bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is There a Relation Between Residual Audit Fees and Analysts’ Forecasts?
Authors: Abernathy John L. , Kang Tony , Krishnan Gopal V. , Wang Changjiang
Published: March 2016

We examine the relationship between residual audit fees and the ability to predict future earnings. Recent research suggests that residual audit fees contain information about accounting quality. However, residual audit fees could either represent high accounting quality or a risk premium for low accounting quality. We extend this literature by providing evidence that residual audit fees are indicative of a lower quality information environment which has a negative impact on investors’ ability to anticipate future earnings. Specifically, we first show that residual audit fees are negatively associated with the ability of current earnings to predict future earnings. Furthermore, residual audit fees are negatively associated with analyst forecast accuracy and positively associated with the dispersion in analyst forecasts. Overall, our results are consistent with the notion that residual audit fees are indicative of poor earnings quality, and that this lower quality manifests itself in a lower quality information environment for investors and analysts.
Chemical Reactivity and Respiratory Toxicity of the α-Diketone Flavoring Agents
Authors: Morgan Daniel L. , Jokinen Micheal P. , Johnson Crystal L. , Price Herman C. , Gwinn William M. , Bousquet Ronald W. , Flake Gordon P.
Published: March 2016

Occupational exposure to 2,3-butanedione (BD) vapors has been associated with severe respiratory disease leading to the use of potentially toxic substitutes. We compared the reactivity and respiratory toxicity of BD with that of two structurally related substitutes, 2,3-pentanedione (PD) and 2,3-hexanedione (HD). Chemical reactivity of the diketones with an arginine substrate decreased with increasing chain length (BD > PD > HD). Animals were evaluated the morning after a 2-week exposure to 0, 100, 150, or 200 ppm BD, PD, or HD (postexposure) or 2 weeks later (recovery). Bronchial fibrosis was observed in 5/5 BD and 5/5 PD rats at 200 ppm and in 4/6 BD and 6/6 PD rats at 150 ppm in the postexposure groups. Following recovery, bronchial fibrosis was observed in all surviving rats exposed to 200 ppm BD (5/5) or PD (3/3) and in 2/10 BD and 7/9 PD rats exposed to 150 ppm. Bronchial fibrosis was observed only in 2/12 HD-exposed rats in the 200 ppm postexposure group. Patchy interstitial fibrosis affected lungs of recovery groups exposed to 200 ppm PD (3/3) or BD (1/5) and to 150 ppm PD (4/9) or BD (7/10) and correlated with pulmonary function deficits. BD and PD were more reactive and produced more bronchial fibrosis than HD.
Psychometric Properties of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life–36 Questionnaire (KDQOL-36™)
Authors: Chao Shumei , Yen Miaofen , Lin Tzu-Chia , Sung Junne-Ming , Wang Ming-Cheng , Hung Shih-Yuan
Published: March 2016

The Kidney Disease Quality of Life–36 Questionnaire (KDQOL-36™), modified by RAND, has been widely used for measurement of quality of life among hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis patients. The purpose of this study was to refine and evaluate, by using confirmatory factor analysis, the structure of the KDQOL-36™ when the questionnaire was used to evaluate chronic kidney disease patients in Stages 1 to 5 in Taiwan. The psychometric properties of the translated version were determined among Mandarin-speaking adults ( N = 428). Because the sample data did not fit the hypothetical model, one item was deleted and nine error terms were estimated. After improving the model fit, the modified model was presented as follows: χ2 = 1390.903, χ2/ df = 2.711, p < .001, goodness-of-fit index = .833, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = .806, root mean square error of approximation = .063. According to the study results, the researchers suggest that because of content overlap, some items may be deducted from the KDQOL-36™.
Survival Impact of Initial Therapy in Patients with T1‐T2 Glottic Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Brady Jacob S. , Marchiano Emily , Kam David , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson , Park Richard Chan Woo
Published: March 2016

Objective

Laryngeal cancer most commonly arises from the glottis. Comparable outcomes in survival have been shown in patients with early glottic squamous cell carcinoma treated with either surgery or radiotherapy.

Study Design and Setting

Administrative database study.

Subjects and Methods

The US National Cancer Institute’s SEER database (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) was queried for cases of early glottic cancer (T1‐T2N0M0, 1988‐2012). We identified 13,312 qualifying cases. Patient demographics, therapeutic measures, and survival outcomes were examined with appropriate univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Early glottic cancer has a mean age at diagnosis of 64.8 ± 11.6 years and a male:female ratio of 6.9:1. The most common treatment modality was radiotherapy alone (51.6%), followed by combination therapy with surgery first (31.5%). Overall, the 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS) rate was 88.4%. When stratified by treatment modality and stage, 5‐year DSS for T1 tumors was 93.2% with surgery alone and 89.0% with radiation alone (P <. 0001). With combination therapy, the 5‐year DSS was 91.3% for surgery first and 84.9% for radiation first (P =. 0239). In T2 tumors, 5‐year DSS was improved with single‐modality therapy versus multimodality therapy (81.1% vs 76.4; P =. 0255).

Conclusion

In T1 disease, surgery alone shows improved 5‐year DSS versus radiation alone, but this difference was not observed in T2 tumors. Additionally, surgery, rather than radiation, shows improved 5‐year DSS when implemented as a first‐line therapy. Combination therapy does not show improved 5‐year DSS for early glottic cancer.
Olfactory and Gustatory Functions after Anterior Palatoplasty in Patients with Primary Snoring
Authors: Saglam Omer , Altundag Aytug , Cayonu Melih , Salihoglu Murat , Azizli Elad , Dursun Engin , Cetin Bilal
Published: March 2016

Objective

In this study, we investigated the chemical senses (namely, olfaction), the 4 basic tastes, and umami taste in patients who underwent anterior palatoplasty (AP) for primary snoring.

Study Design

Prospective clinical study.

Setting

Multicenter, tertiary care hospitals.

Subjects and Methods

The age range of the 28 participants was 22 to 47 years, and all had been diagnosed with primary snoring by polysomnography. Orthonasal and retronasal olfactory testing was performed using the respective “Sniffin’ Sticks.” Tests for the 4 basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) and umami were performed before and 6 months after AP.

Results

The changes between the preoperative and postoperative results for the 4 basic tastes, which were applied to the anterior tongue region, were not significant. Retronasal olfactory function improved significantly 6 months after AP (P =. 007). After AP, umami scores for the soft palate but not those of the anterior and posterior tongue decreased significantly (P =. 001).

Conclusion

Patients scheduled for AP should be properly informed about potential postoperative taste and flavor changes. They should also be warned of a possible loss of appetite due to a postoperative decrease in the umami taste sensation of the soft palate.
Does acute tobacco smoking prevent cue-induced craving?
Authors: Schlagintweit Hera E , Barrett Sean P
Published: March 2016

Background:

Smoking cessation aids appear to be limited in their ability to prevent craving triggered by exposure to smoking-associated stimuli; however, the extent to which cue-induced cravings persist following denicotinized or nicotine-containing tobacco smoking is not known.

Methods:

Thirty (17 male) ⩾12-hour abstinent dependent smokers completed two sessions during which they smoked a nicotine-containing or denicotinized cigarette. Instructions regarding the nicotine content of the cigarette varied across sessions, and all participants were exposed to a neutral cue followed by a smoking cue after cigarette consumption. Craving was assessed before and after cigarette consumption and cue exposure.

Results:

Reduced intentions to smoke were associated with both nicotine expectancy ( p<0.05) and nicotine administration ( p<0.01), while reduced withdrawal-related craving was uniquely associated with nicotine administration ( p<0.05). Smoking-associated stimuli increased craving regardless of nicotine expectancy or administration ( p-values<0.001).

Conclusions:

While both nicotine pharmacology and expectancy appear to contribute to craving reduction associated with acute tobacco smoking, neither smoking-related nicotine administration nor expectation prevents increases in craving following exposure to smoking-associated stimuli. These findings suggest that cue-induced craving may be resistant to various pharmacological and psychological interventions.
Biologic Treatments for Sports Injuries II Think Tank—Current Concepts, Future Research, and Barriers to Advancement, Part 1
Authors: LaPrade Robert F. , Geeslin Andrew G. , Murray Iain R. , Musahl Volker , Zlotnicki Jason P. , Petrigliano Frank , Mann Barton J.
Published: March 2016

Biologic therapies, including stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, growth factors, and other biologically active adjuncts, have recently received increased attention in the basic science and clinical literature. At the 2015 AOSSM Biologics II Think Tank held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a group of orthopaedic surgeons, basic scientists, veterinarians, and other investigators gathered to review the state of the science for biologics and barriers to implementation of biologics for the treatment of sports medicine injuries. This series of current concepts reviews reports the summary of the scientific presentations, roundtable discussions, and recommendations from this think tank.
Tumor lysis-like syndrome in a child during treatment for visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Tragiannidis Athanasios , Papageorgiou Maria , Stamou Maria , Hatzipantelis Emmanuel , Papageorgiou Theodotis , Giannopoulos Andreas , Damianidou Lamprini , Pappa Anna , Pappa Stiliani , Hatzistilianou Maria
Published: March 2016

A 2.5-year-old girl was admitted due to splenomegaly and pancytopenia. Laboratory analysis revealed pancytopenia and hypergammaglobulinemia, and due to the absence of fever and the relevant clinical and hematological presentation the child was initially suspected for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Bone marrow aspiration displayed macrophages and extracellular space containing Leishmania amastigotes. Visceral leishmaniasis diagnosis due to Leishmania infantum was confirmed by the presence of high titers of Leishmania antibodies and by PCR. The patient was successfully treated with liposomal amphotericin B but during the third post-treatment day significant increases in the levels of serum uric acid, blood urea nitrogen, and phosphate were registered. The child was successfully treated with hydration and urine alkalization and resulted in full recovery of the metabolic abnormalities.
Sidestepping Physical Determinism in Planning
Authors: Jabareen Yosef , Zilberman Omri
Published: March 2016

The promotion of sense of community has been a significant element of the spatial planning agenda of planners in recent years. This paper aims to explore the combined influence of typological characteristics of urban neighborhoods, as well as, social and cultural components. This empirical study was conducted in Beer Sheva, the largest city in southern Israel. This paper concludes that in addition to typological components, sociocultural perceptions have a significant impact on sense of community. Furthermore, planners should therefore remain critical and highly circumspect of acts of physical planning meant to impact the social aspects of a community.
Nonlinear finite element analysis of thermoplastic railroad bridge
Authors: Al-Rousan Rajai Z , Shbeeb Nadim I , Al-Masri Rund
Published: March 2016

Due to the environmental and financial benefits of thermoplastic materials as mentioned in literature and being a viable green solution, a nonlinear finite element analysis was conducted to study the behavior of thermoplastic materials of the No. 3 Fort Eustis railroad bridge using ABAQUS in terms of deflection, stress, and vertical forces at critical locations. Six models were simulated. These models were evaluated under GE 80-Ton switcher at 8 km/h (kph) speed and GP 16-120 Ton locomotives at speeds of 8, 24, 40, 56, and 80 kph. The models were validated against experimental results available in the literature. The models studied the effect of train speed on the deflection profile, flexural stress profile, vertical force profile, and stress profile along the bridge as well as the stress profile along the section. Based on the simulated models, it is clearly shown that the thermoplastic material has lower deflection and stress than wood; higher speeds resulted in lower stress and deflection. Based on this study, thermoplastic material can be considered as a good alternative because of its performance in terms of stress, vertical force, and corresponding deflection.
Managing Mixed Messages
Authors: Compton Cristin A.
Published: March 2016

The organizational landscape is changing for sexual minorities in U.S. workplaces. A dramatic increase in organizational policy protections reflects a broader societal shift toward social acceptance of sexual diversity. However, as participant narratives demonstrate, discrimination and bias are still present in contemporary organizations. As such, sexual minority employees must manage their sexual identities in a changing environment that is rife with mixed messages. In this study, 20 employees from across the United States in a variety of occupations described policies and communication with coworkers as influential to their sexual identity management. Using the framework of the communication theory of identity, gaps between communal frame communication (organizational policy) and relational frame communication (coworker communication) resulted in mixed messages participants had to discursively navigate to manage their sexual identities. Implications for practitioners and scholars are discussed.
DREAMing Big
Authors: Kantamneni Neeta , Dharmalingam Kavitha , Tate Jessica M. , Perlman Beth L. , Majmudar Chaitasi R. , Shada Nichole
Published: March 2016

Undocumented student immigrants in the United States face substantial challenges in higher education including systemic, institutional, and cultural barriers that often impede access to and success in higher education. These barriers directly influence academic and work opportunities. The purpose of this article is to discuss the myriad of factors that affect the academic, career, and work development of undocumented college students. The three main objectives of this article are to (1) examine legislation that directly impacts access to higher education, (2) explore common barriers and systemic challenges undocumented college students face, and (3) review culturally sensitive interventions and resources for working with undocumented college students. Vocational psychologists and career counselors employed in higher education are in a unique position to provide culturally sensitive counseling services to undocumented students as well as to advocate for their academic and work-related needs.
Examining the Career Decision Self-Efficacy and Career Maturity of Community College and First-Generation Students
Authors: Harlow Alicia J. , Bowman Sharon L.
Published: March 2016

This study examined the career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) and career maturity of 268 first-generation baccalaureate and community college student participants. Three independent variables were analyzed, including generational status (first generation and nonfirst generation), college type (baccalaureate, community college), and socioeconomic status (SES; low, medium, and high). The analysis indicated a significant interaction effect for generation by college type, with both first-generation and nonfirst-generation baccalaureate students reporting lower mean scores than community college students. This analysis also revealed an interaction effect for generation by SES, with first-generation students from high-SES backgrounds reporting the lowest levels of CDSE. A separate analysis using career maturity as the dependent variable indicated a main effect for generation, with first-generation students reporting a lower level of career maturity than nonfirst-generation students. The analysis also revealed a robust main effect for college type, with community college students reporting higher levels of career maturity than baccalaureate students.
Retrospective Evaluation of ASCVD Risk and Statin Therapy Need in Nondiabetic Patients Based on the 2013 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guidelines
Authors: Koenigsfeld Carrie , Sayler Morgan , Smith Hayden L. , Meyer Kristin , Lehman Nicholas , Logemann Craig , Bottenberg Michelle , Bryant Ginelle , Obermark Molly
Published: March 2016

Purpose:

Study goal was to assess the impact of the 2013 American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Cholesterol Guidelines on patients in the fourth statin benefit group which included patients aged 40 to 75 years, without diabetes or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and have an ASCVD score ≥7.5%. These patients could benefit from treatment interventions by a pharmacist.

Methods:

Patients were identified from electronic health records. A sample of 3503 patients was ascertained from having a lipid panel performed within the 12 months before November 1, 2013. Patients were excluded if we were unable to calculate 10-year ASCVD risk.

Results:

A total of 3203 patients were included, with 2008 not on statin therapy. Of those, 1507 (75%) had a 10-year ASCVD risk score <7.5% and 501 (25%) had a score > 7.5%. Patient characteristics leading to an increase in risk included advanced age, smoker, male, and hypertension treatment. Of 2008 nonstatin patients, there were 466 (23.2%) who fit criteria for initiation of moderate- or high-intensity statin.

Conclusion:

Widespread adoption of the 2013 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guidelines will expand prescribing rates of statins. Implementing screening strategies may help identify patients who require treatment in this fourth statin benefit group. A pharmacist can be vital in screening patients, educating patients regarding the need for medication therapy, and monitoring for adherence in these new regimens.
Recurrent Venous Thromboembolism in Two Patients With Cancer Taking Rivaroxaban
Authors: Theodorou Jacqueline M. , Patel Yogini , Ford Patricia
Published: March 2016

Pharmacologic agents for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism in the cancer patient population are limited. Currently, low-molecular-weight heparin is recommended by national consensus guidelines for this indication. Rivaroxaban, an oral factor Xa inhibitor, is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism and offers the convenience of oral fixed-dose regimens, no routine laboratory monitoring, and has few drug and dietary interactions; however, its use in patients with cancer has not been largely studied. We report 2 cases of recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients with active cancer on rivaroxaban therapy. The first case is a 64-year-old female admitted for recurrent pulmonary embolism, and the second case is a 70-year-old female admitted for recurrent deep vein thrombosis. Both patients were receiving rivaroxaban at the time of thromboembolic recurrence. These cases serve as a reminder to health-care providers that more safety and efficacy data in the cancer patient population are needed prior to using rivaroxaban for venous thromboembolism treatment.
Adaptive calibration for reduced fuel consumption and emissions
Authors: Guardiola Carlos , Pla Benjamín , Bares Pau , Waschl Harald
Published: March 2016

This paper presents a model-based approach for continuously adapting an engine calibration to the traffic and changing pollutant emission limits. The proposed strategy does not need additional experimental tests beyond those required by the traditional calibration approach. The method utilises information currently available in the engine control unit to adapt the engine control to the particular driving patterns of a given driver. Additional information about the emissions limits should be provided by an external structure if an adaptation to the pollutant immission is required. The proposed strategy has been implemented in a light-duty diesel engine, and showed a good potential to keep NO x emissions around a defined limit.
Expression of serotonin, chromogranin-A, serotonin receptor-2B, tryptophan hydroxylase-1, and serotonin reuptake transporter in the intestine of dogs with chronic enteropathy
Authors: Bailey Candice , Ruaux Craig , Stang Bernadette V. , Valentine Beth A.
Published: March 2016

Serotonin regulates many intestinal motor and sensory functions. Altered serotonergic metabolism has been described in human gastrointestinal diseases. The objective of our study was to compare expression of several components of the serotonergic system [serotonin (5-HT), serotonin reuptake transporter protein (SERT), tryptophan hydroxylase-1 (TPH-1), 5-HT receptor2B (5-HT2B)] and the enterochromaffin cell marker chromogranin-A (CgA) in the intestinal mucosa between dogs with chronic enteropathy and healthy controls. Serotonin and CgA expression were determined by immunohistochemistry using banked and prospectively obtained, paraffin-embedded canine gastrointestinal biopsies ( n = 11), and compared to a control group of canine small intestinal sections ( n = 10). Expression of SERT, TPH-1, and 5-HT2B were determined via real-time reverse transcription (qRT)-PCR using prospectively collected endoscopic duodenal biopsies ( n = 10) and compared to an additional control group of control duodenal biopsies ( n = 8, control group 2) showing no evidence of intestinal inflammation. Dogs with chronic enteropathies showed strong staining for both 5-HT and CgA. Mean positive cells per high power field (HPF) were significantly increased for both compounds in dogs with chronic enteropathies ( p < 0.001 for 5-HT; p < 0.05 for CgA). The number of 5-HT–positive and CgA-positive cells/HPF showed significant correlation in the entire group of dogs, including both diseased and healthy individuals (Pearson r2 = 0.2433, p = 0.016). No significant differences were observed for SERT, TPH-1, or 5-HT2B expression; however, dogs with chronic enteropathy showed greater variability in expression of TPH-1 and 5-HT2B. We conclude that components of the neuroendocrine system show altered expression in the intestinal mucosa of dogs with chronic enteropathy. These changes may contribute to nociception and clinical signs in these patients.
Phylogenetic characterization of a novel herpesvirus found in the liver and lungs of a Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis)
Authors: Coverdill Christopher C. , Barnes Julie A. , Garner Michael M. , Hinton Kevin L. , Childress April L. , Wellehan James F. X.
Published: March 2016

A novel herpesvirus was detected in a 17-day-old Chilean flamingo ( Phoenicopterus chilensis) with pneumonia, hepatopathy, and severe anemia that was housed in California. Postmortem examination identified a pale, enlarged liver, mildly increased fluid in the lungs, and red foci in the spleen. Histologic examination revealed marked hepatic necrosis with syncytia, splenic necrosis, and interstitial pneumonia with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions within hepatocytes and in unidentified cells of the lung. Transmission electron microscopy identified virions consistent with a herpesvirus in the nucleus and cytoplasm of degenerative hepatocytes. Nested consensus PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis identified a novel herpesvirus within the genus Iltovirus in the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae.
Establishment of a quantitative real-time PCR for the detection of Pneumocystis carinii f. sp. suis in bronchoalveolar lavage samples from pigs
Authors: Weissenbacher-Lang Christiane , Nedorost Nora , Knecht Christian , Hennig-Pauka Isabel , Weissenböck Herbert
Published: March 2016

Respiratory diseases in pigs are mostly polymicrobial, and the involved pathogens can vary from farm to farm. The impact of Pneumocystis carinii ( P. c.) f. sp. suis on respiratory disorders has not been comprehensively appraised because tests were limited to lung tissue samples and, for this reason, it was not possible to detect the fungus in living animals. In the present study, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from 12 pigs and oral fluid samples from 9 pigs were tested for the presence of Pneumocystis by quantitative real-time PCR. The results from these 2 clinical specimens were compared with Pneumocystis quantities in lung tissue samples. Pneumocystis quantities in BALF correlated significantly to those in lung tissue. BALF has proved to be an adequate specimen for detection of various respiratory pathogens in pigs, and the collection procedure directly on farms is also well established. In contrast to the BALF results, all oral fluid samples were negative. Thus, specimens from the lower respiratory tract should generally be preferred for the detection of Pneumocystis. Additionally, under farm conditions, oral fluid is mainly collected in the form of collective samples per pen. In the present study, oral swab sampling of individual pigs was intended but failed in 3 of 12 pigs because they did not salivate sufficiently. As a conclusion, only BALF can be recommended as a useful tool for Pneumocystis herd monitoring in vivo.
Teachers’ Perspectives in Using Disney Songs in the Music Classroom
Authors: Lesser Andrew
Published: March 2016

Integrating popular music as part of the public school music curriculum has been a topic of debate among many educators and researchers. Songs from the Disney Corporation, specifically from movies, television shows, and performers specifically marketed by Disney, are particularly significant due to their widespread popularity. In this article, the author compares various perspectives of researchers and practicing teachers as to their opinions regarding the use of Disney songs in their classrooms. Specific usages and incorporation into instructional methods are described, in contrast to opinions why certain educators oppose the use of Disney music, including specific songs or Disney music as an entity.
Evaluation of the TSL® Program for Parents of Children With Cancer
Authors: Choi Kwonho , Kim Jae Yop
Published: March 2016

Objectives:

This study aims to investigate the effects of the Thank you–Sorry–Love (TSL®) program on posttraumatic growth (PTG) and cortisol level in parents of children with cancer.

Methods:

A total of 15 mothers of children with cancer were randomly assigned to the experimental group ( n = 7) with the TSL intervention or a control group ( n = 8) without any intervention. PTG and cortisol level were checked 3 times at the pretest, posttest, and 10-week follow-up.

Results:

PTG scores were significantly different between the two groups at the posttest and the follow-up test. Cortisol level was only significantly different between the two groups at the posttest.

Conclusions:

The TSL program may be a possible intervention for parents of children with cancer.
The Child Welfare Cartel, Redux
Authors: Stoesz David
Published: March 2016

In response to “The Child Welfare Cartel,” defenders of the National Child Welfare Workforce Institute (NCWWI) make three errors: First, restricting federal funds to schools of social work is not authorized by the statute cited in the creation of NCWWI. Second, social work is not the only discipline engaged in child welfare, denying the emergence of Child Advocacy Studies as a competitor. Third, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are not implausible in child welfare due to the complex issues presented by maltreated children and troubled families. This incorrect contention ignores the numerous field experiments deployed in psychology and nursing to the considerable benefit of those disciplines. Apologists for NCWWI thus make assertions typical of a cartel, resulting in outcomes that are unnecessarily substandard and expensive. If social workers are superior to nonprofessionals in child welfare, defenders of NCWWI should conduct an RCT putting that claim to test.
Culturally Competent Palliative and Hospice Care Training for Ethnically Diverse Staff in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Kataoka-Yahiro Merle R. , McFarlane Sandra , Koijane Jeannette , Li Dongmei
Published: March 2016

Between 2013 and 2030, older adults 65 years and older of racial/ethnic populations in the U.S. is projected to increase by 123% in comparison to the Whites (Non-Hispanics). To meet this demand, training of ethnically diverse health staff in long-term care facilities in palliative and hospice care is imperative. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a palliative and hospice care training of staff in two nursing homes in Hawaii - (a) to evaluate knowledge and confidence over three time periods, and (b) to compare staff and family caregiver satisfaction at end of program. The educational frameworks were based on cultural and communication theories. Fifty-two ethnically diverse staff, a majority being Asian (89%), participated in a 10-week module training and one 4 hour communication skills workshop. Staff evaluation included knowledge and confidence surveys, pre- and post-test knowledge tests, and FAMCARE-2 satisfaction instrument. There were nine Asian (89%) and Pacific Islander (11%) family caregivers who completed the FAMCARE-2 satisfaction instrument. The overall staff knowledge and confidence results were promising. The staff rated overall satisfaction of palliative care services lower than the family caregivers. Implications for future research, practice, and education with palliative and hospice care training of ethnically diverse nursing home staff is to include patient and family caregiver satisfaction of palliative and hospice care services, evaluation of effectiveness of cross-cultural communication theories in palliative and hospice care staff training, and support from administration for mentorship and development of these services in long term care facilities.
Presenteeism Attitudes and Behavior Among Missouri Kindergarten to Twelfth Grade (K–12) School Nurses
Authors: Rebmann Terri , Turner James Austin , Kunerth Allison K.
Published: March 2016

Working while ill (presenteeism) with symptoms of influenza-like illness can contribute to outbreaks, but little is known about school nurse presenteeism. Missouri Association of School Nurses members ( N = 396) were sent a survey in 2013/2014. A chi square test was conducted to compare having a school culture that encourages presenteeism versus actual sick leave policies. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to delineate factors associated with presenteeism. In total, 133 school nurses participated (33.6% response rate). Almost half (42.1%, n = 56) reported presenteeism. Nurses were more likely to feel pressure to engage in presenteeism than reported punitive sick leave policies (14.3% vs. 3.8%, χ2 = 18.3, p < .001). Presenteeism was associated with perceived pressure, odds ratio ( OR) = 4.8, confidence interval (CI) = [1.5, 15.8], p < .01, and having a mild illness, OR = 3.6, CI = [1.4, 9.7], p = .01. Many school nurses engage in presenteeism, and this appears to be associated with organizational cultural norms rather than established sick leave policies.
Survey of Patient Insurance Status on Access to Specialty Foot and Ankle Care Under the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Kim Chang-Yeon , Wiznia Daniel H. , Roth Alexander S. , Walls Raymond J. , Pelker Richard R.
Published: March 2016

Background:

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of insurance type (Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance) on access to foot and ankle surgeons for total ankle arthroplasty.

Methods:

We called 240 foot and ankle surgeons who performed total ankle arthroplasty in 8 representative states (California, Massachusetts, Ohio, New York, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and North Carolina). The caller requested an appointment for a fictitious patient to be evaluated for a total ankle arthroplasty. Each office was called 3 times to assess the responses for Medicaid, Medicare, and BlueCross. From each call, we recorded appointment success or failure and any barriers to an appointment, such as need for a referral.

Results:

Patients with Medicaid were less likely to receive an appointment compared to patients with Medicare (19.8% vs 92.0%, P < .0001) or BlueCross (19.8% vs 90.4%, P < .0001) and experienced more requests for referrals compared to patients with Medicare (41.9% vs 1.6%, P < .0001) or BlueCross (41.9% vs 4%, P < .0001). Waiting periods were longer for patients with Medicaid compared to those with Medicare (22.6 days vs 11.7 days, P = .004) or BlueCross (22.6 days vs 10.7 days, P = .001). Reimbursement rates did not correlate with appointment success rate or waiting period.

Conclusion:

Despite the passage of the PPACA, patients with Medicaid continue to have difficulty finding a surgeon who will provide care, increased need for a primary care referral, and longer waiting periods for appointments.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prognostic study.
Collaboration Across the Safety Net in the Era of Health Reform: Opportunities or Obstacles?
Authors: Mead Katherine H. , Brantley Erin , Zur Julia , Goldberg Debora Goetz
Published: March 2016

While implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act brings significant opportunities for safety net providers (SNP), local systems vary in how well they adapt to the rapidly evolving environment. Collaboration may enhance SNP capacity to leverage opportunities in the health reform era. Our study examines key opportunities and challenges SNPs face under health reform and how providers use collaboration as a strategy to adapt to the new environment. A qualitative study of 78 executives at safety net organizations identified six priorities that pose both opportunities and challenges for SNP, and around which collaboration is used as a strategy to achieve common goals: Medicaid expansion, outreach and enrollment, capacity and access, health system transformation, health insurance exchanges, and reductions in government funding. Three types of collaborations emerged: policy and advocacy, community action, and practice-based. Types of collaborations and stakeholders involved appeared to vary by priority.
The transition into adoptive parenthood: Adoption as a process of continued unsafe uncertainty when family scripts collide
Authors: Tasker Fiona , Wood Sally
Published: March 2016

Our prospective study investigated couples’ expectations of adoptive parenthood and explored how these changed with their actual experience of parenthood. Six heterosexual couples were interviewed just before placement began and 6 months after the children had arrived. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse both sets of interview data. Expectations of adoptive parenthood mostly transformed smoothly into adoption experience for couples, but challenges were experienced when family scripts collided and a continued feeling of unsafe uncertainty then prevailed within these newly formed family systems. Family script collision seemed a particular problem for couples adopting sibling pairs. To further professional practice in working with families over the transition to adoptive parenting, we suggest that professionals keep in mind a framework that includes the following: Internal and external world influences on family members, Intergenerational issues, Family scripts and the Structural challenges of adoption (IIFS).
Conducting the Study of Geopolitics: Three Approaches
Authors: Klin Tomasz
Published: March 2016

In the past several decades, the study of geopolitics has experienced a true renaissance, which is reflected in the three works reviewed in this article. All of the reviewed books embrace the geopolitical domain in completely different ways, and each varies in its purpose, method, and structure of reasoning. The paper critically evaluates the methodologies and merits of these works and proposes ways to creatively use some of the concepts for further geopolitical analysis. The books serve as a preface to an in-depth discussion on the state of contemporary geopolitics and the reception of classical geopolitics.
The Passion for Civility
Authors: Edyvane Derek
Published: March 2016

This article challenges and clarifies everyday thought about the idea of civility in society and politics by subjecting it to theoretical analysis. It contributes to research on citizenship, toleration and social cohesion by developing a new synthesis of the presently fragmented literature in contemporary political theory on the concept of civility and its place in liberal democratic politics. It first considers the meaning of civility, identifying some difficulties of definition and elaborating a distinction between civility in conduct and civility in attitude. It then assesses the most prominent debates around civility’s value by contrasting arguments that civility serves a vital function in the moderation of democratic conflict with arguments that it threatens the basic values upon which democracy is founded. The article finds that the debate about civility is misconceived and that the literature is diminished by its failure to engage directly with the problem of incivility. In so doing, it establishes the parameters for a new agenda of civility research.
Original Research: Diametric effects of hypoxia on pathophysiology of sickle cell disease in a murine model
Authors: Tan Fang , Ghosh Samit , Mosunjac Mario , Manci Elizabeth , Ofori-Acquah Solomon Fiifi
Published: March 2016

Hypoxia causes erythrocyte sickling in vitro; however, its role in the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease is poorly understood. We report that hypoxia rapidly decreased oxygen saturation in transgenic sickle cell disease mice, but this effect was immediately buffered by a robust ventilatory response. The initial hypoxemia improved steadily throughout the duration of hypoxia without any detectable acute pulmonary adverse effect. Furthermore, the mice suffered acute anemia that ironically was associated with lowering of both plasma hemoglobin and heme. These results were corroborated by increased plasma haptoglobin and hemopexin levels. Markers of ischemic tissue injury increased spatiotemporally following repeated hypoxia exposures. This variation was supported by organ-specific induction of hypoxia-responsive genes. Our results show that hypoxia exerts diametric effects on sickle cell disease by promoting ischemic injury while enhancing the expression of hemolysis scavenger molecules. This phenomenon may help to understand the disparate clinical syndromes associated with hemolysis and vaso-occlusion in sickle cell disease.
Evaluation of a Physical Activity Intervention for Adults With Brain Impairment
Authors: Clanchy Kelly M. , Tweedy Sean M. , Trost Stewart G.
Published: March 2016

Background. Individuals with brain impairment (BI) are less active than the general population and have increased risk of chronic disease. Objective. This controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of a physical activity (PA) intervention for community-dwelling adults with BI. Methods. A total of 43 adults with BI (27 male, 16 female; age 38.1 ± 11.9 years; stage of change 1-3) who walked as their primary means of locomotion were allocated to an intervention (n = 23) or control (n = 20) condition. The intervention comprised 10 face-to-face home visits over 12 weeks, including a tailored combination of stage-matched behavior change activities, exercise prescription, community access facilitation, and relapse prevention strategies. The control group received 10 face-to-face visits over 12 weeks to promote sun safety, healthy sleep, and oral health. Primary outcomes were daily activity counts and minutes of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA) measured with the ActiGraph GT1M at baseline (0 weeks), postintervention (12 weeks) and follow-up (24 weeks). Between-group differences were evaluated for statistical significance using repeated-measures ANOVA. Results. MVPA for the intervention group increased significantly from baseline to 12 weeks (20.8 ± 3.1 to 31.2 ± 3.1 min/d; P = .01), but differences between baseline and 24 weeks were nonsignificant (20.8 ± 3.1 to 25.3 ± 3.2 min/d; P = .28). MVPA changes for the control group were negligible and nonsignificant. Between-group differences for change in MVPA were significant at 12 weeks ( P = .03) but not at 24 weeks ( P = .49). Conclusion. The 12-week intervention effectively increased adoption of PA in a sample of community-dwelling adults with BI immediately after the intervention but not at follow-up. Future studies should explore strategies to foster maintenance of PA participation.
Institutional Ethnography Research in Global South Settings
Authors: Rudrum Sarah
Published: March 2016

Within institutional ethnography (IE), texts—reproducible written and graphic materials—are understood to play a central role in coordinating social relationships. This is the case because of their ubiquity and because texts allow proceedings in one place to influence actions in another. This article considers the role of texts in settings that are less text-saturated than the Western societies whose organization Dorothy Smith first sought to understand through IE. Drawing from insights of a study examining the social organization of maternity care in rural northern Uganda, I discuss the differences in the role of texts in Global South research including the role of illiteracy, the need to read for absences or silences, and the prominent role of international texts. Identifying texts and observing their role in sequences of action are nevertheless essential for institutional ethnographers working to understand social organization in the Global South. This article seeks to contribute to IE methodology in Global South research settings.
Dyshomeostasis, obesity, addiction and chronic stress
Authors: Marks David F
Published: March 2016

When eating control is overridden by hedonic reward, a condition of obesity dyshomeostasis occurs. Appetitive hedonic reward is a natural response to an obesogenic environment containing endemic stress and easily accessible and palatable high-energy foods and beverages. Obesity dyshomeostasis is mediated by the prefrontal cortex, amygdala and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. The ghrelin axis provides the perfect signalling system for feeding dyshomeostasis, affect control and hedonic reward. Dyshomeostasis plays a central role in obesity causation, the addictions and chronic conditions and in persons with diverse bodies. Prevention and treatment efforts that target sources of dyshomeostasis provide ways of reducing adiposity, ameliorating the health impacts of addiction and raising the quality of life in people suffering from chronic stress.
To bind or not to bind
Authors: Tvarnø Christina D
Published: March 2016

This article discusses the formalization of collaboration through partnering contracts in the construction industry in the USA, Great Britain and Denmark. The article compares the different types of collaborative partnering contracts in the three countries, and provides a conclusion on whether the collaborative partnering contract should be binding or non-binding, based on the three empirical contracts analyzed in this article. The partnering contracts in Great Britain and Denmark are legally binding, while in the USA the partnering agreements are non-binding charters or letters of intent. This article discusses, in a theoretical perspective, the legal reasoning behind the different partnering approaches, both from a historical and contract law perspective, and furthermore applies a game theoretical approach in evaluating binding versus non-binding partnering contracts. The analysis focuses on private collaborative multi-partner partnering contracts in the construction industry and compares contractual clauses from US, British and Danish partnering contracts. The article argues that from a legal and a game theoretical perspective, the collaborative partnering contract should be legally binding in order to minimize the risk of self-optimization and improve joint utility through the contract, and thus recommends that the US partnering regime should shift from a non-binding partnering agreement to a legally binding partnering contract.
From Swarm Intelligence to Swarm Malice: An Appeal
Authors: Weichert Stephan
Published: March 2016

In social networks, controversy, provocation, and incitement mutate quickly to an explosive mixture. Journalists, who aim for a factual moderation, are often highly frustrated to meet the criticism of trolls and haters. The essay addresses the following questions: How can newsrooms cope with the massively growing feedback from users? What responsibility carries the media and the civil society in designing a constructive net debate culture? And are there alternatives to foster an open-minded public discourse?
Immigrant Generations and Delinquency
Authors: Jiang Xin , Peguero Anthony A.
Published: March 2016

Recent research has demonstrated an “immigrant paradox”: a parallel between assimilation and increased engagement in adolescent delinquency. Although evidence has suggested that social control and differential association contribute to the criminological understanding of the immigrant paradox, not many studies have simultaneously incorporated measures of social control and differential association to explore delinquency across immigrant generations. Based on a sample of nationally representative adolescents ( N = 13,121) from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), this study investigates whether and how social control (i.e., family control and school control) and differential association (i.e., delinquent friends association) explain the relationship between immigrant generation and delinquency. Results indicate that delinquent friendships play a more important role and account for much of the difference in delinquency across generations. Moreover, within each generation, delinquent friendships have a more consistent effect on delinquency. However, family control and school control are stronger predictors of delinquency for the third-plus generation than for earlier generations.
Cultural Influence on Coping Strategies of Filipino Immigrant Nurses
Authors: Connor Jorgia B.
Published: March 2016

Much of the research on internationally educated nurses (IENs) has focused on the challenges they encounter in the United States and how they can best be integrated into the workplace. Despite their many challenges, Filipino IENs continue to come to the United States and thrive, bringing with them diverse experience and knowledge that contribute to the provision of quality care to a patient population that is becoming increasingly diverse. Although a substantial body of research has been published on IEN coping, fewer studies have focused on the influence of culture on Filipino IEN’s preferred coping strategies. This study contributes to the burgeoning interest in understanding culture’s influence on coping patterns and preferences among diverse populations. Occupational health nurses and administrators can use these findings to develop culturally appropriate health promotion programs and interventions to retain quality nurses and promote healthier workplaces.