bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of consumer copayments for subsidised medicines on health services use and outcomes: a protocol using linked administrative data from Western Australia
Authors: Seaman Karla L , Sanfilippo Frank M , Roughead Elizabeth E , Bulsara Max K , Kemp-Casey Anna , Bulsara Caroline , Watts Gerald F , Preen David
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Across the world, health systems are adopting approaches to manage rising healthcare costs. One common strategy is a medication copayments scheme where consumers make a contribution (copayment) towards the cost of their dispensed medicines, with remaining costs subsidised by the health insurance service, which in Australia is the Federal Government.

In Australia, copayments have tended to increase in proportion to inflation, but in January 2005, the copayment increased substantially more than inflation. Results from aggregated dispensing data showed that this increase led to a significant decrease in the use of several medicines. The aim of this study is to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals ceasing or reducing statin medication use following the January 2005 Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS) copayment increase and the effects on their health outcomes.

Methods and analysis

This whole-of-population study comprises a series of retrospective, observational investigations using linked administrative health data on a cohort of West Australians (WA) who had at least one statin dispensed between 1 May 2002 and 30 June 2010. Individual-level data on the use of pharmaceuticals, general practitioner (GP) visits, hospitalisations and death are used.

This study will identify patients who were stable users of statin medication in 2004 with follow-up commencing from 2005 onwards. Subgroups determined by change in adherence levels of statin medication from 2004 to 2005 will be classified as continuation, reduction or cessation of statin therapy and explored for differences in health outcomes and health service utilisation after the 2005 copayment change.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approvals have been obtained from the Western Australian Department of Health (#2007/33), University of Western Australia (RA/4/1/1775) and University of Notre Dame (0 14 167F). Outputs from the findings will be published in peer reviewed journals designed for a policy audience and presented at state, national and international conferences.
Cross-sectional association between ZIP code-level gentrification and homelessness among a large community-based sample of people who inject drugs in 19 US cities
Authors: Linton Sabriya L , Cooper Hannah LF , Kelley Mary E , Karnes Conny C , Ross Zev , Wolfe Mary E , Friedman Samuel R , Jarlais Don Des , Semaan Salaam , Tempalski Barbara , Sionean Catlainn , DiNenno Elizabeth , Wejnert Cyprian , Paz-Bailey Gabriela
Published: June 2017

Background

Housing instability has been associated with poor health outcomes among people who inject drugs (PWID). This study investigates the associations of local-level housing and economic conditions with homelessness among a large sample of PWID, which is an underexplored topic to date.

Methods

PWID in this cross-sectional study were recruited from 19 large cities in the USA as part of National HIV Behavioral Surveillance. PWID provided self-reported information on demographics, behaviours and life events. Homelessness was defined as residing on the street, in a shelter, in a single room occupancy hotel, or in a car or temporarily residing with friends or relatives any time in the past year. Data on county-level rental housing unaffordability and demand for assisted housing units, and ZIP code-level gentrification (eg, index of percent increases in non-Hispanic white residents, household income, gross rent from 1990 to 2009) and economic deprivation were collected from the US Census Bureau and Department of Housing and Urban Development. Multilevel models evaluated the associations of local economic and housing characteristics with homelessness.

Results

Sixty percent (5394/8992) of the participants reported homelessness in the past year. The multivariable model demonstrated that PWID living in ZIP codes with higher levels of gentrification had higher odds of homelessness in the past year (gentrification: adjusted OR=1.11, 95% CI=1.04 to 1.17).

Conclusions

Additional research is needed to determine the mechanisms through which gentrification increases homelessness among PWID to develop appropriate community-level interventions.
Endovascular management of aneurysms associated with spinal arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Jung Sung Chul , Song Yunsun , Cho Su Hee , Kim Joonggoo , Noh Seung Yeon , Lee Sang Hun , Sheen Jae Jon , Rhim Seung Chul , Jeon Sang Ryong , Suh Dae Chul
Published: June 2017

Background

Spinal aneurysms are rare among spinal arteriovenous malformations (SAVMs). There are few reports of endovascular management of spinal aneurysms associated with SAVM.

Objective

To present endovascular management of aneurysms associated with SAVM.

Methods

Of 91 patients with SAVMs,eight (9%) presented with aneurysms. Of these, three were male and five were female with a median age of 18 years (range 11–38). We evaluated the presenting pattern, lesion level, type of the target aneurysm related to the presenting pattern and AVM nidus, and the result obtained after embolization or open surgery. Clinical status was evaluated by Aminoff–Logue (ALS) gait and micturition scale scores.

Results

The presenting patterns were subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH, n=3) or mass effect caused by extrinsic (n=4) or intrinsic (n=1) cord compression. Aneurysms were located in four cervical, two thoracic, and two lumbar enlargement areas. There were two prenidal (arterial), three nidal, and three postnidal (venous) aneurysms. The mean diameter of the aneurysms was 9 mm (range 3–27). Glue embolization (n=6), open surgery (n=1), and combined surgery and embolization (n=1) was performed to obliterate the aneurysms. Obliteration of the target aneurysms resulted in improvement of symptoms and clinical stabilization of SAVMs in all patients during a mean of 55 months (range 7–228) of follow-up.

Conclusions

Identification of a symptomatic aneurysm should be associated with clinical presentation pattern. Targeted obliteration of the aneurysm by embolization and/or surgery resulted in improvement of symptoms and stabilization of SAVM.
Survival of contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD)‐associated treponemes on disposable gloves after handling CODD‐affected feet
Authors: Angell J. W. , Clegg S. R. , Grove‐White D. H. , Blowey R. W. , Carter S. D. , Duncan J. S. , Evans N. J.
Published: June 2017

Both contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD) and bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) are causes of infectious lameness in sheep and cattle, respectively, and are strongly associated with the presence of specific treponemes, with three different cultivable phylogroups commonly isolated: Treponema medium, Treponema phagedenis and Treponema pedis. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential to transmit CODD‐associated Treponema species via gloves used when handling visibly clinically affected animals. The feet of sheep with and without CODD were handled as part of routine examination with gloved hands. The gloves were then swabbed to detect the presence of treponemes immediately after handling. Detection methods included culture and isolation techniques together with DNA detection by PCR. In addition, the duration of survival in air was determined as well as the efficacy of common disinfectants to remove treponemes from gloves. In this study, we demonstrate that CODD‐associated treponemes can survive on gloves used to handle the feet of CODD‐affected sheep but may be removed effectively using common disinfectants. These data provide evidence of a potential route of transmission and identify a practical method to reduce this risk.
Worth a thousand words: visual collections and a long view of the North
Authors: Kamerling Leonard
Published: June 2017

Historical film and media collections in the North contain an essential, indelible message for the future — that cultural knowledge is perishable and impermanent. Throughout the world as bearers of traditional culture pass away, much of their knowledge is lost. Film and audio collections can play a critical role in preserving living knowledge, allowing us to observe, experience, and study singular, irreproducible moments of a culture’s past. As time passes, these unique recorded moments take on a vital function; they become new conduits of knowledge, a visual and aural stand-in for real experience. This paper discusses the role of museum film and audio collections in preserving cultural knowledge and the challenges of extending this resource to the classrooms of remote communities throughout the North. The paper also discusses the collaborative cultural filmmaking initiative of Sarah Elder and Leonard Kamerling, their work with partner Alaska Native communities over a period of two decades, and their setbacks and successes in producing “authentic” records of Alaska Native life in the 1970s and 1980s, records that are now part of the Alaska Documentary Collections at the University of Alaska Museum of the North.
Investigating the Effect of Aspect-Oriented Refactoring on the Unit Testing Effort of Classes: An Empirical Evaluation
Authors: Badri Mourad , Kout Aymen , Badri Linda
Published: June 2017

This paper aims at investigating empirically the effect of aspect-oriented (AO) refactoring on the unit testability of classes in object-oriented software. The unit testability of classes has been addressed from the perspective of the unit testing effort, and particularly from the perspective of the unit test cases (TCs) construction. We investigated, in fact, different research questions: (1) the impact of AO refactoring on source code attributes (size, complexity, coupling, cohesion and inheritance), attributes that are mostly related to the unit testability of classes, (2) the impact of AO refactoring on unit test code attributes (size, assertions, invocations and data creation), attributes that are indicators of the effort involved to write the code of unit TCs, and (3) the relationships between the variations observed after AO refactoring in both source code and unit test code attributes. We used in the study different techniques: correlation analysis, statistical tests and linear regression. We performed an empirical evaluation using data collected from three well-known open source (Java) software systems (JHOTDRAW, HSQLBD and PETSTORE) that have been refactored using AO programming (AspectJ). Results suggest that: (1) overall, the effort involved in the construction of unit TCs of refactored classes has been reduced, (2) the variations of source code attributes have more impact on methods invocation between unit TCs, and finally (3) the variations of unit test code attributes are more influenced by the variation of the complexity of refactored classes compared to the other class attributes.
Electromagnetic scattering for time-domain Maxwell’s equations in an unbounded structure
Authors: Gao Yixian , Li Peijun
Published: June 2017

The goal of this work is to study the electromagnetic scattering problem of time-domain Maxwell’s equations in an unbounded structure. An exact transparent boundary condition is developed to reformulate the scattering problem into an initial-boundary value problem in an infinite rectangular slab. The well-posedness and stability are established for the reduced problem. Our proof is based on the method of energy, the Lax–Milgram lemma, and the inversion theorem of the Laplace transform. Moreover, a priori estimates with explicit dependence on the time are achieved for the electric field by directly studying the time-domain Maxwell equations.
Universal bounds for large determinants from non-commutative Hölder inequalities in fermionic constructive quantum field theory
Authors: Bru J.-B. , de Siqueira Pedra W.
Published: June 2017

Efficiently bounding large determinants is an essential step in non-relativistic constructive quantum field theory to prove the absolute convergence of the perturbation expansion of correlation functions in terms of powers of the strength [Formula: see text] of the interparticle interaction. We provide, for large determinants of fermionic covariances, sharp bounds which hold for all (bounded and unbounded, the latter not being limited to semibounded) one-particle Hamiltonians. We find the smallest universal determinant bound to be exactly [Formula: see text]. In particular, the convergence of perturbation series at [Formula: see text] of any fermionic quantum field theory is ensured if the matrix entries (with respect to some fixed orthonormal basis) of the covariance and the interparticle interaction decay sufficiently fast. Our proofs use Hölder inequalities for general non-commutative [Formula: see text]-spaces derived by Araki and Masuda [Positive cones and [Formula: see text]-spaces for von Neumann algebras, Publ. RIMS[Formula: see text] Kyoto Univ. 18 (1982) 339–411].
On faithful quasi-permutation representations of groups of order p5
Authors: Behravesh H. , Delfani M.
Published: June 2017

For a finite group [Formula: see text], we denote by [Formula: see text] the minimal degree of faithful permutation representations of [Formula: see text], and denote by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], the minimal degree of faithful representation of [Formula: see text] by quasi-permutation matrices over the rational field [Formula: see text] and the complex field [Formula: see text], respectively. In this paper, we calculate [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for the groups of order [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an odd prime.
Application of t-SNE to human genetic data
Authors: Li Wentian , Cerise Jane E. , Yang Yaning , Han Henry
Published: June 2017

The t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding t-SNE is a new dimension reduction and visualization technique for high-dimensional data. t-SNE is rarely applied to human genetic data, even though it is commonly used in other data-intensive biological fields, such as single-cell genomics. We explore the applicability of t-SNE to human genetic data and make these observations: (i) similar to previously used dimension reduction techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA), t-SNE is able to separate samples from different continents; (ii) unlike PCA, t-SNE is more robust with respect to the presence of outliers; (iii) t-SNE is able to display both continental and sub-continental patterns in a single plot. We conclude that the ability for t-SNE to reveal population stratification at different scales could be useful for human genetic association studies.
Smooth subalgebras of the Roe algebra
Authors: Chen Xiaoman , Jiang Baojie , Zhou Anyi
Published: June 2017

In this paper, for a discrete group with property (RD), we construct a smooth subalgebra of a certain subalgebra in the (uniform) Roe algebra of this group. And using Lafforgue’s [Formula: see text]-Theory, under certain conditions, we prove that this certain subalgebra and the (uniform) Roe algebra have the same [Formula: see text]-theory groups. Moreover, our smooth subalgebra and the (uniform) Roe algebra have the same [Formula: see text]-theory groups. Our result can be viewed as a smooth subalgebra construction of the (uniform) Roe algebra, which is, as far as we know, the first occurrence in literature.
Effect of Argon-Oxygen Mixing Gas during Magnetron Sputtering on TiO2 Coatings
Authors: Madaoui N. , Bait L. , Kheyar K. , Saoula N.
Published: June 2017

A reactive r.f magnetron sputtering method was used to deposit titanium dioxide coating on stainless steel substrates without intentional heating or biasing. The purpose of this work is given to study the argon-oxygen mixing gas on the corrosion behavior of TiO2 coatings. The morphology and structure of the coatings were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Potentiodynamic polarization was used to study the corrosion behavior of the coatings. The results obtained from potentiodynamic polarization curves showed that TiO2 coatings possessed higher corrosion resistance than uncoated substrate.
Differential Effects of Awake Glioma Surgery in “Critical” Language Areas on Cognition: 4 Case Studies
Authors: Satoer Djaina , De Witte Elke , Smits Marion , Bastiaanse Roelien , Vincent Arnaud , Mariën Peter , Visch-Brink Evy
Published: June 2017

Awake surgery with electrocorticosubcortical stimulation is the golden standard treatment for gliomas in eloquent areas. Preoperatively, mostly mild cognitive disturbances are observed with postoperative deterioration. We describe pre- and postoperative profiles of 4 patients (P1–P4) with gliomas in “critical” language areas (“Broca,” “Wernicke,” and the arcuate fasciculus) undergoing awake surgery to get insight into the underlying mechanism of neuroplasticity. Neuropsychological examination was carried out preoperatively (at T1) and postoperatively (at T2, T3). At T1, cognition of P1 was intact and remained stable. P2 had impairments in all cognitive domains at T1 with further deterioration at T2 and T3. At T1, P3 had impairments in memory and executive functions followed by stable recovery. P4 was intact at T1, followed by a decline in a language test at T2 and recovery at T3. Intraoperatively, in all patients language positive sites were identified. Patients with gliomas in “critical” language areas do not necessarily present cognitive disturbances. Surgery can either improve or deteriorate (existing) cognitive impairments. Several factors may underlie the plastic potential of the brain, for example, corticosubcortical networks and tumor histopathology. Our findings illustrate the complexity of the underlying mechanism of neural plasticity and provide further support for a “hodotopical” viewpoint.
Effectiveness of Supported Self-Help in Recurrent Depression: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Primary Care
Authors: Biesheuvel-Leliefeld Karolien E.M. , Dijkstra-Kersten Sandra M.A. , van Schaik Digna J.F. , van Marwijk Harm W.J. , Smit Filip , van der Horst Henriette E. , Bockting Claudi L.H.
Published: June 2017

Background: The burden and economic consequences of depression are high, mostly due to its recurrent nature. Due to current budget and time restraints, a preventive, low- cost, accessible minimal intervention is much needed. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a supported self-help preventive cognitive therapy (S-PCT) added to treatment as usual (TAU) in primary care, compared to TAU alone. Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial among 248 patients with a history of depression, currently in full or partial remission or recovery. Participants were randomized to TAU augmented with S-PCT (n = 124) or TAU alone (n = 124). S-PCT consisted of an 8-week self-help intervention, supported by weekly telephone guidance by a counselor. The intervention included a self-help book that could be read at home. The primary outcome was the incidence of relapse or recurrence and was assessed over the telephone by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV axis 1 disorders. Participants were observed for 12 months. Secondary outcomes were depressive symptoms, quality of life (EQ-5D and SF-12), comorbid psychopathology, and self-efficacy. These secondary outcomes were assessed by digital questionnaires. Results: In the S-PCT group, 44 participants (35.5%) experienced a relapse or recurrence, compared to 62 participants (50.0%) in the TAU group (incidence rate ratio = 0.71, 95% CI 0.52-0.97; risk difference = 14, 95% CI 2-24, number needed to treat = 7). Compared to the TAU group, the S-PCT group showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms over 12 months (mean difference -2.18; 95% CI -3.09 to -1.27) and a significant increase in quality of life (EQ-5D) (mean difference 0.04; 95% CI 0.004-0.08). S-PCT had no effect on comorbid psychopathology, self-efficacy, and quality of life based on the SF-12. Conclusions: A supported self-help preventive cognitive therapy, guided by a counselor in primary care, proved to be effective in reducing the burden of recurrent depression.
The Role of Endotoxin in the Setting of Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 5
Authors: Clementi Anna , Virzì Grazia Maria , Brocca Alessandra , Ronco Claudio
Published: June 2017

Lipopolysaccharide or endotoxin, the major cell wall component of gram-negative bacteria, plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of sepsis. It is able to activate the host defense system through the interaction with Toll-like receptor 4, thus triggering pro-inflammatory mechanisms. When the production of inflammatory mediators becomes uncontrolled and excessive, septic shock develops with multiple organ dysfunction, such as myocardial and renal impairment, which are hallmarks of cardiorenal syndrome type 5. In this review, we will analyze the role of endotoxin in the pathogenesis of sepsis, its effects on cardiac and renal interactions in the setting of cardiorenal syndrome type 5 and the possible use of extracorporeal therapies in this clinical condition.
Perioperative Strokes Following Surgical Correction of Mitral Valves: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Udesh Reshmi , Natarajan Piruthiviraj , Jeevanantham Vinodh , Gleason Thomas G. , Badhwar Vinay , Thirumala Parthasarathy D.
Published: June 2017

Objective: The primary aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the impact of perioperative strokes on stroke-related mortality after open mitral valve (MV) procedures were performed. Methods: An electronic search of the PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science databases was performed to retrieve articles published up to December 2015, relevant to patients undergoing MV procedures. Data were extracted from the final list of 25 studies to calculate a summary OR for 30-day stroke-related mortality. Results: The stroke rate in the total sample population was 1.62% (73/4,498). The 30-day all-cause mortality rate was 3.51% (158/4,498). The percentage of total deaths caused by stroke was 6.87%. The summary OR of stroke-related mortality following MV procedures was estimated to be 7.22 (95% CI 4.13-12.63, p < 0.0001). A subgroup analysis was done for studies involving concomitant MV surgery and coronary artery bypass grafting. The summary estimate of the subgroup showed an OR of 8.508 (95% CI 1.552-46.622, p = 0.0136). Conclusion: Perioperative strokes following open MV procedures may be associated with more than 7 times greater odds of 30-day stroke-related mortality. They appear to be more commonly occurring than what is reported by current literature, making further studies investigating possible mechanisms and preventive measures a priority.
Empedocles, On Nature 1.273-287
Authors: Trépanier Simon
Published: June 2017

This article presents a new, complete edition of Empedocles,On Nature1.265-290, in particular lines 1.273-287 ora (ii)3-17 of the Strasbourg papyrus of Empedocles,P. Strasb. gr. Inv. 1665-1666. The edition is based on two new supplements to sectiona (ii)grounded on doxographic testimony. These new supplements confirm that the passage is devoted to cosmology, specifically the relation between place and the elements. That in turn provides a reliable framework for a reconstruction of the remaining lines. More controversially, the reconstruction gives new grounds for rejecting the controversial variant reading συνερχόµεθα, ‘we come together’, found in two or perhaps three instances in the papyrus. If the content of the passage is consistently cosmological, these new variants must be no more than scribal errors.
To probe or not to probe in Omani Mehri
Authors: Fathi Radwa
Published: June 2017

The gender assignment mechanism of two-gender languages offers a recurrent analytical challenge, namely the presence of two distinct subsystems. The first such subsystem produces pairs of nouns (masculine and feminine) from the same root. The other subsystem produces singleton nouns (masculine or feminine) from one and the same root. What are these two subsystems and how do they relate to each other? It is proposed that mono-gendered nouns result from a probing system connecting head Gen and the radical system. Bi-gendered nouns arise when probing is suspended. As Mehri nouns and adjectives are arguably non-distinct morphological constructions, the discussion involves both.
Yaʿqūb b. al-Rabīʿ Read by al-Mutanabbī and al-Mubarrad: A Contribution to an Abbasid History of Emotions
Authors: Bray Julia
Published: June 2017

The now little-known early Abbasid poet Yaʿqūb b. al-Rabīʿwas famous for his elegies on his slave woman, Mulk. While scholars such as al-Mubarrad transmitted them, along with a biography patterned on the “sold slave-girl” tale-type, al-Mutanabbī plagiarised them and reversed their message. This yields a corpus which can contribute to an Abbasid history of emotions. Approaches to the history of emotions are discussed in an introduction, and key elements of the corpus are translated in Appendicesitoiii.
Louis Bourguet, John Toland, and the Republic of Letters
Authors: Thomson Ann
Published: June 2017

Louis Bourguet (1678–1743) was a Huguenot natural scientist from Nîmes who, after studying in Switzerland and Italy, became professor of philosophy and mathematics in Neuchâtel and founded two learned journals. This article, based on his archive in Neuchâtel, looks first at his erudite, scientific, philosophical and religious interests as expressed in his extensive learned correspondence, which also reveals a mixture of curiosity about, and opposition, to irreligious writings, some of which he may, however, have helped to circulate. We then study a document found among his papers, consisting of a commentary written in French in the margins of a manuscript copy of the last two of John Toland’s Letters to Serena (1704). Bourguet combines criticism of Toland’s view of matter, identified with Spinozism, with a defence of Leibniz’s philosophy, presented as the only one capable of demonstrating the need for a god. This manuscript throws new light on interest in Toland’s philosophical works in the years following his death, and the posthumous continuation of his debate with Leibniz. More generally, Bourguet’s learned interests and networks underline the difficulty of classifying scholars of this period into neat categories and the complex relationship between science, theology and philosophy, and between religious orthodoxies and heterodoxies.
Scientific Knowledge of Animals in Encyclopedias from around 1700 to 1860
Authors: Schmitt Stephane , Loveland Jeff
Published: June 2017

In this article we examine scientific knowledge of animals and disciplines pertaining to them in British, French, and German encyclopedias from around 1700 to the time of the publication of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species. As our corpus includes scholarly encyclopedias with entries on animals written by specialists, our article is meant to help define the place of the animal in the period’s developing scientific conceptions. At the same time, our goal is to study differences in the representations of animals among encyclopedias, notably between popular and scholarly encyclopedias. By studying the sources of encyclopedias’ entries on animals, we will establish the pathways by which representations of animals were formed, thus connecting knowledge of animals to commercial and literary processes. By studying the intellectual premises of the entries, we will connect knowledge of animals to reading publics, thereby illuminating the status of encyclopedias as intermediaries in the movement of knowledge.
A new species of Tiodus (Hemiptera, Cercopidae) with a key to species of the genus
Authors: PALADINI ANDRESSA , CAVICHIOLI RODNEY RAMIRO
Published: June 2017

Tiodus sakakibarai sp. nov. from Peru (Puno) is described and illustrated. This new spittlebug species is characterized by the following features: postclypeus orange, moderately inflated, slightly angulated in profile; tegmina black with two transcommissural reddish-orange transverse bands; aedeagus robust not bifid. An identification key to species of the genus is provided.
A new species of Lycoderes Sakakibara (Hemiptera, Membracidae, Stegaspidinae) from Brazil
Authors: CREÃO-DUARTE ANTONIO JOSÉ , CABRAL VALBERTA ALVES , LOURENÇO ALINE
Published: June 2017

A new species of treehopper is described and illustrated: Lycoderes albinoi sp. nov. (from Una, Bahia, Brazil). A previously published key to Lycoderes species is modified to include this new species. The female of Lycoderides capixaba Sakakibara, 2013 is also described for the first time.
Supporting occupational therapists implementing a capacity-building model in schools
Authors: Pollock Nancy A. , Dix Leah , Whalen Sandra Sahagian , Campbell Wenonah N. , Missiuna Cheryl A.
Published: June 2017

Background.

Adopting a new model of clinical practice is complex. Professional development programs based on best-practice principles may facilitate this process.

Purpose.

This paper describes the development and evaluation of a multifaceted professional development program designed to support school-based occupational therapists to deliver a capacity-building model of service.

Method.

Twenty-two therapists participated in the program; completed pre-post evaluations of knowledge, skills, and beliefs; evaluated specific components of the training program; and participated in focus groups. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using a directed content analysis.

Findings.

Therapists’ perceptions of their knowledge and skills showed statistically significant change. Both training and mentorship were highly valued; however, having opportunities to build peer networks was considered essential.

Implications.

Multifaceted professional development programs designed using best-practice principles are an important mechanism for facilitating practice change. Including a process for peer support is advised.
Fast Food Restaurants and Convenience Stores: Using Sales Volume to Explain Crime Patterns in Seattle
Authors: Askey Amber Perenzin , Taylor Ralph , Groff Elizabeth , Fingerhut Aaron
Published: June 2017

This study investigates how convenience stores and fast food restaurants influence crime patterns over time. Using sales volume data from fast food restaurants and convenience stores, we examine streetblock crime levels over a seven year period in Seattle using multilevel models. Results demonstrate that high sales volume links to high crime, even after controlling for local socio-economic status, the effects of retail businesses, and local crime trends. In addition, street segment crime trajectories were spatially clustered in a significant way. The dynamics that explain why specific types of commercial facilities link to street crime need further theoretical clarification. This is the first study demonstrating significant spatio-temporal patterning of streetblock crime trends.
The Effect of 311 Calls for Service on Crime in D.C. at Microplaces
Authors: Wheeler Andrew P.
Published: June 2017

This study tests the broken windows theory of crime by examining the relationship between 311 calls for service and crime at the street segment and intersection level in Washington, D.C. Controlling for a set of micro-level covariates as well as unobserved neighborhood-level effects using negative binomial regression models, it is found that detritus- and infrastructure-related calls for service have a positive, but small effect on crime. The results suggest that 311 calls for service are a valid indicator of physical disorder where available, and the findings partially confirm the broken windows theory. Given the small effects though, reducing physical disorder is unlikely to result in appreciable declines in crime.
What About the “Instruction” in Instructional Sensitivity? Raising a Validity Issue in Research on Instructional Sensitivity
Authors: Ing Marsha
Published: June 2017

In instructional sensitivity research, it is important to evaluate the validity argument about the extent to which student performance on the assessment can be used to infer differences in instructional experiences. This study examines whether three different measures of mathematics instruction consistently identify mathematics assessments as being sensitive to instruction. Mixed findings across fourth-grade ( n = 8,298) and fifth-grade ( n = 9,336) students and their teachers across three school districts raise questions as to whether different ways of measuring instruction provide similar inferences about the instructional sensitivity of assessments. This raises validity concerns about the quality of inferences based on different measures of instruction.
Governance of Development Assistance: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Kaur Navreet , Sitlhou Lhoukhokai
Published: June 2017

Good governance emphasises upon efficient and effective institutional mechanism, greater transparency, people’s participation, citizen-centric services and accountability. These reforms are not only limited to national governance practices but also applicable to distribution, disbursement and effectiveness of development assistance. The objective of development assistance is to provide opportunities to needy, deprived and disadvantageous sections of the society. The available data on development assistance clearly demonstrate that rich countries, Development Assistance Countries (DACs) provide financial assistance to poor countries and it has reached US$100 billion in recent years. Non-DAC bilateral assistance (NDBA) is more than US$8 billion in Office of Disaster Assistance (ODA) and US$5 billion annually in country programmable aid (CPA). Private aid (PrA) from DAC members contribute between US$58 billion and 68 billion per year. Total aid flows to developing countries currently amount to around US$180 billion annually. Multilateral aid agencies (around 230) outnumber donors and recipients combined. But the harsh reality is high percentage of illiteracy, high child mortality, gender inequality, prevalence of corruption and exclusion of needy people from the development process.

The examination of the process and procedures involved in development process revealed that there are many challenges in the process adopted for allocation, methodological limitations, evaluation limitation, lack of coordination among multiple agencies, political compulsions of donor and recipient countries, transparency, accountability and multidimensional global financial markets compulsions. Certain measures can make development more inclusive and sustainable. Collective efforts of all agencies are the need of the hour to achieve the targets of sustainable development. Coordination among multiple agencies, capacity building of target population and involvement of private agencies in the development process will pave the way for sustainable development.
Public Procurement: A Competition Perspective
Authors: Bhagat Garima
Published: June 2017

Public procurement of goods and services accounts for 25–30 percentage of GDP in developing countries. Since this involves public resources, it is important to optimise efficiency of procurement which in turn is positively correlated with the level of competition in the market. Paradoxically, various factors make public procurement especially vulnerable to a host of anti-competitive practices. The article examines various anti-competitive practices that may potentially affect the efficiency of public procurement as well as ‘red flags’ in various stages of the bidding process that could possibly point to bid rigging. However, by properly designing the procurement process, risks of bid rigging can be significantly reduced. Data from various countries show huge savings to public treasuries resulting from implementation of public procurement reforms. The article also attempts to discuss the evolution of competition law in India over the last seven years of operation of the Competition Act, 2002. Apart from the crucial role of the Competition Authorities, the article underlines the need for procurers to be proactive. Effective public procurement reforms in India would require close cooperation among various stakeholders, such as the Department of Expenditure, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Competition Commission of India (CCI) as well as procurers.
Interrogating the Maoists and the Indian State: A Study of Salwa Judum in Bastar
Authors: Roy Himanshu
Published: June 2017

Salwa Judum was a unique tribal-peasant movement that arose against the specific agenda of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) 1 (henceforth Maoists) in its full intensity in 2005 in the sub-region of Bastar ( baanstari, a Halbi word meaning the bed of or the land of bamboos) in Chhattisgarh. The movement began since January across different villages of non-Abujh Maad (the unknown hills of Madia/Koya tribes) sub-region that initially galvanised approximately 20,000 tribals. It was spontaneous and non-political (Prasad, 2012, p. 329). It was unique as the movement was against a ‘revolutionary’ group of Maoists and not against the state or against the zamindari system as most peasant movements in rural India were in the past. Its build-up was the culmination of suppressed anger of the tribals that had developed over decades against the Maoists also called ‘Naxalites’. It was a new and different phenomenon.
Poverty Effects of Food Price Escalation and Mitigation Options: The Case of Malaysia
Authors: Solaymani Saeed , Yusma Bt Mohamed Yusoff Nora
Published: June 2017

This study uses a computable general equilibrium approach to investigate the impact of high global food and agricultural commodity prices and two mitigation options (a rise in agricultural input subsidies and an improvement in agricultural productivity) on poverty and economic performance of Malaysia. Simulated results showed that, as a whole, the high global food price has a negative impact on the economic growth of Malaysia. It decreases real gross domestic product of Malaysia by 0.53%. Although the food price hike initially increases poverty in urban areas, it would significantly decrease the poverty of rural and noncitizen households. However, both mitigation options can reduce the negative impact of the shock on the poverty and economic growth of Malaysia. The agricultural subsidy rise option cannot reduce the poverty level of all household groups, whereas the productivity improvement option can alleviate the poverty level of all household groups. In conclusion, results suggest that the agricultural productivity improvement option is more effective than the agricultural subsidy rise option to mitigate the negative impact of global food price shocks on the economy and poverty of Malaysia.
What Makes a Hero? Exploring Characteristic Profiles of Heroes Using Q-Method
Authors: Riches Brian R.
Published: June 2017

Building on research about the characteristics and varieties of actual heroes, the purpose of this project was to investigate the extent to which different types of real heroes have similar and distinct characteristics using Q-method, a person focused method. Awarded heroes sorted 49 psychological characteristics and Q-factor analysis revealed two profiles, or groups, of heroes; “open, loving, and risk-taking heroes,” and “spiritual, socially responsible, and prudent heroes.” These findings are interpreted in light of humanistic psychology, and the implications of these findings on the field of heroism science are discussed. The profiles bring the field of heroism science a deeper and more comprehensive view of the whole heroic person, and suggest directions for using heroic examples to fostering heroism.
Preliminary Validation of a Short-Form Version of the Attachment Style Questionnaire for Use in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Research and Practice
Authors: Iwanaga Kanako , Blake John , Yaghmaian Rana , Umucu Emre , Chan Fong , Brooks Jessica M. , Rahimi Maryam , Tansey Timothy N.
Published: June 2017

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a short-form version of the Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) in people with disabilities. The construction sample consisted of 108 participants recruited from spinal cord injury (SCI) advocacy organizations. The cross-validation sample comprised 140 individuals with traumatic injuries recruited from a rehabilitation hospital. Measures administered were the ASQ, Trait Hope Scale, Sense of Coherence Scale, and Satisfaction With Life Scale. Results showed that the three subscales of secure, anxious, and avoidant attachment from the short-form ASQ had high correlations with the three subscales from the long-form ASQ. The reliability of the subscales for the short-form ASQ was adequate and similar to the long-form ASQ. Both the short- and long-form ASQ subscales were found to correlate with hope, sense of coherence, and subjective well-being in the expected theoretical directions. Confirmatory factor analysis also supported the three-factor measurement structure of the short-form ASQ. This study provides evidence to support the psychometric properties of the abbreviated ASQ in people with disabilities. The short-form version of the ASQ is a brief, reliable, and psychometrically sound measure of attachment that can be used in clinical rehabilitation counseling research and practice.
Speed-Up Society? Evidence from the UK 2000 and 2015 Time Use Diary Surveys
Authors: Sullivan Oriel , Gershuny Jonathan
Published: June 2017

Using time diary evidence on change in the frequency and distribution of activities from UK time diary data over the 15 years from the turn of the 21st century, we assess whether the thesis of ‘the speed-up society’ is manifested in an increase in time intensity in people’s daily lives. Comparing indictors like time fragmentation, multitasking and ICT use, to respondents’ reports of how rushed they normally feel, we find no evidence that time pressure is increasing, or that ICT use is associated with greater feelings of time pressure. Rather, we find consistent cross-sectional differentials in our measures of time intensity by gender and occupational status, supporting the idea of relative stasis in the underlying social inequalities of time. These findings are consistent with previous research based on time use data, and we pose them as a challenge to theories of societal speed-up.
National Service and the All-Volunteer Force
Authors: Liebert Hugh , Golby James
Published: June 2017

In “Midlife Crisis? The All-Volunteer Force at Forty,” we illustrated the regional and partisan imbalance in today’s all-volunteer force (AVF), and we argued that restoring the draft is neither an effective nor a practicable policy solution to this problem. In response, Colonel Hauser has argued for restoring the draft, substantially increasing the number of U.S. ground forces and reinvigorating Congressional foreign policy-making. In this article, we question the practicability of Colonel Hauser’s proposals, and we argue that a restored draft would not improve national character, facilitate sounder foreign policy decisions, or reduce costs relative to an AVF.
Switching Hats: The Effect of Role Transition on Individual Ambidexterity
Authors: Tempelaar Michiel P. , Rosenkranz Nicole A.
Published: June 2017

This article contributes to the growing body of research that focuses on the microfoundations of organizational ambidexterity, that is, understanding what enables individuals to address the exploitation-exploration dilemma. One central challenge generated by ambidexterity is the multiplicity and divergence of organizational roles, to which individuals need to cater when exploiting and exploring. Specifically, we point to the relevance of how individuals identify with and enact this multiplicity of role demands. Following identity theory, we apply the logic of role integration and role segmentation, a foundational classification of how individuals cognitively manage role multiplicity. Further, as different role domains often require the interaction with other organizational functions, we test for the moderating effect of cross-functional coordination on the relationship between role segmentation and individual ambidexterity. Based on data from 120 global account managers employed by multinationals with an average size of 73,348 employees, our results indicate that role segmentation negatively influences an individual’s ability to behave ambidextrously. Interestingly, though, when operating in cross-functional teams, the impact of role segmentation becomes positive. We conclude by highlighting the scope and significance of these findings for theory, managerial practice, and future research.
The ACVP/STP Coalition for Veterinary Pathology Fellows Celebrates 32 New Training Positions
Authors: Cockerell Gary , Brayton Cory , Barger Anne , Bolon Brad
Published: June 2017

Since its creation in 2004, the Coalition for Veterinary Pathology Fellows, a partnership between the American College of Veterinary Pathologists and the Society of Toxicologic Pathology, has established 32 new training positions backed by US$7.4 million in financial support from private sponsors.
In Utero Exposure to Di(n-butyl)phthalate Induces Morphological and Biochemical Changes in Rats Postpuberty
Authors: Okayama Yuya , Wakui Shin , Wempe Michael F. , Sugiyama Mitsuru , Motohashi Masaya , Mutou Tomoko , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Kume Eisuke , Ikegami Hiroshi
Published: June 2017

Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered di( n-butyl)phthalate (DBP; 100 mg/kg/day) on gestation days (GD) 12 to 21. We investigated the male offspring and probed morphological alterations in Sertoli cells at 7, 9, 14, and 17 weeks of age. Parameters assessed in this study included offspring number, sex ratios, body weights, testis weights, seminiferous tubule (ST) profile numbers and diameters, number of vimentin-labeled Sertoli cells, and both testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Testicular weight/body weight ratios and the numbers and diameters of ST in maximum transverse testicular sections were statistically similar at weeks 7 and 9; however, at weeks 14 and 17, they were statistically different and displayed higher BrdU-positive Sertoli cells/Sertoli cell ratios in the DBP treatment group. Noteworthily, the serum FSH levels were higher and testicular testosterone levels were lower in the DBP treatment group. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to report that in utero DBP exposure significantly increased Sertoli cell numbers and their cellular proliferation from postpuberty to adulthood, with a significant decrease in testicular testosterone and an increase in FSH.
An analysis of the impact of agricultural tractor seat cushion materials to the level of exposure to vibration
Authors: Cvetanovic Boban , Cvetković Dragan , Praščević Momir , Cvetković Miljan , Pavlović Milan
Published: June 2017

During everyday operations with tractors, drivers are exposed to harmful effects of various factors. In addition to unfavourable temperature and humidity, dust and noise, one of the factors harmful to driver’s health is vibrations. They come from the tractor engine and from the roughness of the ground and are transferred to the cab and through the seat to the body of the driver. In case of high level magnitude vibrations and a long period of exposure to them, many health problems occur. The harmful effect of the vibrations is especially obvious in older models of tractors. High intensities of vibrations (above permitted limits) were found during the measurements of vibrations at the driver seat in such tractors. This study is an attempt to reduce the vibration levels using various vibration-absorbing components, such as cushions, at driver’s seat. The results of the measurements showed that the vibration levels were significantly lower in comparison to original seats.