bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of Reversed Urban Breeze Circulation
Authors: Seo Jaemyeong Mango , Ganbat Gantuya , Baik Jong-Jin
Published: January 2017

The urban breeze circulation (UBC) is a thermally forced mesoscale circulation that is characterized by low-level inward flow toward the urban center, updrafts near the urban center, upper-level outward flows, and weak downdrafts outside the urban area. Previous numerical modeling studies indicate that in the early morning the direction of the UBC can be reversed. Here, the dynamics of a reversed UBC is studied in the context of the response of the atmosphere to specified thermal forcing, which represents diurnally varying urban heating. For this, a linearized, two-dimensional, hydrostatic, Boussinesq airflow system in a rotating frame with specified thermal forcing is solved using the Fourier transform method. The occurrence of a reversed UBC in the early morning is confirmed. The Coriolis parameter affects the strength and vertical structure of the UBC, whose role is similar to that of the coefficient of Rayleigh friction and Newtonian cooling. The occurrence condition, strength, and vertical structure of a reversed UBC are examined. The Coriolis force as well as urban heating alters the occurrence time of the reversed UBC. For a strongly viscous system, a reversed UBC occurs only in high latitudes with low occurrence possibility. A simple oscillation-type model for the horizontal velocity is constructed to get some dynamical insights into a reversed UBC. The analysis results also show that the Coriolis force alters the occurrence time of the reversed UBC.
Walking in Two Worlds
Authors: Halverson Joanne D.
Published: January 2017

This phenomenological study sought to reveal the meaning for and experience of individuals who navigate two often-disparate ideological and experiential “worlds” within the culture of the United States. These two worlds can be described, respectively, as animistic—being embedded in and giving priority to relationship and nature—and Western mainstream—being embedded in and giving priority to materialism and rationalism. The phenomenon examined was—functioning within the mainstream culture while experiencing an animistic lifeworld. The animistic worldview is at odds in significant ways with the belief systems underlying the prevailing worldview, and is often misunderstood and demeaned. Six participants and the researcher participated in this qualitative study. The interviews were semistructured and open-ended. Through analysis, the underlying constituents and essential structure of the experience emerged. Constituents were (a) the experience of social stigma, (b) a deeply relational way of being-in-the-world, and (c) an expansive sense of identity. An experience of both belonging and alienation emerged—the true self-world remains concealed behind a “veil” or “mask” for the person’s protection in mainstream culture. Further research, particularly to benefit clinicians and clients, is needed to expand understanding of these dynamics which so affect people who walk in two worlds.
Hemodynamic instability and Horner’s syndrome following a labour lumbar neuraxial block: A warning sign of a potentially lethal event?
Authors: Smith Daryl Irving , Chiem Jennifer L. , Burk Spencer , Borovcanin Zana Cabak , Tran Nobuyuki-Hai
Published: January 2017

The development of Horner’s syndrome during routine neuraxial anaesthesia suggests anatomic, technical or physiologic variance. Even more importantly, it warrants immediate cessation of the anaesthetic intervention.
A sliding mode control design for mismatched uncertain systems based on states transformation scheme and chattering alleviating scheme
Authors: Li Xianqiang , Zhou Jun
Published: January 2017

In this paper, a class of mismatched uncertain systems is investigated. And a novel sliding mode control design is presented. During the design process of the proposed control, a transformation scheme is proposed, which can easily transform the mismatched uncertain systems into matched systems. Based on the matched systems, a novel full order sliding mode surface is designed, which can avoid the singular issue of terminal sliding mode control. And a chattering alleviating scheme is also proposed, which can ensure that the sliding mode control is chattering free regardless of whether the conventional sliding mode control or the terminal sliding mode control is used. Compared with the recurrent controller, the complexity of the proposed controller is reduced. It is much simpler and easy to implement. Also, the need of system knowledge is also reduced. The control performance is validated by simulation.
Shale gas adsorption and desorption characteristics and its effects on shale permeability
Authors: Guo Wei , Hu Zhiming , Zhang Xiaowei , Yu Rongze , Wang Li
Published: January 2017

A large proportion of shale gas is in adsorbed state. However, in the process of shale gas development, adsorbed gas in the shale pores will gradually desorb, which results in the permeability change of shale. This study aims to find out the adsorption and desorption characteristics of shale and whether there exists certain impact of desorption effects on shale permeability by experiments. Isothermal adsorption and desorption curves of shale gas are not coincident and the desorption curves are in hysteresis. Langmuir equation can be used to calculate the shale isothermal adsorption curve and desorption equation can be used to calculate the shale gas isothermal desorption curve. The permeability of shale was measured, respectively, under low pressure and high pressure, with methane and helium as experimental gas. Then, the comparison was made between the results of shale and the similar experiment results of tight gas sandstone. The results are showed as follows: adsorption effects will break the linear relationship between the shale permeability and the reciprocal of average pore pressure under low pressure; under high pressure, when gas desorption enhances, shale permeability significantly increases. Therefore, adsorption effects can impact the shale permeability under low pressure as well as under high pressure, which should be taken into consideration in the shale gas development.
Culturally Targeted Strategies for Diabetes Prevention in Minority Population
Authors: Lagisetty Pooja A. , Priyadarshini Shubadra , Terrell Stephanie , Hamati Mary , Landgraf Jessica , Chopra Vineet , Heisler Michele
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to (a) assess the effectiveness of culturally tailored diabetes prevention interventions in minority populations and (b) develop a novel framework to characterize 4 key domains of culturally tailored interventions. Prevention strategies specifically tailored to the culture of ethnic minority patients may help reduce the incidence of diabetes.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL for English-language, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-experimental (QE) trials testing culturally tailored interventions to prevent diabetes in minority populations. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Inductive thematic analysis was used to develop a framework with 4 domains (FiLLM: Facilitating [ie, delivering] Interventions Through Language, Location, and Message). The framework was used to assess the overall effectiveness of culturally tailored interventions.

Results

Thirty-four trials met eligibility criteria. Twelve studies were RCTs, and 22 were QE trials. Twenty-five out of 34 studies (74%) that used cultural tailoring demonstrated significantly improved A1C, fasting glucose, and/or weight loss. Of the 25 successful interventions, 21 (84%) incorporated at least 3 culturally targeted domains. Seven studies used all 4 domains and were all successful. The least utilized domain was delivery (4/34) of the intervention’s key educational message.

Conclusions

Culturally tailoring interventions across the 4 domains of facilitators, language, location, and messaging can be effective in improving risk factors for progression to diabetes among ethnic minority groups. Future studies should evaluate how specific tailoring approaches work compared to usual care as well as comparative effectiveness of each tailoring domain.
High-Performance Work Practices and Organizational Creativity During Organizational Change: A Collective Learning Perspective
Authors: Jeong Inseong , Shin Shung Jae
Published: January 2017

Drawing on a collective learning perspective, we theorized and tested how and when high-performance work practices are likely to enhance organizational creativity. Using a sample of 454 Korean companies across 16 industries in manufacturing, service, and banking areas, with time-lagged and multisource data, we found that high-performance work practices led to more organizational creativity when the companies underwent organizational change. We also found that the employees’ collective learning mediated the interaction effect of high-performance work practices and organizational change on organizational creativity. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
The Burden and Epidemiology of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction in Adults
Authors: Vila Peter M. , Thomas Tom , Liu Carrie , Poe Dennis , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Pediatric eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), otitis media with effusion (OME), and tympanic membrane retraction (TMR) have been well studied, but no large analyses have described the associated burden beyond childhood. The potential impact and feasibility of prospective trials designed to optimize management of affected adults are thus unclear. Our objectives were therefore (1) to determine the national visit burden associated with ETD/OME/TMR beyond childhood and (2) to examine risk factors specific to adults, highlighting differences in comparison with children.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of a national database.

Setting

Ambulatory visits in the United States.

Methods

Epidemiologic analysis of the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (2005‐2012) included data from 761,291 observations representing 9,369,388,092 visits. Chi‐square test with Bonferroni adjustment for multiple comparisons was utilized for hypothesis testing.

Results

Visits related to ETD/OME/TMR exceeded 2 million per annum in patients 0 to 20 years of age (mean 2,625,965; range 2,239,288‐3,329,858). Among those >20 years old, visits also exceeded 2 million (mean, 2,025,050; range, 1,550,669‐2,353,799). Characteristics differed according to age: whereas ETD/OME/TMR affected more males <20 years, females were more frequently diagnosed in the older age group (P <. 0001). Patients >20 to 40 years of age were the most likely to visit the emergency department (P =. 0022). There were no statistically significant differences per season or region. The related diagnoses of cholesteatoma and chronic otitis media prompted additional visits.

Conclusions

ETD/OME/TMR is associated with a visit burden for adults that extends beyond childhood. Among adults, there may also be age‐related differences in patient characteristics.
Dynamic Optical Contrast Imaging: A Technique to Differentiate Parathyroid Tissue from Surrounding Tissues
Authors: Kim Irene A. , Taylor Zachary D. , Cheng Harrison , Sebastian Christine , Maccabi Ashkan , Garritano James , Tajudeen Bobby , Razfar Ali , Palma Diaz Fernando , Yeh Michael , Stafsudd Oscar , Grundfest Warren , St. John Maie
Published: January 2017

The variable location and indistinct features of parathyroid glands can make their intraoperative identification challenging. Currently, there exists no routine use of localization methods during surgery. Dynamic optical contrast imaging (DOCI) leverages a novel realization of temporally dependent measurements of tissue autofluorescence that allows the acquisition of specific tissue properties. A prospective series of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism was examined. Parathyroid lesions and surrounding tissues were collected; fluorescence decay images were acquired via DOCI. Ex vivo samples (81 patients) were processed for histologic assessment. DOCI extracts relative fluorescence decay information in a surgically relevant field of view with a clinically accessible acquisition time <2 minutes. Analysis of DOCI revealed microscopic characterization sufficient for tissue type identification consistent with histology (P <. 05). DOCI is capable of efficiently distinguishing parathyroid tissue from adjacent tissues. Such an intraoperative tool would be transformative, helping surgeons to identify lesions, preserve healthy tissue, and improve patient outcomes.
Digging into Debt: The Financial Burden Associated with the Otolaryngology Match
Authors: Polacco Marc A. , Lally Jack , Walls Andrew , Harrold Linnea R. , Malekzadeh Sonya , Chen Eunice Y.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To quantify the cost incurred during the match process for otolaryngology applicants, determine sources of expenditures, and highlight potential methods to alleviate financial burden of the match process.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Study Setting

Online survey.

Subjects and Methods

An electronic survey was sent via email to those who applied to the otolaryngology residency programs at Dartmouth‐Hitchcock Medical Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital during the 2016 application cycle. Questions regarding demographics and experiences with the match were multiple choice, and questions regarding cost were open answer. Data were downloaded and analyzed on Excel and Minitab software.

Results

Twenty‐eight percent of the total 370 applicants completed the survey. The mean cost of away rotations was $2500 (95% confidence interval [CI], $2224‐$2776). With application fees and the cost of interviewing, the mean total cost of applying for the 2016 otolaryngology match was $6400 (95% CI, $5710‐$7090), with a total range of $1200 to $20,000. Twenty‐eight percent of students did not have sufficient funds for applying and interviewing despite seeking out additional monetary resources.

Conclusion

In 2016, otolaryngology applicants spent a mean of $8900 (95% CI, $7935‐$9865) on away rotations, applications, and interviewing. Half of the applicants obtained additional funding to cover this cost, while 28% still did not have sufficient funding. Methods of decreasing cost may include instituting a cap on application number, videoconferencing interviews, regionalizing interviews, and adjusting the interview timeline.
Complications Associated with Mortality after Head and Neck Surgery: An Analysis of the NSQIP Database
Authors: Mulvey Carolyn L. , Brant Jason A. , Bur Andrés M. , Chen Jinbo , Fischer John P. , Cannady Steven B. , Newman Jason G.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To determine which complications, as defined by the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, correlate with 30‐day mortality in surgery for malignancies of the head and neck.

Study Design

Retrospective review of prospectively collected national database.

Setting

NSQIP.

Subjects and Methods

NSQIP data from 2005 to 2014 were queried for ICD‐9 codes head and neck malignancies. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the correlation of individual complications with 30‐day mortality.

Results

In total, 15,410 cases met criteria with 3499 complications in 2235 cases. After controlling for patient and surgical variables, postoperative pneumonia (P =. 02; odds ratio [OR], 2.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15‐4.72), progressive renal insufficiency (P <. 001; OR, 21.28; 95% CI, 4.22‐87.94), bleeding requiring transfusion (P =. 02; OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.12‐3.84), sepsis (P =. 02; OR, 2.86; 95% CI, 1.15‐6.46), septic shock (P =. 045; OR, 2.87; 95% CI, 0.98‐7.81), stroke (P <. 001; OR, 19.81; 95% CI, 6.23‐56.03), and cardiac arrest (P <. 001; OR, 135.59; 95% CI, 65.00‐286.48) were independently associated with increased odds of 30‐day mortality.

Conclusion

The NSQIP database has been extensively validated and used to examine surgical complications, yet there is little analysis on which complications are associated with death. This study identified complications associated with increased risk of 30‐day mortality following head and neck cancer surgery. These associations may be used as a measure of complication severity and should be considered when using the NSQIP database to evaluate outcomes in head and neck surgery.
Smartphone‐Enabled Otoscopy in Neurotology/Otology
Authors: Moshtaghi Omid , Sahyouni Ronald , Haidar Yarah M. , Huang Melissa , Moshtaghi Afsheen , Ghavami Yaser , Lin Harrison W. , Djalilian Hamid R.
Published: January 2017

Objective

A smartphone‐enabled otoscope (SEO) can capture tympanic membrane (TM) images. We sought to compare a SEO to microscopic otoscopy in the detection and evaluation of TM pathology in an otology/neurotology practice.

Study Design

Prospective single‐site study in adults presenting over a 3‐month period.

Setting

Neurotology clinic within a tertiary care academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Following consent, 57 patients underwent a medical and microscopic ear examination. Afterward, clinicians photographed bilateral TMs using a SEO. A second “blinded” neurotologist received a SEO‐acquired image of each TM and a brief patient history. Our primary end point was identification of TM pathology (or lack thereof) and the blinded neurotologists’ corresponding diagnosis. Secondary end points included patient‐reported SEO comfort levels.

Results

A single SEO‐acquired TM image and brief patient history resulted in correct diagnosis of 96% (23/24) of normal TMs and identification of 100% (33/33) of microscope‐confirmed abnormal TMs. When pathology was identified by the “blinded” physician, the diagnosis was identical to that made by the primary treating physician 82% (27/33) of the time. On patient surveys, 93% (53/57) of patients felt “very comfortable” with SEO utilization, and 88% (50/57) reported viewing acquired images was “very useful” in understanding their condition.

Conclusion

A SEO is 96% specific in identifying normal TMs and 100% sensitive in identifying pathology. Its 97% positive predictive value and small false‐positive rate makes it a useful screening tool. Furthermore, patients are receptive to this technology and felt comfortable with its utilization in a health care or possible telemedicine setting.
The Utility of In‐Office Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Parotid Lesions
Authors: Haidar Yarah M. , Moshtaghi Omid , Mahmoodi Amin , Helmy Mohammad , Goddard Julie A. , Armstrong William B.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To determine whether the use of in‐office ultrasound (US) by a head and neck surgeon is a useful adjunct to clinical assessment of parotid lesions and decrease the need of additional imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic center.

Subjects

Seventy patients presenting with a parotid lesion who obtained an in‐office US and ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (USGFNA) from a head and neck surgeon from 2006 to 2015.

Methods

US images were retrospectively reviewed for 70 patients and characterized by a radiologist and a head and neck surgeon.

Results

Of the 70 patients, 6 had US characteristics that demonstrated a statistically significant association with a benign/malignant diagnosis: depth from surface; irregular borders; presence of calcifications, which included either micro‐ or macro‐calcifications; posterior echogenicity enhancement; irregular shape; and homogeneous/heterogeneous echotexture. Imaging was performed prior to referral in 25 cases (35.7%); of those, 17 (68%) were for superficial, small (<2 cm) tumors where prereferral imaging studies did not provide additional information to that obtained with US. Of the 55 patients without MRI or CT performed prior to referral, MRI or positron emission tomography–CT scan was obtained in only 4 patients (7.3%) in cases involving recurrent parotid lesions, large tumors, or workup of a malignant neoplasm.

Conclusions

Several US characteristics individually assist in lesion characterization. In‐office US and USGFNA are an appropriate first‐line modality in the assessment of parotid lesions, can allow for immediate parotid lesion assessment, and can decrease the need for additional imaging.
Geosocial Formations and the Anthropocene
Authors: Clark Nigel , Yusoff Kathryn
Published: January 2017

For at least two centuries most social thought has taken the earth to be the stable platform upon which dynamic social processes play out. Both climate change and the Anthropocene thesis – with their enfolding of dramatic geologic change into the space-time of social life – are now provoking social thinkers into closer engagement with earth science. After revisiting the decisive influence of the late 18th-century notion of geological formations on the idea of social formations, this introductory article turns to more recent and more explicit attempts to open up the categories of social thought to a deeper understanding of earth processes. This includes attempts to consider how social and political agency is both constrained and made possible by the forces of the earth itself. It also involves efforts to think beyond existing dependencies of social worlds upon particular geological strata and to imagine alternative ‘geosocial’ futures.
State restructuring and emerging patterns of subnational policy-making and governance in China and India
Authors: Kennedy Loraine
Published: January 2017

Engaging with theory and comparative research, the specific aim of this special issue is to contribute to scholarship engaging with state rescaling theory in non-Western societies as well as to on-going debates about the changing scalar dimensions of urban and regional development. It does so by examining scalar dynamics on the basis of empirical case studies in China and India, including fieldwork-based research. The starting point of the papers is the observation that subnational states assume distinctly more significant roles than in the past for regulating economic activities and shaping economic governance. Processes of state restructuring currently underway in each country are reconfiguring the spatial deployment of the state, or state territoriality, a development that has attracted considerably less academic attention than changing state-market relations. This introductory article sets out the special issue's theoretical and empirical objectives. It provides a review of existing literature, analysing the various modalities of scalar restructuring and situating them in relation to each national context. In particular, ‘rescaling’ and ‘decentralisation’ processes are carefully distinguished, in order to sharpen the focus of the debate and facilitate comparison between the Chinese and Indian cases. Finally, the specific aspects of state restructuring analysed in this set of papers are discussed with regard to the literature, to underscore their contribution. The papers cover a range of policy domains and instruments pertaining to both economic development and social welfare. Using scale-sensitive methods, they map changing geographies of both state space and socio-economic relations and discuss them in relation to each country's unique development trajectory.
Capitalizing on the crowd: The monetary and financial ecologies of crowdfunding
Authors: Langley Paul , Leyshon Andrew
Published: January 2017

‘Crowdfunding’ is a method of raising money and finance to capitalize projects of various kinds. Drawing on the networking capabilities of the internet and software platforms, those seeking project funding appeal to potentially diverse audiences who are collectively referred to as ‘the crowd’. What practitioners, advocates and policymakers typically identify within crowdfunding is its ‘alternative’, ‘disruptive’ and ‘democratizing’ qualities; that is, it is held to be a novel, digitally rendered economic space which has the capacity to challenge established funding practices in banking, capital markets and venture capital networks, offering a more open and egalitarian source of capital for economic, social and cultural entrepreneurship. The paper develops the concept of ‘ecologies’, drawn from the geographies of money and finance literature, to advance a critical understanding of the crowdfunding economy that is sceptical of its apparent qualities. First, by encouraging the analysis of diverse and proliferative monetary and financial forms, the concept of ecologies enables an understanding that avoids the binary opposition of ‘capitalist/alternative’ economic forms and which differentiates between the variegated crowdfunding ecologies that have emerged to date. Second, by foregrounding the intermediation processes and credit–debt relations of monetary and financial ecologies, it is argued that crowdfunding may largely replicate rather than disrupt the extant institutional and debt dynamics of funding practices. Third, by emphasizing the socio-spatial effects of monetary and financial ecologies, attention is drawn to the need for further research into the unevenness that mitigates against crowdfunding being as open and egalitarian as its advocates claim.
The Schoolwork Engagement Inventory: Factorial Structure, Measurement Invariance by Gender and Educational Level, and Convergent Validity in Secondary Education (12-18 Years)
Authors: García-Ros Rafael , Pérez-González Francisco , Tomás José M. , Fernández Irene
Published: January 2017

This study analyzes the dimensionality, reliability, metric invariance, and convergent validity of the Schoolwork Engagement Inventory (SEI) in secondary education. Participants in the study were 679 students in compulsory and post-compulsory secondary education in a large city in Eastern Spain during the 2014-2015 academic year. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed that the one-factor model of the SEI is superior to the other alternative models considered, providing an overall schoolwork engagement score in this educational stage. Reliability was also adequate and the instrument was found to be invariant by gender and educational level. Latent mean comparisons revealed a significant decline in schoolwork engagement throughout secondary compulsory education, and returning to higher levels in post-compulsory secondary education. A CFA also showed SEI’s convergent validity with self-regulated learning, given its direct relationship with metacognitive strategies and self-efficacy for learning, and its inverse relationship with test anxiety.
Comparing Behavioral Profiles for Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities Using the BASC-2 Parent Rating Scales–Preschool Form
Authors: Gardner Lauren M. , Campbell Jonathan M. , Bush Andrew J. , Murphy Laura
Published: January 2017

We contrasted Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition–Parent Rating Scales–Preschool Form (BASC-2 PRS-P) parent ratings for 242 (52% African American; 39% White) preschool-aged children from three diagnostic groups: autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and ASD and ID (ASD/ID). Across diagnostic groups, atypical behavior, attention, and adaptive functioning were rated as problematic; Developmental Social Disorders (DSD) scores were elevated across diagnostic groups and did not differ. Several BASC-2 clinical and adaptive scales differed across diagnostic groups, with parent-rated aggression higher for the ID group, parent-rated social withdrawal higher for the ASD group, and parent-rated social skills lower for the ASD/ID group. No differences in BASC-2 scores were found across African American and White preschoolers. The BASC-2 identified problem areas in a preschool clinical sample that were consistent with those of preschoolers with developmental disabilities. However, findings did not support use of the DSD as an ASD-specific screening measure.
Validity Evidence Based on Internal Structure of Scores of the Emotional Quotient Inventory: Youth Version Short (EQ-i: YV-S) in a Chinese Sample
Authors: Esnaola Igor , Arias Víctor B. , Freeman John , Wang Yina , Arias Benito
Published: January 2017

Given the lack of any Chinese instrument validated for emotional intelligence (EI) among adolescents, the purpose of this study was to explore new sources of validity evidence drawn from scores on the Emotional Quotient Inventory: Youth Version Short (EQ-i: YV-S) in a sample of Chinese adolescents. The sample was composed of 406 adolescents (236 girls). Results support the multidimensionality of the EQ-i: YV-S, but its hierarchical structure did not receive empirical support. Three of the four main subscales (all but interpersonal) had acceptable reliability indices. In addition, although the impact of the Positive Impression subscale on responses to the main scales was generally low, the effect is not ignorable, and its impact should be modeled in further investigations of the EQ-i: YV-S. Finally, four main subscales of EQ-i: YV-S showed significant power in the prediction of general self-concept and moderate temporal stability. The findings provide overall support for the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of EQ-i: YV-S.
An Interhospital, Interdisciplinary Needs Assessment of Palliative Care in a Community Critical Care Context
Authors: Sarti Aimee J. , Bourbonnais Frances Fothergill , Landriault Angèle , Sutherland Stephanie , Cardinal Pierre
Published: January 2017

Aim:

There is a paucity of data on the provision of palliative care in the critical care settings of smaller community hospitals. This study aimed to identify the gaps that affect the provision of palliative care in a community critical care setting.

Setting:

The study was set in a 10-bed, open intensive care unit and emergency department at a community hospital.

Methods:

Mixed methods were used. Quantitative data included those drawn from databases and surveys; qualitative data included those collected from interviews, focus groups, and onsite walk-throughs and were analyzed with inductive coding techniques.

Results:

Gaps were identified in palliative care, goals of care and end-of-life discussions, and resources. Community hospital healthcare professionals did not fully appreciate their essential contribution to the provision of palliative care in the intensive care unit. In addition, there was a lack of expertise, and a lack of interest in gaining expertise, in palliative/end-of-life care.

Conclusion:

Interrelated needs in a complex interprofessional, interhospital context were captured. Further studies are required to obtain data on palliative practice in the care of critically ill patients in various community hospital contexts.
Smart charging for electric vehicles to minimise charging cost
Authors: Wang Yue , Infield David , Gill Simon
Published: January 2017

This paper assumes a smart grid framework where the driving patterns for electric vehicles are known, time variations in electricity prices are communicated to householders, and data on voltage variation throughout the distribution system are available. Based on this information, an aggregator with access to this data can be employed to minimise electric vehicles charging costs to the owner whilst maintaining acceptable distribution system voltages. In this study, electric vehicle charging is assumed to take place only in the home. A single-phase Low Voltage (LV) distribution network is investigated where the local electric vehicles penetration level is assumed to be 100%. Electric vehicle use patterns have been extracted from the UK Time of Use Survey data with a 10-min resolution and the domestic base load is generated from an existing public domain model. Apart from the so-called real time price signal, which is derived from the electricity system wholesale price, the cost of battery degradation is also considered in the optimal scheduling of electric vehicles charging. A simple and effective heuristic method is proposed to minimise the electric vehicles’ charging cost whilst satisfying the requirement of state of charge for the electric vehicles’ battery. A simulation in OpenDSS over a period of 24 h has been implemented, taking care of the network constraints for voltage level at the customer connection points. The optimisation results are compared with those obtained using dynamic optimal power flow.
Is it morally permissible for hospital nurses to access prisoner-patients’ criminal histories?
Authors: Neiman Paul
Published: January 2017

In the United States, information about a person’s criminal history is accessible with a name and date of birth. Ruth Crampton has studied nurses’ care for prisoner-patients in hospital settings and found care to be perfunctory and reactive. This article examines whether it is morally permissible for nurses in hospital settings to access information about prisoner-patients’ criminal histories. Nurses may argue for a right to such information based on the right to personal safety at work or the obligation to provide prisoner-patients with the care that they deserve. These two arguments are considered and rejected. It is further argued that accessing information about a prisoner-patient’s criminal history violates nurses’ duty to care. Care, understood through Sarah Ruddick’s account as work and relationship, requires nurses to be open and unbiased in order to do their part in forming a caring relationship with patients. Knowledge of a prisoner-patient’s criminal history inhibits the formation of this relationship and thus violates nurses’ duty to care.
Exploring the Linkage between Profits and Asset–Liability Management
Authors: Chatterjee Chanchal , Dutta Paromita
Published: January 2017

The article uses panel data regression on a sample of 26 public sector and 20 private sector banks operating in India over the period 2004–2005 to 2012–2013 in order to empirically examine the relationship between profits and asset–liability (A–L) composition of Indian banks. The sample was initially split into public sector and private sector banks. Earning before tax (EBT) of public sector banks appear to be generated by all the assets under the asset portfolio while, in private sector banks, the EBT seems to be produced by loans and advances and deposits and placings to banks. From liabilities’ perspective, the ‘short-term funding’ appears to be the cheapest for both the bank groups. The sample was then split into high-profit and low-profit banks. The results show that, compared to the high-profit banks, low-profit banks experience higher rate of return on loans and advances, investments and fixed assets. The study does not find that high-profit banks always enjoy relatively cheaper cost of funding than low-profit banks.
Tracking Efficiency of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
Authors: Singh Jaspal , Kaur Prabhdeep
Published: January 2017

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) have emerged as a new investment vehicle in the mutual fund industry providing investors with the ability to trade the entire market through a single transaction executed at the exchange. Using a sample of 12 equity ETFs from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2015, the present article attempts to examine the performance efficiency of ETFs in India and explore factors that drive the performance of ETFs away from their target indices. The study reveals that ETFs exhibit significant tracking error while trying to replicate the returns of their benchmark indices. The results of panel regression analysis further reveal that the assets under management and volume positively affected the tracking ability of ETFs whereas volatility is reported to have negative impact on the tracking efficiency of ETFs. The results will have important implications for investors, managers as well as for the evaluation criteria involved in assessing the performance of actively managed funds.
Correlates of Physical Functioning and Performance Across the Spectrum of Kidney Function
Authors: Segura-Ortí E. , Gordon P. L. , Doyle J. W. , Johansen K. L.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which poor physical functioning, low participation in physical activity, and muscle atrophy observed among patients on hemodialysis are evident in the earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We enrolled adults in three groups: no CKD, Stages 3 to 4 CKD, and hemodialysis. Outcomes measured were physical activity, muscle size, thigh muscle strength, physical performance, and self-reported physical function. Patients with CKD had muscle area intermediate between the no CKD and hemodialysis groups, but they had low levels of physical activity that were similar to the hemodialysis group. Physical activity and muscle size were significantly associated with all outcomes. Kidney function was not significantly associated with muscle strength or physical performance after adjustment for physical activity and muscle size. In conclusion, interventions aimed to increase muscle mass and energy expenditure might have an impact on improving physical function of CKD patients.
Why Trade Associations Matter: Exploring Function, Meaning, and Influence
Authors: Lawton Thomas C. , Rajwani Tazeeb , Minto Amy
Published: January 2017

We explore the organizational characteristics of trade associations (TAs) and suggest theoretical approaches for undertaking research into or involving TAs in management and organization studies. Through emphasizing the role of TAs within and between industries and at the interface of business and society, we consider how TAs generate meaning and influence.
Neuromodulation of Reactive Sensorimotor Mappings as a Short-Term Memory Mechanism in Delayed Response Tasks
Authors: Ziemke Tom , Thieme Mikael
Published: January 2017

This article addresses the relation between memory, representation, and adaptive behavior. More specifically, it demonstrates and discusses the use of synaptic plasticity, realized through neuromodulation of sensorimotor mappings, as a short-term memory mechanism in delayed response tasks. A number of experiments with extended sequential cascaded networks, that is, higher-order recurrent neural nets, controlling simple robotic agents in six different delayed response tasks are presented. The focus of the analysis is on how short-term memory is realized in such control networks through the dynamic modulation of sensorimotor mappings (rather than through feedback of neuronal activation, as in conventional recurrent nets), and how these internal dynamics interact with environmental/behavioral dynamics. In particular, it is demonstrated in the analysis of the last experimental scenario how this type of network can make very selective use of feedback/memory, while as far as possible limiting itself to the use of reactive sensorimotor mechanisms and occasional switches between them.
A numerical approach for solving a class of fractional optimal control problems via operational matrix Bernoulli polynomials
Authors: Behroozifar Mahmoud , Habibi Neda
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study is to introduce a novel approach based on the operational matrix of a Riemann–Liouville fractional integral of Bernoulli polynomials, in order to numerically solve a class of fractional optimal control problems that arise in engineering. The method is computationally consistent and moreover, it has good flexibility in satisfying the initial and boundary conditions. The fractional derivative in the dynamic system is considered in the Caputo sense. The upper bound of the error for function approximation by a Bernoulli polynomial is also given. In order to numerically solve the given problem, the problem is transformed into a functional integral equation that is equivalent to the given problem. Then, the new integral equation is approximated by utilizing the Gauss quadrature formula. Afterwards, a system of nonlinear equations is yielded from the Lagrange multipliers method. Finally, the resultant system of nonlinear equations is solved by Newton’s iterative method. Some illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the applicability of the new technique.
Book Review: Roelen, K. and Camfield, L., editors. 2015: Mixed Methods Research in Poverty and Vulnerability
Authors: Ferreira Marisa R.
Published: January 2017

Roelen, K. and Camfield, L., editors. 2015: Mixed Methods Research in Poverty and Vulnerability. Basingstoke, UK: Palgrave Macmillan. Xiii + 281 pp. $100.00 (hardcover), $79.99 (eBook). ISBN: 978–1-137–45250–4 (hardcover). ISBN: 978–1-137–45251–1 (eBook).
Book Review: Brown, Katrina. 2016: Resilience, Development and Global Change
Authors: Forsyth Tim
Published: January 2017

Brown, Katrina. 2016: Resilience, Development and Global Change. Abingdon and New York: Routledge. xiv + 228 pp. £80 (hardback), £26.09 (paperback). ISBN: 978–0-415–66346–5 (hardback). ISBN: 978–0-415–66347–2 (paperback). ISBN: 978–0-203–49809–5 (e-book).
The perspective-based observational tunnels method: A new method of multidimensional data visualization
Authors: Jamroz Dariusz
Published: January 2017

The article describes a new unique method of multidimensional data visualization. It has been developed as modified observational tunnels method, which was previously known and used many times. The modification consists in supplementing the observational tunnels method used for visualization of multidimensional data with the concept of perspective. In this way, the orientation and navigation in multidimensional space are largely facilitated. The differences in effects of observational tunnels method and perspective-based observational tunnels method have been presented. The effectiveness of the new visualization method has been compared with selected four well-known methods of multidimensional data visualization: parallel coordinates, orthogonal projection, principal component analysis, and multidimensional scaling. The research revealed that the perspective-based observational tunnels method sometimes makes it possible to obtain information about significant features of analyzed data even when other methods selected for comparative studies are not able to show it. This article includes a presentation of the views of 5-dimensional data obtained from the print recognition process, which allowed the author to state that the features chosen for the development of spatial features are, in this case, sufficient for the correct recognition process. The previously published ranking presenting seven different methods of multidimensional data visualization was supplemented with the perspective-based observational tunnels method. This ranking was conducted using 7-dimensional data describing different types of coal. Thus, it was shown that, in this case, the presented method constitutes the efficient tool among other qualitative visualization analysis methods.
Training and Educational Development for “Vetrepreneurs”
Authors: Cumberland Denise M.
Published: January 2017

The Problem

Over the last decade, specialized training programs have emerged to assist veterans in launching their own businesses. An initial search for information on entrepreneurship training programs for veterans, however, reveals that there has been no systematic research undertaken to summarize programs available and no comparison of what these various training efforts include. In addition, there has been no examination of whether these programs provide the requisite skills to engage in venture creation, result in the launch of veteran start-ups, and improve the odds of long-term venture success. The lack of empirical studies reporting on the assessment of these programs makes it difficult to judge the relevancy of the curriculum in meeting the nascent veteran entrepreneurs’ needs.

The Solution

This article brings together a wide range of information on veteran entrepreneurial training programs offered by the government, academia, and nonprofits in the United States. Data were gathered through websites and other literatures. Concern about the lack of reported results of these programs is noted, and a framework is proposed for the systematic evaluation of learning outcomes that could be used across veteran entrepreneurial education programs.

The Stakeholders

The article is aimed at training development professionals, universities, policy makers, veterans, and human resource development (HRD) professionals.
Mental Health and Sport Performance Programming in Athletes Who Present Without Pathology: A Case Examination Supporting Optimization
Authors: Gavrilova Yulia , Donohue Bradley , Galante Marina
Published: January 2017

Athletes are exposed to unique stressors that often negatively impact the way they think, behave, and feel in athletic, academic, and social domains. The Optimum Performance Program in Sports (TOPPS), an adaptation of Family Behavior Therapy, is an innovative approach to optimization science that has demonstrated positive outcomes in student-athletes evidencing substance use disorders. However, this approach has yet to be evaluated in athletes who are interested in optimizing their mental health and sport performance, but have no indication of pathology. We describe the administration of TOPPS in a female student-athlete who presented for intervention with no assessed mental health pathology. Although experimental methodology was uncontrolled, many of the methodological features in this examination were advanced. Treatment integrity was reliably assessed and the athlete demonstrated significant improvements in psychometrically validated measurements of mental health and sport performance from baseline to 5-months post-treatment, including psychiatric domains (somatization, obsessive–compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation, and psychoticism), relationships with teammates, family members, coaches, and peers, and measures of sport performance. Future directions are reported in light of the results.
Transcriptomic effects of metformin in skeletal muscle arteries of obese insulin-resistant rats
Authors: Padilla Jaume , Thorne Pamela K , Martin Jeffrey S , Rector R Scott , Akter Sadia , Davis J Wade , Laughlin M Harold , Jenkins Nathan T
Published: January 2017

We examined the effects of metformin, a commonly used antidiabetic drug, on gene expression in multiple arteries. Specifically, transcriptional profiles of feed arteries and second branch order arterioles in the soleus, gastrocnemius, and diaphragm muscles as well as aortic endothelial scrapes were examined from obese insulin-resistant Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats treated with ( n = 9) or without ( n = 10) metformin from 20 to 32 weeks of age. Metformin-treated rats exhibited a reduction in body weight, adiposity, and HbA1c ( P < 0.05). The greatest number of differentially expressed genes (FDR < 15%) between those treated with and without metformin was found in the red gastrocnemius 2a arterioles (93 genes), followed by the diaphragm 2a arterioles (62 genes), and soleus 2a arterioles (15 genes). We also found that two genes were differentially expressed in aortic endothelial cells (LETMD1 and HMGCS2, both downregulated), one gene in the gastrocnemius feed artery (BLNK, downregulated), and no genes in the soleus and diaphragm feed arteries and white gastrocnemius 2a arterioles. No single gene was altered by metformin across all vessels examined. This study provides evidence that metformin treatment produces distinct gene expression effects throughout the arterial tree in a rat model of obesity and insulin resistance. Genes whose expression was modulated with metformin do not appear to have a clear connection with its known mechanisms of action. These findings support the notion that vascular gene regulation in response to oral pharmacological therapy, such as metformin, is vessel specific.

Impact statement

This study provides evidence that metformin treatment produces artery-specific gene expression effects. The genes whose expression was modulated with metformin do not appear to have a clear connection with its known mechanisms of action.