bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MPC-Polymer Reduces Adherence and Biofilm Formation by Oral Bacteria
Authors: Hirota K. , Yumoto H. , Miyamoto K. , Yamamoto N. , Murakami K. , Hoshino Y. , Matsuo T. , Miyake Y.
Published: March 2011

Oral biofilms such as dental plaque cause dental caries and periodontitis, as well as aspiration pneumonia and infectious endocarditis by translocation. Hence, the suppression of oral biofilm formation is an issue of considerable importance. Mechanical removal, disinfectants, inhibition of polysaccharide formation, and artificial sugar have been used for the reduction of oral biofilm. From the viewpoint of the inhibition of bacterial adherence, we investigated whether aqueous biocompatible 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC)-polymer can reduce streptococcal colonization and biofilm formation. We examined the effects of MPC-polymer on streptococcal adherence to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite and oral epithelial cells, and the adherence of Fusobacterium nucleatum to streptococcal biofilm. MPC-polymer application markedly inhibited both the adherence and biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite and streptococcal adherence to oral epithelial cells, and reduced the adherence of F. nucleatum to streptococcal biofilms. A small-scale clinical trial revealed that mouthrinsing with MPC-polymer inhibited the increase of oral bacterial numbers, especially of S. mutans. These findings suggest that MPC-polymer is a potent inhibitor of bacterial adherence and biofilm development, and may be useful to prevent dental-plaque-related diseases. (UMIN Clinical Trial Registry UMIN000003471).

Abbreviations: QOL, quality of life; MPC, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine; BHI, brain-heart infusion broth; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; SEM, scanning electron microscopy; CFU, colony-forming unit.
Uncertainty shift in robust predictive control design for application in CAV air-conditioning systems
Authors: Huang Gongsheng , Chow Tin-Tai
Published: March 2011

Constant-air-volume (CAV) air-conditioning systems consist mainly of two local processes: an air-handling process and a room temperature process. A robust model predictive control (RMPC) strategy was developed for CAV air-conditioning systems, which adopted two uncertain first-order plus time-delay models to describe the dynamics of the local processes and used a linear matrix inequality (LMI)-based optimisation technique to optimise the control law. This paper develops a new control design, which reformulates the prediction models by shifting the uncertainties of the first model into the second one, and then uses the reformulated prediction models in the RMPC strategy. This paper will show that compared with the original design, the new control design can enhance the feasibility of the optimisation of control law, reduce the computational burden of the optimisation and also remove the requirement of a sensor for supply air temperature in the original design.

Practical applications: The new design method is a further development of a RMPC strategy presented in Xu et al.13 It inherits the benefits of the original control design for practical application, i.e. uncertainties and constraints can be dealt with simultaneously in the design and the robustness of the controlled system can be enhanced. The new design improves the optimisation feasibility, reduces the computational complexity and does not need to measure the supply air temperature. When the new design is adopted to replace the traditional PI control, there is no necessity to change the existent input structure of the PI control. Hence, the new design can be realised in practice easier than the original design.
Paranoid Thinking, Quality of Relationships With Parents, and Social Outcomes Among Young Adults
Authors: Riggio Heidi R. , Wing Yee Kwong
Published: March 2011

Research based on clinical samples suggests that poor-quality relationships with parents are associated with paranoid disorders; however, no research has investigated such relations within nonclinical populations. Undergraduate students ( N = 179) completed self-reports of paranoid thinking, quality of relationships with mothers and fathers, loneliness, and social isolation. Paranoid thinking was associated with poor-quality relationships with parents and loneliness, including when both variables were considered simultaneously. Paranoid thinking was also associated with social isolation, but only for participants not currently residing with parents, suggesting that living in the family home may ameliorate links between paranoid thinking and isolation from friends. Family relationships are discussed as potential targets for clinical intervention in emerging adulthood.
Bupropion in the treatment of problematic online game play in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Han Doug Hyun , Renshaw Perry F
Published: March 2011

As one of the problematic behaviors in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), excessive online game play (EOP) has been reported in a number of recent studies. Bupropion has been evaluated as a potential treatment for MDD and substance dependence. We hypothesized that bupropion treatment would reduce the severity of EOP as well as depressive symptoms. Fifty male subjects with comorbid EOP and MDD were randomly assigned to bupropion + education for internet use (EDU) or placebo + EDU groups. The current study consisted in a 12-week, prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial, including an eight-week active treatment phase and a four-week post treatment follow-up period. During the active treatment period, Young Internet Addiction Scale (YIAS) scores and the mean time of online game playing in the bupropion group were greatly reduced compared with those of the placebo group. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores in the bupropion group were also greatly reduced compared with those of the placebo group. During the four-week post-treatment follow-up period, bupropion-associated reductions in online game play persisted, while depressive symptoms recurred. Conclusively, bupropion may improve depressive mood as well as reduce the severity of EOP in patients with comorbid MDD and online game addiction.
CNS effects of CB2 cannabinoid receptors: beyond neuro-immuno-cannabinoid activity
Authors: Onaivi Emmanuel S , Ishiguro Hiroki , Gu Shanzhi , Liu Qing-Rong
Published: March 2011

There are two well characterized cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), CB1-Rs and CB2-Rs, with other candidates, such as GPR55, PPARs and vanilloid TRPV1 (VR1) receptors, which are either activated by cannabinoids and/or endocannabinoids (eCBs). The neuronal and functional expression of CB2-Rs in the brain has been much less well characterized in comparison with the expression of the ubiquitous CB1-Rs. CB2-Rs were previously thought to be predominantly expressed in immune cells in the periphery and were traditionally referred to as peripheral CB2-Rs. We and others have now demonstrated the expression of CB2-Rs in neuronal, glial and endothelial cells in the brain, and this warrants a re-evaluation of the CNS effects of CB2-Rs. In the present review we summarize our current understanding of CNR2 genomic structure, its polymorphic nature, subtype specificity, from mice to human subjects, and its variants that confer vulnerabilities to neuropsychiatric disorders beyond neuro-immuno-cannabinoid activity.
The Influence of Narrative v. Statistical Information on Perceiving Vaccination Risks
Authors: Betsch Cornelia , Ulshöfer Corina , Renkewitz Frank , Betsch Tilmann
Published: March 2011

Background. Health-related information found on the Internet is increasing and impacts patient decision making, e.g. regarding vaccination decisions. In addition to statistical information (e.g. incidence rates of vaccine adverse events), narrative information is also widely available such as postings on online bulletin boards. Previous research has shown that narrative information can impact treatment decisions, even when statistical information is presented concurrently. Objectives. As the determinants of this effect are largely unknown, we will vary features of the narratives to identify mechanisms through which narratives impact risk judgments. Methods. An online bulletin board setting provided participants with statistical information and authentic narratives about the occurrence and nonoccurrence of adverse events. Experiment 1 followed a single factorial design with 1, 2, or 4 narratives out of 10 reporting adverse events. Experiment 2 implemented a 2 (statistical risk 20% vs. 40%) × 2 (2/10 vs. 4/10 narratives reporting adverse events) × 2 (high vs. low richness) × 2 (high vs. low emotionality) between-subjects design. Dependent variables were perceived risk of side-effects and vaccination intentions. Results. Experiment 1 shows an inverse relation between the number of narratives reporting adverse-events and vaccination intentions, which was mediated by the perceived risk of vaccinating. Experiment 2 showed a stronger influence of the number of narratives than of the statistical risk information. High (vs. low) emotional narratives had a greater impact on the perceived risk, while richness had no effect. Implications. The number of narratives influences risk judgments can potentially override statistical information about risk.
Avian Metapneumovirus Subtype B Experimental Infection and Tissue Distribution in Chickens, Sparrows, and Pigeons
Authors: Gharaibeh S. , Shamoun M.
Published: March 2011

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) is a respiratory virus that infects a range of avian hosts, including chickens and turkeys. Migratory and local wild birds are implicated in aMPV spread among farms, countries, and seasonal outbreaks of the disease. A subtype B aMPV isolate from commercial chicken flocks suffering from respiratory disease was experimentally inoculated oculonasally into 7-week old chickens, young pigeons, and sparrows. Chickens showed minimal tracheal rales, whereas pigeons and sparrows were asymptomatic. Shedding of aMPV was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction on homogenates from nasal turbinates. At 5 days postinfection, 5 of 5 chickens, 2 of 5 pigeons, and 1 of 5 sparrows were positive; at 10 or 15 days, none were positive. At 2 and 5 days, aMPV antigens were localized at the ciliated boarder of respiratory epithelium in nasal cavity and trachea of chickens, as well as to the conjunctival epithelium. Pigeons had detectable viral antigens in only the trachea at 2 and 5 days; sparrow tissues did not show any positive staining. At the end of the experiment, at 21 days postinfection, 14 of 15 inoculated chickens seroconverted against aMPV, but none of the inoculated pigeons or sparrows did. The authors believe that pigeons and sparrows have the ability to transmit the virus between chicken farms, although they do not consider pigeons and sparrows as natural hosts for aMPV, given that they failed to seroconvert. In conclusion, pigeons and sparrows are partially susceptible to aMPV infection, probably acting more as mechanical vectors because infection is only temporary and short-lived.
The state of irony in China
Authors: Steinmüller Hans
Published: March 2011

In everyday life, people in China as elsewhere have to confront large-scale incongruities between different representations of history and state. They do so frequently by way of indirection, that is, by taking ironic, cynical or embarrassed positions. Those who understand such indirect expressions based on a shared experiential horizon form what I call a ‘community of complicity’. In examples drawn from everyday politics of memory, the representation of local development programmes and a dystopic novel, I distinguish cynicism and ‘true’ irony as two different ways to form such communities. This distinction proposes a renewed attempt at understanding social inclusion and exclusion. I also suggest that irony, so defined, might be more conducive to an anthropology that is ethnographic and dialogical.
Nitrification of high-strength ammonium landfill leachate with microbial community analysis using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)
Authors: Yusof Norjan , Mohd Ali Hassan  , Phang Lai Yee  , Tabatabaei Meisam , Mohd Ridzuan Othman  , Mori Masatsugu , Wakisaka Minato , Sakai Kenji , Shirai Yoshihito
Published: March 2011

Nitrification of mature sanitary landfill leachate with high-strength of N-NH4 + (1080—2350 mg L-1) was performed in a 10 L continuous nitrification activated sludge reactor. The nitrification system was acclimatized with synthetic leachate during feed batch operation to avoid substrate inhibition before being fed with actual mature leachate. Successful nitrification was achieved with an approximately complete ammonium removal (99%) and 96% of N-NH4 + conversion to N-NO-3 . The maximum volumetric and specific nitrification rates obtained were 2.56 kg N-NH4+ m-3 day-1 and 0.23 g N-NH4 + g-1 volatile suspended solid (VSS) day-1, respectively, at hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 12.7 h and solid retention time of 50 days. Incomplete nitrification was encountered when operating at a higher nitrogen loading rate of 3.14 kg N-NH4+ m-3 day-1. The substrate overloading and nitrifiers competition with heterotrophs were believed to trigger the incomplete nitrification. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) results supported the syntrophic association between the ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria. FISH results also revealed the heterotrophs as the dominant and disintegration of some AOB cell aggregates into single cells which further supported the incomplete nitrification phenomenon.
Trust and the Public Interest in the Micropolitics of Planning Practice
Authors: Tait Malcolm
Published: March 2011

In neoliberal democracies, regulatory planning systems are often characterized by tension between (1) efforts to treat developers as consumers and (2) the regulatory aspect of planning, frequently involving decisions that sacrifice individual interests in favor of a collective but ill-defined “public interest.” This unresolved tension creates a crisis of trust, as the underlying values of the planning system are rarely made explicit. Using an ethnographic methodology to investigate the embedded nature of trust relationships in one planning office, this article suggests that the prerequisite for invigorating trust in planning is a careful and coherent theorization of the relationship of individual to collective interests.
Learning From the Past, Organizing for the Future
Authors: Bowl Marion , Tobias Robert
Published: March 2011

This article analyses key events in the history of adult and community education in Aotearoa New Zealand. It draws on historical sources to examine the role of grassroots community activism and local and national networking in upholding a broad vision of adult and community-based education, in the face of a hostile policy climate. The authors suggest practical and theoretical lessons from their historical analysis: first, the possibilities for adult education that exist beyond the state and its apparatus; second, the need to recognize the power of the state to support or attempt to strangle adult education by controlling or withdrawing funding; third, the need for broadly based alliances across and beyond education. Drawing on critical adult education theory, the authors suggest a range of political and pedagogical actions that adult educators and their allies might take to advance adult education’s contribution to social change and social justice.
Clinical Categorization of Childhood Syncope
Authors: DiMario Francis J. , Wheeler Castillo Cristina S.
Published: March 2011

Syncope is a self-limited loss of consciousness produced by cerebral hypoperfusion/hypoxia. The objective of this study was to categorize the etiology and determine the frequency of concurrent epilepsy and whether laboratory testing is diagnostically useful. This was an institutional review board—approved retrospective chart review. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. There were 141 subjects (90 girls [63.8%]; mean age, 12.01 years). Of the syncope referrals, 86 of 123 (69.9%) had simple syncope, 35 of 123 (28.4%) had syncopal convulsions, and 2 of 123 (1.6%) had epilepsy alone. An electroencephalogram was performed in 64.7% (91/141) of the subjects but was diagnostic in 1 of 91 (1.4%) for epilepsy. Magnetic resonance imaging and/or computed tomography scans, electrocardiograms/Holter monitoring/stress testing, and blood tests were primarily normal or nondiagnostic, with 6 of 238 (2.5%) total tests contributing to the diagnosis. Primary neurocardiogenic syncope was identified in 78% (111/141) of all subjects (82% boys, 75% girls). Thirty-eight percent had syncopal convulsions, and 2.8% (4/141) had concurrent epilepsy. A detailed medical history was the most useful diagnostic tool.
Latina/o Food Industry Employees’ Work Experiences
Authors: Kanagui-Muñoz Marlen , Garriott Patton O. , Flores Lisa Y. , Cho Seonghee , Groves James
Published: March 2011

The present study explored the work experiences, job satisfaction, and work behaviors of Latina/o restaurant workers. A total of 10 semistructured focus group ( N = 75) interviews were conducted in the Midwest and Southwest. Data were analyzed using a combination of Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR; Hill et al., 2005; Hill, Thompson, & Williams, 1997) and phenomenology approaches. Five themes emerged across the data: work-related barriers (i.e., time, language, negative perceptions of training, and managers and coworkers), work facilitators (i.e., formal training and informal training), motivation for performing tasks (i.e., recognition, concern for others, concern for job security, personal values, and tangible rewards), cultural context (i.e., perceptions of Latina/o workers), and training preferences (i.e., practice, audiovisual, comfort/discomfort with computers, and language preferences). Some of these themes have traditionally been considered industrial/organizational concerns, but they are becoming increasingly relevant for career counseling practice. Findings suggest that Latina/o workers face considerable barriers in implementing requisite work behaviors, which may impact the maintenance of employment. Recommendations for career counseling practice and research with Latina/o workers are provided.
Factors That Influence Monitoring and Resource Provision Among Nonprofit Board Members
Authors: Brown William A. , Hillman Amy J. , Okun Morris A.
Published: March 2011

This article explores antecedents of nonprofit directors’ self-reported confidence and participation in two board functions: monitoring (executive performance appraisal, selection, fiscal operations, and implementation of strategy) and the provision of resources (advice and counsel, fundraising, and ties to external constituents). We propose that board member’s experience and background in conjunction with other factors such as commitment to the mission, a sense of community with other board members, and training will influence confidence and participation in board functions. Data were collected via a survey from 591 board members in 64 different nonprofit organizations. Regression analyses showed that gender, experience as a nonprofit board member, service on other nonprofit boards, mission attachment, and training were the most consistent predictors of confidence and participation in board activities. Implications are noted for enhancing the contribution of board members to nonprofit organizations.
Semi-active Control Strategy using Genetic Algorithm for Seismically Excited Structure Combined with MR Damper
Authors: Xue Xiaomin , Sun Qing , Zhang Ling , Wu Xiaohong
Published: March 2011

Magnetorheological (MR) damper is a prominent semi-active control device for earthquake response mitigation of structures. The most important topic for the intelligent MR structures is choosing the control current of MR damper quickly and accurately. The typical control strategy is on-off control strategy, while inherent time-delay and coarse control precision lie in this strategy. This article proposes a semi-active control strategy for restricting the MR structures efficiently, in which the genetic algorithm (GA) is adopted to search for the optimal feedback control gain in time-delayed dynamic equations forming a GA controller, and next optimize the control current of the MR damper accurately by a series of GA procedure. The GA strategy has the capability to effectively control the MR structure involving time delay and adjusting for controlled current of the MR damper timely and accurately. Accordingly, numerical examples are used to testify that the feedback gain optimized by GA has the capability to reduce a given objective response dramatically. In addition, a comparison between GA controller and LQR controller indicates that the proposed approach performs much better than LQR method, especially in time-delay systems. Finally, simulation results for a seismically excited structure subjected by the MR damper are presented to verify that the semi-active strategy using GA is predominant in mitigating the dynamic structure efficiently. The strategy and the results presented will also throw light on the development and control of other novel structures.
Distribution of ankle—brachial index and the risk factors of peripheral artery disease in a multi-ethnic Asian population
Authors: Subramaniam Tavintharan , Nang Ei Ei Khaing , Su Chi Lim  , Yi Wu  , Chin Meng Khoo  , Lee Jeannette , Heng Derrick , Suok Kai Chew  , Wong Tien Y , Shyong Tai E.
Published: March 2011

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We describe the prevalence and risk factors of PAD in a multi-ethnic Asian population (Chinese, Malays and Indians) in Singapore. The Singapore Prospective Study Program recruited 4132 individuals between 2004 and 2006 in which the ankle—brachial index (ABI) was measured using the Smartdop™ 20EX bi-directional blood flow detector. PAD was defined as ≤ 0.9 and a high ABI > 1.4, with ABI 1.11—1.20 as reference. The mean age (SD) of individuals in the study was 49.9 (11.8) years, with 51.8% females. PAD was present in 4.3% of the population and a high ABI (> 1.4) was rare. Malays and Indians had a higher risk (especially in females). Compared to those with an ABI between 1.11 and 1.20, those with PAD were more likely to be of Malay and Indian ethnicity, female sex, with higher systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure, with increased prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, albuminuria and renal impairment, and with a past history of stroke. In conclusion, in this large multi-ethnic Asian population, we document the distribution and risk factor associations for PAD. PAD shows an ethnic distribution similar to that of coronary artery disease in Singapore, with differences in sex distribution. Apart from traditional vascular risk factors, pulse pressure, renal impairment and a past history of stroke are important determinants of PAD.
The development and potential of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging for carotid artery plaque characterization
Authors: Allen Jason D , Ham Katherine L , Dumont Douglas M , Sileshi Bantayehu , Trahey Gregg E , Dahl Jeremy J
Published: March 2011

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and long-term disability in the USA. Currently, surgical intervention decisions in asymptomatic patients are based upon the degree of carotid artery stenosis. While there is a clear benefit of endarterectomy for patients with severe (> 70%) stenosis, in those with high/moderate (50–69%) stenosis the evidence is less clear. Evidence suggests ischemic stroke is associated less with calcified and fibrous plaques than with those containing softer tissue, especially when accompanied by a thin fibrous cap. A reliable mechanism for the identification of individuals with atherosclerotic plaques which confer the highest risk for stroke is fundamental to the selection of patients for vascular interventions. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging is a new ultrasonic-based imaging method that characterizes the mechanical properties of tissue by measuring displacement resulting from the application of acoustic radiation force. These displacements provide information about the local stiffness of tissue and can differentiate between soft and hard areas. Because arterial walls, soft tissue, atheromas, and calcifications have a wide range in their stiffness properties, they represent excellent candidates for ARFI imaging. We present information from early phantom experiments and excised human limb studies to in vivo carotid artery scans and provide evidence for the ability of ARFI to provide high-quality images which highlight mechanical differences in tissue stiffness not readily apparent in matched B-mode images. This allows ARFI to identify soft from hard plaques and differentiate characteristics associated with plaque vulnerability or stability.
The experience of individuals with renal failure participating in home haemodialysis: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Cases Alejandra , Dempster Martin , Davies Mark , Gamble Gary
Published: March 2011

This study explored the experience of individuals with renal failure undertaking home haemodialysis (HHD). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants who were active HHD users in a UK region. Participants’ accounts were transcribed verbatim and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach. Three main themes were identified: (1) embracing treatment and lifestyle freedom and flexibility; (2) re-establishing a sense of self and preferred self-identity; and (3) integrating aspects of active engagement and aspects of supported, life-sustaining dependence. A ‘good fit’ between the HHD user (an independent, self-determined health participant) and the healthcare provision (personalized, enabling) is proposed.
Practitioner perceptions of peer relationships in adolescents with chronic pain
Authors: Fleischman Katie M , Hains Anthony A , Davies W Hobart
Published: March 2011

Nine practitioners who specialize in the treatment of adolescents with chronic pain were interviewed on their perceptions of the adolescents’ peer functioning. A qualitative analysis based on Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) was used. Practitioners generally reported a decline in the adolescents’ peer functioning. However, if adolescents had good peer relationships prior to pain onset, they tended to maintain adequate functioning in the social arena while experiencing chronic pain. Practitioners noted that avoidance of peers was a strategy used by adolescents, due more to the pain than social competence issues. They also suggested that adolescents who felt comfortable disclosing pain status, likely to be consistent with good social skills, benefited from peer support. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Parenting an overweight or obese child: A process of ambivalence
Authors: Haugstvedt Karen Therese Sulheim , Graff-Iversen Sidsel , Bechensteen Brit , Hallberg Ulrika
Published: March 2011

Childhood overweight represents a health problem, and research points towards parents as key players. The aim of this study was to deepen the knowledge of how parents of children who are overweight or obese experience their parenthood. Focus group discussions with 17 parents were analysed according to the qualitative method of modified grounded theory. The results expressed the parents’ ambivalence between preventing the child’s overweight and not negatively affecting the child’s self-esteem. The most important issue seemed to be their concern about the child’s construction of self-understanding and experiences in interaction with the environment. The parents had become uncertain of their responsibility, priorities and how to act. In conclusion, parenting a child with weight issues could be a process of loving the child the way he/she is while still wanting changes for improved health, resulting in ambivalence. In addition to traditional advice about lifestyle, many parents seem to need counselling assistance with respect to their parental role.
How can we identify vulnerable mothers who do not reach the cut off 12 points in EPDS?
Authors: Magnusson Margaretha , Lagerberg Dagmar , Sundelin Claes
Published: March 2011

The aim was to investigate the correspondence between 352 mother’s self-reports about postpartum distress in a questionnaire including an item about distress 18 months after birth and their earlier scores within, on average, 2.5 months of childbirth from a screening with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Mothers who did not reach the EPDS score of 12 points, but reported that they had been sad/depressed after childbirth, were similar in socio-demographic variables to mothers with no outcomes in sadness/depression issues. In items related to negative parenting and perceptions of the child, they presented the same picture as those with high EPDS scores who also reported having been depressed. These results suggest that EPDS does not identify all vulnerable mothers. Complementary methods for detecting mothers at risk of stress and depression need to be developed.
The Systematic Development of ROsafe
Authors: Wolfers Mireille , de Zwart Onno , Kok Gerjo
Published: March 2011

This article describes the development of ROsafe, an intervention to promote sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing at vocational schools in the Netherlands. Using the planning model of intervention mapping (IM), an educational intervention was designed that consisted of two lessons, an Internet site, and sexual health services at the school sites. IM is a stepwise approach for theory- and evidence-based development and implementation of interventions. It includes six steps: needs assessment, specification of the objectives in matrices, selection of theoretical methods and practical strategies, program design, implementation planning, and evaluation. The processes and outcomes that are performed during Steps 1 to 4 of IM are presented, that is, literature review and qualitative and quantitative research in needs assessment, leading to the definition of the desired behavioral outcomes and objectives. The matrix of change objectives for STI-testing behavior is presented, and then the development of theory into program is described, using examples from the program. Finally, the planning for implementation and evaluation is discussed. The educational intervention used methods that were derived from the social cognitive theory, the elaboration likelihood model, the persuasive communication matrix, and theories about risk communication. Strategies included short movies, discussion, knowledge quiz, and an interactive behavioral self-test through the Internet.
A Group-Based Modeling Approach to Examining Sociodemographic Variation in the Association Among Risky Sexual Behavior, Drug Use, and Criminal Involvement in a Sample of Newly Arrested Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Childs Kristina , Dembo Richard , Belenko Steven , Sullivan Christopher , Cochran John
Published: March 2011

This study examined sociodemographic variation in the interrelationships between risky sexual practices, substance use, and arrest history. The sample consisted of 948 newly arrested juvenile offenders processed at a centralized intake facility in 2006. A series of confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling techniques were used to (a) determine if risky sexual behavior, marijuana and cocaine use, and arrest history form a unidimensional latent factor, (b) examine the direct effect of age on the latent factor, and (c) compare the factor structure, as well as the effect of age on the latent factor, across four demographic subgroups based on race and gender. Important similarities, as well as differences, in the factor structure across the four groups were found. The results highlight the importance of accounting for sociodemographic factors when examining the association among adolescent problem behaviors.
Battle Experiments of Naval Air Defense with Discrete Event System-based Mission-level Modeling and Simulations
Authors: Jeong Hoon Kim  , Chang Beom Choi  , Tag Gon Kim
Published: March 2011

The modern naval air defense of a fleet is a critical task dictating the equipment, the operation, and the management of the fleet. Military modelers consider that an improved weapon system in naval air defense (i.e. the AEGIS system) is the most critical enabler of defense at the engagement level. However, at the mission execution level, naval air defense is a cooperative endeavor of humans and weapon systems. The weapon system and the command and control (C2) structure of a fleet engage in the situation through human reporting-in and commands, as well as weapon deployments. Hence, this paper models the combination of the human and the weapon systems in naval air defense by covering the C2 hierarchy of the fleet, as well as the weapon systems of warships. After developing this mission-level model, we perform battle experiments with varying parameters in the human and weapon aspects. These battle experiments inform us of the impact of the changes in the human and the weapon systems. For example, the speed of incoming missiles is a critical parameter for a fleet’s survival; yet the decision-making speed is another outstanding parameter, which illustrates that there is more to improve than the weapon system when considering the mission level. This modeling and these experiments provide an example, suggesting a method of combining the human C2 and the weapon systems at the mission level in the military domain.
Keloid formation after syndactyly release in patients with associated macrodactyly: management with methotrexate therapy
Authors: Tolerton S. K. , Tonkin M. A.
Published: March 2011

We present a series of cases of keloid formation after release of syndactyly in the hands and feet of children with associated digital overgrowth. The use of methotrexate to suppress keloid formation after release of syndactyly and for control of recurrence after surgery for keloid is effective.
Biomechanical evaluation of the Pulvertaft versus the ‘wrap around’ tendon suture technique
Authors: Fuchs S. P. , Walbeehm E. T. , Hovius S. E. R.
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of a novel wrap around tendon repair method with those of the standard Pulvertaft technique used for tendon reconstructions. Seventy-two porcine extensor tendons were used to create 36 reconstructions in six sets of six repairs, each using one of the two surgical techniques with differing lengths of the reconstructions. All the reconstructions were tested in vitro by cyclic tensile loading, resulting in the time-zero strength. When only the size of the repair and the strength were compared, and length of the reconstruction was not taken in consideration, the ‘wrap around’ reconstructions were of similar strength but less bulky than the Pulvertaft repairs. In conclusion, the ‘wrap around’ technique gives a thinner reconstruction which is as strong as, or stronger than the Pulvertaft technique, depending on the amount of weaves.
Effectiveness of health promotion in preventing tobacco use among adolescents in India
Authors: Arora Monika , Stigler Melissa H. , Srinath Reddy K.
Published: March 2011

This case study has two aims. First, it describes intervention strategies from two school-based programs designed to prevent tobacco use among adolescents in India. Second, it explains how evidence from randomized controlled trials of these intervention programs was used by a local non-governmental organization in Delhi to advocate for scaling up the Government of India’s tobacco control efforts to include school health interventions as one of the components of India’s National Tobacco Control Program. This case study illustrates the need for developing countries to conduct rigorous evaluation in order to provide context-relevant evidence prior to scaling up interventions.
Movement as Investment for Health
Authors: Frahsa Annika , Rütten Alfred , Abu-Omar Karim , Wolff Andrea
Published: March 2011

Movement as Investment for Health ( Bewegung als Investition in Gesundheit or BIG) was a multidimensional research study in participatory physical activity promotion among socially disadvantaged women in a deprived neighbourhood in Erlangen, Germany. It aimed at making full use of health-promoting effects of movement and developing integrated evaluation through approaches from different disciplines. We defined the target population through national health survey data, and determined important intervention and evaluation dimensions through meta-analyses. A co-operative planning group of women, researchers, policy-makers, and local experts made decisions on the most appropriate procedures. Integrated evaluation in participatory approaches is promising. It calls for context-specific evaluation, requires adaptation of existing approaches or even development of its own evidence base.
Refuah Shlema: a cross-cultural programme for promoting communication and health among Ethiopian immigrants in the primary health care setting in Israel
Authors: Levin-Zamir Diane , Keret Sandra , Yaakovson Orit , Lev Boaz , Kay Calanit , Verber Giora , Lieberman Niki
Published: March 2011

The Refuah Shlema programme was established to reduce health disparities, promote health literacy and health indicators of the Ethiopian immigrant community in Israel, and included: (i) integrating Ethiopian immigrant liaisons in primary care as inter-cultural mediators; (ii) in-service training of clinical staff to increase cultural awareness and sensitivity; and (iii) health education community activities. Qualitative and quantitative evidence showed improvements in: (i) clinic staff—patient relations; (ii) availability and accessibility of health services, and health system navigation without increasing service expenditure; (iii) perception of general well-being; and (iv) self-care practice with regards to chronic conditions. Evidence significantly contributed to sustaining the programme for over 13 years.
Prévention du VIH chez les groupes marginaux : le cas des homosexuels au Togo
Authors: Koumagnanou Koffi , Kassegne Sethson , Dodzro Kossi Charles
Published: March 2011

Les hommes ayant des rapports sexuels avec des hommes (HSH) sont ignorés dans les programmes de santé en Afrique en général, et au Togo en particulier, car leur existence même est niée. Pour contrer ce déni, une étude exploratoire conduite en 2006 dans quatre villes du Togo et basée sur l’approche ethnographique par les pairs, a touché 122 HSH et a prouvé leur existence. L’étude décrit l’organisation de la communauté des HSH et leurs problèmes par rapport au VIH. Ceci a permis à Population Services International (PSI) d’implanter un programme de dépistage du VIH et de promotion de comportements sexuels sains vis-à-vis du VIH/Sida à leur intention.
Evidencias en salud pública, algo más que datos e información - motor del cambio social
Authors: de Salazar Ligia , Velez Jenny Andrea , Rojas Mónica
Published: March 2011

Evidencias alrededor de la salud y de determinantes sociales en el municipio de Cali, Colombia, fueron utilizadas para construir un modelo de salud que orientara las políticas y programas de salud en el municipio en los próximos 10 años. En este estudio de caso se presenta en forma analítica la experiencia de construcción colectiva del modelo, los factores del contexto que influenciaron su diseño, las prioridades, estrategias y recursos para operarlo, los mecanismos para hacerlo viable y sostenible y los obstáculos encontrados. Las evidencias utilizadas se obtuvieron de fuentes secundarias, y fueron complementadas mediante entrevistas a personas claves, reuniones de consenso con previos secretarios de salud, concejales y líderes comunitarios.
El tratamiento restaurador atraumático (TRA) como parte de un paquete básico de servicios de salud oral en el área rural de Bolivia
Authors: Lopez Javier , Andrade Grover
Published: March 2011

El objetivo fue preservar la salud oral de escolares con alta prevalencia de caries, mediante la aplicación del tratamiento restaurador atraumático (TRA) y la realización de acciones de promoción en el área rural de Bolivia. La intervención, realizada en 2006 y 2007, se basó en resultados de estudios que demuestran la efectividad de la técnica en diferentes contextos y periodos de tiempo. Su aplicación fue masiva en unidades escolares y se acompañó sólidamente con acciones de promoción. Los resultados mostraron una cobertura del 95% del grupo objetivo y un 75,4% de supervivencia de las restauraciones a los 24 meses.
No germs on me: a social marketing campaign to promote hand-washing with soap in remote Australian Aboriginal communities
Authors: McDonald Elizabeth , Slavin Nicola , Bailie Ross , Schobben Xavier
Published: March 2011

A social marketing campaign promoting hand-washing with soap was implemented to reduce the high burden of infection experienced by Australian Aboriginal children living in remote communities. Epidemiological evidence of effect and other evidence were used to identify the hygiene intervention and health promotion approach for the project. We drew on the findings of: (i) a systematic literature review to identify the intervention for which there is strong effect in similar populations and contexts; and (ii) a narrative literature review to determine our health promotion approach. This process provided practitioners with confidence and understanding so they could address a complex problem in a politically and otherwise sensitive context.
Spilt milk: an inter-sectoral partnership that failed to advance milk security for low-income lone mothers in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: McIntyre Lynn , Glanville N. Theresa , Hilchie-Pye Andrea
Published: March 2011

Canadian agricultural policy supports higher milk prices. Consequently, poor families lack sufficient funds to purchase adequate quantities of milk. Low-income lone mothers in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia suggested their preferred strategies for improved access to milk. We then built inter-sectoral support for a policy intervention to address their recommendations. Our research-to-action process led to a policy dialogue focusing on an electronic smart card that would permit the delivery of lower-priced milk to poor households. While all agreed that milk insecurity was an important issue, the project ultimately failed because of the entrenched positions of influential stakeholder groups.
A health promotion initiative in French primary schools based on teacher training and support
Authors: Pommier Jeanine , Guével Marie-Renée , Jourdan Didier
Published: March 2011

This article presents a health promotion initiative in French school settings. This initiative aims to promote children’s social, emotional and physical health. The main strategy is the development of teachers’ health-promoting practices and schools’ health-promoting environment. The initiative was implemented in 115 primary schools in six French regions. Three types of evidence were used to develop the initiative: scientific, professional contextual, and critical evidence. The evidence was translated into the programme through a training and support process. According to their position, the actors used the evidence differently. The importance of the local context and actors’ involvement is further explored.
Workforce development: using role delineation research findings for policy-making and professional practice
Authors: Taub Alyson , Gilmore Gary D. , Olsen Larry K.
Published: March 2011

For the health education profession in the United States, role delineation research has been ongoing to identify valid professional competencies as the basis for workforce development. During 1998—2004, a multi-phase national research study, the National Health Educator Competencies Update Project (CUP), was designed to re-verify the role of the entry-level health educator, and further define and verify the role of advanced level health educators. The CUP findings are the evidence that has influenced the professional preparation, credentialing, and professional development of health educators. The lessons learned include the importance of employing role delineation research with a discipline-specific representative sample to appropriately affect workforce development and sustainability through an empirically-based model.
Evidence-based health promotion: an emerging field
Authors: Juneau Carl-Etienne , Jones Catherine M. , McQueen David V. , Potvin Louise
Published: March 2011

There is much debate around the use of evidence in health promotion practice. This article aims to sharpen our understanding of this matter by reviewing and analyzing the 26 case studies presented in this special issue. These case studies suggest that health promotion practitioners are using a wide range of research evidence in interventions for high-risk individuals, entire populations, and vulnerable groups according to all five strategies for action described in the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion. In nearly every case, practitioners had to mediate and adapt research evidence for their case. Eight key levers helped practitioners embed research evidence into practice: local and cultural relevance of the evidence, community capacity-building, sustained dialogue from the outset with all stakeholders, established academic-supported partnerships, communication that responds to organizational and political readiness, acknowledgement and awareness of gaps between evidence and practice, advocacy, and adequate earmarked resources. These case studies provide some evidence that there is an evidence-based health promotion, that this evidence base is broad, and that practitioners use different strategies to adapt it for their case.
Promotion de la santé basée sur des données probantes : un domaine émergeant
Authors: Juneau Carl-Etienne , Jones Catherine M. , McQueen David V. , Potvin Louise
Published: March 2011

On débat beaucoup de l’utilisation des données probantes dans la pratique de la promotion de la santé. Cet article vise à affiner la compréhension que nous avons de cette question en examinant et en analysant les 26 études de cas présentées dans ce numéro spécial. Ces études de cas laissent supposer que les praticiens en promotion de la santé utilisent un large éventail de données issues de la recherche dans les interventions destinées à des personnes à risque, à des populations dans leur ensemble et à des groupes vulnérables, en conformité avec les cinq stratégies d’action décrites dans la Charte d’Ottawa pour la Promotion de la Santé. Dans presque tous les cas, les praticiens ont dû faire des compromis et adapter les données scientifiques à leur cas. Huit leviers clés ont aidé les praticiens à intégrer les données issues de la recherche dans la pratique : la pertinence locale et culturelle des données, le développement des capacités au niveau communautaire, un dialogue continu avec l’ensemble des parties prenantes dès le début, des partenariats bien établis et soutenus par le milieu universitaire, une communication qui réponde à l’opportunité politique et organisationnelle, la reconnaissance et la prise de conscience des fossés qui existent entre les données probantes et la pratique, le plaidoyer et enfin, des ressources appropriées et spécifiquement réservées. Ces études de cas apportent la preuve qu’il existe bel et bien une promotion de la santé fondée sur des preuves, que ces preuves sont larges et que les praticiens utilisent différentes stratégies pour les adapter à leur cas.