bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-demographic characteristics and treatment outcome of patients with malignancy and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rahman Md Raziur , Afroze Samira Rahat , Sarker Rene Suzan Claude , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: January 2018

Background: In Bangladesh prevalence of malignancy in diabetic patients seems to be increasing as case detection of both diseases are far more than before. No statistical data of diabetic patients with malignancy is currently available in Bangladesh. Treatment of both diabetes and malignancy in the same patient is challenging for the physician and requires multidisciplinary support. For such cases BIRDEM General Hospital offers supportive facilities including intensive care, chemotherapy, surgical intervention and oncology day care.Methods : This is a cross-sectional observational study carried out from January 2011 to June 2016 which included adult diabetic patients with malignancy admitted in Internal Medicine Department of BIRDEM General Hospital. With prior informed consent of the patients, data were collected and statistical analysis was done using professional SPSS version 17.0 windows based program.Results : Total number of type 2 diabetic patients with malignancy was 80. Among them 49 (61.3%) were male and 31 (37.7%) were female patients. Almost two-third of the patients was between 41-60 years (63.8%). More than half of the patients belonged to urban settings (42, 52.5%) followed by sub-urban area (27, 33.7%). Smoking was the commonest (23.8%) among the risk factors. Family history for malignancy and exposure to occupational hazards were present in 11.3% and 7.5% cases respectively. Among co-morbid conditions, hypertension and ischemic heart disease were predominant. Twenty categories of malignancies were confirmed by histopathological evidence, radiology reports and cancer markers. The commonest malignancy in male and female was lymphoma and carcinoma breast respectively. Most patients were treated with chemotherapy (48.8%) and combined approach was required in 36.3% cases. Good response to treatment was observed in 46.3% cases, 15% patients deteriorated and death occurred in 6.3% cases.Conclusion : Type 2 diabetes and malignancy individually have their own consequences. When co-existing, patients require a holistic approach. Complications can arise from either spectrum of the diseases. If managed promptly and adequately, outcome of such cases is encouraging. Management outcome of these cases so far in Internal Medicine Department, BIRDEM General Hospital shows a promising future.Bangladesh J Medicine Jul 2017; 28(2) : 70-74
Health hazard after natural disasters in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: January 2018

A natural disaster is defined as an event of nature, which overwhelms local resources and threatens the function and safety of the community. Our main natural disasters are related to Flood and torrential rain and related events.. Earth quake even tsunamis happened here but so far not to the devastating state. Technological disaster like collapse of big building unnoticed firebreak out in huge industry has claimed life here and risked prevailing health system. Volcanic eruptions, Wildfire, Wind/Snow storm are problem in other part of the world. Deaths associated with natural disasters, particularly rapid-onset disasters, are overwhelmingly due to blunt trauma, crush-related injuries, or drowning. The relationship between natural disasters and communicable diseases is frequently misconstrued. The risk for outbreaks is often presumed to be very high in the chaos that follows natural disasters, a fear likely derived from a perceived misconception of association between dead bodies and epidemics. The availability of safe water and sanitation facilities, the degree of crowding, the underlying health status of the population, and the availability of healthcare services all interact within the context of the local disease ecology to influence the risk for communicable diseases and death in the affected population. This review is prepared from research and review articles published in different journal.ECHO factsheet -2017.WHO technical reports,CDC fact sheet,Pan Am health organization report werealso studied. A public health approach to disaster risk managementshould focus on decreasing the vulnerability of communitiesthrough prevention and mitigation measures and increasingthe coping capacity and preparedness of the health sectorand communityBangladesh J Medicine Jul 2017; 28(2) : 81-90
Recent clinical experiences with Chikungunya
Authors: Islam Quazi Tarikul , Majumder M , Basit A
Published: January 2018

Abstract not availableBangladesh J Medicine Jul 2017; 28(2) : 104-106
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Atoms in 2017
Authors:   Atoms Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Atoms maintains high quality standards for its published papers [...]
Managing Exposure to Benzene and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons at Two Oil Refineries 1977–2014
Authors: Tuomi Tapani , Veijalainen Henna , Santonen Tiina
Published: January 2018

Air concentrations of and inhalation exposure to total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and benzene was monitored separately at two oil refineries from 1977 to 2014. Prevention policies and control measures that may explain changes were surveyed. The aim was to evaluate how the application of of Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series OHSAS 18001.04 principles as well as Environmental protection Agency EPA and European Oil Company Organisation for Environment, Health and Safety CONCAWE practices have influenced air concentrations. Benzene air concentrations declined in 11 of 17 units, six of which were associated with declining exposures. Benzene air concentrations declined across all units on average by 46%. This amounts to an average yearly decline of 1.7%. TPH air concentrations declined in 10 of 17 units, seven of which were associated with declining exposures. The average decline in TPH air concentrations was 49%, corresponding to 1.3% per year. As a result, average working day exposure in 10 of 17 units have declined significantly and today, benzene and TPH exposure in most units are well below 10% of the current Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL8h:s). A decline in air concentrations have coincided with consistent implementation of control measures. Such measures include on-line monitoring of leaks; benzene recovery; floating container roofs; improved valves and seals; hermetic pumps; recovery of loading gases and instalment of torches in terminals; cutback in coke combustion; a new production line spanning directly from the dock to aromatics production; and recovery of loading gases in the doc. Other tools in exposure management include personal leak monitors, on-line measurements, monitoring campaigns, risk assessment, and availability and user training of protective equipment. However, improvements are still needed. Hydrocarbon or benzene air concentrations have not declined in 8 of 17 units, in some of which concentrations exceed 10% of the relevant OEL8h value. In addition, for benzene even 10% of the current OEL, 0.1 ppm, might still possess a risk. With this in mind, methods to estimate exposure at the refineries need to be improved to enable measuring benzene concentrations <0.1 ppm. Shut downs of the refinery have been associated with peaks in exposure concentrations. Consequently, effort should be placed on safe working methods pertaining to shutdowns. Also, the connection and detachment of hoses continues to be problematic from the point of view of controlling exposure.
Metabolite Profiling of 14 Wuyi Rock Tea Cultivars Using UPLC-QTOF MS and UPLC-QqQ MS Combined with Chemometrics
Authors: Chen Si , Li Meihong , Zheng Gongyu , Wang Tingting , Lin Jun , Wang Shanshan , Wang Xiaxia , Chao Qianlin , Cao Shixian , Yang Zhenbiao , Yu Xiaomin
Published: January 2018

Wuyi Rock tea, well-recognized for rich flavor and long-lasting fragrance, is a premium subcategory of oolong tea mainly produced in Wuyi Mountain and nearby regions of China. The quality of tea is mainly determined by the chemical constituents in the tea leaves. However, this remains underexplored for Wuyi Rock tea cultivars. In this study, we investigated the leaf metabolite profiles of 14 major Wuyi Rock tea cultivars grown in the same producing region using UPLC-QTOF MS and UPLC-QqQ MS with data processing via principal component analysis and cluster analysis. Relative quantitation of 49 major metabolites including flavan-3-ols, proanthocyanidins, flavonol glycosides, flavone glycosides, flavonone glycosides, phenolic acid derivatives, hydrolysable tannins, alkaloids and amino acids revealed clear variations between tea cultivars. In particular, catechins, kaempferol and quercetin derivatives were key metabolites responsible for cultivar discrimination. Information on the varietal differences in the levels of bioactive/functional metabolites, such as methylated catechins, flavonol glycosides and theanine, offers valuable insights to further explore the nutritional values and sensory qualities of Wuyi Rock tea. It also provides potential markers for tea plant fingerprinting and cultivar identification.
Use of an UHPLC-MS/MS Method for Determination of Kuraridin and Characterization of Its Metabolites in Rat Plasma after Oral Administration
Authors: Liu Yi , Chen Lei , Cai Wei , Zhao Lin-lin , Mo Zhi-xian
Published: January 2018

Kuraridin is an active natural prenylated flavonoid ingredient originating from the well-known traditional Chinese medicine Sophora flavescens Ait., that possesses various bioactivities, such as antitumor activity, PLCγ1 inhibitory activity, glycosidase inhibitory activity, etc. However, there is no report on the plasma metabolic profile and pharmacokinetic study of kuraridin. The current study was designed to use an ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method for the quantification and characterization metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of kuraridin. A liquid-liquid extraction method with ethyl acetate-acetonitrile (1:3) was used to extract the kuraridin from rat plasma samples. The chromatographic separation was carried out on a Hypersil GOLD UHPLC C18 column equipped with a C18 guard cartridge using a gradient elution with organic solvent-water as mobile phase. Based on comparing the retention times with reference standards or on the basis of MS2 fragmentation behaviors, a total of 19 metabolites were identified or tentatively characterized from rat plasma. Under the optimized conditions, the method showed good linearity (r2 > 0.99) over the ranges of 1–500 ng/mL for kuraridin. The inter- and intra-day precisions were less than 8.95%, and the accuracy was in the range of −6.27–6.48%. The recovery of kuraridin ranged from 90.1% to 100.4%. The developed UHPLC-MS/MS method was thus successfully applied in the qualitative of metabolites and quantitative analysis of kuraridin in rat plasma.
Proteomic Analysis of Differentially-Expressed Proteins in the Liver of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats Treated with Parkia biglobosa Protein Isolate
Authors: Ogunyinka Bolajoko , Oyinloye Babatunji , Osunsanmi Foluso , Opoku Andrew , Kappo Abidemi
Published: January 2018

Protein isolate from Parkia biglobosa seeds is believed to possess excellent anti-diabetic properties. The purpose of this study was to identify differentially expressed proteins in liver of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats treated with Parkia biglobosa seeds protein isolate (PBPi). In this study, total proteins extracted from rat liver were separated on one-dimensional SDS polyacrylamide gel (1D SDS-PAGE) and stained with Coomassie brilliant blue (CBB) to visualize protein bands. We observed that protein bands in the region of 10–15 kDa were altered by the different treatments; these bands were selected and excised for in-gel digestion and peptide extraction followed by nLC-MS, MALDI-TOF MS, and LIFT MS/MS. A database search with the Mascot algorithm positively identified four differentially expressed proteins. These proteins are known to be responsible for diverse biological functions within various organs and tissues. The present result gives insight and understanding into possible molecular mechanisms by which streptozotocin causes various alterations in proteins found in the liver of diabetic rats and the possible modulatory role of PBPi in the management of streptozotocin-induced diabetes.
Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Effects of Tibetan Tea and Its Phenolic Components
Authors: Xie Hong , Li Xican , Ren Zhenxing , Qiu Weimin , Chen Jianlan , Jiang Qian , Chen Ban , Chen Dongfeng
Published: January 2018

Tibetan tea (Kangzhuan) is an essential beverage of the Tibetan people. In this study, a lyophilized aqueous extract of Tibetan tea (LATT) was prepared and analyzed by HPLC. The results suggested that there were at least five phenolic components, including gallic acid, and four catechins (i.e., (+)-catechin, (−)-catechin gallate (CG), (−)-epicatechin gallate (ECG), and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate). Gallic acid, the four catechins, and LATT were then comparatively investigated by four antioxidant assays: ferric reducing antioxidant power, 2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide radical (PTIO•) scavenging, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazl radical scavenging, and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging assays. In these assays, LATT, along with the five phenolic components, increased their antioxidant effects in a concentration-dependent manner; however, the half maximal scavenging concentrations of ECG were always lower than those of CG. Gallic acid and the four catechins were also suggested to chelate Fe2+ based on UV-visible spectral analysis. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC−ESI−Q−TOF−MS/MS) analysis suggested that, when mixed with PTIO•, the five phenolic components could yield two types of radical adduct formation (RAF) products (i.e., tea phenolic dimers and tea phenolic-PTIO• adducts). In a flow cytometry assay, (+)-catechin and LATT was observed to have a cytoprotective effect towards oxidative-stressed bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Based on this evidence, we concluded that LATT possesses antioxidative or cytoprotective properties. These effects may mainly be attributed to the presence of phenolic components, including gallic acid and the four catechins. These phenolic components may undergo electron transfer, H+-transfer, and Fe2+-chelating pathways to exhibit antioxidative or cytoprotective effects. In these effects, two diastereoisomeric CG and ECG showed differences to which a steric effect from the 2-carbon may contribute. Phenolic component decay may cause RAF in the antioxidant process.
Recherches nouvelles sur les karsts des gypses et des évaporites associées (Seconde partie : géomorphologie, hydrologie et impact anthropique)
Authors: Nicod Jean
Published: January 2018

Surface features reflect not only the importance of cave collapse, but also the action of present and inherited zonal processes. The rates of geomorphological evolution are compared (main data in table 1). The particularities of hydrological circulation are studied, as well as the ivorkings of some karstic lakes, particularly the. Banyoles lake (Catalonia). The various processes generate numerous hazards enumerated in the paper and evident in urban and suburban areas and in the civil engineering works such as tunnels, dams, etc...
Le paléokarst littoral de Provence (Estaque, Calanques, et zone de Bandol)
Authors: Blanc Jean-Joseph
Published: January 2018

The general features of coastal paléokarst in Provence arc described : suspended gallery sections and drain-pipes cut across by fracturations or fault reactivation. The types of deformations and breaking obseroed are tilting, stalactite fall, extension fault sealing, reactivation and speleothem shearing, coastal wall and karstic cleft collapse as well as netivork deformation. The influence of structural environment is represented by overlapping strata, coastal faults and crossed-fault systems. Emphasis has been laid on the tectonic inheritance as well as the geodynamic context. To conclude, the importance of provencal-ligurian rifting mechanisms and the transition to faulted and distorted margin is underlined.
La grotte du Funiculaire (Le Mesnil sous Jumièges, Seine-Maritime) Spéléogenèse et étude d'un remplissage ferro-manganique
Authors: Coquerel Gérard , Lefebvre Dominique , Rodet Joël , Staigre Jean- Claude
Published: January 2018

(Le Mesnil sous Jumièges , Seine-Maritime, France). The Funicular cave is a major cave of the Lower Seine. Completely exca¬ vated 40 years ago by its owner , it presents a spatial organization model of drains for the paleokarsts of the great valley. Among the infillings, we discovered a brown-black deposit with a surprising concentration of 90 % iron and of 7 % manganese , without organic matter or nickel mineral.
Medium-Term Outcome and CT Assessment of Lateral Foraminotomy at the Lumbosacral Junction in Dogs with Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis
Authors: Hartman Angela , Bridges Janis , Jones Boyd , Mayhew Joe , Worth Andrew
Published: January 2018

Objective This article aims to report the medium-term clinical outcome and assess persistence of enlargement of the lumbosacral lateral intervertebral neurovascular foramen using computed tomography (CT) volumetric analysis in dogs following lateral foraminotomy.

Materials Six dogs that underwent lumbosacral lateral foraminotomy on one or both sides were evaluated with CT prior to, immediately postoperatively (n = 2) and at 12 to 44 months of follow-up. Five out of six dogs had successful clinical outcomes with alleviation of pain and increased levels of activity, according to subjective assessment. Immediate postoperative CT volumetric analysis of the lateral intervertebral neurovascular foramina in two dogs indicated a 650 to 800% increase in volume in extension achieved by foraminotomy (four foramens). At subsequent follow-up, bone regrowth had occurred with reduction in foraminal volume, though in both dogs foraminal volume remained higher than preoperative values. Follow-up CT at a median of 24 months postoperatively indicated a mean 335% increase in volume of the lumbosacral lateral intervertebral neurovascular foramina in extension compared with the preoperative foraminal volume. The follow-up volume was substantially greater than the presurgical volume in four out of six dogs.

Clinical Significance In this limited case series, lateral foraminotomy achieved persistent enlargement of the lumbosacral lateral intervertebral neurovascular foramen in the medium term, but osseous regrowth at the site was demonstrated which may limit the effectiveness of lateral foraminotomy in the longer term. One of two working dogs had recurrent clinical signs that necessitated further surgery.
Evidence of Energy and Charge Sign Dependence of the Recovery Time for the 2006 December Forbush Event Measured by the PAMELA Experiment
Authors: Munini R. , Boezio M. , Bruno A. , Christian E. C. , Nolfo G. A. de , Felice V. Di , Martucci M. , Merge’ M. , Richardson I. G. , Ryan J. M. , Stochaj S. , Adriani O. , Barbarino G. C. , Bazilevskaya G. A. , Bellotti R. , Bongi M. , Bonvicini V. , Bottai S. , Cafagna F. , Campana D. , Carlson P. , Casolino M. , Castellini G. , Santis C. De , Galper A. M. , Karelin A. V. , Koldashov S. V. , Koldobskiy S. , Krutkov S. Y. , Kvashnin A. N. , Leonov A. , Malakhov V. , Marcelli L. , Mayorov A. G. , Menn W. , Mikhailov V. V. , Mocchiutti E. , Monaco A. , Mori N. , Osteria G. , Panico B. , Papini P. , Pearce M. , Picozza P. , Ricci M. , Ricciarini S. B. , Simon M. , Sparvoli R. , Spillantini P. , Stozhkov Y. I. , Vacchi A. , Vannuccini E. , Vasilyev G. , Voronov S. A. , Yurkin Y. T. , Zampa G. , Zampa N. , Potgieter M. S.
Published: January 2018

New results on the short-term galactic cosmic-ray (GCR) intensity variation (Forbish decrease) in 2006 December measured by the PAMELA instrument are presented. Forbush decreases are sudden suppressions of the GCR intensities, which are associated with the passage of interplanetary transients such as shocks and interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs). Most of the past measurements of this phenomenon were carried out with ground-based detectors such as neutron monitors or muon telescopes. These techniques allow only the indirect detection of the overall GCR intensity over an integrated energy range. For the first time, thanks to the unique features of the PAMELA magnetic spectrometer, the Forbush decrease, commencing on 2006 December 14 and following a CME at the Sun on 2006 December 13, was studied in a wide rigidity range (0.4–20 GV) and for different species of GCRs detected directly in space. The daily averaged GCR proton intensity was used to investigate the rigidity dependence of the amplitude and the recovery time of the Forbush decrease. Additionally, for the first time, the temporal variations in the helium and electron intensities during a Forbush decrease were studied. Interestingly, the temporal evolutions of the helium and proton intensities during the Forbush decrease were found to be in good agreement, while the low rigidity electrons (

GV) displayed a faster recovery. This difference in the electron recovery is interpreted as a charge sign dependence introduced by drift motions experienced by the GCRs during their propagation through the heliosphere.
A Direct Measurement of Sense of Rotation of PSR J0737–3039A
Authors: Pol Nihan , McLaughlin Maura , Kramer Michael , Stairs Ingrid , Perera Benetge B. P. , Possenti Andrea
Published: January 2018

We apply the algorithm published by Liang et al. to describe the Double Pulsar system J0737–3039 and extract the sense of rotation of the first born recycled pulsar PSR J0737–3039A. We find that this pulsar is rotating prograde in its orbit. This is the first direct measurement of the sense of rotation of a pulsar with respect to its orbit and a direct confirmation of the rotating lighthouse model for pulsars. This result confirms that the spin angular momentum vector is closely aligned with the orbital angular momentum, suggesting that the kick of the supernova producing the second born pulsar J0737–3039B was small.
Multi-epoch VLBA Imaging of 20 New TeV Blazars: Apparent Jet Speeds
Authors: Piner B. Glenn , Edwards Philip G.
Published: January 2018

We present 88 multi-epoch Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) images (most at an observing frequency of 8 GHz) of 20 TeV blazars, all of the high-frequency-peaked BL Lac (HBL) class, that have not been previously studied at multiple epochs on the parsec scale. From these 20 sources, we analyze the apparent speeds of 43 jet components that are all detected at four or more epochs. As has been found for other TeV HBLs, the apparent speeds of these components are relatively slow. About two-thirds of the components have an apparent speed that is consistent (within 2σ) with no motion, and some of these components may be stationary patterns whose apparent speed does not relate to the underlying bulk flow speed. In addition, a superluminal tail to the apparent speed distribution of the TeV HBLs is detected for the first time, with eight components in seven sources having a 2σ lower limit on the apparent speed exceeding

. We combine the data from these 20 sources with an additional 18 sources from the literature to analyze the complete apparent speed distribution of all 38 TeV HBLs that have been studied with very long baseline interferometry at multiple epochs. The highest 2σ apparent speed lower limit considering all sources is

. This suggests that bulk Lorentz factors of up to about 4, but probably not much higher, exist in the parsec-scale radio-emitting regions of these sources, consistent with estimates obtained in the radio by other means such as brightness temperatures. This can be reconciled with the high Lorentz factors estimated from the high-energy data if the jet has velocity structures consisting of different emission regions with different Lorentz factors. In particular, we analyze the current apparent speed data for the TeV HBLs in the context of a model with a fast central spine and a slower outer layer.
L’aménagement du territoire et la question de la différence culturelle au Canada. De l’invisibilité à la visibilisation des peuples autochtones
Authors: Hirt Irène , Desbiens Caroline
Published: January 2018

Au Canada, l’aménagement a contribué à la dépossession des sociétés autochtones par la création des « réserves » amérindiennes et autres modes de gestion du territoire et des ressources. Cet article propose une approche critique du concept d’aménagement en le considérant comme un dispositif central de contrôle social dans le cadre de l’entreprise coloniale européenne. Il suggère que ces fondements coloniaux de l’aménagement sont actuellement remis en cause au Canada par la mise en œuvre de modèles de gestion partagée du territoire entre Autochtones et non Autochtones. Il démontre toutefois le caractère inégal de ces transformations sociales, en comparant deux situations contrastées au Québec : celle des Cris de l’Est de la Baie James, bénéficiant depuis les années 1970 d’importantes prérogatives en matière d’aménagement sur leurs territoires ancestraux grâce à la signature d’un traité moderne ; et celle d’une partie des Innus, qui, dans l’attente de la ratification d’un tel traité, doivent composer avec les décisions prises par la société majoritaire, relatives à la gestion du territoire et des ressources hors réserve.
Trajectoires d’intégration des villes françaises dans les réseaux économiques et financiers des firmes transnationales étrangères
Authors: Finance Olivier
Published: January 2018

À l’échelle mondiale, les firmes transnationales sont à l’origine d’inégalités d’intégration substantielles. Il est bien connu qu’elles dirigent notamment leurs investissements avant tout depuis et à destination des pays du Nord. Peu observées à l’échelle des systèmes de villes, leurs stratégies de localisation placent pourtant les villes dans des positions très diverses : certaines se situent en tête de leurs réseaux, certaines se trouvent très intégrées en accueillant de nombreux investissements, d’autres encore en sont quasiment exclues. Nous observons l’inégale intégration des territoires aux réseaux des firmes étrangères en France, à une échelle plus fine que celle permise par la seule considération des statistiques conventionnelles, et ceci dans une perspective dynamique. Alors que les métropoles sont concernées en tout premier lieu par une mondialisation incluante, les villes plus petites sont engagées dans des trajectoires d’intégration très diverses : marginalité, rattrapage, renforcement et déclin. Ceci a pu être révélé par la décomposition des réseaux de filiation des firmes transnationales via une base inédite des établissements sous contrôle étranger dans les aires urbaines françaises et leur comparaison à un recensement des établissements nouvellement créés depuis 2003.
Incorporating Family Engagement Into California School District Accountability Plans
Authors: London Rebecca A.
Published: January 2018

Under a new policy, California school districts are responsible for articulating their plans to address student needs in eight priority areas, including family engagement in support of student learning. This chapter reviews accountability plans for 15 culturally and regionally diverse California school districts by aligning their approaches to family engagement with key culturally responsive strategies identified in the literature. Districts report using multiple approaches to engage families, but there is not strong evidence of teacher professional development in support of culturally responsive practices. Metrics to track family engagement outcomes are limited. Most districts track family participation at school events or response rates to family surveys, neither of which allows for an analysis of opportunities for engagement. More sophisticated family engagement systems are needed to assess the success of engaging family members in culturally appropriate and effective ways that improve student educational outcomes.
Parent Engagement Through Abriendo Caminos/Opening Pathways
Authors: Hernández-Johnson Mónica , Flores Rosemary Q.
Published: January 2018

“Abriendo Caminos/Opening Pathways for Students of Color Into the Teaching Profession: Giving Back to the Community Through Teaching,” funded by an educational improvement grant, was designed to address the teacher shortage and demographic diversity gap between students and teachers in a largely urban public school district in the Southwestern United States. The research team at a large, minority-serving public research institution set to address the teacher shortage and diversity gap in three distinct ways—research, recruitment, and registration/retention—with a strong parental engagement component in every stage. Research shows that the engagement of multicultural families/families of color in schools and surrounding community initiatives may more expediently and reliably translate into improved student educational outcomes than does that involvement focused largely on their children's performance in school. This chapter delineates practical hands-on methods to develop stronger parent partnerships using a social justice lens.
General View for Investigative Interviewing of Children
Authors: Gökçearslan Çifci Elif , Batman Huseyin
Published: January 2018

This chapter aims to summarize the development of investigative interviewing of children especially in the UK and Turkey to give short information about the methods which have been implemented by police officers during interviews. The role of the interviewers during the interview will be outlined and some information will be given about children as witnesses. This book chapter will also express the risks and difficulties of conducting interviews with children. Moreover, it will be briefly underlined the harmfull effects of re-interviewing of children. All these subjects were examined comprehensively Interviewing is at the heart of any police investigation and thus is the root of achieving justice in society.
Nephrotic Syndrome in Very Elderly: Should We Treat Aggressively?
Authors: Koratala Abhilash , Tantravahi Jogiraju
Published: January 2018

Chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury are being increasingly recognized in very elderly patients, aged 80 or more. In cases of suspected glomerulonephritis with or without nephrotic syndrome, the clinical decision-making of whether to obtain a renal biopsy and treat with immunosuppressive therapy should not be based on advanced age alone but take into consideration the patient’s functional status and overall prognosis. Herein, we report a case of an elderly patient with minimal change disease who benefitted from a timely renal biopsy and aggressive immunosuppressive therapy.
Occupational Therapy in Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waivers
Authors: Friedman Carli , VanPuymbrouck Laura
Published: January 2018

OBJECTIVE. Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) 1915(c) waivers are the largest provider of long-term services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). In this study, we explored how HCBS IDD waivers projected providing occupational therapy services in Fiscal Year (FY) 2015.

METHOD. Medicaid HCBS IDD waivers across the nation gathered from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed to determine how they projected providing occupational therapy services in terms of service expenditures and utilization.

RESULTS. In FY 2015, $14.13 million of spending was projected for occupational therapy services of 7,500 participants. However, there was large heterogeneity across states and services in terms of total projected spending, spending per participant, and reimbursement rates.

CONCLUSION. Comparisons across states strengthen the profession’s ability to assert the value of its services. These findings can help identify best practices and can advocate for the refinement of state occupational therapy programs.
Sources and Characteristics of Summertime Organic Aerosol in
the Colorado Front Range: Perspective from Measurements and
WRF-Chem Modeling
Authors: Bahreini Roya , Ahmadov Ravan , McKeen Stu A. , Vu Kennedy T. , Dingle Justin H. , Apel Eric C. , Blake Donald R. , Blake Nicola , Campos Teresa L. , Cantrell Chris , Flocke Frank , Fried Alan , Gillman Jessica B. , Hills Alan J. , Hornbrook Rebecca S. , Huey Greg , Kaser Lisa , Lerner Brian M. , Mauldin Roy L. , Meinardi Simone , Montzka Denise D. , Richter Dirk , Schroeder Jason R. , Stell Meghan , Tanner David , Walgea James , Weibring Peter , Weinheimer Andrew
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Evolution of organic aerosol (OA) and their precursors in the boundary layer of Colorado Front Range during the Front Range Air Pollution and Photochemistry Éxperiment (FRAPPÉ, July–August 2014) was analyzed by in-situ measurements and chemical transport modeling. Measurements indicated significant production of secondary OA (SOA), with enhancement ratio of OA with respect to carbon monoxide (CO) reaching 0.068 ± 0.004 μg m−3 ppbv−1. At background mixing ratios of CO, up to ~ 2 μg m−3 background OA was observed, suggesting significant non-combustion contribution to OA in the Front Range. The mean concentration of OA in plumes with a high influence of oil and natural gas (O&G) emissions was ~ 40 % higher than in urban-influenced plumes. Positive matrix factorization confirmed a dominant contribution of secondary, oxygenated OA (OOA) in the boundary layer instead of fresh, hydrocarbon-like OA (HOA). Combinations of primary OA (POA) volatility assumptions, aging of semi-volatile species, and different emission estimates from the O&G sector were used in the Weather Research and Forecasting model, coupled with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) simulation scenarios. The assumption of semi-volatile POA resulted in greater than a factor of 10 lower POA concentrations compared to PMF-resolved HOA. Including a top-down modified O&G emissions resulted in substantially better agreements in modeled ethane, toluene, hydroxyl radical, and ozone compared to measurements in the high O&G-influenced plumes. By including emissions from the O&G sector using the top-down approach, it was estimated that the O&G sector contributed to
Ensemble Variational Assimilation as a Probabilistic Estimator. Part I: The linear and weak non-linear case
Authors: Jardak Mohamed , Talagrand Olivier
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Data assimilation is considered as a problem in Bayesian estimation, viz. determine the probability distribution for the state of the observed system, conditioned by the available data. In the linear and additive Gaussian case, a Monte-Carlo sample of the Bayesian probability distribution (which is Gaussian and known explicitly) can be obtained by a simple procedure: perturb the data according to the probability distribution of their own errors, and perform an assimilation on the perturbed data. The performance of that approach, called Ensemble Variational Assimilation (EnsVAR), is studied in the two parts of the paper on the non-linear low-dimensional Lorenz-96 chaotic system, the assimilation being performed by the standard variational proce- dure. In Part I, EnsVAR is implemented first, for reference, in a linear and Gaussian case, and then in a weakly non-linear case (assimilation over 5 days of the system). The performances of the algorithm, considered as a statistical estimator, are very similar in the two cases. Additional comparison shows that the performance of EnsVAR is better, both in the assimilation and forecast phases, than that of standard algorithms for Ensemble Kalman Filter and Particle Filter (although at a higher cost). Globally similar results are obtained with the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation.
Jugando con la materia: estrategias para el desarrollo de un lenguaje artístico propio
Authors: Linaza Marta , Sardá Raquel
Published: January 2018

El presente texto es el resultado de una investigación llevada a cabo en el ámbito de la escultura y supone una reflexión en torno a la docencia en la actualidad al poner de relieve la necesidad de una revisión de las metodologías de trabajo en las enseñanzas artísticas universitarias. No es ninguna novedad relacionar ambas categorías, arte y juego, lo que han hecho importantes autores a lo largo del siglo XX desde Huizinga y Callois, hasta Gadamer y Bruner entre otros muchos. Lo que se señala es una cuestión esencial: cómo provocar en el alumno un espíritu de búsqueda y exploración que no parta de una idea dada y ajena, “el tema”, sino que ésta surja de un proceso de investigación-juego con la materia. Ocurre que, en esta fase de trabajo muy dirigida, aunque sea en un ámbito de juego, comienzan a manifestarse vínculos sólidos entre quien juega y su materia elegida para ello. De estos parentescos se van a derivar, más adelante, y de modo progresivo lo que hemos visto que han sido unas consistentes estructuras sobre las que construir su propio lenguaje artístico.
Feeding habits of the Cichlid Chromidotilapia guntheri (Sauvage, 1882) in some hydrosystems of Ivory Coast
Authors: BOUSSOU Charles Koffi , ALIKO Gustave N’guessan , KONAN Mexmin Koffi , KONAN Felix Koffi
Published: January 2018

The feeding habit of Chromidotilapia guntheri was investigated in seven hydrosystems of Ivory Coast. The contents of 156 non-empty stomachs were examined from specimens caught in the rivers Soumié, Eholié, Noé, Ehania and Banco, the Bea rill and the Kpoda lake. Diets composition, feeding strategy and trophic niche width were analyzed among hydrosystems. Stomach content analysis indicated that C. guntheri feeds preferentially on plants and insects debris and secondarily, it consumed insects’ larvae, nymphs and adults in all habitats. This species would be an omnivorous with a detritivorous tendency. As feeding strategy, it practices a generalist strategy even if some individuals displayed specialization intentions on insects at different stages of metamorphosis. Investigations on ontogenetic shift revealed that juveniles and adults of C. guntheri consume substantially the same types of prey with varying amounts depending on the size of the fish. However there is a significant decrease in the proportions of gastropods and oligochaetes ingested when growing.
East Africa Refugee Crisis: Causes of Tensions and Conflicts between the Local Community and Refugees in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya
Authors: Ali Jecinta Anomat , Ocha Witchayanee
Published: January 2018

The study investigated the refugee and host community conflicts in Kakuma refugee camp located in Turkana County, in the North-West parts of Kenya. The study classified factors causing tension and conflicts between the refugees and the local community into four main categories; political and security, limited resources, social welfare and socio-cultural factors. The following three main outstanding points explains what causes tensions and conflicts; firstly, the host community feels refugees are more economically privileged because of the aid they get from refugees aid organizations. Secondly, the host community population has been outnumbered by the refugees’ population that has created fear and tension since the host can do less to stop refugees from doing anything harmful to them. Thirdly, competition as a result of the limited resources such as land, water and wood collection in the penurious semi-arid area where the refugees and host community lives. This study recommends that in order to foster a better existence amongst the refugees and host community, refugees’ agencies should tailor their programs to development of both the host community and refugees as suggested in Refugee Aid and Development Theory.
Suggested improvements of the general cardiology ward round – An opinion paper
Authors: Bjurman Christian , Juhlin Tord , Holzmann Martin J.
Published: January 2018

General cardiology ward rounds have become more complicated owing to higher production demands combined with continued efforts to improve patient safety. The traditional ward round is now outdated and needs changing to better suit the current environment. After describing the traditional ward round and some alternative rounding systems tested in Sweden, we suggest some simple measures to improve efficiency, patient-centeredness, and patient safety. This article is addressed mainly to health care leaders and physicians in a position to make changes to rounding structures and hospital organization. We hope that this analysis will prompt a debate that will lead to eventual improvements in health care and work satisfaction.
Measurement of clinical nurse performance: Developing a tool including contextual items
Authors: Kahya Emin , Oral Nurten
Published: January 2018

Assessment of nurse performance plays an important role in guaranteeing high quality clinic care to achieve desired patient outcomes. Many tools measuring nurse performance in clinical settings have different dimensions of nurse skills. The objective of this research is to develop and test a new performance assessment tool incorporating applicable task and contextual performance items to measure clinical nurse’s performance. Thirty-eight performance items were derived from previously cited literature and some tools that were in use. A questionnaire containing all items under eight categories was designed to reveal the appropriateness levels of the items. It was distributed to 233 clinical nurses from different hospitals in one city, who were asked to score them on a seven-point scale. The results indicate that although clinical skill and professional skill are the most important categories, the most scored item is “Working systematically” (mean = 6.07, s.d. = 0.89) in contextual category.
Prevalence and Correlates of Cardiac Cachexia among Jordanian Patients with Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Hweidi Issa M. , Al-Omari Ahmad K.
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND: Cardiac cachexia is considered as an ominous complication that possibly associated with the terminal stages of chronic heart failure as it consumes the protein-calories reserves of the patients.AIMS: The aims of this study were to identify the prevalence, level, and correlates of cardiac cachexia among Jordanian patients with chronic heart failure.METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed. A convenient sample of 300 chronic heart failure patients was recruited from accessible chronic heart failure patients who regularly visit the cardiac care clinics at two different hospitals that represent two health sectors in Jordan. A self-developed instrument was used to collect the data for the purpose of this study.RESULTS: The mean of the total cachexia score of the sample was 5.88. Cardiac cachexia was detected in 58.7% (n= 176) about half of them were having mild cachexia. The prevalence of cardiac cachexia was 13.15%. There were statistically significant correlation between the total cachexia score and some variables that include the patients’ age, monthly income, and number of years since diagnosed as chronic heart failure patients; however, number of daily smoked cigarettes wasn’t significantly correlated with the total cachexia score.CONCLUSION: Cardiac cachexia has not been widely investigated yet. The findings of this study can be used as a baseline data since this study is the first of its kind conducted at the national and regional level. In addition, this study can be useful for determining effective therapeutic modalities that can be employed on behalf of those patients among the health care team; particularly nurses.
DFT calculations and electrochemical studies on azulene ligands for heavy metal ions detection using chemically modified electrodes
Authors: Stefaniu Amalia , Pop Maria-Daniela , Arnold Georgiana-Luiza , Birzan Liviu , Pintilie Lucia , Diacu Elena , Ungureanu Eleonora-Mihaela
Published: January 2018

A computational study on three related derivatives of 5-[(azulen-1-yl)methylene]-2-thioxoimidazolidin-4-one was conducted using density functional theory by calculating a series of molecular descriptors and properties of their optimized geometries (electrostatic and local ionization potentials, molecular frontier orbitals, etc.). Thermodynamic properties (zero-point energy, enthalpy, constant volume heat capacity, entropy and Gibbs energy) for these derivatives have been calculated and related to ligands electrochemical behavior. Reduction and oxidation potentials have been correlated to their calculated energy levels for LUMO and HOMO orbitals. Chemically modified electrodes based on these derivatives have been tested in view of heavy metal ions recognition, and their detection limits have been correlated to the calculated values of electron affinity.
Radical Democracy with what Demos?
Authors: Busk Larry Alan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2018

This paper considers the radical democratic theory of Chantal Mouffe and Ernesto Laclau with reference to the recent rise of Right-wing populism. I argue that even as Mouffe and Laclau develop a critical political ontology that regards democracy as an end in itself, they simultaneously exclude certain elements of the demos. In other words, they appeal to formal categories but decide the political content in advance, disqualifying Right-wing movements and discourses without justification. This ambivalence between form and content reveals the limits of Mouffe and Laclau’s brand of radical democracy for understanding and critiquing the present political conjuncture.
Role of Traffic Network in Monitoring Crime and Violence Patterns in Karachi
Authors: Umair bin Zamir  , Masood Hina
Published: January 2018

Crime and geographical accessibility has very special relationship, if monitored on appropriate time it could resolve many complex issues of the crime dynamics. Karachi being the largest city of Pakistan is also very high in the intensity of street crimes that often has very close relationship with the network of the roads. This paper will assess the potential of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for the analysis of crime pattern and its relationship with the road network in Karachi that would be beneficial for various crime agencies. Present research aims to provide a collective set of methods and techniques for geospatial analysis and 3D mapping of crime scenes. After identification of Hotspots assessment of relationships between robbery or snatching clusters and their spatial neighborhood is initiated by including the urban milieu. For obtaining the desired target copious geospatial data as well as a three-dimensional model is included for analysis. The combined and mutual effort of crime mapping methods with modern 3D modelling helps to facilitate on the spot clutch of multipart spatial phenomena in mapping of crime, and fruitful for both, the communal and responsible decision makers.