bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating the Judicious Use of Safety Behavior Into Exposure-Based Treatments for Anxiety Disorders: A Study of Treatment Acceptability
Authors: Milosevic Irena , Radomsky Adam S.
Published: May 2013

This analog study investigated treatment acceptability and preference as a function of safety behavior use (judicious vs. discouraged) and treatment rationale (cognitive vs. extinction). Thirty-two clinically anxious participants and 437 undergraduate students provided ratings of acceptability and adherence, as well as preference ranks for four written vignettes describing a course of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for fear or anxiety. Treatment descriptions promoting judicious safety behavior use received significantly higher acceptability and adherence ratings compared to those discouraging its use. Descriptions that presented a cognitively based rationale, compared to an extinction-based rationale, were also rated as both significantly more acceptable and easier to adhere to. The highest preference rank was for treatment that included judicious safety behavior use, conveyed via a cognitive rationale. A similar pattern of results was observed in both participant groups. These findings suggest that the judicious incorporation of safety behavior into CBT has the potential to reduce treatment refusal and dropout. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for cognitive-behavioral and exposure-based treatments.
Evaluation of a Stress Management Training Program for Adults With ADHD—A Pilot Study
Authors: Langer Sylvia , Greiner Anja , Koydemir Selda , Schütz Astrid
Published: May 2013

We conducted a pilot study to examine the feasibility, acceptance, and subjective effectiveness of a new stress management training program tailored to the needs of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). After a baseline evaluation of perceived chronic stress and coping strategies, 18 adults with ADHD participated in four sessions of stress management training and completed posttests on chronic stress and additional measures. Participants rated the acceptance and effectiveness of the training as high. Positive effects were found with respect to perceptions of excessive demands at work, chronic worry, and general stress experience. The findings suggest that stress management training is a valuable adjuvant for the treatment of ADHD in adults. Further development and evaluation of the intervention is desirable.
Resistance to Change in the Nursing Profession: Creative Transdisciplinary Solutions
Authors: Clark Carey S.
Published: May 2013

This article offers a definition of the transdisciplinary inquiry approach (Montuori, 2010) and demonstrates how this approach can benefit the nursing profession in our process of shifting our paradigm toward caring, love, and healing. The article provides an example of a transdisciplinary approach to change process in nursing. It considers the phenomenon of resistance to change in nursing academia, which has created obstacles to revising pedagogical processes, resulting in ongoing difficulties in creating change in the practice setting. A model based on transdisciplinary practices for creative change in nursing is described.
The Development and Uses of the “Blind to Therapist” EMDR Protocol
Authors: Blore David C. , Holmshaw E. Manda , Swift Ann , Standart Sally , Fish Deborah M.
Published: May 2013

The blind to therapist (B2T) protocol (Blore & Holmshaw, 2009a, 2009b) was devised to circumvent client unwillingness to describe traumatic memory content during eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). It has been used with at least six clinical presentations:

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Reassertion of control among “executive decision makers”

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Shame and embarrassment

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Minimizing potential for vicarious traumatization

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Cultural issues: avoiding distress being witnessed by a fellow countryman

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Need for the presence of a translator versus prevention of information “leakage”

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Reducing potential stalling in processing: client with severe stammer

This article details the history, development, and current status of the protocol, and provides case vignettes to illustrate each use. Clinical issues encountered when using the protocol and “dovetailing” the B2T protocol back into the standard protocol are also addressed.
Examination of Potential Sources of Bias in the US Coal Workers' Health Surveillance Program
Authors: Laney A. Scott , Attfield Michael D.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We examined the potential influences of certain selection factors on the utility of the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program (CWHSP) data for tracking disease distribution and trends.

Methods. We combined data from the CWHSP and the Energy Information Administration to examine any influence of variable worker participation on observed disease prevalence. We evaluated effects of differential participation by coal mining region, temporal changes in employment, and active surveillance efforts.

Results. The published findings of pneumoconiosis distribution and trends from the CWHSP were robust compared with the various participation factors that might have affected their validity for population-based estimates of disease burden. Exploration of factors that could potentially bias the findings generally led to small increases in the primary estimates, mostly for the early years of the program.

Conclusions. We confirmed previously reported findings that there was a high prevalence of coal worker pneumoconiosis (CWP) around 1970–1974, a substantial decline in 1995–1999, and indications of an increase since then. Overall our findings suggest that the previously reported distribution and trends in CWP prevalence were broadly accurate.
Question Context and Priming Meaning of Health: Effect on Differences in Self-Rated Health Between Hispanics and Non-Hispanic Whites
Authors: Lee Sunghee , Schwarz Norbert
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We examined the implications of the current recommended data collection practice of placing self-rated health (SRH) before specific health-related questions (hence, without a health context) to remove potential context effects, between Hispanics and non-Hispanics.

Methods. We used 2 methodologically comparable surveys conducted in English and Spanish that asked SRH in different contexts: before and after specific health questions. Focusing on the elderly, we compared the influence of question contexts on SRH between Hispanics and non-Hispanics and between Spanish and English speakers.

Results. The question context influenced SRH reports of Spanish speakers (and Hispanics) significantly but not of English speakers (and non-Hispanics). Specifically, on SRH within a health context, Hispanics reported more positive health, decreasing the gap with non-Hispanic Whites by two thirds, and the measurement utility of SRH was improved through more consistent mortality prediction across ethnic and linguistic groups.

Conclusions. Contrary to the current recommendation, asking SRH within a health context enhanced measurement utility. Studies using SRH may result in erroneous conclusions when one does not consider its question context.
Associations Between Health Literacy and Established Predictors of Smoking Cessation
Authors: Stewart Diana W. , Adams Claire E. , Cano Miguel A. , Correa-Fernández Virmarie , Li Yisheng , Waters Andrew J. , Wetter David W. , Vidrine Jennifer Irvin
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We examined associations between health literacy and predictors of smoking cessation among 402 low-socioeconomic status (SES), racially/ethnically diverse smokers.

Methods. Data were collected as part of a larger study evaluating smoking health risk messages. We conducted multiple linear regression analyses to examine relations between health literacy and predictors of smoking cessation (i.e., nicotine dependence, smoking outcome expectancies, smoking risk perceptions and knowledge, self-efficacy, intentions to quit or reduce smoking).

Results. Lower health literacy was associated with higher nicotine dependence, more positive and less negative smoking outcome expectancies, less knowledge about smoking health risks, and lower risk perceptions. Associations remained significant (P < .05) after controlling for demographics and SES-related factors.

Conclusions. These results provide the first evidence that low health literacy may serve as a critical and independent risk factor for poor cessation outcomes among low-socioeconomic status, racially/ethnically diverse smokers. Research is needed to investigate potential mechanisms underlying this relationship.
Evaluating the Impact of Dental Care on Housing Intervention Program Outcomes Among Homeless Veterans
Authors: Nunez Elizabeth , Gibson Gretchen , Jones Judith A. , Schinka John A.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. In this retrospective longitudinal cohort study, we examined the impact of dental care on outcomes among homeless veterans discharged from a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) transitional housing intervention program.

Methods. Our sample consisted of 9870 veterans who were admitted into a VA homeless intervention program during 2008 and 2009, 4482 of whom received dental care during treatment and 5388 of whom did not. Primary outcomes of interest were program completion, employment or stable financial status on discharge, and transition to permanent housing. We calculated descriptive statistics and compared the 2 study groups with respect to demographic characteristics, medical and psychiatric history (including alcohol and substance use), work and financial support, and treatment outcomes.

Results. Veterans who received dental care were 30% more likely than those who did not to complete the program, 14% more likely to be employed or financially stable, and 15% more likely to have obtained residential housing.

Conclusions. Provision of dental care has a substantial positive impact on outcomes among homeless veterans participating in housing intervention programs. This suggests that homeless programs need to weigh the benefits and cost of dental care in program planning and implementation.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Health Care Receipt Among Male Cancer Survivors
Authors: Palmer Nynikka R. A. , Geiger Ann M. , Felder Tisha M. , Lu Lingyi , Case L. Douglas , Weaver Kathryn E.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We examined racial/ethnic disparities in health care receipt among a nationally representative sample of male cancer survivors.

Methods. We identified men aged 18 years and older from the 2006–2010 National Health Interview Survey who reported a history of cancer. We assessed health care receipt in 4 self-reported measures: primary care visit, specialist visit, flu vaccination, and pneumococcal vaccination. We used hierarchical logistic regression modeling, stratified by age (< 65 years vs ≥ 65 years).

Results. In adjusted models, older African American and Hispanic survivors were approximately twice as likely as were non-Hispanic Whites to not see a specialist (odds ratio [OR] = 1.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19, 2.68 and OR = 2.09; 95% CI = 1.18, 3.70, respectively), not receive the flu vaccine (OR = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.45, 3.37 and OR = 2.20; 95% CI = 1.21, 4.01, respectively), and not receive the pneumococcal vaccine (OR = 2.24; 95% CI = 1.54, 3.24 and OR = 3.10; 95% CI = 1.75, 5.51, respectively).

Conclusions. Racial/ethnic disparities in health care receipt are evident among older, but not younger, cancer survivors, despite access to Medicare. These survivors may be less likely to see specialists, including oncologists, and receive basic preventive care.
Community Health Workers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: What Do We Know About Scaling Up and Sustainability?
Authors: Pallas Sarah Wood , Minhas Dilpreet , Pérez-Escamilla Rafael , Taylor Lauren , Curry Leslie , Bradley Elizabeth H.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We sought to provide a systematic review of the determinants of success in scaling up and sustaining community health worker (CHW) programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods. We searched 11 electronic databases for academic literature published through December 2010 (n = 603 articles). Two independent reviewers applied exclusion criteria to identify articles that provided empirical evidence about the scale-up or sustainability of CHW programs in LMICs, then extracted data from each article by using a standardized form. We analyzed the resulting data for determinants and themes through iterated categorization.

Results. The final sample of articles (n = 19) present data on CHW programs in 16 countries. We identified 23 enabling factors and 15 barriers to scale-up and sustainability, which were grouped into 3 thematic categories: program design and management, community fit, and integration with the broader environment.

Conclusions. Scaling up and sustaining CHW programs in LMICs requires effective program design and management, including adequate training, supervision, motivation, and funding; acceptability of the program to the communities served; and securing support for the program from political leaders and other health care providers.
Reducing Traumatic Brain Injuries in Youth Sports: Youth Sports Traumatic Brain Injury State Laws, January 2009–December 2012
Authors: Harvey Hosea H.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. I sought to describe current state-wide youth sports traumatic brain injury (TBI) laws and their relationship to prevailing scientific understandings of youth sports TBIs, and to facilitate further research by creating an open-source data set of current laws.

Methods. I used Westlaw and LexisNexis databases to create a 50-state data set of youth sports TBI laws enacted between January 2009 and December 2012. I collected and coded the text and citations of each law and developed a protocol and codebook to facilitate future research.

Results. Forty-four states and Washington, DC, passed youth sports TBI laws between 2009 and 2012. No state’s youth sports TBI law focuses on primary prevention. Instead, such laws focus on (1) increasing coaches’ and parents’ ability to identify and respond to TBIs and (2) reducing the immediate risk of multiple TBIs.

Conclusions. Existing youth sports TBI laws were not designed to reduce initial TBIs. Evaluation is required to assess their effectiveness in reducing the risk and consequences of multiple TBIs. Continued research and evaluation of existing laws will be needed to develop a more comprehensive youth TBI-reduction solution.
Predictors and a Framework for Fostering Community Advocacy as a Community Health Worker Core Function to Eliminate Health Disparities
Authors: Sabo Samantha , Ingram Maia , Reinschmidt Kerstin M. , Schachter Kenneth , Jacobs Laurel , Guernsey de Zapien Jill , Robinson Laurie , Carvajal Scott
Published: May 2013

Objectives. Using a mixed-method, participatory research approach, we investigated factors related to community health worker (CHW) community advocacy that affect social determinants of health.

Methods. We used cross-sectional survey data for 371 CHWs to assess demographics, training, work environment, and leadership qualities on civic, political, and organizational advocacy. We present advocacy stories to further articulate CHW activities. The data reported are from the recently completed National Community Health Workers Advocacy Study.

Results. CHWs are involved in advocacy that is community-focused, although advocacy differs by intrinsic leadership, experience, training, and work environment. We propose a framework to conceptualize, support, and evaluate CHW advocacy and the iterative processes they engage in. These processes create opportunities for community voice and action to affect social and structural conditions that are known to have wide-ranging health effects on communities.

Conclusions. The framework presented may have utility for CHWs, their training programs, and their employers as well as funders and policymakers aiming to promote health equity.
Socioeconomic Inequality in Disability Among Adults: A Multicountry Study Using the World Health Survey
Authors: Hosseinpoor Ahmad R. , Stewart Williams Jennifer A. , Gautam Jeny , Posarac Aleksandra , Officer Alana , Verdes Emese , Kostanjsek Nenad , Chatterji Somnath
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We compared national prevalence and wealth-related inequality in disability across a large number of countries from all income groups.

Methods. Data on 218 737 respondents participating in the World Health Survey 2002–2004 were analyzed. A composite disability score (0–100) identified respondents who experienced significant disability in physical, mental, and social functioning irrespective of their underlying health condition. Disabled persons had disability composite scores above 40. Wealth was evaluated using an index of economic status in households based on ownership of selected assets. Socioeconomic inequalities were measured using the slope index of inequality and the relative index of inequality.

Results. Median age-standardized disability prevalence was higher in the low- and lower middle-income countries. In all the study countries, disability was more prevalent in the poorest than in the richest wealth quintiles. Pro-rich inequality was statistically significant in 43 of 49 countries, with disability prevalence higher among populations with lower wealth. Median relative inequality was higher in the high- and upper middle-income countries.

Conclusions. Integrating equity components into the monitoring of disability trends would help ensure that interventions reach and benefit populations with greatest need.
Disparities in Exposure to Automobile and Truck Traffic and Vehicle Emissions Near the Los Angeles–Long Beach Port Complex
Authors: Houston Douglas , Li Wei , Wu Jun
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We assessed how traffic and mobile-source air pollution impacts are distributed across racial/ethnic and socioeconomically diverse groups in port-adjacent communities in southern Los Angeles County, which may experience divergent levels of exposure to port-related heavy-duty diesel truck traffic because of existing residential and land use patterns.

Methods. We used spatial regression techniques to assess the association of neighborhood racial/ethnic and socioeconomic composition with residential parcel-level traffic and vehicle-related fine particulate matter exposure after accounting for built environment and land use factors.

Results. After controlling for factors associated with traffic generation, we found that a higher percentage of nearby Black and Asian/Pacific Islander residents was associated with higher exposure, a higher percentage of Hispanic residents was associated with higher traffic exposure but lower vehicle particulate matter exposure, and areas with lower socioeconomic status experienced lower exposure.

Conclusions. Disparities in traffic and vehicle particulate matter exposure are nuanced depending on the exposure metric used, the distribution of the traffic and emissions, and pollutant dispersal patterns. Future comparative research is needed to assess potential disparities in other transportation and goods movement corridors.
Patterns of Older Americans’ Health Care Utilization Over Time
Authors: Manski Richard J. , Moeller John F. , Chen Haiyan , Schimmel Jody , Clair Patricia A. St. , Pepper John V.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We analyzed correlates of older Americans’ continuous and transitional health care utilization over 4 years.

Methods. We analyzed data for civilian, noninstitutionalized US individuals older than 50 years from the 2006 and 2008 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. We estimated multinomial logistic models of persistent and intermittent use of physician, inpatient hospital, home health, and outpatient surgery over the 2004–2008 survey periods.

Results. Individuals with worse or worsening health were more likely to persistently use medical care and transition into care and not transition out of care over time. Financial variables were less often significant and, when significant, were often in an unexpected direction.

Conclusions. Older individuals’ health and changes in health are more strongly correlated with persistence of and changes in care-seeking behavior over time than are financial status and changes in financial status. The more pronounced sensitivity to health status and changes in health are important considerations in insurance and retirement policy reforms.
Density and Proximity of Fast Food Restaurants and Body Mass Index Among African Americans
Authors: Reitzel Lorraine R. , Regan Seann D. , Nguyen Nga , Cromley Ellen K. , Strong Larkin L. , Wetter David W. , McNeill Lorna H.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to address current gaps in the literature by examining the associations of fast food restaurant (FFR) density around the home and FFR proximity to the home, respectively, with body mass index (BMI) among a large sample of African American adults from Houston, Texas.

Methods. We used generalized linear models with generalized estimating equations to examine associations of FFR density at 0.5-, 1-, 2-, and 5-mile road network buffers around the home with BMI and associations of the closest FFR to the home with BMI. All models were adjusted for a range of individual-level covariates and neighborhood socioeconomic status. We additionally investigated the moderating effects of household income on these relations. Data were collected from December 2008 to July 2009.

Results. FFR density was not associated with BMI in the main analyses. However, FFR density at 0.5, 1, and 2 miles was positively associated with BMI among participants with lower incomes (P ≤ .025). Closer FFR proximity was associated with higher BMI among all participants (P < .001), with stronger associations emerging among those of lower income (P < .013) relative to higher income (P < .014).

Conclusions. Additional research with more diverse African American samples is needed, but results supported the potential for the fast food environment to affect BMI among African Americans, particularly among those of lower economic means.
Adapting Western Research Methods to Indigenous Ways of Knowing
Authors: Simonds Vanessa W. , Christopher Suzanne
Published: May 2013

Indigenous communities have long experienced exploitation by researchers and increasingly require participatory and decolonizing research processes. We present a case study of an intervention research project to exemplify a clash between Western research methodologies and Indigenous methodologies and how we attempted reconciliation. We then provide implications for future research based on lessons learned from Native American community partners who voiced concern over methods of Western deductive qualitative analysis. Decolonizing research requires constant reflective attention and action, and there is an absence of published guidance for this process. Continued exploration is needed for implementing Indigenous methods alone or in conjunction with appropriate Western methods when conducting research in Indigenous communities. Currently, examples of Indigenous methods and theories are not widely available in academic texts or published articles, and are often not perceived as valid.
Achieving Population Health in Accountable Care Organizations
Authors: Hacker Karen , Walker Deborah Klein
Published: May 2013

Although “population health” is one of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s Triple Aim goals, its relationship to accountable care organizations (ACOs) remains ill-defined and lacks clarity as to how the clinical delivery system intersects with the public health system.

Although defining population health as “panel” management seems to be the default definition, we called for a broader “community health” definition that could improve relationships between clinical delivery and public health systems and health outcomes for communities.

We discussed this broader definition and offered recommendations for linking ACOs with the public health system toward improving health for patients and their communities.
Getting Actionable About Community Resilience: The Los Angeles County Community Disaster Resilience Project
Authors: Chandra Anita , Williams Malcolm , Plough Alonzo , Stayton Alix , Wells Kenneth B. , Horta Mariana , Tang Jennifer
Published: May 2013

Community resilience (CR)—ability to withstand and recover from a disaster—is a national policy expectation that challenges health departments to merge disaster preparedness and community health promotion and to build stronger partnerships with organizations outside government, yet guidance is limited.

A baseline survey documented community resilience–building barriers and facilitators for health department and community-based organization (CBO) staff. Questions focused on CBO engagement, government–CBO partnerships, and community education.

Most health department staff and CBO members devoted minimal time to community disaster preparedness though many serve populations that would benefit. Respondents observed limited CR activities to activate in a disaster. The findings highlighted opportunities for engaging communities in disaster preparedness and informed the development of a community action plan and toolkit.
Effects of Household Socialization on Youth Susceptibility to Smoke: Differences Between Youth Age Groups and Trends Over Time
Authors: Schultz Annette S. H. , Nowatzki Janet , Ronson Gillian
Published: May 2013

A Canadian biennial youth survey facilitated repeating investigation of susceptibility to smoke and household socialization. We operationalized susceptibility to smoke by 3 levels on the basis of intention and behavior. Variables consistently predicting greater susceptibility across time and age groups were sibling smoking, household restrictions, and vehicle smoke exposure. Gender was predictive among older youths. Household restrictions and emerging legislation to ban smoking in vehicles with youth passengers provide protection against secondhand smoke exposure and sustained resolve to remain smoke-free.
Timeliness of Pediatric Influenza Vaccination Compared With Seasonal Influenza Activity in an Urban Community, 2004–2008
Authors: Hofstetter Annika M. , Natarajan Karthik , Rabinowitz Daniel , Martinez Raquel Andres , Vawdrey David , Arpadi Stephen , Stockwell Melissa S.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We assessed pediatric influenza vaccination in relation to community influenza activity.

Methods. We examined seasonal influenza vaccination in 34 012 children aged 6 months through 18 years from 5 academically affiliated clinics in northern Manhattan, New York (an urban low-income community) during the 2004–2008 seasons using hospital and city immunization registries. We calculated the cumulative number of administered influenza vaccine doses and proportion of children with any (≥ 1 dose) or full (1–2 doses per age recommendations) vaccination at the onset and peak of community polymerase chain reaction–confirmed influenza activity according to state surveillance reports and by March 31 each season.

Results. Influenza vaccine administration began before October 1, peaked before influenza activity onset, and declined gradually over each season. Coverage at influenza activity onset, peak, and by March 31 increased over the 5 seasons. However, most children lacked full vaccination at these time points, particularly adolescents, minorities, and those requiring 2 doses.

Conclusions. Despite early initiation of influenza vaccination, few children were fully vaccinated when influenza began circulating. Interventions should address factors negatively affecting timely influenza vaccination, especially in high-risk populations.
Acute Use of Alcohol and Methods of Suicide in a US National Sample
Authors: Conner Kenneth R. , Huguet Nathalie , Caetano Raul , Giesbrecht Norman , McFarland Bentson H. , Nolte Kurt B. , Kaplan Mark S.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. We explored age, gender, and racial/ethnic differences with alcohol use and firearms, hanging or asphyxiation, and poisoning methods of suicide.

Methods. We analyzed data for 37 993 suicide decedents aged 18 years and older from the 2005–2010 National Violent Death Reporting System database. Multinomial logistic regressions examined associations of method with alcohol use defined by blood alcohol content. Two-way interactions tested the effects of age, gender, and race/ethnicity on the associations between alcohol use and method of suicide.

Results. Alcohol was present among decedents who used the 3 leading methods of suicide: firearm (35.0%), hanging (36.8%), and poisoning (32.7%). Two-way interaction tests suggested that in young and middle adulthood, individuals were more likely to drink alcohol when they used a firearm or hanging (compared with poisoning), but in older adulthood, the reverse was true, with alcohol use more likely with poisoning. Interaction tests also suggested that Asians and Pacific Islanders were most likely to use alcohol in poisonings and that Blacks were least likely to use alcohol in hangings.

Conclusions. The results suggested that alcohol use before suicide was influenced by several factors, including age, race/ethnicity, and suicide method.
Influence of Friends on Children’s Physical Activity: A Review
Authors: Maturo Claire C. , Cunningham Solveig A.
Published: May 2013

We examined evidence for friendship influences on children's physical activity (PA) through systematic searches of online databases in May 2012. We identified 106 studies (25 qualitative) published in English since 2000 that analyzed indicators of friendship influences (e.g., communication about PA, friends’ PA, and PA with friends) among persons younger than 19 years.

Children's PA was positively associated with encouragement from friends (43 of 55 studies indicating a positive relationship), friends' own PA (30/35), and engagement with friends in PA (9/10). These findings are consistent with friends influencing PA, but most studies did not isolate influence from other factors that could explain similarity.

Understanding friendship influences in childhood can facilitate the promotion of lifelong healthy habits. PA with friends should be considered in health promotion programs.
Applying Community Engagement to Disaster Planning: Developing the Vision and Design for the Los Angeles County Community Disaster Resilience Initiative
Authors: Wells Kenneth B. , Tang Jennifer , Lizaola Elizabeth , Jones Felica , Brown Arleen , Stayton Alix , Williams Malcolm , Chandra Anita , Eisenman David , Fogleman Stella , Plough Alonzo
Published: May 2013

Community resilience (CR) is a priority for preparedness, but few models exist. A steering council used community-partnered participatory research to support workgroups in developing CR action plans and hosted forums for input to design a pilot demonstration of implementing CR versus enhanced individual preparedness toolkits. Qualitative data describe how stakeholders viewed CR, how toolkits were developed, and demonstration design evolution.

Stakeholders viewed community engagement as facilitating partnerships to implement CR programs when appropriately supported by policy and CR resources. Community engagement exercises clarified motivations and informed action plans (e.g., including vulnerable populations). Community input identified barriers (e.g., trust in government) and CR-building strategies. A CR toolkit and demonstration comparing its implementation with individual preparedness were codeveloped.

Community-partnered participatory research was a useful framework to plan a CR initiative through knowledge exchange.
Sensitive nanosilver-based spectrophotometric determination of Brilliant Blue FCF in surface water samples
Authors: Mortazavi S. S. , Sahraei R. , Farmany A.
Published: May 2013

An accurate method was developed for the determination of Brilliant Blue FCF, a synthetic soluble colorant, in environmental samples. The method is based on the catalytic effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the oxidation of Brilliant Blue FCF by hexacyanoferrate(III) in acetate–acetic acid medium at room temperature. Linearity of around four orders in the magnitude of concentration was generally obtained. Detection and quantification limits of the investigated dye, which was evaluated at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3 for detection limit and quantification limit, were 0.1 and 0.6–130.0 ng/mL, respectively. The recoveries of the synthetic colorant Brilliant Blue FCF in environmental matrices (surface water) ranged from 95.0 to 101.0%. Relative standard deviation of less than 3.1% was also achieved. This method has been applied successfully in the determination of water-soluble colorant Brilliant Blue FCF in surface water samples.
Ferrate(VI): a novel oxidant for degradation of cationic surfactant – cetylpyridinium bromide
Authors: Yang Weihua , Lin Xiaoyan , Wang Honghui , Yang Wutao
Published: May 2013

Ferrate(VI) is an efficient multi-functional water treatment reagent that has several novel properties, such as strong oxidation, absorption, flocculation, disinfection and deodorization. The removal of cationic surfactants based on ferrate (K2FeO4) was performed in the case of cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB). The inﬂuence of operating variables on the mineralization efﬁciency was studied as a function of ferrate dosage, initial pH and reaction time. Total organic carbon (TOC), UV and infrared spectra were performed to gain a better understanding of the degradation process. Results show that the optimal treatment conditions are as follows, solution initial pH is over 5, oxidation time is 5 min and ferrate dosage is 1.5 times that of CPB. The removal efficiency of CPB above 99% and TOC removal percentage of 91.3% can be achieved in minutes. The reaction of CPB with K2FeO4 responds to a second-order kinetic law.
Photo-degradation of butyl parahydroxybenzoate by using TiO2-supported catalyst
Authors: Atheba Patrick , Drogui Patrick , Seyhi Brahima , Robert Didier
Published: May 2013

The present work evaluates the potential of the photocatalysis (PC) process for the degradation of butylparaben (BPB). Relatively high treatment efficiency was achieved by comparison to photochemical process. Prior to photocatalytic degradation, adsorption (AD) of BPB occurred on the titanium dioxide (TiO2)-supported catalyst. AD was described by Langmuir isotherm (KL = 0.085 L g−1, qm = 4.77 mg g−1). The influence of angle of inclination of the reactor, pH, recirculation flow rate and initial concentration of BPB were investigated. The PC process applied under optimal operating conditions (recirculation flow rate of 0.15 L min−1, angle of inclination of 15°, pH = 7 and 5 mg L−1 of BPB) is able to oxidize 84.9–96.6% of BPB and to ensure around 38.7% of mineralization. The Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetic model described well the photocatalytic oxidation of BPB (k = 7.02 mg L−1 h−1, K = 0.364 L mg−1).
Advanced characterization of algogenic organic matter, bacterial organic matter, humic acids and fulvic acids
Authors: Chon Kangmin , Cho Jaeweon , Shon Ho Kyong
Published: May 2013

Advanced characterization techniques of organic matter, including bulk organic characterization, size-exclusion chromatography, three-dimensional excitation–emission matrix, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and fractionations using Amberlite XAD-8/4 resins, were used to investigate differences and similarities in the physicochemical properties of four different organic matter, namely algogenic organic matter (AOM), bacterial organic matter (BOM), Suwanee River humic acids (SRHA) and Suwanee River fulvic acids (SRFA). From the comparison of characteristics of the AOM, BOM, SRHA, and SRFA, it was identified that the specific UV absorbance, molar ratio of organic nitrogen to organic carbon, molecular weight, fluorescence characteristics, functional group compositions, and relative hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity of all the tested organic matter were considerably different from their sources. The SRHA and SRFA were mainly composed of hydrophobic fractions while the AOM and BOM included more hydrophilic fractions than the SRHA and SRFA due to the alcohol and amide functional groups. This indicated that the origin of organic matter in natural waters can be predicted by their physicochemical characteristics, and the source identification of organic matter provides a better understanding of the interactions between the origin of organic matter and water treatment processes (e.g., coagulation and membrane filtration).
Enhanced nitrogen removal in trickling filter plants
Authors: Dai Y. , Constantinou A. , Griffiths P.
Published: May 2013

The Beaudesert Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), originally built in 1966 and augmented in 1977, is a typical biological trickling filter (TF) STP comprising primary sedimentation tanks (PSTs), TFs and humus tanks. The plant, despite not originally being designed for nitrogen removal, has been consistently achieving over 60% total nitrogen reduction and low effluent ammonium concentration of less than 5 mg NH3-N/L. Through the return of a NO3−-rich stream from the humus tanks to the PSTs and maintaining an adequate sludge age within the PSTs, the current plant is achieving a substantial degree of denitrification. Further enhanced denitrification has been achieved by raising the recycle flows and maintaining an adequate solids retention time (SRT) within the PSTs. This paper describes the approach to operating a TF plant to achieve a high degree of nitrification and denitrification. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated through the pilot plant trial. The results from the pilot trial demonstrate a significant improvement in nitrogen removal performance whilst maximising the asset life of the existing infrastructure. This shows great potential as a retrofit option for small and rural communities with pre-existing TFs that require improvements in terms of nitrogen removal.
Are constructed treatment wetlands sustainable sanitation solutions?
Authors: Langergraber Guenter
Published: May 2013

The main objective of sanitation systems is to protect and promote human health by providing a clean environment and breaking the cycle of disease. In order to be sustainable, a sanitation system has to be not only economically viable, socially acceptable and technically and institutionally appropriate, but it should also protect the environment and the natural resources. ‘Resources-oriented sanitation’ describes the approach in which human excreta and water from households are recognized as resource made available for reuse. Nowadays, ‘resources-oriented sanitation’ is understood in the same way as ‘ecological sanitation’. For resources-oriented sanitation systems to be truly sustainable they have to comply with the definition of sustainable sanitation as given by the Sustainable Sanitation Alliance (SuSanA, www.susana.org). Constructed treatment wetlands meet the basic criteria of sustainable sanitation systems by preventing diseases, protecting the environment, and being an affordable, acceptable, and simple technology. Additionally, constructed treatment wetlands produce treated wastewater of high quality, which is fostering reuse, which in turn makes them applicable in resources-oriented sanitation systems. The paper discusses the features that make constructed treatment wetlands a suitable solution in sustainable resources-oriented sanitation systems, the importance of system thinking for sustainability, as well as key factors for sustainable implementation of constructed wetland systems.
Nitrogen removal in micro-polluted surface water by the combined process of bio-filter and ecological gravel bed
Authors: Sheng-bing He , Jian-wen Gao , Xue-chu Chen , Ding-li Dai
Published: May 2013

Nitrogen removal in micro-polluted surface water by the combined process of a bio-filter and an ecological gravel bed was studied. Sodium acetate was added into micro-polluted surface water as carbon source and the nitrogen removal under different C/N ratio, hydraulic load and temperature were investigated. The results showed that the variations in C/N ratio, hydraulic load and temperature have significant influence on nitrogen removal in bio-filter. It was found that the denitrification rate was above 90% when C/N ratio reached 10; also, the denitrification was inhibited at low water temperature (2–10 °C); at the condition of water temperature above 20 °C, C/N ratio 10, hydraulic load 8 m3/(m2 h), the combined process obtained the nitrogen removal of more than 90%, and the residual organics could be removed in ecological gravel bed.
Non-standard lattices and o-minimal groups
Authors: Eleftheriou Pantelis E.
Published: May 2013

We describe a recent program from the study of definable groups in certain o-minimal structures. A central notion of this program is that of a (geometric)lattice. We propose a definition of a lattice in an arbitrary first-order structure. We then use it to describe, uniformly, various structure theorems for o-minimal groups, each time recovering a lattice that captures some significant invariant of the group at hand. The analysis first goes through a local level, where a pertinent notion of pregeometry and generic elements is each time introduced.
Soda and Other Beverages and the Risk of Kidney Stones
Authors: Ferraro Pietro Manuel , Taylor Eric N. , Gambaro Giovanni , Curhan Gary C.
Published: May 2013

Background and objectives

Not all fluids may be equally beneficial for reducing the risk of kidney stones. In particular, it is not clear whether sugar and artificially sweetened soda increase the risk.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We prospectively analyzed the association between intake of several types of beverages and incidence of kidney stones in three large ongoing cohort studies. Information on consumption of beverages and development of kidney stones was collected by validated questionnaires.

Results

The analysis involved 194,095 participants; over a median follow-up of more than 8 years, 4462 incident cases occurred. There was a 23% higher risk of developing kidney stones in the highest category of consumption of sugar-sweetened cola compared with the lowest category (P for trend=0.02) and a 33% higher risk of developing kidney stones for sugar-sweetened noncola (P for trend=0.003); there was a marginally significant higher risk of developing kidney stones for artificially sweetened noncola (P for trend=0.05). Also, there was an 18% higher risk for punch (P for trend=0.04) and lower risks of 26% for caffeinated coffee (P for trend<0.001), 16% for decaffeinated coffee (P for trend=0.01), 11% for tea (P for trend=0.02), 31%–33% for wine (P for trend<0.005), 41% for beer (P for trend<0.001), and 12% for orange juice (P for trend=0.004).

Conclusions

Consumption of sugar-sweetened soda and punch is associated with a higher risk of stone formation, whereas consumption of coffee, tea, beer, wine, and orange juice is associated with a lower risk.
How internal marketing can cultivate psychological empowerment and enhance employee performance
Authors: Yao Qing , Chen Rong , Cai Guoliang
Published: May 2013

We examined the impact of psychological empowerment on employee loyalty, satisfaction, and task performance with survey data from 617 employees of a petrochemical company in China. Results based on a structural equation model showed that psychological empowerment had a significant positive
effect on both employee loyalty and task performance, which was partially mediated by employee satisfaction. In addition, we found that psychological empowerment was significantly and positively influenced by each dimension of internal marketing.
The nonfungibility of mental accounting: A revision
Authors: Gou Yuntong , Jiang Yuan , Rui Li , Miao Danmin , Peng Jiaxi
Published: May 2013

Nonfungibility is taken to be the fundamental characteristic of mental accounting. We put forward the hypothesis that nonfungibility is not absolute: that there is a flow of money from an account containing consumer items of low psychological value to an account containing consumer
items of high psychological value. To evaluate the hypothesis we designed 2 related experiments, and invited 236 undergraduates and 240 male workers to participate in the research. It was shown in Study 1 that there was a flow of money from a luxury account to either a communication or a food
account, and from a communication account to a food account, but not in the opposite directions. In Study 2 it was found that with the increased attractiveness of a gamble, the flow of money into an entertainment account from other accounts became more likely. The results in this study offer
preliminary evidence of the agility of mental accounts.
Teachers' deviant workplace behaviors: Scale development
Authors: Ünal Ali
Published: May 2013

In this study, I outlined the development, and testing of the reliability and validity, of a Teachers' Workplace Deviance Behavior Scale (TWDBS). Data were obtained from 3,201 teachers working in the central districts of Konya, Turkey. The scale consists of 4 subdimensions, that is,
interpersonal deviance, education deviance, time deviance, and collaboration deviance. The TWDBS scale has been shown to have reliability and validity for use in identifying teachers' deviant behaviors in the workplace.
A longitudinal study of children's theory of mind, self-concept, and perceptions of humor in self and other
Authors: Bosacki Sandra L.
Published: May 2013

Longitudinal relationships among theory of mind (ToM) understanding, self-perceptions, and perceptions of humor were explored in 28 school-aged children. Theory of mind, perceptions of self, and of humor in self and other were assessed at Time 1 and 2 years later at Time 2. Longitudinal
findings showed significant correlations between T2 humor-self and T1 physical-self (r = −.469, p = .012; T1 humor-self r = −.165, ns), whereas no relationships were found in other directions (T2 physical-self and T1 humor-self, r = −.153,
ns; T2 physical-self and T2 humor-self, r = .269, ns). Implications for socioemotional and cognitive development are discussed.
The impact of substitutes for leadership on job satisfaction and performance
Authors: Xu Xiao-Dong , Zhong Jian An , Wang Xiao-Yan
Published: May 2013

We analyzed the effects of leadership substitute factors on job satisfaction and performance of knowledge workers, based on existing studies on substitutes for leadership. The data were collected from 130 knowledge workers in China via survey questionnaires based on a modified version
of the 41-item scale revised by Podsakoff and MacKenzie (1994), a performance scale based on the dimensions of task performance and contextual performance as classified by Motowildo, Borman, and Schmit (1997), and also used in research conducted by Sun and Jiao (2002), and the Minnesota Satisfaction
Questionnaire (Weiss, Dawis, England, & Lofquist, 1967). The findings showed that 7 of the 13 variables of the model of substitutes for leadership proposed by Kerr and Jermier (1978) had positive effects on the job satisfaction and performance of the knowledge workers who took part in
this study.