bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enabling individuals to implement behavioural changes
Authors: Green Danielle
Published: July 2014

Danielle Green discusses this optional unit, which assesses health and social care workers as they support individuals in changing behavioural responses through the development of appropriate strategies
What to do when you receive an employment tribunal claim
Authors: Mark Stevens
Published: July 2014

With changes being implemented in the way employees can pursue an employment tribunal claim, Mark Stevens advises care home managers and owners how to deal with any claims that are received
Determination Using Synchrotron Radiation-Based Fourier Transform Infrared Microspectroscopy of Putative Stem Cells in Human Adenocarcinoma of the Intestine: Corresponding Benign Tissue as a Template
Authors: Ahmadzai Abdullah A. , Patel Imran I. , Veronesi Giulia , Martin-Hirsch Pierre L. , Llabjani Valon , Cotte Marine , Stringfellow Helen F. , Martin Francis L.
Published: July 2014

The epithelial-cell layer lining the two morphologically and functionally distinct segments of the mammalian intestinal tract, small intestine, and colon is constantly being renewed. This renewal is necessitated by a harsh lumen environment and is hypothesized to be driven by a small population of stem cells (SCs) that are believed to reside at the base of intestinal crypts. A lack of specific markers has hampered previous attempts to identify their exact location. We obtained tissue sections containing small intestine and colon crypts derived from normal (benign) or adenocarcinoma (AC) human intestine. The samples were floated onto BaF2 windows and analyzed using synchrotron radiation-based Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy via an aperture size of 10 × 10 μm. Derived infrared (IR) spectral data was then analyzed using principal component analysis and/or linear discriminant analysis. Hypothesized cell types (as a function of aperture location along the length of individual crypts) within benign crypts were classed based on exploratory unsupervised IR spectral point clustering. Scores plots derived from individual small intestine crypts consistently generated one or two distinct spectra that clustered away from the remaining cell categories; these were retrospectively classed as “distinct base region” spectra. In these plots, a clear progression of locations along crypt lengths designated as from putative stem cells (SCs) to transit-amplifying (TA) cells to terminally differentiated (TD) cells was observed in benign small intestine and colon crypts. This progression of spectral points was crypt specific, pointing away from a unifying cell lineage model in human intestinal crypts. On comparison of AC-derived spectra versus corresponding benign, a subpopulation of AC-derived spectra suggested a putative SC-like spectral fingerprint; remaining IR spectra were classed as exhibiting TA cell-like or TD cell-like spectral characteristics. These observations could point to a cancer SC phenotype; an approach capable of identifying their in situ location has enormous therapeutic applications.
Temperature Profile Retrieval in Axisymmetric Combustion Plumes Using Multilayer Perceptron Modeling and Spectral Feature Selection in the Infrared CO2 Emission Band
Authors: García-Cuesta Esteban , de Castro Antonio J. , Galván Inés M. , López Fernando
Published: July 2014

In this work, a methodology based on the combined use of a multilayer perceptron model fed using selected spectral information is presented to invert the radiative transfer equation (RTE) and to recover the spatial temperature profile inside an axisymmetric flame. The spectral information is provided by the measurement of the infrared CO2 emission band in the 3–5 μm spectral region. A guided spectral feature selection was carried out using a joint criterion of principal component analysis and a priori physical knowledge of the radiative problem. After applying this guided feature selection, a subset of 17 wavenumbers was selected. The proposed methodology was applied over synthetic scenarios. Also, an experimental validation was carried out by measuring the spectral emission of the exhaust hot gas plume in a microjet engine with a Fourier transform-based spectroradiometer. Temperatures retrieved using the proposed methodology were compared with classical thermocouple measurements, showing a good agreement between them. Results obtained using the proposed methodology are very promising and can encourage the use of sensor systems based on the spectral measurement of the CO2 emission band in the 3–5 μm spectral window to monitor combustion processes in a nonintrusive way.
Response Mechanism of the Phase Transitions of Poly(N-Isopropylacrylamide-Co-Benzo-18-Crown-6-Acrylamide) Using Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Han Xiaoyan , Xiao Peipei , Zhao Hong , Zeng Chuyi , Zhou Jicheng
Published: July 2014

The thermal and ionic effects on the phase transitions of poly( N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) and its copolymer with benzo-18-crown-6-acrylamide, poly( N-isopropylacrylamide-co-benzo-18-crown-6-acrylamide) (PNIPAAm-co-BCAm), were investigated using infrared (IR) spectral variations of methyl (CH3), C=O, and amine (NH) groups. Subsequently, perturbation correlation moving-window two-dimensional correlation infrared spectroscopy (PCMW 2D-IR) was applied to clarify the differences in the phase-transition mechanisms of the polymers. The dominant influence on the phase-transition mechanism of PNIPAAm is whether the anion is evenly distributed in the bulk solution. The results show that the phase transition shifts to a lower temperature with increasing barium chloride (BaCl2) concentrations. In addition, the effect of the anion on the chemical group is homogeneous upon heating. As a result, the relevant transition temperature ranges have remain approximately constant. In contrast, the dominant influence on the phase-transition mechanism of PNIPAAm-co-BCAm is the interactions of the polymer chains with barium ions (Ba2+). The hydrophilic BCAm–Ba2+ complexes distributed in the PNIPAAm-co-BCAm chain prevent the water molecules from leaving the polymer chains, which leads to an increase in the transition temperature and the complicated variation of the transition temperature range, as environmental stimuli–response behavior, with increasing BaCl2 concentrations.
Influence of Protein Size on Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Spectra in Binary Protein Mixtures
Authors: Avci Ertug , Culha Mustafa
Published: July 2014

The size-dependent interactions of eight blood proteins with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in their binary mixtures were investigated using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed on the SERS spectra of each binary mixture, and the differentiation ability of the mixtures was tested. It was found that the effect of relative concentration change on the SERS spectra of the binary mixtures of small proteins could be detected using PCA. However, this change was not observed with the binary mixtures of large proteins. This study demonstrated that the relative interactions of the smaller proteins with an average size of 50 nm AgNPs smaller than the large proteins could be monitored, and this information can be used for the detection of proteins in protein mixtures.
Godofredo Cínico Caspa: a positive discourse analysis
Authors: Calle Díaz Luzkarime
Published: July 2014

Language is undoubtedly the most powerful semiotic resource in every society. Identities, idiosyncrasies, ideologies, and feelings can be evidenced through, and at the same time constructed by, language. Discourse Analysis aims to discover the intentions and meanings in and behind language and how these can (re)construct social structure, relationships, and change. The purpose of this article is to present a Positive Discourse Analysis of the article Que Privaticen toda la Educación by Antonio Morales Riveira. The analysis is based on Systemic Functional Linguistics categories within the appraisal (Martin & White, 2005) and transitivity systems (Martin & Rose, 2007; Goatly, 2000). Conclusions are drawn in terms of the representation of students in the public education system as well as implications for educational and research purposes.
Lectura literaria:aportes para una didáctica de la literatura
Authors: Hauy María Elena
Published: July 2014

El artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cuyo tema fue la lectura literaria como práctica, en especial, en los espacios de enseñanza de la literatura y, en general, en la formación de los niños y los jóvenes. Los objetivos del trabajo son, en primer lugar, efectuar un desarrollo conceptual de lo que denominamos experiencia literaria, como relación de la subjetividad del lector con el texto y, consecuentemente, del rol de la imaginación vinculado con la capacidad productiva del lenguaje. En segundo lugar, realizar una explicación teórica acerca de lo que entendemos por lectura crítica, en el sentido de la comprensión de los significados ideológicos que están detrás de los textos. Metodológicamente se utilizaron la encuesta, entrevistas, observaciones de clase, y análisis documental aplicado a los planes de clase. La población objeto fueron estudiantes de primer ingreso a la Facultad de Humanidades de la Universidad Nacional de Catamarca y estudiantes de una institución de educación media. Se presenta un ejemplo concreto de cada uno de los conceptos desarrollados, surgidos de prácticas educativas analizadas.
Adapting cultural materials to meetstudent needs
Authors: Staley Kendra Nicole
Published: July 2014

This reflection article examines the importance of adapting cultural material to meet student needs and program objectives in two different educational contexts: Indonesia and Colombia. A needs analysis was done at both universities, resulting in material adaptation and development. While intercultural understanding and communication was the content of classes taught in both settings, the needs of students varied greatly. Adapting material for critical thinking (Üstünlüoglu, 2004) and gender roles were the focus in Indonesia; conversely, in Colombia combining TOEFL-prep within a content-based course (Coté, 2013) and incorporating diverse religious perspectives were needed. The necessity of considering specific student populations as well as program goals is discussed for future teaching implications.
The inwardly rectifying K+ channel KIR7.1 controls uterine excitability throughout pregnancy
Authors: McCloskey Conor , Rada Cara , Bailey Elizabeth , McCavera Samantha , van den Berg Hugo A , Atia Jolene , Rand David A , Shmygol Anatoly , Chan Yi‐Wah , Quenby Siobhan , Brosens Jan J , Vatish Manu , Zhang Jie , Denton Jerod S , Taggart Michael J , Kettleborough Catherine , Tickle David , Jerman Jeff , Wright Paul , Dale Timothy , Kanumilli Srinivasan , Trezise Derek J , Thornton Steve , Brown Pamela , Catalano Roberto , Lin Nan , England Sarah K , Blanks Andrew M
Published: July 2014

Abnormal uterine activity in pregnancy causes a range of important clinical disorders, including preterm birth, dysfunctional labour and post‐partum haemorrhage. Uterine contractile patterns are controlled by the generation of complex electrical signals at the myometrial smooth muscle plasma membrane. To identify novel targets to treat conditions associated with uterine dysfunction, we undertook a genome‐wide screen of potassium channels that are enriched in myometrial smooth muscle. Computational modelling identified Kir7.1 as potentially important in regulating uterine excitability during pregnancy. We demonstrate Kir7.1 current hyper‐polarizes uterine myocytes and promotes quiescence during gestation. Labour is associated with a decline, but not loss, of Kir7.1 expression. Knockdown of Kir7.1 by lentiviral expression of miRNA was sufficient to increase uterine contractile force and duration significantly. Conversely, overexpression of Kir7.1 inhibited uterine contractility. Finally, we demonstrate that the Kir7.1 inhibitor VU590 as well as novel derivative compounds induces profound, long‐lasting contractions in mouse and human myometrium; the activity of these inhibitors exceeds that of other uterotonic drugs. We conclude Kir7.1 regulates the transition from quiescence to contractions in the pregnant uterus and may be a target for therapies to control uterine contractility.
Systemic effects of intratympanic dexamethasone therapy
Authors: Novoa Eva , Gärtner Marcel , Henzen Christoph
Published: July 2014

Objective

The study aimed to assess the possible systemic effects of intratympanic dexamethasone (IT-Dex) on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, inflammation, and bone metabolism.

Design

A prospective cohort study including 30 adult patients of a tertiary referral ENT clinic treated with 9.6 mg IT-Dex over a period of 10 days was carried out.

Methods

Effects on plasma and salivary cortisol concentrations (basal and after low-dose (1 μg) ACTH stimulation), peripheral white blood cell count, and biomarkers for bone turnover were measured before (day 0) and after IT-Dex (day 16). Additional measurements for bone turnover were performed 5 months after therapy. Clinical information and medication with possible dexamethasone interaction were recorded.

Results

IT-Dex was well tolerated, and no effect was detected on the HPA axis (stimulated plasma and salivary cortisol concentration on day 0: 758±184 and 44.5±22.0 nmol/l; day 16: 718±154 and 39.8±12.4 nmol/l; P=0.58 and 0.24 respectively). Concentrations of osteocalcin (OC) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP) did not differ after dexamethasone (OC on days 0 and 16 respectively: 24.1±10.5 and 23.6±8.8 μg/l; BSAP on day 0, 16, and after 5 months respectively: 11.5±4.2, 10.3±3.4, and 12.6±5.06 μg/l); similarly, there was no difference in the peripheral white blood cell count (5.7×1012/l and 6.1×1012/l on days 0 and 16 respectively).

Conclusions

IT-Dex therapy did not interfere with endogenous cortisol secretion or bone metabolism.
Re‐characterization of Some Factors Influencing Aerosol Sampling in the Workplace: Results from Field Studies
Authors: Hu Fengxia , Wang Limin , Wang Zhenglun , Liang Jiaojun , Li Jichao , Mao Geshi , Yi Gulin , Zhao Lei , Wu Jiabing , Koob Michael , Chen Weihong , Dahmann Dirk , Yang Lei
Published: July 2014

Re‐characterization of Some Factors Influencing Aerosol Sampling in the Workplace: Results from Field Studies: Fengxia HU, et al. Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China—

Objective

Workplace aerosol sampling is challenged by its influencing factors and methodological limitations. Some factors, including blank setting, electrostatic effect, sample mass gain, and limit of detection (LOD), were studied to characterize them further and thereby to improve the sampling method.

Methods

Through a field sampling in two shipyards and by an analysis of a large amount of dust data from different industries, the influencing factors were comparatively studied with emphasis on their effect on the final result.

Results

After calibration with field blanks, the concentrations of most sample types in the shipyards decreased significantly, varying by as much as −24.3% of the final measurements. After laboratory blank calibration, dust concentrations increased or decreased without a definite change trend. With a variation of −1.8%, only the measurements of Chinese “total dust” sampled with polypropylene filters were significantly influenced by the electrostatic effect. The LOD coincidence rate was only 17.3% for American respirable dust in different industries and 12.2% for respirable particles collected by normal flow rate samplers (FSP2) in the shipyards. The latter increased to 73.9% when high flow samplers (FSP10) were used.

Conclusions

It was suggested that field blank calibration was the predominant influencing factor in comparison with electrostatic effect and laboratory blank adjustment. The LOD coincidence rate was too low for reliable sampling, and this might be improved by use of high flow samplers.
A Method for Routine Analysis of Urinary 4,4′‐methylenebis (2‐chloroaniline) by Gas Chromatography‐Electron Capture Detection
Authors: Takeuchi Akito , Namera Akira , Sakui Norihiro , Yamamuro Kenji , Kawai Toshio , Sumino Kimiaki
Published: July 2014

A Method for Routine Analysis of Urinary 4,4‘‐methylenebis (2‐chloroaniline) by Gas Chroma‐tography‐Electron Capture Detection: Akito TAKEU‐CHI, et al. Osaka Occupational Health Service Center, Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association—

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to develop a simple and cost‐effective method for the determination of urinary 4,4‘‐methylenebis (2‐chloroaniline) (MBOCA) by gas chromatography‐electron capture detection (GC‐ECD) for biological monitoring of occupational exposure to MBOCA.

Methods

MBOCA was prepared by liquidliquid extraction after alkaline hydrolysis, derivatized with N‐methyl‐bis (trifluoroacetamide) and then analyzed using GC‐ECD. The proposed method was validated in accordance with the US Food and Drug Administration guidance.

Results

The calibration curve showed linearity in the range 1–100 μg/l, with a correlation coefficient of >0.999. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.3 μg/l and 1 μg/l, respectively. The recovery was 94−99%. Intraday accuracy, expressed as the deviation from the nominal value, was 90.5−100.3%, and intraday precision, expressed as the relative standard deviation, was 0.3−2.4%. Interday accuracy and precision were 87.8−100.2% and 0.3−4.1%, respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed method is a simple and cost‐effective method suitable for routine analyses and could be useful for biological monitoring of occupational exposure to MBOCA.
Chemical Exposure Levels in Printing Workers with Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yamada Kenichi , Kumagai Shinji , Nagoya Toshio , Endo Ginji
Published: July 2014

Chemical Exposure Levels in Printing Workers with Cholangiocarcinoma: Kenichi YAMADA, et al. Occupational Health Research and Development Center, Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association—

Objective

This study aimed to identify chemicals used by printing workers with cholangiocarcinoma, as well as the levels of exposure to the chemicals.

Methods

Information necessary to identify chemicals used by printing workers with cholangiocarcinoma and to estimate chemical exposure concentrations was obtained from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan. Working environment concentrations of the chemicals in the printing rooms were estimated using a well‐mixed model, and exposure concentrations during the ink removal operation were estimated using a near‐field and far‐field model. Shift timeweighted averages (TWA) of exposure concentrations were also calculated.

Results

Two workers from each of three small printing plants examined suffered from cholangiocarcinoma, and all six of these workers had been exposed to 1,2‐dichloropropane (1,2‐DCP) for 10−16 years. The estimated working environment concentrations of 1,2‐DCP in the printing rooms were 17−180 ppm and estimated exposure concentrations during the ink removal operation were 150−620 ppm. Shift TWA values were estimated to be 62−240 ppm. Four of the six workers had also been exposed to dichloromethane (DCM) at estimated working environment concentrations of 0−98 ppm and estimated exposure concentrations during the ink removal operation of 0−560 ppm. Shift TWA values were estimated to be 0−180 ppm. Other chlorinated organic solvents (1,1,1trichloroethane, 1,1‐dichloro‐1‐fluoroethane) and petroleum solvents (gasoline, naphtha, mineral spirit, mineral oil, kerosene) were also used in the ink removal operation.

Conclusions

All six printing workers with cholangiocarcinoma were exposed to very high levels of 1,2‐DCP for a long term.
Adequacy of Governance Practices in University of Bohol
Authors: Tirol Ammon Denis R.
Published: July 2014

Governance refers to institutional systems and processes that reflect the principles guiding the overall use of authority and decision-making of the institution through its governing body. Assessment of the practices of this governing body is the foremost measure of quality in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) per the Philippine Commission for Higher Education (CHED) Institutional Quality Assurance Monitoring and Education (IQUAME) framework. This study assessed the adequacy of governance practices in the University of Bohol (UB) in its continual quest for educational leadership being Bohol’s first university. The researcher formulated survey questions adapted from the Governance and Management criteria of the IQUAME Self Evaluation Document (SED). The respondents of the study were the UB administrators that included the Board of Trustees, academic deans/ heads of offices. It involved as well the faculty, staff, and students selected by stratified random sampling.  The differences in the means of survey responses for respondent groups were analyzed through weighted means.  Results showed the adequacy of the four sub-variables under governance and management: Development planning, Qualifications of administrators, Addressing change, and Documentation of procedures. The overall conclusion is that UB can maintain leadership by building upon its strengths. The assessment addresses the objectives for quality assurance in teaching and learning and is a step towards institutional accreditation.
Employability of University of Bohol, BS Psychology Graduates
Authors: Lopena Gina T.
Published: July 2014

The employability of graduates is a major success indicator of curriculum effectiveness. The main purpose of the study is to evaluate the employability of BS Psychology graduates of the University of Bohol. This study utilized a descriptive survey and correlated the employability, competencies, and personality attributes of BS Psychology Graduates from the School Year 2003 to 2011. Results of the study showed that graduates were very highly employable having been employed within a period of fewer than 3 months after graduation and currently on the full-time permanent status and a greater number have concentrated in the industrial/organizational field. The extent to which the university has equipped them with employability competencies was rated Above Average. Respondents highly perceived their personality attributes.  There was a significant relationship between personality attributes and employability, and between employability competencies and personality attributes. Results of this study implied that graduates who are highly equipped with employability competencies develop high personality attributes resulting in high employability. The outcome of this study is one of the bases for the curricular improvement of the BS Psychology program at the University of Bohol.
Employees’ Defining and Driving Work Engagement in the University of Bohol
Authors: Trabajo Francis Mae C.
Published: July 2014

Employee engagement in this study is all about employees finding meaning in their work, and commitment to supporting organizational goals. This spurred the conduct of this study which assesses the profile of the tenured employees of the University of Bohol and their level of engagement in terms of defining and driving engagement. This study is using descriptive normative methods that employed quantitative and qualitative methods and data analysis and interpretation using frequencies, percentages, and weighted mean. On defining their work engagement, employees strongly agree or were highly engaged/committed in their work, and on drivers of engagement, they agree or were motivated/driven in their work.  Although the study yielded positive results as to defining and driving work engagement on the perception of the tenured nonteaching employees of the institution, there is a need to look into ways to sustain employees’ engagement for the success of its organizational goals.
Effects of Physical Therapy Modalities on Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Fudalan Marilou V. , Cajegas Kier R. , Nangkil Ricardo C. , Galaura Jason Q.
Published: July 2014

Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disorder characterized by pain, swelling, and decreased willingness to move. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of physical therapy modalities in alleviating the primary complaints of patients suffering from Osteoarthritis of the knee such as pain and functional disabilities. An experimental method was used composing of twenty elderly patients diagnosed with Osteoarthritis, ten joined the experimental group and another ten for the control group all of whom were treated with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator for fifteen minutes, Hydrocollator packs for fifteen minutes, and Active Range of Motion exercise for ten repetitions in three sets at their respective homes. To test the modalities' effectiveness after sixteen treatment sessions, the Numeric Pain Scale and Lequesne Algofunctional Index standardized tools were utilized which were subjected to correlation frequency for interpretation. All pertinent data of patients and procedures done were regarded with utmost confidentiality and sensitivity. The results indicated that patients who underwent Physical Therapy sessions had reduced pain scales and improved Lequesne Algofunctional Index scores according to the pre and post-evaluation done after every four treatments thereby concluding that such a form of treatment can decrease the symptoms felt.
Tracer Study: University of Bohol, Bachelor in Elementary Education, 2009-2012
Authors: Pamaran Nomi T. , Pamaran Lumin T.
Published: July 2014

Alumni tracer study is one of the best measures of how graduates benefit from the programs and courses they completed to become successful professionals and worthy members of society. The study used a descriptive, purposive method with the aid of a survey questionnaire to trace the Bachelor of Elementary Education graduates of the University of Bohol. Results showed that the majority were employed related to their degree completed, and the majority, of the graduate respondents, found most of the subjects offered very useful. For personal skills, interpersonal, intellectual, and specific skill areas, the respondents rated all items as Extremely Important, as to their importance to career success, they rated the same items as Very Good as to the extent that they possessed such skills. The findings of this study aspired to provide insights for the stakeholders within and outside the university in refining all the more their development agenda to increase decent and productive employment and job opportunities for graduates.
Spirituality and Self-Actualization
Authors: Pausanos Melinda C.
Published: July 2014

Spirituality is considered an important factor in the development of self-actualization among older adults as stated in the theory on Attaining Self-Actualization among Older Adults. This Study validated this assumption of the theory. This, descriptive-correlational study utilized a multi-stage sample of 180 senior citizens in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. A 3 part instrument package was utilized to (1) describe the respondents' demographic profile and obtain measures for their (2) spiritually Well-Being Scale (FACIT-Sp) and (3) self-actualization using a 16-item questionnaire developed by Boyum (2004). A Somer's d analysis indicated that the spirituality of the older adult is significantly correlated with self-actualization (p=.019). This study revealed that older adults with a strong sense of spirituality tend to be more self-actualized.
Starting a Family: The Experience of Parents with Cleft Lip and/or Palate
Authors: Stock Nicola Marie , Rumsey Nichola
Published: July 2014

Background

One of the key challenges facing young adults with cleft lip and/or palate is making decisions about starting a family, because there is an increased likelihood of their own child being diagnosed with cleft lip and/or palate. Should this occur, a second key challenge is how to deal with their child's diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Objective

To explore the views, experiences and possible support needs of this unique group of parents in order to inform the services provided by nonspecialist Health Professionals, cleft teams, and genetic counselors.

Design

Individual telephone interviews eliciting qualitative data.

Results

Qualitative thematic analysis identified five themes. Accessing accurate information and appropriate support around heritability presented a significant challenge. Parents described feelings of responsibility and distress at their child's diagnosis, as well as a number of factors that had helped or hindered their adjustment. Parents also described ways in which their own experiences had impacted their parenting style and how becoming a parent had changed the way they felt about their own cleft.

Conclusions

Young adults' understanding of what it means to grow up with cleft lip and/or palate may impact their decision to start a family and their experiences of having children. Possible methods of supporting prospective parents through this potentially difficult stage will be discussed.
Prevalence of Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate in Rural North-Central Guatemala
Authors: Matute Jorge , Lydick Elaine A. , Torres Olga R. , Owen Karen K. , Jacobsen Kathryn H.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To estimate the number of new cases of cleft lip and cleft palate in the department (state) of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, in 2012.

Design

Cross-sectional survey of midwives from communities identified through a two-stage cluster-sampling process. Midwives were asked how many babies they had delivered in the past year and how many of those newborns had various types of birth defects, as illustrated in pictures.

Setting

Indigenous Mayan communities in rural north-central Guatemala.

Participants

Midwives (n = 129) who had delivered babies in the previous year.

Main Outcome Measure

Reports of babies born with cleft lip and cleft palate.

Results

A 1-year prevalence rate of 18.9 per 10,000 for cleft lip and 4.7 per 10,000 for cleft palate was estimated for Alta Verapaz. None of the cases of cleft lip also had cleft palate.

Conclusion

The indigenous communities in north-central Guatemala might have a relatively high cleft lip prevalence rate compared with the global average.
Convergences and Trends in the Evolution of the Archosaur Pelvis
Authors: Iijima Masaya , Kobayashi Yoshitsugu
Published: July 2014

The pelvic structure in non-avian archosaurs plays a key role in understanding the evolution of terrestrial locomotor patterns because the pelvis contains major attachment sites for proximal hind limb musculature. In order to investigate patterns of pelvic evolution in archosaurs, this study compiled three pelvic indices, as well as femoral head orientation, for 92 archosaur taxa. With the metrics and a reconstructed supertree, we examined the correlated evolution of the pelvis and femur, the correlation among pelvic components, and temporal trends in the evolution of the pelvis. The result shows that archosaurs with medially directed femoral heads have more cranially shifted iliac centroids and more posteriorly rotated pubes than taxa with anteromedially directed femoral heads. The craniad shift of the iliac centroid might be correlated to the posterior rotation of pubis. The pelvic structures of pterosaurs, ornithischians, sauropods, and avetheropods occupy a different morphospace from basal archosaurs, pseudosuchians, basal dinosauromorphs, basal theropods, and basal sauropodomorphs in having more cranially expanded ilia, more posteriorly rotated pubes, and medially deflected femoral heads. This may imply that pterosaurs and those derived dinosaurs independently underwent similar shifts in thigh muscles and locomotion. The evolutionary model fitting supports the early-burst model for iliac and pubic metrics in more inclusive archosaur clades, indicating that larger changes of archosaur pelves occurred in early times of the clade's history.
Comparative Catalytic Activity of Metal-Containing Catalysts of Different Nature in the Liquid-Phase Aerobic Oxidation of Ethylbenzene
Authors: Abbasov Vagif , Zeynalov Eldar , Abdullayeva Narmina
Published: July 2014

The article describes an impact of metal-containing compounds - carbon nanofiber of platelet type, ferrocene and naphthenate Co on the aerobic oxidation of ethylbenzene. It has been established that all types of the added
compounds reveal significant catalytic activity in the oxidation of ethylbenzene and may be ordered as: ferrocene >
naphthenate Co ≥ carbon nanofiber.

The authors guess that the results obtained are helpful to design new catalytic oxidation process profile of diesel fraction
rich by aromatics.
Principles of Energy Efficient Construction and their Influence on the Seismic Resistance of Light-weight Buildings
Authors: Azinović Boris , Koren David , Kilar Vojko
Published: July 2014

Recently, an increasing trend of passive and low-energy buildings transferring from non earthquake-prone to earthquake-prone regions has thrown out the question about the seismic safety of such buildings. The paper describes the most commonly used details of energy efficient construction, which could be critical from the point of view of earthquake resistance. The paper focuses on the prevention of ground floor slab thermal bridge and presents a case study on the seismic response of multi-storey wooden buildings founded on the RC foundation slab lying on a thermal insulation (TI) layer made of extruded polystyrene (XPS). The structural response is investigated with reference to the following performance parameters: the building’s lateral top displacement, the ductility demand of the superstructure, the friction coefficient demand, the maximum compressive stress in the TI layer and the percentage of the uplifted foundation. A comparison between the response of models founded on a fixed base and models founded on a layer of TI with the same wooden crosslam structure differing in the number of storeys, strength capacity and subjected to earthquakes with different levels of seismic intensity is done. Regarding the building’s top displacements, the maximum compressive deformation in the TI layer, and the percentage of the uplifted foundation, the results have shown that the potentially negative influences of inserting the TI under the foundation slab could be expected only for high-rise buildings subjected to severe earthquakes. Oppositely, for the superstructure’s ductility demand and for the friction coefficient demand it was demonstrated that the largest demands could be expected in the case of low-rise buildings. The control of friction coefficient demand, which was recognized as critical parameter for analyzed wooden buildings, has shown that the capacity value could be exceeded yet in the case of moderate earthquake occurrence.
Risks Endemic to Long-Haul Trucking in North America: Strategies to Protect and Promote Driver Well-Being
Authors: Apostolopoulos Yorghos , Lemke Michael , Sönmez Sevil
Published: July 2014

Long-haul truck drivers in North America function in a work context marked by excess physical and psychological workload, erratic schedules, disrupted sleep patterns, extreme time pressures, and these factors' far-reaching consequences. These work-induced stressors are connected with excess risk for cardiometabolic disease, certain cancers, and musculoskeletal and sleep disorders, as well as highway crashes, which in turn exert enormous financial burdens on trucking and warehousing companies, governments and healthcare systems, along with working people within the sector. This article: 1) delineates the unique work environment of long-haul truckers, describing their work characteristics and duties; (2) discusses the health hazards of long-haul trucking that impact drivers, the general population, and trucking enterprises, examining how this work context induces, sustains, and exacerbates these hazards; and (3) proposes comprehensive, multi-level strategies with potential to protect and promote the health, safety, and well-being of truckers, while reducing adverse consequences for companies and highway safety.
Occupational Safety and Health Education and Training for Underserved Populations
Authors: O'Connor Tom , Flynn Michael , Weinstock Deborah , Zanoni Joseph
Published: July 2014

This article presents an analysis of the essential elements of effective occupational safety and health education and training programs targeting underserved communities. While not an exhaustive review of the literature on occupational safety and health training, the paper provides a guide for practitioners and researchers to the key factors they should consider in the design and implementation of training programs for underserved communities. It also addresses issues of evaluation of such programs, with specific emphasis on considerations for programs involving low-literacy and limited-English-speaking workers.
Jonathan Rosen: Building a Dynamic Union-Based Health and Safety Program
Authors: McLaughlin Kaci , Slatin Craig , Dunn Mary Lee
Published: July 2014

Jonathan Rosen has spent more than 30 years building union-based health and safety programs. In the 1970s he was a union activist. In 1980 he became a union health and safety committee chair at a Milwaukee manufacturing firm. Following that, he had a nearly 20-year career with the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF). He trained as an industrial hygienist and developed a highly regarded public sector union-based health and safety program. PEF's Health and Safety Department supported a network of union health and safety committees. Program accomplishments included innovative work on workplace violence prevention, indoor environmental quality, infectious diseases, and ergonomics. Mr. Rosen promoted collaboration among unions, helped support new activists, advocated tirelessly for injured workers, and formed an effective alliance with researchers. Rosen discusses essential strategies for mobilizing union members and gaining commitment to health and safety from unions, employers, and policy makers.
More on the normalized Laplacian Estrada index
Authors: Shang Yilun
Published: July 2014

Let G be a simple graph of order N. The normalized Laplacian Estrada index of
G is defined as NEE(G)=?Ni=1 e?i?1, where ?1, ?2,... , ?N are the normalized
Laplacian eigenvalues of G. In this paper, we give a tight lower bound for
NEE of general graphs. We also calculate NEE for a class of treelike
fractals, which contains T fractal and Peano basin fractal as its limiting
cases. It is shown that NEE scales linearly with the order of the fractal, in
line with a best possible lower bound for connected bipartite graphs.
Metformin Pharmacogenomics: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Pawlyk Aaron C. , Giacomini Kathleen M. , McKeon Catherine , Shuldiner Alan R. , Florez Jose C.
Published: July 2014

The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its costs to the health care system continue to rise. Despite the availability of at least 10 drug classes for the treatment of T2D, metformin remains the most widely used first-line pharmacotherapy for its treatment; however, marked interindividual variability in response and few clinical or biomarker predictors of response reduce its optimal use. As clinical care moves toward precision medicine, a variety of broad discovery-based “omics” approaches will be required. Technical innovation, decreasing sequencing cost, and routine sample storage and processing has made pharmacogenomics the most widely applied discovery-based approach to date. This opens up the opportunity to understand the genetics underlying the interindividual variation in metformin responses in order for clinicians to prescribe specific treatments to given individuals for better efficacy and safety: metformin for those predicted to respond and alternative therapies for those predicted to be nonresponders or who are at increased risk for adverse side effects. Furthermore, understanding of the genetic determinants of metformin response may lead to the identification of novel targets and development of more effective agents for diabetes treatment. The goals of this workshop sponsored by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases were to review the state of research on metformin pharmacogenomics, discuss the scientific and clinical hurdles to furthering our knowledge of the variability in patient responses to metformin, and consider how to effectively use this increased understanding to improve patient outcomes.
Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Halter Jeffrey B. , Musi Nicolas , McFarland Horne Frances , Crandall Jill P. , Goldberg Andrew , Harkless Lawrence , Hazzard William R. , Huang Elbert S. , Kirkman M. Sue , Plutzky Jorge , Schmader Kenneth E. , Zieman Susan , High Kevin P.
Published: July 2014

The prevalence of diabetes increases with age, driven in part by an absolute increase in incidence among adults aged 65 years and older. Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, and age strongly predicts cardiovascular complications. Inflammation and oxidative stress appear to play some role in the mechanisms underlying aging, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other complications of diabetes. However, the mechanisms underlying the age-associated increase in risk for diabetes and diabetes-related cardiovascular disease remain poorly understood. Moreover, because of the heterogeneity of the older population, a lack of understanding of the biology of aging, and inadequate study of the effects of treatments on traditional complications and geriatric conditions associated with diabetes, no consensus exists on the optimal interventions for older diabetic adults. The Association of Specialty Professors, along with the National Institute on Aging, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the American Diabetes Association, held a workshop, summarized in this Perspective, to discuss current knowledge regarding diabetes and cardiovascular disease in older adults, identify gaps, and propose questions to guide future research.
Targeted Reduction of Vascular Msx1 and Msx2 Mitigates Arteriosclerotic Calcification and Aortic Stiffness in LDLR-Deficient Mice Fed Diabetogenic Diets
Authors: Cheng Su-Li , Behrmann Abraham , Shao Jian-Su , Ramachandran Bindu , Krchma Karen , Bello Arredondo Yoanna , Kovacs Attila , Mead Megan , Maxson Robert , Towler Dwight A.
Published: July 2014

When fed high-fat diets, male LDLR−/− mice develop obesity, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and arteriosclerotic calcification. An osteogenic Msx-Wnt regulatory program is concomitantly upregulated in the vasculature. To better understand the mechanisms of diabetic arteriosclerosis, we generated SM22-Cre;Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− mice, assessing the impact of Msx1+Msx2 gene deletion in vascular myofibroblast and smooth muscle cells. Aortic Msx2 and Msx1 were decreased by 95% and 34% in SM22-Cre;Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− animals versus Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− controls, respectively. Aortic calcium was reduced by 31%, and pulse wave velocity, an index of stiffness, was decreased in SM22-Cre;Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− mice vs. controls. Fasting blood glucose and lipids did not differ, yet SM22-Cre;Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− siblings became more obese. Aortic adventitial myofibroblasts from SM22-Cre;Msx1(fl/fl);Msx2(fl/fl);LDLR−/− mice exhibited reduced osteogenic gene expression and mineralizing potential with concomitant reduction in multiple Wnt genes. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and Sca1, markers of aortic osteogenic progenitors, were also reduced, paralleling a 78% reduction in alkaline phosphatase (TNAP)–positive adventitial myofibroblasts. RNA interference revealed that although Msx1+Msx2 supports TNAP and Wnt7b expression, Msx1 selectively maintains Shh and Msx2 sustains Wnt2, Wnt5a, and Sca1 expression in aortic adventitial myofibroblast cultures. Thus, Msx1 and Msx2 support vascular mineralization by directing the osteogenic programming of aortic progenitors in diabetic arteriosclerosis.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Hispanics/Latinos of Diverse Background: The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Heiss Gerardo , Snyder Michelle L. , Teng Yanping , Schneiderman Neil , Llabre Maria M. , Cowie Catherine , Carnethon Mercedes , Kaplan Robert , Giachello Aida , Gallo Linda , Loehr Laura , Avilés-Santa Larissa
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE

Approximately one-third of the adult U.S. population has the metabolic syndrome. Its prevalence is the highest among Hispanic adults, but variation by Hispanic/Latino background is unknown. Our objective was to quantify the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among men and women 18–74 years of age of diverse Hispanic/Latino background.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Two-stage area probability sample of households in four U.S. locales, yielding 16,319 adults (52% women) who self-identified as Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Central American, or South American. The metabolic syndrome was defined according to the American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 2009 Joint Scientific Statement. The main outcome measures were age-standardized prevalence of the metabolic syndrome per the harmonized American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute definition and its component abnormalities.

RESULTS

The metabolic syndrome was present in 36% of women and 34% of men. Differences in the age-standardized prevalence were seen by age, sex, and Hispanic/Latino background. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among those 18–44, 45–64, and 65–74 years of age was 23%, 50%, and 62%, respectively, among women; and 25%, 43%, and 55%, respectively, among men. Among women, the metabolic syndrome prevalence ranged from 27% in South Americans to 41% in Puerto Ricans. Among men, prevalences ranged from 27% in South Americans to 35% in Cubans. In those with the metabolic syndrome, abdominal obesity was present in 96% of the women compared with 73% of the men; more men (73%) than women (62%) had hyperglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

The burden of cardiometabolic abnormalities is high in Hispanic/Latinos but varies by age, sex, and Hispanic/Latino background. Hispanics/Latinos are thus at increased, but modifiable, predicted lifetime risk of diabetes and its cardiovascular sequelae.