bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peasant behaviour forms and survival techniques in villages of the Homokhátság region in the years of compulsory produce delivery, 1945–1956
Authors: Nagy Netta
Published: July 2013

Already in the last years of the Second World War the peasantry of the Homokhátság region between the Danube and Tisza Rivers on the Great Plain had to activate some of their survival techniques. Some of these were rooted in past peasant skills (e.g. methods of hiding belongings and produce), while others were various adaptation techniques developed in response to the war conditions (e.g. black marketeering, barter trade). This defensive reaction of peasant society was evoked by the introduction of restrictive economic measures by the state (compulsory delivery of produce, system of public supply), then by the fighting and the advancing armies, and inflation.After 1948 there was a radical change in relations between the authorities and the villages. The communist party-state launched an attack on multiple fronts against village society and traditional peasant farming. The method of income withdrawal through compulsory delivery of produce was a minor irritation compared to the attacks on private property. Nevertheless, the compulsory deliveries were one of the factors that gave new strength to the defensive reflex of the peasantry. Between 1948 and 1956 the peasant population of the villages studied responded to actions by the state against the villages with varied and new adaptation techniques. All strata and members of the local peasant society had to resort to these methods.The attempt made by the party-state to divide rural society failed in practice to achieve the goal expressed in propagandistic terms: to turn the kulaks (more prosperous peasants) and the “working peasantry” against each other. Despite all the efforts by the authorities the patron-client relations linking the different strata of peasant society did not disappear, in fact, they were strengthened and served as a frame for the survival techniques.
“From being a CO-OP town, we have become a town of unemployed”
Authors: Szendrei Eszter
Published: July 2013

The economic and social changes following 1990 have in all respects had an unfavourable influence on the life of the small Hungarian town of Túrkeve (Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok County on the Hungarian Great Plain). From the 1970s the town’s inhabitants had enjoyed a secure livelihood and relative prosperity. The collapse of the socialist economy resulted in mass unemployment. The privatisation and the transformation of the structure of ownership were experienced in a positive way by only a few, the majority of the town’s inhabitants have been living in existential crisis for two decades now. A high percentage, close to 50% of those of active age, live on social benefits. The fewer than half a dozen medium-sized enterprises that strengthened after the turn of the millennium, and agriculture — which is characterised by a strong concentration of land-holding — are able to employ only a small proportion of the population. The majority of the town’s inhabitants are characterised by “invisible impoverishment” and struggle against loss of status. The lack of prospects leads to the out-migration of young people with qualifications. It is projected that fifteen to twenty years from now the town’s population will be made up of the inactive with low qualifications and the elderly. The economy, society, demography and health care all show an unfavourable picture. Anomie has become a permanent state. Comparative analysis of the economic and social indicators shows that Túrkeve can be described as an “average” settlement in Hungary today.
Intestinal parasites of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in Slovenia
Authors: Vergles Rataj Aleksandra , Posedi Janez , Žele Diana , Vengušt Gorazd
Published: July 2013

In the present study, 428 foxes were collected and examined for intestinal helminths using the washing-out method. Parasites were found in 93.2% of the examined animals. The most frequently identified nematodes were Uncinaria stenocephala (58.9%), Toxocara canis (38.3%) and Molineus patens (30.6%). Other nematodes found were Pterygodermatites affinis (4.2%), Capillaria sp. (2.8%), Crenosoma vulpis (2.8%), Toxascaris leonina (2.5%), Trichuris vulpis (0.7%) and Physaloptera sp. (0.2%). Mesocestoides sp. (27.6%) and Taenia crassiceps (22.2%) were the most prevalent cestodes, followed by T. polyacantha (6.5%), Hymenolepis nana (2.1%), T. pisiformis (2.1%) and Dipylidium caninum (1.4%). The study also revealed four trematode species: Rossicotrema donicum (1.6%), Heterophyes heterophyes (1.1%), Metagonimus yokogawai (1.1%), Prohemistomum appendiculatum (0.4%) and two protozoan species: oocysts of Sarcocystis (2.8%) and Isospora (0.4%). This is the first extensive study on the intestinal parasites of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in Slovenia. The 2.6% prevalence of Echinococcus multilocularis in the same sample population as investigated herein has been reported previously (Vergles Rataj et al., 2010).
Taphonomic implications of barnacle encrusted sea lion bones from the middle Pleistocene Port Orford Formation, coastal Oregon
Authors: Boessenecker Robert W.
Published: July 2013

Fossil evidence of barnacle encrustation of vertebrate bones is reported from the middle Pleistocene Port Orford Formation of southern coastal Oregon. This material includes two associated thoracic vertebrae and a femur referable to the extinct sea lionProterozetes ulyssesthat are encrusted by 1400+ individual barnacles (cf.Hesperibalanus hesperius), and a scapula ofZalophus californianuswith barnacle attachment scars. In areas, the encrusting barnacles exhibit a roughly bimodal size range, and small barnacles are observed directly encrusting other larger individuals. The size, probable age, and lifespan of extantHesperibalanus hesperiusindicates a minimum period of four to seven months of seafloor exposure between decomposition and burial, although this estimate must be longer because at least two colonization events are represented. Barnacle attachment traces are identified asAnellusichnus circularis. The wide distribution of barnacles on some of these bones suggests these were regularly overturned by bottom currents, which would prevent barnacles from being smothered by prolonged contact with the sediment. Detailed study of barnacle-induced trace fossils on these specimens suggests that episkeletozoans and their traces can be useful sources of data regarding the biostratinomic history of vertebrate fossils.
Structural monitoring and 8-year load test on Europe's first fibre-reinforced polymer highway bridge
Authors: Canning Lee , Luke Sam , Brown Peter
Published: July 2013

In October 2002 the first all-fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite bridge on the public highway network in Europe, West Mill Bridge, UK, was installed. The design and construction of this bridge was the culmination of a 4-year EU research project called Asset, to develop a heavy-duty FRP bridge decking system for use in repairing, upgrading and new civil infrastructure. As part of this project, a monitoring system was installed on the bridge during fabrication. In addition to an initial controlled load test on installation of the bridge, further controlled load tests using a 30 t lorry have been undertaken after 3 years and 8 years. The results from these load tests confirmed the medium-term structural behaviour to be essentially unchanged from the original structural behaviour. In particular, a high level of composite action between the glass fibre reinforced polymer deck, FRP main beams, and concrete parapet beams was still present after 8 years of service.
Non-isothermal unified hardening model: a thermo-elasto-plastic model for clays
Authors: YAO Y.P. , ZHOU A.N.
Published: July 2013

A constitutive, non-isothermal unified hardening (UH) model is presented to interpret the thermo-elasto-plastic behaviours of normally consolidated and overconsolidated clays. Two yield surfaces are adopted in the proposed model: the current yield surface and the reference yield surface. A UH parameter (H) is developed to describe the evolution of the current yield surface, and the plastic volumetric strain is employed to quantify the hardening of the reference yield surface. The similarity ratio (RT) between the current yield surface and the reference yield surface, which is a function of the temperature and the plastic volumetric strain, is developed to govern the volume change behaviour and the shear strength of soils with different stress histories and at varying temperatures. The performance of the proposed model is then discussed in five typical scenarios: isotropic heating and cooling, drained/undrained triaxial compression with constant temperatures, and heating under constant non-isotropic states (drained/undrained). The mechanisms for thermal contraction/swelling and thermal failure are interpreted within the framework of the proposed non-isothermal UH model. Finally, the proposed model is validated through test results in the literature: heating/cooling tests, temperature-controlled drained triaxial compressions, and temperature-controlled undrained triaxial compressions.
Methods for the control of volume stability of sulfur-rich CFBC ash cementitious systems
Authors: Wang Bo , Song Yuanming
Published: July 2013

The destructive expansion of circulating fluidised bed combustion (CFBC) ash is the bottleneck problem for its utilisation in building materials. The effect of mixing pulverised-coal combustion (PCC) fly ash or clinker as well as autoclave curing on the expansion of a sulfur-rich CFBC ash cementitious system was investigated. It was found that the linear expansion ratio of CFBC ash–PCC fly ash–clinker mortar with no more than 3·5% SO3 is close to that of cement mortar. Moreover, the linear expansion ratio of CFBC ash–clinker–water paste dropped to less than 0·5 mm/m after autoclave curing. This study suggests that the volume stability of a CFBC ash cementitious system can be controlled effectively through autoclave curing or limiting the content of total SO3 to below 3·5%.
Briefing: The effects of power washing on concrete durability
Authors: Hughes Peter
Published: July 2013

The cleaning of concrete is often undertaken on health and safety grounds, especially in a marine environment when controlling algal biofouling on stepped sea defences. Despite the fact that more local authorities are doing this, there is no published research or guidance on possible durability issues when exposing a marine concrete to regular power washing regimes. Surface analysis of concrete revetment armour at a UK study site was undertaken in order to investigate the effects of power washing over 3 years on durability. Revetment armour units were monitored from casting to placing on site and surface roughness was found to have doubled. Surface hardness and uniformity have also been measured indicating degradation. When casting revetment units upside down, vibration may encourage the larger aggregate to migrate downwards towards the exposed surface once inverted at the site. Large aggregate particles at the surface leave no surface zone, giving no erosion protection. It is at the top surface where the strongest, most impermeable and most wear-resistant concrete is needed. Continual water jet cleaning practices lead to a higher surface roughness, thereby increasing the surface area offering a bioreceptive surface for further, quicker and denser colonisation; these phenomena provoke and encourage each other.
Carbon nanotube films bonding enhanced with magnetic field
Authors: Chang Di , Chen Xiao-Jia , Lv Qiang , Yin Gan-Zhi
Published: July 2013

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube films are good thermal interface materials because of their high thermal conductance and mechanical compliance. In this study, the authors bond carbon nanotube films and metallized silicon chips together using thermocompression method in a magnetic field to decrease the thermal contact resistance between them. Nickel is considered as the deposition metal because of its strong cohesion and good affinity on the carbon nanotube surface and it is ferromagnetic in nature. Bonding is demonstrated in vacuum chamber under the influence of temperature (300°C) and pressure (180 KPa). The resistance of the carbon nanotube film is measured with a thermal transient tester that can provide the structure function of the sample, so that people can know detailed thermal resistance. In general, the thermal contact resistance of the sample enhanced with magnetic field that the author measured is 34·24 mm2K/W that is 10% lower than the sample without enhancement. This study reveals that magnetic field can enhance the bonding strength to decrease the thermal contact resistance.
Randomized, Community-Based Pharmacy Intervention to Expand Services Beyond Sale of Sterile Syringes to Injection Drug Users in Pharmacies in New York City
Authors: Crawford Natalie D. , Amesty Silvia , Rivera Alexis V. , Harripersaud Katherine , Turner Alezandria , Fuller Crystal M.
Published: July 2013

Structural interventions may help reduce racial/ethnic disparities in HIV. In 2009 to 2011, we randomized pharmacies participating in a nonprescription syringe access program in minority communities to intervention (pharmacy enrolled and delivered HIV risk reduction information to injection drug users [IDUs]), primary control (pharmacy only enrolled IDUs), and secondary control (pharmacy did not engage IDUs). Intervention pharmacy staff reported more support for syringe sales than did control staff. An expanded pharmacy role in HIV risk reduction may be helpful.
Psychological First Aid: A Consensus-Derived, Empirically Supported, Competency-Based Training Model
Authors: McCabe O. Lee , Everly George S. , Brown Lisa M. , Wendelboe Aaron M. , Abd Hamid Nor Hashidah , Tallchief Vicki L. , Links Jonathan M.
Published: July 2013

Surges in demand for professional mental health services occasioned by disasters represent a major public health challenge. To build response capacity, numerous psychological first aid (PFA) training models for professional and lay audiences have been developed that, although often concurring on broad intervention aims, have not systematically addressed pedagogical elements necessary for optimal learning or teaching. We describe a competency-based model of PFA training developed under the auspices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Association of Schools of Public Health. We explain the approach used for developing and refining the competency set and summarize the observable knowledge, skills, and attitudes underlying the 6 core competency domains. We discuss the strategies for model dissemination, validation, and adoption in professional and lay communities.
Electronic Health Records and US Public Health: Current Realities and Future Promise
Authors: Friedman Daniel J. , Parrish R. Gibson , Ross David A.
Published: July 2013

Electronic health records (EHRs) could contribute to improving population health in the United States. Realizing this potential will require understanding what EHRs can realistically offer to efforts to improve population health, the requirements for obtaining useful information from EHRs, and a plan for addressing these requirements. Potential contributions of EHRs to improving population health include better understanding of the level and distribution of disease, function, and well-being within populations. Requirements are improved population coverage of EHRs, standardized EHR content and reporting methods, and adequate legal authority for using EHRs, particularly for population health. A collaborative national effort to address the most pressing prerequisites for and barriers to the use of EHRs for improving population health is needed to realize the EHR’s potential.
Missed Opportunities for Improving Nutrition Through Institutional Food: The Case for Food Worker Training
Authors: Tsui Emma K. , Deutsch Jonathan , Patinella Stefania , Freudenberg Nicholas
Published: July 2013

The institutional food sector—including food served in schools, child care settings, hospitals, and senior centers—is a largely untapped resource for public health that may help to arrest increasing rates of obesity and diet-related health problems. To make this case, we estimated the reach of a diverse institutional food sector in 1 large municipality, New York City, in 2012, and explored the potential for improving institutional food by building the skills and nutritional knowledge of foodservice workers through training. Drawing on the research literature and preliminary data collected in New York City, we discuss the dynamics of nutritional decision-making in these settings. Finally, we identify opportunities and challenges associated with training the institutional food workforce to enhance nutrition and health.
Unraveling the Myths Associated With Selecting Standalone Screens and a New Methodology for Sand-Control Applications
Authors: Chanpura Rajesh A. , Mondal Somnath , Sharma Mukul M. , Andrews Jamie S. , Mathisen Anne Mette , Martin Frederic , Marpaung Fivman , Ayoub Joseph A. , Parlar Mehmet
Published: July 2013

Many completion engineers use laboratory sand-retention testing as a tool to select a screen for standalone sand-control applications, some focusing on prepack and others on slurry testing. Those who use slurry tests for screen selection typically do so on the basis of the conventional wisdom that slurry testing is more challenging; thus, it represents the worst-case scenario for sand production. Furthermore, the general belief in the industry has been that metal-mesh screens with a "pore structure" are better for sand retention compared with wire-wrap screens (WWSs) of slot geometry, although they are more prone to "plugging." These are just a few of the many myths that exist in screen selection for standalone screen (SAS) applications.

Recent papers on the modeling of sand retention by screens of various geometries, and supported by laboratory experiments, provided the tools for predicting sand production in both prepack and slurry conditions, as well as allowing for a systematic performance comparison of various screens by use of the entire particle-size distribution (PSD) of formation sands (Mondal et al. 2011 and 2012; Chanpura et al. 2012, 2013).

In this paper, we discuss and challenge many myths in the screen selection for SAS applications and substantiate our findings with modeling and experimental data. The conditions under which a slurry or a prepack test would be more conservative are identified, highlighting the mechanisms of sand retention (size exclusion or bridging dominated). We demonstrate that the current thinking that prepack tests are always more conservative from a sand-production standpoint is incorrect. We also show that the concept that metal-mesh screens are always superior for sand retention than WWSs is incorrect, highlighting the factors that affect sand production through various screens [e.g., open flow area (OFA), wire thickness, and fraction of bridging-sized particles in the formation sand]. Finally, a methodology for screen selection in SAS applications is proposed.
Stripe Rust Resistance in Aegilops tauschii Germplasm
Authors: Liu Miao , Zhang Chaozhong , Yuan Cuiling , Zhang Lianquan , Huang Lin , Wu Jiajie , Wang Jirui , Zheng Youliang , Zhang Huaigang , Liu Dengcai , Fu Daolin
Published: July 2013

Aegilops tauschii Coss., the D‐genome progenitor of hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), is an important source of useful genes for wheat improvement. We characterized a germplasm collection of 118 Ae. tauschii accessions for response to stripe rust, a devastating disease caused by the fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst). We evaluated tillering stage and adult‐plant resistance to stripe rust using prevalent Pst races from the United States and China. Resistant accessions predominated in Ae. tauschii subsp. strangulata and Ae. tauschii subsp. tauschii from the Caspian Sea region. We further analyzed the inheritance of stripe rust resistance by inoculating F2 plants of 60 crosses with a mixture of Chinese Pst races. Crosses between resistant and susceptible lines indicated both dominant and recessive inheritance. Tests of allelism among 14 highly resistant accessions indicated the common presence of YrAS2388, previously mapped on chromosome arm 4DS, in all accessions. In conclusion, the study presented valuable data on stripe rust resistance in Ae. tauschii, which assist with informed introgression of the D‐genome trait for stripe rust resistance in common wheat.
Biophysical Effects and Ground Force of the Baldree Traffic Simulator
Authors: Kowalewski A.R. , Schwartz B.M. , Grimshaw A.L. , Sullivan D.G. , Peake J.B. , Green T.O. , Rogers J.N. , Kaiser L.J. , Clayton H.M.
Published: July 2013

Traffic simulators are often utilized when researching turfgrass wear tolerance and recovery. However, the availability of a durable traffic simulator capable of producing dynamic force is limited. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to: (i) evaluate a novel traffic simulator with improved durability and capable of producing dynamic force and (ii) evaluate the biophysical effects of the traffic simulator on a native soil turfgrass system. The Baldree traffic simulator is a modified Ryan GA 30 (Jacobsen, A Textron Company, Charlotte, NC) riding aerification unit, equipped with fabricated, spring loaded steel plate feet studded with screw in cleats. The effects of this unit on a ‘Tifway’ bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy] system established on a Tifton loamy sand (fine‐loamy, kaolinitic, thermic Plinthic Kandiudults) were evaluated at the Coastal Plains Experiment Station, Tifton, GA. Factors included location (1 and 2) and traffic rate (0, 12, and 24 passes applied over a 6 wk period). Field data included soil bulk density, turf density, and percent green turf cover. An in‐ground force plate at the McPhail Equine Performance Center, East Lansing, MI was used to quantify vertical and net shear ground reaction force produced by the Baldree traffic simulator when operated in the forward and backward direction. The Baldree traffic simulator produced more cleat marks per pass than the Brinkman and Cady traffic simulators. At the low traffic rate the Baldree traffic simulator increased soil bulk density, while turf density and percent green turf cover decreased; therefore, the tool can be used to simulate heavy traffic conditions with a minimum number of passes.
Putrescine Mediates Aluminum Tolerance in Red Kidney Bean by Modulating Aluminum‐Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Wang Huahua , Liang Weihong , Huang Junjun
Published: July 2013

Polyamines are important molecules modulating numerous environment stresses in plants. In the present study, the role of putrescine (Put) in the Al tolerance of red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) was investigated. In roots of red kidney bean, Al stress led to a marked increase of both free Put content and Put‐biosynthetic enzymes activities, and arginine decarboxylase pathway played a predominant role in Al‐induced increase in Put accumulation. Treatment of seedlings with Put reduced Al‐induced lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, thus alleviating Al‐induced inhibition of root elongation and Al accumulation in root apices. On the other hand, treatment with Put biosynthesis inhibitors reduced Al‐induced Put accumulation and enhanced Al toxicity of red kidney bean. Furthermore, Put treatment inhibited Al‐induced NADPH oxidase activity in roots, while Put biosynthesis inhibitors enhanced NADPH oxidase activity under Al stress. In addition, application of NADPH oxidase inhibitor reduced Al‐induced ROS generation, suggesting that ROS generation under Al stress is mediated, at least in part, by NADPH oxidase. Taken together, these results indicate that Put plays an important role in Al tolerance of red kidney bean by inhibiting NADPH oxidase activity, thus reducing Al‐induced oxidative stress.
Add Control: plant virtualization for control solutions in WWTP
Authors: Maiza M. , Bengoechea A. , Grau P. , De Keyser W. , Nopens I. , Brockmann D. , Steyer J. P. , Claeys F. , Urchegui G. , Fernández O. , Ayesa E.
Published: July 2013

This paper summarizes part of the research work carried out in the Add Control project, which proposes an extension of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) models and modelling architectures used in traditional WWTP simulation tools, addressing, in addition to the classical mass transformations (transport, physico-chemical phenomena, biological reactions), all the instrumentation, actuation and automation & control components (sensors, actuators, controllers), considering their real behaviour (signal delays, noise, failures and power consumption of actuators). Its ultimate objective is to allow a rapid transition from the simulation of the control strategy to its implementation at full-scale plants. Thus, this paper presents the application of the Add Control simulation platform for the design and implementation of new control strategies at the WWTP of Mekolalde.
Synthesis of tetrakis (hydroxymethyl) phosphonium chloride by high-concentration phosphine in industrial off-gas
Authors: Huang Xiaofeng , Wei Yanfu , Zhou Tao , Qin Yangsong , Gao Kunyang , Ding Xinyue
Published: July 2013

With increasing consumption of phosphate rock and acceleration of global phosphate production, the shortage of phosphate resources is increasing with the development and utilization of phosphate. China's Ministry of Land and Resources has classified phosphate as a mineral that cannot meet China's growing demand for phosphate rock in 2010. The phosphorus chemical industry is one of the important economic pillars for Yunnan province. Yellow phosphorus production in enterprises has led to a significant increase in the amount of phosphorus sludge. This paper focuses on phosphine generation in the process of phosphoric sludge utilization, where the flame retardant tetrakis (hydroxymethyl) phosphonium chloride (THPC) is synthesized by high concentrations of phosphine. The optimum conditions are determined at a space velocity of 150 h−1, a reaction temperature of 60 °C, 0.75 g of catalyst, and a ratio of raw materials of 4:1. Because of the catalytic oxidation of copper chloride (CuCl2), the synthesis of THPC was accelerated significantly. In conclusion, THPC can be efficiently synthesized under optimal conditions and with CuCl2 as a catalyst.
Modeling the groundwater recharge in karst aquifers by using a reservoir model
Authors: Ke Tingting , Shu Longcang , Chen Xunhong
Published: July 2013

The estimation of the groundwater recharge in a karstic system becomes an important challenge due to the great hydrodynamic variability in both time and space. This paper proposes a two reservoir conceptual model to simulate inflow into both the conduit system and the fissure network system based on the analysis of the spring hydrograph. The structure of the model and the governing equations are proposed on the basis of the physical considerations, with the assumption that flow at the outlet of the reservoirs obeys a linear threshold function. The model is applied on the Houzhai karstic underground river basin where it successfully reflects the temporal recharge distribution. The simulated accumulation recharge is 34.29 mm, which is reasonable in relation to the actual rainfall of 92.8 mm. The variations of water volume in two reservoirs represent the storage and transform characteristics of the karst aquifer system. However, this model is particularly well suited to simulate the recharge event after intensive rainfall.
Social Change and Increasing of Bipolar Disorders: An Evolutionary Model
Authors: Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: July 2013

Introduction:

The objective of this paper is to see if behaviours defined as pathological and maladjusted in certain contexts may produce adaptive effects in other contexts, especially if they occur in attenuated form. Interactions between environment and behaviour are studied from an evolutionary standpoint in an attempt to understand how new attitudes emerge in an evolving context.

Methodology:

Narrative review. Following an historical examination of how the description of depression in Western society has changed, we examine a series of studies performed in areas where great changes have taken place as well as research on emigration from Sardinia in the 1960s and 70s and immigration to Sardinia in the 1990s.

Results and conclusions:

If we postulate that mood disorders are on the increase and that the epidemic began in the 17th century with the "English malady", we must suppose that at least the "light" forms have an adaptive advantage, otherwise the expansion of the disorder would have been self-limiting. "Compulsive hyper-responsabilization”, as well as explorative behaviours, may represent a base for adaptation in certain conditions of social change. The social emphasis in individualism and responsibility may have changed not only the frequency, but also the phenomenology of mood disorders particularly the increases in bipolar disorders. From the sociobiological standpoint the conditions that may favour "subthreshold" bipolar or depressive features are to be considered in relation to the contextual role of gender and the different risks of the two disorders in males and females.
Needs in Health Care: What Beast is That?
Authors: Harrison James D. , Young Jane M. , Butow Phyllis N. , Solomon Michael J.
Published: July 2013

Need is a pivotal concept within health systems internationally given its driving force in health care policy, development, and delivery at population and individual levels. Needs assessments are critical activities undertaken to ensure that health services continue to be needed and to identify new target populations that demonstrate unmet need. The concept of need is underpinned by varied theoretical definitions originating from various disciplines. However, when needs are assessed, or health interventions developed based on need, little, if any, detail of the theoretical or conceptual basis of what is being measured is ever articulated. This is potentially problematic and may lead to measurement being invalid and planned health services being ineffective in meeting needs. Seldom are theoretical definitions of need ever compared and contrasted. This critical review is intended to fill this gap in the literature. Interpretations of the concept of need drawing from areas such as psychology, social policy, and health are introduced. The concept and relevance of unmet need for health services are discussed. It is intended that these definitions can be used to operationalize the term “need” in practice, theoretically drive needs assessment, and help guide health care decisions that are based upon need.
Non-Linear Adaptive Phenomena which Decrease the Risk of Infection after Pre-Exposure to Radiofrequency Radiation
Authors: Mortazavi S.M.J. , Motamedifar M. , Namdari G. , Taheri M. , Mortazavi A.R. , Shokrpour N.
Published: July 2013

Substantial evidence indicates that adaptive response induced by low doses of ionizing radiation can result in resistance to the damage caused by a subsequently high-dose radiation or cause cross-resistance to other non-radiation stressors. Adaptive response contradicts the linear-non-threshold (LNT) dose-response model for ionizing radiation. We have previously reported that exposure of laboratory animals to radiofrequency radiation can induce a survival adaptive response. Furthermore, we have indicated that pre-exposure of mice to radiofrequency radiation emitted by a GSM mobile phone increased their resistance to a subsequent Escherichia coli infection. In this study, the survival rates in animals receiving both adapting (radiofrequency) and challenge dose (bacteria) and the animals receiving only the challenge dose (bacteria) were 56% and 20%, respectively. In this light, our findings contribute to the assumption that radiofrequency-induced adaptive response can be used as an efficient method for decreasing the risk of infection in immunosuppressed irradiated individuals. The implication of this phenomenon in human's long term stay in the space is also discussed.
The effect of metabolic and hormonal parameters on microalbuminuria in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jesic Maja , Jesic Milos , Sajic Silvija , Bogicevic Dragana , Buljugic Svetlana , Maglajlic Svjetlana
Published: July 2013

Introduction. The prevalence of microalbuminuria (MA), the most important
early marker of incipient nephropathy in patients with type 1 diabetes
mellitus (T1DM), increases during puberty, the period of exaggerated
physiological insulin resistance. Objective. To assess the prevalence of MA
and the relationship between MA and metabolic risk factors and pubertal
hormones in adolescents with T1DM. Methods. In a cross-section study
involving a group of 100 adolescents of both sexes of mean age 14.90?2.18
years and with mean duration of T1DM 5.99?3.64 years, we assessed the
presence of MA. In all patients, we determined albumin-to-creatinine ratio
(ACR) in two or three morning first-void urine samples in the period up to 6
months. Persistent MA was confirmed in the patients with the finding of ACR
rating 2.5-25 mg/mmol in males and 3.5-25 mg/mmol in females in two out of
three first morning urine samples. Results. MA developed in 16 (16.0%)
patients. Predictors of MA determined by using multiple logistic regression
were high HbA1c (OR 4.6; 95% CI 2.1-10.0), higher night-time SBP (OR 1.9; 95%
CI 0.8-1.3) and higher insulin dose (OR 62.6; 95% CI 2.3-1678.5). Markers of
insulin resistance such as higher body mass index (BMI) which was
statistically significantly related to MA (?= 0.241, p<0.05) and higher
dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) which was significantly higher in
patients with MA (7.82 ?mol/L vs. 5.02 ?mol/L, p<0.01), were also identified
as predictors but did not remain significant by multivariate analysis,
possibly because of a small sample of subjects with persistent MA.
Conclusion. In addition to poor glycemic control and higher night-time
systolic blood pressure, markers of insulin resistance (higher insulin dose,
higher BMI and higher DHEA-S) contribute to the increased risk of MA.
Simvastatin-induced nocturnal leg pain disappears with pravastatin substitution
Authors: Stojakovic Natasa , Igic Rajko
Published: July 2013

Introduction. Statins have similar side effects that do not always occur at
the same rate among the various statins. We present a case of
simvastatin-induced muscle toxicity that disappeared when pravastatin was
substituted for the original drug. Case Outline. A 74-year-old male, a
nonsmoker, complained of severe nocturnal leg cramps. The patient also
complained that similar painful cramping occurred when he walked rapidly or
jogged. Because some components of his lipid panel exceeded the ?desirable?
range, and as he had a history of myocardial infarction, his family physician
prescribed simvastatin (40 mg/day). The patient had taken this medication for
the past eight years. The painful nocturnal episodes started two years ago
and affected either one or the other leg. Four months ago we discontinued his
simvastatin and prescribed pravastatin (80 mg/day). At a follow-up visit six
weeks later, the patient reported that his leg pains at night and the pain
experienced after brisk walking had disappeared. Four months after the
substitution of pravastatin for simvastatin, the patient reported that his
complete lack of symptoms had continued. Conclusion. These painful muscle
cramps were probably caused by an inadequate vascular supply to the calf and
foot muscles. Perhaps a combination of advanced age and atherosclerotic
changes created a predisposition for the simvastatin-induced leg cramps.
Pravastatin differs from simvastatin in several ways. It is not metabolized
by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 oxidases, and thus is not influenced by CYP 3A4
inhibitors like simvastatin. Also, simvastatin is associated with
single-nucleotide polymorphisms located within the SLCO1B1 gene on the
chromosome 12 and established myopathy, while pravastatin lacks this
association. These differences may contribute to increased tolerance to
pravastatin in this particular case.
On Information Systems Complexity and Vulnerability
Authors: Cong Yu , Romero Jorge
Published: July 2013

This study examines the relationship between information systems complexity and information systems vulnerability from the perspective of the enhanced internal controls after Sarbanes-Oxley. It is conjectured that the increased statutory and regulatory requirements on more stringent internal controls increase information systems complexity and, therefore, increase information systems vulnerability. This study hypothesizes that the increased information systems complexity also increases information systems vulnerability even though the overall internal control is improved. The results of the empirical tests support the hypotheses.
Three-dimensional evaluation of upper airway following rapid maxillary expansion: A CBCT study
Authors: El Hakan , Palomo Juan Martin
Published: July 2013

Objectives:

To evaluate, by using cone beam computed tomography, the skeletal, dental, oropharyngeal (OP) airway volume, and nasal passage (NP) volume changes that occur after rapid maxillary expansion (RME).

Materials and Methods:

Two groups were selected, each with 35 patients (15 males, 20 females), an RME group (mean age, 14.02 ± 1.46 years) and a control group (mean age, 14.10 ± 1.44 years). The RME group consisted of patients with maxillary constriction who were treated with Hyrax palatal expanders, and the control group comprised age- and sex-matched patients who underwent comprehensive orthodontic treatment without the use of a rapid maxillary expander.

Results:

All of the transverse skeletal (medial orbital width, lateral nasal width, maxillary width, and mandibular width) and interdental (intermolar, interpremolar, and intercanine) parameters were significantly enlarged in the RME group. A statistically significant increase in airway variables was seen in both groups between pretreatment (T0) and final records (T1). The mean increase of NP airway volume for the RME group (1719.9 ± 1510.7 mm3) was twofold compared with the control group (813.6 ± 1006.7 mm3), and no intergroup significant difference was found for the OP volume.

Conclusions:

Rapid maxillary expansion creates a significant increase in nasal passage airway volume but no significant change in the oropharyngeal airway volume.
Acceleration of the Loss of the First-Phase Insulin Response During the Progression to Type 1 Diabetes in Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 Participants
Authors: Sosenko Jay M. , Skyler Jay S. , Beam Craig A. , Krischer Jeffrey P. , Greenbaum Carla J. , Mahon Jeffrey , Rafkin Lisa E. , Matheson Della , Herold Kevan C. , Palmer Jerry P. ,   and the Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet and Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 Study Groups
Published: July 2013

We studied the change in the first-phase insulin response (FPIR) during the progression to type 1 diabetes (T1D). Seventy-four oral insulin trial progressors to T1D from the Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 with at least one FPIR measurement after baseline and before diagnosis were studied. The FPIR was examined longitudinally in 26 progressors who had FPIR measurements during each of the 3 years before diagnosis. The association between the change from the baseline FPIR to the last FPIR and time to diagnosis was studied in the remainder (n = 48). The 74 progressors had lower baseline FPIR values than nonprogressors (n = 270), with adjustments made for age and BMI. In the longitudinal analysis of the 26 progressors, there was a greater decline in the FPIR from 1.5 to 0.5 years before diagnosis than from 2.5 to 1.5 years before diagnosis. This accelerated decline was also evident in a regression analysis of the 48 remaining progressors in whom the rate of decline became more marked with the approaching diagnosis. The patterns of decline were similar between the longitudinal and regression analyses. There is an acceleration of decline in the FPIR during the progression to T1D, which becomes especially marked between 1.5 and 0.5 years before diagnosis.
Plasma Copeptin and Renal Outcomes in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Albuminuria
Authors: Velho Gilberto , Bouby Nadine , Hadjadj Samy , Matallah Nadia , Mohammedi Kamel , Fumeron Frédéric , Potier Louis , Bellili-Munoz Naïma , Taveau Christopher , Alhenc-Gelas François , Bankir Lise , Marre Michel , Roussel Ronan
Published: July 2013

OBJECTIVE

Plasma copeptin, a surrogate for vasopressin, was associated with albuminuria in population-based studies. These associations are consistent with the effect of vasopressin on albuminuria observed in humans and rodents. The objective of this study was to determine whether plasma copeptin is an independent marker of risk of renal events in people with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 3,101 participants of the DIABHYCAR trial (6-year follow-up) with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria. A renal event was defined as doubling of serum creatinine or development of end-stage renal disease.

RESULTS

During follow-up, 86 renal events occurred in 76 subjects (2.45%). Incidences by tertiles of baseline plasma copeptin were 1.06% (T1), 1.45% (T2), and 4.84% (T3). They were 2.43% (T1), 5.11% (T2), and 11.81% (T3) for the subset of subjects with macroalbuminuria at baseline (n = 729). Hazard ratio for plasma copeptin tertiles as a risk for renal events was 4.79 (95% CI, 2.48–9.24; P < 0.0001; for T3 vs. T1). In a stepwise regression analysis, urinary albumin excretion and plasma copeptin remained positively associated and HDL cholesterol and estimated glomerular filtration rate were inversely associated with the incidence of renal events. These independent predictors explained ∼18% of the variance of the outcome. The yearly variations of estimated glomerular filtration rate by copeptin tertiles were −1.43 ± 0.51 (T1), −2.29 ± 0.49 (T2), and −3.52 ± 0.44 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year (T3) (P = 0.005) in subjects with macroalbuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma copeptin may help to identify subjects with diabetic chronic kidney disease who are at high risk for renal function decline.
Microleakage of Nanofilled Resin-modified Glass-ionomer/Silorane- or Methacrylate-based Composite Sandwich Class II Restoration: Effect of Simultaneous Bonding
Authors: Shafiei F , Akbarian S
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Microleakage of composite restorations at the cervical margin placed apically to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is still a concern. This study evaluated the effect of simultaneous bonding application on cervical sealing of nano-ionomer/silorane- or methacrylate-based composite open sandwich Class II restorations in the modified technique compared with that of conventional bonding.

Methods and Materials

In 60 sound maxillary premolars, two standardized Class II cavities were prepared with cervical margins 1 mm below the CEJ. The teeth were randomly divided into six groups of 10 teeth each. In the first three groups (groups 1-3), Clearfil SE Bond and Clearfil APX (Kuraray) were used for restoration in the total bonding technique (group 1), conventional open sandwich technique associated with a nano-ionomer (Ketac N100, 3M ESPE) (group 2), and modified open sandwich technique with simultaneous bonding application for both nano-ionomer and composite (group 3). In the second three groups (groups 4-6), Silorane Adhesive and Filtek Silorane composite (3M ESPE) were used in the same manner as in the first three groups, respectively.

Results

The simultaneous bonding application in the modified sandwich restorations (with SE Bond or Silorane Adhesive) resulted in a significant reduction of the cervical microleakage compared with that of the conventional bonding (p<0.05). However, microleakage of the modified technique was similar to that of the total bonding (with SE Bond or Silorane Adhesive) (p>0.05), both showing good marginal seal.
Validation of a low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test in healthy neonatal foals
Authors: Stewart Allison J. , Wright James C. , Behrend Ellen N. , Martin Linda G. , Kemppainen Robert J. , Busch Katherine A.
Published: July 2013

Objective—To determine the lowest ACTH dose that would induce a significant increase in serum cortisol concentration and identify the time to peak cortisol concentration in healthy neonatal foals.

Design—Prospective randomized crossover study.

Animals—11 healthy neonatal foals.

Procedures—Saline (0.9% NaCl) solution or 1 of 4 doses (0.02, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 μg/kg [0.009, 0.045, 0.114, and 0.227 μg/lb]) of cosyntropin (synthetic ACTH) was administered IV. Serum cortisol concentrations were measured before and 10, 20, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes after administration of cosyntropin or saline solution; CBCs were performed before and 30, 60, 120, and 240 minutes after administration.

Results—Serum cortisol concentration was significantly increased, compared with baseline, by 10 minutes after cosyntropin administration at doses of 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 μg/kg. Serum cortisol concentration peaked 20 minutes after administration of cosyntropin at doses of 0.02, 0.1, and 0.25 μg/kg, with peak concentrations 1.7, 2.0, and 1.9 times the baseline concentration, respectively. Serum cortisol concentration peaked 30 minutes after cosyntropin administration at a dose of 0.5 μg/kg, with peak concentration 2.2 times the baseline concentration. No significant differences were detected among peak serum cortisol concentrations obtained with cosyntropin administration at doses of 0.25 and 0.5 μg/kg. Cosyntropin administration significantly affected the lymphocyte count and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that in healthy neonatal foals, the lowest dose of cosyntropin to result in significant adrenal gland stimulation was 0.25 μg/kg, with peak cortisol concentration 20 minutes after cosyntropin administration.
Thin sequences in the corona of H ∞
Authors: Stankov Dimcho , Tzonev Tzonio
Published: July 2013

In this paper we consider several conditions for sequences of points in M(H ∞) and establish relations between them. We show that every interpolating sequence for QA of nontrivial points in the corona $$M(H^\infty )\backslash \mathbb{D}$$ of H ∞ is a thin sequence for H ∞, which satisfies an additional topological condition. The discrete sequences in the Shilov boundary of H ∞ necessarily satisfy the same condition.
Tricyclic graphs with exactly two main eigenvalues
Authors: Fan Xiaoxia , Luo Yanfeng , Gao Xing
Published: July 2013

An eigenvalue of a graph G is called a main eigenvalue if it has an eigenvector the sum of whose entries is not equal to zero. Let G 0 be the graph obtained from G by deleting all pendant vertices and δ(G) the minimum degree of vertices of G. In this paper, all connected tricyclic graphs G with δ(G 0) ≥ 2 and exactly two main eigenvalues are determined.
On the minimal length of the longest trail in a fixed edge-density graph
Authors: Szécsi Vajk
Published: July 2013

A nearly sharp lower bound on the length of the longest trail in a graph on n vertices and average degree k is given provided the graph is dense enough (k ≥ 12.5).
Groups where each element is conjugate to its certain power
Authors: Hegedűs Pál
Published: July 2013

This paper deals with a rationality condition for groups. Let n be a fixed positive integer. Suppose every element g of the finite solvable group is conjugate to its nth power g n. Let p be a prime divisor of the order of the group. We conclude that the multiplicative order of n modulo p is small, or p is small.