bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing and Developing a Mobile Smartphone Application for Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Followed-Up at Diabetes Outpatient Clinics in Norway
Authors: Garnweidner-Holme Lisa , Borgen Iren , Garitano Iñaki , Noll Josef , Lukasse Mirjam
Published: May 2015

The prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is increasing worldwide. Controlling blood sugar levels is fundamental to the management of GDM. Current practice in Norway includes patients registering blood sugar levels in a booklet and receiving verbal and/or written health information. A smartphone application may provide patients individually targeted and easily available advice to control blood sugar levels. The aim of this paper is to document the process of designing and developing a smartphone application (the Pregnant+ app) that automatically transfers blood sugar levels from the glucometer and has information about healthy eating and physical activity. This formative research included expert-group discussions among health professionals, researchers and experts in data privacy and security. User-involvement studies were conducted to discuss prototypes of the app. Results indicated that the content of the application should be easy to understand given the varying degree of patients’ literacy and in line with the information they receive at clinics. The final version of the app incorporated behavior change techniques such as self-monitoring and cues to action. Results from the first round of interactions show the importance of involving expert groups and patients when developing a mobile health-care device.
The Influence of PSCA Gene Variation on Its Expression and Gastric Adenocarcinoma Susceptibility in the Northwest Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Liang Ping , Wang Weihua , Dai Peng , Wang Qin , Yan Wei , Zhao Jinrong , Sun Jianbin , Peng Yong , Cui Daxiang , Yan Zhen
Published: May 2015

Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) imposes a considerable health burden around the world. Gene variation in prostate stem cell antigen gene (PSCA) has been identified to be associated with GAC risk, while the results showed regional variation. To explore the influence of PSCA gene variation on its expression and GAC risk in the Northwest Chinese population, four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PSCA were genotyped in 476 GAC cases and 481 controls using MassARRAY system. Two SNPs of rs2294008 (C>T) and rs2976392 (G>A) were identified to be associated with GAC risk. rs2294008, rs2976392 and rs10216533 made up two statistically significant haplotypes (Hap-CGG and Hap-TAG). Additionally, PSCA expression was analyzed by quantitative real time PCR, immunohistochemistry and tissue microarray. The results showed that PSCA expression was decreased in GAC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. For normal tissues, PSCA expression was higher with Hap-TA than that with Hap-CG. For GAC tissues, the differentiation degree of Hap-TA was higher than that of Hap-CG. The expression distribution of PSCA in multiple human organs showed disparity. These results suggest that PSCA gene variation has a potential effect on its expression and GAC risk in the Northwest Chinese population.
Intravital FRET: Probing Cellular and Tissue Function in Vivo
Authors: Radbruch Helena , Bremer Daniel , Mothes Ronja , Günther Robert , Rinnenthal Jan , Pohlan Julian , Ulbricht Carolin , Hauser Anja , Niesner Raluca
Published: May 2015

The development of intravital Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) is required to probe cellular and tissue function in the natural context: the living organism. Only in this way can biomedicine truly comprehend pathogenesis and develop effective therapeutic strategies. Here we demonstrate and discuss the advantages and pitfalls of two strategies to quantify FRET in vivo—ratiometrically and time-resolved by fluorescence lifetime imaging—and show their concrete application in the context of neuroinflammation in adult mice.
Wear Characteristics of Metallic Biomaterials: A Review
Authors: Hussein Mohamed , Mohammed Abdul , Al-Aqeeli Naser
Published: May 2015

Metals are extensively used in a variety of applications in the medical field for internal support and biological tissue replacements, such as joint replacements, dental roots, orthopedic fixation, and stents. The metals and alloys that are primarily used in biomedical applications are stainless steels, Co alloys, and Ti alloys. The service period of a metallic biomaterial is determined by its abrasion and wear resistance. A reduction in the wear resistance of the implant results in the release of incompatible metal ions into the body that loosen the implant. In addition, several reactions may occur because of the deposition of wear debris in tissue. Therefore, developing biomaterials with high wear resistance is critical to ensuring a long life for the biomaterial. The aim of this work is to review the current state of knowledge of the wear of metallic biomaterials and how wear is affected by the material properties and conditions in terms of the type of alloys developed and fabrication processes. We also present a brief evaluation of various experimental test techniques and wear characterization techniques that are used to determine the tribological performance of metallic biomaterials.
Determination of the Chemical Structures of Tandyukisins B–D, Isolated from a Marine Sponge-Derived Fungus
Authors: Yamada Takeshi , Umebayashi Yoshihide , Kawashima Maiko , Sugiura Yuma , Kikuchi Takashi , Tanaka Reiko
Published: May 2015

Tandyukisins B–D (1–3), novel decalin derivatives, have been isolated from a strain of Trichoderma harzianum OUPS-111D-4 originally derived from the marine sponge Halichondria okadai, and their structures have been elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses using 1D and 2D NMR techniques. In addition, their chemical structures were established by chemical transformation. They exhibited weak cytotoxicity, but selective growth inhibition on panel screening using 39 human cancer cell lines.
“Upstream Analysis”: An Integrated Promoter-Pathway Analysis Approach to Causal Interpretation of Microarray Data
Authors: Koschmann Jeannette , Bhar Anirban , Stegmaier Philip , Kel Alexander , Wingender Edgar
Published: May 2015

A strategy is presented that allows a causal analysis of co-expressed genes, which may be subject to common regulatory influences. A state-of-the-art promoter analysis for potential transcription factor (TF) binding sites in combination with a knowledge-based analysis of the upstream pathway that control the activity of these TFs is shown to lead to hypothetical master regulators. This strategy was implemented as a workflow in a comprehensive bioinformatic software platform. We applied this workflow to gene sets that were identified by a novel triclustering algorithm in naphthalene-induced gene expression signatures of murine liver and lung tissue. As a result, tissue-specific master regulators were identified that are known to be linked with tumorigenic and apoptotic processes. To our knowledge, this is the first time that genes of expression triclusters were used to identify upstream regulators.
Green Polymer Chemistry: Enzyme Catalysis for Polymer Functionalization
Authors: Sen Sanghamitra , Puskas Judit
Published: May 2015

Enzyme catalyzed reactions are green alternative approaches to functionalize polymers compared to conventional methods. This technique is especially advantageous due to the high selectivity, high efficiency, milder reaction conditions, and recyclability of enzymes. Selected reactions can be conducted under solventless conditions without the application of metal catalysts. Hence this process is becoming more recognized in the arena of biomedical applications, as the toxicity created by solvents and metal catalyst residues can be completely avoided. In this review we will discuss fundamental aspects of chemical reactions biocatalyzed by Candida antarctica lipase B, and their application to create new functionalized polymers, including the regio- and chemoselectivity of the reactions.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oil of Six Pinus Taxa Native to China
Authors: Xie Qing , Liu Zhihong , Li Zhouqi
Published: May 2015

The essential oils obtained by steam distillation from needles of six China endemic Pinus taxa (P. tabulaeformis, P. tabulaeformis f. shekanensis, P. tabulaeformis var. mukdensis, P. tabulaeformis var. umbraculifera, P. henryi and P. massoniana) were analysed by GC/MS. A total of 72 components were separated and identified by GC/MS from the six taxa. The major constituents of the essential oils were: α-pinene (6.78%–20.55%), bornyl acetale (3.32%–12.71%), β-caryophellene (18.26%–26.31%), α-guaiene (1.23%–8.19%), and germacrene D (1.26%–9.93%). Moreover, the essential oils were evaluated for antioxidant potential by three assays (DPPH, FRAP and ABTS) and tested for their total phenolic content. The results showed that all essential oils exhibited acceptable antioxidant activities and these strongly suggest that these pine needles may serve as a potential source of natural antioxidants for food and medical purposes.
Waterborne Pathogens: Detection Methods and Challenges
Authors: Ramírez-Castillo Flor , Loera-Muro Abraham , Jacques Mario , Garneau Philippe , Avelar-González Francisco , Harel Josée , Guerrero-Barrera Alma
Published: May 2015

Waterborne pathogens and related diseases are a major public health concern worldwide, not only by the morbidity and mortality that they cause, but by the high cost that represents their prevention and treatment. These diseases are directly related to environmental deterioration and pollution. Despite the continued efforts to maintain water safety, waterborne outbreaks are still reported globally. Proper assessment of pathogens on water and water quality monitoring are key factors for decision-making regarding water distribution systems’ infrastructure, the choice of best water treatment and prevention waterborne outbreaks. Powerful, sensitive and reproducible diagnostic tools are developed to monitor pathogen contamination in water and be able to detect not only cultivable pathogens but also to detect the occurrence of viable but non-culturable microorganisms as well as the presence of pathogens on biofilms. Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) is a helpful tool to evaluate the scenarios for pathogen contamination that involve surveillance, detection methods, analysis and decision-making. This review aims to present a research outlook on waterborne outbreaks that have occurred in recent years. This review also focuses in the main molecular techniques for detection of waterborne pathogens and the use of QMRA approach to protect public health.
An Ultra-Low Power Wireless Sensor Network for Bicycle Torque Performance Measurements
Authors: Gharghan Sadik , Nordin Rosdiadee , Ismail Mahamod
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we propose an energy-efficient transmission technique known as the sleep/wake algorithm for a bicycle torque sensor node. This paper aims to highlight the trade-off between energy efficiency and the communication range between the cyclist and coach. Two experiments were conducted. The first experiment utilised the Zigbee protocol (XBee S2), and the second experiment used the Advanced and Adaptive Network Technology (ANT) protocol based on the Nordic nRF24L01 radio transceiver chip. The current consumption of ANT was measured, simulated and compared with a torque sensor node that uses the XBee S2 protocol. In addition, an analytical model was derived to correlate the sensor node average current consumption with a crank arm cadence. The sensor node achieved 98% power savings for ANT relative to ZigBee when they were compared alone, and the power savings amounted to 30% when all components of the sensor node are considered. The achievable communication range was 65 and 50 m for ZigBee and ANT, respectively, during measurement on an outdoor cycling track (i.e., velodrome). The conclusions indicate that the ANT protocol is more suitable for use in a torque sensor node when power consumption is a crucial demand, whereas the ZigBee protocol is more convenient in ensuring data communication between cyclist and coach.
Electronic Properties of DNA-Based Schottky Barrier Diodes in Response to Alpha Particles
Authors: Al-Ta'ii Hassan , Periasamy Vengadesh , Amin Yusoff
Published: May 2015

Detection of nuclear radiation such as alpha particles has become an important field of research in recent history due to nuclear threats and accidents. In this context; deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) acting as an organic semiconducting material could be utilized in a metal/semiconductor Schottky junction for detecting alpha particles. In this work we demonstrate for the first time the effect of alpha irradiation on an Al/DNA/p-Si/Al Schottky diode by investigating its current-voltage characteristics. The diodes were exposed for different periods (0–20 min) of irradiation. Various diode parameters such as ideality factor, barrier height, series resistance, Richardson constant and saturation current were then determined using conventional, Cheung and Cheung’s and Norde methods. Generally, ideality factor or n values were observed to be greater than unity, which indicates the influence of some other current transport mechanism besides thermionic processes. Results indicated ideality factor variation between 9.97 and 9.57 for irradiation times between the ranges 0 to 20 min. Increase in the series resistance with increase in irradiation time was also observed when calculated using conventional and Cheung and Cheung’s methods. These responses demonstrate that changes in the electrical characteristics of the metal-semiconductor-metal diode could be further utilized as sensing elements to detect alpha particles.
Medical Image Processing for Fully Integrated Subject Specific Whole Brain Mesh Generation
Authors: Hsu Chih-Yang , Schneller Ben , Ghaffari Mahsa , Alaraj Ali , Linninger Andreas
Published: May 2015

Currently, anatomically consistent segmentation of vascular trees acquired with magnetic resonance imaging requires the use of multiple image processing steps, which, in turn, depend on manual intervention. In effect, segmentation of vascular trees from medical images is time consuming and error prone due to the tortuous geometry and weak signal in small blood vessels. To overcome errors and accelerate the image processing time, we introduce an automatic image processing pipeline for constructing subject specific computational meshes for entire cerebral vasculature, including segmentation of ancillary structures; the grey and white matter, cerebrospinal fluid space, skull, and scalp. To demonstrate the validity of the new pipeline, we segmented the entire intracranial compartment with special attention of the angioarchitecture from magnetic resonance imaging acquired for two healthy volunteers. The raw images were processed through our pipeline for automatic segmentation and mesh generation. Due to partial volume effect and finite resolution, the computational meshes intersect with each other at respective interfaces. To eliminate anatomically inconsistent overlap, we utilized morphological operations to separate the structures with a physiologically sound gap spaces. The resulting meshes exhibit anatomically correct spatial extent and relative positions without intersections. For validation, we computed critical biometrics of the angioarchitecture, the cortical surfaces, ventricular system, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces and compared against literature values. Volumina and surface areas of the computational mesh were found to be in physiological ranges. In conclusion, we present an automatic image processing pipeline to automate the segmentation of the main intracranial compartments including a subject-specific vascular trees. These computational meshes can be used in 3D immersive visualization for diagnosis, surgery planning with haptics control in virtual reality. Subject-specific computational meshes are also a prerequisite for computer simulations of cerebral hemodynamics and the effects of traumatic brain injury.
A Taxonomic Review of Clostridium difficile Phages and Proposal of a Novel Genus, “Phimmp04likevirus”
Authors: Hargreaves Katherine , Clokie Martha
Published: May 2015

Currently, only three phages that infect the medically important bacterium Clostridium difficile have been discussed by the International Committee of Viral Taxonomy (ICTV). They are all myoviruses, and have been assigned to the genus “phicd119likevirus”. An additional nine phages have since been described in the literature with their genome data available. The Phicd119likevirus is named after the type species: the myovirus ΦCD119 which was the first C. difficile phage to be sequenced. The two additional myoviruses, ϕCD27 and φC2, also fall into this genus based on the similarity of their genome and morphological characteristics. The other nine phages have not been assigned to this genus, and four of them do not fit the criteria for the current taxonomic grouping. We have applied protein clustering analysis to determine their phylogenetic relationships. From these results we propose an additional myoviridae genus, that we term “phiMMP04likevirus”.
Effects of Misgurnus anguillicaudatus and Cipangopaludina cathayensis on Pollutant Removal and Microbial Community in Constructed Wetlands
Authors: Li Pengfei , Zhang Jian , Xie Huijun , Hu Zhen , He Haiyan , Wang Wenxing
Published: May 2015

Aquatic animals play an important role in the energy flow and matter cycling in the wetland ecosystem. However, little is known about their effects on pollutant removal performance and microbial community in constructed wetlands. This work presents an initial attempt to investigate the effects of Misgurnus anguillicaudatus (loach) and Cipangopaludina cathayensis (snail) on nutrient removal performance and microbial community of constructed wetlands (CWs). Compared with a control group, CW microcosms with aquatic animals exhibited better pollutant removal performance. The removal efficiencies of total phosphorus (TP) in the loach group were 13.1% higher than in the control group, and snails increased the ammonium removal most effectively. Moreover, the concentration of total organic carbon (TOC) and TP in sediment significantly reduced with the addition of loaches and snails (p < 0.05), whereas the concentration of total nitrogen (TN) showed an obvious increase with the addition of loaches. High-throughput sequencing showed a microbial community structure change. Loaches and snails in wetlands changed the microbial diversity, especially in the Proteobacteria and denitrifying community. Results suggested that benthic aquatic animals might play an important role in CW ecosystems.
Going Against the Grain: An Atypical Presentation of Celiac Disease
Authors: Boone Emily Kay , Aggarwal Arun
Published: May 2015

With the current prevalence of celiac disease, it is important to know the common signs and symptoms of this disease process and to also be aware of atypical presentations. This article describes a toddler who initially presented with recurrent diarrhea and weight loss with a significant secondary hypokalemia. His initial examination included screening for celiac disease, but the serology was negative. After persistent and worsening symptoms, further tests were pursued and a diagnosis of celiac disease was confirmed based on an upper endoscopy and histology.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2015;44(5):210–212.]
Mapping the Climate Suitability Using MaxEnt Modeling Approach for Ceylon Spinach (Basella alba L.) Cultivation in India
Authors: Reddy M  T , Begum H , Sunil N , Pandravada S R , Sivaraj N , Kumar S
Published: May 2015

Ceylon spinach (Basella alba L.) is a traditional leafy vegetable of multiple virtues largely underutilized and underexploited in India. Currently, it is of increasing value and utilization necessitating extending its cultivation for increased production by identifying potential areas through crop modeling. Mapping the potential pockets is an iterative process and this study is the first attempt to model state-wise climate suitability for Ceylon spinach cultivation in India. Geographical information on the current cultivation sites of Ceylon spinach together with bioclimatic variables, the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model were used to analyze and predict its distribution and to develop preliminary habitat suitability map for Ceylon spinach in India. The results show that the MaxEnt model can be used to study the climatic suitability for Ceylon spinach cultivation. The most suitable area identified in this study is slightly southward which includes parts of Tamilnadu, Pondicherry, Maharashtra, Orissa, West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat. The MaxEnt model performed better than random with an average training and test AUC values of 0.953 and 0.994, respectively. The constructed model had excellent goodness-of-fit and excellent predictive accuracy and therefore it is suitable and/or applicable for predicting the geographic distribution of Ceylon spinach cultivation in India.The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, vol.10, No 2, May 2015, pp. 87-97
Innovativeness of Farmers in Irrigation Scheduling for Major Plantation Crops: Analysis from Kerala State, India
Authors: Madhavan Chandran K , Joseph E.J.
Published: May 2015

Soil moisture stress during summer is a major factor limiting higher crop productivity in Kerala State of India. The irrigated area in the State is only 18 % of the net sown area. The average productivity of many plantation crops is low, compared to the other regions of the country. For increasing crop productivity and net returns of farmers in Kerala, it is necessary to overcome crop water deficit by adopting scientific irrigation management. Under this study, 200 progressive farmers cultivating various upland crops in different agro ecological zones of Kerala were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire on irrigation management practices adopted by them. The irrigation schedule adopted by the farmers was compared with the recommendations for various crops, and accordingly, their innovativeness with regard to the quantity of water application and irrigation interval was analyzed. The irrigation methods adopted were also studied. The results revealed that even though a good proportion of coconut and arecanut farmers irrigate at intervals specified in the recommendations for the crops, majority of them are not applying quantity of water according to the recommendation. As far as irrigation methods are concerned, most of the arecanut and coconut farmers practice basin irrigation, which is a good method for these crops. A good proportion of coffee and cardamom farmers adopt scientific irrigation scheduling and improved irrigation methods like sprinkler, which may be attributed to the remunerative market price of the produce and better extension support available for them. The importance of profitability in farming for adopting scientific irrigation practices is evident from the study. Adoption of water saving drip irrigation by the farmers is insignificant, even when financial subsidy is provided by the Agriculture Department for promoting this irrigation technique.The Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol. 10, No. 2, May 2015. Pp 131 - 139
Editorial Forward Vol.10(2)
Authors: Mahaliyanaarachchi Rohana P.
Published: May 2015

Dissemination of research findings is recognized as an important component of the research process. What is dissemination of research outputs? It is about the communication of innovation, through a planned and systematic process or a passive, unplanned diffusion process. Here we would like emphasize on the planned and systematic process. Effective communication is an important aspect of dissemination of research findings. There are many barriers to effective communication between researchers and users. These include institutional barriers, ownership issues, publishing in high quality academic journals, technical barriers and financial constraints. Researchers have a responsibility to share new knowledge with a wider audience including the general public. Research is a public good. Effective dissemination of research findings requires an active and systematic approach which is adequately resourced throughout.Writing a scientific article is one of the major and final products of all scientists and it is one of the major ways of disseminating research outcomes. Science and research are not private goods. Scientific work and research are completed its responsibility only when it is published. The highest value of research is reached when this scientific information, as published material, becomes a part of the global knowledge. If you do not publish the results of scientific research means that you have not completed the research successfully.There are many reasons why it is necessary to publish the results of scientific research. The most important one is the consequence of the fact that publication is an integral part of the scientific method of research. Scientific method is the best way to get new and true knowledge or information. The final phase of all scientific processes is publication of the obtained results in the form of scientific information. Values of this information can be established only when they are published.Researchers have many ways to publish the research findings. They are academic journals. conferences, research symposia, magazines and even in news papers. The Journal of Agricultural Sciences opens the platform to researchers to get published their research findings in highly competitive basis.Currently the JAS has been included in more than 35 journal databases including AGRICOLA, Cabi Abstracts, Index Copernicus, DOAJ and CiteFactor. It shows the wider acceptance of JAS by international citations and journal databases. This is an indicator for our progress in journal quality during past years. There were many people behind this success. This honour must go to Dr. Chandrika Dissanayake - Coordinating Editor of JAS, Mr Prasad C. Iddamalgoda, Ms Sioux Cumming of SLJOL, all the authors, reviewers and editorial committee members.
Donor Requirements for Regulatory T Cell Suppression of Murine Graft-versus-Host Disease
Authors: Pierini Antonio , Colonna Lucrezia , Alvarez Maite , Schneidawind Dominik , Nishikii Hidekazu , Baker Jeanette , Pan Yuqiong , Florek Mareike , Kim Byung-Su , Negrin Robert S.
Published: May 2015

Adoptive transfer of freshly isolated natural occurring CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) prevents graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in several animal models and following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in clinical trials. Donor-derived Treg have been mainly used, as they share the same MHC with CD4+ and CD8+ conventional T cells (Tcon) that are primarily responsible for GVHD. Third party–derived Treg are a promising alternative for cellular therapy, as they can be prepared in advance, screened for pathogens and activity, and banked. We explored MHC disparities between Treg and Tcon in HCT to evaluate the impact of different Treg populations in GVHD prevention and survival. Third-party Treg and donor Treg are equally suppressive in ex vivo assays, whereas both donor and third-party but not host Treg protect from GVHD in allogeneic HCT, with donor Treg being the most effective. In an MHC minor mismatched transplantation model (C57BL/6 → BALB/b), donor and third-party Treg were equally effective in controlling GVHD. Furthermore, using an in vivo Treg depletion mouse model, we found that Treg exert their main suppressive activity in the first 2 d after transplantation. Third-party Treg survive for a shorter period of time after adoptive transfer, but despite the shorter survival, they control Tcon proliferation in the early phases of HCT. These studies provide relevant insights on the mechanisms of Treg-mediated protection from GVHD and support for the use of third-party Treg in clinical trials.
Immunization with HSV-2 gB-CCL19 Fusion Constructs Protects Mice against Lethal Vaginal Challenge
Authors: Yan Yan , Hu Kai , Deng Xu , Guan Xinmeng , Luo Sukun , Tong Lina , Du Tao , Fu Ming , Zhang Mudan , Liu Yalan , Hu Qinxue
Published: May 2015

There is a lack of an HSV-2 vaccine, in part as the result of various factors that limit robust and long-term memory immune responses at the mucosal portals of viral entry. We previously demonstrated that chemokine CCL19 augmented mucosal and systemic immune responses to HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein. Whether such enhanced immunity can protect animals against virus infection remains to be addressed. We hypothesized that using CCL19 in a fusion form to direct an immunogen to responsive immunocytes might have an advantage over CCL19 being used in combination with an immunogen. We designed two fusion constructs, plasmid (p)gBIZCCL19 and pCCL19IZgB, by fusing CCL19 to the C- or N-terminal end of the extracellular HSV-2 glycoprotein B (gB) with a linker containing two (Gly4Ser)2 repeats and a GCN4-based isoleucine zipper motif for self-oligomerization. Following immunization in mice, pgBIZCCL19 and pCCL19IZgB induced strong gB-specific IgG and IgA in sera and vaginal fluids. The enhanced systemic and mucosal Abs showed increased neutralizing activity against HSV-2 in vitro. Measurement of gB-specific cytokines demonstrated that gB-CCL19 fusion constructs induced balanced Th1 and Th2 cellular immune responses. Moreover, mice vaccinated with fusion constructs were well protected from intravaginal lethal challenge with HSV-2. Compared with pgB and pCCL19 coimmunization, fusion constructs increased mucosal surface IgA+ cells, as well as CCL19-responsive immunocytes in spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes. Our findings indicate that enhanced humoral and cellular immune responses can be achieved by immunization with an immunogen fused to a chemokine, providing information for the design of vaccines against mucosal infection by HSV-2 and other sexually transmitted viruses.
Spatio-temporal cluster detection of chickenpox in Valencia, Spain in the period 2008-2012
Authors: Iftimi Adina , Martínez-Ruiz Francisco , Míguez Santiyán Ana , Montes Francisco
Published: May 2015

Chickenpox is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by Varicella zoster, which affects nearly all non-immune children worldwide with an annual incidence estimated at 80-90 million cases. To analyze the spatiotemporal pattern of the chickenpox incidence in the city of Valencia, Spain two complementary statistical approaches were used. First, we evaluated the existence of clusters and spatio-temporal interaction; secondly, we used this information to find the locations of the spatio-temporal clusters via the space-time permutation model. The first method used detects any aggregation in our data but does not provide the spatial and temporal information. The second method gives the locations, areas and time-frame for the spatio-temporal clusters. An overall decreasing time trend, a pronounced 12-monthly periodicity and two complementary periods were observed. Several areas with high incidence, surrounding the center of the city were identified. The existence of aggregation in time and space was observed, and a number of spatio-temporal clusters were located.
Exploring Guidelines for Classification of Major Heart Failure Subtypes by Using Machine Learning
Authors: Alonso-Betanzos Amparo , Bolón-Canedo Verónica , Heyndrickx Guy R. , Kerkhof Peter L.M.
Published: May 2015

Background

Heart failure (HF) manifests as at least two subtypes. The current paradigm distinguishes the two by using both the metric ejection fraction (EF) and a constraint for end-diastolic volume. About half of all HF patients exhibit preserved EF. In contrast, the classical type of HF shows a reduced EF. Common practice sets the cut-off point often at or near EF = 50%, thus defining a linear divider. However, a rationale for this safe choice is lacking, while the assumption regarding applicability of strict linearity has not been justified. Additionally, some studies opt for eliminating patients from consideration for HF if 40 < EF < 50% (gray zone). Thus, there is a need for documented classification guidelines, solving gray zone ambiguity and formulating crisp delineation of transitions between phenotypes.

Methods

Machine learning (ML) models are applied to classify HF subtypes within the ventricular volume domain, rather than by the single use of EF. Various ML models, both unsupervised and supervised, are employed to establish a foundation for classification. Data regarding 48 HF patients are employed as training set for subsequent classification of Monte Carlo–generated surrogate HF patients ( n = 403). Next, we map consequences when EF cut-off differs from 50% (as proposed for women) and analyze HF candidates not covered by current rules.

Results

The training set yields best results for the Support Vector Machine method (test error 4.06%), covers the gray zone, and other clinically relevant HF candidates. End-systolic volume (ESV) emerges as a logical discriminator rather than EF as in the prevailing paradigm.

Conclusions

Selected ML models offer promise for classifying HF patients (including the gray zone), when driven by ventricular volume data. ML analysis indicates that ESV has a role in the development of guidelines to parse HF subtypes. The documented curvilinear relationship between EF and ESV suggests that the assumption concerning a linear EF divider may not be of general utility over the complete clinically relevant range.
Complications of Continuous-Flow Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices
Authors: Patel Harsh , Madanieh Raef , Kosmas Constantine E. , Vatti Satya K. , Vittorio Timothy J.
Published: May 2015

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), more importantly the continuous-flow subclass, have revolutionized the medical field by improving New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class status, quality of life, and survival rates in patients with advanced systolic heart failure. From the first pulsatile device to modern day continuous-flow devices, LVADs have continued to improve, but they are still associated with several complications. These complications include infection, bleeding, thrombosis, hemolysis, aortic valvular dysfunction, right heart failure, and ventricular arrhythmias. In this article, we aim to review these complications to understand the most appropriate approach for their prevention and to discuss the available therapeutic modalities.
Fungal Presence in Selected Tree Nuts and Dried Fruits
Authors: Tournas V.H. , Niazi N.S. , Kohn J.S.
Published: May 2015

Sixty-four tree nut samples (almonds, pecans, pine nuts, and walnuts) and 50 dried fruit samples (apricots, cranberries, papaya, pineapple, and raisins) were purchased from local supermarkets and analyzed for fungal contamination using conventional culture as well as molecular methods. The results of our study showed that the highest yeast and mold (YM) counts (5.34 log10 CFU g-1) were found in walnuts and the lowest in pecans. The most common mold in nuts was Aspergillus niger, relatively low numbers of A. flavus were found across the board, while Penicillium spp. were very common in pine nuts and walnuts. Low levels (2.00–2.84 log10 CFU g-1) of yeasts were recovered from only two pine nut samples. Fungal contamination in dried fruits was minimal (ranging from <2.00 to 3.86 log10 CFU g-1). The highest fungal levels were present in raisins. All papaya samples and the majority of cranberry, pineapple, and apricot samples were free of live fungi. The most common mold in dried fruits was A. niger followed by Penicillium spp. One apricot sample also contained low levels (2.00 log10 CFU g-1) of yeasts.
Comparative Effects of Portable and Stationary Traction in the Management of Mechanical Neck Disorders
Authors: Bello Ajediran I. , Crabbe Jacquelyn A. , Bonney Emmanuel
Published: May 2015

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the therapeutic effects of portable and stationary tractions on treatment outcomes in patients with mechanical neck disorders (MNDs).

Methods

Forty-one participants with MNDs were randomly assigned to either portable traction or stationary traction. Participants' pain level, activity limitation, disability, and neck range of motion were measured before and after 6 weeks of intervention. Inferential statistics for comparing the treatment outcome involved paired t-test and two-way analysis of variance at P < 0.05.

Results

The mean age of participants was 47.3 ± 10.5 years. After intervention, there were significant improvements in both groups. However, the portable traction group had significantly higher score on neck flexion than the stationary traction group at baseline (portable: 27.1 ± 6.0, stationary: 22.1 ± 6.8; P = 0.009) and after intervention ( F-ratio = 15.0; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Inclusion of both portable and stationary tractions to usual physiotherapy provided comparable treatment outcomes in patients with MNDs.
Long time behaviour of Ricci flow on open 3-manifolds
Authors: Bessières Laurent , Besson Gérard , Maillot Sylvain
Published: May 2015

We study the long time behaviour of the Ricci flow with bubbling-off on a possibly noncompact 3-manifold of finite volume whose universal cover has bounded geometry. As an application, we give a Ricci flow proof of Thurston’s hyperbolisation theorem for 3-manifolds with toral boundary that generalises Perelman’s proof of the hyperbolisation conjecture in the closed case.
“Large” conformal metrics of prescribed Gauss curvature on surfaces of higher genus
Authors: Borer Franziska , Galimberti Luca , Struwe Michael
Published: May 2015

Let

(M,g_0)

be a closed Riemann surface

(M,g_0)

of genus

\gamma(M)>1

and let

f_0

be a smooth, non-constant function with

\mathrm {max}_{p\in M}f_0(p)=0

, all of whose maximum points are non-degenerate. As shown in [12] for sufficiently small

\lambda>0

there exist at least two distinct conformal metrics

g_{\lambda}=e^{2u_{\lambda}}g_0

,

g^{\lambda}=e^{2u^{\lambda}}g_0

of Gauss curvature

K_{g_{\lambda}}=K_{g^{\lambda}}=f_0+\lambda

, where

u_{\lambda}

is a relative minimizer of the associated variational integral and where

u^{\lambda}\neq u_{\lambda}

is a further critical point not of minimum type. Here, by means of a more refined mountain-pass technique we obtain additional estimates for the "large" solutions

u^{\lambda}

that allow to characterize their "bubbling behavior" as

\lambda\downarrow 0

.
Negotiating a Concurrence: Tracing the Visible/Invisible Relocation within Migrant-Inhabited Cities of China
Authors: Peng Xueni , Baek Jin
Published: May 2015

Abstract: It is essential for us to illuminate the specific role and adaptation of China’s internal migrants who have experiences not entirely different to those suffered by overseas immigrants. A number of reasons convince us to draw this conclusion, including, the large gap in income compared to local workers, sharing different cultural values to native residents, and the noticeably lower living standards between the areas of origin and the migrants’ destinations.China’s internal migrants experience hardship akin to those undergone by overseas immigrants. In this respect, migration in China is an experience that begins before people move away from their place of origin and continues long after arriving in their new home destinations. As a unique feature of migration research, national relocation is not simply crossing a geographical boundary, but also transgressing social and psychological environment barriers. Our research intends to examine the underestimated or marginal character played by such outsider crowds with special regard given to the individual’s experience of ‘unfamiliar settlements. This involves exploring the role of migrants’ transformation through the misapprehension that relocation is merely a geographical movement. We suggest that visible relocation brings other incidental replacements (such as changes in identity, psychological cognition and social cohesion).
Iodine observed in new particle formation events in the Arctic atmosphere during ACCACIA
Authors: Allan J. D. , Williams P. I. , Najera J. , Whitehead J. D. , Flynn M. J. , Taylor J. W. , Liu D. , Darbyshire E. , Carpenter L. J. , Chance R. , Andrews S. J. , Hackenberg S. C. , McFiggans G.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Accurately accounting for new particle formation (NPF) is crucial to our ability to predict aerosol number concentrations in many environments and thus cloud properties, which is in turn vital in simulating radiative transfer and climate. Here we present an analysis of NPF events observed in the Greenland Sea during the summertime as part of the Aerosol-Cloud Coupling And Climate Interactions in the Arctic (ACCACIA) project. While NPF events have been reported in the Arctic before, we were able, for the first time, to detect iodine in the growing particles using an Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (AMS) during a persistent event in the region of the coastal sea-ice near Greenland. Given the potency of iodine as a nucleation precursor, the results imply that iodine was responsible for the initial NPF, a phenomenon that has been reported at lower latitudes and associated with molecular iodine emissions from coastal macroalgae. The initial source of iodine in this instance is not clear, but it was associated with air originating approximately 1 day previously over melting coastal sea-ice. These results show that atmospheric models must consider iodine as a source of new particles in addition to established precursors such as sulfur compounds.
Development of a custom OMI NO2 data product for evaluating biases in a regional chemistry transport model
Authors: Kuhlmann G. , Lam Y. F. , Cheung H. M. , Hartl A. , Fung J. C. H. , Chan P. W. , Wenig M. O.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. In this paper, we present the custom Hong Kong NO2 retrieval (HKOMI) for the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) on board the Aura satellite which was used to evaluate a high-resolution chemistry transport model (CTM) (3 km × 3 km spatial resolution). The atmospheric chemistry transport was modelled in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in southern China by the Models-3 Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) modelling system from October 2006 to January 2007. In the HKOMI NO2 retrieval, tropospheric air mass factors (AMFs) were recalculated using high-resolution ancillary parameters of surface reflectance, a priori NO2 and aerosol profiles, of which the latter two were taken from the CMAQ simulation. We tested the influence of the ancillary parameters on the data product using four different aerosol parametrizations. Ground-level measurements by the PRD Regional Air Quality Monitoring (RAQM) network were used as additional independent measurements. The HKOMI retrieval increases estimated tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities (VCD) by (+31 ± 38)%, when compared to NASA's standard product (OMNO2-SP), and improves the normalized mean bias (NMB) between satellite and ground observations by 26 percentage points from −41 to −15%. The individual influences of the parameters are (+11.4 ± 13.4)% for NO2 profiles, (+11.0 ± 20.9)% for surface reflectance and (+6.0 ± 8.4)% for the best aerosol parametrization. The correlation coefficient r is low between ground and satellite observations (r = 0.35). The low r and the remaining NMB can be explained by the low model performance and the expected differences when comparing point measurements with area-averaged satellite observations. The correlation between CMAQ and the RAQM network is low (r ≈ 0.3) and the model underestimates the NO2 concentrations in the northwestern model domain (Foshan and Guangzhou). We compared the CMAQ NO2 time series of the two main plumes with our best OMI NO2 data set (HKOMI-4). The model overestimates the NO2 VCDs by about 15% in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, while the correlation coefficient is satisfactory (r = 0.56). In Foshan and Guangzhou, the correlation is low (r = 0.37) and the model underestimates the VCDs strongly (NMB = −40%). In addition, we estimated that the OMI VCDs are also underestimated by about 10 to 20% in Foshan and Guangzhou because of the influence of the model parameters on the AMFs. In this study, we demonstrate that the HKOMI NO2 retrieval reduces the bias of the satellite observations and how the data set can be used to study the magnitude of NO2 concentrations in a regional model at high spatial resolution of 3 × 3 km2. The low bias was achieved with recalculated AMFs using updated surface reflectance, aerosol profiles and NO2 profiles. Since unbiased concentrations are important, for example, in air pollution studies, the results of this paper can be very helpful in future model evaluation studies.
Acetylene (C2H2) and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) from IASI satellite observations: global distributions, validation, and comparison with model
Authors: Duflot V. , Wespes C. , Clarisse L. , Hurtmans D. , Ngadi Y. , Jones N. , Paton-Walsh C. , Hadji-Lazaro J. , Vigouroux C. , De Mazière M. , Metzger J.-M. , Mahieu E. , Servais C. , Hase F. , Schneider M. , Clerbaux C. , Coheur P.-F.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. We present global distributions of C2H2 and HCN total columns derived from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI). These distributions are obtained with a fast method allowing to retrieve C2H2 abundance globally with a 5% precision and HCN abundance in the tropical (subtropical) belt with a 10% (30%) precision. IASI data are compared for validation purposes with ground-based Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer measurements at four selected stations. We show that there is an overall agreement between the ground-based and space measurements. Global C2H2 and subtropical HCN abundances retrieved from IASI spectra show the expected seasonality linked to variations in the anthropogenic emissions and seasonal biomass burning activity, as well as exceptional events, and are in good agreement with previous spaceborne studies. IASI measurements are also compared to the distributions from the Model for Ozone and Related Chemical Tracers, version 4 (MOZART-4). Seasonal cycles observed from satellite data are reasonably well reproduced by the model. However, the model seems to overestimate (underestimate) anthropogenic (biomass burning) emissions and a negative global mean bias of 1% (16%) of the model relative to the satellite observations was found for C2H2 (HCN).
Scanning supersaturation condensation particle counter applied as a nano-CCN counter for size-resolved analysis of the hygroscopicity and chemical composition of nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Z. , Su H. , Wang X. , Ma N. , Wiedensohler A. , Pöschl U. , Cheng Y.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Knowledge about the chemical composition of aerosol particles is essential to understand their formation and evolution in the atmosphere. Due to analytical limitations, however, relatively little information is available for sub-10 nm particles. We present the design of a nano-cloud condensation nuclei counter (nano-CCNC) for measuring size-resolved hygroscopicity and inferring chemical composition of sub-10 nm aerosol particles. We extend the use of counting efficiency spectra from a water-based condensation particle counter (CPC) and link it to the analysis of CCN activation spectra, which provides a theoretical basis for the application of a scanning supersaturation CPC (SS-CPC) as a nano-CCNC. Measurement procedures and data analysis methods are demonstrated through laboratory experiments with monodisperse particles of diameter down to 2.5 nm, where sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sucrose and tungsten oxide can be easily discriminated by different characteristic supersaturations of water droplet formation. A near-linear relationship between hygroscopicity parameter κ and organic mass fraction is also found for sucrose-ammonium sulfate mixtures. The design is not limited to the water CPC, but also applies to CPCs with other working fluids (e.g. butanol, perfluorotributylamine). We suggest that a combination of SS-CPCs with multiple working fluids may provide further insight into the chemical composition of nanoparticles and the role of organic and inorganic compounds in the initial steps of atmospheric new particle formation and growth.