bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Looking into water-pots and over a Buddhist scribe's shoulder – On the deposition and the use of manuscripts in early Buddhism
Authors: Strauch Ingo
Published: November 2014

The article investigates the modes of use of early Buddhist manuscripts in a monastic environment. Based mainly on the evidence of archaeological and manuscript data from North-West India (Gandhāra) it discusses the circumstances under which manuscripts were produced, used and deposited by early Buddhist communities. In this regard, the article critically evaluates the hy-pothesis of a “ritual burial” of manuscripts in the stūpas of “Greater Gandhāra”. A special paragraph is devoted to the unique birch-bark manuscript of a portion of the Prātimokṣasūtra from the Bajaur Collection of Kharoṣṭhī manuscripts. The two sides of the birch-bark contain two different versions of the initial part of the naiḥsārgika pātayantika chapter of the Prātimokṣasūtra. A comparison with known canonical texts shows that these two versions can be associated with two different Prātimokṣasūtra traditions. They are, however, not identical with any of the known versions which are usually attributed to specific Buddhist schools (nikāyas). It therefore seems justified to characterise them as proto-canonical or/and local/regional versions of this fundamental text. The analysis of the language and the contents of the two versions allows cautious conclusions about certain aspects of the role of writing and of manuscripts in the emergence of authoritative canonical texts within Buddhist textual traditions.
Representations and the Galilean Strategy
Authors: Saller Laura
Published: November 2014

The aim of this article is to show that, in his use of the word ‘representation’, Philip Kitcher is committed to a particular notion of representation, which is essential to his argument for Real Realism in his paper Real Realism: The Galilean Strategy (Real Realism herinafter). After a short presentation of Kitcher’s original argument for Real Realism, I show that Kitcher’s notion of representation is not indisputable. By producing an alternative version of Kitcher’s argument, one which does not rely on this term ‘representation’, I show the force and functioning of the Galilean strategy itself. A comparison of the two formulations of the argument reveals what is additionally brought in by Kitcher’s notion of representation: specifically, a particular answer to the question of what truth consists in. This presumed correspondence theory of truth is needed to achieve Real Realism by the Galilean strategy. The positive upshot is, however, that one can support the Galilean strategy as such, without being a Real Realist: One can apply the strategy to any other conception of truth.
Brief History of Future Set Theory
Authors: DePauli-Schimanovich Werner
Published: November 2014

Mathematicians still use Na¨ıve Set Theory when generating sets without danger of producing any contradiction. Therefore their working method can be considered as an experimental consistent inference system with an experience of over 100 years. My conjecture is that this method works well because mathematicians use only those predicates to form sets, which yield closed hereditary consistent predicate extensions, i.e. classes which can also be sets. And for every open formula they use in the process of constructing a certain (special) set (bottom-up), we can always find an “almost-closed” formula (i.e. a parameter-free formula with only the free variable “x”) which yields the same certain (special) set as predicate extension as constructed in the bottom-up process before. Therefore the use of predicates with free parameters in the Comprehension Scheme does not cause any difficulties and can be “lifted” by meta-mathematical considerations.
What are Concepts?
Authors: Glock Hans-Johann
Published: November 2014

The article argues that a reasonably unified account of the established use of ‘concept’ and its cognates can be provided by a cognitivist approach. Such an approach starts out from the role the ascription of concepts plays in characterizing certain cognitive operations and abilities, yet without treating concepts as symbolic representations or particulars in the minds of individuals. In particular, it explores the idea that concepts are rules or principles of classification and inference. At the end I argue that a cognitivist account can deal not just with the role of concepts in cognition, but also with the idea that they are components of propositions.
“Having Identified an Utterance ...” – Predication and Interpretation
Authors: Riegelnik Stefan
Published: November 2014

What is it for predicates to mean what they do and what is their contribution to the meaning of an utterance? It is exactly this question to which Davidson dedicates his book Truth and Predication (2005). Most commentators focus on Davidson’s discussion of failed accounts, in particular of Frege’s account. In contrast to this tendency, I focus here on Davidson’s own account. The structure is as follows. First, I sketch the problem of predication and I glance at Davidson’s discussion of failed accounts. Then I present his solution and integrate it in his theory of interpretation, thereby bringing out the particularity of the account. In doing so I shall scrutinize some criticisms as well, for as I intend to show, they originate from a wrong understanding of his comprehensive theory of interpretation.
The Unity of the Proposition – The Rise of a Philosophical Problem
Authors: Bonino Guido
Published: November 2014

The question of the unity of the proposition has recently enjoyed an increasing amount of attention. The paper aims at reconstructing its development and its historical starting points, focusing especially on Bradley’s regress argument, Russell’s concerns about the unity of the proposition and Frege’s notion of unsaturatedness. It is held that a clear view of the central issue (how one can distinguish between a complex composed out of other entities and the aggregate of its constituents) has only recently been isolated from some more peripheral questions, such as that of internal vs. external relations or the realism-nominalism debate, which for a long time were almost inextricably interwoven with it.
A note on the etymology and lexicology relating to traditional European pulses in the Celtic languages
Authors: Mikić Aleksandar
Published: November 2014

The Celts are commonly regarded as one of the Indo-European ethnolinguistic groups, speaking Celtic languages derived from Proto-Celtic. Numerous archaeobotanical, palaeogenetic and historical linguistic analyses demonstrate that the most ancient European pulse crops, such as chickpea (Cicer arietinum), grass pea (Lathyrus sativus), lentil (Lens culinaris), lupins (Lupinus spp.), pea (Pisum sativum), vetches (Vicia spp.) and faba bean (Vicia faba), were widely used in everyday life as early as sixth millennium BC. The Latin word denoting ‘pea’, pisum, was borrowed by both Brythonic and Goidelic languages, spoken during the first centuries AD in Britain and Ireland, and produced the words denoting ‘pea’ in their modern members. The ultimate origin of the words denoting ‘faba bean’ in all living and attested Celtic languages is the Proto-Indo-European root *bhabh-, denoting the same crop, literally meaning something swollen and imported from both the Latin faba and the Old Norse baun. The majority of the words denoting ‘grain’ in the Celtic languages are descendants of the Proto-Celtic root *grāno, denoting ‘grain’ and originating from the Proto-Indo-European *g'er[a]n-, *grān-, denoting ‘grain’ and ‘corn’.
Effective attack on the McEliece cryptosystem based on Reed-Muller codes
Authors: Borodin Mikhail A. , Chizhov Ivan V.
Published: November 2014

McEliece cryptosystem is an public-key cryptosystem; its security is based on the complexity of decoding problem for an arbitrary error-correcting code. V. M. Sidel’nikov in 1994 suggested to construct the cryptosystem on the base of binary Reed-Muller code. In 2007 L. Minder and A. Shokrollahi had designed a structural attack on theMcEliece cryptosystem based on the Reed-Muller codes.Herewe improve their attack and suggest a polynomial attack on the McEliece cryptosystem based on Reed-Muller codes RM(r, m) such that GCD(r,m − 1) = 1.
Asymptotic normality of numbers of non-occurring values of m-dependent random variables
Authors: Tikhomirova Margarita I. , Chistyakov Vladimir P.
Published: November 2014

The paper is concerned with the numbers of non-occurring values in intervals of a stationary sequence of m-dependent random variables with N outcomes. These numbers are shown to be asymptotically joint normally distributed, provided that the number N and the lengths of intervals tend to infinity with the same asymptotic order of growth.
Mirolase, a novel subtilisin-like serine protease from the periodontopathogen Tannerella forsythia
Authors: Ksiazek Miroslaw , Karim Abdulkarim Y. , Bryzek Danuta , Enghild Jan J. , Thøgersen Ida B. , Koziel Joanna , Potempa Jan
Published: November 2014

The genome of Tannerella forsythia, an etiological factor of chronic periodontitis, contains several genes encoding putative proteases. Here, we characterized a subtilisin-like serine protease of T. forsythia referred to as mirolase. Recombinant full-length latent promirolase [85 kDa, without its signal peptide (SP)] processed itself through sequential autoproteolytic cleavages into a mature enzyme of 40 kDa. Mirolase latency was driven by the N-terminal prodomain (NTP). In stark contrast to almost all known subtilases, the cleaved NTP remained non-covalently associated with mirolase, inhibiting its proteolytic, but not amidolytic, activity. Full activity was observed only after the NTP was gradually, and fully, degraded. Both activity and processing was absolutely dependent on calcium ions, which were also essential for enzyme stability. As a consequence, both serine protease inhibitors and calcium ions chelators inhibited mirolase activity. Activity assays using an array of chromogenic substrates revealed that mirolase specificity is driven not only by the substrate-binding subsite S1, but also by other subsites. Taken together, mirolase is a calcium-dependent serine protease of the S8 family with the unique mechanism of activation that may contribute to T. forsythia pathogenicity by degradation of fibrinogen, hemoglobin, and the antimicrobial peptide LL-37.
Stochastic dominance with respect to a capacity and risk measures
Authors: Grigorova Miryana
Published: November 2014

In our previous work, we have extended the classical notion of increasing
convex stochastic dominance relation with respect to a probability to the more general case of a normalized monotone (but not necessarily additive) set function, also called a capacity.
In the present paper, we pursue that work by studying the set of monetary risk measures (defined on the space of bounded real-valued measurable
functions) satisfying the properties of comonotonic additivity and consistency
with respect to the generalized stochastic dominance relation.
Under suitable assumptions on the underlying capacity space, we characterize that class of risk measures in terms of Choquet integrals with respect to a distorted capacity whose distortion function is concave. Kusuoka-type characterizations are also established. A generalization to the case of a capacity of the Tail Value at Risk is provided as an example. It is also shown that some well-known results about Choquet integrals with respect to a distorted probability do not necessarily hold true in the more general case of a distorted capacity.
ADAM15 participates in fertilization through a physical interaction with acrogranin
Authors: Pastén Karina , Bastian Yadira , Roa-Espitia Ana L , Maldonado-García Deneb , Mendoza-Hernández Guillermo , Ortiz-García Cesar I , Mújica Adela , Hernández-González Enrique O
Published: November 2014

Mammalian fertilization is completed by direct interaction between sperm and egg. This process is primarily mediated by both adhesion and membrane-fusion proteins found on the gamete surface. ADAM1, 2, and 3 are members of the ADAMs protein family, and have been involved in sperm–egg binding. In this study, we demonstrate the proteolytic processing of ADAM15 during epididymal maturation of guinea pig spermatozoa to produce a mature form a size of 45 kDa. We find that the size of the mature ADAM15, 45 kDa, in cauda epididymal spermatozoa indicates that the pro-domain and metalloprotease domain are absent. In addition, using indirect immunofluorescence, ADAM15 was found throughout the acrosome, at the equatorial region and along the flagellum of guinea pig spermatozoa. After acrosome reaction, ADAM15 is lost from the acrosomal region and retained in the equatorial region and flagellum. In this study, we also report the first evidence of a complex between ADAM15 and acrogranin. By immunoprecipitation, we detected a protein band of 65 kDa which co-immunoprecipated together ADAM15. Analysis of the N-terminal sequence of this 65 kDa protein has revealed its identity as acrogranin. In addition, using cell-surface labeling, ADAM15 was found to be present on the cell surface. Assays of heterologous fertilization showed that the antibody against acrogranin inhibited the sperm–egg adhesion. Interestingly, ADAM15 and acrogranin were also found associated in two breast cancer cell lines. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that ADAM15 and acrogranin are present on and associated with the surface of guinea pig spermatozoa; besides both proteins may play a role during sperm–egg binding.
Unknown knowns. Eneolithic findings from Kietrz-Łęgi and Racibórz-Studzienna
Authors: Chmielewski Tomasz
Published: November 2014

The author carried out a thorough re-analysis of two eneolithic grave assemblages from Upper Silesia. Both burials discussed in the text yielded culturally and chronologically distinct vessels with discoid attachments of handles (Germ.Scheibenhenkel). The findings in question are very important for the understanding of the decline of the Middle Eneolithic ‘Danubian’ traditions in the area.
The Lupa Romana in the Roman provinces
Authors: Rissanen Mika
Published: November 2014

The she-wolf with the twins, Romulus and Remus, was identified as a symbol of Rome by both the Romans themselves and nations under the Roman rule. In this essay I will discuss the Lupa Romana in Roman provincial art. I will present various visual representations of the she-wolf both in the public use and in objects related to private life, and analyze the she-wolf’s symbolic meaning.The Lupa Romana was an iconic scene that was not used randomly in provincial art. It represented in the first place the idea of romanitas, being Roman. In some cases the use of the symbol could have been in consequence of instructions from Rome itself or from provincial authorities that depended on Rome, but in most cases the motif was used by the inhabitants of the provinces themselves. It can be seen as an expression of loyalty to Rome and the emperor, but at the same time the message could have been directed to other members of the community, too. As romanitas was associated with higher social status, the she-wolf motif in the decoration of one’s house or gravestone could be seen as self-aggrandizement.
Enhanced Performance in Polymer Light Emmiting Diode by Using Ultra-thin Conductive Films as the Buffer Layer
Authors: Hoai Nam Nguyen Phuong
Published: November 2014

The ultra-thin nanocomposite films based on the nano-crystal TiO$_{2}$ (TiO$_{2}$-nc) or multi-walled carbon nano-tube (MWCNTs) were prepared and used as the buffer layers in the fabrication of the organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The injection efficiency of the hole and electron was improved by inserting an ultra-thin buffer layer between the electrodes and emissive layer. The turn-on voltage of the device with the buffer layers was lowered from 4 to 2.5V, and the current density was increased from 0.3 to 0.7~mA/mm$^{2}$, in comparison with the device without such a buffer layer. These devices showed a high efficiency and good stability.
Influence of Lithium Content on the Structure and Ionic Conductivity of Perovskite \(\mbox{La}_{(2/3) - x}\mbox{Li}_{3x}\mbox{TiO}_{3}\) Made by Double Mechanical Alloying Method
Authors: Trong Le Dinh
Published: November 2014

Perovskite La\(_{(2/3) - x}\)Li\(_{3x}\)TiO\(_{3}\) samples with 0.06 \( \leq x \leq 0.15\) were prepared by a double mechanical alloying method. Structure and Li$^{ + }$-ion conductive properties of the La\(_{(2 / 3) - x}\)Li\(_{3x}\)TiO\(_{3}\) samples were investigated. Most of the analyzed perovskite samples exhibit a double unit cell. In these samples, a change of symmetry from tetragonal to orthorhombic is observed for sample with lithium content x = 0.06. Structural modifications were obtained mainly due to the cation vacancies ordering along the c-axis, which disappeared gradually when the lithium content increased. At room temperature, the maximum values of grains and grain boundaries conductivities of the La\(_{(2 / 3) - x}\)Li\(_{3x}\)TiO\(_{3}\) samples were found to be of \(1.5\times 10$^{ - 3}\) S/cm and \(5.8 \times 10^{ - 5}\) S/cm, respectively. The temperature dependence of ionic conductivity obeyed a non-Arrhenius behaviour. At temperature from 30 to 125\(^{\circ}\)C, the activation energy for grain and grain-boundary conductivity was found to be of $\sim $ 0.23 eV and $\sim $ 0.32 eV, respectively.
Characterization of Structural and Electrochromic Properties of Nanocomposite \(\text{TiO}_{2}-\text{WO}_{3} \) Films
Authors: Ninh Dang Hai , Thao Tran Thi , Dinh Nguyen Nang , Long Pham Duy
Published: November 2014

Using doctor-blade technique, followed by electrochemical deposition, nanocomposite WO\(_{3}\)-TiO\(_{2}\) films were prepared. Structure, morphology and composition ratio of the nanocomposite films were characterized by a comprehensive analyzing the SEM, EDX, XRD and Raman scattering results. The reversible coloration and bleaching of TiO\(_{2}\)/ITO and WO\(_{3}\)-TiO\(_{2}\)/ITO electrodes were demonstrated. The ECD coloration efficiency of WO\(_{3}\)-TiO\(_{2}\)/ITO was found to be much larger (55.1 cm\(^{2}\times \text{C}^{ - 1})\) than that of TiO\(_{2}\)/ITO (34.3 cm\(^{2}\times \text{C}^{ - 1})\). The resulting nanostructured composites enables the coloration efficiency of the WO\(_{3}\)-TiO\(_{2}\) film to be considerably improved. The results suggest a potential application of the nanocomposites of two electrochromic oxides in large-area energy-efficiency (or smart) windows.
A First Principles Study on Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Defects in ZnO/GaN Core-shell Nanowire Heterostructures
Authors: Lien Le Thi Hong , Tuoc Vu Ngoc , Minh Nguyen Viet , Huan Tran Doan
Published: November 2014

To date semiconductor nanowire (NW) heterostructures (HS) have attracted extensive attention as important components of electronic and optoelectronic nanodevices. Further NWs also show promising potency to enhance the solar energy harvesting, e.g. improving both light trapping, photo-carrier collection, and contacting surface area. In this work we show theoretically that the \(d^{0}\)-ferromagnetism and NW HS bandgap can be turned by engineering the HS interfaces in non-magnetic ZnO/GaN core/shell NW HS. In that NW HS the incorporation of one compound into the other leads to the bandgap narrowing in the nonisovalent alloy because of the type II band alignment betwwen ZnO and GaN. The \(d^{0}\)-ferromagnetic interface can be developed by creating \(p\)-type defect with \(N\) and/or \(n\)-type defect with Zn in Ga--O interface bonds due to the defect-induced polar discontinuity. It's noted that the GaN/ZnO NW HS itself without defect or with same number defects of both types are not ferromagnetic. So that the induced magnetic moment is suggested to be related to the missing charge introduced at these defects. In our study we focused on the effects of GaN/ZnO interfaces on the electronic and magnetic properties, e.g. interface states within the bandgap and interface-induced ferromagnetism and impact of surface reconstruction and quantum confinement. The origin of this \(d^{0}\)-FM is revealed by analyses of spin-polarized bandstructure indicated by the asymmetrical spin-up and spin-down states near the Fermi level, the projected densities of states (PDOSs) and the spin-polarized mulliken charge differences, indicated that most spin-polarized states are dominated by the interface defect site N$p$ electrons. The calculated GaN/ZnO interface magnetism, have been compared with FM at the LaAlO\(-SrTiO\(_{3}\) interface which are theoretically predicted [30] and experimentally confirmed [31], where the magnetic moments also arise from the polar discontinuity.
Culturally Responsive Strategies Used to Deliver Ethnic-Specific Services to Asian Americans
Authors: Weng Suzie S. , Netting F. Ellen
Published: November 2014

Studies focused on a continuum of service delivery forms that target Asian Americans are examined: (a) ethnic agencies serving Asian and other ethnic groups, (b) pan-Asian ethnic agencies, and (c) ethnic agencies targeting specific Asian groups. Culturally responsive strategies being used to develop these Asian-specific service programs are identified, as well as assumptions/themes that undergird organizational identity, frame organizational culture, and guide practice.
The Complex Nature of Serving Divorced and Separated Women: A Qualitative Analysis of Needs and Service Provision
Authors: Warrener Corinne , Koivunen Julie M.
Published: November 2014

The existing literature indicates a long history of evidence that women experience greater economic hardship than men following divorce. Women struggle financially, exacerbated by issues of education and employment, impacting their own well-being and that of their children. This article reviews the perspectives of divorced and separated women who are utilizing services as well as the perspectives of the service providers in terms of economic and employment difficulties, unique needs of the population, and service provision. Recommendations are provided for programs and public policies to improve services to women and children.
Androgen Receptor (AR) Pathophysiological Roles in Androgen Related Diseases in Skin, Metabolism Syndrome, Bone/Muscle and Neuron/Immune Systems: Lessons Learned from Mice Lacking AR in Specific Cells
Authors: Chang Chawnshang , Yeh Shuyuan , Lee Soo Ok , Chang Ta-min
Published: November 2014

The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed ubiquitously and plays a variety of roles in a vast number of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Recent studies of AR knockout (ARKO) mouse models, particularly the cell type- or tissue-specific ARKO models, have uncovered many AR cell type- or tissue-specific pathophysiological roles in mice, which otherwise would not be delineated from conventional castration and androgen insensitivity syndrome studies. Thus, the AR in various specific cell types plays pivotal roles in production and maturation of immune cells, bone mineralization, and muscle growth. In metabolism, the ARs in brain, particularly in the hypothalamus, and the liver appear to participate in regulation of insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis. The AR also plays key roles in cutaneous wound healing and cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm. This article will discuss the results obtained from the total, cell type-, or tissue-specific ARKO models. The understanding of AR cell type- or tissue-specific physiological and pathophysiological roles using these in vivo mouse models will provide useful information in uncovering AR roles in humans and eventually help us to develop better therapies via targeting the AR or its downstream signaling molecules to combat androgens/AR-related diseases.
Effect of elevated temperature on the mechanical properties of high-volume GGBS concrete
Authors: Li Qingtao , Yuan Guanglin , Xu Zhisong , Dou Tan
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical properties of fire-damaged concrete containing a high volume of ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBS). Concrete specimens were cooled by water spraying, as is usual for extinguishing a real fire. In this research, GGBS was used at 0%, 50%, 60% and 70% replacement by weight of cement. The high-volume GGBS concrete specimens were subjected to seven different elevated temperatures from 20°C to 700°C. After being water-cooled to room temperature, the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of the concrete specimens were determined. Additionally, the loss in mass of fire-damaged concrete was also assessed. The test results show that the effect of temperature on mass loss of concrete with a high volume of GGBS was less than 10% for temperatures below 700°C. After being exposed to elevated temperatures, the relative compressive strength of high-volume GGBS concrete decreased more significantly than that of ordinary Portland cement concrete. The splitting tensile strength reduced significantly with increasing heating temperature. After being exposed to 300°C, the relative splitting tensile strengths of water-cooled concretes with 0%, 50%, 60% and 70% GGBS were 41·3%, 46·1%, 36·0% and 31·8% respectively. The modulus of elasticity of concrete was significantly reduced for heating temperatures up to 300°C, and the reduction was more obvious for concrete containing higher volumes of GGBS. The effect of temperature on the splitting tensile strength and the modulus of elasticity of water-cooled concrete with high-volume GGBS was more pronounced than the effect on compressive strength.
Supporting Women with Substance Use Issues: Trauma-Informed Care as a Foundation for Practice in the NICU
Authors: Marcellus Lenora
Published: November 2014

ABSTRACT

Infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome and their mothers require extended support through health and social service systems. Practitioners are interested in exploring innovative approaches to caring for infants and mothers. There is now compelling evidence linking women’s substance use to experiences of trauma and violence. A significant shift in the fields of addiction and mental health has been awareness of the impact of trauma and violence on infants and children, women, their families, and communities. In this article, the current state of knowledge of trauma-informed care is reviewed, in particular for application to practice within the NICU. Trauma survivors are at risk of being retraumatized because of health care providers’ limited understanding of how to work effectively with them. Recognizing the impact of trauma and implementing evidence-based trauma-informed practices in the NICU holds promise for improving outcomes for women and their infants.
Legal Authority for Infectious Disease Reporting in the United States: Case Study of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Pandemic
Authors: Danila Richard N. , Laine Ellen S. , Livingston Franci , Como-Sabetti Kathryn , Lamers Lauren , Johnson Kelli , Barry Anne M.
Published: November 2014

Tracking of infectious diseases is a public health core function essential to disease prevention and control. Each state mandates reporting of certain infectious diseases to public health authorities. These laws vary by state, and the variation could affect the ability to collect critical information.

The 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic served as a case study to examine the legal authority in the 50 states; Washington, DC; and New York City for mandatory infectious disease reporting, particularly for influenza and new or emerging infectious diseases.

Our study showed reporting laws to be generally present and functioning well; nevertheless, jurisdictions should be mindful of their mandated parameters and review the robustness of their laws before they face a new or emerging disease outbreak.
Public Health and Solitary Confinement in the United States
Authors: Cloud David H. , Drucker Ernest , Browne Angela , Parsons Jim
Published: November 2014

The history of solitary confinement in the United States stretches from the silent prisons of 200 years ago to today’s supermax prisons, mechanized panopticons that isolate tens of thousands, sometimes for decades. We examined the living conditions and characteristics of the populations in solitary confinement.

As part of the growing movement for reform, public health agencies have an ethical obligation to help address the excessive use of solitary confinement in jails and prisons in accordance with established public health functions (e.g., violence prevention, health equity, surveillance, and minimizing of occupational and psychological hazards for correctional staff).

Public health professionals should lead efforts to replace reliance on this overly punitive correctional policy with models based on rehabilitation and restorative justice.
Identifying Key Priorities for Future Palliative Care Research Using an Innovative Analytic Approach
Authors: Riffin Catherine , Pillemer Karl , Chen Emily K. , Warmington Marcus , Adelman Ronald D. , Reid M. C.
Published: November 2014

Using an innovative approach, we identified research priorities in palliative care to guide future research initiatives. We searched 7 databases (2005–2012) for review articles published on the topics of palliative and hospice–end-of-life care.

The identified research recommendations (n = 648) fell into 2 distinct categories: (1) ways to improve methodological approaches and (2) specific topic areas in need of future study. The most commonly cited priority within the theme of methodological approaches was the need for enhanced rigor. Specific topics in need of future study included perspectives and needs of patients, relatives, and providers; underrepresented populations; decision-making; cost-effectiveness; provider education; spirituality; service use; and interdisciplinary approaches to delivering palliative care.

This review underscores the need for additional research on specific topics and methodologically rigorous research to inform health policy and practice.
Clinical Preventive Services Coverage and the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Fox Jared B. , Shaw Frederic E.
Published: November 2014

The Affordable Care Act requires many health plans to provide coverage for certain recommended clinical preventive services without charging copays or deductible payments. This provision could lead to greater uptake of many services that can improve health and save lives. Although the coverage provision is broad, there are many caveats that also apply. It is important for providers and public health professionals to understand the nuances of the coverage rules to help maximize their potential to improve population health.
Smoking Status and Intention to Quit: The Role of Affective Associations and Expectancies
Authors: Schutte Nicola S. , Marks Anthony D. G.
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this research was to examine how affective associations with smoking and outcome expectancies regarding smoking are related to smoking status and intention to quit among smokers. Researchers and practitioners can draw on findings regarding affective associations and outcome expectancies to provide a further basis for smoking prevention and intervention efforts. Four-hundred and one participants, half of whom were current smokers, from the United States and Australia completed measures of affective associations with smoking and outcome expectancies relating to smoking. Current smokers also indicated their readiness to quit. Participants with more positive affective associations were more likely to be smokers. Current smokers with more positive affective associations expressed less readiness to quit smoking. Outcome expectancies regarding reinforcement stemming from smoking and consequences stemming from smoking were related to smoking status and intention to quit. Outcome expectancies related to smoking significantly mediated the relationship between affective associations and smoking status. Among smokers, outcome expectancies related to smoking significantly mediated the relationship between affective associations and readiness to quit. Implications for prevention and intervention programs are discussed.
Reasons for Synthetic Thc Use among College Students
Authors: Vidourek Rebecca A. , King Keith A. , Burbage Michelle L.
Published: November 2014

Synthetic THC, also known as fake marijuana, is used by college students in the United States. The present study examined reasons for recent synthetic THC use among college students ( N= 339). Students completed a 3-page survey during regularly scheduled class times. Results indicated students reported using synthetic THC for curiosity, to get high, and the fun of feeling high. No significant differences in reasons for use were found based on sex and grade. College students reported most often obtaining synthetic THC from head shops. Study findings may be beneficial to college health professionals and others working with college students. High rates of lifetime use may suggest that educational and intervention programs are needed.
Youth Acquisition of Alcohol and Drinking Contexts: An In-Depth Look
Authors: Friese Bettina , Grube Joel W. , Moore Roland S.
Published: November 2014

Despite efforts to limit underage access to alcohol, alcohol availability remains a challenge for youth drinking prevention. This article fills a gap in our understanding of alcohol consumption among youths by systematically investigating how and under what circumstances they obtain alcohol and the context within which they consume it. Qualitative interviews ( n= 47) were conducted with teens to collect information about where and how they obtain alcohol and the contexts within which they drink. Respondents were knowledgeable about commercial and social sources and used this knowledge in their decision making regarding where to obtain alcohol. Teens used their social relationships to circumvent existing policies designed to limit underage access to alcohol. Findings indicate that the majority of teens? drinking occasions occur in their own or someone else's home.
Measuring the Moderating Effect of Gender and Age on E-Learning Acceptance in England: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach for An Extended Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Tarhini Ali , Hone Kate , Liu Xiaohui
Published: November 2014

The success of an e-learning intervention depends to a considerable extent on student acceptance and use of the technology. Therefore, it has become imperative for practitioners and policymakers to understand the factors affecting the user acceptance of e-learning systems in order to enhance the students' learning experience. Based on an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the main aims of this study are to investigate the factors affecting students' behavioral intention to adopt e-learning technology and to explore the moderating effect of age and gender on the relationships among the determinants affecting e-learning acceptance. This study is based on a total sample of 604 students who used a Web-based learning system at Brunel University in England. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to perform reliability and validity checks, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the research model. The results indicate that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, social norm, and self-efficacy were critical factors for students' behavioral intention to use e-learning, with the effect of perceived usefulness found to have the highest magnitude among the main determinants. We also found that age moderates the effect of PEOU, PU, and SE on BI, and that gender moderates the effect of PEOU and SN on BI. However, surprisingly, no significant moderating effect of age on the relationship between SN and BI was found; results also revealed no moderating of gender on PU or SE and BI. Overall, the proposed model achieves acceptable fit and explains 62% of its variance, which is higher than that explained by the original TAM. Based on these findings, implications to both theory and practice are discussed.
Location-Based Learning through Augmented Reality
Authors: Chou Te-Lien , Chanlin Lih-Juan
Published: November 2014

A context-aware and mixed-reality exploring tool cannot only effectively provide an information-rich environment to users, but also allows them to quickly utilize useful resources and enhance environment awareness. This study integrates Augmented Reality (AR) technology into smartphones to create a stimulating learning experience at a university in northern Taiwan. Some 100 freshmen volunteered for application testing. Students' reactions to AR mobile campus exploration experiences are assessed based on three facets: functionality, personal satisfaction, and effectiveness of learning. Findings of the study indicate positive reactions as follows: 4.18 (SD = 0.48) for functionality, 4.25 (SD = 0.60) for personal satisfaction, and 4.35 (SD = 0.59) for effectiveness of learning. From open-ended feedback, three positive reactions and one suggestion are inducted. Based on our findings, we suggest utilizing the proposed AR mobile touring system for wider educational purposes. It is hoped that the findings of this study provide a reference for further development and implementation of mobile AR learning systems.
Convection heat and mass transfer in a hydromagnetic flow of a micropolar fluid over a porous medium
Authors: Olajuwon B.I. , Oahimire J.I. , Waheed M.A.
Published: November 2014

This study presents a mathematical analysis of a hydromagnetic boundary layer
flow, heat and mass transfer characteristics on steady twodimensional flow of
a micropolar fluid over a stretching sheet embedded in a non-Darcian porous
medium with uniform magnetic field in the presence of thermal radiation. The
governing system of partial differential equations is first transformed into
a system of non- linear ordinary differential equation using the usual
similarity transformation. The resulting coupled non-linear ordinary
differential equations are then solved using perturbation technique. With the
help of graphs, the effects of the various important parameters entering into
the problem on the velocity, temperature and concentration fields within the
boundary layer are separately discussed. The effects of the pertinent
parameters on the wall temperature, wall solutal concentration, skin friction
coefficient and the rate of heat and mass transfer are presented numerically
in tabular form. The results obtained showed that these parameters have
significant influence on the flow.
Perilipin 5 Regulates Islet Lipid Metabolism and Insulin Secretion in a cAMP-Dependent Manner: Implication of Its Role in the Postprandial Insulin Secretion
Authors: Trevino Michelle B. , Machida Yui , Hallinger Daniel R. , Garcia Eden , Christensen Aaron , Dutta Sucharita , Peake David A. , Ikeda Yasuhiro , Imai Yumi
Published: November 2014

Elevation of circulating fatty acids (FA) during fasting supports postprandial (PP) insulin secretion that is critical for glucose homeostasis and is impaired in diabetes. We tested our hypothesis that lipid droplet (LD) protein perilipin 5 (PLIN5) in β-cells aids PP insulin secretion by regulating intracellular lipid metabolism. We demonstrated that PLIN5 serves as an LD protein in human islets. In vivo, Plin5 and triglycerides were increased by fasting in mouse islets. MIN6 cells expressing PLIN5 (adenovirus [Ad]-PLIN5) and those expressing perilipin 2 (PLIN2) (Ad-PLIN2) had higher [3H]FA incorporation into triglycerides than Ad-GFP control, which support their roles as LD proteins. However, Ad-PLIN5 cells had higher lipolysis than Ad-PLIN2 cells, which increased further by 8-Br-cAMP, indicating that PLIN5 facilitates FA mobilization upon cAMP stimulation as seen postprandially. Ad-PLIN5 in islets enhanced the augmentation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by FA and 8-Br-cAMP in G-protein–coupled receptor 40 (GPR40)- and cAMP-activated protein kinase–dependent manners, respectively. When PLIN5 was increased in mouse β-cells in vivo, glucose tolerance after an acute exenatide challenge was improved. Therefore, the elevation of islet PLIN5 during fasting allows partitioning of FA into LD that is released upon refeeding to support PP insulin secretion in cAMP- and GPR40-dependent manners.
Evidence of Early Alterations in Adipose Tissue Biology and Function and Its Association With Obesity-Related Inflammation and Insulin Resistance in Children
Authors: Landgraf Kathrin , Rockstroh Denise , Wagner Isabel V. , Weise Sebastian , Tauscher Roy , Schwartze Julian T. , Löffler Dennis , Bühligen Ulf , Wojan Magdalena , Till Holger , Kratzsch Jürgen , Kiess Wieland , Blüher Matthias , Körner Antje
Published: November 2014

Accumulation of fat mass in obesity may result from hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia and is frequently associated with adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction in adults. Here we assessed early alterations in AT biology and function by comprehensive experimental and clinical characterization of 171 AT samples from lean and obese children aged 0 to 18 years. We show an increase in adipocyte size and number in obese compared with lean children beginning in early childhood. These alterations in AT composition in obese children were accompanied by decreased basal lipolytic activity and significantly enhanced stromal vascular cell proliferation in vitro, potentially underlying the hypertrophy and hyperplasia seen in obese children, respectively. Furthermore, macrophage infiltration, including the formation of crown-like structures, was increased in AT of obese children from 6 years on and was associated with higher hs-CRP serum levels. Clinically, adipocyte hypertrophy was not only associated with leptin serum levels but was highly and independently correlated with HOMA-IR as a marker of insulin resistance in children. In summary, we show that adipocyte hypertrophy is linked to increased inflammation in AT in obese children, thereby providing evidence that obesity-associated AT dysfunction develops in early childhood and is related to insulin resistance.
Viral Infection of Engrafted Human Islets Leads to Diabetes
Authors: Gallagher Glen R. , Brehm Michael A. , Finberg Robert W. , Barton Bruce A. , Shultz Leonard D. , Greiner Dale L. , Bortell Rita , Wang Jennifer P.
Published: November 2014

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is characterized by the destruction of the insulin-producing β-cells of pancreatic islets. Genetic and environmental factors both contribute to T1D development. Viral infection with enteroviruses is a suspected trigger for T1D, but a causal role remains unproven and controversial. Studies in animals are problematic because of species-specific differences in host cell susceptibility and immune responses to candidate viral pathogens such as coxsackievirus B (CVB). In order to resolve the controversial role of viruses in human T1D, we developed a viral infection model in immunodeficient mice bearing human islet grafts. Hyperglycemia was induced in mice by specific ablation of native β-cells. Human islets, which are naturally susceptible to CVB infection, were transplanted to restore normoglycemia. Transplanted mice were infected with CVB4 and monitored for hyperglycemia. Forty-seven percent of CVB4-infected mice developed hyperglycemia. Human islet grafts from infected mice contained viral RNA, expressed viral protein, and had reduced insulin levels compared with grafts from uninfected mice. Human-specific gene expression profiles in grafts from infected mice revealed the induction of multiple interferon-stimulated genes. Thus, human islets can become severely dysfunctional with diminished insulin production after CVB infection of β-cells, resulting in diabetes.
Connective Tissue Growth Factor Modulates Adult β-Cell Maturity and Proliferation to Promote β-Cell Regeneration in Mice
Authors: Riley Kimberly G. , Pasek Raymond C. , Maulis Matthew F. , Peek Jennifer , Thorel Fabrizio , Brigstock David R. , Herrera Pedro L. , Gannon Maureen
Published: November 2014

Stimulation of endogenous β-cell expansion could facilitate regeneration in patients with diabetes. In mice, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is expressed in embryonic β-cells and in adult β-cells during periods of expansion. We discovered that in embryos CTGF is necessary for β-cell proliferation, and increased CTGF in β-cells promotes proliferation of immature (MafA−) insulin-positive cells. CTGF overexpression, under nonstimulatory conditions, does not increase adult β-cell proliferation. In this study, we tested the ability of CTGF to promote β-cell proliferation and regeneration after partial β-cell destruction. β-Cell mass reaches 50% recovery after 4 weeks of CTGF treatment, primarily via increased β-cell proliferation, which is enhanced as early as 2 days of treatment. CTGF treatment increases the number of immature β-cells but promotes proliferation of both mature and immature β-cells. A shortened β-cell replication refractory period is also observed. CTGF treatment upregulates positive cell-cycle regulators and factors involved in β-cell proliferation, including hepatocyte growth factor, serotonin synthesis, and integrin β1. Ex vivo treatment of whole islets with recombinant human CTGF induces β-cell replication and gene expression changes consistent with those observed in vivo, demonstrating that CTGF acts directly on islets to promote β-cell replication. Thus, CTGF can induce replication of adult mouse β-cells given a permissive microenvironment.
Sacral Hiatus Study in Dry Human Sacra
Authors: Mishra M , Singh AK , Satyavathi P , Sah N
Published: November 2014

Background and objectives: The sacral hiatus is the site for caudal epidural anaesthesia during perineal surgery and also for a painless delivery. It is also used for three dimensional colour visualization of lumbosacral epidural space in orthopaedic practice for diagnosis and treatment. Work on the morphometrical study of the sacral hiatus is limited, especially in south indian population. So this study is carried to examine, measure and record the morphometry of sacral hiatus in order to study the anatomical variations which will be useful for caudal epidural anaesthesia. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Prathima Institute of Medical Science, Naganur, Andhra Pradesh. 93 dry sacra with complete sacral hiatus were taken for the study. The shape of the sacral hiatus was noted by naked eye. Level of the apex and base of the sacral hiatus was noted with respect to the sacral vertebra. The length of sacral hiatus was measured from apex to the midpoint of base, the anteroposterior depth of sacral hiatus at the apex was measured with the help of vernier calipers. The transverse width of sacral hiatus at the base was measured between the inner aspects of inferior limit of the sacral cornu with the help of divider and then adjusted, and calculated with vernier caliper. Results: In 47 (50.53 %) sacra the shape was Inverted-U and in 25 (26.9 %) sacra Inverted-V. The irregular shaped of sacral hiatus was observed in 11 (11.8 %) cases. A “Dumbbell” shaped sacral hiatus was observed in 5 (5.4%) cases with a nodular bony growth projecting medially from both margins. The dorsal wall of sacral canal was entirely absence in 4 (4.3%) cases. Absence of sacral hiatus, a rare phenomenon, was observed in 1 (1%) specimens only. Conclusion: In the present study, elongated hiatus and narrowing of the sacral canal at apex of sacral hiatus was found in a significant percentage, which should be kept in mind while giving the caudal anaesthesia in Andhra Pradesh region. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v2i1.11391 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol. 2 (1): 17-22