bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust Calibration Transfer in Noninvasive Ethanol Measurements, Part II: Modification of Instrument Measurements by Incorporation of Expert Knowledge (MIMIK)
Authors: Ridder Trent D. , Steeg Benjamin J. Ver , Laaksonen Bentley D. , Radigan William T.
Published: July 2014

Several calibration transfer methods require measurement of a subset of the calibration samples on each future instrument, which is impractical in some applications. Another consideration is that these methods model inter-instrument spectral differences implicitly rather than explicitly. The present work argues that explicit knowledge of the origins of inter-instrument spectral distortions can benefit calibration transfer during the fabrication and assembly of instrumentation, the formation of the multivariate regression, and its subsequent transfer to future instruments. In Part I of this work, a Fourier transform near-infrared system designed to perform noninvasive ethanol measurements was discussed and equations describing the optical distortions caused by self-apodization, retroreflector misalignment, and off-axis detector field of view were provided and examined using laboratory measurements. The spectral distortions were shown to be nonlinear in the amplitude and wavenumber domains, and thus cannot be compensated by simple wavenumber calibration procedures or background correction. Part II presents a calibration transfer method that combines in vivo data with controlled amounts of optical distortions in order to develop a multivariate regression model that is robust to instrument variation. Evaluation of the method using clinical data showed improved measurement accuracy, outlier detection, and generalization to future instruments relative to simple background correction.
Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges for the Spectroscopic Detection of Explosive Threats
Authors: Fountain Augustus W. , Christesen Steven D. , Moon Raphael P. , Guicheteau Jason A. , Emmons Erik D.
Published: July 2014

In 2010, the U.S. Army initiated a program through the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center to identify viable spectroscopic signatures of explosives and initiate environmental persistence, fate, and transport studies for trace residues. These studies were ultimately designed to integrate these signatures into algorithms and experimentally evaluate sensor performance for explosives and precursor materials in existing chemical point and standoff detection systems. Accurate and validated optical cross sections and signatures are critical in benchmarking spectroscopic-based sensors. This program has provided important information for the scientists and engineers currently developing trace-detection solutions to the homemade explosive problem. With this information, the sensitivity of spectroscopic methods for explosives detection can now be quantitatively evaluated before the sensor is deployed and tested.
Traumas of Acting Physical and Psychological Violence: How Fact and Fiction Shape Bodies for Better or Worse
Authors: Seton Mark Cariston
Published: July 2014

Violation and injury (both physical and psychological) are aspects of life and therefore figure significantly; not only in much dramatic storytelling, but also in the life circumstances that doctors, nurses, emergency professionals and even the military encounter. However, in theatrical, cinematic or simulated performance of violence, little attention is paid to possible traumatization of participants and those who witness such dramatizations. Such performances are deemed merely fictions or simulations, and are therefore considered benign. However, experts in trauma have found that the body does not distinguish between cognitively understood fiction and perceived experience. Therefore, management of traumatization requires both cognitive awareness and embodied engagement with the possibilities of traumatization. What is needed is greater duty of care in preparing those participating in theatrical, cinematic and simulated performances of violence to become more resiliently vulnerable, so that they can support themselves and their peers in negotiating the inevitability of trauma.
Quietude, Restlessness and Uproar: Towards an Ethics of Speech and Silence in ‘In Eldersfield, Chapter One: Elegy for Paul Dirac’
Authors: Bowes Simon
Published: July 2014

The article is presented as a response to a recent work which I co-devised and in which I performed. It is intended to draw correlations between performance and ethical philosophy to explore speech and silence as potentially traumatic encounters with the Other. Elegy at once reveals and obscures the physicist Paul Dirac, a legendarily taciturn figure, in response to the following anecdote: sitting in the laboratory at St. John’s College, Cambridge, a colleague asked him: ‘Where are you going on your holidays?’ Twenty minutes later, he replied: ‘Why do you want to know?’ Staging this silence and stillness in real time, in the middle of an hour-long show, Elegy implicitly suggests Dirac’s quietude as a response to trauma. The article also reflects on Elegy to reconsider the virtues of patience and passivity in a performance culture increasingly defined by an immediacy of response and of proliferating new modes of agency.
Book Reviews
Authors: Jeffers Alison , Sprio Margherita
Published: July 2014

Trauma-Tragedy: Symptoms of contemporary performance, Patrick Duggan (2012) Manchester: Manchester University Press, 240 pp., ISBN 978 0 7190 8542 0, hbk, £60.00

Seeing Witness: Visuality and the ethics of testimony, Jane Blocker (2009) Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press, 153 pp., ISBN 978-0-8166-5476-5, pbk, $25.00
Laughter and Trauma: Making Sense of Colonial Violence
Authors: Casey Maryrose
Published: July 2014

Aboriginal Australian performances, created from within their own traditional practices, have often dealt with aspects of European colonization and racism in a humorous manner. There are numerous accounts of these, including performances that were satirical and which treated traumatic acts of racialized violence in Australia in a comedic form. Indeed, Aboriginal audiences are documented as laughing uproariously at these performances. Examples include performances from Arnhem Land in the north, which centred on white men abducting women for sexual use; others from Stradbroke Island, off the coast of Queensland, include the ways in which the Europeans in the volunteer land army used their training and arms to kill Aboriginal people. This article examines the translation of traumatic events into comedic performances in the context of the major trauma of colonization, illustrating the particular manner by which humour offers ways of acting out and dealing with events that cause communal and individual traumas.
Factores que impiden la aplicación de las tecnologías en el aula
Authors: Chacón Rojas Gerardo , Yañez José Antonio , Fernández Cárdenas Juan Manuel
Published: July 2014

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cuyo propósito fue identificar los factores que impiden a los docentes la aplicación de los recursos tecnológicos en el aula. La investigación se realizó con la participación de docentes, padres de familia y alumnos del Centro Educativo Alto Quebradón del municipio de San Vicente del Caguán, Caquetá, Colombia. Para llevar a cabo el estudio, se utilizó un enfoque mixto al emplear instrumentos y análisis tanto del enfoque cuantitativo (encuesta) como del cualitativo (observaciones, diarios de campo y entrevistas estructuradas) Este proceso de investigación fue de gran importancia para la labor docente ya que permitió conocer algunas falencias de tipo administrativo y funcional, que dificultan en la zona rural la aplicación de diferentes recursos tecnológicos que facilitan los procesos de socialización y comunicación de la información. En el estudio se evidencia que factores como la falta de capacitación en el uso de diferentes herramientas tecnológicas al igual que la falta de infraestructura tecnológica impiden que los docentes empleen este tipo de elementos en los diferentes procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje.
Diseño y ejecución de actividades para la estimulación en conciencia fonológicaen los niveles deprejardín y jardín
Authors: Varela Osorio Karen , Viecco Reyes Silvana , Florez Trochez Silvia Liliana
Published: July 2014

El presente artículo pretende dar a conocer los resultados de una experiencia de investigación desarrollada durante los años 2011 y 2012 en los grados pre-jardín y jardín de dos instituciones privadas de la ciudad de Barranquilla. Su objetivo general fue desarrollar experticia en el diseño y ejecución de actividades para la estimulación de habilidades de Conciencia Fonológica. El proyecto se llevó a cabo con nueve docentes de preescolar a quienes se les aplicó una encuesta y entrevistas a profundidad. Se observaron las clases de estas docentes y se diseñaron actividades en conjunto (investigadores-docentes). Asimismo, cada docente particpante llevó un diario de campo. Este proyecto permitió a las participantes profundizar en los referentes conceptuales que soportan los fundamentos teóricos y prácticos para el trabajo con los niños al estructurar un modelo de trabajo para docentes de pre-jardín y jardín a partir del desarrollo afectivo, cognitivo, sensorial, motor y del lenguaje, y proponer actividades pertinentes por cada habilidad y segmento sonoro del habla. Este trabajo permitió hacer una propuesta final donde se pudo especificar el número de sesiones, el tiempo por actividad y cantidad de repeticiones al que debe enfrentarse cada niño para alcanzar y mantener la habilidad por segmento sonoro.
Reflexiones acerca de la enseñanza de la geografía en el Departamento del Atlántico
Authors: Llanos Henríquez Efraín
Published: July 2014

En este trabajo se hace un análisis de la problemática de la enseñanza de la Geografía en el departamento del Atlántico, Colombia, la cual desde hace muchas décadas afecta a esta disciplina escolar y está aún lejos de ser superada. Se enfatiza en los factores que la producen, en su incidencia en la baja calidad de la educación y se finaliza con unas conclusiones y recomendaciones que pretenden contribuir con la superación de esta problemática. Es un ensayo descriptivo y explicativo, sustentado en una extensa investigación bibliográfica, en encuestas y entrevistas realizadas tanto a profesores como estudiantes, en visitas y observaciones a diferentes instituciones educativas y en la experiencia personal del autor en su calidad de profesor de Geografía en los niveles medio y superior.
La competencia escritural en estudiantes de quinto grado como resultado de un programa de acompañamiento pedagógico relacionado con la estética del lenguaje: la poesía
Authors: Puello Viloria Dagoberto
Published: July 2014

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cuyo objetivo fue determinar la eficacia de un programa de acompañamiento pedagógico relacionado con la estética del lenguaje, la poesía. Mediante un enfoque cuantitativo, y sustentado en el diseño cuasi – experimental, de comparación de grupos con medición pretest - postest, se encontraron mejoras significativas en tres niveles de escritura A, B y D (coherencia local, global y pragmática), del grupo experimental en comparación con el grupo control. Al realizar el análisis de las puntuaciones postest entre los dos grupos se obtuvo una mejora significativa en el grupo experimental. A partir de estos resultados, se puede asumir la hipótesis alterna de trabajo: la aplicación de un programa de acompañamiento pedagógico relacionado con la estética del lenguaje, la poesía, contribuye significativamente al desarrollo de un mayor nivel de la competencia escritural.
Reflexiones en una comunidad de práctica sobre la elaboración de preguntas
Authors: Escudero Trujillo Rafael , Rojas Álvarez Carlos
Published: July 2014

En el presente artículo se recogen las reflexiones en una comunidad de práctica, formada por profesores de diversas divisiones de la Universidad del Norte, sobre la elaboración de preguntas. Este evento fue realizado durante el año 2012 con el apoyo del Centro de Excelencia Docente (CEDU) y tuvo como propósito reflexionar sobre la estructura de preguntas tipo test con base en el método de instrucción por pares, el modelo de evidencias del ICFES y el modelo de la Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).
Recursos educativos digitales para la educación infantil(REDEI)
Authors: De Castro de Castro Adela Esther , Borjas Mónica , Ricardo Carmen , Herrera Mariela , Vergara Eliana
Published: July 2014

El siguiente artículo de investigación presenta una descripción de la investigación y el proceso de creación, diseño y publicación del primer banco de recursos educativos digitales para primera infancia del país. Su resultado fue el diseño de un espacio virtual con recursos educativos digitales para promover el desarrollo de las competencias de los niños de transición en preescolar y primer grado de primaria. Para llevar a cabo el proyecto, se trabajó durante dos años en modalidad de colectivo de investigación, bajo el paradigma positivista en una investigación de corte científico-técnico. En dicho tiempo se desarrollaron rejillas de evaluación y catalogación para los recursos, actividades sugeridas para los docentes y una base teórica que sustenta el trabajo. De dicho proyecto se obtuvo como resultado un espacio web de libre acceso, con recursos educativos digitales catalogados por competencias y nutridos, algunos de ellos, con actividades de guía para docentes, así como un documento escrito en el cual se encuentra consignada la experiencia y, por último, pero no menos importante, el presente artículo de investigación.
Enseñanza y evaluación de la escritura en la universidad: análisis de prácticas declaradas de docentes franceses y colombianos
Authors: Escorcia Dyanne , Moreno Mayilín , Campo Kiara , Palacios Jorge
Published: July 2014

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación que tuvo por objetivo analizar las representaciones de los docentes universitarios sobre sus prácticas de enseñanza y de evaluación de la escritura académica. Para ello, fueron realizadas entrevistas semiestructuradas a diez profesores de la carrera de Psicología en una institución colombiana y otra francesa, en torno a dos temas: los consejos dados a los estudiantes para realizar sus trabajos escritos y los criterios de evaluación para juzgar dichos trabajos. El conjunto de participantes declaró asumir diversas maneras de enseñanza de la escritura en sus asignaturas, focalizándose principalmente en una perspectiva discursiva centrada en la instrucción de ciertas normas de los escritos académicos. Igualmente, aparecen ciertas discordancias entre la enseñanza y la evaluación de la escritura en cuanto a la función cognitiva del lenguaje escrito y a su dimensión lingüística, al igual que ciertas diferencias entre las muestras con relación a los métodos para enseñar a escribir.
Molecular basis of crosstalk between oncogenic Ras and the master regulator of hematopoiesis GATA‐2
Authors: Katsumura Koichi R , Yang Chenxi , Boyer Meghan E , Li Lingjun , Bresnick Emery H
Published: July 2014

Disease mutations provide unique opportunities to decipher protein and cell function. Mutations in the master regulator of hematopoiesis GATA‐2 underlie an immunodeficiency associated with myelodysplastic syndrome and leukemia. We discovered that a GATA‐2 disease mutant (T354M) defective in chromatin binding was hyperphosphorylated by p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase. p38 also induced multisite phosphorylation of wild‐type GATA‐2, which required a single phosphorylated residue (S192). Phosphorylation of GATA‐2, but not T354M, stimulated target gene expression. While crosstalk between oncogenic Ras and GATA‐2 has been implicated as an important axis in cancer biology, its mechanistic underpinnings are unclear. Oncogenic Ras enhanced S192‐dependent GATA‐2 phosphorylation, nuclear foci localization, and transcriptional activation. These studies define a mechanism that controls a key regulator of hematopoiesis and a dual mode of impairing GATA‐2‐dependent genetic networks: mutational disruption of chromatin occupancy yielding insufficient GATA‐2, and oncogenic Ras‐mediated amplification of GATA‐2 activity.
METABOLIC PHENOTYPING GUIDELINES: Assessing glucose homeostasis in rodent models
Authors: Bowe James E , Franklin Zara J , Hauge-Evans Astrid C , King Aileen J , Persaud Shanta J , Jones Peter M
Published: July 2014

The pathophysiology of diabetes as a disease is characterised by an inability to maintain normal glucose homeostasis. In type 1 diabetes, this is due to autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic β-cells and subsequent lack of insulin production, and in type 2 diabetes it is due to a combination of both insulin resistance and an inability of the β-cells to compensate adequately with increased insulin release. Animal models, in particular genetically modified mice, are increasingly being used to elucidate the mechanisms underlying both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and as such the ability to study glucose homeostasisin vivohas become an essential tool. Several techniques exist for measuring different aspects of glucose tolerance and each of these methods has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Thus the appropriate methodology may vary from study to study depending on the desired end-points, the animal model, and other practical considerations. This review outlines the most commonly used techniques for assessing glucose tolerance in rodents and details the factors that should be taken into account in their use. Representative scenarios illustrating some of the practical considerations of designingin vivoexperiments for the measurement of glucose homeostasis are also discussed.
20 YEARS OF LEPTIN: Role of leptin in human reproductive disorders
Authors: Chou Sharon H , Mantzoros Christos
Published: July 2014

Leptin, as a key hormone in energy homeostasis, regulates neuroendocrine function, including reproduction. It has a permissive role in the initiation of puberty and maintenance of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. This is notable in patients with either congenital or acquired leptin deficiency from a state of chronic energy insufficiency. Hypothalamic amenorrhea is the best-studied, with clinical trials confirming a causative role of leptin in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Implications of leptin deficiency have also emerged in the pathophysiology of hypogonadism in type 1 diabetes. At the other end of the spectrum, hyperleptinemia may play a role in hypogonadism associated with obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. In these conditions of energy excess, mechanisms of reproductive dysfunction include central leptin resistance as well as direct effects at the gonadal level. Thus, reproductive dysfunction due to energy imbalance at both ends can be linked to leptin.
Solvent Use in Private Research Laboratories in Japan: Comparison with the Use in Public Research Laboratories and on Production Floors in Industries
Authors: Hanada Takaaki , Zaitsu Ai , Kojima Satoshi , Ukai Hirohiko , Nagasawa Yasuhiro , Takada Shiro , Kawakami Takuya , Ohashi Fumiko , Ikeda Masayuki
Published: July 2014

Solvent Use in Private Research Laboratories in Japan: Comparison with the Use in Public Research Laboratories and on Production Floors in Industries: Takaaki HANADA, et al. Kyoto Industrial Health Association—

Background and Objectives

Solvents used in production facility‐affiliated private laboratories have been seldomly reported. This study was initiated to specify solvent use characteristics in private laboratories in comparison with the use in public research laboratories and on production floors. Elucidation of the applicability of conclusions from a public laboratory survey to private institutions is not only of scientific interest but also of practical importance.

Materials:

A survey on use of 47 legally stipulated organic solvents was conducted. The results were compiled for April 2011 to March 2013. Through sorting, data were available for 479 unit workplaces in private laboratories. Similar sorting for April 2012 to March 2013 was conducted for public research laboratories (e.g., national universities) and production floors (in private enterprises) to obtain 621 and 937 cases, respectively. Sampling of workroom air followed by capillary gaschromatographic analyses for solvents was conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Results

More than one solvent was usually detected in the air of private laboratories. With regard to solvent types, acetone, methyl alcohol, chloroform and hexane were prevalently used in private laboratories, and this was similar to the case of public laboratories. Prevalent use of ethyl acetate was unique to private laboratories. Toluene use was less common both in private and public laboratories. The prevalence of administrative control class 1 (i.e., an adequately controlled environment) was higher in laboratories (both private and public) than production floors.

Conclusions

Solvent use patterns are similar in private and public laboratories, except that the use of mixtures of solvents is substantially more popular in private laboratories than in public laboratories.
Lifestyle Status and the Risk of Development of Diabetes Mellitus Type II
Authors: Domapias Lalaine L.
Published: July 2014

Lifestyle status refers to the behaviors or habits or way of living of the UB employees in relation to their dietary practices, physical activities, and personal habits. This study aims to determine the degree of relationship between lifestyle on the development of diabetes. The researchers made use of descriptive, correlative design using a standardized tool for casual blood sugar testing the glucometer, and a researcher-made questionnaire-based health promotion model. Analysis and interpretation of data were based on percentages, mean scores, and Pearson-Product Moment Coefficient and analysis of variance as the statistical treatment to determine the degree of difference in the health status of the respondents in terms of age. In terms of dietary practices, physical activity is described as moderately unhealthy which is attributed to high sweet or sugar and oil/fats which are moderately unhealthy, and lack of aerobic exercises, recreation activities, and engagement in sedentary activities. The extent of risk for employees is the moderate risk for the development of Diabetes Mellitus Type II. There is a significant relationship between lifestyle status and the extent of risk for the development of Diabetes Mellitus Type II. There is a great influence on the lifestyle among the employees and the risk of acquiring diabetes.
Stakeholders' Perceived Satisfaction from the Use of CVCIRRD-Techno Gabay Technology Videos
Authors: Pacatang Jica Ceszaraine O. , Pilongo Leah Wilfreda E. , Fortich Jelinda R.
Published: July 2014

Technology videos in this study served as a medium to disseminate developmental information among farmers, fisherfolks, small-scale entrepreneurs, and community members that were beneficiaries of the tech Gabay Program, a Philippine agricultural livelihood project. This study aimed to find out the utilization of technology videos and perceived satisfaction from the knowledge gained by the above-mentioned stakeholders. It made use of a one-shot survey design and simple random sampling in the respondent selection, frequency, and percentage. Results showed that the majority of the respondents voluntarily used the techno videos which led them to be highly satisfied with the information given. The Study implies the important effect of technology in imparting information.
Academic Performance of Physical Therapy Graduates in the Licensure Examination
Authors: Besa Edralyne Seth B.
Published: July 2014

The academic performance of the Physical Therapy graduates refers to the Grade Percentage Average of the Physical Therapy graduates from all their accumulated major subjects into three groups and their subsequent Licensure Examination results in three the same groups, as well. This Study explores the relationship between the licensure exam score and the academic performance of the graduates of the same groups. The study used documentary analysis of the existing school records as to the GPA of the three groups from the Professional Regulations Commission. It made use of frequencies, percentages, correlation, and analysis of variance of the Licensure Examination Results and Academic Performance (GPA) in the three groups. Results showed that among the three groups, the Physical therapy Applications group has the highest mortality rate. The majority obtained a Fair (GPA of 2.6-3.0) in their academic performance; these are not predictors of passing the licensure Examinations. The Outcome of this study is one of the bases for the curricular review of the courses and program of the Physical Therapy Department of the University of Bohol.
Occlusal Classification in Relation to Original Cleft Width in Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Huang Andrew H. , Patel Kamlesh B. , Maschhoff Clayton W. , Huebener Donald V. , Skolnick Gary B. , Naidoo Sybill D. , Woo Albert S.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To determine a correlation between the width of the cleft palate measured at the time of lip adhesion, definitive lip repair, and palatoplasty and the subsequent occlusal classification of patients born with unilateral cleft lip and palate.

Design

Retrospective, observational study.

Setting

Referral, urban, children's hospital

Participants

Dental models and records of 270 patients were analyzed.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measure

Angle occlusion classification.

Results

The mean age at which occlusal classification was determined was 11 ± 0.3 years. Of the children studies, 84 were diagnosed with Class I or II occlusion, 67 were diagnosed with Class III occlusion, and 119 were lost to follow up or transferred care. Mean cleft widths were significantly larger in subjects with Class III occlusion for all measures at time of lip adhesion and definitive lip repair ( P < .02). At time of palatoplasty, cleft widths were significantly greater at the alveolus ( P = .025) but not at the midportion of the hard palate ( P = .35) or posterior hard palate ( P =. 10).

Conclusion

Cleft widths from the lip through to the posterior hard palate are generally greater in children who are diagnosed with Class III occlusion later in life. Notably, the alveolar cleft width is significantly greater at each time point for patients who went on to develop Class III occlusion. There were no significant differences in cleft widths between patients diagnosed later with Class I and Class II occlusions.
Operative and Immediate Postoperative Outcomes of Using a Latham-Type Dentomaxillary Appliance in Patients with Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Ross Elizabeth , Bruun Richard , Lee Min Kyeong , Shusterman Stephen
Published: July 2014

Objective

The objective of this study is to examine the operative and immediate postoperative effects of the use of a dentomaxillary appliance (DMA).

Design

Retrospective chart review of 40 treated patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate who had a comprehensive set of pre-, peri-, and postoperative records.

Setting

Boston Children's Hospital.

Patients

Forty treated patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate.

Interventions

Use of DMA.

Main Outcome Measures

Outcome variables of interest included cleft lip width reduction following use of DMA and odds of having primary gingivoperiostetoplasty (GPP).

Results

The study sample included 40 subjects (31 boys and 9 girls). The average age at the time of DMA insertion was 11 weeks. The average width of the alveolar cleft prior to DMA insertion was 10.77 mm. The mean cleft width reduction was 8.66 mm. Each 1-mm increase in pre-DMA cleft width was associated with a 0.631-mm reduction in cleft width ( P < .001). Thirty-three patients (82.5%) had a GPP procedure. Each 1-mm increase in post-DMA width was associated with a lower odds of having a GPP (odds ratio = 0.32, 95% confidence interval = 0.14–0.77, P = .01).

Conclusions

Post-DMA width was the significant factor associated with the performance of GPP. The use of DMA is associated with a significant reduction in the width of the cleft, and outcomes are predictable without any major adverse events or complications.
Perceptions of Team Members Working in Cleft Services in the United Kingdom: A Pilot Study
Authors: Scott Julia K. , Leary Sam D. , Ness Andy R. , Sandy Jonathan R. , Persson Martin , Kilpatrick Nicky , Waylen Andrea E.
Published: July 2014

Background

Cleft care provision in the United Kingdom has been centralized over the past 15 years to improve outcomes for children born with cleft lip and palate. However, to date, there have been no investigations to examine how well these multidisciplinary teams are performing.

Methods

In this pilot study, a cross-sectional questionnaire surveyed members of all health care specialties working to provide cleft care in 11 services across the United Kingdom. Team members were asked to complete the Team Work Assessment (TWA) to investigate perceptions of team working in cleft services. The TWA comprises 55 items measuring seven constructs: team foundation, function, performance and skills, team climate and atmosphere, team leadership, and team identity; individual constructs were also aggregated to provide an overall TWA score. Items were measured using five-point Likert-type scales and were converted into percentage agreement for analysis.

Results

Responses were received from members of every cleft team. Ninety-nine of 138 cleft team questionnaires (71.7%) were returned and analyzed. The median (interquartile range) percentage of maximum possible score across teams was 75.5% (70.8, 88.2) for the sum of all items. Team performance and team identity were viewed most positively, with 82.0% (75.0, 88.2) and 88.4% (82.2, 91.4), respectively. Team foundation and leadership were viewed least positively with 79.0% (72.6, 84.6) and 76.6% (70.6, 85.4), respectively.

Conclusions

Cleft team members perceive that their teams work well, but there are variations in response according to construct.
Bilateral Hypodontia in Adolescents with Pierre Robin Sequence
Authors: Andersson Els-Marie , Feragen Kristin Billaud , Mikalsen Daniel , Kaul Juli , Holla Thomas M. , Filip Charles
Published: July 2014

Objective

To describe the frequency of hypodontia and left-right symmetry of hypodontia in the permanent dentition of children with Pierre Robin sequence (PRS).

Patients and Method

The sample consisted of 78 children born with PRS between 1980 and 2006 and referred to the Oslo Cleft Lip and Palate Team (OCLPT). Data were collected retrospectively from the archives of the OCLPT. Panoramic radiographs were evaluated to document hypodontia; third molars were excluded.

Results

Of the 78 children with PRS, hypodontia was found in 33 (42%). Of the 33 children with hypodontia, 27 (82%) showed hypodontia in the micrognathic lower arch, 24 (73%) were missing two or more permanent teeth, and 2 (6%) had oligodontia. The teeth most often missing were the mandibular second premolar (72%), followed by the maxillar second premolar (29%). Most cases of hypodontia 21 (64%) occurred bilaterally. Bilateral hypodontia of the mandibular second premolar occurred in 27 (73%) of the patients.

Conclusion

Hypodontia was found in 33 (42%) of the children with PRS, which is seven times higher than the prevalence among children without PRS (6%). Unlike in the general population, bilateral hypodontia was more common than unilateral hypodontia in the micrognathic mandible of children with PRS.
Scour control at bridge piers using macro-roughness elements
Authors: Pagliara Stefano , Palermo Michele , Azizi Reza
Published: July 2014

A new approach involving macro-roughness elements is proposed as a scour countermeasure at circular bridge piers subject to debris accumulation. Experiments were carried out under clear water conditions with the approaching flow velocity set at the threshold of sediment motion. The efficiency of the method was investigated in terms of scour morphology reduction and temporal scour evolution. The results show the effectiveness of the method in reducing maximum scour depth. In some cases, the elements did not reduce the maximum scour depth but were effective in reducing the volume of the scour hole. Based on the experimental data, empirical equations were derived to estimate the temporal local scour depth in the presence of debris accumulation and macro-roughness elements.
Parasites of Trinidadian guppies: evidence for sex‐ and age‐specific trait‐mediated indirect effects of predators
Authors: Stephenson Jessica F. , van Oosterhout Cock , Mohammed Ryan S. , Cable Joanne
Published: July 2014

Predation pressure can alter the morphology, physiology, life history, and behavior of prey; each of these in turn can change how surviving prey interact with parasites. These trait‐mediated indirect effects may change in direction or intensity during growth or, in sexually dimorphic species, between the sexes. The Trinidadian guppy, Poecilia reticulata presents a unique opportunity to examine these interactions; its behavioral ecology has been intensively studied in wild populations with well‐characterized predator faunas. Predation pressure is known to have driven the evolution of many guppy traits; for example, in high‐predation sites, females (but not males) tend to shoal, and this anti‐predator behavior facilitates parasite transmission. To test for evidence of predator‐driven differences in infection in natural populations, we collected 4715 guppies from 62 sites across Trinidad between 2003 and 2009 and screened them for ectosymbionts, including Gyrodactylus. A novel model‐averaging analysis revealed that females were more likely to be infected with Gyrodactylus parasites than males, but only in populations with both high predation pressure and high infection prevalence. We propose that the difference in shoaling tendency between the sexes could explain the observed difference in infection prevalence between males and females in high‐predation sites. The infection rate of juveniles did not vary with predation regime, probably because juveniles face constant predation pressure from conspecific adults and therefore tend to shoal in both high‐ and low‐predation sites. This represents the first evidence for age‐ and sex‐specific trait‐mediated indirect effects of predators on the probability of infection in their prey.
Female Weddell seals show flexible strategies of colony attendance related to varying environmental conditions
Authors: Chambert Thierry , Rotella Jay J. , Garrott Robert A.
Published: July 2014

Many animal life cycles involve movements among different habitats to fulfill varying resource demands. There are inherent costs associated with such movements, and the decision to leave or stay at a given location ought to be motivated by the benefits associated with potential target habitats. Because movement patterns, especially those associated with reproduction, can have important implications for the success (survival, reproduction) of individual animals, and therefore a population's dynamics, it is important to identify and understand their sources of variation (environmental and individual). Here, using a mark–recapture, multistate modeling approach, we investigated a set of a priori hypotheses regarding sources and patterns of variation in breeding‐colony attendance for Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) females on sabbatical from pup production. For such females, colony attendance might be motivated by predation avoidance and positive social interactions related to reproduction, but some costs, such as reduced foraging opportunities or aggressive interactions with conspecifics, might also exist. We expected these benefits and costs to vary with a female's condition and the environment. Results revealed that the probability of being absent from colonies was higher (1) in years when the extent of local sea ice was larger, (2) for the youngest and oldest individuals, and (3) for females with less reproductive experience. We also found substantial levels of residual individual heterogeneity in these rates. Based on our a priori predictions, we postulate that the decision to attend breeding colonies or not is directly influenced by an individual's physiological condition, as well as by the ice‐covered distance to good foraging areas, availability of predator‐free haul‐out sites, and the level of negative interactions with conspecifics inside colonies. Our results support the idea that in iteroparous species, and colonial animals in particular, seasonal and temporary movements from/to reproductive sites represent flexible behavioral strategies that can play an important role in coping with environmental variability.
Shifting with climate? Evidence for recent changes in tree species distribution at high latitudes
Authors: Boisvert-Marsh Laura , Périé Catherine , de Blois Sylvie
Published: July 2014

Warming has been particularly strong at high latitudes in recent decades and bioclimatic models predict northern shifts in optimal conditions for most species. Climate is a strong predictor of site occupancy for trees at broad spatial scales and interacts with other drivers of forest dynamics. Recent changes in distribution and occupancy patterns should therefore provide the best evidence of a tree species' potential to shift in the direction predicted by bioclimatic models. Studies examining recent distribution changes for plants, however, have mostly done so along altitudinal gradients or have used the latitudinal position of juvenile trees relative to adult ones to infer range dynamics. This study provides rare evidence of latitudinal shifts for 11 northern tree species by assessing recent changes in distribution using globally significant inventories from 1970 to 2002. It also compares observed trends with those inferred from the position of juveniles relative to trees in a single survey. Samplings cover 6456 forest plots in temperate and boreal forests up to treeline in eastern North America. The average overall latitudinal shift was 3.07 ± 4.37 km northward although responses were species‐specific. Shifts were detected more for juvenile than for adult trees and significant northward ones were detected more at northern range limits than at the median. All species demonstrated increased frequency of plot occupancy for saplings while occupancy generally decreased for adult trees. Five out of the 11 species examined (Acer rubrum, Acer saccharum, Betula papyrifera, Fagus grandifolia, and Populus tremuloides) showed significant distributional shifts consistent with northward migration. Saplings of Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, and Picea mariana, on the other hand, showed southward shifting trends. Natural and human disturbances undoubtedly interact with climate to determine forest dynamics; this study shows whether their combined effect can shift distribution in the direction predicted by bioclimatic models. Only continued monitoring will reveal whether these observations are just transient dynamics or indicative of shifting range in this century. Our study provides a benchmark against which to assess future observations of latitudinal shifts for trees.
Expression of Protease Activated Receptor‐1 in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Bueno da Silva Henrique Aparecido , Euzebio Alves Vanessa Tubero , Spolidório Luis Carlos , César Neto João Batista , Eichler Rosangela Santos , Catelli de Carvalho Maria Helena , Holzhausen Marinella
Published: July 2014

Background: Protease activated receptor‐1 (PAR1) activation by thrombin may play a role in repair and homeostasis of periodontal tissues. The main objective of this study is to investigate PAR1 expression in patients with periodontitis, before and after non‐surgical periodontal treatment, and to associate its expression with the presence of inflammatory biomarkers and PAR2 expression.

Methods: Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples and clinical parameters, including probing depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and gingival and plaque indices, were collected from periodontally healthy individuals and patients with moderate chronic periodontitis (CP) before and 6 weeks after periodontal non‐surgical treatment. PAR1 and PAR2 messenger RNA (mRNA) at the GCF were evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Flow cytometry analysis identified the GCF PAR1‐expressing cells. GCF inflammatory biomarkers were also determined.

Results: Clinical parameters were significantly improved after therapy (P <0.01). The qPCR analysis showed that, before therapy, PAR1 mRNA levels in CP were similar to controls. Periodontal treatment led to increased PAR1 expression in CP (P <0.05). PAR1 expression was inversely correlated to PAR2 expression and with interleukins 6 and 8, tumor necrosis factor‐α, interferon‐γ, and matrix metalloproteinase‐2 levels.

Conclusions: Periodontal treatment results in PAR1 overexpression in the GCF, and PAR1 expression is associated with decreased expression of inflammatory biomarkers and inversely correlated to PAR2 expression in the GCF. Therefore, the data suggest the importance of PAR1 mediating the known anabolic actions of thrombin in the periodontium.
Variability in EIT Images of Lung Ventilation as a Function of Electrode Planes and Body Positions
Authors: Zhang Jie , Patterson Robert
Published: July 2014

This study is aimed at investigating the variability in resistivity changes in the lung region as a function of air volume, electrode plane and body position. Six normal subjects (33.8 ± 4.7 years, range from 26 to 37 years) were studied using the Sheffield Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) portable system. Three transverse planes at the level of second intercostal space, the level of the xiphisternal joint, and midway between upper and lower locations were chosen for measurements. For each plane, sixteen electrodes were uniformly positioned around the thorax. Data were collected with the breath held at end expiration and after inspiring 0.5, 1.0, or 1.5 liters of air from end expiration, with the subject in both the supine and sitting position. The average resistivity change in five regions, two 8x8 pixel local regions in the right lung, entire right, entire left and total lung regions, were calculated. The results show the resistivity change averaged over electrode positions and subject positions was 7-9% per liter of air, with a slightly larger resistivity change of 10 % per liter air in the lower electrode plane. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between supine and sitting. The two 8x8 regions show a larger inter individual variability (coefficient of variation, CV, is from 30% to 382%) compared to the entire left, entire right and total lung (CV is from 11% to 51%). The results for the global regions are more consistent. The large inter individual variability appears to be a problem for clinical applications of EIT, such as regional ventilation. The variability may be mitigated by choosing appropriate electrode plane, body position and region of interest for the analysis.
Neuropharmacological Profile of Extracts of Aerial Parts of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy in Mice Model
Authors: Siddiqui Nasir A , Ahmad Nihal , Musthaq Nazia , Chattopadhyaya Ipshita , Kumria Rachna , Gupta Sumeet
Published: July 2014

The plant of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy was found to be used by different traditional systems and folklore for the treatment of various disorders. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuropharmacological activity of various extracts of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy in albino mice. The animal behavior was evaluated by locomotor activity, tremors activity, sleep inducing model and anxiolytic activity using standard procedures in experimental animal models. The results revealed that ethanolic and aqueous extract showed promising results in terms of statistical manner when compared with control group. In conclusion, this plant exhibits neuorpharmacological activity in tested animals.
Airline Network Analysis of ASEAN International Airport Region
Authors: Jantachalobon Nattapong , Vanichkobchinda Pongtana , Suthikarnnarunai Nanthi
Published: July 2014

This research is a methodology to measure the position of hub airports in Southeast Asia. The purpose of this
research was to measure the number of indirect connecting flights in ASEAN. The documents used for this research were
the statistics of annual reports between 2003 and 2012 of ten airports. Four methods of analysis were used: Netscan
model, Concentration ratio, Herfindahl-Hirschman index, and Comprehensive concentration index. Market share in
ASEAN airports is dominated by five big companies: Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) in Thailand, Changi
International Airport (SIN) in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) in Malaysia, Ninoy Aquino
International Airport (MNL) in the Philippines and Sugarno Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Indonesia. The first
three are of these airports are major hubs for the ASEAN region. The analysis presented in this research may be helpful
for airports or airlines in identifying their network performance and position in relation to their competition.
The Four Most Pernicious Myths in Asbestos Litigation: Part II: Safe Thresholds for Exposure and Tyndall Lighting as Junk Science
Authors: Meisenkothen Christopher
Published: July 2014

Part I of this survey confronted the first two Most Pernicious Myths in Asbestos Litigation: the supposed harmlessness of chrysotile asbestos; and so-called idiopathic mesothelioma. Part II discusses the pernicious notions of safe exposure thresholds for asbestos and the unreliability of Tyndall lighting. Defendants' attempts to preclude plaintiffs' experts from testifying about these generally accepted scientific facts are a disservice to the legal system and to plaintiffs who have been harmed by asbestos. These defense tactics attempt to deny reality and to spin scientific facts in order to keep them from the jurors' eyes and ears. This undermines the legal system and harms the integrity of the scientific enterprise. Defendants' efforts to manufacture “controversy” over previously uncontroversial facts are bald attempts to infect the legal process with junk “doubt science.” The role of this type of “doubt science” is being steadily exposed as legitimate researchers resist the degradation of their disciplines and the scientific literature by unprincipled purveyors of this insidious brand of junk science.
Brown Adipose Tissue Improves Whole-Body Glucose Homeostasis and Insulin Sensitivity in Humans
Authors: Chondronikola Maria , Volpi Elena , Børsheim Elisabet , Porter Craig , Annamalai Palam , Enerbäck Sven , Lidell Martin E. , Saraf Manish K. , Labbe Sebastien M. , Hurren Nicholas M. , Yfanti Christina , Chao Tony , Andersen Clark R. , Cesani Fernando , Hawkins Hal , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: July 2014

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) has attracted scientific interest as an antidiabetic tissue owing to its ability to dissipate energy as heat. Despite a plethora of data concerning the role of BAT in glucose metabolism in rodents, the role of BAT (if any) in glucose metabolism in humans remains unclear. To investigate whether BAT activation alters whole-body glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in humans, we studied seven BAT-positive (BAT+) men and five BAT-negative (BAT−) men under thermoneutral conditions and after prolonged (5–8 h) cold exposure (CE). The two groups were similar in age, BMI, and adiposity. CE significantly increased resting energy expenditure, whole-body glucose disposal, plasma glucose oxidation, and insulin sensitivity in the BAT+ group only. These results demonstrate a physiologically significant role of BAT in whole-body energy expenditure, glucose homeostasis, and insulin sensitivity in humans, and support the notion that BAT may function as an antidiabetic tissue in humans.