bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does a neutral thermal sensation determine thermal comfort?
Authors: Shahzad Sally , Brennan John , Theodossopoulos Dimitris , Calautit John K , Hughes Ben R
Published: January 2018

The neutral thermal sensation (neither cold, nor hot) is widely used through the application of the ASHRAE seven-point thermal sensation scale to assess thermal comfort. This study investigated the application of the neutral thermal sensation and it questions the reliability of any study that solely relies on neutral thermal sensation. Although thermal-neutrality has already been questioned, still most thermal comfort studies only use this measure to assess thermal comfort of the occupants. In this study, the connection of the occupant’s thermal comfort with thermal-neutrality was investigated in two separate contexts of Norwegian and British offices. Overall, the thermal environment of four office buildings was evaluated and 313 responses (three times a day) to thermal sensation, thermal preference, comfort, and satisfaction were recorded. The results suggested that 36% of the occupants did not want to feel neutral and they considered thermal sensations other than neutral as their comfort condition. Also, in order to feel comfortable, respondents reported wanting to feel different thermal sensations at different times of the day suggesting that occupant desire for thermal comfort conditions may not be as steady as anticipated. This study recommends that other measures are required to assess human thermal comfort, such as thermal preference.

Practical application: This study questions the application of neutral thermal sensation as the measure of thermal comfort. The findings indicate that occupant may consider other sensations than neutral as comfortable. This finding directly questions the standard comfort zone (e.g. ASHRAE Standard 55) as well as the optimum temperature, as many occupants required different thermal sensations at different times of the day to feel comfortable. These findings suggest that a steady indoor thermal environment does not guarantee thermal comfort and variations in the room temperature, which can be controlled by the occupant, need to be considered as part of the building design.
The Emergence of Local Government Policy Leadership
Authors: Blair Robert F. , Starke Anthony M.
Published: January 2018

State and local governments traditionally exerted leadership in policy areas that directly affected their communities and citizens. The leadership of cities, however, has expanded into a number of policy areas where the states and the national government have reduced their policy footprint. This article summarizes research on local policy leadership, examines it within the context of historical state–local intergovernmental relations, and reviews three expanding policy areas. As creatures of state government, localities are subject to legislative restrictions; however, recent research reveals a significant upsurge of state governments preempting policy actions of local governments. Therefore, it can be concluded that the flame of local government policy leadership burns brightly now, but forces appear to be gathering that may cause it to flicker.
Perceptions of a Principal Mentoring Initiative
Authors: Gimbel Phyllis , Kefor Kristine
Published: January 2018

The daily demands on school principals require clear and consistent feedback, and without a mentor, a new principal may not have this type of assistance. This phenomenological study explores the perceptions of new principals and their assigned mentors in one legislated initiative, named by the researcher as the Vermont mentoring “program.” Vermont requires new principals to be mentored for 2 years. Study participants discuss their mentor-mentee relationship and how that affects their leadership practices.
Emotional paths leading to opportunity desirability and feasibility beliefs through controllability
Authors: Ivanova Stela , Treffers Theresa , Langerak Fred
Published: January 2018

Extant studies promote opportunity belief as an antecedent of entrepreneurial action. However, we do not sufficiently understand how beliefs about the desirability and feasibility of an entrepreneurial opportunity are formed. We argue that desirability and feasibility are related but distinct micro-foundations of entrepreneurial action formed through different cognitive-emotional mechanisms. Drawing on the appraisal tendency framework, we investigate the indirect effects of three basic emotions (anger, fear and happiness) on desirability and feasibility through the appraisal tendency of controllability. In an experimental study ( N = 191), we find evidence for the distinctiveness and interconnectedness of desirability and feasibility beliefs. In addition, our findings show that desirability can be predicted by emotions through controllability, but we cannot predict feasibility through the same appraisal process. Our study seeks insights concerning how desirability and feasibility beliefs regarding an entrepreneurial opportunity are distinctively formed based on the inner cognitive and emotional processes of individuals.
Patient-satisfaction in an outpatient vein surgery office: A comparison of English- and Spanish-speaking patients
Authors: Vincent Benjamin , Thakur Vijaya , Thakur Anjani
Published: January 2018

Background

In spite of an increasing Latino population and accompanying rise in demand for health care, not much is known about patient-satisfaction in Spanish-speaking patients and how to improve patient-satisfaction when using interpreters. We sought to compare patient-satisfaction with vein surgery office visits between English-speaking and Spanish-speaking patients.

Methods

Directly before and after the office visit, 126 patients completed a socio-demographic survey, a five-point ordinal rating survey of physician and interpreter satisfaction with the encounter. Measures were satisfaction with the provider’s friendliness, respectfulness, concern, ability to make the patient comfortable, and time spent for the exam.

Results

When the provider was fluent in the language that the patient spoke, patients ( M = 4.954, SD = 0.21) were significantly more satisfied with their visit at VVHC than patients who required an interpreter ( M = 4.762, SD = 0.71), z = 2.230, p = 0.012. Spanish speaking patients were more likely to be satisfied with the visit when they felt their interpreter was friendly ( n = 58, p = 0.049). There was no difference found with regard to the provider being thoughtful and comforting.

Conclusion

Spanish-speaking patients are less satisfied with the care provided in a vein surgery office. Patients who communicated through an interpreter were less satisfied with the patient–provider relationship. In light of the growing diversity of the US population and the fact that patient-satisfaction is increasingly tied to reimbursement, additional research might identify potential areas of improvement for the surgeon, interpreter, and patient perspectives.
High-quality low-dose cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) in pediatric patients using a 64-slice scanner
Authors: Cannaò Paola Maria , Secchi Francesco , Alì Marco , D'Angelo Ida Daniela , Scarabello Marco , Di Leo Giovanni , Sardanelli Francesco
Published: January 2018

Background

Cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) technology is rapidly advancing allowing to perform good quality examinations with a radiation dose as low as 1.2 mSv. However, latest generation scanners are not available in all centers.

Purpose

To estimate radiation dose and image quality in pediatric CCT using a standard 64-slice scanner.

Material and Methods

A total of 100 patients aged 6.9 ± 5.4 years (mean ± standard deviation) who underwent a 64-slice CCT scan using 80, 100, or 120 kVp, were retrospectively evaluated. Radiation effective dose was calculated on the basis of the dose length product. Two independent readers assessed the image quality through signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and a qualitative score (3 = very good, 2 = good, 1 = poor). Non-parametric tests were used.

Results

Fifty-five exams were not electrocardiographically (ECG) triggered, 20 had a prospective ECG triggering, and 25 had retrospective ECG triggering. The median effective dose was 1.3 mSv (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.8–2.7 mSv). Median SNR was 30.6 (IQR = 23.4–33.6) at 120 kVp, 29.4 (IQR = 23.7–34.8) at 100 kVp, and 24.7 (IQR = 19.4–34.3) at 80 kVp. Median CNR was 21.0 (IQR = 14.8–24.4), 19.1 (IQR = 15.6–23.9), and 25.3 (IQR = 19.4–33.4), respectively. Image quality was very good, good, and poor in 56, 39, and 5 patients, respectively. No significant differences were found among voltage groups for SNR ( P = 0.486), CNR ( P = 0.336), and subjective image quality ( P = 0.296). The inter-observer reproducibility was almost perfect (κ = 0.880).

Conclusion

High-quality pediatric CCT can be performed using a 64-slice scanner, with a radiation effective dose close to 2 mSv in about 50% of the cases.
Making conflict work
Authors: Fotohabadi Mark , Kelly Louise
Published: January 2018

The relation between authentic leadership (AL) and conflict management is a topic that has not been extensively researched and merits further empirical examination. In this study, two hypotheses were tested: first, whether AL is positively correlated with active constructive conflict (ACC) behaviors, and second, whether the conflict management styles (CMSs) of the organization moderate the relationship between AL and ACC behaviors. Partial least square structural equation analysis was used to examine the responses of 65 leadership participants in a survey of management styles. The results supported the hypotheses. A statistically significant relationship was found between AL, as measured by the Authentic Leadership Questionnaire, and ACC behaviors, as measured by Thomas–Kilmann Instrument; CMSs, as measured by the Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory, moderated this relationship. The implications of these findings are discussed in detail.
Drafting software as a practicing tool for engineering drawing-based courses: Content planning to its evaluation in client–server environment
Authors: Babu MVS , Suman KNS , Srinivasa Rao P
Published: January 2018

In under graduate engineering education, engineering drawing is a basic course offered to 1st semester engineering students. With the advent of computers, the traditional engineering drawing practice in both industry and academia is being extensively replaced with computer aided engineering drawing. The present scenario in Indian engineering educational institutions has been studied and based on it an approach is proposed in the present paper, which involves the integration of software-based practice with client–server architecture. The proposed approach has been implemented to practice in our institute for few years. The use of this approach is required proper planning of the course content, delivery, practice and evaluation. The detailed discussion on the approach and its implications are examined through results. All the stakeholders are benefited by adopting this approach. The present paper focuses on the use of drafting software for the practice of engineering drawing-based courses in a secured client–server environment. This proposed approach guarantees multiple cascading advantages of improved understanding and enhanced spatial visualization among students. The proposed approach has been implemented for the students who admitted in the academic year 2014–15. The end exam results of these students have been compared with results of the batch admitted in academic year 2013–14. It was observed that the number of failures in the proposed approach were reduced up to 85% compared to conventional mode. Further, it facilitates to modernize the conduct of courses, provides data security, optimizes the utilization of computing facilities and most importantly it tests the students for the understanding of the topic and not for their artistic skills. Ultimately, it makes the engineering students industry-ready by enhancing their employability skills.
Wrinkle formation during steering in automated fiber placement: Modeling and experimental verification
Authors: Belhaj Muhsan , Hojjati Mehdi
Published: January 2018

Automated fiber placement is being widely applied in the aerospace industry due to its advantages. This technology has the capability to improve the efficiency of composite structures by steering where properties such as stiffness can vary within the same part. However, such steering is limited by process-induced defects such as out-of-plane wrinkles, which occur when the steering radius exceeds its critical limit. The present paper proposes a theoretical model for wrinkle formation during steering of the autoclave thermosetting prepreg. The Rayleigh–Ritz approach is used to model wrinkle formation based on the critical buckling load. The prepreg tape is considered an orthotropic plate resting on a Pasternak elastic foundation, which consists of one elastic spring layer connected to an elastic shear layer. Closed form solutions for predicting both critical steering radius and buckling wavelength is presented. The two foundation parameters and the required mechanical properties of the prepreg are experimentally characterized. The model-predicted results are validated by the experimental results. The results reveal good agreement between the predicted and experimental values. It is also found that a significant improvement in the model was achieved by adding the shear layer to the foundation.
Early Predictors and Correlates of Communication Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Hidecker Mary Jo Cooley , Slaughter Jaime , Abeysekara Purni , Ho Nhan T. , Dodge Nancy , Hurvitz Edward A. , Workinger Marilyn Seif , Kent Ray D. , Rosenbaum Peter , Lenski Madeleine , Vanderbeek Suzette Báez , DeRoos Steven , Paneth Nigel
Published: January 2018

Birth characteristics and developmental milestones were evaluated as early predictors/correlates of communication in children with cerebral palsy. The hypothesis was that maternal report of child’s age for vocal play and first words would predict current functional communication. A case series of 215 children, 2 to 17 years (mean age = 8.2 years, SD = 3.9) with cerebral palsy was recruited from medical practices in 3 Michigan cities. Early developmental data were collected by maternal interview. The child’s Communication Function Classification System (CFCS) level was obtained from parent. Predictors of less functional communication included gestational age >32 weeks, number of comorbidities, age of first words after age 24 months, and use of communication methods other than speech. Several birth characteristics and developmental language milestones were predictive of later communication performance for children with cerebral palsy. These characteristics and milestones should trigger referrals for communication evaluations, including speech, language, hearing, and/or augmentative and alternative communication.
An Atypical Rett Syndrome Phenotype Due to a Novel Missense Mutation in CACNA1A
Authors: Epperson Madison V. , Haws Michael E. , Standridge Shannon M. , Gilbert Donald L.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Some typical and atypical Rett syndrome patients lack known genetic mutations. Mutations in the P/Q type calcium channel CACNA1A have been implicated in epileptic encephalopathy, familial hemiplegic migraine, episodic ataxia 2, and spinocerebellar ataxia 6, but not Rett syndrome.

Patient Description:

The authors describe a female patient with developmental regression and a de novo, likely pathogenic mutation in CACNA1A who meets 3 of 4 main criteria (stereotypic hand movements, loss of purposeful hand movements, gait disturbance), and 6 of 11 supportive criteria (impaired sleep, abnormal tone, vasomotor disturbance, scoliosis, growth retardation, and screaming spells) for atypical Rett syndrome. Furthermore, she resembles the early seizure variant of Rett syndrome. Previously, 3 children with similar CACNA1A mutations have been reported, but a Rett syndrome phenotype has not been described.

Conclusion:

CACNA1A mutations should be considered in children presenting with an atypical Rett syndrome phenotype, specifically, the early seizure variant.
Assessment and Response to Intimate Partner Violence in Home Visitation: A Qualitative Needs Assessment With Home Visitors in a Statewide Program
Authors: Davidov Danielle M. , Coffman Jessica , Dyer Angela , Bias Thomas K. , Kristjansson Alfgeir L. , Mann Michael J. , Vasile Emily , Abildso Christiaan G.
Published: January 2018

There is growing recognition that home visitation programs serving at-risk families may be an appropriate mechanism for detecting and reducing intimate partner violence (IPV). More research is needed about how home visitors assess and respond to IPV, especially in rural and underserved areas with unique social and geographic challenges. This study describes the qualitative, needs assessment phase of a larger mixed-methods evaluation of IPV assessment, referral processes, and safety planning with clients within a statewide home visitation program. Three focus groups were conducted with home visitors ( n = 16) in West Virginia’s Home Visitation Program in May 2015. Home visitors represented four separate home visitation models and provided services across 12 of West Virginia’s 55 counties. Guiding questions focused on home visitors’ current protocol, experiences, barriers, and facilitators to (a) screening and assessment for IPV, (b) making referrals after disclosures of IPV, and (c) developing safety plans with IPV-exposed clients. Barriers identified by home visitors included the nature of assessment tools, issues with service availability and access in rural areas, and lack of education and training surrounding safety planning. Facilitators included building relationships and trust with clients, providing anticipatory guidance when making referrals, and tailoring safety plans to clients’ unique situations. Participants also expressed a critical need to develop procedures for assuring home visitor safety when supporting IPV-exposed clients. These qualitative data highlight issues surrounding the management of IPV in home visitation and have the potential to inform future enhancements to programs that are specifically tailored to the needs of rural, disadvantaged communities.
Psychopathy and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Cunha Olga , Braga Teresa , Gonçalves Rui Abrunhosa
Published: January 2018

Several studies found that psychopathy is an important predictor of criminal behavior in general and of intimate partner violence in particular. However, these conclusions are often based on scales with less well-established validity, and some inconsistent results have emerged with regard to the contribution of specific psychopathic facets to intimate partner violence. In a sample of 152 batterers from Portugal aged between 22 and 70 years old, we examined whether Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R) total scores and the four facets (scored based on a semistructured interview and on file information) predicted the frequency of intimate partner violence. Two separate linear regression analyses were conducted controlling for criminal variables. PCL-R total scores positively predicted intimate partner violence frequency, above and beyond the criminal variables. As for the four facets, only the PCL-R affective facet held a significant effect in predicting intimate partner violence frequency after controlling for criminal variables. These results support the inclusion of psychopathy in risk assessments and treatment of perpetrators of intimate partner violence, particularly with regard to the affective deficits of the construct.
Silent Victims in the Public Eye: Socially Vulnerable EU Citizens’ Exposure to Crime and Its Consequences
Authors: Wallengren Simon , Mellgren Caroline
Published: January 2018

This study used thematic analysis to explore 28 socially vulnerable European Union (EU) citizens who support themselves by begging in public spaces in Malmö, Sweden, their exposure to crime, and the consequences of victimization. The analysis revolved around the following themes: daily harassment in public spaces, multiple motives for victimization, strategies to combat victimization, and consequences of victimization. The participants described that they lived in a constant state of stress, due to their marginalized life situation and a fear of becoming victimized in public spaces while begging. Study participants claimed that it was not their ethnicity but rather the activity of begging and their overall vulnerable life situation together with a label as “non-Swedish” that motivate offenders to commit attacks against them. The discussion concludes by presenting a number of policy implications.
Promoting Physical Activity Among University Students: A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials
Authors: Maselli Marco , Ward Philip B. , Gobbi Erica , Carraro Attilio
Published: January 2018

Objective:

University study is often accompanied by a decline in physical activity (PA) levels but can offer the opportunity to promote a lifelong active lifestyle. This review aims to summarize controlled trials of interventions promoting PA among university students, describing the quality of the evidence, effective strategies, and deficiencies in the interventions employed, to provide directions for future research and for practical implementations.

Data Source:

PubMed, PsychINFO, Cochrane Library, Education Source, and SPORTDiscus.

Study Inclusion Criteria:

Randomized or nonrandomized controlled trial, describing an intervention to promote PA in university students, where PA was one of the outcomes and results were published in English.

Data Extraction:

Country, study design, participants’ inclusion criteria, participation rate and characteristics, randomization, blinding, theoretical framework, intervention characteristics, participant retention rate and withdrawal reasons, measures employed, data analysis, PA results, and findings regarding PA correlates.

Data Synthesis:

Data were synthetized considering study characteristics, strategies used, and outcomes.

Results:

Two thousand five hundred eighty-five articles were identified. Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies reported an increase in PA levels.

Conclusion:

Physical Activity promotion interventions should address a range of behavioral determinants. Personalized approaches and PA sessions should be considered in future studies. The high risk of bias of many studies (mainly due to attrition and poor reporting) and missing information about intervention components limit the strength of conclusions about the most effective strategies and the evidence of effectiveness, highlighting the need for further high-quality studies.
Holistic Wellness in Older Adulthood: Group Differences Based on Age and Mental Health
Authors: Fullen Matthew C. , Granello Darcy Haag
Published: January 2018

Purpose: To understand how demographic variables and depression symptoms relate to the prevalence of wellness, resilience, and age perception within a sample of community-dwelling older adults. Design: In all, 200 residents across 12 senior housing sites were surveyed. Research questions included the following: (1) Do group differences exist in wellness, resilience, and age perception based on age, sex, race, education, and depression symptoms? (2) Which profile of variables is most strongly associated with self-rated depression among older adults? Method: Multivariate analyses of variance were used to examine group differences. A discriminant analysis demonstrated which variables comprised the profile of individuals who ascribed to depression symptoms. Findings: Younger respondents (i.e., age 55-70) had significantly lower levels of wellness (η2 = .034) and resilience (η2 = .052). Respondents suffering from depression symptoms had lower levels of wellness (η2 = .155), resilience (η2 = .163), and positive age perception (η2 = .067) and higher rates of negative age perception (η2 = .052). The discriminant analysis correctly categorized 75.3% of the cases related to depression symptoms, and resilience and certain forms of wellness were most relevant. Conclusions: The current study sheds light into within-group differences in wellness, resilience, and age perception that depend on variables such as age and depression.
Modeling the Effect of Multidimensional Trust on Individual Monetary Donations to Charitable Organizations
Authors: Alhidari Ibrahim S. , Veludo-de-Oliveira Tania M. , Yousafzai Shumaila Y. , Yani-de-Soriano Mirella
Published: January 2018

This study develops and validates a model that evaluates the effect of trust on individual monetary donations to charitable organizations (COs). Data were collected in Saudi Arabia using a two-stage approach and were analyzed via structural equation modeling. Data on psychosocial variables were collected in the first stage, and data on behavior were collected in the second stage, 4 weeks later. The findings confirm the study’s novel multidimensional perspective of trust in the context of individual monetary donations to COs in Saudi Arabia. The results validate the view that trust is present only when the individuals concerned are disposed to trust others and when they believe that the COs can conduct their charitable mission, are honest in the use of their donations, and prioritize beneficiaries’ rights. Individuals’ trust in COs affects both the intention to donate and future monetary donation behavior.
Effect of geometric modification on flow behaviour and performance of reverse flow combustor
Authors: Joy J , Wang PC , Yu SCM
Published: January 2018

Numerical investigation had been performed on the reverse flow combustor of a mini gas turbine engine so as to investigate the performance characteristics of the combustor by means of geometry modifications. In order to enhance the thrust performance of the reverse flow combustor, the baseline combustor (Model A) was previously modified by increasing its chamber volume by 15%, the fuel-air ratio (FAR) by 40% and by raising the injection point density to two (Model B). However, the thrust optimization of the baseline combustor resulted in high combustor exit temperature that could potentially damage the combustor liners. To rectify the adversity of high exit temperature, the combustor cooling effects were achieved by subsequently adding additional passage holes at the dilution zone of the Model B combustor so as to direct the incoming cold flow from the compressor exit towards the outgoing hot flow in the reverse flow combustor (Model C). The commercial software ANSYS Fluent 17.0 was adopted in this study and to solve the turbulence model, Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes methodology was adopted by employing standard k-ɛ turbulence model with standard wall function. A probability density function model was generated to introduce the combustion species and a discrete phase Model was employed to specify the kerosene fuel-based injector properties. The numerical results of Model A combustor were validated against the previous experimental results using grid convergence test. The numerical results were observed to be in good agreement with the experimental results. However, ineffective mixing was found to be a setback for the baseline combustor (Model A) indicating the need for combustor performance improvement. The comparative results of the revised combustor model (Model C) showed that better cooling effects at the combustor exit could be achieved by adding supplementary passage holes at the downstream of the combustor outer liner, respectively. The addition of dilution holes also resolved the issue of high pressure loss that was observed in Model A combustor with no significant change in the specific fuel consumption. The present paper confirms that the performance of the reverse flow combustor model could be affected by slight geometric modification. The performance characteristics of the combustor models are presented in terms of thrust, thrust-to-weight ratio, specific fuel consumption, pressure loss and pattern factor.
Presupposition as investigator certainty in a police interrogation: The case of Lorenzo Montoya’s false confession
Authors: Gaines Philip
Published: January 2018

This article presents an analysis of the use by police investigators of presupposition-bearing questions (PBQs) in interrogation as a process for communicating certainty of guilt. Among the techniques of interrogational maximization employed by police is the communication to the suspect of the interrogators’ certainty of the suspect’s guilt. While social science research notes that such communication of certainty is given directly, for example by statements that they ‘know’ the suspect is guilty or by direct accusations such as ‘you did it’, this analysis shows that certainty of guilt can also be communicated by presuppositions embedded in interrogation questions. Discourse analysis of the complete transcript of the interrogation of a 14-year-old suspect reveals further that through the use of 117 PBQs, interrogators are able to accrue inadvertent admissions to three crucial global ‘facts’ about the suspect’s involvement in the crime – each of which is composed of multiple subsidiary ‘facts’. In addition to identifying the role of PBQs in eliciting inadvertent admissions, the analysis also notes how PBQs serve as ‘a powerful instrument in the implicit assertion of debatable propositions’ as part of the interrogational record.
Orbital Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis Mimicking IgG4-Related Disease in a 12-Year-Old Male
Authors: Drobysheva Anastasia , Fuller Julie , Pfeifer Cory M. , Rakheja Dinesh
Published: January 2018

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is rare in children. We report a case of a 12-year-old male who presented with new symptoms of left eyelid swelling and ptosis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an enhancing orbital mass suspicious for a neoplasm. Excisional biopsy was performed. Microscopic examination revealed fibrovascular tissue with dense collagenous fibrosis and mixed inflammatory infiltrate that included many plasma cells. Many small and medium-sized blood vessels showed granulomatous and necrotizing vasculitis with disruption of the vessel walls and fibrinoid necrosis. Immunostain for IgG highlighted the numerous plasma cells, approximately 50% of which were positive for IgG4 immunostain. A diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis was suggested, with recommendation of serologic testing for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. Serum anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies were borderline high with a cytoplasmic staining pattern. The patient improved with steroid and methotrexate therapy. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis can present as an orbital mass in up to 30% of children. It may be misdiagnosed as IgG4-related disease since the inflammatory background in both conditions may be rich in plasma cells with a high proportion of IgG4+ plasma cells, and accompanied by fibrosis and obliterated blood vessels. The differential diagnosis in this location should also include inflammatory pseudotumor and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. Knowledge of this unusual manifestation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and its diagnostic pitfalls can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
Complications After Multiple-Site Peripheral Nerve Blocks for Foot and Ankle Surgery Compared With Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block Alone
Authors: Park Young Uk , Cho Jae Ho , Lee Doo Hyung , Choi Wan Sun , Lee Han Dong , Kim Keun Soo
Published: January 2018

Background:

Single or combined multiple-site peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are becoming popular for patients undergoing surgery on their feet or ankles. These procedures are known to be generally safe in surgical settings compared with other forms of anesthesia, such as spinal block. The purposes of this study were to assess the incidence of complications after the administration of multiple PNBs for foot and ankle surgery and to compare the rates of complications between patients who received a single PNB and those who received multiple blocks.

Methods:

Charts were reviewed retrospectively to assess peri- and postoperative complications possibly related to the PNBs. The records of 827 patients who had received sciatic nerve blocks, femoral nerve blocks adductor canal blocks, or combinations of these for foot and/or ankle surgery were analyzed for complications. The collected data consisted of age, sex, body mass index, presence of diabetes mellitus, smoking history, tourniquet time, and complications both immediately postoperatively and 1 year later.

Results:

Of these 827 patients, 92 (11.1%) developed neurologic symptoms after surgery; 22 (2.7%) of these likely resulted from the nerve blocks, and 7 (0.8%) of these were unresolved after the patients’ last follow-up visits. There were no differences in complication rates between combined blocks and single sciatic nerve blocks.

Conclusion:

There were more complications, both transient and long term, after anesthetic PNBs than previous literature has reported. Combined multiple-site blocks did not increase the rate of neurologic complications.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study
Implementation of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Data Collection in a Private Orthopedic Surgery Practice
Authors: Haskell Andrew , Kim Todd
Published: January 2018

Background:

The authors describe a method of collecting patient-reported outcomes (PROs) using computerized adaptive tests (CATs) in a high-volume orthopedic surgery practice with limited resources and no research coordinator.

Methods:

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System CATs were collected prospectively for all clinic patients using a tablet and recorded in the electronic medical record. Scores were compared with validated national norms using single-variable t tests. Linear regression was used to assess age effects. Preoperative and postoperative pain scales were compared using paired t tests.

Results:

In total, 4,524 CATs were administered during 10,719 visits (42%), reaching 70% as more tablets were introduced. Completing the CATs required 157 seconds. Older patients took more time than younger ones ( P < .05). Compared with normalized t scores of 50 ± 10 for the US population, pain intensity was 48.0 (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.8-48.2), pain interference 58.9 (95% CI, 58.6-59.1), physical function 40.1 (95% CI, 39.9-40.3), global physical health 43.4 (95% CI, 41.9-44.9), and global mental health 41.1 (95% CI, 40.89-41.4) ( P < .05 for all). Age had a small effect on all domains ( P < .05). Approximately 20 patients would be required to demonstrate a 15% change for a 2-tailed, paired study with α = 0.05 and 80% power. After surgery, pain intensity improved from 51.9 ± 8.2 to 44.1 ± 8.5, pain interference improved from 62.5 ± 6.9 to 55.7 ± 8.4, and physical function improved from 37.3 ± 8.9 to 41.5 ± 7.9 ( P < .05 for all).

Conclusions:

Using tablets to administer CATs and entering the data in the electronic medical record for later retrieval was an effective technique to collect PROs. An adequate number of tablets are needed for acceptable completion rates. Modest sample size requirements for comparative studies highlight the potential of these tools and techniques.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, Prospective Comparative Study
Numerical analysis of the influence of an actively controlled spoiler on the handling of a sports car
Authors: Hosseinian Ahangarnejad Arash , Melzi Stefano
Published: January 2018

Normal force distribution among tires significantly affects the performance of the vehicle, especially in terms of handling and safety. Consequently, evolving technologies for controlling and regulating normal loads have the potential of boosting the controllability of the vehicle.

This paper illustrates the effectiveness of the actively controlled aerodynamic system to increase the performance and the safety margins of a sports car in cornering maneuvers; normal loads on the front and rear axles at high speed are controlled by changing the angle of attack of the front and rear spoilers in opposite directions to alter load distribution. The performance of the controlled system is analyzed through a nonlinear 14-degree-of-freedom vehicle model. Numerical simulations are carried out to understand how the control logic can affect oversteer/understeer response, improving both stability and performance of the vehicle. Robustness of the control systems toward the variation of friction coefficient is also assessed.
Exploring the Acceptability of Densification: How Positive Framing and Source Credibility Can Change Attitudes
Authors: Whittemore Andrew H. , BenDor Todd K.
Published: January 2018

Planners often divisively advocate densification in developed areas. This article investigates the possibility that framing densifying development in positive ways may reduce conflict around greater density in developed urban areas of the United States. We use an online survey that asks verified voters in local elections ( n = 772) to describe their feelings toward a hypothetical densifying infill development in their neighborhoods before and after reading various framing statements. In particular, we consider the impact of these statements when they originate among planners versus when they originate among lay community experts. We use regression analyses to explore how reactions to the development relate to demographic characteristics and other aspects of respondents’ identities, and find that, while positive framing generally improves perceptions of the development regardless of its source, these effects are limited among respondents expressing concern about specific development impacts, among particular income groups, and in some neighborhood types.
The Influence of Domestic Violence in Homicide Cases
Authors: Iratzoqui Amaia , McCutcheon James
Published: January 2018

Domestic violence may be less representative of a unique form of violent behavior and more indicative of an overall tendency toward violence. This article explores this issue with two years of police data from a Mid-South city. Findings revealed that domestic violence histories were more likely in any type of homicide case, and that there were both similarities and differences in predicting general and domestic violence homicide cases. Further implications of these findings within the context of law enforcement strategies and responses to domestic violence are discussed.
Testing the Impact of Road Network Connectivity on Criminal Lethality
Authors: Poole Aaron C. , McCutcheon James C. , Toohy Kayla , Burraston Bert
Published: January 2018

Increased road network connectivity has been linked to more positive outcomes among all health outcomes. Road network connectivity has yet to be tested in association with specifically criminal lethality. The current study looks to incorporate road network connectivity as an explanatory variable for criminal lethality. Data on Road Network Connectivity and Criminal Lethality are gathered for 190 cities. Data sources include the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), 2010 Census, 2010 American Community Survey, Google Earth, and Census Topologically Integrated Geographic Encoding and Referencing (TIGER) files. The data demonstrate that a city’s road network connectivity is related to decreases in the rates of lethality among assaults. Implications of this finding are discussed.
Extensive Cutaneous Botryomycosis With Subsequent Development of Nocardia-Positive Wound Cultures
Authors: DeWitt Judy Park , Stetson Cloyce L. , Thomas Kleesy L. , Carroll Bryan J.
Published: January 2018

Botryomycosis is a rare, chronic granulomatous infection caused by a response to bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus. Cutaneous manifestations, such as subcutaneous nodules, nonhealing ulcers, or sinus tracks, typically occur following inoculation of bacteria after trauma. Drainage from the skin lesions may contain yellow grains resembling those seen in actinomycosis and nocardiosis. A 20-year-old Hispanic male presented over the course of several years with a chronic nonhealing left posterior scalp wound. A car hit the patient when he was 2 years old and injured the scalp in the location of the skin lesion. Multiple wound cultures grew methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and biopsies were consistent with botryomycosis. He was treated with multiple surgical debridements, skin grafts, and various courses of oral and intravenous antibiotics with slight improvement. One reason for poor response to therapy was noncompliance with long-term home antibiotics. The most recent tissue culture grew MRSA in addition to Nocardia mexicana, and he experienced improvement on linezolid and minocycline. Although it is important to exclude nocardiosis and actinomycosis when diagnosing botryomycosis, our patient was diagnosed with botryomycosis after multiple biopsies and positive MRSA cultures 2 years prior to 1 positive N mexicana culture. Our case is a unique presentation of botryomycosis in an individual who subsequently developed Nocardia-positive wound cultures.
A test of common content knowledge for gymnastics: A Rasch analysis
Authors: Devrilmez Erhan , Dervent Fatih , Ward Phillip , Ince Mustafa Levent
Published: January 2018

Common content knowledge (CCK) is comprised of the knowledge of rules, techniques, and tactics and can be used to define the scope of what teachers teach in their lessons. Developing reliable and valid measures of teacher knowledge such as CCK strengthens our understanding of what teachers know and in turn the field’s ability to help teachers in their practice. There are, however, few validated tests of CCK of sport for teachers. The primary purpose of this study was to provide content and concurrent validity evidence for a 19-question test of the CCK for gymnastics required in Turkish elementary and secondary schools. Participants were 240 preservice teachers who had previously taken a class in content knowledge for gymnastics in six state universities. Rasch modeling was used to evaluate the validity and reliability of the CCK gymnastics test. Results indicated good item model fit for all 19 items. High internal consistency for item difficulty and high internal consistency for person-ability were obtained. Overall analysis showed good evidence to support the validity and reliability of the CCK gymnastics test. The CCK test can be used in initial teacher education and continuing professional development to determine the CCK knowledge of preservice and inservice teachers and in turn a measure of what they learn from professional development efforts.
Long-term sickness absence from work due to physical inactivity: A registry-based study
Authors: Høgsbro Cecilie , Davidsen Michael , Sørensen Jan
Published: January 2018

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between leisure-time physical inactivity and long-term sickness absence in a representative sample of individuals aged 16–54 years, within the labour market and in good health. It was hypothesised that physically inactive individuals have a higher risk of long-term sickness absence and longer duration of sickness absence. Methods: The study population was identified from the National Health and Morbidity Survey, 2010. Weekly data on long-term sickness absence were obtained from the National Register on Social Transfer Payments (the DREAM registry). The association of incidence and duration of long-term sickness absence with physical inactivity was explored using logistic and Poisson regression. Data were fitted to models with levels of physical activity, demographic, social and lifestyle characteristics as independent variables. A combined hurdle model was used to estimate the difference in mean number of absence weeks. Results: Logistic regression showed that physically inactive individuals had a 27% higher incidence of long-term sickness absence compared with physically active individuals. The Poisson regression showed that long-term sickness absence was only slightly shorter (1 week less) for moderately active individuals compared with inactive individuals. The hurdle model estimated longer absence periods for inactive individuals (additional 2.5 weeks) in comparison with moderately and highly active individuals. Conclusions: The study showed that physically inactive individuals have a higher incidence of long-term absence and that physically inactive individuals have longer periods with sickness absence than moderately and highly active individuals. When adjustments for social and health behaviour were included, the estimated associations became statistically insignificant.
Impact of changes in welfare legislation on the incidence of disability pension. A cohort study of construction workers
Authors: Söderberg Mia , Mannelqvist Ruth , Järvholm Bengt , Schiöler Linus , Stattin Mikael
Published: January 2018

Aims: Study objectives were to investigate how changes in social insurance legislation influenced the incidence of disability pension. Methods: The study included 295,636 male construction workers who attended health examinations between 1971 and 1993, aged 20–60 years and without previous disability pension. Via the Swedish National Insurance Agency national register we identified 66,046 subjects who were granted disability pension up until 2010. The incidence rates were calculated and stratified according to age and diagnosis. Results: The incidence rate of disability pension was fairly stable until the 1990s when large variations occurred, followed by a strong decreasing trend from the early 2000s to 2010. Trends in incidence rates, stratified by age and diagnosis, showed a consistent decrease in cardiovascular disease for all age groups. In subjects aged 30–49 years there was a high peak around 2003 for musculoskeletal diseases and psychiatric diseases. For the age group 50–59 years, musculoskeletal diagnosis, the most common cause of disability pension, had a sharp peak around 1993 and then a decreasing trend. In the 60–64 age group, the incidence rate for psychiatric diagnosis was stable, while incidence rates for musculoskeletal diagnosis varied during the 1990s. Conclusions: There are considerable variations in the incidence rate of disability pension over time, with different patterns depending on age and diagnosis. Changes in social insurance legislation, as well as in administration processes, seem to influence the variation.
Whither neoliberal penality? The past, present and future of imprisonment in the US
Authors: Xenakis Sappho , Cheliotis Leonidas K
Published: January 2018

Debates about the trajectory of prison rates in the US, on one hand, and about the prospects of the neoliberal international order, on the other hand, suggest the time is ripe for a reappraisal of penological scholarship on the relationship between neoliberalism and imprisonment. With the aim of responding to this challenge, this article considers the relevance of the so-called ‘neoliberal penality thesis’ as a framework through which to interpret recent and ongoing developments in US imprisonment. We first set out the core propositions of the thesis and engage with a range of critiques it has attracted regarding the role of crime and government institutions, the evolution and functions of state regulation and welfare provision, and reliance on imprisonment as an indicator of state punitiveness. We then outline the principal arguments that have arisen about the direction of contemporary prison trends in the US, including since Donald Trump was elected to the presidency and took office, and proceed to distil their commonly opaque treatment of the intersections between neoliberalism and imprisonment, also clarifying their respective implications for the neoliberal penality thesis in light of the main critiques levelled previously against it. In so doing, we go beyond the penological field to take into account concerns about the vitality of neoliberalism itself. We conclude that international politico-economic developments have cast considerable doubt over the pertinence of neoliberalism as an organising concept for analysis of emergent penal currents.