bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Computerized Decision Support Systems Linked to Electronic Health Records: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Moja Lorenzo , Kwag Koren H. , Lytras Theodore , Bertizzolo Lorenzo , Brandt Linn , Pecoraro Valentina , Rigon Giulio , Vaona Alberto , Ruggiero Francesca , Mangia Massimo , Iorio Alfonso , Kunnamo Ilkka , Bonovas Stefanos
Published: October 2014

We systematically reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of computerized decision support systems (CDSSs) featuring rule- or algorithm-based software integrated with electronic health records (EHRs) and evidence-based knowledge. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects. Information on system design, capabilities, acquisition, implementation context, and effects on mortality, morbidity, and economic outcomes were extracted.

Twenty-eight RCTs were included. CDSS use did not affect mortality (16 trials, 37395 patients; 2282 deaths; risk ratio [RR] = 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.85, 1.08; I2 = 41%). A statistically significant effect was evident in the prevention of morbidity, any disease (9 RCTs; 13868 patients; RR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.68, 0.99; I2 = 64%), but selective outcome reporting or publication bias cannot be excluded. We observed differences for costs and health service utilization, although these were often small in magnitude.

Across clinical settings, new generation CDSSs integrated with EHRs do not affect mortality and might moderately improve morbidity outcomes.
Association Between Nonspecific Severe Psychological Distress as an Indicator of Serious Mental Illness and Increasing Levels of Medical Multimorbidity
Authors: Swartz James A. , Jantz Ian
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We sought to determine whether severe psychological distress (SPD) and serious mental illnesses (SMIs) are associated with a specific set of chronic medical conditions (CMCs) and the association between SPD–SMIs and increasing levels of medical multimorbidity and complexity (i.e., from 1 to 3 or more CMCs).

Methods. We used data from 3 administrations (2008–2010) of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health collected from 110 455 adult participants. We used binary and ordinal logistic regressions adjusting for sociodemographics and substance abuse to examine the associations between SPD–SMIs and increasing levels of multimorbidity.

Results. SPD–SMI was associated with higher probabilities for many CMCs generally, but we found no specific pattern for any class of conditions for SPD–SMIs and multimorbidity. The association between SPD–SMIs and multimorbidity strengthened as the number of CMCs increased.

Conclusions. The finding of no discernible risk pattern for any specific CMC grouping supports broad medical assessment strategies and closely coordinated primary and behavioral health care for those with SPD–SMIs, as called for in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Digital Junk: Food and Beverage Marketing on Facebook
Authors: Freeman Becky , Kelly Bridget , Baur Louise , Chapman Kathy , Chapman Simon , Gill Tim , King Lesley
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We assessed the amount, reach, and nature of energy-dense, nutrient-poor (EDNP) food and beverage marketing on Facebook.

Methods. We conducted a content analysis of the marketing techniques used by the 27 most popular food and beverage brand Facebook pages in Australia. We coded content across 19 marketing categories; data were collected from the day each page launched (mean = 3.65 years of activity per page).

Results. We analyzed 13 international pages and 14 Australian-based brand pages; 4 brands (Subway, Coca-Cola, Slurpee, Maltesers) had both national and international pages. Pages widely used marketing features unique to social media that increase consumer interaction and engagement. Common techniques were competitions based on user-generated content, interactive games, and apps. Four pages included apps that allowed followers to place an order directly through Facebook. Adolescent and young adult Facebook users appeared most receptive to engaging with this content.

Conclusions. By using the interactive and social aspects of Facebook to market products, EDNP food brands capitalize on users’ social networks and magnify the reach and personal relevance of their marketing messages.
Effects of Particulate Matter and Antioxidant Dietary Intake on Blood Pressure
Authors: Schulz Amy J. , Mentz Graciela B. , Sampson Natalie R. , Dvonch J. Timothy , Reyes Angela G. , Izumi Betty
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We assessed 2 pathways through which dietary antioxidants may counter adverse effects of exposure to particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5) on blood pressure (BP): main (compensatory) and modifying (protective) models.

Methods. We used 2002 to 2003 data from the Detroit Healthy Environments Partnership community survey conducted with a multiethnic sample of adults (n = 347) in low- to moderate-income, predominantly Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black neighborhoods in Detroit, Michigan. We used generalized estimating equations to test the effects of ambient exposure to PM2.5 and dietary antioxidant intake on BP, with adjustment for multiple confounders.

Results. Dietary antioxidant intake was inversely associated with systolic BP (b = −0.5; P < .05) and pulse pressure (b  = −0.6; P < .05) in neighborhoods closest to major sources of air pollutants. Adverse effects of PM2.5 remained significant after accounting for antioxidant intakes. Exploratory analyses suggested potential modifying effects of antioxidant intake on associations between ambient PM2.5 exposure and BP.

Conclusions. Interventions to improve access to antioxidant-rich foods in polluted urban areas may be protective of cardiovascular health. However, efforts to reduce PM2.5 exposure remain critical for cardiovascular health promotion.
Comprehensive Adolescent Health Programs That Include Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kågesten Anna , Parekh Jenita , Tunçalp Özge , Turke Shani , Blum Robert William
Published: October 2014

We systematically reviewed peer-reviewed and gray literature on comprehensive adolescent health (CAH) programs (1998–2013), including sexual and reproductive health services. We screened 36 119 records and extracted articles using predefined criteria. We synthesized data into descriptive characteristics and assessed quality by evidence level.

We extracted data on 46 programs, of which 19 were defined as comprehensive. Ten met all inclusion criteria. Most were US based; others were implemented in Egypt, Ethiopia, and Mexico. Three programs displayed rigorous evidence; 5 had strong and 2 had modest evidence. Those with rigorous or strong evidence directly or indirectly influenced adolescent sexual and reproductive health.

The long-term impact of many CAH programs cannot be proven because of insufficient evaluations. Evaluation approaches that take into account the complex operating conditions of many programs are needed to better understand mechanisms behind program effects.
Classifying Local Health Departments on the Basis of the Constellation of Services They Provide
Authors: Bekemeier Betty , Pantazis Athena , Dunbar Matthew D. , Herting Jerald R.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We explored service variation among local health departments (LHDs) nationally to allow systematic characterization of LHDs by patterns in the constellation of services they deliver.

Methods. We conducted latent class analysis by using categorical variables derived from LHD service data collected in 2008 for the National Profile of Local Health Departments Survey and before service changes resulting from the national financial crisis.

Results. A 3-class solution produced the best fit for this data set of 2294 LHDs. The 3 configurations of LHD services depicted an interrelated set of narrow or limited service provision (limited), a comprehensive (core) set of key services provided, and a third class of core and expanded services (core plus), which often included rare services. The classes demonstrated high geographic variability and were weakly associated with expenditure quintile and urban or rural location.

Conclusions. This empirically derived view of how LHDs organize their array of services is a unique approach to categorizing LHDs, providing an important tool for research and a gauge to monitor how changes in LHD service patterns occur.
Picture surface illusion in parallel perspective
Authors: Kennedy John , Hammad Sherief
Published: October 2014

In the picture-surface illusion, 2D features on the picture?s surface are
seen biased towards their 3D referent e.g. an angle of 200 depicting a 900
corner of a cube is seen as 300. We tested linear and parallel perspective
drawings of cubes with cube drawings subtending 50 to 500. The
picture-surface illusion occurs for both parallel and linear perspective
drawings, at about equal strength. We argue that the 3D information at work
may be the aspect ratio of a quadrilateral depicting the tilt of the cube?s
top face.
Left bias of gaze perception in a cartoon face
Authors: Kitaoka Akiyoshi
Published: October 2014

Comparing a cartoon face drawn by the author with its mirror image, asymmetry
of gaze perception or a left bias was revealed, whereas the inverted faces
showed no bias. This novel finding is discussed.
New conditions on the role of color in perceptual organization and an extension to how color influences reading
Authors: Pinna Baingio , Deiana Katia
Published: October 2014

Color is one among many attributes that are involved in the similarity
principle. Grouping by color is believed to be less effective when compared
with other attributes such as shape and luminance. The main purpose of this
work is to explore the role played by color in determining visual grouping
and wholeness, not only in relation to further similarity attributes but also
to other principles such as proximity, good continuation and past experience.
Conditions, different from those used by Gestalt psychologists, were chosen,
and aimed to understand how color can influence visual organization and
through it, other perceptual and complex processes such as reading and visual
word recognition. In fact, involving cognitive and metacognitive domains,
permits exploration of broader issues concerning perception, memory,
knowledge, representation and learning, where color can express its
biological advantages for humans more clearly. These processes can be
assimilated to the Gestalt past experience considered as a principle of its
own kind not fully explored in relation to the other principles. As a
consequence, these conditions allow color to be pitted against past
experience and against a number of principles at the same time. The results
demonstrated that color can strongly influence grouping, shape and the
process of segmentation of words involved in the reading task. Therefore,
color not only is one among the many principles of grouping but an essential
component for the foundation of the more complex organization aimed at
creating wholeness, part-whole formation and fragmentation.
Auditor Independence in Fact: Research, Regulatory, and Practice Implications Drawn from Experimental and Archival Research
Authors: Church Bryan K. , Jenkins J. Gregory , McCracken Susan A. , Roush Pamela B. , Stanley Jonathan D.
Published: October 2014

SYNOPSIS

Notwithstanding various safeguards intended to enhance auditor independence in fact, regulators including the PCAOB have continued to express concerns that auditors, at times, are failing to maintain an appropriate level of independence. In this paper, we provide an analysis of selected academic studies related to auditor independence to offer readers a foundation on which to evaluate the substantial body of research in the area and to understand the mixed findings reported in experimental and archival studies. We discuss issues surrounding the research designs and methods used in prior work, highlighting challenges that face researchers. Subsequently, we take stock of what we have learned from our analysis and consider the research, regulatory, and practice implications of our conclusions. We also offer avenues for future research and highlight specific issues that warrant further investigation.
Continuous Auditing and Monitoring in Practice: Lessons from Metcash's Business Assurance Group
Authors: Hardy Catherine Anne , Laslett Glen
Published: October 2014

Advances in information technologies, multiple and diverse risks, complex and changing regulatory environments, antifraud measures, budget constraints, and the volume, velocity, and variety of data being created have renewed attention in continuous auditing (CA) and continuous monitoring (CM). Notwithstanding the growing interest, there is currently limited guidance and empirical evidence available about the practicalities of implementing CA and CM and the differences (or not) between them. In this paper, we describe a case study of how CA and CM has been interpreted and implemented at Metcash, a wholesale distribution and marketing company in Australia. The results for this organization so far are notable: over 100 automated tests performed daily, a fully integrated exception management system, advancement from data to predictive analytics, and the use of visualization technologies for enhancing reporting. However, this outcome has not been without challenges. Our aim in presenting this case is to assist senior audit and business executives with assessing the viability of adopting CA and CM by reflecting on the implementation at Metcash and to offer lessons from this organization's experiences for theory and practice.
Diabetes Numeracy and Blood Glucose Control: Association With Type of Diabetes and Source of Care
Authors: Zaugg Stephanie D. , Dogbey Godwin , Collins Karen , Reynolds Sharon , Batista Carter , Brannan Grace , Shubrook Jay H.
Published: October 2014

IN BRIEF

Limited diabetes numeracy may be an important factor affecting diabetes care and treatment adherence. This study assessed the relationship between the Diabetes Numeracy Test (DNT-15 score) and patient and treatment variables. Patients who had type 1 diabetes and those who received care from specialty centers had higher levels of numeracy, but this did not translate into improved glucose control.
Efficacy and Safety of Saxagliptin as Add-On Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Neumiller Joshua J.
Published: October 2014

IN BRIEF

Combination therapy for type 2 diabetes using agents with complementary mechanisms of action may improve glycemic control to a greater extent than monotherapy and allow the use of lower doses of antihyperglycemic medications. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, including saxagliptin, are recommended as add-on therapy to metformin and as part of two- or three-drug combinations in patients not meeting individualized glycemic goals with metformin alone or as part of a dual-therapy regimen. This article reviews the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin as an add-on therapy to metformin, glyburide, a thiazolidinedione, or insulin (with or without metformin) and as a component of triple therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea.
Mapping Human Induced Landscape Changes in Israel Between the end of the 19Th Century and the Beginning of the 21Th Century
Authors: Schaffer Gad , Levin Noam
Published: October 2014

This paper examines changes in Israel's landscape by comparing two time periods, 1881 and 2011. For this purpose we compared land cover derived from the Palestine Exploration Fund historical map to a present land cover map that was compiled from 38 different present-day GIS layers. The research aims were (1) to quantitatively examine what were the changes in Israel's landscape between 1881 and 2011; (2) to identify and explain spatial patterns in these landscape changes. Landscape transformation was categorized into five classes: 'residual bare' (no change in natural vegetation, mostly in desert areas); 'residual' (i.e. remnant; no change in natural vegetation class); 'transformed' (changes between different natural vegetation areas); 'replaced' (area which became managed); 'removed' (no or minimal natural vegetation). We found that only 21% of the area retained similar landscape classes as in the past, with the largest changes taking place in ecoregions that were favorable for developing agriculture - Jezreel Valley and the Sharon Plain. Two physical factors had a strong effect on the type of change in the landscape: (1) most of the agricultural areas and human settlements were found in areas ranging between 400-600 mm/year (2) natural land cover features were more common in areas with steeper slopes. We found that the majority of protected areas, 54.6%, are comprised of remnant vegetation classes (i.e. residual transformation class) however more than half of protected areas are located in desert areas and are thus biased in their representation of land cover classes.
Mapping site-level microtopography with Real- Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite Systems (RTK GNSS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Photogrammetry (UAVP)
Authors: Roosevelt Christopher H.
Published: October 2014

Microtopographic mapping has a long history in archaeology and has gained prominence
recently owing to the proliferation of digital technologies. With such proliferation, it becomes necessary
to compare and contrast different approaches based on a common set of criteria. This article compares the
implementation and efficiency of two methods of mapping microtopography – ground-based Real-Time
Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK GNSS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Photogrammetry
(UAVP) survey – assessing the pros and cons of each, including those related to data quality. ‘Off-the-shelf’
solutions for methods were used to create the comparative dataset of microtopographic maps of six Middle
and Late Bronze Age sites over the course of four seasons between 2007 and 2013 in the study area of
the Central Lydia Archaeological Survey in western Turkey. Comparison of results demonstrate that the
methods are similar with respect to ease of implementation, cost efficiency, and the (in)significance of data
defects, while, unsurprisingly, UAVP survey can be greater than one order of magnitude more labor efficient
than RTK GNSS survey and over two orders of magnitude more detailed as measured by data density. The
accuracy of both methods is high, within typical error budgets for site-level mapping, and comparable to
other recent digital mapping approaches. Accordingly, the results suggest that, given site suitability, UAVP
is the more labor and cost-efficient method in the long run, with significant data quality benefits.
Fabrication and characterization of compositionally graded Bi1−x
GdxFeO3 thin films
Authors: Chen Chang , Liu Zi , Wang Gui , Feng Xiao
Published: October 2014

An undoped BiFeO3 thin film, Gd doped Bi0.95Gd0.05FeO3 thin film with a constant composition, Gd up-graded doped Bi1−x
GdxFeO3 and Gd down-graded doped Bi1−x
GdxFeO3 thin films were successfully grown on Pt (111)/Ti/SiO2/Si (100) substrates using a sol-gel and spin coating technique. The crystal structure, ferroelectric and dielectric characteristics as well as the leakage currents of these samples were thoroughly investigated. The XRD (X-Ray Diffraction) patterns indicate that all these thin films consist of solely perovskite phase with polycrystalline structure. No other secondary phases have been detected. Clear polarization-electric field (P-E) hysteresis loops of all these thin films demonstrate that the incorporation of Gd3+ into the Bi site of BFO thin film have enhanced the ferroelectric performance of pure BiFeO3 thin film, and the Gd down-graded doped Bi1−x
GdxFeO3 thin film has the best ferroelectric properties. Compared to other thin films, the optimal ferroelectric behavior of the Gd down-graded doped Bi1−x
GdxFeO3 thin film results from its large dielectric constant, low dissipation factor and low leakage current.
Study of structures and properties of ZnO-Sb2O3-P2O5-Na2O glasses
Authors: Qi Yajun , Wang Zhiqiang , Zhai Shangru , Jiang Shuwen , Lin Hai
Published: October 2014

The influence of ZnO substitution by 0–12 wt.% Na2O on the properties of ZnO-Sb2O3-P2O5-Na2O glasses has been investigated. The structure and properties of the glasses with the composition of (13.86-x)ZnO-57.93Sb2O3-28.21P2O5−x
Na2O (x = 0–12 wt.%) were characterized by infrared spectra (IR), X-ray diffraction and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The results of IR indicated an increase in the intensity of symmetric vibrations of P-O-P bond, which was confirmed by the improvement of water durability with the increasing amount of Na2O in the range of 0–10 wt.%. Substitution of 10 wt.% Na2O led to the weight loss of the glass to 5.93 mg/cm−2 after immersion in deionized water at 50 °C for 24 h. The results of XRD showed that the ability of crystallization decreased, indicating the good thermal stability of the glass. The glass containing 8 wt.% Na2O had the best properties in every respect and might be an alternative to lead based glasses for the applications, providing further composition improvement.
Preparation of polyaniline nanostructures doped with different dicarboxylic acids through template-free method
Authors: Sun Chuanyu , Wang Yu
Published: October 2014

In this article nanoscaled polyanilines (PANI) were prepared based on template-free method in the presence of dicarboxylic acid dopants (e.g. D-tartaric acid, succinic acid, maleic acid and fumaric acid). The trans-cis isomerization of butenedioic acid played an important role in the formation of nanostructures from the plane-like to nanofibers, and the PANI doped with maleic acid (MA) had larger diameter, higher crystallinity and conductivity than PANI doped with fumaric acid (FA).
Magnetic characterization of nanocrystalline iron samples with different size distributions
Authors: Typek Janusz , Zolnierkiewicz Grzegorz , Pelka Rafal , Kielbasa Karolina , Arabczyk Walerian , Guskos Nikos
Published: October 2014

Nanocrystalline iron was obtained by fusing magnetite and promoters. The oxidized form was reduced with hydrogen and passivated (sample P0). The average nanocrystallite size in sample P0 was d(P0) =16 nm and the width of size distribution was σ(P0) = 18 nm. Samples of nanocrystalline iron with narrower diameter ranges and larger and smaller average crystallite sizes were also synthesized. They were: sample P1 (d(P1) = 28 nm, σ(P1) = 5 nm), sample P2 (d(P2) = 22 nm, σ(P1) = 5 nm), sample P3 (d(P3) = 12 nm, σ(P1) = 9 nm). These four samples were studied at room temperature by dc magnetization measurements and ferromagnetic resonance at microwave frequency. Correlations between samples sizes distributions (average size and width of the sizes) and magnetic parameters (effective magnetization, anisotropy field, anisotropy constant, FMR linewidth) were investigated. It was found that the anisotropy field and effective magnetization determined from FMR spectra scale linearly with nanoparticle sizes, while the effective magnetic anisotropy constant determined from the hysteresis loops decreases with nanoparticle size increase.
Voice Disorders in Occupations with Vocal Load in Slovenia / Glasovne Težave V Poklicih Z Glasovno Obremenitvijo V Sloveniji
Authors: Boltežar Lučka , Šereg Bahar Maja
Published: October 2014

Aim. The aim of this paper is to compare the prevalence of voice disorders and the risk factors for them in different occupations with a vocal load in Slovenia.

Methods. A meta-analysis of six different Slovenian studies involving teachers, physicians, salespeople, catholic priests, nurses and speech-and-language therapists (SLTs) was performed. In all six studies, similar questions about the prevalence of voice disorders and the causes for them were included.

Results. The comparison of the six studies showed that more than 82% of the 2347 included subjects had voice problems at some time during their career. The teachers were the most affected by voice problems. The prevalent cause of voice problems was the vocal load in teachers and salespeople and respiratory-tract infections in all the other occupational groups. When the occupational groups were compared, it was stated that the teachers had more voice problems and showed less care for their voices than the priests. The physicians had more voice problems and showed better consideration of vocal hygiene rules than the SLTs. The majority of all the included subjects did not receive instructions about voice care during education.

Conclusions. In order to decrease the prevalence of voice disorders in vocal professionals, a screening program is recommended before the beginning of their studies. Regular courses on voice care and proper vocal technique should be obligatory for all professional voice users during their career. The inclusion of dysphonia in the list of occupational diseases should be considered in Slovenia as it is in some European countries.
“No Hostages through These Doors”: Thomas Bartlett Whitaker’s “Hell’s Kitchen” and the Politics of PEN
Authors: Wells Ira
Published: October 2014

Abstract:

PEN International, one of the world’s first human rights organizations, has long defended the free speech of persecuted writers. The PEN Prison Writing Program, however, has a slightly different agenda, which is to help convicted criminals become writers. The PEN Prison Writing Program “believes in the restorative and rehabilitative power of writing” and encourages “the use of the written word as a legitimate form of power.” But what is the nature of the “power” of the written word? And what, moreover, will this power restore and rehabilitate? When PEN proclaims the “power” of the written word, are they honouring an important strand of America’s liberal intellectual heritage? Are they pledging allegiance to a romantic coupling of art and freedom? Are they inadvertently helping to bind prisoners ever more insidiously to the carceral regime? Or are they claiming something that is actually true? This article addresses these questions through a reading of Thomas Bartlett Whitaker’s prize-winning essay “ Hell’s Kitchen ” and finds that the power of Whitaker’s prison writing resides in its capacity to shock readers into a sensory appreciation of the radical strangeness of life lived in a state of civil death.
Predicting Student Academic Performance: A Comparison of Two Meta-Heuristic Algorithms Inspired by Cuckoo Birds for Training Neural Networks
Authors: Chen Jeng-Fung , Hsieh Ho-Nien , Do Quang
Published: October 2014

Predicting student academic performance with a high accuracy facilitates admission decisions and enhances educational services at educational institutions. This raises the need to propose a model that predicts student performance, based on the results of standardized exams, including university entrance exams, high school graduation exams, and other influential factors. In this study, an approach to the problem based on the artificial neural network (ANN) with the two meta-heuristic algorithms inspired by cuckoo birds and their lifestyle, namely, Cuckoo Search (CS) and Cuckoo Optimization Algorithm (COA) is proposed. In particular, we used previous exam results and other factors, such as the location of the student’s high school and the student’s gender as input variables, and predicted the student academic performance. The standard CS and standard COA were separately utilized to train the feed-forward network for prediction. The algorithms optimized the weights between layers and biases of the neuron network. The simulation results were then discussed and analyzed to investigate the prediction ability of the neural network trained by these two algorithms. The findings demonstrated that both CS and COA have potential in training ANN and ANN-COA obtained slightly better results for predicting student academic performance in this case. It is expected that this work may be used to support student admission procedures and strengthen the service system in educational institutions.
Forest Biomass for Energy Production: Perceptions of State Forestry Professionals from China and India
Authors: Halder Pradipta
Published: October 2014

This study investigated perceptions of a group of Chinese and Indian state forestry professionals (SFPs) related to the potential benefits and challenges of developing forest-based bioenergy projects (FBPs) in their countries. A total of 110 SFPs participated in the study (55 from each country). The results showed that the SFPs widely agreed upon the potential economic and ecological benefits from developing FBPs in their countries. The economic benefits of job creation and additional income to forest departments were the two most accepted benefits by the SFPs. Two potential challenges of developing FBPs—namely, the lack of suitable technologies and the absence of supportive policies—were considered the most significant by the SFPs. Principal component analysis revealed three key dimensions (ecological, economic and social) of the SFPs’ perceptions of FBPs. The findings from the study imply that in order to become viable, the development of FBPs in these two countries must put emphasis on the sustainability aspects by addressing the environmental, economic and societal elements of FBPs. In addition, framing supportive policies, the development of technologies and building infrastructure for FBPs are needed for their successful implementation in China and India.
Architecture of Glaciotectonic Complexes
Authors: Pedersen Stig
Published: October 2014

Glaciotectonic studies are an integrated part of the Quaternary geological research carried out by the Danish geological survey. Almost all the hilly areas in Denmark were created or affected by glaciotectonic deformations, and the features are included in the mapping of surface near deposits. For the mapping and support of constructing 3D geological models a classification of architecture of glaciotectonic complexes is suggested. The important elements for classification of architecture are the surfaces. Four orders of surfaces are defined for glaciotectonic complexes: first-order surfaces are décollement surfaces and glaciotectonic unconformities; second-order surfaces are ramps and flats—the thrust faults; third-order surfaces are folded beds—anticlines and synclines; and fourth-order surfaces are small scale folds and faults—kink bands, conjugate faults, box folds, etc. The most important first-order surface is the décollement surface. This surface limits the glaciotectonic complex at its base and controls the extent of glaciotectonic disturbances. Below this surface, ordinary flat lying planar bedding occurs, whereas above the surface a number of structures are present characteristic of second- to fourth-order elements in the glaciotectonic architecture. The other first-order surface is the topographic top of the glaciotectonic complex, which eventually may be replaced by a truncating unconformity.
Effect of Humic Acid on As Redox Transformation and Kinetic Adsorption onto Iron Oxide Based Adsorbent (IBA)
Authors: Fakour Hoda , Lin Tsair-Fuh
Published: October 2014

Due to the importance of adsorption kinetics and redox transformation of arsenic (As) during the adsorption process, the present study elucidated natural organic matter (NOM) effects on As adsorption-desorption kinetics and speciation transformation. The experimental procedures were conducted by examining interactions of arsenate and arsenite with different concentrations of humic acid (HA) as a model representative of NOM, in the presence of iron oxide based adsorbent (IBA), as a model solid surface in three environmentally relevant conditions, including the simultaneous adsorption of both As and HA onto IBA, HA adsorption onto As-presorbed IBA, and As adsorption onto HA-presorbed IBA. Experimental adsorption-desorption data were all fitted by original and modified Lagergren pseudo-first and -second order adsorption kinetic models, respectively. Weber’s intraparticle diffusion was also used to gain insight into the mechanisms and rate controlling steps, which the results suggested that intraparticle diffusion of As species onto IBA is the main rate-controlling step. Different concentrations of HA mediated the redox transformation of As species, with a higher oxidation ability than reduction. The overall results indicated the significant effect of organic matter on the adsorption kinetics and redox transformation of As species, and consequently, the fate, transport and mobility of As in different environmentally relevant conditions.
An Investigation of Growth Mixture Models for Studying the Flynn Effect
Authors: Morgan Grant , Beaujean A.
Published: October 2014

The Flynn effect (FE) is the well-documented generational increase of mean IQ scores over time, but a methodological issue that has not received much attention in the FE literature is the heterogeneity in change patterns across time. Growth mixture models (GMMs) offer researchers a flexible latent variable framework for examining the potential heterogeneity of change patterns. The article presents: (1) a Monte Carlo investigation of the performance of the various measures of model fit for GMMs in data that resemble previous FE studies; and (2) an application of GMM to the National Intelligence Tests. The Monte Carlo study supported the use of the Bayesian information criterion (BIC) and consistent Akaike information criterion (CAIC) for model selection. The GMM application study resulted in the identification of two classes of participants that had unique change patterns across three time periods. Our studies show that GMMs, when applied carefully, are likely to identify homogeneous subpopulations in FE studies, which may aid in further understanding of the FE.
Butrepyrazinone, a New Pyrazinone with an Unusual Methylation Pattern from a Ghanaian Verrucosispora sp. K51G
Authors: Kyeremeh Kwaku , Acquah Kojo , Camas Mustafa , Tabudravu Jioji , Houssen Wael , Deng Hai , Jaspars Marcel
Published: October 2014

We report the structural characterization of a new pyrazinone analogue; butrepyrazinone, which was isolated from a new actinomycete strain Verrucosispora sp. K51G recovered from Ghanaian mangrove river sediment. Spectroscopy-guided fractionation led to the isolation of a compound from the fermentation culture and a combination of NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry and computer-aided calculations revealed that butrepyrazinone (10) possesses an unusual methylation pattern on the pyrazinone ring. Butrepyrazinone (10), however, displayed no antibacterial activity against Gram-positive S. aureus ATCC 25923, the Gram-negative E. coli ATCC 25922 and a panel of clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, suggesting that 10 may act as a signal molecule for this strain. Although the same molecule has been synthesized previously, this is the first report to disclose the discovery of butrepyrazinone (10) from nature.
Optimization of Natural Lipstick Formulation Based on Pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) Seed Oil Using D-Optimal Mixture Experimental Design
Authors: Kamairudin Norsuhaili , Gani Siti , Masoumi Hamid , Hashim Puziah
Published: October 2014

The D-optimal mixture experimental design was employed to optimize the melting point of natural lipstick based on pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) seed oil. The influence of the main lipstick components—pitaya seed oil (10%–25% w/w), virgin coconut oil (25%–45% w/w), beeswax (5%–25% w/w), candelilla wax (1%–5% w/w) and carnauba wax (1%–5% w/w)—were investigated with respect to the melting point properties of the lipstick formulation. The D-optimal mixture experimental design was applied to optimize the properties of lipstick by focusing on the melting point with respect to the above influencing components. The D-optimal mixture design analysis showed that the variation in the response (melting point) could be depicted as a quadratic function of the main components of the lipstick. The best combination of each significant factor determined by the D-optimal mixture design was established to be pitaya seed oil (25% w/w), virgin coconut oil (37% w/w), beeswax (17% w/w), candelilla wax (2% w/w) and carnauba wax (2% w/w). With respect to these factors, the 46.0 °C melting point property was observed experimentally, similar to the theoretical prediction of 46.5 °C. Carnauba wax is the most influential factor on this response (melting point) with its function being with respect to heat endurance. The quadratic polynomial model sufficiently fit the experimental data.
A Psycho-Genetic Study of Hedonic Responsiveness in Relation to “Food Addiction”
Authors: Davis Caroline , Loxton Natalie
Published: October 2014

While food addiction has no formally-recognized definition, it is typically operationalized according to the diagnostic principles established by the Yale Food Addiction Scale—an inventory based on the symptom criteria for substance dependence in the DSM-IV. Currently, there is little biologically-based research investigating the risk factors for food addiction. What does exist has focused almost exclusively on dopaminergic reward pathways in the brain. While brain opioid signaling has also been strongly implicated in the control of food intake, there is no research examining this neural circuitry in the association with food addiction. The purpose of the study was therefore to test a model predicting that a stronger activation potential of opioid circuitry-as indicated by the functional A118G marker of the mu-opioid receptor gene-would serve as an indirect risk factor for food addiction via a heightened hedonic responsiveness to palatable food. Results confirmed these relationships. In addition, our findings that the food-addiction group had significantly higher levels of hedonic responsiveness to food suggests that this bio-behavioral trait may foster a proneness to overeating, to episodes of binge eating, and ultimately to a compulsive and addictive pattern of food intake.
Anti-Osteoporotic Effects of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels Extract on Ovariectomized Rats and Its Oral Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Lim Dong , Kim Yun
Published: October 2014

Angelica sinensis root is one of the herbs most commonly used in China; it is also often included in dietary supplements for menopause in Europe and North America. In the present study, we examined the anti-osteoporotic effects of A. sinensis extract in an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis as well as toxicity of the extract after repeated oral administration. The OVX rats were treated with 17β-estradiol (10 μg/kg i.p. once daily) or A. sinensis extract (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, p.o. once daily) for four weeks. The bone (femur) mineral density (BMD) of rats treated with the extract (300 mg/kg) was significantly higher than that of the OVX-control, reaching BMD of the estradiol group. Markers of bone turnover in osteoporosis, serum alkaline phosphatase, collagen type I C-telopeptide and osteocalcin, were significantly decreased in the extract group. The body and uterus weight and serum estradiol concentration were not affected, and no treatment-related toxicity was observed during extract administration in rats. The results obtained indicate that A. sinensis extract can prevent the OVX-induced bone loss in rats via estrogen-independent mechanism.
Novel Wireless-Communicating Textiles Made from Multi-Material and Minimally-Invasive Fibers
Authors: Gorgutsa Stepan , Bélanger-Garnier Victor , Ung Bora , Viens Jeff , Gosselin Benoit , LaRochelle Sophie , Messaddeq Younes
Published: October 2014

The ability to integrate multiple materials into miniaturized fiber structures enables the realization of novel biomedical textile devices with higher-level functionalities and minimally-invasive attributes. In this work, we present novel textile fabrics integrating unobtrusive multi-material fibers that communicate through 2.4 GHz wireless networks with excellent signal quality. The conductor elements of the textiles are embedded within the fibers themselves, providing electrical and chemical shielding against the environment, while preserving the mechanical and cosmetic properties of the garments. These multi-material fibers combine insulating and conducting materials into a well-defined geometry, and represent a cost-effective and minimally-invasive approach to sensor fabrics and bio-sensing textiles connected in real time to mobile communications infrastructures, suitable for a variety of health and life science applications.
Automatic Crack Detection and Classification Method for Subway Tunnel Safety Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Zhang Zhenjiang , Qi Dapeng , Liu Yun
Published: October 2014

Cracks are an important indicator reflecting the safety status of infrastructures. This paper presents an automatic crack detection and classification methodology for subway tunnel safety monitoring. With the application of high-speed complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) industrial cameras, the tunnel surface can be captured and stored in digital images. In a next step, the local dark regions with potential crack defects are segmented from the original gray-scale images by utilizing morphological image processing techniques and thresholding operations. In the feature extraction process, we present a distance histogram based shape descriptor that effectively describes the spatial shape difference between cracks and other irrelevant objects. Along with other features, the classification results successfully remove over 90% misidentified objects. Also, compared with the original gray-scale images, over 90% of the crack length is preserved in the last output binary images. The proposed approach was tested on the safety monitoring for Beijing Subway Line 1. The experimental results revealed the rules of parameter settings and also proved that the proposed approach is effective and efficient for automatic crack detection and classification.
Chemical Discrimination in Turbulent Gas Mixtures with MOX Sensors Validated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Fonollosa Jordi , Rodríguez-Luján Irene , Trincavelli Marco , Vergara Alexander , Huerta Ramón
Published: October 2014

Chemical detection systems based on chemo-resistive sensors usually include a gas chamber to control the sample air flow and to minimize turbulence. However, such a kind of experimental setup does not reproduce the gas concentration fluctuations observed in natural environments and destroys the spatio-temporal information contained in gas plumes. Aiming at reproducing more realistic environments, we utilize a wind tunnel with two independent gas sources that get naturally mixed along a turbulent flow. For the first time, chemo-resistive gas sensors are exposed to dynamic gas mixtures generated with several concentration levels at the sources. Moreover, the ground truth of gas concentrations at the sensor location was estimated by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We used a support vector machine as a tool to show that chemo-resistive transduction can be utilized to reliably identify chemical components in dynamic turbulent mixtures, as long as sufficient gas concentration coverage is used. We show that in open sampling systems, training the classifiers only on high concentrations of gases produces less effective classification and that it is important to calibrate the classification method with data at low gas concentrations to achieve optimal performance.
Detection of Surface and Subsurface Cracks in Metallic and Non-Metallic Materials Using a Complementary Split-Ring Resonator
Authors: Albishi Ali , Ramahi Omar
Published: October 2014

Available microwave techniques for crack detection have some challenges, such as design complexity and working at a high frequency. These challenges make the sensing apparatus design complex and relatively very expensive. This paper presents a simple method for surface and subsurface crack detection in metallic and non-metallic materials based on complementary split-ring resonators (CSRRs). A CSRR sensor can be patterned on the ground plane of a microstrip line and fabricated using printed circuit board technology. Compared to available microwave techniques for sub-millimeter crack detection, the methods presented here show distinct advantages, such as high spatial resolution, high sensitivity and design simplicity. The response of the CSRR as a sensor for crack detection is studied and analysed numerically. Experimental validations are also presented.
Sustainable Rent-Based Closed-Loop Supply Chain for Fashion Products
Authors: Hu Zhi-Hua , Li Qing , Chen Xian-Juan , Wang Yan-Feng
Published: October 2014

The textile and clothing industry generates much pollution and consumes a large amount of resources. Improper uses and disposal of clothing products make the problems much more severe. Fast fashion products shorten the valid lifecycle and generate more waste than regular clothing products. Considering the features of fashion products, a system of a rent-based closed-loop supply chain is developed to improve the sustainability of fashion products. The supply chain processes (fashion design and manufacturing, laundry, logistics and disposal), the operations management issues (inventory management, closed-loop logistics, human-clothing matching, booking system and the rental pricing) and the sustainability promotion aspects (customization, responsive system, culture and policy aspects) are investigated by devising sustainable strategies. The rationalities of the developed system and strategies are reviewed and elucidated in detail. The results may contribute to building sustainable closed-loop fashion supply chains, the related information systems and operational and managerial mechanisms.
Regional Informatization and Economic Growth in Japan: An Empirical Study Based on Spatial Econometric Analysis
Authors: Sun Chuan , Jiao Hao , Ren Yun
Published: October 2014

Research opinion on informatization is divided between two opposite poles—that it promotes or inhibits the spillover of regional economies. These conflicting viewpoints are called “the paradoxical geographies of the digital economy”. Information-based investment and diffusion of informatization contribute to breaking the economic space constraints caused by distance, leading to interregional spillover effects, according to the results of the Durbin model of spatial lag applied to Japanese regional data. Clearly, the local direct effects and the perimeter region’s indirect effects of informatization are both positive. This proves the existence of network externality, which causes increasing returns to scale. Extensive diffusion of information technology plays a significant role in the process, in addition to rapid accumulation and infiltration of information resources, which strengthens the information-based investment spillover effect. In this empirical analysis, evidence seems to support the view that informatization promotes economic development in Japan.