bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novice Career Changers Weather the Classroom Weather
Authors: Gifford James , Snyder Mary Grace , Cuddapah Jennifer Locraft
Published: August 2014

A close look at one professional's career change into teaching illustrates unique challenges and qualities, showing in stark relief what makes the induction smoother and the experience more successful.
Going Where Every Man has Gone before
Authors: Colvin Richard Lee
Published: August 2014

The easy availability of razzle-dazzle technology isn't enough to transform classrooms. Without rethinking schools and instruction, technology is just a gimmick.
How Much Private Schooling is Bad for the Public?
Authors: Levin Ben
Published: August 2014

In apportioning public versus private schooling, governments must consider the evidence of equity in educational outcomes that such systems produce.
South African Education has Promises to Keep and Miles to Go
Authors: Letseka Moeketsi
Published: August 2014

The fall of apartheid brought promises for education progress in South Africa, but much of it remains unrealized, especially in small and rural towns.
What Size is Your Digital Footprint?
Authors: Hewson Kurtis
Published: August 2014

A powerful professional learning network can give a boost to a new teaching career.
10 Things to Know about Mentoring Student Teachers
Authors: Larkin Douglas B.
Published: August 2014

Student teaching is a critical period that can affect how a person performs in the classroom early on.
What They Wish They Had Learned
Authors: Desimone Laura M. , Bartlett Pilar , Gitomer Madeline , Mohsin Yasmin , Pottinger Danielle , Wallace Jonathan D.
Published: August 2014

Middle school math teachers feel unprepared for the diversity in their classrooms and short on content knowledge.
Bad Policy, Bad Practice
Authors: Spencer John T.
Published: August 2014

What if the problem isn't teachers but bad policies?
Reform before NCLB
Authors: Desimone Laura M.
Published: August 2014

Standards-based reform before NCLB was more successful because it sought teacher buy-in and was less punitive.
Before Setting a Course to Learn, Know Thyself
Authors: Bathina Jyothi
Published: August 2014

A professor tells her preservice students to be aware that all their students have traveled different paths to the classroom and that getting students to understand their varying paths and those of each other is fundamental to learning.
Speak Carefully about Public Schools
Authors: Williams Cheryl Scott
Published: August 2014

Words count, and educators must think carefully about how they describe their work, especially when talking to policy makers and community members.
Classes in Courage
Authors: Berger Ron
Published: August 2014

A Massachusetts school focuses on a character trait rarely spoken of in an academic context: courage.
How Can Schools Develop Self-Directed Learners?
Authors: Martinez Monica R. , McGrath Dennis
Published: August 2014

Schools must take deliberate actions to teach students how to become responsible for their own learning.
“I Keep Me Safe.” Risk and Resilience in Children with Messy Lives
Authors: Wright Travis
Published: August 2014

Educators can recognize that behaviors that are considered problems at school may have developed because they keep students safe in the terrifying parts of their lives.
When the (Education) Revolution Comes…
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: August 2014

The Common Core State Standards could be a game changer, catapulting American education to the top. But serious and successful work must be done with leadership, communication, teachers, and principals to get it there.
How I Beat the Odds
Authors: Sullivan James
Published: August 2014

A recent high school graduate discusses the personal fortitude and system supports that helped him surmount learning obstacles to earn a coveted high school diploma.
Beyond Buy-In
Authors: Eckert Jonathan , Kohl Kristoffer
Published: August 2014

Smartly tapping into teachers' expertise can produce dividends in developing policies that teachers will embrace and gladly implement.
The Latest Twist on Spreading Innovation: One School at a Time
Authors: Moreno Carlos , Luria Dana , Mojkowski Charles
Published: August 2014

Innovation can come to the rescue of failing schools. But school officials and the consultants they employ must do so on a school-by-school basis.
Visual Thinking Strategies = Creative and Critical Thinking
Authors: Moeller Mary , Cutler Kay , Fiedler Dave , Weier Lisa
Published: August 2014

The synergy that occurs between creativity and critical thinking allows powerful learning to occur.
We Hide the Best Parts
Authors: Spencer John T.
Published: August 2014

Get to know your students. All of them.
Good Teaching Goes Global
Authors: Ahn Ruth , Tamayo Kristin , Catabagan Paula
Published: August 2014

The achievement disparities of low-income and minority children are similar around the world. But so are the good teaching practices that help them improve their scores.
Preparing Students for Romantic Relationships
Authors: Weissbourd Richard , Peterson Amelia , Weinstein Emily
Published: August 2014

Schools could and should do much more to prepare students for romantic love and sex.
When What You Know Could Hurt a Child
Authors: Darden Edwin C.
Published: August 2014

School counselors can find themselves in a legal quandary over what to do when they learn troubling information about students.
Giving and Getting Feedback in Real Time
Authors: Bambrick-Santoyo Paul
Published: August 2014

Real-time feedback closes the gap between rehearsal and reality.
Charter School Path Paved with Choice, Compromise, Common Sense
Authors: Junge Ember Reichgott
Published: August 2014

Creation of the nation's first charter school law surprised even its most ardent supporters. Today, schools need more collaboration from all corners in order to deliver a better education.
Charter School Innovations a Teacher Growth Model
Authors: Radoslovich Julie , Roberts Shelley , Plaza Andres
Published: August 2014

The flexibility of the charter school law in New Mexico allowed one school to design a growth and evaluation plan that helped teachers and students.
Tweeting in the Classroom
Authors: Journell Wayne , Ayers Cheryl A. , Beeson Melissa Walker
Published: August 2014

Twitter can be a smart instructional tool that links students with real-time information and connects them to authentic discussions beyond school walls.
High Schools: Grow up!
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: August 2014

Even as students, standards, and technology move ahead, high schools stay stuck in an old paradigm. Time to move on!
Ethics at School: Let Your Conscience Be Your Guide
Authors: Darden Edwin C.
Published: August 2014

Ethics occupies the space between the law and human behavior.
Make Students College-Ready in High School
Authors: Bambrick-Santoyo Paul
Published: August 2014

To increase college persistence and graduation, we must get better at teaching high school students the on-the-ground skills they will need to be successful in college.
Even Math Requires Learning Academic Language
Authors: Barrow Melissa A.
Published: August 2014

While new English learners can quickly learn the language for social situations, learning English for academic purposes is a more complex challenge. Teachers can help by employing thoughtful strategies.
A Different Model for School Success: Empower Teachers
Authors: Farris-Berg Kim
Published: August 2014

Pioneering a new definition of teacher leadership could transform K-12. Expand what's already happening in some places.
Shifting from Data to Evidence for Decision Making
Authors: Benjamin Steve
Published: August 2014

Educators have been looking in all the wrong places for answers to school improvement.
The Biggest Classroom in the Building
Authors: Kuon Tricia , Flores Juanita , Pickett Janie
Published: August 2014

Libraries staffed with certified librarians in many schools hold unexploited potential to raise achievement and meet the more rigorous demands of the Common Core.
When Students Don't Meet the Bar
Authors: Bambrick-Santoyo Paul
Published: August 2014

Help students meet Common Core standards through careful and extensive lesson planning that uses exemplars and anticipates trouble spots.
PD isn't the Problem
Authors: Spencer John T.
Published: August 2014

It's not necessarily stubborn, lazy teachers keeping new ideas and methods from taking hold in a school. Sometimes it's the flawed policies and unrelenting rigidity of the system itself.
EMERGE-ing from the Shadows
Authors: Grier Terry B.
Published: August 2014

Houston tackles the challenge of getting more high-achieving, low-income students to attend Ivy League and Tier One universities.
How to write an opinion essay and why you should do it now
Authors: Gasman Marybeth
Published: August 2014

If educators want to expand their influence, they must learn how to write op-ed and opinion pieces for both the education and the mainstream media.
The Effectiveness of Enhanced Parole Supervision and Community Services
Authors: Veysey Bonita M. , Ostermann Michael , Lanterman Jennifer L.
Published: August 2014

In 2003, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, in collaboration with other federal partner agencies provided approximately US$110 million in funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to develop and/or fill gaps in reentry strategies through the Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative (SVORI). This article describes the New Jersey SVORI intervention approach and evaluates its relative impacts on participants’ rearrest rates. SVORI participants are compared with randomly selected parolees ( n = 100) and unconditional releases ( n = 100) that did not receive services through SVORI but otherwise met the inclusion criteria of the New Jersey SVORI intervention. Results indicate that SVORI participants were rearrested at a significantly lower rate during the follow-up period when compared with both of the non-SVORI groups. Policy issues are discussed by the authors.
A Review of Violence Risk Assessment for Mentally Disordered Patients in Mainland of China
Authors: Gu Yan , Singh Jay P. , Yun Libing , Hu Zeqing
Published: August 2014

The Chinese research literature on violence risk assessment is small compared with Western countries. However, violence by mentally disordered populations is an area of considerable importance in China, given major legal developments in recent years. The aim of the present article was to provide an overview of the current state of violence risk assessment practices in China, focusing on the role that such assessments play in forensic and non-forensic hospitals as well as in community treatment settings. The Chinese evidence base on currently available approaches to violence risk assessment was also explored. Further research on risk assessment, formulation, communication, and management is needed before it can be argued that practitioners in China charged with making risk-based decisions are using the most scientifically defensible procedures.
Coping Across the Transition to Adolescence
Authors: Valiente Carlos , Eisenberg Nancy , Fabes Richard A. , Spinrad Tracy L. , Sulik Michael J.
Published: August 2014

The goal of this study was to examine various forms of coping across the transition to adolescence, with a focus on interindividual (correlational) consistency of coping and mean-level changes in coping. Adolescents’ emotional coping, problem solving, positive cognitive restructuring, avoidance, and support seeking in response to everyday stressors were assessed via a daily diary beginning when participants ( N = 155) were approximately 9 years old and continued every 2 years for a total of four assessments. Most indices of coping demonstrated some interindividual consistency across time. Emotional coping and support-seeking coping declined over time, whereas positive cognitive restructuring and avoidance increased as adolescents aged. The discussion focuses on the implications of the findings and suggestions for advancing this line of inquiry.
Nephronophthisis and Retinal Degeneration in Tmem218–/– Mice
Authors: Vogel P. , Gelfman C. M. , Issa T. , Payne B. J. , Hansen G. M. , Read R. W. , Jones C. , Pitcher M. R. , Ding Z.-M. , DaCosta C. M. , Shadoan M. K. , Vance R. B. , Powell D. R.
Published: August 2014

Mice deficient in TMEM218 ( Tmem218–/–) were generated as part of an effort to identify and validate pharmaceutically tractable targets for drug development through large-scale phenotypic screening of knockout mice. Routine diagnostics, expression analysis, histopathology, and electroretinogram analyses completed on Tmem218–/–mice identified a previously unknown role for TMEM218 in the development and function of the kidney and eye. The major observed phenotypes in Tmem218–/– mice were progressive cystic kidney disease and retinal degeneration. The renal lesions were characterized by diffuse renal cyst development with tubulointerstitial nephropathy and disruption of tubular basement membranes in essentially normal-sized kidneys. The retinal lesions were characterized by slow-onset loss of photoreceptors, which resulted in reduced electroretinogram responses. These renal and retinal lesions are most similar to those associated with nephronophthisis (NPHP) and retinitis pigmentosa in humans. At least 10% of NPHP cases present with extrarenal conditions, which most often include retinal degeneration. Senior-Løken syndrome is characterized by the concurrent development of autosomal recessive NPHP and retinitis pigmentosa. Since mutations in the known NPHP genes collectively account for only about 30% of NPHP cases, it is possible that TMEM218 could be involved in the development of similar ciliopathies in humans. In reviewing all other reported mouse models of NPHP, we suggest that Tmem218–/–mice could provide a useful model for elucidating the pathogenesis of cilia-associated disease in both the kidney and the retina, as well as in developing and testing novel therapeutic strategies for Senior-Løken syndrome.
Headache characteristics of uncomplicated intracranial vertebral artery dissection and validation of ICHD-3 beta diagnostic criteria for headache attributed to intracranial artery dissection
Authors: Kim Jae-Gyum , Choi Jeong-Yoon , Kim Sung Un , Jung Jin-Man , Kwon Do-Young , Park Moon Ho , Oh Kyungmi
Published: August 2014

Background and purpose

Headache may be a warning sign of subsequent stroke in patients with vertebral artery dissection (VAD). Even though the headache characteristics of VAD have been described predominantly in patients with extracranial VAD and neurological complications, headache semiology is not well known in patients with uncomplicated intracranial vertebral artery dissection (ICVAD). In the present study, we attempt to identify the headache semiology that characterizes ICVAD and validate the revised version of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3 beta) criteria for headache attributed to intracranial artery dissection.

Methods

Six patients with neurologically uncomplicated ICVAD presented at a participating medical center, and eight similar patients were reviewed in the literature. Combining these data, we analyzed headache characteristics of patients with uncomplicated ICVAD according to their pain onset and duration, nature, intensity, location, aggravating and relieving factors, associated symptoms, response to medication, and prognosis.

Results

Headache in uncomplicated ICVAD usually has an acute mode of onset (11/14) and persistent (10/14) temporal feature. Pain that has a throbbing quality (nine of 14) and severe intensity (13/14) on the ipsilesional (10/14) and occipitonuchal area (12/14) is a headache prototype in ICVAD. Additionally, headache was intensified by head flexion and rotation (three of six), and relieved by head extension and supine positioning (five of six). Headache of all patients in the present study fulfilled the ICHD-3 beta criteria.

Conclusion

Headache semiology of uncomplicated ICVAD is mostly homogenous in the present study. These characteristics may be helpful in the diagnosis of uncomplicated ICVAD.
Adherence to oral migraine-preventive medications among patients with chronic migraine
Authors: Hepp Zsolt , Dodick David W , Varon Sepideh F , Gillard Patrick , Hansen Ryan N , Devine Emily B
Published: August 2014

Background

Chronic migraine (CM) is a disabling disorder characterized by ≥15 headache days per month that has been shown to significantly reduce quality of life. Migraine-prevention guidelines recommend preventive medications as the standard of care for patients with frequent migraine. The aim of this study was to assess adherence to 14 commonly prescribed oral migraine-preventive medications (OMPMs) among patients with CM.

Methods

Retrospective claims analysis of a US claim database (Truven MarketScan® Databases) was queried to identify patients who were at least 18 years old, diagnosed with CM, and initiated an OMPM (antidepressants, beta blockers, or anticonvulsants) between January 1, 2008 and September 30, 2012. Medication possession ratios (MPR) and proportion of days covered (PDC) were calculated for each patient. A cutoff of ≥80% was used to classify adherence. The odds of adherence between OMPMs were compared using logistic regression models.

Results

Of the 75,870 patients identified with CM, 8688 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Adherence ranged between 26% to 29% at six months and 17% to 20% at 12 months depending on the calculation used to classify adherence (PDC and MPR, respectively). Adherence among the 14 OMPMs was similar except for amitriptyline, nortriptyline, gabapentin, and divalproex, which had significantly lower odds of adherence when compared to topiramate.

Conclusion

Adherence to OMPMs is low among the US CM population at six months and worsens by 12 months.
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: Is it more than just cerebral vasoconstriction?
Authors: John Seby , Hajj-Ali Rula A , Min David , Calabrese Leonard H , Cerejo Russell , Uchino Ken
Published: August 2014

Background

Systemic vascular alterations have not been described in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). We present a case series of RCVS patients having cardiac dysfunction during ictus, with a subset showing complete resolution of cardiomyopathy.

Methods

Retrospective case-series: Cardiac left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and wall motion abnormalities (WMA) visualized on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), performed during RCVS ictus and follow-up was analyzed.

Results

Of 68 patients, 18 (26%) had a TTE performed around ictus. Three of 18 (17%) patients demonstrated WMA on initial TTE. All three patients were female without previous coronary artery disease or heart failure, and were asymptomatic from the cardiac dysfunction. WMA resolved completely on follow-up in Patients 1 and 2. Global LV dysfunction persisted for at least 90 days in Patient 3.

Conclusion

Although the exact pathophysiology of the cardiomyopathy is uncertain, it may be related to localized coronary vasoconstriction causing myocardial ischemia/infarction. Vasoconstriction may not be limited to the cerebral vasculature and may involve extracerebral organs. Cardiac ventricular abnormalities may be a part of the RCVS spectrum.
Attitude aberration correction for space technology experiment and climate exploration (STECE) satellite star tracker
Authors: Lai Yuwang , Liu Junhong , Ding Yonghe , Gu Defeng , Yi Dongyun
Published: August 2014

The space technology experiment and climate exploration satellite is a small satellite mission of China. A new star tracker and an ASTRO 10 star tracker were loaded on the space technology experiment and climate exploration satellite to test the new star tracker’s in-flight performance. But the aberration correction function of the test star tracker is off during its experiment mission. Thus, the aberration effect should be considered in the evaluation of the test star tracker’s performance. This study researches on the aberration correction for the star tracker’s attitude measurement and deduces the aberration correction method based on attitude quaternion data. The inter-boresight angle and the relative Euler angle results show that the aberration of the test star tracker’s attitude has been corrected successfully. The low-frequency errors of the test star tracker are also analyzed in this paper.
Changing Business Context: Challenges and Opportunities: Dialogue with Thought Leaders
Authors: Bhandarker Asha
Published: August 2014

Leading global thinkers (Alfredo Behrens, Noel Tichy, Davide Sola, Wayne Brockbank, Ron Fry, Gregory Prastacos, Christine Pearson) spoke about the emerging business context. Globalization, impact of information technology and sustainable growth, have emerged as the major challenges of becoming competitive at both the national and organizational levels. The major trend discussed by these thinkers has been the emergence of the Global Tilt and the Changing Axis of Business; a decisive shift in the business hubs from the West to the East and from the North to the South. These thinkers also emphasized that both nations and organizations can be competitive if they create performance cultures, embrace technology and encourage merit.
Lifetime measurements of ionic electroactive polymer actuators
Authors: Punning Andres , Must Indrek , Põldsalu Inga , Vunder Veiko , Temmer Rauno , Kruusamäe Karl , Kaasik Friedrich , Torop Janno , Rinne Pille , Lulla Tõnis , Johanson Urmas , Tamm Tarmo , Aabloo Alvo
Published: August 2014

This article is focused on proposing a unified methodology for automating the measurement procedures of ionic electroactive polymer actuators. The proposed methodology and large-scale automation would make testing ionic electroactive polymer actuators less labor-intensive and allow analyzing many ionic electroactive polymer actuators simultaneously. Defining a clear framework for testing ionic electroactive polymer actuators performance and reliability would make the testing process reproducible and provide better comparison between ionic electroactive polymer actuators of either different or similar classes. Our methodology separates two types of degradation: degradation during operation and spontaneous self-degradation.
Buprenorphine for Cancer Pain
Authors: Prommer Eric
Published: August 2014

Buprenorphine (BUP) is a semisynthetic derivative of the opium alkaloid thebaine found in the poppy Papaver somniferum. Its chemical structure contains the morphine structure but differs by having a cyclopropylmethyl group. Buprenorphine is a potent µ opioid agonist. Buprenorphine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver and gut. The development of a transdermal BUP formulation in 2001 led to its evaluation in cancer pain. This article provides the practitioner with an update on the current role of BUP in cancer care. It highlights data suggesting effectiveness in various types of cancer pain. The article reviews pharmacology, routes of administration, adverse effects, drug interactions, and cost considerations.
The Great Outdoors
Authors: Huey Wesley S. , Smith David G. , Thomas Joseph J. , Carlson Charles R.
Published: August 2014

This study compares outdoor adventure-based leader development programs with a traditional non-outdoor program to test predictions about differential effects on leader development outcomes. Participants were drawn from the population of U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen involved in experiential leader development programs as a component of their training and education. Three concurrent experiential leader development programs were compared in terms of their impact on leader development outcomes, including leader identity, leader efficacy, and organizational cynicism. Two programs were outdoor, adventure-based experiences; one was a conventional, non-outdoor experience. We found that outdoor adventure-based programs varied in their effects on leader development outcomes, whereas the non-outdoor program had no significant effects on outcomes. Implications of these varied effects on leader development are discussed in terms of the implementation of theory-driven leadership development experiences.
Examining Offender Characteristics in Police-Recorded Domestic Violence Before and After a Legal Reform
Authors: Aaltonen Mikko , Salmi Venla , Kivivuori Janne
Published: August 2014

Domestic violence often remains a hidden crime. After a reform to the Finnish Penal Code in 2011, the police are now required to investigate petty assaults that occur between intimate partners even without the victim’s consent. In the year following the reform, Finland saw a substantial increase in police-recorded domestic violence. Given that actual levels of domestic violence were unlikely to change so dramatically during this short period, the implication is that the coverage of official data on domestic violence improved. This natural experiment allows one to examine whether the distribution of observed offender characteristics changes when the recorded share of incidents increases abruptly. Prior to the reform, low socioeconomic status and criminal background were known to be relatively strong correlates of police-recorded domestic violence. To find out whether the demographic, socioeconomic, and situational correlates of domestic violence perpetration are sensitive to improvement in outcome coverage, the current study uses a 50% sample ( n = 2,976) of all police-recorded cases of domestic violence during 2010–2011. Despite the significant increase in the share of recorded incidents, our results show very little change in average offender characteristics and do not alter the picture of risk factors associated with domestic violence perpetration.
Persuasion in Chinese School-Age Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: To Carol K. S. , Yim Sandy F. Y. , Lam Gary Y. H. , Iao Lai-Sang
Published: August 2014

A large body of work has been done on the deficient conversation skills in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), yet little is known about their performance in other discourse types such as persuasion. The study investigated the persuasion skills in Chinese children with high-functioning ASD. Ten school-age Chinese children with ASD were gender, age, and language matched with 10 typically developing (TD) peers. Persuasion was evaluated via a role-play and a direct temptation task in terms of the participants’ persistence and the persuasive strategies used. Results showed no difference in persistence between the two groups. The TD group performed significantly better in their persuasive strategies used. A significant main effect of task was observed where children in both groups performed better in the role-play than the direct temptation task. The present findings provide an account of why children with high-functioning ASD often experience unsuccessful persuasion outcomes in real-life situations.
In defence of settlement
Authors: Allen Dominique
Published: August 2014

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has become an entrenched feature of Australia’s anti-discrimination law, so much so that the vast majority of discrimination complaints are settled. There are many reasons to be against settlement but with reference to a study of the outcomes negotiated in discrimination complaints settled in Queensland, this article shows that there are valid reasons to be in favour of settlement, particularly when it results in systemic remedies which would not be obtained otherwise. The article concludes by presenting modifications to the existing complaint resolution system which would retain ADR while ensuring that the wider, systemic aspects of a discrimination claim are also addressed by introducing an institution with the power to enforce the law.
Therapeutic use of dolls for people living with dementia: A critical review of the literature
Authors: Mitchell Gary , McCormack Brendan , McCance Tanya
Published: August 2014

Background

There are a number of therapies currently available to assist healthcare professionals and carers with non-pharmacological treatment for people living with dementia. One such therapy that has been growing in clinical practice is doll therapy. Providing dolls to some people living with dementia has the potential to enhance personal well-being through increased levels of communication and engagement with others. Despite its potential for benefits, the practice is currently under-developed in healthcare literature, probably due to varied ethical interpretations of its practice.

Aim

To undertake a critical review of the published literature on doll therapy, using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist (CASP) tool, in order to determine the potential benefits and challenges of this therapy for people living with dementia.

Design

A comprehensive literature search, incorporating the CINAHL, Medline, Embase, PubMed, Joanna Briggs, Cochrane Library and PsycINFO data bases, was conducted.

Conclusions

Despite many commentaries and anecdotal accounts of the practice, this review identified only 11 empirical studies that were eligible. The majority of studies found that the use of dolls could be therapeutic for some people living with dementia by reporting increased levels of engagement, communication and reduction in episodes of distress. Some studies identified limitations to the therapy including; confusion over the ownership of the doll and healthcare professional uncertainty about issues pertaining to autonomy.

Relevance to clinical practice

According to this review, doll therapy has the potential to increase the well-being of some people living with dementia. This review illuminates that some healthcare professionals feel uncomfortable about its use in clinical practice. The operationalisation of doll therapy in clinical practice has been shown to be inconsistent with different approaches to the practice being advocated. This highlights the need for further empirical research to identify best practice and education to increase awareness in both healthcare professional and carer populations.
Talent Recruitment and Firm Performance
Authors: Weinberg Daniel H.
Published: August 2014

Firms rely heavily on their investments in human capital to achieve profits. This research takes advantage of detailed information on worker performance and confidential information on firm revenue and operating costs to investigate the relationship between talent migration and firm profitability in major league sports, one of the few industries in which detailed information about the past performance of each individual worker (athlete) is known to all potential employers. I use confidential microdata from the 2007 Economic Censuses, and from the 2007 and 2008 Service Annual Surveys to investigate the link between individual worker performance and team profitability, controlling for many other aspects of the sports business, specifically taking account of the mobility of athletic “stars” and “superstars” from one team to another. The investigations in this article provide limited support for the hypothesis that hiring talented individuals (stars) will increase a firm’s profit. However, there is no convincing support for the incremental benefit of hiring superstars. The peculiar characteristics of major league sports suggest that these results are probably not generalizable.
Memory, ‘madness’ and conflict: A Laingian perspective
Authors: Roberts Ron , Hewer Christopher J
Published: August 2014

R.D. Laing’s investigations into family relationships tell us much about memory as a source of psychological distress. Laing concluded that patterns of thinking and behaviour established in the family over generations are re-enacted whether we are aware of it or not. Using Laing’s studies of the family as a framework, we argue that the expression of emotion, identity, thought, belief and behaviour in social settings is subject to the formative nature of memory. The link between memory and psychological distress (of varying severity) becomes evident when individuals are exposed to either (1) an enacted ideology within the family or social group, which is transmitted across generations; (2) denial or concealment in the face of direct experience and/or empirical evidence, for example, injustices in the workplace, war crimes or (3) explicit and incontrovertible actions that destroy relationships and which create painful memories. Any unjustifiable attempt to reconstruct, undermine or eradicate memory may be experienced as an assault on psychological well-being whether in the family, the workplace or the community of nations.
Primary care management of palliative care emergencies
Authors: Fisher Rebecca , Fay Jeanne
Published: August 2014

There are relatively few true emergencies in palliative care, but an ability to deal with those that do occur is crucial. Managing major haemorrhage, superior vena cava obstruction or terminal agitation may be a daunting prospect for GPs, and equipping ourselves with the necessary skill set in advance of needing to apply it is vital. In situations where immediate action is required, the goal is usually to prevent a sudden or catastrophic worsening in the patient’s quality of life or symptoms, or to manage a potentially unpleasant mode of death.
A Program Review
Authors: Aldemir Jale , Kurt Gökçe
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to discover the transformation preschool teacher candidates go through in their perceptions about teacher and teaching during their teacher education program. The participants of the study were 35 senior students enrolled in the preschool teacher education program at a university located in the Eastern Anatolian Region of Turkey. A qualitative survey instrument was conducted to examine the preservice teachers’ perceptions. The data collected from the survey were analyzed by adopting a constant comparative coding method. The study revealed a change in the participants’ perceptions about preschool education before and after they enrolled in the program. The hardest parts of teaching in preschool were the need of high level of energy, patience, and skills to manage the classroom while the most pleasurable sides were having fun, play opportunities, and the positive impact teachers make on children. The qualities of an ideal preschool program listed by the participants involved curriculum, physical environment, and social-emotional atmosphere while the themes regarding the ideal preschool teacher were revolved around the personal qualities, professional attitude, and professional knowledge and skills. Hence, the findings of this qualitative study can only be generalized in the context the study was conducted; however, the study could have important implications for preschool teacher education in Turkey and in other countries, and help the international readers perceive preschool teacher education from a different perspective.
Connexin 43 and Its Hemichannels Mediate Hypoxia–Ischemia-Induced Cell Death in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Wang Jingwei , Ma Aihua , Xi Jiashui , Wang Yulin , Zhao Bojun
Published: August 2014

Wistar rat pups had the left common carotid artery cut, and they were exposed to 8% oxygen with free access to food and water until they were killed at 1, 12, 24, and 48 hours after the hypoxia–ischemia (HI) insult. Connexin 43 (Cx43), hemichannel (HC1), and caspase 3 (Casp3) in cerebral HI tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses. Astrocytes cell line, astrocytes transduced with a retroviral empty vector (Psup astrocyte), or a Cx43-specific small hairpin RNA (shRNA) construct (shRNA astrocytes) was treated with oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) insult. The viability of astrocytes was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The results showed the expression of Cx43, HC1, and Casp3 in rats’ brain, and astrocytes and Psup astrocytes increased significantly after 24 hours of HI/OGD insult. Cell viability decreased after 24 hours of the insult. The results suggest that Cx43 and hemichannel are likely to mediate the astrocytic death after HI insult.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Increases Gait Speed in Patients With Chronic Lung Diseases
Authors: McClellan Ryan , Amiri Hoda Mojazi , Limsuwat Chok , Nugent Kenneth M.
Published: August 2014

Introduction:

Gait speed provides an integrated index of physical performance; changes in gait speed could reflect deterioration in the underlying medical disorder or a response to medical/surgical interventions. Slower gait speeds reflect the overall level of impairment, especially in patients with chronic lung disease.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical files of 119 patients who completed the pulmonary rehabilitation program at the University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas, and collected demographic, pulmonary function, and 6-minute walk test information. Gait speed was calculated using the 6-minute walk test information.

Results:

The patients in this study had a mean age of 68.8 ± 10.1 years. Most patients (95) had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration (FEV1) was 1.3 ± 0.7 L (47.2% ± 19.7% predicted). The baseline gait speed was 41 ± 15 m/min before rehabilitation and 47 ± 15 m/min after rehabilitation. Baseline gait speed, body mass index, and FEV1 predicted postrehabilitation gait speed ( P < .05 for each variable). Ten patients had a gait speed >60 m/min before rehabilitation; this number increased to 29 postrehabilitation. Using multivariable analysis, it was found that only the baseline gait speed predicted a speed of more than 60 m/min postrehabilitation. Seventy-four patients had an increase in 6-minute walk distance of greater than 30 m.

Conclusions:

Patients with chronic lung diseases have slow gait speeds. Most patients improve their speed with rehabilitation but do not increase their speed above 60 m/min and remain frail by this criterion. However, the majority of patients increase their walk distance by 30 m, a distance that represents a minimal clinically important distance.
The Association of Patient Chronic Disease Burden and Self-Management Requirements With Shared Decision Making in Primary Care Visits
Authors: Peek Monica E. , Drum Melinda , Cooper Lisa A.
Published: August 2014

Background:

Shared decision making (SDM) is associated with positive health outcomes and may be particularly relevant for patients with chronic disease.

Objectives:

To investigate whether (1) patients with chronic diseases, particularly those requiring self-management, are more likely to engage in SDM behaviors than patients without chronic diseases and (2) patients with chronic diseases are more likely to have their physicians engage them in SDM.

Design:

A cross-sectional study of patients who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial to improve patient–physician communication.

Participants:

Adult patients with hypertension at community health clinics in Baltimore, Maryland.

Approach:

We used multivariable regression models to examine the associations of the following predictor variables: (1) chronic disease burden and (2) diseases requiring self-management with the following outcome variables measuring SDM components: (1) patient information sharing, (2) patient decision making, and (3) physician SDM facilitation.

Key Results:

Patients with greater chronic disease burden and more diseases requiring self-management reported more information sharing (β = .07, P = .03 and β = .12, P = .046, respectively) and decision making (β = .06, P = .02 and β = .21, P < .001) as did patients who reported poor general health. Physician facilitation of SDM was not associated with chronic disease burden or with diseases requiring self-management but was associated with higher patient income.

Conclusions:

Patients with chronic diseases, particularly those requiring self-management, may be more likely to engage in SDM behaviors, but physicians may not be more likely to engage such patients in SDM. Targeting patients with chronic disease for SDM may improve health outcomes among the chronically ill, particularly among vulnerable patients (eg, minorities, low-income patients) who suffer disproportionately from such conditions.
Effects of SiNx interlayer on characterisation of amorphous diamond-like carbon films
Authors: Chen Q. Y. , Shih K. M. , Shen Y. H. , Luo Y. , Li R.
Published: August 2014

The magnetron sputtering amorphous diamond-like carbon film is successfully deposited by SiNx interlayer approach. The scanning electron microscopy study reveals the creation of high uniform surface micrograph diamond-like carbon films with SiNx interlayer. For comparison, diamond-like carbon films with different interlayers are also grown. The Raman spectra are analyzed in order to characterize the stressed induce peak shifts of the films. The interactions of C atom with Si(100) and SiNx surface are studied by density functional theory simulation. The effects of interlayers on the films deposition and the considering deposition mechanism are discussed. It is suggested that the diamond-like carbon and SiNx bilayer structure can help to render applications in protective coatings and high quality silicon on diamond related radiation tolerance devices.
Effect of the antihepcidin Spiegelmer lexaptepid on inflammation-induced decrease in serum iron in humans
Authors: van Eijk Lucas T. , John Aaron S. E. , Schwoebel Frank , Summo Luciana , Vauléon Stéphanie , Zöllner Stefan , Laarakkers Coby M. , Kox Matthijs , van der Hoeven Johannes G. , Swinkels Dorine W. , Riecke Kai , Pickkers Peter
Published: August 2014

Key Points

Lexaptepid modulates the inflammation-induced decrease in serum iron during experimental human endotoxemia. Hepcidin targeting with the novel compound lexaptepid may be a viable approach to the treatment of anemia of inflammation in humans.
Impact of induction regimen and stem cell transplantation on outcomes in double-hit lymphoma: a multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: Petrich Adam M. , Gandhi Mitul , Jovanovic Borko , Castillo Jorge J. , Rajguru Saurabh , Yang David T. , Shah Khushboo A. , Whyman Jeremy D. , Lansigan Frederick , Hernandez-Ilizaliturri Francisco J. , Lee Lisa X. , Barta Stefan K. , Melinamani Shruthi , Karmali Reem , Adeimy Camille , Smith Scott , Dalal Neil , Nabhan Chadi , Peace David , Vose Julie , Evens Andrew M. , Shah Namrata , Fenske Timothy S. , Zelenetz Andrew D. , Landsburg Daniel J. , Howlett Christina , Mato Anthony , Jaglal Michael , Chavez Julio C. , Tsai Judy P. , Reddy Nishitha , Li Shaoying , Handler Caitlin , Flowers Christopher R. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Blum Kristie A. , Song Kevin , Sun Haowei (Linda) , Press Oliver , Cassaday Ryan , Jaso Jesse , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Sohani Aliyah R. , Abramson Jeremy S.
Published: August 2014

Key Points

A subset of DHL patients may be cured, and some patients may benefit from intensive induction. Further investigations into the roles of SCT and novel agents are needed.
A cross-sectional pilot study assessing needs and attitudes to implementation of Information and Communication Technology for rational use of medicines among healthcare staff in rural Tanzania
Authors: Nilseng Jessica , Gustafsson Lars L , Nungu Amos , Bastholm-Rahmner Pia , Mazali Dennis , Pehrson Björn , Eriksen Jaran
Published: August 2014

Background

In resource-poor countries access to essential medicines, suboptimal prescribing and use of medicines are major problems. Health workers lack updated medical information and treatment support. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) could help tackle this. The impact of ICT on health systems in resource-poor countries is likely to be significant and transform the practice of medicine just as in high-income countries. However, research for finding the best way of doing this is needed. We aimed to assess current approaches to and use of ICT among health workers in two rural districts of Tanzania in relation to the current drug distribution practices, drug stock and continuing medical information (CME), as well as assessing the feasibility of using ICT to improve ordering and use of medicines.

Methods

This pilot study was conducted in 2010–2011, mapping the drug distribution chain in Tanzania, including problems and barriers. The study was conducted in Bunda and Serengeti districts, both part of the ICT4RD (ICT for rural development) project. Health workers involved in drug procurement and use at 13 health facilities were interviewed on use and knowledge of ICT, and their attitudes to its use in their daily work. They were also shown and interviewed about their thoughts on an android tablet application prototype for drug stock inventory and drug ordering, based on the Tanzanian Medical Stores Department (MSD) current paper forms.

Results

The main challenge was a stable supply of essential medicines. Drug supplies were often delayed and incomplete, resulting in stock-outs. All 20 interviewed health workers used mobile phones, 8 of them Smartphones with Internet connection. The Health workers were very positive to the tablet application and saw its potential in reducing drug stock-outs. They also expressed a great need and wish for CME by distance.

Conclusion

The tablet application was easily used and appreciated by health workers, and thus has the potential to save time and effort, reduce transportation costs and minimise drug stock-outs. Furthermore, the android tablet could be used to reach out with CME programs to health care workers at remote health facilities, as well as those in towns.
The diabetes-obesity-hypertension nexus in Qatar: evidence from the World Health Survey
Authors: Ali Faleh Mohamed Hussain , Nikoloski Zlatko , Reka Husein , Gjebrea Orsida , Mossialos Elias
Published: August 2014

Background

As countries develop economically, an “epidemiological transition” occurs whereby a set of chronic diseases increasingly becomes a country’s health challenge. Against this background, this paper examines the most common conditions associated with the prevalence of diabetes in Qatar, with a specific focus on the diabetes-obesity-hypertension nexus.

Methods

We analyzed data from the World Health Organization’s World Health Survey conducted in the State of Qatar in 2006. The survey included demographic, anthropometric, and blood chemistry measurements. Using multivariate logistical regression analysis, we assessed the most common conditions associated with diabetes, using both objective and subjective measures of diabetes. The objective measures relied on random blood sugar tests, and the subjective measure included respondents who affirmatively answered the question on diabetes diagnosis. We repeated our analysis on respondents who had blood glucose levels high enough to be considered diabetic/glucose intolerant but did not answer affirmatively on the question of diabetes diagnosis.

Results

When using the objective measure of diabetes, the following conditions appeared significant: obesity (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2 – 1.9), higher income (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.9), high cholesterol (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.9), having Qatari origin (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.7), and increasing systolic blood pressure (SBP) 120–139 mmHg (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2 – 2.0), SBP 140–159 mmHg (OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.6 – 3.1), SBP > 160 mmHg (OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 2.0 – 5.3). Similar results were obtained using the subjective measure of diabetes as a dependent variable. When applied to the group of respondents that included pre-diabetics and those who did not know they were diabetic, obesity and hypertension appeared as the only statistically significant explanatory variables.

Conclusion

High prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and especially obesity is documented among residents of Qatar. Further steps are required to tackle the most common conditions associated with the rising diabetes epidemic in the country, which might also pose significant fiscal challenges in the future.