bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development, Validation, and Evaluation of Literacy 3D: A Package Supporting Tier 1 Preschool Literacy Instruction Implementation and Intervention
Authors: Greenwood Charles R. , Abbott Mary , Beecher Constance , Atwater Jane , Petersen Sarah
Published: June 2016

Increasingly, prekindergarten programs with literacy outcome goals are seeking to implement evidence-based practices to improve results. Such efforts require instructional intervention strategies to engage children as well as strategies to support teacher implementation. Reported is the iterative development of Literacy 3D, an enhanced support system for Tier 1 literacy instruction that combines evidence-based strategies for teacher implementation with instructional intervention strategies. A waitlist randomized control trial (W-RCT) design was used over two years. In Year 1, classroom clusters were randomized to two groups, one Literacy 3D and the other a waitlist BAU comparison. In Year 2, the waitlist group received Literacy 3D. First year results indicated that Literacy 3D was promising with regard to improving teachers’ use of Literacy 3D practices as well as some intermediate teacher outcomes. Improvements were made and re-tested with the waitlist group in Year 2. Results produced better outcomes in teacher, child, and early literacy outcomes. Implications are discussed.
The diagnostic validity of clinical airway assessments for predicting difficult laryngoscopy using a grey zone approach
Authors: Min Jeong Jin , Kim Gahyun , Kim Eunhee , Lee Jong-Hwan
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The diagnostic validity of clinical airway assessment tests for predicting difficult laryngoscopy in patients requiring endotracheal intubation were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and a grey zone approach.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, patients were evaluated during a pre-anaesthetic visit. Predictive airway assessment tests (i.e. Modified Mallampati [MMT] classification; upper lip bite test [ULBT]; mouth opening; sternomental distance; thyromental distance [TMD]; neck circumference; neck mobility; height to thyromental distance [HT/TMD]; neck circumference-to-thyromental distance [NC/TMD]) were performed on each patient and LEMON, Naguib, and MACOCHA scores were also calculated. In addition, laryngeal images were acquired and assessed for percentage of glottic opening (POGO) scores. A POGO score of zero was categorized as difficult laryngoscopy.

Results

The incidence of difficult laryngoscopy was 14.4% (35/243). Although seven predictive airway assessments (i.e. MMT classification, ULBT, mouth opening, HT/TMD, NC/TMD, and the LEMON and Naguib models) predicted difficult laryngoscopy by ROC analyses, a grey zone approach showed that the parameters were inconclusive in approximately 70% of patients. From all the tests, the HT/TMD ratio showed the highest sensitivity (80.0%) and ULBT had the highest specificity (95.2%).

Conclusion

Using the grey zone approach, all predictive airway assessment tests showed large inconclusive zones which may explain previous inconsistent results in the prediction of difficult laryngoscopy. Our results suggest that the usefulness of clinical airway evaluation tests for predicting difficult laryngoscopy remains controversial.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01719848)
‘Crackpots’ and ‘active researchers’: The controversy over links between arXiv and the scientific blogosphere
Authors: Ritson Sophie
Published: June 2016

Controversies over string theory (collectively termed the ‘string wars’) intensified in 2005. Also in that year, the open-access preprint publisher arXiv instituted a new feature called a ‘trackback’. This new feature enabled authors of blog posts discussing a paper on arXiv to leave a trackback (a link) to the post on the paper’s abstract page on arXiv. The determination of which specific bloggers would have access to the feature generated a public controversy that was played out in the blogosphere. Although the community was in almost unanimous agreement that so-called ‘crackpots’ should not have access to the trackback feature, it was unable to reach a consensus as to how to define a ‘crackpot’ or an ‘active researcher’. Blogs may provide a window into science in the making, yet this study shows that blogs confound categorization as permanent or ephemeral scholarly communication. The trackback feature was originally conceived to develop certain blog discourse as an alternative or complementary form of peer review. However, the high-energy physics community as a whole questions the ongoing function of the blog.
Non-uniform torsion of open-section members considering cross-sectional curvatures
Authors: Mehdizadeh Ghazal , Hematiyan Mohammad R , Nami Mohammad R
Published: June 2016

An analytical solution for torsional analysis of constrained open-section members, which can estimate the variation of the axial displacement, the normal and shearing stresses along the beam and across the cross section, is important and is the main goal of this article. A new formulation for constrained torsional analysis of open-section members is presented. In the formulation, cross sections with curved corners can be analyzed. The cross section is decomposed into some straight and curved segments with uniform thickness. This decomposition makes it possible to solve the governing equations in each segment analytically. The method can predict the stress concentration at reentrant corners of the cross section with an acceptable accuracy. Specific formulas for channel beams and tubes with a longitudinal slot are also derived. Accuracy of the presented method is verified by comparing the obtained results with the three-dimensional finite element method solutions with a fine mesh. Numerical investigations show that the obtained formulas give relatively accurate results for thin to moderately thick-walled open cross sections.
The Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Tendinopathy: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jane , Bulsara Max , Zheng Ming H.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Tendinopathy is very common in the general population. There are increasing numbers of clinical studies referring to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) as treatments for tendinopathy.

Purpose:

To perform a meta-analysis of the outcomes of the PRP groups by preparation method and injection technique in tendinopathy. To determine the clinical effectiveness of the preparations and to evaluate the effect of controls used in the studies reviewed.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

The PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Medline databases were searched in March 2012, April 2014, and August 2015, and randomized controlled trials using autologous blood, PRP, PPP, or autologous conditioned plasma in tendinopathy with outcome measures of pain and follow-up time of 3 months were included in this review. Trials including surgery, tendon tears, and muscle or ligament injuries were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool by 2 reviewers. Data were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. The primary outcome measure was a change in pain intensity. Where more than 1 pain scale was included, a functional score was selected ahead of a visual analog scale score.

Results:

A total of 18 studies (1066 participants) were included. Eight studies were deemed to be at low risk of bias. The most significant outcomes in the PRP groups were seen in those treated with highly cellular leukocyte-rich PRP (LR-PRP) preparations: GPS kit (standardized mean difference [SMD], 35.75; 95% CI, 28.40-43.10), MyCells kit (SMD, 31.84; 95% CI, 17.56-46.13), Prosys kit (SMD, 42.99; 95% CI, 37.73-48.25), and unspecified LR-PRP (SMD, 34.62; 95% CI, 31.69-37.55). When the LR-PRP system types were grouped, there was a strongly positive effect (SMD, 36.38; 95% CI, 34.00-38.77) when compared with leukocyte-poor PRP (SMD, 26.77; 95% CI, 18.31-35.22). In assessing the control groups, there was no clear difference between different types of control injections: saline (SMD, 14.62; 95% CI, 10.74-18.50), local anesthetic (SMD, 15.00; 95% CI, 7.66-22.34), corticosteroid (SMD, 23.82; 95% CI, 10.74-18.50), or dry needling (SMD, 25.22; 95% CI, 21.27-29.16).

Conclusion:

There is good evidence to support the use of a single injection of LR-PRP under ultrasound guidance in tendinopathy. Both the preparation and intratendinous injection technique of PRP appear to be of great clinical significance.
How could analyzing the activity of two matrix metalloproteinases unveil the cause of sudden cardiac death
Authors: Sosa Ivan , Grubesic Aron
Published: June 2016

Sudden cardiac death is natural, unexpected death, related to cardiovascular disease. Its postmortem elucidation is significant, as the family of the deceased aspires to prevent other sudden deaths. Irrespective of the proper etiological entity, the myocardial collagen matrix remodels, associated with the progression of cardiovascular diseases. It has become evident that many mediators such as humoral factors, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 among them, are involved in the remodeling process. Cardiac remodeling is the balance of regenerative and eliminatory processes that include enzymes involved in the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Enzymes capable of degrading native fibrillar collagen are interstitial collagenases, specifically matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-1 and MMP-8. Here, we suggest a technique of visualizing turnover of collagen in cardiac tissue.
Bicultural Competence and the Latino 2.5 Generation
Authors: Dennis Jessica M. , Fonseca Ana Laura , Gutierrez Guadalupe , Shen Jillian , Salazar Sibella
Published: June 2016

The 2.5 generation refers to individuals who have one parent born in the United States and one born in another country. The presence of both native-born and foreign-born parents has the potential to enhance bicultural adaptation. Across two studies with Latino young adults, we examine the extent to which the 2.5 generation is distinct from members of other generations with regard to cultural orientation, acculturative stress, and parent ethnic socialization. Results suggest that the 2.5-generation individuals report greater native cultural orientation, ethnic identity, and parental socialization compared with third-generation individuals, along with greater American orientation than first-generation individuals. The 2.5 generation also reports less language use and more acculturative stress due to Spanish competency pressures than first- and second-generation individuals. These results demonstrate that the 2.5-generation individuals may have some bicultural advantages compared with third-generation individuals; however, they may also experience similar challenges with regard to language maintenance.
“We Should Talk”—Moving knowledge into action by learning to engage patients, families, and healthcare staff to communicate for patient safety
Authors: Dubrovsky Alexander Sasha , Bishop Andrea , Biron Alain , Cunningham-Allard Gabrielle , DeCivita Frederick , Fima Aaron , Korah Nadine , Marchionni Caroline , Proulx Marie Claude , Toman Pamela , Tsirgiotis Stephanie , Zavalkoff Samara
Published: June 2016

Innovation in patient engagement and empowerment has been identified as a priority area in the Canadian healthcare system. This article describes the development and implementation of the We Should Talk campaign at an academic pediatric hospital. Through the use of a guiding theoretical framework and a multidisciplinary project team, a multimedia campaign was designed to inspire staff, patients and families to effectively communicate to improve patient safety. The We Should Talk campaign provides a case study for how an organization can foster frontline improvement through the engagement of patient, families, and healthcare providers.
Low Blood Arterial Oxygenation During Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Messai Elmi , Bouguerra Abdesselam , Guarracino Fabio , Bonacchi Massimo
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is a therapeutic option in the management of the most severe forms of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Oxygenation during VV-ECMO depends on many parameters, and its management is complex. The management of ECMO is still not completely codified. The aim of this study was to rationalize the management of hypoxemia during VV-ECMO.

Methods:

To build a comprehensive flow diagram for management of hypoxemia during VV-ECMO, we considered (1) relationship between O2 arterial saturation and its determinants; (2) analysis of physiopathology of oxygenation under VV-ECMO; and (3) main guidelines and recommendations recapitulated in troubleshooting charts.

Results:

We propose a stepwise approach that could guide specific intervention to improve oxygenation during VV-ECMO. The first step is to obtain adequate pump flow, the main determinant of oxygenation, by eliminating a mechanical problem or inadequate venous drainage. Second, if hypoxemia persists, algorithm considers multiple reasons for inadequate oxygenation, namely: (1) excessive recirculation, (2) excessive cardiac output (decrease of ratio pump flow/cardiac output), (3) decrease in SvO2 (oxygen saturation in mixed venous blood), (4) malfunction of oxygenator, and (5) deterioration of residual lung function. Finally, for each modification of oxygenation parameters, specific measures are proposed to restore an adequate oxygenation by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Conclusion:

If hypoxemia occurs during VV-ECMO, collecting oxygenation parameters and a clear step-by-step algorithm could guide specific intervention to improve oxygenation. This flow diagram is in accordance with current recommendations recapitulated in guidelines or troubleshooting chart but more accurate and complete. Although rational and appealing, it remains to be tested together with a number of still unsolved issues.
Jail Diversion and Recidivism: A Case Study of a Municipal Court Diversion Program
Authors: Huck Jennifer L. , Morris Camie S.
Published: June 2016

Municipal Courts in the United States have jurisdiction over cases involving municipal ordinance violations such as loitering, trespassing, public drunkenness, and vandalism. When an individual violates a city ordinance, the typical punishment is a fine, even if the defendant is indigent. Failure to pay the fine on time results in a warrant and possible jail time. This study examined whether individuals who successfully completed a court diversion program for indigent defendants were less likely to reoffend than their counterparts who failed to complete the diversion program. Findings showed clients who successfully completed the diversion program were less likely to commit future city violations and state offenses. The results suggest court diversion programs might offer a promising alternative to jail for some indigent defendants and aid with lowering recidivism at least within the first few years of their initial offense.
Can “Temps” Secure Future Employment? Investigating the Relationship Between Proactive Behaviors and Employers’ Rehiring Decision
Authors: Lapalme Marie-Ève , Doucet Olivier , Gill Andréa , Simard Gilles
Published: June 2016

This study examines how the adoption of proactive socialization behaviors by temporary agency workers is related to contract renewal intention of the supervisor in the client organization in which they are assigned. We propose that the adoption of such behaviors will be associated with a favorable performance evaluation from the supervisor in the client organization, and in turn, to his or her contract renewal intention through two mechanisms, namely, role clarity and leader–member exchange (LMX), which refers to the quality of the relationship between the temporary worker and his or her supervisor. Data were collected from 217 worker–supervisor dyads. Results indicate that information-seeking behavior is related to performance evaluation through role clarity. This indirect relationship is however negative, as greater role clarity relates negatively to performance evaluation. Our results also show that LMX acts as a mediator between feedback seeking, boss-relationship building, and performance. Finally, favorable performance evaluation is positively associated with contract renewal intention.
Trajectory optimization for a lunar orbiter using a pattern search method
Authors: Choi Su-Jin , Lee Donghun , Kim In-Kyu , Kwon Jae-Wook , Koo Cheol-Hea , Moon Sangman , Kim Changkyoon , Min Seung Yong , Rew Dong-Young
Published: June 2016

The Republic of Korea plans to launch a lunar orbiter and lander by 2020. There are several ways to enter lunar orbit: direct transfer, phasing loop transfer, weak stability boundary transfer, and spiral transfer trajectory. In this study, trajectory optimization is investigated for a lunar orbiter using a pattern search method that minimizes the required delta-V for direct lunar transfer. This method generates neighborhood points near the initial condition and then determines whether there is a new point that can reduce the value of the objective function. Classical methods require the gradient and acceleration of the objective function, but pattern search does not. Six poll methods and nine search methods are chosen; thus, 54 combinations of poll and search methods are available. The pattern search method can reduce the required delta-V on average by a few meters per second for a time of flight of five days and more than 10 m/s for a time of flight of four or six days, regardless of whether translunar injection is performed at the ascending or descending node.
Dogs Identify Agents in Third-Party Interactions on the Basis of the Observed Degree of Contingency
Authors: Tauzin Tibor , Kovács Krisztina , Topál József
Published: June 2016

To investigate whether dogs could recognize contingent reactivity as a marker of agents’ interaction, we performed an experiment in which dogs were presented with third-party contingent events. In the perfect-contingency condition, dogs were shown an unfamiliar self-propelled agent (SPA) that performed actions corresponding to audio clips of verbal commands played by a computer. In the high-but-imperfect-contingency condition, the SPA responded to the verbal commands on only two thirds of the trials; in the low-contingency condition, the SPA responded to the commands on only one third of the trials. In the test phase, the SPA approached one of two tennis balls, and then the dog was allowed to choose one of the balls. The proportion of trials on which a dog chose the object indicated by the SPA increased with the degree of contingency: Dogs chose the target object significantly above chance level only in the perfect-contingency condition. This finding suggests that dogs may use the degree of temporal contingency observed in third-party interactions as a cue to identify agents.
Who Colonises Whom? Educational Technologies or Societal Cultures
Authors: Borovoi Leah , Foland Jed Rivera , Vlaev Ivo
Published: June 2016

The literature records that educational technologies have the power to ‘colonise’ societal cultures. However, this study asserts the co-existence of a counter power through which societal cultures may ‘colonise’ educational technologies too. This assumption of power struggle is examined by addressing the question: to what extent do societal cultures colonise educational technologies? This question is answered using a qualitative and quantitative enquiry into Israeli society. Having analysed the data, it is found that societies consist of beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that may challenge the determination of educational technologies. This could be seen as empirical evidence suggesting that, although educational technologies may seek to colonise societies, societies may seek to colonise educational technologies as well, with the two entities engaging in a politically reciprocal relationship.
A Study to Ascertain the Adequacy of Observance of Standard Precautions in Acute Medical and Surgical Wards of a Large Teaching Hospital
Authors: Pandit Anil , Kulkarni Meenal
Published: June 2016

The present study was a cross-sectional analytic epidemiological design to assess the frequency of observance of universal precautions in acute care wards of a large teaching hospital and to assess the epidemiological determinants of such observance. A total population of medical officers, nurses, paramedical and ancillary workers working in acute medical and surgical wards was studied using direct observations recorded on a pre-tested, structured format. The study revealed that hand washing was more frequently practiced by medical officers and ancillary staff (68–93 per cent) as compared to nurses and paramedical staff (38–58 per cent) ( p < 0.01).

A significantly higher proportion of medical officers in medical wards (93 per cent) and nurses (63.3 per cent) and ancillary workers in surgical ward (89 per cent) were practicing hand washing ( p < 0.01). The practice of usage of gloves was significantly more frequent among medical officers and ancillary workers (72–100 per cent), while it was quite inadequate among nurses and paramedical staff (28–36 per cent; p < 0.001). However, the use of gloves was significantly better among nurses in the surgical ward and paramedical in the medical ward ( p < 0.05). A linear trend analysis of the use of protective clothing revealed that the odds of nurses adequately using the same were much lower, while those of ancillary workers were much higher as compared to medical officers, the trend being highly significant in both types of wards ( p <0.001). The study reveals a definite need for stepping up educational and motivational methods for observance of universal precautions by health-care workers in large teaching hospitals. In particular, nurses and paramedical workers have been identified as high-risk groups, needing concerted efforts for observing these precautions.
Cutaneous pythiosis in a donkey (Equus asinus) in Brazil
Authors: Maia Lisanka A. , Olinda Robério G. , Araújo Tenório F. , Firmino Paulo R. , Nakazato Luciano , Neto Eldinê G. Miranda , Riet-Correa Franklin , Dantas Antônio F. M.
Published: June 2016

Our study describes the clinical, epidemiologic, pathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular aspects PCR of a case of cutaneous pythiosis in a donkey ( Equus asinus) from Brazil. During a dry period, the animal grazed for 4 months around a pond where the vegetation remained green. Skin lesions were nodular, multifocal, and disseminated, mainly involving the legs, ventral chest, and mammary gland. On cut surface, there were multifocal to coalescent discrete yellow foci, and occasional small cavitations with a few kunkers. Ulcerative nodular pyogranulomatous and eosinophilic dermatitis with folliculitis and furunculosis were observed histologically. Hyphae were observed in sections stained with Gomori methenamine silver. Immunohistochemistry with Pythium insidiosum antibodies yielded strong immunostaining of hyphae. P. insidiosum DNA was extracted from tissues in paraffin blocks by amplification of a fragment of 105 bp, which targets the 5.8S ribosomal gene. After the diagnosis of pythiosis, the larger skin lesions were excised and treated as second intention healing wounds, which were completely healed 30 days after resection. Small skin lesions regressed spontaneously in ~60 days. The granulomatous inflammation and outcome of the disease in this donkey were similar to cases of pythiosis in cattle.
The Net Work Genre Function
Authors: Read Sarah
Published: June 2016

This study theorizes genre from within actor-network theory. The net work (spelled intentionally as two words) function of genre proposes a solution to the inherent incommensurability in applying the notion of genre as social action within the posthumanist and postsocial perspective of actor-network theory. The study proposes an approach to genre analysis informed by the net work genre function and demonstrates its affordances by analyzing two conventional workplace genres. Performing genre analysis from a net work perspective has value for assimilating writers, both students and workplace professionals, into a new professional domain or organization.
Effects of 14 Versus 21 Days of Nimodipine Therapy on Neurological Outcomes in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients
Authors: Cho Susan , Bales James , Tran Thao Kim , Korab Gina , Khandelwal Nita , Joffe Aaron M.
Published: June 2016

Background: Oral nimodipine is standard therapy for patients suffering an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). During a national drug shortage, nimodipine therapy was shortened from a 21-day course to a 14-day course at our institution. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare neurological outcomes among patients who had previously received the standard duration of therapy compared with those who received a shortened duration as a result of the national drug shortage. Methods: This retrospective cohort study evaluated adult patients receiving nimodipine for aSAH from January 2012 to August 2013. Neurological outcome, graded by Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at hospital discharge, was compared between patients receiving a shortened course and those receiving the standard duration of nimodipine. Results: A total of 199 aSAH patients were included in the analysis. There were 164 patients in the standard-duration and 35 patients in the shortened-duration group. Baseline patient severity of illness, assessed by SAPS II (Simplified Acute Physiology Score), and severity of aSAH, assessed by Fisher grade, and Hunt and Hess grade scores, did not differ between the treatment groups. A shortened duration of nimodipine was not associated with a higher risk of a poor neurological outcome defined by mRS (odds ratio = 1.85; 95% CI = 0.54-6.32; P = 0.32). Mortality rates were similar between the groups. Conclusions: A 14-day course of nimodipine therapy was not associated with worse neurological outcomes in aSAH patients at one institution. More studies are needed prior to recommending a shortened duration of nimodipine therapy in all aSAH patients.
A Snapshot of Coagulopathy After Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Höfer Judith , Fries Dietmar , Solomon Cristina , Velik-Salchner Corinna , Ausserer Julia
Published: June 2016

Cardiac surgery involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is often associated with important blood loss, allogeneic blood product usage, morbidity, and mortality. Coagulopathy during CPB is complex, and the current lack of uniformity for triggers and hemostatic agents has led to a wide variability in bleeding treatment. The aim of this review is to provide a simplified picture of the data available on patients’ coagulation status at the end of CPB in order to provide relevant information for the development of tailored transfusion algorithms. A nonsystematic literature review was carried out to identify changes in coagulation parameters during CPB. Both prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time increased during CPB, by a median of 33.3% and 17.9%, respectively. However, there was marked variability across the published studies, indicating these tests may be unreliable for guiding hemostatic therapy. Some thrombin generation (TG) parameters were affected, as indicated by a median increase in TG lag time of 55.0%, a decrease in TG peak of 17.5%, and only a slight decrease in endogenous thrombin potential of 7%. The most affected parameters were fibrinogen levels and platelet count/function. Both plasma fibrinogen concentration and FIBTEM maximum clot firmness decreased during CPB (median change of 36.4% and 33.3%, respectively) as did platelet count (44.5%) and platelet component (34.2%). This review provides initial information regarding changes in coagulation parameters during CPB but highlights the variability in the reported results. Further studies are warranted to guide physicians on the parameters most appropriate to guide hemostatic therapy.
“I Wasn’t a Priority, I Wasn’t a Victim”
Authors: Guadalupe-Diaz Xavier L. , Jasinski Jana
Published: June 2016

Among the crucial advancements in the study of intimate partner violence (IPV) is an understanding of the distinct help-seeking barriers that gay and lesbian victims face. Despite these additions to the literature, transgender IPV victimization remains under-researched. The current study utilized semi-structured interviews and open-ended questionnaires of 18 trans-identified survivors of IPV. Working through a modified grounded analytic approach, two major themes emerged in the help-seeking process: “walking the gender tightrope” in which participants first struggled with gendered notions of victimization that made it difficult to identify abuse, and second, the challenges of “navigating genderist resources.”
Sluggish Cognitive Tempo: Sociodemographic, Behavioral, and Clinical Characteristics in a Population of Catalan School Children
Authors: Camprodon-Rosanas E. , Ribas-Fitó N. , Batlle-Vila S. , Persavento C. , Alvarez-Pedrerol M. , Sunyer J. , Forns J.
Published: June 2016

Objective: The aims of the present study were to examine the presence of sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) symptoms in children; associations of the symptoms with sociodemographic characteristics of the children; and relationships between SCT symptoms and symptoms of ADHD, dyslexia, academic performance, and behavioral problems. Method: We evaluated Catalan schoolchildren aged 7 to 10 years in Barcelona, 2012-2013. Parents filled out the SCT–Child Behavior Checklist (SCT-CBCL), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and a questionnaire concerning sociodemographic characteristics. Teachers completed the ADHD criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV) (ADHD- DSM-IV), a list of dyslexia symptoms, and evaluated the children’s academic performance. SCT symptoms were studied as a continuous and dichotomous variable. Results: In all, 11% of the children in our sample scored above the clinical cut-off on the SCT-CBCL scale. We observed a higher rate of SCT symptoms in boys, children whose father was unemployed, those whose maternal educational level was lower, children with a high socioeconomic vulnerability index at home, those who reported maternal smoking during pregnancy and current second-hand smoke exposure at home, and children with an ADHD diagnosis. More SCT symptoms were associated with inattention symptoms, symptoms of dyslexia, academic problems, and emotional and peer relationship problems. Conclusion: We observed a higher prevalence of SCT symptoms in our sample than expected in the general population. While girls are less prone to SCT symptoms, some socioeconomic indicators, dyslexia, and inattention symptoms as well as exposure to smoking at home increase the risk of SCT and must be taken into account during assessments.
Assessing Determinants of Father’s Involvement with His Partner’s Pregnancy and His Child’s Well-being
Authors: Cubbins Lisa A. , Sepavich Deidre , Killpack Steve , Hill Carl V.
Published: June 2016

Father’s involvement in his family typically has beneficial effects on maternal health during pregnancy and on his child’s health and well-being. The strength and pattern of these effects vary, however, and most studies consider only a few factors that contribute to father involvement. In this study, we describe development and pilot testing of the Father Resources Survey Instrument, which consists of twenty-nine questions measuring eleven dimensions and designed to assess psychological, social, and work-related resources associated with father’s involvement in his family. The final pilot test indicates that the Father Resources Instrument may help to understand a father’s involvement in his female partner’s pregnancy and the health and well-being of his child.
Prevalence and Predictors of Metabolic Syndrome in People With Schizophrenia in Inpatient Rehabilitation Wards
Authors: Yang Chiu-Yueh , Lo Su-Chen , Peng Ying-Chieh
Published: June 2016

Background:

Atypical antipsychotic medications increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular diseases in people with schizophrenia.

Aim:

To explore the prevalence of MetS and the predictors associated with the number of MetS components in people with chronic schizophrenia.

Methods:

We recruited 357 participants from 10 rehabilitation wards in northern Taiwan. The Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP), and modified Baecke physical activity questionnaire were used to evaluate the participants. MetS prevalence was calculated using the modified Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for Asians.

Results:

The prevalence of MetS in this sample was 37.8%. Multinomial logistic regression revealed that the HPLP-exercise score (odds ratio [ OR] = 0.411, p = .002) and depressive symptoms ( OR = 0.949, p = .040) were protective factors for ≥4 MetS components. The leisure physical activity level ( OR = .536, p = .024) was a protective factor for three MetS components. Body mass index ≥24 kg/m2 was the strongest risk factor for two MetS components ( OR = 8.057, p < .001), three MetS components ( OR = 11.287, p < .001), and ≥four MetS components ( OR = 15.621, p < .001). Additionally, participants’ age >40 ( OR = 3.638, p = .012) was a risk factor for ≥four MetS components.

Conclusion:

In this study, the prevalence of MetS was higher than that reported for patients utilizing community-based services in Taiwan. The important risk factors for MetS were being overweight and older than 40. The protective factors for MetS were a high HPLP-exercise score and leisure-based physical activities.
A Network of One’s Own
Authors: Hunt Theresa A.
Published: June 2016

In the last decade, young people have been at the fore of spectacular global protests, from revolutions across North Africa to the Occupy Wall Street movements spreading across Europe and North America. Youth involvement in these protests has interested major media and the scholarly community, but few have thoroughly interrogated young women’s distinct formations of transnational, youth-only feminist networks. This study, which employed qualitative methods influenced by grounded theory, offers insight into the motivations and operations of five young women’s transnational feminist networks (TFNs). Key findings include young feminists’ articulations of encountering marginalization, both age and gender based, in existing and established networks, and creating ‘youth-only’ feminist networks in response. Coalescing around these experiences of marginalization, young women perceive their networks to constitute a ‘counter-public sphere’ through which they can engage in praxis-oriented discourses, and to constitute a space in which to experiment with and deliberate new or alternative movement repertoires.
Creating Coherence
Authors: Reegård Kaja
Published: June 2016

This article considers how young people actively participate in their own socialization process by following their journey through the weakly institutionalized vocational education and training (VET) programme for office work in Norway. The article explores the meaning-making strategies students use to construct coherent narratives when faced with uncertain school-to-work transitions. The study is based on qualitative longitudinal interviews, following the same students over a three-year period. They enter vocational education open-minded, yet confident in its future labour market advantages. Initially, they thrive and consider office work a viable career path; however, this enthusiasm is dampened gradually. Deprived of employment opportunities, they complete the apprenticeship and face poor job prospects in a labour market that favours higher education credentials. By reinterpreting vocational education as being of general utility within a discourse where extended transitions are considered normal, they neither appear regretful nor consider themselves deceived.
Restorative Practices and Youth Work
Authors: Lohmeyer Ben Arnold
Published: June 2016

Restorative practices (RP) and youth work continue to emerge as more formalized fields of theory and practice. The interaction between these fields requires attention as RP gain popularity among services delivered to young people. Of particular importance, and currently receiving inadequate attention, is a tension regarding the conceptualization of power in the relationship between practitioners and young people. This article examines the conceptualization of power within youth work and restorative practices drawing on post-structural power–knowledge relations. A shared emphasis on empowerment and relationality within these fields obscures the problematization of the young person–worker dynamic. Of concern in particular is that restorative practices appear to operate within a power–knowledge discourse of control. This article will outline the frameworks’ potential as a source of both transformation and extension of a ‘carceral network’.
Observational data: Understanding the real MS world
Authors: Kalincik Tomas , Butzkueven Helmut
Published: June 2016

Randomised clinical trials are the primary source of evidence, guiding the use of disease-modifying drugs in multiple sclerosis. However, the spectrum of questions that can be answered in the trial setting is relatively narrow. ‘Real-world’ observational data analysis has always been the major source of evidence for epidemiology, aetiology, outcomes and prognostics, but is now also increasingly used to study treatment effectiveness. While analyses of observational cohorts typically offer superior power, generalisability and duration of follow-up relative to prospective randomised trials, they are also subject to multiple biases. It is the role of researchers to mitigate bias and to ensure the results of observational studies are robust and valid. In this review of observational data research, we provide an overview of the inherent biases, the available mitigation strategies, and the state and direction of contemporary treatment outcomes research. The review will help clinicians critically appraise published results of observational studies.
How do women with secondary breast cancer experience telling their adolescent children about their diagnosis?
Authors: Lalayiannis Leonie , Asbury Nicky , Dyson Graham , Walshe Amanda
Published: June 2016

This study investigated how women with secondary breast cancer experience telling their adolescent children. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who had been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer at least 1 year prior to the interview. Seven women, who had at least one child between 12 and 19 years old living at home at the time of diagnosis, were interviewed. The interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis for an in-depth understanding of women’s experiences. Women found that it was easier to tell their children of their secondary breast cancer diagnosis compared to their primary cancer. However, they talked about the impact the diagnosis had on their family.
Vocabulary acquisition in Moroccan- and Turkish-heritage children: A comparative study
Authors: Vanbuel Marieke , Boderé Anneleen , Torfs Karen , Jaspaert Koen
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives:

In the present study, we investigated whether Moroccan- and Turkish-heritage children living in Flanders, the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium, acquire new Dutch vocabulary to the same extent when they are provided with exactly the same type of language input. Turkish-heritage children seem to have significantly lower language proficiency in Dutch, compared to their Moroccan-heritage peers. Previous studies have shown that existing language skills in the second language can affect sequential bilingual children’s vocabulary acquisition in the second language considerably.

Design/methodology/approach:

The novel word learning of Moroccan- and Turkish-heritage six-year-olds ( N = 52) was investigated by means of four dynamic storytelling sessions in which six new object labels and six new action words were incorporated.

Data and analysis:

The children’s conceptual and linguistic knowledge of the novel words was extensively tested. Six analyses of covariance were conducted, with origin as a between-subjects factor and proficiency in Dutch as a covariate.

Findings/conclusions:

Our findings indicate that Turkish- and Moroccan-heritage children acquired the novel words to almost the same extent when their prior language proficiency in Dutch was taken into account. However, Moroccan-heritage children still outperformed their Turkish-heritage peers, producing the novel object labels.

Originality:

For this study, we used a methodology specifically developed for this age group. In addition, we statistically controlled for the children’s initial proficiency in Dutch, in order to get a better insight in the actual learning processes of new Dutch vocabulary of Moroccan- and Turkish-heritage children.

Significance/implications:

Our outcome suggests that initial language proficiency in Dutch is an important predictor of novel vocabulary learning. Furthermore, we argue that linguistic properties of the children’s first language may play a role in second language acquisition, suggesting that a different approach to the stimulation of second language (vocabulary) acquisition in minority children of different ethnic origin may be necessary.
Antecedents to value diminution
Authors: Vafeas Mario , Hughes Tim , Hilton Toni
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this article is to identify the antecedents of diminished value in business-to-business exchange. There is only a limited amount of research on value destruction in the context of service-dominant (S-D) logic and, to the best of our knowledge, no dyadic studies. From a business perspective, awareness of factors that have the potential to impede value creation will enable relationship partners to increase mutual value realization. The article examines the accuracy of the term ‘value co-destruction’ as a blanket description for interaction that results in value reduction, and proposes that, in many instances, ‘value diminution’ may be more appropriate. The study adopts an exploratory, qualitative approach. One-to-one interviews are conducted with clients and their creative agencies. The results suggest that diminished value outcomes are caused by resource deficiencies and resource misuse by both relational partners, separately and jointly. We propose a model of five higher-order antecedents of value diminution: absence of trust, inadequate communication, power/dependence imbalance, inadequate coordination and inadequate human capital.
The European Union, education governance and international education surveys
Authors: Volante Louis , Ritzen Jo
Published: June 2016

The European Union – comprising 28 member states with individual sovereignty in the formation and implementation of education policy – has developed research and communication strategies to facilitate the exchange of best practices, gathering and dissemination of education statistics and, perhaps most importantly, advice and support for national policy reform. Additionally, shared programs have been implemented across the union, which have led to the formation of one of the largest transnational policy networks in the world. This paper examines the influence of international education surveys administered by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, outlining the key characteristics of the surveys and the most salient findings. We discuss the contribution of emerging European Union governance for the quality of education while also looking at the challenges ahead. These challenges include developing assessments to include value added, revising assessments to include broader skills and providing assessment feedback to teachers within an EU context in which national and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development assessments become complementary, rather than overlapping, survey measures.
Asthma in Children With Comorbid Obesity
Authors: Martin Molly A. , Floyd Eleanor C. , Nixon Sara K. , Villalpando Sandra , Shalowitz Madeleine , Lynch Elizabeth
Published: June 2016

This article describes formative work conducted to inform design of an intervention targeting asthma control in overweight/obese children. Using a PRECEDE-PROCEED framework and a community-based participatory research approach, investigators conducted key informant interviews and focus groups in a low-income urban community. Key informants ( N = 18) represented schools and community agencies. Focus groups were conducted with caregivers (4 groups, N = 31) and children (3 groups, N = 30). Focus group participants were low-income and African American, Puerto Rican, or Mexican. Children were age 5 to 12 years and overweight or obese with a diagnosis of asthma; caregivers had a child meeting these criteria. A range of issues competed with families’ day-to-day prioritization and management of asthma, with social limitations reported as the most important issue. Many school-level and individual-level barriers were described. Caregivers and children drew strong connections between asthma and obesity and described their need to comanage these conditions. The connection between the diseases was not as obvious for the key informants, many of whom control the services families receive. These results led to an understanding of key targets and components that are needed for a multilevel community-based intervention to be relevant and appropriate in low-income children with both asthma and obesity.
A real-time strategy game, “GALLIPOLI WARS,” as a centennial tribute to the Gallipoli Campaign (1915–2015)
Authors: Aktaş A Ziya , Orçun Emre R
Published: June 2016

The same authors had reported a review of game development processes and methodologies in an earlier paper. In that paper, game design elements, such as the players, story, rules, objectives, procedures, conflict, and challenge, and their effect over gameplay were treated. Technical components in that paper included the render engine and rendering pipeline (fixed function pipeline and flexible pipeline), physics engine and physics-related techniques (collision detection, ray-casting, etc.), game codes (for game mechanics, artificial intelligence, scenario creation, and management) and artwork contents (game level, three-dimensional (3D) models, two-dimensional maps for shaders, skeletal animation, and audio assets) that form a game. Along with their development processes and approaches, all of these technical and artwork components are applied on a case problem and are summarized in this paper. The case problem considered is a small part of Gallipoli or Dardanelles Wars in Ottoman history, as a real-time 3D strategy game.