bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric Conditions during the Deep Propagating Gravity Wave Experiment (DEEPWAVE)
Authors: Gisinger Sonja , Dörnbrack Andreas , Matthias Vivien , Doyle James D. , Eckermann Stephen D. , Ehard Benedikt , Hoffmann Lars , Kaifler Bernd , Kruse Christopher G. , Rapp Markus
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the results of a comprehensive analysis of the atmospheric conditions during the Deep Propagating Gravity Wave Experiment (DEEPWAVE) campaign in austral winter 2014. Different datasets and diagnostics are combined to characterize the background atmosphere from the troposphere to the upper mesosphere. How weather regimes and the atmospheric state compare to climatological conditions is reported upon and how they relate to the airborne and ground-based gravity wave observations is also explored. Key results of this study are the dominance of tropospheric blocking situations and low-level southwesterly flows over New Zealand during June–August 2014. A varying tropopause inversion layer was found to be connected to varying vertical energy fluxes and is, therefore, an important feature with respect to wave reflection. The subtropical jet was frequently diverted south from its climatological position at 30°S and was most often involved in strong forcing events of mountain waves at the Southern Alps. The polar front jet was typically responsible for moderate and weak tropospheric forcing of mountain waves. The stratospheric planetary wave activity amplified in July leading to a displacement of the Antarctic polar vortex. This reduced the stratospheric wind minimum by about 10 m s−1 above New Zealand making breaking of large-amplitude gravity waves more likely. Satellite observations in the upper stratosphere revealed that orographic gravity wave variances for 2014 were largest in May–July (i.e., the period of the DEEPWAVE field phase).
Sensitivity Analysis of Hurricane Arthur (2014) Storm Surge Forecasts to WRF Physics Parameterizations and Model Configurations
Authors: Zhang Fan , Li Ming , Ross Andrew C. , Lee Serena Blyth , Zhang Da-Lin
Published: July 2017

Through a case study of Hurricane Arthur (2014), the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model and the Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM) are used to investigate the sensitivity of storm surge forecasts to physics parameterizations and configurations of the initial and boundary conditions in WRF. The turbulence closure scheme in the planetary boundary layer affects the prediction of the storm intensity: the local closure scheme produces lower equivalent potential temperature than the nonlocal closure schemes, leading to significant reductions in the maximum surface wind speed and surge heights. On the other hand, higher-class cloud microphysics schemes overpredict the wind speed, resulting in large overpredictions of storm surge at some coastal locations. Without cumulus parameterization in the outermost domain, both the wind speed and storm surge are grossly underpredicted as a result of large precipitation decreases in the storm center. None of the choices for the WRF physics parameterization schemes significantly affect the prediction of Arthur’s track. Sea surface temperature affects the latent heat release from the ocean surface and thus storm intensity and storm surge predictions. The large-scale atmospheric circulation models provide the initial and boundary conditions for WRF, and influence both the track and intensity predictions, thereby changing the spatial distribution of storm surge along the coastline. These sensitivity analyses underline the need to use an ensemble modeling approach to improve the storm surge forecasts.
Nonsquamous Cell Malignancies of the Paranasal Sinuses
Authors: Roberts Jay K. , Wood Benjamin G. , Kraus Dennis H. , Medendorp Sharon V. , Tucker Harvey M. , Levine Howard L. , Lavertu Pierre
Published: July 2017

Nonsquamous cell malignancies represent half of paranasal sinus cancers. Since 1975, 103 patients have been treated at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation for sinus malignancies. Forty-nine patients had nonsquamous cell malignancies: 12 (25%) sarcoma, 10 (20%) adenoid cystic carcinoma, 9(18%) adenocarcinoma, 9 (18 %) lymphoma, and 9 (18 %) miscellaneous tumors. Ten patients presented with T1 or T2 disease at the primary site, 16 with T3, and 23 with T4. Ten patients had primary ethmoid malignancies; the remainder of the tumors originated in the maxillary sinus. Five patients had evidence of regional or distant metastases at presentation. Twelve patients were free of disease after initial management. Three patients with recurrent disease were salvaged with additional therapy. Two patients died of complications in the immediate postoperative period. Patients with less extensive primary lesions have an improved prognosis. Survival was similar for the different histologic diagnoses.
Laser Excision of Early Vocal Cord Carcinoma: Indications, Limitations, and Precautions
Authors: Shapshay Stanley M. , Hybels Roger L. , Bohigian R. Kirk
Published: July 2017

Forty-six patients referred for laser surgery of early vocal cord carcinoma were treated by laser excisional techniques with or without radiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 3.5 years. There was a 90% rate of carcinoma control (18 of 20 patients) in patients with untreated mid-vocal cord T1 carcinomas without involvement of the anterior commissure or vocal process or deep muscle invasion. Larger, more invasive T1 vocal cord tumors (13 patients) had laser excision followed by radiotherapy without recurrence. Careful patient selection and accurate histopathologic evaluation are key elements for successful treatment.
Importance of Iron Repletion in the Management of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome
Authors: Bredenkamp James K. , Castro Daniel J. , Mickel Robert A.
Published: July 2017

Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) is characterized by iron deficiency anemia, upper esophageal stricture, cervical dysphagia, and glossitis. The precise role of iron deficiency in PVS has yet to be defined and remains a subject of much debate. A 29-year-old woman with PVS is presented. The patient had a 4-year history of severe iron deficiency anemia, a 2-year history of progressive dysphagia and weight loss, and a greater than 90% benign upper esophageal stricture. Iron therapy alone resolved her dysphagia and anemia, and a follow-up esophagram 1 year later showed a residual stenosis of less than 30%. The development of severe iron deficiency anemia in this patient 2 years before the onset of dysphagia, as well as the response of the stricture to iron repletion, supports the theory that iron deficiency can cause dysphagia and upper esophageal strictures. The occurrence of glossitis, gastritis, and esophagitis in iron deficiency demonstrates the adverse effects of iron depletion on the rapidly proliferating cells of the upper alimentary tract.
Quantitative Study of the Early Effects of Tracheotomy and Endotracheal Intubation on the Rabbit Tracheobronchial Tree
Authors: Squire Roly , Siddiqui Saeeda Y. , Dinunzio Gina , Brodsky Linda
Published: July 2017

Histopathologic evaluation of the tracheobronchial tree was performed in 12 rabbits to study the effects of 1 hour of tracheotomy or endotracheal intubation. In five animals who underwent oral endotracheal intubation, epithelial erosions and submucosal inflammation in the proximal (bronchial) airway covered 34.9% and 71.3% of the luminal circumference, respectively. This was highly significant (p<.001) against two control animals, in which 4.8% erosion and 3.9% inflammation were observed. Tracheotomy in three animals caused 22.8% bronchial epithelial erosion and 46.0% inflammation, which were not significantly greater than values of 15.0% and 20.6% observed following “sham” tracheotomy. The severity of the proximal (indirect) consequences of endotracheal intubation may have been attributable to the lack of humidification, but this does not explain the lesser damage caused by tracheotomy. It is postulated that increased inspiratory flow rate and pressures occurring in endotracheally intubated animals may be contributory factors.
Role of Angiography in the Management of Refractory Epistaxis
Authors: Welsh Louis W. , Welsh John J. , Scogna Joseph E. , Gregor Frank A.
Published: July 2017

When interruption of the related arteries fails to control epistaxis, angiography is recommended for identification of the vascular base, the collateral circulation, and the possibility of arterial abnormalities. Criteria are proposed for utilization of vascular mapping, and relevant cases are cited to support the specific indications for application.
Epidermal Growth Factor Binding and Action on Tympanic Membranes
Authors: Petitjean Mark , Martinez Serge A. , O'daniel Thomas G. , Jones Shawn C. , Nolph Michael B. , Zogg Jeff , Schultz Gregory S.
Published: July 2017

A significant percentage of tympanic membrane (TM) perforations require some form of therapy to heal. Topical application of epidermal growth factor (EGF), a potent mitogen for epidermal and mesodermal cells, promotes healing of injuries in tissues histologically similar to TM, such as cornea and skin. We evaluated TM as a target tissue for EGF action. Specific, high affinity receptors for EGF were detected in TM (Kd = 3.1 nM, 150 fmol receptor/mg protein). Autoradiography of iodine 125-EGF binding to intact TMs revealed that EGF receptors were present on cells in the stratified squamous epithelial layer and in the stromal/mucoepithelial layer. Repetitive treatment of perforated cat TMs with 20 μg of EGF formulated in saline induced substantial hyperplasia of epithelial and stromal layers compared to paired TMs treated with saline. A single treatment of perforated cat TMs with 50 μg of EGF formulated in a hydrogel or in shredded Gelfoam produced significantly (p< .05) smaller perforations at 6 days following the operation compared to paired TMs treated with vehicles. These results demonstrate that TM is a target tissue for EGF and that topical treatment with EGF stimulates healing of TM perforations.
Severe Otolaryngologic Manifestations of Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita
Authors: Laureano Alberto N. , Rybak Leonard P.
Published: July 2017

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by multiple fixed-joint deformities of the upper and lower extremities. Those afflicted with the more common neurogenic form of AMC can have otolaryngologic manifestations. Here, a case of AMC with severe otolaryngologic manifestations is reported. The clinically relevant findings included an expressionless face, micrognathia, poor suck reflex, high arched palate, and an omega-shaped epiglottis, but otherwise normal larynx, trachea, and esophagus by endoscopic examination. Airway compromise, achalasia, aspiration pneumonitis, and poor nutrition were constant problems. Tracheostomy and gastrostomy were subsequently placed, and the patient's clinical course eventually improved. Early involvement of the otolaryngologist and placement of a tracheostomy and gastrostomy are recommended in those patients with severe otolaryngologic manifestations of AMC.
Laryngeal Amyloidosis in a Child
Authors: Hurbis Charles G. , Holinger Lauren D.
Published: July 2017

A 14-year-old girl developed progressive hoarseness and breathing difficulty due to a mass in the subglottic larynx. A biopsy specimen obtained at direct laryngoscopy snowed localized aggregates of amyloid. The lesion was excised completely with a carbon dioxide laser. This is the second case of laryngeal amyloidosis in a child reported in the English-language literature.
Effect of Laryngeal Stenting in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Albert David M. , Cotton Robin T. , Conn Paul
Published: July 2017

A short length of oversize endotracheal tube was sutured in the undamaged subglottis of 22 rabbits to explore the effect of laryngeal stents. The stent was secured to lie beneath the vocal cords. The histologic changes were minimal irrespective of the type of tube used and how long it remained in situ. These findings are consistent with the theory that tube movement is necessary to produce stenosis and are encouraging given the widespread use of stents in pediatric laryngeal reconstruction. The role of gastric acid in producing subglottic stenosis is discussed.
Aural Irrigation with Water: A Potential Pathogenic Mechanism for Inducing Malignant External Otitis?
Authors: Rubin Jennifer , Kamerer Donald B. , Yu Victor L. , Wagener Marilyn
Published: July 2017

We hypothesized that the forcible introduction of water containing Pseudomonas aeruginosa into the ear canal of a susceptible host (an elderly diabetic with cutaneous hypoperfusion secondary to microangiopathy) was the inciting factor in the development of malignant external otitis. Tap water irrigation of the ears by a physician preceded the onset of symptoms in 61.5% (8/13) of cases of malignant external otitis. Two control subjects with known diabetes mellitus were matched for each patient by sex and age. Both groups were questioned on the nature and degree of aural water exposure, as well as history of ear disease. There were no significant differences between 13 Patients and 26 control subjects for presence of ear disease (hearing loss, chronic infection, prior operations), swimming, showering, bathing, frequency of ear cleaning, or method of ear cleaning (washcloth, cotton applicator). Patients with malignant external otitis had a statistically significant higher incidence of aural irrigation with tap water when compared with control subjects. We suggest that a substantial number of cases of malignant external otitis may be iatrogenic.
Factors Influencing the Probability of Residual Cholesteatoma
Authors: Gristwood Ronald E. , Venables William N.
Published: July 2017

Data from the records of 251 consecutive patients with aural cholesteatoma treated surgically by one surgeon (R.E.G.) between 1962 and 1980, using mainly wide access approaches of atticotomy and attico-antrostomy, and assiduously followed up, formed the basis of an analysis to determine what variables influence the chance of residual cholesteatoma. There were 42 cases of residual cholesteatoma: 20 in the mesotympanum (including two annular), 17 in the epitympanum, and five in the mastoid. The most important variables for the prognosis of residual disease included age, the state of the stapes, the state of the middle ear mucosa, and the number of sites in the middle ear cleft affected by cholesteatoma. A logistic model was constructed to describe the dependence of the probability of residual cholesteatoma on the two determining variables age and state of the stapes. The implications of these findings for the surgical management of cholesteatoma are discussed.
Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex as a Parameter of Seasickness Susceptibility
Authors: Shupak Avi , Spitzer Orna , Kerem Dan , Mendelowitz Naftali , Gordon Carlos , Melamed Yehuda
Published: July 2017

The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) is known to be modulated in response to changing vestibular and optokinetic stimuli. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible relationships between VOR and future susceptibility and habituation to seasickness. Thirty candidates for future maritime service were exposed to a series of yaw axis smooth harmonic accelerations before and after 6 months of regular sailing, and their VOR gain and phase responses were recorded. Seasickness severity was estimated after 1 and 6 months of service by a questionnaire. We conclude that VOR gain at 0.01 Hz may serve as a physiologic correlate helping to predict seasickness susceptibility, and that the increase in phase lead at 0.02 Hz may mark the habituation process to sea conditions.
Correlative Imaging of Sphenoid Dysplasia Accompanying Neurofibromatosis
Authors: Harkens Karen , Dolan Kenneth D.
Published: July 2017

Experience with five cases of sphenoid dysplasia is collected and illustrated by plain film, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Ancillary changes in the maxilla and mandible are shown. Paramount to the presentation are changes induced in the orbit resulting in a large superior orbital fissure with or without a meningeal cyst projecting through the fissure. Serial studies of one patient from birth through 5 years of age present the progressive nature of this abnormality.
Correlation between Mastoid Pneumatization and Position of the Lateral Sinus
Authors: Shatz Anat , Sadé Jacob
Published: July 2017

The distance between the lateral sinus and the external ear canal was measured in 148 patients (150 ears) with completely sclerotic (nonpneumatized) mastoids and in 75 healthy random control subjects (150 ears) with pneumatized mastoids. A highly significant difference (p< .0001) was found between the two groups, the mean distance (±SD) among patients being 7.8 ± 1.7 mm, while among controls it was 13.5 ± 2.8 mm. Moreover, a significant positive correlation (p< .001) was found within the pneumatized control group itself, between the sinus’ distance and the degree of mastoid pneumatization. The results of this study may be interpreted by those who espouse environmental theories as denoting that infantile otitis media will determine the position of the lateral sinus. However, those who favor the genetic explanation may maintain that since the position of the sinus is established prenatally and involves organogenetically the shape of the skull, the final position is unlikely to be influenced by postnatal otitis media.
Decrease in Xenon Clearance during Response to Cold, Dry Air: Problems of Interpretation
Authors: Naclerio Robert M. , Bartenfelder Denise , Fisher Cynthia , Koller Daniel , Civelek Cahid A. , La France Norman D.
Published: July 2017

In order to increase our understanding of the nasal response to cold, dry air (CDA), we studied changes in xenon clearance as an indicator of nasal blood flow. Eight individuals previously shown to respond to CDA had measurements of xenon clearance made in the left inferior turbinate before, during, and after a 15-minute exposure to either CDA (–7°C to 0°C, < 10% relative humidity) or room air. The half-life in seconds for xenon clearance on the day when CDA was inhaled was 56 ± 6, 41 ± 5, and 110 ± 31, before, during, and 10 minutes after challenge, respectively. On the control day, with subjects breathing room air, the equivalent measurements of half-life in seconds were 54 ± 8, 41 ± 6, and 42 ± 4, respectively. Xenon clearance was prolonged significantly (p<.01) after exposure to CDA during the clinical response. The interpretation of the change in xenon clearance as an indicator of nasal blood flow is discussed.
Influence of General Anesthesia on Transiently Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions in Humans
Authors: Hauser Rolf , Harris Frances P. , Probst Rudolf , Frei Franz
Published: July 2017

The influence of general anesthesia (GA) on transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) was studied in 19 normally hearing women undergoing surgery. Emissions were measured on the day before the operation, after premedication but before the beginning of the operation, and during and after the operation. There were no significant differences in TEOAE amplitude or in reproducibility between results obtained the day before the operation and after premedication. Ten patients received nitrous oxide (N2O) during GA (N2O group), and 9 patients did not (non-N2O group). The amplitude of TEOAEs was reduced during GA in 9 of 10 patients in the N2O group and in 7 of 9 patients in the non-N2O group. However, the average decrease of amplitude after the first 10 minutes was greater in the N2O group (4 ± 3.4 dB) than in the non-N2O group (0.18 ± 1.4 dB). The corresponding mean reproducibility of the response decreased in 9 of 10 patients of the N2O group (29% ± 24%) and was nearly unchanged in the non-N2O group (2.3% ± 7.2%). The time course of the amplitude reduction was similar in both groups. The smallest amplitudes were reached on an average by 19.3 ± 11.4 minutes in the N2O group and by 17 ± 13.6 minutes in the non-N2O group. Preoperative and postoperative TEOAEs were comparable in level and reproducibility. Differential frequency effects imply a middle ear effect for the greater reduction of TEO AE amplitudes in the N2O group due to gas diffusion into the middle ear. The decreases in the amplitudes of TEOAEs in patients not receiving N2O indicate the presence of additional factors affecting the response during GA.
Antibodies against a 30 Kilodalton Cochlear Protein and Type II and IX Collagens in the Serum of Patients with Inner Ear Diseases
Authors: Joliat Thomas , Bernstein Joel , Cho J. S. , Krug Marc , Fujiyoshi T. , Seyer Jerome , Ye X. J. , Yoo T. J.
Published: July 2017

Collagen molecules are major extracellular matrix proteins involved in the development and support of delicate auditory sensory organs. Type II collagen is widely distributed within inner ear tissues, while type IX is found only within the labyrinthine membrane and dense fibers of the tectorial membrane. Antibody specific for type II collagen has been shown to be elevated in some patients with hearing loss due to several presumably autoimmune illnesses (including Meniere's disease, otosclerosis, chronic progressive sensorineural hearing loss, and relapsing polychondritis). Purified human type II and LX collagens and an extract of human cochlear tissue were subjected to isolation by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and transferred to nitrocellulose. The sera of 21 patients with inner ear disease were examined for the presence of anticollagen and anticochlear antibodies; the sera were used to probe Western blots of purified human collagens U, LX, and XI, and cochlear protein extract with peroxidase-conjugated goat anti human polyvalent immunoglobulin as the second antibody. Anti-type II collagen antibodies were seen in 12 of 21 (57%) patients, while 13 of 21 (62%) had anti-type IX antibodies detectable by Western blot. A previously unreported 30 kd (probably noncollagen) protein was found by SDS-PAGE of human cochlear tissue extracts, with 3 patients, all with Meniere's disease, having antibody activity to this protein detected by Western blot. Anti-type II and anti-type LX antibodies were found in a high percentage of patients with Meniere's disease, otosclerosis, and strial atrophy. Six patients (29%), and all control patients, had no detectable antibodies to these proteins by our assay.
Pathology Consultation Nonsquamous Carcinomas of the Larynx
Authors: Batsakis John G. , Luna Mario A. , El-Naggar Adel K.
Published: July 2017

Nonsquamous carcinomas make up fewer than 1 % of all epithelial malignancies of the larynx. The majority are subsurface in origin and arise from seromucous glands of the larynx. Adenoid cystic carcinoma is not only representative of this group, it is the most prevalent. All other salivary-type carcinomas are rare. Rarer still are surface adenocarcinomas. Neuroendocrine carcinomas appear to constitute the majority of so-called laryngeal adenocarcinomas.
Time-Resolved Vibrational Spectroscopy of Polytetrafluoroethylene Under Laser-Shock Compression
Authors: Rastogi Vinay , Rao Usha , Chaurasia Shivanand , Sijoy Chakkalakkal Davis , Mishra Vinayak , Chaturvedi Shashank , Deo Mukul Narayan
Published: July 2017

Shock-wave-induced high pressure and nanosecond time-resolved Raman spectroscopic experiments were performed to examine the dynamic response of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in confinement geometry targets. Time-resolved Raman spectroscopy was used to observe the pressure-induced molecular and chemical changes on nanosecond time scale. Raman spectra were measured as a function of shock pressure in the 1.2–2.4 GPa range. Furthermore, the symmetric stretching mode at 729 cm–1 of CF2 was compared to corresponding static high-pressure measurements carried out in a diamond anvil cell, to see if any general trend can be established. The symmetric stretching mode of CF2 at 729 cm–1 is the most intense Raman transition in PTFE and is very sensitive to change in pressure. Therefore, it can also be utilized as a pressure gauge for large amplitude shock wave compression experiments. A maximum blueshift of 12 cm–1 for the 729 cm–1 vibrational mode has been observed for the present experimental pressure range. A comparative study on the similarities and differences from the earlier work has been done in detail. One-dimensional radiation hydrodynamic simulations were performed to validate our shock compression results and are in very good agreement.
The recidivism of homicide offenders in Western Australia
Authors: Broadhurst Roderic , Maller Ross , Maller Max , Bouhours Brigitte
Published: July 2017

Popular perceptions about the recidivism of homicide offenders are contradictory, varying from one extreme – that such offenders rarely commit further violent offences – to the opposite, where it is thought that they remain at a high risk of serious reoffending. The present study draws on the records of 1088 persons arrested in Western Australia over the period 1984–2005 for domestic murders and other types of homicides (robbery and sexual murder), including attempted murder, conspiracy to murder, manslaughter (unintentional homicide) and driving causing death. Our database provides up to 22 years follow-up time (for those arrested in 1984) and accounts critically for the first and any subsequent arrests, if they occur. Of the 1088 persons, only 3 were subsequently arrested and charged with a homicide offence event in the follow-up period. Among those arrested for a murder and subsequently released, we estimate a probability of 0.66 (accounting for censoring) of being rearrested for another offence of any type. The corresponding probabilities for those originally arrested for manslaughter or for driving causing death were equal, at 0.43. A dynamic analysis of the longitudinal data by survival analysis techniques is used to reliably estimate these probabilities. Having a prior record increased the risk of re-arrest; for example male non-Aboriginals arrested for murder with at least one prior arrest have an estimated probability of 0.72 of being rearrested for another offence of any type. Their estimated probability of being rearrested for another serious offence was 0.33. These findings should be of interest to courts and correctional agencies in assessing risk at various stages of the administration of criminal justice.
Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities: A Survey of Their Problems and Their Management
Authors: Levine Michael S. , Rauh Joseph L. , Levine Carolyn W. , Rubinstein Jack H.
Published: July 2017

Adolescents with developmental disabilities deserve the same sophisticated multidisciplinary evaluation which is now available to younger children. Most of these fit into one of four groups—low normal IQ with poor performance because of psychologic problems, true learning disability, neuromuscular disease, or known mental retardation in need of planning for future care. It is important for the physician dealing with these adolescents to recognize and be ready to deal with the high incidence of emotional problems. He must be able to relate to the adolescents as the primary subject, and to arrange special education, vocational evaluation, and legal counseling. The physician must cultivate professional relationships with a wide range of disciplines since his adolescent patient is likely to need a wide variety of services.
The Atherosclerosis Problem: Pediatric and Dietary Aspects
Authors: Bergman Sander G.
Published: July 2017

Arteriosclerotic vascular disease begins in childhood. This most common and serious disorder must be of concern to all those caring for the health of children. Consideration should be given to the possibilities of altering the basic American diet to one lower in saturated fats and cholesterol.
Time-Series Analyses of the Impact of Sex Offender Registration and Notification Law Implementation and Subsequent Modifications on Rates of Sexual Offenses
Authors: Bouffard Jeff A. , Askew LaQuana N.
Published: July 2017

Sex offender registration and notification (SORN) laws were implemented to protect communities by increasing public awareness, and these laws have expanded over time to include registration by more types of offenders. Despite widespread implementation, research provides only inconsistent support for the impact of SORN laws on incidence of sexual offending. Using data from a large metropolitan area in Texas over the time period 1977 to 2012, and employing a number of time-series analyses, we examine the impact of the initial SORN implementation and two enhancements to the law. Results reveal no effect of SORN, or its subsequent modifications, on all sexual offenses or any of several specific offenses measures (e.g., crimes by repeat offenders). Implications for effective policy and future research are presented.
Student–Teacher Ethno-Racial Matching and Reading Ability Group Placement in Early Grades
Authors: Banerjee Neena
Published: July 2017

This article investigates the relationship between student–teacher ethno-racial matching and students’ placement in reading ability groups in kindergarten and first grades in the United States. Multilevel regression analysis of a nationally representative sample of students shows that Latino/a first graders are more likely to be placed in higher ability groups when assigned to Latino/a teachers. Furthermore, teachers’ perception of students’ learning behavior, a variable that has been linked to teacher–student racial congruence in the literature, has a strong positive effect on ability group placement in kindergarten and first grades. These findings have implications for minority teacher recruitment policies in school districts.
On the Combined Influence of Attractive and Unattractive Locations on the Surroundings
Authors: Blaison Christophe , Gebauer Jochen E. , Gollwitzer Mario , Schott Fabian , Kastendieck Till M. , Hess Ursula
Published: July 2017

Living near an unsafe housing block or a landfill is unattractive because of their negative influence on the environment. The question we ask is “Would a nearby attractive location cancel out this negative influence?” In two studies, participants were shown fictitious neighborhoods that contained an unattractive location (an unsafe housing block or a landfill) located close to an attractive location (one’s own home or a park). The participants were asked to evaluate how pleasant it would feel to live at increasing distances from these locations. The results showed that positively evaluated locations can mitigate but not entirely neutralize the effects of negatively evaluated locations. The present research elucidates how people combine the effects of sources of positive and negative influence.
Real World Use of Scientific Concepts: Integrating Situated Cognition with Explicit Instruction
Authors: Gersten Russell , Baker Scott
Published: July 2017

This article presents a conceptual framework for refining instruction in science for students with disabilities. We review the concept of situated cognition as a way to address difficulties students have in retention and generalization, a perennial issue in special education. If a goal for students is real world use of problem-solving strategies, students must have opportunities for contextual learning. The proposed framework suggests that integration of explicit instruction in critical concepts, with cognitively based approaches that emphasize problem-solving skills on real world tasks may allow students with disabilities to be successful The implications this framework has in terms of policy, professional development, and the creation of learning environments that promote retention and transfer are discussed.
The Reality of Best Practices in Transition: A Case Study
Authors: Collet-Klingenberg Lana L.
Published: July 2017

The need for effective transition practices, in the form of planning, direct service, and linkages to post-school settings, is well documented in special education literature. This study examined transition-related practices in use in one school and their effects on student experiences. Data were collected via qualitative methodology in a secondary program for students with learning disabilities. Findings showed the utilization of some literature-identified best practices. Participants indicated that vocation-related activities (e.g., work experience) were well received Instruction in self-determination skills was observed to be an integral, yet undocumented part of the program. Results also suggested that specific planning activities (i.e., transition teams) were responsible for much of the program's success.
Students with Learning Problems at Risk in Middle School: Stress, Social Support, and Adjustment
Authors: Wenz-Gross Melodie , Siperstein Gary N.
Published: July 2017

This study compared the stress, social support, and adjustment of 40 students with learning problems due to learning disabilities or mild mental retardation, and 396 general education students without learning problems, in middle school Examined were: stressors related to academics, peers, and problems with teacher/rules and overall felt stress; social support from family, other adults, and peers; and adjustment, including feelings about self and liking school. The relation between stress, social support, and adjustment also was explored. Results showed that students with learning problems experienced more stress, less peer support, greater adult support, and poorer adjustment, than those without learning problems. Adjustment was related to students' stress in middle school. Interventions for this group of students at risk were discussed.
Reflections on a Research Career: One Thing Leads to Another
Authors: Keogh Barbara K.
Published: July 2017

The CEC Research Award recognizes researchers for the significant contributions they have made to special education. We believe that the members of this distinguished group have much to share with our readers. We have invited each of them to contribute an article, addressing past, present, and future research needs and practices in special education. Barbara Keogh was awarded the Research Award in 1992, recognizing her 30 years of research in special education. Her article focuses on research and policy, the state of the art in special education research, and future research needs.
Improving Research Clarity and Usefulness with Effect Size Indices as Supplements to Statistical Significance Tests
Authors: Thompson Bruce
Published: July 2017

Articles published in professional journals are expected to comply with the 1994 publication manual of the American Psychological Association, which acknowledges that p values are not acceptable measures of effect size magnitudes, and explicitly encourages authors to report effect sizes. This “encouragement” is also consistent with recent criticisms of common misuses of statistical significance tests. The present article examined effect size reporting in 23 quantitative articles reported in Exceptional Children. It was found that effect sizes are rarely being reported, though exemplary reporting practices were also noted Reasons why the APA “encouragement” has been ineffective are explored and it is suggested that an editorial policy requiring effect size reporting similar to that invoked at several journals, including some APA journals, may be useful.
Research to Practice: A “Blueprint” for Closing the Gap in Local Schools
Authors: Abbott Mary , Walton Cheryl , Tapia Yolanda , Greenwood Charles R.
Published: July 2017

The long-standing gap between research and practice in general and special education has become a matter of national concern. Described in this article is a “blueprint” designed to bridge the gap based on lessons learned at the Juniper Gardens Children's Project (JGCP). The goal of the blueprint is to initiate and sustain ongoing interactions between classroom teachers and researchers interested in using research-validated practices in local classroom settings. Its components are partnership, collaboration, consultation, and professional development. Discussed are the blueprint and some initial findings of its use. Considered are the implications of the blueprint and of successfully moving research into classroom practice.
Mainstreaming Children with a Neuromuscular Disease: A Map of Concerns
Authors: Strong Kristine , Sandoval Jonathan
Published: July 2017

Four focus groups were conducted to gather information about coping issues and teacher attitudes related to the education of children with a neuromuscular disease (NMD). Focus Group 1 consisted of individuals with NMD, Group 2 consisted of parents of children with NMD, and Groups 3 and 4 consisted of public school teachers of students of NMD. Coded and categorized data suggested a number of unique and common concerns about children with NMD including (a) a need for better communication between home and school, (b) a need to establish a sense of competence on the part of the children, and (c) a need for improved peer relationships. A Map of Concerns emerged from the focus group data.
Awareness, Use, and Satisfaction with Services for Latino Parents of Young Children with Disabilities
Authors: Bailey Donald B. , Skinner Debra , Rodriguez Patricia , Gut Dianne , Correa Vivian
Published: July 2017

We interviewed 200 Latino parents of young children with disabilities to determine awareness, use, and satisfaction with services. We also examined use of alternative treatments and the relationship between child and family variables and awareness, use, and satisfaction. A high degree of awareness was noted but only a moderate degree of satisfaction was found. Mothers were more aware of and perceived use of more services than fathers. With few exceptions, family and child variables bore little relationship to awareness, use, or satisfaction. No families pursued alternative treatments as their primary source of help, although several used them in a minor way. Program variables may be more likely determinants of service use and satisfaction than family factors alone.
Using a Writing Assessment Rubric for Writing Development of Children who are Deaf
Authors: Schirmer Barbara R. , Bailey Jill , Fitzgerald Shawn M.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the study was to explore whether a writing assessment rubric could be used as an effective teaching strategy with children who are deaf. From September through June, the teacher evaluated the students' compositions using a writing assessment rubric. From fall to spring the fifth and seventh graders showed significant improvement in four writing qualities and no significant improvement in five qualities. All of the compositions reflected the students' ability to use language functionally both interpersonally and intrapersonally. As an instructional strategy, teachers can individualize rubrics by student, class, age level, genre, or assignment to target the developmental needs of students who are deaf and other students with special needs.
Risk factors for road transport–related injury among pedestrians in rural Ghana: Implications for road safety education
Authors: Teye-Kwadjo Enoch
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Injuries and mortality resulting from pedestrian road traffic crashes are a major public health problem in Ghana. This study investigated risk factors for road transport-related injury among pedestrians in rural Ghana.

Design:

Case study design using qualitative data.

Method:

In-depth interviews were conducted with pedestrians. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the responses.

Results:

Findings showed that participants considered road design, roadside trading, inconsiderate driving, pedestrian traffic behaviour, low pedestrian crash risk perception and parental negligence as important determinants of road transport-related injury among pedestrians in rural Ghana.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that safe pedestrian road environments and health-enhancing traffic attitudes and behaviour may help reduce the pedestrian crash problem in rural Ghana.
Trading Equality for Health? Evaluating the Trade-off and Institutional Hypotheses on Health Inequalities in the Global South
Authors: Sosnaud Benjamin , Beckfield Jason
Published: July 2017

It has been suggested that as medicine advances and mortality declines, socioeconomic disparities in health outcomes will grow. Yet, most research on this topic uses data from affluent Western democracies, where mortality is declining in small increments. We argue that the Global South represents the ideal setting to study this issue in a context of rapid mortality decline. We evaluate two competing hypotheses: (1) there is a trade-off between population health and health inequality such that reductions in under-five mortality are linked to higher levels of social inequality in health; and (2) institutional interventions that improve under-five mortality, like the expansion of educational systems and public health expenditure, are associated with reductions in inequalities. We test these hypotheses using data on 1,369,050 births in 34 low-income countries in the Demographic and Health Surveys from 1995 to 2012. The results show little evidence of a health-for-equality trade-off and instead support the institutional hypothesis.
Vital Researcher Conversations: Pivoting Past Impasses in Qualitative Research
Authors: Halling Steen , Lilleleht Erica , Krycka Kevin C. , Sayre George
Published: July 2017

In this article, we address the vital, yet largely ignored role conversations among researchers play in furthering qualitative research projects. We identify conversations as vital when they foster creativity and afford the researchers an opportunity for clearer focus. Through a close examination of four distinctly different qualitative research experiences, we show how these conversations open and deepen reflective relationships among the researchers and with the phenomenon being studied, both of which lead to a reformulation of the research process. Finally, we suggest that these kinds of conversations emerge out of relational contexts that honor personal meaning, care, openness, and even vulnerability among researchers.
Psychological Formulation as an Alternative to Psychiatric Diagnosis
Authors: Johnstone Lucy
Published: July 2017

The article gives an overview of psychological formulation, a rapidly expanding practice in the United Kingdom that is supported by the British Psychological Society. It is argued that formulation can provide a credible alternative to psychiatric diagnosis in the context of public admissions about lack of reliability and validity of current diagnostic systems. However, vigilance and best-practice principles are essential to ensure that this approach is not assimilated back into the status quo.
Analysis of air gap volume in structural firefighter turnout suit constructions in relation to heat loss
Authors: McQuerry Meredith , DenHartog Emiel , Barker Roger
Published: July 2017

Air layers in multi-layer firefighter clothing ensembles resist heat transfer from the body to the environment. By reducing the volume of air between clothing layers, heat loss may be improved throughout the multi-layer firefighter turnout suit clothing system, potentially leading to reduced heat strain for the wearer. This research utilized a systems-level approach to the methodology in order to measure the effects of fabric properties and garment air gap dimensions on clothing system heat loss through specially configured turnout suit constructions. One experimental configuration incorporated a tight fitting stretchable moisture barrier garment. Another construction used thermal knit underwear to represent a closer fitting thermal liner. Air gap surface area, volume, and thickness were estimated using three-dimensional body scanning. This study showed the significant impact of fabric air permeability and clothing air gap volume on heat loss through structural firefighter suits. Tested individually, the tighter fitting moisture barrier construction permitted greater heat loss in comparison to the traditional fit moisture barrier. Heat loss differences associated with moisture barrier fit were not observed when the moisture barriers were configured in the three-layer turnout clothing system. This research showed that microclimate air gap volume is strongly correlated with total heat loss. It confirmed the significant impact of clothing air layers on heat loss through firefighter turnout systems.
Urban debates for climate change after the Kyoto Protocol
Authors: Tu Yong
Published: July 2017

From the catalogue of environment-related publications in Urban Studies, this paper identifies and reviews 12 thought-provoking articles that have addressed the issue of climate changes and cities from complementary perspectives. It argues that to advance a holistic understanding of urban environmental issues it is necessary to embrace a broad multi-disciplinary approach, particularly as moving towards low carbon urban living will require integrated social, political and technical adaptation processes. Ultimately, the paper advances a forward-looking research agenda that extends beyond consideration of how to improve urban environmental performance to include evaluation of how urban consumers, firms and local government endeavour to achieve sustainable urban development.
Urban virtues and the innovative city: An experiment in placing innovation in Edmonton, Canada
Authors: Jones Kevin Edson , Granzow Michael , Shields Rob
Published: July 2017

In the highly competitive landscape of global cities and entrepreneurial urbanism, the development goals of cities are increasingly framed through discourses of ‘innovation’. In this paper we critically examine this relationship through a case study exploring the attempt to build a nanotechnology sector in Edmonton, Alberta. Adopting a collaborative research methodology involving citizen engagement and urban touring, we explore participant representations of Edmonton as an ‘innovative city’. The conversations we had with participants follow some common themes within an emerging literature on innovation geographies, for instance as related to network collaborations and quality of life. However, participants furthermore articulated innovation pathways which were more closely linked to local identities and values within the city, including negative place narratives. We argue that paying attention to these ‘virtues of place’ can assist cities to counteract trends towards the homogenisation of urban innovation strategy, and affix the ‘innovative city’ to more socially robust articulations of the future prosperity and the possibility of place.
Talent Management in Public Sector Organizations: A Study on the Impact of Contextual Factors on the TM Approach in Flemish and Dutch Public Sector Organizations
Authors: Thunnissen Marian , Buttiens Dorien
Published: July 2017

Public sector organizations are confronted with the intensifying competition for talent and suffer from a chronic shortage of talented people. There is little empirical research on the specific talent management (TM) issues in the public sector. This article aims to clarify how public sector organizations conceptualize TM, and particularly what (contextual) factors influence the adoption of an inclusive or a more segmented people management approach in the public sector. Theory on institutional mechanisms and institutional logics is used to clarify the impact of contextual factors. The empirical data are collected in two substudies on TM in the public sector. The data show that TM is highly contextual. Both the organizational internal and external context affect the intended TM strategy, including the actors involved in TM and their interrelated logs. This article is among the first to explore conceptually and empirically the influence of institutional logics on the different aspects of TM approach and as such provides some new directions for future TM research.