bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social tags for resource discovery: a comparison between machine learning and user-centric approaches
Authors: Razikin Khasfariyati , Goh Dion H. , Chua Alton Y. K. , Chei Sian Lee
Published: June 2011

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of tags in facilitating resource discovery through machine learning and user-centric approaches. Drawing our dataset from a popular social tagging system, Delicious, we conducted six text categorization experiments using the top 100 frequently occurring tags. We also conducted a human evaluation experiment to manually evaluate the relevance of some 2000 documents related to these tags. The results from the text categorization experiments suggest that not all tags are useful for content discovery regardless of the tag weighting schemes. Moreover, there were cases where the evaluators did not perform as well as the classifiers, especially when there was a lack of cues in the documents for them to ascertain the relationship with the tag assigned. This paper discusses three implications arising from the findings and suggests a number of directions for further research.
Normalization of the stress concentrations at the rounded edges of a shaft–hub interference fit
Authors: Strozzi A , Baldini A , Giacopini M , Bertocchi E , Bertocchi L
Published: June 2011

The elastic stress concentrations developed from the keyless frictionless static press-fit of a shaft into a hub are addressed. Two configurations are examined, namely (a) an infinitely long solid shaft press-fitted into a hollow hub with bore rounded edges, and (b) a shaft with filleted extremity, partially inserted into a hub. Derived from an analytical approach, a normalizing parameter is proposed that accounts for the combined effects on the stress concentrations of the fillet radius, the shaft radius, the interference, and Young’s modulus. With the aid of finite elements, various design charts are compiled that report the elastic stress concentrations within the hub versus the proposed normalizing parameter. Each curve is valid for a fixed ratio of inner to outer hub radii.
Ultimate strain and deformability of elementary flax fibres
Authors: Andersons J , Poriķe E , Spārniņš E
Published: June 2011

Flax fibres possess high specific strength and stiffness, and thus are competitive in terms of mechanical properties with the traditional reinforcing fibres used in polymer-matrix composite materials. The mechanical properties of fibres have considerable variability that needs to be characterized and allowed for in the analysis of mechanical response of composites. In this study, the distribution of ultimate strain of elementary flax fibres and its dependence on gauge length is considered. The applicability of the modified Weibull distribution, used for fibre strength, to fibre ultimate strain is evaluated. A simplified relation of ultimate strain and fibre strength distributions is proposed.
Role of the Acetabular Labrum and the Iliofemoral Ligament in Hip Stability
Authors: Myers Casey A. , Register Bradley C. , Lertwanich Pisit , Ejnisman Leandro , Pennington W. Wes , Giphart J. Erik , LaPrade Robert F. , Philippon Marc J.
Published: June 2011

Background

Recent biomechanical reports have described the function of the acetabular labrum and iliofemoral ligament in providing hip stability, but the relative stability provided by each structure has not been well described.

Hypothesis

Both the iliofemoral ligament and acetabular labrum are important for hip stability by limiting external rotation and anterior translation, with increased stability provided by the iliofemoral ligament compared with the acetabular labrum.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Fifteen fresh-frozen male cadaveric hips were utilized for this study. Each specimen was selectively skeletonized down to the hip capsule. Four tantalum beads were embedded into each femur and pelvis to accurately measure hip translations and rotations using biplane fluoroscopy while either a standardized 5 N·m external or internal rotation torque was applied. The hips were tested in 4 hip flexion angles (10° of extension, neutral, and 10° and 40° of flexion) in the intact state and then by sectioning and later repairing the acetabular labrum and iliofemoral ligament in a randomized order.

Results

External rotation significantly increased from the intact condition (41.5° ± 7.4°) to the sectioned iliofemoral ligament condition (54.4° ± 6.6°) and both-sectioned condition (61.5° ± 5.7°; P < .01), but there was no significant increase in external rotation when the labrum alone was sectioned (45.6° ± 5.9°). The intact and fully repaired conditions were not significantly different. External rotation and internal rotation significantly decreased when the hip flexion angle decreased from 40° of flexion to 10° of extension (P < .01) regardless of sectioned condition. Anterior translation varied significantly across sectioned conditions but not across flexion angles (P < .001). The ligament-sectioned (1.4 ± 0.5 mm), both-sectioned (2.2 ± 0.2 mm), and labrum-repaired (1.1 ± 0.2 mm) conditions all resulted in significantly greater anterior translation than the intact condition (−0.4 ± 0.1 mm) (P < .001).

Conclusion

The iliofemoral ligament had a significant role in limiting external rotation and anterior translation of the femur, while the acetabular labrum provided a secondary stabilizing role for these motions.

Clinical Relevance

These results suggest that, if injured, both the acetabular labrum and iliofemoral ligament should be surgically repaired to restore native hip rotation and translation. In addition, a careful repair of an arthroscopic capsulotomy should be performed to avoid increased external hip rotation and anterior translation after arthroscopy.
“At-Risk” Positioning and Hip Biomechanics of the Peewee Ice Hockey Sprint Start
Authors: Stull Justin D. , Philippon Marc J. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: June 2011

Background

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is becoming a prevalent overuse injury diagnosis among hockey players. In the adult ice hockey stride, the “at-risk” hip position, defined by internal rotation during flexion and external rotation during abduction, reportedly increases hip vulnerability to labral injury as a result of FAI.

Hypothesis

Peewee youth ice hockey players display the kinematics for both described at-risk hip positions (internal rotation during flexion and external rotation during abduction) in the ice hockey sprint start.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Twelve healthy male Peewee ice hockey players (mean age, 10.8 ± 0.6 years) participated in this study. Thirty-five anatomic landmarks were used to analyze the 3-dimensional kinematic and kinetic variables of the hip associated with the ice hockey sprint start. Ten high-speed (120-Hz) infrared cameras recorded the trials, which were subsequently analyzed with Motion Monitor software. The sprint start was recorded over 4 defined periods of motion: start, push, swing, and even.

Results

In the “push” period, 11.5° of external rotation was observed concurrently with 13.2° of abduction in the push leg, and 6.8° of internal rotation occurred with 33.8° of flexion in the lead leg. During the recovery phase of the “swing” period, maximum internal rotation was 5.6° with concurrent hip flexion of 44.2° in the push leg, while lead leg internal rotation reached a maximum of 10.8° with hip flexion of 35.1° during the “even” period.

Conclusion

During the sprint start, youth ice hockey players externally rotate in abduction during the push-off phase and internally rotate through increasing hip flexion during the recovery phase, displaying the at-risk hip positions of the ice hockey skating stride.

Clinical Relevance

During the sprint start, youth ice hockey players position their hips in a manner that can cause impingement of the femoral neck against the acetabulum and potentially lead to labral tears and/or articular cartilage damage. This knowledge could be applied to assist in the prevention of overuse injuries of the hip as youth hockey players mature and increase in skill level.
Remedial Response At the Richmond, California Hazardous Waste Site
Authors: Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory, U.S. EPA
Published: June 2011

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency surveyed 395 uncontrolled hazardous waste sites where some form of remedial action had been planned. A series of reports on 23 sites representative of various remedial response activities has been prepared. The current report from this series deals with the installation of a subsurface clay barrier wall and dike around an existing coastal landfill to prevent leachate from entering San Francisco Bay. Costs, equipment used and method of construction are reported in detail.
Historical Perspectives On Hazardous Wastes in the United States
Authors: Tarr Joel A.
Published: June 2011

This paper traces changing attitudes and practices regarding municipal and industrial waste disposal from the middle of the 19th century to the present. It examines the interaction between various theories of health and waste disposal in water and on land. The concluding section explores the increasing use of industrial and sanitary landfills since World War II and the development of legislation to deal with negative effects.
Temperature Profiles in Thermally Decomposing Pelletized Refuse-Derived Fuel
Authors: Gullett Brian K. , Vesilind P. Aarne
Published: June 2011

The pyrolytic and combustive reactions of thermally decomposing pelletized refuse-derived fuel in air and nitrogren atmospheres is studied through the experimental determination of the temperature profile within cellulose cylinders. The internal temperature history of cellulose cylinders is monitored by use of thermocouples inserted into holes drilled in the cylinder side at different depths and heights. The cylinders are tested by immersion into a preheated furnace at a range of temperatures. The reaction energetics of the decomposition during pyrolysis and combustion processes are recorded by the thermocouple monitors. An endothermic reaction initiated at c. 310°C is observed. This reaction is followed by a consecutive, exothermic reaction at c. 350°C in both air and nitrogen atmospheres that raises the cylinder temperature above that of the surrounding chamber.
A Study On the Characteristics of Refuse in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Sridhar M.K.C. , Bammeke A.O. , Ademola Omishakin M.
Published: June 2011

A study has been undertaken on the quantity and characteristics of refuse generated among families in high, middle and low socio-economic groups in Ibadan City, Nigeria. These three groups generate, respectively, 0·428, 0·289 and 0·132 kg refuse per capita. A major portion of the refuse is generated in high and middle socio-economic groups and contained 66-71% of putrescible organic matter represented by garbage. The refuse also contained 1·1-2·6% total Kjeldahl nitrogen and 1·6-3·3% total phosphorus. The presence of leaves which contribute to volume are attributed to the traditional food habits of the people.
Avoiding Failure of Leachate Collection Systems
Authors: Bass Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2011

Examples of failures of leachate collection systems have been surveyed by telephone throughout the U.S.A. and evaluated in terms of literature and other personal contacts. Failures in hazardous waste landfills are seldom reported but are expected to be similar to failures in other landfills and agricultural drainage systems. Major failures related to inadequate design, construction and operation are discussed together with suggestions for reducing the incidence of failures.
State and Trends Regarding the Utilization of Landfill Gas in the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Franzius Volker
Published: June 2011

Current activities and research on the recovery and utilization of landfill gas in the Federal Republic of Germany (F.R.G.) are described. The Federal Ministry for Research and Technology (Bundesminister für Forschung und Technologie) has sponsored research at three landfill gas utilization projects. Over 100 gas recovery projects were proposed, planned or under construction in the F.R.G. in 1984. Special attention is being given to methods to increase gas production and gas collection. Corrosion of gas engines caused by HCl derived from chlorinated hydrocarbons has been a problem in some places.
The Risk To Health of Chemicals in Sewage Sludge Applied To Land
Authors: Dean R.B. , Suess M.J.
Published: June 2011

A Working Group organized by the World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, considered the risk the health of chemicals in sewage sludge applied to land. Cadmium appears to be the most important contaminant because it can be accumulated from the soil by certain food plants. Other metals in sludge are unlikely to cause health problems if sludge applications do not exceed the nitrogen requirements of the crops. Organic pollutants such as pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are not significantly absorbed by plants through their roots but may be ingested with soil by some grazing animals. The total human intake of identified organic pollutants from sludge application to land is minor and is unlikely to cause adverse health effects. The influence of soil properties on plant uptake of cadmium is reviewed since current limits for cadmium in soils and sludge vary greatly between different countries.
Optimal Methods to Screen Men and Women for Intimate Partner Violence: Results From an Internal Medicine Residency Continuity Clinic
Authors: Kapur Nitin A. , Windish Donna M.
Published: June 2011

Contradictory data exist regarding optimal methods and instruments for intimate partner violence (IPV) screening in primary care settings. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal method and screening instrument for IPV among men and women in a primary-care resident clinic. We conducted a cross-sectional study at an urban, academic, internal medicine residency continuity clinic in Connecticut among English or Spanish speaking adult patients. One group of patients ( n = 340) received a self-administered questionnaire (SAQ) containing the partner violence screen (PVS) and the Hurt, Insulted, Threatened or Screamed at Questionnaire (HITS). A second group ( n = 126) was screened with PVS and HITS by their primary care providers during face-to-face (FTF) clinical encounters. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the association between IPV prevalence and screening method (SAQ or FTF) after adjusting for socio-demographic effects. The overall IPV prevalence was 17.3% using the SAQ and 9.0% with FTF screening ( p = .008). Patients receiving the SAQ were more likely to report IPV than those who were screened FTF (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2-5.6). This effect persisted for women, who had a higher odds of IPV when screened through a SAQ than when screened FTF (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.4-8.6). Men did not differ in reporting IPV between methods: 11% with SAQ versus 9.4% FTF ( p = .69). In internal medicine residency continuity clinics, a SAQ for IPV may result in higher disclosure and completion rates among female patients compared to FTF screening. Unique screening instruments and methods may be needed for men.
Analysis and evaluation of the thermal shock phenomena in the in-cylinder surfaces of a DI diesel engine during its transient operation
Authors: Mavropoulos G C , Rakopoulos C D , Hountalas D T
Published: June 2011

This paper presents the results from the analysis of an experimental investigation with the aim of providing an insight into the cyclic thermal shock phenomena occurring in the internal cylinder wall surfaces of a direct injection (DI), air-cooled diesel engine during the initial stage of a transient operation. The mechanism of cyclic heat transfer is investigated during engine transient events, viz. after a sudden change in engine speed and/or load. The experimental installation allowed both long- and short-term signal types to be recorded on a common time reference base during the transient event. Processing of experimental data was accomplished using a modified version of one-dimensional heat conduction theory with Fourier analysis, capable of catering for the special characteristics of transient engine operation. Based on this model, the evolution of local surface heat flux during a transient event was calculated. Two engine transient events are examined, which present a key difference in the way the load and speed changes are imposed on each one. During the analysis of experimental results the most important parameters characterizing thermal shock, such as the heat wave velocity and length of penetration, are quantified for each event, providing a comprehensive insight into the causes and consequences of this dangerous phenomenon. The results, in addition, confirm the theoretical predictions for the development of the thermal field during an engine transient event, as presented by the authors in previous work. Each thermal transient event is characterized by two distinct phases, that is the ‘thermodynamic’ and the ‘structural’ one, which are appropriately configured and analysed. From the results it is revealed that in the case of a severe variation, in the first 20 cycles after the beginning of the transient event, the wall surface temperature and heat flux amplitude on the cylinder head was almost three times higher than that observed in the ‘normal’ temperature oscillations occurring during steady-state operation.
Indentation law for lightweight sandwich plates
Authors: Saadati M , Sadighi M
Published: June 2011

Sandwich structures consisting of high-modulus thin skins and a low-modulus thick core are sensitive to local loading, which causes local indentation. Classical approaches determine the deflection of sandwich structures by a superposition method where the local compression of the core for a panel on a rigid foundation is added to global sandwich bending without core compression. In this article, a sandwich plate is analyzed using a higher-order sandwich panel theory (HOSPT) where the faces are modelled by classical laminate theory and the core by a three-dimensional elasticity solution. The results are obtained from 14 partial differential equations for displacements of the faces and core. HOSPT determines core compression with a second-order distribution of displacement through the core thickness. The force versus core compression relations in the fully backed and clamped states are compared and it is shown that the core compression assumed in the classical approach differs from the core compression in a clamped state. Results are verified by ANSYS® FEM software and experimental data. A few sandwich panel specimens were made with glass reinforced plastic (GRP) skins and a polyurethane foam core. Results from indentation tests on the panels are compared with finite element, HOSPT, and other theories.
Investigation on application of high-lift configuration to wing-in-ground effect
Authors: Yang W , Lin F , Yang Z
Published: June 2011

A numerical analysis is performed to investigate the aerodynamic characteristics and the static height stability of high-lift configurations for a two-dimensional wing in ground effect. Fowler flap, plain flap, and slat are taken into consideration in this study. The analysis shows that both suction and pressure effects of high-lift configuration are affected by ground effect; Fowler flap can increase the lift for wing in ground effect by increasing camber and chord, but performs better with higher ground clearance; lift of plain-flap configuration increases with decrease in the ground clearance, though the suction effect is weakened; there should not be slot for flap based on static height stability, plain flap is an appropriate choice; the static height stability can be improved by slat and impaired by flap; slat can prevent the stall though wing is apt to stall in ground effect. Based on the results and analysis of this study, performances of aerodynamics and stall for a WIG craft can be improved by deploying high-lift configuration wing.
Multilevel decomposition of vibration signals from motorcycles using the wavelet–Hilbert transformation
Authors: Shao Y , Sun T , Zhou X , Mechefske C K
Published: June 2011

To maximize comfort and safety it is important to control motorcycle vibration. In order to assess the vibration of motorcycles, measurements need to be taken from these machines. Vibration signals acquired using sensors mounted on the machine always include the excitation components from the engine, the road surface, and the structure of the motorcycle frame. Generally, these vibration signals are coupled together. Presently, there is no ideal method to separate these signal components to allow better analysis of the different contributing factors. Contributions to the total vibration signal from the main vibration sources (the engine and the road surface) cannot be determined exactly. To solve this problem, a multilevel decomposition algorithm based on the wavelet–Hilbert transform is proposed in this paper. The paper formulates the vibration signal model for a motorcycle and discusses the performance of the multilevel decomposition algorithm using simulation and experimental methods. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed new algorithm is an effective method for the identification of vibration sources on a motorcycle.
Performance evaluation of piezoelectric sensor/actuator on active vibration control of a smart beam
Authors: Sahin M , Aridogan U
Published: June 2011

In this paper the performance of a piezoelectric sensor/actuator pair and self-sensing piezoelectric actuator on the investigation of vibration characteristics and active vibration control of a smart beam are presented. The performance of piezoelectric patches on actuation and sensing is evaluated by investigating the vibration characteristics of the smart beam via various excitation mechanisms and transduction systems. For active vibration suppression of the smart beam, robust controllers are designed and experimentally implemented by using a piezoelectric sensor/actuator pair and self-sensing piezoelectric actuator. Finally, experimental results for active control of free and the first-resonance forced vibration of the smart beam are presented.
A Comparative Study of Rural Clinics in Remote Islands and Inland Areas
Authors: Inoue Kazuo , Matoba Shun , Sugita Yoshihiro , Okuno Masataka
Published: June 2011

The social and professional isolation of physicians remains an important issue in rural areas. However, few studies have investigated the involvement of geographic factors in the isolation. This study investigates rural public clinics in inland and remote island locations and attempts to objectively compare the isolation of these physicians.

A mailed questionnaire was sent to rural clinics where graduate physicians from Jichi Medical School were working in 1994 and 1995. Among the 198 clinics with one or more full-time physicians, 185 (93 percent) responded to the inquiry. Geographic and demographic factors of the communities were compared between 43 clinics located in remote islands and the other 142 rural inland clinics.

Rural clinics in remote islands have smaller subject populations, fewer part-time physicians, a longer journey to the nearest city, and a longer distance and travel time to the base hospital than rural inland clinics. Physicians in remote island clinics had less medical training and are more isolated than other physicians. More than half of the clinic physicians in remote islands have no regular training schedule, in contrast to less than a quarter of the inland clinic physicians. Almost all clinics (97.7%) in remote islands do not have a part-time physician, whereas about 20 percent of the rural inland clinics do.

Physicians in remote island clinics are more socially and professionally isolated than those in inland clinics. Strategies to reduce these problems should be given priority in rural health policy and measures tailored to rural clinics in remote islands. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1): 22-26
A New Light on the Community Health Fund- Effective Political Support for a Community Essential Drug Project in Vietnam
Authors: Umenai Takusei , Hamada Akira , Takeuchi Momoe
Published: June 2011

This report sheds new light on the development of a community health fund through the implementation of a community essential drug project, and its impact on the improvement of primary health care at the community level. The experience of community drug funds in Vietnam, supported by a strong government commitment, in which full delegation of authority on the management of drugs and finances is given to the community along with a measure for tax exemptions for drug fund revenues, provides a significant example of an autonomous community with active participation of people and effective resource mobilization, that is leading to the improvement of community health. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):50-52
Communicating Health Risks in the Pacific: Scientific Construct and Cultural Reality
Authors: Finau Sitaleki A.
Published: June 2011

Health workers often communicate to people from a position of power rather than focusing on the needs of the receivers. This is usually clouded with jargon and the so-called principles of scientific accuracy. Often the use of science is to justify the health worker's position rather than to precipitate actions to promote health and achieve people's control over their lives.

Communication involves a tripartite reciprocal interaction between the sender, receiver and the medium. This involves both science and art specific to the message, language, values and participants. If the ultimate purpose of communication is healthful action and community control, then scientificness of the explanations must be secondary. Therefore the art of getting the message across must be the priority rather than it being scientifically sound. This conflict is discussed in relation to experiences in the Pacific Islands. The communication of health risks in the Pacific involves the multi-tiered translation of scientific concepts and language into those of the target populations.

The scientific concepts are usually occidental and need to be translated into vernacular worldviews and languages. Experiences in and examples from the Pacific have challenged the primacy of scientific explanations over the need to minimise health risks and increase of community control. For health promotion to succeed in multicultural and multilingual Pacific, New Zealand and Australia, the art and science of communicating health risks must be titrated against scientific explanations to appropriately and primarily promote health. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(2): 90-97
Perceived Oral Health Status, Oral Function and Related Behaviour Among the Patients of Behçet's Disease
Authors: Miura Hiroko , Isogai Emiko , Mizugai Hiroyuki , Miura Kunihisa
Published: June 2011

The majority of patients with Behçet's disease (BD) suffers from oral ulcers. The aim of the present study was to survey self-rated oral health status, oral function, and oral health behaviour of patients with BD in eastern Japan. Subjects were 33 BD patients and 101 healthy individuals ranging in age from 20 to 59 years. The survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. The items of oral health in the questionnaire included subjective symptoms, self-rated dental problems and oral health behaviour. We found that compared to the healthy subjects, BD patients experienced more severe physical limitations, mainly involving difficulty in pronouncing words ( p<0.01) and the pain of oral mucosa and gingival tissue caused by oral ulcers ( p<0.01). Based on the results of oral health behaviour, BD patients did not behave positively with regard to maintaining oral health including regular tooth brushing despite relatively higher risk of dental diseases that they face.

The present results suggest that oral ulcers due to BD induced dental disorder such as the pain of gingiva, oral mucosa, and difficulty in the pronouncing of words. In spite of this, their oral health behaviour is not positive compared to the healthy subjects. Thus, the need to develop a more active pragramme for oral health education for patients with BD is indicated. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(2): 98-101
Development of a Vietnamese Version of the Short Form-36 Health Survey
Authors: Watkins R.E. , Plant A.J. , Sang D. , O'Rourke T. , Gushulak B.
Published: June 2011

we aimed to test the psychometric properties of a culturally relevant translation of the medical outcomes study short form-36 health survey (SF-36) with prospective Vietnamese migrants. The translated survey was interviewer-administered to 1610 Vietnamese aged over 15 years who had applied to migrate to Australia. All but two SF-36 items had good discriminant validity, and all eight scales of the Vietnamese version of the SFS-36 had good discriminant validity, which supports the use of SF-36 constructs to assess self-reported health status among Vietnamese migrants. However, the mental health, vitality and bodily pain scales demonstrated low internal consistency. This finding is likely to be a product of the increased diversity among scale items following modifications to improve cultural relevance. Further modifications to improve the internal consistency of these scales are required. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(2): 118-123
The Role of AIDS Volunteers in Developing Community-based Care for People with AIDS in Thailand
Authors: Mashimo Ayako , Miura Hiroko , Sakano Shoji , Hamada Akira , Thepthien Bang-on , Umenai Takusei
Published: June 2011

The present study analyses the effectiveness of AIDS volunteers in mitigating the stigma attached to People With AIDS (PWAs) within the context of developing community-based care (CBC) in Thailand. A total of 86 trained village health volunteers (T-VHVs) and 99 non-trained village health volunteers (N-VHVs) were enrolled in the study In addition, 58 villagers in the T-VHV's intervention area and 72 villagers in the non-intervention area were also enrolled. Both T-VHVs and N-VHVs as well as villagers were assessed to determine their level of knowledge with respect to HIV/AIDS and attitudes toward PWAs. Furthermore, we also determined the village health volunteers' level of activity in distributing knowledge of HIV/AIDS in order to prevent and reduce stigma in the community. Although T-VHVs showed a greater depth of knowledge of HIV/AIDS than N-VHVs ( p<0.05), positive attitudes toward PWAs and the level of practice of village health volunteers did not differ significantly between T-VHVs and N-VHVs. While the level of health knowledge of villagers did not differ significantly between the T-VHV's intervention and control areas, a significant difference was observed between the two areas in terms of the villagers' attitudes towards PWAs ( p<0.01). Villagers in the intervention area attached less stigma to PWAs; therefore, T-VHVs played a role in providing basic information on AIDS to the villagers and in mitigating the stigma attached to PWAs. However, these volunteers need to undergo further training through a well-organized training programme in order to obtain a greater depth of knowledge. This is essential for the development of commuity-based care for PWAS. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001;13(1):3-8
Assessing Quality of Life for Adolescents in Western Australia
Authors: Meuleners Lynn B. , Lee Andy H. , Binns Colin W.
Published: June 2011

This study investigates the quality of life (QOL) for adolescents residing in Perth, Western Australia. The Quality of Life Profile-Adolescent Version (QOLPAV), a generic self-reported questionnaire, was administered to 363 adolescents aged between ten and 18 years who were enrolled in 20 high schools within metropolitan Perth. Stepwise regression analysis of the data showed that age, control, opportunity and perceptions of health have significant associations with QOL. It was also found that adolescents with a chronic condition and those without have similar QOL scores. This suggests that, in terms of QOL, the chronically ill adolescents do not view themselves as different from their healthy counterparts. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2001; 13(1): 40-44
Primary Care Research - a Blueprint for Action for Singapore
Authors: Chuan Tan Ngiap , Gan Goh Lee
Published: June 2011

Primary care research, hitherto overshadowed by research in the tertiary institutions, lacks impetus due to image, limitations of resources and poor infrastructure. This article looks into the current state of research development and the barriers. These hurdles can be overcome by a paradigm shift through the initiation of regular research meetings, training, infrastructure support and a collaborative research network to optimize time and resources. This will open the door to a wide field of primary care research, from basic, clinical research to health service and health system analysis and evaluation. Family physicians can tap on this opportunity to sharpen their critical appraisal skills through research, which can form an integral part of their continuous professional development. A network of pro-research family physicians will foster a vibrant research culture and pave the way to a renaissance of primary care research. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001;13(1): 49-53
Variation in Malaria Endemicity in Relation to Microenvironmental Conditions in the Admiralty Islands, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Ataka Yuji , Ohtsuka Ryutaro , Inaoka Tsukasa , Kawabata Masato , Ohashi Jun , Matsushita Masaki , Tokunaga Katsushi , Kano Shigeyuki , Suzuki Mamoru
Published: June 2011

For 197 adults and adolescents in four villages of three small islands in the Admiralty Islands, Papua New Guinea, antimalarial antibody titers were examined using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and malaria parasites were detected by the microtiter plate hybridisation (MPH) method using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The parasite rate (either Plasmodium falciparum or P. vivax, or both) averaged 39.2 %, varying from 31.1 % to 44.8 % among the four villages due to natural and artificial microenvironmental conditions related to breeding sites of mosquitoes ( Anopheles farauti). The lack of flat zones owing to geomorphological formation contributed to the lowest parasite rate in the extremely small island. However, human-modified environments such as a wet-land (naturally formed but artificially reformed) and an open well played significant roles in other inter-village differences. The present findings imply significant roles of microenvironment in diversified malaria prevalence and suggest some ways of mitigation of malarial hazards. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001; 13(2): 85-90
A Case-control for the Association between Change in Weight, Family History and Hypertension at Different Ages
Authors: Guanglin Wu , Huimin Yang , Xiuying Qi , Zhenlin Jia
Published: June 2011

To study the association between the changes of weight, family history and hypertension at different ages, a pair-matched case-control study was conducted in the outpatient service of department of internal medicine in Binjiang Hospital of Tianjin from 1994 to 1996. The cases were selected from 312 patients with hypertension diagnosed during 1994-1996 and identified newly in the survey. The controls were selected from other outpatients of no cardiovascular disease histories matched by age and sex. The conditional logistic regression model was used. The cases and controls were divided into two age groups under 59 years old, 60 and older. History of hypertension in the first degree-relatives was linked to hypertension, but family history of hypertension of groups under age 59, and at 60 and older was mainly hypertension history of parents and siblings, respectively. Other risk factors of developing hypertension were higher weight or body mass index (kg/m2) in the survey, higher degree of weight gain in comparison with the basic weight and early age at beginning weight gain in all two groups. However, the risk of developing hypertension for increasing weight and obesity increased with advancing age groups. The study further indicates that controlling body weight, decreasing the degree of weight gain, and delaying the beginning age of weight gain all contribute to the lower risk of suffering from hypertension and were effective measures of hypertension of the prevention and cure. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001; 13(2): 96-99
Homebound status in a community-dwelling elderly population in Japan
Authors: Inoue Kazuo , Matsumoto Masatoshi
Published: June 2011

The present study investigated the association between sociodemographic profiles, health condition and functional disabilities of subjects with a homebound status in a rural community setting.

The subjects were residents aged 65 years or over in a mountain village of Japan. A comprehensive questionnaire was used to obtain their data. Among the 1,002 residents, the information of 866 residents (85 %), who voluntarily completed the entire survey, was obtained for this study. All the subjects were native Japanese.

Of the 866 subjects investigated, 301 (34.8%) were homebound as defined by the parameters of this study. Univariate analysis revealed age, female gender, functional impairment (vision, hearing and memory), all the ADL impairments, and the use of a portable toilet were associated with homebound status. Multivariate analysis revealed that older age, female gender, visual and two ADL impairments (moving inside the home and bathing) and use of a portable toilet remained significantly related to homebound status.

Homebound elderly people have more functional limitation and disability related factor than their non-homebound counterparts. Functional impairment, particularly in the mobility domain and sensory disturbances, was associated with homebound status. These data indicate the importance of assessment in the provision of home care for elderly people. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001; 13(2): 109-115
Future Health: Coping with Change
Authors: Zaini A. , Nayan Noor Fadhilah Mat
Published: June 2011

WHO's Declaration of the "Health for All" (HFA) goal was pronounced in 1978 in Alma Ata, and it was planned that HFA would be achieved through primary health care programmes and approaches by 2000. However, it is now 2002 and despite the technological advancements in medicine, science, and ICT, Health for All is far from reality. Instead, more and more conflicts are emerging with lethal consequences, such as, bioterrorism, biological agent abuse, global-terrorism, and environmental destruction is occurring at a greater scale that we have witnessed before. We may have the latest technology and knowledge today, but ironically, we are using them to inflict more suffering and pain in the world. In the Asia-Pacific, the past 30 years has seen dramatic advancement and lifestyle changes. We are now paying a high price for such progress in terms of risk factors to the health of the population, such as, ageing diseases, obesity, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and related conditions. The social, political, economic and environmental factors appeared to have deterred and negated WHO's HFA goal to attain basic human rights and health care for all. The HFA will not be achieved in the future if we do not learn from history and start taking measures now. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2002; 14(1): 44 - 46
Primary Health Care and General Practice — a Comparison between Australia and Malaysia
Authors: Khoo Ee-Ming , Richard Kidd Michael
Published: June 2011

The Australian and Malaysian systems of general practice were examined and compared. The issues of similarity and difference identified are discussed in this paper. Quality clinical practice and the importance of compulsory vocational training prior to entry into general practice and continuing professional development is one important area. A move towards preventive health care and chronic disease management was observed in both countries. Practice incentive programmes to support such initiatives as improved rates of immunisation and cervical smear testing and the implementation of information technology and information management systems need careful implementation. The Medicare system used in Australia may not be appropriate for general practitioners in Malaysia and, if used, a pharmaceutical benefit scheme would also need to be established. In both countries the corporatisation of medical practice is causing concern for the medical profession. Rural and aboriginal health issues remain important in both countries. Graduate medical student entry is an attractive option but workforce requirements mean that medical education will need individual tailoring for each country. Incorporating nurses into primary health care may provide benefits such as cost savings. The integration model of community centres in Malaysia involving doctors, nurses and allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists, in a single location deserves further examination. Asia Pac J Public Health 2002; 14(2): 59- 63.
A Profile of Injuries in Four Villages in the Jasin District of Malacca, Malaysia
Authors: Moe Htay
Published: June 2011

Injuries are a major public health problem in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study on the profile of injuries was conducted in four villages in the Jasin District of Malacca using a prepared questionnaire among the residents. A sample of 199 households was selected from the total of 385 by using the simple random method and personal interviews were carried out. Injuries were common (56%) among the family members within the period of one year prior to the survey. Home and residential injuries were the most common type (60.2%) followed by road traffic injuries and injuries at work place. Among the home injuries (68 cases), falls were the most common type of injuries encountered with most occurring in the evenings within the house compounds. For all types of injuries (113 cases), the majority (46.9%) preferred to seek treatment at government clinics and hospitals. Among the road injuries (29 cases), most occurred in the evenings and at nights. They were more severe in nature and some required admission to the hospital. The extremities were the most severe injuries among the home and road ones. Preventive strategies should be targeted towards the home and road injuries by environmental and behavioural changes together with community participation on injury prevention and control at district level. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2002; 14(2): 118-122.
Health Needs and Health Status of the Elderly in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Monawar Hosain G.M. , Begum Afroza
Published: June 2011

This study was undertaken to understand the health status of elderly people and to gather some information about their perceived health needs. This study was conducted in the north-western part of Dhaka district in the year 1999-2000. People aged over 60 years constituted about 3.5% of the total population with more than half (55.6%) belonging to the middle class and another one third to the lower class. Elderly people made up 5.7% of all out-patient consultations and 6.9% of all in-patient admissions. Hypertension, peptic ulcer, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, pneumonia, skin diseases and anaemia were common among these people. Only 14% of the elderly people in this rural area were insured, but these insured people constituted about half (48%) of the in-patient and 90% of the out-patient elderly patients. Thus insurance has significantly increased their health care access ( p <0.05). Provision of free health care, drugs at a cheaper price, services at their doorsteps, free ambulance service and allocation of old age allowance were some of their notable demands. A cheaper, accessible and effective geriatric health care service with an emphasis on health promotion, income generating activities and rehabilitation programme should be developed to protect the health and well being of the elderly people. Asia Pac J Public Health 2003; 15(1): 3-9.
Social Support and Burden among Caregivers of Patients with Dementia in Malaysia
Authors: Choo Wan-Yuen , Low Wah-Yun , Karina Razali , Poi P.J.H. , Ebenezer Esther , Prince M.J.
Published: June 2011

This study aims to examine selected factors of dementia patients and their caregivers that were associated with the burden of family caregivers. This cross sectional study involves face-to-face interview with family caregivers of patients with dementia. Participants were recruited through convenient sampling from geriatric and psychiatry outpatient clinics from three government hospitals, one university hospital, one rural health centre and Alzheimer Disease caregivers' support groups. 70 caregivers took part in the study. Measures included patient and caregiver demographic variables and caregiver burden using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Caregiver burden was found to be significantly associated with both ethnicity and informal support. Chinese caregivers were found to have a higher level of burden compared to Indians and Malays. Informal support, in particular assistance from family members, was significantly associated with a lower burden perceived by the caregivers. However, the study shows that formal support such as assistance from maids and private nurses did not alleviate the burden of caregivers. Results highlighted the importance of improving the coping skills in burdened caregivers particularly among family members with dementia relatives. Interventions should be designed for specific needs of caregivers of different ethnicities. Asia Pac J Public Health 2003; 15(1): 23-29.
Socio-Demographic Risk Indicators for Tooth Mortality in Rural Sri Lankans
Authors: Amarasena N. , Ekanayaka A.N. , Herath L. , Miyazaki H.
Published: June 2011

To explore the socio-demographic factors associated with tooth loss in rural inhabitants of Sri Lanka, a random sample of 2178 males aged 20-60 years was selected using multistage cluster sampling procedure. The number of missing and present teeth was recorded excluding third molars and the subjects were interviewed to elicit socio-demographic information as well as oral hygiene and tobacco consumption habits. The mean number of teeth lost in the sample was 5.17±5.43. Tooth loss increased significantly with age. Sinhalese had significantly fewer lost teeth (5.05±5.38) compared to Tamils (6.54±6.18) and Muslims (6.02±5.21) whereas education, income, oral hygiene practices and tobacco use were significantly associated with tooth loss in the bivariate analysis. A forward stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that age, Muslim ethnicity and quantified tobacco use were positively associated with tooth loss while better socio-economic conditions and good oral hygiene habits were negatively linked with tooth mortality independent of other factors. Age, Muslim ethnicity, quantified tobacco use, income, education, brushing frequency and substance used for cleaning had significantly affected tooth loss. Quantified tobacco use and oral hygiene may be regarded as modifiable socio-demographic risk indicators associated with tooth mortality in Sri Lankans. Asia Pac J Public Health 2003; 15(2): 105-110.