bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrodynamic characteristics of a membrane oxygenator: modeling of pressure-flow characteristics and their influence on apparent viscosity
Authors: Okahara S , Tsuji T , Ninomiya S , Miyamoto S , Takahashi H , Soh Z , Sueda T
Published: December 2014

The viscosity obtained from pressure-flow characteristics of an oxygenator may help to detect factors that change oxygenator resistance. The objective of this study was to model pressure-flow characteristics of a membrane oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter and to quantify their influence on apparent viscosity of non-Newtonian fluids. One Newtonian fluid (glycerin solution) and two non-Newtonian fluids (whole bovine blood and a human red blood cell suspension) were perfused through an oxygenator and their pressure-flow characteristics examined systematically. Four resistance parameters for the pressure gradient characteristics approximation equation were obtained by the least squares method from the relational expression of pressure-flow characteristics and viscosity. For all three fluids, a non-linear flow to pressure change was observed with a coefficient of determination of almost 1 by exponential approximation. The glycerin solution had a higher pressure gradient (10-70%) than the other fluids; the apparent viscosity of the non-Newtonian fluids was around 35% lower than the static one measured by a torsional oscillation viscometer. Overall, our study demonstrated that the influence on the apparent viscosity of non-Newtonian fluids can be quantified by pressure gradient differences in a membrane oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter.
The Impact of Social Capital on Wages of Rural Migrants and its Gender Difference in China
Authors: Wang Chunchao , Zhou Xianbo , Zhang Chenglei
Published: December 2014

The objective of this article is to study the impact of social capital on the wages of Chinese rural migrants and the gender difference of the effect. The empirical results show that both “bridging” and “bonding” social capital have positive effects on wages, but “bridging” has a more significant effect. Friendly relationships between migrants and local workers can help the migrants increase the probability of earning upper middle to high wages by 6.4%. Migrants whose jobs are introduced by friends or relatives have over 1.6% higher probabilities of earning a upper middle to high wage. In addition, gender differences exist in the social capital effect on wage. The “bridging” effect on male migrants’ wage is significantly larger than the effect on female migrants’ wage, while the “bonding” effect on female’s wage is larger than the effect on male’s wage. Some policy implications are discussed.
Femoral Nerve Block Is Associated With Persistent Strength Deficits at 6 Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients
Authors: Luo T. David , Ashraf Ali , Dahm Diane L. , Stuart Michael J. , McIntosh Amy L.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Femoral nerve block (FNB) has become a popular method of postoperative analgesia for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in pediatric and adolescent patients. Successful rehabilitation after surgery involves return of quadriceps and hamstring strength.

Purpose:

To compare knee strength and function 6 months after ACL reconstruction in pediatric and adolescent patients who received FNB versus patients with no nerve block.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients 18 years or younger who underwent primary ACL reconstruction between 2000 and 2010 at a single institution were identified. If the patient was skeletally immature, a transphyseal ACL reconstruction was performed. Of these patients, 68% underwent reconstruction with a patellar tendon autograft, and in 32% of patients a hamstring autograft was utilized. There were 124 patients who met the study inclusion criteria, including 62 in the FNB group (31 males, 31 females) and 62 patients in the control group (25 males, 37 females). All study patients participated in a comprehensive rehabilitation program that included isokinetic strength and functional testing at 6 months postoperatively.

Results:

Univariate analysis showed a significantly higher deficit at 6 months in the FNB group with respect to fast isokinetic extension strength (17.6% vs 11.2%; P = .01) as well as fast (9.9% vs 5.7%; P = .04) and slow (13.0% vs 8.5%; P = .03) isokinetic flexion strength. There was no difference in slow isokinetic extension strength deficit between the 2 groups (FNB, 22.3% vs control, 18.7%; P = .20). With respect to function, there were no differences in deficit for vertical jump (FNB, 9.4% vs control, 11.3%; P = .30), single hop (7.6% vs 7.5%; P = .96), or triple hop (8.0% vs 6.6%; P = .34) between the 2 groups. A significantly higher percentage of patients in the control group met functional and isokinetic criteria for return to sports at 6 months (90.2% vs 67.7%; odds ratio, 4.37; P = .002).

Conclusion:

Pediatric and adolescent patients treated with FNB for postoperative analgesia after ACL reconstruction had significant isokinetic deficits in knee extension and flexion strength at 6 months when compared with patients who did not receive a nerve block. Patients without a block were 4 times more likely to meet criteria for clearance to return to sports at 6 months.
Not Excluded From Analyses
Authors: Gillen-O’Neel Cari , Mistry Rashmita S. , Brown Christia Spears , Rodriguez Victoria C. , White Elizabeth S. , Chow Kirby A.
Published: December 2014

Because research on ethnic-racial identity development largely excludes multiethno-racial youth, we used a mixed-methods approach to examine ethno-racial meanings and identification among 102 early adolescents ( M = 11.45, SD = 0.70 years) with multiethno-racial ( n = 45), mono-majority (i.e., European American; n = 29), or mono-minority (e.g., Latino, African American; n = 28) heritage. Results indicated more similarity than difference between multiethno-racial and mono-minority youth—most understood their heritage through tangible connections (e.g., language). Social (e.g., stereotypes) and individual (e.g., pride) meanings of ethno-racial heritage were also discussed. Last, we observed that most multiethno-racial youth identified with either one (53.3%) or all components of their heritage (35.6%), and these identification choices were linked to tangible experiences (e.g., travel or language proficiency). Developmental and contextual reasons for these findings are discussed.
Improved immobilization of gelatin on a modified polyurethane urea
Authors: Shaneh Shideh , Shokrolahi Fatemeh , Shokrollahi Parvin , Yeganeh Hamid , Seyedjafari Ehsan , Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Omidian Hossein
Published: December 2014

In this study, polyurethane urea was surface-modified to elevate cell recognition through immobilization of bioactive gelatin. The poly(urethane urea) was synthesized using poly(ε-caprolactone) diol in the absence of a chain extender. The synthesized polyurethane urea was then functionalized with gelatin (gelatin-grafted poly(urethane urea)) via aminolysis. Chemical changes at the polyurethane urea surface were monitored using titration, water contact angle. Fourier transform infrared, and zeta potential measurements. Significantly larger amounts of gelatin were grafted on the polyurethane urea surface compared to those previously reported for poly(ε-caprolactone) diol (three times more) and polyurethanes (two times more), while the mechanical properties were not compromised. Proliferation of human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells on the polyurethane urea and the gelatin-grafted polyurethane urea was evaluated through MTT assay. Although both samples enhanced human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells’ proliferation, gelatin-grafted polyurethane urea supported human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells’ proliferation at a remarkably higher rate.
Photopolymerized poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/poly(ε-caprolactone)/poly(ethylene glycol) system as a potential wound dressing material
Authors: Rethikala PK , Kalliyana Krishnan V
Published: December 2014

Polymeric hydrogel systems based on poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), poly(ε-caprolactone), and poly(ethylene glycol) were prepared by photopolymerization using 2,4,6-trimethyl benzoyl diphenyl phosphine oxide as the photoinitiator. The structural details, morphology, and crystallinity were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscope, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The fluid uptake of the hydrogels was measured using swelling analysis. Based on a hemolysis assay, the prepared hydrogels were non-hemolytic. No attachment of fibroblasts to the hydrogel systems was observed. Stress–strain results indicated that the poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), poly(ε-caprolactone), and poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel system (85:10:5) possessed better mechanical properties. Cytotoxic assessment by direct contact method of 85:10:5 systems found that the hydrogel was non-cytotoxic to L929 fibroblasts. This hydrophilic polymer system has a potential for wound dressing applications.
A Snapshot of Serial Rape
Authors: de Heer Brooke
Published: December 2014

Prior research on rapes reported to law enforcement has identified criminal sophistication and the use of force against the victim as possible unique identifiers to serial rape versus one-time rape. This study sought to contribute to the current literature on reported serial rape by investigating how the level of criminal sophistication of the rapist and use of force used were associated with two important outcomes of rape: victim injury and overall severity of the assault. In addition, it was evaluated whether rapist and victim ethnicity affected these relationships. A nation-wide sample of serial rape cases reported to law enforcement collected by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was analyzed (108 rapists, 543 victims). Results indicated that serial rapists typically used a limited amount of force against the victim and displayed a high degree of criminal sophistication. In addition, the more criminally sophisticated the perpetrator was, the more sexual acts he performed on his victim. Finally, rapes between a White rapist and White victim were found to exhibit higher levels of criminal sophistication and were more severe in terms of number and types of sexual acts committed. These findings provide a more in-depth understanding of serial rape that can inform both academics and practitioners in the field about contributors to victim injury and severity of the assault.
Understanding the Political Representativeness of Twitter Users
Authors: Barberá Pablo , Rivero Gonzalo
Published: December 2014

In this article, we analyze the structure and content of the political conversations that took place through the microblogging platform Twitter in the context of the 2011 Spanish legislative elections and the 2012 U.S. presidential elections. Using a unique database of nearly 70 million tweets collected during both election campaigns, we find that Twitter replicates most of the existing inequalities in public political exchanges. Twitter users who write about politics tend to be male, to live in urban areas, and to have extreme ideological preferences. Our results have important implications for future research on the relationship between social media and politics, since they highlight the need to correct for potential biases derived from these sources of inequality.
Challenges and Concerns of Open Government
Authors: Nam Taewoo
Published: December 2014

This study, focusing on the case of the Government 3.0 Drive in Korea, analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of open government efforts for open data, freedom of information, enhanced governance with citizens, and interorganizational collaboration. Using the qualitative data from unstructured interviews with public managers and open government experts, the SWOT analysis found serious challenges around ongoing open government efforts. Open government does not come easy and cheap, but it is rather resourceful innovation that requires substantial investments in soliciting meaningful civic inputs and establishing systematic management of various efforts. This article suggests that contemporary governments should consider more realistic, practical, and tangible approaches to achieving ideals for open government.
Benchmarks for Evaluating the Progress of Open Data Adoption
Authors: Susha Iryna , Zuiderwijk Anneke , Janssen Marijn , Grönlund Åke
Published: December 2014

Public organizations release their data for use by the public to open the government. Various benchmarks for evaluating the progress of open data adoption have emerged recently. In order to help bring about a better understanding of the common and differentiating elements in open data benchmarks and to identify the methodologies and metrics affecting their variation, this article compares open data benchmarks and describes lessons learned from their analysis. An interpretive meta-analysis approach was used and five benchmarks were compared with regard to metadata (key concepts, themes, and metaphors), meta-methods (methodologies underlying the benchmarks) and metatheories (theoretical assumptions at the foundation of the benchmarks). It was found that each benchmark has its strengths and weaknesses and is applicable in specific situations. Since the open data benchmarks have a different scope and focus and use different methodologies, they produce different results in terms of country ranks. There is an obvious gap in both the literature and benchmarks regarding the evolution of end-user practices and individual adoption of open data. Furthermore, lessons are drawn for the development of more comprehensive open data benchmarks and open government evaluation in general.
A new type bionic global optimization: Construction and application of modified fruit fly optimization algorithm
Authors: Qisong Qi , Gening Xu , Xiaoning Fan , Jun Wang
Published: December 2014

Fruit fly optimization algorithm, which is put forward through research on the act of foraging and observing groups of fruit flies, has some merits such as simplified operation, strong robustness, easy to parallel computing, and fast convergence rate; it could solve the bottlenecks of traditional intelligent optimization algorithms on precocity and low convergence speed effectively. Fruit fly optimization algorithm is applied to almost all the numerical optimization problems and is very useful in engineering applications. When the design variable is negative, traditional fruit fly optimization algorithm is not qualified for the extraordinarily slow convergence rate during the late stage of calculation and easy to be trapped in local optimum. Because of the defects of classical fruit fly optimization algorithm, a new coding method of the process of optimization is improved by this article, so the design variables could be searched toward the direction. In addition, a novel bionic global optimization—fruit fly optimization algorithm of learning—is proposed by introducing the concept of “study.” This article tries to apply fruit fly optimization algorithm of learning to compare calculations; therefore, four classical test functions and two engineering problems are performed. It turned out that not only does fruit fly optimization algorithm of learning inherit the advantages of fruit fly optimization algorithm, but has a strong learning ability. The introduction of “study” ability into fruit fly optimization algorithm notably improves the efficiency and capability of optimization; it has characteristics of fast convergence rate and fast speed of approaching the global optimum solutions. Fruit fly optimization algorithm of learning has the ability to solve practical problems, and its engineering prospect is promising.
Feedrate scheduling for multi-axis plunge milling of open blisks
Authors: Liang Yongshou , Zhang Dinghua , Ren Junxue , Xu Yingying
Published: December 2014

Multi-axis plunge milling has an increasing application in the manufacturing industry to rough machine open blisks. Its objective is to remove mass stock material with high efficiency and machining stability. In multi-axis plunge milling, cutting parameters are usually determined conservatively as constants to prevent excessive cutting forces and unexpected tool breakage. This is an obstacle to improve the cutting efficiency of rough machining. To address this issue, this article proposes an original approach to schedule the feedrate in multi-axis plunge milling of open blisks based on material removal rate. The material removal rate in plunge milling is directly proportional to the area of the cross section on the removed stock material. According to different types of the cross section, one feeding phase in plunge milling of open blisks is divided into three feeding stages. The cross section in each feeding stage is then identified with a mathematic and geometric method. Its area is then calculated by its constituting elements, such as a polygon, circular arches, and elliptical arches. After that, the feedrate is regulated to guarantee a constant material removal rate in the entire feeding phase. Experimental tests are conducted to verify the proposed feedrate scheduling method. This approach can reduce the cutting time and smooth the variances of cutting forces and torque in multi-axis plunge milling of open blisks.
Investigation on microstructure and mechanical properties of the dissimilar weld between mild steel and stainless steel-316 formed using microwave energy
Authors: Bansal Amit , Sharma Apurbba K , Kumar Pradeep , Das Shantanu
Published: December 2014

Dissimilar weld between a mild steel and a stainless steel-316 was formed by exposing the candidate materials to electromagnetic radiation in the microwave band. Characterisations of the joints were carried out with respect to some aspects of microstructural and mechanical properties of the fusion joints. The joining trials were carried out in an industrial microwave applicator at a fixed frequency of 2.45 GHz and 1.2 kW power while exposed for a duration of 600 s in atmospheric condition. Stainless steel-316 powder was used as the filler material for joining. Principles of microwave hybrid heating were utilised for heating and subsequently melting the metal-based materials in the joint zone. Characterisation of the microwave hybrid heating–induced dissimilar welds were carried out using X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, microhardness tester and universal testing machine. The presence of carbides and intermetallic in the joint zone were evidenced in the X-ray diffraction results. The microstructures observed through scanning electron microscope show the metallurgical bonding between the substrates to be joined through complete melting of the powder particles and fusion of the base materials. The Vicker’s microhardness in the core of the joint was observed to be 380 HV, which was significantly higher as compared to the base materials due to the formation of dendritic structure and various carbides in the joint zone during microwave hybrid heating process. The average ultimate tensile strength of the joints was measured to be 420 MPa with an elongation of 6.67%. The average flexural strength of the joints was observed to be 787.5 MPa with an elongation of 5.14%. The optimum temperature required for joining was measured using an in-built non-contact infrared pyrometer and was found to be 1360 °C.
Nano-resonator dynamic behavior based on nonlocal elasticity theory
Authors: Maleki Mehdi , Nahvi Hassan
Published: December 2014

By decreasing the thickness of micro- and nano-beams, classical continuum theory is not accurate to model the static and dynamic response of them due to absence of length scale parameter. In this paper, nonlocal elasticity theory is used to detect the chaos in nano-resonator. First mode shape of nano-beam is found and Galerkin method is used to convert the governing partial differential equation to an ordinary differential equation. Melnikov method is used to determine the critical value of AC actuation voltage resulting chaotic motion. Effects of nonlocal parameter and beam thickness on stability region of resonator are investigated and it is shown that increasing the nonlocal parameter and decreasing the beam thickness increases the difference between stability regions obtained by two theories.
Multi-objective and reliable output feedback control for spacecraft hovering
Authors: Zhou Yang , Yan Ye , Huang Xu , Zhang Hua
Published: December 2014

A multi-objective and reliable dynamic output feedback controller design method is proposed in this paper for spacecraft hovering around targets in circular orbits. The hovering process contains two steps namely, orbital transfer and hovering maintenance. Firstly, the dynamical model of spacecraft hovering is built and multi-objective output feedback control problems for the both steps are formulated. For orbital transfer control, we focus on fuel optimization and pole placement. And H2 performance, H∞ performance and pole placement are considered in hovering maintenance control. Then, sufficient conditions for guaranteed cost and pole placement are provided in the forms of nonlinear matrix inequalities. Using some changes of variables and Schur complement, the obtained sufficient conditions can be rewritten as linear matrix inequality constraints. Likewise, sufficient conditions for H2 control, H∞ control and pole placement are presented and transformed into linear matrix inequalities. Thus, the multi-objective controller design problems for both orbital transfer control and hovering maintenance are described as convex optimizations subject to linear matrix inequalities, respectively. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and validity of the proposed dynamic output feedback controller design algorithms.
Binary liquid metal–organic Rankine cycle for small power distributed high efficiency systems
Authors: Bombarda Paola , Invernizzi Costante
Published: December 2014

There is a common interest in the distributed power generation: generally for the combined production of electrical and thermal energy and often, although not necessarily, in association with renewable energies as heat sources for the prime mover. For example, in the field of distributed concentrated solar power generation of small size, the gas engine technology now seems to be prevailing (Stirling engines operating at maximum temperatures of 600–800 ℃, with peak net efficiencies at 20–30% and power up to several kilowatts are commonly considered). Organic Rankine engines, fed by biomass, in the power range of about 1 MW are actually a standard. From a strictly thermodynamic point of view, the binary cycle technology, accomplished by alkaline metal Rankine cycle as the topping cycle and a Rankine cycle with organic fluid as the bottoming cycle, could be an advantageous alternative. By their very nature, Rankine cycles have good thermodynamic qualities and, potentially, their thermodynamic performance, for the same maximum and minimum temperatures, could be better than that of a gas cycles. This paper discusses the possibility of adopting binary cycles with a power level in the order of tens of kilowatts. Following an overview of the characteristics of alkaline metals and a look at the possible organic fluids that can be employed in Rankine engines at high temperature (400 ℃), assuming a limit condensation pressure of 0.05 bar, the thermodynamic efficiency of binary cycles was evaluated and the preliminary sizing of turbines was discussed. The results (e.g. a net cycle efficiency of around 0.46, with maximum temperature of 800–850 ℃) appear encouraging, even though setting up the systems may be far from easy. For instance, there are difficulties due to the extremely high volumetric expansion ratios of bottoming cycles (400–600, an order of magnitude larger than those of the topping cycles with alkaline metals that we considered), which are moreover associated with a very low minimum pressure and elevated number of revolutions of the turbomachinery (50,000–200,000 r/min). Without doubt, the design tends to be easier as the power levels increase and the minimum condensation pressure for the bottoming cycle rises. Although the authors know of no activity in progress on binary cycles at present, the interesting prospects suggest the topic deserves further study and research.
Critical peripheral ischemia precipitated by severe episode of Raynaud’s phenomenon in a patient with aPL-positive systemic lupus erythematosus, upon high titer anti-RNP seroconversion
Authors: Levy O , Maslakov I , Vosco S , Markov A , Amit-Vazina M , Tishler M
Published: December 2014

A 35-year-old female with long standing aPL-positive lupus without history of thromboembolic events, who has developed critical peripheral ischemia (CPI) is described. An episode of severe Raynaud's phenomenon rapidly progressed to an extensive digit-threatening ischemia, involving bilateral hands and feet. She was successfully treated with corticosteroids, anticoagulation, iloprost, sildenafil, and nifedipine. Her serological studies were remarkable for the emergence of high titer anti-RNP seroconversion and an increase in aPL titer, suggesting that these autoantibodies played a role in the pathogenesis of CPI. It is important to note that such observation should herald this potentially devastating complication of systemic lupus erythematosus.
Ultrasonographic abnormalities and inter-reader reliability in Danish patients with systemic lupus erythematosus – a comparison with clinical examination of wrist and metacarpophalangeal joints
Authors: Dreyer L , Jacobsen S , Juul L , Terslev L
Published: December 2014

Objectives

We aimed to determine 1) ultrasound (US) abnormalities in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without hand arthralgia at the day of examination compared with clinical evaluation and healthy controls, and 2) inter-observer reliability of the US abnormalities.

Methods

Thirty-three female SLE patients were twice examined with US by three trained examiners. Using B-mode and Doppler US, unilateral wrist and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints were examined for synovitis and erosions as well as signs of hand tenosynovitis using a GE Logiq 9 US machine with Doppler settings for slow flow. All patients also underwent clinical joint evaluation and were compared with 11 healthy controls (HC).

Results

Among the patients with SLE 16 (48%) had signs of wrist synovitis, which was only observed in one HC ( p = 0.03). Corresponding figures for any MCP joint were 12 (36%) and 0 ( p = 0.06). In SLE patients, 18% had hand tenosynovitis and 6% bone erosions. Wrist synovitis was detected by US in 16 SLE patients (81%) with arthralgia compared with 17 patients without (18%) ( p = 0.0005). Any US abnormalities were observed in 44% of 25 wrists without tenderness at clinical examination and in 46% of 26 wrists without swelling. Corresponding percentages for MCP2 joints were 27% and 21%. Inter-observer reliability of the US findings was good to excellent for examination of hand joints and tendons.

Conclusions

A majority of SLE patients with hand arthralgia showed US signs of synovitis, erosions and tenosynovitis indicating subclinical disease. Even SLE patients without clinical signs of joint inflammation demonstrated US abnormalities. Good to excellent inter-observer reliability was found in US evaluation of hands in patients with SLE.
Reply to Critics
Authors: Brunkhorst Hauke
Published: December 2014

In responding to the comments, I will begin with the problem of Eurocentrism, the notion of progress and the Dialectic of Enlightenment. Then I will try to address the methodological queries concerning theory construction. Thereafter, I will make some remarks on the role of religion for social evolution and the formation of the Kantian mindset. Finally, I will discuss the problem of cosmopolitan state formation, co-evolution and societal differentiation.
The Cunning of Law
Authors: Lafont Cristina
Published: December 2014

This article provides an overview and critical analysis of Brunkhorst’s forthcoming book Critical Theory of Legal Revolutions. First, I briefly analyze the specific way in which Brunkhorst’s innovative approach to social evolution combines the normative and functionalist perspectives in order to reconstruct the four great legal revolutions that led to the formation of modern law. In the second step, I raise some critical concerns about the basic conceptual and methodological assumptions behind Brunkhorst’s reconstruction: a concern regarding its Eurocentrism, a concern about the methodological distinction between evolutionary and revolutionary change – particularly the question of where to situate counterrevolutionary ideological battles and developments and a concern about the systematic role of religion and religious ideas in his reconstruction.
Accreditation of Public Health Education in the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Karunathilake Indika M. , Liyanage Chiranthi K.
Published: December 2014

There has been dramatic advancement in health status in the Asia-Pacific region (APR) over the past 50 years. This ever-changing paradigm of public health calls for continuous review and quality improvement of public health education (PHE). Since its founding in 1984, the mission of the Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH) has been to improve the quality and relevance of PHE to combat the diverse, dynamic, and unique challenges in the APR. Prof Walter Patrick was a forerunner in this movement and played an instrumental role in establishing APACPH’s position in accreditation and improvement of PHE.
Visualizing the Rideau Canal through early budget estimates, 1823–1824
Authors: Bujaki Merridee L
Published: December 2014

In 1823–1824 Samuel Clowes prepared preliminary budget estimates for the construction of an inland waterway from Kingston, on Lake Ontario, to the Ottawa River in Upper Canada. An in-depth analysis of Clowes’ budget estimates explores their visual aspects: how the form and structure of the estimates are visual and how descriptive commentary included in the estimates aids readers in visualizing the proposed canal. The article then examines how the budget estimates are used for rhetorical purposes. The estimates are rhetorical both directly and indirectly. The ordered and logical visual form and structure of the estimates supports their rationality; claims of rationality are used in turn for rhetorical purposes. Further, properties of the estimates which allow readers to visualize the canal are rhetorical in their own right. Thus this article contributes to an understanding of early capital budgeting practices in canal building in North America, as well as to an understanding of accounting and budgeting as visual, rational and rhetorical.
The rites of writing papers: steps to successful publishing for psychiatrists
Authors: Brakoulias Vlasios , Macfarlane Matthew D , Looi Jeffrey C
Published: December 2014

Objective:

To encourage psychiatrists to publish high-quality articles in peer-reviewed journals by demystifying the publishing process.

Methods:

This paper will describe the publishing process and outline key factors that ensure that publishing is an achievable goal for psychiatrists.

Results:

The publishing process can be long and often this is related to delays associated with obtaining reviewers and their comments. Negative reviewer comments often relate to grammatical and typographical errors, an insufficient literature review, failure to adequately discuss limitations and conclusions that are not adequately supported by the results. Authors who systematically respond to their paper’s reviewer comments are usually successful in having their papers accepted. Success in publishing is usually determined by a topic that appeals to the readership of a journal, a credible methodology and a paper that is well-written.

Conclusions:

Publishing is achievable for all psychiatrists providing they can write a paper that delivers a clear and concise message, are willing to address reviewer comments and that their paper is tailored to the readership of the journal.
Measuring Use of Research Evidence
Authors: Palinkas Lawrence A. , Garcia Antonio R. , Aarons Gregory A. , Finno-Velasquez Megan , Holloway Ian W. , Mackie Thomas I. , Leslie Laurel K. , Chamberlain Patricia
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

This article describes the Standard Interview for Evidence Use (SIEU), a measure to assess the level of engagement in acquiring, evaluating, and applying research evidence in health and social service settings.

Method:

Three scales measuring input, process, and output of research evidence and eight subscales were identified using principal axis factor analysis and parallel analysis of data collected from 202 state and county child welfare, mental health, and juvenile justice systems leaders.

Results:

The SIEU scales and subscales demonstrate strong internal consistency as well as convergent and discriminant validity.

Conclusions:

The SIEU is easy to use and can be administered as a complete scale or as three smaller scales to separately examine evidence in acquisition, evaluation, or application. The measure demonstrates potential in understanding the role of research evidence in service settings and in monitoring the process of evidence-based practice and application of scientific principles in social work practice.
The Smoking Outcome Expectation Scale and Anti-Smoking Self-Efficacy Scale for Early Adolescents
Authors: Chen Chen-Ju , Yeh Ming-Chen , Tang Fu-In , Yu Shu
Published: December 2014

Smoking-related outcome expectation and self-efficacy have been found to be associated with adolescent smoking initiation. There is, however, a lack of appropriate instruments to investigate early adolescents’ smoking outcome expectations and antismoking self-efficacy. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the Smoking Outcome Expectation Scale (SOES) and Anti-Smoking Self-Efficacy Scale (ASSES). A total of 232 fifth and sixth graders from four elementary schools in Taiwan participated in the study. Both scales had good content validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability. On the basis of exploratory factor analysis, the 6-item SOES with two factors accounted for 54.72% of total variance and the 15-item ASSES with three factors accounted for 56.49% of total variance. The SOES had convergent and discriminant validity and ASSES had convergent validity. The two scales could help school nurses to understand early adolescents’ smoking outcome expectation and antismoking self-efficacy and to develop more appropriate antismoking curricula.
Methodology brut
Authors: Koro-Ljungberg Mirka , Carlson David , Tesar Marek , Anderson Kate
Published: December 2014

A reminder: This text has been created as a series of brut and raw responses representing a collective of “impossible” imaginings. Our collective writing is not about the vision or about insights into the future of qualitative inquiry per se, but it is about ways in which some qualitative researchers wish to stay methodologically and theoretically in flux and motion. We desire to face this uncertainty, rawness, and creative chaos by engaging in collective thinking without constant and continuous purification and “cleaning” efforts. The future of qualitative inquiry is not one but multiple; thus, there cannot be one “vision” but all visions; visions on top of other visions, visions continuing other visions, visions contradicting others, visions lacking and desiring something that cannot be described, understood, or had.
Organizational Research as Practical Theology
Authors: Miller Kent D.
Published: December 2014

Secularism is a prevailing norm for scholarly organizational research, yet the post-secular turn in philosophy provides an opening for researchers to work from theological perspectives and inquire into organizational topics of theological concern. This study introduces practical theology as a method for pursuing organizational research. This method involves iterative, mutual engagement with empirical data, social theories, and theological traditions. Research done as practical theology can contribute to advancing organization theory and management practice by promoting awareness of theological assumptions operating in research and organizations and by motivating constructive and critical proposals that are unreachable from a secular perspective.
The naked manager: The ethical practice of an anti-establishment boss
Authors: Sørensen Bent Meier , Villadsen Kaspar
Published: December 2014

This article explores how an allegedly ‘non-hierarchical’ and aestheticized managerial practice reconfigures power relations within a creative industry. The key problematic is ‘governmental’ in the sense suggested by Michel Foucault, in as much as the manager’s ethical self-practice—which involves expressive and ‘liberated’ bodily comportment—is used tactically to shape the space of conduct of others in the company. The study foregrounds the managerial body as ‘signifier’ in its own right. Empirically, this is done through an analysis of video material produced by the film company Zentropa about their apparently eccentric Managing Director, Peter Aalbæk. Contrary to much of the literature discussing embodiment and ethics in organization studies, we do not identify an ‘ethics of organization’ dominated by instrumental rationality, efficiency and desire for profit which is ostensibly juxtaposed to a non-alienating, embodied ethics. Rather, when the body becomes invested in management, we observe tensions, tactics of domination and unpredictability.
Understanding the occupational and organizational boundaries to safe hospital discharge
Authors: Waring Justin , Marshall Fiona , Bishop Simon
Published: December 2014

Objective

Safe hospital discharge relies upon communication and coordination across multiple occupational and organizational boundaries. Our aim was to understand how these boundaries can exacerbate health system complexity and represent latent sociocultural threats to safe discharge.

Methods

An ethnographic study was conducted in two local health and social care systems (health economies) in England, focusing on two clinical areas: stroke and hip fracture patients. Data collection involved 345 hours of observations and 220 semi-structured interviews with health and social care professionals, patients and their lay carers.

Results

Hospital discharge involves a dynamic network of interactions between heterogeneous health and social care actors, each characterized by divergent ways of organizing discharge activities; cultures of collaboration and interaction and understanding of what discharge involves and how it contributes to patient recovery. These interrelated dimensions elaborate the occupational and organisational boundaries that can influence communication and coordination in hospital discharge.

Conclusions

Hospital discharge relies upon the coordination of multiple actors working across occupational and organizational boundaries. Attention to the sociocultural boundaries that influence communication and coordination can help inform interventions that might support enhanced discharge safety.
Overseeing oversight: governance of quality and safety by hospital boards in the English NHS
Authors: Mannion Russell , Davies Huw , Freeman Tim , Millar Ross , Jacobs Rowena , Kasteridis Panos
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To contribute towards an understanding of hospital board composition and to explore board oversight of patient safety and health care quality in the English NHS.

Methods

We reviewed the theory related to hospital board governance and undertook two national surveys about board management in NHS acute and specialist hospital trusts in England. The first survey was issued to 150 trusts in 2011/2012 and was completed online via a dedicated web tool. A total 145 replies were received (97% response rate). The second online survey was undertaken in 2012/2013 and targeted individual board members, using a previously validated standard instrument on board members’ attitudes and competencies (the Board Self-Assessment Questionnaire). A total of 334 responses were received from 165 executive and 169 non-executive board members, providing at least one response from 95 of the 144 NHS trusts then in existence (66% response rate).

Results

Over 90% of the English NHS trust boards had 10–15 members. We found no significant difference in board size between trusts of different types (e.g. Foundation Trusts versus non-Foundation Trusts and Teaching Hospital Trusts versus non-Teaching Hospital Trusts). Clinical representation on boards was limited: around 62% had three or fewer members with clinical backgrounds. For about two-thirds of the trusts (63%), board members with a clinical background comprised less than 30% of the members. Boards were using a wide range and mix of quantitative performance metrics and soft intelligence (e.g. walk-arounds, patient stories) to monitor their organisations with regard to patient safety. The Board Self-Assessment Questionnaire data showed generally high or very high levels of agreement with desirable statements of practice in each of its six dimensions. Aggregate levels of agreement within each dimension ranged from 73% (for the dimension addressing interpersonal issues) to 85% (on the political).

Conclusions

English NHS boards largely hold a wide range of attitudes and behaviours that might be expected to benefit patient safety and quality. However, there is significant scope for improvement as regards formal training for board members on quality and safety, routine morbidity reporting at boards and attention to the interpersonal dynamics within boards. Directors with clinical backgrounds remain a minority on most boards despite policies to increase their representation. A better understanding of board composition, actions and attitudes should help refine policy recommendations around boards.
A qualitative study of systemic influences on paramedic decision making: care transitions and patient safety
Authors: O’Hara Rachel , Johnson Maxine , Siriwardena A Niroshan , Weyman Andrew , Turner Janette , Shaw Deborah , Mortimer Peter , Newman Chris , Hirst Enid , Storey Matthew , Mason Suzanne , Quinn Tom , Shewan Jane
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Paramedics routinely make critical decisions about the most appropriate care to deliver in a complex system characterized by significant variation in patient case-mix, care pathways and linked service providers. There has been little research carried out in the ambulance service to identify areas of risk associated with decisions about patient care. The aim of this study was to explore systemic influences on decision making by paramedics relating to care transitions to identify potential risk factors.

Methods

An exploratory multi-method qualitative study was conducted in three English National Health Service (NHS) Ambulance Service Trusts, focusing on decision making by paramedic and specialist paramedic staff. Researchers observed 57 staff across 34 shifts. Ten staff completed digital diaries and three focus groups were conducted with 21 staff.

Results

Nine types of decision were identified, ranging from emergency department conveyance and specialist emergency pathways to non-conveyance. Seven overarching systemic influences and risk factors potentially influencing decision making were identified: demand; performance priorities; access to care options; risk tolerance; training and development; communication and feedback and resources.

Conclusions

Use of multiple methods provided a consistent picture of key systemic influences and potential risk factors. The study highlighted the increased complexity of paramedic decisions and multi-level system influences that may exacerbate risk. The findings have implications at the level of individual NHS Ambulance Service Trusts (e.g. ensuring an appropriately skilled workforce to manage diverse patient needs and reduce emergency department conveyance) and at the wider prehospital emergency care system level (e.g. ensuring access to appropriate patient care options as alternatives to the emergency department).
Managing competing organizational priorities in clinical handover across organizational boundaries
Authors: Sujan Mark A , Chessum Peter , Rudd Michelle , Fitton Laurence , Inada-Kim Matthew , Cooke Matthew W , Spurgeon Peter
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Handover across care boundaries poses additional challenges due to the different professional, organizational and cultural backgrounds of the participants involved. This paper provides a qualitative account of how practitioners in emergency care attempt to align their different individual and organizational priorities and backgrounds when handing over patients across care boundaries (ambulance service to emergency department (ED), and ED to acute medicine).

Methods

A total of 270 clinical handovers were observed in three emergency care pathways involving five participating NHS organizations (two ambulance services and three hospitals). Half-day process mapping sessions were conducted for each pathway. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 39 participants and analysed thematically.

Results

The management of patient flow and the fulfilment of time-related performance targets can create conflicting priorities for practitioners during handover. Practitioners involved in handover manage such competing organizational priorities through additional coordination effort and dynamic trade-offs. Practitioners perceive greater collaboration across departments and organizations, and mutual awareness of each other’s goals and constraints as possible ways towards more sustainable improvement.

Conclusion

Sustainable improvement in handover across boundaries in emergency care might require commitment by leaders from all parts of the local health economy to work as partners to establish a culture of integrated, patient-centred care.
Diaspora organizations, imagined communities and the versatility of diaspora: The case of Former Yugoslav organizations in the Netherlands
Authors: Van Gorp Jasmijn , Smets Kevin
Published: December 2014

This article takes the case of Former Yugoslav organizations in the Netherlands to investigate how diaspora organizations are central in constructing identities. Contributing to the growing field of studies about Former Yugoslav diasporas, it explores how diaspora organizations play a role as cultural mediators. Drawing from theories of diaspora, imagined communities and transnationalism, we employ ‘diaspora’ as a versatile tool of analysis, investigating dimensions of diasporic experience, discourse and practice. Data were gathered through a qualitative study including 25 expert interviews and ethnographic observations. The study indicates that there are two types of diaspora organizations, which are labelled ‘exclusive’ and ‘mixed’ diaspora organizations, and that there are notable differences between Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian organizations. Organizations are discussed with regard to their aims, activities and discourses about diaspora and their capacity to forge belongings among communities.
A product-service system approach to telehealth application design
Authors: Flores-Vaquero Paul , Tiwari Ashutosh , Alcock Jeffrey , Hutabarat Windo , Turner Chris
Published: December 2014

A considerable proportion of current point-of-care devices do not offer a wide enough set of capabilities if they are to function in any telehealth system. There is a need for intermediate devices that lie between healthcare devices and service networks. The development of an application is suggested that allows for a smartphone to take the role of an intermediate device. This research seeks to identify the telehealth service requirements for long-term condition management using a product-service system approach. The use of product-service system has proven to be a suitable methodology for the design and development of telehealth smartphone applications.