bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Abnormal P Terminal Force in Lead V
1
of the ECG in the General Population
Authors: Eranti Antti , Aro Aapo L. , Kerola Tuomas , Anttonen Olli , Rissanen Harri A. , Tikkanen Jani T. , Junttila M. Juhani , Kenttä Tuomas V. , Knekt Paul , Huikuri Heikki V.
Published: November 2014

Background—

Prevalence and prognostic significance of abnormal P terminal force (PTF) in the general population are not known. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of abnormal PTF and to compare clinical outcomes of middle-aged subjects with and without the PTF.

Methods and Results—

The presence of PTF was assessed in a cohort of 10 647 middle-aged subjects (mean age [SD], 44 [8] years; 47.2% female). The subjects were followed 35 to 41 years, and data on mortality and hospitalizations were obtained from national registers. Primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and arrhythmic death. Secondary outcomes were hospitalization because of congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, new onset atrial fibrillation, and stroke. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the risk for death (all-cause), and the Fine and Gray competing risks model was used for other outcomes. The prevalence of PTF 0.04 to 0.049, 0.05 to 0.059, and ≥0.06 mm·s were 4.8%, 1.5%, and 1.2%, respectively. Subjects presenting PTF ≥0.04 mm·s were at increased risk for death, cardiac death, and congestive heart failure, and subjects presenting PTF ≥0.06 mm·s were at increased risk for atrial fibrillation. However, after adjustment for potential confounding factors, an increased risk was observed only for death (hazard ratio, 1.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.45–2.12;
P
<0.001) and atrial fibrillation (hazard ratio, 1.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.34–2.73;
P
<0.001) in subjects presenting PTF ≥0.06 mm·s.

Conclusions—

PTF ≥0.04 mm·s is a relatively common finding in a 12-lead ECG of middle-aged subjects. PTF ≥0.06 mm·s is associated with increased risk for atrial fibrillation and death in the general population.
Isolation of Canine Coronary Sinus Musculature From the Atria by Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation Prevents Induction of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Morita Hiroshi , Zipes Douglas P. , Morita Shiho T. , Wu Jiashin
Published: November 2014

Background—

The junction between the coronary sinus (CS) musculature and both atria contributes to initiation of atrial tachyarrhythmias. The current study investigated the effects of CS isolation from the atria by radiofrequency catheter ablation on the induction and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and Results—

Using an optical mapping system, we mapped action potentials at 256 surface sites in 17 isolated and arterially perfused canine atrial tissues containing the entire musculature of the CS, right atrial septum, posterior left atrium, left inferior pulmonary vein, and vein of Marshal. Rapid pacing from each site before and after addition of acetylcholine (0.5 μmol/L) was applied to induce AF. Epicardial radiofrequency catheter ablation at CS-atrial junctions isolated the CS from the atria. Rapid pacing induced sustained AF in all tissues after acetylcholine. Microreentry within the CS drove AF in 88% of preparations. Reentries associated with the vein of Marshall (29%), CS-atrial junctions (53%), right atrium (65%), and pulmonary vein (76%) (frequently with 2–4 simultaneous circuits) were additional drivers of AF. Radiofrequency catheter ablation eliminated AF in 13 tissues before acetylcholine (
P
<0.01) and in 5 tissues after acetylcholine. Radiofrequency catheter ablation also abbreviated the duration of AF in 12 tissues (
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

CS and its musculature developed unstable reentry and AF, which were prevented by isolation of CS musculature from atrial tissue. The results suggest that CS can be a substrate of recurrent AF in patients after pulmonary vein isolation and that CS isolation might help prevent recurrent AF.
Idiopathic Pericarditis and Pericardial Effusion in Children: Contemporary Epidemiology and Management
Authors: Shakti Divya , Hehn Rebecca , Gauvreau Kimberly , Sundel Robert P. , Newburger Jane W.
Published: November 2014

Background

Multicenter studies on idiopathic or viral pericarditis and pericardial effusion (
PPE
) have not been reported in children. Colchicine use for
PPE
in adults is supported. We explored epidemiology and management for inpatient hospitalizations for
PPE
in
US
children and risk factors for readmission.

Methods and Results

We analyzed patients in the Pediatric Health Information System database for (1) a code for
PPE
; (2) absence of codes for underlying systemic disease (eg, neoplastic, cardiac, rheumatologic, renal); (3) age ≥30 days and <21 years; and (4) discharge between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2012, from 38 hospitals contributing complete data for each year of the study period. Among 11 364 hospitalizations with
PPE
codes during the study period, 543 (4.8%) met entry criteria for idiopathic or viral
PPE
. Significantly more boys were noted, especially among adolescents. No temporal trends were noted. Median age was 14.5 years (interquartile range 7.3 to 16.6 years); 78 patients (14.4%) underwent pericardiocentesis, 13 (2.4%) underwent pericardiotomy, and 11 (2.0%) underwent pericardiectomy; 157 (28.9%) had an intensive care unit stay, including 2.0% with tamponade. Median hospitalization was 3 days (
interquartile range
2 to 4 days). Medications used at initial admission were nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (71.3%), corticosteroids (22.7%), aspirin (7.0%), and colchicine (3.9%). Readmissions within 1 year of initial admission occurred in 46 of 447 patients (10.3%), mostly in the first 3 months. No independent predictors of readmission were noted, but our statistical power was limited. Practice variation was noted in medical management and pericardiocentesis.

Conclusions

Our report provides the first large multicenter description of idiopathic or viral
PPE
in children. Idiopathic or viral
PPE
is most common in male adolescents and is treated infrequently with colchicine.
Synopsis of the Ethmiinae (Lepidoptera, Gelechioidea: Depressariidae) of the Afrotropical Region and descriptions of new species
Authors: Mey Wolfram , Shovkoon Dmitry F.
Published: November 2014

In Africa south of the Sahara 55 valid species of the subfamily Ethmiinae have been recognised to date. These species are listed alphabetically including important synonyms. The country of origin and the depository of the type material are indicated. In this article seven new species are communicated from Kenya, Namibia and South Africa. They are described as Ethmia aberdaresi sp. n., Ethmia anikini sp. n., Ethmia kagamegensis sp. n., Ethmia karasbergensis sp. n., Ethmia kunenica sp. n., Ethmia kuisibi sp. n., and Ethmia fluviatilis sp. n. The adult moths of the new species are illustrated in colour. The male and female genitalia are depicted as black/white photos including line drawings of lateral and dorsal views of male genitalia. The systematic position of the new species is briefly discussed.
Barriers and Facilitators of Pediatric Weight Management Among Diverse Families
Authors: Brown Lauren , Dolisca Sarah-Bianca , Cheng Jennifer K.
Published: November 2014

Objective. To describe barriers and facilitators relevant to pediatric weight management from the perspective of at-risk overweight children and families. Methods. Systematic thematic analysis of semistructured interviews with overweight children and families from diverse backgrounds at a large, urban academic pediatrics practice. Results. Twenty-five parents and their children ages 2 to 18 years with mean body mass index percentile of 96th% (standard deviation 4.3) participated. Fifty-six percent were Black; 40% were Hispanic/Other race. Perceived barriers to successful weight management included ( a) inadequate resources (financial, time, access to programming, knowledge), ( b) challenging social contexts (cultural practices and expectations, interpersonal dynamics), ( c) negative emotional state (lack of confidence, defeat, loneliness), and ( d) denial. Participants described linkages to resources, child–parent—provider partnerships, and consistent support as key elements in successful weight management. Participants also endorsed technology use for weight management support. Conclusions. Multiple barriers and facilitators affect weight management among at-risk families, which should be considered in future obesity interventions.
Why Small States Offer Important Answers to Large Questions
Authors: Veenendaal Wouter P. , Corbett Jack
Published: November 2014

Small states are conspicuously absent from mainstream comparative political science. There are a variety of reasons that underpin their marginal position in the established cannon, including their tiny populations, the fact that they are not considered “real” states, their supposedly insignificant role in international politics, and the absence of data. In this article, we argue that the discipline is much poorer for not seriously utilizing small states as case studies for larger questions. To illustrate this, we consider what the case study literature on politics in small states can offer to debates about democratization and decentralization, and we highlight that the inclusion of small states in various ways augments or challenges the existing literature in these fields. On this basis, we argue that far from being marginal or insignificant, the intellectual payoffs to the discipline of studying small states are potentially enormous, mainly because they have been overlooked for so long.
The Evidence for a Subscore Structure in a Test of English Language Competency for English Language Learners
Authors: Reckase Mark D. , Xu Jing-Ru
Published: November 2014

How to compute and report subscores for a test that was originally designed for reporting scores on a unidimensional scale has been a topic of interest in recent years. In the research reported here, we describe an application of multidimensional item response theory to identify a subscore structure in a test designed for reporting results using a unidimensional scale. This research also dealt with the problem of planned missing data due to low levels of item overlap among multiple test forms. Furthermore, we provided evidence for the generalizability of the multidimensional structure using multiple forms of the same test. We also compared the subscores from multiple groups to show the usefulness of the subscores. The research provides evidence that subscores can be identified and produced to provide useful information about different constructs for multiple examinee groups even though the test data were well fit by a unidimensional model.
Teacher experiences of delivering an obesity prevention programme (The WAVES study intervention) in a primary school setting
Authors: Griffin Tania L , Clarke Joanne L , Lancashire Emma R , Pallan Miranda J , Passmore Sandra , Adab Peymane
Published: November 2014

Objective:

There has been a wealth of childhood obesity prevention studies in school-based settings. However, few have investigated the experiences of school staff charged with delivery of such programmes. This study aimed to elicit teachers’ experiences of delivering a childhood obesity prevention programme for children aged 6–7 years.

Design:

Descriptive-interpretive qualitative study.

Setting:

Primary schools participating in the UK West Midlands ActiVe lifestyle and healthy Eating in School children (WAVES) study.

Method:

In all, 14 teachers were recruited from 12 primary schools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and data analysis was guided by the Framework Approach.

Results:

Teachers recognised the importance of obesity prevention in primary schools. They reported positively on aspects of the intervention, in particular its flexibility and the ready-prepared materials. Time constraints and gaining support of parents were seen as key challenges to intervention delivery.

Conclusions:

Delivering an obesity prevention programme in school is feasible but challenging for teachers. Our findings suggest that to maximise the likelihood of delivery, interventions should be hands-on, easy to manage and flexible to the needs of individual schools. The perceived importance of the promotion of healthy lifestyle behaviours by schools was evident, but teachers felt restricted in the resources that could be devoted to achieve and encourage this. National combined with local level direction and support for healthy lifestyles in children would help schools to give this the priority it requires.
Online social networking in people with psychosis: A systematic review
Authors: Highton-Williamson Elizabeth , Priebe Stefan , Giacco Domenico
Published: November 2014

Background:

Online social networking might facilitate the establishment of social contacts for people with psychosis, who are often socially isolated by the symptoms and consequences of their disorder.

Aims:

We carried out a systematic review exploring available evidence on the use of online social networking in people with psychosis.

Methods:

The review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Included studies examined the use of the online social networking by people with an a priori diagnosis of psychosis (inclusive of bipolar disorder). Data from included studies were extracted and narratively synthesised.

Results:

A total of 11 studies, published between 2005 and 2013, reported data on online social networking in people with psychosis. People with psychosis seem to spend more time in chat rooms or playing online games than control groups. The use of other online tools, such as Facebook or communication through e-mail, is lower or the same than controls. Online social networking was used by patients with psychosis for establishing new relationships, maintaining relationships/reconnecting with people and online peer support.

Conclusion:

Online social networking, in the form of forums or online chats, could play a role in strategies aimed at enhancing social networks and reduce the risk of isolation in this population.
Ebonics, to Be or Not to Be? A Legacy of Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
Authors: Ndemanu Michael Takafor
Published: November 2014

This article discusses the historical underpinnings of Ebonics as a product of linguistic influence of Bantu languages spoken in West Africa today. Many teacher educators preparing White pre-service teachers for linguistic diversity in public schools tend to focus mostly on respecting culturally different students’ home languages without employing historical, lexical, grammatical, and phonological evidence to challenge students’ deficit thinking about Ebonics, which is often associated in the mainstream with a physiological deficiency. Thus, the study uses several Niger-Congo languages to explain the origin of Ebonics and the influences of the Niger-Congo languages on the grammatical and phonological structures of Ebonics, and concludes by defining it as a respectable variety of English with its own sophisticated grammar.
Too Much Information
Authors: Lee E. Bun
Published: November 2014

This article quantifies the heavy use of smartphone and Facebook among African American college students. It examines the major predictors of smartphone and Facebook overuse, including demographic and personality traits. It further explores the effect of heavy utilization of smartphone and Facebook on the academic performance of African American college students. Younger and female users spent significantly more time on their smartphones. However, excessive Facebook use was not related to gender of our participants. In terms of the prevalence rate, about 11% of the sample showed a high level of smartphone addiction and 10% scored a high level of Facebook addiction. Among personality and psychological traits, social interaction anxiety was the most important predictor of heavy utilization of smartphone and Facebook, not extroversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, or conscientiousness. As expected, multitasking was significantly and positively correlated with excessive smartphone and Facebook use. Surprisingly, multitasking behavior and frequent checking of smartphones did not harm academic performance. Possible reasons for the absence of negative effects on grade point average (GPA) are discussed.
Closely Watched Tourism: The Securitate as Warden of Transnational Encounters, 1967–9
Authors: Petrescu Dragoş
Published: November 2014

This article focuses on a particular aspect related to the permeability of the borders of communist Romania during the period 1967–9, that is, the increase in the number of Western citizens visiting Romania, as well as in the number of Romanian citizens travelling to the West. The celebration by the communist regime in Bucharest of International Tourist Year 1967 marked the beginnings of a brief period of increased permeability of communist Romania’s borders. During the same period, the communist authorities learned that a silent opposition to the regime existed as well. Many of those who opposed the regime did not dare to express their discontent publicly. Instead, they decided for the ‘exit’ option, and thus a growing number of Romanian citizens travelling to the West refused to return. Beginning in early 1969, the Securitate devised complex measures to control Western citizens travelling to Romania and to prevent Romanian citizens who travelled to the West from remaining abroad. This paper illustrates the discrepancy between Ceauşescu’s foreign and domestic policy, and contributes to a better understanding of the ‘political mind’ of the Romanian communists during the power-consolidation phase of Ceauşescu’s rule.
Universality Versus Cultural Specificity of Three Emotion Domains
Authors: Shao Bo , Doucet Lorna , Caruso David R.
Published: November 2014

Previous research on culture and emotion questioned whether emotions are universal or culture-specific. However, as it has become clear that emotions have both universal and culture-specific features, recent research has focused on distinguishing the aspects of emotions that are more universal from those that are more culture-specific. We tested the extent to which the three emotion domains in the cascading model of emotional intelligence (emotion perception, emotion understanding, and emotion regulation) are universal versus culture-specific. In the first study, data from China, the United States, Japan, India, and Argentina provided support for our hypotheses that emotion perception is the more universal domain of emotional intelligence, and emotion understanding and emotion regulation are more culture-specific domains. In the second study, the findings were replicated using a larger sample from China and the United States, and we explored specific cultural differences in emotion understanding and emotion regulation. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Sources for Trusting Most People
Authors: Jing Yiming , Bond Michael Harris
Published: November 2014

We proposed a model suggesting how national goals for socializing children moderate the contributions made by the individual’s level of in- and out-group trust to his or her level of trust in most people, namely, non-specific trust. Consistent with our hypotheses, a two-level hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) analysis of representative data across 49 countries from the World Values Survey indicates that the individual’s level of trust in people known personally is a predictor of non-specific trust for persons of all national groups but a stronger predictor in countries emphasizing socialization for Self-directedness as opposed to Other-directedness. The individual’s trust in out-groups is likewise a predictor of non-specific trust for all national groups but a stronger predictor in countries emphasizing socialization for Self-directedness as well as for Civility as opposed to Practicality. Although trust in the family is not a significant predictor of non-specific trust across all national groups, it predicts non-specific trust in those countries characterized by socialization for Self-directedness. Our findings have important implications for the impact of variation in socialization practices for human capital formation and associated management practices across national cultures.
In Memorium
Authors: Schneider Kirk J.
Published: November 2014

This article is a slightly adapted eulogy I was invited to deliver on behalf of my dear friend and mentor, Mark Stern, who died on March 11, 2014. It was delivered on March 22, 2014, at St. Paul’s of the Apostles Chapel, 415 W. 59th St., New York City.
Humanizing the Racialized Self
Authors: Lemberger-Truelove Tamiko L.
Published: November 2014

The aim of this article is to address axioms of humanistic psychology, such as individual meaning-making and authentic personal power, as they are relatable to the experiences of Blacks and other People of Color. The effects of racialization generally preclude these groups of individuals from fully partaking in the entitlements that many Whites inherit at birth. As such, the author suggests a new manner of conceptualizing existentialism and humanistic psychology for the racialized self. The author presents many of the ideological issues in humanistic psychology that could be reconsidered for a deeper relevance to People of Color, with a particular focus on authentic love ideology.
Synthesis of Meaning
Authors: Walmsley Bruce D. , McCormack Lynne
Published: November 2014

A paucity of research explores both negative and positive changes for family members supporting a loved one with dementia, especially when communication by speech and awareness of others diminishes. This qualitative study sought the views of family groups concerning their experiences over the past 10 years supporting a loved one with dementia. A focus group sought negative and positive subjective interpretations of this phenomenon. One superordinate theme: Synthesis of Meaning emerged from the data using interpretative phenomenological analysis. This overarched two subordinate themes: (a) Steps backward—encompassing those times when relatives hovered uncertainly, missed opportunities to engage due to advancing dementia, and felt regret and (b) Steps forward—encompassing moments of unexpected rewards, acceptance, self-forgiveness, and empathic connection with others on a similar journey. This study highlights that although often fraught with distress, positive aspects of the dementia journey are possible and offer opportunity for psychological growth and well-being.
Electromagnetic shielding characterization of conductive woven fabrics produced with silver-containing yarns
Authors: Duran Deniz , Kadoğlu Hüseyin
Published: November 2014

This paper presents a study of the electromagnetic shielding characterization of woven fabrics, produced with two different types of conductive yarns, namely silver-containing (Ag/PA/Co) core yarns and silver-containing (Ag/PA-Co) blended yarns. The effect of various yarn and fabric properties, such as yarn count, core filament count, blend ratio, weft density, electrical resistivity, yarn type and wave frequency, on the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness was investigated. The results have shown that the shielding effectiveness can be tailored by changing the yarn and fabric parameters and also there are significant differences between the electromagnetic shielding characteristics and performances of the fabrics produced with different yarn groups. Such fabrics are future promising for both daily and professional uses, since they combine high shielding effectiveness performance and the comfort properties of conventional fabrics.
The impact of air gap on thermal performance of protective clothing against hot water spray
Authors: Lu Yehu , Song Guowen , Li Jun , Wang Faming
Published: November 2014

The air gap size and distribution developed between clothing and a human body play a critical role in clothing performance, specifically for thermal protective clothing. Hot liquid is considered as one of the common hazards in industrial working environments. In this study, the clothing air layer entrapped between protective clothing and a manikin body was determined using three-dimensional body scanning, and the protective performance provide by the clothing was predicted using an instrumented hot water spray manikin evaluation system. The relationship between the average air gap size and overall protective performance was analyzed. The impact of clothing air gap developed along the human body on predicted burn injury was considered. In addition, the air gap distribution and its relation to skin burn injury were compared for the selected garments. In general, the results indicated that the average air gap size showed positive effects on the overall protective performance. For all body parts except the pelvis, the air gap size presented a significant relationship with the percentage of burn injury. For an individual garment, there was no significant correlation found between the air gap distribution and skin burn injury. The garment with a larger air gap size and minimal air gap changes during hot water spray provided better protective performance. The research findings could provide the technical basis for further development of high performance protective clothing.
Property modification and process parameter optimization design of polylactic acid composite materials Part II: application of response surface methodology and multi-objective particle swarm optimization in the processing of polylactic acid composite fiber
Authors: Kuo Chung-Feng Jeffrey , Lan Wei Lun , Chen Shih Hsiung , Chen Ciou-Yin
Published: November 2014

Two biodegradable polymers (polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS)) were mixed with ultraviolet absorbers and hindered amine light stabilizers to improve the durability of this composite fiber outdoors. Filament was obtained from this composite material under the optimum conditions by using melt spinning to investigate the effects of spinning temperature, spinneret rotation speed and take-up roller speed in the fiber spinning process on the quality characteristics of newly spun threads. The response surface method was used to build a regression model for different quality characteristics. Moreover, multi-objective particle swarm optimization was applied to optimize the model of these quality characteristics and parameter limits. According to experimental validation, the composite material of PLA/PBS was better than the composite material of PLA/polycaprolactone. The denier of the composite fiber obtained under the optimized conditions was 40.07 d, with an increase of 5.3% compared to the denier before optimization. The fiber strength after optimization was 1.69 (g/d), with an increase of 42%. The breaking elongation was 176.04% and increased 27% after optimization. The prediction error rate of an optimum regression model showed that the model has good reproducibility.
Homoscedasticity for defect detection in homogeneous flat surface products
Authors: Raafat Hazem M , Tolba AS
Published: November 2014

Homoscedasticity of homogeneous flat surface products is a necessary condition for a high quality product. The quality of homogeneous flat surface products, like paper sheets, steel slabs, textiles, and glasses, plays a crucial role in raising the profile of the manufacturing companies. This paper presents a new approach for defect detection using the Levene's test, which is used for testing the homogeneity of variances of samples drawn from the same population. It is assumed that the variances of samples taken from the same population are equal. Occurrence of defects results in a Levene's test measure that is higher than some critical value indicating that the null hypothesis of equal variances is rejected. Noise immunity of the proposed technique is ensured through pre-filtering the fabric image using the Wiener filter that is an edge preserving filter. The robustness to variations of the sliding window size and the structures of fabric is analyzed. The major advantages of the proposed technique are the low computational complexity and noise immunity while maintaining high accuracy.
Prediction of hybrid woven fabric electromagnetic shielding effectiveness
Authors: Šafářová Veronika , Tunák Maroš , Militký Jiří
Published: November 2014

This paper deals with experimental verification of numerical models of fabric shielding effectiveness especially via analysis of leakage through the apertures (pores) in the textile structure. Equations for both solid shield and non-compact material were adopted from the literature, whereas an aperture equation based on waveguide conception was used. The experimental sample set was woven fabrics made of hybrid yarns composed of polypropylene fibers with different contents of staple stainless steel metal fibers in their structure. Geometrical characteristics of the aperture structure used for prediction were estimated with the aid of image analysis. Electric conductivity of the hybrid fabric was determined by measuring volume resistivity and plane-wave electromagnetic shielding properties of the sample set were measured by means of the coaxial transmission line method. The effect of metal fiber content on geometrical characteristics (e.g. area of pores, number of pores, cover factor), volume resistivity and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness was investigated. Results obtained by modeling of sample shielding effectiveness and experimental results achieved by measuring of shielding effectiveness were compared and discussed. It was confirmed that electromagnetic shielding effectiveness increased with a higher amount of metal fibers in the hybrid yarn structure. It was verified that the proposed numerical model is usable for predicting electromagnetic shielding effectiveness based on knowledge of dimensions of the structure apertures (pores), thickness of the fabric and volume resistivity of the material.
Analysis of the fitting of patterns of hygiene masks for the closed mouth
Authors: Morishima Mika , Shimizu Yuki , Fujiyama Takimaru , Mitsuno Tamaki
Published: November 2014

A hygiene mask covers the wearer’s nose and mouth to prevent exposure to viruses, pollen, dust, and so on. To produce the anticipated effect of wearing a mask, it is important to develop a mask with high fitting performance while closing and opening the mouth. Moreover, masks are to be used by individuals as well as many users. Therefore, flat patterns for a mask that fits a wider variety of face shapes are needed to effectively accommodate more people. As a first step, in this paper the mean flat pattern for a mask that is appropriate for a greater variety of face shapes with a closed mouth was developed. A three-dimensional (3D) motion analyzer was used with consideration of further research of facial motion. Four kinds of flat patterns of masks of different sizes for the closed mouth were analyzed and proposed. First, confirmation tests of 3D motion analysis were conducted using a basic model. Second, using the data of the basic model and a head mannequin, a geometrical analysis method for two-dimensional (2D) patterns from 3D coordinates using triangular combination was proposed. For evaluation of the analyzed pattern, draping patterns for the basic model were acquired by draping the head mannequin with nonwoven sheets, and the match between the analyzed pattern and the draping patterns was assessed. Moreover, 2D mean patterns derived from the 3D coordinates of 62 subjects were proposed. It was confirmed that the distance difference over the circumference was 0.99 mm with a standard deviation of 5.0 mm.
Big Data in the Public Sector: Lessons for Practitioners and Scholars
Authors: Desouza Kevin C. , Jacob Benoy
Published: November 2014

In this essay, we consider the role of Big Data in the public sector. Motivating our work is the recognition that Big Data is still in its infancy and many important questions regarding the true value of Big Data remain unanswered. The question we consider is as follows: What are the limits, or potential, of Big Data in the public sector? By reviewing the literature and summarizing insights from a series of interviews from public sector Chief Information Officers (CIOs), we offer a scholarly foundation for both practitioners and researchers interested in understanding Big Data in the public sector.
The State of Network Research in Public Administration
Authors: Kapucu Naim , Hu Qian , Khosa Sana
Published: November 2014

The wide use of networks warrants a closer examination of network research in public administration. This article focuses on the methodological issues of network research and examines how social network analysis has been used and can be used to advance network research in public administration. Through a content analysis of 81 network articles, we found that the topics examined through network analysis have become more diverse in recent years. Yet relatively few articles have examined the intersection of policy networks, governance networks, and collaborative networks. The field needs more mixed-methods research designs and more research on the substructures of networks and multilevel networks.
Electronic Surveillance at Work
Authors: West Jonathan P. , Bowman James S.
Published: November 2014

This study examines electronic surveillance in the workplace, by asking, “Are such practices ethical?” To address this question, classical philosophical and modern psychological approaches to ethics are used. The inquiry begins with the importance of the problem, followed by its evolution and current status. After describing the method of analysis, the article analyzes arguments for and against surveillance. Although there are no easy answers, the “Discussion” section provides a synthesis of the findings and recommendations for best practice. The conclusion summarizes the study, notes its limitations, and offers ideas for future research.
Validity of a Claims-Based Diagnosis of Obesity Among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Lloyd Jennifer T. , Blackwell Steve A. , Wei Iris I. , Howell Benjamin L. , Shrank William H.
Published: November 2014

Population-level data on obesity are difficult to obtain. Claims-based data sets are useful for studying public health at a population level but lack physical measurements. The objective of this study was to determine the validity of a claims-based measure of obesity compared to obesity diagnosed with clinical data as well as the validity among older adults who suffer from chronic disease. This study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004 for adults aged ≥65 successfully linked to 1999–2007 Medicare claims ( N = 3,554). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, κ statistics as well as logistic regression analyses were computed for the claims-based diagnosis of obesity versus obesity diagnosed with body mass index. The claims-based diagnosis of obesity underestimates the true prevalence in the older Medicare population with a low sensitivity (18.4%). However, this method has a high specificity (97.3%) and is accurate when it is present. Sensitivity was improved when comparing the claim-based diagnosis to Class II obesity (34.2%) and when used in combination with chronic conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or depression. Understanding the validity of a claims-based obesity diagnosis could aid researchers in understanding the feasibility of conducting research on obesity using claims data.
Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Aung Eindra , Ostini Remo , Dower Jo , Donald Maria , Coll Joseph R. , Williams Gail M. , Doi Suhail A. R.
Published: November 2014

The Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) was designed to measure care congruent with several elements of the chronic care model (CCM), including self-management support and delivery system design. However, support for the a priori 5-subscale structure of the PACIC in previous research has been conflicting. Thus, we aim to investigate psychometric characteristics of the PACIC including the content and stability of its construct over time. A population-based prospective cohort study of patients with type 2 diabetes was conducted in Queensland, Australia, from 2008 ( N = 3,761) to 2010 ( N = 3,040). Participants completed annually the 20-item PACIC as well as measures of providers’ adherence to guideline-recommended self-management support activities. We used exploratory factor analysis to determine its factor structure and examined internal consistency as well as agreement between the PACIC at baseline with repeated measurements at follow-up after 1 and 2 years. We also determined a criterion-related validity using multinomial logistic regression to explore PACIC’s association with providers’ self-management support. A one-factor structure was deemed optimal according to our findings. High internal consistency and moderate agreement within the scales over time were observed. Higher PACIC scores predicted better providers’ self-management support. In conclusion, the PACIC is a reliable, valid, and reproducible instrument for assessment of diabetes care, and we recommend its promotion and use as a single scale rather than subscales as originally proposed.
Experiences With Discrimination and Depression
Authors: Banerjee Meeta , Meyer Rika M. L. , Rowley Stephanie J.
Published: November 2014

Racial discrimination has been negatively linked to mental health in African Americans, but less is known about how it may affect parents’ academic efficacy. This study examined the direct and indirect relationships between racial discrimination, depressive symptomatology, and academic efficacy in African American mothers. Seventy-six African American mothers were surveyed just before their children began first grade and again during the spring of first grade. Mothers reported on their experiences with racial discrimination, depressive symptomatology, and academic efficacy. Academic efficacy was operationalized in three different ways: the mother’s efficacy to help with homework, efficacy to help the child succeed in school, and her belief in her child’s efficacy to complete homework. Hierarchical regressions were conducted to investigate these relationships. Findings show that maternal depressive symptomatology mediates the relationship between racial discrimination and parental academic efficacy. The implications for assessing discrimination and depression as it relates to academic efficacy are discussed.
Critical Neuroscience and Socially Extended Minds
Authors: Slaby Jan , Gallagher Shaun
Published: November 2014

The concept of a socially extended mind suggests that our cognitive processes are extended not simply by the various tools and technologies we use, but by other minds in our intersubjective interactions and, more systematically, by institutions that, like tools and technologies, enable and sometimes constitute our cognitive processes. In this article we explore the potential of this concept to facilitate the development of a critical neuroscience. We explicate the concept of cognitive institution and suggest that science itself is a good example. Science, through various practices and rules, shapes our cognitive activity so as to constitute a certain type of knowledge, packaged with relevant skills and techniques. To develop this example, we focus on neuroscience, its cultural impact, and the various institutional entanglements that complicate its influence on reframing conceptions of self and subjectivity, and on defining what questions count as important and what kind of answers will be valued.
Cardiopulmonary bypass considerations for pediatric patients on the ketogenic diet
Authors: Melchior RW , Dreher M , Ramsey E , Savoca M , Rosenthal T
Published: November 2014

Background:

There is a population of children with epilepsy that is refractory to anti-epileptic drugs. The ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate regimen, is one alternative treatment to decrease seizure activity. Special considerations are required for patients on the ketogenic diet undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to prevent exposure to glucose substrates that could alter ketosis, increasing the risk of recurrent seizures.

Case Study:

A 2-year-old, 9 kilogram male with a history of infantile spasms with intractable epilepsy, trisomy 21 status post tetralogy of Fallot repair, presented to the cardiac operating room for closure of a residual atrial septal defect. All disciplines of the surgical case minimized the use of carbohydrate-containing and contraindicated medications. Changes to the standard protocol and metabolic monitoring ensured the patient maintained ketosis.

Discussion:

All disciplines within cardiac surgery need to be cognizant of patients on the ketogenic diet and prepare a modified protocol. Future monitoring considerations include thromboelastography, electroencephalography and continuous glucose measurement. Key areas of focus with this patient population in the cardiac surgical theater are to maintain a multidisciplinary approach, alter the required CPB prime components, address cardiac pharmacological concerns and limit any abnormal hematological occurrences.
Comparison of occupation-based and impairment-based occupational therapy for subacute stroke: a randomized controlled feasibility study
Authors: Tomori Kounosuke , Nagayama Hirofumi , Ohno Kanta , Nagatani Ryutaro , Saito Yuki , Takahashi Kayoko , Sawada Tatsunori , Higashi Toshio
Published: November 2014

Objective:

To compare occupation-based and impairment-based approaches in occupational therapy and determine the feasibility of patient recruitment and retention.

Design:

A multicenter, randomized, controlled pilot trial with a single blind assessor.

Setting:

Ten subacute rehabilitation units in Japan.

Participants:

Fifty-four patients with subacute stroke.

Interventions:

The experimental group used the iPad application, Aid for Decision-making in Occupation Choice, to establish occupation-based goals, and evaluation and intervention were conducted mainly through real occupations. The control group was evaluated according to patients’ generic abilities and activities of daily living (ADL), and the intervention mainly involved the impairment-based approach.

Main outcome measures:

Short Form-36, Functional Independence Measure, Brunnstrom recovery stages, The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire, and length of hospital stay.

Results:

Of the 1465 potential participants, 54 (3%) subacute stroke patients were enrolled over 16 months and 68% ( n = 36) were retained to the 2-month assessment: experimental group ( n = 16); control group ( n = 21). Although there was no significant intergroup difference for any outcomes, the experimental group had a small effect size advantage on the Short Form-36 “General health” ( d = 0.42) and “Role emotional” ( d = 0.43) subscales relative to the control group. A sample of 118 subacute stroke patients per group would be required for a lager study.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that the occupation-based approach has more potential to improve “General health” and “Role emotional” scores on the Short Form-36 than the impairment-based approach. Further investigation of study protocol with interventions and recruiting is needed prior to a larger trial.
Effect of surgical decompression of nerves in the lower extremity in patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy on stability: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Macaré van Maurik Joanne FM , ter Horst Britt , van Hal Mireille , Kon Moshe , Peters Edgar JG
Published: November 2014

Objective:

To investigate the effect of decompression of nerves in the lower extremity in patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy on static balance using a sensitive pressure mat system.

Design:

Non-blinded randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Single center study performed at the University Medical Center Utrecht between 2010-2013.

Subjects:

Patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy assessed with the Diabetic Neuropathy Symptom score and Diabetic Neuropathy Examination between 18-90 years. Exclusion criteria were: physical problems leading to instability, BMI>35 kg/m2, ankle fractures in history, amputations proximal to the tarsometatarsal joints, active foot ulcer(s), severe occlusive peripheral vascular diseases.

Intervention:

Unilateral surgical nerve decompression at four sites in the lower extremity, the contralateral limb was used as control (within-patient comparison), with one year follow-up.

Main measures:

Preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively, weight bearing and five variables of sway of the center of pressure were measured with a pressure mat with eyes open and eyes closed. T-test was used for evaluation of postoperative results.

Results:

Thirty-nine Patients met inclusion criteria and were enrolled for stability testing. Postoperatively no significant differences for sway variables and weight bearing were seen compared to preoperatively measurements.

Conclusions:

There is no evidence that surgical decompression of nerves of the lower extremity influences stability within one year after surgery in patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy.
Interactions between riparian vegetation and fluvial processes within tropical Southeast Asia
Authors: Moggridge Helen L. , Higgitt David L.
Published: November 2014

Research on the interaction between vegetation and hydrological and geomorphological processes has made a significant advancement in river and floodplain research. While this work is strongly dominated, both conceptually and empirically, from studies in northern temperate systems, it has been instrumental in shaping understanding at a global scale. There are, however, regions of the world such as tropical Southeast Asia which have received relatively little research attention, but could offer an important contribution to knowledge in this field. In a first step to address this issue, this paper synthesizes current research on vegetation and geomorphology and hydrology within tropical Southeast Asia, to consider the applicability of current (temperate-based) models and the potential contribution that processes within these systems could make to global understanding. While research within the region is sparse, observations suggest a reciprocal relationship between vegetation and fluvial processes. While there are some synergies with temperate systems, processes within this region also present interesting differences which could, with further investigation, advance current understanding of these processes globally and expand and enhance current concepts. The paper concludes with the identification of the pertinent research questions for the field within the region.
Social Network and Nutritional Value of Congregate Meal Programs
Authors: Porter Kristen , Keary Sara , VanWagenen Aimee , Bradford Judith
Published: November 2014

This study explored the associations between sexual orientation and the perceived social network and nutritional value of congregate meal programs (CMPs) in Massachusetts ( N = 289). Descriptives, t tests, and chi-square tests analyzed sexual orientation differences. Linear regression tested the effects of sexual orientation on the value of CMPs. Sexual minorities (SMs) were more likely to have non-kin-based social networks and reported higher levels of loneliness compared with heterosexuals. Heterosexuals, fewer of whom have non-kin-based networks, place a stronger value on access to a social network via CMPs. Nutritional value is important for people of all sexual orientations. SMs traveled seven times the distance to attend CMPs, highlighting the need for greater access to such sites. Results of this study support the specification of SMs as a population of “greatest social need” under the Older Americans Act and the expansion of services that are tailored for their social support needs.