bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable Contraceptive Continuation among Female Exotic Dancers Seeking Mobile Reproductive Health Services
Authors: Martin Caitlin E. , Han Jennifer J. , Serio-Chapman Chris , Chaulk Patrick , Terplan Mishka
Published: August 2014

Objectives . We describe depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) continuation patterns among female exotic dancers receiving reproductive health services at a mobile syringe exchange. Methods . Clients initiating DMPA between November 2009 and August 2012 were identified retrospectively via chart review. Life table analysis measured continuation. Client characteristics were compared using chi-square tests. Results . Sixty nine clients were identified; 72% were African American and 63% were younger than 25. At three months, 36% of the study sample continued DMPA; those continuing were more likely to be White (p=0.01) and receive other services (p=.01). The 12-month cumulative continuation probability was 0.09. Considering those who had received an injection, continuation proportions were higher (46% at 6; 71% at 12 months). Conclusions . A subset of female exotic dancers may favor DMPA as a long term contraceptive. Integrating mobile reproductive health services into public health programs can help fulfill the unique health needs of this high-risk population.
Homelessness and Risk of End-stage Renal Disease
Authors: Maziarz Marlena , Chertow Glenn M. , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Hall Yoshio N.
Published: August 2014

To identify homeless people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were at highest risk for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), we studied 982 homeless and 15,674 domiciled people with CKD receiving public health care. We developed four risk prediction models for the primary outcome of ESRD. Overall, 71 homeless and 888 domiciled people progressed to ESRD during follow-up (median: 6.6 years). Homeless people with CKD experienced significantly higher incidence rates of ESRD than poor but domiciled peers. Most homeless people who developed progressive CKD were readily identifiable well before ESRD using a prediction model with five common variables. We estimated that program following homeless people in the highest decile of ESRD risk would have captured 64–85% of those who eventually progressed to ESRD within five years. Thus, an approach targeting homeless people at high risk for ESRD appears feasible and could reduce substantial morbidity and costs incurred by this highly vulnerable group.
Race/Ethnicity and Other Social Determinants of Psychological Well-being and Functioning in Mental Health Clinics
Authors: Chang Trina E. , Weiss Anthony P. , Marques Luana , Baer Lee , Vogeli Christine , Trinh Nhi-Ha T. , Clain Alisabet J. , Blais Mark A. , Fava Maurizio , Yeung Albert S.
Published: August 2014

Significant racial and ethnic differences exist in the receipt of psychiatric care and help-seeking. We examined the relationship between race/ethnicity and psychological well-being and functioning in psychiatric outpatients. We analyzed intake data for 8,697 adult patients in psychiatry clinics in New England between 2008 and 2010. Patients rated psychological wellbeing using the Schwartz Outcome Scale (SOS-10); clinicians rated the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). In an analysis of variance with covariates, race/ethnicity exhibited a small but statistically significant association with GAF (F(4,8481)=17.902, p<.001) and SOS-10 scores (F(4,8165)=7.271, p<.001). However, after adjustment for physical health and socioeconomic variables, these differences became insignificant or were reversed. Our findings suggest that the relationship between race/ethnicity and mental health may be confounded by other socioeconomic or health differences and may be small compared with the effect of those variables. Future studies on race and psychological well-being should take social determinants of health into consideration.
African American Male and Female Student Perceptions of Pulvers Body Images: Implications for Obesity, Health Care, and Prevention
Authors: Brown Sherine R. , Hossain Mian Bazle , Bronner Yvonne
Published: August 2014

Differences in male and female perception response to the Pulvers Body Image Scale (PBIS) were examined among 356 freshmen African American students attending an urban historically Black college/university (HBCU). Participants completed a questionnaire identifying images that best represented their current, healthy , and ideal body image. Compared with males, more females selected the normal body image as their ideal (63.3% vs . 15.3%) and healthy body shape (59.3% vs . 15.3%) (p<.001). Compared with females, more males selected the overweight body image as their ideal (44.6% vs . 30.2%) and healthy body shape (52.2% vs . 36.2%) (p<.01). Similarly, more males selected the obese body image as their ideal (40.1% vs . 6.5%) and healthy body shape (32.5% vs . 4.5%) compared with females (p<.001). Male freshmen at an HBCU perceive a larger body image as healthy and ideal more often than their female counterparts, thereby increasing the potential for their weight-related health risks.
Ability to Deliver Services in Spanish: A Survey of Michigan Home Health Agencies, 2012
Authors: Espinosa Claudia M. , Cowan Anne E. , Clark Sarah J.
Published: August 2014

The capacity of home health agencies to serve children from families with low English proficiency is not well understood. We conducted an exploratory survey of home health agencies in Michigan in 2012 to document whether they can provide services in Spanish, serve children, and accept Medicaid.
Do Our Patients Have Enough to Eat?: Food Insecurity among Urban Low-income Cancer Patients
Authors: Gany Francesca , Lee Trevor , Ramirez Julia , Massie Dana , Moran Alyssa , Crist Michael , McNish Thelma , Winkel Gary , Leng Jennifer C.F.
Published: August 2014

This study assessed the prevalence and predictors of food insecurity among a cohort of underserved oncology patients at New York City cancer clinics. A demographic survey and the U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module were administered. A multivariate General Linear Model Analysis of Covariance was used to evaluate predictors of food insecurity. Four hundred and four (404) completed the surveys. Nearly one-fifth (18%) had very low, 38% low, 17% marginal, and 27% high food security. The Analysis of Covariance was statistically significant (F[7, 370] = 19.08; p < .0001; R-Square = 0.26). Younger age, Spanish language, poor health care access, and having less money for food since beginning cancer treatment were significantly associated with greater food insecurity. This cohort of underserved cancer patients had rates of food insecurity nearly five times those of the state average. More research is needed to understand better the causes and impact of food insecurity among cancer and chronic disease patients.
Influence of Education on HIV Infection among Pregnant Women Attending their Antenatal Care in Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Orish Verner N. , Onyeabor Onyekachi S. , Boampong Johnson N. , Afoakwah Richmond , Nwaefuna Ekene , Acquah Samuel , Orish Esther O. , Sanyaolu Adekunle O. , Iriemenam Nnaemeka C.
Published: August 2014

This study investigated the influence of the level of education on HIV infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana. A cross-sectional study was conducted at four hospitals in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis. The study group comprised 885 consenting pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics. Questionnaires were administered and venous blood samples were screened for HIV and other parameters. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between the level of education attained by the pregnant women and their HIV statuses. The data showed that 9.83% (87/885) of the pregnant women were HIV seropositive while 90.17% (798/885) were HIV seronegative. There were significant differences in mean age (years) between the HIV seropositive women (27.45 ± 5.5) and their HIV seronegative (26.02 ± 5.6) counterparts (p = .026) but the inference disappeared after adjustment (p = .22). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that pregnant women with secondary/tertiary education were less likely to have HIV infection compared with those with none/primary education (adjusted OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.30–0.91; p = .022). Our data showed an association with higher level of education and HIV statuses of the pregnant women. It is imperative to encourage formal education among pregnant women in this region.
The Thucydidean Moment: History, Science, and the Yellow-Fever Controversy, 1793–1805
Authors: Apel Thomas
Published: August 2014

From 1793 to 1805, yellow fever devastated the port cities of the eastern United States. As the most pressing natural philosophical issue of the early national period, the search for the cause of the disease generated a heated debate that pitted “contagionists,” who thought the it was imported, against “localists,” who believed it arose from domestic sources. This article examines the fever investigators' uses of history to settle the controversy, thereby showcasing an unknown aspect of the early republicans' well-noted interest in the past. This "Thucydidean moment" (so named for their particular fascination with Thucydides' famous plague narrative) culminated in two massive books on the history of disease: the Treatise on the Plague and Yellow Fever by the contagionist James Tytler, and the Brief History of Epidemic and Pestilential Diseases by the localist Noah Webster. Whereas Tytler's work was roundly rejected by his philosophical peers, Webster's Brief History cogently situated the yellow fever epidemics in the sweep of history, and thus pushed the debate in favor of the localists. But the victory was a Pyrrhic one. The appeal to the past exposed problems that undermined investigators' hopes that history could serve as an empirical basis of disease inquiry. It also threatened early republicans’ pretensions to historical exceptionalism by forcing them to reckon with their own precarious places in the cycles of time.
“The Books Will Still Be in the Library”: Narrow Definitions of Censorship in the Discourse of Challengers
Authors: Knox Emily
Published: August 2014

One of the many areas of conflict between challengers and professional librarians centers on the definition of censorship. Challengers often employ a definition that maintains that banning materials is the only true form of censorship, while the codified definition of censorship within librarianship is concerned with impediments to access. Through analysis of arguments in the West Bend (WI) challenge case, this article explores three themes in challengers’ narrow definitions of censorship found in their discourse. First, challengers argue that moving books within the library is not considered to be censorship. Second, they maintain that labeling books for content is also not a form of censorship. Finally, challengers focus on “common sense” actions and the power of the majority in their arguments to impede access to controversial materials.
When One Size Does Not Fit All: A Commentary
Authors: Jones Sarah E.
Published: August 2014

This commentary explores a few of the common threads in a symposium of obesity narratives in light of the American Medical Association’s classification of obesity as a disease. While the narratives illustrate the breadth of experiences, they each highlight the absence of a clear approach for the treatment of obesity, as well as the lack of conversation and compassion in the most basic of interactions with medical professionals. This could be cause for despair, yet we learn through these shared experiences that we can take control of our care and plot a course for real and lasting assistance with this condition.
Die Another Day: The Obstacles Facing Fat People in Accessing Quality Healthcare
Authors: Pausé Cat
Published: August 2014

In this issue of Narrative Inquiries in Bioethics , fat individuals share their healthcare experiences. Through reading the narratives, it becomes clear that access to proper healthcare is often blocked for fat patients by a variety of things, including shame and fat stigma. From physical spaces in which they do not fit, to doctors who diagnose all of their problems as ‘fat’, similar themes are echoed across the stories. And common are the refrains for better treatment, less shame, and access to evidenced based care from educated providers. In this manuscript, I highlight common themes from the stories and integrate them with themes from the literature. I allow the two dissenting narratives to suggest other ways of thinking about fatness and well–being. And I conclude by suggesting ways to provide better access to quality healthcare for fat individuals.
Desperately Seeking a Surrogate—For a Patient Lacking Decision–Making Capacity
Authors: Smith Martin L. , Luck Catherine L.
Published: August 2014

Our hospital’s policy and procedures for “Patients Without Surrogates” provides for gradated safeguards for managing patients’ treatment and care when they lack decision–making capacity, have no advance directives, and no surrogate decision makers are available. The safeguards increase as clinical decisions become more significant and have greater consequences for the patient. The policy also directs social workers to engage in “rigorous efforts” to search for surrogates who can potentially provide substituted judgments for such patients. We describe and illustrate the policy, procedures, and kinds of expected rigorous efforts through our narration of an actual but disguised case for which we provided clinical ethics guidance and social work expertise. Our experience with and reflection on this case resulted in four recommendations we make for health care facilities and organizations that aim to provide quality care for their own patients without surrogates.
Obesity
Authors: In Narrative
Published: August 2014

This narrative symposium was inspired by the American Medical Associations (AMA) decision to label obesity a disease. How do people who have been classified as obese feel this decision impacts on their lives? Personal narrative authors offer their experiences with obesity and healthcare. The symposium also hosts five commentary articles from scholars and stakeholders with a wide range of perspectives. These articles pull from themes in the personal narratives and bring them into dialogue with the current scholarly literature on this topic.
“Fernbild”: On Otto Friedlaender Writing Vienna 1900 in Vienna 1938–1942/45
Authors: Hertel Christiane
Published: August 2014

Between 1938 and 1945 the Viennese lawyer Otto Friedlaender (1889–1963) wrote Letzter Glanz der Märchenstadt: Bilder aus dem Leben um die Jahrhundertwende 1890–1914 and Wolken drohen über Wien: Lebens- und Sittenbilder aus den Jahren vor dem ersten Weltkrieg . Written side by side, these books nostalgically, but also critically, evoke the Habsburg myth of the mutually sustaining powers of Empire and Church and thus of the empire’s spiritual unity. Writing from his position of “inner exile” and protected survival in central Vienna, Friedlaender employs a very particular, shifting lens characterized by loving humor, critical irony, and striking visuality. The term Fernbild , introduced in 1893 into optical art theory and soon adopted into cultural criticism, defines an image’s mnemonic oscillation between spatial-temporal distance and presence. This concept sheds light on Friedlaender’s dialectical work in both texts, in which he interweaves Habsburg Vienna’s anti-Semitism with foreboding and the knowledge of complete loss.
The river blindness drug Ivermectin and related macrocyclic lactones inhibit WNT‐TCF pathway responses in human cancer
Authors: Melotti Alice , Mas Christophe , Kuciak Monika , Lorente‐Trigos Aiala , Borges Isabel , Ruiz i Altaba Ariel
Published: August 2014

Constitutive activation of canonical WNT‐TCF signaling is implicated in multiple diseases, including intestine and lung cancers, but there are no WNT‐TCF antagonists in clinical use. We have performed a repositioning screen for WNT‐TCF response blockers aiming to recapitulate the genetic blockade afforded by dominant‐negative TCF. We report that Ivermectin inhibits the expression of WNT‐TCF targets, mimicking dnTCF, and that its low concentration effects are rescued by direct activation by TCFVP16. Ivermectin inhibits the proliferation and increases apoptosis of various human cancer types. It represses the levels of C‐terminal β‐CATENIN phosphoforms and of CYCLIN D1 in an okadaic acid‐sensitive manner, indicating its action involves protein phosphatases. In vivo, Ivermectin selectively inhibits TCF‐dependent, but not TCF‐independent, xenograft growth without obvious side effects. Analysis of single semi‐synthetic derivatives highlights Selamectin, urging its clinical testing and the exploration of the macrocyclic lactone chemical space. Given that Ivermectin is a safe anti‐parasitic agent used by > 200 million people against river blindness, our results suggest its additional use as a therapeutic WNT‐TCF pathway response blocker to treat WNT‐TCF‐dependent diseases including multiple cancers.
Influence of Ni Particle Size of SDC-Supported Anode on SOFC Performance
Authors: Yahiro Hidenori , Sugihara Kazunari , Takemasa Tomohisa , Asamoto Makiko , Itagaki Yoshiteru , Yamaguchi Syuhei , Sadaoka Yoshihiko
Published: August 2014

Both Ni and alkaline earth metal oxide (MO: CaO, SrO, and BaO)-impregnated SDC powders were prepared as an SOFC anode material. The averaged Ni particle size on SDC was affected by the kind of alkaline earth metal oxide added. The addition of SrO and BaO to Ni/SDC anode enhanced power densities of both H2-SOFC and CH4-SOFC and the addition of CaO lowered them. The maximum power density increased with decreasing the averaged Ni particle size of Ni-MO/SDC anode.
CLEAR Opportunities: Technical Writing and Communication for Engineering Students
Authors: Risbud Aditi
Published: August 2014

Despite being well versed in scientific and technical concepts, engineering students often struggle with technical writing and communication. The CLEAR (Communication, Leadership, Ethics and Research) program at the University of Utah prepares engineering undergraduates for success in their careers through coursework aimed to improve oral and written communication skills, teamwork and ethical understanding. Along with an evaluation of ongoing CLEAR curricula in engineering laboratory and design classes, we are developing tools to assess student outcomes as defined by ABET criteria. These outcomes will inform how best to implement CLEAR curricula at the University of Utah, and ensure our graduates are better prepared to join the engineering workforce.
How Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers Are Transforming Our Understanding and Management of Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kim Christina , Mulder Karen , Spratlin Jennifer
Published: August 2014

Background.

Gastric cancer (GC) is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. GC is a heterogeneous disease in terms of histology, anatomy, and epidemiology. There is also wide variability in how GC is treated in both the resectable and unresectable settings. Identification of prognostic and predictive biomarkers is critical to help direct and tailor therapy for this deadly disease.

Methods.

A literature search was done using Medline and MeSH terms for GC and predictive biomarkers and prognostic biomarkers. The search was limited to human subjects and the English language. There was no limit on dates. Published data and unpublished abstracts with clinical relevance were included.

Results.

Many potential prognostic and predictive biomarkers have been assessed for GC, some of which are becoming practice changing. This review is focused on clinically relevant biomarkers, including EGFR, HER2, various markers of angiogenesis, proto-oncogene MET, and the mammalian target of rapamycin.

Conclusion.

GC is a deadly and heterogeneous disease for which biomarkers are beginning to change our understanding of prognosis and management. The recognition of predictive biomarkers, such as HER2 and vascular endothelial growth factor, has been an exciting development in the management of GC, validating the use of targeted drugs trastuzumab and ramucirumab. MET is another potential predictive marker that may be targeted in GC with drugs such as rilotumumab, foretinib, and crizotinib. Further identification and validation of prognostic and predictive biomarkers has the potential transform how this deadly disease is managed.
Phase I Study of Sunitinib in Combination With Gemcitabine and Capecitabine for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic or Unresectable Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bellmunt Joaquim , Suarez Cristina , Gallardo Enrique , Rodon Jordi , Pons Francesc , Bonfill Teresa , Beltran Marta , Moya Irene , Galtes Susana , Albanell Joan , Carles Joan
Published: August 2014

Background.

The combination of gemcitabine plus capecitabine and sunitinib (GCS) shows activity in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). We tested the multitargeted “chemo-switch” regimen as first-line treatment in patients with mRCC.

Methods.

We assessed the maximum tolerated dose and antitumor activity of GCS in treatment-naïve, advanced mRCC patients. Treatment consisted of intravenous gemcitabine on days 1 and 8, oral capecitabine twice daily on days 1–14, and oral sunitinib daily for six 21-day cycles, followed by sunitinib monotherapy at the investigator's discretion. Dose level 0 (DL0) was gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 per day plus capecitabine 650 mg/m2 per 12 hours plus sunitinib 37.5 mg/day; DL1 was gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 per day plus capecitabine 850 mg/m2 per 12 hours plus sunitinib 37.5 mg/day.

Results.

Sixteen patients were enrolled. At DL1, two of four patients had dose-limiting toxicity (DLT; grade 3 diarrhea and grade 4 thrombocytopenia). The dose was reduced to DL0 when only 1 of 12 patients experienced DLT (grade 3 diarrhea, grade 3 mucositis, and grade 3 thrombocytopenia). Dose reductions were frequent (58% of patients), and only seven patients were able to receive the three drugs for more than three cycles. One patient achieved a complete response, three had partial responses, and the best response for four was stable disease.

Conclusion.

The safety profile of the combination does not seem manageable in this patient population. No further development of the combination is recommended.
Rising complexity and falling explanatory power in ecology
Authors: Low-Décarie Etienne , Chivers Corey , Granados Monica
Published: August 2014

Analyses of published research can provide a realistic perspective on the progress of science. By analyzing more than 18 000 articles published by the preeminent ecological societies, we found that (1) ecological research is becoming increasingly statistically complex, reporting a growing number of P values per article and (2) the value of reported coefficient of determination (R2) has been falling steadily, suggesting a decrease in the marginal explanatory power of ecology. These trends may be due to changes in the way ecology is studied or in the way the findings of investigations are reported. Determining the reason for increasing complexity and declining marginal explanatory power would require a critical review of the scientific process in ecology, from research design to dissemination, and could influence the public interpretation and policy implications of ecological findings.
Dichotomy and positivity of neutral equations with nonautonomous past
Authors: Huy Nguyen , Bang Pham
Published: August 2014

Consider the linear partial neutral functional differential equations with
nonautonomous past of the form (?/?t) F(u(t, ?)) = BFu(t, ?) + ?u(t, ?), t
? 0; (? / ?t) u(t, s) = (? / ?s) u(t, s) + A(s)u(t, s), t ? 0 ? s, where the
function u(?, ?) takes values in a Banach space X. Under appropriate
conditions on the difference operator F and the delay operator ? we prove
that the solution semigroup for this system of equations is hyperbolic (or
admits an exponential dichotomy) provided that the backward evolution family
U = (U(t, s))t?s?0 generated by A(s) is uniformly exponentially stable and
the operator B generates a hyperbolic semigroup (etB)t?0 on X. Furthermore,
under the positivity conditions on (etB)t?0, U, F and ? we prove that the
above-mentioned solution semigroup is positive and then show a sufficient
condition for the exponential stability of this solution semigroup.
Combined Therapy With GABA and Proinsulin/Alum Acts Synergistically to Restore Long-term Normoglycemia by Modulating T-Cell Autoimmunity and Promoting β-Cell Replication in Newly Diabetic NOD Mice
Authors: Tian Jide , Dang Hoa , Nguyen An Viet , Chen Zheying , Kaufman Daniel L.
Published: August 2014

Antigen-based therapies (ABTs) fail to restore normoglycemia in newly diabetic NOD mice, perhaps because too few β-cells remain by the time that ABT-induced regulatory responses arise and spread. We hypothesized that combining a fast-acting anti-inflammatory agent with an ABT could limit pathogenic responses while ABT-induced regulatory responses arose and spread. γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration can inhibit inflammation, enhance regulatory T-cell (Treg) responses, and promote β-cell replication in mice. We examined the effect of combining a prototypic ABT, proinsulin/alum, with GABA treatment in newly diabetic NOD mice. Proinsulin/alum monotherapy failed to correct hyperglycemia, while GABA monotherapy restored normoglycemia for a short period. Combined treatment restored normoglycemia in the long term with apparent permanent remission in some mice. Proinsulin/alum monotherapy induced interleukin (IL)-4– and IL-10–secreting T-cell responses that spread to other β-cell autoantigens. GABA monotherapy induced moderate IL-10 (but not IL-4) responses to β-cell autoantigens. Combined treatment synergistically reduced spontaneous type 1 T-helper cell responses to autoantigens, ABT-induced IL-4 and humoral responses, and insulitis, but enhanced IL-10 and Treg responses and promoted β-cell replication in the islets. Thus, combining ABT with GABA can inhibit pathogenic T-cell responses, induce Treg responses, promote β-cell replication, and effectively restore normoglycemia in newly diabetic NOD mice. Since these treatments appear safe for humans, they hold promise for type 1 diabetes intervention.
Coronary Artery Calcification in Obese Youth: What Are the Phenotypic and Metabolic Determinants?
Authors: Bacha Fida , Edmundowicz Daniel , Sutton-Tyrell Kim , Lee SoJung , Tfayli Hala , Arslanian Silva A.
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

Obesity in adolescence has been associated with increased risk for coronary heart disease in adulthood. This study evaluated subclinical atherosclerosis in obese youth and the underlying risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Ninety obese adolescents (37 normal glucose tolerant, 27 prediabetes, and 26 type 2 diabetes) underwent evaluation of coronary artery calcifications (CACs) by electron beam computed tomography, aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV), carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), lipids, leptin, inflammatory markers, and body composition (DEXA). A total of 68 underwent evaluation of insulin sensitivity (IS) (hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp) and abdominal adiposity (computed tomography).

RESULTS

A total of 50% had CACs (CAC+: Agatston CAC score ≥1). CAC+ youth had higher BMI, fat mass, and abdominal fat, with no difference in sex, race, IS per fat-free mass (ISFFM), glucose tolerance, PWV, or IMT compared with the CAC− group. PWV was inversely related to IS. In multiple regression analyses with age, race, sex, HbA1c, BMI (or waist circumference), ISFFM, diastolic blood pressure, non–HDL cholesterol, and leptin as independent variables, BMI (or waist) (R2 = 0.41; P = 0.001) was the significant determinant of CAC; leptin (R2 = 0.37; P = 0.034) for PWV; and HbA1c, race, and age (R2 = 0.34; P = 0.02) for IMT.

CONCLUSIONS

Early in the course of obesity, there is evidence of CAC independent of glycemia. The different biomarkers of subclinical atherosclerosis appear to be differentially modulated, adiposity being the major determinant of CAC, hyperglycemia, age, and race for IMT, and leptin and IS for arterial stiffness. These findings highlight the increased cardiovascular disease risk in obese youth and the need for early interventions to reverse obesity and atherosclerosis.
Birth Weight and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in the Black Women’s Health Study: Does Adult BMI Play a Mediating Role?
Authors: Ruiz-Narváez Edward A. , Palmer Julie R. , Gerlovin Hanna , Wise Lauren A. , Vimalananda Varsha G. , Rosenzweig James L. , Rosenberg Lynn
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association of birth weight with incident type 2 diabetes, and the possible mediating influence of obesity, in a large cohort of U.S. black women.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Black Women’s Health Study is an ongoing prospective study. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% CI for categories of birth weight (very low birth weight [<1,500 g], low birth weight [1,500–2,499 g], and high birth weight [≥4,000 g]) in reference to normal birth weight (2,500–3,999 g). Models were adjusted for age, questionnaire cycle, family history of diabetes, caloric intake, preterm birth, physical activity, years of education, and neighborhood socioeconomic status with and without inclusion of terms for adult BMI.

RESULTS

We followed 21,624 women over 16 years of follow-up. There were 2,388 cases of incident diabetes. Women with very low birth weight had a 40% higher risk of disease (IRR 1.40 [95% CI 1.08–1.82]) than women with normal birth weight; women with low birth weight had a 13% higher risk (IRR 1.13 [95% CI 1.02–1.25]). Adjustment for BMI did not appreciably change the estimates.

CONCLUSIONS

Very low birth weight and low birth weight appear to be associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes in African American women, and the association does not seem to be mediated through BMI. The prevalence of low birth weight is especially high in African American populations, and this may explain in part the higher occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
Effects of Stocking Density of Lambs on Biochemical Stress Parameters and Meat Quality Related to Commercial Transportation
Authors: Teke Bulent , Ekiz Bulent , Akdag Filiz , Ugurlu Mustafa , Ciftci Gulay , Senturk Berrin
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of stocking density (0.20 and 0.27 m2/lamb) during transportation on certain biochemical stress parameters and meat quality characteristics of fifty- five Karayaka lambs divided into two groups. The front compartment of the trailer was loaded at high stocking density (hd: 0.20 m2/lamb; n=33) and the remainder was loaded at low stocking density (ld: 0.27 m2/lamb; n=22). the distance was approximately 130 km and duration was 2 h 15 min. blood samples were taken just before and just after transportation. glucose (p<0.001), lactate (p<0.001), cortisol (p<0.01), creatine kinase (ck) (p<0.01), lactate dehydrogenase (ldh) (P<0.01) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (P<0.05) levels were significantly higher in lambs of the hd group than in the ld group. the effects of stocking density on ph, proportion of expressed juice, cooking loss, Warner-Bratzler shear force value and meat colour parameters were not significant (P>0.05). Transportation with a stocking density of 0.20 m2/lamb resulted in higher stress responses in lambs compared with a stocking density of 0.27 m2/lamb. however, increased stress in the hd group did not lead to any adverse effects on meat quality characteristics. in the determination of stocking density, a compromise that gives animal welfare and commercial objectives equal status would improve the current situation.
Three-dimensional microstructure and numerical calculation of elastic properties of alpine snow with a focus on weak layers
Authors: Köchle Berna , Schneebeli Martin
Published: August 2014

The microstructure and stratigraphy of a snowpack determine its physical behaviour. Weak layers or weak interfaces buried under a slab are prerequisites for the formation of dry-snow slab avalanches, and a precise characterization of weak layers or interfaces is essential to assess stability. Yet their exact geometry and micromechanical properties are poorly known. We cast weak layers and their adjacent layers in the field during two winters and reconstructed their three-dimensional microstructure using X-ray microcomputer tomography. The high resolution of 10–20 μm allowed us to study snow stratigraphy at the microstructural scale. We quantified the microstructural variability for 32 centimetre-sized layered samples and we calculated Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio by tomography-based finite-element simulations. Layers in a sample could therefore be differentiated not only by a change in morphology or microstructure, but also by a change in mechanical properties. We found a logarithmic correlation of Young’s modulus with density for two different density ranges, consistent with previous studies. By calculating the relative microstructural changes within our samples, we showed that a large change could indicate a potential weak layer, but only when the weak layer and both adjacent layers, i.e. the sandwich, were considered.
GPS-derived velocity and strain fields around Dome Argus, Antarctica
Authors: Yang Yuande , Sun Bo , Wang Zemin , Ding Minghu , Hwang Cheinway , Ai Songtao , Wang Lianzhong , Du Yujun , E Dongchen
Published: August 2014

Knowledge of the surface topography, velocity field and strain field at an ice-core site is critical to the accurate interpretation of ice-core records. At Dome Argus (Dome A), where a Chinese deep ice-core drilling project is being carried out, we have produced an accurate surface digital elevation model from GPS measurements in January 2013 at 47 sites. We identify two peaks at Dome A, with the northern peak ~7 cm higher than the southern peak. Repeat GPS measurements at 12 sites in 2008 and 2013 provide a surface velocity field around the dome. The surface velocity ranges from 3.1±2.6 to 29.4±1.2 cm a–1, with a mean of 11.1 ~2.4 cm a–1. The surface flow directions are near perpendicular to the surface elevation contours. Velocities from GPS are lower than derived from satellite radar interferometry (InSAR). From GPS velocities, the accuracy of velocity from the existing InSAR velocity field is determined, resulting in a standard deviation of 0.570 m a–1 in speed and 117.5º in direction. This result is consistent with the reported accuracy of InSAR, showing the value of in situ GPS measurements for assessing and correcting remote-sensing results. A surface strain field for the drilling site over Dome A is calculated from 24 strain triangles, showing north–south extension, east– west compression and vertical layer thinning.
Prevalence and perinatal outcomes in GDM and non-GDM in a rural pregnancy cohort of Bangladesh
Authors: Sayeed M Abu , Jahan Samsad , Rhaman Mir Masudur , Chowdhury M Mainul Hasan , Khanam Parvin Akter , Begum Tanjima , Ruman Umme , Banu Akhter , Mahtab Hajera
Published: August 2014

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or hyperglycemia in pregnancy is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes such as large for gestational age (LGA), excess fetal adiposity and cesarean delivery. This study addressed the prevalence of diabetes in pregnancy and to compare the perinatal outcomes between GDM and non-GDM in a rural pregnancy cohort of Bangladesh. Ten villages were purposively selected in a rural area about 100 km off Dhaka City. A population census was conducted. A randomized sample of married women of age 15-45y was drawn from the census data. These women having either regular menstruation (non-regnant) or cessation of menstruation for ?24weeks (pregnant) were considered eligible. Both the pregnant and non-pregnant women were invited to volunteer the study. Weight, height, waist- and hip-girth and blood pressure were taken. Fasting blood sample was collected for the estimation of plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (chol), high-density lipoprotein (HDL). FPG >5.1 mmol/L was taken as cut-off for hyperglycemia in non-pregnant and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) for the pregnant women. The biophysical characteristics were compared between pregnant and non-pregnant; and then GDM and non-GDM. Only the pregnant women were taken as a pregnancy cohort. The cohort had followup from 24wks of pregnancy through 28 post-natal days. Results The census yielded 23545 (m / f=11896 / 11649) people of all ages. The married women of age 15-45y were 4526. Of them, 2100 were randomly selected for investigation and 1585 (75.5%) volunteered. The overall prevalence (95% CI) of hyperglycemia (FPG >5.1 mmol/L) was 18.5% (16.7  20.3). The prevalence of GDM was 8.9% (7.0  10.8) and non-GDM was 19.8% (18.8  20.8). The BMI and WHR were significantly higher in the pregnant than non-pregnant women; whereas, there was no significant difference between GDM and non-GDM group. The prevalence rates of abortions, stillbirths, hospital delivery, cesarean delivery, hospital stay ?7days, puerperal sepsis and neonatal death did not differ between GDM and non-GDM subjects significantly. The prevalence of GDM in rural Bangladesh is comparable with any other population with higher prevalence of GDM. The prevalence of hyperglycemia was found significantly higher in the non-pregnant than the pregnant women. The anthropometric measures did not differ significantly between GDM and non-GDM though FPG was found significantly higher in the former. Compared with the non-GDM the GDM subjects had no significantly higher fetomaternal morbidity and mortality possibly due to non-sedentary habit, non-obesity, non-dyslipidemia or may be due to inherent genetic makeup. A well designed study in a larger sample may explain our findings. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v7i2.20101 Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2013; 7(2): 21-27
Knowledge and vaccination status of hepatitis B amongst medical interns of Rural Medical College, Loni, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Giri Purushottam A , Phalke Deepak B
Published: August 2014

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a serious global public health problem. It is the most common blood borne viral infection which places healthcare professional at higher occupational risk. The present study was conducted to assess the current knowledge and vaccination status about hepatitis B amongst medical interns. A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and March 2009 on 100 medical interns of the Rural Medical College, Loni, India. A pre-designed questionnaire which assessed their knowledge of hepatitis B was the tool of data collection. The data was analyzed in the form of percentage and proportions, and the chi-square test was applied. In the present study, 83.3% of interns showed a good level of knowledge regarding hepatitis B infection. The percentage of interns with the correct knowledge regarding post exposure prophylaxis and mode of transmission of hepatitis B were 89% and 90% respectively. It was found that 87% of the respondents espoused vaccination as a measure for the prevention of hepatitis B and 72% of the interns were fully immunized against hepatitis B. However, there is a misconception about prophylaxis, vaccination and the treatment of HBV. Hence there is an imperative need for health education to improve the knowledge of the interns towards hepatitis B infection. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i2.20034 South East Asian Journal of Public Health Vol.3(2) 2013: 19-22
Psychological distress, general self-efficacy and psychosocial adjustments among first year medical college students in New Delhi, India
Authors: Kumar Varun , Talwar Richa , Raut Deepak K
Published: August 2014

First year medical students are under severe psychological distress, since they have to cope with the study demands of the medical curriculum. Living away from home and making a transition to a more independent and less supported condition can lead to distress. The present study was designed to determine psychological distress, general self-efficacy and psychosocial adjustments among first year medical college students in New Delhi. A cross-sectional study was designed and data was collected from 88 first year medical students of a government medical college in New Delhi. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire was administered. The questionnaire consisted of socio-demographic data, Goldbergs General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Schwarzers General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES) and modified Pareeks Pre-adolescent Adjustment Scale (PAAS). According to GHQ-12, 39.7% (95% CI 29.6-50.7) students had psychological distress; it was slightly higher in female students (41.6%) than their male counterparts (38.5%). Psychological distress was greater in students when both of their parents are doctors 66.6% (p-0.016). There was a negative association (r: -0.384) between GHQ-12 scores and GSES scores. From PAAS scores, 19.3% students were found to be maladjusted towards college and 9.1% students were found to be maladjusted with teachers. Adjustment towards peers was found to be good. The prevalence of psychological distress among first year medical students was high. The causes of psychological distress among medical students should be recognized and strategies should be designed to address those issues. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i2.20038 South East Asian Journal of Public Health Vol.3(2) 2013: 35-40
How can we teach students if we do not know how they learn?
Authors: Majumder Md Anwarul Azim
Published: August 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i2.20044 South East Asian Journal of Public Health Vol.3(2) 2013: 70-73
Conference Proceedings: Public Health Foundation Day 2013
Authors: Editor The
Published: August 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i2.20045 South East Asian Journal of Public Health Vol.3(2) 2013: 74-94
Bildung and the road from a classical into a global and postcolonial concept
Authors: Gustavsson Bernt
Published: August 2014

In this article the author shows how a European classical form of bildung has developed in our time into a postcolonial, or a new global form of bildung.

The main components of the concept of bildung are described as well as a suggestion of what we can mean by the postcolonial. Thereafter the author elaborate on the relationship between the universal and the particular and discusses what we can mean by a global concept of bildung.
From the Editors: De Ethica. A Journal of Philosophical, Theological and Applied Ethics (German)
Authors: Behrensen Maren
Published: August 2014

No abstract available.
Foreign Body Infection Models to Study Host-Pathogen Response and Antimicrobial Tolerance of Bacterial Biofilm
Authors: Nowakowska Justyna , Landmann Regine , Khanna Nina
Published: August 2014

The number of implanted medical devices is steadily increasing and has become an effective intervention improving life quality, but still carries the risk of infection. These infections are mainly caused by biofilm-forming staphylococci that are difficult to treat due to the decreased susceptibility to both antibiotics and host defense mechanisms. To understand the particular pathogenesis and treatment tolerance of implant-associated infection (IAI) animal models that closely resemble human disease are needed. Applications of the tissue cage and catheter abscess foreign body infection models in the mouse will be discussed herein. Both models allow the investigation of biofilm and virulence of various bacterial species and a comprehensive insight into the host response at the same time. They have also been proven to serve as very suitable tools to study the anti-adhesive and anti-infective efficacy of different biomaterial coatings. The tissue cage model can additionally be used to determine pharmacokinetics, efficacy and cytotoxicity of antimicrobial compounds as the tissue cage fluid can be aspirated repeatedly without the need to sacrifice the animal. Moreover, with the advance in innovative imaging systems in rodents, these models may offer new diagnostic measures of infection. In summary, animal foreign body infection models are important tools in the development of new antimicrobials against IAI and can help to elucidate the complex interactions between bacteria, the host immune system, and prosthetic materials.
Acupuncture for Pediatric Pain
Authors: Golianu Brenda , Yeh Ann , Brooks Meredith
Published: August 2014

Chronic pain is a growing problem in children, with prevalence as high as 30.8%. Acupuncture has been found to be useful in many chronic pain conditions, and may be of clinical value in a multidisciplinary treatment program. The basic principles of acupuncture are reviewed, as well as studies exploring basic mechanisms of acupuncture and clinical efficacy. Conditions commonly treated in the pediatric pain clinic, including headache, abdominal pain, fibromyalgia, juvenile arthritis, complex regional pain syndrome, cancer pain, as well as perioperative pain studies are reviewed and discussed. Areas in need of further research are identified, and procedural aspects of acupuncture practice and safety studies are reviewed. Acupuncture can be an effective adjuvant in the care of pediatric patients with painful conditions, both in a chronic and an acute setting. Further studies, including randomized controlled trials, as well as trials of comparative effectiveness are needed.
Information-Theoretic Bounded Rationality and ε-Optimality
Authors: Braun Daniel , Ortega Pedro
Published: August 2014

Bounded rationality concerns the study of decision makers with limited information processing resources. Previously, the free energy difference functional has been suggested to model bounded rational decision making, as it provides a natural trade-off between an energy or utility function that is to be optimized and information processing costs that are measured by entropic search costs. The main question of this article is how the information-theoretic free energy model relates to simple ε-optimality models of bounded rational decision making, where the decision maker is satisfied with any action in an ε-neighborhood of the optimal utility. We find that the stochastic policies that optimize the free energy trade-off comply with the notion of ε-optimality. Moreover, this optimality criterion even holds when the environment is adversarial. We conclude that the study of bounded rationality based on ε-optimality criteria that abstract away from the particulars of the information processing constraints is compatible with the information-theoretic free energy model of bounded rationality.
Salmonella as an Innovative Therapeutic Antitumor Agent
Authors: Chang Wen-Wei , Lee Che-Hsin
Published: August 2014

Lack of specificity of the therapeutic agent is a primary limitation in the treatment of a tumor. The use of preferentially replicating bacteria as therapeutic agents is an innovative approach to tumor treatment. This is based on the observation that certain obligate or facultative anaerobic bacteria are capable of multiplying selectively in tumors and inhibiting their growth. Bacteria have been employed as antitumor agents that are capable of preferentially amplifying within tumors and inhibiting their growth. Moreover, bacteria-derived factors have an immune-stimulation effect. Therefore, bacteria are able to transfer therapeutic genes into the tumor cells using their infective ability. Herein, we introduce the application of bacteria for tumor therapy and focus on Salmonella, which have been widely used for tumor therapy. Salmonella have mainly been applied as gene-delivery vectors, antitumor immune activators and tumor cell death inducers. This study will not only evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Salmonella for the treatment of tumor but will also elucidate the mechanisms underlying the antitumor activities mediated by Salmonella, which involve host immune responses and cellular molecular responses.