bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disclosure of victimization experiences of Chinese male survivors of intimate partner abuse
Authors: Simon Chan TM , Wallace Tsang WH
Published: April 2017

Male victimization in intimate partner abuse situations has long been a neglected phenomenon in academic research and is rarely mentioned in social service provision. The abused male is often absent from the overall picture, such that intimate partner abuse against males remains an invisible occurrence. This is in part due to the reluctance of society to support them, because men are culturally perceived to be masculine and strong. The factors that facilitate or prevent their disclosure are worthy of study because in doing so, could provide a better understanding of how their help-seeking behavior contributes to service planning for both men and women in conflict. This study, therefore, focuses on the individual, organizational and cultural factors that facilitate or prevent the disclosure of intimate partner abuse when experienced by men in a Chinese context. Three general areas have been identified from a literature review: namely, the attribution of the victimization experiences, professional encounters, and cultural conception of masculinity. Eight male survivors have voluntarily participated and recruited through purposive snowball sampling. In-depth interviews are used to obtain the qualitative data. After conducting a thematic analysis, six themes are identified, which are: the perceived uniqueness of the victimization; perceived severity of the victimization; perceived sincerity of the helping professionals; professional actions; ‘macho competence’; and ‘macho protection.’ In conclusion, suggestions are made on how the study findings contribute to developing gender sensitive practices for helping professionals, especially social workers and counsellors, when they work with male survivors of intimate partner abuse.
Assessment of Long-Term Mate Preferences in Iran
Authors: Atari Mohammad
Published: April 2017

Previous research suggests that assessment of mate preferences has received relatively little psychometric attention from researchers, particularly in non-Western cultures. The current research was designed to (1) extend previous findings on long-term mate preferences by using a qualitative strategy, (2) develop a psychometrically sound scale for assessment of long-term mate preferences in men, and (3) develop a sex-neutral scale for assessment of long-term mate preferences. Six dimensions of mate preferences emerged for men: F = family/domesticity, A = attractiveness/sexuality, K = kindness/dependability, E = education/intelligence, R = religiosity/chastity, and S = status/resources. These male-specific dimensions of mate preferences showed satisfactory concurrent and convergent validity as well as high internal consistency coefficients. We mixed the female- and male-specific measures of mate preferences and arrived at 20 characteristics without culture- or sex-specific content. We further hypothesized that the 20-item scale of mate preferences would have a five-factor structure (i.e., kindness/dependability, attractiveness/sexuality, status/resources, education/intelligence, religiosity/chastity [KASER]) in men and women and that this model would replicate sex differences cited in the evolutionary psychological literature. Measurement invariance was evidenced across sexes and sex differences accorded with those in the literature. Therefore, the five-factor model of long-term mate preferences (i.e., KASER model) as measured by the Iranian Mate Preferences Scale-20 may be used to evaluate long-term mate preferences in men and women in Iran. Limitations are noted and future directions are discussed in the light of evolutionary perspective on human mating psychology.
A Social Marketing Approach to 1% Milk Use: Resonance Is the Key
Authors: Finnell Karla Jaye , John Robert
Published: April 2017

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend low-fat milk consumption, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) programs follow these guidelines to develop health education programs for SNAP recipients. This study evaluated a multilevel media intervention promoting low-fat milk use among Oklahoma SNAP recipients, a population often missed. Behavior change was measured with pre- and postintervention telephone interviews with SNAP recipients ( n = 860). Immediately following the intervention, self-reported purchases of 1% milk, the focus of behavior change, significantly increased to 7.9% from 4.1%—a relative improvement of 92.7%, χ2(1, n = 824) = 5.8, p = .02. Milk nutrition knowledge scores significantly improved as well, t(846) = 2.9, p = .004, and low-fat milk users exhibited more milk nutrition knowledge than high-fat milk users, t(437) = 4.0, p = .000. The intervention, which resonated with the priority audience, was well received ( Mdn = 6, 1, 7). Factors contributing to its success included a gain-based message strategy and clearly articulating the desired behavior. Salient messages personalized the issues and concerns raised by the priority audience—all the vitamins and minerals without the fat. Findings suggest that matching gender and ethnicity mediated the effect among those most resistant to substituting low-fat for high-fat milk.
Long non-coding RNA BCAR4 promotes chondrosarcoma cell proliferation and migration through activation of mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Shui Xiaolong , Zhou Chengwei , Lin Wei , Yu Yang , Feng Yongzeng , Kong Jianzhong
Published: April 2017

Background: Chondrosarcoma is one of the common malignant histologic tumors, very difficult to treat, but the concrete cause and mechanism have not yet been elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the functional involvement of BCAR4 in chondrosarcoma and its potentially underlying mechanism. QRT-PCR and western blot were used to determine the expression of BCAR4 and mTOR signaling pathway proteins both in chondrosarcoma tissues and cells. Chondrosarcoma cell proliferation and migration were assessed by MTT assay and transwell migration assay, respectively. The expression vectors were constructed and used to modulate the expression of BCAR4 and mTOR. Chondrosarcoma xenograft mouse model was established by subcutaneous injection with chondrosarcoma cell lines. The tumor volume was monitored to evaluate the effect of BCAR4 on chondrosarcoma cell tumorigenicity. The expressions of BCAR4, p-mTOR and p-P70S6K were up-regulated in chondrosarcoma tissues and cell lines. Moreover, BCAR4 overexpression had significant promoting effect on cell proliferation and migration in chondrosarcoma cells. Furthermore, mTOR signaling pathway was epigenetically activated by BCAR4-induced hyperacetylation of histone H3. We also found that mTOR overexpression abolished the decrease of chondrosarcoma cell proliferation and migration induced by BCAR4 knockdown. In vivo experiments confirmed that BCAR4 overexpression significantly accelerated tumor growth, while the knockdown of BCAR4 significantly inhibited tumor growth. BCAR4 promoted chondrosarcoma cell proliferation and migration through activation of mTOR signaling pathway, and thus contributed to chondrosarcoma progression.

Impact statement

LncRNA BCAR4 promoted chondrosarcoma cell proliferation and migration through activation of mTOR signaling pathway, and thus contributed to chondrosarcoma progression.
Endovascular Treatment of Congenital External Carotid-Jugular Fistula: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bellosta Raffaello , Vescovi Monica , Attisani Luca , Luzzani Luca
Published: April 2017

Congenital vascular malformation (CVM) between the external carotid artery and the internal jugular vein is a rare disease, it originates as a consequence of arrested development during various stages of embryogenesis. The natural history of CMVs is progressive growth, it can remain clinically silent until it progresses causing local swelling accompanied by symptoms and signs of arteriovenous shunting, mass effect, ischemic insult with ulceration of skin or bleeding. In literature only few cases of CMVs have been reported, therefore there is still no consensus about the correct surgical approach to this pathology. We report an uncomplicated case of CVMs in a 15-year-old female successfully treated with coils embolization. To our knowledge, this is the eighth reported case in the literature review.
An improved incremental least-mean-squares algorithm for distributed estimation over wireless sensor networks
Authors: Wu Mou , Tan Liansheng , Yang Rong , Wan Runze
Published: April 2017

Distributed parameter estimation problem has attracted much attention due to its important foundation of some applications in wireless sensor networks. In this work, we first investigate the performance tradeoff between existing incremental least-mean-squares algorithm and traditional steepest-descent algorithm from the aspects of initial convergence rate, steady-state convergence behavior, and oscillation, and present the motivations for improvements. Thereby we propose an improved incremental least-mean-squares distributed estimation algorithm that starts from the incremental least-mean-squares algorithm and works toward the objective of improvement on initial convergence rate and steady-state performance. The proposed algorithm meets the requirements of diminishing step size for wireless sensor networks without any increase in communication overhead and the mean stability condition is derived for a practical guideline. A target localization model in wireless sensor networks is used to illustrate the effect of the proposed algorithm. Simulation results confirm the performance improvement of our method, as well as the effectiveness of application in wireless sensor networks.
Usability Tests in Medicine: A Cost-Benefit Analysis for Hospitals Before Acquiring Medical Devices for Theatre
Authors: Gonser Phillipp , Fuchsberger Thomas , Matern Ulrich
Published: April 2017

Purpose: The use of active medical devices in clinical routine should be as safe and efficient as possible. Usability tests (UTs) help improve these aspects of medical devices during their development, but UTs can be of use for hospitals even after a product has been launched. The present pilot study examines the costs and possible benefits of UT for hospitals before buying new medical devices for theatre. Methods: Two active medical devices with different complexity were tested in a standardized UT and a cost-benefit analysis was carried out assuming a different device bought at the same price with a higher usability could increase the efficiency of task solving and due to that save valuable theatre time. Results: The cost of the UT amounted up to €19.400. Hospitals could benefit from UTs before buying new devices for theatre by reducing time-consuming operator errors and thereby increase productivity and patient safety. The possible benefits amounted from €23.300 to €1.570.000 (median = €797.000). Conclusion: Not only hospitals could benefit economically from investing in a UT before deciding to buy a medical device, but especially patients would profit from a higher usability by reducing possible operator errors and increase safety and performance of use.
The Lifestyle History: A Neglected But Essential Component of the Medical History
Authors: Houlden Robyn L. , Yen Hope H. , Mirrahimi Arash
Published: April 2017

There is increased recognition that lifestyle factors, including nutrition, physical activity, emotional well-being and stress management, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and sleep habits, are major determinants of health. There is a need to teach practicing physicians, medical trainees, and other health care providers how to perform a “lifestyle history.” This article proposes 13 screening questions physicians should consider exploring with patients. It provides the rationale and scientific evidence supporting each question and includes key lifestyle counseling points for clinicians to consider.
‘Monsoon Hungama’ and the 2G Scam: Public interest and mobile spectrum policy in India, 1999–2012
Authors: Arceneaux Noah
Published: April 2017

This study explores the rapid diffusion of mobile phones in India by analysing the government policy of spectrum allocation. Spectrum refers to the range of electromagnetic frequencies that make wireless communication possible, and decisions about its allocation are a fundamental influence upon the mobile industry. The analysis is informed by theories of social construction and devotes particular attention to the way regulators have sought to allocate the airwaves to serve the public interest. The research is focused on two key moments of disruption that were particularly influential for the diffusion of phones in India: the introduction of code division multiple access (CDMA) service in the early 2000s and an infamous spectrum scandal of 2008. Information is drawn from interviews with stakeholders in the Indian mobile industry, policy documents and prior scholarship.
Perceptions of older women with cancer participating in an exercise programme: a mixed methods pilot study
Authors: Rath Linda L , Hermanns Melinda , Ballard Joyce , Haas Barbara K
Published: April 2017

Fourteen women over the age of 55 years with a history of cancer were followed during and after completion of a monitored exercise programme intended to improve body strength, functional performance, balance, activities of daily living and quality of life. A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was employed. The quantitative strand utilised a quasi-experimental, pretest/posttest design. The qualitative strand involved individualised interviews 2–3 months following completion of the intervention. The main outcomes were (a) physical characteristics of participants; (b) resistive tests; (c) functional ability; (d) cancer-related fatigue and (e) quality of life. Both study strands indicated that all participants showed significant improvement in resistive tests, functional ability and activities of daily living. Though quantitative results of fatigue and quality of life were statistically nonsignificant, qualitative findings indicated clinically significant improvement.
Co-regularized weighting multiview clustering
Authors: You Cong-Zhe , Wu Xiao-Jun
Published: April 2017

This paper deals with clustering for multiview data. Multiview clustering has been a research hot spot in many domains or applications, such as information retrieval, biology, chemistry, and marketing. Exploring information from multiple views, one can hope to find a clustering that is more accurate than the ones obtained using the individual views. The aim is to search for clustering patterns that perform a consensus between the patterns from different views. Inspired by variable weighting and co-regularized strategy, this paper studies co-regularized weighting multiview clustering algorithms. Two co-regularized weighting multiview clustering algorithms are proposed from two aspects: pairwise co-regularization and centroid-based co-regularization. Experimental results obtained both on synthetic and real datasets show that the proposed algorithms outperform the main existing multiview clustering algorithms.
Optimization of Degradation Profile for New Scaffold in Cartilage Repair
Authors: Shah Sarav S. , Liang Haixiang , Pandit Sandeep , Parikh Zalak , Schwartz John A. , Goldstein Todd , Lavelle Lawrence P. , Datta Arindam , Grande Daniel A.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To establish whether a novel biomaterial scaffold with tunable degradation profile will aid in cartilage repair of chondral defects versus microfracture alone in vitro and in a rat model in vivo.

Design

In vitro—Short- and long-term degradation scaffolds were seeded with culture expanded articular chondrocytes or bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Cell growth and differentiation were evaluated with cell morphological studies and gene expression studies. In vivo—A microfracture rat model was used in this study to evaluate the repair of cartilage and subchondral bone with the contralateral knee serving as the empty control. The treatment groups include (1) empty osteochondral defect, (2) polycaprolactone copolymer–based polyester polyurethane–urea (PSPU-U) caffold short-term degradative profile, and (3) PSPU-U scaffold long-term degradative profile. After placement of the scaffold, the rats were then allowed unrestricted activity as tolerated, and histological analyses were performed at 4, 8, and 16 weeks. The cartilage defect was measured and compared with the contralateral control side.

Results

In vitro—Long-term scaffolds showed statistically significant higher levels of aggrecan and type II collagen expression compared with short-term scaffolds. In vivo—Within 16 weeks postimplantation, there was new subchondral bone formation in both scaffolds. Short-term scaffolds had a statistically significant increase in defect filling and better qualitative histologic fill compared to control.

Conclusions

The PSPU short-term degradation scaffold may aid in cartilage repair by ultimately incorporating the scaffold into the microfracture procedure.
The orbital technosphere: The provision of meaning and matter by satellites
Authors: Gärdebo Johan , Marzecova Agata , Knowles Scott Gabriel
Published: April 2017

With a new ‘technosphere’ concept, Peter Haff offers a provocative reconceptualization of technology in Anthropocene, not as derivative consequence of human activity, but as a new ‘quasi-autonomous’ sphere of the environment that conditions human survival within the Earth System. Paying attention to the expansion of the orbital satellites in outer space, this paper suggests that technosphere analysis needs to conceptualize specific histories of the planetary-scale technology while considering how these technologies provide the epistemological basis and limitations for the technosphere. Satellites enhance the capacity of the technosphere as a system and provide systemic knowledge that is the basis for the meaning of the technosphere concept. Yet, this expansion is rooted in the contingencies of earthly geopolitics and the continual breakdown of technology – in this instance as a space debris layer formed in orbit around Earth that endangers the technosphere itself.
Kidney Disease Among Registered Métis Citizens of Ontario: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Hayward Jade S. , McArthur Eric , Nash Danielle M. , Sontrop Jessica M. , Russell Storm J. , Khan Saba , Walker Jennifer D. , Nesrallah Gihad E. , Sood Manish M. , Garg Amit X.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Indigenous peoples in Canada have higher rates of kidney disease than non-Indigenous Canadians. However, little is known about the risk of kidney disease specifically in the Métis population in Canada.

Objective:

To compare the prevalence of chronic kidney disease and incidence of acute kidney injury and end-stage kidney disease among registered Métis citizens in Ontario and a matched sample from the general Ontario population.

Design:

Population-based, retrospective cohort study using data from the Métis Nation of Ontario’s Citizenship Registry and administrative databases.

Setting:

Ontario, Canada; 2003-2013.

Patients:

Ontario residents ≥18 years.

Measurements:

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease and incidence of acute kidney injury and end-stage kidney disease. Secondary outcomes among patients hospitalized with acute kidney injury included non-recovery of kidney function and mortality within 1 year of discharge.

Methods:

Database codes and laboratory values were used to determine study outcomes. Métis citizens were matched (1:4) to Ontario residents on age, sex, and area of residence. The analysis included 12 229 registered Métis citizens and 48 916 adults from the general population.

Results:

We found the prevalence of chronic kidney disease was slightly higher among Métis citizens compared with the general population (3.1% vs 2.6%, P = 0.002). The incidence of acute kidney injury was 1.2 per 1000 person-years in both Métis citizens and the general population ( P = 0.54). Of those hospitalized with acute kidney injury, outcomes were similar among Métis citizens and the general population except 1-year mortality, which was higher for Métis citizens (24.5% vs 15.3%, P = 0.03). The incidence of end-stage kidney disease did not differ between groups (<3.0 per 10 000 person-years, P = 0.73).

Limitations:

The Métis Nation of Ontario Citizenship Registry only captures about 20% of Métis people in Ontario. Administrative health care codes used to identify kidney disease are highly specific but have low sensitivity.

Conclusions:

Rates of kidney disease were similar or slightly higher for Métis citizens in Ontario compared with the matched general population.
The Clinical Epidemiology and 30-Day Outcomes of Emergency Department Patients With Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Scheuermeyer Frank Xavier , Grafstein Eric , Rowe Brian , Cheyne Jay , Grunau Brian , Bradford Aaron , Levin Adeera
Published: April 2017

Background:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with increased mortality and dialysis in hospitalized patients but has been little explored in the emergency department (ED) setting.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to describe the risk factors, prevalence, management, and outcomes in the ED population, and to identify the proportion of AKI patients who were discharged home with no renal-specific follow-up.

Design:

This is a retrospective cohort study using administrative and laboratory databases.

Setting:

Two urban EDs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Patients:

We included all unique ED patients over a 1-week period.

Methods:

All patients had their described demographics, comorbidities, medications, laboratory values, and ED treatments collected. AKI was defined pragmatically, based upon accepted guidelines. The cohort was then probabilistically linked to the provincial renal database to ascertain renal replacement (transplant or dialysis) and the provincial vital statistics database to obtain mortality. The primary outcome was the prevalence of AKI; secondary outcomes included (1) the proportion of AKI patients who were discharged home with no renal-specific follow-up and (2) the combined 30-day rate of death or renal replacement among AKI patients.

Results:

There were 1651 ED unique patients, and 840 had at least one serum creatinine (SCr) obtained. Overall, 90 patients had AKI (10.7% of ED patients with at least one SCr, 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.7%-13.1%; 5.5% of all ED patients, 95% CI, 4.4%-6.7%) with a median age of 74 and 70% male. Of the 31 (34.4%) AKI patients discharged home, 4 (12.9%) had renal-specific follow-up arranged in the ED. Among the 90 AKI patients, 11 died and none required renal replacement at 30 days, for a combined outcome of 12.2% (95% CI, 6.5%-21.2%).

Limitations:

Sample sizes may be small. Nearly half of ED patients did not obtain an SCr. Many patients did not have sequential SCr testing, and a modified definition of AKI was used.
‘This really takes it out of you!’ The senses and emotions in digital health practices of the elderly
Authors: Urban Monika
Published: April 2017

Wearables, fitness apps and home-based monitoring technology designed to help manage chronic diseases are generally considered in terms of their effectiveness in saving costs and improving the health care system. This article looks, instead, at the digital health practices of persons older than 65 years; it considers their actual health practices, their senses and emotions. In a qualitative study 27 elderly persons were interviewed about their digital health practices and accompanied while using the devices. The findings show that digital technologies and ageing bodies are co-productive in performing specific modes of health and the ageing process. The study shows that digital technologies not only encourage the elderly to remain physically active and enable them to age in place, but also that the use of these technologies causes the elderly to develop negative emotions that stand in a charged relationship to ageing stereotypes. Thereby, the sense of seeing has been place in pole position, while the faculty for introspection declines. This means that age-related impaired vision can result in particularly severe consequences. In the discussion it is debated in which concrete ways that digital health technologies have had a negative impact. The sociotechnical practices associated with wearables conform to the primacy of preventing ageing; passive and active monitoring technologies appear as subsystems of risk estimation, which in turn regulates diverse practices. The conclusion highlights the interrelation between notions of successful ageing and the digital practices of the elderly.
Effect of Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl on Adult Functional Constipation: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Choopani Rasool , Ghourchian Anahita , Hajimehdipoor Homa , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Ghourchian Fatemeh
Published: April 2017

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that effects an estimated 12% to 30% of general population worldwide. Descurainia sophia L. known commonly as flixweed acts as first-line medical treatment for constipation in Iranian traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of this remedy for treating functional constipation by standard assessments. The Rome III criteria for functional constipation were the basis for diagnosis. All participants underwent a 4-week treatment. The primary end point was the proportion of patients achieving ≥3 complete spontaneous bowel movements per week. Secondary outcome measures included Patient Assessment of Constipation–Symptom items, Bristol Stool Form Scale, numbers of laxatives/week used by patients, and reported adverse effects. Thirty-five patients completed the program with no important adverse effect. Fifty-four (4%) patients had ≥3 complete spontaneous bowel movements per week. Descurainia sophia is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic functional constipation.
Disintegration of the Moral Economy in Gopinath Mohanty’s Paraja
Authors: Singh Shailendra Kumar
Published: April 2017

This article suggests that the concept of the moral economy of the peasant, as defined by James C. Scott, in the context of Southeast Asia, provides a compelling theoretical framework through which one can examine Gopinath Mohanty’s novel Paraja (1945), 2 2  This article takes its cue from a brilliant article written by Shashi Bhushan Upadhyay in which he usefully employs the concept of moral economy to analyse the peasant narratives of Premchand. See Shashi Bhushan Upadhyay, ‘Premchand and the Moral Economy of Peasantry in Colonial North India’, Modern Asian Studies 45, no. 5 (2011): 1227–59. However, while Upadhyay equates the idea of moral economy with the traditional Indian concept of dharma, in order to explain the passivity of Premchand’s peasant protagonists, I have endeavoured to demonstrate, in this article, the disintegration of the moral economy in Gopinath Mohanty’s novel Paraja, and how such disintegration may precipitate resistance and a strong sense of moral outrage. an unparalleled achievement in Oriya literature that narrates the predicament of the tribal peasants of the Koraput region. It demonstrates how the encroachment of the colonial state on the invaluable resources of the tribal peasants in Mohanty’s novel results in an escalating disintegration of the moral economy which in turn precipitates resistance and a strong sense of moral outrage. However, instead of collective rebellion that Scott discusses about, in his groundbreaking work, in Mohanty’s novel, we find several instances of everyday forms of resistance, a concept that Scott formulates in his subsequent works. This not only helps us to understand and make sense of the motives and intentions of the tribal peasants in the novel but also underscores the abiding relevance and timeless appeal of Mohanty’s work, even in the post-Nehruvian nation-state, where the problems confronting the tribal peasants in the wake of globalisation are increasingly acute, virtually insurmountable and even more pronounced than ever before.
The Epidemiology of IRIS in Southern India: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Thambuchetty Nisha , Mehta Kayur , Arumugam Karthika , Shekarappa Umadevi G. , Idiculla Jyothi , Shet Anita
Published: April 2017

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is an uncommon but dynamic phenomenon seen among patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). We aimed to describe incidence, risk factors, clinical spectrum, and outcomes among ART-naive patients experiencing IRIS in southern India. Among 599 eligible patients monitored prospectively between 2012 and 2014, there were 59.3% males, with mean age 36.6 ± 7.8 years. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome incidence rate was 51.3 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval: 44.5-59.2). One-third (31.4%) experienced at least 1 IRIS event, at a median of 27 days since ART initiation. Mucocutaneous infections and candidiasis were common IRIS events, followed by tuberculosis. Significant risk factors included age >40 years, body mass index <18.5 kg/m2, CD4 count <100 cells/mm3, viral load >10 000 copies/mL, hemoglobin <11 g/dL, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate >50 mm/h. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome–related morality was 1.3% (8 of 599); 3 patients died of complicated diarrhea. These findings highlight the current spectrum of IRIS in South India and underscore the importance of heightened vigilance for anemia and treatment of diarrhea and candidiasis during ART initiation.
The Impact of Ownership Concentration on Firm Performance: Evidence from an Emerging Market
Authors: Yasser Qaiser Rafique , Mamun Abdullah Al
Published: April 2017

The connection between ownership structure and firm performance has attracted significant attention especially in emerging markets, yet empirical evidence remains inconsistent. This article presents an analysis of the association among eight categories of ownership, Hirschman–Herfindahl index (HHI) index, Gini index, and firm performance in the emerging market of Pakistan. Some researchers argue that ownership concentration can improve firm performance by making the owners more willing or able to monitor agents. In contrast, others argue that in the presence of efficient markets, market monitoring will discipline the managers. Our results show that there is a significant positive association between ownership structure and both market-based performance measures and also economic profit. The ownership proportion of the institutional shareholding and foreign shareholding is also positively associated with firm performance.
Rural Preassessment Team Members' Perceptions of Effectiveness
Authors: Ormsbee Christine K. , Haring Kathryn A.
Published: April 2017

Preassessment teams are now perceived as a collaborative resource for teachers who have students experiencing learning and behavioral problems. These teams are responsible for providing professional support, identifying and clarifying student problems, designing appropriate interventions, and monitoring student progress. In rural schools, where access to external consultants and research activities is limited and often rare, preassessment teams may be the only opportunity for educators to engage in collaborative problem solving. The purpose of this study was to determine rural preassessment team members' perceptions of effectiveness, identify how they viewed their roles on teams, and delineate how preassessment teams were formulated. Results of a survey of rural school district's preassessment team members indicate they perceive themselves as a very effective support system for their colleagues.
Traumatic Brain Injury: A Regional Study of Rural Special and General Education Preparation Experiences
Authors: Keith Chapman J.
Published: April 2017

A sample of special and general education professionals who worked in rural school districts in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi were surveyed to determine service patterns and preservice/inservice preparation experiences regarding working with and addressing the needs of students who had experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Of the 300 surveys distributed, 188 responded, for a return rate of 63%. Across the two professional groups, findings suggested a lack of meaningful educational preparation in working with this population of students. In addition, needed additional educational experiences and competency areas were identified.
Culturally Diverse Rural Students: At Special Risk for LD Classification
Authors: Coffey Kenneth M. , Obringer S. John
Published: April 2017

Due to the significant over-representation of rural culturally diverse students identified as learning disabled, this study investigated the effects of modifying the discrepancy formula between intelligence and achievement. This formula is commonly used to identify and place school-age students in programs for children and youth with learning disabilities. Three modifications were applied to the discrepancy formula using a sample of 123 students currently being served in classes for children and youth with learning disabilities in a rural Mississippi school district. The results indicated that modifying the assessment protocol and raising the minimum full scale IQ to 85 in the discrepancy formula resulted in the greatest reduction to the over-representation of rural culturally diverse students assessed for learning disabilities. Suggestions for future research in this area are offered.
Elementary and Middle/Secondary Educator's Pre and Post Training Perceptions of Ability to Instruct Students with Disabilities
Authors: Miller Kevin J. , Wienke Wilfred D. , Savage Luise B.
Published: April 2017

The following discussion describes and evaluates an innovative training approach in which one hundred sixteen general educators (64 elementary and 52 middle/secondary) were educated in instructional and behavioral strategies to better serve students with disabilities. For a period of ten weeks a collaborative consultation intern and a university coordinator were assigned to teams of four to five general educators and a special educator at six elementary, four middle and two secondary schools. All schools served predominately rural students from North Central West Virginia. Each team attended weekly problem-solving seminars at their home schools. Prior to participation in the teacher preparation project, general educators rated their ability to work with students with disabilities. They again rated their ability to work with students with disabilities after their involvement in the project. The skill ratings of elementary and middle/secondary educators were analyzed and compared using the Assessment of Skills for Teachers (Morsink, Thomas, & Correa, 1991). Significant differences and improvements in perception of skills between and within elementary and middle/secondary educator groups were found. Elementary educators generally self-rated their skills higher than middle/secondary educators prior to and after participation in the training program. The findings are discussed and recommendations for policy and research are provided along with implications for training general educators.
A Best Practices Model for Preparation of Rural Special Education Teachers
Authors: Cegelka Patricia A. , Alvarado Jose Luis
Published: April 2017

This district-university partnership program is meeting the personnel needs of a 17-district region in the California desert where over 40% of their special education teachers had been employed without appropriate credentials. The program was designed to respond to the geographic and population (68% Hispanic) demographics of the region. Utilizing an alternative credential option (the Internship Credential), courses, extensive practica support, assistance and supervision, and continuing professional development opportunities were provided for teachers in this rural desert region. Preliminary results indicate that 70 teachers completed their Specialist Credential, and the retention rate of these professionals has been approximately 85%. It has been indicated, too, that coaches who provide extensive mentoring of Intern teachers during their two years of working toward full certification have favorable views of the program.
Treating Swallowing Disorders in Rural Areas: Preservice Preparation
Authors: Ruscello Dennis M. , Werner Jeffrey , Price Kari , Williams Diane
Published: April 2017

There is a shortage of qualified personnel with expertise to manage swallowing disorders in children. The problem is particularly acute in rural areas such as West Virginia. A preservice program aimed at increasing qualified personnel is described. Student experiences are implemented in the context of interdisciplinary patient management. Students must complete certain academic requirements, work in the clinic under the supervision of a faculty mentor, and complete a technology project.
Preparing Rural Special Educators to Collaborate with Exceptional Families
Authors: Carr Sonya C.
Published: April 2017

Recruitment and retention of special education teachers for rural schools remain critical issues. The quality of teacher preparation is frequently recognized as a key factor and university preparation programs are needed to assist preservice special education teachers in developing necessary competencies. Special educators must acquire a broad range of skills in order to adapt to the unique perspectives of rural schools. Skills in working with exceptional families are essential if rural special educators are to successfully involve family members in the child's educational program. The purpose of this article is to describe a university course designed to prepare rural special education teachers to collaborate with exceptional families. Responses to open-ended questionnaires used as a method of formative evaluation are presented.
Rural Infusion through Case Method Instruction
Authors: Roth Marta A.
Published: April 2017

This paper proposes the case method as a technique for infusing elements of rural special education into preservice programs. It offers ways in which ruralness can be emphasized through case selection, modification, or development. Case method instruction permits the instructor to developmentally infuse previously learned competencies to current problem oriented issues in the real world of teaching from a holistic framework rather than in isolation. It can be used simultaneously with other methods to extend students' content knowledge and processing skills. Finally, suggestions are offered to evaluate the attainment of student competencies in content and processes and broaden the understanding of rural special education service delivery.
Some Thoughts on the History of Rural Special Education: A First Hand Account
Authors: Collins Belva C. , Schuster John W.
Published: April 2017

In this article, experiences as classroom teachers and college instructors over the last several decades to trace the history of rural special education service delivery as well as personnel preparation in rural areas. Based upon these perspectives, some thoughts are provided on the future of rural special education service delivery and the professional preparation of special education personnel in rural areas.
The Vermont State I-Team Then and Now: Twenty-five Years of Technical Assistance and Training to Support the Education of Students with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Dennis Ruth , Edelman Susan W. , Cloninger Chigee
Published: April 2017

Vermont's State I-Team has provided technical assistance and training to educational team members of children with disabilities for twenty-five years. The I-Team has been funded since 1977 by the Vermont Department of Education and administered through the Center on Disability and Community Inclusion, The University Affiliated Program (UAP), at the University of Vermont. The work of the I-Team has been enhanced by its relationship with other state and federally funded projects that support model program development and research in the field of disability. The authors generated questions relevant to the I-Team and others providing technical assistance, training, and support in rural settings and collected data generated through literature reviews, product review, and interviews. Data analysis resulted in the articulation of two major themes: a) the changing context of service delivery, and b) characteristics of I-Team service delivery. Themes are discussed for the years 1976–79 (The Beginnings), 1980–89 (Expansion), and 1990–99 (Inclusion). There are concluding comments about the characteristics of successful programs that are sustained over time.
The Georgia Higher Education Consortium: A Model for Linking Early Intervention Faculty
Authors: Gallagher Peggy A. , Mccormick Katherine , Vail Cynthia O. , Malone D. Michael
Published: April 2017

The adequate and timely preparation of personnel to provide mandated family-centered services to young children with disabilities and their families is an important challenge to those working in the field of Early Intervention (EI) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This challenge is particularly critical to those working in rural states where medical and professional expertise may be concentrated in limited areas of the state. This paper provides a description of a model for and evaluation of a Higher Education Consortium (HEC) in EI. The HECs purpose is to stimulate the growth and development of pre-service training in early intervention across multiple disciplines and universities throughout a largely rural state.

A two-factor evaluation plan used both quantitative and qualitative data. The authors used two survey instruments to gather quantitative data, while a focus group provided participants an opportunity to intensely reflect and comment on the HEC and its progress and outcomes. HEC faculty members from across the state reported benefits from participation in the HEC. These included development and implementation of coursework in EI, development of interdisciplinary collaborative relationships, and an increased knowledge of state resources. Faculty respondents reported that their participation in the HEC was associated with enhanced knowledge relative to early intervention content, children with disabilities, best practice in early intervention, and best practice in personnel training. HEC members identified parent involvement in personnel preparation as a priority for future HEC efforts.
Using Web-based Information to Facilitate Inclusion Practices in Rural Communities
Authors: Lock Robin H.
Published: April 2017

The reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Act in 1997 places greater emphasis on the inclusion of students with special needs in the general education classroom. For many rural schools, inclusion has been seen as a positive method for providing special education to students with special needs. However, many general educators including those in rural communities report a lack of preparation as a hindrance to their ability to effectively teach these included students. Difficulties in hiring certified special education teachers and a lack of viable methods increasing knowledge about students with special needs have interfered with many general education teachers' ability to serve these students adequately in the general education classroom. For rural schools districts and their teachers, access to information about students with special needs is not easily obtained. This article examines an electronic method for providing information to facilitate inclusion to rural educators in their home communities.
Schoolwide Planning to Improve Paraeducator Supports: A Pilot Study
Authors: Giangreco Michael F. , Broer Stephen M. , Edelman Susan W.
Published: April 2017

This pilot study chronicled the use of a process called, A Guide to Schoolwide Planning for Paraeducator Supports, by teams in four schools, grades K-12. Data reflect the utilization and outcomes of the process along with the perspectives of 27 study participants. Findings indicated that the process assisted all four schools to self-assess their paraeducator practices, identify priorities in need of improvement, develop action-plans, and implement them. Study participants reported that the process did what it purported to do and rated it highly on a series of consumer-oriented variables (e.g., ease of use). Implications for schools and future use are discussed for improving paraeducator supports.
A Classwide Peer-Assisted Self-Management Program: Adaptations, Implications, and a Step-by-Step Guide for Rural Educators
Authors: Mitchem Katherine J. , Wells Deborah L.
Published: April 2017

Nationwide, teachers and administrators alike note that classroom management is one of their top rated concerns and a key reason for their reluctance to include students with disabilities in their classrooms (Schumm & Vaughn, 1995). In rural states this problem is exacerbated by shortages of trained personnel (Helge, 1992) resulting in students with special needs having little or no access to trained special educators or being served by a succession of untrained teachers and aides (Ludlow, 1998). Teachers legitimately question how they can cover the content necessary to meet state testing standards when faced with frequent disturbances in the classroom by disruptive and off-task behavior, defiance, and non-compliance. This paper describes a practical classwide self-management program that shifts the responsibility for managing behavior back to the student and allows the teacher to focus on instruction. Step-by-step instructions on how to implement the program and tips for troubleshooting are provided.
Providing Administrative Support for Classroom Paraeducators: What's a Building Administrator to Do?
Authors: Riggs Cathryn G. , Riggs Cathryn G.
Published: April 2017

A growing number of paraeducators are employed in America's schools. Paraeducators are valuable members of the education team, especially as some districts face a growing shortage of certified special education teachers and others struggle to address issues relating to inclusive education programs. This article focuses on describing what building administrators can do to support paraeducator staff, particularly those who are employed to facilitate inclusive instruction. A brief overview of the changing roles of paraeducators is followed by a definition of “administrative support” in terms of the importance of responsibilities, relationships and respect. A list of ten specific suggestions for providing administrative support for paraeducators at the school building level is supplied.
HIV Prevention Education for Students with Mental Retardation
Authors: Birch David A. , Angermeier Lisa K. , Gentsch Dawn K.
Published: April 2017

The purposes of this study were to determine the level of implementation of HIV prevention for students with mental retardation in rural schools in Indiana, identify barriers and supporting factors related to program implementation and identify staff development needs. Telephone interviews were conducted with 19 directors of rural special education cooperatives in Indiana. The school districts served by these 19 cooperatives represented 65.5% of the rural school districts in Indiana. The directors reported that instruction about methods of HIV transmission and skills for prevention of HIV varies among both school districts and schools within districts. Transmission of HIV and prevention skills were more likely to be taught to students with mild mental retardation than those with moderate or severe mental retardation. Five specific barriers to instruction were identified along with staff development and resource needs for special educators. Factors supporting instruction included the directors' perception of the importance of HIV prevention education and the involvement of school nurses.