bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample Size in Qualitative Interview Studies
Authors: Malterud Kirsti , Siersma Volkert Dirk , Guassora Ann Dorrit
Published: November 2015

Sample sizes must be ascertained in qualitative studies like in quantitative studies but not by the same means. The prevailing concept for sample size in qualitative studies is “saturation.” Saturation is closely tied to a specific methodology, and the term is inconsistently applied. We propose the concept “information power” to guide adequate sample size for qualitative studies. Information power indicates that the more information the sample holds, relevant for the actual study, the lower amount of participants is needed. We suggest that the size of a sample with sufficient information power depends on (a) the aim of the study, (b) sample specificity, (c) use of established theory, (d) quality of dialogue, and (e) analysis strategy. We present a model where these elements of information and their relevant dimensions are related to information power. Application of this model in the planning and during data collection of a qualitative study is discussed.
Little White Lies
Authors: Seaman Aaron T. , Stone Anne M.
Published: November 2015

This metasynthesis surveyed extant literature on deception in the context of dementia and, based on specific inclusion criteria, included 14 articles from 12 research studies. By doing so, the authors accomplished three goals: (a) provided a systematic examination of the literature-to-date on deception in the context of dementia, (b) elucidated the assumptions that have guided this line of inquiry and articulated the way those shape the research findings, and (c) determined directions for future research. In particular, synthesizing across studies allowed the authors to develop a dynamic model comprised of three temporally linear elements—(a) motives, (b) modes, and (c) outcomes that describe how deception emerges communicatively through interaction in the context of dementia.
Attempted Crime and the Crime Drop
Authors: Farrell Graham
Published: November 2015

This study contributes to crime drop research on the security hypothesis. Using data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales, it finds that the decline in attempted vehicle-related theft and domestic burglary was delayed by 2–4 years. Between 1993 and 1997, completed domestic burglary fell 21% but attempts by only 2.1%, while between 1993 and 1995 theft of cars fell 8% but attempts increased 3%. The delay is interpreted as consistent with rational choice theory and with some offenders continuing to try, but failing, to complete these crimes when faced with improved security. The subsequent decline in attempts is consistent with offenders, particularly new cohorts of adolescents, having been discouraged.
Arthroscopic Treatment and Prognostic Classification of Anterior Soft Tissue Impingement of the Ankle
Authors: Buda Roberto , Baldassarri Matteo , Parma Alessandro , Cavallo Marco , Pagliazzi Gherardo , Castagnini Francesco , Giannini Sandro
Published: November 2015

Background:

Anterior soft tissue impingement of the ankle has been described based on the etiology and location, but no classification has been reported. Arthroscopic treatment is usually considered effective, even if the behavior of the different forms of impingement is not clear. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors affecting long-term results.

Methods:

Forty-two patients with a mean age of 32.6 years were arthroscopically treated between 2004 and 2008. Impingement lesions were identified according to clinical examination and confirmed by MRI. Soft tissue impingement was detected and classified according to location (anteromedial, anterolateral, syndesmotic or diffuse). Patient data, foot morphology, and previous trauma or surgery were recorded. Patients were evaluated after a mean of 90.1 months’ follow-up with the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system.

Results:

The mean AOFAS score improved from 40.6 preoperatively to 82.6, 78.4, and 74.8, respectively, at the 2-, 4-, and 6-year follow-ups ( P < .05). The anterolateral form showed higher scores compared to the diffuse or anteromedial forms. Age, foot morphology, and previous trauma or surgery did not affect the results. Body mass index of more than 26 and male gender were associated with worse outcomes.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic debridement proved effective in the treatment of soft tissue impingement. Furthermore, we were able to classify the location of the anterior soft tissue impingement of the ankle, which may have prognostic importance.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Monte Carlo Analysis of Payer and Provider Risks in Shared Savings Arrangements
Authors: DeLia Derek
Published: November 2015

This article provides a thorough empirical analysis of random variation in shared savings arrangements. It uses claims data from seven provider coalitions that applied for certification to become Medicaid accountable care organizations (ACOs) in New Jersey to conduct Monte Carlo simulations under varying assumptions about true ACO savings. Among all the ACOs examined, the observed savings rate can be several percentage points higher or lower than the assumed true savings rate, leading to large probabilities of Type I and Type II error in determining the existence of savings. Although the effects of random variation are smaller for larger ACOs, the ACO-level coefficient of variation in health care spending also stands out as a highly relevant parameter. The risks of overpayment and underpayment can be minimized through modified specification of the savings measurement methodology. These findings have implications for the terms of shared savings arrangements negotiated between payers and providers.
The Impact of Interpersonal Style on Ruptures and Repairs in the Therapeutic Alliance Between Offenders and Therapists in Sex Offender Treatment
Authors: Watson Rachael , Thomas Stuart , Daffern Michael
Published: November 2015

The therapeutic relationship is a critical component of psychological treatment. Strain can occur in the relationship, particularly when working with offenders, and more specifically, those offenders with interpersonal difficulties; strain can lead to a rupture, which may affect treatment participation and performance. This study examined ruptures in the therapeutic relationship in sexual offenders participating in offense-focused group treatment. Fifty-four sex offenders rated the therapeutic alliance at the commencement and completion of treatment; at the completion of treatment, they also reported on the occurrence of ruptures and whether they believed these ruptures were repaired. Ruptures were separated by type, according to severity—Each relationship was therefore characterized as experiencing no rupture, a minor rupture, or a major rupture. Offender characteristics including interpersonal style (IPS) and psychopathy were assessed at the commencement of treatment; their relationship with ruptures was examined. Results revealed that more than half of the offenders (approximately 55%) experienced a rupture in the therapeutic alliance, with one in four of these ruptures remaining unresolved. Offenders who did not report a rupture rated the therapeutic alliance significantly higher at the end of treatment compared with those offenders who reported a rupture that was not repaired. Offenders who reported a major rupture in the therapeutic relationship were higher in interpersonal hostility and hostile-dominance. No interpersonal or offense-specific factors affected the likelihood of a rupture repair.
“We Were in a Partnership That Wasn’t Recognized by Anyone Else”
Authors: Piatczanyn Steven A. , Bennett Kate M. , Soulsby Laura K.
Published: November 2015

Research with older gay “widowers”1 is relatively rare and the majority focuses on the AIDS/HIV context, rather than on broader causes of death. However, drawing on studies of heterosexual spousal bereavement, we suggest that older widowers are faced with two competing challenges that impact on their identity. They are expected to grieve in a socially acceptable manner, while at the same time conform to hegemonic masculine identity. We investigate whether gay widowers face the same challenges and whether there are additional challenges compared to heterosexual widowers following the loss of their partners. We interviewed twenty older gay widowers about their experiences. We illustrate our findings with four case studies. We find that gay men, like heterosexual men, manage the challenges of normative grieving as defined by hegemonic masculinity. However, gay men also face challenges of gay identity. We discuss the ways in which these men negotiate the intersectionality of grieving, masculinity, and being gay. In addition, identities are reconstructed in response to the expectations of the gay community. Finally, gay men have to negotiate their position as grieving widower within the wider social context.
Parents’ difficulties as co-therapists in CBT among non-responding youths with anxiety disorders: Parent and therapist experiences
Authors: Lundkvist-Houndoumadi Irene , Thastum Mikael , Nielsen Klaus
Published: November 2015

No increased effect has been associated with parent involvement in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for youths with anxiety disorders. The purpose of this study was to explore parent and therapist experiences of CBT among non-responding youths with anxiety disorders, with a primary focus on parent involvement in therapy. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was applied to 24 sets of semi-structured interviews with families and therapists of anxiety-disordered youths who had not profited from CBT with parental inclusion. From the superordinate theme parents’ difficulties acting as co-therapists, which emerged from the analyses, two master themes represented the perspectives of parents ( difficulty working together with the youth and feeling unqualified, with limited resources), and two represented the perspectives of therapists ( family dynamics stood in the way of progress and difficulty transferring control to parents). Parent and therapist experiences complemented each other, offering two different perspectives on parent difficulties as co-therapists. However, the two groups’ views on their respective roles in therapy were in conflict. Parents wished to remain being “just the parents” and for the experts to take over, while therapists wished to act as facilitators transferring the control to parents. Clinical implications are drawn for parental involvement and enhancement of treatment outcomes for likely non-responders.
System struggles and substitutes: A qualitative study of general practitioner and psychiatrist experiences of prescribing antipsychotics to children and adolescents
Authors: Murphy Andrea L , Gardner David M , Kisely Steve , Cooke Charmaine A , Kutcher Stanley P , Hughes Jean
Published: November 2015

There are significant controversies regarding rising antipsychotic prescription trends in children and adolescents. Many pharmacoepidemiology trend studies have been published, and interpretations of these data are helpful in explaining what is happening in prescribing practices, but not why these patterns exist. There is a lack of qualitative data in this area, and the experience of prescribing antipsychotics to children and adolescents has not been adequately researched. We conducted a qualitative study using an interpretive phenomenological analysis of physicians’ experiences of antipsychotic prescribing to children and adolescents. Prescribers participated in individual interviews and a focus group. We used a staged approach for data analysis of transcriptions. In all, 11 physicians including psychiatrists and general practitioners participated in our study. We identified themes related to context, role and identity, and decision-making and filtering. Struggles with health system gaps were significant leading to the use of antipsychotics as substitutes for other treatments. Physicians prescribed antipsychotics to youth for a range of indications and had significant concerns regarding adverse effects. Our results provide knowledge regarding the prescribers’ experience of antipsychotics for children and adolescents. Important gaps exist within the health system that are creating opportunities for the initiation and continued use of these agents.
Predicting prostate cancer treatment choices: The role of numeracy, time discounting, and risk attitudes
Authors: López-Pérez Belén , Barnes Andrew , Frosch Dominick L. , Hanoch Yaniv
Published: November 2015

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among males in the United States, and there is lack of consensus as to whether active surveillance or radical prostatectomy is the best course of treatment. In this study, we examined the role of numeracy, time discounting, and risk taking on decision-making about prostate cancer treatment—in 279 men over age 50 without a prior prostate cancer diagnosis. Results showed that active surveillance was the most chosen option and its preference was predicted by numeracy and time discounting. However, radical prostatectomy was significantly predicted by participants’ propensity to take risks.
‘Locus of control’, health-related quality of life, emotional distress and disability in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Rizza Federica , Gison Annalisa , Bonassi Stefano , Dall’Armi Valentina , Tonto Francesca , Giaquinto Salvatore
Published: November 2015

This cross-sectional study evaluated locus of control and its subscales in Parkinson’s disease. A total of 50 consecutive Parkinson’s disease participants and 50 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled. External locus of control was significantly higher in Parkinson’s disease participants, whereas internal locus of control had no significant differences. External locus of control and internal locus of control were correlated in control group, but not in Parkinson’s disease. In Parkinson’s disease participants, external locus of control was negatively associated with health-related quality of life as well as positively associated with emotional distress and disease severity (but not with disability). After adjusting to confound variables, the associations remained. On the other hand, internal locus of control was negatively associated with depression.
Assessing early implementation of state autism insurance mandates
Authors: Baller Julia Berlin , Barry Colleen L , Shea Kathleen , Walker Megan M , Ouellette Rachel , Mandell David S
Published: November 2015

In the United States, health insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder treatments has been historically limited. In response, as of 2015, 40 states and Washington, DC, have passed state autism insurance mandates requiring many health plans in the private insurance market to cover autism diagnostic and treatment services. This study examined five states’ experiences implementing autism insurance mandates. Semi-structured, key-informant interviews were conducted with 17 participants representing consumer advocacy organizations, provider organizations, and health insurance companies. Overall, participants thought that the mandates substantially affected the delivery of autism services. While access to autism treatment services has increased as a result of implementation of state mandates, states have struggled to keep up with the demand for services. Participants provided specific information about barriers and facilitators to meeting this demand. Understanding of key informants’ perceptions about states’ experiences implementing autism insurance mandates is useful for other states considering adopting or expanding mandates or other policies to expand access to autism treatment services.
Good work ability despite multisite musculoskeletal pain? A study among occupationally active Finns
Authors: Pensola Tiina , Haukka Eija , Kaila-Kangas Leena , Neupane Subas , Leino-Arjas Päivi
Published: November 2015

Aim: Although multisite pain (MSP) often threatens work ability (WA), some of those with MSP retain good WA. Our aim was to identify factors associated with good WA among subjects with MSP. Methods: A nationally representative sample (the Health 2000-Study, response rate 87%) comprising 3884 occupationally active Finns aged 30–64 years. Data on WA, musculoskeletal pain, physical and psychosocial working conditions, chronic diseases, lifestyle and domestic situation were gathered by questionnaire, interview and clinical examination. Good current WA compared with the lifetime best was defined as ⩾9 on a 0–10 scale. Musculoskeletal pain in 18 body locations was combined into four sites, and thereafter pain in two or more sites was defined as MSP ( N=1351). Poisson regression analysis was used to obtain prevalence rate ratios (PRR). Results: Good WA was reported by 48% of the women and 37% of the men with MSP. In a multivariable model good WA was associated with younger age, female gender, physically non-strenuous work (PRR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.5), low job strain (1.2, 1.0–1.4), high supervisor support (1.2, 1.0–1.4), and not having musculoskeletal diseases (1.3, 1.1–1.5), mental disorders (1.4, 1.1–1.9), daytime tiredness (1.4, 1.2–1.7) or economic troubles (1.5, 1.1–1.9). Age-stratified analyses revealed also associations with high coworker support (1.2, 1.0–1.4) and strenuous leisure-time physical exercise (1.2, 1.0–1.4) in those aged 30–44 and low alcohol consumption (1.8, 1.2–2.6) in the age-group 45–64. Conclusions: Several potentially modifiable factors related to health, work, and lifestyle were associated with good WA among occupationally active subjects with MSP.
Sickness allowance histories among disability retirees due to mental disorders: A retrospective case–control study
Authors: Laaksonen Mikko , Blomgren Jenni , Tuulio-Henriksson Annamari
Published: November 2015

Objectives: The aim was to describe sickness allowance histories before disability retirement due to mental disorders and to examine whether receiving sickness allowance due to mental disorders and somatic conditions predicts future disability retirement. Method: Pre-retirement sickness allowance histories were traced backwards for 7 years among Finnish residents aged 25–64 years who had retired due to mental disorders in 2011 ( n=5.544). For each retiree, five sex- and age-matched controls were drawn from the non-retired population. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate the risk for disability retirement by sickness allowance history and to control for the effects of educational level, social class, marital status and the urbanisation level of the municipality. Results: The proportion of sickness allowance recipients increased steadily during the years preceding disability retirement, and was highest among those who retired due to bipolar disorders or depression. Those who had received sickness allowance due to mental disorders 6–7 years earlier had 6.5 times higher risk and those with sickness allowance 1–2 years earlier 11.7 times higher risk for disability retirement. Sickness allowance due to somatic conditions increased the risk for disability retirement 1.6–1.9 times. Sickness allowance most strongly predicted retirement due to bipolar disorders and depression. Adjustment for covariates had little effect. Conclusion: Those who retired due to mental disorders more often had sickness allowance due to both mental disorders and somatic conditions, but in particular sickness allowance due to mental disorders predicted disability retirement due to mental disorders.
Metadiscourse in group supervision: How school counselors-in-training construct their transitional professional identities
Authors: Gordon Cynthia , Luke Melissa
Published: November 2015

We use discourse analysis to examine a group supervision meeting in which graduate students who are training to become school counselors discuss counseling experiences that they had at local high schools. Focusing on metadiscourse, or talk about talk, we integrate Ochs’ concepts of epistemic stance and affective stance and Tannen’s discussion of linguistic strategies as ambiguous and polysemous in terms of power and solidarity in order to demonstrate how counselors-in-training construct their identities as what Woodside et al. call ‘boundary-dwellers’ in their professional community of practice. Examination of metadiscourse regarding address terms and the speech act of asking questions – and in particular highlighting how participants use negatively valenced affect words, the verb feel, and what Tannen calls ‘constructed dialogue’ – reveals their stances of uncertainty and discomfort, their transitional professional identities as entailing an uneasy navigation of relationships, and their recognition of the pivotal role of language in the process.
‘You’re doing everything just fine’: Praise in residential care settings
Authors: Jansson Gunilla
Published: November 2015

This study examines the use of praise in caregiving of nursing home residents with dementia in Sweden. The data consist of video-recordings of staff–resident interaction in residential care settings where caregivers assist residents with personal hygiene. High-grade assessments accomplishing praise or a compliment such as ‘ jättebra’ (‘great’) are routinely used online, simultaneously with the care activity, by the caregiver when the residents are requested to undertake manual tasks on their own, such as tooth brushing, washing, dressing, and getting out of bed. It is shown that the primary function of the assessments is to encourage someone to do something, which is discussed as an institutionally related problem. These results contrast with prior research on domiciliary care in Sweden and Denmark, which show that high-grade assessment terms formulated so as to accomplish praise or a compliment are reserved for situations where the home helper’s institutional role as the senior citizen’s helping hand is downplayed. It is argued that a more sensitive use of assessments and a higher awareness of the social norms concerning epistemic primacy may be a step toward implementing person-centeredness in residential care for older people.
The development of cruise tourism in emerging destinations: Evidence from Salento, Italy
Authors: Pino Giovanni , Peluso Alessandro M
Published: November 2015

This study aimed at identifying the factors that likely favor or hinder the development of cruise tourism in an emerging Southern Italian tourist destination. We conducted semistructured interviews with key players in this business, showing that the following are relevant enablers of cruise tourism development: the accessibility of tourist resources, the supply of integrated services to cruise lines and their passengers, cooperative relationships among private and public operators, and the creation of a distinctive image. However, cruise tourism development can be inhibited by poor professionalism on the part of tourist firms, the lack of a clear tourist regulatory framework, the fragmentation of the shore-based offer, and the risk of environmental degradation. The study thus contributes to the research on cruise tourism development, which is still in its infancy, and provides policymakers and practitioners with suggestions for facilitating the emergence of the cruise industry.
Values and motivations in tourist perceptions of last-chance tourism
Authors: Hindley Ann , Font Xavier
Published: November 2015

Tourists' perceptions of climate change affect decisions and choices to visit destinations, which are disappearing because of climate change impacts. Values and motivations are two of the personal variables underpinning tourists' decisions. The study addresses both the limited values research in tourism and reveals unconscious motives by using projective techniques. Projective techniques avoid some of the social desirability bias present in much ethical research. Choice ordering technique and the list of values assist by assigning importance, with narrative responses providing meaning. The construction technique builds a story from a stimulus, with photo-elicitation using participants' personal holiday photographs. A sample of pre, during and post visit tourists to the Arctic and Venice were interviewed. Results, which provide a more nuanced understanding of how the personal variables of values and motivations are underpinned by self-interest, inform policies and the messages designed to influence pro-sustainability behaviour.
Minga biographic workshops with highly skilled migrant women: enhancing spaces of inclusion
Authors: Riaño Yvonne
Published: November 2015

This article proposes the notion of ‘marginalised elites’ to examine highly skilled migrant women, a group that has been neglected by feminist participatory research. It asks what principles and methods can be used towards inclusive practices in studies of migration and social exclusion. The paper contributes to the literature by designing and critically evaluating the method of Minga biographic workshops, which create inclusionary spaces of data collection and critical analysis with highly skilled migrant women living in Switzerland. Using this case study, the paper questions notions of privilege, power and positionality commonly used in feminist participatory approaches. Minga workshops enhance spaces of inclusion, become ‘spaces of personal transformation’, question the perceived inferiority of migrant women, and produce original scientific insights on social exclusion. These results point to the role of academics as facilitators of personal transformation, and the need to closely consider the added scientific value of feminist participatory methodologies.
Importation and deprivation correlates of misconduct among Romanian inmates
Authors: Dâmboeanu Cristina , Nieuwbeerta Paul
Published: November 2015

Correctional literature on determinants of prisoner misconduct is largely focused on the situation in the USA or West European countries. This study expands the research in this field by presenting findings from Romania, an East European country whose prison system faces severe problems, among which overcrowding and poor confinement conditions are of the utmost concern. Therefore a survey was conducted on a sample of 280 adult male inmates in four large Romanian prisons. These exceptional data were supplemented with information from official records drawn from the prison administration’s databases. A unique combination of importation and deprivation factors, with a particular focus on several prison deprivations perceived by inmates as problematic, is examined in relation to the prevalence of four types of inmate misbehaviour: total misconduct, contraband infractions, violence and defiance. The findings show a clear relationship between importation and deprivation characteristics and prison misconduct. Also a differential impact of these characteristics is shown, depending on the type of prison infraction examined. The study concludes by advancing a set of policy recommendations to reduce the incidence of institutional misconduct in Romanian prisons.
African American homeschooling practices: Empirical evidence
Authors: Mazama Ama
Published: November 2015

Despite a significant increase in scholarly interest for homeschooling, some of its most critical aspects, such as instructional daily practices, remain grossly understudied. This essay thus seeks to fill that void by presenting empirical evidence regarding the homeschooling practices of a specific group, African Americans. Most specifically, the purpose of this essay is to answer the following questions: Who teaches Black homeschooled children? How are they taught? And, what are they taught? What emerges is that while African American homeschooling practices vary widely based on parents’ teaching and learning philosophies and ultimate objective, a common tendency is the implementation of a curriculum inclusive of African/African American history and culture. Moreover, contrary to previous claims, this study does not lend credence to the notion that Black homeschooling is overly structured and rigid.
Placement Model for First-Time Freshmen in Calculus I (Math 131): University of Northern Colorado
Authors: Heiny Robert L. , Heiny Erik L. , Raymond Karen
Published: November 2015

Two approaches, Linear Discriminant Analysis, and Logistic Regression are used and compared to predict success or failure for first-time freshmen in the first calculus course at a medium-sized public, 4-year institution prior to Fall registration. The predictor variables are high school GPA, the number, and GPA’s of college prep mathematics courses taken in grades 9 to 12, ACT math scores, and the score on a calculus readiness test. First-time freshmen who are predicted to fail are advised to take a precalculus course prior to attempting the first calculus course. Using a prediction model for 2012 based on data from 2010 and 2011, 73.9% of students were classified correctly as either passing or failing Calculus I. Of students predicted to fail, 77% did in fact fail which was almost three times as high as the failure rate for students predicted to pass. The study also found that both precollege achievement factors, (specifically high school math GPA), and a placement test (the calculus readiness test) were significant predictors of success in Calculus I.
“MAN UP!” On Masculinity and Childhood
Authors: Martinez Alejandra
Published: November 2015

This piece sails in time and space, collecting memories in an effort to show instead of tell how masculinity is inculcated in children by parents. I use autoethnography to present scenes collected from three different moments of my life. I reflect on gender norms reproduced as complementary/opposite meanings, in which hierarchy remains, placing men above women.
Metal Artifact Reduction in Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Head and Neck Radiotherapy
Authors: Korpics Mark , Johnson Paul , Patel Rakesh , Surucu Murat , Choi Mehee , Emami Bahman , Roeske John C.
Published: November 2015

Purpose:

To evaluate a method for reducing metal artifacts, arising from dental fillings, on cone-beam computed tomography images.

Materials and Methods:

A projection interpolation algorithm is applied to cone-beam computed tomography images containing metal artifacts from dental fillings. This technique involves identifying metal regions in individual cone-beam computed tomography projections and interpolating the surrounding values to remove the metal from the projection data. Axial cone-beam computed tomography images are then reconstructed, resulting in a reduction in the streak artifacts produced by the metal. Both phantom and patient imaging data are used to evaluate this technique.

Results:

The interpolation substitution technique successfully reduced metal artifacts in all cases. Corrected images had fewer or no streak artifacts compared to their noncorrected counterparts. Quantitatively, regions of interest containing the artifacts showed reduced variance in the corrected images versus the uncorrected images. Average pixel values in regions of interest around the metal object were also closer in value to nonmetal regions after artifact reduction. Artifact correction tended to perform better on patient images with less complex metal objects versus those with multiple large dental fillings.

Conclusion:

The interpolation substitution is potentially an efficient and effective technique for reducing metal artifacts caused by dental fillings on cone-beam computed tomography image. This technique may be effective in reducing such artifacts in patients with head and neck cancer receiving daily image-guided radiotherapy.
When School-Shooting Media Fuels a Retributive Public
Authors: O’Toole Megan J. , Fondacaro Mark R.
Published: November 2015

Despite evidence suggesting proactive responses to youth crime are advantageous, juvenile justice relies heavily on punitive practices. This discrepancy is in part affected by public preferences for retribution, which are skewed by sensationalized media portrayals of youth crime. This experiment ( N = 174) explores how youth crime media exposure translates into retributive attitudes by testing the hypothesis that media portrayals of school shootings increase retributive attitudes indirectly through either dehumanization or mortality salience. Statistical analyses suggest that dehumanization mediates the relationship between school-shooting media portrayals and retributive attitudes toward crime-involved youths. To promote support of less retributive juvenile justice policies, advocates may benefit by focusing emphasis on humanizing elements of young offenders.
Patient–Provider Communication About Prostate Cancer Screening and Treatment
Authors: Bhuyan Soumitra S. , Chandak Aastha , Gupta Niodita , Isharwal Sudhir , LaGrange Chad , Mahmood Asos , Gentry Dan
Published: November 2015

The American Urological Association, American Cancer Society, and American College of Physicians recommend that patients and providers make a shared decision with respect to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer (PCa). The goal of this study is to determine the extent of patient–provider communication for PSA testing and treatment of PCa and to examine the patient specific factors associated with this communication. Using recent data from the Health Information National Trends Survey, this study examined the association of patient characteristics with four domains of patient–provider communication regarding PSA test and PCa treatment: (1) expert opinion of PSA test, (2) accuracy of PSA test, (3) side effects of PCa treatment, and (4) treatment need of PCa. The current results suggested low level of communication for PSA testing and treatment of PCa across four domains. Less than 10% of the respondents report having communication about all four domains. Patient characteristics like recent medical check-up, regular healthcare provider, global health status, age group, marital status, race, annual household income, and already having undergone a PSA test are associated with patient–provider communication. There are few discussions about PSA testing and PCa treatment options between healthcare providers and their patients, which limits the shared decision-making process for PCa screening and treatment as recommended by the current best practice guidelines. This study helps identify implications for changes in physician practice to adhere with the PSA screening guidelines.
Psychometric Properties of a Short Measure for Psychosocial Factors and Associations With Phase of Physical Activity Change Among Finnish Working-Aged Men
Authors: Kaasalainen Karoliina , Kasila Kirsti , Komulainen Jyrki , Malvela Miia , Poskiparta Marita
Published: November 2015

Insufficient physical activity (PA) and poor physical fitness are risks for several noncommunicable diseases among working-aged men. PA programs have been launched to increase activity levels in the population but working-aged men have been underrepresented in these programs. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to evaluate validity of a short scale for psychosocial factors among Finnish working-aged men who participated in a PA campaign. The study examined also the associations between psychosocial factors and phase of PA change across fitness groups. Physical fitness was assessed with a body fitness index constructed on the basis of a handgrip test, the Polar OwnIndex Test, and body composition analysis (InBody 720). The men were classified into low ( n = 162), moderate ( n = 358), and high ( n = 320) body fitness index groups. Psychosocial factors and self-reported phase of PA change were assessed with a questionnaire. Psychometric properties of the scale were assessed with confirmatory factor analysis and differences between phases of PA change were examined with one-way analysis of variance. The evaluated scale included factors for self-efficacy, goal setting, skills, and social support. Good physical fitness was related to better perceived self-efficacy and ability to manage one’s PA environment. Goal setting was critical for PA change at all fitness levels. Better understanding of the interactions between psychosocial factors and PA change could help in targeting PA programs to low-fit men. Further study should examine the validity of the improved psychosocial measure.
The University Hospital Zurich Offers a Medical Online Consultation Service for Men With Intimate Health Problems
Authors: Schmidt-Weitmann Sabine , Schulz Urs , Schmid Daniel Max , Brockes Christiane
Published: November 2015

The University Hospital of Zurich offers a text-based, Medical Online Consultation Service to the public since 1999. Users asked health questions anonymously to tele-doctors. This study focused on the characteristics of male enquirers with intimate health problems, the content of their questions, the medical advice given by tele-doctors and the rating of the service to prove the benefit of an online service for medical laymen. This retrospective study included 5.1% of 3,305 enquiries from 2008 to 2010 using the International Classification of Diseases-10 and International Classification of Primary Care codes relevant for intimate and sexual health problems in men. A professional text analysis program (MAXQDA) supported the content analysis, which is based on the procedure of inductive category development described by Mayring. The average age was 40 years, 63.1% enquirers had no comorbidity, in 62.5% it was the first time they consulted a doctor, and 70.2% asked for a specific, single, intimate health issue. In 64.3%, the most important organ of concern was the penis. Overall, 30.4% asked about sexually transmitted diseases. In 74.4% a doctor visit was recommended to clarify the health issue. The rating of the problem solving was very good. The service was mainly used by younger men without comorbidity and no previous contact with a doctor with regard to an intimate health problem. The anonymous setting of the teleconsultation provided men individual, professional medical advice and decision support. Teleconsultation is suggested to empower patients by developing more health literacy.
The Informed Patient
Authors: Abdul-Muhsin Haidar , Tyson Mark , Raghu Santanam , Humphreys Mitchell
Published: November 2015

The Internet has placed considerable information at the disposal of patients, but the sources for credible and accurate information may be difficult for a layperson to discern. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in elderly men can be treated with different surgical interventions. The purpose of this research was to determine information seeking behaviors (ISB) of BPH patients before and after each type of surgery. All patients who underwent surgical intervention for BPH at a tertiary training center between January 2007 and January 2013 were included in this study. A comprehensive questionnaire regarding their ISB was sent through a third-party survey center. The following areas were examined: (1) the patient’s opinion regarding information sources of BPH and its treatment, (2) the extent of ISB for each patient and its relation to the type of surgical intervention he eventually underwent, and (3) the relationship between the extent of ISB and the patient’s final satisfaction. The results indicated that the majority of patients felt that it is relatively easy to find information about BPH and its treatment. Most of the patient started with either general online search engines or used the hospital website. Patients who explored more sources of information ended up choosing a more specific and sophisticated procedure. Generally, patients used fewer sources postoperatively regardless of the procedure they underwent. There was no correlation between the extent of ISB and overall satisfaction ( r = −0.0719, p = .1610) and regret ( r = −0.0436, p = .3945).
Nurse Practitioners and Men’s Primary Health Care
Authors: Rosu Marina B. , Oliffe John L. , Kelly Mary T.
Published: November 2015

Though life expectancy sex differences are decreasing in many Western countries, men experience higher mortality rates at all ages. Men are often reluctant to seek medical care because health help-seeking is strongly linked to femininity, male weakness, and vulnerability. Many men are also more likely to access emergency care services in response to injury and/or severe pain instead of engaging primary health care (PHC) services. Nurse practitioners are well positioned to increase men’s engagement with PHC to waylay the pressure on emergency services and advance the well-being of men. This article demonstrates how nurse practitioners can work with men in PHC settings to optimize men’s self-health and illness prevention and management. Four recommendations are discussed: (1) leveling the hierarchies, (2) talking it through, (3) seeing diversity within patterns, and (4) augmenting face-to-face PHC services. In terms of leveling the hierarchies nurse practitioners can engage men in effectual health decision making. Within the interactions detailed in the talking it through section are strategies for connecting with male patients and mapping their progress. In terms of seeing diversity with in patterns and drawing on the plurality of masculinities, nurse practitioners are encouraged to adapt a variety of age sensitive assessment tools to better intervene and guide men’s self-health efforts. Examples of community and web based men’s health resources are shared in the augmenting face-to-face PHC services section to guide the work of nurse practitioners. Overall, the information and recommendations shared in this article can proactively direct the efforts of nurse practitioners working with men.
“If We Want to Get Men in, Then We Need to Ask Men What They Want”: Pathways to Effective Health Programing for Men
Authors: Lefkowich Maya , Richardson Noel , Robertson Steve
Published: November 2015

In Ireland, men’s health is becoming a priority. In line with global trends, indicators of poor mental health (including rates of depression and suicide) are increasing alongside rates of unemployment and social isolation. Despite the growing awareness of men’s health as a national priority, and development of the first National Men’s Health Policy in the world, there is still a concern about men’s nonengagement with health services. Health and community services often struggle to appropriately accommodate men, and men commonly avoid health spaces. A growing body of literature suggests that a persistent lack of support or resources for service providers contributes to their inability to identify and meet men’s unique health needs. This study aims to provide further insight into the ways in which this gap between men and health services can be closed. Semistructured, qualitative interviews were conducted with nine project partners ( n = 9) of a successful men’s health program in Dublin. Interviews captured reflections on what processes or strategies contribute to effective men’s health programs. Findings suggest that gender-specific strategies—especially related to community—engagement and capacity building—are necessary in creating health programs that both promote men’s health and enable men to safely and comfortably participate. Moreover, including men in all aspects of the planning stages helps ensure that programs are accessible and acceptable for men. These findings have been operationalized into a user-driven resource that illustrates evidence-informed strategies and guiding principles that can be used by practitioners hoping to engage with men.
University professors as academic leaders
Authors: Evans Linda
Published: November 2015

In the UK the title ‘professor’ is generally applied only to the most senior academics – equivalent to North American full professors – and whom anecdotal evidence indicates to be often unprepared for the increasingly expansive academic leadership roles that they are expected to fulfil. The study reported in this paper was directed at exploring the reliability of such evidence, and the ways in which professors develop or prepare themselves, or are developed or prepared by others, for what are generally considered their professorial academic leadership roles. Data were gathered by questionnaires and interviews, revealing that excessive professorial workloads often result from confusion about what constitutes academic leadership and precisely what and how much is expected of professors. Yet despite an evident dearth of ‘official’, designated, academic leadership preparation and/or development provision, professors were resourceful in drawing upon their experience, networks and intellectual capacity to develop ways of becoming and being effective members of the professoriate.
Knowledge, Experts and Accountability in School Governing Bodies
Authors: Young Helen
Published: November 2015

School governing bodies in England have considerable powers and responsibilities with regard to the education of pupils. This article explores how power relations operate, within governing bodies, through struggles over which types of knowledge are claimed and valued. The article draws on the analysis of policy and on ethnographic research in the governing bodies of four maintained schools to explore the complex interactions between lay, educational and managerial knowledge. The article suggests that educational and managerial expertise are privileged over lay knowledge. Hence, the concept of ‘lay’ knowledge, which is attached to external governors, is easily coopted by managerial knowledge as it does not have alternative expert knowledge attached to it.
An effective model of teacher appraisal
Authors: Zhang Xiao-feng , Ng Ho-ming
Published: November 2015

Teacher appraisal has been widely practised in China for decades. With the introduction, in 2009, of the teacher performance pay system, however, teacher appraisal has undergone certain changes. This study explores the practice of teacher appraisal, using a qualitative approach and taking public schools in Shanghai as its research sites. The methods adopted include interviews with teachers and school administrators, observation of relevant activities and document analysis. The study reveals that teacher appraisal in schools in Shanghai is not a one-off event. Although the procedure for generating appraisal results occurs at the end of each year, data collection activities for appraisal – including lesson observation, student evaluation of teachers and checking teachers’ tasks – are conducted throughout the whole year. The current teacher appraisal system has been a success, and this study identifies four factors contributing to that success. First, administrative and developmental appraisal coexist as one single appraisal system. Second, teacher appraisal is integrated with other aspects of schools’ business. Third, teacher appraisal is perceived by teachers as credible and fair. Fourth, non-technical aspects of appraisal, such as teachers’ psychology and social dynamics, are taken into account during the appraisal process.