bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of Care and Patient's Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Influence Carer's Evaluation of Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Persson Karin , Brækhus Anne , Selbæk Geir , Kirkevold Øyvind , Engedal Knut
Published: August 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore what effects the carer's burden and patient's neuropsychiatric symptoms have on carer's report on patient's cognitive functioning and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Methods: We included 1,832 patients, 742 with mild cognitive impairment and 1,090 with dementia [mean age 75.2 years (SD 9.5), 56% women]. The following scales were used: Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE), Lawton and Brody IADL Scale, Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q), Relatives' Stress Scale (RSS), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Clock Drawing Test (CDT). Correlation analyses and multiple linear regression analyses were carried out to explore which factors were associated with IQCODE and IADL. Results: Spouses scored lower on the IQCODE compared with non-spouses in spite of equivalent MMSE and CDT scores. In a multiple linear regression analysis using IQCODE as a dependent variable, beta for MMSE was -0.368 (p < 0.001) adjusted for demographic factors. After adjusting also for RSS and NPI-Q, MMSE beta was -0.279 (p < 0.001), RSS beta 0.294 (p < 0.001), and NPI beta 0.237 (p < 0.001). Similar results were found using IADL as the dependent variable. Conclusion: Carer's burden and neuropsychiatric symptoms of the patient are important biasing factors when carers report on cognitive function and IADL.
Inflammation-Induced Expression of the Alarmin Interleukin 33 Can Be Suppressed by Galacto-Oligosaccharides
Authors: Verheijden Kim A.T. , Akbari Peyman , Willemsen Linette E.M. , Kraneveld Aletta D. , Folkerts Gert , Garssen Johan , Fink-Gremmels Johanna , Braber Saskia
Published: August 2015

Background: The alarmin interleukin 33 (IL-33) and its receptor ST2 play an important role in mucosal barrier tissues, and seem to be crucial for Th2-cell mediated host defense. Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), used in infant formulas, exhibit gut and immune modulatory effects. To enhance our understanding of the immunomodulatory capacity of GOS, this study investigated the impact of dietary GOS intervention on IL-33 and ST2 expression related to intestinal barrier dysfunction and asthma. Methods: B6C3F1 and BALB/c mice were fed a control diet with or without 1% GOS. To simulate intestinal barrier dysfunction, B6C3F1 mice received a gavage with the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON). To mimic asthma-like inflammatory airway responses, BALB/c mice were sensitized on day 0 and challenged on days 7-11 with house-dust mite (HDM) allergen. Samples from the intestines and lungs were collected for IL-33 and ST2 analysis by qRT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Results: Dietary GOS counteracted the DON-induced IL-33 mRNA expression and changed the IL-33 distribution pattern in the mouse small intestine. The IL-33 mRNA expression was positively correlated to the intestinal permeability. A strong positive correlation was also observed between IL-33 mRNA expression in the lung and the number of bronchoalveolar fluid cells. Reduced levels of IL-33 protein, altered IL-33 distribution and reduced ST2 mRNA expression were observed in the lungs of HDM-allergic mice after GOS intervention. Conclusions: Dietary GOS mitigated IL-33 at the mucosal surfaces in a murine model for intestinal barrier dysfunction and HDM-induced asthma. This promising effect may open up new avenues to use GOS not only as a prebiotic in infant nutrition, but also as a functional ingredient that targets inflammatory processes and allergies associated with IL-33 expression.
Involvement of Chemokines and a CD4-Positive T Cell Subset in the Development of Conjunctival Secondary Lymphoid Follicles in an Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis Mouse Model
Authors: Shoji Jun , Nakanishi Yoko , Ishimori Akiko , Sakimoto Tohru , Inada Noriko , Nemoto Norimichi
Published: August 2015

Background: Massive B cell lymphoid hyperplasia and its associated factors may play a role in exacerbating inflammation in allergic disorders. We here investigated the chemokines and CD4-positive T cell subset involved in the development of secondary lymphoid follicles (iCALT) in conjunctival tissues in an atopic keratoconjunctivitis mouse model (AKC mouse). Methods: NC/Nga mice were divided into three groups: AKC (percutaneous sensitization and instillation of crude house dust mite antigen), AD (percutaneous sensitization only) and C (untreated control). Pathological changes in the conjunctival tissues of each group were investigated using histological and immunohistochemical detection of CD4 and CD20. Furthermore, tissue sections of iCALT (AKC-iCALT subgroup) and conjunctiva without iCALT (AKC-conjunctiva subgroup) were obtained from AKC mice using laser-assisted microdissection. mRNA expression of chemokine and T cell subset-related transcription factors were compared between the AKC-iCALT and AKC-conjunctiva subgroups using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array and real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) methods. Results: iCALT with central aggregation of CD20-positive B cells and CD4-positive T cell infiltration surrounding B cells was observed in the palpebral conjunctival tissue of the AKC group, but not in that of the AD and C groups. Chemokine and T cell subset-related transcription factor expression was confirmed using real-time RT-PCR, with significant increases in Ccl5, Ccl17, Cxl20, Cxcl3, Ccr7, Foxp3 and T-bet mRNA expression in the AKC-iCALT subgroup compared with those in the AKC-conjunctiva subgroup. Conclusions: We concluded that CCL5, CCL17 and CCL20, as well as T-bet- and Foxp3-positive lymphocytes may be iCALT-related factors and that iCALT-related chemokines are worth evaluating as biomarkers.
Arrhythmic Mitral Valve Prolapse and Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Basso Cristina , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Rizzo Stefania , De Lazzari Manuel , Giorgi Benedetta , Cipriani Alberto , Frigo Anna Chiara , Rigato Ilaria , Migliore Federico , Pilichou Kalliopi , Bertaglia Emanuele , Cacciavillani Luisa , Bauce Barbara , Corrado Domenico , Thiene Gaetano , Iliceto Sabino
Published: August 2015

Background—

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) may present with ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD) even in the absence of hemodynamic impairment. The structural basis of ventricular electric instability remains elusive.

Methods and Results—

The cardiac pathology registry of 650 young adults (≤40 years of age) with SCD was reviewed, and cases with MVP as the only cause of SCD were re-examined. Forty-three patients with MVP (26 females; age range, 19–40 years; median, 32 years) were identified (7% of all SCD, 13% of women). Among 12 cases with available ECG, 10 (83%) had inverted T waves on inferior leads, and all had right bundle-branch block ventricular arrhythmias. A bileaflet involvement was found in 70%. Left ventricular fibrosis was detected at histology at the level of papillary muscles in all patients, and inferobasal wall in 88%. Living patients with MVP with (n=30) and without (control subjects; n=14) complex ventricular arrhythmias underwent a study protocol including contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance. Patients with either right bundle-branch block type or polymorphic complex ventricular arrhythmias (22 females; age range, 28–43 years; median, 41 years), showed a bileaflet involvement in 70% of cases. Left ventricular late enhancement was identified by contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance in 93% of patients versus 14% of control subjects (
P
<0.001), with a regional distribution overlapping the histopathology findings in SCD cases.

Conclusions—

MVP is an underestimated cause of arrhythmic SCD, mostly in young adult women. Fibrosis of the papillary muscles and inferobasal left ventricular wall, suggesting a myocardial stretch by the prolapsing leaflet, is the structural hallmark and correlates with ventricular arrhythmias origin. Contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance may help to identify in vivo this concealed substrate for risk stratification.
Living Poetry
Authors: Sommerer Christa , Mignonneau Laurent
Published: August 2015

We introduce three of our interactive artworks that translate text into artificial creatures or creatures into text by means of user interaction. These installations make use of experimental literature, media archaeology, surrealism, artificial life, and algorithmic methods.
On Writing and Reading Artistic Computational Ecosystems
Authors: Antunes Rui Filipe , Leymarie Frederic Fol , Latham William
Published: August 2015

We study the use of the generative systems known as computational ecosystems to convey artistic and narrative aims. These are virtual worlds running on computers, composed of agents that trade units of energy and emulate cycles of life and behaviors adapted from biological life forms. In this article we propose a conceptual framework in order to understand these systems, which are involved in processes of authorship and interpretation that this investigation analyzes in order to identify critical instruments for artistic exploration. We formulate a model of narrative that we call system stories (after Mitchell Whitelaw), characterized by the dynamic network of material and conceptual processes that define these artefacts. They account for narrative constellations with multiple agencies from which meaning and messages emerge. Finally, we present three case studies to explore the potential of this model within an artistic and generative domain, arguing that this understanding expands and enriches the palette of the language of these systems.
Performative Apparatus and Diffractive Practices: An Account of Artificial Life Art
Authors: Prophet Jane , Pritchard Helen
Published: August 2015

Drawing on our own art/science practices and a series of interviews with artificial life practitioners, we explore the entanglement of developments at the artistic edges of artificial life. We start by defining key terms from Karen Barad's agential realism. We then diffractively read artificial life together with agential realism to discuss the potential for interventions in the field. Through a discussion of artificial life computer simulations, ideas of agency are problematized, and artificial life's single purposeful actor, the agent, is replaced by agential, an adjective denoting a relationship rather than a subject-object duality. We then seek to reinterpret the difficult-to-define term “emergence.” Agency in artificial life emerges through what Barad calls entanglement, in this case between observers and their apparatus, a perpetual engagement between observations of a system and their interpretations. The article explores the differences that this diffractive perspective makes to artificial life and accounts of its materialization.
Studying Collective Human Decision Making and Creativity with Evolutionary Computation
Authors: Sayama Hiroki , Dionne Shelley D.
Published: August 2015

We report a summary of our interdisciplinary research project “Evolutionary Perspective on Collective Decision Making” that was conducted through close collaboration between computational, organizational, and social scientists at Binghamton University. We redefined collective human decision making and creativity as evolution of ecologies of ideas, where populations of ideas evolve via continual applications of evolutionary operators such as reproduction, recombination, mutation, selection, and migration of ideas, each conducted by participating humans. Based on this evolutionary perspective, we generated hypotheses about collective human decision making, using agent-based computer simulations. The hypotheses were then tested through several experiments with real human subjects. Throughout this project, we utilized evolutionary computation (EC) in non-traditional ways—(1) as a theoretical framework for reinterpreting the dynamics of idea generation and selection, (2) as a computational simulation model of collective human decision-making processes, and (3) as a research tool for collecting high-resolution experimental data on actual collaborative design and decision making from human subjects. We believe our work demonstrates untapped potential of EC for interdisciplinary research involving human and social dynamics.
Artificial Life Art, Creativity, and Techno-hybridization (editor's introduction)
Authors: Dorin Alan
Published: August 2015

Artists and engineers have devised lifelike technology for millennia. Their ingenious devices have often prompted inquiry into our preferences, prejudices, and beliefs about living systems, especially regarding their origins, status, constitution, and behavior. A recurring fabrication technique is shared across artificial life art, science, and engineering. This involves aggregating representations or re-creations of familiar biological parts—techno-hybridization—but the motives of practitioners may differ markedly. This article, and the special issue it introduces, explores how ground familiar to contemporary artificial life science and engineering has been assessed and interpreted in parallel by (a) artists and (b) theorists studying creativity explicitly. This activity offers thoughtful, alternative perspectives on artificial life science and engineering, highlighting and sometimes undermining the fields' underlying assumptions, or exposing avenues that are yet to be explored outside of art. Additionally, art has the potential to engage the general public, supporting and exploring the findings of scientific research and engineering. This adds considerably to the maturity of a culture tackling the issues the discipline of artificial life raises.
An Ellipsis Analysis of Split Nominals in Thai
Authors: Singhapreecha Pornsiri , Sybesma Rint
Published: August 2015

This study investigates the non-adjacent co-occurrence of a nominal (N) and a combination of a numeral and a classifier (Nume-Cl) associated with N in Thai. Having established that Nume-Cl does not occupy an argument or adjunct position, the study proposes an ellipsis analysis, where the Nume-Cl is base-generated in a separate clause and moves to a focus position, after which the rest of the clause is elided. This analysis accounts for most properties associated with this sentence-type, especially the island facts, an important reason for earlier work to analyze the relation between N and Nume-Cl as one of movement.
Bryophyte diversity patterns in flooded and tierra firme forests in the Araracuara Region, Colombian Amazonia

Authors: Benavides Juan C. , Idarraga Alvaro , Alvarez Esteban
Published: August 2015

We investigated patterns of bryophyte species richness and composition in two forest types of Colombian Amazonia, non-flooded tierra firme forest and floodplain forest of the Caquetá River. A total of 109 bryophyte species were recorded from 14 0.2 ha plots. Bryophyte life forms and habitats were analyzed, including the canopy and epiphylls. Bryophyte species did not show significant differences between landscapes but mosses and liverworts were different and with opposite responses balancing the overall richness. Independence test showed differences in both life form and habitat use distribution between the two forest types with more fan and mat bryophytes species in the floodplains, and more epiphytic liverworts in the tierra firme forest. Correspondence analysis showed differences in the bryophyte species assemblage between the two forest types where they may be responding to the higher humidity provided by the flooding. Despite of, the environmental differences detected, epiphyll species assemblages were not strongly affected. Apparently, epiphyll habitat is stressful enough to hide the environmental differences between the flooded and Tierra firme forests.
New bryophyte taxon records for tropical countries 5
Authors: Eggers Jens , Infante Marta , Heras Patxi
Published: August 2015

Cololejeunea inflata Steph. (syn. C.oshimensis (Horik.) Benedix).Queensland, Atherton Tableland, 10 km south of The Crater NP. 900 m alt. Rainforest; epiphyllous. With Cololejeunea pseudofloccosa, C.tenella, Cheilolejeunea vittata etc. Leg. J.Eggers 1988 (AUS 4/62 c.per.). Queensland, Paluma, Mt. Spec NP. 900m alt. Rainforest; epiphyllous. With Cololejeunea floccosa, Otolejeunea australiensis, Stenolejeunea apiculata etc. Leg. J.Eggers 1988 (AUS 4/50 c.per.). Distribution: SEAsia from Sri Lanka to Japan and New Caledonia.
A revised checklist of Hawaiian mosses
Authors: Staples G. W. , Imada C. T. , Hoe W. J. , Smith C. W.
Published: August 2015

A revised and updated literature-based checklist of Hawaiian mosses is presented  Geographic coverage includes the eight main Hawaiian Islands; the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands are excluded  The checklist is alphabetically ordered by scientific names; the family is noted for each genus  Synonyms and misapplied names are cross-referenced to the accepted names  A bibliography of supporting references is included.
Studies on Barbula tenuirostris Brid. [replaces Barbula consanguinea (Thwaites & Mitt.) A. Jaeger sensu A. Eddy]

Authors: Sollman Philip
Published: August 2015

Twelve taxa are proposed as new synonyms of Barbula tenuirostris Brid. Two nomina nuda also belong here. Barbula tenuirostris is compared with the most closely related taxa in Asia. Barbula anceps Cardot is Barbula arcuata Griff. A lectotype is selected for Barbula scleromitra Besch.
Studies on a few Pottiaceous mosses from Australia
Authors: Sollman Philip
Published: August 2015

Tortula flavinervis Dixon var. parviretis Sainsbury is Barbula crinita Schultz. The type of Phasconia balansae Müll. Hal. was not located, only a plate of the type material was seen. Phasconia balansae Müll. Hal. and Astomum platystegium Dixon are considered as identical. The occurrence of Weissia brachycarpa (Nees & Hornsch.) Jur. in Australia is doubtful. Comments on several nomina nuda are given. No material was located for Hymenostomum pertortile Müll. Hal. nom. nud. Weissia latiuscula Müll. Hal. is reported new for Australia.
On the taxonomy of Afrotropical Coleophoridae (II) (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae)
Authors: BALDIZZONE GIORGIO , WOLF HUGO W. VAN DER
Published: August 2015

Eight new species of the genus Coleophora Hübner, 1822 are described: Coleophora kenyaensis sp. nov., C. vansoni sp. nov., C. elegans sp. nov., C. namaqua sp. nov., C. kamiesella sp. nov., C. kunenensis sp. nov., C. creola sp. nov., and C. hirsutella sp. nov. The genitalia of three previously described species are described and illustrated for the first time: Coleophora niphocrossa Meyrick, 1920, C. enchitis Meyrick, 1920 and C. textoria Meyrick, 1921. The larval case of C. enchitis is illustrated and data about its biology are given.
New taxonomic assignments of Calisiinae with description of two new genera (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Aradidae)
Authors: HEISS ERNST
Published: August 2015

Examination of type species of Calisius pallipes Stål 1860 from Brazil and Calisius ghiliani (A.Costa 1864) from Europe has revealed essential morphological differences warranting their placement into different genera. Stål’s pallipes is the genotype of Calisius, and ghiliani that of Aradosyrtis A.Costa, whose generic status is revived. A neotype is designated for Aradosyrtis ghiliani A.Costa 1864. Clearly distinguished from Calisius sensu Stål are the Neotropical Calsius farri Kormilev 1964 and the African Calisius lativentris Horvath 1913, for which the new genera Caribocalisius n.gen and Afrocalsius n.gen are established, respectively.
A new Neotropical genus of Blastini (Psocodea: 'Psocoptera': Psocidae: Amphigerontiinae)
Authors: ALDRETE ALFONSO N. GARCÍA , ROMÁN-P. CRISTIAN
Published: August 2015

A monotypic genus of Psocidae (Amphigerontiinae: Blastini) from Santiago de Cali, Colombia, is here described and illustrated. It differs from Chaetopsocidus Badonnel, from the Páramo de Monserrate, near Bogotá, in having setae on the forewing veins.
Key Role of the North Pacific Oscillation–West Pacific Pattern in Generating the Extreme 2013/14 North American Winter
Authors: Baxter Stephen , Nigam Sumant
Published: August 2015

The 2013/14 boreal winter (December 2013–February 2014) brought extended periods of anomalously cold weather to central and eastern North America. The authors show that a leading pattern of extratropical variability, whose sea level pressure footprint is the North Pacific Oscillation (NPO) and circulation footprint the West Pacific (WP) teleconnection—together, the NPO–WP—exhibited extreme and persistent amplitude in this winter. Reconstruction of the 850-hPa temperature, 200-hPa geopotential height, and precipitation reveals that the NPO–WP was the leading contributor to the winter climate anomaly over large swaths of North America. This analysis, furthermore, indicates that NPO–WP variability explains the most variance of monthly winter temperature over central-eastern North America since, at least, 1979. Analysis of the NPO–WP related thermal advection provides physical insight on the generation of the cold temperature anomalies over North America. Although NPO–WP’s origin and development remain to be elucidated, its concurrent links to tropical SSTs are tenuous. These findings suggest that notable winter climate anomalies in the Pacific–North American sector need not originate, directly, from the tropics. More broadly, the attribution of the severe 2013/14 winter to the flexing of an extratropical variability pattern is cautionary given the propensity to implicate the tropics, following several decades of focus on El Niño–Southern Oscillation and its regional and far-field impacts.
Enhanced Signal Processing Algorithms for the ASR-9 Weather Systems Processor
Authors: Cho John Y. N.
Published: August 2015

New signal processing algorithms for the Airport Surveillance Radar-9 (ASR-9) Weather Systems Processor (WSP) are introduced. The Moving Clutter Spectral Processing for Uneven-Sampled Data with Dealiasing (MCSPUDD) algorithm suite removes isolated moving clutter targets and corrects aliased velocity values on a per-range-gate basis. The spectral differencing technique is applied to the low- and high-beam data to produce a dual-beam velocity estimate that is more accurate than the current autocorrelation-lag-1-based approach. Comparisons with Terminal Doppler Weather Radar (TDWR) data show that estimate errors are reduced by 8%, 15%, and 15% for the low-, high-, and dual-beam velocities, respectively.
A Review of People’s Behavior in and around Floodwater
Authors: Becker J. S. , Taylor H. L. , Doody B. J. , Wright K. C , Gruntfest E. , Webber D.
Published: August 2015

A study was undertaken to review international literature pertaining to people’s behavior in and around floodwater. The review focused on people’s voluntary entry of floodwater. From the literature, five predominant reasons for entering floodwater were identified, including undertaking a recreational activity; attempting to reach a destination; retrieving property, livestock, or pets; undertaking employment duties; and rescuing or assisting with evacuation. Two primary influences on entering floodwater were found, namely risk perception (i.e., being unaware of or underestimating the risk from flooding) and social influences (i.e., being influenced by others). Demographics and environmental and temporal factors also played a part in decision-making about whether to enter floodwater or not. Emergency managers should take account of such factors when devising future public education strategies. Further research, including comparisons with current theoretical models, could help identify additional influences on decision-making for floodwater entry.
The Geometrical Root of the Area-Measure of Time (From Kepler’s Astronomia nova)
Authors: Davis A. E. L.
Published: August 2015

In Astronomia nova (1609), Kepler quantified a geometrically exact measure of time. His innovative approach was to consider intervals (discrete but) so small that in his terms the results became exact. He divided the orbit (initially circular) into 360 equal arcs from its centre to establish uniformity of time, and combined these arcs with 360 distances drawn from the Sun, to represent variable increments of time in orbit. Those increments did not accurately measure areas; but subsequently Kepler discovered a sound geometrical reformulation of the increment which produced an area-representation that he was able straightforwardly to sum. (He wrongly described his method as ‘distance-summation’). Then the time in orbit was measured by a sector of the exact ellipse he had concurrently constructed, founded on the work of Archimedes. Essential diagrams, and the notable justification, from Euclid’s Elements, of the reformulation of the increment, have been added on Kepler’s behalf.
An early English astrolabe at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge, and Walter of Elveden’s Kalendarium
Authors: Davis John , Lowne Michael
Published: August 2015

A small brass astrolabe belonging to Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge, has been studied. Referred to as “Caius B,” it is shown that it is almost certainly English and dates to the early fourteenth century, possibly c. 1326. It has not previously been studied in depth but has long been associated with the Cambridge scholar Walter of Elveden, the writer of a Kalendarium which was a predecessor of those by Nicholas of Lynn and John Somer. Strong evidence has been found to support this association, and to link the design and features of the astrolabe to church architecture of the time, particularly of Norwich Cathedral. The accuracy of the astrolabe layout has also been studied and some errors have been observed which shed light on the methods of drawing and the sources of astronomical data available to the maker.
On the Field Testing of Methods the Egyptians May Have Used to Find Cardinal Directions
Authors: Dash Glen
Published: August 2015

The Egyptians were able to align their Fourth Dynasty monuments to cardinal directions with an accuracy of better than one degree. In the case of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the casing is aligned to cardinal directions to better than four minutes of arc. Scholars have offered many theories which purport to explain how the Egyptians may have achieved such alignments, but only a few have been field tested. This article compiles test results on four of the proposed methods: the pole star method, the circumpolar star method, the simultaneous transit method, and the Indian circle method. The available evidence neither confirms nor refutes the hypothesis that the casings of the Fourth Dynasty pyramids were aligned using the simultaneous transit method. The other methods also have the requisite accuracy. On the other hand, there is reason to believe that the descending passageways at Dahshur were aligned using the pole star method.
Depressive Symptoms of Older Adults Living Alone
Authors: Kim Kyeongmo , Lee Minhong
Published: August 2015

Although some evidence suggests that community characteristics may play an important role in the development of depressive symptoms among older adults, current literature has not attended to the role of community characteristics in depression in South Korea. This study begins to address this gap in the literature by examining the relationship of community characteristics and depressive symptoms, controlling for individual characteristics. Using a cross-sectional design and probability sampling, we surveyed 949 older adults living alone in 70 communities in the Busan metropolitan area in South Korea in 2012. A multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis that community characteristics are predictive of depressive symptoms. We find that both the proportion of older adults and the number of senior citizen facilities in a community are associated with depressive symptoms, whereas community poverty is not related to depressive symptoms. Men with lower income, with lower levels of functional abilities, and without stronger family and friend social networks have a higher risk of depressive symptoms. Implications for research, practice, and policy are discussed.
Validation of the K6/K10 Scales of Psychological Distress and Their Optimal Cutoff Scores for Older Koreans
Authors: Jong Won Min , Sun Hae Lee
Published: August 2015

This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of the Korean versions of the Kessler 6 and 10 (K-K6/K10) to validate the two scales in relation to the Korean versions of the Geriatric Depression Scale-Short Form (K-GDS-SF) and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (K-CES-D) and to propose optimal cutoff scores appropriate for the elderly Korean population ( n = 331). Psychometric performance was assessed with sensitivity, specificity, receiver operating characteristic curves, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Cutoff scores were estimated from the Youden index, the closest-to-(0,1), and the balanced score. This study found that the K-K6 and K-K10 appeared to be robust screening tools, with the K-CES-D and K-GDS-SF as reference measures. The cutoff scores for the Korean senior population are proposed to be 12/13 for the K-K6 and 20/21 for the K-K10. This study indicates that the K6 and K10 can be valid and reliable screening tools of psychological distress for Korean seniors and may also be used among the Korean American elderly in the United States for both clinical and research purposes.
From the ashes
Authors: Machin-Mastromatteo Juan D
Published: August 2015

About 523 years ago, the territory now known as the Americas was ‘discovered’. This event detonated the conquest and colonization of this ‘new world’, processes that altered the historical development of the indigenous civilizations. This work examines one of the most disheartening consequences of this clash of civilizations: the almost total destruction of the indigenous people’s cultural heritage. This annihilation was driven by the implementation of colonial domination, which implied the establishment of a new socio-political order and systematic and forced religious conversion, which included the destruction of the pictographic codices that were seen as ‘works of the devil’.
Management of Acute Respiratory Failure in Patients With Hematological Malignancy
Authors: Vadde Rakesh , Pastores Stephen M.
Published: August 2015

Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is the leading cause of intensive care unit admission in patients with hematologic malignancies and is associated with a high mortality. The main causes of ARF are bacterial and opportunistic pulmonary infections and noninfectious lung disorders. Management consists of a systematic clinical evaluation aimed at identifying the most likely cause, which in turn determines the best first-line empirical treatments. The need for mechanical ventilation is a major determinant of prognosis. Beneficial outcomes have been demonstrated with early use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in selected patients with hematologic malignancies. However, most of these studies did not control the time between onset of ARF to NIV implementation nor accounted for the etiology of ARF or the presence of associated organ dysfunction at the time of NIV initiation. Moreover, the benefits demonstrated with NIV in these patients were derived from studies with high mortality rates of intubated patients. Additional studies are therefore warranted to determine the appropriate patients with hematologic malignancy and ARF who may benefit from prophylactic or curative NIV.
Australia–India Strategic Relations: From Estrangement to Engagement
Authors: Gopal Darvesh , Ahlawat Dalbir
Published: August 2015

India and Australia held a set of largely divergent strategic perspectives during the Cold War period, which prevented any significant strategic relationship from developing at that time. Since the end of the Cold War, however, strategic relations between the two countries, although still volatile, have steadily improved. This article argues that as the Indo-Pacific region is increasingly seen as an arena of strategic importance in both New Delhi and Canberra, there is increased scope for a further convergence of Indo-Australian strategic relations based on a series of shared core security concerns. However, in the context of a rising China and re-assertive US in the region, there is a danger that bilateral relations between each of the two countries and the US may serve to prevent a strengthening of independent Indo-Australian relations. First, the post-World War II security policies of both India and Australia are outlined, as are the places occupied by each country in the strategic perspectives of the other. Then, the post-Cold War convergence of security perspectives of both nations is examined in the context of the emerging importance of the Indo-Pacific region in terms of both non-state security challenges and traditional balance-of-power concerns. Finally, the pressures exacted on potential Indo-Australian strategic relations by a rising China and re-assertive US are considered. It is argued that although convergence has begun, India and Australia still have a long way to go before they can initiate a robust and independent bilateral security partnership.
The Advocacy of Democratic Governance by India and China: Patterns of Consistency/Inconsistency between Declaratory and Operational Practices
Authors: Cooper Andrew F. , Farooq Asif B.
Published: August 2015

This article examines the patterns of consistency and inconsistency between how India and China advocate democratisation at the global and national levels. Addressing this question through a dualistic framework, we develop a detailed map of the rhetorical promotion of democratic governance by India and China through an analysis of 10 years of foreign affairs speeches, remarks, interviews and statements of political elites of both countries. The article argues that although China has not shied away from declarations on democracy domestically as well as on global governance, the contradictions between the clear and consistent push for democracy and equity at the global level and the highly contingent commitment to democracy at the national level remain highly salient. India’s deficiencies, by way of contrast, come not in the domain of legitimacy but effectiveness. India’s struggle to translate its domestic democratic credibility into more equitable representation at the global institutional level and into a stellar economic model at the domestic level exposes it to criticism in relationship to China. Yet, even with these gaps, the article concludes that India has some comparative advantages over China precisely because it can play a consistent two-level game in terms of the promotion of democracy both at global and state levels.
Book Review: Nikolaos, Biziouras, The Political Economy of Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka: Economic Liberalisation, Mobilisational Resources and Ethnic Collective Action
Authors: Samatha M.
Published: August 2015

Nikolaos, Biziouras, The Political Economy of Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka: Economic Liberalisation, Mobilisational Resources and Ethnic Collective Action (London: Routledge, 2014). Pp. 226, Price $121.05.
Book Review: Palit, Amitendu and Gloria Spittel (Eds), South Asia in the New Decade: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Behera Abhimanyu
Published: August 2015

Palit, Amitendu and Spittel, Gloria (Eds), South Asia in the New Decade: Challenges and Prospects (Singapore: World Scientific Publishing, 2013). Pp. 258, Price: $84.
The Utility of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy for Understanding Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Hellem Tracy , Shi Xianfeng , Latendresse Gwen , Renshaw Perry F.
Published: August 2015

The aim of this article is to present a systematic review of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies of substance use disorders. As a noninvasive and nonionizing imaging technique, MRS is being widely used in substance abuse research to evaluate the effects substances of abuse have on brain chemistry. Nearly 40 peer-reviewed research articles that focused on the utility of MRS in alcohol, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, opioids, marijuana, and nicotine use disorders were reviewed. Findings indicate inconsistencies with respect to alterations in brain chemistry within each substance of abuse, and the most consistent finding across substances was decreased N-acetylaspartate and choline levels with chronic alcohol, methamphetamine, and nicotine use. Variation in the brain regions studied, imaging technique, as well as small sample sizes might explain the discrepancies in findings within each substance. Future well-designed MRS studies offer promise in examining novel treatment approaches in substance use disorders.
Metabolic Syndrome Screening and Assertive Community Treatment
Authors: Castillo Enrico G. , Rosati Justin , Williams Caroline , Pessin Neil , Lindy David C.
Published: August 2015

Metabolic syndrome defines a collection of cardiometabolic illnesses that predict risk for poor physical health and early death and is highly prevalent among those with serious mental illness. Despite recommendations for routine monitoring, those with serious mental illness frequently do not receive physical health screenings. We conducted a quality improvement (QI) project to increase rates of metabolic syndrome screening in three New York City Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams. The project, conducted from December 2010 to May 2011, involved educational sessions for staff and consumers and a systematic screening protocol. We collected complete metabolic syndrome screening measurements for 71% of participating ACT consumers. We found metabolic risk to be nearly universal among participants, with over half diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. We also found high rates of previously undiagnosed hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. We describe the resources and obstacles we encountered in our QI project to make systematic metabolic screening a routine part of ACT care. This QI project suggests that ACT teams can take a leadership role in screening their consumers for physical health issues, aligning with recent policy trends to better integrate behavioral health and primary care services.
In-plane shear behavior of 3D spacer knitted fabrics
Authors: Arumugam Veerakumar , Mishra Rajesh , Militky Jiri , Tunak Maros
Published: August 2015

The shear behavior of 3D spacer knitted fabrics was investigated by using a picture frame fixture. Three different methods were used to find the shear angle during loading rate of 10 mm/min. All the tests were recorded by a CCD monochrome camera. The images acquired during loading process were used for analysis in order to obtain the full-field displacement and shear angles at chosen points on the surface of test specimen. An experimental and analytical investigation of picture frame shear fixture was conducted to determine its suitability for measuring intra-ply shear properties of 3D knitted spacer fabrics. In this work, a fixture was designed to analyze the in-plane shear behavior of these fabrics. The nonlinear behavior of shear force versus shear angle and the deformation mechanism were analyzed. The curves for shear force versus shear angle and position of buckling for in-plane shear test are recorded by considering two different frame lengths in order to compare with each other. Load–displacement curves of intra-ply shear tests are also analyzed. In addition to this, a program was developed in MATLAB using Hough transform to analyze the shear angle in the real-time image taken during displacement of specimen at various positions. The results of image analysis were compared with the actual experimental results. These findings are important requirements for further improvements in designing of picture frame fixture and to study the in-plane shear properties of 3D fabrics.
Supporting The Work of Ed Clinicians: Assessment of A Novel Emergency Department Information System in A Clinical Simulation Center
Authors: Mcgeorge Nicolette M. , Hegde Sudeep , Guarrera-Schick Theresa K. , Lavergne David T. , Clark Lindsey N. , Hernandez Angelica , Benda Natalie C. , Wears Robert L. , Perry Shawna J. , Het-Tinger A. Zachary , Fairbanks Rollin J. , Bisantz Ann M.
Published: August 2015

There has been momentum to quickly develop health information technology (IT), but these developments may not result in the expected benefits if the IT is not designed to support caregivers. This research aimed to create an interface for emergency department tracking and control using cognitive systems engineering methods. Comparison of the novel displays with currently in-use display designs in a clinical simulation center demonstrated that the novel displays better support the work of providers without increasing workload.
A Healthcare Provider Model to Integrate Human Factors and Patient Safety in Family Home Healthcare Settings
Authors: Massoumi Sanaz , Meshkati Najmedin , Placencia Greg , Sullivan Katherine J. , Prestwich Brian
Published: August 2015

Healthcare services provided in U.S. is offered through a fragmented system that in majority of cases cannot provide patient population with access to care, high quality of care, or coordinated care, and cannot guarantee the safety of patients. To overcome these shortcomings there is a need to create a new model of care. This study suggests a systematic approach to implement an innovative package of system elements including patient safety interventions, high reliability principles, and care coordination which illustrates the role of human factors in improving health outcomes of our population, enhance their health status, and enrich their overall well-being. Human health in full spectrum is a balance between medical, oral, physical, and mental/behavioral health. In this study all four elements of health services are provided to patients and their health outcomes have been studied in conjunction with the health status of their family members. This research aims to assess and analyze the impact of the addition of the aforementioned system elements in relation with human factors on population's overall health status.
mHealth Tool for Alcohol Use Disorders Among Latinos in Emergency Department
Authors: Abujarad Fuad , Vaca Federico E.
Published: August 2015

Latino drinkers experience a disparate number of negative health and social consequences. Emergency Department Alcohol Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (ED-SBIRT) is viable and effective at reducing harmful and hazardous drinking. However, barriers (e.g. readily available language translators, provider time burden, resources) to broad implementation remain and account for a major lag in adherence to national guidelines. We describe our approach to the design of a patient-centered bilingual Web-based mobile health ED-SBIRT App that could be integrated into a clinically complex ED environment and used regularly to provide ED-SBIRT for Spanish speaking patients.
Medical Mental Models: An Assessment of Condition and Treatment Knowledge Structures with Implications for App Design
Authors: Creager James H. , Furlough Caleb S.
Published: August 2015

Medical mobile apps whose layout, navigation, and interactions match the mental model of the user (i.e. the user's expectations) are more apt to produce positive usability outcomes than those that do not. But in order to design an app that matches a user mental model, designers must be armed with an empirically measured mental model that is represented in a meaningful way. This study sought to examine the efficacy of similarity ratings as a measurement method and Pathfinder networks as a representation method for yielding mental models beneficial to medical app design. Mental models were measured for three medical conditions (and their corresponding treatments) that are popular topics in modern mobile apps and special attention was given to differences between mental models of high and low knowledge participants. Based on the model Pathfinder networks, a series of observations and suggestions are made about the design of healthcare apps. Discussion emphasizes that the above methods are effective for turning knowledge internal to a user into a tangible informant of design. We conclude by advocating the use of Pathfinder for measuring mental models of content in healthcare apps in order to inform user-centered design.
The Role of Technology in Home-Based Medication Adherence for Preventive Cardiac Self-Care: A Human Factors and Usability Perspective
Authors: Grice Rachel , Ozoka Ant , Miller Michael
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of persuasive technology in home-based medication adherence in a cardiovascular disease patient population. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States (Mozaffarian et al., 2015), which is why prevention is increasingly important in this national epidemic. Several medical conditions put people at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease, such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia (Mozaffarian et al., 2015). Because of the numerous co-morbidities that accompany heart disease, patients frequently are tasked with taking several different medications to treat these conditions, which can lead to issues related to medication non-compliance. Research studies show that medication compliance is directly linked to improved patient outcomes (Ho et al., 2009). For example, one study with self-reported measures of medication compliance showed that non-adherent patients had nearly double the cardiovascular events compared to adherent patients and independently predicted adverse cardiovascular events (Gehi et al., 2007). A literature search was conducted to learn more about the many contributing factors leading to medication non-adherence, and to gather data on current methods of measuring and increasing medication adherence. This information was useful in informing our decisions to develop a preliminary survey on potential technology p reference for medication adherence for cardiac patients. The survey was administered to twenty patients at the University of Maryland Medical Center. All patients had a history of either cardiovascular disease resulting in revascularization, myocardial infarction, and/or stroke. This survey, which was given to patients with the aim of learning about current behaviors, current technology use, and desires for technology to manage their medication and disease, will eventually be used to tailor a non-invasive technology intervention (in the form of an audio-visual reminder or a similar system) for this population. We predict that those with the technology will have improved outcomes of medication adherence and a better quality of life. We hope to also develop a set of human-computer interaction guidelines that will render the technology more usable to the specific population.
Investigating Medical Diagnosis: Qualitative Results from a Virtual Patient Simulation Pilot Study
Authors: Nystrom Daniel , Williams Linda , Paull Douglas
Published: August 2015

Virtual patient simulation (VPS) has begun to gather interest as a method to train and assess clinical reasoning. However, the lack of published materials illustrating how to develop patient simulation scenarios coupled with concerns over the best way to assess clinical reasoning has slowed the adoption of VPS as an education platform. To remedy these concerns, we describe the use of a model of medical diagnosis to assist with the development of a diagnosis-based VPS and test the ability of VPS to administer measures of situation awareness as an assessment of clinician reasoning during the simulation scenario. A case example of one clinician's participation in the diagnosis-based VPS suggests the model-directed VPS provides a unique opportunity to observe clinical reasoning as the interplay between information collection and the participant's report of a presumptive diagnosis extracted from measures of situation awareness. Suggestions for future directions and implications of this research are provided.