bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Сompetence of Russian School Teachers
Authors: Soldatova G.U. , Shlyapnikov V.N.
Published: January 2016

This article presents the results of digital competence study in different types of pedagogical stuff of Russian educational organization (informatics teachers – 140 participants, subject teachers – 145 participants, other categories – 112 participants) in comparison to the results of all-Russia digital competency study among schoolchildren and parents (2013). We use Index of Digital Competency to as¬sess the digital competence of schoolteachers. The results shows that schoolteachers significantly exceed schoolchildren and parents in digital competency (F(2)=32,03, p<0,001), in frequency of internet-usage ( χ2(14)= 597,61, p<0,001), in time spent in the Internet everyday ( χ2(14)=472,83, p<0,001). Also they prefer other types of devices for internet-activities. Informatics teachers significantly exceed other teachers in digital competency (F(2)=14,18, p<0,001). These results let make the conclusion that modern schoolteachers are able and ready to improve their pupils’ digital competency by means of different ICT.
Educational Cases Developing in Non-school Activity of Primary School Children
Authors: Ukropova A.V.
Published: January 2016

The article presents testing results of educational cases. The cases were developed for first grade students based on «The world around us» topical area. The sample included 84 first-grade pupils of the two Moscow schools. The experimental group participated in development activities. The article presents fragments of two developing classes based on a textbook «The world around us» by A.A. Pleshkov. Classes were based on discussion of the methasubject content of the such various phenomena as characteristics of living and nonliving, the existence of things in different historical time (now and 200 years ago). In this paper the ability to analyze, compare, to establish causal relationships, to reflect the mode of action were considered as methasubject competencies. Development of these competencies in school-children was evaluated by the diagnosis method based on A.Z. Zak theoretical thinking. According to the diagnosis results, after the developmental activities, metasubject competencies development indicators in the experimental group significantly improved in comparison with indicators prior to specialized training. Figures have not changed in the control group, so the data lead to the conclusion that the educational cases content has a positive effect on the development of metasubject competencies in first year school children.
Testing K. Patrick Method of Psychopathy Diagnosis in Russian Sample
Authors: Atadjikova Y.A. , Enikolopov S.N.
Published: January 2016

The article is devoted to the development of a method of diagnosing psychopathy, or antisocial (dissocial) personality disorder. Modern researchers mostly use the methods of experiment, expert assessment, clinical interview or different combinations for personality disorders, including psychopathy. However, nowadays there is a growing need in development of a psychopathy diagnosis method which would be less labour-intensive, less expensive and more objective. One of the recently developed models of psychopathy is Trierarchic conceptualization by C. Patrick, it offers a new way to operationalize and diagnose psychopathy. The authors had tested this method in the Russian population, including both common sample as well as criminal offender sample consisting of individuals that have been suspected, accused or convicted of violent crimes. The subject of the current research is psychopathic traits measured by the tested method. We had carried out statistical and content analyzes of the data. Our study allowed to conclude that tested Russian version of the Triarchic Psychopathy Measure is effective enough to be used for research purposes. However, further research is required in order to render this measure valid to practical use.
The Issue of Relationship in Lotman’s Writing and the Russian Language Today
Authors: Verbitskaya L.A.
Published: January 2016

The article is devoted to the memory of Y.M. Lotman, who attended lectures at the Faculty of Philology of the St. Petersburg (Leningrad) University as schoolboy, was a student of philology during the so-called “Leningrad Affair” (1946-1950). The article highlights the link between communication, mutual understanding, and the Russian language nowadays. The author notes the changes that have occurred over the past two decades in the style and vocabulary of the Russian language and points to the deep connection between language, culture and understanding in society. The article gives an examples of improper borrowing and vulgarization of the modern Russian language and argued that a reasonable literary language policy is a struggle not only and not so much for its purity, but for the preservation of national cultural heritage and identity of the nation. Preservation of the language is definitely an issue of the country security.
A Odontologia na sindrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono: diagnóstico e tratamento
Authors: Poluha Rodrigo Lorenzi , Stefaneli Eduardo Ávila Baena , Terada Helio Hissashi
Published: January 2016

O presente trabalho objetiva realizar uma revisão na literatura sobre os aspectos da Síndrome da Apneia Obstrutiva do Sono (SAOS), diagnóstico e tratamento, com foco nos dispositivos intrabucais. A SAOS é um distúrbio respiratório crônico, caracterizado por um colapso das vias aéreas superiores durante o sono, ocasionando diminuição ou ausência do fluxo de ar para os pulmões. A etiologia é multifatorial. O diagnóstico inclui exame clínico e exames complementares como a polissonografia do sono. Dentre as opções de tratamento estão os dispositivos intrabucais que, quando bem indicados e confeccionados, permitem a supressão parcial ou total do ronco e da apneia obstrutiva. Pode-se concluir que a Odontologia exerce papel fundamental no cenário da SAOS.

DOI: 10.18363/rbo.v72i1/2.588
Uma análise das políticas públicas voltadas para os serviços de saúde bucal no Brasil.
Authors: Spezzia Sérgio , Carvalheiro Elisângela Mara , Trindade Larissa De Lima
Published: January 2016

Políticas públicas podem ser definidas como um conjunto de ações do poder público, constituídas por regras e procedimentos que auxiliam nas relações entre poder público e sociedade, visando solucionar problemas da coletividade. O objetivo do presente artigo foi o de analisar as políticas públicas voltadas para os serviços públicos de saúde bucal no Brasil. Os resultados demonstraram que o processo de atendimento odontológico precisa ser melhorado, instaurando-se políticas públicas compatíveis com a nossa realidade e que a satisfação do usuário deve ser a principal meta de todo serviço assistencial de saúde. Concluiu-se que existem na atualidade políticas públicas compensatórias que primam por atendimento público odontológico com finalidade de atingir metas prioritárias, optando por beneficiar os pacientes mais carentes ou necessitados.

DOI: 10.18363/rbo.v72i1/2.603
Peri-implantite: etiologia e tratamento
Authors: Oliveira Mariano Craveiro de Oliveira , Corrêa Débora Freire Marvilla , Laurêdo Luiz Filipe Barros , Mendonça Laura Possidonio Furtado de , Lemos Alexandre Barboza de , Carmo Glen George Willians do
Published: January 2016

A peri-implantite tem sido descrita como uma alteração patológica dos tecidos ao redor dos implantes osseointegrados, sendo a microbiota e o trauma oclusal considerados seus principais fatores etiológicos. A profundidade de sondagem, o sangramento, a mucosa queratinizada, o fluxo do fluido sulcular e o infiltrado inflamatório servem como parâmetros para avaliar a saúde peri-implantar. O tratamento da peri-implantite inclui debridamento mecânico, instrução de higiene oral, destoxificação da superfície implantar, uso de antimicrobianos e terapias ressectivas e regenerativas. Uma correta intervenção parece ser necessária para a resolução da lesão peri-implantar.

DOI: 10.18363/rbo.v72i1/2.628
Race/ethnic Differences in Post-Stroke Depression (PSD): Findings from the Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment (SWIFT) Study
Authors: Goldmann Emily , Roberts Eric T. , Parikh Nina S. , Lord Aaron S. , Boden-Albala Bernadette
Published: January 2016

Objectives: Post-stroke depression (PSD) is common and associated with poor stroke outcomes, but few studies have examined race/ethnic disparities in PSD. Given the paucity of work and inconsistent findings in this important area of research, this study aims to examine race/ethnic differences in depression in a multi-ethnic cohort of stroke patients.

Design: Longitudinal.

Setting: Prospective trial of a post-stroke educational intervention.

Patients or Participants: 1,193 mild/moderate ischemic stroke/TIA patients.

Main Outcome Measures: We used the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale to assess subthreshold (CES-D score 8-15) and full (CES-D score ≥ 16) depression at one month (“early”) and 12 months (“late”) following stroke. Multinomial logistic regression analysis examined the association between race/ethnicity and early and late PSD separately.

Results: The prevalence of subthreshold and full PSD was 22.5% and 32.6% in the early period and 22.0% and 27.4% in the late period, respectively. Hispanics had 40% the odds of early full PSD compared with non-Hispanic Whites after adjusting for other covariates (OR=0.40, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.76). Race/ethnicity was not significantly associated with late PSD.

Conclusions: Hispanic stroke patients had half the odds of PSD in early period compared with whites, but no difference was found in the later period. Further studies comparing trajectories of PSD between race/ethnic groups may further our understanding of race/ethnic disparities in PSD and help identify effective interventions. Ethn Dis. 2016;26(1):1-8; doi:10.18865/ed.26.1.1
The Healthy Community Neighborhood Initiative: Rationale and Design
Authors: Brown Arleen F. , Morris D'Ann M. , Kahn Katherine L. , Sankare Ibrahima C. , King Keyonna M. , Vargas Roberto , Lucas-Wright Aziza , Jones Loretta F. , Flowers Astrea , Jones Felica U. , Bross Rachelle , Banner Dennishia , Del Pino Homero E. , Pitts Orwilda L. , Zhang Lujia , Porter Courtney , Madrigal Sigrid K. , Vassar Stefanie D. , Vangala Sitaram , Liang Li-Jung , Martinez Arturo B. , Norris Keith C.
Published: January 2016

Objective: To describe the design and rationale of the Healthy Community Neighborhood Initiative (HCNI), a multicomponent
study to understand and document health risk and resources in a
low-income and minority community.

Design: A community-partnered participatory research project.
Setting: A low-income, biethnic African American and Latino neighborhood in South Los Angeles.

Participants: Adult community residents aged >18 years.

Main Outcome Measures: Household survey and clinical data collection; neighborhood characteristics; neighborhood observations; and community resources asset mapping.

Results: We enrolled 206 participants (90% of those eligible), of whom 205 completed the household interview and examination,
and 199 provided laboratory samples. Among enrollees, 82 (40%) were aged >50 years and participated in functional status
measurement. We completed neighborhood observations on 93 street segments; an average of 2.2 (SD=1.6) study participants
resided on each street segment observed. The community asset map identified 290 resources summarized in a Community Resource Guide given to all participants.

Conclusions: The HCNI communityacademic partnership has built a framework to assess and document the individual, social, and community factors that may influence clinical and social outcomes in a community at high-risk for preventable chronic disease. Our project suggests that a community collaborative can use
culturally and scientifically sound strategies to identify community-centered health and social needs. Additional work is needed to
understand strategies for developing and implementing interventions to mitigate these disparities. Ethn Dis. 2016;26(1):123-132; doi:10.18865/ed.26.1.123
The Effects of Job Instability and Financial Strain on C-Reactive Protein in a Sample of Mexican Immigrants
Authors: Steffen Patrick R. , Walker Jill , Meredith Richard , Anderson Chris
Published: January 2016

Objective: Mexican immigrants have lower cardiovascular disease risk than US citizens, but risk increases with level of acculturation. Our study investigated whether job stress and financial strain would be related to inflammation (C-reactive protein), lipids, and blood pressure, and if they would play a role in the acculturation process in Mexican immigrants.  

Method: A sample of 310 Mexican immigrants living in the United States were studied on measures of job stress, financial strain, acculturation, and cardiovascular disease risk factors (C-reactive protein, lipids, and blood pressure). 

Results: Job instability, financial strain, and acculturation, were related to inflammation, but psychological demands and decision latitude were not related. Lipids and clinic blood pressure were not related to the variables of interest. Body mass index was related to both increased acculturation and inflammation, and when controlling for BMI, acculturation was no longer a significant predictor of inflammation. Job instability and financial strain remained significant predictors of inflammation after controlling for BMI, gender, and age. Job instability and financial strain were not related to acculturation, suggesting that these factors are significant stressors for both newly arrived and more established immigrants.

Conclusions: Job instability and financial strain predict increased inflammation in Mexican immigrants but they do not play a role in the relationship between acculturation and C-reactive protein. The effects of acculturation on inflammation in this study were mediated by BMI. Ethn Dis. 2016;26(1):37-44; doi: 10.18865/ed.26.1.37
Racial and Economic Disparities in Diabetes in a Large Primary Care Patient Population
Authors: Heidemann Danielle L. , Joseph Nicholas A. , Kuchipudi Aishwarya , Perkins Denise White , Drake Sean
Published: January 2016

Objective: We sought to determine if, after adjusting for economic status, race is an independent risk factor for glycemic control among diabetic patients in a large primary care patient population.

Design, Setting, Participants: We performed a retrospective chart review of 264,000 primary care patients at our large, urban academic medical center to identify patients with a diagnosis of diabetes (n=25,123). Zip code was used to derive median income levels using United States Census Bureau demographic information. Self-reported race was extracted from registration data.

Main Outcome Measures: The prevalence of diabetes, average glycated hemoglobin (A1c), and prevalence of uncontrolled diabetes of White and Black patients at all income levels were determined.

Results: White patients had a lower average A1c level and a lower prevalence of diabetes than Black patients in all income quartiles (P<.001).  Among White patients, the prevalence of diabetes (P<.001), uncontrolled diabetes (P<.001), and A1c level (P=.014) were inversely proportional to income level.  No significant difference in the prevalence of diabetes (P=.214), A1c level (P=.282), or uncontrolled diabetes related to income was seen in black patients (P=.094).

Conclusions: Race had an independent association with diabetes prevalence and glycemic control. Our study does not support two prominent theories that economic and insurance status are the main factors in diabetes disparities, as we attempted to control for economic status and nearly every patient had insurance.  It will be important for future analysis to explore how healthcare system factors impact these observed gaps in quality. Ethn Dis. 2016;26(1):85-90; doi: 10.18865/ed.26.1.85
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Related Risk Factors in the City of Oran, Algeria: the ISOR Study
Authors: Houti Leila , Hamani-Medjaoui Imane , Lardjam-Hetraf Sarah A. , Ouhaibi-Djellouli Hadjira , Chougrani Saada , Goumidi Louisa , Mediene-Benchekor Sounnia
Published: January 2016

Background: Aging and lifestyle changes had led to an  epidemiological transition, with a significant impact on the incidence of cardiovascular diseases in North Africa.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its associated factors, which were unknown, among an urban population in Algeria.

Methods: During 2007-2009, 787 individuals aged 30-64 years, randomly selected from the list of insured persons residing in the city of Oran, participated in a clinical, anthropometric and biological survey. Participants were classified according to the National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP-ATP) III definition of metabolic syndrome.

Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 20%, higher in women than men (25.9 vs 13.7%; P<.0001). Among the
components of the syndrome, the most common risk factors observed in women were a low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration (60.4% vs 44.2% in men) and abdominal obesity (46.8% vs 30.1% in men) whereas men displayed more high blood pressure (42.5% vs 34.8% in women). In men, metabolic syndrome was more frequent in married and highly educated participants. In contrast, women with a high level of education and who had an intermediate level of physical activity seemed to be protected.

Conclusions: Metabolic syndrome, prevalent in the urban population of North Algeria, is associated with a high proportion of low HDL-cholesterol and abdominal obesity, especially among women. There is a need for prevention strategies involving promotion of physical activity for the whole population and screening for hypertension among men. Ethn Dis. 2016;26(1):99-106; doi:10.18865/ed.26.1.99
Microalbuminuria:A Marker for Cardiovascular Risk in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Sabharwal R. , Bajaj J. K.
Published: January 2016

Hypertension is one of the most common diseases of the modern world. In hypertensive patients, Microalbuminuria, defined as albumin excretion rate (AER) of 30-300 mg/day or 30 - 299 mg/gm of creatinine, acts as a specific marker to detect early arterial disease&renal damage. Detection of microalbuminuria in hypertensive patients and their treatment can significantly alter the disease progression.
A Gross Comparative Anatomical Study of Hearts in Human Cadavers and Pigs
Authors: Garg S. , Singh P. , Sharma A. , Gupta G.
Published: January 2016

The inadequate availability of human donor hearts and other organs has inspired interest in field of xenotransplantation. The prospect of transgenic pig providing compatible organs for human xenotransplantation is becoming more likely. We aim to compare cardiac anatomy of pig hearts with human cadaveric hearts. A comparative analysis of pig and human cardiac anatomy was made by gross examination and dissection of hearts. The mean value of various parameters along with standard deviation was calculated.and T-test was applied and p-value was calculated. The average weight of human heart was 266.5g whereas the average weight of pig heart was 302.8g. An average adult human heart was about 9.8cm (9.2cm-12cm) from base to apex, 8.6 cm (7.4cm-10.8cm) in its broadest transverse diameter and 7.1 cm (5cm-8.4cm) anteroposteriorly. An average pig heart was about 10.2 cm (8.5cm-11cm) from base to apex, 8.9 cm (6.5cm-11cm) in its broadest transverse diameter and 6.6 cm (5cm- 8cm) anteroposteriorly. The human heart was trapezoidal in shape. The pig heart, in contrast, was a broad cone shaped organ. In humans, the left atrium received the four pulmonary veins whereas in pig it received two pulmonary veins. In right atrium of man, orifices of superior and inferior caval veins were in a direct line whereas in pig veins opened at right angles to each other.
The present study suggests that the morphology of human and porcine heart is almost similar with significant anatomical differences between porcine and human hearts that might effect the success of the cardiac xenograft within the human recipient.
An Experimental Study of Drug Interactions of Diclofenac with Commonly Used Drugs for Diabetes Mellitus in Rabbits
Authors: Yadav S. , Singh S. , Sharma M. K. , Puri J. N. , Ansari N. A. , Singh S. P.
Published: January 2016

Insulin, Glibenclamide and Tolbutamide are some of the frequently used drugs for the most common metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus. Along with hypoglycaemic drugs diabetic patient is exposed to variety of drugs. NSAIDs are one of the commonly used drugs in this metabolic syndrome. When a patient on hypoglycaemic drugs receives NSAIDs there are chances of drug interactions. This study was undertaken in the department of Pharmacology, GSVM medical college, Kanpur (UP) after approval by the institutional animal ethics committee to find out the interaction if any between Diclofenac and three hypoglycaemic drugs i.e. insulin, glibenclamide and tolbutamide.
Young healthy rabbits were divided into six groups: five rabbits in each group. First group received Insulin 1 u/kg subcutaneously; second Glibenclamide 0.05 mg/kg orally; third Tolbutamide 40 mg/kg orally; fourth Diclofenac 1mg/kg orally and insulin 1mg/kg s.c. simultaneously; fifth glibenclamide 0.05mg/kg orally at 0 hour and diclofenac 1mg/kg orally at 2 hours and sixth tolbutamide 40mg/kg orally at 0 hour and diclofenac 1mg/kg orally at 2 hours. Blood samples were taken at 0, 1, 2, 4 and 6 hours for blood sugar estimation. Mean blood sugar levels reduced significantly from their fasting levels when insulin, glibenclamide and tolbutamide were administered. However blood sugar levels did not showed any significant changes when diclofenac was administered along with insulin, glibenclamide and tolbutamide in comparison to when insulin, glibenclamide and tolbutamide were given alone. The results showed that diclofenac does not interact with insulin, glibenclamide and tolbutamide on blood sugar levels in rabbits.No Abstract.
Stepwise Technique for Developing a Successful Prosthodontic Design for a Geriatric Mandibular Resection Patient
Authors: Londono J. , Baker P. S. , Pannu D. S.
Published: January 2016

This report describes the continued treatment of a geriatric patient with a mandibular lateral discontinuity defect and existing mandibular implantretained removable complete prosthesis opposing a maxillary complete denture. The purpose is to present a method of addressing patient concerns about existing esthetics and function using provisional restorations that permit gradual alterations to confirm operator and patient approval prior to fabrication of definitive prostheses. This technique allows the dentist to better accommodate the loss of dexterity, decreased adaptability, and other problems often complicating design of dental prostheses for aging patients.
Paresthesia of the Lower Lip:Delayed Complication of Radiotherapy to Nasopharynx
Authors: Komerik N. , Yazici T.
Published: January 2016

Paresthesia of the lower lip may develop following injury to the inferior alveolar nerve or mental nerve. The most common cause of lip paresthesia is iatrogenic where inadvertent injury takes place during surgery. Paresthesia may also develop as a result of pathology interfering with the integrity of nerve. While expanding benign lesions cause paresthesia by compression of the nerve, malignant lesions do so by invading the nerve tissue. Ionizing radiation may also cause damage to the nerves. The adverse effects of radiation therapy on oral health are well known with the most emphasis given to osteoradionecrosis. Our case is the first report that the inferior alveolar nerve or mental nerve is at risk of long term side effects of radiotherapy to the nasopharyngeal region.
Split Post and Core:A Systematic Approach to Restore Grossly Decayed Teeth
Authors: Kumar L. , Jurel S. K. , Mishra N. , Yadav A. , Gupta D. S.
Published: January 2016

A grossly decayed tooth sometime poses difficulty in fabrication of FDP, The post core is often required to gain support from the remaining tooth structure, In a multirooted tooth where more then one root were used as support the path of insertion of post is difficult, in those cases a custom split post and core has to be fabricated. This case report describes a simple and scientific multidisciplinary approach towards management of grossly decayed tooth. The technique seems to be effective for extensively damaged teeth that lack sufficient tooth structure to create an adequate ferrule of 1.5 to 2 mm for the final crown.
Undetermined Teratogenic Risks by Traditional Sex Selection Drugs
Authors: Singh S. , Kumar R. , Kaur H.
Published: January 2016

Male child preference is a well known phenomenon in Indian society. There are various drugs and techniques used to achieve this target, even though these are illegal and punishable. Women desirous of male child try to procure these drugs which are supposed to help in sex selection. These secretly procured drugs can cause congenital defects in the fetus due to the fact that these drugs are always administered during first trimester - the most vulnerable period for the fetus. There are many drugs, whose teratogenic potential is already known. But in the absence of enough data and lack of clinical trial studies in pregnant women, we don't really know about many drugs, which are necessary for various medical conditions during pregnancy. On top of that these so called sex selection drugs add to an unhealthy practice leading to many more probable congenital anomalies. It is the need of the hour that proper data is collected about all such drugs and their implications is studied on fetus. Due to secret prescriptions, it may be difficult to ban such drugs, but public awareness and health education about congenital anomalies caused by such drugs is probably the only way to fight this menace.
The Evolution of Legal Education in the United States and the United Kingdom: How one system became more faculty-oriented while the other became more consumer-oriented
Authors: Stuckey Roy
Published: January 2016

This paper explores how our approaches to preparing lawyers for practice became so different. It traces the evolution of the systems for preparing lawyers for practice in the United Kingdom and the United States, and it examines the relative merits of our current situations. Part I describes the key differences in our systems. Part II recounts major events in the histories of legal education in the United States and the United Kingdom. Part III describes new initiatives in the United Kingdom and the United States that may improve legal education.
The Effects of Cumulative Victimization on Mental Health Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Mustanski Brian , Andrews Rebecca , Puckett Jae A.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To examine the effects of the cumulative victimization experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youths on mental disorders.

Methods. We recruited 248 participants from the Chicago, Illinois, area in 7 waves of data collected over 4 years, beginning in 2007 (83.1% retention rate). Mean age at enrollment was 18.7 years, and 54.7% were Black. We measured depression and posttraumatic stress disorder using structured psychiatric interviews.

Results. Latent class analyses of victimization over time identified a 4-class solution. Class 1 (65.4%) had low, decreasing victimization. Class 2 (10.3%) had moderate, increasing victimization. Class 3 (5.1%) had high, steady victimization. Class 4 (19.2%) had high, decreasing victimization. Controlling for baseline diagnoses and birth sex, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youths in classes 2 and 3 were at higher risk for depression than were those in class 1; youths in classes 2, 3, and 4 were at elevated risk for posttraumatic stress disorder.

Conclusions. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youths with steadily high or increasing levels of victimization from adolescence to early adulthood are at higher risk for depression and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Mental Health of Transgender Veterans in US States With and Without Discrimination and Hate Crime Legal Protection
Authors: Blosnich John R. , Marsiglio Mary C. , Gao Shasha , Gordon Adam J. , Shipherd Jillian C. , Kauth Michael , Brown George R. , Fine Michael J.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To examine whether indicators of community- and state-level lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender equality are associated with transgender veterans’ mental health.

Methods. We extracted Veterans Administration data for patients who were diagnosed with gender identity disorder, had at least 1 visit in 2013, and lived in a zip code with a Municipality Equality Index score (n = 1640). We examined the associations of whether a state included transgender status in employment nondiscrimination laws and in hate crimes laws with mood disorders; alcohol, illicit drug, and tobacco use disorders; posttraumatic stress disorder; and suicidal ideation or attempt.

Results. Nearly half (47.3%) of the sample lived in states with employment discrimination protection, and 44.8% lived in states with hate crimes protection. Employment nondiscrimination protection was associated with 26% decreased odds of mood disorders (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.59, 0.93) and 43% decreased odds of self-directed violence (AOR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.34, 0.95).

Conclusions. Understanding lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender social stressors can inform treatment and care coordination for transgender populations.
Public Funding for Contraception, Provider Training, and Use of Highly Effective Contraceptives: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Thompson Kirsten M. J. , Rocca Corinne H. , Kohn Julia E. , Goodman Suzan , Stern Lisa , Blum Maya , Speidel J. Joseph , Darney Philip D. , Harper Cynthia C.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. We determined whether public funding for contraception was associated with long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) use when providers received training on these methods.

Methods. We evaluated the impact of a clinic training intervention and public funding on LARC use in a cluster randomized trial at 40 randomly assigned clinics across the United States (2011–2013). Twenty intervention clinics received a 4-hour training. Women aged 18 to 25 were enrolled and followed for 1 year (n = 1500: 802 intervention, 698 control). We estimated the effects of the intervention and funding sources on LARC initiation with Cox proportional hazards models with shared frailty.

Results. Women at intervention sites had higher LARC initiation than those at control (22 vs 18 per 100 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04, 1.98). Participants receiving care at clinics with Medicaid family planning expansion programs had almost twice the initiation rate as those at clinics without (25 vs 13 per 100 person-years; AHR = 2.26; 95% CI = 1.59, 3.19). LARC initiation also increased among participants with public (AHR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.09, 2.22) but not private health insurance.

Conclusions. Public funding and provider training substantially improve LARC access.
Heterogeneous Effects of Housing Vouchers on the Mental Health of US Adolescents
Authors: Nguyen Quynh C. , Rehkopf David H. , Schmidt Nicole M. , Osypuk Theresa L.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To assess the mental health effects on adolescents of low-income families residing in high-poverty public housing who received housing vouchers to assist relocation.

Methods. We defined treatment effects to compare 2829 adolescents aged 12 to 19 years in families offered housing vouchers versus those living in public housing in the Moving to Opportunity experiment (1994–1997; Boston, MA; Baltimore, MD; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA; New York, NY). We employed model-based recursive partitioning to identify subgroups with heterogeneous treatment effects on psychological distress and behavior problems measured in 2002. We tested 35 potential baseline treatment modifiers.

Results. For psychological distress, Chicago participants experienced null treatment effects. Outside Chicago, boys experienced detrimental effects, whereas girls experienced beneficial effects. Behavior problems effects were null for adolescents who were aged 10 years or younger at baseline. For adolescents who were older than 10 years at baseline, violent crime victimization, unmarried parents, and unsafe neighborhoods increased adverse treatment effects. Adolescents who were older than 10 years at baseline without learning problems or violent crime victimization, and whose parents moved for better schools, experienced beneficial effects.

Conclusions. Health effects of housing vouchers varied across subgroups. Supplemental services may be necessary for vulnerable subgroups for whom housing vouchers alone may not be beneficial.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Low Birth Weight in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia
Authors: Martinson Melissa L. , Reichman Nancy E.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To compare associations between socioeconomic status and low birth weight across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, countries that share cultural features but differ in terms of public support and health care systems.

Methods. Using nationally representative data from the United States (n = 8400), the United Kingdom (n = 12 018), Canada (n = 5350), and Australia (n = 3452) from the early 2000s, we calculated weighted prevalence rates and adjusted odds of low birth weight by income quintile and maternal education.

Results. Socioeconomic gradients in low birth weight were apparent in all 4 countries, but the magnitudes and patterns differed across countries. A clear graded association between income quintile and low birth weight was apparent in the United States. The relevant distinction in the United Kingdom appeared to be between low, middle, and high incomes, and the distinction in Canada and Australia appeared to be between mothers in the lowest income quintile and higher-income mothers.

Conclusions. Socioeconomic inequalities in low birth weight were larger in the United States than the other countries, suggesting that the more generous social safety nets and health care systems in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia played buffering roles.
Consistent Estimates of Very Low HIV Incidence Among People Who Inject Drugs: New York City, 2005–2014
Authors: Des Jarlais Don C. , Arasteh Kamyar , McKnight Courtney , Feelemyer Jonathan , Campbell Aimée N. C. , Tross Susan , Smith Lou , Cooper Hannah L. F. , Hagan Holly , Perlman David
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To compare methods for estimating low HIV incidence among persons who inject drugs.

Methods. We examined 4 methods in New York City, 2005 to 2014: (1) HIV seroconversions among repeat participants, (2) increase of HIV prevalence by additional years of injection among new injectors, (3) the New York State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stratified extrapolation algorithm, and (4) newly diagnosed HIV cases reported to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Results. The 4 estimates were consistent: (1) repeat participants: 0.37 per 100 person-years (PY; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.05/100 PY, 1.33/100 PY); (2) regression of prevalence by years injecting: 0.61 per 100 PY (95% CI = 0.36/100 PY, 0.87/100 PY); (3) stratified extrapolation algorithm: 0.32 per 100 PY (95% CI = 0.18/100 PY, 0.46/100 PY); and (4) newly diagnosed cases of HIV: 0.14 per 100 PY (95% CI = 0.11/100 PY, 0.16/100 PY).

Conclusions. All methods appear to capture the same phenomenon of very low and decreasing HIV transmission among persons who inject drugs.

Public Health Implications. If resources are available, the use of multiple methods would provide better information for public health purposes.
Biosurfactant produced by a Rhodococcus erythropolis mutant as an oil spill response agent
Authors: Cai Qinhong , Zhang Baiyu , Chen Bing , Cao Tong , Lv Ze
Published: January 2016

Biosurfactants have been considered as superior alternatives to currently used surfactants as they are generally more biodegradable, less toxic, and better at enhancing biodegradation. However, the application of biosurfactants is limited by the availability of economic biosurfactants and the corresponding producers that can work effectively. Hyperproducers generated by metabolic engineering of biosurfactant producers are highly desired to overcome this obstacle. A Rhodococcus erythropolis SB-1A strain was isolated from offshore oily water samples. One of its mutants derived by random mutagenesis with ultraviolet radiation, producing high levels of biosurfactants, was selected by the oil spreading technique. The mutant produces biosurfactants with critical micelle dilutions approximately four times those of the parent strain. The results obtained with thin layer chromatography indicated the produced biosurfactant remained unchanged between the mutant and the parent strain. In addition, the produced biosurfactants were recovered with solvent extraction and applied as the oil spill response agents. Based on the baffled flask test (BFT) results, the dispersion efficiency of the biosurfactants produced by the mutant is higher than that induced by the parent strain. When compared with Corexit dispersants, it was found that the produced biosurfactants performed better than Corexit 9527 and were comparable with Corexit 9500.
Daclatasvir + asunaprevir versus sofosbuvir/ledipasvir for hepatitis C genotype 1 in Japanese patients: an indirect comparison
Authors: Swallow Elyse , Kelley Caroline , Signorovitch James , Wygant Gail , McPhee Fiona
Published: January 2016

Aim:
To compare daclatasvir + asunaprevir (DCV + ASV) versus sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) for hepatitis C virus genotype 1b in Japanese patients without NS5A polymorphisms at L31 and Y93H.
Patients & methods:
All Phase III trials of SOF/LDV and DCV + ASV conducted in Japan were included. To adjust for cross-trial differences, DCV + ASV patients were weighted to match reported SOF/LDV summary baseline characteristics.
Results:
After adjustment, the rate of SVR12 (99.3 vs 100%; p = 0.398) and discontinuation due to adverse events (1.3 vs 0.0%; p = 0.327) were similar between patients treated with DCV + ASV (n = 252) and SOF/LDV (n = 171).
Conclusion:
After adjusting for cross-trial differences in baseline characteristics, DCV + ASV and SOF/LDV were associated with similar efficacy and discontinuation due to adverse events in the treatment of hepatitis C virus genotype 1b in Japanese patients without NS5A polymorphisms.
Type 1 Diabetes—Reaping the Rewards of a Targeted Research Investment
Authors: Fradkin Judith E. , Wallace Julie A. , Akolkar Beena , Rodgers Griffin P.
Published: January 2016

The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) precipitated a major research effort to develop new approaches to achieve near-normal glycemic control in real-world settings in people with type 1 diabetes. Toward that end, a unique funding stream from the U.S. Congress—the Special Statutory Funding Program for Type 1 Diabetes Research—has provided nearly $2.5 billion for research into the prevention, cure, and treatment of type 1 diabetes since 1998. This funding generated a targeted, sustained investment in type 1 diabetes research with six specific goals: identifying new therapeutic targets through the understanding of disease etiology and pathogenesis, preventing or reversing the disease, developing cell replacement therapy, improving management and care, preventing or reducing the complications, and attracting new talent and applying new technologies to type 1 diabetes research. This Perspective describes exciting results that have emerged from the investment and further advances on the horizon, including artificial pancreas technologies, new therapies for diabetic retinopathy, and breakthroughs in laboratory production of β-cells. The recent program extension enables us to build on this foundation and pursue key new initiatives to harness emerging technologies and develop the next generation of type 1 diabetes researchers.
A New Downlink Scheduling Algorithm Proposed for Real Time Traffic in LTE System
Authors: Mahfoudi Mohammed , Bekkali Moulhime El , Najd Abdellah , Ghazi M. El , Mazer Said
Published: January 2016

The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has developed a new cellular standard based packet switching allowing high data rate, 100 Mbps in Downlink and 50 Mbps in Uplink, and having the flexibility to be used in different bandwidths ranging from 1.4 MHz up to 20 MHz, this standard is termed LTE (Long Term Evolution). Radio Resource Management (RRM) procedure is one of the key design roles for improving LTE system performance, Packet scheduling is one of the RRM mechanisms and it is responsible for radio resources allocation, However, Scheduling algorithms are not defined in 3GPP specifications. Therefore, it gets a track interests for researchers. In this paper we proposed a new LTE scheduling algorithm and we compared its performances with other well known algorithms such as Proportional Fairness (PF), Modified Largest Weighted Delay First (MLWDF), and Exponential Proportional Fairness (EXPPF) in downlink direction. The simulation results shows that the proposed scheduler satisfies the quality of service (QoS) requirements of the real-time traffic in terms of packet loss ratio (PLR), average throughput and packet delay. This paper also discusses the key issues of scheduling algorithms to be considered in future traffic requirements.
Decentralization and Town Development
Authors: Atnafu Aldo Morka
Published: January 2016

Decentralized governance offers opportunities for achieving development through good governance and community participation at grass root (Ayenew, 2007).Thus, this study examines the contribution of decentralization for town development and; the opportunities and challenges of wereda decentralization for town development. The study was conducted in two selected Wereda capital towns in Metekel zone, Bulen and GilgelBeles. Data were collected from primary sources with the help of questionnaires, interviews and observation. The primary data were also supported by secondary documents such as federal and regional constitutions, proclamations, regulations, local development plans, official performance reports, and magazines. The data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The study revealed that wereda level decentralization actually has influenced development at grass root level in Metekel zone in general, and towns in particular. Better infrastructural provisions (education and health) were witnessed in the towns. This is due to better community participation in decision making process and availability of opportunity to express their interest. Though, more is expected, the financial capacity of towns has also registered progress. However, the situation in urban land delivery does not show an improvement. Partiality, bias, and unaccountability are major hindrances in urban land delivery. The top down hierarchy between town administrations and wereda administrators has become a major challenge for a full exploitation of town resource and administration. Besides, shortage of qualified manpower and weak community participation in development activities were also other factors that have impacted the further performance of towns.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 78-80
Progression in Tobacco Use in India: An Application of Survival Function Analysis
Authors: Singh Shri Kant , Kashyap Gyan Chandra
Published: January 2016

Today India is the second largest producer of tobacco in the world and the third largest consumer. The World Health Organization predicts that tobacco deaths in India may exceed 1.5 million annually by 2020. The purpose of the present study to evaluate the pattern and correlates of tobacco use and quitting tobacco among smokers as well as users of smokeless tobacco. This study is based on the data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey, India (2009-10). The study used the cox's proportional hazards regression model and Kaplan-meier survival analysis for computing the probability of quitting tobacco. Three level multilevel logistic regression model have been used to carry out the pattern and correlates of tobacco use. The highest percentage of young people currently using tobacco product in the North-eastern states of India. The hazard of quitting tobacco among female is 1.35 times (p<.01) higher as compared to male. The chances of quitting smokeless tobacco are less in the North-East (HR =0.484) as compared to the people from North. The odds of smoking was three times higher in 45-64 age group (OR=3.311***) compared to the age group of 15-24. Regional variation is the use of smokeless tobacco shows that results from the North-Eastern region (OR=8.748***) and Eastern region (OR= 8.184) are more likely to use smokeless tobacco in comparison to people from Northern region. This study found that the trend of use of tobacco in upward direction, whereas the probability of quitting is very low in Northeast. Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 22-30
Social and Environmental Disclosure in Corporate Annual Reports: Evidence from Kuwait
Authors: Hewaidy Aly M
Published: January 2016

With the lack of empirical research in voluntary disclosure in the Middle East area, the present study aims at investigating and evaluating corporate social and environmental disclosure (CSED) practices in Kuwait. To achieve this objective, a checklist of 25 social and environmental disclosure items was developed. These items were then classified into four categories: human resources, environmental activities, community involvement and product/service related information. Using content analysis, the 25 disclosure items were applied to the annual reports of a sample of 43 companies listed in Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE). It was found that the overall disclosure level for the sample companies is 21%. The disclosure level varies by disclosure category. Product/service related information achieved the highest disclosure level (43%), while human resources disclosure comes second (25%). Little attention was given to disclosing information related to community and environment, with a disclosure level of 16% and 8% respectively. These results suggested that there is a significant scope for additional social and environmental disclosure in the annual reports of Kuwaiti companies. Issuing regulations and guidelines on CSED is needed to motivate Kuwaiti companies to improve their social and environmental disclosures.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 8-16
Importance of Inscriptions in Historiography of Rajasthan
Authors: Tripathi Rahul
Published: January 2016

Historiography is the area of study which emphasizes on the writing of history. Various sources are available which enable the historian to study and analyze the contemporary political and social conditions. Amongst these, inscriptions form an important component, especially when we talk about Rajasthan. There are various inscriptions which are scattered all over Rajasthan and which, if studied thoroughly, may be of immense importance. The details of some rare inscriptions of Rajasthan have been compiled so as to make the study relevant.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 5-7