bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Routine HIV testing in the Emergency Department: feasible and acceptable?
Authors: Hempling Melissa C , Zielicka-Hardy Anna , Ellis Jayne P , Majewska Wendy , Fida Gosaye
Published: October 2015

Routine HIV testing in non-specialist settings has the potential to significantly reduce late diagnosis and delay in treatment. The objective was to determine the feasibility and acceptability of HIV testing in an Emergency Department (ED) at a busy London teaching hospital. We conducted an observational cross sectional study between March–May 2012 where patients aged between 18–65 years attending St George's ED having serological tests were offered HIV testing by ED clinical staff. Patients were given an information leaflet on HIV, including how to obtain results. Data detailing whether the test was offered (feasibility) and whether the patient consented to the test (acceptability) were documented. Information regarding reasons for not offering HIV testing and reasons why the test was declined was also recorded. During the study period, 24,171 patients aged 18–65 were seen in the ED. Data were collected from 5657 patients. The mean age was 38 years, 57% were female and 27% identified themselves as white. 48% were offered HIV testing, of which 65% accepted. Incapacity to consent to testing was cited by clinicians as the commonest reason for not offering an HIV test (76%). ‘Recent HIV test’ was the commonest reason for declining a test (38%). One new HIV diagnosis was made. Our experience demonstrates that routine HIV testing in the ED is feasible and acceptable. However, to make HIV testing effective and part of routine clinical care, considerable clinical leadership, staff training and additional resources are required.
Epidemiology of incident chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections and population attributable fractions associated with living in the inner-core of Winnipeg, Canada
Authors: Shaw Souradet Y , Nowicki Deborah L , Schillberg Erin , Green Christopher G , Ross Craig P , Reimer Joss , Plourde Pierre J , Elliott Lawrence J
Published: October 2015

Population attributable fractions help to convey public health significance of differential disease risk for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Geographical residence serves as a useful proxy for complex processes creating ill health. Using population-based data, Poisson regression models were used to examine factors associated with chlamydia and gonorrhoea incidence. Population attributable fractions due to residency in the Winnipeg Health Region’s inner-core were determined for chlamydia/gonorrhoea infections among 15–59-year olds (2005–2013), stratified by age group. For both chlamydia and gonorrhoea, it was found that the 15–24-year old age group had the highest incidence rates. There was also a stronger association between residency in the inner-core and incidence for gonorrhoea, compared to chlamydia. Overall, 24% (95% CI: 12–34%) of chlamydia infections were attributable to residency in the inner-core, compared to 46% (95% CI: 35–54%) for gonorrhoea ( p < .05). Within chlamydia/gonorrhoea, no statistically significant differences in population attributable fraction were observed by age group. The conclusion was that a concentration of efforts towards inner-core residents with gonorrhoea infections may result in a relatively larger decrease in incidence.
Including, Excluding…Annihilating
Authors: Sonpar Shobna
Published: October 2015

The article adopts a psychosocial perspective to explore social inclusion–exclusion in the context of inter-group relations. It is framed in terms of the five-step social identity model of the development of collective hate described by Reicher et al. (2008). A central idea is that of a tension between inclusion and exclusion that may sometimes be in comfortable balance but is always vulnerable to disturbance. This vulnerability may lie in existing fault lines that are quiescent for the moment or due to external factors impinging on the balance in significant ways. Once the movement towards exclusion is initiated, other factors may come into play such as threat perception and the righteous self-aggrandisement of the in-group propelling it towards murderous hate.
When Debunking Scientific Myths Fails (and When It Does Not)
Authors: Peter Christina , Koch Thomas
Published: October 2015

When reporting scientific information, journalists often present common myths that are refuted with scientific facts. However, correcting misinformation this way is often not only ineffective but can increase the likelihood that people misremember it as true. We test this backfire effect in the context of journalistic coverage and examine how to counteract it. In a web-based experiment, we find evidence for a systematic backfire effect that occurs after a few minutes and strengthens after five days. Results show that forming judgments immediately during reception (in contrast to memory-based) can reduce backfire effects and prevent erroneous memory from affecting participants’ attitudes.
Facilitating Change
Authors: Larance Lisa Young , Rousson Ashley
Published: October 2015

The authors highlight a community’s response to women’s use of force, detail aspects of intervention strategies, and introduce a conceptual model representing the women’s change process. In doing so, they encourage community partnerships, continued intervention innovation, and further research. Their observations suggest an intervention philosophy and approach that women have described as one of personal “renewal.” The community’s experiences are notable in light of national efforts to effectively meet the needs of female survivors of intimate partner violence who have used force.
Party pledges in the news
Authors: Kostadinova Petia
Published: October 2015

Focusing on Bulgaria, and covering the 1990–2009 period, this article analyses what factors predict if print media will report election promises made by political parties. The study utilizes two original datasets. One consists of 3083 pledges made by 15 parties ahead of seven elections. The second dataset includes news stories published by six newspapers during each election campaign. The analysis reveals that pledges made by the main political opponents during each election are more likely to be published than those by smaller parties. Pledges related to economic policy are also more likely to be discussed in the news than other types of pledges, although the opposite is true regarding promises related specifically to the country’s economic transition. Finally, in their reporting of pledges, print media do not reflect the salient ideological priorities of political parties.
Early deictic but not other gestures predict later vocabulary in both typical development and autism
Authors: Özçalışkan Şeyda , Adamson Lauren B , Dimitrova Nevena
Published: October 2015

Research with typically developing children suggests a strong positive relation between early gesture use and subsequent vocabulary development. In this study, we ask whether gesture production plays a similar role for children with autism spectrum disorder. We observed 23 18-month-old typically developing children and 23 30-month-old children with autism spectrum disorder interact with their caregivers (Communication Play Protocol) and coded types of gestures children produced ( deictic, give, conventional, and iconic) in two communicative contexts (commenting and requesting). One year later, we assessed children’s expressive vocabulary, using Expressive Vocabulary Test. Children with autism spectrum disorder showed significant deficits in gesture production, particularly in deictic gestures (i.e. gestures that indicate objects by pointing at them or by holding them up). Importantly, deictic gestures—but not other gestures—predicted children’s vocabulary 1 year later regardless of communicative context, a pattern also found in typical development. We conclude that the production of deictic gestures serves as a stepping-stone for vocabulary development.
Translation and Validation of the Finnish Version of the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Questionnaire (PRWE) in Patients with Acute Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Sandelin H. , Jalanko T. , Huhtala H. , Lassila H. , Haapala J. , Helkamaa T.
Published: October 2015

Background and Aims:

Patient-rated outcome measures have become increasingly important in clinical research. They provide research and clinical tools which can be utilized in the assessment of patient recovery and treatment efficacy. The purpose of our study was to translate and validate the original version of the PRWE form into Finnish.

Material and Methods:

We conducted the translation of the PRWE questionnaire according to standardized guidelines. Patients ( N = 119) with an acute distal radius fracture were recruited, and they completed the PRWE and QuickDASH questionnaires at 2 months and 4 months after the wrist injury.

Results:

The mean answering times were 52 days (standard deviation [SD] 9.8 days) and 116 days (standard deviation [SD] 14.8 days), respectively. Both the internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) of 0.976 and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.992 (95% CI 0.966–0.998) showed excellent reliability for the total PRWE score. The correlation coefficients between the total score, the subscales, and for improvement over time for PRWE and QuickDASH were excellent. The responsiveness was good with an effect size of 0.83 and a standard response mean of 1.22.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that the Finnish version of the PRWE is reliable, valid, and responsive for the evaluation of pain and disability after distal radius fracture.
A House Divided? Examining Persistence for On-Campus STEM and Non-STEM Students
Authors: Gansemer-Topf Ann M. , Kollasch Aurelia , Sun Jie
Published: October 2015

Improving student persistence, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, continues to be at the forefront of national educational policy discussions. Living in university housing, with its focus specifically on assisting students in transition, has consistently been positively related to student persistence. Using institutional data and data from a first-year student transition study from all the first-year first-time residential students from Fall 2008 through Fall 2012 ( N = 17,850), this study examined the relationship between student characteristics and experiences and retention for STEM and non-STEM students who live in on-campus housing. Results illustrate that experiences that contribute to retention differ between STEM and non-STEM students. Noncognitive factors related to academic self-efficacy, academic adjustment, and degree aspiration positively affect residential students’ persistence in STEM. Academic performance was a significant factor in institutional persistence for STEM and non-STEM students. Implications for future and practice are discussed.
A review of research on direct-care staff data collection regarding the severity and function of challenging behavior in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Madsen Emily K , Peck Janelle A , Valdovinos Maria G
Published: October 2015

In working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), it is direct care staff who are often required to collect data on individuals’ behavior which is used as the basis for implementation of empirically based approaches for intervention and treatment. Due to limited resources, indirect and descriptive measures of challenging behaviors are employed to analyze the function of individuals’ behaviors in place of the preferred method of multimodal assessment, which includes experimental functional analysis. To ensure the most effective services and support to individuals with IDDs, accurate and consistent data collection is critical. In this article, we highlight the importance of accurate data collection practices, conduct a comparison of data collection methods, and discuss limitations .… and barriers for staff. The article concludes with recommendations for best practices and future research.
Surface protein Esp enhances pro-inflammatory cytokine expression through NF-κB activation during enterococcal infection
Authors: Zou Jun , Shankar Nathan
Published: October 2015

Enterococcal surface protein (Esp) is encoded on a pathogenicity island in Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium and is involved in biofilm formation and binding to epithelial cells. In this study, using Esp-expressing E. faecalis MMH594 and its isogenic Esp-deficient strain, as well as purified Esp, we show that Esp is sufficient for activation of NF-κB and the subsequent production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α in macrophages in vitro. In a mouse peritonitis model, we also show that mice infected with Esp-expressing E. faecalis showed comparatively higher levels of cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in peritoneal fluid, and IL-6 in serum. Moreover, neutrophil infiltration and tissue damage in the liver was higher in the mice infected with the Esp-expressing strain compared with mice infected with the Esp-deficient mutant. These results add Esp to the growing list of enterococcal virulence factors that can modulate inflammation during infection and has implications for enterococcal pathogenesis.
Functional electrical stimulation may reduce bradykinesia in Parkinson’s disease: A feasibility study
Authors: Popa Livia , Taylor Paul
Published: October 2015

Objectives

This feasibility study investigated the effect of combined upper and lower limb functional electrical stimulation (FES) to reduce bradykinesia in Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Method

Eleven people with PD and Hoehn and Yahr score 2–3 used FES to assist dorsiflexion and hand opening or fine hand movements for 2 weeks. Outcome measures were the nine-hole peg test, box and block test, 10 m walking test, Tinetti balance scale, modified Parkinson’s disease quality of life questionnaire (PDQL), SPES/SCOPA scale, and compliance. All tests were carried out without FES. Comparisons were tested using the Student paired t-test.

Results

Two participants dropped out due to difficulty in using the equipment. Mean walking speed increased by 0.29 m s−1 ( p = 0.002), step length by 0.09 m ( p = 0.007), and cadence by 19.8 steps min−1 ( p = 0.045). Tinetti balance score increased by 2.9 ( p = 0.006). There was an increase in the box and block test of 5.1 ( p = 0.025). The PD symptoms score of the PDQL improved by 4.9 ( p = 0.013) and a reduction in SPES/SCOPA score of 5.7 ( p = 0.005) indicated a reduced impact of PD.

Conclusions

FES produced clinically meaningful improvements in gait and upper limb function. Some participants found using both interventions challenging and we would recommend that their introduction be staggered.
The Developing Role of Evidence-Based Environmental Health
Authors: Dhesi Surindar , Stewart Jill
Published: October 2015

There has been renewed recognition that proactive strategies and interventions can address the social determinants of health, and the environmental health profession is well placed to effect positive change in many of these determinants. This qualitative research has revealed differences in the perceptions, experiences, and understandings of evidence-based practice among public health professionals from different backgrounds across different services in health care and local government in England. The absence of a strong tradition of evidence-based practice in environmental health appears to be a disadvantage in securing funding and playing a full role, as it has become the expectation in the new public health system. This has, at times, resulted in tensions between professionals with different backgrounds and frustration on the part of environmental health practitioners, who have a tradition of responding quickly to new challenges and “getting on with the job.” There is generally a willingness to develop evidence-based practice in environmental health; however, this will take time and investment.
The impact of conglomerate farming on the poor: Empirical evidence from the Brazil soy sector
Authors: Choi Sujin , Kim Hanho
Published: October 2015

This paper provides the first econometric results which show that during the period 1976–2013, the conglomerate farming of soybeans aggravated poverty in Brazil. It was found that the impact of soy on poverty in the north of the country, where land consolidation is active, is precisely opposite that in the south, where family farming dominates. The result directly contradicts mainstream views that smallholder farmers’ losses would be offset by gains from the trickle-down effect. Based on the findings of this study, a necessity is raised that family farming be supported to help alleviate poverty.
Understanding Decision Making During a Crisis: An Axiomatic Model of Cognitive Decision Choices
Authors: Varma Tulika
Published: October 2015

This study investigated factors that influence the strategy process during a crisis within the chemical industry. It examined key organizational, environmental, and management factors—comprehensiveness, formalization, politicization, impact of the crisis, financial reporting—for their role in the strategy process during a crisis using regression analysis. The findings indicate that the strategy process during a crisis is influenced by several factors; specifically, politicization, formalization of the decision-making process, financial reporting, and the impact of the crisis. This study proposes an axiomatic model of cognitive decision making during a crisis. It suggests that decision making during a crisis is a complex problem-solving process contingent on several variables, which can be arranged on a scale with the proscriptive variables (variables that impede or hinder accommodation) at one end of the scale and supportive variables (variables that help advocate an organization’s position) at the other end of the scale, which when cross-joined with the advocacy/accommodation continuum yield a Cartesian product of communication options. Other implications and future areas for research are suggested.
Sirolimus is effective in relapsed/refractory autoimmune cytopenias: results of a prospective multi-institutional trial
Authors: Bride Karen L. , Vincent Tiffaney , Smith-Whitley Kim , Lambert Michele P. , Bleesing Jack J. , Seif Alix E. , Manno Catherine S. , Casper James , Grupp Stephan A. , Teachey David T.
Published: October 2015

Key Points

Sirolimus monotherapy is a safe and effective steroid-sparing agent, improving autoimmune cytopenias in highly refractory patients. Sirolimus is particularly active in ALPS and should be an early therapy option for patients who require chronic therapy.
Clinical Utility of Metrics Based on Tumor Measurements in Phase II Trials to Predict Overall Survival Outcomes in Phase III Trials by Using Resampling Methods
Authors: An Ming-Wen , Han Yu , Meyers Jeffrey P. , Bogaerts Jan , Sargent Daniel J. , Mandrekar Sumithra J.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

Phase II clinical trials inform go/no-go decisions for proceeding to phase III trials, and appropriate end points in phase II trials are critical for facilitating this decision. Phase II solid tumor trials have traditionally used end points such as tumor response defined by Response Evaluation Criteria for Solid Tumors (RECIST). We previously reported that absolute and relative changes in tumor measurements demonstrated potential, but not convincing, improvement over RECIST to predict overall survival (OS). We have evaluated the metrics by using additional measures of clinical utility and data from phase III trials.

Methods

Resampling methods were used to assess the clinical utility of metrics to predict phase III outcomes from simulated phase II trials. In all, 2,000 phase II trials were simulated from four actual phase III trials (two positive for OS and two negative for OS). Cox models for three metrics landmarked at 12 weeks and adjusted for baseline tumor burden were fit for each phase II trial: absolute changes, relative changes, and RECIST. Clinical utility was assessed by positive predictive value and negative predictive value, that is, the probability of a positive or negative phase II trial predicting an effective or ineffective phase III conclusion, by prediction error, and by concordance index (c-index).

Results

Absolute and relative change metrics had higher positive predictive value and negative predictive value than RECIST in five of six treatment comparisons and lower prediction error curves in all six. However, differences were negligible. No statistically significant difference in c-index across metrics was found.

Conclusion

The absolute and relative change metrics are not meaningfully better than RECIST in predicting OS.
Ablative Radiotherapy Doses Lead to a Substantial Prolongation of Survival in Patients With Inoperable Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A Retrospective Dose Response Analysis
Authors: Tao Randa , Krishnan Sunil , Bhosale Priya R. , Javle Milind M. , Aloia Thomas A. , Shroff Rachna T. , Kaseb Ahmed O. , Bishop Andrew J. , Swanick Cameron W. , Koay Eugene J. , Thames Howard D. , Hong Theodore S. , Das Prajnan , Crane Christopher H.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

Standard therapies for localized inoperable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC) are ineffective. Advances in radiotherapy (RT) techniques and image guidance have enabled ablative doses to be delivered to large liver tumors. This study evaluated the effects of RT dose escalation in the treatment of IHCC.

Patients and Methods

Seventy-nine consecutive patients with inoperable IHCC were identified and treated with definitive RT from 2002 to 2014. At diagnosis, the median tumor size was 7.9 cm (range, 2.2 to 17 cm). Seventy patients (89%) received systemic chemotherapy before RT. RT doses were 35 to 100 Gy (median, 58.05 Gy) in three to 30 fractions for a median biologic equivalent dose (BED) of 80.5 Gy (range, 43.75 to 180 Gy).

Results

Median follow-up time for patients alive at time of analysis was 33 months (range, 11 to 93 months). Median overall survival (OS) time after diagnosis was 30 months; 3-year OS rate was 44%. Radiation dose was the single most important prognostic factor; higher doses correlated with an improved local control (LC) rate and OS. The 3-year OS rate for patients receiving BED greater than 80.5 Gy was 73% versus 38% for those receiving lower doses (P = .017); 3-year LC rate was significantly higher (78%) after a BED greater than 80.5 Gy than after lower doses (45%, P = .04). BED as a continuous variable significantly affected LC (P = .009) and OS (P = .004). There were no significant treatment-related toxicities.

Conclusion

Delivery of higher doses of RT improves LC and OS in inoperable IHCC. A BED greater than 80.5 Gy seems to be an ablative dose of RT for large IHCCs, with long-term survival rates that compare favorably with resection.
The Sensitivity and Specificity of Pulmonary Carbon Dioxide Elimination for Noninvasive Assessment of Fluid Responsiveness
Authors: Tusman Gerardo , Groisman Iván , Maidana Gustavo A. , Scandurra Adriana , Arca Jorge Martinez , Bohm Stephan H. , Suarez-Sipmann Fernando
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND:

We sought to determine whether the response of pulmonary elimination of CO2 (Vco
2) to a sudden increase in positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) could predict fluid responsiveness and serve as a noninvasive surrogate for cardiac index (CI).

METHODS:

Fifty-two patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery were included in this study. By using a constant-flow ventilation mode, we performed a PEEP challenge of 1-minute increase in PEEP from 5 to 10 cm H2O. At PEEP of 5 cm H2O, patients were preloaded with 500 mL IV saline solution after which a second PEEP challenge was performed. Patients in whom fluid administration increased CI by ≥15% from the individual baseline value were defined as volume responders. Beat-by-beat CI was derived from arterial pulse contour analysis, and breath-by-breath Vco
2 data were collected during the protocol. The sensitivity and specificity of Vco
2 for detecting the fluid responders according to CI was performed by the receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS:

Twenty-one of 52 patients were identified as fluid responders (40%). The PEEP maneuver before fluid administration decreased CI from 2.65 ± 0.34 to 2.21 ± 0.32 L/min/m2 (P = 0.0011) and Vco
2 from 150 ± 23 to 123 ± 23 mL/min (P = 0.0036) in responders, whereas the changes in CI and Vco
2 were not significant in nonresponders. The PEEP challenge after fluid administration induced no significant changes in CI and Vco
2, in neither responders nor nonresponders. PEEP-induced decreases in CI and Vco
2 before fluid administration were well correlated (r2 = 0.75, P < 0.0001) but not thereafter. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for a PEEP-induced decrease in ΔCI and ΔVco
2 was 0.99, with a 95% confidence interval from 0.96 to 0.99 for ΔCI and from 0.97 to 0.99 for ΔVco
2. During the PEEP challenge, a decrease in Vco
2 by 11% predicted fluid responsiveness with a sensitivity of 0.90 (95% confidence interval, 0.87–0.93) and a specificity of 0.95 (95% confidence interval, 0.92–0.98).

CONCLUSIONS:

PEEP-induced changes in Vco
2 predicted fluid responsiveness with accuracy in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Material Fusion: A Research into the Simulated Blending of Materials Using Particle Systems
Authors: Grigoriadis Kostas
Published: October 2015

Parallel to the early development and recent widespread usage of composite materials in building and manufacturing, the concept of functionally graded materials (FGM) was initiated and developed as far back as the 1980s. In contrast to the composite paradigm, where layers of materials are glued and ‘cooked’ together under high pressure and temperature to form laminated parts, FGM are singular materials that vary their consistency gradually over their volume. In direct link to their increasing use in fields adjacent to architecture, the scope of the paper is to explore possible design routes for designing with FGM. Of a limited number of available CAD software in which material properties can be graded, the intent of the design for a materially graded windbreak module, as well as a multi-material skin-to-structure connection, is to utilize particle systems as a technique for simulating fields of interacting, information-loaded material point sets that can be fused together in a gradient manner.
A paradoxical synergism between Resveratrol and copper (II) with respect to degradation of DNA and RNA
Authors: Subramaniam Siddharth , Vohra Iqbal , Iyer Aishwarya , Nair Naveen K , Mittra Indraneel
Published: October 2015

Resveratrol (R), a plant polyphenol, is known to reduce Cu (II) to Cu (I) generating reactive oxygen species that can cleave plasmid DNA. Here we report a surprising observation of a paradoxical synergistic effect between R and Cu whereby plasmid DNA cleaving / degrading activity of R-Cu increased progressively as the ratio of R to Cu was increased i.e., the concentration of Cu was successively reduced with respect to a fixed concentration R. Whereas cleavage of plasmid DNA occurred at low molar ratios of R to Cu, at higher ratios, complete degradation of DNA was achieved. By further increasing the ratio, whereby the concentration of Cu was reduced to very low levels, the DNA degrading activity of R-Cu was lost. This paradoxical synergistic effect is also seen with respect to eukaryotic genomic DNA and RNA. Since R-Cu may have anti-cancer and anti-viral activities, our findings may not only help to improve the therapeutic efficacy of R-Cu but also reduce its toxic side effects with the use of low concentration of Cu.
Prevention of incontinence-associated dermatitis in people with dementia
Authors: Jordan Jodie
Published: October 2015

Maintenance of skin integrity is fundamental in patient care. Skin barrier products are recommended for use to protect the skin from maceration or excoriation related to the corrosive effects of incontinence. This pilot evaluation demonstrates, in a cohort of 40 patients living with dementia, that benefit has been derived as a result of staff education, evaluation and awareness-raising of the need to proactively manage pressure areas. The need for preventative measures such as regular repositioning, skin inspection, and the use of barrier products were highlighted as part of this education.
Curricular Integration and Measurement of Cultural Competency Development in a Group of Physical Therapy Students
Authors: Black Jill D. , Palombaro Kerstin M , Dole Robin L , Guay Christina M
Published: October 2015

Abstract

Introduction and Background

The link between cultural competence and effective physical therapy encounters is established. Physical therapist educational programs face the challenge of fostering the cultural competence of students in effective and meaningful ways within the curriculum. They also face the challenge of measuring the development of cultural competency to establish efficacy in the curriculum. One program measured the development of cultural competency in its students using the Inventory for Assessing the Process of Cultural Competence Among Healthcare Professionals-Student Version (IAPCC-SV) before and after the program’s various educational opportunities immersed throughout the curriculum that could serve to increase cultural competency. In the three-year curriculum, the students participated in both mandatory and voluntary experiential learning opportunities. Required didactic presentations and activities were integrated throughout the curriculum and designed to enhance cultural competency. Voluntary experiences included providing service and/or leadership to a student-run pro bono clinic. The program was interested in whether cultural competency increased after these experiences and whether leadership opportunities or additional hours of voluntary service beyond the class median caused increases that exceeded the minimal detectable change (MDC) reported in the literature.

Methods

All students completed the IAPCC-SV at the beginning of their Doctor of Physical Therapy education and again at the end of their final year of didactic curriculum.

Results

For the class of 2011, a Wilcoxon signed ranks test noted a significant increase in IAPCC-SV scores from pre-test (56.51 +/- 4.82) to post-test (64.16 +/- 6.19) in the Class of 2011, p  .001. For the class of 2012, a Wilcoxon signed ranks test noted a significant increase in IAPCC-SV scores from pre-test (58.87 +/- 5.67) to post-test (64.13 +/- 5.47) in the Class of 2012, p  .001. Sixteen students from the class of 2011 and 13 from the class of 2012 exceeded the 8.57-point MDC of the IAPCC-SV.

Discussion and Conclusion

Exposure to a variety of cross-cultural encounters throughout a physical therapy curriculum significantly increases self-rating of cultural competency in these graduate students. Students who take advantage of volunteer leadership roles in extensive cross-cultural encounters may be more likely to achieve an increase that exceeds the MDC on the IAPCC-SV. These results are particularly interesting given that the students themselves were ethnically homogeneous and did not experience cultural diversity within the constituents that made up their class or faculty.
Improving the quality of assessment grading tools in Master of Education courses: a comparative case study in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
Authors: Christie Michael Francis , Grainger Peter , Dahlgren Robert , Call Kairen , Heck Deborah , Simon Susan
Published: October 2015

This study compares the use and efficacy of assessment grading tools within postgraduate education courses in a regional Australian university and a regional university in the US. Specifically, we investigate how the quality of postgraduate education courses can be improved through the use of assessment rubrics or Criterion Referenced Assessment sheets (CRA sheets). The researchers utilised interviews and a modified form of the Delphi Method to answer three research questions relating to; assessment and student motivation, grading tools and raising quality in learning, as well as assuring quality in assessment grading tools. The research resulted in the development of a checklist, in the form of a set of questions, that lecturers should ask themselves before writing rubrics or CRA sheets. The paper concludes by demonstrating how assessment grading tools might be applied, developed and constantly improved in Master of Education courses in Australian and US higher education institutions.
Effectiveness of a Hybrid Classroom in the Delivery of Medical Terminology Course Content Relative to a Traditional Classroom Format
Authors: Martin Jeffrey S , Kreiger Joan E , Apicerno Amy L
Published: October 2015

Hybrid courses are emerging as a viable option for content delivery across college campuses. In an attempt to maximize learning outcomes while leveraging resources, one institution used several sections of a Medical Terminology course as a pilot. Traditional and hybrid course delivery were compared utilizing a quantitative research method to evaluate the effectiveness of a hybrid course design in meeting and/or exceeding course objectives, as determined by student satisfaction and perceptions. Both hybrid and traditional class groups agreed that Medical Terminology has potential to be delivered in a hybrid format, but the hybrid group’s agreement was significant stronger (+0.38 points on 5-point scale, P=0.008).

Key words: hybrid course, flipped classroom, SOTL, STEM
The Road to Redemption: Reclaiming the Value in Assessment Retention Exams
Authors: Stohlman Trey
Published: October 2015

A good assessment plan combines many direct and indirect measures to validate the collected data. One often controversial assessment measure comes in the form of retention exams. Although assessment retention exams may come with faults, others advocate for their inclusion in program assessment. Objective-based tests may offer insight to instructors about course objectives that students comprehend well and other concepts that need more attention. This research shows that using retention exams as an assessment measure can generate useful and meaningful data for both the students and the program. Students can learn strengths and weaknesses based on scores. Faculty and programs can learn where gaps may exist within the program. But, whenever a program decides to use retention exams as an assessment tool, faculty members need to be included in the process. Discussions about content need to occur constantly. Exams need to consistently reflect current standards and student learning objectives. And faculty need to stay involved in the process to know exactly where any inconsistencies may lie within their courses, and how they contribute to the students’ overall experience within the program.
Comments on “‘Screening’ for Breast Cancer: Misguided Research Misinforming Public Policies” by O. S. Miettinen
Authors: Steurer J.
Published: October 2015

From the writings in medical journals and newspapers, for many decades already, it has seemed uncertain whether programs of mammographic screening reduce mortality from breast cancer. Reviewers of the evidence, in the Cochrane Collaboration in particular, have repeatedly concluded that there is no clear evidence supporting such screening. But their results and conclusions have not impressed the advocates who continue to believe that it does reduce mortality from the cancer.
The twisted Cartesian model for the double path fibration
Authors: Kadeishvili Tornike , Saneblidze Samson
Published: October 2015

In this paper, the notion of a truncating twisting function from a cubical set to a permutahedral set and the corresponding notion of a twisted Cartesian product of these sets are introduced. The latter becomes a permutocubical set that models, in particular, the path fibration on a loop space. The chain complex of this twisted Cartesian product is in fact a comultiplicative twisted tensor product of cubical chains of base and permutahedral chains of fibre. This construction is formalized as a theory of twisted tensor products for Hirsch algebras.
The Effects of a PETTLEP Imagery Intervention on the Learning of a Complex Motor Skill
Authors: Post Phillip G. , Williams Cody D. , Simpson Duncan , Berning Joseph M.
Published: October 2015

Prior research has largely suggested that imagery is an effective mental skill for enhancing learners’ skill acquisition of cognitive tasks (Hird, Landers, Thomas, & Horan, 1991; Ryan & Simons, 1981). However, additional research is needed to determine if imagery can benefit learners’ skill acquisition of motor tasks. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of a four-week PETTLEP imagery intervention on learners’ skill acquisition of a standing long jump. Seventy-six female college students (M age=20.6 yrs; SD=1.77) were assigned into one of four groups: physical practice (PP), imagery plus physical practice (IP+PP), imagery practice (IP), or a control group (CON). The study consisted of three phases: pre-test, intervention, and a post-test. During the intervention phase the PP group completed 80 physical jumps; IP+PP group completed 40 imaged and 40 physical jumps; the IP group completed 80 imaged jumps; and the CON group engaged in a distraction task. During each experimental phase participants filled out the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) to assess self-reported motivation. Results revealed that the PP and IP+PP groups outperformed the CON group on the post-test. From pre to post, the PP and IP+PP groups improved, the IP group maintained performance, and CON group decreased in performance. All of the training groups’ reported significantly higher effort/importance ratings on the IMI during the intervention and post-test phases compared to the CON group. Results extend prior research by demonstrating that imagery combined with physical practice can benefit the learning of a complex motor task and that imagery alone may assist learners in maintaining initial skill proficiency.
God, Genetics, and Event Phenomenology
Authors: Love Carolyn J.
Published: October 2015

In the classical Christian theological understanding, God and time are tightly interwoven (e.g. time and eternity, the Incarnation, and liturgy) and inform how we comprehend the presence and absence of the Incomprehensible in our day-to-day lives. Yet the classical Christian understanding of temporality does not take into account scientific discoveries pertaining to time, and how this influences our experience of temporality. It is within the fabric of God and time that this paper will bring together the concept of time in event phenomenology and biology, namely genetics, to construct a more robust understanding of temporality, a genetic-event model of temporality, that avoids the classical Christian issues of temporal/eternal antinomy, mind soul location, metaphysics of transcendence, or transcendental epistemology. Thus, providing an original approach to how we think about God today in a culture that seeks answers from science, as well as religion. This paper will discuss the usefulness of the geneticevent model in theology, in science, and in the dialogue between theology and science, demonstrating that these two ways of knowing can benefit each other.
Science and Spirit: A Critical Examination of Amos Yong’s Pneumatological Theology of Emergence
Authors: Leidenhag Mikael , Leidenhag Joanna
Published: October 2015

This paper is a critical examination of Amos Yong’s pneumatological use of emergence theory. In seeking to bridge the divide between the worldviews of science and Pentecostalism, Yong sees emergence theory as a fruitful mediating discourse. We will argue for the following: 1) the supernaturalism of Yong’s Pentecostal theology renders the concept of emergence obsolete; 2) the ontological independence of various types of spirits in Yong’s theology breaks his commitment to supervenience theory; and 3) Yong’s transference of scientific concepts into the normative discourse of theology is potentially problematic. These criticisms should be seen as a call for Yong to depart from emergence theory (and supervenience) in his admirable ambition to harmonize the spirit-filled imagination of Pentecostalism with the scientific culture of the 21st century.
Development of an Optimal Design for Conforming Run Length Sampling Methods in the Presence of Inspection Errors
Authors: Yazdi Ahmad Ahmadi , Fallah Nezhad Mohammad Saber , Shishebori Davood , Mostafaeipour Ali
Published: October 2015

In this research, a new sampling system was introduced based on the concept of conforming run length. The inspection error was considered in the proposed model as well. This methodology was based on Markov modeling and a negative binomial distribution. The proposed sampling system was compared with classical sampling methods such as the Dodge-Romig single sampling plan based on average outgoing quality limit (AOQL) in the presence of inspection errors. The superiority of the proposed method for larger values of lot sizes and process average was denoted using a comparison study.
Evaluation and Optimization of Grouting Treatment for Composite Pavement
Authors: Yang Qun , Deng Ying-Jie , Sun Wen-Zhou
Published: October 2015

Voids under a concrete slab are common in composite pavement because of difficulties in controlling grouting treatment. To evaluate grouting treatment for composite pavement accurately and then to optimize the grouting scheme, the modulus of subgrade reaction (the k-value) was proposed as the evaluation criteria of grouting treatment. Based on deflection basin data acquired by a falling weight deflectometer (FWD) on a test road, k-values under slabs were backcalculated and various treatment schemes were compared by statistical methods. Results show that grouting treatment makes the average support strength in the first and second lanes of test road increase by 11.21 % and 13.16 %, respectively. Grouting under the center of a slab has a negative effect on pavement strength. Hence, a four-hole grouting scheme is recommended instead of the five-hole grouting scheme. Besides, pavement grouting can also significantly strengthen the support under adjacent slabs that are not treated directly.
Tire–Pavement Contact Stress With 3D Finite-Element Model—Part 2: All-Steel Tire on Heavy Vehicles
Authors: Cao P. , Feng D. , Jin F. , Fan X. , Zhou C.
Published: October 2015

Heavy vehicles increase on highways in China year by year. Heavy loads are among the most important factors causing pavement distresses. The distribution of contact stresses between tires and pavement surface greatly influences the initiation and propagation of pavement distresses, especially for the top-down cracking. Therefore, to accurately and precisely describe pavement responses, the distribution of contact stresses should be first investigated thoroughly. This study focuses on simulating the contact stresses between all-steel tires on heavy vehicles and the pavement surface. A 3D finite-element model was proposed and used to simulate the distribution of contact stresses in different conditions of tires, including standstill, free rolling, accelerating rolling, and decelerating rolling conditions. This model was validated by previous study of the authors. There were three loading levels used in this study, including 20 kN, 40 kN, and 60 kN. In the standstill condition, the maximum pressures on pavement surface were simulated as 1.2 MPa, 1.2 MPa, and 2.4 MPa in 20 kN, 40 kN, and 60 kN loading levels, respectively, which were much higher than 0.7 MPa, the standard contact pressure in pavement design specification in China. An interesting phenomenon was observed that when the load passed a certain value, the width of contact area kept constant, whereas the length of contact area was prolonged. And the length of the contact area prolonged linearly with the increase of load. Based on this phenomenon, the Hertz contact theory was applied to simplify the traditional 3D finite-element model. In the simplified model, the complicated 3D all-steel tire was simplified to an equivalent medium. The 3D finite-element model and the simplified model were compared with the analytic method. This indicates that the simplified model can simulate the contact stress of all-steel tires closely to the analytic results (no more than 10 % difference) and greatly improves the calculation efficiency.
Laser Acupuncture for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Raith Wolfgang , Schmölzer Georg M. , Resch Bernhard , Reiterer Fritz , Avian Alexander , Koestenberger Martin , Urlesberger Berndt
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND:

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is usually treated with opiate derivatives and supported with nonpharmacological treatment.

METHODS:

This prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded, single-center study was carried out between March 2009 and November 2014. Newborn infants diagnosed with NAS after maternal opioid substitution therapy were eligible for inclusion. Infants were randomly allocated to the acupuncture group (combining laser acupuncture and pharmacological therapy of morphine and phenobarbital) or control group (pharmacological therapy alone). Laser acupuncture was performed with a LABpen MED 10 (675 nm/10 mW) at 5 ear and 4 body acupuncture points, bilaterally, and sessions were repeated every day. The primary outcome measure was duration of oral morphine therapy for NAS. Secondary outcomes included highest single Finnegan score, time to highest single Finnegan score, maximum amount of oral morphine solution (in milliliters per kilogram and milligrams per kilogram), time to maximum amount of oral morphine solution, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS:

Twenty-eight newborns (14 in each group) were eligible for analysis. Duration of oral morphine therapy was significantly reduced in the acupuncture group compared with the control group (28 vs 39 days, respectively, P = .019). In addition, we observed a significantly reduced length of hospital stay in the acupuncture group compared with the control group (35 days [interquartile range 25 to 47] vs 50 days [36 to 66], P = .048).

CONCLUSIONS:

Adjunctive laser acupuncture significantly reduced the duration of morphine therapy in newborns with NAS.
Prescription Opioids in Adolescence and Future Opioid Misuse
Authors: Miech Richard , Johnston Lloyd , O’Malley Patrick M. , Keyes Katherine M. , Heard Kennon
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Legitimate opioid use is associated with an increased risk of long-term opioid use and possibly misuse in adults. The objective of this study was to estimate the risk of future opioid misuse among adolescents who have not yet graduated from high school.

METHODS:

Prospective, panel data come from the Monitoring the Future study. The analysis uses a nationally representative sample of 6220 individuals surveyed in school in 12th grade and then followed up through age 23. Analyses are stratified by predicted future opioid misuse as measured in 12th grade on the basis of known risk factors. The main outcome is nonmedical use of a prescription opioid at ages 19 to 23. Predictors include use of a legitimate prescription by 12th grade, as well as baseline history of drug use and baseline attitudes toward illegal drug use.

RESULTS:

Legitimate opioid use before high school graduation is independently associated with a 33% increase in the risk of future opioid misuse after high school. This association is concentrated among individuals who have little to no history of drug use and, as well, strong disapproval of illegal drug use at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS:

Use of prescribed opioids before the 12th grade is independently associated with future opioid misuse among patients with little drug experience and who disapprove of illegal drug use. Clinic-based education and prevention efforts have substantial potential to reduce future opioid misuse among these individuals, who begin opioid use with strong attitudes against illegal drug use.