bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syntactic Processing in Turner's Syndrome
Authors: Inozemtseva Olga , Matute Esmeralda , Zarabozo Daniel , Ramírez-Dueñas Lourdes
Published: March 2008

A significant controversy concerning language development in Turner's syndrome has been found. Whereas some authors have observed that girls with Turner's syndrome maintain their verbal abilities intact, others have reported significant differences in Wechsler Verbal IQ when compared with normal controls. However, little has been studied about the linguistic characteristics of these patients when using tests to evaluate different linguistic levels. With the aim of assessing syntactic processes, 15 patients with Turner's syndrome (aged 8 to 19 years) were compared with 15 healthy girls, matched by age, Wechsler Full-Scale IQ range, type of school (private or public), and school grade. A syntactic processing battery including 11 different subtests was developed. Compared with controls, the participants with Turner's syndrome obtained a fewer number of correct answers in most of the subtests and shorter latencies in some of them. We concluded that the subjects with Turner's syndrome have difficulties in using syntactic structures. It is suggested that some of these language difficulties are related to disturbances in using spatial-language relationships. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:668-672).
Hemimegalencephaly in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Galluzzi Paolo , Cerase Alfonso , Strambi Mirella , Buoni Sabrina , Fois Alberto , Venturi Carlo
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this case report is to describe the computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings of the brain of a 16-month-old girl with an uncommon association between hemimegalencephaly and tuberous sclerosis complex. When a large calcification is found within a hemimegalencephalic cerebral hemisphere, further investigation of a suspected associated tuberous sclerosis complex or another phakomatosis is required to determine pertinent treatment options and genetic counseling. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:677-680).
Rett Syndrome Phenotype Following Infantile Acute Encephalopathy
Authors: Fiumara Agata , Polizzi Agata , Mazzei Rosalucia , Conforti Luisa , Magariello Angela , Sorge Giovanni , Pavone Lorenzo
Published: March 2008

Rett syndrome is a progressive neurodevelopmental disorder with a well-defined clinical spectrum and course. Recently, mutations in the gene encoding X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) have been identified as the cause of Rett syndrome. Along with the classic form, variant forms of Rett syndrome and Rett syndrome phenotypes are also recognized. We report on a girl who, at age 2 months, developed an acute encephalopathy with destructive brain damage 12 hours after acellular pertussis vaccination. Peripheral lymphocyte subset analysis revealed the existence of T lymphocytes double positive for CD4 and CD8 markers. This pattern normalized over the following 3 months. Months later, the girl manifested a Rett syndrome phenotype. DNA screening of the MECP2 gene was unrevealing in the child and her parents. This previously unreported association emphasizes the notion that Rett syndrome phenotypes can result from different (either genetic or environmental) causes. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:700-702).
What Ever Happened to Developmental Gerstmann's Syndrome? Links to Other Pediatric, Genetic, and Neurodevelopmental Syndromes
Authors: Miller Carlin J. , Hynd George W.
Published: March 2008

Developmental Gerstmann's syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder infrequently described in the literature. The limited literature might result from controversy surrounding developmental Gerstmann's syndrome as a "true syndrome." Developmental Gerstmann's syndrome requires a tetrad of symptoms: left-right confusion, finger agnosia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, with constructional dyspraxia often included as a fifth symptom. The etiology of developmental Gerstmann's syndrome is unknown, but several hypotheses have been proposed, and none have been conclusively confirmed. Based on the paucity of recent research on developmental Gerstmann's syndrome, individuals who meet the criteria for the disorder could be given other diagnoses. A clustering of neuropsychologic features across other seemingly related disorders suggests that the conceptualization of the tetrad of symptoms traditionally associated with developmental Gerstmann's syndrome more appropriately reflects soft signs that are commonly associated with a number of other neurodevelopmental disorders. Thus, although developmental Gerstmann's syndrome is of historical interest to neurodevelopmental specialists, there appears to be no basis for considering this disorder as a unique syndrome. (J Child Neurol 2004;19:282-289).
Impact of Motor Skills on Cognitive Test Results in Very-Low-Birthweight Children
Authors: Losch Heike , Dammann Olaf
Published: March 2008

Standardized tests that are frequently used to evaluate the cognitive development of very-low-birthweight children often appear to measure motor ability as well as cognitive skills. To estimate the impact of motor skills on individual test performance among very-low-birthweight children of kindergarten age, we employed factor analysis in a sample of 298 very-low-birthweight children that included severely disabled children. Using a test battery designed to measure concentration, language skills, overall cognitive development, visuomotor abilities, and memory, we identified two factors in each of three diagnostic subgroups: unimpaired children (n = 184), clumsy children (n = 56), and children with cerebral palsy (n = 33). Based on the pattern of factor loadings, we interpret the first factor as capturing language and overall cognitive abilities, whereas the second factor appears to capture motor abilities. Language skills explained 49% and motor abilities accounted for 16% of the overall variance of the individual test results. Among children with attention deficit (n = 25), a third factor emerged. In these children, we interpret the first factor as capturing language or cognitive skills, the second as representing visuomotor skills, and the third as a quantifier of the ability to concentrate. The test battery tested the same abilities in impaired and unimpaired children; however, these were not always the abilities that the battery aimed to test. Future studies need to evaluate whether factor scores only for cognitive but not motor abilities might be useful outcome variables. (J Child Neurol 2004;19:318-322).
Multidisciplinary Approach to Childhood Epilepsy: Exploring the Scientific Rationale and Practical Aspects of Implementation
Authors: Goldstein Joshua , Plioplys Sigita , Zelko Frank , Mass Sarah , Corns Christine , Blaufuss Robert , Nordli Douglas
Published: March 2008

The management of childhood epilepsy requires attention to more than seizure control because children with epilepsy often suffer from comorbidities that lead to an increased frequency of psychiatric disease, learning difficulties, and other problems of psychosocial development. These comorbidities can stem in part from the same genetic traits that determine seizure susceptibility. Thus, mutations affecting potassium, calcium, and sodium channels have been linked with epilepsy syndromes and affective and behavioral abnormalities. It is important to consider the effect of antiepilepsy drugs on comorbid conditions and the effect on seizures of drugs used to treat comorbidities. A number of antiepilepsy drugs are available that have minimal adverse cognitive effects, and some can have positive effects on mood and behavior. Epilepsy in a child is a condition that affects and is affected by the entire family situation. In addition to appropriate neuropsychologic evaluation, optimal management of childhood epilepsy also can require the involvement of the social worker, advanced practice nurse, and educational specialist. Many elements of the multidisciplinary team approach can be instituted by the child neurologist in community practice and at large, specialized epilepsy centers. (J Child Neurol 2004;19:362-378).
Ergotamine as a Possible Cause of Möbius Sequence: Additional Clinical Observation
Authors: Smets Koenraad , Zecic Alexandra , Willems Jef
Published: March 2008

A case of Möbius sequence after exposure to ergotamine during early development is reported. Vascular disruption is one of the theories explaining the pathogenesis of Möbius sequence. Ergotamine can cause vasospasm and a prolonged and marked increase in uterine tone. This is the second report suggesting a relation between maternal ingestion of ergotamine in early pregnancy and subsequent Möbius sequence in a child. (J Child Neurol 2004; 19:398).
Medication Costs in Different Provider Settings
Authors: Morehead M.A. , Lobach K. , Lee J.
Published: March 2008

Comparison was made of the cost of medications between Shared Health Facilities (SHFs) or Medicaid Mills and a Neighborhood Health Center (NHC) for nine conditions in fields of adult medicine, pediatrics, and gynecology. A total of 10 cases from SHF reviews were matched by diagnosis, age, and length of time under care with those in the NHC. For otitis media and pharyngitis in children and questionable urinary tract infection and vaginitis in adult women, the av erage costs were significantly higher in the SHFs. Average costs for family planning services and vagi nal bleeding were higher in the SHFs but not signifi cantly so. Medication costs for children with asthma and adults with bronchitis and hypertension were approximately the same in both settings. The reasons for higher costs included greater use of more expen sive antibiotics, concurrent use of decongestants and antihistamines for infectious conditions of childhood, and dispensing of medications on a "shot-gun" basis without adequate diagnostic studies. The most strik ing difference was the additional average cost of $798 for hospitalization of the SHF patients with vaginal bleeding when D & C and surgery were performed. The NHC women had no hospitalizations as the rec ommended procedure of endocervical biopsy in the office was Center policy. Other quality inferences noted in the NHC, but not in SHFs, were routine performance of throat cultures for pharyngitis, wet smears for vaginitis, and deferral of treatment until cultures were received for urinary tract infection.

The small number of cases for each condition and the large intersample variability were limiting fac tors in this study, but the findings do suggest that higher standards of care contribute to lower therapy costs.
Quality Initiatives The Role of Medical Licensing and Disciplinary Boards
Authors: Galusha Bryant L.
Published: March 2008

The goal of the Federation of State Medical Boards and its individual state members is to protect the public, reflecting the fundamental obligation of the physician expressed in the Latin: Primum non no cere—"first, do no harm." The Boards' duties in qual ity assurance are implemented through their two ma jor areas of responsibility—licensure and discipline. They fulfill their licensure responsibilities through such processes as review of qualifying examinations, credentialing, and the administration of licensing ex aminations. Their disciplinary responsibilities are carried out through investigation, review and action upon complaints and referrals regarding possible problem physicians. There is an increasing emphasis on mandatory reporting programs, and the Federa tion's Physician Disciplinary Data Bank has become a computerized repository for much of this informa tion. The Health Care Quality Improvement Act (PL 99-660) represents an effort to enhance a coordinated national strategy.
Peer Review and You
Authors: Dorian Alan L.
Published: March 2008

A summary of the present status of peer review is presented with its implications dependent upon the awaited decision of the Supreme Court of the United States. The history of the Astoria Clinic and Dr. Patrick is detailed. Salient features of antitrust law are pointed out. Suggestions for a physician to follow if appointed to a peer review committee are detailed. The necessity for such review is summarized.
A Successful Approach to the Start up of a Mental Health Case Management Program
Authors: Lizanich-Aro Suzanne , Goldstein Leonard
Published: March 2008

The authors have worked in the mental health uti lization review and quality assurance field for several years now. One author (S.L.-A.) has been involved in the start up of several case management and utiliza tion review programs. Their approach has been to assess existing techniques for case management and utilization review and to draw from the most effective methods and programs in the development of their own mental health case management program.
Quality and Cost-Efficiency
Authors: Roberts Nigel K. , Zalta Edward
Published: March 2008

There is a relationship between morbidity/mortal ity and volume, between cost and volume and between excess surgical capacity and medically inappropriate procedures. The study reviews insurance claims data for three procedures: cataract surgery, lumbar lami notomy, and coronary artery bypass surgery. Chang ing the facility from hospital to office can produce substantial savings in cataract surgery. The specialist microneurosurgeon performs lumbar laminotomies more cost-efficiently than either the general neuro surgeon or the orthopedist. Coronary artery surgery is performed more cost-efficiently in regional cen ters. The lengths of hospital stay were considerably shorter in the lumbar laminotomy cases performed by a microneurosurgeon and for the coronary artery bypass graft procedures performed in a regional cen ter. The indication of this study is to question when these types of data can and should be used to channel patients to the more cost-efficient or higher quality provider.
A Performance Appraisal System for Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Fellows
Authors: O'Reilly Robert , Ziegenfuss James T.
Published: March 2008

There is now increased interest in developing con tinuing education and career training progams in quality assurance and utilization review. These pro grams frequently involve on-site practicum experi ences for which the performance appraisal system described here was developed. Incorporating a new evaluation technology known as the rating grid, this system is discussed here in terms of its underlying rationale, its rating factors, and the observation and scoring factors used by the observer-evaluator. The system can be used by observers to give feedback to physicians and others undergoing training in quality assurance and utilization review.
Assessing Peer Review in the Quest for Improved Medical Services: Part II
Authors: Hershey Nathan , Bontempo Lea C.
Published: March 2008

The first part of this article explored the flaws in the operation of peer review in two contexts: selection of articles for journal publication and decision-mak ing in the award of research grants. There it was suggested that, to the extent these flaws had adverse effects on the information available to medical prac titioners and those who conduct peer review of med ical practice, the quest for improving the quality of health services is hampered. In this part of the article, medical peer review is defined, its practitioners noted, and the distinction between medical peer re view and certain other activities and processes di rected toward improving the quality of medical per formance in hospitals illustrated.
A Multidisciplinary Approach To Prosthetic Management
Authors: Rizzo Stephen R. , Frame Robert T. , Davis Aaron T.
Published: March 2008

This study describes a multidisciplinary team ap proach to prosthetic management for inpatients. A Communication Management System summary sheet was developed to list all prosthetic devices owned and basic information concerning any existing communi cation problems. The summary sheet is to be posted in a wooden frame above the patients bed. A member of the nursing staff would be responsible for complet ing the pertinent data.
Updating the Fee Schedule for Physician Reimbursement: A Comparative Analysis of France, Germany, Canada, and the United States
Authors: Rodwin Victor G. , Grable Harvey , Thiel Gregory
Published: March 2008

Based on an analysis of the fee schedule update process in France, the Federal Republic of Germany and Canada, this article draws a number of inferences and interpretations and concludes with a discussion of the major weaknesses and strengths of the United States.
Characteristics of Applicants to the Fellowship Program in Quality Assurance and Utilization Review
Authors: Berlucchi Aileen Pagan , Munzenrider Robert F. , Trautlein Joseph , Ziegenfuss James T.
Published: March 2008

This article presents the first data on the charac teristics of applicants to the physician fellowship pro gram in quality assurance (QA) and utilization review (UR). Data presented about applicants include demo graphic characteristics, board and national certifi cations, specialties, license type, practice experience, and QA and UR experience. These data were obtained from individual applications for admission to the pro gram. They are used here to create a database for the program to generate future information on this new specialty group. Characteristics of current applica tions selected begin to define the members of the profession.
A Model for Evaluating the Delivery of Pediatric Primary Care Services
Authors: Rosenbluth Lucille , Morehead Mildred A. , Grossi Margaret , Oliver Claire Theroux , Uccellani Claudia , Robinson Paul
Published: March 2008

This evaluation model describes the components used to assess the functioning of Pediatric Resource Centers which provide primary care to high risk chil dren in New York City. These centers are adminis tered by the Medical and Health Research Association of New York City and are funded by the State through the New York City Department of Health. Measure ments are made of: accessibility, availability, ac countability, productivity and patient volumes, con tinuity, coordination, and comprehensiveness. Data is collected from the PRC data reporting system, site visits, chart reviews, and fiscal reports. The findings vary considerably among the different centers with compliance to the various assessments, differing not only within a given center but between centers. In spite of some methodological limitations, it is felt that these measurements are effective in pointing out problem areas in the centers and are helpful to the funding agency in focusing on program areas in need of greater support.
Quality Assurance Issues Raised by Proposed Limited-Service Rural Hospitals
Authors: Wingert Terence D. , Christianson Jon B. , Moscovice Ira S.
Published: March 2008

This article explores quality assurance issues that are likely to arise related to limited-service rural hospitals, an institutional alternative to existing ru ral hospitals. In exploring these issues, we use as an example, the Montana Medical Assistance Facility, a limited-service rural hospital model about to be im plemented by the Health Care Financing Administra tion as a demonstration. While such medical assist ance facilities will need to meet licensure and certi fication requirements, it is not reasonable to expect them to meet regulations that are designed for large hospitals. Also, because of their limited resources, medical assistance facilities will likely need outside help from a larger institution to perform quality as surance activities, particularly peer review activi ties. A key challenge for the medical assistance facil ity will be to define the nature of this relationship, while retaining ultimate responsibility for quality of patient care. Assuring quality of care is a particularly important issue for medical assistance facilities since community acceptance and financial viability will depend critically on establishing a record for quality of care that is at least comparable to existing small, rural hospitals.
Intensive, Focused Utilization Management in a Teaching Hospital An Exploratory Study
Authors: Woodside Jeffrey R. , Bodne Rachel , Tonnesen Alan S. , Frazier Jeannie
Published: March 2008

A 3-month study was performed in a teaching hos pital to determine the impact of intensive, focused utilization management on the average length of stay and average total charges in a carefully defined group of indigent patients. Prompt admission review was performed, the treatment plan ascertained, and a physician advisor notified. The attending physician was informed by a physician advisor of the patient's financial class, and assistance with expediting patient care and discharge planning was offered. Daily con current review monitored the treatment and dis charge plans. The study compared 73 patients with a control group of 191 patients of similar financial class and diagnosis related groups (DRGs) for the immedi ately preceding 3 months. Compared with the control patients, the study patients experienced a 23% de crease in average length of stay and 16% decrease in average total charges. This study indicates that an intensive utilization management effort in a teaching hospital can be effective without compromising the quality of care.
Delayed Diagnosis of Infantile Meningitis Medical and Legal Outcomes
Authors: Wenner William J. , Lambert Robert
Published: March 2008

While the diagnosis of meningitis in the infant can be difficult due to the lack of definitive signs, a delay in the diagnosis can markedly increase morbidity and mortality. Eighteen cases of meningitis that were re ported to a malpractice carrier over 75 months were evaluated for medical and legal outcome. Fourteen had a delay in diagnosis that was judged to have occurred due to substandard care. All had a poor outcome; one half died and the other half had neuro logic complications. Four cases resulted in payment to the patient. Median payment was $1,100,000. When care was standard, no payment or legal action occurred.
Failure to Document
Authors: Kardos Gary G.
Published: March 2008

The failure to adequately document events in the written clinical record is the major reason for letters of inquiry from Peer Review Organizations (PROs). The major causes of inadequate documentation are time pressures, the mind set of physicians, increasing subspecialization with the fragmentation of patient care, and a distrust of review activities in general. However, the accurate recording of medical events that ensue during the course of caring for patients is an integral aspect of the profession of medicine.
Financial and Operational Impact of a Transfer Center
Authors: Geehr Edward C. , Norton Barbara A. , Whitman Patricia , Metzger Jane M.
Published: March 2008

A tertiary care hospital established a transfer cen ter to manage the large number of transfer requests from other hospitals in its catchment region. Moti vating factors included occurrence of economic trans fers, medically inappropriate transfers, poor inter facility communication, and a bed shortage.

An interdisciplinary task force was convened to design and implement the transfer center, requiring two months from conception to implementation. Non- recurring direct costs were $3000. At the time of implementation, written transfer agreements were promoted and signed with many transferring hospi tals.

A retrospective audit covering 28 weeks of opera tion indicates that 1141 inpatient days were avoided for an average of 21.5 days per back-transferred patient. (Back-transfer refers to the return of a pa tient to the original hospital.) An additional 140 ad missions were possible as a result of these avoided days. Approximately $550,000 in variable costs were saved on an annualized basis. Moreover, substantial improvements in communications and interfacility cooperation were realized. No cases of inappropriate denials or delays in transfer were identified.

We conclude that a transfer center can be a highly cost-effective mechanism to manage the large number of patients transferred to a tertiary care center.
Nursing Case Management
Authors: Sherman Jeremie J. , Johnson Pierrene K.
Published: March 2008

Patient satisfaction, patient-perceived quality of life, and nurse satisfaction were compared before and after the implementation of nursing case management in a southeastern acute care hospital. Immune-com promised oncology patients were sampled as proxy for patients with AIDS. Clinical nurse specialists as case managers planned, coordinated, and facilitated patient care on the 36-bed study unit. Patient satis faction showed a statistically significant increase 6 months after implementation of nursing case management.
Assessment of Quality of Care in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Airan Mohan C. , Ko S.T.
Published: March 2008

With the advent of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, assessment of data and its relationship to quality of care became important. The Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Center conducted a prospective survey in conjunction with the Society of American Gastroin testinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) National Sur vey. In this survey, only two surgeons operated as surgeon and co-surgeon with an extremely small rate of complication. A national survey of chairpersons in surgery was designed at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital, and 4300 chairpersons were mailed questionnaires to record complications of laparo scopic cholecystectomy. There were 36,232 patients and 3111 surgeons in the survey. The Southern Sur geons Club experience, as reported in New England Journal of Medicine, was reviewed. Because of the complexity of understanding the implications of the survey results, the authors have arrived at a simpli fied system of evaluating quality of care in laparo scopic cholecystectomy. In this system only three con siderations are taken into account: (a) elective con versions to standard operation, (b) forced conversions (due to iatrogenic injuries), and (c) reoperation rate (delayed complication). It is hoped that data collection will be simplified and more meaningful.
Legal Case Study
Authors: Devlin Mary M.
Published: March 2008

The U. S. Supreme Court has ruled that an antitrust plaintiff does not need to prove that defendant phy sicians and hospitals engaged in interstate commerce in order to assert federal jurisdiction over his claim that peer review proceedings against him violated the law.
Toward Effective Hospital Utilization Management
Authors: Smith Dean G. , Perry Brenda W.
Published: March 2008

The challenges presented by managed care ar rangements and third-party utilization controls have led hospitals to strengthen internal utilization man agement programs. This article reports findings from a set of case studies on how hospitals have adapted their utilization management programs to their en vironments. While knowledge acquired from case studies should not be overgeneralized, the findings of these studies suggest some lessons that merit consid eration by hospitals advancing their own programs in utilization management.
Instructor's Attire As A Biasing Factor In Students' Ratings Of An Instructor
Authors: Chowdhary Usha
Published: March 2008

This study examined the influence of instructor's attire on students' evaluation of their teacher. A modified posttest only control group design was used to conduct this research. The sample consisted of thirty-one undergraduate students. The data were analyzed by executing t-test and paired t-test. The study was conducted in two phases. One instructor taught two sections of the same course. For the experimental group, the instructor wore Indian/Western attire combination; for the control group the instuctor wore the Western/Western attire combination. The findings for the first phase revealed that the experimental group rated their instructor significantly lower than the control group in four of the five categories on the standard teaching evaluation instrument. The second phase results indicated that nonsignificant differences existed for the categories of global evaluation and manner of presentation. The findings confirmed that dress did have an impact on students' evaluations of their instructor.
Using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to Assess Student Needs
Authors: Kean Rita C. , Mehlhoff Carol , Sorensen Robert
Published: March 2008

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) estimates basic preferences in perception (information gathering) and judgment (decision making). Using a tool such as the MBTI is helpful in obtaining a profile of students attracted to textiles, clothing and design programs in terms of developing appropriate instructional strategies. The MBTI was administered to a sample of 222 students enrolled in a Midwestern university, of whom 115 were textiles, clothing and design (TCD) students, and 107 were agronomy students. TCD students were predominantly Intuitive-Feeling types as compared to the majority of agronomy students who were Sensing-Thinking. Implications were that the TCD students already possess potential for refining and developing strong interpersonal and communication skills, but may need to be shown the value ofdeveloping analytical approaches to problem solving.
From "Traditional" to "Mass Fashion System" Dress Among Men in a Turkish Village
Authors: Jirousek Charlotte A.
Published: March 2008

The dress forms for men of Çömlekçi, a village in southwestern Turkey, have been changing throughout the twentieth century, and occur in three stages. Following the Turkish republican revolution after World War 1, the European-style suit was widely adopted by rural men. Although adoption of these garments seemed to signal westernization and secularization of rural society, the dress forms were appropriated by the traditional culture and became readily identifiable as traditional village dress. This mode of dress was retained with little change until the second transitional stage began in the 1960s. This change was a result of improved communications, increased interaction with the money economy, and increased availability of consumer goods. These economic changes permitted the introduction of commercially produced clothing, with the final stage of full conversion to a mass fashion system of dress for the men of Çömlekçi occurring by the 1990s.
Factors Influencing Maintained Markup of National and Private Apparel Brands
Authors: Thomas Jane Boyd , Cassill Nancy L. , Herr David G.
Published: March 2008

This exploratory research examines Sheth's (1981) constructs of merchandise requirements and supplier accessibility factors and their effect on the maintained markup percentage earned for national and private apparel brands. The effect of merchandise requirements and supplier accessibility factors on the maintained markup percentage of national and private sportswear apparel brands was examined. A national survey of department store buyers indicated that type of merchandise affected the maintained markup percentage for both brands. Additional variables affected the maintained markup percentage for each brand, indicating that buyers may use different merchandising strategies for private and national brands. Findings from this study may assist retail buyers and suppliers in the development of merchandise strategies for national and private apparel brands.
Financial Delegation to Schools: An Overview
Authors: Simkins Tim
Published: March 2008

Our regular financial correspondent introduces the subject of LFM in schools
Development Planning
Authors: McMahon Agnes , Wallace Mike
Published: March 2008

Curriculum management involves planning, finding financial and staff resources and considering how to incorporate parents in the process. This article discusses how these processes can unintentionally impact upon equal opportunities outcomes.
Entrepreneurial Headteachers?
Authors: Jenkins Hugh
Published: March 2008

How are headteachers in England and Wales behaving in the face of major changes in the political and social context in which they are compelled to operate? Innovation without consultation deluges schools with developments concerning, for example, initial teacher training, alterations in the Key Stages, the Grant Maintained issue, OFSTED, inter alia. The examples in this article demonstrate that headteachers are, in the same way as managers outside education, meeting challenges by adopting radically new approaches to leadership and to organisational design, which could enhance staff performance and productivity as it is claimed they have done in commercial organisations. Will these new leadership patterns help in the current competitiveness in education or will there be a return to 'macho' management? What do you think?
Informal Caregiving: Perceived Needs
Authors: Zabalegui Adelaida , Bover Andeu , Rodriquez Encarna , Cabrera Esther , Diaz Magdalena , Gallart Albert , González Araceli , Gual Pilar , Izquierdo María D. , López Luis , Pulpón Ana M. , Ramírez Ana
Published: March 2008

With the increasing population of persons over the age of 65 who need daily assistance in Spain, there is considerable need to better understand informal caregivers' views, particularly about the resources that are available to them, or should be available to them. With that purpose in mind, a grounded theory method was used with focus groups in Barcelona, Malaga, Seville, and Tenerife. All of the participants were caring for family members with dementia, cancer, or other neurodegenerative conditions. The findings generated 86 codes, which were grouped into two categories: understanding the experience of caregiving, and caregiving resources. The first category was the need for caregivers to talk about their experiences and to be listened to. The second category included the presence of resources and support requirements. The caregivers said that their ability as caregivers was limited; many did not know what resources were available or how to locate new resources. Many caregivers are carrying out their role dutifully, but feel isolated, suggesting that there is a lack of social understanding and policies about informal caregivers in Spain.
Prediction of Interstate Conflict Outcomes Using a Neural Network
Authors: Schrodt Philip A.
Published: March 2008

This article uses a neural network to predict international conflict outcomes, comparing its accuracy to that of models constructed using discriminant analysis, logit analysis, and the rule-based ID3 algorithm. While neural networks originally attracted attention because they mirrored the structure of biological nervous systems, they are used increasingly to solve practical problems of prediction and classification. Neural networks may also be important for modeling international behavior because of structural similarities with some organizational processes used to determine foreign policy. In split-sample tests using the Butterworth international conflict data set, the neural network outperforms both discriminant analysis and ID3 in terms of accuracy; it is roughly comparable in accuracy to multinomial logit. The neural network is less successful than discriminant and logit at predicting nonmodal values of the dependent variable. The variables identified as important in the neural network appear to be similar to those significant in the discriminant analysis, but are quite different than those used by ID3. Keywords: neural networks, artificial intelligence, international conflict, ID3, logit analysis, discriminant analysis.
Computers and Politics: Innovation and the Role of Uncertainty in Political Campaign Organizations
Authors: Fellow Anthony R.
Published: March 2008

It is thought that computers are revolutionizing American political campaigns. But little is known about how computers—as information and communications tools— are being used politically. The present study advances a set of hypotheses about how candidates and proponents of ballot measures use computers in elections. The hypotheses relate computer use to the environmental uncertainties campaigns face and to the resources at their disposal. Data were collected from in-depth interviews with 35 political campaign managers. Findings show that campaign "uncertainty" is central to heavy use of computing. Campaigns that expect to face unpredictable forces make heavier use of computers than campaigns that think themselves in a stable world—regardless of how competitive the race actually is, or how richly endowed the campaigns may be. The study draws implications for how computers contribute to the functioning of political campaign organizations as open systems and for the practical conduct of election campaigns. Keywords: communication, computers, campaigns, innovation, uncertainty, politics, technology, consultants.
A Simulation of a Simple Central Place System
Authors: Vandenbroucke David A.
Published: March 2008

Central place theory attempts to explain the development of the system of cities in a region. Empirical studies based on the theory have yielded results that are plausible but difficult to interpret, due to the theory's rigidities. A computer simulation is used to examine how such a system of cities would develop if the theory were operating. The first version of the simulation uses a highly simplified format to experiment with simulation techniques. Preliminary indications are that even in this simple form, notable deviation from theoretical patterns are commonplace. Keywords: economics, central place theory, location theory, spatial competition, urban systems, regional development, simulation.
Development of a Structured Sentencing Simulation
Authors: Anderson Ronald E.
Published: March 2008

Prison sentencing needs to be comprehensive, adapt to changes over time, and avoid racial, gender, and age disparities. The Structured Sentencing Simulation (sss) addresses these needs through a microsimulation of court and correctional systems, providing parameters to generate the hypothetical impact of changes in sentencing policies. The program design utilizes microsimulation techniques including micro-data input, cell-based submodels, dynamic and static aging, dynamic transition models, discrete time slicing, and disaggregation for output distributions. The quality of the results depends upon the collection and processing of large amounts of data describing an existing population of court sentences, demographic characteristics of those sentenced, cell-based estimates of transition probabilities through the criminal justice system, and global parameter estimates of overall system characteristics. The program output includes 5- and 10-year projections of prison, jail, residential treatment, and community service populations In the output from the model all population counts are broken down by sex, race, age, and other demographic variables enabling policy analysts to momtor the extent to which inmate populations are likely to be free of sentencing disparities The program has been implemented in several state sentencing studies. Aspects of the system have implications for simulations in other social contexts.
Research Report: Using a Database Management System to Support Qualitative Research
Authors: Mangan J. Marshall
Published: March 2008

As part of a major research project into the use of microcomputers in high-school classrooms, our research team elected to use a multifaceted, qualitative approach to data gathering and analysis. In order to facilitate this approach, we decided to build a large-scale computerized textual database. Several factors had to be taken into consideration in the establishment of this database. Software requirements included an ability to handle textual data well and to manage a large number of records. Compatibility of the database package with other software in use by research team members was also important. Crucial design decisions included the use of a general-purpose rather than a specialized database system, establishment of a hierarchical data organization, and a method for coding keywords. In the end, the database system proved effective in helping to implement our chosen methodology and in increasing the productivity of researchers.
Psychology: The Use of Educational Technology in U.K. Psychology Departments
Authors: Trapp Annie , Hammond Nick
Published: March 2008

This paper reviews the use of educational technology within United Kingdom university psychology departments based on the experience of a national support center, the Computers in Teaching Initiative (CTI) Centre for Psychology. First we describe the background and work of the center. This is followed by presentation and discussion of the results of a major survey to assess both current usage and the factors that enable or inhibit use of educational technology within psychology. Finally, we provide an overview of the current and potential use of computers within the teaching of psychology. Keywords: psychology, computers, United Kingdom, educational technology, teaching.
Computers, Economic Modeling, and Politics: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Andersen Kim Viborg
Published: March 2008

Based on an extensive review of the literature on economic modeling and politics in the Western industrialized democracies, this article addresses the impacts of computerized economic models on political decision-making processes. Covering a broad area of research, the article addresses what different implications computerized models have compared to pen-and-paper-based models and how economic modeling differs from any other (expert-based) tools/aids in the decision-making processes. Keywords computers, economic models, politics, social impacts of computing, decision making.
Using the Internet for Fun, Profit, and Erudition—Computer Resources on the U.S. Congress
Authors: Frantzich Stephen E.
Published: March 2008

Legislative scholars can now ride the wave of computer access to legislative data and information. The following guide to available resources was published this year by Brown and Benchmark Publishers as part of the instructor's guide to Congress. Games and Strategies by Stephen Frantzich and Steven Schier. 1
Software Reviews : Review Essay: Data Analysis Programs for the Undergraduate Classroom
Authors: Kimball David C. , Weisberg Herbert F.
Published: March 2008

We outline several criteria for evaluating student statistical software programs and review four programs ( SPSS 6.1, Mystat 2 1, ET 3.0, and StataQuest 2). Although all four programs perform adequately on many, if not all, criteria, we recommend SPSS for class use, given adequate resources. Mystat, SPSS, and StataQuest emphasize introductory data analysis techniques, whereas ET is geared toward (and excels at) more advanced statistical techniques. 1 Keywords computing, data analysis, statistical software, classroom, student, statistics.
Political Science and Public Administration: An Internet Guide
Authors: Garson G. David
Published: March 2008

This text lists Internet sites useful to political scientists seeking to uncover online resources. It is not intended to be a comprehensive listing. Rather it is a form of resource inventory of selected sites most useful for those with general interests in political science and public administration. Permission is granted to reproduce for non-commercial handout purposes. Keywords political science, public administration, telecommunications, Internet, World Wide Web, federal government online research
News and Notes
Authors: Garson G. David
Published: March 2008

Call for contributions and reviewers: the Social Science Computer Review welcomes submissions of articles, reports, communications, news items, and software and book reviews. Please contact the appropriate associate editor listed on the inside back cover, or write to the editor, G. David Garson, NCSU Box 8101, Raleigh, NC 27695; 919-515-3067. Regarding book reviews, contact the book review editor, Carl Grafton, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Auburn University at Montgomery, AL 36193; 205-277-4685.
Information, Community, and Access
Authors: Michaelson Karen L.
Published: March 2008

Communication in cyberspace creates the possibility of forming communities of interest that can either compete with or reinforce communities in place. For some individuals, computer networks offer opportunities for greater participation in public life; for others, participation in on-line groups has the potential to diminish commitment to local communities. On-line communities contain unique forms of immediacy, asynchronicity, and anonymity that give them dynamics not shared by communities based on physical presence and face-to-face interaction. These new forms of community, and the technological and cultural resources required for participation in them, have the potential for creating new forms of stratification and hence new barriers to universal access.
Human Capital Issues in the Use of Information Technology in Education
Authors: Davis Byron L. , Kick Edward L.
Published: March 2008

Local technological applications and their implications for human capital depend not only on the local environment, but also on successively larger social structures. In a world with a complex international division of labor, events in distant countries now intimately affect the nation, states, cities, and social institutions. Indeed, the long-term effects of the chaotic world economy of the 1970s still ripple through the United States. They impact the national output, national indebtedness, the shift from federal to local responsibilities, and the overbureaucratization and fast-paced technology of the megainstitutions where livelihoods are made and the quality of life is determined. The authors elaborate these themes, working from the most macroscopic or global level to the most microscopic or local level of social organization, and tie their discussion to data on international-, national-, and state-level trends. The authors explore a single but representative local case, which documents the impact of these megaforces on an educational institution.
Exploring Nonlinear Path Models via Computer Simulation
Authors: Leik Robert K. , Meeker Barbara F.
Published: March 2008

Although many causal relationships are nonlinear, there has been little general exploration of the implications of using nonlinear forms in multivariate causal models. A program called MULTPATH 1 has been developed that enables a researcher to create a path model with up to 6 variables, choose any of 10 curve forms for each of the paths, specify the extent of random error in each of the paths, and generate plots of resulting distributions. Three general conclusions appear warranted, although results are often far from simple: (a) If there is much random error present in such models, it is often impossible to deduce the underlying curve forms from the resultant bivariate plots; (b) the order in which curve forms appear in a single, extended path is critical to the resultant relationship between the origin and the destination of that path; and (c) there is a sense of hierarchical dominance when different curve forms converge on the same dependent variable.
Users' Perceptions of Internet Regulation
Authors: McCabe Kimberly A. , Lee M. Dwayne
Published: March 2008

Immediately after President Bill Clinton signed the 1996 Telecommunications Reform Act, which included the Communications Decency Act—an attempt to censor the Internet of any obscene, indecent, or annoying communications—several of those opposing the Act initiated litigation to have the Act declared unconstitutional. These actions are the foundation for this study, a study that attempts to assess the perceptions of Internet users regarding the censorship of Internet-accessed material. Specifically, demographics of Internet users as well as estimates of their reported Internet usage per week were used to establish who, if anyone, feels the need for regulation of the Internet. Although essentially all Internet users in this study perceived the need for regulation of the Internet, it was those who used the Internet 6 or more hours per week that were more likely to see the need for regulation.