bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain Emboli After Left Ventricular Endocardial Ablation
Authors: Whitman Isaac R. , Gladstone Rachel A. , Badhwar Nitish , Hsia Henry H. , Lee Byron K. , Josephson S. Andrew , Meisel Karl M. , Dillon William P. , Hess Christopher P. , Gerstenfeld Edward P. , Marcus Gregory M.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia and premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) is common. Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation is associated with a risk of cerebral emboli attributed to cardioversions and numerous ablation lesions in the low-flow left atrium, but cerebral embolic risk in ventricular ablation has not been evaluated.

Methods:

We enrolled 18 consecutive patients meeting study criteria scheduled for ventricular tachycardia or PVC ablation over a 9-month period. Patients undergoing left ventricular (LV) ablation were compared with a control group of those undergoing right ventricular ablation only. Patients were excluded if they had implantable cardioverter defibrillators or permanent pacemakers. Radiofrequency energy was used for ablation in all cases and heparin was administered with goal-activated clotting times of 300 to 400 seconds for all LV procedures. Pre- and postprocedural brain MRI was performed on each patient within a week of the ablation procedure. Embolic infarcts were defined as new foci of reduced diffusion and high signal intensity on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery brain MRI within a vascular distribution.

Results:

The mean age was 58 years, half of the patients were men, half had a history of hypertension, and the majority had no known vascular disease or heart failure. LV ablation was performed in 12 patients (ventricular tachycardia, n=2; PVC, n=10) and right ventricular ablation was performed exclusively in 6 patients (ventricular tachycardia, n=1; PVC, n=5). Seven patients (58%) undergoing LV ablation experienced a total of 16 cerebral emboli, in comparison with zero patients undergoing right ventricular ablation (
P
=0.04). Seven of 11 patients (63%) undergoing a retrograde approach to the LV developed at least 1 new brain lesion.

Conclusions:

More than half of patients undergoing routine LV ablation procedures (predominately PVC ablations) experienced new brain emboli after the procedure. Future research is critical to understanding the long-term consequences of these lesions and to determining optimal strategies to avoid them.
Aortopathy in a Mouse Model of Marfan Syndrome Is Not Mediated by Altered Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling
Authors: Wei Hao , Hu Jie Hong , Angelov Stoyan N. , Fox Kate , Yan James , Enstrom Rachel , Smith Alexandra , Dichek David A.
Published: January 2017

Background

Marfan syndrome (
MFS
) is caused by mutations in the gene encoding fibrillin‐1 (

FBN
1

); however, the mechanisms through which fibrillin‐1 deficiency causes
MFS
‐associated aortopathy are uncertain. Recently, attention was focused on the hypothesis that
MFS
‐associated aortopathy is caused by increased transforming growth factor‐β (
TGF
‐β) signaling in aortic medial smooth muscle cells (
SMC
). However, there are many reasons to doubt that
TGF
‐β signaling drives
MFS
‐associated aortopathy. We used a mouse model to test whether
SMC TGF
‐β signaling is perturbed by a fibrillin‐1 variant that causes
MFS
and whether blockade of
SMC TGF
‐β signaling prevents
MFS
‐associated aortopathy.

Methods and Results

MFS
mice (
Fbn1
C1039G/+
genotype) were genetically modified to allow postnatal
SMC
‐specific deletion of the type
II TGF
‐β receptor (
TBRII
; essential for physiologic
TGF
‐β signaling). In young
MFS
mice with and without superimposed deletion of
SMC
‐
TBRII
, we measured aortic dimensions, histopathology, activation of aortic
SMC TGF
‐β signaling pathways, and changes in aortic
SMC
gene expression. Young
Fbn1
C1039G/+
mice had ascending aortic dilation and significant disruption of aortic medial architecture. Both aortic dilation and disrupted medial architecture were exacerbated by superimposed deletion of
TBRII
.
TGF
‐β signaling was unaltered in aortic
SMC
of young
MFS
mice; however,
SMC
‐specific deletion of
TBRII
in
Fbn1
C1039G/+
mice significantly decreased activation of
SMC TGF
‐β signaling pathways.

Conclusions

In young
Fbn1
C1039G/+
mice, aortopathy develops in the absence of detectable alterations in
SMC TGF
‐β signaling. Loss of physiologic
SMC TGF
‐β signaling exacerbates
MFS
‐associated aortopathy. Our data support a protective role for
SMC TGF
‐β signaling during early development of
MFS
‐associated aortopathy.
Towards a Sociology of the Real
Authors: Bergua Amores José Angel
Published: January 2017

The real constantly bucks against scientific figuration and political manipulation. This standpoint is applied here to the conflict that arose in the mid-1990s, when the French Environment Ministry won European Union backing to reintroduce brown bears in the Pyrenees with the enthusiastic support of ecologists, political parties from across the ideological spectrum, celebrities, and public figures. The project was plagued by hitches: manifestations of the real. These problems affected the social, natural, and socio-natural conditions of the scheme, and they point to the existence of other social and natural spheres of being and to unforeseen relationships between them. I argue that the real must be made to embrace both the project’s failings and the natural, social, and socio-natural spheres which are so resistant to intellectual construction. The sociology of the real applied will be used to explain the social conditions underlying the project’s failings and the resistance it stirred up.
Karl Rahner and Pope Francis on Papal Ministry
Authors: Knoepffler Nikolaus , O’Malley Martin
Published: January 2017

Karl Rahner’s ecclesial theology remains relevant for ecumenical work and specifically for the ecumenically thorny questions about papal authority and the infallibility doctrine. Rahner’s approach offers insight for unifying Christian churches in three ways: 1. prioritizing the papal office’s unifying role; 2. interpreting the doctrine of infallibility within an incarnate ecclesiology; and 3. contextualizing papal authority within a theology of communion and a subsidiarity administrative model. With this approach, infallibility is framed as a matter of doctrine and order, but a doctrine and order rooted in and reflecting the ‘sensus fidelium’. The pope is the ‘concrete guarantor of the unity of the church in truth and love’
1
and not an absolute monarch. Rahner’s call for ecumenical reforms serves the mission of the whole church – the sacrament of the incarnate God – on the personal, parish, diocese, regional, and universal levels. Many monarchical symbols of the papacy have been retired in recent years with the papacy of Francis, marking a moment ripe for Rahner’s approach. The article concludes with a reflection upon how Francis’ ministry reveals a commitment to communion theology of the Second Vatican Council and the subsidiarity principle that embodies Rahner’s epistemological tolerance.
Authority in the New Testament and the New Testament’s Authority
Authors: Smit Peter-Ben
Published: January 2017

In an essayistic manner, drawing on both exegetical and systematic theological insights, this paper explores the contours of the notion of authority in the New Testament, arguing that authority in the New Testament is primarily the performance of (liberating) authority by Christ, to which the New Testament witnesses. This witness is the New Testament’s own source of authority, but only in as far as the communities reading the New Testament engage in a communal praxis that is in line with Jesus’ own exercise of authority. The New Testament, it is argued, operates in a manner similar to that of a sacrament, while the diversity contained within its canon offers encouragement for an ongoing search for identity in Christ, rather than constituting a theological embarrassment.
Chanukka-Eisen: Ethnography, Museums and “Hanukkah Lamps of Iron” from Rural Germany
Authors: Goldman-Ida Batsheva
Published: January 2017

This case study combines the disciplines of art history, community history, and ethnographic fieldwork to identify a group of museum objects within their cultural context. It shows how ethnography can be used to supplement the tool box available to the art historian in a positive way. Thus, private collections are used to identify the group of Hanukkah lamps of sheet metal in museums. Images of the lamps in folk and fine art, and mention of them in newspaper advertisements and community satirical publications—all contemporary to the period of their use—were consulted. Over 80 interviewees from southern Germany, Alsace, and the Netherlands were interviewed; the majority former teachers from a Jewish school in Wurzburg, others residing in Jerusalem and on the Moshav Shavei Tzion. As a result, the Hanukkah lamps were identified by country, ethnic group, religious affiliation, and object name in the local idiom. Tracing the development and geographic spread of the form also enabled us to identify the same lamp used in different social contexts, among itinerate members of society and the bourgeoisie.
A new species of Lavandula sect. Lavandula (Lamiaceae) and review of species boundaries in Lavandula angustifolia
Authors: PASSALACQUA NICODEMO G. , TUNDIS ROSA , UPSON TIM M.
Published: January 2017

A remarkable new lavender from southern Italy which has long been treated as L. angustifolia and superficially resembles this montane species from the French and Italian Alps. However, it differs in key characters, most notably the inflorescence, corolla structure, calyx indumentum, bract form and essential oil profile. It is here described as a new species and thus required review of the current status of the subspecies recognised. The plants endemic to the Pyrenees are raised to species level (L. pyrenaica) for consistency of treatment, supported by morphological and DNA data.
Sternaspidae (Annelida, Sedentaria) from Vietnam with description of three new species and clarification of some morphological features
Authors: ZHADAN ANNA E. , TZETLIN ALEXANDER B. , SALAZAR-VALLEJO SERGIO I.
Published: January 2017

Five sternaspid species were found near Vietnam shores: Sternaspis britayevi sp. nov., S. costata von Marenzeller, 1879, S. nana sp. nov., S. papillosa sp. nov., and S. spinosa Sluiter 1882. Sternaspis britayevi is described from the shallow water in Vietnam inhabiting soft bottoms; it resembles S. spinosa described from Java and S. thorsoni Sendall & Salazar-Vallejo, 2013 described from the Persian Gulf, but differs in having a medially projected and markedly ribbed fan of the ventro-caudal shield and nearly parallel, distally widened and rounded branchial plates. Sternaspis nana sp. nov. is described from Nha Trang Bay; it differs from the other known species by the combination of the following characters: small size, evenly distributed micropapillae and regular rows of long cirriform papillae; posterior chaetal fascicles consisting of single thick chaeta; a ventral shield with smooth integument, without ribs and usually without concentric lines. Sternaspis papillosa sp. nov. is also described from Nha Trang Bay; it resembles S. africana Augener, 1918 and S. andamanensis Sendall & Salazar-Vallejo, 2013 by having similar ventro-caudal shields but differs by body papillation and details of the ventro-caudal shield. Based upon observations of different species some morphological features are clarified: 1) notochaetae are present in introvert chaetigers as delicate capillaries; 2) peg-chaetae are really a dense group of more than 100 thin individual chaetae, embedded in a fibrous matrix, and covered by a common sheath; 3) the pharynx is an eversible, lobed, axial non-muscular proboscis with a ciliated surface; 4) the body cavity is divided by three septa in the anterior body region, and there are no other septa; and 5) an eversible anal peduncle is confirmed, as has been shown by early taxonomists.
Rediscovery and redescription of the abyssal squat lobster Munidopsis petalorhyncha Baba, 2005 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Munidopsidae) from the Northwest Pacific
Authors: KOMAI TOMOYUKI , MARIN IVAN , KAKUI KEIICHI
Published: January 2017

A poorly known abyssal squat lobster, Munidopsis petalorhyncha Baba, 2005 [= Munidopsis subsquamosa latimana Birstein & Zarenkov, 1970], is redescribed on the basis of the holotype from the Kuril Trench at depths of 5060–5130 m and two recently collected specimens from off Japan at depths of 5353–5382 m. Examination of those specimens enabled us to reassess diagnostic characters of the species. Munidopsis petalorhyncha appears closest to M. thieli Türkay, 1975, known from abyssal plain of the eastern Atlantic, but the spinulose lateral margins of the rostrum, the presence of a distinct lateral eye spine, the presence of a distomesial spine on article 3 of the antennal peduncle and spinose ventral (flexor) margins of meri of pereopods 2–4 distinguish M. petalorhyncha from M. thieli.
A new species of the genus Alvinocaris Williams and Chace, 1982 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Caridea: Alvinocarididae) from the Manus Basin hydrothermal vents, Southwest Pacific
Authors: WANG YAN-RONG , SHA ZHONG-LI
Published: January 2017

One new species of alvinocaridid Alvinocaris kexueae sp. nov. is described from hydrothermal vents on the Manus Basin, Southwest Pacific. This is the fifteenth species in Alvinocaris Williams & Chace, 1982. The new species is easily recognized by the combination of the rostrum distinctively overreaching the distal end of the antennular peduncle, and the armature of its dorsal and ventral margins; the unarmed third abdominal segment, and by the posterior margin of the telson having one triangular tooth medially and 6 pairs unequal spines. It is morphologically most similar to A. brevitelsonis Kikuchi & Hashimoto, 2000 described from Minami-Ensei Knoll, Okinawa Trough, but can easily be distinguished from it by the proportionally longer rostrum, by the dorsal teeth of the rostrum, by the shape of the chela of the first pereiopod, and by the teeth on the fourth abdominal segment. The genetic divergence of COI gene analyzed clearly supports the new taxon.
Estimating Changes in Global Temperature since the Preindustrial Period
Authors: Hawkins Ed , Ortega Pablo , Suckling Emma , Schurer Andrew , Hegerl Gabi , Jones Phil , Joshi Manoj , Osborn Timothy J. , Masson-Delmotte Valérie , Mignot Juliette , Thorne Peter , van Oldenborgh Geert Jan
Published: January 2017

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process agreed in Paris to limit global surface temperature rise to “well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.” But what period is preindustrial? Somewhat remarkably, this is not defined within the UNFCCC’s many agreements and protocols. Nor is it defined in the IPCC’s Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) in the evaluation of when particular temperature levels might be reached because no robust definition of the period exists. Here we discuss the important factors to consider when defining a preindustrial period, based on estimates of historical radiative forcings and the availability of climate observations. There is no perfect period, but we suggest that 1720–1800 is the most suitable choice when discussing global temperature limits. We then estimate the change in global average temperature since preindustrial using a range of approaches based on observations, radiative forcings, global climate model simulations, and proxy evidence. Our assessment is that this preindustrial period was likely 0.55°–0.80°C cooler than 1986–2005 and that 2015 was likely the first year in which global average temperature was more than 1°C above preindustrial levels. We provide some recommendations for how this assessment might be improved in the future and suggest that reframing temperature limits with a modern baseline would be inherently less uncertain and more policy relevant.
Combined Impacts of PDO and Two Types of La Niña on Climate Anomalies in Europe
Authors: Ding Shuoyi , Chen Wen , Feng Juan , Graf Hans-F.
Published: January 2017

Combined impacts of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) and two types of La Niña on climate anomalies in Europe are studied. Particularly, the conjunction of the negative PDO phase and two different types of La Niña events favors strong and significant North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) pattern anomalies with opposite polarity. For the central Pacific (CP) La Niña, a clear positive NAO signal can be detected, which is accompanied by positive surface air temperature (SAT) anomaly and a dipolar structure of precipitation anomalies in Europe. In addition, a typical negative Pacific–North America (PNA) teleconnection pattern forms, including a high pressure anomaly over the southeastern United States, which may contribute to the development and maintenance of the NAO anomaly by strengthening the baroclinicity and the local eddy–mean flow interaction. However, for the eastern Pacific (EP) La Niña, a zonal wave train in the high latitudes can be observed, which is quite different from the typical PNA structure. Here, an anomalous anticyclone over southern Greenland supports a negative NAO pattern through the local eddy–mean flow interaction and the associated vorticity advection. Hence, reversed SAT and precipitation anomalies occur over Europe. Further analyses indicate that the wave trains emanating from the North Pacific and the synoptic eddy–mean flow interaction play essential roles in forming the anomalous NAO phases. The different wave trains for the CP and EP La Niña events may be attributed to the differences in the location and intensity of anomalous convection induced by different types of SST anomaly as well as by the corresponding background westerly wind anomalies in the upper troposphere.
Is the Federal Government Controlling Education?: The Federal Tailors
Authors: La Noue George R.
Published: January 2017

Use of the leverage of the federal government dollar to accomplish objectives which have nothing to do with the purposes for which the dollar is given has become dangerously fashionable… . It might be called the “now that I have bought the button, I have a right to design the coat” approach.

Kingman Brewster, President, Yale University
The Emergence of Global Administrative Law and International Institutions
Authors: Manocha Dushyant
Published: January 2017

nderlying the emergence of a global administrative law is the recognition of the fact that increased global interdependence has led to a situation where decision making has moved beyond national boundaries. This situation where the presence of transnational governance structures is being increasingly felt throughout the globe has resulted in accountability concerns being expressed against such international institutions and herein lies the importance of the Global Administrative Law (GAL) Research Project at the New York School of Law. This research project is an effort to view diverse international governance structures from an administrative law perspective so as to identify some patterns of commonality and connection sufficiently deep and far-reaching as to constitute an embryonic field of global administrative law, which would enable the international community to deal with such accountability concerns.

The present paper is a small contribution to the same. It examines the functioning of the World Trade Organization (WTO) from a GAL perspective. The question asked here is that how has the WTO as an institution fared at the democracy deficit allegations which have been levied against various international organizations including the WTO? The conclusion reached here is that one way to deal with the democracy deficit concerns could be the development of an all encompassing GAL regime.
The Combined Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure and Strain-Rate on the Compressive Properties of a Laminated, Multi-Directional, Graphite/Epoxy Thick-Composite
Authors: Pae K. D. , Carlson K. S.
Published: January 2017

Experimental studies of the combined effects of hydrostatic pressure and strain-rate on the compressive properties of a laminated, multi-directional graphite fiber/epoxy matrix thick-composite have been made. It has been determined that the compressive stress-strain behavior of the thick-composite is dependent significantly on hydrostatic pressure and strain-rate. The hydrostatic pressure ( P) applied was 1 bar, 1 kbar, 2 kbar, and 3 kbar and the average strain-rates (ε) used for the studies were 6.51 x 10−2%/s (quasi-static or low strain-rate) and 1.27%/s (high strain-rate). The compressive properties—namely the Young's modulus ( E), the yield strength (σγ) when one occurred, the ultimate strength (σ U) or the fracture strength (σ f), and the fracture strain (ε f)—were determined as a function of P and ε. The E increased bilinearly with P at the low and the high is with the discontinuity point located at ~2 kbar. It is particularly important to note that there was a coupling effect of P and ε on E of the thick-composite. The coupling effect was that the value of E under simultaneous application of P and the high ε was greater than the sum of the values of E under separate application of P and the high ε. The multi-directional thick-composite behaved like a brittle material, exhibiting only linear elastic stress-strain curves, under 1 bar and the low strain-rate. It, however, underwent 2% off-set yielding when P ≥ 2 kbar under the low and the high ε S. The σ F remained virtually unchanged at each pressure level, regardless of strain rates used but the σ F decreased with ε.
The Role of In-Vitro Fertilization in the Treatment of Infertility: Ethical and Legal Problems
Authors: Steptoe Patrick
Published: January 2017

In delivering the Lund Lecture last year Mr Patrick Steptoe worked entirely from slides without notes. The following is a precis which includes all the principles he discussed in his address.
Aggressive Incidents in a Secure Hospital
Authors: Dooley Enda
Published: January 2017

A 12-month retrospective study indicated that 114 aggressive incidents occurred directed mainly at other patients and against the instigator himself. Patients admitted from other hospitals because of unmanageable aggressive behaviour were over-represented, whereas those detained indefinitely having been found guilty but insane were under-represented. Relatively few patients admitted or resident during the survey period were instigators of aggressive incidents, and of these a small number were responsible for a large number of incidents.
Effect of Low Proscribed Blood Alcohol Levels (BALs) on Traffic Accidents among Newly-Licensed Drivers
Authors: Smith D. I.
Published: January 2017

Three Australian States introduced lower blood alcohol levels (BALs) for first-year drivers than those applicable to other drivers. In Tasmania, a zero BAL significantly reduced casualty accidents for drivers and motorcyclists, in South Australia a 005 per cent BAL significantly reduced male driver and motorcyclist casualty accidents not requiring hospitalization, while in Western Australia a 002 per cent BAL significantly reduced driver and motorcyclist casualty accidents not requiring hospitalization. For a number of methodological reasons the counter-measure should only be regarded as a promising rather than a proven way of reducing alcohol-related accidents among young drivers.
Gastric Trauma following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Hulewicz Bogdan
Published: January 2017

Three cases of gastric trauma following cardiopulmonary resuscitation are reported.

In two cases there were full thickness lacerations of the gastric wall resulting in pneumoperitoneum and in one case subcutaneous emphysema.

In the third case, gastric mucosal lacerations resulted in gastric haemorrhage.

In all three cases it was thought that the gastric lesions did not contribute to death and were resuscitation artefacts.
Acute Pancreatitis—The Correlation between Pathogenesis and Histological Findings at Autopsy
Authors: Heatley M K
Published: January 2017

Acute pancreatitis is a commonly encountered acute inflammatory condition which involves the pancreas. It has been suggested that the distribution of necrosis and inflammation seen histologically depends on whether the pancreatitis occurs as a result of ductal obstruction or following an interruption in the supply of blood to the pancreas.

A histological review of 27 pancreata removed at post-mortem from patients dying with acute pancreatitis confirms that the distribution of inflammation seen in the pancreas is characteristic of the pathogenic mechanisms giving rise to the disease. The findings of experimental and autopsy series are reviewed and provide support for the hypothesis.
Forecasting Recidivism in Delinquency by Intelligence and Related Constructs
Authors: Richter Paul , Scheurer Heinz , Barnett Winfried , Kröber Hans Ludwig
Published: January 2017

In a longitudinal survey of 122 healthy criminal offenders aged 18 to 37 years, the relationship between intelligence measured by the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), neuropsychological scales and delinquency was investigated. The Benton Test correlates well with the WAIS and moderately with offence data, but not with recidivism in delinquency. The 122 men had normal intelligence test scores (average IQ=102), but bad school and working records. The 34 per cent and 60 per cent respectively of offenders, who relapsed within the time span of 1.5 and 3 years respectively, showed significantly worse results in the Verbal Scale and in the Block Design of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale. Poor performance in the Information and the Block Design sub-tests of the WAIS, a low level of formal education and the belief in external control by circumstances and powerful others are predictors of a high risk of recidivism.
Martyrs Never Die
Authors: Dilmaç Julie Alev
Published: January 2017

The new technologies have changed the rituals related to death: Creation of memorial webpages and of virtual tombs, celebration of death anniversaries are now common currency on the Internet. In spite of their disappearance among the living, the deceased continue to exist on the Web. They still receive messages from their relatives but also from strangers and are at the heart of discussions, prolonging their presence. New technologies have led to a new concept of time and of “where life ends.” Through the analysis of Facebook’s accounts devoted to Turkish martyrs, this article aimed to describe the new funeral rituals seen on the Internet.
The Police and Psychology
Authors: Cain A.
Published: January 2017

“The scientific psychologist seeks a complete understanding of how individuals react to their environment and why they behave as they do….”— General Psychology: J. P. Guilford.
It Can Be So Easy
Authors: Muncie Wiliam
Published: January 2017

Lanarkshire Constabulary The first of a series of short articles about murder inquiries which looked black on first appreciation but which were cleared within 24 hours.
Disasters and Major Incidents
Authors: Fisher Brian E.
Published: January 2017

The second in a series of three articles by the Emergency Planning Officer of the City of London
Criminal Life: Reminiscences of Forty-Two Years as a Police Officer
Authors: Bent
Published: January 2017

We continue the fascinating glimpses of the life of a Victorian Policeman
Multiple-Race Mortality Data for California, 2000–2001
Authors: Heck Katherine E. , Parker Jennifer D. , McKendry C. Jane
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

To examine mortality rates and quality of race reporting for multiple-race individuals in California using the new multiple-race data available on the death certificate.

Methods.

Death data were drawn from California vital statistics for 2000 and 2001. Denominator data were drawn from the 2000 census Modified Race Data Summary File. The authors calculated mortality rates and relative standard errors for multiple-race individuals as a whole and by county, and for the three largest reported multiple-race groups (African American and white, American Indian/Alaska Native and white, and Asian and white).

Results.

Decedents reported to be of more than one race were disproportionately young, Hispanic, male, and never-married. Age-adjusted mortality rates for multiple-race groups were approximately one-sixth as high as rates for single-race individuals. There was substantial variability in rates for multiple-race decedents according to county of residence.

Conclusions.

Mortality rates for multiple-race people were implausibly low, and death certificates for multiple-race individuals were geographically clustered. Race reporting on death certificates will need to be improved before accurate death rates can be calculated for those of multiple races.
Development and Implementation of a Public Health Workforce Training Needs Assessment Survey in North Carolina
Authors: Harrison Lisa Macon , Davis Mary V. , MacDonald Pia D.M. , Alexander Lorraine K. , Cline J. Steven , Alexander Janet G. , Rothney Erin E. , Rybka Tara P. , Stevens Rachel H.
Published: January 2017

Assessing the training needs of local public health workers is an important step toward providing appropriate training programs in emergency preparedness and core public health competencies. The North Carolina Public Health Workforce Training Needs Assessment survey was implemented through the collaboration of several organizations, including the North Carolina Center for Public Health Preparedness at the North Carolina Institute for Public Health, the outreach and service unit of the University of North Carolina School of Public Health, the Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response in the North Carolina Division of Public Health Epidemiology Section, and local health departments across the state.
Public Health Detailing: A Strategy to Improve the Delivery of Clinical Preventive Services in New York City
Authors: Larson Kelly , Levy Joslyn , Rome Martha G. , Matte Thomas D. , Silver Lynn D. , Frieden Thomas R.
Published: January 2017

To promote use of essential clinical preventive services, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene developed the Public Health Detailing Program, a primary care provider outreach initiative modeled on pharmaceutical detailing. Department representatives conducted topical campaigns, making unscheduled visits to health care practices and meeting with providers and office staff members. Representatives distributed “action kits” containing practice tools, provider information, and patient education materials; nicotine replacement therapy was distributed during the smoking cessation campaign.

More than 2,500 interactions with practice staff members were completed by six health department representatives at approximately 200 sites. Physician visits lasted 10 minutes or longer, and by provider self-report, use of office systems for prevention and adherence to recommended practices increased.

Public health detailing is an effective method of reaching providers to deliver key prevention messages, feasible for public health agencies and acceptable to practices. The effectiveness of this intervention in improving clinical prevention services requires further evaluation.
The National Board of Public Health Examiners: Credentialing Public Health Graduates
Authors: Gebbie Kristine , Goldstein Bernard D. , Gregorio David I. , Tsou Walter , Buffler Patricia , Petersen Donna , Mahan Charles , Silver Gillian B.
Published: January 2017

The National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE, the Board) is the result of many years of intense discussion about the importance of credentialing within the public health community. The Board is scheduled to begin credentialing graduates of programs and schools of public health accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) in 2008. Among the many activities currently underway to improve public health practice, the Board views credentialing as one pathway to heighten recognition of public health professionals and increase the overall effectiveness of public health practice. The process underway includes developing, preparing, administering, and evaluating a voluntary certification examination that tests whether graduates of CEPH-accredited schools and programs have mastered the core knowledge and skills relevant to contemporary public health practice. This credentialing initiative is occurring at a time of heightened interest in public health education, and an anticipated rapid turnover in the public health workforce. It is fully anticipated that active discussion about the credentialing process will continue as the Board considers the many aspects of this professional transition. The Board wishes to encourage these discussions and welcomes input on any aspects relating to implementation of the credentialing process.
Disaster Preparedness for Limited English Proficient Communities: Medical Interpreters as Cultural Brokers and Gatekeepers
Authors: Shiu-Thornton Sharyne , Balabis Joseph , Senturia Kirsten , Tamayo Aracely , Oberle Mark
Published: January 2017

Current disaster and emergency response planning does not adequately address the needs of limited English proficient (LEP) communities. The complexities of language and cultural differences pose serious barriers to first responders and emergency providers in reaching LEP communities. Medical interpreters are potential key cultural and linguistic linkages to LEP communities. This project established a collaborative partnership with the Interpreter Services department of Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. In summer 2004, a pilot assessment of the training background and work experiences of medical interpreters was conducted that focused on training needs for disaster/emergency situations. Overall, medical interpreters identified a need for disaster preparedness training and education. Medical interpreters further reported that LEP communities are not prepared for disasters and that there is a need for culturally appropriate information and education.
Comparison of Two Signal Detection Methods in a Coroner-Based System for near Real-Time Mortality Surveillance
Authors: Groenewold Matthew R.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

This article describes and compares the performance characteristics of two approaches to outbreak detection in the context of a coroner-based mortality surveillance system using controlled feature set simulation.

Methods.

The comparative capabilities of the outbreak detection methods— the Epidemic Threshold and Cusum methods—were assessed by introducing a series of simulated signals, configured as nonoverlapping, three-day outbreaks, into historic surveillance data and assessing their respective performances. Treating each calendar day as a separate observation, sensitivity, predictive value positive, and predictive value negative were calculated for both signal detection methods at various outbreak magnitudes. Their relative performances were also assessed in terms of the overall percentage of outbreaks detected.

Results.

Both methods exhibited low sensitivity for small outbreaks and low to moderate sensitivity for larger ones. In terms of overall outbreak detection, large outbreaks were detected with moderate to high levels of reliability, while smaller ones were detected with low to moderate reliability for both methods. The Epidemic Threshold method performed significantly better than the Cusum method for overall outbreak detection.

Conclusions.

The use of coroner data for mortality surveillance has both advantages and disadvantages, the chief advantage being the rapid availability of coroner data compared to vital statistics data, making near real-time mortality surveillance possible. Given the lack of sensitivity and limited outbreak detection reliability of the methods studied, the use of mortality surveillance for early outbreak detection appears to have limited usefulness. If it is used, it should be as an adjuvant in conjunction with other surveillance systems.
A Complementary Ecological Model of the Coordinated School Health Program
Authors: Lohrmann David K.
Published: January 2017

A complementary ecological model of the coordinated school health program (CSHP) reflecting 20 years of evolved changes is proposed. Ecology refers to the complex interrelationship among intrapersonal factors, interpersonal processes and primary groups, institutional factors, community factors, and public policy. Public health and child development theories that incorporate the influence of personal and social environments on health behavior, along with models that incorporate the influence of ecology, were consulted. Concepts from several models were combined with the eight components of CSHP to formulate an ecological model involving six program and services components in an inner circle surrounded by four concentric rings representing the healthy school environment, essential structures of CSHP, local school district governance, and family and community involvement. This complementary ecological model is intended to serve as an additional conceptual approach to CSHP practice, evaluation, and research, and should prove especially useful to practitioners and researchers who already have a fundamental understanding of CSHP.
Financial Feasibility of a Model School-Based Dental Program in Different States
Authors: Bailit Howard , Beazoglou Tryfon , Drozdowski Margaret
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

This article describes a model for a school-based program designed to reduce dental access disparities and examines its financial feasibility in states with different Medicaid reimbursement rates.

Methods.

Using state and national data, the expected revenues and expenses for operating the program in different states were estimated. Hygienists with support staff provided screening and preventive services in schools using portable equipment and generated surplus funds that were used to supplement payments to community clinics and private practices for treating children.

Results.

The program is financially feasible in states when the ratio of Medicaid fees is 60.5% of mean national fees. Of the 13 states examined, one-third have adequate Medicaid fees to support the program.

Conclusion.

The model program has considerable promise for reducing access disparities at a lower cost per child than current Medicaid programs.
Factors Associated with Use of Urban Emergency Departments by the U.S. Homeless Population
Authors: Ku Bon S. , Scott Kevin C. , Kertesz Stefan G. , Pitts Stephen R.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

Homeless individuals frequently use emergency departments (EDs), but previous studies have investigated local rather than national ED utilization rates. This study sought to characterize homeless people who visited urban EDs across the U.S.

Methods.

We analyzed the ED subset of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS-ED), a nationally representative probability survey of ED visits, using methods appropriate for complex survey samples to compare demographic and clinical characteristics of visits by homeless vs. non-homeless people for survey years 2005 and 2006.

Results.

Homeless individuals from all age groups made 550,000 ED visits annually (95% confidence interval [CI] 419,000, 682,000), or 72 visits per 100 homeless people in the U.S. per year. Homeless people were older than others who used EDs (mean age of homeless people = 44 years compared with 36 years for others). ED visits by homeless people were independently associated with male gender, Medicaid coverage and lack of insurance, and Western geographic region. Additionally, homeless ED visitors were more likely to have arrived by ambulance, to be seen by a resident or intern, and to be diagnosed with either a psychiatric or substance abuse problem. Compared with others, ED visits by homeless people were four times more likely to occur within three days of a prior ED evaluation, and more than twice as likely to occur within a week of hospitalization.

Conclusions.

Homeless people who seek care in urban EDs come by ambulance, lack medical insurance, and have psychiatric and substance abuse diagnoses more often than non-homeless people. The high incidence of repeat ED visits and frequent hospital use identifies a pressing need for policy remedies.
Carbon Monoxide-Related Hospitalizations in the U.S.: Evaluation of a Web-Based Query System for Public Health Surveillance
Authors: Iqbal Shahed , Clower Jacquelyn H. , Boehmer Tegan K. , Yip Fuyuen Y. , Garbe Paul
Published: January 2017

Objective.

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is preventable, yet it remains one of the most common causes of poisoning in the U.S. In the absence of a national data reporting system for CO-poisoning surveillance, the burden of CO-related hospitalizations is unknown. Our objective was to generate the first national estimates of CO-related hospitalizations and to evaluate the use of a Web-based query system for public health surveillance.

Methods.

The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's (HCUP's) 2005 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) data were used for CO-related hospitalization estimates. Data for confirmed, probable, and suspected cases were generated using the HCUPnet Web-based query system. We used data from 1993 through 2005 NIS to describe trends in CO-related hospitalizations. We used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's surveillance evaluation guidelines to evaluate the system.

Results.

In 2005, there were 24,891 CO-related hospitalizations nationwide: 16.9% ( n=4,216) were confirmed, 1.1% ( n=279) were probable, and 81.9% ( n=20,396) were suspected CO-poisoning cases. Of the confirmed cases (1.42/100,000 population), the highest hospitalization rates occurred among males, older adults (aged ≥85 years), and Midwestern residents. CO-related hospitalization rates declined from 1993 through 2000 and plateaued from 2001 through 2005. The simplicity, acceptability, sensitivity, and representativeness of the HCUPnet surveillance system were excellent. However, HCUPnet showed limited flexibility and specificity.

Conclusions.

Nationwide, the burden of CO exposure resulting in hospitalization is substantial. HCUPnet is a useful surveillance tool that efficiently characterized CO-related hospitalizations for the first time. Public health practitioners can utilize this data source for state-level surveillance.
Withering state policy towards management of human resources in India
Authors: Lalwani Mahesh
Published: January 2017

India's strategy of placing heavy reliance on growth of output for employment generation has been primarily responsible for the burgeoning unemployment of human resources. This has largely been the outcome of taking employment as the residue of output growth throughout the planned period of past fifty years.
Women's employment and decision-making power in the family: A study of women workers in the handloom industries of Panipat district, Haryana
Authors: Sharma Santosh , Ogale Nalini
Published: January 2017

A study of women workers in the handloom industries of Panipat district showed that women's employment helped them in gaining some control over financial matter and decisions related to other household activities. Joint decision making had increased after the women workers took up employment. It was found also that the percentage of respondents who had autonomy in household decisions was more in the urban sample than in the rural sample. A significant positive correlation between income of women and women's control over family finances/ role-played in household decision was also found. While earnings of women workers did make an impact on their decision-making authority, still, a large number of women did not have much authority in family matters.
Gender, forests and livelihoods: A note on the political economy of transition in north-east India
Authors: Mishra Deepak K.
Published: January 2017

The process of livelihood diversification could be highly complex and conflict-ridden, particularly because of unequal access to crucial livelihood resources. Based on mountain regions of north-east India in general and Arunachal Pradesh in particular, this paper attempts to analyse the livelihoods diversification in a forest-dependent economy. Along with the manifold transformation of the economies in the region, gender relations have also been altered in a diverse and complex manner. This is primarily because gender relations are deeply embedded in the economy and the politics of control over resources-a dimension which is often neglected in the mainstream discussions on economic development and change.

Largely drawing upon micro-studies by the author and others, these interconnections have been examined in relation to few critical issues. They include the changing nature of ownership and control over forests having significant gendered implications. As forest products get commercialized, the way forests and forest-related activities are viewed by the forest dependent population also change. The shift from family and community labour to wage labour for extraction of forest products for market use as well as the interdependencies between farming and forest related activities alters the intra-family distribution of work as well as opportunities for men and women. Finally, the paper also take into account the impact of deforestation and commercialisation of forest products on women's work burden.
Sticky floors, high ceilings: Skilled and ‘gendered’ workforce-learnings from Chennai and Delhi firms
Authors: Raju Saraswati
Published: January 2017

Issues relating to skill and training acquisition amongst workers are once again up front and significant efforts are underway to bring entrepreneurs together with training providers to ensure that vocational training avoid the frequent trap of becoming rigid, unimaginative and out of date. The World Employment Report (ILO 2004) has expressed concerns in terms of upgrading of existing clusters of small firms to fit in with the contemporary world scenario; increased productivity and its interface with training and skills; need for acquisition of different/appropriate set of skills with technological moves and policy prescription. Traditionally the domain of the State, of late, discussions on skill formation have looked at ways in which closer partnerships between the State and enterprises can be forged on the basis of shared responsibility and mutual support.

Based on collaborative IDPAD project, the paper provides overall skill profiles of men and women in India and in the firms of Delhi and Chennai. This is followed by the existing provisions available for training in these firms, particularly for women. The paper also looks at employers’ responses as to how they see their own role in skill formation and training and other related issues. Finally, it is contended that contrary to situations in some industrialized countries, given the nature of Indian firms, their hiring practices and market peculiarities, lower end workers, particularly women are precariously positioned in terms of acquiring skills and training through their employers. Obliquely, the paper also addresses the debates surrounding the role of government and private sectors in ensuring workers’ enhanced/better employability though skill formation and training.
Resettlement issues in water resources development: An empirical study of the lower Suktel irrigation project, Orissa
Authors: Agnihotri Anita
Published: January 2017

The Lower Suktel Irrigation Project, which commenced in late 1990s, aims to provide irrigation and potable water to the drought prone district Bolangir. It will fully submerge 16 villages andlO villages partially, affected 4160 families including 1222 families belonging to the scheduled tribes. The progress is slow, partly due to the problems pertaining to land acquisition and compensation payment. In the absence of any visible resettlement effort on the ground and fearing the largely negative impact from the dam, people have turned against it. The escalating project costs are also unlikely to deliver the expected benefits, and therefore this study suggests that even now it will be worthwhile to explore an alternative to this costly undertaking. If however the government still wishes to go ahead, the study recommends that displacement be minimised by lowering the dam height and the affected people provided adequate resettlement, which has often not happened in the past.