bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-Principles Study of Electronic, Elastic, and Optical Properties of Yb:CaF2 Crystals
Authors: Qi Yuan-Yuan , Li Zhi-Guo , Cheng Yan , Chen Xiang-Rong , Ji Guang-Fu
Published: September 2015

The electronic structure, elastic, and optical properties of CaF2 and Yb-doped CaF2 are investigated by the first-principles calculations. The obtained lattice parameters, band structure, density of state, elastic constants, and imaginary part of dielectric function ε
2 for CaF2 agree well with the experimental and other theoretical results. A good comparison of the properties is made between CaF2 and Yb:CaF2, and it is found that: firstly, Yb doping leads to the crystal structure distortion of CaF2 and reduction of the elastic constants. Secondly, an impurity band is found at the top of valence band in the band structure of Yb:CaF2 and contributes to the bandgap narrowing. Thirdly, the peaks at about 26 eV in the optical curves disappear after Yb doping, and the remaining two peaks shift towards the longer-wavelength side, with the peak intensities drop down, indicating that Yb doping makes the ultraviolet transmittance of the system improve and the range of light in the UV region widen. Furthermore, Yb doping induces new peaks in the optical curves, which may be caused by 4f electron transitions of Yb atom. Finally, the transmittance of the doped system increases when the Yb-doped proportion decreases.
Physicochemical and morphological characterization of potato starch (Solanum tuberosum L.) as raw material for the purpose of obtaining bioethanol
Authors: Lizarazo H. Sonia Patricia , Hurtado R. Germán Gonzalo , Rodríguez Luis Felipe
Published: September 2015

In Colombia, there are geographic areas where the potato crop is the principal economic product. The diversity of potato varieties, has resulted in differences in sizes and in chemical and physical compositions. These variables are defined by genetic factors, agricultural practices, and climatic and soil conditions. The physical characteristics of the different potato varieties are directly related to aspects of production and performance, unlike the chemical composition and morphology of starch granules, which define the nutritional quality and industrial use. In this research, an analysis of the physicochemical and morphological properties of native starches from six potato varieties was carried out, forming a pilot study for the selection of promising varieties for ethanol production. For this purpose, the samples were dried to constant weight. The ash, amylose and amylopectin contents showed significant differences between the varieties. Similarly, differences were observed in the shape and size of the granules, variables that influenced the gelatinization temperature and viscosity of the final products. These variations in the physicochemical properties and morphology of the starches may affect the use of starch and in the production of ethanol.
Ethylene and changes during ripening in 'Horvin' plum (Prunus salicina Lindl.) fruits
Authors: Rozo-Romero Lady Ximena , Alvarez-Herrera Javier Giovanni , Balaguera-López Helber Enrique
Published: September 2015

The plum is a fruit prized for its nutraceutical properties because of its high content of fiber and sorbitol, which aid in digestion; furthermore, it is characterized as containing antioxidant pigments and an antiseptic action with anthocyanins. These fruits are classified as climacteric and continue the process of respiration and ripening after harvesting; because of this, it is necessary to harvest early so they can withstand transport, which often causes the fruits to not reach the consumption maturity required by consumers. The effect of ethylene on the ripening of plum fruits was evaluated, for which a completely randomized design with 10 treatments was used, which resulted from the combination of two factors plus a control without applications. The first factor was the ethylene dose (100; 1,000 and 2,000 mg L-1) and the second factor was the length of exposure to the ethylene (5, 10 and 15 minutes). The fruits were stored at room temperature for 9 days. In the fruits treated with ethylene, a significant increase in the respiration index and total soluble solids was observed. Additionally, greater total titratable acids and firmness values were obtained with the control treatment than with the ethylene; similarly, the ethylene application increased the fresh mass loss in the plum fruits. Overall, differences between the fruits treated with ethylene and the control were observed, but not between the doses, indicating that the lowest ethylene dose (100 mg L-1) can obtain the desired uniformity in plum fruits.
Genetic variability of Papaya ringspot virus isolates in Norte de Santander - Colombia
Authors: Chaves-Bedoya Giovanni , Ortiz-Rojas Luz Yineth
Published: September 2015

The Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), a member of the potyvirus that is transmitted by aphids within the Potyviridae family, is the main limiting factor for papaya (Carica papaya L.) and Cucurbits worldwide and causes losses of up to 100%. In this study, we conducted research on the genetic diversity of PRSV isolates collected from two locations in the department of Norte de Santander, Colombia. The analysis was performed by comparing the nucleotide sequences of the region that encode the coat protein (CP) of nine PRSV isolates from the Villa del Rosario location and 12 isolates from the Campo Hermoso location. The analysis included three sequences of the CP of PRSV isolates reported in the Colombian departments of Arauca and Valle del Cauca. The bioinformatic analysis suggested that the PRSV isolates from the locations in Norte de Santander were different from each other, grouping into different phylogenetic groups. Anexistence of recombination events in the coat protein was observed. This is the first study of PRSV genetic variability that has been conducted at the local level in Colombia.
Reconciling Full-Cost and Marginal-Cost Pricing
Authors: Gramlich Jacob P. , Ray Korok
Published: September 2015

Despite the clear prescription from economic theory that a firm should set price based only on variable costs, firms routinely factor fixed costs into pricing decisions. We show that full-cost pricing (FCP) can help firms uncover their optimal price from economic theory. FCP marks up variable cost with the contribution margin per unit, which in equilibrium includes the fixed cost. This requires some knowledge of the firm's equilibrium return, though this is arguably easier a lower informational burden than knowing one's demand curve, which is required for optimal economic pricing. We characterize when FCP can implement the optimal price in a static game, a dynamic game, with multiple products, and under a satisficing objective.
Forecasting with Sufficient Dimension Reductions
Authors: Barbarino Alessandro , Bura Efstathia
Published: September 2015

Factor models have been successfully employed in summarizing large datasets with few underlying latent factors and in building time series forecasting models for economic variables. When the objective is to forecast a target variable y with a large set of predictors x, the construction of the summary of the xs should be driven by how informative on y it is. Most existing methods first reduce the predictors and then forecast y in independent phases of the modeling process. In this paper we present an alternative and potentially more attractive alternative: summarizing x as it relates to y, so that all the information in the conditional distribution of yjx is preserved. These y-targeted reductions of the predictors are obtained using Sufficient Dimension Reduction techniques. We show in simulations and real data analysis that forecasting models based on sufficient reductions have the potential of significantly improved performance.
A replacement name in the genus Heriades (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae)
Authors: Engel Michael S.
Published: September 2015

A replacement name is proposed to remove a case of secondary homonymy within the genus Heriades Spinola (Megachilinae: Osmiini).  Heriades (Heriades) micheneriana Engel, new name, is established in place of H. (H.) micheneri (Gupta & Sharma), a junior homonym of H. (Neotrypetes) micheneri Timberlake.
El contrato de donación de gametos y preembriones en la legislación española sobre técnicas de reproducción humana asistida
Authors: Ruiz Sáenz Ángela
Published: September 2015

El progreso experimentado en las ciencias de la vida y de la medicina impulsado por los modernos avances y descubrimientos científicos y tecnológicos ha propiciado el desarrollo de las técnicas de reproducción humana asistida como una solución al problema de la esterilidad, sustituyendo a la adopción como alternativa tradicional a la paternidad biológica. De conformidad con la legislación española, concretamente la Ley 14/2006, de 26 de mayo, de Técnicas de Reproducción Humana Asistida, toda mujer mayor de 18 años y con plena capacidad de obrar podrá ser receptora o usuaria de las Técnicas de reproducción humana asistida, con independencia de su estado civil y orientación sexual, pudiendo clasificar las técnicas de reproducción humana asistida en técnicas homólogas, cuando para la fecundación se empleen los gametos de los miembros de la pareja que desea tener el hijo, ytécnicas heterólogas, cuando al menos uno de los gametos que intervienen en la fecundación pertenece a un sujeto distinto de las personas que pretenden ser padres, es decir, procede de donante.En este sentido, el artículo 5 de la precitada Ley regula el régimen jurídico aplicable a los donantes de gametos y preembriones, configurando el contrato de donación como un contrato gratuito, formal y confidencial concertado entre el donante y el centro autorizado. Consecuentemente, y en tanto que el contrato de donación se celebra entre el donante y el centro autorizado, no sólo el donante es desconocido para la receptora, sino que también ésta es desconocida para el donante.
Observatório da Saúde no Legislativo: as proposições em saúde no âmbito do Congresso Nacional. Brasil (2011-2012).
Authors: Bem Ivan Pricken de , Sanchez Mauro Niskier
Published: September 2015

O Observatório da Saúde no Legislativo (OSL) é um espaço virtual (observatorio.fiocruz.br) constituído por um banco de dados públicos permanente, sediado na Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Brasília, destinado ao acompanhamento das proposições legislativas de interesse para a saúde em tramitação no Congresso Nacional brasileiro e oferecimento gratuito das informações mais relevantes sobre elas. A 54ª Legislatura iniciou-se no ano de 2011 e, desde então, novas proposições foram sendo apresentadas pelo novo corpo político do Congresso Nacional, renovado por eleições. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar resultados de pesquisa realizada nas bases de dados da Câmara dos Deputados e do Senado Federal quanto às proposições legislativas relativas à saúde e acompanhar sua tramitação e evolução no período de 2011 e 2012. No período estudado, constatou-se que cerca de 10% das proposições apresentadas foram relativas à saúde, tendo a maioria delas relação com álcool e drogas. Com o nascimento do Observatório, a população ganha poder fiscalizador e apoiador nas políticas de saúde. Esse projeto visa, também, empoderar o cidadão ao socializar informações acerca do seu direito, possibilitando, assim, o trinômio conhecer-exigir-vivenciar.
Palenques y Cimarronaje: procesos de resistencia al sistema colonial esclavista en el Caribe Sabanero (Siglos XVI, XVII y XVIII)
Authors: Castaño Alen
Published: September 2015

This article discusses the marronage logics (Cimarronaje) and the constitution of Palenque villages, as an expression of black slaves’ resistance against the colonial neogranadian system. The analysis is temporarily focused on the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, and spatially in the current Caribbean region of Colombia, specifically the areas known as Bolivar Sabanero and the Mompox Depression. Throughout the conjunction of these temporal and geographic variables, the author can track how black slaves ran away from their masters using marronage (cimarronaje) dynamics, as a pursuit for social and territorial autonomy. This autonomy was materialized through the construction of Palenque villages in specific areas of the Colombian Caribbean, where they found what the colonial system did not provide to the enslaved population of the time.  In this sense, this paper presents some theoretical positions corresponding to the study of Afro-descendants during the colonial times in the focused region. The analysis could contribute to strengthening the figure of Palenque village’s as territorial entities and a geographic space that allowed the Maroons to access levels of social autonomy through a particular use and appropriation of their native territory.
Intervención social y el debate sobre lo público
Authors: Pilar Acosta Maria del
Published: September 2015

Reseña del libro:Grupo de Intervención y Responsabilidad Social (2014). Intervención social y el debate sobre lo público: reflexiones conceptuales y casos locales. Colección "El Sur es Cielo Roto", No. 9. Cali, Colombia: Universidad Icesi, Facultad de Derecho y Ciencias Sociales. 258 pp.
El abrazo por la vida y la libertad
Authors: Balanta Castilla Gustavo Emilio
Published: September 2015

Opening words of the XV National Congress of Anthropology held on June 5, 2015 in Santa Marta, Colombia.
The Аesthetic Concept of Play as the Paradigm of Modernist and Postmodernist Literature
Authors:   Kuban State University, Strelnikova L. Yu.
Published: September 2015

The article is dedicated to the issues of the play poetics as philosophical, ontological, and aesthetic paradigm of the main movements of the modern literature. The main criteria of the play are analyzed in the theoretical research and literary works of the modernist and postmodernist writers.
Master’s Thesis: a New Generation Research Project
Authors:   Volgograd State University, Novikova E. Yu. , Makhortova T. Yu. ,   Volgograd State University
Published: September 2015

The article deals with the specific features of the graduation thesis within the framework of the degree program in linguistics (translation skills profile) alongside the implementation of the competency based approach at the institutions of higher education. An attempt is undertaken to analyze the basic requirements for Master’s and Bachelor’s theses at Volgograd State University and some German and Austrian translation institutions of higher education.
«No Answer» as an Indicator of the Word Acquisition Degree in Associative Fields
Authors:   Saratov State University, Sdobnova A. P.
Published: September 2015

The article studies the interdependence between «no answers» and the process of lexicon formation during school age, based on associative dictionary data.
Syntactic Signs of the Typical Proposition «the State of Nature Manifested by the Movement of Objects» in the Russian Language
Authors:   Bunin Yelets State University, Selemeneva O. A.
Published: September 2015

The article describes different sentences with the meaning «the state of nature manifested by the movement of objects» from two perspectives: structural (the structural schemes of the simple sentences are analyzed as signs of the typical proposition) and semantic (utterances are classified on the ground of the differences in the meanings).
Varieties and Methods of Nomination in the Names of Abakan Trading Places
Authors:   Katanov State University of Khakassia, Kadolo T. A.
Published: September 2015

The aim of the study is to analyze the methods of nomination in the names of trading places (emporonyms) of Abakan. The analysis is conducted both on the verbal and nonverbal levels of nomination. The author distinguishes morphemic and non-morphemic methods of nomination (compounding, clipping, conversion etc), as well as graphic contamination and graphic parceling.
Unidentified Varravin. To the Poetics of A. V. Sukhovo-Kobylin’s Characters
Authors:   Saratov State University, Zakharov K. M.
Published: September 2015

The article regards the character of General Varravin – the main and only character moving the scheme forward in the drama «The Case» by A. V. Sukhovo-Kobylin. The ambiguity and inconsistency of this character are specifically highlighted.
L. Tolstoy: Unsanctioned Editing
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Dolinina S. Ya.
Published: September 2015

The author analyzes L. Tolstoy’s editing short stories «The Darling» by A. Chekhov and «The Living Relic» by I. Turgenev as an example of unsanctioned editing. Motives and methods of the editor’s unapproved changes are considered.
Impact of DVR on TV Viewers and Its Implications for Media Planning and Creative Execution
Authors: Kalia Shalini , Singh Chandan Kumar
Published: September 2015

The advent of the Digital Video Recorder (DVR) has caused a significant stir in the world of marketing.Increased consumer control over the traditional advertising medium of choice will have significant implications for both media planning and creative execution. Therefore in the DVR age, it is critical for media planners to use appropriate advertising strategies for the right impact. This empirical research, conducted in Indian context, attemptsto understand the mind set of TV viewers for adopting DVR facility; to analyse the impact of using DVR facility on their purchasing behaviour; and to derive significant implications for both media planning and creative execution. The study found that owning a DVR does not significantly influence the demand for advertised products despite its ad-skipping feature. The research paper analyses the strategies adopted by the countries where DVR penetration is much higher in comparison to India and makes recommendations for media planners in context to Indian market.
Relationship between Optimum Stimulation Level and Exploratory Tendencies - A Critical Review of Literature
Authors: Mor Dr. Kiran , Sapra Ms. Geetu
Published: September 2015

Purpose: The present paper focuses on the relationship between Optimum stimulation level and exploratory tendencies. The main objective of the paper is to analyze the relationship between Optimum Stimulation Level and Exploratory Tendencies- Risk Taking, Innovative Behavior, Variety Seeking and Curiosity- motivated behavior. Design/methodology/approach: A review of available literature was done in order to understand the relationship between Optimum Stimulation Level and Exploratory Tendencies- Risk Taking, Innovative Behavior, Variety Seeking and Curiosity- motivated behavior. Findings: The findings of the paper implicitly point out that Optimum Stimulation Level systematically influences consumer behaviors with strong exploratory tendencies as each type of exploratory behavior provides the consumer with a means of increasing stimulation. To conclude research supports the basic proposition that Optimum Stimulation Level has a positive impact on exploratory consumer behavior. Originality/value: Based on literature review of 22 empirical articles, the paper makes Managerial implications that the basic motivations underlying these exploratory responses seem to be risk taking, variety seeking and curiosity motivated behavior. Also the relationships between Optimum Stimulation Level and the exploratory tendencies show that certain types of behavior are more closely related to stimulation needs. The results suggest that individuals with high Optimum Stimulation Level and low Optimum Stimulation Level differ most with respect to risk taking and innovativeness. They also differ somewhat in brand switching and repetitive behavior proneness while they differ the least in exploration involving information seeking, shopping and interpersonal communication. The studies conducted to show the relationship between Optimum Stimulation Level and exploratory tendencies have significant impact on the Emerging Consumer Markets. The studies show that relationships of Optimum Stimulation Level with values indicate that it is essentially an individualistic construct. Consumer’s exploratory tendencies are important determinants of many consumer behaviors and should therefore be of significant interest to consumer researchers. There have been many theories in psychology which suggests that a person engages in exploratory behavior due to his or her Optimum Stimulation Level.
Crime and Security Issues in Cyberspace
Authors: Bhat Suhail Rashid , Hasita A Ramya
Published: September 2015

“The most important and urgent problems of the technology of today are no longer the satisfactions of the primary needs or of archetypal wishes, but the reparation of the evils and damages by the technology of yesterday.” The present situation with regard to cyberspace and the development of the Internet and low-cost wireless communication is similar to Thalidomide; a wonder drug, gone bad. As rightly termed as one of the greatest innovation, the computer and the internet, are undoubtedly the first amendment brought to life. But this amendment could not control itself within the limits of safe hands, just like an uncontrolled chain reaction, knowing no restriction. The Internet is the first thing that humanity has built that humanity doesn't understand, the largest experiment in anarchy that we have ever had. Life is about a mix of good and evil. So is the Internet. For all the good it does us, cyberspace has its dark sides too. Unlike conventional communities though, there are no policemen patrolling the information superhighway, leaving it open to everything from Trojan horses and viruses to cyber stalking, trademark counterfeiting and cyber terrorism. With the growth of computer technology, the definition of crime is all together changed. A simple click of mouse has given so much power to an anonymous index finger that it can rob millions, crumble a company and even threaten a country’s defence. The evolution of technology has impacted the nature of conflict and war. Amongst the recent aspects of involving in conflict is “no contact war” wherein there is no “physical” or “kinetic” action across borders. There is one important nuance in the treatment of cyberspace as a fifth potential theatre of war along with land, sea, air and space. Born out of the merger of two opposite ends of application of human intelligence cyber (the crest of human intelligence) and crime (the trough of human intelligence) cybercrime is giving sleepless nights to the human race.The threats are endless and presently our laws are toothless.
A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial for Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ackermann Ronald T. , Liss David T. , Finch Emily A. , Schmidt Karen K. , Hays Laura M. , Marrero David G. , Saha Chandan
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We evaluated the weight loss effectiveness of a YMCA model for the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention.

Methods. Between July 2008 and November 2010, we individually randomized 509 overweight or obese, low-income, nondiabetic adults with elevated blood glucose in Indianapolis, Indiana, to receive standard care plus brief lifestyle counseling or be offered a group-based YMCA adaptation of the DPP (YDPP). Primary outcome was mean weight loss difference at 12 months. In our intention-to-treat analyses, we used longitudinal linear or logistic regression, multiply imputing missing observations. We used instrumental variables regression to estimate weight loss effectiveness among participants completing 9 or more intervention lessons.

Results. In the YDPP arm, 161 (62.6%) participants attended ≥ 1 lesson and 103 (40.0%) completed 9 or more lessons. In intention-to-treat analysis, mean 12-month weight loss was 2.3 kilograms (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1, 3.4 kg) more for the YDPP arm than for standard care participants. In instrumental variable analyses, persons attending 9 or more lessons had a 5.3-kilogram (95% CI = 2.8, 7.9 kg) greater weight loss than did those with standard care alone.

Conclusions. The YMCA model for DPP delivery achieves meaningful weight loss at 12 months among low-income adults.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Cumulative Environmental Health Impacts in California: Evidence From a Statewide Environmental Justice Screening Tool (CalEnviroScreen 1.1)
Authors: Cushing Lara , Faust John , August Laura Meehan , Cendak Rose , Wieland Walker , Alexeeff George
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We used an environmental justice screening tool (CalEnviroScreen 1.1) to compare the distribution of environmental hazards and vulnerable populations across California communities.

Methods. CalEnviroScreen 1.1 combines 17 indicators created from 2004 to 2013 publicly available data into a relative cumulative impact score. We compared cumulative impact scores across California zip codes on the basis of their location, urban or rural character, and racial/ethnic makeup. We used a concentration index to evaluate which indicators were most unequally distributed with respect to race/ethnicity and poverty.

Results. The unadjusted odds of living in one of the 10% most affected zip codes were 6.2, 5.8, 1.9, 1.8, and 1.6 times greater for Hispanics, African Americans, Native Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, and other or multiracial individuals, respectively, than for non-Hispanic Whites. Environmental hazards were more regressively distributed with respect to race/ethnicity than poverty, with pesticide use and toxic chemical releases being the most unequal.

Conclusions. Environmental health hazards disproportionately burden communities of color in California. Efforts to reduce disparities in pollution burden can use simple screening tools to prioritize areas for action.
Practice-Based Research Priorities for Palliative Care: Results From a Research-to-Practice Consensus Workshop
Authors: Pillemer Karl , Chen Emily K. , Riffin Catherine , Prigerson Holly , Reid M. C.
Published: September 2015

We employed the research-to-practice consensus workshop (RTP; workshops held in New York City and Tompkins County, New York, in 2013) model to merge researcher and practitioner views of translational research priorities in palliative care. In the RTP approach, a diverse group of frontline providers generates a research agenda for palliative care in collaboration with researchers. We have presented the major workshop recommendations and contrasted the practice-based research priorities with those of previous consensus efforts. We uncovered notable differences and found that the RTP model can produce unique insights into research priorities. Integrating practitioner-identified needs into research priorities for palliative care can contribute to addressing palliative care more effectively as a public health issue.
Maternal Allostatic Load, Caretaking Behaviors, and Child Dental Caries Experience: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Linked Mother–Child Data From the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Masterson Erin E. , Sabbah Wael
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We evaluated the associations between chronic maternal stress measured by allostatic load (AL), maternal caretaking behaviors, and child dental caries experience. We also assessed the role of socioeconomic status in these associations.

Methods. We used data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988–1994). We included children aged 2 to 6 years who linked to a maternal record (n = 716 maternal–child pairs). The main exposure was maternal AL index (0, 1, or ≥ 2). The primary outcome of interest was child dental caries experience (none or any). We evaluated the association between maternal AL and (1) maternal caretaking behaviors, and (2) child caries status and the role of socioeconomic status in these relationships.

Results. Children of mothers with an AL index of at least 2 were significantly more likely to have not been breastfed and to have dental caries than were children of mothers with a normal AL before adjusting for measures of socioeconomic status.

Conclusions. Maternal chronic stress, indicated by elevation in markers of AL, has an important role in child caretaking behaviors and in children’s oral health.
What Women Want: A Qualitative Study of Contraception in Jail
Authors: Schonberg Dana , Bennett Ariana H. , Sufrin Carolyn , Karasz Alison , Gold Marji
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We undertook this study to understand women’s perceptions of receiving contraception at Rikers Island Jail.

Methods. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews in 2011 to 2012 with 32 women incarcerated at Rikers Island Jail. We analyzed the data using standard qualitative techniques.

Results. Almost all participants believed that contraception should be provided at the jail. However, many said they would hesitate to use these services themselves. Reservations were caused in part by women’s negative views of health care services at the jail. Fears about the safety of birth control, difficulties associated with follow-up in the community, and desire for pregnancy were other factors that influenced interest in accepting contraception.

Conclusions. Contraception at the jail must be provided by trusted medical providers delivering high quality care with the goal of allowing women to control their own fertility; this would ensure that women could access birth control and cease using birth control when desired.
Incarceration and Current Tobacco Smoking Among Black and Caribbean Black Americans in the National Survey of American Life
Authors: Bailey Zinzi D. , Okechukwu Cassandra , Kawachi Ichiro , Williams David R.
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We examined the relationship between having a history of incarceration and being a current smoker using a national sample of noninstitutionalized Black adults living in the United States.

Methods. With data from the National Survey of American Life collected between February 2001 and March 2003, we calculated individual propensity scores for having a history of incarceration. To examine the relationship between prior incarceration and current smoking status, we ran gender-specific propensity-matched fitted logistic regression models.

Results. A history of incarceration was consistently and independently associated with a higher risk of current tobacco smoking in men and women. Formerly incarcerated Black men had 1.77 times the risk of being a current tobacco smoker than did their counterparts without a history of incarceration (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20, 2.61) in the propensity score-matched sample. The results were similar among Black women (prevalence ratio = 1.61; 95% CI = 1.00, 2.57).

Conclusions. Mass incarceration likely contributes to the prevalence of smoking among US Blacks. Future research should explore whether the exclusion of institutionalized populations in national statistics obscures Black–White disparities in tobacco smoking.
Spousal Violence in 5 Transitional Countries: A Population-Based Multilevel Analysis of Individual and Contextual Factors
Authors: Ismayilova Leyla
Published: September 2015

Objectives. I examined the individual- and community-level factors associated with spousal violence in post-Soviet countries.

Methods. I used population-based data from the Demographic and Health Survey conducted between 2005 and 2012. My sample included currently married women of reproductive age (n = 3932 in Azerbaijan, n = 4053 in Moldova, n = 1932 in Ukraine, n = 4361 in Kyrgyzstan, and n = 4093 in Tajikistan). I selected respondents using stratified multistage cluster sampling. Because of the nested structure of the data, multilevel logistic regressions for survey data were fitted to examine factors associated with spousal violence in the last 12 months.

Results. Partner’s problem drinking was the strongest risk factor associated with spousal violence in all 5 countries. In Moldova, Ukraine, and Kyrgyzstan, women with greater financial power than their spouses were more likely to experience violence. Effects of community economic deprivation and of empowerment status of women in the community on spousal violence differed across countries. Women living in communities with a high tolerance of violence faced a higher risk of spousal violence in Moldova and Ukraine. In more traditional countries (Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan), spousal violence was lower in conservative communities with patriarchal gender beliefs or higher financial dependency on husbands.

Conclusions. My findings underscore the importance of examining individual risk factors in the context of community-level factors and developing individual- and community-level interventions.
Differences by Sexual Orientation in Expectations About Future Long-Term Care Needs Among Adults 40 to 65 Years Old
Authors: Henning-Smith Carrie , Gonzales Gilbert , Shippee Tetyana P.
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We examined whether and how lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults between 40 and 65 years of age differ from heterosexual adults in long-term care (LTC) expectations.

Methods. Our data were derived from the 2013 National Health Interview Survey. We used ordered logistic regression to compare the odds of expected future use of LTC among LGB (n = 297) and heterosexual (n = 13 120) adults. We also used logistic regression models to assess the odds of expecting to use specific sources of care. All models controlled for key socioeconomic characteristics.

Results. Although LGB adults had greater expectations of needing LTC in the future than their heterosexual counterparts, that association was largely explained by sociodemographic and health differences. After control for these differentials, LGB adults were less likely to expect care from family and more likely to expect to use institutional care in old age.

Conclusions. LGB adults may rely more heavily than heterosexual adults on formal systems of care. As the older population continues to diversify, nursing homes and assisted living facilities should work to ensure safety and culturally sensitive best practices for older LGB groups.
Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms in Canadian Emerging Adults
Authors: Ferro Mark A. , Gorter Jan Willem , Boyle Michael H.
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We identified courses of depressive symptoms in an epidemiological sample of emerging adults.

Methods. We used latent class growth modeling to identify trajectories of depressive symptoms measured by the 12-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) during a 14-year follow-up of 2825 Canadian youths aged 10 to 25 years enrolled in the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth between 1994 and 2009.

Results. After adjustment for youth, parent, and family factors, the 3 distinct trajectories of depressive symptoms were minimal (55%; CES-D < 6), subclinical (39%; CES-D = 9–13), and clinical (6%; CES-D > 18). All trajectories exhibited a parallel course, with peak symptoms at 15 to 17 years of age. Subclinical and clinical symptoms were more common than minimal symptoms in female youths and in respondents with lower self-concept, lower socioeconomic status, poorer interpersonal relations, and chronic health conditions (P < .01).

Conclusions. Among emerging adults, trajectories of depressive symptoms do not trend upward or downward, and variables associated with identified trajectories demonstrated dose–response effects that agreed with vulnerability–stress theories of depression.
Type 2 Diabetes and Anxiety Symptoms Among Women in New Delhi, India
Authors: Weaver Lesley Jo , Madhu S. V.
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We explored the relationship between mental health and type 2 diabetes among women in New Delhi, India, in 2011.

Methods. We recruited a convenience sample of 184 diabetic women from 10 public and private clinics. They completed a finger-stick blood test and a questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, depression and anxiety symptoms, and diabetes-related disabilities restricting their performance of daily tasks. A subsample of 30 women participated in follow-up qualitative interviews at their homes.

Results. More than one quarter of our sample of diabetic women reported high levels of anxiety symptoms, whereas 18% reported high levels of depression symptoms. Anxiety symptoms were patterned according to recency of diabetes diagnosis, with 40% of women diagnosed less than 2 years before their interview reporting high anxiety symptom levels, as opposed to 23% of women diagnosed more than 2 years in the past. Depression and anxiety scores differed with respect to their relationship to recency of diagnosis, number of children, blood glucose level, and functional disabilities restricting performance of daily tasks.

Conclusions. Screening for anxiety among people with diabetes has been overlooked in the past. Anxiety appears more prevalent than depression, especially during the first 2 years of the disease.
The Perceived Consequences of Gold Mining in Postwar El Salvador: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Zakrison Tanya L. , Cabezas Pedro , Valle Evan , Kornfeld Julie , Muntaner Carles , Soklaridis Sophie
Published: September 2015

Objectives. We investigated themes related to the health and environmental impacts of gold mining in El Salvador.

Methods. Over a 1-month period in 2013, we conducted focus groups (n = 32 participants in total) and individual semistructured interviews (n = 11) with community leaders until we achieved thematic saturation. Data collection took place in 4 departments throughout the country. We used a combination of criterion-purposive and snowballing sampling techniques to identify participants.

Results. Multiple themes emerged: (1) the fallacy of economic development; (2) critique of mining activities; (3) the creation of mining-related violence, with parallels to El Salvador's civil war; and (4) solutions and alternatives to mining activity. Solutions involved the creation of cooperative microenterprises for sustainable economic growth, political empowerment within communities, and development of local participatory democracies.

Conclusions. Gold mining in El Salvador is perceived as a significant environmental and public health threat. Local solutions may be applicable broadly.
Public Health and Legal Arguments in Favor of a Policy to Cap the Portion Sizes of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
Authors: Roberto Christina A. , Pomeranz Jennifer L.
Published: September 2015

In 2012, the New York City Board of Health passed a regulation prohibiting the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in containers above 16 ounces in the city’s food service establishments. The beverage industry and various retailers sued the city to prevent enforcement of the law, arguing that the board had overstepped its authority. In June 2014, the state’s highest court agreed and struck down the regulation.

Here we report the results of a content analysis of the public testimony related to the case submitted to the New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene. We identified major arguments in support of and against the sugar-sweetened beverage portion limit policy.

We offer legal and scientific arguments that challenge the major anti-policy arguments and contend that, although this policy was not implemented in New York City, it can be legally pursued by other legislatures.
Hairy Vetch Seedbank Persistence and Implications for Cover Crop Management
Authors: Mirsky Steven B. , Wallace John M. , Curran William S. , Crockett Benjamin C.
Published: September 2015

Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) is a fast‐growing, winter‐hardy annual legume that is well suited for summer annual grain rotations because it fixes N2, reduces erosion, and suppresses weeds. Utilization of hairy vetch as a cover crop has been limited due to producer concerns regarding its potential to become a weed in subsequent crops. Hairy vetch weediness is attributed to its hard seed, a physical dormancy trait common to Vicia species. A 2‐yr field experiment was conducted in Pennsylvania and Maryland to characterize the effects of mechanical scarification and burial depth on seedbank dynamics using two cultivars. Field and laboratory measurements were conducted to determine seedbank fate: seedling emergence, seedbank persistence, and seedbank loss. Hairy vetch emergence and persistence in the soil seedbank varied considerably across cultivars, years, and study locations. Scarification completely eliminated seedbank persistence 6 mo after burial but probably reduced viability and stand establishment in some cases. Among unscarified seed treatments, seedbank persistence ranged from <1 to 7% 6 mo after burial. Burial of seed at 15 cm resulted in decreased seedling emergence and increased seedbank loss in comparison to the 3‐cm burial depth. Among treatments, seedling emergence ranged from 36 to 84% at the 3‐cm depth and 7 to 46% at the 15‐cm depth. These results indicate that mechanical scarification is a potential strategy for managing hairy vetch seedbank persistence and warrants further investigation. Tillage may also be effective for decreasing hairy vetch seedbanks when coupled with other management tactics.
Use of the Suwan1 Heterotic Group in Maize Breeding Programs in Southwestern China
Authors: Fan X.‐M. , Bi Y. Q. , Zhang Y. D. , Jeffers D. P. , Yao W. H. , Chen H. M. , Zhao L. Q. , Kang M. S.
Published: September 2015

Broadening the maize (Zea mays L.) genetic base is essential for improving grain yield. Suwan1, developed from a broad base of tropical germplasm in Thailand, has recently been identified as a heterotic group different from Reid and non‐Reid heterotic groups. The objectives of this study were (i) to evaluate the grain yield (GY) of crosses to see if there is value to utilizing Suwan1 as a heterotic group in maize breeding, and (ii) to investigate the general combining ability and specific combining ability to determine if Suwan1 shows good combining ability with Reid and non‐Reid heterotic groups for GY. Three testers, one from each of the three heterotic groups, were crossed with 20 elite lines collected from across China. Eighteen lines improved via introgression of exotic germplasm and two lines improved via pedigree selection were crossed with TRL02 (non‐Reid), YML46 (Suwan1), and TRL211 (Reid). Grain yield, ear length, ear diameter, kernel rows per ear, kernels per row, and 100‐kernel weight of crosses and a check were evaluated at three locations. The results suggested that the Suwan1 × temperate crossing system was a very useful heterotic pattern. Suwan1 improved all five yield components in crosses and demonstrated good combining ability for GY with Reid and non‐Reid heterotic groups. We have also determined that the appropriate percentage of introgressed germplasm should be between 6.25 and 12.5%.
Changes in Nutrient Characteristics of Switchgrass for Bioenergy
Authors: de Koff Jason P. , Allison Abimbola
Published: September 2015

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) was identified as a “model” bioenergy crop by the USDOE in 1991. Since then, there has been little research to understand changes in switchgrass quality during the growing season or the effect that drought may have on these quality characteristics. This study determined changes in total N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, moisture concentration, and dry weight yield through intensive sampling during the growing season. Subsamples from a one‐cut system were harvested on 13 different dates in 2011 and eight different dates in 2012 between late May and early November. Low rainfall in late spring and early summer 2012 created drought conditions that led to some differences between years. In general, the measured variables decreased with time, but dry weight yield increased in both years and peaked around late August. In 2011, a significant rise in N between late July and mid‐August may have been caused by reproductive growth and/or organic matter mineralization, although this has not been documented elsewhere. Differences between normal (2011) and drought (2012) conditions included lower biomass production, reduced N concentrations, increased S and P concentrations in late August, and increased plant moisture in late August and October under drought conditions. Years with drought conditions may allow more staggered harvesting because nutrient ranges are smaller. This will allow a more continuous supply of feedstock to the biorefinery. These data and future economic analyses will allow better decision‐making opportunities for producers.
Synergistic Effect of Rhizobia and Biochar on Growth and Physiology of Maize
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Tanveer , Asghar Hafiz Naeem , Saleem Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Yahya , Zahir Zahir Ahmad
Published: September 2015

This experiment aimed to evaluate plant growth promoting rhizobia in combination with biochar for improving the growth and physiology of maize (Zea mays L.). Three rhizobia isolated from different legumes (RH1, RH2, and RH3) were used to inoculate maize growing in soil amended with different levels of biochar (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5%) under controlled conditions. The magnitude of improvement in the growth and physiology of maize varied due to rhizobial inoculation and application of biochar, either alone or in combination. Combined application of different rhizobia and biochar caused significant improvement in the growth and physiological attributes of maize over their sole use. The performance of all tested rhizobia was comparatively better at the 1.0% biochar level for improving maize growth compared with the other biochar levels (0.5 and 1.5%). Rhizobial strain RH1 showed the most prominent results for improving the growth of maize among all the tested rhizobia either used alone or in combination with biochar. Phosphatase, dehydrogenase, and microbial biomass C were also improved in the rhizosphere due to rhizobial inoculation and biochar. This work clearly indicates that the rhizobia from different legumes variably improved the growth and physiology of maize. However, the performance of rhizobia could be further improved when used in combination with an appropriate level of biochar.
In vitro antioxidant activity of dewberry (Rubus caesius L. var. aquáticus Weihe. & Nees.) leaf extracts
Authors: Velickovic Ivona , Grujic Slavica , Dzamic Ana , Krivosej Zoran , Marin Petar
Published: September 2015

In this study, the antioxidant properties and total phenolic and flavonoid
contents of Rubus caesius L. var. aqu?ticus Weihe & Nees leaf extracts were
examined. The radical scavenging capacity of four leaf extracts (methanol,
ethanol, acetone and aqueous) was estimated against
2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) and
2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Total
antioxidant capacity was tested by ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP)
and total reducing capacity (TRC) procedures. Total contents of phenols and
flavonoids were also determined. Total phenol content in the extracts was
determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and amounts ranged between 263.74
for ethanol to 366.27 mg gallic acid (GA)/g for acetone extracts. The amounts
of flavonoids varied from 10.73 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g for aqueous to
75.83 mg QE/g for acetone extract. The highest antioxidant activity against
DPPH and ABTS?+ radicals was that of the acetone extract. Values for FRAP
varied between 3.00 ?mol Fe+2/mg for the ethanol extract and 5.31 ?mol
Fe+2/mg for the methanol extract. The results obtained for total reducing
capacity indicate that the acetone extract has the highest antioxidant
potential.