bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serologic Hepatitis B Virus Immunity in Health Care Workers
Authors: Ivanova L. , Kyoseva M. , Metodiev K. , Stojkova J.
Published: January 2017

Health care workers (HCWs) are at high risk of blood borne infections including Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. HBV vaccination is recommended for HCWs but post vaccination testing of immune response (anti-HBs) is not routinely performed. In our study information on immune response after the first immunization schedule of HCWs is not available. By reason of the questions regarding long lasting immunity, we decided to assess the anti-HBs of HCWs who wished to check immune response after different times of vaccination and also unvaccinated persons in St. Marina University Hospital, Varna, Bulgaria. After informed consent, 341 HCWs were investigated. They were divided into 3 groups according to their status: Group A had no history of vaccination against HBV, Group B had no complete vaccination schedule and Group C had complete vaccination data. Of Group C, 32 had been vaccinated more than 10 years previously, 111 - 10–5 years previously and 48 - < 5 years previously. Quantitative detection of antibody to HBsAg (anti-HBs) by commercial ELISA was carried out. A total, positive immune response was detected in 35.6% (group A), 66.2% (group B) and 80.1% (group C) of HCWs investigated. Of Group C positive immune response was detected in 68.7%, 81.1% and 85.4% respectively of the time of vaccination. Detectable anti-HB was found in HCWs without HBV immunization, probably after unknown exposure to HBV. The lack of information regarding immune response after the first immunization schedule makes the interpretation of no detectible anti-HBs level 5–10 years post-immunization difficult. For the HCWs with anti-HBs loss, counseling for booster vaccine dose and consequent testing is mandatory.
Task-Oriented Physical Exercise Using Postural Re-Alignment with Body Weight Support in Chronic Stroke
Authors: Saggini R. , Di Stefano A. , Capogrosso F. , Carmignano S.M. , D'Ettole S. , Iodice P. , Di Pancrazio L. , Barassi G. , Bellomo R.G.
Published: January 2017

The recovery of functional gait is the main target for subjects who have suffered a stroke. The methods designed to improve balance and gait appear to be essential for skills and autonomy and to reduce the costs of assistance. The aim of our study was to evaluate the improvement of stroke victims in the chronic phase through the rehabilitation of gait, balance and posture using postural re-alignment with specific body weight support. The study includes 20 subjects with residual hemiparetic gait after stroke. Evaluation with international rating scales, gait analysis and stabilometric test was carried out at the beginning and after the 1st and the 3rd month of therapy; a follow-up control was made 3 months after the end of the rehabilitation program. All subjects underwent the rehabilitation protocol with Dynamic Antigravity Postural System 2 times a week for 3 months and were also treated with high efficiency focused acoustic waves (ViSS) to increase strength and muscular endurance (300Hz) or to reduce spastic hypertonia (200–120 Hz). The study shows a significant improvement in gait and balance with the persistence of results at the follow-up 3 months after the end of treatment. The subjects showed an increase in walking speed, greater stability and a consequent reduction of sedentary lifestyle with less risk of complications or recurrence. In conclusion this rehabilitation program is efficient for posture and walking quality.
Oxidative Stress and Low-Grade Inflammatory Status as Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Italian Occupational Overweight/Obese Subjects
Authors: De Liso F. , Bonara P. , Vigna L. , Novembrino C. , De Giuseppe R. , Bamonti F. , Carbonelli V. , Frugoni C. , Tirelli A.S. , Maiavacca R. , Riboldi L.
Published: January 2017

Obesity is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Adipocytokines (e.g. leptin), produced by the endocrine function of adipose tissue, can contribute to cardiometabolic risk in overweight and obese people. Oxidative stress, imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, is considered a cardiovascular risk factor. High serum oxidized LDL (oxLDL) levels, marker of lipid peroxidation, a primary cause of atherosclerosis, can contribute to its progression. The aims of this study are to assess markers of oxidative status and cytokine profile and evaluate their role as cardiometabolic risk factors and possible correlations. In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 76 occupational overweight-obese adults (46 females, 30 males; aged 46.8±9.5; BMI 33.7±4.8 kg/m2) without any previous cardiovascular disease. Oxidative status was measured by evaluating serum Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels, Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) and oxLDL concentrations. All subjects' soluble cytokine and adhesion molecule levels were evaluated by cytofluorimetric method and compared with 35 controls matched for sex and age. ROS and oxLDL levels were high in 84% and 92% of the study population, respectively, despite adequate TAC (68%). Female ROS levels were significantly higher than those of males (414±99.3 vs 318±48.2 UCarr, p<0.0001), while their oxLDL levels were lower (95.3±22 vs 105.2±19.4 U/L, p=0.1). Leptin and sICAM-1 (intracellular adhesion molecule involved in leukocyte migration to inflamed area) levels of the study population were significantly higher than those of controls (93.8±89.1 vs 25.3±23 ng/mL, p=0.0002 and 505.8±236.7 vs 339.2±119.6 ng/mL, p=0.0009, respectively). Overweight/obese occupational subjects showed oxidative stress conditions accompanied by low chronic inflammatory status, possibly contributing to increased cardiometabolic risk.
Perceived Congruence and Incongruence: Toward a Clarification of the Concept, its Formation and Measure
Authors: Maille Virginie , Fleck Nathalie
Published: January 2017

For thirty years, marketing research has regularly integrated the idea of perceived “congruency” in its models. A disparate literature, difficult to organize in a coherent whole, follows from this large number of studies and from the wide variety of fields in which they were carried out: How to define congruency, how does it form itself, and how to measure it? This article aims at gathering, organizing and discussing the answers that can be found in more than a hundred articles.
Meta-Analysis for Marketing Research
Authors: Laroche Patrice , Soulez Sébastien
Published: January 2017

The aim of this paper is to present and illustrate the procedure to follow when a researcher wants to use meta-analysis in marketing research. Meta-analysis is the statistical analysis of a large collection of results from individual studies for the purpose of integrating the findings. Meta-analysis offers new opportunities for integrating and combining the contradictory outcomes of studies and for analyzing variance in effect sizes across findings.

After a description of the different stages of meta-analysis, two applications of meta-analytic procedure in marketing are presented and recommendations are suggested for marketing researchers who want to perform a meta-analysis accurately.
Does Training in Performing a Fit Check Enhance N95 Respirator Efficacy?
Authors: Or Peggy , Chung Joanne , Wong Thomas
Published: January 2017

Fit testing of respirators has been recommended, legislated, and implemented in many countries. In the United States, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health advocates a fit check, or seal check, before donning a respirator for each fit test. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between respirator fitness and performance of the fit check upon donning a respirator. Eighty-four first-year undergraduate nursing students were selected for this study; they were divided randomly into four groups. None had performed a fit test or fit check before being recruited for this study. The real-time self-developed fit test method was used to measure the ambient air particle concentration outside and inside the respirator. Results showed significant differences between groups trained to perform the fit check and those untrained. The overall fit factors were higher in the two groups trained to perform the fit check. The overall fit factors were lower in the two groups not trained to do the fit check. N95 respirators are designed to form a tight seal against wearers' faces. Each time workers don respirators, they should evaluate proper fit. Training wearers in how to fit check increases the likelihood that they will adjust respirators to proper fit.
Occupational Injuries, Duty Status, and Factors Associated with Injuries among Firefighters
Authors: Hong OiSaeng , Phelps Stephanie , Feld Jamie , Vogel Stephen
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the type of occupational injuries, duty status, and factors associated with injuries among firefighters. A total of 437 firefighters from three U.S. states participated in an Internet-based survey. Approximately 66% of firefighters experienced occupational injuries and 56% reported multiple injuries. The most commonly reported injuries were muscle strains and sprains (74%), extremity injuries (60%), back injuries (54%), and burns (28%). A significant number of firefighters reported no duty (58%) or modified duty (46%). Firefighters with more than 17 years in fire services were more likely to report injuries (odds ratio [OR] = 2.96; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.92–4.58) and multiple injuries (OR = 2.47; 95% CI = 1.49–4.10). Hispanics (OR = 0.34; 95% CI = 0.15–0.76) and those with stronger organizational commitments (OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.35–0.84) were less likely to report injuries. Several factors were associated with injuries. These factors should be incorporated into interventions to reduce occupational injuries.
Management of Occupational Exposure to Advanced Nanomaterials
Authors: Chalupka Stephanie
Published: January 2017

Advanced nanomaterials present a challenge in occupational risk assessment and risk management due to their complex nature.
Posttraumatic Stress Symptomatology among Emergency Department Workers following Workplace Aggression
Authors: Gillespie Gordon Lee , Bresler Scott , Gates Donna M. , Succop Paul
Published: January 2017

Workplace aggression has the potential to adversely affect the psychological health of emergency department (ED) workers. The purpose of this study was to compare posttraumatic stress symptomatology based on verbal and verbal plus physical aggression. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used with a convenience sample ( n = 208) of ED workers who completed a three-component survey. Descriptive statistics were computed to compare traumatic stress scores based on type of aggression. Two-way analysis of variance statistics were computed to determine if scores differed on the demographic variables. Fewer than half of the ED workers reported traumatic stress symptomatology; however, workplace aggression has the potential to adversely affect the mental health of ED workers. Occupational health nurses can establish or maintain a nurturing and protective environment open to discussing the personal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of ED workers related to their experiences of workplace aggression. This open and more positive work environment may aid in reducing the negative impact of posttraumatic stress symptoms among those ED workers who have been victimized.
Examining the Impact of Obesity on Individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Flores Samantha , Brown Abigail , Adeoye Samuel , Jason Leonard A. , Evans Meredyth
Published: January 2017

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex disorder affecting multiple body systems. The most commonly used definition of CFS is 6 or more months of fatigue and the presence of at least four of eight minor symptoms. In addition, many health and psychological conditions, including severe obesity–body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or greater–exclude individuals from a diagnosis of CFS. Obesity has been correlated with fatigue, sleep problems, and less satisfaction with general health, functioning, and vitality. The current study investigated weight trends over time in a community-based sample of individuals with CFS and healthy controls. The study further investigated the impact of comorbid weight issues on several health and disability outcomes in a subset of overweight individuals. Overweight and obese individuals with CFS demonstrated poorer functioning than controls who were similarly weighted One participant was excluded because she had gained weight at a monitoring visit and her BMI was greater than 40 kg/m2. The implications of these findings for health care workers are discussed.
Establishing the Value of Occupational Health Nurses' Contributions to Worker Health and Safety
Authors: Graeve Catherine , McGovern Patricia , Nachreiner Nancy M. , Ayers Lynn
Published: January 2017

Occupational health nurses use their knowledge and skills to improve the health and safety of the working population; however, companies increasingly face budget constraints and may eliminate health and safety programs. Occupational health nurses must be prepared to document their services and outcomes, and use quantitative tools to demonstrate their value to employers. The aim of this project was to create and pilot test a quantitative tool for occupational health nurses to track their activities and potential cost savings for on-site occupational health nursing services. Tool development included a pilot test in which semi-structured interviews with occupational health and safety leaders were conducted to identify current issues and products used for estimating the value of occupational health nursing services. The outcome was the creation of a tool that estimates the economic value of occupational health nursing services. The feasibility and potential value of this tool is described.
Commitment to Health Theory: A Graphic Model
Authors: Kelly Cynthia W.
Published: January 2017

Graphic models can improve understanding of theoretical concepts and the relationship between concepts. This article introduces a model of Commitment to Health Theory, which describes the process of behavior change from action to the maintenance stage of change. Commitment to health means that a new or modified health behavior will be used regardless of socioeconomic factors, race, gender, employment category, and age. Findings were based on three cross-sectional survey studies of approximately 1,085 predominantly manufacturing workers sampled from across the United States. Commitment to Health Theory was used to identify those in the action stage of change with mid-level commitment and predict the likelihood of successfully changing health behavior. Monitoring levels of commitment to health can determine appropriate intervention strategies to assist clients who currently exhibit unhealthy diet and exercise behaviors.
The Impact of Sun Solutions Educational Interventions on Select Health Belief Model Constructs
Authors: Lee Corinne , Duffy Sonia A. , Louzon Samantha A. , Waltje Andrea H. , Ronis David L. , Redman Richard W. , Kao Tsui-Sui
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to offer the Sun Solutions intervention to operating engineers ( N = 232) to decrease sun exposure and skin cancer. The majority (82%) of the engineers worked outside between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., 4 to 5 hours a day; 81.4% reported more than one sunburn during the past year and 70% sometimes or never used sunscreen compared to 30% who wore sunscreen approximately 50% or more of the time. Most reported that the intervention was helpful (97%), most were satisfied (96%) with the intervention, and 84% expressed a future intention to use sunscreen. Regarding sun protective behaviors, the intervention significantly improved perceived self-efficacy ( p < .05) and increased perceived barriers ( p < .05). Regarding sunburn and skin cancer, the intervention increased perceived benefits ( p < .05), susceptibility ( p < .05), and severity ( p < .05) for sunburning, but not skin cancer ( p > .10). The Sun Solutions intervention showed the potential to increase sunscreen use and decrease the risk of sunburn and skin cancer among operating engineers.
Agency-Hired Hotel Housekeepers
Authors: Sanon Marie-Anne V.
Published: January 2017

Hotel housekeepers experience unique workplace hazards and characteristics that increase their risks for poor health outcomes. Today's agency-hiring practices may further marginalize hotel housekeepers and negatively impact their health. Yet the impact of such hiring practices on the health of this vulnerable worker group remains unexplored. This article presents the debate regarding agency-hiring practices and how these practices may influence the health and well-being of hotel housekeepers. Implications for occupational health nurses are also discussed.
International Survey of Occupational Health Nurses' Roles in Multidisciplinary Teamwork in Occupational Health Services
Authors: Rogers Bonnie , Kono Keiko , Marziale Maria Helena Palucci , Peurala Marjatta , Radford Jennifer , Staun Julie
Published: January 2017

Access to occupational health services for primary prevention and control of work-related injuries and illnesses by the global workforce is limited (World Health Organization [WHO], 2013). From the WHO survey of 121 (61%) participating countries, only one-third of the responding countries provided occupational health services to more than 30% of their workers (2013). How services are provided in these countries is dependent on legal requirements and regulations, population, workforce characteristics, and culture, as well as an understanding of the impact of workplace hazards and worker health needs. Around the world, many occupational health services are provided by occupational health nurses independently or in collaboration with other disciplines' professionals. These services may be health protection, health promotion, or both, and are designed to reduce health risks, support productivity, improve workers' quality of life, and be cost-effective. Rantanen (2004) stated that basic occupational health services must increase rather than decline, especially as work becomes more complex; workforces become more dynamic and mobile, creating new models of workplaces; and Jobs become more precarious and temporary. To better understand occupational health services provided by occupational health nurses globally and how decisions are made to provide these services, this study examined the scope of services provided by a sample of participating occupational health nurses from various countries.
Work-Family Conflict, Psychological Distress, and Sleep Deficiency among Patient Care Workers
Authors: Jacobsen Henrik B. , Reme Silje Endresen , Sembajwe Grace , Hopcia Karen , Stoddard Anne M. , Kenwood Christopher , Stiles Tore C. , Sorensen Glorian , Buxton Orfeu M.
Published: January 2017

This study examined whether work-family conflict was associated with sleep deficiencies, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. In this two-phase study, a workplace health survey was completed by a cohort of patient care workers ( n = 1,572). Additional data were collected 2 years later from a subsample of the original respondents (n = 102). Self-reported measures included work-family conflict, workplace factors, and sleep outcomes. The participants were 90% women, with a mean age of 41 ± 11.7 years. At baseline, after adjusting for covariates, higher levels of work-family conflict were significantly associated with sleep deficiency. Higher levels of work-family conflict also predicted sleep insufficiency nearly 2 years later. The first study to determine the predictive association between work-family conflict and sleep deficiency suggests that future sleep interventions should include a specific focus on work-family conflict.
Preconception consultations with Maternal Fetal Medicine for obese women: a retrospective chart review
Authors: Page Charlotte M. , Ginsburg Elizabeth S. , Goldman Randi H. , Zera Chloe A.
Published: January 2017

Background

Obesity is associated with impaired fertility and pregnancy complications, and preconception weight loss may improve some of these outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) preconception consults for obese women.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review examining 162 consults at an academic medical center from 2008 to 2014. The main outcome measures included consultation content – e.g. discussion of obesity-related pregnancy complications, screening for comorbidities, and referrals for weight loss interventions – and weight loss.

Results

Screening for diabetes and hypertension occurred in 48% and 51% of consults, respectively. Discussion of obesity-related pregnancy complications was documented in 96% of consults. During follow-up (median 11 months), 27% of patients saw a nutritionist, 6% saw a provider for a medically supervised weight loss program, and 6% underwent bariatric surgery. The median weight change was a loss of 0.6% body weight.

Conclusions

In this discovery cohort, a large proportion of MFM preconception consultations lacked appropriate screening for obesity-related comorbidities. While the vast majority of consultations included a discussion of potential pregnancy complications, relatively few patients achieved significant weight loss. More emphasis is needed on weight loss resources and delaying pregnancy to achieve weight loss goals.
A model of type 2 diabetes in the guinea pig using sequential diet-induced glucose intolerance and streptozotocin treatment
Authors: Podell Brendan K. , Ackart David F. , Richardson Michael A. , DiLisio James E. , Pulford Bruce , Basaraba Randall J.
Published: January 2017

Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among non-communicable diseases and additional animal models that more closely replicate the pathogenesis of human type 2 diabetes are needed. The goal of this study was to develop a model of type 2 diabetes in guinea pigs in which diet-induced glucose intolerance precedes β cell cytotoxicity, two processes that are critical to the development of human type 2 diabetes. Guinea pigs developed impaired glucose tolerance after eight weeks of feeding a high fat, high carbohydrate diet, as determined by oral glucose challenge. Diet-induced glucose intolerance was accompanied by β cell hyperplasia, compensatory hyperinsulinemia, and dyslipidemia with hepatocellular steatosis. Streptozotocin (STZ) treatment alone was ineffective at inducing diabetic hyperglycemia in guinea pigs, which failed to develop sustained glucose intolerance or fasting hyperglycemia and returned to euglycemia within 21 days after treatment. However, when high fat, high carbohydrate diet-fed guinea pigs were treated with STZ, glucose intolerance and fasting hyperglycemia persisted beyond 21 days post-STZ treatment. Guinea pigs with diet induced glucose intolerance then subsequently treated with STZ demonstrated an insulin secretory capacity consistent with insulin-independent diabetes. This insulin independent state was confirmed by response to oral antihyperglycemic drugs, metformin and glipizide, which resolved glucose intolerance and extended survival compared to guinea pigs with uncontrolled diabetes. In this study, we have developed a model of sequential glucose intolerance and β cell loss, through high fat, high carbohydrate diet and extensive optimization of STZ treatment in the guinea pig, which closely resembles human type 2 diabetes. This model will prove useful in the study of insulin-independent diabetes pathogenesis with or without comorbidities, where the guinea pig serves as a relevant model species.
Mosaic expression of Atrx in the central nervous system causes memory deficits
Authors: Tamming Renee J. , Siu Jennifer R. , Jiang Yan , Prado Marco A. M. , Beier Frank , Bérubé Nathalie G.
Published: January 2017

The rapid modulation of chromatin organization is thought to play a critical role in cognitive processes such as memory consolidation. This is supported in part by the dysregulation of many chromatin remodeling proteins in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. A key example is ATRX, an X-linked gene commonly mutated in individuals with syndromic and non-syndromic intellectual disability (ID). The consequences of Atrx inactivation on learning and memory have been difficult to evaluate due to the early lethality of hemizygous-null animals. In this study we evaluated the outcome of brain-specific Atrx deletion in heterozygous female mice. The latter exhibit a mosaic pattern of ATRX protein expression in the CNS due to the location of the gene on the X chromosome. While the hemizygous male mice die soon after birth, heterozygous females survive to adulthood. Body growth is stunted in these animals and they have low circulating levels of insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1). In addition, they are impaired in spatial, contextual fear, and novel object recognition memory. Our findings demonstrate that mosaic loss of ATRX expression in the CNS leads to endocrine defects, decreased body size and has a negative impact on learning and memory.
Individualized Exercise Interventions for Spinal Pain
Authors: Falla Deborah , Hodges Paul W.
Published: January 2017

Exercise is the most effective treatment for the management and prevention of spinal pain; yet on average, it delivers small to moderate treatment effects, which are rarely long lasting. This review examines the hypothesis that outcome of exercise interventions can be optimized when targeted toward the right
patients and when tailored to address the neuromuscular impairments of each individual.
Vascular Adaptations to Habitual Exercise in Older Adults: Time for the Sex Talk
Authors: Moreau Kerrie L. , Ozemek Cemal
Published: January 2017

Regular exercise is promoted as a therapeutic strategy for age-associated endothelial dysfunction. Improvements in endothelial function are observed with endurance exercise in older men, but are diminished or absent in older women. This article examines the hypothesis that sex hormones modulate vascular adaptations to exercise training by influencing antioxidant defense systems, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and intracellular signaling.
Staying compliant
Authors: Pope Marianne
Published: January 2017

What do you really have to do to stay compliant this year? Do you know the real requirements from the myths? Marianne Pope puts some commonly (mis)understood expectations to the test
Challenging schools: Five recurring themes
Authors: Sobel Daniel
Published: January 2017

Every school is different and must tackle its challenges in a way to suit its own circumstances. However, Daniel Sobel has seen some generally recurring themes in schools that could be classed as ‘vulnerable’ or ‘challenging’
Responsibility-led learning
Authors: Aubrey-Smith Fiona
Published: January 2017

Creating responsible children and encouraging your students to begin to take responsibility for their own learning is an admirable ambition for every school. Fiona Aubrey-Smith draws on some examples of good practice to offer advice, ideas and guidance
Middle leaders: Great teaching and CPD
Authors: Clay Bridget
Published: January 2017

Middle leaders now have a key role in developing great teaching across their teams, which of course involves securing effective CPD – but what are the best ways to achieve this? Bridget Clay advises
Growth mindset: Engaging pupils, parents and staff
Authors: McWilliam Ross
Published: January 2017

In the third part of his four-part series on growth mindset approaches to teaching in key stage 2, Ross McWilliam looks at whole-school strategies to involve pupils, staff and your parents
What are the next steps for assessment?
Authors: O'Connell Suzanne
Published: January 2017

Could it be the calm after the storm? 2016 was not an easy year for assessment co-ordinators and their schools. Now Justine Greening offers reassurance that 2017 will be better. But will it? Suzanne O'Connell reports
Getting systematic about your CPD
Authors: McLean Colin
Published: January 2017

Matching professional development to the needs of your school is a major challenge, but it can unlock school improvement if the right systems are in place, says Colin McLean
The cracks are beginning to show
Authors: Bousted Mary
Published: January 2017

From teacher recruitment to examination reform, the cracks in Michael Gove's grand experiment are becoming too big to ignore, says Dr Mary Bousted
SRE: Meeting Students’ Needs
Authors: Hallgarten Lisa
Published: January 2017

Young people know what they want from sex and relationships education – and that's a good place to start, explains the Sex Education Forum's Lisa Hallgarten
Make wellbeing a priority in 2017
Authors: Stanley Julian
Published: January 2017

Julian Stanley urges teachers to share the load in 2017 and create a culture of wellbeing
Improving independent study skills
Authors: Webb Helen
Published: January 2017

There is a clear gap between GCSE and A Level study and supporting students to make the leap is important. Teacher Helen Webb discusses her work to develop students’ independent study skills
Uma abordagem metodológica do ensino sobre Energia Eólica no Ensino Médio
Authors: Dos Santos Francisco Aldene , Gomes Luiz Moreira , Júnior José Gidauto Dos Santos Lima , Gester Rodrigo Do Monte , Gomes Jr. Luiz M.
Published: January 2017

Este artigo trata do ensino aprendizagem de Física no Ensino Médio, utilizando a energia eólica como tema gerador. É feita uma discussão visando conscientizar os alunos sobre a mudança climática e o uso sustentável das fontes de energias renováveis. O tema da energia eólica no contexto das fontes de energias renováveis foi abordado em duas escolas do ensino médio na cidade de Marabá, estado do Pará, onde foram ministradas aulas expositivas e realizados experimentos reais e virtuais envolvendo o assunto em questão. Foram feitas avaliações buscando mensurar o nível de compreensão do tema por parte dos discentes com resultados bastante significativos. Palavras-chave: energia eólica, experimentos reais e virtuais, ensino de física.
Studying mesoalgal structures: a non-destructive approach based on confocal laser scanning microscopy
Authors: Fricke Anna , Kihara Terue C. , Hoppenrath Mona
Published: January 2017

Mesoalgae play a key role in shallow coastal ecosystems. Composed of small macroalgae, intermixed with filamentous cyanobacteria and colonial diatoms, these multi-specific, but minute (μm–cm) assemblages form complex three-dimensional structures, providing shelter for different unicellular (e.g. bacteria, diatoms, dinoflagellates) and multicellular (e.g. fishes, invertebrates) organisms. Characterized by a high colonization potential, these primary producers are observed to bloom and overgrow disturbed areas (e.g. damaged coral reefs, urchin barrens), and play a crucial role in terms of invasion and colonizing new habitats. Driven by anthropogenic environmental changes, mesoalgae are receiving considerable attention in current marine research. So far, most studies approach mesoalgae at the functional group level (e.g. turf algae, microphytobenthos), whereas only few studies tackle the importance of species-specific interactions, which play an important role in benthic ecology (e.g. coral-algal competition and disease spreading). To facilitate the study of not only the presence but also the composition and the structure of these habitat formers, we provide a new approach combining inexpensive fixation methodology with modern confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), to study minute macroalgal structures (e.g. germlings, reproductive structures), and investigate their relation to microphytobenthic components (e.g. diatom colonies). Detailed procedures for mounting, staining and imaging phytobenthic communities are provided.
Corrosion of Nickel-Based Alloys in Ultra-High Temperature Heat Transfer Fluid
Authors: Wang Tao , Reddy Ramana G.
Published: January 2017

MgCl2-KCl binary system has been proposed to be used as high temperature reactor coolant. Due to its relatively low melting point, good heat capacity and excellent thermal stability, this system can also be used in high operation temperature concentrating solar power generation system as heat transfer fluid (HTF). The corrosion behaviors of nickel based alloys in MgCl2-KCl molten salt system at 1,000 °C were determined based on long-term isothermal dipping test. After 500 h exposure tests under strictly maintained high purity argon gas atmosphere, the weight loss and corrosion rate analysis were conducted. Among all the tested samples, Ni-201 demonstrated the lowest corrosion rate due to the excellent resistance of Ni to high temperature element dissolution. Detailed surface topography and corrosion mechanisms were also determined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS).
Multiple Parameter Optimizations for Enhanced Biosynthesis of Exo-polygalacturonase Enzyme and its Application in Fruit Juice Clarification
Authors: Amin Faiza , Bhatti Haq Nawaz , Bilal Muhammad , Asgher Muhammad
Published: January 2017

The present study investigated the potential of several indigenous fungal strains to produce industrially important exo-polygalacturonase (exo-PG) utilizing locally available agro-industrial wastes in solid-state fermentation (SSF). Amongst various substrates employed, wheat bran supported the highest biosynthesis of exo-PG. Different process variables such as, fermentation duration, moisture level, pH and temperature were optimized using one-variable-at-a-time (OVAT) statistical approach. Results revealed that an initial medium pH of 3.0 at 35 °C together with MnSO4, glycine and pectin have progressive influence on exo-PG synthesis by P. notatum, while C. versicolor displayed utmost enzyme activity at pH 5.0, temperature 30 °C, moisture 50 % using CaCO3, (NH4)2SO4, and lactose as nutritional sources. The enzymatic cocktail treatment achieved a significantly improved clarity by reducing the turbidities, viscosities and absorbance’s of three fruit juices. Scaling up of various fermentation parameters might have potential to produce enhanced activities of exo-PG for different industrial sectors, particularly in food industry.
Total body fat, abdominal fat, body fat distribution and surrogate markers for health related to adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (FABP4) in children
Authors: Dencker Magnus , Danielson Anton , Karlsson Magnus K. , Wollmer Per , Andersen Lars B. , Thorsson Ola
Published: January 2017

Background:

The aim of the study was to assess possible relationships between adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (FABP4) and total body fat (TBF), abdominal fat, body fat distribution, aerobic fitness, blood pressure, cardiac dimensions and the increase in body fat over 2 years in a community sample of children.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was used in a community sample of 170 (92 boys and 78 girls) children aged 8–11 years. TBF and abdominal fat (AFM) were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). TBF was also expressed as percentage of total body mass (BF%), and body fat distribution was calculated as AFM/TBF. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO

Results:

Partial correlations, with adjustment for sex, between FABP4 vs. ln TBF, ln BF%, ln AFM, AFM/TBF and VO

Conclusions:

Findings from this community-based cohort of young children show that increased body fat and abdominal fat, more abdominal body fat distribution, low fitness, more LVM and increased LA, increased SBP and PP were all associated with increased levels of FABP4. Increase in TBF and abdominal fat over 2 years were also associated with increased levels of FABP4.
An ignored cause of red urine in children: rhabdomyolysis due to carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT-II) deficiency
Authors: Melek Engin , Bulut Fatma Derya , Atmış Bahriye , Yılmaz Berna Şeker , Bayazıt Aysun Karabay , Mungan Neslihan Önenli
Published: January 2017

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT-II) deficiency is an autosomal recessively inherited disorder involving the β-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids, which leads to rhabdomyolysis and subsequent acute renal failure. The clinical phenotype varies from a severe infantile form to a milder muscle form. Here, we report a 9-year-old boy referred to our hospital for the investigation of hematuria with a 2-day history of dark urine and malaise. As no erythrocytes in the microscopic examination of the urine and hemoglobinuria were present, myoglobinuria due to rhabdomyolysis was the most probable cause of dark urine. After excluding the other causes of rhabdomyolysis, with the help of metabolic investigations, the patient was suspected to have CPT-II deficiency, the most common cause of metabolic rhabdomyolysis. Our aim in presenting this case is to emphasize considering rhabdomyolysis in the differential diagnosis of dark urine in order to prevent recurrent rhabdomyolysis and renal injury.
Far away from the endemism area: first record of the Ecuador fish-eating rat Anotomys leander (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) in the Colombian Andes
Authors: Marín-C David , Sánchez-Giraldo Camilo
Published: January 2017

is an elusive rodent with the smallest known range among ichthyomyines, limited to only three localities in the Andes of Ecuador. Its last known record dates from 1980, and currently it is represented by a low number of specimens and localities, hampering knowledge about its geographic range. We provide the first Colombian record of
Revelation in Nicolas Berdyaev’s Religious Philosophy
Authors: McKinlay Brian
Published: January 2017

Nicolas Berdyaev’s understanding of the self-revelation of God to humankind is a point of connection between the central ideas of his religious philosophy. Berdyaev says that God’s self-revelation occurs within the inner person, through divine-human spiritual cooperation, bringing about a revolutionary transformation of the human consciousness. Yet, the degree to which revelation can occur depends on human spiritual development. The eschatological culmination of this development will be the revelation of God in humankind and humankind in God-fulfilling the Godmanhood of Christ. The content of revelation is the Truth that is Godself, expressed in relational knowledge of God. Revelation occurs as an activity of divine-human cooperation. It is affected by human limitations and must be open to critique, particularly to purge from it human categories of dominance, power and enslavement. Truth is its own criterion, but in sobornost there is a sense of communal discernment. Only in freedom may revelation and truth may be found.
The thalamus as a relay station and gatekeeper: relevance to brain disorders
Authors: Moustafa Ahmed A. , McMullan Ryan D. , Rostron Bjorn , Hewedi Doaa H. , Haladjian Harry H.
Published: January 2017

Here, we provide a review of behavioural, cognitive, and neural studies of the thalamus, including its role in attention, consciousness, sleep, and motor processes. We further discuss neuropsychological and brain disorders associated with thalamus function, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Korsakoff’s syndrome, and sleep disorders. Importantly, we highlight how thalamus-related processes and disorders can be explained by the role of the thalamus as a relay station.
Crystal structures and third-order optical properties of three manganese(II) complexes constructed from N-heterocyclic and polycarboxylate ligands
Authors: Lian Zhaoxun , Zhao Ning , Liu Ping , An Caixia , Yang Fengxia , Wang Airong
Published: January 2017

Three new manganese(II) complexes, {[Mn(PTP)]2[Mn(PTP)(H2O)]}(BTA)2·2H2O (1), [Mn(PTP)(ODA)]2 (2), and [Mn(FTP)(ODA)]2·H2O (3), were synthesized by the reactions of manganese acetate and polycarboxylic acid in the presence of N-heterocyclic ligands (where PTP=4′-phenyl-2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine, H3BTA=benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid, H2ODA=4,4′-oxydibenzoic acid, FTP=4′-(furan-2-yl)-2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine). In complex 1, each BTA ligand serves as a μ
3-bridge to link three Mn(II) centers, whereas each Mn(II) center is coordinated by two BTA ligands. This connection mode results in a grid sheet. Complexes 2 and 3 have very similar molecular structures with Mn(II) centers connected by ODA ligands to result in ring-like arrays. We investigated the third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of the three complexes by single beam Z-scan techniques. Complexes 1–3 exhibit strong third-order NLO reverse saturable absorption with NLO absorptive indices β=1.32×10−6, 3.01×10−6, and 9.42×10−6 m W−1, respectively. In addition, complex 1 shows all excellent self-focusing effect with an NLO refractive index of γ=1.25×10−12 m2 W−1. The third-order NLO susceptibility χ
(3) of the three complexes were calculated as 47.55×10−8, 4.85×10−8, and 15.16×10−8 esu, respectively.
Chon Tejedor, The Early Wittgenstein on Metaphysics, Natural Science, Language and Value
Authors: Hanks Peter
Published: January 2017

New York and London: Routledge, 2015.208 pages. Hardcover. ISBN 978-0-41-573039-6.Reviewed by Peter Hanks.
Dynamic Deep Squat: Lower-Body Kinematics and Considerations Regarding Squat Technique, Load Position, and Heel Height
Authors: Todoroff Max
Published: January 2017

THE DYNAMIC DEEP SQUAT IS AN IMPORTANT AND WIDELY USED EXERCISE BY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING, REHABILITATION, AND HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS. THIS ARTICLE EXPLORES LUMBAR SPINE AND LOWER EXTREMITY KINEMATICS DURING THE DYNAMIC DEEP SQUAT AND CONSIDERS SQUAT TECHNIQUE, LOAD POSITION, AND HEEL HEIGHT INFLUENCES. BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF DYNAMIC DEEP SQUAT KINEMATICS MAY HELP TO PREVENT LUMBAR SPINE INJURIES RELATED TO SQUATTING.
Percutaneous Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Closure During Infancy: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Backes Carl H. , Rivera Brian K. , Bridge Jeffrey A. , Armstrong Aimee K. , Boe Brian A. , Berman Darren P. , Fick Tyler , Holzer Ralf J. , Hijazi Ziyad M. , Abadir Sylvia , Justino Henri , Bergersen Lisa , Smith Charles V. , Kirpalani Haresh
Published: January 2017

CONTEXT:

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a precursor to morbidity and mortality. Percutaneous (catheter-based) closure is the procedure of choice for adults and older children with a PDA, but use during infancy (<1 year) is not well characterized.

OBJECTIVE:

Investigate the technical success and safety of percutaneous PDA closure during infancy.

DATA SOURCES:

Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and Ovid (Medline) were searched through December 2015 with no language restrictions.

STUDY SELECTION:

Publications needed to clearly define the intervention as percutaneous PDA closure during infancy (<1 year of age at intervention) and must have reported adverse events (AEs).

DATA EXTRACTION:

The study was performed according to the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis checklist and registered prospectively. The quality of the selected studies was critically examined. Data extraction and assignment of AE attributability and severity were independently performed by multiple observers. Outcomes were agreed on a priori. Data were pooled by using a random-effects model.

RESULTS:

Thirty-eight studies were included; no randomized controlled trials were found. Technical success of percutaneous PDA closure was 92.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 88.8–95.0). Overall AE and clinically significant AE incidence was 23.3% (95% CI 16.5–30.8) and 10.1% (95% CI 7.8–12.5), respectively. Significant heterogeneity and publication bias were observed.

LIMITATIONS:

Limitations include lack of comparative studies, lack of standardized AE reporting strategy, and significant heterogeneity in reporting.

CONCLUSIONS:

Percutaneous PDA closure during infancy is feasible and associated with few catastrophic AEs; however, the limitations constrain the interpretability and generalizability of the current findings.
Small-Diameter Implants: A 7-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Jackson Brian J.
Published: January 2017

Oral implantology has become a major discipline within the field of dentistry. Small or mini dental implants have demonstrated success in the retention of removable and fixed prostheses. Small-diameter implants (SDI) and mini-diameter implants (MDI) describe a group of implants that demonstrate a diameter less than 3 mm. This retrospective study reports on 335 SDI placed during a 7-year period. All implants were placed in healed sites (>6 months) and loaded immediately or after waiting 3 months. A total of 321 implants were restored and functional within the study's time interval. A total of 14 implants failed, resulting in a 96.1% implant success rate. Treatment plan considerations should include prosthetic design, specific arch, and immediate load. Overall, SDI can be utilized as an alternative implant treatment option for patients with atrophic bone, compromised medical histories and financial constraints.
Biomimicry step-by-step
Authors: Rowland Regina
Published: January 2017

The creativity found in nature is seemingly boundless. Designs and strategies that species have developed for survival emerged through aeons of evolution and have therefore been refined for high functionality within the given context. These survival strategies employed by single organisms and applied to whole ecosystems can be considered design ingenuity and are worth investigating as they represent an extensive pool of potential solutions to human problems. Many viable biologically inspired designs (BIDs) have already been emulated from nature and biomimicry offers one of the possible processes for mimicking nature’s ingenuity and distinguishes itself from other bioinspired forms of innovation in two ways: it has a firm sustainability mandate that is embedded directly in the design process and it is applied to all kinds of disciplines beyond the usual technology focus of BID. The four phases of the biomimicry thinking design process are described, step-by-step, in this perspective, from the position of teaching it to developers of products and services, processes, structures and systems that are designed for sustainable futures. The perspective ends with a list of challenges observed while teaching the process to designers, engineers and managers.
A Foucauldian Reading of Huxley’s Brave New World
Authors: Hamamra Bilal Tawfiq
Published: January 2017

Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World (1932) is a nightmarish depiction of a post-human world where human beings are mass-produced to serve production and consumption. In this paper, I discuss the manipulations of minds and bodies with reference to Foucault’s biopower and disciplinary systems that make the citizens of the world state more profitable and productive. I argue that Brave New World depicts a dystopian systematic control of mind and body through eugenic engineering, biological conditioning, hypnopaedia, sexual satisfaction, and drugs so as to keep the worldians completely controlled, collectivized and contented in a totalitarian society. The world state eradicates love, religion, art and history and deploys language devoid of any emotions and thoughts to control the mind that judges and decides. I argue that Brave New World anticipates the Foucauldian paradigm of resistance, subversion and containment, ending in eliminating the forces that pose a challenge to the ideology of the world state.
A Study on College English Majors’ Writings from the Perspective of Appraisal Theory
Authors: Wang Min
Published: January 2017

This paper explores the features of the top 30 appraisal words in students’ essays from the perspective of Appraisal Theory. The distributions of the Appraisal words are not even in the writings. Attitude system comes first followed by Graduation system and Engagement system. With the analysis of the features and distributions of the top 30 appraisal words, it reveals some problems related to usage of appraisal resources in the writings and based on which the paper tries to give some suggestions both for students and teachers.