bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The failure of a new form of employee representation: Polish works councils in comparative perspective
Authors: Skorupińska Katarzyna
Published: July 2017

Works councils were introduced in Poland in 2006, changing the system of employee representation from a single-channel model to a dual-channel model. However, they have not succeeded in promoting social dialogue and creating a strong institution for employee participation. I draw on a quantitative study to analyse why their role in Polish industrial relations is so marginal. I focus on the relationship between trade unions and the new ‘democratic’ councils and information and consultation process itself.
‘Unsafe Convictions’: ‘Unhappy’ Confessions in The Crucible
Authors: Lowe Valerie
Published: July 2017

This article examines the speech act of confession in Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, and the differing conditions under which the act occurs. By examining the confession of a black female slave which is pivotal to the plot of the play, I will argue that under Austin's rules for ‘happy’ performatives the confession is void, and that the social status of the individuals involved affects the constitutive rules governing the act of confession itself.
Company Culture: The Relationship of Organizational Values to Business Excellence
Authors: Hooper M.J. , Pye T.
Published: July 2017

This paper reports on the implementation of a methodology for detailing organizational values and measuring their influence on organizational performance. The work takes a grounded approach based on a large corpus of mission statements, which have been shown to be an authentic source of organizational values. A link is made between the mesh of values through an organization and the resulting world-class performance using a methodology that comprises benchmaking and values assessment. The framework developed in the paper is an attempt to map and develop the associations of individuals within the organizations.
Factors and Consequences of Home Deliveries: A Study in Rural Karnataka
Authors: Mutharayappa K. , Prabhuswamy P.
Published: July 2017

The main focus of this paper is to understand the factors influencing the place of delivery, and why women preferring home deliveries in rural areas though a large number of health institutions such as subcentres, primary health centres and community health centres exists. To highlight these dimensions a study was conducted in three districts of Karnataka state. The respondents for the study were women who had had at least one child during last three years. The study finds that though primary health care services have expanded in recent years, deliveries conducted in health institutions or deliveries assisted by trained personnel are very few. Over half the deliveries are unsafe. Several factors have contributed to this phenomenon. They are: time of delivery, illiteracy, economic conditions of women, customs of natal home, transportation and place of stay of health workers. Moreover, most health centres do not have women medical officers in position, and the lack of staff and inadequate facilities at subcentres and hospitals is an important factor as well. Nearly half the infants died due to maternal causes among women who had deliveries at home. The causes of infant death are: premature delivery, infection in the umbilical cord, being accidentally hit on the head while delivery, breach presentation, severe anaemia of mother, etc. These problems could be easily solved if women are provided with good antenatal services, adequate rest and nutrition during pregnancy and counselled to deliver at health institution. Therefore, one has to promote institutional deliveries to reduce perinatal and neonatal mortality rate. Also there is need to strengthen the dai training programme as a traditional dai would be easily accessible to women in rural areas.
Health Care Expenditure of Coal Mine Workers: A Case Study in West Bengal
Authors: Sarkar Debasish , Bhattacharya Rabindra N. , Kanjilal Barun , Husain Zakir
Published: July 2017

In recent years attention has been increasingly drawn to environmental problems caused by industrial and consumption activities. While theoretical and empirical literature has focused on mainly externalities generated by such activities, the effects of production on the workers may also be significant. Such health hazards are prominent in labour-intensive industries like gem cutting, limestone and mining. In this paper the focus is on the coal industry. The nature of coal mining is such that one would expect that the workers engaged in the mining process suffer from various ailments. This paper seeks to examine the magnitude of the burden in terms of health care expenditure caused by such hazards. The authors also seek to identify the factors determining the health care expenditure on workers. The work is based on a survey of three coal mines (using three different types of extraction technologies) in the state of West Bengal, India.
Financial Inclusion : African Scenario
Authors: Sankaramuthukumar S. , Alamelu K.
Published: July 2017

This paper attempts to study the extent of financial inclusion in Africa with Financial Inclusion Index (FII). The two-dimensions on which FII was measured are financial access index and financial usage index. This study was conducted on the backdrop of the absence of such an index for the African continent. The data for this study was taken from the Financial Access Survey of the International Monetary Fund. The region-wise analysis of financial inclusion index shows that the northern African countries are sound in financial inclusion followed by the east African countries, which are considered as the poorest economies of the world. The study proves the direct relationship between financial access and financial usage. The study concludes that the financial inclusion is very low in major parts of Africa, since 84 percent of the total sample countries fall in the Low Financial Inclusion category. It is suggested the financial products have four critical elements, viz. convenience, reliability, flexibility and continuity in order to achieve greater financial inclusion in Africa.
Political Mobilisation and Rise of the Culture of Violence in South Africa Exploring the Root Causes
Authors: Pandey Vimal Nayan
Published: July 2017

The decade leading up to South Africa’s first universal democratic elections in April 1994 was characterised by increasing violence. A systematic study of South Africa’s current history reveals that the government’s repressive policies during apartheid and the political rivalry among different political parties notably ANC and IFP during transition, had provided a fertile ground for the emergence of the culture of violence. In fact, this culture of violence continues to persist in post-apartheid South Africa even after almost two decades of rule of the democratic government. Moreover, high levels of corruption and links between criminal gangs and government officials in the post-apartheid period has worsened the condition in South Africa. This article is an attempt to explore the root cause of violence in South Africa and to find out government’s links, if any, with such violence during apartheid, transition and the post-apartheid period. Besides, the article examines the changing patterns of violence and public perceptions in South Africa after the end of apartheid.
Oncogene mutation profile predicts tumor regression and survival in locally advanced rectal cancer patients treated with preoperative chemoradiotherapy and radical surgery
Authors: Peng Jianhong , Lin Junzhong , Qiu Miaozhen , Zhao Yujie , Deng Yuxiang , Shao Jianyong , Ding Peirong , Zhang Huizhong , Wan Desen , Lu Zhenhai , Pan Zhizhong
Published: July 2017

Tumor response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy and postoperative survival differs among patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. The objective was to find correlations of mutated oncogenes and clinical outcomes in locally advanced rectal cancer. A total of 70 patients with preoperative preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by radical surgery at a single cancer center between 2006 and 2012 were enrolled. Pretreatment tumor biopsy samples were assayed for 238 mutation hotspots harboring 19 oncogenes by time-of-flight mass spectrometry and OncoCarta Array. Oncogene mutations were found in 48.6% of patients (34/70). KRAS was the most frequent driver mutation, found in 35.7% of patients (25/70), followed by PIK3CA (14.3%), NRAS (5.7%), FLT3 (2.9%), and BRAF (1.4%). Multiple gene mutations were observed in eight patients (11.4%). Tumors with KRAS mutations responded poorly to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.044). Patients with oncogene mutations had worse 3-year disease-free survival than those without mutations (67.2% vs 94.2%, p = 0.010). Patients with KRAS or RAS mutations had lower 3-year disease-free survival (68% vs 88.3%, p = 0.016; 65.5% vs 92.3%, p = 0.004, respectively) and 3-year overall survival (88% vs 95.4%, p = 0.020; 89.7% vs 94.9%, p = 0.036, respectively) than those without KRAS or RAS mutations. Oncogene mutation status affected tumor response to treatment and long-term survival in locally advanced rectal cancer.
Identification and prognostic value of anterior gradient protein 2 expression in breast cancer based on tissue microarray
Authors: Guo Jilong , Gong Guohua , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2017

Breast cancer has attracted substantial attention as one of the major cancers causing death in women. It is crucial to find potential biomarkers of prognostic value in breast cancer. In this study, the expression pattern of anterior gradient protein 2 in breast cancer was identified based on the main molecular subgroups. Through analysis of 69 samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, we found that anterior gradient protein 2 expression was significantly higher in non–triple-negative breast cancer tissues compared with normal tissues and triple-negative breast cancer tissues (p < 0.05). The data from a total of 622 patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas were analysed. The data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and results from quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction also verified the anterior gradient protein 2 expression pattern. Furthermore, we performed immunohistochemical analysis. The quantification results revealed that anterior gradient protein 2 is highly expressed in non–triple-negative breast cancer (grade 3 excluded) and grade 1 + 2 (triple-negative breast cancer excluded) tumours compared with normal tissues. Anterior gradient protein 2 was significantly highly expressed in non–triple-negative breast cancer (grade 3 excluded) and non–triple-negative breast cancer tissues compared with triple-negative breast cancer tissues (p < 0.01). In addition, anterior gradient protein 2 was significantly highly expressed in grade 1 + 2 (triple-negative breast cancer excluded) and grade 1 + 2 tissues compared with grade 3 tissues (p < 0.05). Analysis by Fisher’s exact test revealed that anterior gradient protein 2 expression was significantly associated with histologic type, histological grade, oestrogen status and progesterone status. Univariate analysis of clinicopathological variables showed that anterior gradient protein 2 expression, tumour size and lymph node status were significantly correlated with overall survival in patients with grade 1 and 2 tumours. Cox multivariate analysis revealed anterior gradient protein 2 as a putative independent indicator of unfavourable outcomes (p = 0.031). All these data clearly showed that anterior gradient protein 2 is highly expressed in breast cancer and can be regarded as a putative biomarker for breast cancer prognosis.
Satisfaction and Struggles: Family Perceptions of Early Intervention Services
Authors: McWilliam R.A. , Lang Linda , Vandiviere Pat , Angell Robbie , Collins Laurie , Underdown Gayle
Published: July 2017

This study was commissioned by the North Carolina Interagency Coordinating Council (NC-ICC) at the request of its Children and Families Committee. The views expressed in this article are not necessarily those of the NC-ICC. We thank Lynn Curkin, Doris Cothard, and Susan Robinson (fellow members, with the authors, of the Children and Families Committee) for their contributions to the design of the study and creation of the questionnaire. Thanks are also extended to Ron Craig and Bill Parise for quantitative data analysis, to Wayde Johnson, Karen Applequist, Lisa Clifton, and Craig Pohlman for qualitative analyses, to Cayle Underdown and Gladys Whitehouse for conducting the interviews, to Cina Walker for graphics, and to Duncan Munn for contributing to the questionnaire. We are most grateful to the families who took the time to participate; many of them wrote long answers to the open-ended questions. Appreciation is extended to the direct-service professionals who distributed the questionnaires and followed up with families. Finally, special thanks are due to the six families who allowed us to interview them.

One method of evaluating early intervention services is to ask its consumers. The mixed-method approach in this study involved a written survey (quantitative) and in-depth, semi-structured interviews (qualitative). The survey was completed by 539 parents of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers receiving any type of early intervention service. Results showed overwhelming satisfaction with most services, but some concerns were noted in the choices of available mainstreaming options. Interviews showed that families ascribed most of their positive experiences to the supportive behaviors of individual professionals. Bad experiences were most often related to difficulties in finding out about, getting, and monitoring services. Families spent much time and energy in securing more services, particularly therapies, for their children. The discussion focuses on implications for family-centered services and for providing specialized services.
Primary CNS Nonamyloidogenic Light Chain Deposition Disease: Case Report and Brief Review
Authors: Mercado Juan Jose , Markert James M. , Meador William , Chapman Philip , Perry Arie , Hackney James R.
Published: July 2017

The true incidence of light chain deposition disease (LCDD) restricted to the central nervous system (CNS) is unknown. To our knowledge only 7 cases of LCDD restricted to the brain have been previously reported. We herein describe an unusual example. A 44-year-old man presented with a history of ischemic retinopathy in 2004 and left lower extremity hypoesthesia in 2007 that progressed gradually to left-sided weakness and numbness in the 2 years prior to his hospitalization in 2015. A stereotactic brain biopsy was performed, displaying nonspecific hyaline deposits of amorphous “amyloid-like” material involving deep brain white matter and vessels. These were Congo red negative and were accompanied by a sparse lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. Plasma cells demonstrated kappa light chain class restriction by chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH). There was patchy reactivity with kappa immunohistochemistry in the amorphous deposits. A diagnosis of light chain deposition disease was made. Subsequent systemic myeloma and lymphoma workups were negative. Previously reported cases have included men and women, spanning the ages of 19 and 72 years, often presenting with hemiparesis, hypoesthesia, or seizures. Deposits have been reported in the cerebrum and cerebellum. T2/FLAIR (fluid attenuation inversion recovery) changes are usual, but lesions may or may not produce contrast enhancement. The light chain deposition may be of kappa or lambda class. Most lesions have been accompanied by local lymphoid and/or plasma cell infiltrates exhibiting light chain restriction of the same class as the deposits. In summary, LCDD limited to the CNS is a rare lesion consisting of deposition of amyloid-like, but Congo red–negative monotypic light chain usually produced by local lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates.
How to be a Gifted Parent in School
Authors: Ginsberg Gina
Published: July 2017

Gifted children learn earlier, better, faster, and often differently from most other children, and because of these differences they have special learning needs. This article attempts to suggest to parents ways of working with schools toward meeting these special needs.
To Parents…(With Love)
Authors: Riggs Gina Ginsberg
Published: July 2017

This article is written for the ultimate expert on the gifted child: you, the parent. After all, you know him longer than anybody, and you know him best. You may not be an authority on education of the gifted, but you are the leading expert on your own child; nobody else can make that claim.

Listen politely, but ignore the well-meaning neighbor who thinks that your child must skip herself out of age mates and suitable friends in order to survive in school. You don't have to believe blindly every self-styled expert on gifted children you talk to. Take with a grain of salt the concerned professional who predicts failure for your child in public school and recommends placement in a private school for gifted children. A psychologist in one of the most respected universities in the country laid this on me after testing my five-year-old. I spent a whole year, looking for a non-existent school that we could not have afforded anyway. Maybe my children did not learn all they could in public school (does anybody?), but learn they did, and they went on to the colleges of their choice and productive young adulthood. Listen carefully to your child's teacher because your child in school may not be the one you know at home, and that makes for useful information. But use your own good instincts and gut feelings to decide for yourself what will best help your child become, to quote the late Dr. Elizabeth Drews, more fully human.

So, dear authority on your child, look critically at the suggestions that follow and decide for yourself if they apply to your family. I hope they will be helpful to you because it is not easy to be the parent of a gifted child. But even if they are not applicable, I hope that your evaluation of my suggestions will help you arrive at your own solutions, because you should remember: You know best.
Insight into Eminence
Authors: Fairweather Thomas
Published: July 2017

Examining the biographies of eminent men and women has long been a research technique utilized by educators and is effectively applied in many current gifted teacher graduate programs. The purpose of this article is to explain how teachers and parents can apply the same technique to help gifted students correlate their character traits with those displayed by eminent individuals when they were children.
Gifted and Talented Black Children Identifying Diamonds in the Rough
Authors: Ford Donna Y. , Harris J. John
Published: July 2017

Giftedness is not something we invent, not something we discover. It is what one society or another wants it to be (Sternberg & Davidson, 1986, p.3).
Corporate Integrity Plan: Are You Ready If the Feds Come Calling?
Authors: Morgan Kathy J. , Miscall Patricia A.
Published: July 2017

The Office of the Inspector General is increasing its antifraud strategies. Operation Restore Trust surveys have already resulted in millions of dollars in criminal fines and settlements. No home care organization is immune. Sanctions, criminal sentences, and penalties may be lessened if a home care organization enacts a corporate integrity (compliance) plan. This article addresses federal laws that describe fraud and abuse initiatives in home care and guidelines for corporate integrity plans. Key elements of such a plan are presented. The article will assist all home care organizations in understanding the importance and development of a corporate integrity plan.
Subchronic Neurotoxicity of Oil Formulations Containing Either Tricresyl Phosphate or Tri-Orthocresyl Phosphate
Authors: Freudenthal Ralph I. , Rausch Louette , Gerhart James M. , Barth Mary L. , Mackerer Carl R. , Bisinger Edwin C.
Published: July 2017

This study was conducted to determine the threshold concentration of tricresyl phosphate (TCP) in aviation engine oil able to cause delayed peripheral neuropathy in adult hens after repeated exposure. The study also evaluated the predictive value of endpoints usually used to measure acute peripheral neurotoxicity (neurotoxic esterase [NTE] inhibition, ataxia, and histopathologic changes), as measures of neurotoxicity in a subchronic study. Animals that received oil containing 3% TCP showed significant neurotoxicity that could not be accounted for by the small amount of TOCP present. Oil containing 1% TCP was without neurotoxic activity. There was an excellent correlation between percentage inhibition of NTE and development of neuropathy. An association was also seen for ataxia and neuropathology. Further study is needed to determine the phosphate ester isomers responsible for the significant neurotoxic potency demonstrated by the aviation engine oil containing 3% TCP.
Scala: A Performance System for Scalable Computing
Authors: Sun Xian-He , Fahringer Thomas , Pantano Mario
Published: July 2017

Lack of effective performance-evaluation environments is a major barrier to the broader use of high performance computing. Conventional performance environments are based on profiling and event instrumentation. It becomes problematic as parallel systems scale to hundreds of nodes and beyond. A framework of developing an integrated performance modeling and prediction system, SCALability Analyzer (SCALA), is presented in this study. In contrast to existing performance tools, the program performance model generated by SCALA is based on scalability analysis. SCALA assumes the availability of modern compiler technology, adopts statistical and symbolic methodologies, and has the support of browser interface. These technologies, together with anew approach of scalability analysis, enable SCALA to provide the user with a more intuitive level of performance analysis for scalable computing. A prototype SCALA system has been implemented. Initial experimental results show that SCALA is unique in its ability of revealing the scaling properties of a computing system.
Safety of Efalizumab in Patients with Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: Review of Clinical Data. Part II
Authors: Papp Kim A. , Camisa Charles , Stone Stephen P. , Caro Ivor , Wang Xiaolin , Compton Peter , Walicke Patricia A. , Gottlieb Alice B.
Published: July 2017

Background:

The efficacy and safety of efalizumab have been evaluated in multiple clinical trials. ObjectiveThe purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the safety profile of efalizumab during the clinical trials.

Methods:

Twelve-week data from four placebo-controlled trials were pooled and analyzed. Data from patients receiving 13—60 weeks of efalizumab therapy were pooled to evaluate longer-term safety.

Results:

The most common adverse events were mild to moderate, self-limiting, flulike symptoms that were most frequent following the first two efalizumab doses; by the third dose the incidence was comparable to placebo. Serious adverse events were observed in 2.2% and 1.7% of efalizumab- and placebo-treated patients, respectively. Nonserious adverse events leading to withdrawal were infrequent and similar to placebo (2.8% vs 1.8%). There does not appear to be increased risk of end-organ toxicity, infection, or malignancy in efalizumab-treated patients.

Conclusion:

Efalizumab was well tolerated, with a favorable safety profile.
Multiple Cutaneous and Uterine Leiomyomas Associated with Gastric Gist
Authors: Lamba Manisha , Verma Shailendra , Prokopetz Robert , Pierscianowski Tadeusz A. , Jabi Maha , Moyana Terence
Published: July 2017

Background:

There are a number of reports documenting familial cases of leiomyomatosis cutis associated with uterine leiomyomata. However, to our knowledge, the association of gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) with this entity has not as yet been reported. We report an interesting case of cutaneous leiomyomatosis, metachronous uterine leiomyomata, and a gastric GIST in a 43-year-old woman.

Observation:

The patient had previously undergone two separate uterine myomectomies at ages 25 and 26 years, respectively, followed by a hysterectomy at 27 years. At 36 years she underwent partial gastrectomy for excision of GIST and this was followed by the development of extensive, symptomatic cutaneous leiomyomata at 43 years. In the report, we have documented histological, immunohistochemical and clinical observations and furthermore report on the therapeutic measures undertaken.

Conclusion:

We report an interesting association of cutaneous leiomyomatosis, uterine leiomyomas and GIST.
Imipramine-Induced Facial Pigmentation: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Metelitsa Andrei I. , Nguyen Gia-Khanh , Lin Andrew N.
Published: July 2017

Background:

Patients who present with facial pigmentation can be a diagnostic challenge. ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to discuss the diagnosis and management of imipramine-induced facial pigmentation.

Methods:

We describe a patient with facial pigmentation of 26 years' duration that was associated with imipramine treatment for depression. We discuss light and election microscopic findings and review 11 previously reported cases of imipramine-induced skin pigmentation.

Results:

Examination showed blue-gray facial pigmentation. Light microscopy showed perivascular pigment granule deposits in the upper dermis that stained positively with Fontana–Masson stain and negatively with Prussian blue stain. Electron microscopy showed electron-dense bodies within histiocytes without clearly identifiable melanin granules, consistent with drug-induced pigmentation. Six weeks after switching to sertraline the patient reported a slight improvement of her cutaneous pigmentation.

Conclusion:

Imipramine is a rare cause of gray-blue facial pigmentation. Light microscopy consistently shows granular dermal deposits that stain positively with Fontana-Masson stain but negatively with iron stain.
Understanding the Emerging Contemporary Public Intellectual: Online Academic Persona and The Conversation
Authors: Marshall P. David
Published: July 2017

At its core, the power of the public intellectual is the capacity to make ideas move through a culture. This article looks at what kind of academic persona – that is, what kind of public self whose original status comes from intellectual work and thinking – navigates effectively through online culture and communicates ideas in the contemporary moment. Part of the article reports on a research project that has studied academic personas online and explores what can be described as ‘registers of online performance’ that they inhabit through their online selves. The research reveals that public intellectuals have to interpret effectively that online culture privileges what is identified as ‘presentational media’: the individual as opposed to the media is the channel through which information moves and is exchanged online, and it is essentially a presentation of the self that has to be integrated into the ideas and messages. From this initial analysis/categorisation of academic persona online, the article investigates the online magazine The Conversation, which blends journalism with academic expertise in its production of news stories. The article concludes with some of the key elements that are part of the power of the public intellectual online.
Will the Real Waleed Aly Please Stand Up? Media, Celebrity and the Making of An Australian Public Intellectual
Authors: D'Cruz Glenn , Weerakkody Niranjala
Published: July 2017

Waleed Aly is arguably the most visible and vocal Australian public intellectual from a non-Anglo-Australian background. The ubiquitous Aly is a veritable Renaissance man – he is a television presenter, radio host, academic and rock musician. He is also a former lawyer, and served on the executive committee of the Islamic Council of Victoria. In short, he is the ‘go-to ’Muslim for commentary on a wide range of political and civic affairs. This article argues that Aly's media profile and celebrity status have as much to do with an Australian cultural imaginary that posits ‘whiteness’ as an uncontestable normative value as it does with Aly's undoubted skills as a journalist, academic and cultural commentator. It examines Aly's career with reference to Ghassan Hage's concept of ‘whiteness’ as a form of aspirational cultural capital and various theories of persona and performativity For Hage, ‘whiteness’ is not a literal skin colour; rather, it consists of elements that can be adopted by individuals and groups (such as nationally valued looks, accents, tastes, cultural preferences and modes of behaviour). While entry to what Hage calls Australia's ‘national aristocracy’ is generally predicated on possessing the correct skin tone, it is theoretically possible for dark-skinned people such as Waleed Aly to enter the field of national belonging and partake in public discourse about a range of topical issues. More specifically, the article substantiates its claims about Aly's status as a member of Australia's cultural aristocracy through a comparative discourse and performance analysis of his presentation of ‘self’ in four distinctive media contexts: Channel 10's The Project, the ABC RN Drive program, ABC TV's Q&A and the SBS comedy-talk show Salaam Café, which looked at the ‘funny side of life as an Australian Muslim’ and showcased other multi-talented Muslim professionals of both genders.
The Paper and the Nation: 50 Years of the Australian
Authors: Kelly Paul
Published: July 2017

The launch of The Australian in 1964 now appears prescient: it coincided with and contributed to the rise in national political consciousness inaugurated in the 1960s that has continued ever since. Integral to this process has been a far more powerful sense of the nation and a weakening in state consciousness. History suggests that the culture and the technology were ready for a national newspaper. This article examines several critical political events or themes, how The Australian saw them and the extent to which it shaped or failed to shape the nation's mood. This involves an assessment of how both the nation and the paper changed over half a century.
The World within the Walls: A Music Therapy Group for Patients in Long-Term Segregation at the National High Secure Service for Women in the UK
Authors: Short Helen
Published: July 2017

This article describes work undertaken at a high secure service for women in the UK. It provides an account of an on-ward, time-limited music therapy group for individuals detained in long-term segregation in the intensive care unit of the hospital. The high level of risk patients pose to themselves and others means mixing with their peers requires close supervision, and also results in long periods of isolation.

The group was initiated with the primary focus being to help develop relationships between the women. Often the whole ward team participated, with staff members taking the role of participant-observer during the session.

A background to the work, including the nature of the forensic setting, is provided. Group music therapy in this setting is then described, with consideration given to the impact of institutional dynamics on the process. The relationship between the culture of the NHS and the high-secure setting, with the inevitable struggle to maintain authentic therapeutic relationships, is also explored.
Safety behaviors of mothers of young children: impact of cognitive, stress and background factors
Authors: Kronenfeld Jennie Jacobs , Reiser Mark , Glik Deborah C. , Alatorre Carlos , Jackson Kirby
Published: July 2017

We explore the relative contribution of cognitive, stress, and background variables as factors that explain safety behaviors of parents of young children. The data set was a probability sample of mothers of young children ( N= 1247). The focus of survey questions was predominantly home safety, a setting where young children are at highest risk for injury. We tested hypotheses using structural equations models. Our analyses indicate that stress and coping are important mediating factors between cognitive factors of perceptions of risk and safety behaviors practiced by parents of young children. Use of both cognitive and situational variables may be particularly important in understanding preventive health behaviors of mothers with young children. We also explore differences in models between African-American and white parents. We view this research as representing the continued development of health behavior research, extended to include parents and their children, since most health behavior research has not examined parental health behavior linked to protection of young children.
The business of hearing
Authors: Hogan Anthony
Published: July 2017

A controversy surrounds the use of cochlear implant technology as a ‘cure’ for deafness. The deaf community has argued that proponents of speech and hearing (known as oralists) have imposed this technology on deaf people as part of their mission to eradicate deafness and therefore the deaf community. The use of power is at issue within this debate, where power may be taken to mean something that is possessed or something that is exercised. For the deaf community, cochlear implants have come to be used because oralists simply had the power to do so. This article contests this position. It offers a description of the development of the social process that has permitted and legitimated the production of a form of social relations that privileges the use of cochlear implants over sign language. Within this analysis it can be seen that the oralists’ capacity and opportunity to act resulted from their ability to build collaborative networks with a variety of actors, both individual and institutional. This understanding of power as exercised, forms an integral part of a broader framework for understanding the governance of deafness.
Processes of change in obstetrics: a cross-national case-study of episiotomy
Authors: Graham Ian D.
Published: July 2017

This article traces and analyzes the evolution of obstetric and midwifery doctrine and use of episiotomy in the United States and England. In the US, the routinization of episiotomy eventually resulted from strenuous lobbying efforts of a small group of obstetrician/gynecologists between 1915 and 1935. These physicians claimed episiotomy prevented perineal lacerations, infant morbidity and mortality, and future gynecological problems. In England, the liberal use of episiotomy came about during the 1970s from pressure from obstetricians although no overt campaigning for the practice occurred. In both countries routine episiotomy was encouraged by medical and extra medical factors which involved changes occurring in the dominant belief system in obstetrics, maternity care practices, and the obstetric and midwifery professions.

In more recent years, eventual declines in episiotomy use resulted from childbirth activists and others questioning of the practice and calling on obstetricians to produce evidence that the operation was in fact beneficial. This was facilitated, particularly in England, by midwifery interest in resisting obstetric control.

While scientific evidence showing episiotomy beneficial was not responsible for the adoption of routine episiotomy in either the US or England, the lack of evidence was central to the initial rejection of routine episiotomy in England and resulted in the launching of randomized controlled trials designed to produce evidence of the operation's effectiveness.

This case-study offers insight into some of the diverse factors implicated in bringing about change in obstetric knowledge and practice.
Building Bilingual–Bicultural Learning Communities
Authors: Weisman Evelyn M. , Flores Susana Y. , Valenciana Christine
Published: July 2017

This study explored the perspectives of 27 Latino teacher candidates regarding the impact of a teacher-education program that promoted bilingualism, dialogue, cultural relevance, and cultural integrity. Data were collected through a questionnaire and a focus group interview. Findings reveal that a bilingual—bicultural learning community supported both personal and professional development of participants and enabled them to expand the realm of possibility in schooling practices that can promote success for linguistic minority children.
Results of an Infection Control Survey in Ultrasound Departments and Recommended Guidelines
Authors: Grouden MC , Keogh E , Colgan MP , Moore DJ , Shanik DG
Published: July 2017

Prevention of disease transmission by cross infection is very important in the hospital environment to protect both staff and patients.

At the present time most hospitals have stringent infection control policies which are largely geared toward the wards, critical care units and the operating theatres but there does not appear to be specific guidelines for ultrasound departments. Considering the contact nature of the ultrasound examination and the large number of tests that are performed in most hospitals annually it was felt that this was an area that needed to be addressed. One must be aware not only of protection of patients and staff but also of care in the cleaning of expensive equipment.

We undertook a national survey of the larger general ultrasound departments, vascular and cardiac laboratories to establish current practices and to assess whether these are adequate. We also contacted a number of ultrasound companies and requested cleaning specifications for their equipment.

The full results of the survey, the biological effectiveness of different cleaning techniques and their compatibility with ultrasound transducers will be discussed. Finally, recommendations regarding safe effective cleaning procedures and sensible infection control precautions in ultrasound departments will be made.
Congenital Malformation of the Hand
Authors: Grünert Jörg
Published: July 2017

Congenital malformation of the hand and forearm are rare. Between 2% and 4% of all children are born with a more or less distinct malformation of the hand. A minority of congenital deformities have a genetic cause and are hereditary, while many have environmental or unknown causes. For a better understanding knowledge of the embryological development is helpful. Based on this embryologic development disturbances can be classified and categorised into seven groups. The aim in the treatment of the malformed hand is to improve functional capability, enable an undisturbed growth and reach a socially acceptable appearance.
Computer or Manual Coding — Is There a Difference?
Authors: Law M.J. , White M.M. , Lyle D.M.
Published: July 2017

Advances in computer technology have now made it possible to code diseases and operations by computer as compared to the present manual system. In this study the speed and accuracy of a computerised coding system (3M Codefinder) was compared with the manual method on a sample of 90 medical records processed by two senior Medical Record Administrators (MRAs) with similar coding experience. The computer method took an average of 20.9 seconds longer to code a record than the manual method. A review of disease and operation codes indicated that both coders had an error rate of around 20%. Errors were mainly due to the coder's judgement, which resulted in under-coding or incorrect coding. However, a small proportion of computer coder's errors were caused by software problems, the most common being inconsistent prompting for the Place of Occurrence Code. Thus, the manual method has a moderate speed advantage over the computer while being comparable in terms of accuracy.
Microfilming Exposed
Authors: Nuttall Linda , Vigden Mary-Ellen
Published: July 2017

In the June issue of the Australian Medical Record Journal an article describing the advantages of new microfilming equipment appeared. This article describes some of the organisational and management headaches associated with the introduction of this new technology, as experienced in one hospital.
To Keep or Not to Keep, That is the Question Addressed by the General Disposal Schedule
Authors: Kearsey Irene
Published: July 2017

In this paper the author discusses some of the factors which need to be taken into account when considering the disposal of records. Results of a review of the literature on record retention are presented and key issues affecting the question of record disposal discussed. The author concludes that the cost of indefinite retention of records would greatly exceed the costs associated with the occasional case where defence to an action for damages is handicapped by the absence of records. (AMRJ 1988, 18(3), 107–110).
Discussion Paper
Authors: Lloyd Sheree
Published: July 2017

The concept of Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) attracted considerable attention in Australia in 1986 when the Federal Government released a discussion paper on the subject. Linked with the argument that HMOs provided financial incentive for people to keep healthy, hence their emphasis on preventative medicine and health education, HMOs were seen to have the potential to play a part not only in controlling risk factors in our lifestyles but also the spiralling costs of health care.

The Government's publication, HMOs — A Development Program Under Medicare, drew on the Federal Government's extensive examination of the American experience where HMOs have flourished since the 1970s. It now appears that HMOs are not living up to their promise of low cost health care with an emphasis on prevention, although the Director of the Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment, Dr. Paul Gross, has recently suggested in the journal Hospital and Health Care (1988) (19 (10), p.24) that HMOs, if set up properly, could help save a total of half a million years of life every year.

Maybe HMOs will yet see the light of day in Australia. If they do, there are some significant implications for Australian medical record administrators who might be called upon to assume similar roles in HMOs to their American counterparts. MRAs in the USA have become key resource people in HMOs in recognition of the critical role information systems play in the successful management of such organisations.

In the discussion paper which follows, Sheree Lloyd looks in some detail at the concept of HMOs and examines the potential impact their introduction could have on MRAs in this country. Significantly, her message is not confined to HMOs. Health care facilities of all shapes and sizes are having to meet the demand for well organised information systems. Hence we should all heed Lloyd's call for MRAs to be “innovative and progressive” in our approach towards the challenges confronting the health care field in general and health information management in particular.
A Study Using Working DRGs to Examine Variations in Length of Stay
Authors: Cheng Serena , Essery Suzanne , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Howes Melita
Published: July 2017

The results of a working DRG utilisation review study conducted at St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney in 1992 are described. The project aimed to allocate a working DRG to Cardiology and Orthopaedic patients. Working DRGs are defined as DRGs allocated on admission based on the presenting problem or provisional diagnosis.

Patients were then concurrently reviewed until discharge. Actual length of stay (LOS) of patients was compared to the LOS predicted by the working DRG.

Results indicated that a utilisation review program using a working DRG can predict a LOS reasonably well for large groups of patients but not for individual patients and that St Vincent's is a comparatively efficient provider of Cardiology and Orthopaedic Services. The paper describes the study design, methods and results.

Medical Record Managers played an integral role in the preparation phase, design of the study, day to day coordination and analysis of results. Medical Record Managers' participation in the study is highlighted in this paper.
Electronic Patient Record Systems 5–6 June 1995, Parkroyal, Darling Harbour, Sydney
Authors: Robertson Louise
Published: July 2017

The above seminar was organised by IIR Conferences and presented by C Peter Waegemann, Executive Director of the Medical Records Institute (a Boston-based organisation involved in applied research in medical informatics) and was well attended by HIMs from various states and territories. The program for the two-day seminar covered a variety of issues, including the concept of electronic patient record systems, the costs and benefits of those systems, the current technologies and their status in terms of development and utilisation and the legal implications. Systems described included:
Editorial Board Farewells Chair
Authors: Craig Janelle
Published: July 2017

The Editorial Board meeting of December 1995 marked the last meeting of the Board with Professor Phyllis Watson as its Chairperson. After four years in this role, and another three and a half years as a member of the Board, Professor Watson has handed on this position to the new Chairperson, Professor Beth Reid.
Case Studies in Health Information Management
Authors: Carroll Jayne
Published: July 2017

This is the ninth management case study in our series. Each one highlights situations and problems that health information managers may face in their work.

The series is interactive: readers are invited to comment on the case study and suggest strategies for dealing with the problems it reveals.
A Third Model of Triangulation Continuing the Dialogue with Rhineberger, Hartmann, and Van Valey
Authors: Boeri Miriam W.
Published: July 2017

In an article in this journal, Rhineberger, Hartmann, and Van Valey (2005), discussed the mixed methods approach known as triangulation, arguing that the meaning and uses of triangulation need to be consistently applied and more adequately described in published articles. The authors presented two models of triangulation found in their extensive literature review. In this paper, I review triangulation designs used in applied research and propose a third and distinct model called the “iterative model.” This model employs triangulation to gain increasing clarity and understanding of the complex issues involved in applied social research. Clearly defined and collectively understood models of triangulation help applied researchers better integrate triangulated sources and convey their methods across disciplinary boundaries.
Exploring the Impact of E-mail and Postcard Prenotification on Response Rates to a Mail Survey in an Academic Setting
Authors: McCallister Leslie A. , Otto Bobette
Published: July 2017

What techniques effectively and consistently impact response rates to a mail survey? No clear answer to this question exists, largely because variability in response rates occurs depending on the population of interest, questionnaire type, and procedures used by researchers. This article examines the impact of e-mail and postcard prenotification on response rates to a mail survey by using a population of university full-time faculty and staff. Comparisons were made among respondents who received a postcard prenotification, those who received an e-mail prenotification, and those who received no prenotification prior to the initial mailing of a questionnaire. Data show that e-mail prenotification had the largest impact on response rate, while postcard prenotification had the least impact. In addition, the use of e-mail prenotification reduced overall project costs (both time and money). We suggest that the uses and applicability of e-mail prenotification be further explored to examine both its initial and overall impact on response rate in populations utilizing an electronic environment.
Alternative Futures for Applied Sociology
Authors: Petersen James C. , Dukes Duane , Van Valey Thomas L.
Published: July 2017

The future of applied sociology is being shaped by a variety of factors including the historical development of the discipline, the institutional context of colleges and universities, and a wide variety of social trends related to the goals and funding of higher education. Five alternative scenarios for the future of applied sociology are set forth: “Down and Out,” “Subfield Status,” “Increasing Focus,” “Ascension of Applied Sociology,” and “Leaving Home.” Internal and external factors shaping contemporary higher education and their possible impacts on the future of applied sociology are considered in order to assess the likelihood of the five alternative futures.