bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image-derived input function estimation on a TOF-enabled PET/MR for cerebral blood flow mapping
Authors: Khalighi Mohammad Mehdi , Deller Timothy W , Fan Audrey Peiwen , Gulaka Praveen K , Shen Bin , Singh Prachi , Park Jun-Hyung , Chin Frederick T , Zaharchuk Greg
Published: February 2017

15O-H2O PET imaging is an accurate method to measure cerebral blood flow (CBF) but it requires an arterial input function (AIF). Historically, image-derived AIF estimation suffers from low temporal resolution, spill-in, and spill-over problems. Here, we optimized tracer dose on a time-of-flight PET/MR according to the acquisition-specific noise-equivalent count rate curve. An optimized dose of 850 MBq of 15O-H2O was determined, which allowed sufficient counts to reconstruct a short time-frame PET angiogram (PETA) during the arterial phase. This PETA enabled the measurement of the extent of spill-over, while an MR angiogram was used to measure the true arterial volume for AIF estimation. A segment of the high cervical arteries outside the brain was chosen, where the measured spill-in effects were minimal. CBF studies were performed twice with separate [15O]-H2O injections in 10 healthy subjects, yielding values of 88 ± 16, 44 ± 9, and 58 ± 11 mL/min/100 g for gray matter, white matter, and whole brain, with intra-subject CBF differences of 5.0 ± 4.0%, 4.1 ± 3.3%, and 4.5 ± 3.7%, respectively. A third CBF measurement after the administration of 1 g of acetazolamide showed 35 ± 23%, 29 ± 20%, and 33 ± 22% increase in gray matter, white matter, and whole brain, respectively. Based on these findings, the proposed noninvasive AIF method provides robust CBF measurement with 15O-H2O PET.
For Your Local Eyes Only: Culture-Specific Face Typicality Influences Perceptions of Trustworthiness
Authors: Sofer Carmel , Dotsch Ron , Oikawa Masanori , Oikawa Haruka , Wigboldus Daniel H. J. , Todorov Alexander
Published: February 2017

Recent findings show that typical faces are judged as more trustworthy than atypical faces. However, it is not clear whether employment of typicality cues in trustworthiness judgment happens across cultures and if these cues are culture specific. In two studies, conducted in Japan and Israel, participants judged trustworthiness and attractiveness of faces. In Study 1, faces varied along a cross-cultural dimension ranging from a Japanese to an Israeli typical face. Own-culture typical faces were perceived as more trustworthy than other-culture typical faces, suggesting that people in both cultures employ typicality cues when judging trustworthiness, but that the cues, indicative of typicality, are culture dependent. Because perceivers may be less familiar with other-culture typicality cues, Study 2 tested the extent to which they rely on available facial information other than typicality, when judging other-culture faces. In Study 2, Japanese and Israeli faces varied from either Japanese or Israeli attractive to unattractive with the respective typical face at the midpoint. For own-culture faces, trustworthiness judgments peaked around own-culture typical face. However, when judging other-culture faces, both cultures also employed attractiveness cues, but this effect was more apparent for Japanese participants. Our findings highlight the importance of culture when considering the effect of typicality on trustworthiness judgments.
Usability of a video modeling computer application for the vocational training of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Rosen Rotem , Weiss Patrice L , Zancanaro Massimo , Gal Eynat
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Young adults with autism spectrum disorders often face substantial difficulty finding and retaining paid employment. This study aimed at evaluating the usability of Ready, Set, Work!, a video modeling application for use by adolescents with and without autism spectrum disorders, for participation in the vocational world, and to test whether it can discriminate between these two groups in terms of their response to simulated social dilemmas within vocational contexts.

Method

Twenty adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and 20 typically developing adolescents, aged 16–21 years, were trained to use the application, followed by completion of two usability tools: the Intrinsic Motivation Scale and a relevance questionnaire.

Result

Both groups found the application to be useful and relevant as a job readiness tool. The autism spectrum disorders group had significantly greater difficulty in identifying adaptive and maladaptive responses ( Z = −2.74, p ≤ 0.05) and found the application to be more relevant compared to the control group ( Z = −1.69, p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Ready, Set, Work! appears to have good usability and social validity, suggesting the potential of this computerized video modeling tool to provide support for the acquisition and improvement of social vocational skills in adolescents in general and specifically in those with autism spectrum disorders.
Using customer relationship management systems at university libraries
Authors: Fouad Nehal , Al-Goblan Najah
Published: February 2017

Today, libraries stand in a difficult position that requires exerting efforts to prove their competitive abilities for attracting and satisfying their customers in a virtual environment that has various sources of information. This requires libraries to pay great attention to promoting customer relationship management with their customers for their knowledge development goal plans and strategies to achieve success amidst the current competitive circumstances. The current study aims at surveying the potential implementation of customer relationship management systems in university libraries. This happens through the introduction of the customer relationship management concept to university libraries, the implementation mechanisms of these systems, and the level of the libraries’ tendency to adopt them. In addition, the current study surveys the obstacles that confront customer relationship management systems usage in university libraries in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
‘We have to make an effort with it’
Authors: Cushing Amber L. , Dumbleton Odile
Published: February 2017

Fifteen doctoral students enrolled in a variety of humanities and social science programmes from a single metropolitan university in Ireland discussed their practices and habits associated with personal information management via three focus groups, in order to explore personal information management skills at different stages of the doctoral programme. Findings suggest that personal information management needs of doctoral students managing dissertation/thesis information can be categorised as three distinct stages: beginning, middle and end of the doctoral programme. In developing services to meet the needs of this population, information professionals may find it useful to classify such services via these three stages.
The Viability of Cooperatives: The Fall of the Mondragon Cooperative Fagor
Authors: Errasti Anjel , Bretos Ignacio , Nunez Aitziber
Published: February 2017

This article presents a case study of the rise and fall of the Mondragon cooperative Fagor Electrodomésticos (1959-2013). Fagor, after playing a key role in the creation of the Mondragon cooperative experience, had been transformed into a multinational corporation competing in the global home appliance market. Given Fagor’s role as a leading cooperative, the general question of the viability of workers’ cooperatives is also at stake in its failure.
Organizational Characteristics Associated With the Predicted Sustainability of Villages
Authors: Scharlach Andrew E. , Lehning Amanda J. , Davitt Joan K. , Greenfield Emily A. , Graham Carrie L.
Published: February 2017

Guided by resource dependence theory, this mixed-methods study examined organizational characteristics contributing to the perceived sustainability of Villages, a rapidly proliferating grassroots approach for promoting social participation and service access for community-dwelling older adults. Surveys conducted with leaders of 86% of Villages in the United States in 2012 found that higher predicted confidence in their Village’s 10-year survival was associated with greater financial reserves, human resources, number of Village members, formal policies and procedures, and formal collaboration agreements. Respondents’ explanations of their confidence ratings revealed additional themes of organizational leadership and perceived community need. Member resource inputs were not found to be as salient for Village leaders’ perceptions of sustainability as was anticipated given the Village model’s emphasis on consumer involvement. Despite the lack of longitudinal prospective data, study findings suggest potential limitations of consumer-driven organizational models such as Villages, including the need for a more stable resource base.
Halogen-free flame-retardant rigid polyurethane foam with a nitrogen–phosphorus flame retardant
Authors: Zhao Qianqiong , Chen Congyan , Fan Ruilan , Yuan Yong , Xing Yalin , Ma Xiao
Published: February 2017

A halogen-free flame retardant containing nitrogen and phosphorus, 2-[anilino-(6-oxobenzo[c][2,1]benzoxaphosphinin-6-yl)methyl]phenol (PDOP), has been synthesized by reaction of benzo[c][2,1]benzoxaphosphinine-6-oxide (DOPO) with 2-( N-phenyliminomethyl)phenol. Halogen-free flame-retardant rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF-PDOP) were prepared using PDOP as a flame retardant. The flammability was investigated using limiting oxygen index, a vertical burning test (UL-94), and a cone calorimeter. When PDOP (10 wt%) as flame retardant was added to RPUF (RPUF-PDOP10%), the limiting oxygen index value was increased from 18% to 27%, and a UL-94 V-0 rating was achieved; meanwhile, the peak heat release rate, total heat release, and the average mass-loss rates of RPUF-PDOP10% were reduced from 246 to 207 kW m−2, from 26.9 to 21.0 MJ/m2, and from 0.043 to 0.033 g/s, respectively. Especially, the initial decomposition temperature of RPUF-PDOP10% was decreased from 228°C to 209°C. The final residual char from decomposition of RPUF-PDOP10% was significantly increased up to 35.6%. The addition of PDOP did not markedly decrease the mechanical properties of the resulting flame-retardant RPUFs.
Gender Norms and Beliefs, and Men’s Violence Against Women in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Fattah Kazi Nazrul , Camellia Suborna
Published: February 2017

Prevention of violence against women requires understanding men’s controlling attitudes and behaviors toward women. In Bangladesh, while the incidence of men’s violence against women is alarmingly increasing, existing research to understand the determinants of men’s violent behavior resulted in contradictory findings. The current study explores rural Bangladeshi men’s support for gender norms, beliefs, and attitudes concerning violence against women, and looks at how these are influenced by men’s age, marital status, education, and affiliation with organizations that promote gender equality. The study also attempts to understand men’s bystander attitudes and responses to incidents of violence against women. Using the theoretical framework of hegemonic masculinity, the study was conducted among a sample of 1,200 men and women. Results indicate that in the study areas, young, unmarried men are less supportive to gender norms, beliefs, and attitudes that promote violence against women. Positive association was observed with men’s educational attainment and affiliation with nongovernmental organization (NGO) interventions. Regardless of age, marital status, or education, men’s bystander response toward intervening to prevent violence against women was found to be low. Women showed similar level of support for inequitable gender norms, beliefs, and attitudes. Analysis of the findings using a hegemonic masculinity lens reveals more complicated dynamics of power and hegemonic control at work that perpetuate men’s violence against women. Based on the findings, the study also identifies possible strategies for violence prevention interventions in Bangladesh.
Limits of Attraction
Authors: Kølvraa Christoffer
Published: February 2017

This article is part of the special section titled Recursive Easts, Shifting Peripheries, guest edited by Pamela Ballinger.

The European Neighborhood Policy (ENP), launched in 2002–2003, was presented as the EU’s way of responding to the Eastern neighbours’ desires for closer ties to the Union. The policy ignored, however, that if such desires did exist they were aimed at full EU membership, rather than at mere neighbourliness. Indeed, the EU’s insistence that the ENP entailed neither a promise of, nor a definite ruling out of, membership, meant that the policy caught the eastern neighbours in a continuous state of ambivalent liminality. This article argues that this ambiguity at the heart of the policy is linked to the rather self-congratulatory idea of EUrope as “the club everybody wants to join,” and thus to a distinction between those who were European (the EU) and those who were inscribed with a desire for becoming European (the neighbours). The neighbours were defined not by their own position but by their desire for the privileged position of the articulating (EUropean) subject. The ENP’s function of arresting the neighbours in a liminal position might as such be understood as a way of continually reproducing and displaying their desire for Europe, a desire which could then be imitated also in the disenchanted populations of the EU itself.
Whatever Happened to Eastern Europe?
Authors: Ballinger Pamela
Published: February 2017

This article is part of the special section titled Recursive Easts, Shifting Peripheries, guest edited by Pamela Ballinger.

This article examines the critical purchase of the notion of Eastern Europe. Although scholarship exploring various easternisms flourished in the two decades following the Cold War’s end, for some observers this framework appears increasingly irrelevant for understanding contemporary Europe. The symbolic and political boundary processes marking out East and West within Europe, however, possess both deep histories and durable afterlives, as recent events (from the financial crisis to the Mediterranean refugee crisis) demonstrate. In refocusing our gaze on the (re)constructions of the East in European politics, this article does not advocate a mere reiteration of earlier perspectives on Orientalism (or Balkanism). Rather, the discussion points the way towards productive dialogue between bodies of literature on regionally specific variants of easternism while simultaneously introducing new concepts (such as the tidemark) into the debates. Furthermore, the essay makes the case for the continued salience of the periphery concept, which retains significance as a local category of meaning and practice in many European contexts. “Periphery” thus offers a particularly powerful lens through which to consider the recombinations and intersections of old distinctions—North versus South, East versus West—transforming the spatial, political, and cultural landscapes of contemporary Europe.
The Participation of CEECs in EU Twinning Projects: Offering Specific Added Value for EU Transgovernmental Cooperation in the Eastern Neighbourhood?
Authors: Bossuyt Fabienne , Panchuk Dmytro
Published: February 2017

Focusing on European Union (EU) Twinning projects in Azerbaijan and Ukraine, this article explores whether EU member states from Central and Eastern Europe (CEECs) offer specific added value for the implementation of EU Twinning projects in the Eastern neighbourhood compared to the older member states. An added value refers to the combined comparative advantages of a group of member states for the implementation of a Twinning project, as perceived by project stakeholders. The findings largely confirm our hypothesis that CEECs mostly offer country-specific comparative advantages, rooted in their recent transition and accession experience, socio-linguistic proximity, and shared historical legacies with the Eastern neighbourhood. In turn, the older member states are perceived to offer mainly sector-specific comparative advantages owing to their institutional experience, sectoral fit, existing sectoral networks in the Eastern neighbourhood, and prior Twinning experience in other countries.
Establishing Content Validity of the Quality Indicators for Classrooms Serving Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders Instrument
Authors: Pearl Cynthia E. , Vasquez Eleazar , Marino Matthew T. , Wienke Wilfred , Donehower Claire , Gourwitz Jillian , Rosenberg Michael S. , Duerr Sunny R.
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to provide content validation for quality indicators included in an observation instrument developed to evaluate classrooms serving students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A panel of 103 subject-matter experts consisting of a mixture of field personnel ( n = 64; 59 classroom teachers, five school administrators) and university faculty ( n = 39) provided feedback regarding construct validity. Results were analyzed using two approaches: a simple aggregation of responses in the form of averages, with an a priori threshold for the determination of what will be considered acceptable, and Lawshe’s Content Validity Ratio methodology. All items in the instrument were deemed to have demonstrated content validity as did the overall instrument. Based on the data from this study, the Quality Indicators for Classrooms Serving Students With ASD (QIASD) instrument can be considered to have demonstrated content validity.
Foaming behavior of microcellular poly(lactic acid)/TPU composites in supercritical CO2
Authors: Xu Daifang , Yu Kejing , Qian Kun , Park Chul B
Published: February 2017

This article presents the effects of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) on the crystallization and melt strength of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and on the enhancement of cell nucleation and expansion ratio to manufacture microcellular thermoplastic PLA foams in supercritical carbon dioxide. Addition of TPU increased the crystallinity and decreased the crystallite size as observed by differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscope. The formed crystal domains worked as cross-linking points to increase the melt strength of a polymer that potentially affected the cell growth. Scanning electron microscope confirmed the immiscibility between PLA and TPU, and TPU was dispersed as islands in the PLA matrix. This phase morphology further influenced the cell structure of the PLA/TPU foams. TPU acted as a nucleating agent to enhance heterogeneous cell nucleation that is caused by the decrease in free energy barrier. Tensile stress that generated around the TPU and in some local regions surrounding the crystals and crystallization was dominant to induce cell nucleation.
Legitimizing ethno-sectarian conflicts for power: Construction of victimhood and disenfranchisement in Iraqi media interactions
Authors: Al-Tahmazi Thulfiqar HM
Published: February 2017

The article examines micro-argumentative patterns in 12 debate-like political interactions to account for the discursive construction of victimhood and disenfranchisements used to legitimize ethno-sectarian conflicts for power in Iraqi media interactions across traditional and new media. The analysis found that the interlocutors employed a limited number of argumentative patterns to voice their (dis)agreement and legitimize their viewpoints; these argumentative patterns were either action-oriented or actor-oriented. Action-oriented (de)legitimizing patterns tended to be short-ranged in nature, focusing on the efficiency of the actions (de)legitimized. Alternatively, actor-oriented argumentative patterns were used to legitimize the long-rooted ideological biases about self and others and, therefore, seemed to have a panoramic focus on the ethno-sectarian conflicts for power in the country. The analysis showed that even the interactions that focused on discussing the efficiency of specific political actions and agendas tended to evolve into ideological debates about ethno-sectarian identities and communally biased interpretations of the political scene. This kind of identity politics seems to be motivated by, and to concurrently enhance, the sentiments of disenfranchisement and victimhood, which may further deepen inter-communal rifts in the country.
Development of primary central nervous system lymphoma in a systemic lupus erythematosus patient after treatment with mycophenolate mofetil and review of the literature
Authors: Balci M A , Pamuk G E , Unlu E , Usta U , Pamuk O N
Published: February 2017

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare form of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma and four cases of PCNSL have previously been described in association with mycophenolate mofetil. We report the fifth case of PCNSL in a patient with lupus nephropathy while on mycophenolate mofetil treatment.
Does the State Bank Widen the Gap Between International and Domestic Gold Prices? Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Tran Tho Ngoc , Le Chi Dat , Hoang Thao Thi Phuong
Published: February 2017

Vietnam is amongst the 24 countries with the highest demand for gold according to the World Gold Council. Over the last few years, the Vietnam gold market has been characterized by a unique feature which is a gap between international and domestic gold prices. Empirical research on the gap provides invaluable insight into the impact of state regulations on Vietnam gold market. The results show that interventions from the State Bank of Vietnam (the SBV) impose unnecessary instabilities in the gold market and widen the gap. The outcomes contribute to literature about impacts of state regulations on gold market and provide policy implications as well.
Financial Development and Estimation of Import Demand Function in Pakistan: Evidence from Combined Cointegration and Causality Tests
Authors: Ahad Muhammad , Afza Talat , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: February 2017

This article explores the relationship between financial development and imports focusing on economic growth and import prices as potential contributors to this relationship. We have applied combined cointegration and causality tests using multivariate model for long-run and augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) as well as Phillips–Perron (PP) unit root to test the order of integration of the variables. The empirical evidence confirms the presence of a long-run relationship among the series. Financial development increases imports demand. Economic growth and imports prices decrease imports consumption. Imports are negatively affected by relative prices.
Effect of eWOM Valence on Online Retail Sales
Authors: Roy Gobinda , Datta Biplab , Basu Rituparna
Published: February 2017

Online retail sector in India has witnessed a phenomenal growth in recent times. Online shopping has also become a popular trend among the younger generation in India. Increasing number of shoppers visit online retailer websites and read online reviews before making their purchase decision. The online reviews or electronic word of mouth (eWOM) becomes an important guiding tool for the online shoppers with its intrinsic product information and evaluation characteristics. The present study aims to analyze the effects of various eWOM antecedents on online sales by considering the effects of positive and mixed-neutral eWOM (MNWOM) valence (stimuli) on sales. It also explores the role of market-level eWOM factors, such as price, on online sales of security products like antivirus software. The confirmatory bias of these factors was noted, while the elaboration likelihood model (ELL) has been used to understand the relative importance of these factors in influencing customers’ purchase decision and sales. Further, a content analysis method supplemented by a multiple regression method was used to analyze 205 real-time online sales (reviews from verified purchasers) data pertaining to popular and top-selling antivirus products taken from two leading e-commerce websites. The study contributes as a pioneering effort in the domain with the use of innovative methodology of capturing real-time online data with a subsequent kappa statistics validation. The results showed a new insightful perspective of eWOM valence and price on sales, and provided further research directions.
Closed-form solutions for forced vibrations of piezoelectric energy harvesters by means of Green’s functions
Authors: Zhao X , Yang EC , Li YH , Crossley W
Published: February 2017

In this article, the closed-form solutions are obtained for the forced vibrations of cantilevered unimorph piezoelectric energy harvesters. A tip mass is attached at the free end, and the moment of its inertia to the fixed end is considered. Timoshenko beam assumptions are used to establish a coupled electromechanical model for the harvester. Two damping effects, transverse and rotational damping effects, are taken into account. Green’s function method and Laplace transform technique are used to solve the coupled electromechanical vibration system. The conventional case of a harmonic base excitation is considered, and numerical calculations are performed. The present model is validated by comparing its predictions with the existing data, the experimental results, and the finite element method solutions. The influences of shear deformation and rotational inertia on the predictions are discussed. The effect of load resistance on the electrical power is studied, and the optimal load resistances are obtained. Ultimately, the optimal schemes are proposed to improve electricity generation performance for the soft piezoelectric materials: PZT-5A/5H.
Employing the coupled stress components and surface elasticity for nonlocal solution of wave propagation of a functionally graded piezoelectric Love nanorod model
Authors: Arefi Mohammad , Zenkour Ashraf M
Published: February 2017

The higher-order stress components and surface effect are considered in this article for presentation of a nonlocal solution for a functionally graded piezoelectric nanorod. Love rod model is used for longitudinal wave propagation. The mentioned analysis is used to evaluate the governing differential equations of the system and characteristics of wave propagation in assumed nanorod. The model is excited by a two-dimensional electric potential and an initial applied voltage at top layer of rod. The mechanical and electrical properties are assumed variable along the thickness direction of rod. Hamilton’s principle is used to arrive to governing differential equations of the electromechanical system. The effect of some important parameters such as applied voltage and gradation of material properties is studied on the wave characteristics of the rod. Furthermore, the effect of different distributions of electric potential on the phase velocity of the nanorod is evaluated.
The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Environmental Health and Fertility Decision-Making
Authors: Sweeney Ellen
Published: February 2017

There is increasing evidence that raises specific concerns about prenatal exposures to toxic substances which makes it necessary to consider everyday exposures to industrial chemicals and toxic substances in consumer products, including endocrine disrupting chemicals. Pregnant women have measurable levels of numerous toxic substances from exposures in their everyday environments, including those which are associated with adverse developmental and reproductive health outcomes. As a result, environmental contexts have begun to influence the decisions women make related to fertility, as well as the formal guidelines and advice provided by healthcare professionals. This article provides an overview of the potential role for obstetricians and gynecologists in educating their patients about the role of toxic substances in fertility decision-making and pregnancy. It explores the emerging guidelines and recommendations from professional organizations and problematizes the limitations of these approaches.
Undiagnosed and Uncontrolled Chronic Conditions in China: Could Social Health Insurance Consolidation Make a Change?
Authors: Feng Xing Lin
Published: February 2017

Policy makers in China are considering consolidating the country’s fragmented health insurance programs. This system consists of three components. The Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI) covers formal employees, the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS) covers rural residents, and the Urban Resident Basic Medical Insurance (URBMI) covers urban residents. Consolidation could, in theory, create a more efficient health system that is better able to address noncommunicable diseases. Using national survey data during 2011 to 2013, I found that 44% to 76% cases of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia went undiagnosed among Chinese adults aged 45 and older. I found that the UEBMI enrollees had a greater number of health checks and 10% higher rates of diagnosis. Assuming that this level of efficiency would be possible under an integrated system, I conducted microsimulation analyses to project future benefits. Such consolidation could result in 46.2 million new diagnoses, and 30.0 million of these cases would be controlled.
Effects of the ABC Intervention on Foster Children’s Receptive Vocabulary: Follow-Up Results From a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Bernard Kristin , Lee Amy Hyoeun , Dozier Mary
Published: February 2017

Children with histories of maltreatment and disruptions in care are at elevated risk for impairments in early language development, which contribute to difficulties in other developmental domains across childhood. Given research demonstrating associations between parent responsiveness and children’s early language development, we examined whether a parenting intervention administered in infancy improved preschool receptive language skills in children involved with the child welfare system. Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC) is a 10-session intervention that aims to enhance parent–child interactions. The follow-up results of this randomized clinical trial demonstrated that infants who received the ABC intervention ( n = 24) scored significantly higher on a test of receptive vocabulary at age 36 months than infants who received a control intervention ( n = 28). These results provide evidence of the critical role of parental responsiveness in supporting optimal language development among young children with histories of child welfare involvement.
Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD in the United States: Update by Gender and Race
Authors: Fairman Kathleen A. , Peckham Alyssa M. , Sclar David A.
Published: February 2017

Objective: The aim of this article is to update ADHD diagnosis/treatment trends by age, gender, and race. Method: National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data were obtained for 2008-2009 to 2012-2013. Physician office visits including ADHD diagnosis and pharmacotherapy were measured per 1,000 population and per 1,000 office visits overall, and by demographic group. Logistic regression models controlled for demographics, psychiatric comorbidities, insurance type, and time period. Interactions of time, demographics, comorbidities, and insurance type were tested. Results: Diagnoses of ADHD increased by 36% in adults and 18% in youth, and diagnosis + drug by 29% in female and 10% in male youths. ADHD diagnosis was 77% less likely among Black than White adults but 24% more likely among Black than White youths in 2012-2013. Conduct disorder (CD) in youths multiplied odds of diagnosis + drug by 3.31; interaction of Black race × CD by 3.78. Conclusion: Upward trends in ADHD diagnosis and treatment have continued but vary markedly by group. Studies of undertreatment/overtreatment are needed.
Psychometric Properties and Factor Structure of the Short Form of the Affective Lability Scale in Adult Patients With ADHD
Authors: Weibel Sébastien , Micoulaud-Franchi Jean-Arthur , Brandejsky Laura , Lopez Régis , Prada Paco , Nicastro Rosetta , Ardu Stefano , Dayer Alexandre , Lançon Christophe , Perroud Nader
Published: February 2017

Objective: Affective lability is an important dimension of adult ADHD, associated with marked impairments and worse outcomes. A valid and quick tool to measure affective lability may therefore be of interest. Method: In 187 adult ADHD patients, we explored psychometric properties of the Affective Lability Scale–Short Form (ALS-18 items). We analyzed the construct validity and the external validity of the scale. Patients were compared with 48 healthy adult controls. Results: The three-factor structure of the ALS-18 presented a good fit and a good internal consistency. The correlations between the ALS-18 and ADHD symptoms and other psychological dimensions were, respectively, low and moderate. ALS-18 scores were higher in patients than in healthy adults. Conclusion: ALS-18 showed good psychometric properties in ADHD adult patients, allowing us to recommend the implementation of ALS-18 in assessing affective lability for clinical and research purposes. Use of ALS-18 should improve the clinical assessment of affective lability in adult ADHD patients.
Is Paternal Smoking at Conception a Risk for ADHD? A Controlled Study in Youth With and Without ADHD
Authors: Biederman Joseph , Fitzgerald Maura , Spencer Thomas J. , Bhide Pradeep G. , McCarthy Deirdre M. , Woodworth K. Yvonne , Saunders Alexandra , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: February 2017

Objective: Based on emerging preclinical findings suggesting that paternal smoking at conception may be a risk for ADHD in the offspring, we investigated whether a similar effect can be observed in humans. Method: We analyzed data from an opportunistic dataset of girl probands with ( N = 140) and without ( N = 122) ADHD with available information on paternal smoking at conception. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression. Results: ADHD probands had a significantly higher rate of paternal smoking at conception than controls (35% vs. 23%, χ2 = 3.82, p = .05) with a significant odds ratio of 1.5. However, the association lost significance after controlling for paternal ADHD, most likely due to limited statistical power. Conclusion: While preliminary, findings suggest that paternal smoking at conception may be a risk factor for ADHD in the offspring.
Using Theory Elaboration to Make Theoretical Advancements
Authors: Fisher Greg , Aguinis Herman
Published: February 2017

We describe an actionable research approach for addressing current challenges to theoretical advancement labeled theory elaboration. Theory elaboration is the process of conceptualizing and executing empirical research using preexisting conceptual ideas or a preliminary model as a basis for developing new theoretical insights by contrasting, specifying, or structuring theoretical constructs and relations to account for and explain empirical observations. We identify and describe seven specific tactics for conducting a theory elaboration study: horizontal contrasting, vertical contrasting, new construct specification, construct splitting, structuring specific relations, structuring sequence relations, and structuring recursive relations. We also link each tactic with different types of theory advancements. In addition, we provide a sequential decision-making process for deciding whether to adopt a theory elaboration approach given a particular research domain and context. Finally, we identify research domains and specific topics in organizational behavior, human resource management, strategic management, and entrepreneurship for which theory elaboration is likely to be most effective as a means to make theoretical advancements.
Feline glioma: a retrospective study and review of the literature
Authors: Rissi Daniel R , Miller Andrew D
Published: February 2017

Case series summary

This study aimed to evaluate the pathologic and diagnostic features of 13 cases of feline glioma diagnosed at two veterinary diagnostic institutions over 16 years. A retrospective search was conducted using the laboratory information system. Selected cases were reviewed, tumors were classified according to the 2007 World Health Organization Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, and tissue sections were submitted to an immunohistochemistry panel for further characterization. Affected cats were adults (average age 8 years), and male neutered (9/13) domestic shorthair cats (12/13) were over-represented. Clinical signs had acute onset and were progressive, lasting from 1–60 days (average course 20.7 days). Euthanasia was elected in all but one case, owing to a poor prognosis or because of a suspicion of rabies. Tumors occurred in the telencephalon (8/13), spinal cord (3/13) and brainstem (2/13). Gross changes in seven cases consisted of well- or poorly demarcated, gray-to-brown, soft, gelatinous masses that often caused secondary changes to the brain. The final diagnosis and classification were made based on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Diagnoses consisted of oligodendroglioma (six cases), anaplastic astrocytoma (two cases), oligoastrocytoma, anaplastic ependymoma, gliomatosis cerebri, glioblastoma and anaplastic oligodendroglioma (one case each).

Relevance and novel information

This article confirms the need for a full neurologic and neuropathologic examination in cats with clinical neurologic disease. In addition, it highlights and proposes a complete routine immunohistochemical panel for diagnostic confirmation and differentiation between glioma and other morphologically similar central nervous system neoplasms in cats.
Age Related Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score: Disability ranked by age
Authors: Manouchehrinia Ali , Westerlind Helga , Kingwell Elaine , Zhu Feng , Carruthers Robert , Ramanujam Ryan , Ban Maria , Glaser Anna , Sawcer Stephen , Tremlett Helen , Hillert Jan
Published: February 2017

Background:

The Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) is obtained by normalising the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score for disease duration and has been a valuable tool in cross-sectional studies.

Objective:

To assess whether use of age rather than the inherently ambiguous disease duration was a feasible approach.

Method:

We pooled disability data from three population-based cohorts and developed an Age Related Multiple Sclerosis Severity (ARMSS) score by ranking EDSS scores based on the patient’s age at the time of assessment. We established the power to detect a difference between groups afforded by the ARMSS score and assessed its relative consistency over time.

Results:

The study population included 26058 patients from Sweden ( n = 11846), Canada ( n = 6179) and the United Kingdom ( n = 8033). There was a moderate correlation between EDSS and disease duration ( r = 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.45–0.47) and between EDSS and age ( r = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.43–0.45). The ARMSS scores showed comparable power to detect disability differences between groups to the updated and original MSSS.

Conclusion:

Since age is typically unbiased and readily obtained, and the ARMSS and MSSS were comparable, the ARMSS may provide a more versatile tool and could minimise study biases and loss of statistical power caused by inaccurate or missing onset dates.
Oral contraceptives and MS disease activity in a contemporary real-world cohort
Authors: Bove Riley , Rankin Kelsey , Chua Alicia S , Saraceno Taylor , Sattarnezhad Neda , Greeke Emily , Stuart Fiona , LaRussa Allison , Glanz Bonnie I , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: February 2017

Background:

There is uncertainty regarding the effect of oral hormonal contraceptives (OC) on multiple sclerosis (MS) course.

Objective:

To evaluate the hypothesis that OC use is associated with decreased risk of relapses in an observational study of women of childbearing age with new-onset MS starting a first-line injectable disease-modifying therapy (DMT).

Methods:

From our CLIMB longitudinal observational study, we identified 162 women with MS or CIS with known OC use who initiated injectable DMT within two years of symptom onset, and categorized OC use at DMT onset as past, ever or never. Our primary analysis was comparison of annualized relapse rate from baseline DMT start across the three OC use categories using a negative binomial regression model.

Results:

In this cohort of 162 women, 81 were treated with interferon therapy and 81 with glatiramer acetate. Mean ages for current-, past-, and never-OC users were 31.4 ( n = 46), 40.3 ( n = 66), and 37.9 ( n = 50) years, respectively ( p < 0.05); mean disease duration (1.0 years) and median baseline EDSS (1.0) did not differ between groups. Prior OC users had significantly lower relapse rates than never-users ( p = 0.031); the lower annualized relapse rate in current-users relative to never-users was not significant ( p = 0.91). Annualized relapse rate was not significantly different across the OC groups ( p = 0.057, three-group comparison).

Results:

These observations provide reassurance for women newly diagnosed that OC use, past or current, does not appear to be associated with greater risk of relapses.
A financial approach-based measurement of brand equity in the restaurant industry
Authors: Choi Serin , Choi Kyuwan , Lee Seoki , Lee Kyuseok
Published: February 2017

Brand equity plays a significant role in the restaurant industry due to the competitive advantage gained by differentiation. It has been identified as a main component of intangible assets that decides the market value of a firm in the industry. Although the importance of brand equity has been well recognized in the restaurant literature, there has been little investigation regarding how to objectively quantify brand equity, especially by using secondary market data. Further, there is no publicly available brand equity data of restaurant firms thus far. For these reasons, this study aims to develop an approach on how to estimate a restaurant’s brand equity not only by utilizing the secondary market data but also by incorporating the unique characteristics of restaurant firms. By proposing a restaurant-specific model to estimate brand equity, this study contributes to the restaurant literature and to the industry as a whole.
Spaces of student support – Comparing educational environments from two time periods
Authors: Grannäs Jan , Frelin Anneli
Published: February 2017

This article sets out to explore how and whether the physical, social and conceived conditions in schools facilitate or disrupt support work aimed at improving student learning and preventing social exclusion. This is accomplished by comparing student support practices in the common areas of two newly renovated secondary schools built in two different time periods. The focus is on the student support staff’s (exemplified by student welfare officers and school hosts) enactment of support for students’ learning and well-being. This enactment takes place in a designed school environment, where teachers and support staff appropriate spaces for educational purposes in various ways. The interview and observational data come from two qualitative case studies. A spatial analysis perspective is used to investigate the physical, social and conceived aspects of space. The case schools, located in two municipalities, were originally built in the 1910s (Maple Grove) and the 1960s (Pine Bay). Both schools serve mixed to low SES (socio-economic status) communities and have organized student support functions in the schools’ corridors, cafeterias, recreation areas and other common spaces. These functions include the school host, the student coach and the student welfare officer. The ways in which the support staff claim the locales show that they transcend the initial design functionality by appropriating spaces for their everyday practices. Their task perception thus delineates a certain professional territory, a task perception that is taking place, so to speak. The results show that this professional territory can vary, even among those in the same profession. The support functions expand their professional territory by being mobile in the school building and thereby creating more and larger surfaces for social interactions with students and other support functions.
Mapping the complexities and highlighting the dangers: The global drive to end FGM in the UK and Sudan
Authors: Bedri Nafisa , Bradley Tamsin
Published: February 2017

This article maps out the UK Department for International Development’s (DfID) global push to end the practice of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C). In particular, it looks at how the various components aim to link together filling evidence gaps and seeking to identify what works to finally end this brutal practice. Throughout the article, we voice a caution that if the numerous programmes emerging are not shaped by grass-roots experiences of FGM, and specifically by local change agents, there is a real danger that this opportunity will fail. In highlighting this danger, we present the viewpoint of community groups and local activists in the United Kingdom and also Sudan. We place these voices within the complex web of interventions that comprise the Free Sudan from the FGM/C programme. If not sufficiently coordinated and responsive to communities, it simply will not work. To emphasize this caution, we draw on a variety of theories that help us understand how discourses around FGM have emerged and intertwine. We also draw on theory to highlight an over reliance on a constructed image of a suffering FGM victim which makes it difficult for local activists to be heard.
Make kin, not cities! Multispecies entanglements and ‘becoming-world’ in planning theory
Authors: Houston Donna , Hillier Jean , MacCallum Diana , Steele Wendy , Byrne Jason
Published: February 2017

Much planning theory has been undergirded by an ontological exceptionalism of humans. Yet, city planning does not sit outside of the eco-social realities co-producing the Anthropocene. Urban planners and scholars, therefore, need to think carefully and critically about who speaks for (and with) the nonhuman in place making. In this article, we identify two fruitful directions for planning theory to better engage with the imbricated nature of humans and nonhumans is recognised as characteristic of the Anthropocene – multispecies entanglements and becoming-world. Drawing on the more-than-human literature in urban and cultural geography and the environmental humanities, we consider how these terms offer new possibilities for productively rethinking the ontological exceptionalism of humans in planning theory. We critically explore how planning theory might develop inclusive, ethical relationships that can nurture possibilities for multispecies flourishing in diverse urban futures, the futures that are increasingly recognised as co-produced by nonhuman agents in the context of climate variability and change. This, we argue, is critical for developing climate-adaptive planning tools and narratives for the creation of socially and environmentally just multispecies cities.
From Environment to Mating Competition and Super-K in a Predominantly Urban Sample of Young Adults
Authors: Richardson George B. , Dariotis Jacinda K. , Lai Mark H. C.
Published: February 2017

Recent research suggests human life history strategy (LHS) may be subsumed by multiple dimensions, including mating competition and Super-K, rather than one. In this study, we test whether a two-dimensional structure best fit data from a predominantly urban sample of young adults ages 18–24. We also test whether latent life history dimensions are associated with environmental harshness and unpredictability as predicted by life history theory. Results provide evidence that a two-dimensional model best fit the data. Furthermore, a moderate inverse residual correlation between mating competition and Super-K was found, consistent with a life history trade-off. Our findings suggest that parental socioeconomic status may enhance investment in mating competition, that harshness might persist into young adulthood as an important correlate of LHS, and that unpredictability may not have significant effects in young adulthood. These findings further support the contention that human LHS is multidimensional and environmental effects on LHS are more complex than previously suggested. The model presented provides a parsimonious explanation of an array of human behaviors and traits and can be used to inform public health initiatives, particularly with respect to the potential impact of environmental interventions.