bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Occupational Exposures to Respirable Silica and Dust in Demolition, Crushing, and Chipping Activities
Authors: Bello Anila , Mugford Christopher , Murray Amanda , Shepherd Susan , Woskie Susan R 
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Objectives
Exposures to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and respirable dust (RD) were investigated during demolition, crushing, and chipping at several Massachusetts construction sites.

Methods
Personal breathing zone samples (n = 51) were collected on operating engineers working at demolition and crushing sites, laborers performing miscellaneous tasks at demolition sites, crushing machine tenders at crushing sites, and chipping workers at substructure bridge repair sites. Area samples (n = 33) were collected at the perimeter of demolition and crushing sites to assess potential bystanders’ exposures. Exposures ‘with’ and ‘without’ the use of dust suppression methods were compared when possible. RD samples were analyzed for crystalline silica content with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometry (FT-IR) according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Method 7602. Statistical analyses of the exposure data were performed in SAS version 9.4.

Results
Chipping workers had the highest exposure levels [the geometric mean (GM) time-weighted average (TWA) for RCS was 527 µg/m3 and the GM for RD was 4750 µg/m3]. The next highest exposures were among crushing machine tenders (RCS GM of 93.3 µg/m3 and RD GM of 737.6 µg/m3), while laborers and operating engineers had the lowest exposures (RCS GM of 17.0 and 6.2 µg/m3, respectively). Personal 8-h TWA RCS exposures were higher than the new OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 50 µg/m3 for 80% of samples collected on chipping workers (n = 31) and 50% of samples collected on crushing machine tenders (n = 8). Operating engineers (n = 9) and laborers (n = 3) had RCS exposures lower than OSHA PEL. The highest concentrations measured would have exceeded the PEL within 15 min chipping and within 2 h of crushing with no further exposure. Chipping workers’ RCS exposures were higher than OSHA PEL even when they were adjusted to account for the assigned protection factor of the half-face N95 cartridge respirators used during chipping. Exposures of crushing tenders were reduced to levels under the OSHA PEL when a water spraying system in crushing machines was utilized, but not when a water cannon machine was used. Area samples at demolition and crushing sites indicate overall lower exposures than the PEL, however, bystander workers at crushing sites could be exposed to higher levels compared to demolition sites. Real-time dust monitoring during demolition indicate very high short-term peak exposures.

Conclusions
Controlling or reducing crystalline silica exposures to levels under the new OSHA PEL of 50 µg/m3 remains challenging for chipping workers and crushing machine tenders. Even with the use of dust suppression controls, respiratory protection may be required for various tasks.
Morphological and Physiological Characteristics of Ebf2-EGFP-Expressing Cajal-Retzius Cells in Developing Mouse Neocortex
Authors: Sun Le , Chen Ruiguo , Bai Ye , Li Jia , Wu Qian , Shen Qin , Wang Xiaoqun 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells are one of the earliest populations of neurons in the cerebral cortex of rodents and primates, and they play a critical role in corticogenesis and cortical lamination during neocortical development. However, a comprehensive morphological and physiological profile of CR cells in the mouse neocortex has not yet been established. Here, we systematically investigated the dynamic development of CR cells in Tg(Ebf2-EGFP)58Gsat/Mmcd mice. The morphological complexity, membrane activities and presynaptic inputs of CR cells coordinately increase and reach a plateau at P5–P9 before regressing. Using 3D reconstruction, we delineated a parallel-stratification pattern of the axonal extension of CR cells. Furthermore, we found that the morphological structure and presynaptic inputs of CR cells were disturbed in Reelin-deficient mice. These findings confirm that CR cells undergo a transient maturation process in layer 1 before disappearing. Importantly, Reelin deficiency impairs the formation of synaptic connections onto CR cells. In conclusion, our results provide insights into the rapid maturation and axonal stratification of CR cells in layer 1. These findings suggest that both the electrophysiological activities and the morphology of CR cells provide vital guidance for the modulation of early circuits, in a Reelin-dependent manner.
Congestion management in protected areas: accounting for respondents’ inattention and preference heterogeneity in stated choice data
Authors: Thiene Mara , Franceschinis Cristiano , Scarpa Riccardo 
Published: October 2018

Abstract
Congestion levels in protected areas can be predicted by destination choice models estimated from choice data. There is growing evidence of subjects’ inattention to attributes in choice experiments. We estimate an attribute non-attendance latent class–random parameters model (LC–RPL) that jointly handles inattention and preference heterogeneity. We use data from a choice experiment designed to elicit visitors’ preferences towards sustainable management of a protected area in the Italian Alps. Results show that the LC–RPL model produces improvements in model fit and reductions in the implied rate of inattention, as compared to traditional approaches. Implications of results for park management authorities are discussed.
Patterns and factors affecting antenatal care utilization in Damietta Governorate, Egypt: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Farrag Nesrine S , Abdelwahab Farida , Ismail Ghada R 
Published: October 2018

AbstractBackgroundTimely antenatal care (ANC) has been proven to save lives and maximizes health and potential. The study aimed to assess ANC utilization rates in Damietta district, Egypt and to identify the components of ANC provided and factors affecting utilization rates.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in four Family Health Centers (FHC) in Damietta district. The study included any mother, who gave birth within the last 6 months, after giving written consent to participate. Women were interviewed about their experience with ANC during the last pregnancy using a pre-designed questionnaire.ResultsThe study found that ~85% of the mothers have ever attended ANC during the last pregnancy, two-thirds were regular attendants. Urban residence, being not working, having high education and high family income were positively associated with utilization of ANC (P < 0.001). Only 30% of the mothers received ANC in FHCs, while the majority received ANC at private clinics. Rates of receiving ANC components were variable with significantly higher rates in private clinics than governmental FHCs (P < 0.001 for most components). Health education was the least ANC component to be received by mothers at governmental and private sites.ConclusionMore work is needed to improve the utilization of ANC in FHCs. Providers of ANC should be trained and supervised to provide full package of ANC especially health education message, being the most neglected component of ANC.
Race and Objective Social Isolation: Older African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and Non-Hispanic Whites
Authors: Taylor Robert Joseph , Chatters Linda M , Taylor Harry O 
Published: September 2018

AbstractObjectivesSocial isolation is a major risk factor for poor physical and mental health among older adults. This study investigates the correlates of objective social isolation among older African Americans, Black Caribbean immigrants, and non-Hispanic Whites.MethodsThe analysis is based on the older subsample (n = 1,439) of the National Survey of American Life. There are eight indicators of objective social isolation: no contact with neighbors, neighborhood groups, friends, family members, religious congregation members, not being married and no romantic involvement, living alone, and not being a parent.ResultsVery few older Americans are socially isolated from family and friends. Non-Hispanic Whites are more likely than both African Americans and Black Caribbeans to live alone, to be childless, and have limited contact with religious congregation members. For both African Americans and Black Caribbeans, being female is protective against social isolation, but for both populations, men are more likely to be married or have a romantic partner. For African Americans, residing in the South is also protective against social isolation.DiscussionThis analysis provides greater clarity on racial and ethnic differences in social isolation among older adults, as well as within-group differences in objective social isolation among African Americans and Black Caribbeans.
Impact of Self-Acupressure on Co-Occurring Symptoms in Cancer Survivors
Authors: Zick Suzanna Maria , Sen Ananda , Hassett Afton Luevano , Schrepf Andrew , Wyatt Gwen Karilyn , Murphy Susan Lynn , Arnedt John Todd , Harris Richard Edmund 
Published: October 2018

AbstractBackgroundCancer survivors with fatigue often experience depressive symptoms, anxiety, and pain. Previously, we reported that self-acupressure improved fatigue; however, its impact on other co-occurring symptoms and their involvement in treatment action has not been explored.MethodsChanges in depressive symptoms, anxiety, and pain were examined prior to and following two formulas of self-acupressure and usual care using linear mixed models in 288 women from a previously reported clinical trial. Participants were categorized by random assignment into one of three groups: 1) relaxing acupressure, 2) stimulating acupressure, or 3) usual care. Moderators investigated were body mass index, age, depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep and pain, and mediators were change in these symptoms.ResultsFollowing treatment, depressive symptoms improved statistically significantly for the relaxing acupressure group (41.5%) compared with stimulating acupressure (25%) and usual care (7.7%). Both acupressure groups were associated with greater improvements in anxiety than usual care, but only relaxing acupressure was associated with greater reductions in pain severity, and only stimulating acupressure was associated with greater reductions in pain interference. There were no statistically significant moderators of sleep quality, anxiety, or depressive symptoms. Fatigue statistically significantly moderated pain, and age statistically significantly modified fatigue. Changes in depressive symptoms and sleep quality statistically significantly mediated the relationship between relaxing acupressure and usual care on fatigue; however, the effect was small.ConclusionsAcupressure was associated with greater improvements than usual care in anxiety, pain, and symptoms of depression in breast cancer survivors with troublesome fatigue. These findings warrant further evaluation in suitably controlled randomized trials.
Providing Advice to Jobseekers at Low Cost: An Experimental Study on Online Advice
Authors: Belot Michèle , Kircher Philipp , Muller Paul 
Published: October 2018

AbstractWe develop and evaluate experimentally a novel tool that redesigns the job search process by providing tailored advice at low cost. We invited jobseekers to our computer facilities for twelve consecutive weekly sessions to search for real jobs on our web interface. For one-half, instead of relying on their own search criteria, we use readily available labour market data to display relevant alternative occupations and associated jobs. The data indicate that this broadens the set of jobs they consider and increases their job interviews especially for participants who otherwise search narrowly and have been unemployed for a few months.
Zika Virus Infection
Authors: Grazel Regina , Harris-Haman Pamela 
Published: October 2018

Background:
Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emergent flavivirus, transmitted predominately by Aedes genus mosquitos that recently reached the Americas and was soon implicated in an increase in microcephaly and other serious birth defects.

Purpose:
This report provides updated information and recommendations on testing, screening, and care for pregnant women and infants affected by ZIKV.

Methods:
Current published recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the American Academy of Pediatrics were reviewed and included in this report.

Results:
Although largely a self-limiting disease usually without symptoms, pregnant women and their fetuses are at greatest risk. Maternal transmission of ZIKV to the fetus can lead to congenital Zika infection with potentially devastating sequelae to the infant. The available evidence suggests that infection during the first trimester of pregnancy, in which the fetus' central nervous system is being formed, is associated with higher risk of brain abnormalities and perinatal loss.

Implications for Practice:
Uncertainties remain about the course of the disease, and the full spectrum of effects of the virus on the developing infant is not yet understood. Infants with congenital Zika syndrome need coordinated follow-up and long-term specialty care, as well as support for the family.

Implications for Research:
There is no known cure for ZIKV infection and no vaccine is currently available. The full spectrum of developmental disabilities and other adverse early childhood outcomes associated with congenital ZIKV infection needs to be studied.
More Than Just a Game
Authors: Blauwet Cheri A. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractAlthough people with disabilities make up a large proportion of our global population and are known to be disproportionately impacted by sedentary lifestyles leading to chronic disease, programs promoting physical activity often fail to address their unique needs. Both environmental and attitudinal factors also act as barriers to full participation. In this context, increasing evidence shows the positive impact of physical activity and sport on outcomes related to physical health, mental health, community participation, and, in some cases, neurorecovery for people with disabilities. Thus, participation should be seen not only as a medical intervention but also as a rights-based issue. We, as physiatrists, can be agents of change by promoting concepts of universal design and inclusion in physical activity and sport programs.
Notch2 signaling regulates Id4 and cell cycle genes to maintain neural stem cell quiescence in the adult hippocampus
Authors: Zhang Runrui , Boareto Marcelo , Engler Anna , Louvi Angeliki , Giachino Claudio , Iber Dagmar , Taylor Verdon 
Published: September 2018

SummaryNeural stem cells (NSCs) in the adult hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) can be quiescent or proliferative, but how they are maintained is largely unknown. With age DG NSCs become increasingly dormant, which impinges on neuron generation. We addressed how NSC activity is controlled and found that Notch2 promotes quiescence by regulating their transition to the activated state. Notch2-ablation induces cell cycle genes and markers of active NSCs. Conversely, quiescent NSC-associated genes, including Id4, are down regulated after Notch2 deletion. We found that Notch2 binds the Id4 promoter and positively regulates transcription. Similar to Notch2, Id4 overexpression promotes DG NSC quiescence and Id4 knockdown rescues proliferation, even when Notch2 signaling is activated. We show that Notch2 regulates age-dependent DG NSC dormancy and Notch2 inhibition rejuvenates neurogenesis in the DG of aged mice. Our data indicate that a Notch2-Id4 axis promotes adult DG NSC quiescence and dormancy.
MetaMap, an interactive webtool for the exploration of metatranscriptomic reads in human disease-related RNA-seq data
Authors: Simon LM , Tsitsiridis G , Angerer P , Theis FJ 
Published: September 2018

AbstractMotivationThe MetaMap resource contains metatranscriptomic expression data from screening >17,000 RNA-seq samples from >400 archived human disease-related studies for viral and microbial reads, so-called “metafeatures”. However, navigating this set of large and heterogeneous data is challenging, especially for researchers without bioinformatic expertise. Therefore, a user-friendly interface is needed that allows users to visualize and statistically analyse the data.ResultsWe developed an interactive frontend to facilitate the exploration of the MetaMap resource. The webtool allows users to query the resource by searching study abstracts for keywords or browsing expression patterns for specific metafeatures. Moreover, users can manually define sample groupings or use the existing annotation for downstream analysis. The web tool provides a large variety of analyses and visualizations including dimension reduction, differential abundance analysis and Krona visualizations. The MetaMap webtool represents a valuable resource for hypothesis generation regarding the impact of the microbiome in human disease.AvailabilityThe presented web tool can be accessed at https://github.com/theislab/MetaMap
DISNET: A framework for extracting phenotypic disease information from public sources
Authors: Lagunes-García Gerardo , Rodríguez-González Alejandro , Prieto-Santamaría Lucía , García del Valle Eduardo P. , Zanin Massimiliano , Menasalvas-Ruiz Ernestina 
Published: September 2018

AbstractWithin the global endeavour of improving population health, one major challenge is the increasingly high cost associated with drug development. Drug repositioning, i.e. finding new uses for existing drugs, is a promising alternative; yet, its effectiveness has hitherto been hindered by our limited knowledge about diseases and their relationships. In this paper, we present DISNET (disnet.ctb.upm.es), a web-based system designed to extract knowledge from signs and symptoms retrieved from medical databases, and to enable the creation of customisable disease networks. We here present the main features of the DISNET system. We describe how information on diseases and their phenotypic manifestations is extracted from Wikipedia, PubMed and Mayo Clinic; specifically, texts from these sources are processed through a combination of text mining and natural language processing techniques. We further present a validation of the processing performed by the system; and describe, with some simple use cases, how a user can interact with it and extract information that could be used for subsequent analyses.
Divergent neuronal DNA methylation patterns across human cortical development: Critical periods and a unique role of CpH methylation
Authors: Price AJ , Collado-Torres L , Ivanov NA , Xia W , Burke EE , Shin JH , Tao R , Ma L , Jia Y , Hyde TM , Kleinman JE , Weinberger DR , Jaffe AE 
Published: September 2018

AbstractWe have characterized the landscape of DNA methylation (DNAm) across the first two decades of human neocortical development in NeuN+ neurons using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing and compared them to non-neurons (primarily glia) and prenatal homogenate cortex. We show that DNAm changes more dramatically during the first five years of postnatal life than during the entire remaining period. We further refined global patterns of increasingly divergent neuronal CpG and CpH methylation (mCpG and mCpH) into six developmental trajectories and found that in contrast to genome-wide patterns, neighboring mCpG and mCpH levels within these regions were highly correlated. We then integrated paired RNA-seq data and identified direct regulation of hundreds of transcripts and their splicing events exclusively by mCpH levels, independently from mCpG levels, across this period. We finally explored the relationship between DNAm patterns and development of brain-related phenotypes and found enriched heritability for many phenotypes within DNAm features we identify.
Copy parents or follow friends? Juvenile foraging behaviour changes with social environment
Authors: Franks Victoria R. , Ewen John G. , McCready Mhairi , Thorogood Rose 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThe first few months of juvenile independence is a critical period for survival as young must learn new behaviours to forage efficiently. Social learning by observing parents (vertical transmission) or others (horizontal/oblique transmission) may be important to overcome naivety, but these tutors are likely to differ in their reliability due to variation in their own experience. How young animals use different social information sources, however, has received little attention. Here we tested if wild juvenile hihi (Notiomystis cincta, a New Zealand passerine) retained foraging behaviours learned from parents, or if behaviour changed after independence in response to peers. We first trained parents with feeders during chick rearing: one-third could access food from any direction, one-third could access food from one side only, and the remaining third had no feeder. During post-fledge parental care, juveniles chose the same side as their parents. Once independent, juveniles formed mixed-treatment groups naturally so we then presented feeders with two equally profitable sides. Juveniles with natal feeder experience were quicker to use these feeders initially, but side choice was now random. Over time, however, juveniles converged on using one side of the feeder (which differed between groups). This apparent conformity was because juvenile hihi paid attention to the behaviour of their group and were more likely to choose the locally-favoured side as the number of visits to that side increased. They did not copy the choice of specific individuals, even when they were more social or more familiar with the preceding bird. Our study shows that early social experiences with parents affect foraging decisions, but later social environments lead juveniles to modify their behaviour.
A ghost of dioecy past and the legacy of sexual dimorphism: low siring success of hermaphrodites after the breakdown of dioecy
Authors: Blanco Luis Santos del , Tudor Eleri , Pannell John R. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractEvolutionary transitions from dioecy to hermaphroditism must overcome the inertia of sexual dimorphism because modified males or females will express the opposite sexual function for which their phenotypes have been optimized. We tested this prediction by comparing the siring success of female-derived hermaphrodites of the plant Mercurialis annua with males and hermaphrodites that present a male-like inflorescence. We found that pollen dispersed by female-derived hermaphrodites was about a third poorer at siring outcross offspring than that from hermaphrodites with male-like inflorescences, illustrating the notion that a ‘ghost of dioecy past’ compromises the fitness of derived hermaphrodites in outcrossing populations. We conclude that whereas dioecy might evolve from hermaphroditism by conferring upon individuals certain benefits of sexual specialization, reversals from dioecy to hermaphroditism must often be limited to situations in which outcrossing cannot be maintained and inbreeding is favored. Our study provides novel empirical support for evolutionary models for the breakdown of dioecy.