bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monochaetia ilexae sp. nov. (Pestalotiopsidaceae) from Yunnan Province in China
Authors: DE SILVA NIMALI I. , PHOOKAMSAK RUNGTIWA , MAHARACHCHIKUMBURA SAJEEWA S. N , THAMBUGALA KASUN M. , BHAT DARBHE J. , AL-SADI ABDULLAH M. , LUMYONG SAISAMORN , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: January 2017

Monochaetia is a pestalotiopsis-like genus characterized by 3–5-septate hyaline to brown conidia with single apical and basal appendages. Monochaetia species exhibit diverse conidial morphology, but many species lack molecular data and thus it is not clear if the genus is monophyletic. In this paper, combined LSU and ITS sequence data and morphological traits are used to introduce a new Monochaetia species, M. ilexae from Yunnan Province, China from dead leaves of Ilex species. Monochaetia ilexae shares similar morphology with the type, M. monochaeta and M. kansensis having fusiform conidia and has a similar range of conidia. However M. ilexae differs from M. monochaeta and M. kansensis having different conidia length, apical and basal appendage lengths. Phylogeny agrees with morphological differences allowing Monochaetia ilexae as a new species that clusters with Monochaetia species, but is separated from the main clade with high support.
Climatology of Westerly Wind Events in the Lee of the Sierra Nevada
Authors: Serafin Stefano , Strauss Lukas , Grubišić Vanda
Published: January 2017

A 5-yr climatology of westerly wind events in Owens Valley, California, is derived from data measured by a mesoscale network of 16 automatic weather stations. Thermally driven up- and down-valley flows are found to account for a large part of the diurnal wind variability in this approximately north–south-oriented deep U-shaped valley. High–wind speed events at the western side of the valley deviate from this basic pattern by showing a higher percentage of westerly winds. In general, strong westerly winds in Owens Valley tend to be more persistent and to display higher sustained speeds than strong winds from other quadrants. The highest frequency of strong winds at the valley floor is found in the afternoon hours from April to September, pointing to thermal forcing as a plausible controlling mechanism. However, the most intense westerly wind events (westerly windstorms) can happen at any time of the day throughout the year. The temperature and humidity variations caused by westerly windstorms depend on the properties of the approaching air masses. In some cases, the windstorms lead to overall warming and drying of the valley atmosphere, similar to foehn or chinook intrusions. The key dynamical driver of westerly windstorms in Owens Valley is conjectured to be the downward penetration of momentum associated with mountain waves produced by the Sierra Nevada ridgeline to the west of the valley.
Alternative Possibilities in the Sphere of Production: Experiments with Producer Co-operatives
Authors: Westenholz Ann
Published: January 2017

It is assumed that it is necessary to change the structure of ownership in order to establish alternative working conditions. The article deals with firms which are owned and controlled by their employees. A companson is made between the organizations of capitalist firms and producer co-operatives in four different respects: participation, learning processes; fundamental con tradictions; general responsibility. The article builds on empirical data from a research project at the Institute of Organization and Industrial Sociology at the Copenhagen School of Economics and Social Science, where a research group, MAREV, has been studying producer co-operatives in Denmark since 1979. Experiences so far have led to some tentative suggestions about the characteristics of producer co-operatives.
Planning and Organizing Alternatives Stemming from the Sphere of Reproduction
Authors: Liljeström Rita
Published: January 2017

The paper reminds us of the historical starting point by describing the three dimensions of the household patriarchate After the workplace and the dwelling became segregated, they founded the core of two separate systems. The separation of paid work on the market from unpaid work in the home gradually changed the reproductive relations. The critical learning processes in production and reproduction convey different critical learning processes. The article proceeds to compare the experiences that are built into the way in which production is organized with the message that is transmitted through the unpaid reproductive work. The comparison indicates that the experiences clearly clash with one another point after point This thorough-going conflict raises the questions: what has steered the organization of reproduction? What do the tendencies outlined signify for alternative planning?
Grass-roots Organizations, Societal Control and Dissolution of Norms
Authors: Gundelach Peter
Published: January 2017

In recent times two trends have emerged in society. an increase in state control and collective consumption and a dissolution of traditional norms and values. These processes have led to the formation of various types of grass-roots organizations: single issue organizations, rural community organ izations, urban community organizations. organizations of oppressed cat egories and idealistic organizations A Danish survey of some 100 organ izations from three municipalities shows differences between structure, resources and activities of the organizations, and indicates how the processes mentioned have created the five types of grass-roots organizations The conclusion is that only organizations stressing new norms and alternative social institutions may create any long term changes.
Association of Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio With the Mortality in Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Who Underwent Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Kiris Tuncay , Çelik Aykan , Variş Eser , Akan Erol , Akyildiz Zehra Ilke , Karaca Mustafa , Nazli Cem , Dogan Abdullah
Published: January 2017

We investigated whether the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) 48 hours after admission is related to 30-day and long-term mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who were treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We evaluated 318 consecutive patients with STEMI who were undergoing primary PCI. The relationship between the LMR48h and all-cause mortality (30-day and long-term) was analyzed by categorizing the patients into tertiles (T) according to LMR48h—T1 (>2.46), T2 (1.67-2.46), and T3 (<1.67). The T3 group exhibited the highest risk of 30-day all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 8.093 [1.006-65.074]; P = .049). For long-term mortality, a significantly higher mortality risk was observed in both T2 (HR: 2.005 [1.021-3.939]; P = .043) and T3 groups (HR: 2.374 [1.160-4.857]; P < .001) compared to the T1 group (reference group). In multivariate analysis, these associations remained unaltered even after adjusting for confounders. A low LMR at 48 hours after admission may be independently associated with both 30-day and long-term mortality in patients with STEMI who were treated with primary PCI. This marker may be used for identifying patients with STEMI at high risk.
Preoperative Insight Into the Quality of Radial Artery Grafts
Authors: Vukovic Petar , Peric Miodrag , Radak Sandra , Aleksic Nikola , Unic-Stojanovic Dragana , Micovic Slobodan , Stojanovic Ivan , Milojevic Predrag
Published: January 2017

We investigated the impact of preoperative ultrasonography of the forearm circulation on radial artery conduit selection. Preoperative ultrasound of the forearm circulation was performed routinely in 536 patients planned for radial artery harvesting. The safety assessment of the harvest included the following algorithm of tests: the ultrasound, the Allen test, and pulse oximetry. The quality criteria that were used to exclude a radial artery from harvesting were small size of the artery, diffuse atherosclerosis, calcifications, and severe neointimal hyperplasia. The overall rejection rate due to safety reasons was 16.4%. Seventy-one (13.2%) radial arteries did not fulfill the conduit quality criteria and consequently these arteries were not harvested. In 13.4% of radial arteries, localized arterial wall disease was found in the distal third of the artery. The distal part of the artery was discarded and the rest was used as a conduit. Our results indicate that the ultrasound provides an accurate preoperative insight into the radial artery morphology, enabling selection of the arteries with favorable morphological features.
Transcanal Atticoaditotomy and Transcortical Mastoidectomy for Cholesteatoma: The Farrior-Olaizola Technique Revisited
Authors: Reddy T. N. , Shetty Ashik , Dutt Sunil N. , Maini Sangeeta
Published: January 2017

Conservative mastoid surgery in the management of middle ear cholesteatoma has been a subject of controversy for decades. Proponents of the combined-approach tympanoplasty for cholesteatoma do not entirely support the conservative approach in children, especially in the hands of an inexperienced surgeon. We describe here our experience with a modified technique of conservative mastoid surgery involving an atticoaditotomy and a separate simple mastoidectomy with lateral attic wall reconstruction (modified Farrior technique) that can be relatively safely used in the majority of cases of chronic squamous otitis media, even in children. This was a prospective analysis of the therapeutic effects and benefits of the technique used in 103 cases of cholesteatoma at Staffordshire General Hospital from 1991 to 1997. The follow-up was between 3 and 9 years. The study group consisted of 55 male patients and 48 female patients, including 28 children less than 16 years of age. The age ranges were 9 to 61 years in male patients and 10 to 48 years in female patients. After an audiological assessment, all patients underwent the described mastoid procedure, and some of them required revision surgery, mostly for a second look or for ossiculoplasty. The chief outcome measures used were complete eradication of disease, incidence of disease recurrence, and restoration of hearing. The steps of the procedure, its pros and cons, and the results of the series are presented. Also discussed is an overview of the literature pertaining to intact—canal wall mastoid surgery. Of the 103 patients, only 3 had a recurrence of disease, and 9 patients showed no hearing improvement. We conclude that this modified technique has several advantages over the previously described mastoidectomy procedures. It is a relatively simple and effective technique that can be performed even in children.
Photochemically Induced Equilibrium Dysfunction in the Hamster Model with Evaluation by Means of a New Globe Rotatory Test System
Authors: Nishida Motoi , Ito Yatsuji , Nishida Motoi , Miyata Hideo , Kozawa Osamu , Uematsu Toshihiko
Published: January 2017

Thrombosis in the inner ear is regarded as one of the causes of equilibrium dysfunction. We have established an experimental thrombosis model by producing a photochemical reaction between rose bengal and green light, and have evaluated the dysfunction with a new rotatory test system. Hamsters were treated with tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) in doses of 0, 0.13, 0.26, and 0.52 mg/kg. The equilibrium dysfunction of the hamsters was evaluated by scoring their behavior according to visual observation and by measuring their time on the rotatory test system. Treatment of animals with sufficient tPA (0.26 mg/kg) caused a significant amelioration of the behavior and a concomitant significant prolongation of time on the rotating globe. These findings suggest that the equilibrium dysfunction induced by the photochemical reaction was due to the thrombi formed, and that our test system may provide a useful tool for evaluating equilibrium dysfunction in hamsters.
Sialendoscopy for Sublingual Gland Sialolithiasis
Authors: Goodstein Lindsay , Galinat Lauren , Curry Joseph , Luginbuhl Adam , Cognetti David
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To present a unique series of sublingual gland sialolithiasis treated with sialendoscopy.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of patients at a single tertiary care academic center undergoing sialendoscopy.

Results:

We present a series of 4 patients who presented with 1 episode each of sialadenitis without preceding postprandial symptoms. In each case, sialendoscopy identified the calculi embedded within the sublingual duct of Bartholin at its emptying point into Wharton’s duct. The large size of the stones did not permit endoscopic removal, and transoral excision was performed via a floor of mouth incision. All patients recovered well with resolution of preoperative symptoms.

Conclusions:

Sublingual gland sialolithiasis has a distinct presentation that is not associated with obstructive symptoms and may be successfully treated with a combined endoscopic and transoral approach. Sialendoscopy allows identification of the location of the sialolith to guide removal and helps identify stone fragments and additional stones remaining after sialolithotomy. Transoral resection of the sublingual gland in this scenario facilitates stone removal and may minimize long-term chance of ranula formation.
Evaluating the Effect of Spreader Grafting on Nasal Obstruction Using the NOSE Scale
Authors: Standlee Aurora G. , Hohman Marc H.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

The Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale has been used to demonstrate that surgery improves nasal obstruction, but no study has directly compared surgical techniques. We performed a retrospective study comparing NOSE scores to quantify the effects of spreader grafting on postoperative nasal patency.

Methods:

We compared NOSE scores of patients who underwent septoturbinoplasty to open septorhinoplasty with spreader graft placement. We used a paired samples t test to evaluate the difference between pre- and postoperative NOSE scores and the improvement in NOSE score between patients who underwent septoturbinoplasty and those who underwent open septorhinoplasty with spreader graft placement.

Results:

Surgery reduced NOSE scores by an average of 46 points ( P < .001). The mean differences in NOSE score across all time points after septoturbinoplasty and septorhinoplasty with spreader graft placement was 40 and 49, respectively. The mean improvement in NOSE score at the second follow-up appointment was 27 for patients who had undergone septoturbinoplasty and 51 for patients who had undergone septorhinoplasty with spreader graft placement ( P = .04).

Conclusion:

This is the largest study quantifying the effect of spreader grafting. Greater improvement was observed from septorhinoplasty with spreader graft placement than septoturbinoplasty, and this improvement persisted over time.
Suprafascial Harvest of the Radial Forearm Free Flap Decreases the Risk of Postoperative Tendon Exposure
Authors: Shonka David C. , Kohli Nikita V. , Milam Benjamin M. , Jameson Mark J.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To determine if suprafascial harvest of the radial forearm free flap improves postoperative donor site outcomes compared to subfascial harvest.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review.

Results:

Forty-six patients underwent reconstruction of a head and neck defect with a radial forearm free flap (RFFF). Subfascial harvest of the RFFF was performed in 25 (53%) patients and suprafascial harvest performed in 22 (47%) patients. All donor sites were covered with a split thickness skin graft and a bolster that remained in place for 6 days. Postoperative tendon exposure at the donor site occurred in 5 (20%) of the patients in the subfascial group and in 0 (0%) of the patients in the suprafascial group ( P = .05; Fisher’s exact test). Average tourniquet time was 117 minutes in the subfascial group and 102 minutes in the suprafascial group. Hematoma formation occurred at the donor site in 2 (8%) and 1 (5%) patients in the subfascial and suprafascial groups, respectively. There were no complete or partial flap losses in either group.

Conclusions:

Suprafascial harvest of the RFFF decreases the risk of postoperative tendon exposure. The suprafascial harvest technique does not increase harvest time or donor site complications, nor does it negatively impact flap vascularity.
Telephone Speech Comprehension with Use of the Nucleus Cochlear Implant
Authors: Cohen Noel L. , Waltzman Susan B. , Shapiro William H.
Published: January 2017

The reported telephone usage by cochlear implant recipients has become a major issue of controversy. Although patients and clinicians report good communication skills via the telephone, no standardized tests have been used and no quantifiable results have been reported. In an effort to determine the extent to which our better-performing patients can use the telephone, we established a clinical protocol to assess their ability to recognize speech, taking into consideration the problems inherent in telephone testing. Eight cochlear implant recipients were administered the NU-6 Monosyllabic Word Test and the City University of New York Topic Related Sentences under the following listening conditions: soundfield in a soundproof suite and via telephone within the hospital, locally, and long-distance. Twenty-three percent of the patients implanted at New York University Medical Center demonstrated a significant degree of telephone communication ability.
Environmental Conditions and Seasonal Variables in American Youth Football Leagues
Authors: Yeargin Susan W. , Cahoon Erin , Hosokawa Yuri , Mensch James M. , Dompier Thomas P. , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: January 2017

Our study describes youth football (YFB) environmental conditions and the associated heat index (HI) risk category. An observational research design was utilized. Independent variables included month, time, event, and geographic location. Main outcome variables were frequency of events, average HI, and corresponding risk categorization. The HI was recorded with the day and time for each YFB event across 2 YFB seasons. Nearly half (49.8%) of events were in a high HI risk category and 20.0% should have been cancelled. The hottest HI values were recorded in July and August (83.2 ± 9.4°F to 87.2 ± 10.9°F; 24.0% of YFB events). The 7 to 10 am time frame was cooler (67.7 ± 14.5°F; 6.3% of YFB events) than other time frames ( P < .001). Hotter HI values were recorded in practices versus games (75.9 ± 14.1°F vs 70.6 ± 14.6°F; t = −6.426, P < .001). Starting the YFB season in September and holding weekend events in the early morning hours can decrease exposure to environmental heat stress.
Neutrality and the Common Market: The Soviet View
Authors: Tarschys Daniel
Published: January 2017

The Soviet doctrine on the legal implications of neutrality is liberal with regard to the non-aligned nations in the third world but rigid with regard to the neutral states in Western Europe. On the one hand, Soviet jurists defend the right of neutral countries to pursue a highly active foreign policy. On the other, they contend that neither membership nor association with the Common Market is compatible with Swedish, Austrian, or Swiss neutrality. This inherent tension in the Soviet theory of neutrality is not resolved at the level of abstract definitions of neutrality and neutralism where the liberal interpretation tends to prevail.
New Problems—Old Solutions
Authors: Skagestad Gunnar , Traavik Kim
Published: January 2017

The verdict in 1933 by the Permanent International Court of Justice in the so-called ‘Eastern Greenland Case’ brought to the fore the dilemma of adapting the traditional sovereignty concept to the novel political/legal problems characterizing the ‘new territories’. With the opening up of other ‘new territories’ for exploration and subsequent exploitation, this dilemma has grown ever more acute in recent years.

This chapter highlights some general regulation problems in ‘new territories’, gives a description of attempts made to solve such problems in the past, and identifies the key elements in the various ‘solution models’ (notably the Svalbard Treaty, the Antarctic Treaty and the Continental Shelf Convention). These elements are described and analysed comparatively, with a certain emphasis on the somewhat divergent preconditions prevalent in the three separate examples. In the final section, the authors proceed to discuss the applicability of the old solution models to the present and emerging regulation problems in the new territories.
Strength and Impotence. The Developing Countries and the Development in New Territories
Authors: Østreng Willy
Published: January 2017

This article examines the possible political and economic effects of large-scale mineral extraction from the seabed. The findings presented indicate that development in new territories may conceivably serve to exacerbate existing conflict dimensions, notably the North/South dimension in global politics. Because of the developed countries' monopoly on know-how and economic capability, exploration and exploitation of the inorganic resources of the ocean floor has de facto been the exclusive domain of these countries. On the basis of this the author shows that if large-scale production of seabed resources should become a reality in the near future, the underdeveloped countries will be forced to watch it from the sidelines. As a consequence, the exploitation of offshore raw materials will probably contribute to the further widening of the gap between developed and underdeveloped countries. Further commenting on the fact that the latter today are the main producers of the most promising seabed resources, the author expresses the view that exploitation will have a detrimental effect on the economics of the Third World countries, since it might lead to overproduction and price reductions.
Bias, Type I Error Rates, and Statistical Power of a Latent Mediation Model in the Presence of Violations of Invariance
Authors: Olivera-Aguilar Margarita , Rikoon Samuel H. , Gonzalez Oscar , Kisbu-Sakarya Yasemin , MacKinnon David P.
Published: January 2017

When testing a statistical mediation model, it is assumed that factorial measurement invariance holds for the mediating construct across levels of the independent variable X. The consequences of failing to address the violations of measurement invariance in mediation models are largely unknown. The purpose of the present study was to systematically examine the impact of mediator noninvariance on the Type I error rates, statistical power, and relative bias in parameter estimates of the mediated effect in the single mediator model. The results of a large simulation study indicated that, in general, the mediated effect was robust to violations of invariance in loadings. In contrast, most conditions with violations of intercept invariance exhibited severely positively biased mediated effects, Type I error rates above acceptable levels, and statistical power larger than in the invariant conditions. The implications of these results are discussed and recommendations are offered.
Recall of White and Black Faces by White and Black Witnesses Using the Photofit System
Authors: Ellis Hadyn D. , Davies Graham M. , Mcmurran Mary M.
Published: January 2017

Twenty white and 20 black encoders each made Photofit constructions from memory of one of a sample of 10 white faces and one of a sample of 10 black faces. Then, to provide accuracy indices, two different groups of 20 white decoders matched the resulting Photofits to photographs of the original 20 faces. Both white and black encoders made more accurate white than black Photofits; white encoders made more accurate white Photofits than did black encoders; however, there were no racial differences in accuracy among encoders for black faces. Results were explained by cross-racial memory and by Photofit Kit differences.
Attitudes of health professionals towards the stigma surrounding depression in times of economic crisis
Authors: Saridi Maria , Kordosi Aikaterini , Toska Aikaterini , Peppou Lily Evangelia , Economou Marina , Souliotis Kyriakos
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

The stigma of mental illness and the ensuing social exclusion are due to the lack of knowledge on the causality of mental illness.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to record the stigmatic attitudes of health professionals towards depression, patients suffering from it and the available therapeutic approaches.

Material and Methods:

The sample of the study included 609 health professionals working in the General Hospital of Corinth. The collection of the empirical material was performed using an anonymous questionnaire. The statistical analysis was performed with the statistical program SPSS 17.0.

Results:

Although the health professionals showed more optimistic attitudes towards the abilities of the mentally ill, they seem to maintain stereotypes, proving that stigmatization of the mentally ill and prejudice around mental illness continue to exist. Participants identified psychosocial and psychotherapeutic interventions as the most effective forms of therapy, such as supportive social destination (74.4%), healthy eating and physical activity (67.9%), psychoanalysis (60.6%), relaxation techniques (60.5%) and counselling (53.2%), recording ambivalent attitudes towards psychiatric medicines, questioning their effectiveness. The economic crisis has had a direct impact on health professionals as well burdened their psyche (78.3%) and created problems in everyday work (86.7%).

Conclusion:

Health professionals must be protagonists, free from the stigma attached to mental illness as only in this way will they be able to transmit optimism and feelings of acceptance.
Mechanical properties, impact fracture behavior, and morphology of long-polyimide-fiber-reinforced poly(butylene terephthalate) composites
Authors: Yu Zhengyang , Wang Xiaodong , Wu Dezhen
Published: January 2017

The present study focuses on the mechanical properties, impact behaviors, and morphology of a new long-fiber-reinforced composite system based on poly(butylene terephthalate) and polyimide fiber prepared by melt pultrusion. Mechanical characterization revealed that the obtained composites achieved significant improvements not only in tensile and flexural strength but also in impact toughness. It is highlighted that the Izod impact strength was improved by a factor of 5 when 12 wt% PI fiber was incorporated into the matrix. Morphological investigation indicated that the fiber pullout was the dominant mechanism for tensile failure, whereas the enhancement of impact toughness was attributed to the energy dissipation by both the fiber pullout and fiber strain. In this case, a simple fiber strain energy model was used to predict the impact strength of this composite system. The theoretical results showed a good fit with the experimental data of impact energy due to the fiber strain energy absorption involved in the major dissipation of impact energy. In addition, the incorporation of polyimide fiber not only enhanced the crystallinity of poly(butylene terephthalate) due to the heterogeneous nucleating effect but also improved the thermal stability of composites by promoting the carbonization of the matrix. As a result of this study, the high-performance composites based on a thermoplastic matrix and an organic reinforcing fiber were created for the engineering and structural applications.
Numerical modeling of vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding using multilayer approach
Authors: Loudad Raounak , Saouab Abdelghani , Beauchene Pierre , Agogue Romain , Desjoyeaux Bertrand
Published: January 2017

Vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) is a very suitable solution for composite manufacturing industry. It allows the manufacturing of large and complex shape parts at low costs. However, the simulation of this process is complicated due to myriad physical phenomena involved, specifically the strong coupling between the resin flow and the preform compressibility, i.e. hydro-mechanical coupling. Moreover, the use of the distribution medium involves two types of flow: Planar flow and through-the-thickness flow. These flows cannot be considered together by a 2D model. On the other hand, 3D models require an important amount of computation time. This article presents a VARTM modeling approach that takes into account the hydro-mechanical coupling and the coexistence of planar and transverse flows. The proposed modeling approach allows the simulation of the infusion process in the case of multilayer preform with different materials and orientations, including the distribution medium. This model is validated experimentally based on several infusions.
Electrical properties of extruded milled carbon fibre and polypropylene
Authors: Radzuan Nabilah Afiqah Mohd , Sulong Abu Bakar , Rao Somalu Mahendra
Published: January 2017

A milled carbon fibre and polypropylene polymer composite at high filler loading was developed to produce conductive polymer composites for high conductive applications. Current research of conductive polymer composite material has reported about in-plane conductivity that was often higher than through-plane conductivity, which contradicted with the target of applications that required higher electrical conductivity in the through-plane direction. Therefore, electrical conductivity in parallel and transverse to extrusion directions were investigated. The general-effective media and modified fibre contact model were adapted to predict the electrical conductivity of the composite material. The experimental conductivity data of polypropylene/milled carbon fibre composites for transverse and parallel directions were not correlated with the general-effective media model with 2.009 and 0.663 S/cm, respectively, at the highest filler loading of 80 wt.%. This disagreement was due to various critical exponential, t values (2–3.25) that were obtained in this study. However, the modified fibre contact model seemed to have good agreement with the experimental data in the parallel to extrusion direction. This model was unable to predict electrical conductivity in the transverse direction due to lack of orientation occurring in that direction. The electrical conductivity increased as the filler loading increased as explained in percolation theory. Predicting the electrical conductivity of conductive polymer composites material is still in the preliminary stages where the researcher often obtains fluctuating agreement with the experimental values. Thus, contact between filler and orientation is considered as the main factor that influences the electrical conductivity and mechanical strength of the conductive polymer composites material.
Matricide: The Schizophrenic Crime?
Authors: Clark S A
Published: January 2017

The aim of the study was to further examine the view that matricide is ‘the schizophrenic crime’ (Gilles, 1965).

This report represents a comprehensive, retrospective and national study of all individuals in Scotland who, between 1957 and 1987 inclusive, were charged with the murder or the culpable homicide of their biological mother. Files of High Court indictments were examined for the relevant years to identify offenders prior to disposal, and individuals were followed up with respect to diagnosis and disposal.

Twenty-six (twenty-three men and three women) were convicted of the murder or culpable homicide of their biological mother.

Only 50 per cent (thirteen subjects) were known to the State Hospital, Carstairs.

Six (24 per cent) subjects suffered from schizophrenia, seven (24 per cent) were given no diagnosis, five (20 per cent) suffered from personality disorder, four (16 per cent) from the alcohol dependence syndrome, three (12 per cent) from depressive illness, and one (4 per cent) from hypomania.

Thus, whilst schizophrenia is over-represented in this subgroup of offenders, matricide should not be viewed as the schizophrenic crime. Given the prevalence of mental disorder in this group, pre-trial assessment by a Forensic Psychiatrist should be mandatory.
Ethnographic Evaluation of a Lay Health Promoter Program to Reduce Occupational Injuries among Latino Poultry Processing Workers
Authors: Marín Antonio , Carrillo Lourdes , Arcury Thomas A. , Grzywacz Joseph G. , Coates Michael L. , Quandt Sara A.
Published: January 2017

We evaluated a lay health promoter program providing occupational health and safety education to immigrant Latino poultry processing workers in western North Carolina. While such programs are advocated for addressing the health education deficits of immigrant and disadvantaged populations, their application in occupational health has been limited to farmworkers. A community-university partnership recruited and trained promoters to deliver lessons on musculoskeletal injuries, slips and falls, and workers' rights to workers individually or in small groups in the community. Evaluation showed 841 workers received education during a 28-month period. Using ethnographic data, an evaluation showed that promoters' work led to changes in behavior and attitudes in the community. Promoters also reported substantial changes in self-esteem and independence. Promoters' supervisors reported challenges and strategies experienced by the promoters. Promoter programs in occupational health and safety are feasible approaches to supplement training provided in the workplace.
A Randomized, Controlled Intervention of Machine Guarding and Related Safety Programs in Small Metal-Fabrication Businesses
Authors: Parker David L. , Brosseau Lisa M. , Samant Yogindra , Xi Min , Pan Wei , Haugan David ,   The Study Advisory Board
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Metal fabrication employs an estimated 3.1 million workers in the United States. The absence of machine guarding and related programs such as lockout/tagout may result in serious injury or death. The purpose of this study was to improve machine-related safety in small metal-fabrication businesses.

Methods.

We used a randomized trial with two groups: management only and management-employee. We evaluated businesses for the adequacy of machine guarding (machine scorecard) and related safety programs (safety audit). We provided all businesses with a report outlining deficiencies and prioritizing their remediation. In addition, the management-employee group received four one-hour interactive training sessions from a peer educator.

Results.

We evaluated 40 metal-fabrication businesses at baseline and 37 (93%) one year later. Of the three nonparticipants, two had gone out of business. More than 40% of devices required for adequate guarding were missing or inadequate, and 35% of required safety programs and practices were absent at baseline. Both measures improved significantly during the course of the intervention. No significant differences in changes occurred between the two intervention groups. Machine-guarding practices and programs improved by up to 13% and safety audit scores by up to 23%. Businesses that added safety committees or those that started with the lowest baseline measures showed the greatest improvements.

Conclusions.

Simple and easy-to-use assessment tools allowed businesses to significantly improve their safety practices, and safety committees facilitated this process.
Engineering Control Technologies to Reduce Occupational Silica Exposures in Masonry Cutting and Tuckpointing
Authors: Meeker John D. , Cooper Michael R. , Lefkowitz Daniel , Susi Pam
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

A number of tasks in construction generate worker overexposures to respirable crystalline silica dust, which is a significant contributor to occupational mortality and morbidity. This study evaluated the performance of commercially available engineering controls used in dusty construction tasks commonly performed by bricklayers.

Methods.

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) controls for a portable abrasive cutter and for tuckpointing grinders were examined at a bricklayers' training center, as were two stationary wet saws. Personal breathing zone air samples were collected with and without the use of LEV or water suppression during simulated concrete block cutting, brick cutting, and tuckpointing.

Results.

Compared with the use of no exposure control during block and brick cutting, the portable LEV unit significantly reduced mean respirable quartz exposures by 96% for block cutting and 91% for brick cutting ( p<0.01). The use of stationary wet saws was also associated with 91% reductions in exposure ( p<0.01). For tuckpointing, the reductions in mean respirable quartz concentrations were between 91% and 93% with the LEV controls ( p<0.05).

Conclusions.

Reductions of up to 96% in mean respirable quartz concentration were observed between control and no-control scenarios. These reductions with commercially available off-the-shelf tools demonstrate the effectiveness of engineering control interventions to reduce crystalline silica exposures in construction. Strategies to further improve control performance and approaches for increasing control interventions in construction are needed.
Socioeconomic Disadvantage as a Social Determinant of Teen Childbearing in the U.S.
Authors: Penman-Aguilar Ana , Carter Marion , Snead M. Christine , Kourtis Athena P.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

We reviewed the literature focused on socioeconomic influences on teen childbearing and suggested directions for future research and practice related to this important indicator of teen sexual health.

Methods.

We conducted an electronic search of Medline, ERIC, PsychLit, and Sociological Abstracts databases for articles published from January 1995 to November 2011. Selected articles from peer-reviewed journals included original quantitative analyses addressing socioeconomic influences on first birth among teen women in the U.S. Articles were abstracted for key information, ranked for quality according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines, assessed for bias, and synthesized.

Results.

We selected articles with a range of observational study designs. Risk for bias varied across studies. All 12 studies that considered socioeconomic factors as influences on teen childbearing (vs. moderators or mediators of other effects) reported at least one statistically significant association relating low socioeconomic status, underemployment, low income, low education levels, neighborhood disadvantage, neighborhood physical disorder, or neighborhood-level income inequality to teen birth. Few reports included any associations contradicting this pattern.

Conclusions.

This review suggests that unfavorable socioeconomic conditions experienced at the community and family levels contribute to the high teen birth rate in the U.S. Future research into social determinants of sexual health should include multiple levels of measurement whenever possible Root causes of teen childbearing should be evaluated in various populations and contexts Interventions that address socioeconomic influences at multiple levels could positively affect large numbers of teens and help eliminate disparities in teen childbearing.
In Their Own Words: Romantic Relationships and the Sexual Health of Young African American Women
Authors: Murray Colleen Crittenden , Hatfield-Timajchy Kendra , Kraft Joan Marie , Bergdall Anna R. , Habel Melissa A. , Kottke Melissa , Diclemente Ralph J.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

We assessed young African American women's understanding of “dual protection” (DP) (i.e., strategies that simultaneously protect against unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases [STDs]) and how relationship factors influence their use of DP methods.

Methods.

We conducted 10 focus groups with African American women ( n=51) aged 15–24 years in Atlanta, Georgia, to identify barriers to and facilitators of their DP use. Focus group participants also completed a brief self-administered questionnaire that assessed demographics and sexual behaviors. We analyzed focus group data by theme: relationships, planning for sex, pregnancy intentions, STD worries, the trade-off between pregnancy and STDs, attitudes toward condoms and contraceptives, and understanding of DP.

Results.

From the questionnaire, 51% of participants reported that an STD would be the “worst thing that could happen,” and 26% reported that being pregnant would be “terrible.” Focus group data suggested that most participants understood what DP was but thought it was not always feasible. Relationship factors (e.g., trust, intimacy, length of relationship, and centrality) affected pregnancy intentions, STD concerns, and use of DP. Social influences (e.g., parents) and pregnancy and STD history also affected attitudes about pregnancy, STDs, and relationships.

Conclusions.

Although participants identified risks associated with sex, a complex web of social and relationship factors influenced the extent to which they engaged in protective behavior The extent to which relationship factors influence DP may reflect developmental tasks of adolescence and should be considered in any program promoting sexual health among young African American women.
Protecting Labor Rights: Roles for Public Health
Authors: Bhatia Rajiv , Gaydos Megan , Yu Karen , Weintraub June
Published: January 2017

Federal, state, and local labor laws establish minimum standards for working conditions, including wages, work hours, occupational safety, and collective bargaining. The adoption and enforcement of labor laws protect and promote social, economic, and physical determinants of health, while incomplete compliance undermines these laws and contributes to health inequalities. Using existing legal authorities, some public health agencies may be able to contribute to the adoption, monitoring, and enforcement of labor laws. We describe how routine public health functions have been adapted in San Francisco, California, to support compliance with minimum wage and workers' compensation insurance standards. Based on these experiences, we consider the opportunities and obstacles for health agencies to defend and advance labor standards. Increasing coordinated action between health and labor agencies may be a promising approach to reducing health inequities and efficiently enforcing labor standards.
Using a Health in All Policies Approach to Address Social Determinants of Sexually Transmitted Disease Inequities in the Context of Community Change and Redevelopment
Authors: Avey Holly , Fuller Elizabeth , Branscomb Jane , Cheung Karen , Reed Phillip Jackson , Wong Naima , Henderson Michael , Williams Samantha
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We used a Health in All Policies (HiAP) framework to determine what data, policy, and community efficacy opportunities exist for improving sexual health and reducing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in an area surrounding an Army base undergoing redevelopment in Atlanta, Georgia.

Methods.

We conducted a literature review, consulted with experts, mapped social determinants in the community, conducted key informant interviews with community leaders to explore policy solutions, used Photovoice with community members to identify neighborhood assets, and shared data with all stakeholder groups to solicit engagement for next steps.

Results.

We identified the following HiAP-relevant determinants of STD inequities in the literature: education, employment, male incarceration, drug and alcohol marketing, and social capital. Quantitative data confirmed challenges in education, employment, and male incarceration in the area. Interviews identified policy opportunities such as educational funding ratios, Community Hire Agreements, code and law enforcement, addiction and mental health resources, lighting for safety, and a nonemergency public safety number. Photovoice participants identified community assets to protect including family-owned businesses, green spaces, gathering places, public transportation resources, historical sites, and architectural elements. Stakeholder feedback provided numerous opportunities for next steps.

Conclusions.

This study contributes to the HiAP literature by providing an innovative mixed-methods design that locates social determinants of STDs within a geographic context, identifies policy solutions from local leaders, highlights community assets through the lens of place attachment, and engages stakeholders in identifying next steps. Findings from this study could inform other redevelopments, community-based studies of STDs, and HiAP efforts.
Missed Opportunities for Concurrent HIV-STD Testing in an Academic Emergency Department
Authors: Klein Pamela W. , Martin Ian B.K. , Quinlivan Evelyn B. , Gay Cynthia L. , Leone Peter A.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We evaluated emergency department (ED) provider adherence to guidelines for concurrent HIV-sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing within an expanded HIV testing program and assessed demographic and clinical factors associated with concurrent HIV-STD testing.

Methods.

We examined concurrent HIV-STD testing in a suburban academic ED with a targeted, expanded HIV testing program. Patients aged 18–64 years who were tested for syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia in 2009 were evaluated for concurrent HIV testing. We analyzed demographic and clinical factors associated with concurrent HIV-STD testing using multivariate logistic regression with a robust variance estimator or, where applicable, exact logistic regression.

Results.

Only 28.3% of patients tested for syphilis, 3.8% tested for gonorrhea, and 3.8% tested for chlamydia were concurrently tested for HIV during an ED visit. Concurrent HIV-syphilis testing was more likely among younger patients aged 25–34 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.78, 2.10) and patients with STD-related chief complaints at triage (AOR=11.47, 95% CI 5.49, 25.06). Concurrent HIV-gonorrhea/chlamydia testing was more likely among men (gonorrhea: AOR=3.98, 95% CI 2.25, 7.02; chlamydia: AOR=3.25, 95% CI 1.80, 5.86) and less likely among patients with STD-related chief complaints at triage (gonorrhea: AOR=0.31, 95% CI 0.13, 0.82; chlamydia: AOR=0.21, 95% CI 0.09, 0.50).

Conclusions.

Concurrent HIV-STD testing in an academic ED remains low. Systematic interventions that remove the decision-making burden of ordering an HIV test from providers may increase HIV testing in this high-risk population of suspected STD patients.
Data Harmonization Process for Creating the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention Atlas
Authors: Elmore Kim , Nelson Rob , Gant Zanetta , Jeffries Carla , Broeker Lance , Mirabito Massimo , Roberts Henry
Published: January 2017

In 2009, the CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP) initiated the online, interactive NCHHSTP Atlas. The goal of the Atlas is to strengthen the capacity to monitor the diseases overseen by NCHHSTP and to illustrate demographic, spatial, and temporal variation in disease patterns. The Atlas includes HIV, AIDS, viral hepatitis, sexually transmitted disease, and tuberculosis surveillance data, and aims to provide a single point of access to meet the analytical and data dissemination needs of NCHHSTP. To accomplish this goal, an NCHHSTP-wide Data Harmonization Workgroup reviewed surveillance data collected by each division to harmonize the data across diseases, allowing one to query data and generate comparable maps and tables via the same user interface. Although we were not able to harmonize all data elements, data standardization is necessary and work continues toward that goal.