bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shifting from Compensation to Participation: A Model for Occupational Therapy in Low Vision
Authors: Schoessow Kimberly
Published: April 2011

Older adults with low vision present unique challenges to occupational therapists because they are generally independent in self-care but limited in leisure, productivity and instrumental activities of daily living. This paper presents a review of the needs of older adults with low vision and proposes a model for occupational therapists.

A comprehensive MEDLINE search (1990–2009) of the literature on the interaction between low vision and intrinsic and extrinsic factors was performed. Titles and abstracts were reviewed and all relevant full articles were selected. Additionally, manual searches were conducted of related occupational therapy literature.

The literature review found that low vision rehabilitation focuses on technology and modifying the physical environment, but that there is a great impact on older adults with low vision by intrinsic and extrinsic issues such as cognition, psychology, physiology, spirituality and the social environment. The model proposes expanding occupational therapy with low vision clients to focus comprehensively on participation and integration in the home and community. A sample measurement model for occupational therapy evaluation is provided.
Occupational Therapy to Optimise Independence in Parkinson's Disease: The Designing and Recording of a Randomised Controlled Trial Intervention
Authors: Meek Charmaine , Morgan Eric , Walker Marion F , Furmston Alexandra , Aragon Ana , Birleson Angela , Kelly Vicky , Clarke Carl E , Sackley Catherine M
Published: April 2011

PDOT (Parkinson's Disease Occupational Therapy) was a pilot randomised controlled trial investigating occupational therapy for people with Parkinson's disease (PD) exhibiting difficulties with activities of daily living (ADL). This article describes the process undertaken to design and record the intervention.

Intervention development was informed by the current evidence base and practice consensus. An expert steering group synthesised this information to develop an intervention framework. A recording tool was identified from a previous occupational therapy trial and adopted for PDOT. This was completed for all participants receiving the intervention, capturing the dose and content of therapy delivered.

Nineteen participants received occupational therapy. A mean number of 5.7 visits was delivered over 60.3 days, with the initial visit lasting 60 minutes (median) and subsequent visits lasting 50 minutes (median). The intervention log demonstrated that a large proportion of therapist visits involved equipment provision/environmental adaptation, mobility/transfers/ADL training, review/discussion, and the teaching of techniques/provision of education.

The intervention developed was found to be feasible and acceptable, and the findings of PDOT have been used to inform a phase III rehabilitation trial (PD REHAB). The intervention log has been revised in light of the findings and will be used within this trial.
Professional Doctorate: Combining Professional Practice with Scholarly Inquiry
Authors: Morley Mary , Petty Nicola J
Published: April 2011

Professional doctorates in occupational therapy and physiotherapy in the United Kingdom offer a practice-based qualification equivalent in status to a PhD. Their aim is to develop professional practice and contribute to professional knowledge. Two doctorate journeys illustrate how applied research added both to each profession's knowledge base and to practice. Their learning was enhanced by interprofessional peer support. It is argued that the professional doctorate is an attractive option for a senior practitioner in clinical practice, management or higher education who wants to influence practice.
The Assessment and Treatment of Sensory Defensiveness in Adult Mental Health: A Literature Review
Authors: Abernethy Helga
Published: April 2011

The aim of this literature review was to explore the nature of the relationship between sensory defensiveness and mental health problems. The bibliographical database Dialog DataStar and various online resources were searched. Six papers were selected, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were analysed by identifying and discussing the common themes that emerged.

The literature indicated that sensory defensiveness can have a detrimental effect on quality of life experiences. It can have an impact on functional abilities, behaviour, emotions and mental health. The coping strategies that people develop to deal with sensory defensiveness add to the negative impact on their quality of life.

From the limited literature available, it was found that the treatment of sensory defensiveness delivered positive results. This review highlights the importance of recognising and treating sensory defensiveness. It also highlights the lack of literature available in this area. The implications for occupational therapy practice include further extensive research to improve knowledge and experience in the assessment and treatment of sensory defensiveness in mental health settings.
Profile, Practice and Perspectives of Occupational Therapists in Community Mental Health Teams in Ireland
Authors: O'Connell Jane E , McKay Elizabeth Anne
Published: April 2011

The Mental Health Commission (2006a) and the Department of Health and Children (2006) have identified a gap in the knowledge relating to the interventions carried out by mental health workers in community mental health teams (CMHTs) in Ireland. The purpose of this research was to address this gap by exploring the profile, the work practices and the perspectives of occupational therapists working in CMHTs in Ireland.

A mixed methodological approach was chosen: survey questionnaires (quantitative) were sent to 40 occupational therapists working in CMHTs, with 21 responding (52.5% response rate), and semi-structured interviews (qualitative) were carried out with six occupational therapists.

The results suggest that occupational therapists working in CMHTs are experienced and are generally satisfied in their positions. Occupational therapists in this setting offer a wide variety of interventions, guided by models of practice, frames of reference and outcome measures. The issues facing occupational therapists include a lack of resources, role blurring and the need for access to supervision and postgraduate education specifically tailored to mental health. Finally, the findings suggest the need for occupational therapists to establish a channel in which to inform wider mental health practice of their contribution to clients' recovery journeys.
Creative Arts Occupations in Therapeutic Practice: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Perruzza Nadia , Kinsella Elizabeth Anne
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this study was to conduct a matrix method literature review of published research on the use of creative arts occupations in therapeutic practice. Peer-reviewed original research articles, published between the years 2000 and 2008, were included in the review. The research articles studied creative arts occupations as a therapeutic medium. Twenty-three articles, located through multiple electronic searches, were identified as meeting the criteria of the review.

Data analysis included quantitative analysis and qualitative analysis. The findings suggest that the use of creative arts occupations in therapeutic practice may have important qualitative value related to health and wellbeing. Six predominant outcomes were most frequently identified across the studies: enhanced perceived control, building a sense of self, expression, transforming the illness experience, gaining a sense of purpose and building social support.

The results suggest that qualitative research may well be the methodology of choice for the study of this topic and raise questions about the paucity of research in this area. Further research into the use of creative arts occupations as a therapeutic approach in occupational therapy and other health and social care disciplines is warranted.
Identifying Predictors of Function in People with Diabetes Living in the Community
Authors: Ratzon Navah , Futeran Rosalyn , Isakov Eli
Published: April 2011

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) may cause sensory and motor changes and may affect the general function and hand function of diabetic patients.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to explore the predictors of function in diabetic patients.

Method:

Fifty people with diabetes underwent a battery of hand function tests, including dexterity, strength and sensation, and filled in questionnaires that assessed the severity of the diabetes, their functional status, their work ability and their own appraisal of their diabetes.

Results:

The hand strength and dexterity of this group were much lower than that of the average population, 30.53% were dependent in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and 60% of the group did not work. The regression analysis showed that a participant's own appraisal of his or her diabetes, tip pinch strength, the dexterity of the hands and biodemographic variables predicted IADL and work participation.

Conclusion:

The tests that are commonly used in occupational therapy departments to measure strength and dexterity are well standardised. They are inexpensive and not invasive and, therefore, they could be used to identify IADL and work participation problems in this population. Early identification of dysfunction could enable diabetic patients to benefit from support and prevent further problems.
A Grounded Theory of Intuition among Occupational Therapists in Mental Health Practice
Authors: Chaffey Lisa , Unsworth Carolyn , Fossey Ellie
Published: April 2011

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore occupational therapists' understanding and use of intuition in mental health practice.

Method:

Using a grounded theory approach, a theoretical sample of nine occupational therapists practising in mental health settings participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using the constant comparative method.

Findings:

Intuition was found to be embedded within clinical reasoning. From the data, intuition was defined as knowledge without conscious awareness of reasoning. The participants viewed intuition as elusive and underground, and suggested that professional experience led to a more comfortable use of intuition. Using intuition relied on therapists' understanding of their own and others' emotions, and intuition partnered analysis within their clinical reasoning. A grounded theory of the use of intuition in mental health settings is proposed.

Conclusion:

Occupational therapists practising in mental health settings understand intuition to be an instinctive understanding of situations, resulting from their professional experience and the understanding of emotions.
Participation in Occupational Therapy Research: A Literature Review
Authors: Vessby Karin , Kjellberg Anette
Published: April 2011

Participation is a concept that is used and discussed, both within the field of occupational therapy and in other areas. The concept of participation is included in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and the Model of Human Occupation. The aim of this study was to investigate how the concept of participation has been used in studies published in peer-reviewed journals. A literature review was performed using the search terms ‘occupational therapy’ and ‘participation’. Papers published in peer-reviewed journals during the period 2004–2006 were included (n = 38). Content analysis was used when analysing the data.

The results show that interview is the most common method of data collection and that the physical field is the clinical field that is most frequently represented in these papers. Three different categories were identified with regard to how the concept of participation has been used. These were client-centredness (n = 11), involvement in the environment (n = 19) and meaningfulness (n = 23). The three categories represent three dimensions of participation and are interpreted as occurring on micro or macro levels. Further research is needed and this review contributes to this development.
Development of an Educational Intervention for Cancer-Related Fatigue
Authors: Purcell Amanda , Fleming Jenny , Bennett Sally , Haines Terrence
Published: April 2011

Introduction:

Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms experienced during cancer treatment. Educational interventions are used by health professionals, such as occupational therapists, to manage cancer-related fatigue; however, there is a lack of information about the content, format and effectiveness of educational interventions in managing fatigue. This paper presents the development and structure of CAN-FIT, a theoretically driven cancer-related fatigue educational intervention, and a preliminary study of the intervention's feasibility and acceptability.

Preliminary evaluation:

The CAN-FIT programme was piloted with two groups with a total of nine radiotherapy patients. Patients completed a confidential evaluation form and were asked qualitative questions to provide feedback about the programme. The results of the preliminary study indicated that the intervention was acceptable to and feasible for participants. The participants reported that they received a high level of new information and skills from the education sessions and would recommend the sessions to others. Small modifications to programme components were made based on participant feedback.

Conclusion:

The CAN-FIT programme provided a feasible structured educational intervention for the management of cancer-related fatigue, which was acceptable to the participant sample. A randomised controlled trial is required to provide evidence of its effectiveness among the wider radiotherapy population.
A Holistic Model for the Rehabilitation and Recovery of Internally Displaced People in War-Torn Uganda
Authors: Stickley Anna , Stickley Theodore
Published: April 2011

This article introduces the current sociopolitical background of internally displaced people in Northern Uganda. Communities have experienced war, murder, rape, abductions, and loss of occupation, loss of land, loss of role, separation, displacement and multiple diseases. Such experiences have created major psychosocial problems for some of these people. The community development work of one occupational therapist working with a humanitarian organisation is described. It is asserted that occupational therapy models and approaches are highly relevant in such situations and that solution-focused, strengths-based approaches are most appropriate.
Childhood Participation in After-School Activities: What is to be Expected?
Authors: Jarus Tal , Anaby Dana , Bart Orit , Engel-Yeger Batya , Law Mary
Published: April 2011

Participation is recognised as a key to health and wellbeing and is considered to be a vital part of the development of children and youth. The purpose of this study was to examine the participation patterns of children and adolescents in their time outside formal school. More specifically, the influence of age and gender on after-school participation patterns was explored.

Method:

Three hundred and thirty-two children and adolescents (5 to 18 years old) were divided into five age groups and completed the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE). To test the interaction effect of gender and age on participation measures, ANOVAs were conducted.

Results:

The results indicated differences with moderate to high effect size in participation patterns across age, where a decline in participation was detected as children made the transition to adolescence. Differences with negligible effect size in participation were found between boys and girls in some of the activity types. No interaction effect between age and gender was observed.

Conclusion:

Participation patterns change with age, particularly as children make the transition to adolescence; however, this change does not depend on gender. Intervention strategies might take into account these inherent changes. Future studies might consider additional factors (for example, environment) while examining participation throughout age.
Developing an Observed Practice Programme for Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists: Reporting the First Phase of an Action Research Study
Authors: Morley Mary , Petty Nicola J
Published: April 2011

Occupational therapists working in higher education have acknowledged the benefits of peer observation to their professional development and there has been discussion of its potential benefits in clinical settings. However, there is limited literature and no practical guidance on the implementation of observed practice within clinical practice.

This action research study sought to develop a work-based observed practice programme for occupational therapists and physiotherapists in a United Kingdom mental health trust. Action research was chosen to enable the positive engagement of practitioners in order to co-create knowledge and to improve practice. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists with expertise of local practice and personal experience of staff development and clinical supervision formed a working group to develop and implement the programme.

The group considered examples of similar programmes from higher education and addressed issues relating to the purpose, status and process of the programme. It also explored its relationship to existing preceptorship programmes and clinical supervision. This paper summarises the key steps of the observed practice process and the development of supporting documentation created by the working group. The observed practice programme was implemented at workshops in the autumn of 2009 to be followed by a formal evaluation.
Personalisation of Social Care: Benefits and Pitfalls for Users of Services and Occupational Therapists
Authors: Mandelstam Michael
Published: April 2011

Central government policy emphasises increasingly the importance of users of services having choice and control in health and social care. The policy, particularly in social care, is known as ‘personalisation’. The Department of Health explains this as a move away from the traditional welfare state to a consumer-type model of service provision. The policy is Janus faced. It undoubtedly has the potential to improve the quality of people's lives and to give occupational therapists the opportunity to use their skills and expertise. Equally, it comes with pitfalls carrying the potential to erode people's statutory rights to services and also to alter and possibly threaten the role of professionals.
Return to Work after Traumatic Brain Injury: Recording, Measuring and Describing Occupational Therapy Intervention
Authors: Phillips Julie , Drummond Avril , Radford Kathryn , Tyerman Andy
Published: April 2011

Low post-injury employment rates indicate that returning to work is difficult following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Occupational therapists assist people with TBI to return to work, but rarely is their intervention described. This has hindered research into vocational rehabilitation.

As no existing tool was identified for recording intervention, a proforma was developed for this study. Using best practice guidelines and a consensus of expert opinion, 15 categories of the vocational rehabilitation process were identified. Time spent on each category was recorded in 10-minute units after each occupational therapy session. The records of 21 participants who received occupational therapy focused on vocational rehabilitation were analysed.

The proforma was quick and simple to use. The analysis showed that assessment, work preparation, employer involvement, education and dealing with issues of immediate concern to participants accounted for almost 85% of face-to-face intervention. It also showed that for every 1 hour of face-to-face contact, an additional 2 hours was required for liaison and travel.

This study showed that there is potential for using a proforma for quantifying and describing occupational therapy. This is the basis for further work to enable meaningful comparisons with other services and use in future studies.
Establishing a Work-Based Learning Programme: Vocational Rehabilitation in a Forensic Learning Disability Setting
Authors: Smith Andy , Petty Maggie , Oughton Iona , Alexander Regi T
Published: April 2011

This paper is a reflective account of a work-based learning programme designed for patients within a forensic learning disability service. The literature review indicated a shortage of published work in this field and reference is made to developments in mental health settings. A commentary is provided of the three partners involved and the working relationship between the hospital, the workplace and the further education college. As a specific vocational rehabilitation programme, it was important to consider the context of a work placement and the process of introducing an award-bearing course.

The paper provides a description of the current developments in the qualification structure at entry level and the progress of a pilot group. Views were sought from the patient group about their involvement in the programme and the advantages of collaborative work are stated, with the joint delivery by an occupational therapy student, a teacher and the nursing team. It is suggested that the narrative of this paper could be built on, with the application of an assessment tool to provide a quantitative analysis of the impact of the programme. It is the intention that the descriptive elements of the paper will inform other practitioners and contribute to a model of good practice.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Different Environments on the Learning of Switching Skills in Children with Severe and Profound Multiple Disabilities
Authors: Moir Lois
Published: April 2011

This exploratory study evaluated the effects of learning switching skills for children with severe and profound multiple disabilities using a multisensory environment and the child's natural environment.

Method:

A multiple baseline study was employed to investigate the ability of three pre-school aged children to learn switching skills in different environments, in association with the development of desired behavioural changes. Observational data were collected on the development of switching skills and on psychosocial changes.

Results:

The visual inspection of client data revealed improved switching skills with two participants. The third participant, the constant series control, developed switching skills which then decreased; however, significant development in a range of motor and social skills was reported in qualitative interview. Adaptive behaviours improved in all three participants, including behaviours such as reduced frustration and associated crying and eliciting of primitive reflexes.

Conclusion:

Qualitative interviews with two parents indicated significant changes to behaviour, with a resultant positive effect on the families, strongly supporting the development of psychosocial skills in children with severe and profound multiple disabilities as a result of development of switching skills.
Evaluating Students' Use of Web-Based Communication during Practice Placements
Authors: Derdall Michele , Mulholland Susan , Brown Cary
Published: April 2011

Web-based technologies are being used increasingly for communication and education within occupational therapy curricula, including practice placement modules. The purpose of this study was to incorporate and evaluate web-based communication during practice placement.

Method:

Students were encouraged to use asynchronous web-based communication and were followed through three of five practice placements. A policy Delphi technique was used to gather feedback from the students about their use of this technology during practice placement.

Results:

The students were divided in terms of their use of and satisfaction with web-based technologies.

Conclusion:

Considerations and suggestions are made regarding the use of these technologies during practice placement for education, communication and fostering communities of practice.
Professional Development Enhances the Occupational Therapy Work Environment
Authors: Parkinson Sue , Lowe Claire , Keys Katie
Published: April 2011

Continuing professional development requires robust support mechanisms to maximise opportunities for the dissemination of best practice and to ensure sustainability. Accordingly, occupational therapists in a county-wide mental health service created a practice development adviser post and embarked on an academic partnership to support the delivery of evidence-based practice. Professional development surveys were then undertaken in 2005 and 2007 to evaluate the changes to the work environment. These demonstrated that the perceived pressures on standards of work (for example, finite resources and generic role demands) were offset by professional supervision, contact with other occupational therapists and having an occupation-focused model of practice.
Preliminary Outcomes from an Individualised Supported Education Programme Delivered by a Community Mental Health Service
Authors: Robson Emma , Waghorn Geoff , Sherring Joanne , Morris Adrienne
Published: April 2011

This paper describes the implementation and preliminary results of a supported education programme designed to complement a youth-oriented supported employment programme.

Method:

The programme was delivered by occupational therapists employed by a community mental health service in the Hunter New England region, New South Wales, Australia. Twenty mental health service users were assisted with their course of study over an 18-month period.

Results:

Education outcomes were promising, with 70% of service users either continuing or completing their chosen course of formal study. The education support provided was modelled on the Individual Placement and Support approach to supported employment.

Conclusion:

Occupational therapists working in public mental health can use this promising approach to supplement supported employment programmes, which should also be closely coordinated with the mental health service.
Unbelievable. Practice, Theory and the Work of Jennifer Creek
Authors: Bryant Wendy
Published: April 2011

Jennifer Creek, who retired in summer 2009, made an outstanding scholarly contribution to occupational therapy, encompassing many different aspects. The relationship between theory and practice was the focus for her work. Her belief in the potential of occupational therapy inspired her efforts to understand it. While her contribution has been unbelievable in scope, it has credibility and authenticity for practice, research and education. She has been concerned with modelling possibilities, not models of practice, indicating a profound professional artistry. Occupational therapists should engage with her work as a key resource for their own practice and the development of the profession.
Implementing the Model of Human Occupation across a Mental Health Occupational Therapy Service: Communities of Practice and a Participatory Change Process
Authors: Wimpenny Katherine , Forsyth Kirsty , Jones Catherine , Matheson Lorna , Colley Julie
Published: April 2011

The implementation of evidence-based change in practice settings is complex and far reaching, but only limited research has been undertaken in this area. This participatory action research study investigated the implementation of the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) across a mental health occupational therapy service.

Method:

The study involved preparatory workshops and 12 months of team-based, monthly group reflective supervision sessions, facilitated by a colleague from academia, with follow-up contact for a further 12 months.

Findings:

The main findings emphasise the importance of developing a critical learning space, or ‘community of practice’, and identify that barriers to theory implementation can be overcome by collective effort with a shared dialectic. The successful development of a community of practice required the careful consideration of a number of interconnected influences, including those of self, peer and facilitator, and contextual and theoretical relationships.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that the community of practice was central in supporting the effective implementation of MOHO and its associated assessment tools. A key output of the study is a Participatory Change Process, which illustrates the key steps undertaken and interrelated factors affecting theory uptake. The process requires further testing, but has potential to guide theory implementation in other settings.
Participation in Valued Roles Post-Liver Transplant
Authors: Scott Patricia J
Published: April 2011

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to identify the participation patterns of liver transplant (LT) recipients in valued roles following LT and the relationship of these to quality of life.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study of health-related quality of life and role participation in 161 LT recipients, conducted between 27 August 2008 and 1 December 2008. The participants were a mean of 5.25, ±2.5, years post-LT, 75% male, and had a mean age of 59 years, range 37–77 years.

Main outcome measures:

These were the Role Checklist and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases — Quality of Life instrument.

Results:

Analysis revealed that LT recipients showed a wide disparity in the number of roles currently occupied, range 1–10, mean = 4.9 and SD = 1.8, and normal distribution. There was a significant relationship (p<0.001) between participation in a greater number of valued roles and all five quality of life scales.

Conclusion:

People who are participating in a smaller number of valued roles have lower levels of life satisfaction. The problem is believed to be related to difficulties in forming new habits. Habit training and monitoring of role return to determine when intervention is needed are required to enable all LT recipients to return to the highest quality of life possible.
The Occupational and Quality of Life Consequences of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Young People
Authors: Taylor Renee R , O'Brien Jane , Kielhofner Gary , Lee Sun-Wook , Katz Ben , Mears Cynthia
Published: April 2011

Introduction:

Chronic fatigue syndrome, termed myalgic encephalomyelitis in the United Kingdom (CFS/ME), is a debilitating condition involving severe exhaustion, cognitive difficulties, educational and vocational losses, and disruption of social activities and relationships. CFS/ME may affect volition (that is, value, interest and sense of competence).

Purpose:

To test Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) concepts by comparing young people with and without CFS/ME in terms of occupational participation, volition and health-related quality of life during infection and over time.

Method:

Three hundred and one people (12–18 years old) diagnosed with glandular fever were evaluated at the time of acute infection (baseline). Six months following diagnosis, 39 of them met the criteria for CFS/ME. A further 39 who recovered were randomly selected and matched to CFS/ME participants. Both groups were re-evaluated at 12 months and 24 months. The Occupational Self Assessment and the Child General Health Questionnaire were used to compare occupational participation.

Results:

Those with CFS/ME reported lower levels of perceived competency, more difficulties with physical functioning and poorer general health status than those who recovered.

Conclusion:

Those with CFS/ME report lower perceived competency, and compromises in physical functioning, school performance, social activities, emotional functioning and general health. This supports the MOHO assertion that impairments affect volition and quality of life.
A Randomised Clinical Trial of a Wellness Programme for Healthy Older People
Authors: Yamada Takashi , Kawamata Hironori , Kobayashi Norikazu , Kielhofner Gary , Taylor Renee R
Published: April 2011

Background:

With a growing increase in the population of older people worldwide, there is an undeniable need for efficient and cost-effective service delivery in occupational therapy.

Method:

This randomised clinical trial employed a parallel design, with an experimental and a control group and a pre-test and post-test, to evaluate the effectiveness of a wellness programme based on the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO). Participants were 65 years of age or older, community-dwelling Japanese older people. Data were analysed for 30 experimental participants who received a 15-session MOHO programme and 33 controls who received a 15-session standard care, crafts programme. Quality of life and psychological wellbeing were compared between groups using the Japanese versions of the Life Satisfaction Index — Z (LSI-Z) and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life-26 (QOL26), respectively.

Results:

The LSI-Z score for the experimental group improved an average of 3.4 points whereas the control group's mean score improved by 0.1 point. The mean change for the experimental group (m.chg = 3.4, SD = 5.8) was significantly different (p = 0.01) from that of the control group (m.chg = 0.1, SD = 4.8) and the effect size (Cohen's d) was 0.62 (95% confidence interval = 0.13–1.11). The psychological domain score (QOL26) improved slightly for the experimental group whereas it declined slightly for the control group. The mean change was significantly different (p = 0.02) between the experimental (m.chg = 0.1, SD = 0.5) and control (m.chg = −0.1, SD = 0.3) groups; effect size (Cohen's d) was 0.49 (95% confidence interval = 0.02–0.96).

Conclusion:

The findings support the conclusion that MOHO-based occupational therapy interventions can promote wellness effectively in older people by having an impact on quality of life and sense of wellbeing.
Reflections on Using the Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool in a Joint Learning Disability Team
Authors: Hawes Doug , Houlder Daniel
Published: April 2011

Increasing demands for evidence-based practice can cause dilemmas for practitioners, who are striving to identify assessments and outcome measures that are reliable in their practice setting, clinically useful and flexible. A 6-month preliminary study of the Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool (MOHOST) in a community learning disability service yielded positive results by satisfying all these requirements. The occupational therapists found that the MOHOST facilitated consistent and evidence-based practice, without compromising professional autonomy or a client-centred focus. It appeared straightforward, flexible to use and applicable in a wide range of learning disability settings.
Rapid biological oxidation of methanol in the tropical Atlantic: significance as a microbial carbon source
Authors: Dixon J. L. , Beale R. , Nightingale P. D.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Methanol is the second most abundant organic gas in the atmosphere after methane, and is ubiquitous in the troposphere. It plays a significant role in atmospheric oxidant chemistry and is biogeochemically active. Large uncertainties exist about whether the oceans are a source or sink of methanol to the atmosphere. Even less is understood about what reactions in seawater determine its concentration, and hence flux across the sea surface interface. We report here concentrations of methanol up to 300 nM, with corresponding microbial uptake rates between 2–146 nM d−1, suggesting turnover times as low as 1 day in surface waters of the oligotrophic tropical North East Atlantic. Comparisons with parallel determinations of bacterial leucine uptake suggest that methanol contributes on average 13% to bacterial carbon demand in the central northern Atlantic gyre (maximum of 54%). However, our low air to sea methanol flux estimates of 7.2–13 μmol m−2 d−1 suggest that the atmosphere is not a major source. We conclude that there must be a major, as yet unidentified, in situ oceanic methanol source in these latitudes which we suggest is sunlight driven decomposition of organic matter.
Simulation of variability in atmospheric carbon dioxide using a global coupled Eulerian – Lagrangian transport model
Authors: Koyama Y. , Maksyutov S. , Mukai H. , Thoning K. , Tans P.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. This study assesses the advantages of using a coupled atmospheric-tracer transport model, comprising a global Eulerian model and a global Lagrangian particle dispersion model, to improve the reproducibility of tracer-gas variations affected by the near-field surface emissions and transport around observation sites. The ability to resolve variability in atmospheric composition on an hourly time-scale and a spatial scale of several kilometers would be beneficial for analyzing data from continuous ground-based monitoring and from upcoming space-based observations. The coupled model yields an increase in the horizontal resolution of transport and fluxes, and has been tested in regional-scale studies of atmospheric chemistry. By applying the Lagrangian component to the global domain, we extend this approach to the global scale, thereby enabling computationally efficient global inverse modeling and data assimilation. To validate the coupled model, we compare model-simulated CO2 concentrations with continuous observations at three sites: two operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, USA, and one operated by the National Institute for Environmental Studies, Japan. As the goal of this study is limited to introducing the new modeling approach, we selected a transport simulation at these three sites to demonstrate how the model may perform at various geographical areas. The coupled model provides improved agreement between modeled and observed CO2 concentrations in comparison to the Eulerian model. In an area where variability in CO2 concentration is dominated by a fossil fuel signal, the correlation coefficient between modeled and observed concentrations increases by between 0.05 to 0.1 from the original values of 0.5–0.6 achieved with the Eulerian model.
Review article "A. B. Dobrowolski – the first cryospheric scientist – and the subsequent development of cryospheric science"
Authors: Barry R. G. , Jania J. , Birkenmajer K.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. The origin of the term "cryosphere" has been traced to the Polish scientist A. B. Dobrowolski in his 1923 book on "The Natural History of Ice" written in Polish. This note commemorates his little recognized contribution to the science, outside of his native country, and summarizes the recent organization of cryospheric research.
Brief Communication: "An inventory of permafrost evidence for the European Alps"
Authors: Cremonese E. , Gruber S. , Phillips M. , Pogliotti P. , Boeckli L. , Noetzli J. , Suter C. , Bodin X. , Crepaz A. , Kellerer-Pirklbauer A. , Lang K. , Letey S. , Mair V. , Morra di Cella U. , Ravanel L. , Scapozza C. , Seppi R. , Zischg A.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. The investigation and modelling of permafrost distribution, particularly in areas of discontinuous permafrost, is challenging due to spatial heterogeneity, remoteness of measurement sites and data scarcity. We have designed a strategy for standardizing different local data sets containing evidence of the presence or absence of permafrost into an inventory for the entire European Alps. With this brief communication, we present the structure and contents of this inventory. This collection of permafrost evidence not only highlights existing data and allows new analyses based on larger data sets, but also provides complementary information for an improved interpretation of monitoring results.
One-Day Session LINAC–Based Stereotactic Radiosurgery of Posterior Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Furdova Alena , Strmen Peter , Waczulikova Iveta , Chorvath Martin , Sramka Miron , Slezak Peter
Published: April 2011

Purpose

LINAC-based stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of posterior uveal melanoma is a conservative method to treat uveal melanoma.

Methods

This was a retrospective clinic-based study of patients with posterior uveal melanoma in stage T2/T3 who underwent 1-day session SRS at LINAC accelerator or SRS plus combined methods from 2001 to 2008.

Results

Thirty-nine patients with posterior uveal melanoma were treated with SRS (age 25-80 years, median 54 years). Median tumor volume at baseline was 0.6 cm3 (range 0.2-1.3 cm3). The therapeutic dose (TD) was 35.0 Gy, median of maximal dose applied was 49.0 Gy (range 37.0-60.0 Gy). Patient data were analyzed in groups: group 1, single SRS irradiation; group 2, SRS with subsequent endoresection or cyclectomy or additional transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) or brachytherapy by Ru106 plaques; group 3a, enucleation after single SRS; group 3b, enucleation after SRS and endoresection/cyclectomy or TTT or brachytherapy Ru106. In patients with visual acuity of 20/40 or better, the median rate of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) decline was higher than that of the total and significantly higher than the rate of decline in the complementary group of patients with BCVA less than 20/40 (p=0.0077; Mann-Whitney U test).

Conclusions

One-step LINAC-based SRS with a single dose 35.0 Gy is a method to treat middle-stage posterior uveal melanoma and to preserve the eye globe or as the first step of combined methods: irradiation before endoresection or cyclectomy.
Engineering Research in Irish Economic Development
Authors: Kelly John
Published: April 2011

This article summarizes the main findings and recommendations of a report published in December 2010 by the Irish Academy of Engineering (IAE). The report, representing the views of a committee of distinguished Irish engineers from a wide range of disciplines, addresses the role of engineering research in Ireland's economic development and the measures that must be taken to ensure the effective performance of that role. The IAE calls for radical changes in the structures and procedures that govern engineering research in Irish universities and argues that the wealth-creating potential of applied engineering research must be accorded higher priority. Practical and urgent recommendations are set out for government, universities and industry.
A Typology of Research Training in University—Industry Collaboration
Authors: Chiang Kuang-Hsu
Published: April 2011

This paper examines the educational implications of research collaboration between university and industry for the research training of doctoral students. It is concerned with the issues of how research training is constructed in such collaborations and what might be the effects of collaboration on doctoral students' learning. The study adopts a knowledge perspective. Three different dispositions of knowledge are identified: ‘expert’, ‘utilitarian’ and ‘commercialized’. Doctoral students' experiences were examined in relation to two aspects of research training – industrial involvement in supervision and academic freedom – in university–industry collaboration in the field of life sciences. Thirty-five in-depth interviews were carried out at BioCity Turku in Finland with 16 doctoral students, 14 of their supervisors and 5 PhD graduates. Four major types of PhD research collaboration were discovered, characterized as ‘Financial’, ‘Interactive’, ‘Kangaroo’ and ‘Appendant’. The significance of each type is discussed in relation to different knowledge dispositions. Drawing on the research findings, suggestions are offered for constructing successful research training programmes through university–industry collaboration.
Competing Values in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Industry
Authors: Riggs Michael W. , Hughey Aaron W.
Published: April 2011

It is important that education and training programmes align with the needs of the professions they are designed to support. The culinary arts and hospitality industry is a vocational area that needs to be examined more closely to ensure that the skills and competencies taught are those that will actually be needed when students matriculate from career preparation programmes. This study compared the self-assessed leadership roles and managerial competencies of hospitality students and hospitality management professionals in employment. Using the Competing Values Framework (CVF) as a theoretical framework, eight leadership roles and 24 managerial competencies were examined in an effort to identify similarities and differences between the two groups. The authors found limited significant differences between the perceptions of the two groups; overall, the ranking of leadership roles and managerial competencies by the two populations were very similar. Implications for academic culinary arts and hospitality programmes are also presented, together with recommendations for future inquiry.
Customer Orientation in Higher Education: The Missing Link in International Student Recruitment?
Authors: Vauterin Johanna Julia , Linnanen Lassi , Marttila Esa
Published: April 2011

This paper suggests that the service mindset of academia needs attention to ensure that the potential of university–industry linkages for creating value is used strategically in building advantage in the increasingly competitive market for international higher education. Universities should clearly articulate the value of the higher education–employability interface in the context of growing competition for international students. The paper studies university–industry linkages by deconstructing the relationship with a focus on university–industry service interactions in international higher education service delivery and use and by analysing the relationship elements and dynamics that affect the market for international student recruitment, placements and employability. The relationship marketing paradigm is applied to explain that, by adopting a market-driven, customer-oriented mindset, universities could build strategic relationships with industry, communicate their international higher education services to industry better and more forcefully and develop competitive advantage in attracting and retaining international students.
Corporate Governance Models as a Bridge for Linking Academic and Non-Academic Entrepreneurs
Authors: Parente Roberto , Feola Rosangela , Petrone Michele
Published: April 2011

This paper reports an investigation of governance issues in Italian academic spin-offs that arise from the need to balance the powers of two categories of partner: academic inventors and external investors (such as established companies and venture capital funds). The relationship between inventors and external investors, jointly pursuing a research-based entrepreneurial opportunity, provides an interesting case for the application of the agency theory construct to define adequate corporate governance procedures. The paper has two main objectives: to analyse the governance models adopted by academic spin-offs and to ascertain whether the very nature of entrepreneurial opportunity, and the associated uncertainties that a new venture faces, influence the choice of the governance model adopted. A sample group of 30 Italian academic spin-offs is analysed and three different governance models, inventor-led spin-offs, mixed-led spin-offs and investor-led spin-offs, are defined.