bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Development of Instruction to Induce Skill Transfer
Authors: Gelzheiser Lynn M. , Shepherd Margaret Jo , Wozniak Robert H.
Published: January 2017

Mildly handicapped students require extremely systematic instruction if they are to transfer newly acquired skills. This article describes a series of strategy training programs, including a final program which enabled learning disabled students to generalize. Based on these programs, a general model of instruction for transfer is outlined. Cognitive theory is used to analyze why this type of instruction results in transfer.
Computers and Cognition in Reading: A Focus on Decoding Fluency
Authors: Torgesen Joseph K.
Published: January 2017

Recent cognitive analyses of reading indicate the importance of fluent word identification skills in reading comprehension. These analyses suggest that children who experience difficulties in the acquisition of fluent word decoding skills will be limited in their development of higher level comprehension processes in reading. Recent advances in computer technology create the possibility of providing much greater amounts of fluency oriented practice in decoding skills than is possible in most traditional programs. A few beginning studies provide support for the idea that computers may be helpful in reading instruction for handicapped children by providing large amounts of practice in the word identification skills that are necessary before good comprehension of written materials can occur.
Teaching Children to Identify the Main Idea of Expository Texts
Authors: Williams Joanna P.
Published: January 2017

Finding the main idea, a basic reading comprehension skill, often causes great difficulties for children. There is little consensus as to the definition of main idea, even in the research literature, and this has led to ineffective instructional design. This article describes the findings of a series of studies based on the Kintsch and van Dijk text-processing model. It defines main idea in terms of van Dijk's general topic and specific topic of discourse. The studies focus on the effects of text factors that can serve as cues to what is important in the text. These studies were the basis for the development of an instructional program on finding the main idea that was targeted for learning disabled students. The program is described. A small-scale evaluation of the program was conducted, in which eleven-year-old learning disabled children who worked through the program showed significant improvement in their ability to write sentences containing the main idea of short paragraphs. The program could serve as a beginning step in the development of instructional materials in reading comprehension for learning disabled and other mildly handicapped children.
Human Rights Review of Intrusive Behavioral Treatments for Students with Severe Handicaps
Authors: Singer George S. , Irvin Larry K.
Published: January 2017

A rationale for the establishment of human rights review procedures within local educational agencies is presented. School personnel who work with students served under P.L. 94–142 who have severe behavior problems with or without mental retardation should be familiar with the legal and educational foundations for human rights review processes, especially when intrusive behavioral treatments are considered.
Family Conversation Style: Its Effect on the Deaf Child's Participation
Authors: Bodner-Johnson Barbara
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the conversations of 10 deaf children and their families at dinnertime and documented types of verbal exchanges, both spoken and signed, among family members. Results were compared with two other studies of deaf children's conversations—with teachers and with mothers during playtime. This study found that the deaf children responded more loquaciously to questions than they did to statements or expressions of ideas; and the children did not have success in continuing topics of conversation. Suggestions are presented to help families engage their deaf children in conversations in more depth.
Longitudinal Analysis of Time, Engagement, and Achievement in At-Risk versus Non-Risk Students
Authors: Greenwood Charles R.
Published: January 2017

This longitudinal study investigated the effects of time spent in academic instruction and time engaged on elementary students' academic achievement gains. Three groups were compared over grades as follows: (a) an at-risk experimental group of low-socioeconomic status (SES) students for whom teachers implemented classwide peer tutoring (CWPT) beginning with the second semester of first grade continuing through Grade 3; (h) an equivalent at-risk control group; and (c) a non-risk comparison group of students of average- to high-SES. In both the control and comparison groups, teachers employed conventional instructional practices over Grades 1 through 3. Results indicated significant group differences in the time spent in academic instruction, engagement, and gains on the subtests of the Metropolitan Achievement Test that favored the experimental and comparison groups over the control group. Implications include the effectiveness of CWPT for at-risk students and the continuing vulnerability of at-risk students whose daily instructional programs provide less instructional time and foster lower levels of active academic engagement.
Strategy Usage among Deaf and Hearing Readers
Authors: Andrews Jean F. , Mason Jana M.
Published: January 2017

High school youths who were prelingually and profoundly deaf hearing elementary-school-age youths, and hearing reading-disabled high school youths read expository texts and filled in deleted words and phrases. After making word replacements, they explained their decisions in sign or verbally. As expected, the hearing youths had an easier time filling in the deleted portions and explaining what strategies they were using. While the deaf youths reported using similar strategies as the hearing youths, the frequency of each type of strategy differed. Deaf readers more often relied on rereading and background knowledge, while the hearing readers made greater use of context clues. The results suggest that instruction for deaf readers should include more effective comprehension strategies.
Neurological Basis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Riccio Cynthia A. , Hynd George W. , Cohen Morris J. , Gonzalez Jose J.
Published: January 2017

Since the turn of the century, researchers have believed that attention deficit disorder (ADD) involves brain dysfunction. Many theories have been researched in an attempt to resolve the nature of brain dysfunction that has resulted in behaviors associated with ADD. In the past two decades, with an expansion of research technology, significant changes have occurred in the conceptualization of ADD—with or without hyperactivity—as well as in the neurological models relating to the etiology of this disorder. This article reviews these models and presents neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and neurophysiological perspectives on ADD.
Behavioral Subtypes of Attention Deficit Disorder
Authors: Dykman Roscoe A. , Ackerman Peggy T.
Published: January 2017

This article reviews research on three behavioral subtypes of attention deficit disorder (ADD): without hyperactivity (ADD/WO), with hyperactivity (ADDH), and with hyperactivity and aggression (ADDHA). Children with ADDHA appear to be at increased risk to have oppositional and conduct disorders, whereas children with ADD/WO tend to show symptoms such as anxiety and depressed mood. Children in the three subtypes have similar rates of learning disabilities, but all have higher rates than found in control groups. Teacher and parent ratings are more sensitive than laboratory measures in differentiating the subtypes. Follow-up studies strongly suggest more adverse outcomes for ADDHA children.
Effect of Stimulant Medication on Children with Attention Deficit Disorder: A “Review of Reviews”
Authors: Swanson James M. , McBurnett Keith , Wigal Tim , Pfiffner Linda J. , Lerner Marc A. , Williams Lillie , Christian Diane L. , Tamm Leanne , Willcutt Erik , Crowley Kent , Clevenger Walter , Khouzam Nader , Woo Christina , Crinella Francis M. , Fisher Todd D.
Published: January 2017

The University of California, Irvine ADD Center recently conducted a synthesis of the literature on the use of stimulants with children with attention deficit disorder (ADD), using a unique “review of reviews” methodology. In this article, we compare three reviews from each of three review types (traditional, meta-analytic, general audience) and illustrate how coding variables can highlight sources of divergence. In general, divergent conclusions stemmed from variations in goal rather than from variations in the sources selected to review. Across quantitative reviews, the average effect size for symptomatic improvement (.83) was twice that for benefits on IQ and achievement measures (.35). A summary of what should and should not be expected of the use of stimulants with ADD children, derived from the literature synthesis, is provided.
Educational Interventions for Students with Attention Deficit Disorder
Authors: Fiore Thomas A. , Becker Elizabeth A. , Nero Rebecca C.
Published: January 2017

This article reviews the current research-based knowledge on nonpharmacological interventions for students with ADD and highlights findings related to behavior management, academic instruction, home-school collaboration, and comprehensive programming. The literature on educationally relevant interventions is exploratory, not prescriptive; and findings are inconsistent. Investigators have tested relatively few interventions that speak to the day-to-day issues teachers face or to the larger issues related to developing comprehensive educational programs for these students.
Early Interventionists Perspectives of Multicultural Practices with African-American Families
Authors: Sexton David , Lobman Marcia , Constans Theresa , Snyder Patricia , Ernest James
Published: January 2017

This study examined the multicultural practice perspectives of 170 early interventionists serving African-American children and families in a southern state of the United States, in relation to the requirements of Part H of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Results of the Early Intervention Multicultural Practices Survey indicated that these participants were positive about the multicultural nature of their individual and agency practices. Participants were less favorable, however, in their ratings of systemic support for multicultural practices. Differences were found for multicultural practice perspectives based on reported racial or cultural self-identification. The results support innovative and systematic inservice multicultural training that includes administrators.
An Evaluation of Transition Components of Individualized Education Programs
Authors: Grigal Meg , Test David W. , Beattie John , Wood Wendy M.
Published: January 2017

This study evaluated the transition component of the individualized education programs (IEPs) of 94 high school students between the ages of 18 and 21—students with learning disabilities, mild mental retardation, moderate mental retardation, and emotional/behavioral disorders. The study examined the format of the transition component document, compliance with the mandates of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and reflections of best practices, as well as the differences in these aspects of IEP transition components among disability groups. Results indicated that although the majority of the transition components complied with IDEA's mandate, they lacked many of the essential elements reflective of best practices in transition.
Case Studies of High-Ability Students with Learning Disabilities Who Have Achieved
Authors: Reis Sally M. , Neu Terry W. , McGuire Joan M.
Published: January 2017

We used qualitative methods to study 12 young people with learning disabilities who were successful at the college level. The participants reported negative school experiences, verified by their parents and school records, such as social problems, difficulty with teachers, and frustration with certain academic areas. The interaction of their high abilities and their learning disabilities produced a number of negative consequences since their talents were not usually addressed by the school system they attended. However, despite these experiences, participants were able to integrate specific personal traits and special compensation strategies and environmental modifications to succeed in a challenging university setting.
Bridging the Research-to-Practice Gap
Authors: Carnine Doug
Published: January 2017

The contribution of research findings to the education of Americas students, including those with disabilities, depends on the quality of and market demand for research findings. This paper presents a rationale and suggestions for increasing the quality of and market demand for research findings as a vital component of any serious effort to improve American education. Responses to the paper are from representatives of the American Federation of Teachers; Learning Disabilities Association; National Alliance of Business; National Association of State Directors of Special Education; and Staff Director, Disability Policy Subcommittee, U.S. Senate. An additional response, which also synthesizes all responses, is provided by The Council for Exceptional Children.
APEC: Evidence and Implications for Policy
Authors: Anwar Syed Aziz , Jabnoun Naceur
Published: January 2017

Against the backdrop of the theory of economic cooperation and integration, this paper examines and analyses the mechanics and dynamics of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum . Available evidence indicates that the APEC has emerged as a building block of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and can offer solutions to a wide array of problems in international business. Possibly the greatest potential of this forum lies in its strength to bring several economically diverse and geographically dispersed countries together to address the oft-quoted issues and problems in international business in the Asia-Pacific region. However, it is argued that APEC is not the only policy track that is going to be used by the member-states to protect and promote their business interests. For instance, the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the North American Free Trade Area (NAFTA) do provide legal frameworks for some of the APEC members to iron out tariffs and other invisible barriers to international trade. The idea to promote “open regionalism” in the Asia-Pacific region is also subject to scrutiny in this paper. We argue that this emphatically articulated idea by APEC is in line with the WTO charter. One may, however, consider the bilateral and multilateral actions within the APEC with regard to “open regionalism” before trying to develop a theory of open regional groupings. These actions will significantly determine how APEC can actually function in an environment characterised by discriminatory regional groupings and anti-free trade lobbies manifested in recent violent protests in USA, Switzerland and Thailand. Finally, we examine various scenarios for policy following the 1999 APEC Summit in New Zealand.
Application of A Spreadsheet Program to Control System Design
Authors: Wong Yiu-Kwong
Published: January 2017

Application of a spreadsheet program to control system design

The Symphony spreadsheet program is applied to calculate the frequency response of feedback control systems. A design template which contains the necessary formulae was constructed so that very little knowledge of the program is required to obtain impressive results. The template becomes a powerful tool by providing a fast and efficient means of designing a stable closed-loop system as well as predicting its performance.
Progress of Direct Entry Students on Year 2 B. Eng. Honours Course in Electronic Engineering at Middlesex University
Authors: Fewson D.
Published: January 2017

Progress of direct entry students on Year 2, BEng Honours course in Electronic Engineering at Middlesex University

Transfer of students with good Electronic HNDs into the second year of an Electronic BEng Honours course has proved to be very successful. These students compare very well with those of more conventional entry, and many achieve high honours awards at the end of the course.
Motivating Engineering Undergraduates with Practical Problems
Authors: Ng Lian-Soon , Tan Ooi-Kiang , Jong Ching-Chuen
Published: January 2017

Motivating engineering undergraduates with practical problems

In this paper, a nine-hour practical session suitable for second-year engineering undergraduates is proposed and discussed. The aims and objectives of the practical session, as well as the tasks for the students are clearly formulated. The domains of each task are analysed. The existing practices are reflected and reviewed and a new assessment scheme is proposed.
Enticing Students to Program Microcontrollers
Authors: Haysom M. L.
Published: January 2017

Enticing students to program microcontrollers

Writing microcontroller code requires the application of logic and defined rules. It may have intrinsic appeal to some people, but not to others. This paper presents a strategy which successfully enticed a diverse group of students to program microcontrollers. The strategy is consistent with industrial techniques for microcontroller system development.
An Applied Viewpoint on Software Engineering for Electrical and Electronic Engineers
Authors: Buchanan W. J.
Published: January 2017

An applied viewpoint on software engineering for electrical and electronic engineers

This paper describes how Software Engineering can be taught to Electronics students in a form which reinforces electrical/electronic theory, makes code development interesting and helps explain the software development cycle.
Protecting CAD Files During Development: The Sunos SCCS System
Authors: Noras James M.
Published: January 2017

Protecting CAD files during development: the SunOS SCCS system

This is a practical introduction to the Source Code Control System (SCCS) for the development and protection of text-files. Familiar in software projects, it can be a valuable aid for CAD using textual hardware description. A Verilog example illustrates the method, and then the system's most useful features are explained.
An Emitter Follower Sinusoidal Oscillator Circuit
Authors: Abuelma'atti Muhammad Taher
Published: January 2017

An emitter follower sinusoidal oscillator circuit

An emitter-follower oscillator circuit is analysed. Expressions for the frequency of oscillation and the condition of oscillation are obtained. Experimental results which confirm the theory are presented.
Programmable Nonlinear Adc: An Illustrative Example
Authors: Anvekar Dinesh K. , Sonde B. S.
Published: January 2017

Programmable nonlinear ADC: an illustrative example

Programmable nonlinear analog-to-digital conversion is a new topic in EE curricula. With a view to introducing the EE student to the concept of transfer characteristic programmability of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a memory-prefetch programmable nonlinear ADC is presented. The design, analytical evaluation, and experimental implementation for the ADC are described.
Basic Computer-Aided Learning for a Control Engineering Course
Authors: Chew K. P. , Renfrew A. C. , Young C. P. L.
Published: January 2017

Basic computer-aided learning for a control engineering course

To allow for variation in the rate at which similarly qualified students accept new material, a computer-based aid has been developed to provide self-paced learning as an adjunct to a formal course in Control Systems. The first stage of the courseware is described and student reaction is surveyed.
A First-Order D.C. Model of the Mosfet
Authors: Hart B. L.
Published: January 2017

An existing first-order d.c. model of the MOSFET that incorporates a non-standard network element, and requires a special symbol to represent it, is reconstructed to use only standard network elements.
A Collection of Practical Experiments in Multirate Digital Signal Processing and Filter Bank Theory
Authors: Moreno L. , Estévez J. , Sánchez J. , Merino J. , Sigut J. , Piñeiro J. , Aguilar R.
Published: January 2017

A collection of practical experiments in the area of multirate digital signal processing and filter banks is described. The systems are implemented using a block oriented simulation tool together with specific software. The attention is focused on the benefits that simulation gives in understanding the main topics related with the multirate designs.
A Creative Class Project Based on VHDL, Synthesis and FPGA Design
Authors: Harrison C. G. , Jones P. L.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this class project is to develop interpersonal and communication skills in a group working environment while at the same time providing experience in the planning and execution of a complex electronic design. The students are in the second year of an undergraduate programme.
Strain-Energy-Release Rate Analysis of Delamination in a Tapered Laminate Subjected to Tension Load
Authors: Salpekar S. A. , Raju I. S. , O'Brien T. K.
Published: January 2017

A tapered composite laminate subjected to tension load was analyzed using the finite element method. The {[07/(±45)]/1[(±45)3]/[0/(±45)/0]}5 glass/epoxy laminate has a (±45)3 group of plies dropped in three distinct steps, each 20 ply-thicknesses apart, thus forming a taper angle of 5.71 degrees. Steep gradients of interlaminar normal and shear stress on a potential delamination interface suggest the existence of stress singularities at the points of material and geometric discontinuities created by the internal plydrops. The delamination was assumed to initiate at the thin end of the taper on the-45/+45 interface indicated by the arrow in the laminate layup and the delamination growth was simulated in both directions, i.e., along the taper and into the thin region. The total strain-energy-release rate, G, and the mode I and mode II components of G, were computed at the delamination tips using the virtual crack closure technique. In addition, G was calculated from a global energy balance method. The strain-energy-release rate for a delamination growing into the thin laminate consisted predominantly of mode I (opening) component. For a delamination growing along the tapered region, the strain-energy-release rate was initially all mode I, but the proportion of mode I decreased with increase in delamination size until eventually total G was all mode II. The total G for both delamination tips increased with increase in delamination size, indicating that a delamination initiating at the end of the taper will grow unstably along the taper and into the thin laminate simultaneously.
Buckling of Circular Cylindrical Composite Shells under Axial Compression and Bending Loads
Authors: Lou K. A. , Yaniv G.
Published: January 2017

The buckling behavior of circular cylindrical composite shells under axial compression, bending, and combined compression-bending is studied. Both Donnell-and refined Love-type equations of motion are solved using Galerkin's method. Numerical results reflecting a wide range of radius-to-thickness and length-to-thickness ratios are presented and discussed. The interaction between axial compression and bending in the combined loading case show significant deviation from the linear noninteracting beam-column type solutions.
Some Situational Factors Improving Cognitive Conflict Reduction and Interpersonal Understanding
Authors: McCarthy Henry
Published: January 2017

An important program of psychological laboratory research on cognitive conflict is based on Hammond's (1965) lens model. Most representative of this work is the triple-system case in which two persons conflict in their judgments on a mutual task of known structure and properties. Built into this case are two constraints reflecting characteristics of some conflict settings: task outcome feedback and the requirement that the conflicting parties reach a consensus. Minimal conflict reduction is evidenced in these experiments because the demands of outcome feedback orient the subjects to adapt to the changing policy dictated by the task rather than that defined by the other person. To examine the situational limits of these findings, a study was designed for a double-system case comprised of the two policy makers, but in which the structure and properties of the task are undetermined. Hence, no feedback was provided; moreover, joint judgments were made optional. Another deviation from the paradigm involved selecting subjects with already divergent belief systems rather than inducing discrepant policies through different training. Results clearly demonstrated considerable conflict reduction when persons with socially acquired opposing policies, which happened to be linear, were simply allowed free discussion and were not evaluated by task-accuracy feedback. Afterwards, subjects privately made another series of judgments as well as predictions of their partner's judgments. Overall, subjects sustained the substantial level of agreement achieved and revealed an even higher degree of assumed similarity. Limitation of the findings in view of the uniformly linear policies tested is emphasized.
Group Size and Others' Strategy in an N-Person Game
Authors: Fox John , Guyer Melvin
Published: January 2017

The effects of group size and cooperativeness of others upon an individual's propensity to cooperate is studied using the Take-Some format of the Prisoner's Dilemma game. By holding utility effects constant, this format permits comparisons to be made between the performances of subjects in different size groups. A 2 × 2 experimental design was employed in which 48 male subjects were assigned to stooge-player groups comprised of either two or eleven “others.” Stooge players in these groups employed either high or low cooperative strategies in 200 repeated trials of play. The results show a significant group-size effect upon the degree of cooperativeness evidenced by the subjects. A significant group size x stooge strategy interaction was also observed, subjects in the 3-person group being responsive to the “others” while subjects in the larger group remained relatively unaffected by “others' ”cooperativeness. An interpretation of these results is made in terms of the “accountability” of an individual to others in the group.
Conditionally Discharged Restricted Patients and the Need for Long-Term Medium Security
Authors: Riordan Sharon , Smith Helen , Humphreys Martin
Published: January 2017

In the context of a larger investigation of follow-up of a specific group of mentally disordered individuals, the study described here examined the characteristics of all 55 people conditionally discharged for the first time from a medium secure unit in the West Midlands over a 13-year period. A retrospective case note analysis was undertaken. The findings illustrate that these patients are a distinct group. They were mainly single men who had committed a grave offence. The majority had an extensive criminological history with early onset of offending and chronic mental illness. Fifty per cent of those with a criminal record had received at least one custodial sentence prior to the index offence. Co-morbid substance misuse was common, as was a history of self-harm. There were high levels of previous contact with psychiatric services and compulsory in-patient treatment. Most were detained under the Mental Health Act category of mental illness. A quarter had been transferred from a special hospital prior to conditional discharge into the community. The characteristics of this sample demonstrate clearly the need for the provision of long-term medium secure facilities and allied services.
Sexual Assaults in Singapore: A Comparative Study of Rapists and Molesters
Authors: Lim Leslie
Published: January 2017

Sexual assaults vary in terms of severity from molestation, which involves touching, stroking, fondling or grabbing of any part of the victim's body, to rape, where victims have been known to suffer severe emotional trauma. The aim of the study is to compare molesters with rapists using hypotheses that molesters and rapists commit their offences at different times of the day, at differing locations and with differing relationships with their victims. The influence of alcohol on both groups was also studied.

Convicted molesters and rapists were given a semi-structured interview in prison. Demographic information and details of each offence were obtained from prison records. Comparisons were made of the demography, time, place, reasons for assault, relationship of offender to victims and the role of alcohol and drugs consumed by the perpetrators.

Molesters and rapists were of similar age and ethnicity, but differed in that rapists had attained a lower educational level and were more likely to be single. Rapists were more likely to report having drunk alcohol, committing rape after midnight and in secluded places. Molesters struck in the afternoon hours and usually in crowded places. Victims of molesters tended to be relatives whereas victims of rapists were more likely to be ex-spouses or ex-lovers. Molesters tended to give other reasons for their offences.

Differences between molesters and rapists could lead to intervention strategies chiefly targeting the issues of poor socialisation skills in molesters and alcohol counselling for rapists.
2. An Autopsy Case of a Stunt Man Who Jumped into Seawater Riding a Motorcycle: A Case Report
Authors: Watanabe-Suzuki Kanako , Suzuki Osamu , Nozawa Hideki , Ishii Akira
Published: January 2017

We report a rare case of the death of a stunt man who jumped into the sea driving a motorcycle on location for a TV drama. A special ramp had been constructed for the jump. The stunt man and a passenger drove up the ramp at a speed of 60–70 km/h and jumped into the sea from a height of about five metres. Both men swam up, but the driver fell unconscious at the surface. He was sent to hospital, but did not recover. The autopsy revealed a deep laceration of the right axilla with complete rupture of the axillary artery, bone fractures of the right ribs and the right pelvis, and a small laceration of the upper lobe of the right lung. Other visceral organs were not injured. We finally judged that his cause of death was exsanguination due to rupture of the right axillary artery on the basis of the presence of a small amount of blood inside the heart and ischemic organs. All injuries were probably inflicted by a collision with the motorcycle upon reaching the water surface; the axillary injury might be due to the left handlebar piercing into the part.
3. Head Injury with Traumatic and Postural Asphyxia: A Case Report
Authors: Wankhede Ashesh Gunwantrao , Dongre A P
Published: January 2017

An autopsy was performed on a 22-year-old tractor driver who was found on a cliff, 20 feet down from the highway, trapped between the wheel of a tractor trolley and some stones in an inverted position, after sustaining a head injury. Post mortem lividity was present above the knee joints except where the left arm was firmly adducted on the chest and where the cloth folds were compressing on the chest and abdomen all round. Sub-mucosal ecchymoses and petechial hemorrhages were present in the pharyngeal walls, and on both surfaces of the epiglottis and larynx above the vestibular folds. Such hemorrhages were first noticed along with other findings of traumatic and postural asphyxia.
The Second Post-Mortem and Deaths Overseas: A Case Report
Authors: Cordner S. M.
Published: January 2017

A case is presented of a 35-year-old British engineer who died while in the Middle East. A diagnosis of ‘Acute Haemorrhagic Pancreatitis’ was made at the post-mortem examination. At a second post-mortem examination performed in the United Kingdom ten days later, the cause of death was shown to be extensive haemorrhage into the transverse mesocolon. The discovery of a localized arteritis within the haemorrhage was important in excluding significant trauma in the aetiology of this haemorrhage. This was of particular significance in this case because of the disposition of an insurance policy. The case is a demonstration of the value of the Court of Appeal's ruling in R. v. West Yorkshire Coroner, ex parte Ronald Smith. 1
A Fatal Case of Toxic-Shock Syndrome following Cholecystectomy
Authors: Beck S. , Fenton P.A. , Rollinson P. D.
Published: January 2017

Toxic-shock syndrome is less common in the United Kingdom than in the United States, and in both countries the majority of cases have been diagnosed in menstruating women (de Saxe et al., 1982). Reingold et al. (1982) reviewed 130 cases of non-menstrual related toxic-shock syndrome in the United States. They detailed specific criteria for case definition and quoted a fatality rate of 9.2 per cent. Only 17 of these cases were associated with infected surgical wounds and none followed cholecystectomy. The onset of symptoms was one to 64 days post-operatively (median two days), and in all but one of these cases the signs of wound infection were minimal. We describe a fatal case of toxic-shock syndrome which occurred in an elderly man 25 days after cholecystectomy where the focus of infection was a wound sinus.
Driving and Alcohol: A Case Report of a Biological Impossibility
Authors: Knight B.
Published: January 2017

The recent criticisms of breath analysis for alcohol make the following case of interest. In this instance, it is difficult to identify the source of the anomaly, but the case is thought worth reporting because although it was patently obvious that something was amiss, both the lower court and the appellate court refused to countenance the biological inconsistencies and imposed and upheld a conviction.
Return to Special: An Examination of the Characteristics of Patients Who Returned to Ashworth Special Hospital
Authors: Tavernor Ros , Swinton Mark , Collins James , Brook Rosemary , Beadle Anne
Published: January 2017

Sixteen patients were returned to Ashworth in a one-year period (five second admissions, 10 failed leave of absence and one warrant of recall) making up 31% of admissions for the year. Demographic details and reasons for return were collected. Fifty per cent of patients had a clinical diagnosis of personality disorder. Reasons for return included relapse of psychosis, persistent transgression of boundaries, aggression or threatened aggression, unsuitable placements and failure to progress towards discharge.
An Analysis of a Recent Criminal Trial Involving Sexual Misconduct with a Child, Alcohol Abuse and a Successful Sleepwalking Defence: Arguments Supporting Two Proposed New Forensic Categories
Authors: Schenck Carlos H , Mahowald Mark W
Published: January 2017

The final judgment from a recent criminal trial in the British Columbia (Canada) Supreme Court is summarized and discussed. The trial involved sexual misconduct with a child, excessive alcohol use, and a successful ‘sleepwalking (SW) defence’ (non-insane automatism). Our comments on this trial provide an opportunity to present our arguments buttressing two newly proposed forensic categories: (i) parasomnia with continuing danger as a non-insane automatism, which originally was proposed for cases involving recurrent, sleep-related violence, but which can also be applied to SW cases involving sleep-related sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse (and other high-risk self-abusive behaviours); (ii) (intermittent) state-dependent continuing danger, an intermediate category within the ‘continuing danger’ concept, with the core feature being that a person acquitted of a criminal charge on the basis of the ‘SW defence’ (or some other parasomnia defence), in which the SW episode was provoked by a high-risk behaviour (e.g. alcohol intoxication) should bear full legal culpability for any future episode that was provoked by a recurrence of the high-risk behaviour — provided that the individual had wilfully engaged in that behaviour.
1. Non-Accidental Injury Inflicted on a Child with an Air Weapon
Authors: Campbell-Hewson G L , D'Amore A , Busuttil A
Published: January 2017

A case of non-accidental injury to an infant caused by the discharge of an air pistol is presented, the first such case to be reported. A two-month-old baby was shot at close range by his father with a ***.177 air pistol. A false account of the cause of the injury was given by the father and initially supported by the mother. The pellet penetrated the skin in the centre of the child's forehead and lodged in the anterior wall of the sagittal sinus. It was removed under general anaesthetic and the child made an uncomplicated recovery. The father was subsequently convicted and jailed for the assault. The relevant literature on air weapon injuries and bizarre forms of child abuse is discussed.
The Achilles Heel
Authors: Mark Robert
Published: January 2017

“ We recommend that standing joint committees be required to submit estimates of police expenditure for the approval of county councils.” (Recommendation 30 of the Royal Commission's Final Report.)
The Promotion Exams
Authors: Devlin J. Daniel
Published: January 2017

The seventh of a series of articles of interest to examination candidates and all concerned with training.
Your Servant, Sir?
Authors: Janus
Published: January 2017

A historically-minded police officer reflects on the status of the constable since the Police Act, 1964
Risk on the Road: The Reason Casualty Rates Do Not Fall?
Authors: Reinhardt-Rutland A.H.
Published: January 2017

Road casualties remain obstinately high, no matter what initiatives are undertaken. This may be because the driver has a “target” level of risk: Any measure to reduce casualties is counteracted by the driver maintaining this level of risk by, for example, driving faster. Some of the most impressive drops in casualty rates have occurred when risky behaviour has been less likely because other factors seem more salient - as in the oil crises of the 1970s.
Personal Use of Hair Dyes and the Risk of Bladder Cancer: Results of a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huncharek Michael , Kupelnick Bruce
Published: January 2017

Objective.

This study examined the methodology of observational studies that explored an association between personal use of hair dye products and the risk of bladder cancer.

Methods.

Data were pooled from epidemiological studies using a general variance-based meta-analytic method that employed confidence intervals. The outcome of interest was a summary relative risk (RRs) reflecting the risk of bladder cancer development associated with use of hair dye products vs. non-use. Sensitivity analyses were performed to explain any observed statistical heterogeneity and to explore the influence of specific study characteristics of the summary estimate of effect.

Results.

Initially combining homogenous data from six case-control and one cohort study yielded a non-significant RR of 1.01 (0.92, 1.11), suggesting no association between hair dye use and bladder cancer development. Sensitivity analyses examining the influence of hair dye type, color, and study design on this suspected association showed that uncontrolled confounding and design limitations contributed to a spurious non-significant summary RR. The sensitivity analyses yielded statistically significant RRs ranging from 1.22 (1.11, 1.51) to 1.50 (1.30, 1.98), indicating that personal use of hair dye products increases bladder cancer risk by 22% to 50% vs. non-use.

Conclusion.

The available epidemiological data suggest an association between personal use of hair dye products and increased risk of bladder cancer.
Socioeconomic Factors and the Risk of Anencephaly in a Mexican Population: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Muñoz Julia Blanco , Lacasaña Marina , Aburto Victor Hugo Borja , Sánchez Luisa Elvira Torres , García Ana María García , Carrillo Lizbeth López
Published: January 2017

Objective.

The study was designed to evaluate the association between socioeconomic level (as measured by maternal education, maternal occupation, and monthly family income) and anencephaly.

Methods.

The authors conducted a case-control study using data from the Epidemiological Surveillance System Register for Neural Tube Defects for three states of the Mexican Republic: Puebla, Guerrero and the State of Mexico. Mothers of 151 cases of infants born with anencephaly and mothers of 151 control infants born during the period March 2000 to February 2001 were interviewed about their socioeconomic characteristics and other factors including reproductive history, use of prenatal care, use of tobacco and alcohol, fever during pregnancy, and folic acid supplementation.

Results.

After adjustment for potential confounders, a risk gradient was seen with decreasing maternal education. Women with less than a primary school education (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2, 7.6) and women who had completed primary school but had not completed junior high school (adjusted OR=2.2; 95% CI 0.9, 5.7) had higher risks of giving birth to an infant with anencephaly, compared to women with a higher educational level. A monthly income ⩽1,000 pesos (approximately $100 U.S.) was also associated with a higher risk of anencephaly (OR=2.5; 95% CI 1.2, 5.1). Women employed in industry or agriculture during the acute risk period (three months prior to conception to one month after conception) had a risk 6.5 times (95% CI 1.4, 29.6) that of professional and business women.

Conclusions.

This study helps to identify groups that may be especially vulnerable to this type of congenital malformation so that primary and secondary preventive strategies can be targeted to these groups.
Influence of Social Factors on Avoidable Mortality: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Bautista Daniel , Alfonso José Luis , Corella Dolores , Saiz Carmen
Published: January 2017

Objective.

The effect of socioeconomic factors on avoidable mortality at an individual level is not well known, since most studies showing this association are based on aggregate data. The purpose of this study was to determine socioeconomic differences between those patients who die of avoidable causes and those who do not die.

Methods.

A matched case-control study was carried out regarding in-hospital avoidable mortality (Holland's medical care indicators) that occurred in a university hospital serving a Spanish-Mediterranean population during a 30-month period.

Results.

We studied 82 cases of death from avoidable causes and 300 controls matched on medical care indicators and age. The variables that showed a statistically significant association with in-hospital avoidable mortality were number of diagnoses (the greater the number, the higher the risk), length of stay (patients staying seven or more days presented a lower risk), and education. Those patients with low and middle educational levels showed a greater risk of avoidable mortality (adjusted odds ratio=3.57 and 2.82, respectively) than those patients with higher levels of education.

Conclusions.

Consistent with the findings of studies based on aggregate data, our case-control analyses indicated that among several socioeconomic variables studied, educational level was significantly associated with the risk of in-hospital avoidable mortality, regardless of age and medical care indicators. Patients with low levels of education (<6 years of schooling) were at highest risk for in-hospital avoidable mortality, followed by those with middle levels of education (7–10 years of schooling).
Depression and Hip Fracture Risk: The NHANES I Epidemiologic Follow-up Study
Authors: Mussolino Michael E.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

Since hip fracture is the most devastating consequence of osteoporosis from a public health standpoint, addressing whether depression is predictive of fracture risk is important. The purpose of this study is to determine whether individuals with high depressive symptomatology are more likely to suffer an osteoporotic hip fracture than subjects with intermediate or low depressive symptomatology.

Methods.

Data from the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) were obtained from a nationally representative sample of noninstitutionalized civilians. A cohort aged 25 through 74 at baseline (1971–1975) was observed through 1992. Subjects were followed-up for a maximum of 22 years. Included in the analyses were 6,195 white and black subjects. Ninety-five percent of the original cohort completed the study. Hospital records and death certificates were used to identify a total of 122 hip fracture cases.

Results.

In an unadjusted Cox proportional hazards regression model for all individuals, depression was predictive of hip fracture (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.90; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.13, 3.21; p=0.016). In a multivariate proportional hazards model controlling for ( 1) age at baseline, ( 2) gender, ( 3) race, ( 4) body mass index, ( 5) smoking status, ( 6) alcohol consumption, and ( 7) physical activity level, high depressive symptomatology remained predictive of hip fracture (HR=1.70; 95% CI=0.99, 2.91; p=0.055).

Conclusions.

This study gives evidence of a prospective association between depression and hip fracture. Additional studies are needed to verify these findings and to elucidate the pathways for the effects of depression on hip fracture incidence.
Effect of Release from Prison and Re-Incarceration on the Viral Loads of HIV-Infected Individuals
Authors: Stephenson Becky L. , Wohl David A. , Golin Carol E. , Tien Hsiao-Chuan , Stewart Paul , Kaplan Andrew H.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of release from prison and subsequent re-incarceration on the viral loads of HIV-infected individuals receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Methods.

Fifteen re-incarcerated HIV-infected prisoners on HAART were identified from a retrospective cohort of HIV-infected prison inmates released from January 1, 1997, to August 31, 1999. The re-incarcerated prisoners were matched (1:2) to 30 HIV-infected incarcerated prisoners on HAART who remained incarcerated during the re-incarcerated participants' release time period. The outcomes measured were plasma HIV RNA levels, CD4+ lymphocyte counts, percentage of re-incarcerated and incarcerated participants with plasma HIV RNA levels <400 copies/mL, and the median change in plasma HIV RNA levels of the re-incarcerated and incarcerated participants at the end of the study.

Results.

At the beginning of the study, 8/15 re-incarcerated participants had plasma HIV RNA levels <400 copies/mL, compared with 15/30 incarcerated participants. At the end of the study, only three of those eight re-incarcerated participants had plasma HIV RNA levels <400 copies/mL, compared with 14/15 incarcerated participants ( p=0.0086). The median change in plasma HIV RNA levels of the re-incarcerated participants was 1.29 log10 copies/mL (interquartile range 0.04 to 1.70), compared with −0.03 log10 copies/mL (interquartile range −0.65 to 0.09) in the incarcerated participants ( p=0.0183).

Conclusions.

Release from prison was associated with a deleterious effect on virological and immunological outcomes. These data suggest that comprehensive discharge planning efforts are required to make certain that HIV-infected inmates receive access to quality care following incarceration.