bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Less Pay and More Sensitivity? Institutional Investor Heterogeneity and CEO Pay
Authors: Shin Jae Yong , Seo Jeongil
Published: June 2010

In this article, the authors develop and test a theory on the effect of institutional investor heterogeneity on CEO pay. Their theory predicts that institutional investors’ incentives and capabilities to monitor CEO pay are determined by the fiduciary responsibilities, conflicts of interest, and information asymmetry that institutional investors face. Their theory suggests, in contrast to previous literature, that public pension funds and mutual funds exert different effects on CEO pay at their portfolio firms because they do not have the same monitoring incentives and capabilities. Using a longitudinal sample of S&P 1500 firms for the years 1998 to 2002, the authors find that public pension fund ownership is more negatively—indeed, oppositely—associated with both the level of CEO pay and CEO pay-for-performance sensitivity than mutual fund ownership. Their findings suggest that (a) researchers’ use of institutional investor classifications that do not distinguish public pension fund ownership and mutual fund ownership can be misleading and (b) while CEO pay critics have called for pay plans that are in line with the “less pay and more sensitivity” principle, this may be an ineffective goal to pursue.
Integration of Micro and Macro Studies in Governance Research: CEO Duality, Board Composition, and Financial Performance
Authors: Dalton Dan R. , Dalton Catherine M.
Published: June 2010

The authors provide two examples of contemporary and contentious issues related to the governance of publicly traded corporations—the composition of boards of directors and the choice of CEO or board chairperson leadership structures. In each case, despite voluminous empirical attention, there is virtually no evidence related to the financial performance of the firm with regard to either of these fundamental elements of firms’ governance structures. The authors suggest that these null results may be related to the inadequacy of analyses relied on to examine such issues, an inadequacy that might be constructively addressed by more attention to multi-level alternatives.
Bridging Micro and Macro Domains: Workforce Differentiation and Strategic Human Resource Management
Authors: Huselid Mark A. , Becker Brian E.
Published: June 2010

In this article, the authors focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating the macro and macro domains of the strategic human resource (HR) management literature. Their specific focus is on the development of a differentiated HR architecture in support of strategy execution as a key organizing theme. A focus on strategic capabilities and strategic jobs as the focal point of workforce management system design represents a significant potential source of value creation for most firms. But, also, differentiation by strategic capability instead of hierarchical organizational level represents potential implementation challenges for managers, and theoretical and empirical challenges for academics.
Effectiveness of an online fatigue self-management programme for people with chronic neurological conditions: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ghahari Setareh , Leigh Packer Tanya , Passmore Anne Elizabeth
Published: June 2010

Objective: To evaluate an online fatigue self-management programme in a sample of adults with chronic neurological conditions.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Online fatigue self-management programme delivered across Australia.

Participants: Ninety-five people with fatigue secondary to multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or post-polio syndrome.

Interventions: An online fatigue self-management programme, an information-only fatigue self-management programme and a control group.

Main measures: Groups were compared at pre test, post test and at three months on primary outcomes using the Fatigue Impact Scale, Activity Card Sort and Personal Wellbeing Index.

Results: With the exception of the Personal Wellbeing Index at post test (F = 3.519; P =0.034) and the Physical Subscale of the Fatigue Impact Scale at follow-up (F = 3.473; P =0.035) there were no significant differences between the three groups on primary outcomes. Post-hoc testing showed the differences to be between the information-only and control groups (P = 0.036 and P = 0.030 respectively). Improvement in the information-only group was unexpected but appears to be similar to results of other online interventions. The fatigue self-management and information-only groups performed better than the control on some secondary outcome measures. Low power in the analysis may have contributed to the findings. Repeated-measures ANCOVA showed that the fatigue self-management and the information-only groups improved over time on the Fatigue Impact Scale and the Activity Card Sort (P<0.05). The control group showed no improvements over time.
Do rehabilitation professionals need to consider their clients’ health literacy for effective practice?
Authors: Levasseur Mélanie , Carrier Annie
Published: June 2010

Objective: To discuss the importance of integrating health literacy into rehabilitation practice.

Background: The effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions and clients’ long-term health might depend on various factors, including health literacy. Health literacy is defined as the ability to access, understand, evaluate and communicate information as a way to promote, maintain and improve health in a variety of settings over the life-course. Rehabilitation professionals are often uniformed about and neglect health literacy in their interventions.

Method: The scientific and grey literature on health and, more specifically, rehabilitation and health promotion was reviewed. The MEDLINE, OTDBASE, CINAHL, AMED and MANTIS databases were searched by combining the keyword (1) ‘health literacy’ with the keywords (2) ‘rehabilitation’, ‘physical therapy’, ‘occupational therapy’ or ‘health promotion’.

Results: Health literacy is one of the foundations of individual health and might have an impact on interventions, the individual and society. All papers addressing both health literacy and rehabilitation (n = 10) specifically mentioned that rehabilitation professionals need to consider their clients’ health literacy. Rehabilitation is particularly linked to health literacy because both stress the importance of (1) capacities, functioning, participation and empowerment of clients; (2) holistic approach; (3) client-centred practice; (4) teaching of information and methods; and (5) access to services and equity issues.

Conclusions: Based on these results, we think it is important that rehabilitation professionals be aware of the importance of health literacy and intervene to improve it. The challenge is now to better understand how health literacy influences the effectiveness of rehabilitation and health outcomes.
The effects of ‘on-call/out of hours’ physical therapy in acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Babu Abraham Samuel , Manjula Sukumari Noone  , Haneef Mohammed , Samuel Prasanna
Published: June 2010

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of an on-call physical therapy programme in the management of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Secondary care level, rural hospital.

Subjects: Thirty-eight patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Interventions: Regular physical therapy and on-call physical therapy was given to two groups of patients with 19 in each arm. On-call physical therapy included providing respiratory physical therapy as required by the patient out of business hours.

Main measures: Peak expiratory flow rate, sustained maximal inspiration, six-minute walk distance and rating of perceived exertion post six-minute walk test.

Results: In the group receiving on-call physical therapy, peak expiratory flow rate and six-minute walk test showed a significant difference (52.1 L/min and 98.16 m, respectively) when compared with the control group (211.57 ± 51.12 L/min and 159.47 ± 67.78 L/min; P =0.01 and 387.89 ± 110.1 m and 289.73 ± 103.2 m; P=0.004 respectively). The difference in peak expiratory flow rate (Δ peak expiratory flow rate) was seen to be more in the on-call group (120 L/min) when compared to the control group (50 L/min), P =0.002. Improvements in sustained maximal inspiration and Borg’s rating of perceived exertion after the six-minute walk test were also observed (P>0.05).

Conclusion: On-call physical therapy brings about a significant increase in peak expiratory flow rates, six-minute walk distance and sustained maximal inspiration.
Melatonin ameliorates Alzheimer-like pathological changes and spatial memory retention impairment induced by calyculin A
Authors: Yang Xifei , Yang Ying , Fu Zhengqi , Li Yin , Feng Jing , Luo Jinzhuo , Zhang Qiuyue , Wang Qun , Tian Qing
Published: June 2010

We have reported recently that inhibition of protein phosphatase (PP)-2A and PP-1 by calyculin A, a specific inhibitor of PP-2A and PP-1, induced Alzheimer-like hyperphosphorylation of tau and spatial memory retention impairment. In this study, we tested the in vivo effects of melatonin on these Alzheimer-like changes. We found that administration of melatonin intraperitoneally for 9 consecutive days before injection of calyculin A could prevent calyculin A-induced synaptophysin loss, memory retention deficits, as well as hyperphosphorylation of tau and neurofilaments. Furthermore, melatonin partially reversed the phosphorylation of the catalytic subunit of PP-2A at Tyrosine 307 (Y307), a crucial site negatively regulating the activity of PP-2A, and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress, induced by calyculin A. These results suggest that melatonin could serve as a potential therapeutic agent for preventing Alzheimer-like pathological changes and behavioral abnormality via modulating the activity of PP-2A and oxidative stress.
A randomized double-blind study comparing 25 and 50 mg TC-1734 (AZD3480) with placebo, in older subjects with age-associated memory impairment
Authors: Dunbar Geoffrey C , Kuchibhatla Ramana V , Lee G ,   for the TC-1734 (AZD3480) AAMI Clinical Study Group (USA)
Published: June 2010

Cognitive decline is a feature of ageing and can be defined as normal (age-associated memory impairment) or pathological (mild cognitive impairment/Alzheimer’s disease). Stimulation of selective brain-specific neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors might offer symptomatic treatment for normal ageing. The objective of this study was to assess the safety, tolerability and efficacy of TC-1734 (AZD3480), a selective α4β2 nicotinic agonist, in the treatment of age-associated memory impairment. A randomized placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 16 community-based centers within the USA. Subjects who met objective criteria for age-associated memory impairment were recruited between November 2004 and December 2005. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive orally 25 mg ( n = 59), 50 mg ( n = 68) TC-1734 (AZD3480) or placebo ( n = 66) in a double-blind fashion for 16 weeks. Main outcome measures included routine clinical safety measures, tolerability, cognitive assessment via the Cognitive Drug Research computerized test battery and a Subject Global Impression Scale of Cognition (SCI-Cog). Two outcomes from the computerized test battery – a factor assessing attention and one assessing episodic memory, along with the SGI-Cog were defined as co-primary outcome variables. Baseline to Week 16 differences from placebo for 50 mg TC-1734 (AZD3480) were considered of primary importance. For 50 mg TC-1734 (AZD3480) attention factor the mean drug–placebo difference was 22.9 (95% confidence interval 4.8 to 41.4) p = 0.01 for episodic memory factor the difference was −7.6 (95% confidence interval −14.4 to −0.8), p = 0.029, and for the SGI-Cog the difference was 0.99 (95% confidence interval 0.2 to 1.8), p = 0.015. As all three co-primary outcomes were positive it can be concluded the compound likely had a beneficial effect on cognition. TC-1734 (AZD3480) appeared safe and well tolerated in this study.
Perceptions of Mexican American Adolescents and Parents Regarding Parental Autonomy Promoting
Authors: Sher-Censor Efrat , Parke Ross D. , Coltrane Scott
Published: June 2010

Our study examined discrepancies in Mexican American adolescent–parent perceptions regarding parental autonomy promoting and their associations with adolescents’ adjustment. A total of 138 Mexican American sixth graders reported their global self-worth and depressive symptoms. Adolescents and parents also reported their perceptions of parental autonomy promoting. Discrepancies in perceptions of adolescents and their fathers, in particular fathers’ rose-colored perceptions of their autonomy promoting, which were not shared by their adolescent, were associated with more depressive symptoms of male and female adolescents and with lower self-worth of female adolescents. The study findings show the importance of assessing perceptions of family members at the dyadic level. Furthermore, the study extends previous studies on autonomy promoting and discrepancies in perceptions to the context of Mexican American families.
The Roles of Parental Inductions, Moral Emotions, and Moral Cognitions in Prosocial Tendencies Among Mexican American and European American Early Adolescents
Authors: Carlo Gustavo , Knight George P. , McGinley Meredith , Hayes Rachel
Published: June 2010

This study examined the relationships between parental inductions, sympathy, prosocial moral reasoning, and prosocial behaviors. A total of 207 early adolescents who self-identified as Mexican American (girls, n = 105; mean age = 10.91 years) and 108 who identified as European American (girls, n = 54; mean age = 11.07 years) completed measures of parental inductions, sympathy, prosocial moral reasoning, and six different types of prosocial behaviors. The findings showed that the correlates of prosocial behaviors were basically the same across the two ethnic groups, though there were some ethnic group differences in prosocial behaviors. Sympathy but not prosocial moral reasoning mediated the relationships between parental inductions and prosocial behaviors. Whereas sympathy was indirectly associated with all six types of prosocial behaviors, prosocial moral reasoning was associated with altruistic, anonymous, and public prosocial behaviors. As discussed in the article, findings further highlighted the ethnic group differences in prosocial behaviors and the distinct roles of sympathy and prosocial moral reasoning in prosocial development.
Distinguishing the Influences of Father’s and Mother’s Involvement on Adolescent Academic Achievement
Authors: Hsu Hsien-Yuan , Zhang Dalun , Kwok Oi-Man , Li Yan , Ju Song
Published: June 2010

Using a sample drawn from Taiwan, this study evaluated the role of mother and father involvement in adolescent academic achievement. The participants were drawn from the Taiwan Education Panel Survey (TEPS) and consisted of 8,108 adolescents who studied seventh grade in 2001. Father and mother involvement related to academic achievement was measured by four types of involvement: career plan discussion, listening to adolescent thinking, monitoring academic progress, and participation in school activities. The results indicated that mothers were more involved than fathers in education and that mother involvement had more predictive power of adolescent academic achievement.
Examining Two Types of Best Friendship Dissolution During Early Adolescence
Authors: Bowker Julie C.
Published: June 2010

This study examined young adolescents’ experiences with best friendship dissolution. Participants were 77 sixth-grade students ( M age = 11.63 years, SD = .36; 11.00-12.69 age range) who reported on past experiences with (1) complete dissolutions (when friendship ties are completely severed), and (2) downgrade dissolutions (when the best friendship dissolves but the adolescents become “good” friends). Self-report measures assessing emotional reactions (anger, sadness, happiness) to both types of dissolution, current best friendship involvement, and loneliness were also administered. Results indicated that downgrade dissolutions were more common than complete dissolutions and girls were more likely than boys to report both types of dissolution. Adolescents reported more sadness than anger about both types of dissolution. Adolescents who experienced downgrades and were currently without best friends reported greater loneliness than those who experienced downgrades but had current best friendships. Results suggest that dissolutions, and particularly downgrade dissolutions, during early adolescence warrant further investigation.
Ubiquitous Externalities: Characteristics, Climate, and Implications for Post-Acquisition Behaviors
Authors: Mundt JoNel , Houston Franklin S.
Published: June 2010

The goal of this article is to raise awareness and encourage further research about uncalculated costs and benefits of exchange, often called externalities. Externalities are costs and benefits not calculated into the exchange equation, accruing to exchange actors or to others. This article provides a conceptual foundation of how externalities’ studies fit with exchange, relationships, and social systems. We delineate characteristics that differentiate one externality from another and offer potential for creating value: (1) tangibility; (2) separability; (3) storability; (4) marketability; (5) uniformity; (6) controllability; and (7) predictability. Characteristics create a climate for post-acquisition behavior, comprised of their: (1) determinacy; (2) directability; and (3) desirability. These characteristics suggest post-acquisition behavior options such as forfeiting, possessing, temporary disposal, or permanent disposal. Viewed thusly, studies of externalities and their disposition offer rich opportunities for understanding transactions, relationships, networks, market systems, communities, and micro/macro systems.
Throwing Arm Dominance in Collegiate Baseball Pitching
Authors: Werner Sherry L. , Guido John A. , Delude Neil A. , Stewart Gregory W. , Greenfield John H. , Meister Keith
Published: June 2010

Background: Left-handed individuals make up about 10% of the general population, yet left-handers comprise approximately 30% of the pitching staffs in Major League and Division I college baseball. Despite speculation regarding differences between right- and left-handed pitchers, distinction between right- and left-handed pitching mechanics has not been documented in the literature at any level of play.

Hypothesis: Left-hand–dominant pitchers display similar pitching mechanics and upper extremity joint loads when compared to their right-hand–dominant counterparts.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Three-dimensional, high-speed (240-Hz) video data were collected on fastballs from 84 collegiate baseball pitchers. Kinematic parameters related to pitching mechanics and resultant kinetics on the throwing shoulder and elbow were calculated. The 28 left-handed pitchers in the database were matched with 28 right-handed pitchers for age, height, mass, and ball velocity, and paired t tests were used to compare the kinematic and kinetic parameters.

Results: Six parameters were found to have statistically significant differences between left- and right-handed pitchers. Passive nonthrowing shoulder external rotation (right, 113° ± 9°; left, 124° ± 8°), elbow flexion at stride-foot contact (right, 79° ± 16°; left, 94° ± 20°), and shoulder abduction during acceleration (right, 72° ± 11°; left, 105° ± 8°) were greater in left-handed pitchers than right-handed pitchers. Shoulder abduction at stride-foot contact (right, 115° ± 13°; left, 73° ± 10°), shoulder horizontal abduction at stride-foot contact (right, 25° ± 12°; left, 15° ± 12°), and peak horizontal adduction angular velocity (right, 707 ± 185 deg/s; left, 551 ± 160 deg/s) were less for the left-handed pitchers.

Conclusion: Biomechanical differences between left- and right-handed pitchers have been demonstrated in a collegiate population.

Clinical Relevance: The results of the current study indicate that left-handed pitchers may be at increased risk for certain shoulder injuries compared with their right-handed counterparts. Information has been provided for athletes, coaches, and sports medicine providers to further improve preventive and rehabilitative protocols for college pitchers. The results of the study also suggest that different normative data sets may need to be developed for left- and right-handed pitchers, independently of one another.
The genotoxic and oxidative damage potential of olanzapine in vitro
Authors: Türkez Hasan , Toğar Başak
Published: June 2010

Olanzapine (OLZ) is an atypical antipsychotic drug and is commonly used for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (BD). However, recent reports indicated that this drug could exhibit cytotoxic effects on nervous and immune systems. To our knowledge, there is scarce data considering the genotoxic or oxidative damage potentials of OLZ on human lymphocyte culture system. Therefore, in this study, the genotoxic potential of OLZ (0 to 160 µM) have been evaluated in human whole blood cultures (WBCs) related to oxidative status. Sister-chromatid exchange (SCE) test was applied to estimate the DNA damage, and biochemical parameters (total antioxidant capacity [TAC] and total oxidative stress [TOS]) were examined to determine oxidative stress. Our results indicated that the tested antipsychotic drug did not induce SCEs in lymphocytes of treated cultures. However, the application of the highest OLZ concentration caused oxidative stress. It is concluded that the OLZ can be used safely, but it is necessary to consider the tissue damages that are likely to appear depending on the oxidative stress.
Evaluation of DNA damage in construction-site workers occupationally exposed to welding fumes and solvent-based paints in Turkey
Authors: Sardas Semra , Omurtag Gulden Z. , Tozan Ayfer , Gül Hulya , Beyoglu Diren
Published: June 2010

In this study, the comet assay was used to evaluate whether welding fume and solvent base paint exposure led to DNA damage in construction-site workers in Turkey. The workers (n = 52) were selected according to their exposure in the construction site and controls (n = 26) from the general population, with no history of occupational exposure. The alkaline comet assay, a standard method for assessing genotoxicity, has been applied in peripheral lymphocytes of all subjects. The mean percentages of DNA in tail (%DNAT) of each group were evaluated, including the comparisons between smokers in each different group and the duration of exposure. Significant increase in the mean %DNAT (p < 0.01) was observed in all exposed subjects (12.34 ± 2.05) when compared with controls (6.64 ± 1.43). Also %DNAT was significantly high (p < 0.01) in welders (13.59 ± 1.89) compared with painters (11.10 ± 1.35). There was a statistical meaningful difference in % DNAT between control and exposed smokers. Our findings indicate that exposure to welding fumes and paints induce genotoxic effect in peripheral lymphocytes, indicating a potential health risk for workers. Therefore, to ensure maximum occupational safety, biomonitoring is of great value for assessing the risk for construction workers.
Analytic Review: Care of Patients With Scleroderma in the Intensive Care Setting
Authors: Farber Harrison W. , Simms Robert W. , Lafyatis Robert
Published: June 2010

Scleroderma or systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease (CTD) associated with fibrosing and vascular complications involving multiple organs. The care of these patients in the critical care setting is frequently challenging due to multiple complications and refractory organ involvement. However, awareness of specific organ involvement associated with scleroderma can allow many complications to be anticipated and effectively treated. Cardiac involvement can lead to arrthymias and heart failure, whereas pulmonary involvement can be associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension, fibrosis, or both. Renal vascular disease and scleroderma renal crisis (SRC), once a uniformly fatal complication, is particularly important to recognize early, as it can be treated successfully. Gastrointestinal involvement can lead to bleeding, aspiration, obstruction, and malabsorption. Severe Raynaud may lead to digital ischemia and gangrene. Therapies must target involved organ system or organ systems. Corticosteroids, a mainstay for related CTDs, do not typically provide any benefit and may cause harm. Vasodilators can effectively treat vascular complications but must target the appropriate vascular bed. Proactive utilization of proton pump inhibitors, recognition of bleeding from gastrointestinal vascular ectasia, and nutritional support can considerably ameliorate gastrointestinal morbidities. Effective treatment of fibrotic complications remains elusive and is the current frontier for scleroderma therapeutics.
Rethinking the Bar on Standards of Evidence for Social Work Intervention Research
Authors: Nurius Paula S.
Published: June 2010

The research reports by Boyd et al. and Herman et al. provide insights about intervention research with vulnerable populations that highlight often-neglected standards of evidence. This commentary describes linkages of nonspecific therapeutic factors critical to these outcome studies as illustrative of research to practice standards we must continually promote. Embedding intervention research with iterative links to service system and implementation research provides a framework for social work to chart future contributions toward closing critical translational gaps.
Confidence and Professional Judgment in Assessing Children’s Risk of Abuse
Authors: Regehr Cheryl , Bogo Marion , Shlonsky Aron , LeBlanc Vicki
Published: June 2010

Objective: Child welfare agencies have moved toward standardized risk assessment measures to improve the reliability with which child’s risk of abuse is predicted. Nevertheless, these tools require a degree of subjective judgment. Research to date has not substantially investigated the influence of specific context and worker characteristics on professional judgment in the use of risk assessment measures. Method: This research utilized standardized patients performing in scenarios to depict typical child welfare cases. Ninety-six workers interviewed two ‘‘families,’’ completed risk assessment measures, and then participated in interviews regarding their subjective views of their decision making and performance. Results: There was considerable variability in risk appraisals. Confidence in risk assessment performance was related to age, acute level of stress, and the worker’s perceived ability to engage family members. Confidence in risk assessment was further related to case variables. Confidence was not related to level of risk assessed. Conclusion: The variation in risk assessment appraisals in this study, despite at times high rates of worker confidence in their appraisals, speaks to the need for ongoing consultation and increased decision support strategies even among highly skilled and trained workers.
Evaluating Journal Quality: Is the H-Index a Better Measure Than Impact Factors?
Authors: Hodge David R. , Lacasse Jeffrey R.
Published: June 2010

Objectives: This study evaluates the utility of a new measure—the h-index—that may provide a more valid approach to evaluating journal quality in the social work profession. Method: H-index values are compared with Thomson ISI 5-year impact factors and expert opinion. Results: As hypothesized, the h-index correlates highly with ISI 5-year impact factors; but exhibits closer agreement with expert opinion, particularly with high familiarity disciplinary journals. Conclusions: This evidence of convergent and discriminatory validity suggests that the h-index may have some utility in assessing social work journals. Notable advantages of the h-index include its compatibility with the profession’s applied research culture and its ability to be used with essentially all journals in which social workers publish.
Research in the Real World: Studying Chicago Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team Program
Authors: Watson Amy C.
Published: June 2010

Police agencies across the country are struggling to respond to significant number of persons with serious mental illness, who are landing on their doorsteps with sometimes tragic consequences. Arguably, the most widely adopted approach, the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model, is a specialized police-based program designed to improve officers’ ability to safely and effectively respond to mental health crises. Conducting research on CIT is challenging; thus, the evidence base is limited. In this article, the author reviews the emerging literature, present a conceptual model of CIT effectiveness, and describe a study of CIT in Chicago. Findings from Chicago suggest that CIT is increasing linkage to services and reducing use of force in encounters with persons with mental illness. Lessons learned are discussed.
Assessment of Hospice Patients’ Goals of Care at the End of Life
Authors: Kumar Geetika , Markert Ronald J. , Patel Ranapreet
Published: June 2010

Objective: To evaluate satisfaction with inpatient hospice goals at the end of life and to determine steps for program improvement. Study design and setting: Prospective observational study of patients admitted to an inpatient Veterans Affairs Medical Center hospice unit, located in an urban setting with dedicated 16 hospice and 20 palliative care beds. Patients and their families are cared for by an interdisciplinary team. Population: Veteran population receiving care in an inpatient hospice unit whose goals are comfort care. Intervention: Two anonymous surveys of patient goals were distributed upon admission to hospice unit patients and families, who were asked to complete the first survey within 1 to 5 days of admission and the second survey 2 weeks after admission or later. Outcome measure: Patient and family centered end-of-life care outcomes, including meeting goals of care with desired symptom management, emotional support to the dying patient, coordinated care, shared decision making, and attending to the emotional needs of families. Results: Fifty patients were given surveys between June and September 2009. Response rate was 52% for the first survey and 36% for the second survey. Most important goals for 90% of veterans were control of symptoms and being with family. More than 90% of our patients’ families, responding to our second survey, strongly agreed that these goals were achieved. We also identified other needs of hospice veterans, and family surveys showed that these were also accomplished. Conclusion: Clarification and focus on goals of care improves satisfaction with end-of-life care.
The Use of SISO ARX Models in the Determination of the Damage to Dams
Authors: Gülal Engīn , Erdoğan Hediye , Aykut Nedim Onur , Erkaya Halil
Published: June 2010

Modal characteristics of engineering structures can be determined via dynamic observation in scope of system identification and they can be used for a variety of purposes, including model updates, damage assessment, active control, and original design re-evaluation. This paper presents the use of an autoregressive with eXogenous inputs (ARX) model to assess the impact of horizontal displacements in the Oymapinar Dam in Antalya province, Turkey, during the first reservoir filling stage. Besides, displacements in the dam after the filling stage are predicted. There is a high linear correlation between the displacements of the body of the dam and the first filling phase of the reservoir. An ARX model of the dam without damage is created using displacements predicted from a 3D finite element model of the dam and the changes in water level. The displacements in the dam observed in the first filling phase are recalculated using water level changes for damaged or undamaged cases, observed displacements, and the parameters of the undamaged ARX model. The standard deviations of the residuals calculated from the ARX model of the undamaged dam are statistically compared for different confidence intervals using the standard deviations of residuals of the ARX model of the undamaged or damaged dam’s observations, and it was determined that there was no dangerous damage to the dam. In addition, the observed displacement values were extended in different scales and standard deviations of these displacements are calculated using the ARX of the undamaged dam model. These standard deviations and the one calculated from undamaged model of the dam were compared, and it was determined that 55 mm of displacement could be dangerous for the dam. Finally, the displacements in the dam for different water levels in the operation phase (after filling) were predicted using the ARX model and were found to be consistent with the measured displacement values.
Creating Learning: A Korean Drummer’s Lifelong Quest to be the Best
Authors: Dae Joong Kang
Published: June 2010

In this article, the author interrogates how one famous Korean traditional drummer Mr. Myong-hwan Kim’s lifelong learning is affected by the sociocultural and historical context as it contributes to the construction of his life. This article analyzed an oral history book that contains Mr. Kim’s interview narratives since he died 20 years ago. Instead of systematic coding and theme generation, the author wrote four different notes (analysis note, research journal, transgressive data note, and additional data note) as methods of inquiry. For the research finding report, the author adopted imaginary e-mail exchanges between Mr. Kim and himself with a figuration of creating. The article illuminates how Mr. Kim’s life is interwoven with the historical evolvement of modern Korea in terms of his relentless effort to be the best drummer of his time. Imaginary e-mail exchanges opened up multiple writing spaces between the researcher and the researched, past and present, fiction and nonfiction, and facts and emotional responses.
Validity, Responsibility, and Aporia
Authors: Koro-Ljungberg Mirka
Published: June 2010

In this article, the author problematizes external, objectified, oversimplified, and mechanical approaches to validity in qualitative research, which endorse simplistic and reductionist views of knowledge and data. Instead of promoting one generalizable definition or operational criteria for validity, the author’s “deconstructive validity work” addresses how validity can be framed in the context of researchers’ responsibility and decision making during the research process. More specifically, the author utilizes the concept of aporia to discuss researchers’ responsibilities in the face of impossible decisions when aiming for “valid” and trustworthy qualitative research practices. The author argues that qualitative researchers should reconsider the promotion of validity or validation practices that disable researchers’ responsibility. Alternatively, it could be illuminative to ask how impossible validity and ongoing puzzlement associated with the quality of qualitative research could influence current research practices and reporting.
Social democrats, unions and corporatism: Denmark and Sweden compared
Authors: Anthonsen Mette , Lindvall Johannes , Schmidt-Hansen Ulrich
Published: June 2010

A number of recent studies have documented weakening ties between social democratic parties and trade unions. This article is concerned with the effects of weakening party— union ties on policymaking. In many classic studies of corporatism it has been argued that this mode of policymaking depends on strong ties between social democratic parties and trade unions. In this article, we argue, in contrast, that strong party—union ties are potentially detrimental to corporatism, because in a polarized political environment unions may be tempted to exert political influence via political allies instead of bargaining with their counterparts. In order to evaluate this argument empirically, we present a detailed analysis of two countries with strong corporatist traditions (Denmark and Sweden) from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Is the party over? The decline of party activism and membership across the democratic world
Authors: Whiteley Paul F.
Published: June 2010

The decline of party activism and membership in European democracies has been well documented, but not effectively explained. This article examines the state of party membership and activism across a wide spectrum of democratic countries and shows that membership is in decline in most of them. It tests two rival explanations of the decline using a cross-sectional multi-level analysis of data from the ISSP Citizenship survey of 2004. One hypothesis is that the decline is due to ‘state capture’, or excessive state regulation brought about by an ever-closer relationship between parties and the state which has the effect of stifling voluntary activity at the grassroots level. A second suggests that parties are being undermined by the growth of relatively new forms of participation, notably cheque book participation, and consumer and Internet participation. These provide alternative outlets for political action outside traditional forms of participation such as party involvement. There is evidence to support the first of these hypotheses, but not the second.
For want of a nail: Negative persuasion in a party leadership race
Authors: Loewen Peter John , Rubenson Daniel
Published: June 2010

Should party leadership candidates communicate their policy positions to the party’s electorate? And should they do so when their own ideal position is outside their party’s mainstream? This article presents evidence from a field experiment into the communication of controversial policy positions through direct mail. Working with a front-running campaign during the race for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada, we randomly assigned a subset of convention delegates to receive a direct mail treatment featuring policy messages outside the mainstream of the party. Using a survey instrument, we measured the effects of this treatment on delegates’ ratings and preference ordering of leadership candidates. The effects of the direct mail were principally negative; receiving the mail reduced the probability of the candidate being supported.
Importance of a balanced diet on the physical fitness level of schoolchildren aged 6-12
Authors: Chung Louisa , Wong Thomas , Chung Joanne Wai Yee
Published: June 2010

Previous studies have focused on a single nutrient’s relationship with disease and thus are unable to strongly support the health claims of a balanced diet. This article explores the integrated effect of nine nutrients on an individual’s physical fitness level. Two-day dietary records and physical fitness assessments were collected in three primary schools. Cluster analysis allowed compliance with nutrient recommendations to be compared among groups of primary school students with different characteristics. Two clusters were identified statistically. Cluster B, which comprised more schoolchildren at the ‘Good’ and ‘Pass’ levels and fewer at the ‘Excellent’ level, had significantly more participants who met the guidelines for total fat, saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol, compared with Cluster A. This finding reveals the benefits of a balanced diet, with physical fitness level as the outcome measure. The results also have implications for approaching health problems from the diet—fitness perspective rather than the obesity—disease perspective.
Patient assessed health profile: A six-month quality of life questionnaire survey after day surgery
Authors: Brattwall M. , Warrén Stomberg M. , Rawal N. , Segerdahl M. , Houltz E. , Jakobsson J.
Published: June 2010

Aim: Patient assessed quality of life is one of the principal end-points after day surgery. The aim of the present study was to describe the natural course, differences and timing of final evaluation for three common day surgical procedures; inguinal hernia repair (IHR), arthroscopic procedures (AS); and cosmetic breast augmentation (CBA). Method: A total of 355 patients prospectively completed an extended eight-item EQ-5D questionnaire (pain, mobility, mood, self-care, activities, sleep, sex, need for analgesic), preoperatively and at one, three and six months postoperatively. Results: Pain and mobility problems were frequently reported prior to surgery among IHR and AS patients, while CBA patients had less deviation from normal in the preoperative health profile. The proportions of patients reporting surgery-related deviations were 35%, 20% and 5% at one, three and six months respectively. After one month, 50% of AS patients still suffered subjective discomfort as compared to 13% and 20% of the IHR and CBA patients, respectively. Pain and ambulation problems were the most common symptoms in all groups. Six months after surgery, 94% of IHR, 89% of AS and 97% of CBA patients were fully recovered. Conclusions: No major morbidity or severe complications were observed and patients’ satisfaction was high overall. We found procedure-specific changes in the postoperative health profile after day surgery. AS patients recovered more slowly compared with IHR and CBA patients. We conclude that time for final evaluation differs significantly between procedures.
Remediation Theory: Analyzing What Made Quarterlife Successful as an Online Series and Not A Television Series
Authors: Peirce L. Meghan
Published: June 2010

The purpose of this research is to examine the internet webisode phenomenon Quarterlife and determine what structural elements made it suitable for internet viewing but not television. As media begin to transform themselves from traditional to new, it is imperative for content to adapt itself structurally as well. This textual analysis of Quarterlife is based on the theoretical background of Bolter and Grusin’s remediation theory. Through this research, a better understanding is gained regarding how structural elements need to be altered across media. The content of Quarterlife catered to a very small niche audience, but these elements do not translate well to a wider television audience. It is apparent that Quarterlife incorporated elements of both hypermediacy and transparent immediacy. However, these elements were disproportional, possibly leading to its failure as a television series.
Business on Television: Continuity, Change, and Risk in the Development of Television’s “Business Entertainment Format”
Authors: Kelly Lisa W. , Boyle Raymond
Published: June 2010

This article traces the evolution of what has become known as the business entertainment format on British television. Drawing on interviews with channel controllers, commissioners, and producers from across the BBC, Channel 4, and the independent sector, this research highlights a number of key individuals who have shaped the development of the business entertainment format and investigates some of the tensions that arise from combining entertainment values with more journalistic or educational approaches to factual television. While much work has looked at docusoaps and reality programming, this area of television output has remained largely unexamined by television scholars. The research argues that as the television industry has itself developed into a business, program makers have come to view themselves as (creative) entrepreneurs, thus raising the issue of whether the development off-screen of a more commercial, competitive, and entrepreneurial TV marketplace has affected the way the medium frames its on-screen engagement with business, entrepreneurship, risk, and wealth creation.
1.5:1 Meshed AlloDerm Bolsters for Stapled Rectal Anastomoses Does Not Provide Any Advantage in Anastomotic Strength in a Porcine Model
Authors: Fajardo Alyssa D. , Chun Jonathan , Stewart David , Safar Bashar , Fleshman James W.
Published: June 2010

Introduction: The most feared complication of colorectal anastomoses is leaks resulting in severe morbidity. The concept of staple-line reinforcement is a growing area of interest. In this study, the authors evaluated the feasibility and effect of using 1.5:1 meshed AlloDerm to bolster end-to-end stapled rectal anastomoses in a porcine model. Methods: A total of 30 female 45-kg domestic pigs were studied, and each served as its own control by creating a bolstered and unbolstered anastomosis in each animal. All anastomoses were created with a 29-mm end-to-end stapling device. Bolstered anastomoses were randomized to proximal and distal positions along the rectum, and each rectorectal anastomosis was separated by an average of 10 cm. The animals were survived to 3, 5, and 30 days. Barium enemas were then performed and the 2 anastomotic sites harvested. Each anastomosis underwent burst testing. The internal diameter of each anastomosis was measured, and a biochemical analysis was performed for elastin and collagen content. Results: Bolstered anastomoses offered no strength advantage as burst pressures were no different when compared with unbolstered anastomoses. There was also no difference in anastomotic internal diameter, biochemical analysis of elastin or collagen, or presence of adhesions when comparing bolstered with unbolstered anastomoses. There were 4 subclinical leaks—1 in the unbolstered group and 3 in the bolstered group. Conclusions: The routine use of 1.5:1 meshed AlloDerm sandwich bolsters in stapled rectal anastomosis does not confer any detectable advantage in anastomotic strength. Further studies are needed to determine equivalence to traditional stapled anastomoses.
The 341C/T polymorphism in the GSTP1 gene is associated with increased risk of oesophageal cancer
Authors: Li Dongping , Dandara Collet , Parker M Iqbal
Published: June 2010

Background

The Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) comprise a group of enzymes that are critical in the detoxification of carcinogens. In this study the effects of polymorphisms in these genes on the risk of developing oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were evaluated in a hospital-based case-control study in two South African population groups. Genetic polymorphisms in GSTs were investigated in 245 patients and 288 controls samples by PCR-RFLP analysis.

Results

The GSTP1 341T variant was associated with significantly increased risk of developing OSCC as observed from the odds ratios for the GSTP1 341C/T and GSTP1 341T/T genotypes (OR = 4.98; 95%CI 3.05-8.11 and OR = 10.9; 95%CI 2.43-49.1, respectively) when compared to the homozygous GSTP1 341C/C genotype. The risk for OSCC in the combined GSTP1 341C/T and T/T genotypes was higher in tobacco smokers (OR = 7.51, 95% CI 3.82-14.7), alcohol consumers (OR = 15.3, 95% CI 1.81-12.9) and those using wood or charcoal for cooking and heating (OR = 12.1, 95% CI 3.26-49) when compared to those who did not smoke tobacco, or did not consume alcohol or user other forms of fuel for cooking and heating. Despite the close proximity of the two GSTP1 SNPs (313A>G and 341C>T), they were not in linkage disequilibrium in these two population groups (D':1.0, LOD: 0.52, r2: 0.225). The GSTP1 313A/G polymorphism on the other hand, did not display any association with OSSC. The homozygous GSTT1*0 genotype was associated with increased risk of OSCC (OR = 1.71, 95%CI 1.18-2.46) while the homozygous GSTM1*0 genotype was associated with significantly decreased risk of OSCC in the Mixed Ancestry subjects (OR= 0.39, 95%CI 0.25-0.62).

Conclusions

This study shows that the risk of developing OSCC in the South African population can be partly explained by genetic polymorphisms in GST coding genes and their interaction with environmental factors such as tobacco smoke and alcohol consumption.