bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and quantification of transitional modes of behaviour in sediments of Venice lagoon
Authors: PONZONI E. , NOCILLA A. , COOP M.R. , COLLESELLI F.
Published: October 2014

An analysis was made of an extensive series of oedometer and triaxial tests on intact samples of silts and silty clays from the lagoon of Venice, as well as a more limited series of carefully controlled oedometer tests on reconstituted specimens. The soils appear to have transitional modes of behaviour with compression curves that converge only slowly in the v–log [Formula: see text] plane and critical state lines defined for triaxial compression that are non-unique in the v–ln p′ plane. Two means of quantifying the degree of transitional behaviour are introduced, one factor, m, being based on the oedometer data and the second, P, on the critical state data. The values of m were in general lower than those of P, because of the higher stress level considered. The values of m were also found to depend on unloading, which must be accounted for when comparing data from intact and reconstituted specimens.
Efficacy of a Process Improvement Intervention on Delivery of HIV Services to Offenders: A Multisite Trial
Authors: Pearson Frank S. , Shafer Michael S. , Dembo Richard , del Mar Vega-Debién Graciela , Pankow Jennifer , Duvall Jamieson L. , Belenko Steven , Frisman Linda K. , Visher Christy A. , Pich Michele , Patterson Yvonne
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We tested a modified Network for the Improvement of Addiction Treatment (NIATx) process improvement model to implement improved HIV services (prevention, testing, and linkage to treatment) for offenders under correctional supervision.

Methods. As part of the Criminal Justice Drug Abuse Treatment Studies, Phase 2, the HIV Services and Treatment Implementation in Corrections study conducted 14 cluster-randomized trials in 2011 to 2013 at 9 US sites, where one correctional facility received training in HIV services and coaching in a modified NIATx model and the other received only HIV training. The outcome measure was the odds of successful delivery of an HIV service.

Results. The results were significant at the .05 level, and the point estimate for the odds ratio was 2.14. Although overall the results were heterogeneous, the experiments that focused on implementing HIV prevention interventions had a 95% confidence interval that exceeded the no-difference point.

Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that a modified NIATx process improvement model can effectively implement improved rates of delivery of some types of HIV services in correctional environments.
The 2013 US Government Shutdown (#Shutdown) and Health: An Emerging Role for Social Media
Authors: Merchant Raina M. , Ha Yoonhee P. , Wong Charlene A. , Schwartz H. Andrew , Sap Maarten , Ungar Lyle H. , Asch David A.
Published: October 2014

In October 2013, multiple United States (US) federal health departments and agencies posted on Twitter, “We’re sorry, but we will not be tweeting or responding to @replies during the shutdown. We’ll be back as soon as possible!” These “last tweets” and the millions of responses they generated revealed social media’s role as a forum for sharing and discussing information rapidly.

Social media are now among the few dominant communication channels used today. We used social media to characterize the public discourse and sentiment about the shutdown.

The 2013 shutdown represented an opportunity to explore the role social media might play in events that could affect health.
Social Network Effects of Nonlifesaving Early-Stage Breast Cancer Detection on Mammography Rates
Authors: Nowak Sarah A. , Parker Andrew M.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We estimated the effect of anecdotes of early-stage, screen-detected cancer for which screening was not lifesaving on the demand for mammography.

Methods. We constructed an agent-based model of mammography decisions, in which 10 000 agents that represent women aged 40 to 100 years were linked together on a social network, which was parameterized with a survey of 716 women conducted through the RAND American Life Panel. Our model represents a population in equilibrium, with demographics reflecting the current US population based on the most recent available census data.

Results. The aggregate effect of women learning about 1 category of cancers—those that would be detected but would not be lethal in the absence of screening—was a 13.8 percentage point increase in annual screening rates.

Conclusions. Anecdotes of detection of early-stage cancers relayed through social networks may substantially increase demand for a screening test even when the detection through screening was nonlifesaving.
Socioeconomic Status, Race, and Mortality: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Signorello Lisa B. , Cohen Sarah S. , Williams David R. , Munro Heather M. , Hargreaves Margaret K. , Blot William J.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We evaluated the independent and joint effects of race, individual socioeconomic status (SES), and neighborhood SES on mortality risk.

Methods. We conducted a prospective analysis involving 52 965 non-Hispanic Black and 23 592 non-Hispanic White adults taking part in the Southern Community Cohort Study. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to determine associations of race and SES with all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Results. In our cohort, wherein Blacks and Whites had similar individual SES, Blacks were less likely than Whites to die during the follow-up period (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.73, 0.84). Low household income was a strong predictor of all-cause mortality among both Blacks and Whites (HR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.45, 2.12). Being in the lowest (vs highest) category with respect to both individual and neighborhood SES was associated with a nearly 3-fold increase in all-cause mortality risk (HR = 2.76; 95% CI = 1.99, 3.84). There was no significant mortality-related interaction between individual SES and neighborhood SES among either Blacks or Whites.

Conclusions. SES is a strong predictor of premature mortality, and the independent associations of individual SES and neighborhood SES with mortality risk are similar for Blacks and Whites.
Impact of Physical Activity on Psychological Distress: A Prospective Analysis of an Australian National Sample
Authors: Perales Francisco , Pozo-Cruz Jesus del , Pozo-Cruz Borja del
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We analyzed the individual-level associations between participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and psychological distress levels using a large, nationally representative, longitudinal sample and multivariable panel regression models.

Methods. We used 3 waves of panel data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey, consisting of 34 000 observations from 17 000 individuals and covering 2007, 2009, and 2011. We used fixed-effects panel regression models accounting for observable and unobservable confounders to examine the relationships between the weekly frequency of MVPA and summary measures of psychological distress based on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale.

Results. We found substantial and highly statistically significant associations between the frequency of MVPA and different indicators of psychological distress. Frequent participation in MVPA reduces psychological distress and decreases the likelihood of falling into a high-risk category.

Conclusions. Our findings underscore the importance of placing physical activity at the core of health promotion initiatives aimed at preventing and remedying psychological discomfort.
Time Trends in Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Asthma Prevalence in the United States From the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Study (1999–2011)
Authors: Bhan Nandita , Kawachi Ichiro , Glymour Maria M. , Subramanian S. V.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We examined whether racial/ethnic disparities in the United States increased over time.

Methods. We analyzed data from 3 868 956 adults across the United States from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System from 1999 to 2011. We used random intercepts models (individuals nested in states) to examine racial/ethnic disparities and time trends in asthma lifetime and its current prevalence, adjusted for covariates. We also investigated the heterogeneity in asthma prevalence by ethnicity of the major zone of residence.

Results. Lifetime and current asthma prevalence were higher among non-Hispanic Black populations, with time trends highlighting increasing differences over time (b = 0.0078; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.0043, 0.0106). Lower odds ratios (ORs) of asthma were noted for Hispanic populations (OR = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.73, 0.76). Hispanics in states with more Puerto Rican residents reported greater risks of asthma (OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.24, 1.93) compared with Hispanics in states with larger numbers of Mexican or other ethnicities.

Conclusions. Disparities in asthma prevalence by racial/ethnic groups increased in the last decade, with non-Hispanic Blacks and Puerto Rican Hispanics at greater risk. Interventions targeting asthma treatments need to recognize racial, ethnic, and geographic disparities.
eSalud: Designing and Implementing Culturally Competent eHealth Research With Latino Patient Populations
Authors: Victorson David , Banas Jennifer , Smith Jeremiah , Languido Lauren , Shen Elaine , Gutierrez Sandra , Cordero Evelyn , Flores Lucia
Published: October 2014

eHealth is characterized by technology-enabled processes, systems, and applications that expedite accurate, real-time health information, feedback, and skill development to advance patient-centered care. When designed and applied in a culturally competent manner, eHealth tools can be particularly beneficial for traditionally marginalized ethnic minority groups, such as Latinos, a group that has been identified as being at the forefront of emerging technology use in the United States.

In this analytic overview, we describe current eHealth research that has been conducted with Latino patient populations. In addition, we highlight cultural and linguistic factors that should be considered during the design and implementation of eHealth interventions with this population.

With increasing disparities in preventive care information, behaviors, and services, as well as health care access in general, culturally competent eHealth tools hold great promise to help narrow this gap and empower communities.
Hidden in Plain Sight: A Crowdsourced Public Art Contest to Make Automated External Defibrillators More Visible
Authors: Merchant Raina M. , Griffis Heather M. , Ha Yoonhee P. , Kilaru Austin S. , Sellers Allison M. , Hershey John C. , Hill Shawndra S. , Kramer-Golinkoff Emily , Nadkarni Lindsay , Debski Margaret M. , Padrez Kevin A. , Becker Lance B. , Asch David A.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We sought to explore the feasibility of using a crowdsourcing study to promote awareness about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and their locations.

Methods. The Defibrillator Design Challenge was an online initiative that asked the public to create educational designs that would enhance AED visibility, which took place over 8 weeks, from February 6, 2014, to April 6, 2014. Participants were encouraged to vote for AED designs and share designs on social media for points. Using a mixed-methods study design, we measured participant demographics and motivations, design characteristics, dissemination, and Web site engagement.

Results. Over 8 weeks, there were 13 992 unique Web site visitors; 119 submitted designs and 2140 voted. The designs were shared 48 254 times on Facebook and Twitter. Most designers–voters reported that they participated to contribute to an important cause (44%) rather than to win money (0.8%). Design themes included: empowerment, location awareness, objects (e.g., wings, lightning, batteries, lifebuoys), and others.

Conclusions. The Defibrillator Design Challenge engaged a broad audience to generate AED designs and foster awareness. This project provides a framework for using design and contest architecture to promote health messages.
The Texas Children’s Hospital Immunization Forecaster: Conceptualization to Implementation
Authors: Cunningham Rachel M. , Sahni Leila C. , Kerr G Brady , King Laura L. , Bunker Nathan A. , Boom Julie A.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. Immunization forecasting systems evaluate patient vaccination histories and recommend the dates and vaccines that should be administered. We described the conceptualization, development, implementation, and distribution of a novel immunization forecaster, the Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) Forecaster.

Methods. In 2007, TCH convened an internal expert team that included a pediatrician, immunization nurse, software engineer, and immunization subject matter experts to develop the TCH Forecaster. Our team developed the design of the model, wrote the software, populated the Excel tables, integrated the software, and tested the Forecaster. We created a table of rules that contained each vaccine’s recommendations, minimum ages and intervals, and contraindications, which served as the basis for the TCH Forecaster.

Results. We created 15 vaccine tables that incorporated 79 unique dose states and 84 vaccine types to operationalize the entire United States recommended immunization schedule. The TCH Forecaster was implemented throughout the TCH system, the Indian Health Service, and the Virginia Department of Health. The TCH Forecast Tester is currently being used nationally.

Conclusions. Immunization forecasting systems might positively affect adherence to vaccine recommendations. Efforts to support health care provider utilization of immunization forecasting systems and to evaluate their impact on patient care are needed.
Feasibility of a Web-Based Training System for Peer Community Health Advisors in Cancer Early Detection Among African Americans
Authors: Santos Sherie Lou Z. , Tagai Erin K. , Wang Min Qi , Scheirer Mary Ann , Slade Jimmie L. , Holt Cheryl L.
Published: October 2014

We describe the feasibility of a Web-based portal for training peer community health advisors (CHAs). We conducted a community-based implementation trial in African American churches between 2012 and 2014. The Web-based portal allows CHAs to log in and view 13 training videos, preparing them to deliver 3 cancer early detection workshops in their churches. Of 8 churches, 6 completed the training, each certifying 2 CHAs. These CHAs took an average of 26 days to complete the training, requiring little technical assistance. Additional technical assistance was required to implement the workshops. The Web-based system appears to be a feasible method for training lay individuals for the CHA role and has implications for increasing the reach of evidence-based interventions.
Confronting Death From Drug Self-Intoxication (DDSI): Prevention Through a Better Definition
Authors: Rockett Ian R. H. , Smith Gordon S. , Caine Eric D. , Kapusta Nestor D. , Hanzlick Randy L. , Larkin G. Luke , Naylor Charles P. E. , Nolte Kurt B. , Miller Ted R. , Putnam Sandra L. , De Leo Diego , Kleinig John , Stack Steven , Todd Knox H. , Fraser David W.
Published: October 2014

Suicide and other self-directed violence deaths are likely grossly underestimated, reflecting inappropriate classification of many drug intoxication deaths as accidents or unintentional and heterogeneous ascertainment and coding practices across states.

As the tide of prescription and illicit drug-poisoning deaths is rising, public health and research needs would be better satisfied by considering most of these deaths a result of self-intoxication. Epidemiologists and prevention scientists could design better intervention strategies by focusing on premorbid behavior.

We propose incorporating deaths from drug self-intoxication and investigations of all poisoning deaths into the National Violent Death Reporting System, which contains misclassified homicides and undetermined intent deaths, to facilitate efforts to comprehend and reverse the surging rate of drug intoxication fatalities.
Science and Public Health Principles Used to Reduce Road Deaths
Authors: Robertson Leon S.
Published: October 2014

An editorial in a previous issue of this journal falsely claims that the US government’s efforts to reduce road fatalities are not based on science. It says that, as a result, the United States has fallen behind other countries in road death prevention.

A large body of research and evaluation informed federal and state safety programs from the outset.

Evans’s comparisons of death trends among countries without adjustment for changes in relevant risk factors or specification of the injury reduction policies among the countries tell us nothing about the causes of the declines or the effects of specific ameliorative efforts.
Introduction to the special issue on visual illusions
Authors: Todorovic Dejan
Published: October 2014

Sensory illusions have aroused surprise and interest since antiquity, because
they demonstrate that our sensory systems may not always provide reliable
information about the world. In this special issue on illusions several teams
of authors have contributed their most recent research on visual illusions.
The Mona Lisa effect: Testing the limits of perceptual robustness vis-à-vis slanted images
Authors: Hecht Heiko , Boyarskaya Evgenia , Kitaoka Akiyoshi
Published: October 2014

We report three experiments that test the limits of the Mona Lisa effect. The
gaze of a portrait that is looking at us appears to follow us around as we
move with respect to the picture. Even if our position is shifted
considerably to the side, or if the picture is severely slanted, do we feel
the gaze to be directed at us? We determined the threshold where this effect
breaks down to be maximally 70? of picture slant relative to the observer.
Different factors modulate this remarkable robustness, among them being the
display medium and the nature of the picture. The threshold was considerably
lower when the picture was mounted on a physical surface as opposed to a
computer simulation of slant. Also, the more the portrayed object deviated
from the photograph of a human head, the less robust the Mona Lisa effect
became. Implications for theories of perspective distortion are discussed.
The Accounting Faculty Shortage: Causes and Contemporary Solutions
Authors: Boyle Douglas M. , Carpenter Brian W. , Hermanson Dana R.
Published: October 2014

SYNOPSIS

The shortage of doctorally qualified accounting faculty has been a concern for the accounting profession for many years (Plumlee, Kachelmeier, Madeo, Pratt, and Krull 2006; Advisory Committee on the Auditing Profession [ACAP] 2008; Pathways Commission 2012; Plumlee and Reckers 2014). One potential strategy for mitigating the shortage is the expansion of more flexible doctoral programs that would allow interested practitioners the opportunity to pursue doctorates without completely exiting the labor market (Trapnell, Mero, Williams, and Krull 2009; Pathways Commission 2012; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International [AACSB] 2013). The success of this solution will depend largely on the acceptance of the resulting candidates by the parties that would hire them. This study examines factors associated with the accounting faculty shortage in general, and more specifically with the perceived value of attracting practitioners into more flexible doctoral programs as a means of potentially reducing the shortage. Based on a survey of over 800 accounting faculty and administrators, the results suggest that the expected future shortage of doctorates will be more pronounced in smaller, public, and non-doctoral institutions. Overall, faculty and administrators value attracting practitioners into academia, but only moderately support the creation of more flexible doctoral programs for such individuals. The perceived value of attracting practitioners into academia and support for the creation of more flexible doctoral programs are stronger in smaller, non-doctoral institutions. Overall, the results suggest that non-traditional doctoral programs may initially provide graduates primarily for smaller, non-doctoral institutions, where the future shortage of doctorates is expected to be most acute.
Impact of Sociodemographic and Diabetes-Related Factors on the Presence and Severity of Depression in Immigrant Chinese Australian People With Diabetes
Authors: Meng Zhaolin , Molyneaux Lynda , McGill Margaret , Shen Xingping , Yue Dennis K.
Published: October 2014

IN BRIEF

The coexistence of depression with diabetes significantly increases the likelihood of developing complications. This study aimed to describe the presence and severity of depression in immigrant Chinese Australian people with diabetes and explore its relationship to sociodemographic and diabetes-related factors. This study found that approximately one-fifth of immigrant Chinese Australian people with diabetes had symptoms consistent with moderate to severe depression and that individuals who are socially isolated and have more complex treatment and complications of diabetes are particularly at risk.
Disparities in Postpartum Follow-Up in Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Mathieu Irène P. , Song Yanna , Jagasia Shubhada M.
Published: October 2014

IN BRIEF

Postpartum follow-up for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is essential to manage future disease risk. In a diverse, urban population of GDM patients at a major medical center, high fasting glucose, high BMI at diagnosis, and low education level were associated with not following up in the endocrinology clinic after delivery; patients least likely to follow up are, therefore, also at greatest risk of GDM complications. Although race/ethnicity was not a significant predictor of follow-up, Hispanic/Latina and African-American patients were more likely to have risk factors for postpartum clinical attrition.
The Influence of Pet Fibres Surface Enzymatic Modification on the Selected Properties
Authors: Kardas Iwona , Lipp.-Symonowicz Barbara , Sztajnowski Sławomir , Wojciechowska Dorota
Published: October 2014

The effect of changes in the surface structure of glossy polyester filaments from poly(ethylene terephthalate) in terms of its micro-topography, molecular and supermolecular structure of the fibre surface layers on selected fibre surface and volumetric properties has been assessed. The performed tests and measurements have shown that the change in the general surface characteristics of PET fibres (micro-topography and hydrophilicity) results in very beneficial changes in both their volumetric (dyeability) and surface properties (wettability, pilling, oil-soil removal and electric properties).
The Soundscape Approach for the Assessment and Conservation of Mediterranean Landscapes: Principles and Case Studies
Authors: Farina Almo , Buscaino Giuseppa , Ceraulo Maria , Pieretti Nadia
Published: October 2014

The fine-grained mosaic of natural and human-modified patches that characterizes the Mediterranean region has created a multifaceted system that is difficult to investigate using traditional ecological techniques. In this context, sounds have been found to be the optimum model to provide indirect and timely information about the state of ecosystems. The sonic nature of the environment (the soundscape) represents an important component of the landscape, and the new discipline of soundscape ecology has recently been shown to have appropriate tools for investigating the complexity of the environment. In the last decade, technological advances in the acoustic field have led researchers to carry out wide-scale and long-term ecological research using new and efficient tools, such as digital low cost sound recorders, and autonomous software and metrics. Particularly in the Mediterranean region, where land transformation occurs at a very rapid rate, soundscape analysis may represent an efficient tool with which to:1) track transformations in the community balance, 2) indicate the most acoustically complex parts (bioacoustic hotspots) of the land mosaic, 3) prevent environmental degradation, and 4) decide whether protection or restoration actions are most appropriate.

Conserving the quality of Mediterranean sounds means preserving the natural dynamics of its animal populations and also involves maintaining the cultural heritage, human identity, and the spiritual values of the area.
Preparation and electromagnetic properties of zinc ferrite/expanded graphite composites
Authors: Shen Guozhu , Yu Songtao , Cao Yuan
Published: October 2014

An effective process for the synthesis of nano spinel zinc ferrite/expanded graphite composites was developed in order to get an electromagnetic interference shielding material. Firstly, expandable graphite was prepared using sulfuric and nitric acid solutions. Then, the precursor of the composites was produced by chemical co-precipitation method, followed by heating treatment. The obtained composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric and magnetic properties were determined using vector network analyzer and vibrating sample magnetometry. The results showed that ferrite nanoparticles with the sizes of about 50–150 nm were uniformly dispersed on the surface and interspace of EG. The magnetic properties of the composites changed by adjusting the ferrite/EG ratio and the composites had high dielectric constant in the range of 2–18 GHz. These properties of the prepared composites suggest that they can be used as a promising electromagnetic interference shielding material.
Synthesis of porous ZnO nanostructures using bamboo fibers as templates
Authors: Lian Xiaoxue , Li Yan , An Dongmin , Zou Yunling , Wang Qiong , Zhang Nan
Published: October 2014

In this study, we fabricated ZnO nanostructures using bamboo fibers as templates. The starting material used was zinc acetate, and the nanostructures were synthesized by soaking and calcining the bamboo fibers. The fabricated nanostructures were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry. The results showed that the size of the ZnO nanoparticles was approximately 20–100 nm. When the ZnO nanoparticles were used as the catalyst in the photodegradation of methyl orange, the dye degraded by 95.98 % in 80 min. The response and recovery times of a gas sensor based on the ZnO nanoparticles were 25 and 24 s, respectively, during the detection of C2H5OH in a concentration of 10 ppm at 270 °C.
Missing the (Student Achievement) Forest for All the (Political) Trees
Authors: Cabrera Nolan L. , Milem Jeffrey F. , Jaquette Ozan , Marx Ronald W.
Published: October 2014

The Arizona legislature passed HB 2281, which eliminated Tucson Unified School District’s (TUSD’s) Mexican American Studies (MAS) program, arguing the curriculum was too political. This program has been at the center of contentious debates, but a central question has not been thoroughly examined: Do the classes raise student achievement? The current analyses use administrative data from TUSD (2008–2011), running logistic regression models to assess the relationship between taking MAS classes and passing AIMS (Arizona state standardized tests) and high school graduation. Results indicate that MAS participation was significantly related to an increased likelihood of both outcomes occurring. The authors discuss these results in terms of educational policy and critical pedagogy as well as the role academics can play in policy formation.
Examining the Impact of Policy and Practice Interventions on High School Dropout and School Completion Rates
Authors: Freeman Jennifer , Simonsen Brandi
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this literature review is to systematically examine policy and practice intervention research and assess the impact of those interventions on high school dropout and school completion rates. This systematic review extends the literature by (a) describing both policy and practice interventions, (b) synthesizing findings from experimental or quasi-experimental research, and (c) examining the common elements of effective interventions. Specifically, this review addresses two main questions. First, what are the characteristics of the empirical literature examining high school dropout or school completion interventions? Second, what are the common elements of effective policy or practice interventions for reducing high school dropout rates or increasing school completion rates? Findings indicate that despite research highlighting the need to address multiple risk factors and the need for early intervention, the bulk of current empirical research is focused on single-component, individual, or small group interventions delivered at the high school level. Further research is needed to provide guidance to schools regarding the integration of dropout efforts with other school initiatives. Multitiered frameworks of support are suggested as a structure for accomplishing this effectively and efficiently.
Audiological and clinical management of children with oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum
Authors: Brotto Davide , Ghiselli Sara , Castiglione Alessandro , Manara Renzo , Martini Alessandro
Published: October 2014

Oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum is a rare, heterogeneous congenital condition, of unknown aetiology, mainly involving the ear (microtia) and jaw (hemifacial microsomia). In addition to those structures originating from the first and second pharyngeal arches, multiple systems can be affected.

ENT specialists and audiologists may focus their attention on the microtia and its effect on the hearing capacity of the child, but it may be only a sign of a more complex spectrum of abnormalities. A complete study of auditory function is crucial, but not exclusively. Proper management would consider the neuroradiological study not only of the whole hearing organ, but also of the cranial nerves, soft tissues and craniofacial structures. A geneticist should investigate the family history in order to identify a specific pattern of inheritance. A maxillofacial surgeon and orthodontic assessment may be appropriate when patients present with hemifacial microsomia; an ophthalmological evaluation should be considered when ocular impairment is evident or suspected.

A total body examination is crucial to disclose abnormalities involving other organs or systems. If further malformations are suspected, then additional radiological investigation and a specialist examination may be warranted.
Regulation of TGF-β Superfamily Signaling by SMAD Mono-Ubiquitination
Authors: Xie Feng , Zhang Zhengkui , Van Dam Hans , Zhang Long , Zhou Fangfang
Published: October 2014

TGF-β(transforming growth factor-β) superfamily signaling mediators are important regulators of diverse physiological and pathological events. TGF-β signals are transduced by transmembrane type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors and their downstream effectors, the SMAD(drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic protein) proteins. Numerous studies have already demonstrated crucial regulatory roles for modification of TGF-β pathway components by poly-ubiquitination. Recently, several studies also uncovered mono-ubiquitination of SMADs as a mechanism for SMAD activation or inactivation. Mono-ubiquitination and subsequent deubiquitination of SMAD proteins accordingly play important roles in the control of TGF-β superfamily signaling. This review highlights the major pathways regulated by SMAD mono-ubiquitination.
Prevention is Better than Cure: A Hands-On, Play-Based, Innovative, Health and Well-Being Program in Remote Australia
Authors: Mathiasen Lis
Published: October 2014

A key to improving the quality of life in remote communities is the empowerment of children who are at health and educational risk. Between 2002 and 2009, at a remote Aboriginal school, students and community members participated in an innovative, play-based health and well-being program aimed at helping children to become self-determining and responsible for their own health and well-being. Holistic in its approach, and broad in its scope, the multi-faceted program encompassed the fundamentals of personal hygiene; understanding of body systems; the importance of nutrition, hydration, sleep and exercise; brain care; the biology of emotions, with particular emphasis on anger management and the critical interplay between emotions and behavior; the impact of substances of abuse on the brain; as well as the Hospital Familiarization Program (HFP) which prepares children for planned and unplanned hospitalization. Program outcomes included improved school attendance and student engagement; increased community awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle; improved self-concept, self-esteem and self-confidence; as well as increased respect and caring for self and others. A reduction in children’s fear and anxiety when facing hospitalization and visits to the doctor was also evident. Each year, 12,500 children throughout Western Australia enjoy the benefits of the HFP.
Electromagnetic Analysis and Design of Switched Reluctance Double-Rotor Machine for Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Han Shouliang , Cui Shumei , Song Liwei , Chan Ching
Published: October 2014

The double-rotor machine is a kind of multiple input and output electromechanical energy transducer with two electrical ports and two mechanical ports, which is an ideal transmission system for hybrid electric vehicles and has a series of advantages such as integration of power and energy, high efficiency and compaction. In this paper, a switched reluctance double-rotor machine (SRDRM) is proposed for hybrid electric vehicles, while no conductor or PM in the middle rotor. This machine not only inherits the merits of switched reluctance machine, such as simple salient rotor structure, high reliability and wide speed range, but also can avoid the outer rotor’s cooling problem effectively. By using an equivalent magnetic circuit model, the function of middle rotor yoke is analyzed. Electromagnetic analyses of the SRDRM are performed with analytical calculations and 2-D finite element methods, including the effects of main parameters on performance. Finally, a 4.4 kW prototype machine is designed and manufactured, and the tests are performed, which validate the proposed design method.
Longitudinal Trajectories of Cholesterol from Midlife through Late Life according to Apolipoprotein E Allele Status
Authors: Downer Brian , Estus Steven , Katsumata Yuriko , Fardo David
Published: October 2014

Background: Previous research indicates that total cholesterol levels increase with age during young adulthood and middle age and decline with age later in life. This is attributed to changes in diet, body composition, medication use, physical activity, and hormone levels. In the current study we utilized data from the Framingham Heart Study Original Cohort to determine if variations in apolipoprotein E (APOE), a gene involved in regulating cholesterol homeostasis, influence trajectories of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and total: HDL cholesterol ratio from midlife through late life. Methods: Cholesterol trajectories from midlife through late life were modeled using generalized additive mixed models and mixed-effects regression models. Results: APOE e2+ subjects had lower total cholesterol levels, higher HDL cholesterol levels, and lower total: HDL cholesterol ratios from midlife to late life compared to APOE e3 and APOE e4+ subjects. Statistically significant differences in life span cholesterol trajectories according to gender and use of cholesterol-lowering medications were also detected. Conclusion: The findings from this research provide evidence that variations in APOE modify trajectories of serum cholesterol from midlife to late life. In order to efficiently modify cholesterol through the life span, it is important to take into account APOE allele status.
Managing the Health Impacts of Drought in Brazil
Authors: Sena Aderita , Barcellos Christovam , Freitas Carlos , Corvalan Carlos
Published: October 2014

Drought is often a hidden risk with the potential to become a silent public health disaster. It is difficult to define precisely when it starts or when it is over, and although it is a climatological event, its impacts depend on other human activities, and are intensified by social vulnerability. In Brazil, half of all natural disaster events are drought related, and they cause half of the impacts in number of affected persons. One large affected area is the semiarid region of Brazil’s Northeast, which has historically been affected by drought. Many health and well-being indicators in this region are worse than the rest of the country, based on an analysis of 5565 municipalities using available census data for 1991, 2000 and 2010, which allowed separating the 1133 municipalities affected by drought in order to compare them with the rest of the country. Although great progress has been made in reducing social and economic vulnerability, climate change and the expected changes in the semiarid region in the next few decades call for a review of current programs, particularly in public health, and the planning of new interventions with local communities. This study reviews the literature, analyzes available data and identifies possible actions and actors. The aim is to ensure there will be sufficient and sustainable local adaptive capacity and resilience, for a population already living within the limits of environmental vulnerability.
Staying the Course? Challenges in Implementing Evidence-Based Programs in Community Mental Health Services
Authors: Markström Urban
Published: October 2014

This paper focuses on the second phase of the deinstitutionalisation of mental health care in which the development of community-based interventions are supposed to be implemented in local community mental health care systems. The challenge to sustainable implementation is illustrated by the Swedish case where the government put forward a national training program that sought to introduce Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) for people with severe mental illness. This study is based on document analysis and qualitative interviews with actors at the national, regional, and local levels covering a total of five regions and 15 municipalities that participated in the program. The analysis of the national experiences is put in relation to both research on public administration and policy analysis as well as to current research on implementation of evidence-based programs. The results showed a “drift” of the original model, which had already begun at the policy formulation stage and ended up in a large number of different local arrangements where only a few of the original components of ACT remained. We conclude that issues with implementation can only be fully understood by considering factors at different analytical levels.
Explaining Female Offending and Prosocial Behavior: The Role of Empathy and Cognitive Distortions
Authors: Van Langen Marita , Stams Geert , Van Vugt Eveline , Wissink Inge , Asscher Jessica
Published: October 2014

The aim of the present study was threefold: to examine (1) the relation between both cognitive and affective empathy and prosocial behavior; (2) the relation between both cognitive and affective empathy and offending; and (3) the role of cognitive distortions in the relation between cognitive empathy, affective empathy and offending in a sample of adolescent girls with lower SES and education (N = 264). Results showed that both cognitive and affective empathy were positively related to prosocial behavior. Furthermore, cognitive empathy was positively related to offending, whereas affective empathy was not related to offending. Finally, no support was found for our hypothesis that cognitive distortions play a moderating role in the relation between empathy and offending.
Fabrication of Cellulose ZnO Hybrid Nanocomposite and Its Strain Sensing Behavior
Authors: Ko Hyun-U , Mun Seongcheol , Min Seung-Ki , Kim Gi-Woo , Kim Jaehwan
Published: October 2014

This paper reports a hybrid nanocomposite of well-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods on cellulose and its strain sensing behavior. ZnO nanorods are chemically grown on a cellulose film by using a hydrothermal process, termed as cellulose ZnO hybrid nanocomposite (CEZOHN). CEZOHN is made by seeding and growing of ZnO on the cellulose and its structural properties are investigated. The well-aligned ZnO nanorods in conjunction with the cellulose film shows enhancement of its electromechanical property. Strain sensing behaviors of the nanocomposite are tested in bending and longitudinal stretching modes and the CEZOHN strain sensors exhibit linear responses.
Characteristic Variety of the Gauss–Manin Differential Equations of a Generic Parallelly Translated Arrangement
Authors: Varchenko Alexander
Published: October 2014

We consider a weighted family of \(n\) generic parallelly translated hyperplanes in \(\mathbb{C}^k\) and describe the characteristic variety of the Gauss–Manin differential equations for associated hypergeometric integrals. The characteristic variety is given as the zero set of Laurent polynomials, whose coefficients are determined by weights and the Plücker coordinates of the associated point in the Grassmannian Gr\((k,n)\). The Laurent polynomials are in involution.
Changes in Nutritional Metabolites of Young Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in Response to Elevated Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Ali , Jaafar Hawa , Karimi Ehsan , Ashkani Sadegh
Published: October 2014

The increase of atmospheric CO2 due to global climate change or horticultural practices has direct and indirect effects on food crop quality. One question that needs to be asked, is whether CO2 enrichment affects the nutritional quality of Malaysian young ginger plants. Responses of total carbohydrate, fructose, glucose, sucrose, protein, soluble amino acids and antinutrients to either ambient (400 μmol/mol) and elevated (800 μmol/mol) CO2 treatments were determined in the leaf and rhizome of two ginger varieties namely Halia Bentong and Halia Bara. Increasing of CO2 level from ambient to elevated resulted in increased content of total carbohydrate, sucrose, glucose, and fructose in the leaf and rhizome of ginger varieties. Sucrose was the major sugar followed by glucose and fructose in the leaf and rhizome extract of both varieties. Elevated CO2 resulted in a reduction of total protein content in the leaf (H. Bentong: 38.0%; H. Bara: 35.4%) and rhizome (H. Bentong: 29.0%; H. Bara: 46.2%). In addition, under CO2 enrichment, the concentration of amino acids increased by approximately 14.5% and 98.9% in H. Bentong and 12.0% and 110.3% in H. Bara leaf and rhizome, respectively. The antinutrient contents (cyanide and tannin) except phytic acid were influenced significantly (P ≤ 0.05) by CO2 concentration. Leaf extract of H. Bara exposed to elevated CO2 exhibited highest content of cyanide (336.1 mg HCN/kg DW), while, highest content of tannin (27.5 g/kg DW) and phytic acid (54.1 g/kg DW) were recorded from H.Bara rhizome grown under elevated CO2. These results demonstrate that the CO2 enrichment technique could improve content of some amino acids and antinutrients of ginger as a food crop by enhancing its nutritional and health-promoting properties.
Cod Liver Oil Supplement Consumption and Health: Cross‑sectional Results from the EPIC-Norfolk Cohort Study
Authors: Lentjes Marleen , Welch Ailsa , Mulligan Angela , Luben Robert , Wareham Nicholas , Khaw Kay-Tee
Published: October 2014

Supplement users (SU) make healthy lifestyle choices; on the other hand, SU report more medical conditions. We hypothesised that cod liver oil (CLO) consumers are similar to non-supplement users, since CLO use might originate from historical motives, i.e., rickets prevention, and not health consciousness. CLO consumers were studied in order to identify possible confounders, such as confounding by indication. The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC) investigates causes of chronic disease. The participants were 25,639 men and women, aged 40–79 years, recruited from general practices in Norfolk, East-Anglia (UK). Participants completed questionnaires and a health examination between 1993 and 1998. Supplement use was measured using 7-day diet diaries. CLO was the most common supplement used, more prevalent among women and associated with not smoking, higher physical activity level and more favourable eating habits. SU had a higher occurrence of benign growths and bone-related diseases, but CLO was negatively associated with cardiovascular-related conditions. Although the results of SU characteristics in EPIC-Norfolk are comparable with studies worldwide, the CLO group is different from SU in general. Confounding by indication takes place and will need to be taken into account when analysing prospective associations of CLO use with fracture risk and cardiovascular diseases.
Evaluating Saturation Correction Methods for DMSP/OLS Nighttime Light Data: A Case Study from China’s Cities
Authors: Ma Lin , Wu Jiansheng , Li Weifeng , Peng Jian , Liu Hao
Published: October 2014

Remotely sensed nighttime lights (NTL) datasets derived from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Linescan System (DMSP/OLS) have been identified as a good indicator of the urbanization process and have been widely used to study such demographic and economic variables as population distribution and density, electricity consumption, and carbon emission. However, one issue must be considered in the application of NTL data, i.e., saturation in the bright cores of urban centers. In this study, we evaluate four correction methods in China’s cities: the linear regression model and the cubic regression model at the regional level, and the Human Settlement Index (HSI) and the Vegetation Adjusted NTL Urban Index (VANUI) at a pixel level. The results suggest that both correction methods at the regional level improve the correlation between NTL data and socioeconomic variables. However, since the methods can only be used on saturated pixels, the correction effects are limited, as the saturated area in Chinese cities is rather small. HSI and VANUI increase the inter-urban variability within certain cities, especially when their vegetation health and abundance is negatively correlated with NTL. However, the indices may induce bias when applied in a large region with a diverse natural environment and vegetation, and the application of HSI with a relatively high sensitivity of HSI to NDVI may be limited as NTL approaches maximum. Proper methods for reducing saturation effects should thus vary with different study areas and research purposes.