bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between the Stages of Exercise Adoption and other Health Behaviors
Authors: Costakis Catherine E. , Dunnagan Tim , Haynes George
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To examine the relationship between stage of exercise adoption and the practice of other health behaviors.

Design.

Demographic, socioeconomic, and health behavior data were collected using a cross-sectional mail survey. Data were collected as part of a larger employee benefits research study.

Setting.

Montana State University-Bozeman, Bozeman, Montana.

Subjects.

University employees (n = 1269) comprised of 46% men with a mean age of 44 years.

Measures.

Demographic and socioeconomic data included age, sex, marital status, level of income and education, dependent status, and job classification. Stage of exercise adoption classifications were based on self-reported responses to four exercise statements. The health behaviors included in this study were cigarette and smokeless tobacco use, seat belt use, alcohol use, and use of stress management practices. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine if stage of exercise predicted the presence of each of the health behaviors while controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and other health behavior variables.

Results.

The survey response rate was 68%. Respondents in action exercise stage (p = .0367) were less likely to smoke cigarettes than respondents in precontemplation stage of exercise. Respondents in contemplation (p = .0419), preparation (p = .0060), action (p = .0432), and maintenance (p = .0006) were more likely to use seat belts than respondents in precontemplation. Respondents in maintenance (p = .0059) were more likely to use regular stress reduction techniques than respondents in precontemplation.

Conclusions.

Although longitudinal research is needed to determine any causal relationships, this research suggests that encouraging individuals to become more involved in exercise could indirectly influence other health behaviors. Hence, exercise could be a possible “gateway” behavior toward healthier lifestyle practices.
Meaning in the Use of Unconventional Arthritis Therapies
Authors: Arcury Thomas A. , Gesler Wilbert M. , Cook Harold L.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To determine the meanings that rural adults have for 11 different unconventional arthritis remedies.

Methods.

Interviews were conducted with 219 adults from a nonmetropolitan North Carolina county. Open-ended responses to questions surrounding the use of 11 unconventional arthritis therapies were tape recorded and transcribed verbatim. A variable-based approach was used to analyze and interpret these qualitative data.

Results.

Several themes were present for the different unconventional therapies. The most extensive set of themes was present for religion, which included faith, transformation, communion, self-help, and spiritual healing. The mechanical aspect of rubbing used in the application of several therapies (ointments as well as turpentine) was also an important theme. Skepticism about the effectiveness of the unconventional therapies was another pervasive theme.

Conclusions.

The respondents had a consistent set of meanings about the unconventional therapies that transcended gender and ethnic groups. Understanding the meanings or belief systems of rural adults is essential to the development of culturally appropriate health education and intervention.
Current Trends in the Integration and Reimbursement of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) and Insurance Providers: 1998 Update and Cohort Analysis
Authors: Pelletier Kenneth R. , Astin John A. , Haskell William L.
Published: December 2011

Objectives.

To assess the status of managed care and insurance coverage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the integration of such services into conventional medicine.

Methods.

A literature review and information search was conducted to determine which insurers had special policies for CAM. Telephone interviews were conducted with a definitive sample of 9 out of 10 new MCOs or insurers identified in 1998 and a cohort of eight MCOs and insurers who responded both to the original survey in 1997 and again in 1998 to determine trends.

Results.

This study constitutes the results of the second year of a 3-year ongoing survey. For 1998, 10 MCOs and insurance carriers initiated CAM coverage. Survey results are analyzed for these 10 new providers as well as the results of a cohort of eight insurers surveyed in both 1997 and 1998 to determine current trends. A majority of the insurers interviewed offer some coverage for the following: nutrition counseling, biofeedback, psychotherapy, acupuncture, preventive medicine, chiropractic, osteopathy, and physical therapy. All new MCOs and insurers said that market demand was their primary motivation for covering CAM. Factors determining whether insurers would offer coverage for additional therapies included potential cost-effectiveness, consumer interest, demonstrable clinical efficacy, and state mandates. Among the most common obstacles listed to incorporating CAM into mainstream health care were lack of research on efficacy, economics, ignorance about CAM, provider competition and division, and lack of standards of practice.

Conclusions.

Consumer demand for CAM is motivating more MCOs and insurance companies to assess the benefits of incorporating CAM. Outcomes studies for both conventional and CAM therapies are needed to help create a health care system based upon treatments that work, whether they are conventional, complementary, or alternative.
The Effects of an Educational Intervention on Calcium Intake and Bone Mineral Content in Young Women with Low Calcium Intake
Authors: Peterson Britt Ann , Klesges Robert C. , Kaufman Elizabeth M. , Cooper Theodore V. , Vukadinovich Christopher M.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study evaluated whether a combined behavioral and dietary intervention would affect young women's calcium intake and bone mineral content (BMC).

Design.

The design was a two by three mixed design with one between-subjects factor (treatment vs. control) and one within-subjects factor (time—baseline, 3-month, and 6-month).

Setting.

The study was conducted in a university setting in Memphis, Tennessee.

Participants.

A total of 80 premenopausal women (ages 18 to 30) with low baseline calcium intake (< 700 mg/d) were included in the analyses. There were 40 women in the treatment group and 40 women in the control group.

Measures.

Hertzler and Frary's rapid assessment questionnaire was employed to evaluate calcium intake, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was employed to assess BMC.

Results.

Repeated measures analysis of variance (RM ANOVA) was employed to analyze results. Results indicated that women in the treatment group made greater increases in total calcium intake and supplemental calcium than women in the control group and that all women made significant increases in dietary calcium intake. Additionally, analyses of BMC revealed that women in the treatment group did not experience significant changes in total BMC, and women in the control group experienced significant losses in total BMC.

Conclusions.

In the current study, women were losing BMC, and the women who made the largest increases in calcium intake were able to retard this bone loss. There is increasing evidence that dietary calcium intake in young people is extremely low, and the results of the current study highlight the need for much more intensive evaluations investigating the factors that are positively associated with premenopausal bone mineral change.
Effects of Educational Materials concerning Osteoporosis on Women's Knowledge, Beliefs, and Behavior
Authors: Blalock Susan J. , Currey Shannon Smith , DeVellis Robert F. , DeVellis Brenda M. , Giorgino Karen B. , Anderson John J. B. , Dooley Mary Anne , Gold Deborah T.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study examined the effects of brief written educational materials on osteoporosis-related knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors. The study also examined whether observed effects varied as a function of one's stage in the precaution adoption process.

Design.

The study used an experimental research design.

Setting.

Participants were identified from North Carolina driver's license records.

Subjects.

Of the 1476 women in the initial sample, 536 (36.3%) enrolled in the study and 307 completed all follow-up assessments.

Intervention.

Participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups. One group received an information packet containing general information about osteoporosis. One group received an action plan packet containing instructions on how to increase one's level of exercise and calcium intake. One group received both packets. The final group received neither packet.

Measures.

Primary study variables were beliefs related to osteoporosis, calcium, and exercise; osteoporosis knowledge; calcium and exercise stage; calcium intake; and exercise level.

Results.

Overall, receipt of the information packet was associated with changes in knowledge and beliefs (F[18,283] = 2.11, p < .01) irrespective of participants' stage of change. No effects on behavior were observed.

Conclusions.

These findings suggest that brief written educational materials can facilitate knowledge and belief change but that they do not promote behavior change. The generalizability of these findings is limited by the low study response rate.
Process Tracking Results from the Treatwell 5-a-Day Worksite Study
Authors: Hunt Mary K. , Lederman Ruth , Stoddard Anne , Potter Steven , Phillips Judy , Sorensen Glorian
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To report findings from Treatwell 5-a-Day process tracking.

Design.

Worksites were randomly assigned to a minimal intervention control, worksite-only condition, or worksite-plus-family condition.

Setting.

Twenty-two small community health centers in Massachusetts.

Subjects.

Employees of the community health centers.

Intervention.

Both intervention conditions included the formation of employee advisory boards; activities such as nutrition discussions and taste tests targeting individual behavior change; and point-of-purchase labeling as an environmental strategy. Worksite-plus-family sites incorporated activities such as family contests, campaigns, and picnics.

Measures.

Documentation of the number and type of activities for extent of implementation; number of participants in activities for reach; program awareness and participation from the follow-up employee survey (n = 1306, representing 76% [range, 56%–100%] of the sample); change in fruit and vegetable consumption from a comparison between the follow-up and baseline surveys (n = 1359, representing 87% [range, 75%–100%] of the sample).

Results.

A higher number of activities per employee was significantly correlated with greater program awareness (. 68; p = . 006) and greater change in fruit and vegetable consumption (.55; p = .04). Greater participation in activities was significantly correlated with greater awareness (.67; p = .007), higher participation (.61; p = .02), and increase in fruit and vegetable consumption. (.55; p = .04).

Conclusions.

These results provide quantitative indicators of a dose-response relationship between the number of intervention activities per employee and higher percentage of employee participation and observed increases in fruit and vegetable consumption.
Work-Family Spillover and Health during Midlife: Is Managing Conflict Everything?
Authors: Grzywacz Joseph G.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To examine the association between multiple dimensions of work-family spillover, and physical and mental health among working midlife adults.

Design.

Cross-sectional analyses of self reported data.

Setting.

The National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS), 1995.

Subjects.

Employed adults aged 35–65 years (n = 1547) who participated in the telephone interview and returned the mail-back questionnaires of the MIDUS (overall response rate of 60.8%).

Measures.

Independent variables included negative spillover from work to family, positive spillover from work to family, negative spillover from family to work, positive spillover from family to work. Self-rated physical health, chronic conditions, obesity, self-rated mental health, negative psychological well-being, and positive psychological well-being were outcomes.

Results.

Independent of negative spillover between work and family, more positive spillover from work to family was associated with better physical health (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17, p ≤ .05) and mental health (OR = 1.28, p ≤ .01). More positive spillover from family to work was associated with less chronic conditions (OR = .85, p ≤ . 05), less negative well-being (OR = .67, p ≤ 001), as well as better mental health (OR = 1.45, p ≤ .01) and more positive well-being (OR 1.76, p ≤ 001).

Conclusions.

Health promotion or employment programs and policies may need to focus on minimizing negative spillover between work and family and promoting positive spillover between work and family.
Effects of Leadership Style and Group Dynamics on Enjoyment of Physical Activity
Authors: Fox Lesley D. , Rejeski W. Jack , Gauvin Lise
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the independent and combined effects of leadership style and group dynamics on the enjoyment of physical activity.

Design.

A completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design was used in which the manipulation of “leadership style” (socially enriched vs. bland) was crossed with a manipulation of “group dynamics” (socially enriched vs. bland).

Setting.

The study was conducted in an aerobics studio on a university campus.

Subjects.

The sample included 48 male and 42 female undergraduate students who were moderately active.

Intervention.

Each participant was involved in a single session of step aerobics. A female graduate student provided either an enriched or bland series of interactions to manipulate leadership style, and a trained group of planted undergraduates was used to promote either an enriched or bland group environment.

Measures.

The outcome measures of interest were enjoyment and the probability of engaging in a similar activity in the future.

Results.

Participants in the enriched leadership style plus enriched group dynamics condition reported higher enjoyment than did participants in the other three conditions. On average, the level of enjoyment was 22.07% higher in this condition than in the other three conditions (p < .001). The probability of future involvement was 13.93% higher for participants in the enriched group environment, irrespective of leadership style (p < .03).

Conclusions.

Enjoyment during physical activity is optimized when a positive and supportive leadership style is coupled with an enriched and supportive group environment. Future research is required to extend these findings to other activities and populations.
The Impact of the Transcendental Meditation Program on Government Payments to Physicians in Quebec: An Update
Authors: Herron Robert E. , Hillis Stephen L.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To determine whether practice of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique can affect medical expenses.

Design.

The evaluation was a quasi experimental, longitudinal, cost-minimization study.

Setting.

Province of Quebec, Canada.

Subjects.

This study involved 1418 Quebec health insurance enrollees who practiced the TM technique compared with 1418 subjects who were randomly selected from enrollees of the same age, sex, and region. TM subjects had chosen to begin the technique prior to learning about and choosing to enter the study.

Measures.

This 14-year, pre- and postintervention study retrospectively assessed government payments to physicians for treating the TM and comparison groups. Other medical expense data for individuals were unavailable. Data were inflation-adjusted. For each subject, least squares regression slopes were calculated to estimate pre- and postintervention annual rates of change in payments. We compared the groups' means and 1%, 5%, and 10% trimmed means (robust estimators) of the slopes.

Results.

Before starting meditation, the yearly rate of increase in payments between groups was not significantly different (p > .17). After commencing meditation, the TM group's mean payments declined 1% to 2% annually. The comparison group's payments increased up to 11. 73% annually over 6 years. There was a 13. 78% mean annual difference (p = .0017).

Conclusions.

The results suggest that the TM technique reduced payments to physicians between 5 % and 13 % annually relative to comparison subjects over 6 years. Randomized studies are recommended.
Hispanic Women's Breast and Cervical Cancer Knowledge, Attitudes, and Screening Behaviors
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Suarez Lucina , Laufman Larry , Barroso Cristina , Chalela Patricia
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study examined breast and cervical cancer knowledge, attitudes, and screening behaviors among different Hispanic populations in the United States.

Design.

Data were collected from a random digit dial telephone survey of 8903 Hispanic adults from eight U.S. sites. Across sites, the average response rate was 83%.

Setting.

Data were collected as part of the baseline assessment in a national Hispanic cancer control and prevention intervention study.

Subjects.

Analysis was restricted to 2239 Hispanic women age 40 and older who were self-identified as either Central American (n = 174), Cuban (n = 279), Mexican American (n = 1550), or Puerto Rican (n = 236).

Measures.

A bilingual survey instrument was used to solicit information on age, education, income, health insurance coverage, language use, U.S.-born status, knowledge of screening guidelines, attitudes toward cancer, and screening participation. Differences in knowledge and attitudes across Hispanic groups were assessed by either chi-square tests or analysis of variance. Logistic regression models assessed the influence of knowledge and attitudes on screening participation.

Results.

The level of knowledge of guidelines ranged from 58.3% (Mexican Americans) to 71.8% (Cubans) for mammography, and from 41.1% (Puerto Ricans) to 55.6% (Cubans) for Pap smear among the different Hispanic populations. Attitudes also varied, with Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans having more negative or fatalistic views of cancer than Cuban or Central Americans. Knowledge was significantly related to age, education, income, language preference, and recent screening history. Overall, attitudes were not predictive of mammography and Pap smear behavior.

Conclusions.

Factors related to mammography and Pap smear screening vary among the different Hispanic populations. Limitations include the cross-sectional nature of the study, self-reported measures of screening, and the limited assessment of attitudes. The data and diversity of Hispanic groups reinforce the position that ethno-regional characteristics should be clarified and addressed in cancer screening promotion efforts. The practical relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and cancer screening are not altogether clear and require further research.
Tailoring and Targeting a Worksite Health Promotion Program to Address Multiple Health Behaviors among Blue-Collar Women
Authors: Campbell Marci Kramish , Tessaro Irene , DeVellis Brenda , Benedict Salli , Kelsey Kristine , Belton Leigh , Henriquez-Roldan Carlos
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study examined the relationship between health risks, health behaviors, stages-of-change, and behavior change priorities among blue-collar women participating in a worksite health promotion study.

Design.

Cross-sectional.

Setting.

Rural manufacturing worksites in North Carolina.

Subjects.

Participants were 859 women aged 18 and over.

Measures.

The self-administered questionnaire assessed smoking, exercise, nutrition (fat, fruits, and vegetables), and breast and cervical cancer screening behaviors. In addition, demographics, body weight, perceived health, stages-of-change, and priority for behavior change were measured. Chi-square tests and regression analysis were used to assess statistical significance.

Results.

Overall, 28% of women smoked, 37% were completely sedentary, 82% consumed less than five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and the majority were overweight. The dominant stage of change for each of the lifestyle behaviors was contemplation, whereas most women were in the action stage for cancer screening. When asked to prioritize the behavior they most wanted to change, the majority of women chose healthy eating and/or exercise.

Conclusions.

The findings suggest that blue-collar women in this study had multiple health risks and were interested in changing multiple health behaviors. Allowing women to choose the behavior(s) on which they are ready to focus may be a promising approach to tailoring interventions for this population.
Health Promoting Effects of Friends and Family on Health Outcomes in Older Adults
Authors: Seeman Teresa E.
Published: December 2011

Objective.

To highlight the significant impact of social relationships on health and illness and suggest implications of these effects for health promotion efforts among older adults.

Data Sources.

Published studies on social relationships and health (or health behaviors) for the period 1970–1998 were identified through MEDLINE by using the key words social relationships, social support, and health, as well as review of health-related journals such as the American Journal of Epidemiology, Annals of Epidemiology, American Journal of Public Health, Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Social Science and Medicine, and the Journals of Gerontology.

Study Selection.

Major published original research was considered. Where published research was too extensive for full discussion of all studies, preference was given to studies focusing on older adults and those using stronger methodology (i.e., representative samples, longitudinal data, or multivariate analyses controlling for potential confounders).

Data Extraction.

Reported findings were organized in terms of three major categories: (1) results related to major health outcomes such as mortality, CHD, and depression; (2) findings related to health behaviors; and (3) findings related to potential biological pathways for observed health effects of social relationships.

Data Synthesis.

Protective effects of social integration with respect to mortality risk among older adults are the most thoroughly documented, although protective effects have also been documented with respect to risks for mental and physical health outcomes and for better recovery after disease onset. There is also now a growing awareness of the potential for negative health effects from social relationships that are characterized by more negative patterns of critical and/or demanding interactions, including increased risks for depression and angina. Biological pathways are suggested by evidence that more negative social interactions are associated with physiological profiles characterized by elevated stress hormones, increased cardiovascular activity, and depressed immune function, whereas more positive, supportive social interactions are associated with the opposite profile.

Conclusions.

Available data clearly indicate that social relationships have the potential for both health promoting and health damaging effects in older adults, and that there are biologically plausible pathways for these effects. Such evidence suggests that aspects of the social environment could play an important role in future health promotion efforts for older adults, although careful consideration of both potentially positive as well as negative social influences is needed.
Health Promotion for Older Americans in the 21st Century
Authors: Minkler Meredith , Schauffler Helen , Clements-Nolle Kristen
Published: December 2011

Objectives.

To provide a broad overview of the role of the individual, the physical environment, and the social environment on health and functioning in older adults (65 and older), and to highlight interventions and recommendations for action on each of these levels.

Data Sources.

Published studies and government reports on health and functioning in older Americans and on the individual, social, and physical environmental contributors to health were identified through journal and government documents review and computer library searches of medical and social science data bases for 1980–1999.

Study Selection.

Preference was given to published studies and government reports that focused specifically on behavioral and environmental contributors and barriers to health promotion in Americans 65 and older and/or that highlighted creative interventions with relevance to this population. Both review articles and presentations of original research were included, with the latter selected based on soundness of design and execution and/or creativity of intervention described.

Data Extraction.

Studies were examined and their findings organized under three major headings: (1) behavioral risk factors and risk reduction, including current government standards for prevention and screening; (2) the role of the physical environment; and (3) the role of the social environment in relation to health promotion of older adults.

Data Synthesis.

Although most attention has been paid to the role of behavioral factors in health promotion for older adults, a substantial body of evidence suggests that physical and social environmental factors also play a key role. Similarly, interventions that promote individual behavioral risk reduction and interventions targeting the broader social or physical environment all may contribute to health in the later years.

Conclusions.

With the rapid aging of America's population, increased attention must be focused on health promotion for those who are or will soon be older adults. Promising intervention strategies addressing the individual, the physical environment, and the social environment should be identified and tested, and their potential for replication explored, as we work toward a more comprehensive approach to improving the health of older Americans in the 21st century.
In situ variability of mass‐specific beam attenuation and backscattering of marine particles with respect to particle size, density, and composition
Authors: Neukermans Griet , Loisel Hubert , Mériaux Xavier , Astoreca Rosa , McKee David
Published: December 2011

This study analyzes relationships between concentration of suspended particles represented by dry mass, [SPM], or area, [AC], and optical properties including particulate beam attenuation (cp), side scattering (bs), and backscattering (bbp), obtained from an intensive sampling program in coastal and offshore waters around Europe and French Guyana. First‐order optical properties are driven by particle concentration with best predictions of [SPM] by bbp and bs, and of [AC] by cp. Second‐order variability is investigated with respect to particle size, apparent density (dry weight‐to‐wet‐volume ratio), and composition. Overall, the mass‐specific particulate backscattering coefficient, bmbp ( = bbp : [SPM]), is relatively well constrained, with variability of a factor of 3–4. This coefficient is well correlated with particle composition, with inorganic particles having values about three times greater (bmbp = 0.012 m2 g−1) than organic particles (bmbp = 0.005 m2 g−1). The mass‐specific particulate attenuation coefficient, cmp ( = cp : [SPM]), on the other hand, varies over one order of magnitude and is strongly driven (77% of the variability explained) by particle apparent density. In this data set particle size does not affect cmp and affects bmbp only weakly in clear (case 1) waters, despite size variations over one order of magnitude. A significant fraction (40–60%) of the variability in bmbp remains unexplained. Possible causes are the limitation of the measured size distributions to the 2–302‐µm range and effects of particle shape and internal structure that affect bbp more than cp and were not accounted for.
The influence of lithogenic material on particulate inorganic carbon measurements of coccolithophores in the Bay of Biscay
Authors: Daniels Chris J. , Tyrrell Toby , Poulton Alex J. , Pettit Laura
Published: December 2011

Following earlier data suggesting a decoupling between coccolithophore abundance and its suggested proxy, particulate inorganic carbon (PIC), we investigated this relationship in the Bay of Biscay (northwest European shelf), between December 2009 and July 2010. Coccolithophore abundance, coccolith calcite, and PIC were determined in surface waters (5‐m depth) along a transect crossing the Bay. Emiliania huxleyi was the most abundant species of coccolithophore and the main contributor of coccolith calcite (55–64%). PIC ranged from 0.07 to 11.7 mmol C m−3, and coccolith calcite from 0.002 to 0.27 mmol C m−3. Total PIC exceeded coccolith calcite in all samples, with only ∼ 11% of the PIC attributed to coccoliths. Coccolithophores alone could not account for the PIC concentrations measured. Lithogenic particulate matter, with calcite and dolomite components, was observed in samples across the route and decoupled the relationship between PIC and coccolithophore abundance. Presence of lithogenic material and Mesozoic fossil coccoliths in the samples implies sediment resuspension. These findings question the suitability of PIC as a proxy for coccolithophore abundance and dynamics, particularly on or near continental shelves, where the resuspension and lateral transport of lithogenic calcite may decouple the potential relationship between PIC and coccolithophores.
Characterization of heterogeneities and domains in aquatic and sedimentary organic matter by 1H spin diffusion: Potential for elucidating the formation mechanisms
Authors: Mao Jingdong , Cao Xiaoyan
Published: December 2011

Although the information on domains and heterogeneities of natural organic matter (NOM) can provide insights into its formation mechanisms, the appropriate solid‐state NMR technique for measuring them is still lacking. The traditional technique requires mobility differences in NOM whereas NOM components are primarily rigid. We introduced a new 1H spin diffusion technique, 1H‐13C two‐dimensional heteronuclear correlation (2D HETCOR) NMR with 1H spin diffusion, for characterization of domains and heterogeneities in aquatic and sedimentary organic matter. It was achieved by collecting a series of 2D HETCOR spectra with a variable mixing time, tm, and monitoring the transfer of magnetization from one component to another. The rate of magnetization transfer provided the information on domains and heterogeneities because the magnetization of small domains or heterogeneities equilibrated faster than that of larger ones. Three samples, International Humic Substances Society (IHSS) Suwannee River NOM, IHSS Suwannee River humic acid (HA), and a sedimentary HA, were used. Two model polymers, a random copolymer poly(styrene‐n‐butyl methacrylate) with 0.6‐nm heterogeneity and a block copolymer polystyrene‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate) with a domain size of 5 nm, were included for calibration. Within tm < 100 µs, half equilibration was reached for all three NOM samples and poly(styrene‐n‐butyl methacrylate), indicating that they were heterogeneous. In contrast, the spin diffusion of polystyrene‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate) with 5‐nm domain was much slower. Unlike the traditional spin diffusion technique, this technique did not require the differential mobility in NOM and was suitable for investigating the domains and heterogeneities of NOM, which are mostly rigid.
Atmospheric sulphuric acid and neutral cluster measurements using CI-APi-TOF
Authors: Jokinen T. , Sipilä M. , Junninen H. , Ehn M. , Lönn G. , Hakala J. , Petäjä T. , Mauldin III R. L. , Kulmala M. , Worsnop D. R.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. The first ambient measurements using nitrate ion based Chemical Ionization with the Atmospheric Pressure interface Time-Of-Flight mass spectrometer (CI-APi-TOF) for sulphuric acid and neutral cluster detection are presented. We have found CI-APi-TOF a highly stable and sensitive tool for molecular sulphuric acid detection. The lowest limit of detection for sulphuric acid was determined to be 3 × 104 molecules cm−3 for two hour averaging. Signals from sulphuric acid clusters up to tetramer accompanied by ammonia were also obtained but these were found to result from naturally charged clusters formed by ion induced clustering in the atmosphere during nucleation. Opposite to earlier studies with cluster mass spectrometers, we had no indication of neutral clusters. The reason is either less efficient charging of clusters in comparison to molecular sulphuric acid, or in low concentration of neutral clusters at our measurement site during these particular nucleation events. We show that utilizing high resolution mass spectrometry is crucial in separating the weak sulfuric acid cluster signal from the other compounds.
Statistical study of the DP2 enhancement at the dayside dip-equator compared to low latitudes
Authors: Mene N. M. , Kobea A. T. , Obrou O. K. , Zaka K. Z. , Boka K. , Amory-Mazaudier C. , Assamoi P.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. It has been largely investigated and established that the DP2 events are enhanced at dip-equator compared to low latitudes. Studies by several authors showed various enhancement ratio values of DP2 amplitude at the dayside dip-equator relative to those at low latitudes. In order to quantify this enhancement ratio, we carried out a statistical study on this phenomenon using the ground magnetometer data at locations ranging from polar cap to dip-equator over the African, Asian and American sector. Our result gave an enhancement ratio which shows a diurnal variation with a maximum value around 12:00 LT and is correlated with the regular variation of the geomagnetic H-component. The longitudinal variation of the enhancement ratio of the DP2 exhibits high values over the American sector compared to Asian sector and African sector which have lowest values. This longitudinal dependence is similar to that of the equatorial electrojet magnetic effect.
Sedimentary organic matter and carbonate variations in the Chukchi Borderland in association with ice sheet and ocean-atmosphere dynamics over the last 155 kyr
Authors: Rella S. F. , Uchida M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Knowledge on past variability of sedimentary organic carbon in the Arctic Ocean is important to assess natural carbon cycling and transport processes related to global climate changes. However, the late Pleistocene oceanographic history of the Arctic is still poorly understood. In the present study we show sedimentary records of total organic carbon (TOC), CaCO3, benthic foraminiferal δ18O and the coarse grain size fraction from a piston core recovered from the northern Northwind Ridge in the far western Arctic Ocean, a region potentially sensitively responding to past variability in surface current regimes and sedimentary processes such as coastal erosion. An age model based on oxygen stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating and lithological constraints suggests that the piston core records paleoenvironmental changes of the last 155 kyr. TOC shows orbital-scale increases and decreases that can be respectively correlated to the waxing and waning of large ice sheets dominating the Eurasian Arctic, suggesting advection of fine suspended matter derived from glacial erosion to the Northwind Ridge by eastward flowing intermediate water and/or surface water and sea ice during cold episodes of the last two glacial-interglacial cycles. At millennial scales, increases in TOC might correlate to a suite of Dansgaard-Oeschger Stadials between 120 and 45 ka before present (BP) indicating a possible response to abrupt northern hemispheric temperature changes. Between 70 and 45 ka BP, closures and openings of the Bering Strait could have additionally influenced TOC variability. CaCO3 content tends to anti-correlate with TOC on both orbital and millennial time scales, which we interpret in terms of enhanced sediment advection from the carbonate-rich Canadian Arctic via an extended Beaufort Gyre during warm periods of the last two glacial-interglacial cycles and increased organic carbon advection from the Siberian Arctic during cold periods when the Beaufort Gyre contracted. We propose that this pattern may be related to orbital- and millennial-scale variations of dominant atmospheric surface pressure systems expressed in mode shifts of the Arctic Oscillation.
Mass transport of contaminated soil released into surface water by landslides (Göta River, SW Sweden)
Authors: Göransson G. , Larson M. , Bendz D. , Åkesson M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Landslides of contaminated soil into surface water represent an overlooked exposure pathway that has not been addressed properly in existing risk analysis for landslide hazard, contaminated land, or river basin management. A landslide of contaminated soil into surface water implies an instantaneous exposure of the water to the contaminated soil, dramatically changing the prerequisites for the mobilisation and transport of pollutants. In this study, an analytical approach is taken to simulate the transport of suspended matter released in connection with landslides into rivers. Different analytical solutions to the advection-dispersion equation (ADE) were tested against the measured data from the shallow rotational, retrogressive landslide in clayey sediments that took place in 1993 on the Göta River, SW Sweden. The landslide encompassed three distinct events, namely an initial submerged slide, followed by a main slide, and a retrogressive slide. These slides generated three distinct and non-Gaussian peaks in the online turbidity recordings at the freshwater intake downstream the slide area. To our knowledge, this registration of the impact in a river of the sediment release from a landslide is one of the few of its kind in the world, and unique for Sweden considering the low frequency of landslide events, making it highly useful for evaluating how appropriate the ADE is to describe a landslide into surface water. The results yielded realistic predictions of the measured concentration variation, after proper calibration. For the three individual slides it was estimated that a total of about 0.6% (515 000 kg) of the total landslide mass went into suspension/was suspended and was transported downstream. This release corresponds to about 1 to 2% of the annual suspended sediment delivery for that river stretch. The studied landslide partly involved an industrial area and by applying the analytical solution for the transport of metals in the sediments it was found that landslides have the possibility to release a significant amount of pollutants if large contaminated areas are involved. However, further studies are needed to develop more detailed descriptions of the transport processes. There is also a need to increase the knowledge on possible environmental consequences in the near and far field, in a short and long-time perspective. Finally, the risk for the release of pollutants should not be neglected in landslide hazard and risk assessment.
Monitoring and quantifying future climate projections of dryness and wetness extremes: SPI bias
Authors: Sienz F. , Bothe O. , Fraedrich K.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. The adequacy of the Gamma distribution (GD) for monthly precipitation totals is reconsidered. The motivation for this study is the observation that the GD fails to represent precipitation in considerable areas of global observed and simulated data. This misrepresentation may lead to erroneous estimates of the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI), evaluations of models, and assessments of climate change. In this study, the GD is compared to the Weibull (WD), Burr Type III (BD), exponentiated Weibull (EWD) and generalised Gamma (GGD) distribution. These distributions extend the GD in terms of possible shapes (skewness and kurtosis) and the behaviour for large arguments. The comparison is based on the Akaike information criterion, which maximises information entropy, and reveals a trade-off between deviation and the numbers of parameters used. We use monthly sums of observed and simulated precipitation for 12 calendar months of the year. Assessing observed and simulated data (i) the Weibull type distributions give distinctly improved fits compared to the GD and (ii) the SPI resulting from the GD overestimates (underestimates) extreme dryness (wetness).
HRQOLISP-26: A Concise, Multiculturally Valid, Multidimensional, Flexible, and Reliable Stroke-Specific Measure
Authors: Ojo Owolabi Mayowa
Published: December 2011

Background. A multidimensional, brief, and flexible stroke-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measure is still needed. The aim was to develop a shortened version of the HRQOLISP-102, a multiculturally generated measure with excellent psychometric properties. Methods. Participants included 100 (Ibadan, Nigeria) and 103 (Berlin, Germany) stroke patients compared to 100 (Ibadan) and 50 (Berlin) apparently healthy adults. Using standard protocol, the 26-item version was generated, consisting of therapeutically relevant physical, psychological, cognitive, and ecosocial domains. Criterion validity of the HRQOLISP-26 was determined using Bland-Altman statistics. “Known groups” validity was assessed using NIHSS, stroke levity score, and modified Rankin scale. Results. HRQOLISP-26 was easily interpretable and precise with no significant floor/ceiling effect. It can be completed within 7 minutes. It showed good content, construct, “known groups,” and criterion validity. It demonstrated good internal consistency (α=0.81,
0.89) and test-retest reliability. Conclusions. HRQOLISP-26 is novel, brief, multiculturally-valid, and flexible for routine assessment of HRQOL in stroke patients.
Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Differential Diagnosis and Prognostic Values of Its Different Variants: Review of the Literature
Authors: Gonzalez-Gonzalez Rogelio , Bologna-Molina Ronell , Carreon-Burciaga Ramón Gil , Gómezpalacio-Gastelum Marcelo , Molina-Frechero Nelly , Salazar-Rodríguez Sirced
Published: December 2011

Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common thyroid malignancy, and has an excellent prognosis, even with cervical lymph node metastasis; however, histological variants are considered relevant, which may be associated with familial adenomatous polyposis and tumor aggressiveness. Histological features, such as vascular and/or lymphatic invasion, angiogenesis, multifocality, high cellular proliferation rate, neoplastic cell dissemination, and the histological varieties, are indicative of poor prognosis, together with associated clinical factors: age, sex, and tumor size.
Negative Resistance Effect and Charge Transfer Mechanisms in the lon Beam Deposited Diamond Like Carbon Superlattices
Authors: VASILIAUSKAS Andrius , MEŠKINIS Šarūnas , TAMULEVIČIUS Sigitas
Published: December 2011

In the present study DLC:SiOx/DLC/DLC:SiOx/nSi and DLC:SiOx/DLC/DLC:SiOx/pSi structures were fabricated by ion beam deposition using a closed drift ion source. Current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the multilayer samples were measured at room temperature. The main charge transfer mechanisms were considered. Unstable negative resistance effect was observed for some DLC:SiOx/DLC/DLC:SiOx/nSi and DLC:SiOx/DLC/DLC:SiOx/pSi structures. In the case of the diamond like carbon superlattices fabricated on nSi it was observed only during the first measurement. In the case of the some DLC:SiOx/DLC/DLC:SiOx/pSi negative resistance "withstood" several measurements. Changes of the charge carrier mechanisms were observed along with the dissapear of the negative resistance peaks. It seems, that in such a case influence of the bulk related charge transfer mechanisms such as Poole-Frenkel emission increased, while the influence of the contact limited charge transfer mechanisms such as Schottky emission decreased. Observed results were be explained by current flow through the local microconducting channels and subsequent destruction of the localized current pathways as a result of the heating by flowing electric current.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.17.1.240
Structure Properties of Knits from Natural Yarns and their Combination with Elastane and Polyamide Threads
Authors: ABRAMAVIČIŪTĖ Jovita , MIKUČIONIENĖ Daiva , ČIUKAS Ričardas
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a study on structure of knits for socks manufactured using the yarns of new kind of fibres as soybean and bamboo. Structure properties of plain pure knits and plated knits with textured polyamide and elastane wrapped with textured polyamide threads are investigated. Pure knits have looser structure, higher porosity, low thickness and area density. Textured polyamide or elastane threads change the structure of plated knits, as constructions of such knits are thicker, heavier and tighter. Higher course and wale density have knits plated with elastane thread. Verification of correlation between tightness factor of samples from pure yarns, their combination with elastane and textured polyamide threads and area density, loop length and thickness was performed.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.17.1.247
The Effect of Pre-Tension on Deformation Behaviour of Natural Fabric Reinforced Composite
Authors: BEKAMPIENĖ Paulė , DOMSKIENĖ Jurgita , ŠIRVAITIENĖ Anne
Published: December 2011

In the fiber-reinforced composites industry together with the promotion of environmental friendly production, synthetic materials are attempted to be replaced by renewable, biodegradable and recyclable materials. The most important challenge is to improve strength and durability of these materials. Matrix that supports the fiber-reinforcement in composite generally is brittle and deformation causes fragmentation of the matrix. Pre-tension of reinforcement is a well-known method to increase tensile strength of woven material. The current study develops the idea to use pre-tension of woven fabric in order to improve quality and strength properties of the obtained composite. Natural (cotton fiber) and synthetic (glass fiber) woven fabrics were investigated. The pressure forming operation was carried out in order to study clamping imposed strain variation across the surface of woven fabric. The uniaxial tension test of single-layer composite specimens with and without pre-tension was performed to study the effect of pre-tension on strength properties of composite. The results have shown that pre-tension imposed by clamping is an effective method to improve the quality of shaped composite parts (more smoothed contour is obtained) and to increase the strength properties of composite reinforced by woven natural fabric. After pre-tension the tensile strength at break increased in 12 % in warp direction, in 58 % in weft direction and in 39 % in bias direction.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.17.1.250
Enzymatic Biodegradation of Lignin-Cellulose Complex in Plant Origin Material
Authors: VARNAITĖ Regina , RAUDONIENĖ Vita , BRIDŽIUVIENĖ Danguolė
Published: December 2011

Lignin and cellulose are chemically hardly destructible complex polymeric materials of organic origin. The main enzymes of fungi taking part in lignin degradation are phenoloxidases: lignin peroxidase, Mn-peroxidase and lacase, while in cellulose - endoglucanase. The aim of the investigation was to define the degradation of lignin and cellulose in the later stages of fungi cultivation, to determine the activity of phenoloxidases and endoglucanase and their abilities to degrade this complex. It was shown that the greatest lignin and cellulose degradation was measured after Galactomyces geotrichum 012 30 and 60 cultivation days. Galactomyces geotrichum 012 showed the greatest peroxidase (68.13 a.u./g) and tyrosinase (0.33 c.u./g) activity, meanwhile laccase activity reached its peak (0.068 ext. coef.) after Sporotrichum pruinosum 60 cultivation days. The greatest endoglucanase activity was observed after Galactomyces geotrichum and Sporotrichum pruinosum in the course of whole cultivation period.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.17.1.258