bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards Standardizing Education: Specific Dispositions for Educators and their Impact on Teacher Efficacy
Authors: Krishnaveni R , Anitha J 
Published: January 2017

In today's competitive environment, all professions need standardization and formulation of guidelines. This study develops a comprehensive model of professional characteristics of an Educator that would prepare them for high standards of professional achievements. A vital quality of the educators — ‘teacher efficacy’ — is studied for establishing an association with the various characteristics that would result in identification of specific dispositions. A set of ten vital characteristics were identified which were sorted under three spheres of the educators'. work life. These characteristics were then defined appropriately for the teaching discipline. A questionnaire with sixty items validated for its reliability and validity was then used to collect data from 98 medical professors. The data was processed in statistical package for social sciences to analyse the existing characteristics. Partial Least Squares method was used to build a research model that show the inter-linkages between the characteristics and those with teacher efficacy with their strength of association. A wide range of literature resulted in ten characteristics namely subject knowledge, teaching prowess, updating knowledge, collegiality, commitment, teacher-student relationship, empowerment, self development, remuneration and ethical conduct and a theoretical three-factor model of professional characteristics of educators. The level of the existing professional dispositions for the various demographics is calculated and discussed. A research model depicting the inter-linkages between the ten characteristics and teacher efficacy is developed which is analysed using the t-statistic through partial least squares method. Subject knowledge and updating knowledge leads to teaching prowess Collegiality, teacher-student relationship and empowerment lead to commitment Teaching prowess, commitment, self development, and remuneration correlates to teacher efficacy. Self development, commitment, and subject knowledge have a major impact on teacher efficacy. These characteristics when enhanced will be found to have an enriched teacher efficacy with the educators in the medical stream. It is believed that enhancing of teacher efficacy would result in improving student motivation and student achievement which is the ultimate goal of any institution. It would also have a deep impact on students who will be trained and dealt with in a more proficient approach. The paper limits itself in analysing the inter-linkages of characteristics and their impact on teacher efficacy for the stream of medical educators only. The model may be used for various educational streams. Further study is possible focusing on the impact of these characteristics on students, institution, and the community as a whole.
The Effect of Pleasure and Arousal on Satisfaction and Word-of-Mouth: An Empirical Study of the Indian Banking Sector
Authors: Das Gopal 
Published: January 2017

During the last decade, the Indian banking sector has shown a remarkable advancement in terms of innovation, growth, and value creation. Behind this development of the Indian banking sector, several factors like customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth (WOM) are responsible. Literature has reported that pleasure and arousal play an important role in customer satisfaction. Investigations have been carried out on the influence of pleasure and arousal on behavioural intentions including satisfaction and WOM. However, there has been no such study for the banking sector. This gap in research has motivated this study. This paper suggests a conceptual model in which pleasure and arousal directly influence satisfaction and WOM. It also tests the impact of satisfaction on WOM. Based on prior literature, several hypotheses stating the linkages among pleasure, arousal, satisfaction, and word-of-mouth were developed. Russell�s framework for pleasure and arousal (emotion) formed the basis of the model. For the purpose of the study, face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire were conducted to collect data. Participants included customers above 18 years from both public and private sector banks in three cities namely, Kolkata, Durgapur, and Haldia of West Bengal, India. Data collection was done with the use of area sampling procedure. Out of 500 questionnaires administered, about 310 questionnaires were useable for analysis. The data analysis was done with SPSS 19 and AMOS 18. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS 18 was applied to explore the links between the constructs in the conceptual model. The overall fit of the conceptual model was assessed using several indices furnished in the AMOS output. The fit index results suggested model fitness with the data. The results of the study indicate that: Pleasure has significant positive and negative impacts on satisfaction and WOM respectively. Arousal has significant negative and positive impact on satisfaction and WOM. Satisfaction has positive significant impact on WOM.
The Microeconomics of Choice under Risk and Uncertainty: Where Are We?
Authors: Bryant WDA 
Published: January 2017

Financial decision-making is not straightforward, in part, because such decisions generally involve comparing financial assets the payoffs from which are subject to risk and uncertainty. Given that situation, two questions naturally arise: How do economic agents go about the business of making choices in the face of risk and uncertainty? And, how should economic agents make choices in the face of risk and uncertainty? This paper concentrates on the first of these questions and discusses some of the main attempts made by economic theory to understand how economic agents go about the business decision-making under conditions of risk and uncertainty. Theoretical possibilities considered in the context of decisions under conditions of risk include: Expected value maximization, Expected utility maximization, Rank dependent utility maximization, Prospect theory, and the Topology of fear approach to decision-making in the face of catastrophic risk. This paper also considers empirical tests of these theoretical possibilities and some of the anomalies and responses thrown up by those tests such as: Allais Paradox, Discovered Preference Hypothesis, and the choice behaviour of CEOs when faced with risk. The paper concludes with a brief excursion into choice under uncertainty where, unlike in risky choice situation, the existence of objective probabilities over states of the world cannot be relied on. In that context, the author briefly canvases the Subjective Expected Utility approach — which is unable in general to account for ambiguity aversion — Choquet utility, Wald's Multiple Priors, and the Case Based approach This paper highlights the fact that the rich and fascinating field of decision-making under risk and uncertainty is characterized by a constant interplay between theoretical conjecture, empirical testing, and theoretical refinement. Such interplay is mirrored by this paper and contributions in the Colloquium Section of this Issue, where the thoughts of practitioners and academics interact.
Instability and Time Scale Dependence of Beta in an Emerging Market Economy: Evidence from India
Authors: Dubey Amlendu Kumar 
Published: January 2017

This paper is an attempt in analysing time-scale dependence of systematic risk of stocks for an emerging market economy. Financial markets all over the world are characterized by heterogeneous investors. For example, different investors have different time horizons of investment which in turn is highly related to perception of risk of different investors in holding these stocks. Also, in emerging market economies, economic conditions are very fluid. Not only new firms are joining the market but existing firms themselves are changing rapidly; they are expanding into new markets, and at times with different products. Therefore, assuming that the risk in holding a firm's stock will be constant over a longer period is rather a restrictive assumption. Also, Indian equity markets are one of the most dynamic equity markets in the world today. The last decade has been the most eventful period for the Indian securities market. Resource mobilization in the primary market has increased dramatically, rising sixfold between 2000 and 2010 (NSE, 2010), which is having a very significant impact on the risk-return trade-off in the secondary market. Market capitalization has grown substantially over the period indicating that not only more companies are using the stock markets for resource mobilization today but overall market participation has also increased considerably. This paper tests for time-scale stability of beta of different trading stocks in the Indian equity market, using wavelet filters following Gencay et al (2002; 2005) and Fernandez (2006) and finds considerable instability in beta estimates. Based on this analysis, time-scale dependent beta estimates are provided for all the stocks under consideration. Time-scale dependent estimates of systematic risk embedded in different stocks will provide considerable information to practitioners in terms of benefits of diversification while constructing different portfolios using different stocks traded in Indian equity markets. Essentially, with the tools explained in this paper, practitioners will be able to incorporate their horizons of investment while planning for portfolio diversification. Also, the results emphasize the importance of a hedging strategy that varies over different time horizons of investments over a strategy where the hedge ratio is invariant to different time horizons.
Construction of a Test Chamber for Human Infrasound Exposure
Authors: Møller Henrik 
Published: January 2017

The report describes the construction of an infrasound test chamber, in which subjects can be exposed to controlled infrasound signals. The infrasound is produced by 16 electrodynamic loudspeakers, mounted in one wall of the 16 m3 chamber. The maximum sound pressure level that can be obtained is 125 dB rms in the frequency range 0.05 Hz–30 Hz. At a level of 120 dB the 2nd and 3rd harmonic distortions are below 1%. The system does not utilize any acoustical resonances, thus giving a flat frequency response. In this way it is possible to reproduce a real environmental infrasound signal recorded on tape. For the purpose of experiments of longer duration, the room is equipped with a ventilating system, which gives sufficient air exchange for 3 persons. When in use, this system increases the lower limiting frequency to 0.3 Hz.
A High Resolution, Hot-Wire Micro-Flow Meter with Various Applications
Authors: Bardeau H. , Druilhet A. 
Published: January 2017

We have perfected a very sensitive, high-resolution electronic flow-meter. The module we have been working on has a cut-off frequency of 200 Hz. It works in a range of pressure-difference from 1 to 100 pascals, with a resolution of 0.1 pascal. The device has enabled us to carry out a series of ground measurements tests of the air's dynamic pressure and of the structure ratio of this parameter, as well as differential pressure measurements. Used as a very sensitive variometer, it has permitted measurements in altitude by means of a meteorological plane specially equipped for turbulence measurements. It can also be operational in a captive balloon or in a glider.
Adsorption of copper (II) ions from aqueous solution using bottom ash of expired drugs incineration
Authors: Benzaoui Thouria , Selatnia Ammar , Djabali Djaafar 
Published: January 2017

The use of bottom ash of expired drugs incineration for removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution has been investigated. Analytical techniques have been employed to find characteristics of adsorbent materials. The removal of Cu(II) was conducted in batch system, and the effects of pH, adsorbent dosage, initial concentrations of copper ions, and contact time on adsorption efficiency were studied. Optimum adsorption was achieved at a pH 5 and equilibrium was established within 15 min of the process. The equilibrium adsorption data were analyzed using eight adsorption isotherm models: Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Redlich–Peterson, Dubinin–Radushkevich, Toth, Harkin–Jura and Halsey isotherms. The energy value obtained by application of Dubinin–Radushkevich model was 2.593 kJ/mol indicating that physisorption was the dominant mechanism of sorption. The values of the correlation coefficient (R2) of the isotherms gave the best fit (>0.99) with the Langmuir, Toth, and Redlich–Peterson isotherms. The adsorption capacity (qm) from the Langmuir isotherm for Cu(II) was found as 13.335 mg/g. The equation constant n of Toth isotherm model is found to be close to 1 (0.945), confirming that the adsorbent studied presents homogeneous surface under conditions used. It is concluded that bottom ash of expired drugs incineration can be used as an effective adsorbent for removing Cu(II) from aqueous solution.
Space Frames of Variable Geometry
Authors: Verheyen Hugo François 
Published: January 2017

Space frames are generally studied as stable, rigid structures. However, the addition of transformation systems offers a new dimension in theoretical research. In this paper an approach to the transformation of polyhedral and spherical space frames is introduced, resulting in a uniform, rigid ‘impansion’, whereby all the edges are cut into three parts held together by two hinges. Geometrical description reveals a whole new family of such structures, presented here as being made transformable by the simple vertical motion of a central rod, going up and down, and ex/impanding the structure in a uniform symmetric and rigid way. Motorized scale models illustrate the process throughout the paper. Within this family two structures occur of particular interest, since they can be used as single space fillers: the cube and the rhombic dodecahedron. Used as impandable space frame elements, they can fill up a single- or multiple-layer grid, which is impandable and rigid.
Are General Practitioners Satisfied with Electronic Discharge Summaries?
Authors: Alderton Melanie , Callen Joanne 
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to assess general practitioners' (GPs‘) satisfaction with the quality of information in electronic discharge summaries and the timeliness of their receipt of the summaries. The study was conducted in a 75-bed Australian public metropolitan hospital which uses an electronic discharge summary which is mailed to the patients' nominated GP. Eighty-five GPs were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the content of the electronic discharge summary and the timeliness of receipt. The majority of respondents indicated that they had received the electronic discharge summary within two weeks of the patients' discharge from hospital. The majority also indicated that they were satisfied with all eight documentation data elements. Some GPs indicated that they would prefer to receive the electronic discharge summary electronically by email rather than by conventional mail, and that they would like more information in the “follow-up and recommendations” content areas of the summary. It was concluded that the majority of GPs agreed that the electronic discharge summary was an improvement over the manual discharge summary. Further developments in the safe and secure electronic transfer of discharge summary information needs to be addressed to meet the information needs of GPs.
Gallbladder tuberculosis camouflaging as gallbladder cancer – case series and review focussing on treatment
Authors: Krishnamurthy Gautham , Singh Harjeet , Rajendran Jayapal , Sharma Vishal , Yadav Thakur Deen , Gaspar Balan Louis , Vasishta Rakesh Kumar , Singh Rajinder 
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Gallbladder tuberculosis, in an endemic region, is a common infectious etiology affecting a rare organ. The high prevalence of carcinoma gallbladder in the endemic regions of tuberculosis, like India, poses diagnostic dilemma. Case series: We are reporting three cases of gallbladder tuberculosis mimicking carcinoma gallbladder of which the first two cases were operated with a presumptive diagnosis of malignancy. The third case presented to us after laparoscopic cholecystectomy elsewhere and on evaluation was found to have disseminated tuberculosis. Discussion: The lack of pathognomonic clinical and radiological characters results in histological surprise of gallbladder tuberculosis following surgery performed for other indications like malignancy. In preoperatively diagnosed patients medical management plays pivotal role in management. Surgery is required in symptomatic patients. On the other hand, histologically proven cases following surgical resection require antitubercular therapy. Conclusion: Previous history of tuberculosis or concomitant tuberculosis at other sites may provide clue to the diagnosis of biliary tuberculosis. Antitubercular treatment after surgery plays an important role in preventing further dissemination.
Development and Test of a Model to Predict Adherence to a Medical Regimen
Authors: Gustafson David H , Johnson Pauley R , Molfenter Todd D , Patton Tim , Shaw Bret R , Owens Betta H 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To develop a predictive model that projects patient adherence to new and existing medication regimens. Methods: A panel of adherence experts was convened to develop a decision theoretic model to predict and explain patient medication adherence behavior. Two predictive models were developed: one for patients new to their regimen and one for patients on an existing regimen. The models have 12 and 13 predictive factors of adherence, respectively. The panel developed levels for each factor and diagnostic value estimates for each level. Results: Both models were tested by having randomly generated hypothetical patient medication adherence profiles scored by the model developers and a separate panel of healthcare practitioners. These scores were then compared with predictions made by the model. For the new-to-regimen model, the correlations were 0.86 for the development panel and 0.68 for the healthcare practitioner panel. Only the practitioner panel scored the existing medication model. The model's correlation with their scores was 0.88. Conclusions: The medication adherence model seems to have promise as an approach to predicting the likelihood of medication adherence. The model has the benefit of considering many factors of adherence simultaneously. It can also highlight areas that may result in patient nonadherence and suggest potential intervention strategies to enhance patient adherence to a medication regimen.
A Review of Two Anticoagulation Monitoring Devices
Authors: Stoysich Anne M , Massoomi Firouzan , Danekas Paula L , Williams Thomas L , Ryschon Kay L 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy, precision, and clinical correlation of two point-of-care monitoring devices (PCMDs) for determination of the international normalization ratio (INR) compared with the standard laboratory method (SLM) and to assess the ease of use and cost of both monitors. Methods: Venous blood samples were processed by the SLM, and finger puncture capillary blood samples were processed by two PCMDs (CoaguChek System [CoaguChek] and ProTime Microcoagulation System [ProTime]). Accuracy and precision of the PCMDs were evaluated by comparing the mean and mean differences. Method agreement was assessed by correlation analysis. Clinical correlation was evaluated by comparing paired INRs that would result in the same therapeutic decision. Ease of use was evaluated by comparing testing errors and questionnaires. Costs associated with procurement and operation were assessed. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in the mean INRs, mean differences, and clinical correlation. The methods were highly correlated (r ≥ 0.90; p ≤ 0.001). The CoaguChek was determined to be easier to use. Although the per-test cost was less with the ProTime, the number of tests performed and operators required need to be assessed to calculate total costs. Conclusions: The PCMDs were comparable to the SLM, and the CoaguChek was judged to be easier to use. Costs need to be assessed for each unique setting.
MUC1-mediated induction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pyzer Athalia Rachel , Stroopinsky Dina , Rajabi Hasan , Washington Abigail , Tagde Ashujit , Coll Maxwell , Fung Jacqueline , Bryant Mary Paty , Cole Leandra , Palmer Kristen , Somaiya Poorvi , Karp Leaf Rebecca , Nahas Myrna , Apel Arie , Jain Salvia , McMasters Malgorzata , Mendez Lourdes , Levine James , Joyce Robin , Arnason Jon , Pandolfi Pier Paolo , Kufe Donald , Rosenblatt Jacalyn , Avigan David 
Published: January 2017

Key Points
MDSCs are expanded in AML and contribute to tumor-related immune suppression. MUC1 mediates MDSC expansion via the promotion of c-myc expression in secreted extracellular vesicles.
Improved outcomes for newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis between 2000 and 2014: cracking the glass ceiling of early death
Authors: Muchtar Eli , Gertz Morie A. , Kumar Shaji K. , Lacy Martha Q. , Dingli David , Buadi Francis K. , Grogan Martha , Hayman Suzanne R. , Kapoor Prashant , Leung Nelson , Fonder Amie , Hobbs Miriam , Hwa Yi Lisa , Gonsalves Wilson , Warsame Rahma , Kourelis Taxiarchis V. , Russell Stephen , Lust John A. , Lin Yi , Go Ronald S. , Zeldenrust Steven , Kyle Robert A. , Rajkumar S. Vincent , Dispenzieri Angela 
Published: January 2017

Key Points
Significant improvement in outcome is a reality for newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis in the past decade. Six-month mortality among transplant ineligible patients has declined since 2005.
Alternative inert gas washout outcomes in patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Nyilas Sylvia , Schlegtendal Anne , Singer Florian , Goutaki Myrofora , Kuehni Claudia E. , Casaulta Carmen , Latzin Philipp , Koerner-Rettberg Cordula 
Published: January 2017

The lung clearance index (LCI) derived from a nitrogen multiple breath washout test (N2-MBW) is a promising tool to assess small airways disease in primary ciliary dyskinesia, but it is difficult to apply in routine clinical settings because of its long measuring time. In this study, we aimed to assess alternative indices derived from shorter washout protocols.49 patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia (mean age 14.7±6.6 years) and 37 controls (mean age 14.3±1.4 years) performed N2-MBW and double-tracer gas (DTG) single-breath washout tests. Global (LCI and moment ratio (M2/M0)), conductive (Scond) and acinar ventilation inhomogeneity (DTG Slope III (SIII-DTG)) were determined for each individual. The main outcomes were 1) the ability to detect abnormal lung function from washout indices (>1.64 z-scores) and 2) measurement duration.The prevalence of abnormal values for LCI2.5%was 37 out of 47 (79%), for LCI5%was 34 out of 47 (72%), for M2/M0was 34 out of 47 (72%), forScondwas 36 out of 46 (78%) and for SIII-DTG was 12 out of 35 (34%). Mean±sdduration of measurement was 19.8±11.2 min for LCI2.5%, 10.8±4.6 min for LCI5%and 8.6±2.3 min forScond.Compared to standard LCI2.5%, ventilation inhomogeneity was detected by LCI5%, moment ratio andScondwith comparable sensitivity while measurement duration was significantly shorter. Longitudinal studies will show which outcome is most suitable and practical in terms of sensitivity, duration and variability within the course of primary ciliary dyskinesia lung disease.