez J. Y. , Snowden K. F. , Oliveira F. N.
Published: December 2012

A 22‐year‐oldQuarterHorse mare exhibited neurological signs consisting of head pressing, central blindness, minimal ataxia and dysphagia. Despite treatment, the mare collapsed and died shortly after onset of signs. On necropsy, there were approximately 15 l of free blood in the abdominal cavity. A 12 × 4 cm diameter, irregularly‐shaped, nodular, firm, tan/yellow mass was found adhered to the outer surface of the right lateral aspect of the caudal abdominal aorta. A similar mass also affected the caudal aspect of the right kidney. Histopathology of the aortic and renal masses revealed multiple coalescing granulomas containing intralesional nematodes compatible withHalicephalobus gingivalis. Inflammatory cells disrupted the aortictunica adventitiaas well as the outertunica media. Similar exudate also affected the cerebrum, cerebellum and brainstem. Polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of a portion of the large subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene were performed using previously published primers forH. gingivalisto confirm the identity of the nematode. Although rupture of a blood vessel could not be demonstrated grossly, the histological findings suggest that inflammation may have breached a small calibre artery and caused the haemoabdomen.
Estimation of Stress Exponent and Activation Energy for Rapid Densification of 8 mol% Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Powder
Authors: Kumagai Tatsuo
Published: December 2012

The rapid densification behavior of 8 mol% Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 polycrystalline (8Y‐SZP) powder compacts at the initial stage of pressure sintering (relative density () below 0.92) has been investigated using an electric current‐activated/assisted sintering (ECAS) system. Data points corresponding to a fixed heating rate were extracted from the densification rate () versus ρ and versus temperature (T) curves. These curves were obtained experimentally by consolidation at a fixed current. Under fixed current ECAS, the heating rate () decreases continuously over sintering time. Using a quasi‐ constant heating rate (CHR) method, data points were extracted to plot vs. ρ, vs. T, and ρ vs. T curves at a fixed . The stress exponent (n), estimated from a log‐log plot of grain size (d)‐corrected /ρ and effective stress (σeff) at 1300–1400 K, shows an almost constant value of 1. In addition, the activation energy (Q) for rapid densification, estimated from an Arrhenius plot of d‐corrected /ρ also shows an almost constant value of 350 kJ/mol, which is considerably lower than the previously reported value of the activation energy for Zr4+ lattice diffusion of about 440 kJ/mol. These results suggest that rapid densification of 8Y‐SZP by ECAS seems to proceed by diffusional creep controlled by grain‐boundary diffusion of Zr4+ ions.
The Effect of Barium Substitution on the Ferroelectric Properties of Sr2Nb2O7 Ceramics
Authors: Gao Zhipeng , Ning Huanpo , Chen Chen , Wilson Rory , Shi Baogui , Ye Haitao , Yan Haixue , Reece Michael J.
Published: December 2012

This work revealed that the solid solution compounds of Sr2−xBaxNb2O7 are promising lead‐free materials for high‐temperature piezoelectric sensor application. These compounds were confirmed as ferroelectric materials with high Curie points (> 900°C) by their piezoelectric activity after poling, ferroelectric domain switching in their P–E hysteresis loops and thermal depoling behavior. The effect of Ba substitution on the structure and properties of Sr2−xBaxNb2O7 (x < 1.0) was investigated. The solid solution limit of Sr2−xBaxNb2O7 was determined by XRD as x < 0.6. The a‐, b‐, c‐ axes, and cell volume increase with Ba addition. The textured ceramics of Sr2−xBaxNb2O7 were prepared for the first time. The highest d33 was measured as 3.6 ± 0.1 pC/N for Sr1.8Ba0.2Nb2O7.
Flux Synthesis of Na2Ca2Nb4O13: The Influence of Particle Shapes, Surface Features, and Surface Areas on Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Arney David , Fuoco Lindsay , Boltersdorf Jonathan , Maggard Paul A.
Published: December 2012

The layered perovskite (n = 4) Ruddlesden‐Popper phase Na2Ca2Nb4O13 was prepared within molten NaCl and Na2SO4 fluxes, yielding either rod‐shaped or platelet‐shaped particles, respectively. The flux‐to‐reactant molar ratios of 5:1 or 20:1 were found to significantly influence particle sizes and surface areas, while still maintaining the overall particle shapes. Measured surface areas of flux‐prepared Na2Ca2Nb4O13 particles ranged from ∼0.36 to 4.6 m2/g, with the highest surface areas obtained using a 5:1 (NaCl‐to‐Na2Ca2Nb4O13) molar ratio. All samples exhibited a bandgap size of ∼3.3 eV, as determined by UV–Vis diffuse reflectance measurements. Photocatalytic rates for hydrogen production under ultraviolet light for platinized Na2Ca2Nb4O13 particles in an aqueous methanol solution ranged from ∼230 to 1355 μmol H2 g−1 h−1 when using the photochemical deposition (PCD) method of platinization, and ∼113–1099 μmol H2 g−1 h−1 when using the incipient wetness impregnation (IWI) method of platinization. The higher photocatalytic rates were obtained for the rod‐shaped particles with the highest surface areas, with an apparent quantum yield (AQY) measured at ∼6.5% at 350 nm. For the platelet‐shaped particles, the higher photocatalytic rates were observed for the sample with the lowest surface area but the largest concentration of stepped edges and grooves observed at the particle surfaces. The latter origin of the photocatalytic activity is confirmed by the significant enhancement of the photocatalytic rates by the PCD method that allows for the preferential deposition of the surface Pt cocatalyst islands at the stepped edges and grooves, while the photocatalytic enhancement is much smaller when using the more general IWI platinization method.
Polymorphic Phase Transitions in Nanocrystalline Binary Metal Oxides
Authors: Sood S. , Gouma P.
Published: December 2012

Binary metal oxides occur in different polymorphic states under applied pressure and temperature. Structural changes occur due to polymorphic transitions in binary metal oxides. It is essential to theoretically predict the conditions of polymorphic transitions so that materials can be effectively used in engineering applications. Temperature and pressure are the two main factors affecting the bulk state phase transformation of materials. For nanomaterials, it has been observed that particle size and temperature are the main factors affecting the phase transformation, e.g., γ‐Fe2O3to α‐Fe2O3, monoclinic to orthorhombic transformation inMoO3, anatase to rutile transformation in Titania, γ to α Alumina transformation. We compile from literature the main factors which affect the phase stability of a nanocrystalline binary metal oxide. A heuristic approach to formulate particle size is put forth. Factors like surface energy, surface tension, and particle shape are considered, and a value for critical particle size is formulated. The model fits well with the experimental results for nanocrystalline alumina, titania, zirconia, and Fe2O3. Such an approach can be applied to predict the particle size‐dependent stability of a phase at known temperature range.
Solid Solution Effects on the Thermal Properties in theMgAl2O4–MgGa2O4System
Authors: Wilkerson K. R. , Smith J. D. , Sander T. P. , Hemrick J. G.
Published: December 2012

Solid solution effects on thermal conductivity within theMgO–Al2O3–Ga2O3system were studied. Samples with systematically varied additions ofMgGa2O4–MgAl2O4were prepared and the laser flash technique was used to determine thermal diffusivity at temperatures between 200°C and 1300°C. Heat capacity as a function of temperature from room temperature to 800°C was also determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Solid solution in theMgAl2O4–MgGa2O4system decreases the thermal conductivity up to 1000°C. At 200°C thermal conductivity decreased 24% with a 5 mol% addition ofMgGa2O4to the system. At 1000°C, the thermal conductivity decreased 13% with a 5 mol% addition. Steady‐state calculations showed a 12.5% decrease in heat flux with 5 mol%MgGa2O4considered across a 12 inch thickness.
Ceramic Capillary Suspensions: Novel Processing Route for Macroporous Ceramic Materials
Authors: Dittmann Jens , Koos Erin , Willenbacher Norbert
Published: December 2012

We introduce a novel method to produce macroporous ceramics by capillary suspensions. Adding a small amount (~1 vol%) of an immiscible secondary phase to a low concentration (~20 vol%) suspension can increase the yield stress by several orders of magnitude. This drastic change in flow behavior is induced by the creation of a sample‐spanning particle network in the suspension controlled by capillary forces. This strong network may persist even if the primary bulk phase is removed. Accordingly, capillary suspensions can be used as a precursor for manufacturing porous materials. Here, we focus on the specific features of this universal, low‐cost processing route for porous ceramics. An Al2O3 model system is used to demonstrate how to adjust porosity and pore size. With this system, we were able to achieve open porosities higher than 60% with an average pore size below 10 μm.
Microstructure and Magnetic Properties of Metastable RFeO3 (R: Rare‐earth element) Formed from Undercooled Melt
Authors: Kumar Malahalli Vijaya , Kuribayashi Kazuhiko , Yu Jianding , Okada Junpei.T. , Ishikawa Takehiko
Published: December 2012

Containerless levitation technique, where the undercooling can be treated as one of the major thermodynamic parameters, was used to study the influence of oxygen partial pressure () on the microstructure and physical properties of rare‐earth orthoferrites RFeO3 (where R = Rare‐earth element) in the ranges from 105 to 10−1 Pa. The microstructure of the as‐solidified samples changed into orthorhombic RFeO3 (o‐RFeO3), metastable hexagonal RFeO3 (h‐RFeO3), and Fe2+‐containing RFe2O4 and a new metastable R3Fe2O7 phases with decreasing . The effect of on the magnetic properties was indicated as that the saturation magnetization gradually increased for R = La to Yb and decreased for R = Lu with decreasing due to the formation of metastable and magnetic phases such as Fe3O4 and Fe.