bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Currency Order Flow and Exchange Rate Determination: Empirical Evidence from the Malaysian Foreign Exchange Market
Authors: Anifowose Abolaji Daniel , Ismail Izlin , Sukor Mohd Edil Abd
Published: May 2018

This article presents empirical test results of Malaysian foreign exchange market microstructure assessment of exchange rate dynamics. We apply vector autoregressive (VAR) model to estimate the influential role of currency order flow in the determination of the currency exchange rate for the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) against the US dollar (USD). We investigate whether currency order flow captures the movements of exchange rate of MYR against USD, and how the long-term and short-term components impact the relative estimation of MYR in the international market. We, construct a measure of order flow in the Malaysian foreign exchange market to reflect the pressure of currency excess demand. Our focus is on the cumulative currency order flow and the exchange rate relationship of MYR and USD. A hybrid model of order flow and exchange rate dynamics proposed by Evans and Lyons (2002a) is applied to the Malaysian foreign exchange market (MYR/USD) to analyse a dataset of every 15-minute currency order flow and exchange rate movements from January 2010 to December 2015. Our dataset has unique features in terms of the quality of the data, extensive period and precise high frequency. Our results show that currency order flow explains an important portion of the movements in the MYR–USD exchange rate.
Book review: Rita Manchanda, Women and Politics of Peace: South Asian Narratives on Militarization, Power, Justice
Authors: Puri Ellora
Published: May 2018

Rita Manchanda, Women and Politics of Peace: South Asian Narratives on Militarization, Power, Justice. New Delhi: SAGE Publications India Private Limited, 2017, pp. 320, ₹995. ISBN: 9789386062628.
Attempted suicide by poisoning of self‐prepared arsenic trioxide solution
Authors: Poon KM , Lam SK , Lai CH , Fung HT
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

Arsenic is a traditional poison that has a history extending back to ancient times.

Case presentation:

A 43‐year‐old male presented to our Emergency Department 50 min after ingestion of 300 mL self‐prepared arsenic trioxide solution (砒霜). He produced the solution from heating xionghuang (雄黃), an arsenic sulfide mineral (As4S4) which is a Chinese herb, for academic purposes a few years ago.

Discussion:

Supportive care including fluid replacement and decontamination with gastric lavage and chelation therapy with intravenous dimercaptopropanesulphonate sodium was given to patient. Spot urine arsenic to creatinine ratio significantly decreased from 343,124 nmol/mmol (day 3) to 7116 nmol/mmol (day 5). He had an uneventful course without any neurological deficit.

Conclusions:

Treatment of acute arsenic poisoning includes supportive care, decontamination, and chelation therapy. DMPS is an antidote for arsenic poisoning and its use should be directed by clinical status and urinary arsenic excretion.
Outcome Measures in UCLP: The Modified 5-Year-Olds’-Index—Development and Reliability
Authors: Mittal Tarun K. , Ireland Anthony J. , Atack Nikki E. , Leary Sam D. , Russell Joyce I. , Deacon Scott A. , Ness Andy R. , Sandy Jonathan R.
Published: May 2018

Objective:

Can we reliably discriminate severity within the existing categories of the 5-Year-Olds’ Index?

Design:

Retrospective method comparison and development study.

Setting:

School of Oral and Dental Science, University of Bristol.

Methods:

Dental study models of 5-year-olds with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) were collected from the archives of 2 national cleft surveys (n = 351). One hundred randomly selected models were ranked to construct the modified 5-Year-Olds’ Index and also scored using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Reliability testing was performed on 51 study models. Visual analogue scale scores were used to aid statistical analysis and investigate the reliability of a VAS for outcome measurement. The modified 5-Year-Olds’ Index was then applied to 198 study models of 5-year-olds with UCLP.

Results:

The modified 5-Year-Olds’ Index showed excellent intra and interexaminer agreement (intraclass correlation > 0.94) and good discrimination of severity. When applied to the Cleft Care UK participants (n = 198), the modified 5-Year-Olds’ Index showed good discrimination of severity within the better categories (groups 1-3) of the 5-Year-Olds’ Index. Visual analogue Scale scores resulted in unacceptable variation between measurements.

Conclusions:

The new modified 5-Year-Olds’ Index is a reliable method of assessing outcomes at 5 years of age and showed improved discriminatory power between the “better” outcome categories than the original 5-Year-Olds’ Index. A VAS was found to be unsuitable for assessing outcome at 5 years of age for children with UCLP.
Orthognathic Correction in Prader-Willi Syndrome: Occlusion and Sleep Restored
Authors: Xiao Keliang Kevin , Tomur Shikhar , Beckerman Robert , Cassidy Kevin , Lypka Michael
Published: May 2018

Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) may present with a malocclusion and have a high propensity of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with short- and long-term adverse effects that negatively impact children with PWS. A case of a 15-year-old male with PWS, OSA, and a debilitating malocclusion is presented who underwent a combination of Le Fort 1 osteotomy, genioplasty, and tongue reduction to successfully treat his OSA and malocclusion. In select cases, orthognathic correction and other surgical therapies should be considered in patients with PWS.
Development of the Subtle ADHD Malingering Screener
Authors: Ramachandran Sujith , Holmes Erin R. , Rosenthal Meagen , Banahan Benjamin F. , Young John , Bentley John P.
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to develop a subtle self-report scale—the Subtle ADHD Malingering Screener (SAMS)—to screen for malingering among individuals reporting symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study employed a cross-sectional experimental design with an ADHD group, a control group—comprising individuals without ADHD—and a malingering group—comprising individuals without ADHD who were instructed to feign ADHD in their responses. Factor analysis and psychometric testing were conducted to develop a final scale that could distinguish the malingering from the other groups. A 10-item, two-factor solution was obtained for the SAMS, with a sensitivity of 90.3% and specificity of 80.1%. The SAMS presents an innovative approach to help reduce overdiagnosis of ADHD and misuse of prescription stimulants. The efficient, straightforward form of the measure particularly enhances its potential application in both medical and psychosocial clinical settings.
Congenital Thrombophilia in Patients With Superior Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis or Portal Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Makoto Ikejiri , Usui Masanobu , Wada Hideo , Matsumoto Takeshi , Ohishi Kohshi , Shindo Akihiro , Yamashita Yoshiki , Nakatani Kaname , Tamaki Shigehisa , Tomimoto Hidekazu , Isaji Shuji
Published: May 2018

We explored the relationship between abdominal vein thromboses, including portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT), and thrombophilia. The frequency of thrombophilia, such as antithrombin (AT), protein C (PC), or protein S (PS) gene mutations, was examined in 21 patients with PVT, 6 patients with SMVT, and 6 patients with both PVT and SMVT. Low levels of AT, PC, or PS were frequently detected in patients with PVT or mesenteric vein thrombosis, and 4 mutations in the PS gene, 3 mutations in the PC gene, and 2 mutations in AT the gene were detected. Protein S Tokushima was detected in 3 of 4 patients with a PS gene mutation and was associated with 2 other PS gene mutations. The onset of PVT or SMVT was almost idiopathic in patients with congenital thrombophilia. Both PVT and SMVT were frequently caused by an AT, a PC, or a PS mutation, and the onset of these thromboses due to thrombophilia was frequently idiopathic.
Could Autism Be Associated With Nutritional Status in the Palestinian population? The Outcomes of the Palestinian Micronutrient Survey
Authors: Altamimi Mohammad
Published: May 2018

Background:

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is believed that the cause of autism is multifactorial, where genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors. In this context, micronutrients play a crucial role.

Objective:

To present evidence on current micronutrient status in Palestine and highlight its possible role in increasing problems of neurodevelopment disorders in general and autism in particular.

Method:

Analytical review of results.

Results And Conclusions:

The Palestinian Micronutrient Survey was conducted to assess micronutrient status in most vulnerable groups and also micronutrient deficiencies. The data from Palestinian population showed severe anaemia due to iron, Zn, B12, and folic acid deficiencies. One in every 3 Palestinian pregnant women is anaemic. Moreover, 78.2% and 87.1% of lactating mothers from the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Zn deficient. For children from 6 to 59 months old, 1 in every 4 boys and 1 in every 5 girls are considered anaemic. Similar trend was found with respect to vitamins E, D, A, and folic acid. We reviewed the literature that linked micronutrient deficiencies to neurodevelopmental disorders and expected the number of neurodevelopmental disorder cases, including autism, to increase.
Microcredit, the corporatization of nongovernmental organizations, and academic activism: The example of Professor Anu Muhammad
Authors: Chowdhury Rashedur , Willmott Hugh
Published: May 2018

Based on an interview with academic-activist Professor Anu Muhammad, this edited transcript illuminates the corporatization of nongovernmental organizations, with specific reference to perpetuating the negative effects of neoliberal microcredit practices in developing countries. It focuses upon how such corporatization is contributing to corruption and the weakened role of the state. The concept of poor-people-led cooperatives is proposed as an alternative as they are more congruent with actively maintaining cultural traditions, protecting social cohesion, and mobilizing collective community-level energy to alleviate misery and reduce poverty.
Integration of tourism markets in Australia
Authors: Kourtzidis Stavros A , Tzeremes Panayiotis , Tzeremes Nickolaos G , Heryán Tomáš
Published: May 2018

By applying the methodological framework of transition modeling and econometric convergence tests introduced by Phillips and Sul, we reveal the existence of convergence clubs and transition convergence paths of international visitor arrivals for Australia. Specifically, by using monthly data of international arrivals over the period of January 1991 to September 2017, we provide evidence that tourism markets can integrate. The analysis suggests the identification of five distinct convergence clubs. This in turn signifies an integration phenomenon of Australia’s tourism market, which is revealed through the different convergence patterns of international visitor arrivals. Finally, it is evident that the revealed integration behavior of Australia’s international tourism market will enable policy makers to target better tourism needs through customized policies.
Providing care for a person with late-stage dementia at home: What are carers’ experiences?
Authors: Dempsey Laura , Dowling Maura , Larkin Philip , Murphy Kathy
Published: May 2018

Background

It is widely reported that carers who provide care for a family member with dementia endure physical and psychological burdens. Not only do they fulfil an important role for the person with dementia but also for the wider society. This study aims to explore the experiences of carers who provide end-of-life care for a person with late-stage dementia at home.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 current carers and 6 past carers of a family member with late-stage dementia. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Four super-ordinate themes were identified which described the challenges faced by carers at different stages of their care giving journey: (1) The experience of dementia grief; (2) Parenting the parent; (3) Seeking support; (4) Death, dying and life after death.

Conclusion

Dementia grief was experienced by carers as a result of a relationship change and an inability to recognise the person with dementia as their mother, father or spouse. A role transition ensued resulting in the carer adopting the role of parent. Carers expressed a desire to provide care for the person with dementia at home until the time of death; however, support is required in this area at both individual and community level. Family carers require education to help identify the dying phase which will assist to minimise the shock of death. Strong evidence suggests that the burden of care may leave family carers poorly equipped to adapt to life after the death of the person with dementia. Greater pre-death support is required to facilitate a better post bereavement adjustment.
Restoring transactions unknowingly tainted by insider trading
Authors: Kwan Martin YC
Published: May 2018

In the Hong Kong Court of Appeal decision The Securities and Futures Commission v Young Bik Fung and others, the Court applied s. 213(2)(b) of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO) to restore two transactions of shares entered into by an investor who invested based on ‘information, advice or tips’ given by an insider, despite the investor did not know that the advice was based on inside information and was not guilty of insider trading. Nevertheless, the investor was ordered to repay the profits made as if the transactions had not been made. It is suggested that the restoration order in Hong Kong has the widest scope of application among the major common law jurisdictions, because Hong Kong is the only jurisdiction where a person who has not committed any market conduct can nevertheless be subject to a restoration order. The Court justified such wide scope of application with reference to the paramount policies of minimizing market misconduct and ensuring no benefits is obtained from insider dealing by anyone. By a comparative law analysis, it is argued that s. 213(2)(b) SFO has been wrongly interpreted. The paramount policies should not be blindly applied without giving proper consideration to other established principles of law, such as the fundamental right to property of the unknowing investor.
Sensitivity and specificity of the Manchester Triage System in risk prioritization of patients with acute myocardial infarction who present with chest pain
Authors: Nishi Fernanda A , Polak Catarina , Cruz Diná de Almeida Lopes Monteiro da
Published: May 2018

Background:

The purpose of the Manchester Triage System is to clinically prioritize each patient seeking care in an emergency department. Patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction who have typical symptoms including chest pain should be classified in the highest priority groups, requiring immediate medical assistance or care within 10 min. As such, the Manchester Triage System should present adequate sensitivity and specificity.

Aims:

This study estimated the sensitivity and specificity of the Manchester Triage System in the triage of patients with chest pain related to the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, and the associations between the performance of the Manchester Triage System and selected variables.

Methods:

This was an observational, analytical, cross-sectional, retrospective study. The sensitivity and specificity of the Manchester Triage System were estimated by verifying the triage classification received by these patients and their established medical diagnoses.

Results:

The sample was composed of 10,087 triage episodes, in which 139 (1.38%) patients had a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. In 49 episodes, confirmation of medical diagnosis was not possible. The estimated sensitivity of the Manchester Triage System was 44.60% (36.18–53.27%) and the estimated specificity was 91.30% (90.73–91.85%). Of the 10,038 episodes in which the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction was confirmed or excluded, 938 patients (9.34%) received an incorrect classification – undertriage or overtriage.

Conclusion:

This study showed that the specificity of the Manchester Triage System was very good. However, the low sensitivity based on the Manchester Triage System indicated that patients in high priority categories were undertriaged, leading to longer wait times and associated increased risks of adverse events.
Are Formal Leaders the Only Ones Benefitting From Leadership Training? A Shared Leadership Perspective
Authors: Tafvelin Susanne , Hasson Henna , Holmström Stefan , von Thiele Schwarz Ulrica
Published: May 2018

Leadership training most often involves training of formal leaders, and little is known about the potential benefits of leadership training for other members of an organization. Using theories of shared leadership, the current study examined outcomes of transformational leadership training that targets both formal and informal leaders (i.e., both vertical and shared leadership). The training was set in a Swedish paper pulp factory and involved formal and informal leaders participating in 20 days of training over a period of 16 months. Based on employee survey data collected both pre- and postintervention our analyses revealed that both formal and informal leaders significantly improved their transformational leadership behaviors. Interestingly, the improvement in transformational leadership behaviors of formal and informal leaders tended to predict employee efficiency and well-being in different ways. Improvements in formal leaders’ transformational leadership were related to employee well-being, while informal leaders’ increases in transformational leadership were associated with efficiency. The results point toward the benefit of a shared leadership perspective on leadership training and indicate that improvements in transformational leadership may affect employees differently depending on who in the organization displays them.
Rapid Operational Access and Maneuver Support platform for military logistics and operation planning in water environments
Authors: Loney Drew Allan , Pevey Kimberly Collins , McAlpin Jennifer Tate , Nelsen Benjamin Wright , Hargis Brent Harry
Published: May 2018

Logistical and combat operations in riverine, estuarine, and coastal environments remain a key military focus due to limited maneuverability, imperfect knowledge, and rapidly changing constraints. Vessel operation in water environments can be enhanced by routing algorithms that integrate mission parameters with environmental data and vessel specifications. These algorithms must update predetermined routes in a timely manner as parameters and specifications change. The US Army Engineer Research and Development Center Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory is developing the capability for military planners to rapidly optimize vessel routes in water environments by extending capabilities of the Rapid Operational Access and Maneuver Support (ROAMS) modeling platform. The ROAMS platform allows users to rapidly generate models of a water environment in limited-information conditions, utilizing the Adaptive Hydraulics and STeady-state spectral WAVE computational engines for the base two-dimensional hydrodynamics and waves, respectively. Routing capabilities are built on path search and penalty-barrier optimization to automatically produce routes that account for temporally changing environmental variables and vessel maneuverability. This work outlines the components of the ROAMS routing package and presents a case study using ROAMS in a northeastern American metropolitan area. Benefits and limitations of the ROAMS routing platform are discussed and future improvements are suggested.
“Centering the Margins”: Moving Equity to the Center of Men’s Health Research
Authors: Griffith Derek M.
Published: May 2018

How might the science of men’s health progress if research on marginalized or subordinated men is moved from the margins of the literature to the center? This commentary seeks to answer this question, suggesting that if more attention is paid to men of color and other marginalized men, the field will be greatly enriched in its ability to understand determinants of men’s health. Reimagining men’s health by moving men’s health disparities to a primary focus of the field may yield critical new insights that would be essential to moving men’s health to the center of health equity research. Focusing on the dual goals of improving the health of marginalized men and examining the determinants of disparities among men and between men and women will yield insights into mechanisms, pathways, and strategies to improve men’s health and address health disparities. Current definitions of health disparities limit the nation’s ability to dedicate resources to populations that need attention—men of color and other marginalized men—that do not fit these definitions. Moving marginalized men to the center of research in men’s health will foster new ways of understanding determinants of men’s health that cannot be identified without focusing on populations of men whose health is as influenced by race, ethnicity, and other structures of marginalization as it is by gender and masculinities. Using Black men as a case example, the article illustrates how studying marginalized men can refine the study of men’s health and health equity.
The measurement of approximate number system acuity across the lifespan is compromised by congruency effects
Authors: Norris Jade Eloise , Clayton Sarah , Gilmore Camilla , Inglis Matthew , Castronovo Julie
Published: May 2018

Recent studies have highlighted the influence of visual cues such as dot size and cumulative surface area on the measurement of the approximate number system (ANS). Previous studies assessing ANS acuity in ageing have all applied stimuli generated by the Panamath protocol, which does not control nor measure the influence of convex hull. Crucially, convex hull has recently been identified as an influential visual cue present in dot arrays, with its impact on older adults’ ANS acuity yet to be investigated. The current study therefore investigated the manipulation of convex hull by the Panamath protocol, and its effect on the measurement of ANS acuity in younger and older participants. First, analyses of the stimuli generated by Panamath revealed a confound between numerosity ratio and convex hull ratio. Second, although older adults were somewhat less accurate than younger adults on convex hull incongruent trials, ANS acuity was broadly similar between the groups. These findings have implications for the valid measurement of ANS acuity across all ages, and suggest that the Panamath protocol produces stimuli that do not adequately control for the influence of convex hull on numerosity discrimination.
Taking the perspective of the narrator
Authors: Creer Sarah D , Cook Anne E , O’Brien Edward J
Published: May 2018

Readers do not always adopt the perspective of the protagonist; however, they will under certain conditions. Experiments 1a and 1b showed that readers will take the perspective of the protagonist from the third-person point of view, but only when explicitly instructed to do so. Experiment 2 demonstrated that reading from the first-person point of view is a text-based manipulation that encourages readers to adopt the perspective of the protagonist. The results of Experiments 3a and 3b replicated the findings of Experiments 1a and 2. Experiment 4 established that simply increasing readers’ attention to the text does not lead to adoption of the protagonist’s perspective; moreover, this suggests that when it does occur, protagonist perspective adoption is not the result of increased attention, but strategic processing.
How Spanish speakers use metaphor to describe their experiences with cancer
Authors: Magaña Dalia , Matlock Teenie
Published: May 2018

Our study seeks a better understanding of how Spanish-speaking cancer patients communicate about their personal experiences with cancer. We examine the use of metaphor in narratives contributed to an online forum for Spanish speakers afflicted with various types of cancer. Specifically, we identify, quantify and discuss three categories of metaphors: violence, journey and other. Our study expands prior work on cancer communication by examining a language other than English, by focusing on how cancer victims communicate among themselves, and by examining how cancer narratives discuss concerns about personal experiences with this disease. Research thus far has focused on English. The work also expands on what is known about how people use the metaphor ‘in the wild’.
Dupilumab in atopic dermatitis: rationale, latest evidence and place in therapy
Authors: Ariëns Lieneke F.M. , Bakker Daphne S. , van der Schaft Jorien , Garritsen Floor M. , Thijs Judith L. , de Bruin-Weller Marjolein S.
Published: May 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases. The prevalence of AD is increasing and is currently estimated at 10–20% in adults worldwide. In the majority of patients, AD can be adequately controlled with topical treatment or ultraviolet light therapy, but there is a high unmet need for effective and safe therapeutics in patients with more severe or difficult to treat AD. During the past decade, new advances in the understanding of the underlying immune pathogenesis of AD have led to the development of new, more targeted therapies. Dupilumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting the interleukin (IL)-4 receptor α, thereby blocking the IL-4 and IL-13 pathway, is one of the first biologics that has been developed for AD. Dupilumab has shown promising results in phase III trials and has recently been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Commission for the treatment of moderate to severe AD. With the approval of dupilumab, we are entering a new era of biological therapeutics in AD management. The place of dupilumab should be established in the current treatment standards. Based on current treatment guidelines and experts’ opinions in the management of AD, we have built a proposal for a treatment algorithm for systemic treatment of AD in European countries.
The impact of digital health interventions on health-related outcomes in the workplace: A systematic review
Authors: Howarth Ana , Quesada Jose , Silva Jessica , Judycki Stephanie , Mills Peter R
Published: May 2018

Background

The impact of employee health on productivity in the workplace is generally evidenced through absenteeism and presenteeism. Multicomponent worksite health programmes, with significant online elements, have gained in popularity over the last two decades, due in part to their scalability and low cost of implementation. However, little is known about the impact of digital-only interventions on health-related outcomes in employee groups. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact of pure digital health interventions in the workplace on health-related outcomes.

Methods

Multiple databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed and PsycINFO, were used to review the literature using PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Of 1345 records screened, 22 randomized controlled trial studies were found to be eligible. Although there was a high level of heterogeneity across these studies, significant improvements were found for a broad range of outcomes such as sleep, mental health, sedentary behaviours and physical activity levels. Standardized measures were not always used to quantify intervention impact. All but one study resulted in at least one significantly improved health-related outcome, but attrition rates ranged widely, suggesting sustaining engagement was an issue. Risk of bias assessment was low for one-third of the studies and unclear for the remaining ones.

Conclusions

This review found modest evidence that digital-only interventions have a positive impact on health-related outcomes in the workplace. High heterogeneity impacted the ability to confirm what interventions might work best for which health outcomes, although less complex health outcomes appeared to be more likely to be impacted. A focus on engagement along with the use of standardized measures and reporting of active intervention components would be helpful in future evaluations.
School Counselors, Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, and Academic Achievement: Are School Counselors Promising more than they Can Deliver?
Authors: Brown Duane , Trusty Jerry
Published: May 2018

The ASCA National Model® (ASCA, 2003) suggests that the school counselor's primary mission is the improvement of academic achievement. This article examines the research literature regarding school counselors’ efforts related to academic achievement and concludes that there is little support for the suppo-sition that comprehensive school counseling programs improve achievement. Conversely, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that school counselors can use strategic interventions to improve academic achievement.
A Model of Girls’ School Delinquency: School Bonding and Reputation
Authors: Lee Sang Min , Sondra Smith-Adcock
Published: May 2018

Using a longitudinal national database, the authors conducted a path analysis of girls’ school delinquency to determine the indirect and direct effects of socioeconomic status, parental involvement, bonding to school, and girls’ self-perception of reputation on school delinquency during middle school and high school. Self-perception of reputation was the most influential factor in girls’ school delinquency, followed by bond to school and socioeconomic status. Implications for school counselors are presented.
My Class Inventory-Short Form as an Accountability Tool for Elementary School Counselors to Measure Classroom Climate
Authors: Sink Christopher A. , Spencer Lisa R.
Published: May 2018

A psychometric study with more than 2,800 upper-elementary-age students examined the reliability and factorial validity of the My Class Inventory-Short Form (MCI-SF). Factor analytic and structural equation modeling results suggested that the original measure is a less than satisfactory approach to appraise various dimensions of classroom climate. Researchers subsequently tested a revised version of the MCI-SF, showingthatthe 18-item measure with four scales (Cohesion, Competitiveness, Friction, and Satisfaction) was psychometrically sound. Implications for ele-mentary school counseling programs and practices are discussed.
School Counselors’ Involvement with a School-Wide Positive Behavior Support Intervention: Addressing Student Behavior Issues in a Proactive and Positive Manner
Authors: Martens Katie , Andreen Kelsey
Published: May 2018

For schools using School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports, the school counselor is an essential member of the implementation team. Moreover, the prevention model corresponds with the school counselor standards and the ASCA National Model. This article shows how a school counselor teams with school staff in a K-3 elementary school of 600 pupils to implement and manage a School-Wide Positive Behavior Support targeted intervention called Check-in/Check-out (CICO). The authors review current research relevant to CICO and provide sample student data, daily behavior report cards, referral forms, and home reports. The article gives suggestions on using CICO to support students with mental health concerns including using data to collaborate with other community professionals.
Students Diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Collaborative Strategies for School Counselors
Authors: Shillingford-Butler M. Ann , Theodore Lea
Published: May 2018

The school setting can be a difficult place for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The core symptoms of ADHD, which include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, make meeting the curriculum demands of the classroom challenging. That ADHD negatively impacts not only academic performance but also social and emotional functioning is well established (Lee, Lahey, Owens, & Hinshaw, 2008). Given the negative consequences of ADHD, effective school-based interventions are warranted. School counselors are uniquely positioned to implement strategies for children with ADHD to maximize their capacity for learning. This article provides specific strategies that school counselors can provide collaboratively to enhance the academic and social functioning of children with ADHD in school.
School Counselors Serving Students with Disruptive Behavior Disorders
Authors: Grothaus Tim
Published: May 2018

School counselors are in a prime position to collaborate with school and community stakeholders to both prevent and respond to the challenges experienced and exhibited by students with one or more disruptive behavior disorders (DBD). In this article, the DBDs discussed include conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, and adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct. After a brief examination of the costs, classifications and characteristics, comorbidity, and prevalence of this category of mental health disorders, this article presents risk factors and cultural considerations. Finally, the author explores implications and interventions for school counselors.
Early and Late Reoperation Rates With Various MIS Techniques for Adult Spinal Deformity Correction
Authors: Eastlack Robert K. , Srinivas Ravi , Mundis Gregory M. , Nguyen Stacie , Mummaneni Praveen V. , Okonkwo David O. , Kanter Adam S. , Anand Neel , Park Paul , Nunley Pierce , Uribe Juan S. , Akbarnia Behrooz A. , Chou Dean , Deviren Vedat ,   International Spine Study Group
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

A multicenter retrospective review of an adult spinal deformity database.

Objective:

We aimed to characterize reoperation rates and etiologies of adult spinal deformity surgery with circumferential minimally invasive surgery (cMIS) and hybrid (HYB) techniques.

Methods:

Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, and one of the following: coronal Cobb >20°, sagittal vertical axis >5 cm, pelvic tilt >20°, and pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis >10°. Patients with either cMIS or HYB surgery, ≥3 spinal levels treated with 2-year minimum follow-up were included.

Results:

A total of 133 patients met inclusion for this study (65 HYB and 68 cMIS). Junctional failure (13.8%) was the most common reason for reoperation in the HYB group, while fixation failure was the most common reason in the cMIS group (14.7%). There was a higher incidence of proximal junctional failure (PJF) than distal junctional failure (DJF) within HYB (12.3% vs 3.1%), but no significant differences in PJF or DJF rates when compared to cMIS. Early (<30 days) reoperations were less common (cMIS = 1.5%; HYB = 6.1%) than late (>30 days) reoperations (cMIS = 26.5%; HYB = 27.7%), but early reoperations were more common in the HYB group after propensity matching, largely due to infection rates (10.8% vs 0%, P = .04).

Conclusions:

Adult spinal deformity correction with cMIS and HYB techniques result in overall reoperation rates of 27.9% and 33.8%, respectively, at minimum 2-year follow-up. Junctional failures are more common after HYB approaches, while pseudarthrosis/fixation failures happen more often with cMIS techniques. Early reoperations were less common than later returns to the operating room in both groups, but cMIS demonstrated less risk of infection and early reoperation when compared with the HYB group.
Clinical Outcomes of Cervical Facet Fractures Treated Nonoperatively With Hard Collar or Halo Immobilization
Authors: Pehler Stephen , Jones Ross , Staggers Jackson R. , Antonetti Jonathan , McGwin Gerald , Theiss Steven M.
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Objectives:

To evaluate the rate of nonoperative treatment failure for cervical facet fractures while secondarily validating computed tomography–based criteria proposed by Spector et al for identifying risk of failure of nonoperative management.

Methods:

Single-level or multilevel unilateral cervical facet fractures from 2007 to 2014 were included. Exclusion criteria included spondylolisthesis, dislocated or perched facets, bilateral facet fractures at the same level, floating lateral mass, thoracic or lumbar spine injuries, or spinal cord injury. Patients were placed into 3 groups for evaluation: immediate operative management, successful nonoperative management, and failed nonoperative treatment requiring surgical intervention.

Results:

Eighty-eight patients (106 facets) were included. Twenty-one patients underwent operative treatment with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion or posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion without any failures. Sixty-seven of these patients were treated nonoperatively with either a hard collar (n = 62) or halo vest (n = 5). Eleven patients failed nonoperative treatment (16.4%), all with an absolute fracture height of at least 1 cm and 40% involvement of the absolute height of the lateral mass. Of the 56 patients successfully treated through nonoperative measures, 8 (14.3%) had fracture measurements exceeding both operative parameters.

Conclusion:

We conclude that it is safe and appropriate for patients with unilateral cervical facet fractures to receive a trial period of nonoperative management. However, patients who weigh over 100 kg, have comminuted fractures, or have radiographic measurements outside of the proposed computed tomography criteria for nonoperative treatment should be educated on the risks of treatment failure.
Treatment of the Fractional Curve of Adult Scoliosis With Circumferential Minimally Invasive Surgery Versus Traditional, Open Surgery: An Analysis of Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Chou Dean , Mummaneni Praveen , Anand Neel , Nunley Pierce , La Marca Frank , Fu Kai-Ming , Fessler Richard , Park Paul , Wang Michael , Than Khoi , Nguyen Stacie , Uribe Juan , Zavatsky Joseph , Deviren Vedat , Kanter Adam , Okonkwo David , Eastlack Robert , Mundis Gregory ,   the International Spine Study Group
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective, multicenter review of adult scoliosis patients with minimum 2-year follow-up.

Objective:

Because the fractional curve (FC) of adult scoliosis can cause radiculopathy, we evaluated patients treated with either circumferential minimally invasive surgery (cMIS) or open surgery.

Methods:

A multicenter retrospective adult deformity review was performed. Patients included: age >18 years with FC >10°, ≥3 levels of instrumentation, 2-year follow-up, and one of the following: coronal Cobb angle (CCA) > 20°, pelvic incidence and lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) > 10°, pelvic tilt (PT) > 20°, and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 5 cm.

Results:

The FC was treated in 118 patients, 79 open and 39 cMIS. The FCs had similar coronal Cobb angles preoperative (17° cMIS, 19.6° open) and postoperative (7° cMIS, 8.1° open), but open had more levels treated (12.1 vs 5.7). cMIS patients had greater reduction in VAS leg (6.4 to 1.8) than open (4.3 to 2.5). With propensity matching 40 patients for levels treated (cMIS: 6.6 levels, N = 20; open: 7.3 levels, N = 20), both groups had similar FC correction (18° in both preoperative, 6.9° in cMIS and 8.5° postoperative). Open had more posterior decompressions (80% vs 22.2%, P < .001). Both groups had similar preoperative (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS] leg 6.1 cMIS and 5.4 open) and postoperative (VAS leg 1.6 cMIS and 3.1 open) leg pain. All cMIS patients had interbody grafts; 35% of open did. There was no difference in change of primary CCA, PI-LL, LL, Oswestry Disability Index, or VAS Back.

Conclusion:

Patients’ FCs treated with cMIS had comparable reduction of leg pain compared with those treated with open surgery, despite significantly fewer cMIS patients undergoing direct decompression.
Three-Dimensional Thoracoscopic Surgery for Spine Fractures: A Technical Report With First Results and Experiences
Authors: Smits Arjen J. , Deunk Jaap , Bloemers Frank W.
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

Technical report.

Objectives:

Conventional 2-dimensional (2D) video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) is a technical procedure mainly performed by experienced surgeons. The technique may, however, come with difficulties in hand-eye coordination and estimation of depth. Three-dimensional thoracoscopy can help overcome these difficulties by providing a stereoscopic 3D view. The objective of this study is to report the first experience and results with 3D thoracoscopy for spine surgery in trauma patients.

Methods:

The first 4 patients treated with anterior stabilization for traumatic spine fractures using 3D thoracoscopy in an academic hospital are described. Baseline characteristics, operative time, and blood loss were retrospectively collected. This data is compared with a cohort of patients treated in the same center with the conventional 2D technique. Additionally, the treating surgeons’ and residents’ experience with the technique is described. Surgical equipment consists of 3D compatible video monitors, a videoscope with 2 cameras, and special glasses to be worn by the personnel.

Results:

Four patients were successfully treated using 3D thoracoscopy. Operative time was comparable to that of the conventional 2D technique and less blood loss occurred. No per- or postoperative complications or problems occurred. Per-operative views were of very high quality and provided improved depth perception. Surgeons and residents deemed the technique helpful, especially during technically demanding aspects of the procedure.

Conclusions:

While a shorter learning curve, decreased surgery time, and blood loss have to be proven in future prospective studies, the first experience with 3D-VATS for spine surgery is positive, and future use in minimally invasive spine surgery seems feasible.
Similar radiological results with accelerometer-based navigation versus conventional technique in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Moo Ing How , Chen Jerry Yong Qiang , Chau Dickson Hong Him , Tan See Wei , Lau Adrian Cheng Kiang , Teo Yee Sze
Published: May 2018

Background:

The Zimmer iASSIST system is an accelerometer-based, portable navigation device for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that does not require the use of a large console for alignment feedback as required in computer-assisted surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of the accelerometer-based system in component positioning and overall mechanical alignment.

Methods:

Two groups of 30 patients each with primary osteoarthritis underwent TKA using either conventional method or Zimmer iASSIST navigation in 2013 was retrospectively studied. Patients were matched according to body mass index (BMI), gender and age. A senior arthroplasty surgeon performed all the operation using the same surgical approach. Perioperative and post-operative regimens were the same. All patients had standardized radiographs performed post-operatively to determine the lower limb mechanical alignment and component placement.

Results:

There was no difference between the two groups for age, BMI, gender, side of operated knee and preoperative mechanical axis ( p > 0.05). There was no difference in the proportion of outliers for mechanical axis ( p = 0.38), coronal femoral angle ( p = 0.50), coronal tibia angle ( p = 0.11), sagittal femoral angle ( p = 0.28) and sagittal tibia angle ( p = 0.33). The duration of surgery, post-operative drop in haemoglobin level and transfusion incidence did not show statistically significant differences between the two groups ( p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Our article showed that iASSIST was safe and remains a useful tool to restore mechanical axis. However, our data demonstrated no difference in lower limb alignment and component placement between the TKA that used accelerometer-based system and those that underwent conventional method.
The Role of Meaning in Life for the Quality of Life of Community-Dwelling Chinese Elders With Low Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Chui Raymond Chi-Fai
Published: May 2018

Objectives: There is limited research on the meaning in life among Chinese elders. This study aims to examine the association among functional disabilities, meaning in life, social network, and quality of life in community-dwelling Chinese elders with low socioeconomic status. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was used to collect data from 339 poor community-dwelling Chinese elders aged 60 and above. Results: The results showed that meaning in life and social network were significantly related to quality of life. Moreover, social network was a mediator to the relationship between functional disability and quality of life, and meaning in life was a partial mediator to the relationship between social network and quality of life. Conclusion: Workshops should be organized by the elderly service providers for Chinese elders facing deterioration in health and activity levels to learn to live intentionally and purposefully. A social network among elders should also be fostered in the community.
Who Should Be Deciding What to Be Taught in Schools? Perspectives From Secondary School Teacher Education in Malawi
Authors: Mkandawire Matthews Tiwaone , Maulidi Felix Kondwani , Sitima James , Luo Zubing
Published: May 2018

This study sought to gather perspectives on “who” and “what” should determine choice of the curriculum for secondary school teacher education. Five heads of departments for secondary school teacher education and 3 cohorts of secondary school teacher trainees participated in the study. Findings reveal mixed perspectives on determinants of curriculum choice. However, both sets of respondents agreed that there is need for increased and improved public participation in curriculum development activities. Practical and theoretical implications of the findings are discussed in this report.
Discord in Matrilineality: Insight into the Khasi Society in Meghalaya
Authors: Roy Animesh
Published: May 2018

The matrilineal society of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya is now undergoing a transitional phase, whereby, on the one hand, the government is attempting to destine its traditional political institutions into more efficient instruments of democratic decentralisation, resulting into contradictions over the ‘manoeuver of village-level governance’ between the government and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), and, on the other hand, a section of Khasi men presuming themselves to be deprived of the property rights wanting to be recognised at par with the Khasi women. Given such a situation, this piece of work attempts to analyse the status of both Khasi males and females in terms of their involvement in social, economic and political affairs under matrilineality. It also critically evaluates the fecundity of the Village Administration Bill (VAB) of 2014 keeping a gender perspective in focus. The article, however, argues that despite having claimed to have placed women in higher position than men in the society, the Khasi matrilineality vitriolically relegates the role of women in politics and governance, thus portraying a contradiction. This contradiction even vividly exists in the recent VAB passed by the KHADC. Our primary survey also reflects that the female workforce has mostly established a foothold in the low-profile economic activities while dominance of the male workforce is found in those economic activities that are associated with a higher social status.