bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The components of helping relationships with professionals in psychiatry: Users’ perspective
Authors: Denhov Anne , Topor Alain
Published: May 2011

Background:

The quality of the relationship between professional and user is one of the important factors in the recovery process. However, more knowledge is needed concerning the components of helping relationships and characteristics of the helping professional. The aim of this study was to explore users’ experiences of helping relationships with professionals.

Data and methods:

This was a grounded theory analysis of 71 qualitative interviews to explore users’ experience of helping relationships and their components, in psychiatric care in Sweden.

Discussion:

Within the three main categories – interpersonal continuity, emotional climate and social interaction – two core themes were found that described vital components of helping relationships: a non-stigmatizing attitude on the part of the professionals and their willingness to do something beyond established routines.

Conclusions:

The focus in psychiatric treatment research needs to be broadened. In addition to research on the outcome of particular methods and interventions, the common factors also need to be investigated, above all, what is the effect of the quality of the relationship between user and professional. Greater attention needs to be paid, as well, to how helping respective obstructive relationships in psychiatric services arise, are maintained or are modified.
A contextual model of information literacy
Authors: Nazari Maryam
Published: May 2011

This article reports a contextual model of information literacy (IL) which emerged from an exploratory case study of IL in a joint online distance learning (ODL) Geographic Information Sciences/Systems (GIS) programme, and demonstrates how it contributes to the development of information literate GIS learners in ODL environments. Adopting Eisenhardt’s (1989) ‘process of building theories from case study research’, it explores IL in the context of a wide range of teaching and learning experiences in the programme, using interview, questionnaire, students’ reflection, observation and document study as data collection methods. The two-level within- and across-case analysis, suggested by Eisenhardt, was innovatively combined with grounded theory data analysis approaches. It appeared that in the ODL GIS programmes IL is needed, not just as a set of transferable skills, but as an enabler for independent, connective, transferable and lifelong learning.
Airway Inflammation in Atopic Patients
Authors: Bhimrao Sanjiv K. , Wilson Susan J. , Howarth Peter H.
Published: May 2011

Objective

The purpose of this study was to understand and assess the inflammatory response within the upper and lower airways in patients suffering from both asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

A laboratory‐based study of patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Subjects and Methods

Glycol methacrylate resin–embedded specimens from 10 patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma taken from the nose and bronchi were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Monoclonal antibodies directed against specific cell markers for mast cells (AA1), eosinophils (EG2), neutrophils (NOE), and lymphocytes (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) were studied. Cells were counted blind (as cells/mm2) in the submucosal matrix. Mann‐Whitney U test was used for analyses. P values of. 05 or lower were considered statistically significant.

Results

There was a significant increase in CD4+ (P =. 05) and CD8+ cell counts (P =. 001) in the lower airway compared to the upper airway. There were no differences between the 2 groups in the number of neutrophils, mast cells, eosinophils, and the CD3+ cell counts.

Conclusion

The upper and lower airways have parallel inflammation with possible bidirectional extension of inflammation in patients suffering from asthma and allergic rhinitis. There is increased lymphocytic infiltration in the lower airway, suggesting a possible preponderance for development and maintenance of allergic disease in the lower airway.
A Framework for Addressing Structural Uncertainty in Decision Models
Authors: Jackson Christopher H. , Bojke Laura , Thompson Simon G. , Claxton Karl , Sharples Linda D.
Published: May 2011

Decision analytic models used for health technology assessment are subject to uncertainties. These uncertainties can be quantified probabilistically, by placing distributions on model parameters and simulating from these to generate estimates of cost-effectiveness. However, many uncertain model choices, often termed structural assumptions, are usually only explored informally by presenting estimates of cost-effectiveness under alternative scenarios. The authors show how 2 recent research proposals represent parts of a framework to formally account for all common structural uncertainties. First, the model is expanded to include parameters that encompass all possible structural choices. Uncertainty can then arise because these parameters are estimated imprecisely from data, for example, a treatment effect of doubtful significance. Uncertainty can also arise if there are no relevant data. If there are relevant data, uncertainty can be addressed by averaging expected costs and effects generated from probabilistic analysis of the models with and without the parameter. The weights used for averaging are related to the predictive ability of each model, assessed against the data. If there are no data, additional parameters can often be informed by eliciting expert beliefs as probability distributions. These ideas are illustrated in decision models for antiplatelet therapies for vascular disease and new biologic drugs for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis.
Fast and loud background music disrupts reading comprehension
Authors: Thompson William Forde , Schellenberg E. Glenn , Letnic Adriana Katharine
Published: May 2011

We examined the effect of background music on reading comprehension. Because the emotional consequences of music listening are affected by changes in tempo and intensity, we manipulated these variables to create four repeated-measures conditions: slow/low, slow/high, fast/low, fast/high. Tempo and intensity manipulations were selected to be psychologically equivalent in magnitude (pilot study 1). In each condition, 25 participants were given four minutes to read a passage, followed by three minutes to answer six multiple-choice questions. Baseline performance was established by having control participants complete the reading task in silence (pilot study 2). A significant tempo by intensity interaction was observed, with comprehension in the fast/high condition falling significantly below baseline. These findings reveal that listening to background instrumental music is most likely to disrupt reading comprehension when the music is fast and loud.
Quantifying the “Degree of Linguistic Demand” in Spoken Intelligence Test Directions
Authors: Cormier Damien C. , McGrew Kevin S. , Evans Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2011

The linguistic demand of spoken instructions on individually administered norm-referenced psychological and educational tests is of concern when examining individuals who have varying levels of language processing ability or varying cultural backgrounds. The authors present a new method for analyzing the level of verbosity, complexity, and total demand of spoken directions for individually administered test batteries. This preliminary methodological investigation suggests it is possible, and relatively easy, to gather useful empirical information regarding the complexity of spoken test directions using existing (readily available) text readability programs. It is suggested that best practice for individually administered psychological and educational tests may benefit from including this information when tests are published and/or compared.
What’s the DIF? Why Differential Item Functioning Analyses Are an Important Part of Instrument Development and Validation
Authors: Walker Cindy M.
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this manuscript was to help researchers better understand the causes and implications of differential item functioning (DIF), as well as the importance of testing for DIF in the process of test development and validation. The underlying theoretical reason for the presence of DIF is explicated, followed by a discussion of how to test for the presence of DIF using logistic regression and DIFPACK, which includes SIBTEST, PSIBTEST and Crossing SIBTEST. This manuscript stresses the importance of conducting DIF analyses using a priori hypotheses whenever possible. However, the example that is provided, to show researchers and practitioners how to conduct a DIF analysis, utilizes an exploratory DIF analyses paradigm which may often be needed in practical DIF applications. This example uses PSIBTEST to test for DIF, using data from an international assessment that includes a mixture of polytomous and dichotomous items. In addition to demonstrating how to test for DIF, this manuscript demonstrates how researchers and practitioners should interpret the results of such an analysis. Finally, implications for both practitioners and researchers are provided.
Coefficient Alpha: A Reliability Coefficient for the 21st Century?
Authors: Yanyun Yang  , Green Samuel B.
Published: May 2011

Coefficient alpha is almost universally applied to assess reliability of scales in psychology. We argue that researchers should consider alternatives to coefficient alpha. Our preference is for structural equation modeling (SEM) estimates of reliability because they are informative and allow for an empirical evaluation of the assumptions underlying them. An example is presented to illustrate the advantages of SEM estimates of reliability.
A glass-reinforced hydroxyapatite and surgical-grade calcium sulfate for bone regeneration: In vivo biological behavior in a sheep model
Authors: Cortez Paulo Pegado , Silva Marta Alves , Santos Marta , Armada-da-Silva Paulo , Afonso Amrico , Lopes Maria A , Santos Jose Domingos , Maurício Ana Colette
Published: May 2011

A glass-reinforced hydroxyapatite (HA) composite (Bonelike®) was developed for bone grafting. This biomaterial is composed of a modified HA matrix with α- and β-tricalcium phosphate secondary phases, resulting in higher solubility than single HA type of materials. Several in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that Bonelike® has a highly bioactive behavior, which was also confirmed by employing granular forms of this biomaterial in orthopedics and dental applications. However, a fast consolidation vehicle was needed to promote the fixation of Bonelike® granules if applied in larger defects or in unstable sites. Surgical-grade calcium sulfate (CS), which is widely recognized as a well-tolerated and inexpensive bone graft material, was the chosen vehicle to improve the handling characteristics of Bonelike® as it can be used in the form of a powder that is mixed with a liquid to form a paste that sets in situ. After application in non-critical monocortical defects in sheep, histological, and scanning electron microscopy evaluations demonstrated that Bonelike® associated to CS functioned as a very satisfactory scaffold for bone regeneration as it achieved synchronization of the ingrowing bone with biomaterial resorption and subsequent preservation of the bone graft initial volume. Therefore, our results indicate that CS is an effective vehicle for Bonelike® granules as it facilitates their application and does not interfere with their proven highly osteoconductive properties. In the opposite way, the incorporation of Bonelike® improves the bone regeneration capabilities of CS.
Interpersonal Violence as Social Construction: The Potentially Undermining Role of Claims Making and Advocacy Statistics
Authors: Perrin Robin D. , Miller-Perrin Cindy L.
Published: May 2011

The relationship between empirical research inquiry and advocacy efforts is complex and seldom addressed in the interpersonal violence literature. In this article, we first examine how social conditions come to be seen as social problems, using a social constructionist perspective. Next, we focus specifically on the problem of interpersonal violence as viewed through a social constructionist lens, highlighting the many ways in which advocacy has influenced public perceptions of interpersonal violence as a social problem. Finally, this article considers some of the consequences that may result from exaggerated or misleading claims, especially when they are made by social scientists who are presumably engaged in an objective discussion of a problem. These consequences include generating skepticism toward the social sciences, feeding a backlash movement, and diverting attention away from the most severe forms of interpersonal violence. Contrary to the goals of many advocates, some of these consequences may be detrimental to the very social problems they hope to alleviate.
Prevalence and Correlates of Elder Mistreatment in South Carolina: The South Carolina Elder Mistreatment Study
Authors: Amstadter Ananda B. , Zajac Kristyn , Strachan Martha , Hernandez Melba A. , Kilpatrick Dean G. , Acierno Ron
Published: May 2011

The purposes of this study were to (a) derive prevalence estimates for elder mistreatment (emotional, physical, sexual, neglectful, and financial mistreatment of older adults [age 60 +]) in a randomly selected sample of South Carolinians; (b) examine correlates (i.e., potential risk factors) of mistreatment; and (c) examine incident characteristics of mistreatment events. Random Digit Dialing (RDD) was used to derive a representative sample in terms of age and gender; computer-assisted telephone interviewing was used to standardize collection of demographic, correlate, and mistreatment data. Prevalence estimates and mistreatment correlates were obtained and subjected to logistic regression. A total of 902 participants provided data. Prevalence for mistreatment types (since age 60) were 12.9% emotional, 2.1% physical, 0.3% sexual, 5.4% potential neglect, and 6.6% financial exploitation by family member. The most consistent correlates of mistreatment across abuse types were low social support and needing assistance with daily living activities. One in 10 participants reported either emotional, physical, sexual, or neglectful mistreatment within the past year, and 2 in 10 reported mistreatment since age 60. Across categories, the most consistent correlate of mistreatment was low social support, representing an area toward which preventive intervention may be directed with significant public health implications.
The Correlation of Childhood Physical Abuse History and Later Abuse in a Group of Turkish Population
Authors: Caykoylu Ali , İbiloglu Aslihan O. , Taner Yasemen , Potas Nihan , Taner Ender
Published: May 2011

Domestic violence is passed from one generation to the next, and it affects not only the victim but also the psychological states of the witnesses, and especially the psychosocial development of children. Studies have reported that those who have been the victim of or witnessing violence during their childhood will use violence to a greater extent as adults in their own families. This research examines the relationships between a history of childhood physical abuse, likelihood of psychiatric diagnoses, and potential for being a perpetrator of childhood physical abuse in adulthood among women who received psychiatric treatment and in the healthy population from Turkey. Estimates of the prevalence of childhood physical abuse vary depending on definition and setting. The frequency of witnessing and undergoing physical abuse within the family during childhood is much higher in the psychiatrically disordered group than the healthy controls. Childhood physical abuse history is one of the major risk factors for being an abuser in adulthood. The best indicator of physically abusing one’s own children was found to be as physical abuse during the childhood period rather than psychiatric diagnosis. There is a large body of research indicating that adults who have been abused as children are more likely to abuse their own children than adults without this history. This is an important study from the point of view that consequences of violence can span generations. Further studies with different risk factor and populations will help to identify different dimensions of the problem.
Is Knowledge Power? The Effects of a Victimology Course on Victim Blaming
Authors: Fox Kathleen A. , Cook Carrie L.
Published: May 2011

The current study examines the impact of a victimology course on students’ perceptions of the blameworthiness of crime victims and knowledge of victimization issues. Victim-blaming attitudes among college students enrolled in a victimology course were compared with students enrolled in other courses. Results from a pretest and posttest suggest that the victimology students were significantly less likely to blame victims and these students also gained significantly more knowledge over time compared with the students who did not enroll in the course. Results from the multivariate analysis indicate that less knowledge over time and a higher propensity to blame victims at the beginning of the semester predicted more victim-blaming attitudes on the posttest. Overall, the findings suggest that knowledge of victimology significantly affects students’ propensity to blame victims of crime.
Unwanted Sex Among Young Adults in the United States
Authors: Haydon Abigail A. , McRee Annie-Laurie , Tucker Halpern Carolyn
Published: May 2011

This study examined associations between unwanted sexual experiences and both physical disability and cognitive performance in a nationally representative sample of young adults. We used data from 11,878 participants (ages 26-32) in Waves I, III, and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). Logistic regressions determined associations between physical disability and level of cognitive performance (using a modified Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test) and the odds of experiencing physically forced and nonphysically coerced sex. Approximately 24% of females and 4% of males reported unwanted sexual experiences. Compared to respondents without disabilities, females with a physical disability had greater odds of experiencing forced sex (OR = 1.49; 95% CI [1.06, 2.08]), whereas males with a physical disability had greater odds of coerced sex (OR = 1.90; 95% CI [1.02, 3.52]). Compared to those with average cognitive performance scores, females with scores above 110 had slightly higher odds of coerced sex (OR = 1.20; 95% CI [1.03-1.41]). Further research on pathways underlying these associations is needed to inform prevention efforts.
Victimization, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptomatology, and Later Nonsuicidal Self-Harm in a Birth Cohort
Authors: Nada-Raja Shyamala , Skegg Keren
Published: May 2011

This longitudinal population-based study examined pathways to nonsuicidal self-harm (NSSH) in relation to childhood sexual abuse (CSA), assault victimization in early adulthood, posttraumatic stress disorder symptomatology (PTSD), and other mental disorders. At age 21, 476 men and 455 women completed interviews on assault victimization, PTSD, and other mental disorders. At age 26, they completed independent interviews on self-harm and childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine predictors for NSSH at age 26. For men, anxiety and depressive disorders at age 21 were the only significant predictors of NSSH at age 26. For women, victimization, PTSD, and other anxiety disorders at age 21 all significantly predicted NSSH. CSA predicted later NSSH only indirectly, by increasing the risk of anxiety disorders among men and of assault victimization among women. In conclusion, pathways to nonsuicidal self-harm differed by sex. For women there were direct links with assault victimization and PTSD in early adulthood, whereas for men only internalizing disorders predicted future NSSH.
Intergenerational Child Abuse and Coping
Authors: Robboy Juliet , Anderson Kristen G.
Published: May 2011

Many studies have investigated the consequences of child sexual abuse (CSA) but few have examined the intergenerational effects of poly- victimization and maladaptive coping. The purpose of this investigation was to examine patterns of maltreatment and maladaptive coping among second-generation CSA survivors. It is hypothesized that: (a) maternal CSA history would be associated with a higher incidence of poly-victimization and maladaptive coping and (b) experiencing more forms of abuse would mediate the relation between maternal CSA history and maladaptive coping behaviors. The method used was a chart review of 139 sexually abused females aged 12 to 17, examining maternal abuse history, maladaptive coping behaviors, and child maltreatment. The results showed that poly-victimization differed as a function of maternal CSA history but maladaptive coping did not. Experiencing more types of abuse was associated with both self-injurious behaviors and substance use. In conclusion, results support the hypothesis that second generation CSA survivors are more likely to experience poly-victimization. Future research should address how intergenerational patterns of abuse might affect presenting symptomatology and treatment outcome.
The Role of Adolescent Physical Abuse in Adult Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Sunday Suzanne , Kline Myriam , Labruna Victor , Pelcovitz David , Salzinger Suzanne , Kaplan Sandra
Published: May 2011

This study’s primary aims were to examine whether a sample of young adults, aged 23 to 31, who had been documented as physically abused by their parent(s) during adolescence would be more likely to aggress, both physically and verbally, against their intimate partners compared with nonabused young adults and whether abuse history was (along with other risk factors) a significant predictor of intimate partner physical and emotional violence perpetration or victimization. In this longitudinal study, 67 abused and 78 nonabused adults (of an original sample of 198 adolescents) completed the Modified Conflict Tactics Scale and the Jealousy and Emotional Control Scales. Nonabused comparison adolescents were matched for age, gender, and community income. As adults, participants with abuse histories had significantly higher rates of intimate partner physical violence and verbal aggression than did comparison participants. Multivariate logistic regressions indicated that adults with histories of physical abuse were more than twice as likely to be physically violent and almost six times more likely to be verbally aggressive to their intimate partners than were comparison participants. Having had an alcohol use disorder, being married to or living with a partner, and perceiving one’s partner as controlling were also significantly associated with physical violence. Jealousy and feeling controlled by one’s partner were also significant predictors of verbal aggression. These findings underscore the importance of preventing adolescent abuse as a means of decreasing the incidence of intimate partner physical violence in adulthood.
Adult Sexual Assault Survivors’ Experiences With Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs)
Authors: Fehler-Cabral Giannina , Campbell Rebecca , Patterson Debra
Published: May 2011

Sexual assault survivors often feel traumatized by the care received in traditional hospital emergency departments. To address these problems, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs were created to provide comprehensive medical care, crisis intervention, and forensic services. However, there is limited research on the actual experiences and emotional impact of sexual assault survivors who seek treatment from SANEs. This qualitative study examined twenty rape survivors’ experiences with forensic nurse examiners of a Midwestern SANE program. Findings suggest that SANEs provided survivors with care and compassion, clear explanations, and choices. Taken together, these positive experiences were perceived as “humanizing”. However, some survivors perceived forensic nurses as hurtful when they were not provided with choices, explanation, and/or acted cold and distant. Implications for future research on SANE care and practice are discussed.
Effects of Childhood Adversity on Bullying and Cruelty to Animals in the United States
Authors: Vaughn Michael G. , Fu Qiang , Beaver Kevin M. , DeLisi Matt , Perron Brian E. , Howard Matthew O.
Published: May 2011

This study examined effects of type of and cumulative burden of childhood adversities on bullying and cruelty to animals in the United States. Data were derived from Waves I and II of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults. Structured psychiatric interviews were completed by trained lay interviewers between 2001-2002 and 2003-2004. Although the effects of childhood adversity diminished with the inclusion of confounding variables, several adversities remained significant. For bullying, these included being made to do chores that were too difficult or dangerous, threatening to hit or throw something, pushing, shoving, slapping, or hitting, and hitting that left bruises, marks, or injuries. With respect to cruelty to animals, swearing and saying hurtful things, having a parent or other adult living within the home that went to jail or prison, and adult/other person fondling/touching in a sexual way were significant. The final models indicated that the cumulative burden of childhood adversities had strong effects on the increased likelihood of bullying behavior but not cruelty to animals.
Self-Regulatory Discourse: Corrective or Quiescent?
Authors: Timothy Coombs W. , Holladay Sherry J.
Published: May 2011

External organizational discourse can have effects on society through the policies it helps to create or the policies it helps to defeat. One type of external discourse that shapes policies is corporate efforts to create self-regulation and to prevent governmental regulation.. This article explores the use of self-regulatory discourse designed to end public interest in an issue, thereby creating quiescence. The key question resulting from this discussion is whether self-regulatory claims benefit business and society, or merely business.
Finding Good Places to Work and Live: Contemporary Contexts and Ways Forward
Authors: McKie David
Published: May 2011

This special issue builds on foundational work to set an enlarged social agenda for external organizational rhetoric. After considering possible limits to the broadening of such rhetoric, it analyzes the redirection of scholarly attention, which is essentially concerned with the good organization’s potential to contribute to the good society. It notes how this has been, out of necessity, accompanied by a territorial extension of contextual, geographical, and temporal frames that expand the approaches of internal rhetoric and mainstream public relations.
Conducting Internet Research With the Transgender Population: Reaching Broad Samples and Collecting Valid Data
Authors: Miner Michael H. , Bockting Walter O. , Romine Rebecca Swinburne , Raman Sivakumaran
Published: May 2011

Health research on transgender people has been hampered by the challenges inherent in studying a hard-to-reach, relatively small, and geographically dispersed population. The Internet has the potential to facilitate access to transgender samples large enough to permit examination of the diversity and syndemic health disparities found among this population. In this article, we describe the experiences of a team of investigators using the Internet to study HIV risk behaviors of transgender people in the United States. We developed an online instrument, recruited participants exclusively via websites frequented by members of the target population, and collected data using online quantitative survey and qualitative synchronous and asynchronous interview methods. Our experiences indicate that the Internet environment presents the investigator with some unique challenges and that commonly expressed criticisms about Internet research (e.g., lack of generalizable samples, invalid study participants, and multiple participation by the same subject) can be overcome with careful method design, usability testing, and pilot testing. The importance of both usability and pilot testing are described with respect to participant engagement and retention and the quality of data obtained online.
Amidst Nanotechnology’s Molecular Landscapes
Authors: Hanson Valerie L.
Published: May 2011

The common scientific metaphor linking microscopic phenomena to new or subvisible worlds in images and text has also been used to describe nanoscale phenomena. However, on closer examination, some images of the nanoscale reveal a shift away from the trope’s association with microscopic worlds and toward participatory, computer-generated worlds. This shift articulates different relations between the nanoscale and the macroscopic scale, relations that also affect how we position ourselves in relation to nanoscale phenomena and so affect the formation of nanotechnology. These different relations also create different ways to understand the nanoscale, scientific communication, and the shaping of scientific knowledge.
Graphical and Computationally Intensive Techniques for Presenting and Disseminating Information About the Genetics of Disease
Authors: Leeming William
Published: May 2011

Exactly how genetic factors contribute to the onset of disease is not fully understood. All the same, information and images pertaining to genetics and disease remain arguably serviceable when they produce agreeable diagnostic, prognostic, and, ultimately, therapeutic results. This article begins with a historical survey of graphical techniques concerning hereditary disease. The article then goes on to show how information gathering and representation broadened steadily to accommodate genetic diagnostic tests. This leads, in a final step, to an examination of the capacity of computational genetics and genomics to generate working models of what causes disease.
Looking Over the Shoulders of Researchers
Authors: Nielsen Kristian H. , Autzen Charlotte
Published: May 2011

The Galathea 3 Expedition from 2006 to 2007 combined research and online news media, allowing journalists literally to “look over the shoulders of researchers.” The authors analyze 781 news articles published online by three media partners of the expedition, all well-established media companies including high-quality newspapers in their portfolio. Less than half of all articles covered research. The articles about research mainly represented researchers as knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and hardworking experts. Taking into consideration public criticism and clashes between journalists and researchers, the authors situate the research-media partnership and their findings in contemporary debates about science and the media.
A Lucky Answer to a Fair Question
Authors: Rughiniş Cosima
Published: May 2011

The article discusses acceptance of evolution and its relevance for measuring scientific literacy. The author analyzes the National Science Foundation knowledge quiz in relation to theoretical, methodological, and moral arguments, proposing a distinction between quiet and animated scientific constructs. When a public learns of evolution as an animated construct, its acceptance is a poor indicator in a reflective model of scientific literacy. Acceptance of evolution may constitute a valuable indicator in reflective models of science knowledge for publics that engage with it disinterestedly, as well as in formative models of scientifically shaped worldviews, and it may also be studied in itself.
Dynamic basic displacement functions for free vibration analysis of tapered beams
Authors: Attarnejad R , Shahba A , Eslaminia M
Published: May 2011

Introducing new functions, namely Basic Displacement Functions (BDFs), free transverse vibration of non-prismatic beams is studied from a mechanical point of view. Following structural/mechanical principles, new dynamic shape functions could be developed in terms of BDFs. The new shape functions appear to be dependent on the circular frequency, configuration of the element and its physical properties such as mass density and modulus of elasticity. Differential transform method, a relatively new efficient semi analytical-numerical tool for solving differential equations, is employed to obtain BDFs via solving the governing differential equation for transverse motion of non-prismatic beams. The method poses no restrictions on either type of cross-section or variation of cross-sectional dimensions along the beam element. Using the present element, free vibration analysis is carried out for five numerical examples including beams with (a) linear mass and inertia, (b) linear mass and fourth order inertia, (c) second order mass and fourth order inertia, (d) tapered beam with non-classical boundary conditions and (e) exponentially varying area and inertia. It is observed that the results are in good agreement with the previously published ones in the literature. Finally convergence of the method is investigated.
Reflection of P and SV waves from a stress-free surface thermoelastic half-space under the influence of a magnetic field and hydrostatic initial stress without energy dissipation
Authors: Abo-Dahab SM
Published: May 2011

The influence of the magnetic field and thermal field on the reflection of P and SV waves under hydrostatic initial stress is investigated. The basic governing equations for isotropic and homogeneous thermoelastic half-space under hydrostatic initial stress and Maxwell's stress are formulated in the context of the Green and Naghdi theory of type III. The governing equations are solved analytically in a two-dimensional xz-plane and then the velocities of reflected waves are obtained. It is shown that there exist three plane waves; P, thermal and SV waves. In addition, the reflection coefficients from stress-free surface for the incidence of P and SV waves are obtained. Finally, the influence of magnetic field and hydrostatic initial stress on the results obtained are computed numerically and displayed graphically.
A proposal for active control of face abrasive tool wandering
Authors: Mukherjee A , Sengupta S
Published: May 2011

In this paper the authors have extended their work on active stabilization of rotors with circulatory force arising from linear viscous dissipation in a frame rotating with the rotor to an active stabilization of the rotor with face grinding or abrasive tool tip for surface processing of brittle materials like inorganic glasses or thin strata or wafers of semiconducting materials for production of optoelectronic or integrated circuit devices. The dynamics and stabilization of such systems turned out much more complex than one that was addressed earlier due to the complex nature of dry friction forces. To analyze the dynamical nature of dry friction forces in rotating frames four vector operators are proposed. The operators provide a rational basis for creation of paradigms and algorithms (gain switching scheme) for stabilization. The efficacy of the proposals is established by simulation studies.
Longitudinal Analysis of Market Factors Associated With Provision of Peritoneal Dialysis Services
Authors: Wang Virginia , Lee Shoou-Yih D. , Patel Uptal D. , Maciejewski Matthew L. , Ricketts Thomas C.
Published: May 2011

Despite the appeal of peritoneal dialysis (PD) among patients, payers, and providers, its use in the United States has been limited and declining. Prior research has found that patient factors explain little variation in PD utilization, and little is known about the contribution of dialysis facility factors. The authors examined market factors associated with the provision of PD services in dialysis facilities between 1995 and 2003. Less than half of dialysis facilities offered PD. PD provision was not explained by disease trends or patient characteristics commonly associated with PD use. Facilities were more likely to offer PD in less competitive and less spatially concentrated markets. PD services may not be available to all patients who would benefit from it and there may be insufficient demand, economics of scale, or incentives for facilities to provide PD. These findings warrant further investigation on dialysis facilities’ provision of a preferred, potentially beneficial, and cost-effective therapy.
Structural Estimates of Treatment Effects on Outcomes Using Retrospective Data
Authors: Gold Heather Taffet , Sorbero Melony E. S. , Griggs Jennifer J. , Do Huong T. , Dick Andrew W.
Published: May 2011

Analysis of observational cohort data is subject to bias from unobservable risk selection. The authors compared econometric models and treatment effectiveness estimates using the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)–Medicare claims data for women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ. Treatment effectiveness estimates for mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery (BCS) with or without radiotherapy were compared using three different models: simultaneous-equations model, discrete-time survival model with unobserved heterogeneity (frailty), and proportional hazards model. Overall trends in disease-free survival (DFS), or time to first subsequent breast event, by treatment are similar regardless of the model, with mastectomy yielding the highest DFS over 8 years of follow-up, followed by BCS with radiotherapy, and then BCS alone. Absolute rates and direction of bias varied substantially by treatment strategy. DFS was underestimated by single-equation and frailty models compared with the simultaneous-equations model and randomized controlled trial results for BCS with radiotherapy and overestimated for BCS alone.
Medicare’s Payment Policy for Hospital-Acquired Conditions
Authors: McHugh Megan , Van Dyke Kevin , Osei-Anto Awo , Haque Ahmed
Published: May 2011

In 2008, Medicare implemented a policy limiting reimbursement to hospitals for treating avoidable hospital-acquired conditions (HACs). Although the policy will expand nationally to Medicaid programs in 2011, little is known about the impact on safety net hospitals. The authors conducted interviews with 60 chief quality officers and 55 chief financial officers from safety net hospitals to explore the impact of Medicare’s HACs policy during its first year. Despite the predicted small financial impact, the authors found that the policy gained the attention of hospital leaders and many governing boards. Although the policy reportedly provided additional motivation to reduce HACs, few hospitals implemented new care practices and instead focused on documenting conditions that are present for patients on admission. The findings also illustrate the need for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide more guidance to the industry when this type of policy is introduced.
Implementing Small Group Health Insurance Reform
Authors: Miller Edward Alan , Trivedi Amal N. , Kuo Sylvia , Mor Vincent
Published: May 2011

This study analyzes administrative impediments to enrollment in HEALTH pact, a high-deductible plan with premiums capped at 10% of the average Rhode Island wage. HEALTH pact includes an opportunity for enrollees to reduce their deductibles from $5,000 ($10,000 for a family) to $750 ($1,500 for a family) if they engage in prespecified wellness behaviors. A stakeholder panel was convened to develop guidelines for insurers, which, in turn, were required to develop products satisfying those guidelines. Implementation was examined using stakeholder interviews and archival documents. Results indicate that since no funds were allocated for education and monitoring, there was little opportunity to promote “bottom up” demand or to oversee insurers. They also indicate that both insurers and brokers adopted strategies that inhibited take-up. Providing the resources necessary for effective government oversight and outreach will be critical to small group market reform nationally. So too will be promoting broker and insurer buy-in.
Paying for Locally Owned Roads: A Crisis in Local Government Highway Finance
Authors: Yusuf Juita-Elena , O'Connell Lenahan , Abutabenjeh Sawsan
Published: May 2011

The past two decades have witnessed substantial changes in the dynamics of state—local relationships for highway funding. We argue that four factors have produced a funding crisis for local governments: an increase in developed land and locally owned roads; a rise in construction and maintenance costs; devolution of highway financing responsibility from the states to localities with a reduction in intergovernmental transfers; and more wear and tear on roads due to increased vehicle miles traveled. Local governments can delay maintenance and build fewer new facilities, but eventually many will seek new sources of revenues to fund their growing responsibilities. We identify several potential financing mechanisms: impact fees and smart growth policies; local option transportation taxes; nontraditional taxes and fees such as transportation utility fees and land taxes; and low-cost debt financing from state infrastructure banks. We discuss challenges faced by local governments in continuing to meet their responsibilities and financing needs.
Plexiglas-Roofed City Highways/Roadways Can Eliminate Snow/Ice/ Rain-Associated Deaths, Deicing Salt-Induced Environmental Damage, and Hypertension-Promoting Salinization of Water
Authors: Kurien Biji T.
Published: May 2011

Snowstorms/ice storms cause (a) road deaths/ injuries/property damage (b) environmental damage from deicing salt/contaminant highway runoff (c) drinking water contamination from deicing salt-runoff, with potential implications for human health (d) lost revenue from road deaths/injuries/damages/salting highways and snow removal (e) productivity/ school attendance loss consequent to nonpassable roadways (f) salt-induced damage to roads/automobiles/wildlife/plants/birds/pets and (g) lack of access to emergency medical care. Stretches of intracity highways and important roads/bridges covered with a “ ” shaped, ventilator-fitted Plexiglas roof will keep roads snow/ice free. Plexiglas roofing would help eliminate the need for salting roads and snow removal. This would help alleviate environmental damage, groundwater contamination, and human health interactions, particularly salt intake and hypertension and other diseases. Roofed-roads would reduce rain-related accidents, help prevent corrosion of roads/bridges due to road-salt/rain/acid rain and water freeze/thaw-related road/bridge damage. Covered local roads and intracity highways would be a boon to commuters in icy/rainy road conditions.
Use of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) for Children With High Functioning Autism or Asperger Syndrome
Authors: Mayes Susan Dickerson , Calhoun Susan L. , Murray Michael J. , Morrow Jill D. , Yurich Kirsten K. L. , Cothren Shiyoko , Purichia Heather , Mahr Fauzia , Bouder James N. , Petersen Christopher
Published: May 2011

The authors of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) state in the manual that the best cutoff score for distinguishing low functioning autism (LFA) from intellectual disability is 30 for children and 28 for adolescents and adults. This study determined that a cutoff score of 25.5 was most accurate in differentiating between high functioning autism or Asperger syndrome (HFA; n = 197) and ADHD ( n = 74) in a sample of 1- to 16-year-olds with IQs of 80 or higher. Classification accuracy was 96% using clinician scores and 72% using parent scores. Children with LFA ( n = 193) had significantly higher clinician and parent scores than children with HFA, and scores were negatively correlated with IQ. None of the typical children ( n = 64) earned parent scores greater than 21.
“Behold the Man!”
Authors: Eschrich Joey
Published: May 2011

Films depicting the life of Jesus of Nazareth appear simple and easily readable, and this understanding of the films as mere dramatic interpretations of the gospels contributes to a lack of attention to issues of social identity. This study addresses the gap in critical inquiry, locating a profound anxiety about gender at the center of these religiously oriented films. Close readings of five mainstream American films reveal that the texts are structured by binary oppositions with other characters that position Jesus as the epitome of a divine masculinity defined against femininity, homosexuality, and hypermasculinity. These binaries are loaded with a discourse of ethnicity that links Jesus’ counterfactual whiteness with notions of masculinity and spiritual goodness. Though the films construct a relatively stable set of prohibitions on Jesus’ masculinity, they leave his gendered persona murky and undefined, providing little guidance about what ideal, transcendent masculinity can or should be.
Beyond the caveman: Rethinking masculinity in relation to men’s help-seeking
Authors: Farrimond Hannah
Published: May 2011

Statistically, men make less use of health-care services than women. This has been interpreted as the result of the ‘hegemonic’ masculine code in which ‘real’ men are understood to be physically fit, uninterested in their health and self-reliant. However, less attention has been paid to understanding how hegemonic masculinity intersects with the wider western socio-cultural contexts of men’s help-seeking, particularly the valorization of health as a form of social achievement. This article presents the results of interviews with 14 higher socio-economic status (SES) men to uncover their ‘interpretive repertoires’ in relation to health and illness, help-seeking and masculinity. Although many interviewees drew on the stereotype of the ‘Neanderthal Man’ who avoids the doctors to explain help-seeking by men ‘in general’, they constructed their own experiences of help-seeking in terms of being responsible, problem-solving and in control. It is argued that the framing of help-seeking in terms of ‘taking action’ chimes with an increasingly pro-active ‘expert patient’ approach within western health-care. This conceptual reconstruction of the dominant masculine code in relation to help-seeking, from ‘Neanderthal Man’ to ‘Action Man’, may lead to greater gender equality in terms of accessing health-care. However, it has the potential to exacerbate social inequalities between men from different SES groups.
‘I can’t get my husband to go and have a colonoscopy’: Gender and screening for colorectal cancer
Authors: Thompson Lee , Reeder Tony , Abel Gillian
Published: May 2011

It is anticipated that a colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programme will be introduced in New Zealand making it the first screening programme in this country to include both males and females. In-depth interviews were carried out with 80 participants (53 females and 27 males) about their knowledge and attitudes to screening programmes in general, as well as their understanding and perceptions of CRC screening in particular. The study highlighted the perceived marginalization of men’s health with a sense that women had advocated for, and therefore monopolized, screening while men’s health had been left unattended. There were also perceptions of women’s responsibility for ensuring men’s access to health services. There are arguments that such perceptions disempower or ‘infantalize’ men which have no long term benefits. While health is perceived as being a feminine matter, it may be difficult to encourage men to engage in preventative behaviours, such as taking up the offer of screening. This article also highlights the heterogeneity of men, where different performances of masculinities were presented. A stereotypical ‘staunch’ or ‘macho image’ discourse was evident in some of the interviews where much emphasis was on maintaining and controlling bodily boundaries. Letting the barrier of embodied ‘staunchness’ down to access health services is a threat to identity. What is required for successful implementation of the CRC screening programme is a normalization of men’s health help-seeking, taking into account the fact that men are not homogenous. Studies in relation to men’s health need to attend to cultural diversity which is likely to present a challenge to individualism. Critical studies of men would be enhanced by more engagement with the work of black male scholars.