bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What Is Common Knowledge?
Authors: Ernst Zachary 
Published: November 2011

AbstractCommon knowledge is usually defined as a state in which everyone knows that p, everyone knows that everyone knows that p, and so on, ad infinitum. This definition is usually attributed to David Lewis, despite the fact that his own formulation bears no resemblance to common knowledge as it is usually understood. In this paper, I argue that this concept of common knowledge requires revision. Contrary to usual practice, it turns out to be difficult to model formally because existing models fail to distinguish between full-blown common knowledge and merely finite levels of interactive knowledge. Conceptually, the concept is incompatible with Lewis's intended purpose and obscures the explanatory role played by rational choice models. I propose that the concept of common knowledge be brought better into alignment with Lewis's actual formulation. This reconceptualization of common knowledge suggests a greater focus on explanations that make recourse to the cognitive constraints of real-world agents.
Why the Empty Shells Were Not Fired: A Semi-Bibliographical Note
Authors: Gilboa Itzhak 
Published: November 2011

AbstractThis note documents Aumann's reason for omitting the “empty shells” argument for the common prior assumption from the final version of “Correlated Equilibrium as an Expression of Bayesian Rationality.” It then continues to discuss the argument and concludes that rational entities cannot learn their own identity; if they do not know it a priori, they never will.
L'étude géographique de la mortalité : bilan et problèmes
Authors: Noin Daniel 
Published: November 2011

The Geographical Study of Mortality, Assessment and Problems.

1) This paper first deals with a brief assessment of works published. For the observation of inequalities, assessment is relatively ample, but in their explanation, evaluation remains scant.
2) It deals next with the problems posed by the geographical study of mortality. The data present the first problem by their lack of validity in many countries. The question of indicators loses its accuracy. The use of the micro-scale requires serious precaution. The analysis of mortality by sex, age and cause of death must also be studied with precaution to avoid the risk of random results. The most difficult problems however concern the search for causes ; the geographical approach cannot resolve alone the question of cause ; at some time or other, it must give way to other approaches.
Influence of Selection Bias on the Test Decision
Authors: Cramer E. , Kennes L. N. , Heussen N. , Tamm M. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryBackground: Selection bias arises in clinical trials by reason of selective assignment of patients to treatment groups. Even in randomized clinical trials with allocation concealment this phenomenon can occur if future assignments can be predicted due to knowledge of former allocations.Objectives: Considering unmasked randomized clinical trials with allocation concealment the impact of selection bias on type I error rate under permuted block randomization is investigated. We aimed to extend the existing research into this topic by including practical assumptions concerning misclassification of patient characteristics to get an estimate of type I error close to clinical routine. To establish an upper bound for the type I error rate different biasing strategies of the investigator are compared first. In addition, the aspect of patient availability is considered.Methods: To evaluate the influence of selection bias on type I error rate under several practical situations, different block sizes, selection effects, biasing strategies and success rates of patient classification were simulated using SAS.Results: Type I error rate exceeds 5 percent significance level; it reaches values up to 21 percent. More cautious biasing strategies and misclassification of patient characteristics may diminish but cannot eliminate selection bias. The number of screened patients is about three times larger than the needed number for the trial.Conclusions: Even in unmasked randomized clinical trials using permuted block randomization with allocation concealment the influence of selection bias must not be disregarded evaluating the test decision. It should be incorporated when designing and reporting a clinical trial.
Effects of a Self-Determination Theory–Based Mail-Mediated Intervention on Adults' Exercise Behavior
Authors: Levy Susan S. , Cardinal Bradley J. 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. To examine the effect of a mail-mediated intervention, based on self-determination theory, on adults' exercise behavior. Methods. The study was a randomized control trial conducted over a 2-month period. Of the initial 185 volunteer participants, 126 (68.1%) completed questionnaires at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months. Participants in intervention-only and intervention-plus-booster groups received a mail-delivered packet containing strategies designed to promote perceptions of autonomy, competence, and relatedness regarding exercise. Those in a control group received an American Heart Association physical-activity facts packet. After 1 month, those in the intervention-plus-booster group received a booster postcard, reiterating the main points of the initial intervention packet. Exercise behavior was the primary outcome variable. Perceptions of autonomy, competence, and relatedness were evaluated as mediating variables. Results. Separate 3 (group) × 3 (time) repeated measures analyses of variance conducted for men and women revealed that for women, all three groups significantly increased exercise levels over the 2-month period. No significant interactions were found regarding the influence of the intervention on the mediating variables. A process evaluation indicated a lack of compliance regarding completing intervention-packet worksheets. Discussion. Findings suggested that more intensive interventions and greater fidelity of treatment may be needed to evidence change in exercise behavior.
The Relationships between Delivery Agents' Physical Activity Level and the Likelihood of Implementing a Physical Activity Program
Authors: Estabrooks Paul , Bradshaw Michael , Fox Elizabeth , Berg Joseph , Dzewaltowski David A. 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. To determine the relationships between delivery agents' physical activity characteristics and subsequent adoption of a physical activity promotion program for community implementation. Methods. Agents responsible for county health promotion in Kansas (n = 91; 94.5% women; mean age = 43.0 ± 11) completed interviews that assessed physical activity self-efficacy, value, and participation. Subsequent implementation of a physical activity program was monitored. The response rate was 100%. Results. Fifty-five percent of the agents met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for physical activity, 35% were active but did not meet CDC recommendations, and 10% were inactive. On the basis of logistic regression analysis (Wald statistic = 7.63; p < .05), agents who met recommendations were more likely to adopt the program for their county (69%) than were agents who were less active (41%) and inactive (11%). Discussion. The data suggest that increasing the proportion of delivery agents who meet the CDC recommendations for physical activity could be related with a higher proportion of communities implementing physical activity programs.
Unsafe to Play? Neighborhood Disorder and Lack of Safety Predict Reduced Physical Activity among Urban Children and Adolescents
Authors: Molnar Beth E. , Gortmaker Steven L. , Bull Fiona C. , Buka Stephen L. 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. Lack of physical activity is associated with increased risk of overweight and cardiovascular disease, conditions associated with lower socioeconomic status (SES). Associations between activity levels of urban youth and limited access to safe recreation areas in their neighborhoods of residence were investigated. Design. Analyses of data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods, a multilevel longitudinal study of families and communities, are reported. Setting. Chicago, Illinois. Subjects. Individual-level data were obtained from 1378 youth 11 to 16 years old and caregivers living in 80 neighborhood clusters. Neighborhood-level data were collected from 8782 community residents and videotapes of 15,141 block faces. Measures. Parental estimates of hours youth spent in recreational programming were used to estimate physical activity. A scale of residents' assessment of neighborhood safety for children's play was created; disorder measures came from videotaped observations. Results. Physical activity averaged 2.7 hours/week (SD = 5.0), varying significantly across neighborhoods. Using hierarchical linear regression, SES, age, and male gender, but not body mass index, were independently associated with physical activity. Lower neighborhood safety and social disorder were significantly associated with less activity, controlling for demographics. Conclusions. One mechanism for reduced physical activity among youth may be the influence of unsafe neighborhoods. Neighborhood interventions to increase safety and reduce disorder may be efficacious in increasing physical activity, thereby reducing risk of overweight and cardiovascular disease.
Best Practice in Group-Based Smoking Cessation: Results of a Literature Review Applying Effectiveness, Plausibility, and Practicality Criteria
Authors: Manske Steve , Miller Susan , Moyer Cheryl , Phaneuf Marie Rose , Cameron Roy 
Published: November 2011

Objective. Apply a “best practices” model to evidence regarding group smoking cessation to inform organizational decisions about adopting such programs. The best-practices model attempts to integrate rigorous review of evidence with context and practical considerations important to organizations contemplating adoption. Data Sources. First, we identified effective practices by systematic literature review with two blinded reviewers to (1) search databases (99.8% agreement), (2) hand search journals with five or more papers selected in first step (99.9% agreement), (3) search reference lists of included papers (99.4% agreement), and (4) contact published experts. Second, model programs, theory, and expert opinion suggested plausible practices. Finally, a practitioner-researcher advisory group suggested practical considerations affecting adoption decisions. Study Selection. All 67 studies included in the review met six requirements: (1) peer reviewed, (2) primary studies, (3) using experimental or quasi-experimental design, (4) compared one or more smoking-cessation interventions that involved two or more group sessions, (5) studied persons 18+ years old, and (6) reported ≥ 6-month point prevalence or continuous abstinence outcomes. Data Extraction. Two independent raters assessed study quality (89.5% agreement). Effective practices consistently exhibited a statistically significant effect. Plausible practices showed consistency across three types of evidence. An advisory group based practicality criteria on critical review and experience. Data Synthesis. Two practices were rated effective: multicomponent behavioral intervention and nicotine replacement therapy. Five practices received plausible ratings: components of behavioral skills, information about smoking, self-monitoring, social support, and four or more sessions of 60 to 90 minutes. The Advisory Group identified 11 practicality questions to assist organizations to make adoption decisions regarding effective and plausible practices. Conclusions. No research evidence guides potential smoking-cessation program adopters regarding program participants, providers, settings, or quality assurance. Reviews to influence practice must consider science and practice (context) to facilitate adoption of best practices.
The Strength Ezine: An Application of E-Mail for Health Promotion in Adolescent Girls
Authors: Abroms Lorien C. , Fagan Pebbles , Eisenberg Marla E. , Lee Hye-Seung H. , Remba Natania , Sorensen Glorian 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. Few studies have investigated the efficacy of e-mail for promoting behavior change. This study evaluates the participation in and outcomes associated with an e-mail-based health promotion program. Methods. Adolescent girls aged 15 to 17 years were recruited at a shopping mall. Participants with an e-mail address were assigned to the interactive e-mail magazine (Ezine) group (n = 37), whereas those not reporting an e-mail address were assigned to the non-Ezine group (n = 33). Participants in the Ezine group received the health Ezine, which included a quiz and an advice column, on a weekly basis. Results. Results indicate that among the Ezine group, there was a high recall of the Ezine (81.1%), and more than one third of the participants replied to Ezine volumes with quiz answers or an advice question (36.6%). Differences in health behavior change between the Ezine and non-Ezine groups were not significant. Conclusions. E-mails on health-related matters can generate moderate levels of involvement in adolescent girls. Given the widespread use of e-mail, more studies are needed on the effective application of e-mail for health behavior change.
Team Awareness, Problem Drinking, and Drinking Climate: Workplace Social Health Promotion in a Policy Context
Authors: Bennett Joel B. , Patterson Camille R. , Reynolds G. Shawn , Wiitala Wyndy L. , Lehman Wayne E. K. 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. (1) To determine the effectiveness of classroom health promotion/prevention training designed to improve work climate and alcohol outcomes; (2) to assess whether such training contributes to improvements in problem drinking beyond standard workplace alcohol policies. Design. A cross-sectional survey assessed employee problem drinking across three time periods. This was followed by a prevention intervention study; work groups were randomly assigned to an 8-hour training course in workplace social health promotion (Team Awareness), a 4-hour informational training course, or a control group. Surveys were administered 2 to 4 weeks before and after training and 6 months after posttest. Setting and Subjects. Employees were surveyed from work departments in a large municipality of 3000 workers at three points in time (year, sample, and response rates are shown): (1) 1992, n = 1081, 95%; (2) 1995, n = 856, 97%; and (3) 1999, n = 587, 73%. Employees in the 1999 survey were recruited from safety-sensitive departments and were randomly assigned to receive the psychosocial (n = 201), informational (n = 192), or control (n = 194) condition. Intervention. The psychosocial program (Team Awareness) provided skills training in peer referral, team building, and stress management. Informational training used a didactic review of policy, employee assistance, and drug testing. Measures. Self-reports measured alcohol use (frequency, drunkenness, hangovers, and problems) and work drinking climate (enabling, responsiveness, drinking norms, stigma, and drink with coworkers). Results. Employees receiving Team Awareness reduced problem drinking from 20% to 11% and working with or missing work because of a hangover from 16% to 6%. Information-trained workers also reduced problem drinking from 18% to 10%. These rates of change contrast with changes in problem drinking seen from 1992 (24%) to 1999 (17%). Team Awareness improvements differed significantly from control subjects, which showed no change at 13%. Employees receiving Team Awareness also showed significant improvements in drinking climate. For example, scores on the measure of coworker enabling decreased from pretest (mean = 2.19) to posttest (mean = 2.05) and follow up (mean = 1.94). Posttest measures of drinking climate also predicted alcohol outcomes at 6 months. Conclusion. Employers should consider the use of prevention programming as an enhancement to standard drug-free workplace efforts. Team Awareness training targets work group social health, aligns with employee assistance efforts, and contributes to reductions in problem drinking.
Neighborhood Design and Rates of Walking and Biking to Elementary School in 34 California Communities
Authors: Braza Mark , Shoemaker Wendy , Seeley Anne 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. This study evaluates the relationship between neighborhood design and rates of students walking and biking to elementary school. Design. Pairwise correlations and multiple regression models were estimated based on a cross-sectional study of elementary schools and their surrounding neighborhoods. Setting and Subjects. Thirty-four (23%) of 150 California public elementary schools holding October 1999 Walk to School Day events participated in the study. Measures. Teachers asked fifth-grade students how they arrived to school 1 week before Walk to School Day. 1990 U.S. Census data measured population density and number of intersections per street mile, whereas 1998–1999 California Department of Education data measured school size, the percentage of students receiving public welfare, and the percentage of students of various ethnicities. Results. Population density (p = .000) and school size (p = .053) were significantly associated with walking and biking rates in regression models controlling for number of intersections per street mile, the percentage of students receiving public welfare, and the percentage of students of various ethnicities. The number of intersections per street mile was associated with walking and biking rates in pairwise correlations (p = .003) but not in regression models. Conclusions. The results support the hypothesis that the walking and biking rates are higher in denser neighborhoods and to smaller schools but do not support the hypothesis that rates are higher in neighborhoods with a high number of intersections per street mile. We suggest that detailed data for a larger sample of students would allow statistical models to isolate the effect of specific design characteristics.
Stage of Change Movement across Three Health Behaviors: The Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: O'Hea Erin L. , Boudreaux Edwin D. , Jeffries Shawn K. , Taylor Cindy L. Carmack , Scarinci Isabel C. , Brantley Phillip J. 
Published: November 2011

Purpose. In this study, we examined the influence of self-efficacy in predicting stage of change (SOC) movement, without intervention, over a 1-month period for smoking cessation, exercise adoption, and dietary fat reduction. Design. The design of this study was longitudinal. Patients' stage of change and self-efficacy were assessed at baseline, and stage of change was reassessed at a 1-month follow-up. Patients were categorized as (1) Regressors (moved backward at least one stage), (2) Stables (no change), or (3) Progressors (moved forward at least one stage). Chi-square analyses were used to determine the ability of self-efficacy to predict stage movement at 1-month follow-up. Setting. The data were collected at a large, inner city, academic hospital in the southeastern United States. Patients were attending primary care clinics. Subjects. Five hundred fifty-four low income, predominantly African-American, individuals attending primary care clinics were participants in the study. Measures. Previously validated scales of stage of change and self-efficacy from Prochaska's laboratory were used in this study. Results. Results showed statistically significant differences between predicted and actual SOC movement for smoking cessation, exercise adoption, and dietary fat intake reduction. Baseline self-efficacy ratings were significantly related to stage progression, regression, and stability of stage of change for all three health behaviors. Thirty-seven percent of smokers who were predicted to progress on the basis of their self-efficacy scores progressed. For exercise adoption and dietary fat reduction, 50% and 44%, respectively, of individuals expected to progress at least one stage on the basis of self-efficacy scores progressed. Conclusion. Self-efficacy influences SOC movement for smoking cessation, dietary fat reduction, and exercise adoption.
Comparison of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Dental Safety from Eight Countries at the Turn of the Century
Authors: Puttaiah Raghunath , Miller Kierste , Bedi Raman , Shetty Sadashiva , Almas Khalid , Tse Edwin , Kim Byoung Ock , Youngblood Dennis , Minquan Du 
Published: November 2011

ABSTRACT

Objective
To compare infection control (IC) knowledge, attitudes and practice of dentists across eight countries.

Methods
Self-administered infection control surveys were completed by 1,874 clinicians in eight countries. Practitioner's knowledge, attitudes, and practice of infection control were examined using over 100 variables. Chi-squared statistics (á = 0.05) were used to compare respondents from different national groups.

Results
Immunizations rates varied significantly across the eight countries (p < 0.01) with Asian countries having a lower rate of immunization against HBV than the United States practitioners. Perceived risk of acquiring HIV varied significantly across the study groups (p < 0.01); China had the lowest portion (75%). Dentists in the US reported 92% surface barrier use; only 15% in China reported use. Only 58% of practitioners in Pakistan reportedly used disposable exam gloves; 97% of US practitioners regularly use these gloves. For all groups assessed, including the United States, little over 50% of practitioners understood and practiced Universal/Standard (UP/SP) precautions effectively.
Conclusion: Analyses from this study suggest that the dental IC knowledge and practice varied widely across the eight countries of interest. Many of the countries were found to have barriers to access IC materials. Results indicate that all eight countries could use improved education standards for universal precautions.
Clinical significance: Knowledge, attitudes and practice of dental safety vary in different parts of the world. This study compares the compliance rates in dental safety among countries and pegs them to the level of practice in the United States. This study also provides evidence-based data on the needs in the regions surveyed and could be used to implement remedial educational measures in improving safe practices.
How to cite this article: Puttaiah R, Miller K, Bedi R, Shetty S, Almas K, Tse E, Kim BO, Youngblood D, Minquan D. Comparison of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Dental Safety from Eight Countries at the Turn of the Century. J Contemp Dent Pract 2011;12(1):1-7.