bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Temporalis Myofascial Flap in Maxillofacial Reconstruction
Authors: Shikder Muhammad Sohag , Hasan Md Mokerrom , Masud Abdullah Al , Haider Ismat Ara , Ahmed Mohiuddin
Published: December 2015

Temporalis myofascial flap holds great promise for the reconstruction of various defects of the maxillofacial region for its dependable blood supply, proximity to the maxillofacial region, possibility to mobilize it to the oral cavity and its fanned out nature. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of temporalis myofascial flap in maxillofacial reconstruction.This cross sectional study was carried out in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dhaka Dental College and Hospital from January 2011 to December 2011. Nineteen patients (10 male and 9 female), age ranging from 19 to 55 years with medium to large defect (>8cm)were selected for this study. After surgical resection of the pathological lesion, the TMF was exposed by a hemicoronal incision with a preauricular extension. The muscle was rotated to oral cavity and sutured with defect margin. Post-operatively the patient were clinically evaluated at 1, 2, 3 weeks and 1 and 3 months. Complete flap take was observed in 84% cases where as partial flap take was seen in 16% cases. Mouth opening restriction were 2-3 mm in 10 cases and 5-8 mm in 5 cases.Temporalis myofascial flap is a useful, reliable and versatile option for reconstruction of moderate to large sized defects. This flap provide abundant tissue, with minimum to no functional morbidity or esthetic deformity in donor site.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 78-83
Adult Ileo- Ileal Intussusceptions- A Rare Variety in Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Kabir Sheikh Firoj , Akther Mrs Rabeya
Published: December 2015

Intussusceptions of bowel is more frequent in children but in adult it is less. Generally adult intussusceptions carry the risk of malignancy. So treatment option is not similar with pediatric variety. A female of 40 years was admitted with severe intractable pain, vomiting but no malena. Ultrasonographic findings and CT scan of abdomen suggested that the lesion could be of bowel origin. After resuscitation the patient was managed surgically and with good outcome.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 99-101
Hyperreflexia in Guillain Barre Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Shaikh Abdul Kader , Sengupta Poly , Mohammad Kazi Deen , Alam Sheikh Mahbub , Rabbani Raihan , Hossain Mosharof , Das Mrinal Kanti
Published: December 2015

Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is an immune mediated polyradiculoneuropathy classically characterized by acute ascending type of motor weakness of limbs with areflexia but in AMAN variant of GBS preserved or exaggerated reflex sometimes can occur. We report a 45 year old female patient who presented with acute flaccid quadriplegia, bilateral facial lower motor type nerve palsy and bulbar involvement, initial hyperreflexia of all four limbs and bilateral plantar extensor response 7 days following an attack of diarrhoea. Sensory and bowel bladder function was intact. She was treated with IV immunoglobulin and IV methylprednisolone. Nerve Conduction study (NCS) revealed AMAN variant of GBS. All reflexes disappeared on the 2nd day onward but returned on 21st day of illness when muscle power also improved. Follow up NCS confirmed regeneration of nerves of all four limbs. So in any patient presenting with acute quadriparesis GBS should be in the differential diagnosis even if there is preserved or exaggerated deep tendon reflexes.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 107-109
MERS-CoV: Current Global Status and Threats for Bangladesh
Authors: Ahasan HAM Nazmul
Published: December 2015

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 122-123
Association of Hyperuricaemia with Perinatal Outcome in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension
Authors: Akter Saida , Sultana Sharmin , Dabee Seema Rani
Published: December 2015

The high serum uric acid concentration correlates with the degree of severity of the pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and perinatal outcome. In this context, maternal serum uric acid level is reported to be one of the prognostic factor for determination of perinatal outcome. Based on the existing data, the present prospective study was undertaken in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BIRDEM Academy, from January to December, 2010. Out of 120 women, 60 suffering from PIH (severe preeclampsia and eclampsia) served as group I and 60 normotensive women at third trimester of pregnancy served as group II. This study showed that mean (±SD) serum uric acid was significantly elevated in group I PIH patients (7.21±1.81 mg/dl) compared to group II normotensive pregnancy (4.40±0.84 mg/dl). In group I PIH patients, 39 (86%) had adverse perinatal outcome (preterm, IUGR, stillbirth), and 6 (13.3%) term and healthy deliveries when serum uric acid level was >6 mg/dl. Current study showed that there was positive and statistically significant relationship between diastolic blood pressure and hyperuricaemia in group I PIH patients (r = +0.359, P<0.01). This study also showed that in group I PIH patients, when serum uric acid increased, birth weight significantly decreased (r = 0.279, P<0.05).J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 124-129
Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP) in a Newborn
Authors: Raha Biplob Kumar , Haque ZSM , Jahan N , Begum M , Hasan M , Rob AWS , Farhana T , Yasmin S , Hasnat SKA , Islam Z
Published: December 2015

A female newborn baby presented with the features of Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP) characterized by rhizomalic shortening with contracture of lower extremities, ichthyosis, microcephaly, dysmorphic facial features including a depressed nasal bridge, hypoplastic midface, full cheeks & low set ear, breathing difficulties and anthropometric measures below the expected indexes for her age. The patient also presented congenital heart disease, a less common manifestation of the syndrome. Radiological features include epiphyseal stippling & Journal of Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons Vol. 32, No. 3, July 2014 multiple calcification in the epiphyseal cartilage, metaphyseal flaring and clefts in vertebral bodies. It is a rare autosomal recessively inherited skeletal dysplasia. The prognosis is bad and death usually occurs within the first year of age. We report a case of neonatal RCDP which was diagnosed based on the typical clinical and radiological features.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2014; 32: 174-177
Hypergravity Effects on the Retina and Intraocular Pressure in Mice
Authors: Kim Young Jun , Chung Jae Seung , Jang Tae Young , Kim Young Hyo , Chin Hee Seung
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: We investigated the effect of exposure to +10.0 G for 4 h on the intraocular pressure and the retina of mice.METHODS: We exposed 10 mice to +10.0 Gz for 4 h by using a centrifugal acceleration test facility for animals. Intraocular changes were
compared before and after hypergravity exposure. The eyeballs of the mice were enucleated after measuring the intraocular pressure. Tissue slides of the retina were prepared with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for histological examination and immunohistochemical analyses for vascular endothelial
growth factor-A (VEGF-A), VEGF receptor 1 (VEGF-R1), VEGF-R2, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and glutamine synthetase (GS).RESULTS: The average intraocular pressure was 7.7 ± 0.86 mmHg before the hypergravity exposure and 6.65 ± 0.67 mmHg after the exposure.
No histological difference was observed between the retinas in the two groups. The levels of VEGF-A, VEGF-R1, VEGF-R2, GFAP, and GS as assessed by immunohistochemistry were increased in the group exposed to hypergravity compared to the control group.DISCUSSION: Repeated exposure
to a high level of hypergravity could cause elevation of intraocular pressure and hypoxic damage to the retina.Kim YJ, Chung JS, Jang TY, Kim YH, Chin HS. Hypergravity effects on the retina and intraocular pressure in mice. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(1):13–17.
Motion Sickness Prediction in Aeromedical Evacuation of Patients with Ebola
Authors: Lucertini Marco , Autore Alberto , Covioli Jacopo , Biselli Roberto , D’Amelio Raffaele
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION: Aeromedical evacuation of patients affected by severe infectious diseases inside an aircraft transit isolator (ATI) system is at potential risk of motion sickness (MS). A test flight was then conducted to quantify this risk during the transfer of an Ebola patient
from West Africa to Italy.CASE REPORT: A mannequin was inserted inside an ATI and instrumented to provide acceleration parameters throughout the test flight. The analysis of the data predicted a MS incidence of about 2% for a 6-h flight, so the decision to use anti-MS drugs only
in selected cases was taken (i.e., those with positive past history of MS, gastrointestinal disorders, or residual carsickness due to previous ambulance run). On this basis, an actual aeromedical evacuation of an Ebola patient was successfully performed without the use of any anti-MS drugs.DISCUSSION:
During aeromedical evacuation with ATI systems, the patient’s risk of MS should be evaluated on an individual basis and calibrated according to the specific exposure to motion evoked by the flight platform used. Due to the possible onset of untoward effects, prevention with anti-MS drugs
in these patients should be limited to selected cases.Lucertini M, Autore A, Covioli J, Biselli R, D’Amelio R. Motion sickness prediction in aeromedical evacuation of patients with Ebola. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(1):71–74.
Occupational Ocular UV Exposure in Civilian Aircrew
Authors: Chorley Adrian C. , Baczynska Katarzyna A. , Benwell Martin J. , Evans Bruce J. W. , Higlett Michael P. , Khazova Marina , O’Hagan John B.
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION: Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) increases with altitude; however, there are a number of other factors which may influence ocular exposure during flight. The aim of this study was to assess ocular UVR exposure of pilots in airline and off-shore helicopter operations
on different aircraft types and to compare with exposure in a typical office environment.METHOD: In-flight data were captured on equipment including a CCD array spectroradiometer on five return sector European airline flights and one transatlantic flight from London Gatwick in addition
to four helicopter flights from Aberdeen Dyce airport. Further data were collected in an office environment from three workstations during summer and winter months.RESULTS: A wide variation in ocular UVA dose was found during flights. The main factor influencing exposure was the
UVR transmission of the windshield, which fell into two distinct profile types. In an aircraft with good UVA blocking properties, ocular exposure was found to be equivalent to office exposure and did not exceed international guideline limits regardless of external conditions or flight time.
Most aircraft assessed had poor UVA blocking windshields which resulted in an ocular exposure to the unprotected eye in excess of international guideline limits (up to between 4.5 to 6.5 times greater during one flight). No significant UVB dose was found.DISCUSSION: Pilots should
be warned of the potential high UVA exposure during flight and advised on the use of sunglasses. A windshield labeling system would allow the pilot to tailor their eye protection practices to that particular aircraft.Chorley AC, Baczynska KA, Benwell MJ, Evans BJW, Higlett MP, Khazova
M, O’Hagan JB. Occupational ocular UV exposure in civilian aircrew. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(1):32–39.
Respiratory Muscle Training and Cognitive Function Exercising at Altitude
Authors: Quackenbush Joseph , Duquin Aubrey , Helfer Samuel , Pendergast David R.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Hiking and trekking often occur at altitudes up to 12,000 ft altitude. The hypoxia-induced hyperventilation at altitude paradoxically reduces arterial CO2 (Paco2). A reduction in Paco2 results in vasoconstriction
of the blood vessels of the brain and thus in local hypoxia. The local hypoxia likely affects cognitive function, which may result in reduced performance and altitude accidents. Recent publications have demonstrated that voluntary isocapnic hyperventilatory training of the respiratory muscles
(VIHT) can markedly enhance exercise endurance as it is associated with reduced ventilation and its energy cost. VIHT may be useful in blunting the altitude-induced hyperventilation leading to higher Paco2 and improved cognitive function.METHODS: This study
examined the effects of VIHT, compared to control (C) and placebo (PVIHT) groups, on selected measures of executive functioning, including working memory and processing speed (i.e., Stroop Test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and Digit Span Forward) at simulated altitude up to 12,000 ft. Associated
physiological parameters were also measured.RESULTS: The Digit Span Forward Test did not show improvements after VIHT in any group. The VIHT group, but not C or PVIHT groups, improved significantly (17–30%) on the Stroop Test. Similarly the VIHT group, but not the C and PVIHT
groups, improved correct responses (26%) and number of attempts (24%) on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test. In addition, reaction time was also improved (16%).CONCLUSION: VIHT improved processing speed and working memory during exercise at altitude.Quackenbush J, Duquin A, Helfer
S, Pendergast DR. Respiratory muscle training and cognitive function exercising at altitude. Aerosp Med Human Perform. 2016; 87(1):18–25.
On the Use of the Humanoid Bioloid System for Robot-Assisted Transcription of Mexican Spanish Speech
Authors: Caballero-Morales Santiago-Omar
Published: December 2015

Within the context of service robotics (SR), the development of assistive technologies has become an important research field. However, the accomplishment of assistive tasks requires precise and fine control of the mechanic systems that integrate the robotic entity. Among the most challenging tasks in robot control, the handwriting task (transcription) is of particular interest due to the fine control required to draw single and multiple alphabet characters to express words and sentences. For language learning activities, robot-assisted speech transcription can motivate the student to practice pronunciation and writing tasks in a dynamic environment. Hence, this paper is aimed to provide the techniques and models to accomplish accurate robot-assisted transcription of Spanish speech. The transcriptor is integrated by a multi-user speech recognizer for continuous speech and the kinematic models for the Mexican Spanish alphabet characters. The Bioloid system with the standard humanoid configuration and no special modifications or tools was considered for implementation. Particularly, the proposed transcriptor could perform the handwriting task with the Bioloid’s two two DOF (degrees-of-freedom) arms. This enabled writing of one-line short and long sentences with small alphabet characters (width <1.0 cm). It is expected that the technique and models that integrate the transcriptor can provide support for the development of robot-assisted language learning activities for children and young adults.
Winter Dew Harvest in Mexico City
Authors: Jorge Ernesto Arias-Torres , Jose Jasson Flores-Prieto
Published: December 2015

This study presents experimental and theoretical results of winter dew harvest in México City in terms of condensation rate. A simplified theoretical model based on a steady-state energy balance on a radiator-condenser was fitted, as a function of the ambient temperature, the relative humidity and the wind velocity. A glass sheet and aluminum sheet white-painted were used as samples over the outdoor experiments. A good correlation was obtained between the theoretical and experimental data. The experimental results show that there was condensation in 68% of the winter nights on both condensers. The total winter condensed mass was 2977 g/m2 and 2888 g/m2 on the glass sheet and aluminum sheet white-painted, respectively. Thus, the condensed mass on the glass was only 3% higher than that on the painted surface. The maximum nightly dew harvests occurred during December, which linearly reduced from 50 g/m2 night to 22 g/m2 night as the winter months went by. The condensation occurred from 1:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., with maximum condensation rates between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The dew harvest can provide a partial alternative to the winter water shortage in certain locations with similar climates to the winter in Mexico City, as long as pollution is not significant.
Cell Adhesion Molecules and Ubiquitination—Functions and Significance
Authors: Homrich Mirka , Gotthard Ingo , Wobst Hilke , Diestel Simone
Published: December 2015

Cell adhesion molecules of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily represent the biggest group of cell adhesion molecules. They have been analyzed since approximately 40 years ago and most of them have been shown to play a role in tumor progression and in the nervous system. All members of the Ig superfamily are intensively posttranslationally modified. However, many aspects of their cellular functions are not yet known. Since a few years ago it is known that some of the Ig superfamily members are modified by ubiquitin. Ubiquitination has classically been described as a proteasomal degradation signal but during the last years it became obvious that it can regulate many other processes including internalization of cell surface molecules and lysosomal sorting. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the ubiquitination of cell adhesion molecules of the Ig superfamily and to discuss its potential physiological roles in tumorigenesis and in the nervous system.
Serial Assessment of Therapeutic Response to a New Radiosensitization Treatment, Kochi Oxydol-Radiation Therapy for Unresectable Carcinomas, Type II (KORTUC II), in Patients with Stage I/II Breast Cancer Using Breast Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Yaogawa Shin , Ogawa Yasuhiro , Morita-Tokuhiro Shiho , Tsuzuki Akira , Akima Ryo , Itoh Kenji , Morio Kazuo , Yasunami Hiroaki , Onogawa Masahide , Kariya Shinji , Nogami Munenobu , Nishioka Akihito , Miyamura Mitsuhiko
Published: December 2015

Background: We have developed a new radiosensitization treatment called Kochi Oxydol-Radiation Therapy for Unresectable Carcinomas, Type II (KORTUC II). Using KORTUC II, we performed breast-conserving treatment (BCT) without any surgical procedure for elderly patients with breast cancer in stages I/II or patients refusing surgery. Since surgery was not performed, histological confirmation of the primary tumor region following KORTUC II treatment was not possible. Therefore, to precisely evaluate the response to this new therapy, a detailed diagnostic procedure is needed. The goal of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic response to KORTUC II treatment in patients with stage I/II breast cancer using annual breast contrast-enhanced (CE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Twenty-one patients with stage I/II breast cancer who were elderly and/or refused surgery were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent MRI prior to and at 3 to 6 months after KORTUC II, and then approximately biannually thereafter. Findings from MRI were compared with those from other diagnostic modalities performed during the same time period. Results: KORTUC II was well tolerated, with minimal adverse effects. All of 21 patients showed a clinically complete response (cCR) on CE MRI. The mean period taken to confirm cCR on the breast CE MRI was approximately 14 months. The mean follow-up period for the patients was 61.9 months at the end of October 2014. Conclusions: The therapeutic effect of BCT using KORTUC II without surgery could be evaluated by biannual CE MRI evaluations. Approximately 14 months were required to achieve cCR in response to this therapy.
Multiscale Entropy Analysis on Human Operating Behavior
Authors: Pan Junshan , Hu Hanping , Liu Xiang , Hu Yong
Published: December 2015

By exploiting the statistical analysis method, human dynamics provides new insights to the research of human behavior. In this paper, we analyze the characteristics of the computer operating behavior through a modified multiscale entropy algorithm with both the interval time series and the number series of individuals’ operating behavior been investigated. We also discuss the activity of individuals’ behavior from the three groups denoted as the retiree group, the student group and the worker group based on the nature of their jobs. We find that the operating behavior of the retiree group exhibits more complex dynamics than the other two groups and further present a reasonable explanation for this phenomenon. Our findings offer new insights for the further understanding of individual behavior at different time scales.
A New Fast Peak Current Controller for Transient Voltage Faults for Power Converters
Authors: Muñoz-Cruzado-Alba Jesús , Villegas-Núñez Javier , Vite-Frías José , Carrasco Solís Juan
Published: December 2015

Power converters are the basic unit for the transient voltage fault ride through capability for most renewable distributed generators (DGs). When a transient fault happens, the grid voltage will drop suddenly and probably will also suffer a phase-jump event as well. State-of-the-art voltage fault control techniques regulate the current injected during the grid fault. However, the beginning of the fault could be too fast for the inner current control loops of the inverter, and transient over-current would be expected. In order to avoid the excessive peak current of the methods presented in the literature, a new fast peak current control (FPCC) technique is proposed. Controlling the peak current magnitude avoids undesirable disconnection of the distributed generator in a fault state and improves the life expectancy of the converter. Experimental and simulation tests with high power converters provide the detailed behaviour of the method with excellent results.
Wind Turbine Fault Detection through Principal Component Analysis and Statistical Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Pozo Francesc , Vidal Yolanda
Published: December 2015

This paper addresses the problem of online fault detection of an advanced wind turbine benchmark under actuators (pitch and torque) and sensors (pitch angle measurement) faults of different type: fixed value, gain factor, offset and changed dynamics. The fault detection scheme starts by computing the baseline principal component analysis (PCA) model from the healthy or undamaged wind turbine. Subsequently, when the structure is inspected or supervised, new measurements are obtained are projected into the baseline PCA model. When both sets of data—the baseline and the data from the current wind turbine—are compared, a statistical hypothesis testing is used to make a decision on whether or not the wind turbine presents some damage, fault or misbehavior. The effectiveness of the proposed fault-detection scheme is illustrated by numerical simulations on a well-known large offshore wind turbine in the presence of wind turbulence and realistic fault scenarios. The obtained results demonstrate that the proposed strategy provides and early fault identification, thereby giving the operators sufficient time to make more informed decisions regarding the maintenance of their machines.
Heuristic Optimization of Consumer Electricity Costs Using a Generic Cost Model
Authors: Ogwumike Chris , Short Michael , Abugchem Fathi
Published: December 2015

Many new demand response strategies are emerging for energy management in smart grids. Real-Time Energy Pricing (RTP) is one important aspect of consumer Demand Side Management (DSM), which encourages consumers to participate in load scheduling. This can help reduce peak demand and improve power system efficiency. The use of Intelligent Decision Support Systems (IDSSs) for load scheduling has become necessary in order to enable consumers to respond to the changing economic value of energy across different hours of the day. The type of scheduling problem encountered by a consumer IDSS is typically NP-hard, which warrants the search for good heuristics with efficient computational performance and ease of implementation. This paper presents an extensive evaluation of a heuristic scheduling algorithm for use in a consumer IDSS. A generic cost model for hourly pricing is utilized, which can be configured for traditional on/off peak pricing, RTP, Time of Use Pricing (TOUP), Two-Tier Pricing (2TP) and combinations thereof. The heuristic greedily schedules controllable appliances to minimize smart appliance energy costs and has a polynomial worst-case computation time. Extensive computational experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm and the obtained results indicate the gaps between the optimal achievable costs are negligible.
Detection of Airborne Inoculum of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus and H. albidus during Seasonal Fluctuations Associated with Absence of Apothecia
Authors: Dvorak Milon , Rotkova Gabriela , Botella Leticia
Published: December 2015

Hymenoscyphus fraxineus is an invasive fungal species causing the most serious disease of ashes (Fraxinus spp.) in Europe—ash dieback. The biology of this fungus is not totally elucidated, neither its relation to the saprophytic species Hymenoscyphus albidus, native in Europe. Our study is focused on the description of seasonal spore dispersal of both fungi and its relation to meteorological conditions, which is needed for more precise and effective control of the disease. For this experiment one long time infected mixed forest in the SE Czech Republic was chosen. A seven-day automatic volumetric spore trap and a weather station were installed to continuously sample the aerospora from April to October 2014. In seven periods a rotating arm spore trap was also used to obtain 48-h air samples to compare the efficiency of these two types of air samplers. Air samples were evaluated solely by qPCR with a very low detection limit. Results show co-occurrence of inoculum of both fungi throughout the entire sampling period with peak levels in August. The origin of the inoculum sampled in the periods without apothecia is discussed. Air-inoculum occurrence of both fungi is significantly correlated with each other, suggesting their coexistence in this forest.
Tackling Societal Challenges Related to Ageing and Transport Transition: An Introduction to Philosophical Principles of Causation Adapted to the Biopsychosocial Model
Authors: Vaucher Paul , Favrat Bernard
Published: December 2015

In geriatrics, driving cessation is addressed within the biopsychosocial model. This has broadened the scope of practitioners, not only in terms of assessing fitness to drive, but also by helping to maintain social engagements and provide support for transport transition. Causes can be addressed at different levels by adapting medication, improving physical health, modifying behaviour, adapting lifestyle, or bringing changes to the environment. This transdisciplinary approach requires an understanding of how different disciplines are linked to each other. This article reviews the philosophical principles of causality between fields and provides a framework for understanding causality within the biopsychosocial model. Understanding interlevel constraints should help practitioners overcome their differences, and favor transversal approaches to driving cessation.
Application of Citizen Science Risk Communication Tools in a Vulnerable Urban Community
Authors: Jiao Yuqin , Bower Julie , Im Wansoo , Basta Nicholas , Obrycki John , Al-Hamdan Mohammad , Wilder Allison , Bollinger Claire , Zhang Tongwen , Hatten Luddie , Hatten Jerrie , Hood Darryl
Published: December 2015

A public participatory geographical information systems (PPGIS) demographic, environmental, socioeconomic, health status portal was developed for the Stambaugh-Elwood (SE) community in Columbus, OH. We hypothesized that soil at SE residences would have metal concentrations above natural background levels. Three aims were developed that allowed testing of this hypothesis. Aim 1 focused on establishing partnerships between academia, state agencies and communities to assist in the development of a community voice. Aim 2 was to design and conduct soil sampling for residents of the SE community. Aim 3 was to utilize our interactive, customized portal as a risk communication tool by allowing residents to educate themselves as to the potential risks from industrial sources in close proximity to their community. Multiple comparisons of means were used to determine differences in soil element concentration by sampling location at p < 0.05. The results demonstrated that eight metals (As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mo, Se, Tl, Zn) occurred at statistically-significantly greater levels than natural background levels, but most were below risk-based residential soil screening levels. Results were conveyed to residents via an educational, risk-communication informational card. This study demonstrates that community-led coalitions in collaboration with academic teams and state agencies can effectively address environmental concerns.
When Free Is Not for Me: Confronting the Barriers to Use of Free Quitline Telephone Counseling for Tobacco Dependence
Authors: Sheffer Christine , Brackman Sharon , Lercara Charnette , Cottoms Naomi , Olson Mary , Panissidi Luana , Pittman Jami , Stayna Helen
Published: December 2015

Remarkable disparities in smoking rates in the United States contribute significantly to socioeconomic and minority health disparities. Access to treatment for tobacco use can help address these disparities, but quitlines, our most ubiquitous treatment resource, reach just 1%–2% of smokers. We used community-based participatory methods to develop a survey instrument to assess barriers to use of the quitline in the Arkansas Mississippi delta. Barriers were quitline specific and barriers to cessation more broadly. Over one-third (34.9%) of respondents (n = 799) did not have access to a telephone that they could use for the quitline. Respondents reported low levels of knowledge about the quitline, quitting, and trust in tobacco treatment programs as well as considerable ambivalence about quitting including significant concerns about getting sick if they quit and strong faith-based beliefs about quitting. These findings suggest quitlines are not accessible to all lower socioeconomic groups and that significant barriers to use include barriers to cessation. These findings suggest targets for providing accessible tobacco use treatment services and addressing concerns about cessation among lower income, ethnic minority, and rural groups.
Dietary Acculturation among Filipino Americans
Authors: Vargas Persephone , Jurado Leo-Felix
Published: December 2015

Acculturation, the subsequent changes that occur in one culture after continuous first hand contact with another culture, impacts the dietary habits and health risks of individuals. This study examines the acculturation, dietary habits and anthropometric measurements in a sample of 210 first generation Filipino American immigrants in New Jersey (NJ). Acculturation was measured using the Short Acculturation Scale for Filipino Americans (ASASFA). Dietary acculturation was measured using the Dietary Acculturation Questionnaire for Filipino Americans (DAQFA) and dietary intake was determined using the Block’s Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire (BFFQ). Anthropometric measurements were obtained including weight, height and waist circumference. Acculturation had a significant negative relationship with Filipino Dietary acculturation. Western dietary acculturation was significantly correlated with caloric intake (r(208) = 0.193, p < 0.01), percentage fat intake (r(208) = 0.154, p < 0.05), percentage carbohydrate intake (r(208) = −0.172, p < 0.05), Body Mass Index (BMI) (r(208) = 0.216, p < 0.01) and waist circumference (r(208) = 0.161, p < 0.01). There was no significant correlation between Filipino dietary acculturation, dietary intake and anthropometric measurements. The results showed that Filipino American immigrants have increased risks including increased BMI, waist circumference and increased fat intake. Over all, this research highlighted some dietary changes and their effects on dietary intake and health status.
Inpatient Hospitalization Costs: A Comparative Study of Micronesians, Native Hawaiians, Japanese, and Whites in Hawai‘i
Authors: Hagiwara Megan , Juarez Deborah , Yamada Seiji , Miyamura Jill , Sentell Tetine
Published: December 2015

Considerable interest exists in health care costs for the growing Micronesian population in the United States (US) due to their significant health care needs, poor average socioeconomic status, and unique immigration status, which impacts their access to public health care coverage. Using Hawai‘i statewide impatient data from 2010 to 2012 for Micronesians, whites, Japanese, and Native Hawaiians (N = 162,152 hospitalizations), we compared inpatient hospital costs across racial/ethnic groups using multivariable models including age, gender, payer, residence location, and severity of illness (SOI). We also examined total inpatient hospital costs of Micronesians generally and for Medicaid specifically. Costs were estimated using standard cost-to-charge metrics overall and within nine major disease categories determined by All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups. Micronesians had higher unadjusted hospitalization costs overall and specifically within several disease categories (including infectious and heart diseases). Higher SOI in Micronesians explained some, but not all, of these higher costs. The total cost of the 3486 Micronesian hospitalizations in the three-year study period was $58.1 million and 75% was covered by Medicaid; 23% of Native Hawaiian, 3% of Japanese, and 15% of white hospitalizations costs were covered by Medicaid. These findings may be of particular interests to hospitals, Medicaid programs, and policy makers.
Reducing Health Disparities and Improving Health Equity in Saint Lucia
Authors: Holden Kisha , Charles Lisa , King Stephen , McGregor Brian , Satcher David , Belton Allyson
Published: December 2015

St. Lucia is an island nation in the Eastern Caribbean, with a population of 179,000 people, where chronic health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, are significant. The purpose of this pilot study is to create a model for community health education, tracking, and monitoring of these health conditions, research training, and policy interventions in St. Lucia, which may apply to other Caribbean populations, including those in the U.S. This paper reports on phase one of the study, which utilized a mixed method analytic approach. Adult clients at risk for, or diagnosed with, diabetes (n = 157), and health care providers/clinic administrators (n = 42), were recruited from five healthcare facilities in St. Lucia to assess their views on health status, health services, and improving health equity. Preliminary content analyses indicated that patients and providers acknowledge the relatively high prevalence of diabetes and other chronic illnesses, recognize the impact that socioeconomic status has on health outcomes, and desire improved access to healthcare and improvements to healthcare infrastructures. These findings could inform strategies, such as community education and workforce development, which may help improve health outcomes among St. Lucians with chronic health conditions, and inform similar efforts among other selected populations.
Profile of HIV-Infected Hispanics with Pancytopenia
Authors: Santiago-Rodríguez Eduardo , Mayor Angel , Fernández-Santos Diana , Hunter-Mellado Robert
Published: December 2015

Pancytopenia is seen in late HIV infection; it is associated with medical complications and with decreased survival. We determined the prevalence of pancytopenia at baseline in a cohort of HIV-positive Hispanics living in Puerto Rico, and compared their socio-demographic, immunological and clinical characteristics. A total of 1202 patients enrolled between 2000 and 2010 were included. They were grouped according to pancytopenia status, defined by having: platelets <150,000 μL, white cell count <4000 μL, and hemoglobin <12 g/dL (women) or <13 g/dL (men). Differences were evaluated using Student’s t-test, Chi-square test and Kaplan-Meier method. The prevalence of pancytopenia was 8.7%. Patients with pancytopenia had lower BMI and lower CD4 count, as well as higher HIV viral load and higher proportions of unemployment, clinical AIDS and antiretroviral treatment (ART) use (p < 0.05). One-year mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with pancytopenia (18.1% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001). When stratifying for ART this association persisted for patients who did not receive ART (41.4% vs. 5.2%, p < 0.001), but it was not seen in patients who received treatment (9.2% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.196). Pancytopenia was associated with elements of advanced stages of HIV. ART could reduce the mortality of HIV-patients with pancytopenia to levels comparable to patients without the disorders.
A Pilot Study to Examine the Disparities in Water Quality between Predominantly Haitian Neighborhoods and Dominican Neighborhoods in Two Cities in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Rogers-Brown Jessica , Johnson Ryan , Smith Dominique , Ramsey-White Kim
Published: December 2015

Worldwide, diarrheal disease is a leading cause of death affecting over 1.7 million individuals annually. Much of this can be attributed to lack of clean water, sanitation and hygiene. Nearly all of these deaths occur in countries with developing economies. This public health problem is apparent in the island of Hispaniola; the island that is shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Significant gaps in income between the countries have resulted in Haitians migrating into the Dominican Republic. While there has been increased migration into the Dominican Republic, many of the neighborhoods remain segregated. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted at 49 sites in the Dominican Republic. Samples were classified as being from a Haitian neighborhood or Dominican neighborhood and analyzed for microbial contamination. Overall, Haitian neighborhoods were found to have statistically significantly higher levels of contamination of both coliform and E. coli. The odds of having E. coli contaminated water in Haitian neighborhoods are 4.25 times as high as Dominican neighborhoods. The odds of having coliform contaminated water in Haitian neighborhoods are 4.78 times as high as Dominican neighborhoods. This study provides evidence of the disparity in access to clean drinking water for Haitian immigrants and highlights the need for further investigation.
Results of a Community Randomized Study of a Faith-Based Education Program to Improve Clinical Trial Participation among African Americans
Authors: Frew Paula , Schamel Jay , O’Connell Kelli , Randall Laura , Boggavarapu Sahithi
Published: December 2015

This is a report of a cluster randomized clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of a church-based educational intervention aimed at improving African Americans’ (AA) participation in clinical trials. Two hundred and twenty-one AA subjects ages ≥50 years from six predominantly AA churches were randomized to intervention or control condition. The intervention included three educational sessions about clinical trials and health disparities; control participants completed questionnaires. Primary endpoints of the study were differences in individual subjects' intentions to obtain clinical trial information and intention to join a clinical trial, as determined by 10 point scale items at baseline, three and six months. A statistically significant increase in the intention to obtain clinical trial information at the three and six month time points was observed in the intervention group, but not the control group. Older participants (65–95 years) were less likely than younger participants (50–64 years) to increase their motivation to seek clinical trial information by the three and six month time points. No significant increases were observed in intention to join clinical trials. This randomized trial shows that AA church-based educational interventions are likely to increase the motivation of AA subjects to obtain clinical trial information and are therefore potentially effective at ameliorating the underrepresentation of AA subjects in clinical trials.
DNA Damage, Cell Cycle Arrest, and Apoptosis Induction Caused by Lead in Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Yedjou Clement , Tchounwou Hervey , Tchounwou Paul
Published: December 2015

In recent years, the industrial use of lead has been significantly reduced from paints and ceramic products, caulking, and pipe solder. Despite this progress, lead exposure continues to be a significant public health concern. The main goal of this research was to determine the in vitro mechanisms of lead nitrate [Pb(NO3)2] to induce DNA damage, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in human leukemia (HL-60) cells. To reach our goal, HL-60 cells were treated with different concentrations of Pb(NO3)2 for 24 h. Live cells and necrotic death cells were measured by the propidium idiode (PI) assay using the cellometer vision. Cell apoptosis was measured by the flow cytometry and DNA laddering. Cell cycle analysis was evaluated by the flow cytometry. The result of the PI demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) increase of necrotic cell death in Pb(NO3)2-treated cells, indicative of membrane rupture by Pb(NO3)2 compared to the control. Data generated from the comet assay indicated a concentration-dependent increase in DNA damage, showing a significant increase (p < 0.05) in comet tail-length and percentages of DNA cleavage. Data generated from the flow cytometry assessment indicated that Pb(NO3)2 exposure significantly (p < 0.05) increased the proportion of caspase-3 positive cells (apoptotic cells) compared to the control. The flow cytometry assessment also indicated Pb(NO3)2 exposure caused cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 checkpoint. The result of DNA laddering assay showed presence of DNA smear in the agarose gel with little presence of DNA fragments in the treated cells compared to the control. In summary, Pb(NO3)2 inhibits HL-60 cells proliferation by not only inducing DNA damage and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 checkpoint but also triggering the apoptosis through caspase-3 activation and nucleosomal DNA fragmentation accompanied by secondary necrosis. We believe that our study provides a new insight into the mechanisms of Pb(NO3)2 exposure and its associated adverse health effects.
Technologies for Arsenic Removal from Water: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Nicomel Nina , Leus Karen , Folens Karel , Van Der Voort Pascal , Du Laing Gijs
Published: December 2015

This review paper presents an overview of the available technologies used nowadays for the removal of arsenic species from water. Conventionally applied techniques to remove arsenic species include oxidation, coagulation-flocculation, and membrane techniques. Besides, progress has recently been made on the utility of various nanoparticles for the remediation of contaminated water. A critical analysis of the most widely investigated nanoparticles is presented and promising future research on novel porous materials, such as metal organic frameworks, is suggested.
Heavy Metal Pollution in a Soil-Rice System in the Yangtze River Region of China
Authors: Liu Zhouping , Zhang Qiaofen , Han Tiqian , Ding Yanfei , Sun Junwei , Wang Feijuan , Zhu Cheng
Published: December 2015

Heavy metals are regarded as toxic trace elements in the environment. Heavy metal pollution in soil or rice grains is of increasing concern. In this study, 101 pairs of soil and rice samples were collected from the major rice-producing areas along the Yangtze River in China. The soil properties and heavy metal (i.e., Cd, Hg, Pb and Cr) concentrations in the soil and rice grains were analyzed to evaluate the heavy metal accumulation characteristics of the soil-rice systems. The results showed that the Cd, Hg, Pb and Cr concentrations in the soil ranged from 0.10 to 4.64, 0.01 to 1.46, 7.64 to 127.56, and 13.52 to 231.02 mg·kg−1, respectively. Approximately 37%, 16%, 60% and 70% of the rice grain samples were polluted by Cd, Hg, Pb, and Cr, respectively. The degree of heavy metal contamination in the soil-rice systems exhibited a regional variation. The interactions among the heavy metal elements may also influence the migration and accumulation of heavy metals in soil or paddy rice. The accumulation of heavy metals in soil and rice grains is related to a certain extent to the pH and soil organic matter (SOM). This study provides useful information regarding heavy metal accumulation in soil to support the safe production of rice in China. The findings from this study also provide a robust scientific basis for risk assessments regarding ecological protection and food safety.
Study on Oxygen Supply Standard for Physical Health of Construction Personnel of High-Altitude Tunnels
Authors: Guo Chun , Xu Jianfeng , Wang Mingnian , Yan Tao , Yang Lu , Sun Zhitao
Published: December 2015

The low atmospheric pressure and low oxygen content in high-altitude environment have great impacts on the functions of human body. Especially for the personnel engaged in complicated physical labor such as tunnel construction, high altitude can cause a series of adverse physiological reactions, which may result in multiple high-altitude diseases and even death in severe cases. Artificial oxygen supply is required to ensure health and safety of construction personnel in hypoxic environments. However, there are no provisions for oxygen supply standard for tunnel construction personnel in high-altitude areas in current tunnel construction specifications. As a result, this paper has theoretically studied the impacts of high-altitude environment on human bodies, analyzed the relationship between labor intensity and oxygen consumption in high-altitude areas and determined the critical oxygen-supply altitude values for tunnel construction based on two different standard evaluation systems, i.e., variation of air density and equivalent PIO2. In addition, it has finally determined the oxygen supply standard for construction personnel in high-altitude areas based on the relationship between construction labor intensity and oxygen consumption.
Comments on Sabariego et al. Measuring Disability: Comparing the Impact of Two Data Collection Approaches on Disability Rates. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2015, 12, 10329–10351
Authors: Madans Jennifer , Mont Daniel , Loeb Mitchell
Published: December 2015

In the article, Measuring Disability: Comparing the Impact of Two Data Collection Approaches on Disability Rates, in Volume 12 of the Journal International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Carla Sabariego et al. [1] raise several issues regarding the use of the short set of questions developed by the Washington Group on Disability Statistics (WG) as compared with the approach to disability measurement proposed through the Model Disability Survey (MDS). We address these below. [...]
Response to Madans et al. Comments on Sabariego et al. Measuring Disability: Comparing the Impact of Two Data Collection Approaches on Disability Rates. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2015, 12, 10329–10351
Authors: Sabariego Carla , Oberhauser Cornelia , Posarac Aleksandra , Bickenbach Jerome , Kostanjsek Nenad , Chatterji Somnath , Officer Alana , Coenen Michaela , Chhan Lay , Cieza Alarcos
Published: December 2015

We greatly appreciate and wish to thank Madans, Mont and Loeb for the issues they raise in their Comment [1] on our paper “Measuring Disability: Using the WHO Model Disability Survey to Address the Impact of Screeners on Disability Rates” [2]. [...]