bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing 51 Eri b from 1 to 5 μm: A Partly Cloudy Exoplanet
Authors: Rajan Abhijith , Rameau Julien , Rosa Robert J. De , Marley Mark S. , Graham James R. , Macintosh Bruce , Marois Christian , Morley Caroline , Patience Jennifer , Pueyo Laurent , Saumon Didier , Ward-Duong Kimberly , Ammons S. Mark , Arriaga Pauline , Bailey Vanessa P. , Barman Travis , Bulger Joanna , Burrows Adam S. , Chilcote Jeffrey , Cotten Tara , Czekala Ian , Doyon Rene , Duchêne Gaspard , Esposito Thomas M. , Fitzgerald Michael P. , Follette Katherine B. , Fortney Jonathan J. , Goodsell Stephen J. , Greenbaum Alexandra Z. , Hibon Pascale , Hung Li-Wei , Ingraham Patrick , Johnson-Groh Mara , Kalas Paul , Konopacky Quinn , Lafrenière David , Larkin James E. , Maire Jérôme , Marchis Franck , Metchev Stanimir , Millar-Blanchaer Maxwell A. , Morzinski Katie M. , Nielsen Eric L. , Oppenheimer Rebecca , Palmer David , Patel Rahul I. , Perrin Marshall , Poyneer Lisa , Rantakyrö Fredrik T. , Ruffio Jean-Baptiste , Savransky Dmitry , Schneider Adam C. , Sivaramakrishnan Anand , Song Inseok , Soummer Rémi , Thomas Sandrine , Vasisht Gautam , Wallace J. Kent , Wang Jason J. , Wiktorowicz Sloane , Wolff Schuyler
Published: June 2017

We present spectrophotometry spanning 1–5 μm of 51 Eridani b, a 2–10 

planet discovered by the Gemini Planet Imager Exoplanet Survey. In this study, we present new K1 (1.90–2.19 μm) and K2 (2.10–2.40 μm) spectra taken with the Gemini Planet Imager as well as an updated L

P
 (3.76 μm) and new M

S
 (4.67 μm) photometry from the NIRC2 Narrow camera. The new data were combined with J (1.13–1.35 μm) and H (1.50–1.80 μm) spectra from the discovery epoch with the goal of better characterizing the planet properties. The 51 Eri b photometry is redder than field brown dwarfs as well as known young T-dwarfs with similar spectral type (between T4 and T8), and we propose that 51 Eri b might be in the process of undergoing the transition from L-type to T-type. We used two complementary atmosphere model grids including either deep iron/silicate clouds or sulfide/salt clouds in the photosphere, spanning a range of cloud properties, including fully cloudy, cloud-free, and patchy/intermediate-opacity clouds. The model fits suggest that 51 Eri b has an effective temperature ranging between 605 and 737 K, a solar metallicity, and a surface gravity of log(g) = 3.5–4.0 dex, and the atmosphere requires a patchy cloud atmosphere to model the spectral energy distribution (SED). From the model atmospheres, we infer a luminosity for the planet of −5.83 to −5.93 (

), leaving 51 Eri b in the unique position of being one of the only directly imaged planets consistent with having formed via a cold-start scenario. Comparisons of the planet SED against warm-start models indicate that the planet luminosity is best reproduced by a planet formed via core accretion with a core mass between 15 and 127

.
The Type Ia Supernova Color–Magnitude Relation and Host Galaxy Dust: A Simple Hierarchical Bayesian Model
Authors: Mandel Kaisey S. , Scolnic Daniel M. , Shariff Hikmatali , Foley Ryan J. , Kirshner Robert P.
Published: June 2017

Conventional Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) cosmology analyses currently use a simplistic linear regression of magnitude versus color and light curve shape, which does not model intrinsic SN Ia variations and host galaxy dust as physically distinct effects, resulting in low color–magnitude slopes. We construct a probabilistic generative model for the dusty distribution of extinguished absolute magnitudes and apparent colors as the convolution of an intrinsic SN Ia color–magnitude distribution and a host galaxy dust reddening–extinction distribution. If the intrinsic color–magnitude (M

B
versus B − V) slope

differs from the host galaxy dust law R

B
, this convolution results in a specific curve of mean extinguished absolute magnitude versus apparent color. The derivative of this curve smoothly transitions from

in the blue tail to R

B
in the red tail of the apparent color distribution. The conventional linear fit approximates this effective curve near the average apparent color, resulting in an apparent slope

between

and R

B
. We incorporate these effects into a hierarchical Bayesian statistical model for SN Ia light curve measurements, and analyze a data set of SALT2 optical light curve fits of 248 nearby SNe Ia at

. The conventional linear fit gives

. Our model finds

and a distinct dust law of

, consistent with the average for Milky Way dust, while correcting a systematic distance bias of ∼0.10 mag in the tails of the apparent color distribution. Finally, we extend our model to examine the SN Ia luminosity–host mass dependence in terms of intrinsic and dust components.
Yonsei Evolutionary Population Synthesis (YEPS). II. Spectro-photometric Evolution of Helium-enhanced Stellar Populations
Authors: Chung Chul , Yoon Suk-Jin , Lee Young-Wook
Published: June 2017

The discovery of multiple stellar populations in Milky Way globular clusters (GCs) has stimulated various follow-up studies on helium-enhanced stellar populations. Here we present the evolutionary population synthesis models for the spectro-photometric evolution of simple stellar populations (SSPs) with varying initial helium abundance (Y
ini). We show that Y
ini brings about dramatic changes in spectro-photometric properties of SSPs. Like the normal-helium SSPs, the integrated spectro-photometric evolution of helium-enhanced SSPs is also dependent on metallicity and age for a given Y
ini. We discuss the implications and prospects for the helium-enhanced populations in relation to the second-generation populations found in the Milky Way GCs. All of the models are available at http://web.yonsei.ac.kr/cosmic/data/YEPS.htm.
Finite-frequency Sensitivity Kernels in Spherical Geometry for Time–Distance Helioseismology
Authors: Mandal Krishnendu , Bhattacharya Jishnu , Halder Samrat , Hanasoge Shravan M.
Published: June 2017

The inference of internal properties of the Sun from surface measurements of wave travel times is the goal of time–distance helioseismology. A critical step toward the accurate interpretation of shifts in travel time is the computation of sensitivity functions linking seismic measurements to internal structure. Here we calculate finite-frequency sensitivity kernels in spherical geometry for two-point measurements of travel time. We numerically build Green’s function by solving for it at each frequency and each degree of spherical harmonic and summing over all these pieces. These computations are performed in parallel (“embarrassingly”), thereby achieving significant speedup in wall-clock time. Kernels are calculated by invoking the first-order Born approximation connecting deviations in the wave field to perturbations in the operator. Validated flow kernels are shown to produce travel times within 0.47% of the true value for uniform flows up to

. We find that travel time can be obtained with errors of 1 ms or less for flows having magnitudes similar to meridional circulation. Alongside flows, we also compute and validate a sensitivity kernel for perturbations in sound speed. These accurate sensitivity kernels might improve the current inferences of subsurface flows significantly.
A Redshift Survey of the Nearby Galaxy Cluster Abell 2199: Comparison of the Spatial and Kinematic Distributions of Galaxies with the Intracluster Medium
Authors: Song Hyunmi , Hwang Ho Seong , Park Changbom , Tamura Takayuki
Published: June 2017

We present the results from an extensive spectroscopic survey of the central region of the nearby galaxy cluster Abell 2199 (A2199) at z = 0.03. By combining 775 new redshifts from the MMT/Hectospec observations with the data in the literature, we construct a large sample of 1624 galaxies with measured redshifts at

, which results in high spectroscopic completeness at

(77%). We use these data to study the kinematics and clustering of galaxies, focusing on the comparison with those of the intracluster medium (ICM) from Suzaku X-ray observations. We identify 406 member galaxies of A2199 at

using the caustic technique. The velocity dispersion profile of cluster members appears smoothly connected to the stellar velocity dispersion profile of the cD galaxy. The luminosity function is well fitted with a Schechter function at

. The radial velocities of cluster galaxies generally agree well with those of the ICM, but there are some regions where the velocity difference between the two is about a few hundred kilometers per second. The cluster galaxies show a hint of global rotation at

with

, but the ICM in the same region does not show such rotation. We apply a friends-of-friends algorithm to the cluster galaxy sample at

and identify 32 group candidates, and examine the spatial correlation between the galaxy groups and X-ray emission. This extensive survey in the central region of A2199 provides an important basis for future studies of interplay among the galaxies, the ICM, and the dark matter in the cluster.
The Presence of Thermally Unstable X-Ray Filaments and the Production of Cold Gas in the NGC 5044 Group
Authors: David Laurence P. , Vrtilek Jan , O’Sullivan Ewan , Jones Christine , Forman William , Sun Ming
Published: June 2017

We present the results of a deep Chandra observation of the X-ray bright moderate-cooling flow group NGC 5044 along with the observed correlations between the ionized, atomic, and molecular gas in this system. The Chandra observation shows that the central AGN has undergone two outbursts in the past 108 years, based on the presence of two pairs of nearly bipolar X-ray cavities. The molecular gas and dust within the central 2 kpc is aligned with the orientation of the inner pair of bipolar X-ray cavities, suggesting that the most recent AGN outburst had a dynamical impact on the molecular gas. NGC 5044 also hosts many X-ray filaments within the central 8 kpc, but there are no obvious connections between the X-ray and Hα filaments and the more extended X-ray cavities that were inflated during the prior AGN outburst. Using the line width of the blended Fe-L line complex as a diagnostic for multiphase gas, we find that the majority of the multiphase thermally unstable gas in NGC 5044 is confined within the X-ray filaments. While the cooling time and entropy of the gas within the X-ray filaments are very similar, not all filaments show evidence of gas cooling or an association with Hα emission. We suggest that the various observed properties of the X-ray filaments are suggestive of an evolutionary sequence where thermally unstable gas begins to cool, becomes multiphased, develops Hα emitting plasma, and finally produces cold gas.
Urine Biomarkers to Predict Response to Lupus Nephritis Therapy in Children and Young Adults
Authors: Brunner Hermine I. , Bennett Michael R. , Gulati Gaurav , Abulaban Khalid , Klein-Gitelman Marisa S. , Ardoin Stacy P. , Tucker Lori B. , Rouster-Stevens Kelly A. , Witte David , Ying Jun , Devarajan Prasad
Published: June 2017

Objective.

To delineate urine biomarkers that forecast response to therapy of lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods.

Starting from the time of kidney biopsy, patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus who were diagnosed with LN were studied serially. Levels of 15 biomarkers were measured in random spot urine samples, including adiponectin, α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), ceruloplasmin, hemopexin, hepcidin, kidney injury molecule 1, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, lipocalin-like prostaglandin D synthase (LPGDS), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), transferrin, and vitamin D binding protein (VDBP).

Results.

Among 87 patients (mean age 15.6 yrs) with LN, there were 37 treatment responders and 50 nonresponders based on the American College of Rheumatology criteria. At the time of kidney biopsy, levels of TGF-β (p < 0.0001) and ceruloplasmin (p = 0.006) were significantly lower among responders than nonresponders; less pronounced differences were present for AGP, hepcidin, LPGDS, transferrin, and VDBP (all p < 0.05). By Month 3, responders experienced marked decreases of adiponectin, AGP, transferrin, and VDBP (all p < 0.01) and mean levels of these biomarkers were all outstanding (area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve ≥ 0.9) for discriminating responders from nonresponders. Patient demographics and extrarenal disease did not influence differences in biomarker levels between response groups.

Conclusion.

Low urine levels of TGF-β and ceruloplasmin at baseline and marked reduction of AGP, LPGDS, transferrin, or VDBP and combinations of other select biomarkers by Month 3 are outstanding predictors for achieving remission of LN. If confirmed, these results can be used to help personalize LN therapy.
Un éventail d’identifications vers une bisexualité psychique
Authors: Gervais Pornin Laurence
Published: June 2017

A partir de deux vignettes cliniques, nous observons les diverses étapes qui vont donner sens à la réouverture du fonctionnement psychique vers des potentialités du féminin et du masculin. Au-delà du choix de l’objet, l’enfant met à l’épreuve et expérimente son pouvoir de destructivité face à un environnement qui se doit de rester indestructible, afin de passer de la relation de l’objet à l’usage de l’objet. La qualité du plaisir dans la rencontre va contribuer à l’organisation de l’altérité sans confusion entre un miroir de soi et un autre. Mais face à la mort du père, comment construire ces identifications croisées sans représailles ? Toute l’élaboration au-delà du genre défini est de construire une bisexualité psychique pour à travers elle, conserver son identité. L’investissement de l’imaginaire dans la cure restaure les objets internes comme aussi le miroir transférentiel alimenté par le travail d’écriture enrichi les potentialités.
The effects of the Lactobacillus casei strain on obesity in children: a pilot study
Authors: Nagata S. , Chiba Y. , Wang C. , Yamashiro Y.
Published: June 2017

There are few data regarding the role of probiotics as a dietary intervention in the management of obesity in children. An open prospective examination was conducted to clarify the effects of Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (LcS)-containing beverages in obese children. We compared the intestinal microbiota and organic acid levels between 12 obese (average age, 10.8 years; body mass index (BMI) Z score, 2.7±1.7) and 22 control children(average age, 8.5 years; BMI Z score, 0.1±0.7), and pre- and post-intervention in the obese children. The obese group underwent diet and exercise therapy for 6 months and then were given an LcS beverage daily for another 6 months and the body weight and serological markers were monitored. Significant reductions in the faecal concentrations of Bifidobacterium (obese group, 7.9±1.5 vs non-obese group, 9.8±0.5 Log10cells/g; P<0.01) along with a significant decline in the Bacteroides fragilis group, Atopobium cluster and Lactobacillus gasseri subgroup, and acetic acid (obese group, 45.1±16.9 vs non-obese group, 57.9±17.6 μmol/g; P<0.05) were observed in the obese group at baseline. A significant decline in body weight (-2.9±4.6%; P<0.05) and an elevation in the high density lipoprotein cholesterol level (+11.1±17.6%; P<0.05) were observed 6 months after ingestion of the LcS beverage compared to baseline. Furthermore, a significant increase in the faecal concentration of Bifidobacterium (7.0±1.2 before ingestion vs 9.1±1.2 Log10cells/g after ingestion; P<0.01) and an apparent increase in the acetic acid concentration (7.0±1.2 before ingestion vs 9.1±1.2 Log10cells/g after ingestion; P<0.01) were observed 6 months after ingestion. LcS contributed to weight loss while also improving the lipid metabolism in obese children via a significant increase in the faecal Bifidobacterium numbers and the acetic acid concentration.
Potentially probiotic Lactobacillus strains with anti-proliferative activity induce cytokine/chemokine production and neutrophil recruitment in mice
Authors: Saxami G. , Karapetsas A. , Chondrou P. , Vasiliadis S. , Lamprianidou E. , Kotsianidis I. , Ypsilantis P. , Botaitis S. , Simopoulos C. , Galanis A.
Published: June 2017

Lactobacillus pentosusB281 andLactobacillus plantarumB282 are twoLactobacillusstrains previously isolated from fermented table olives. Both strains were found to possess probiotic properties and displayed desirable technological characteristics for application as starters in novel functional food production. In the present study the anti-proliferative and immunostimulatory activities of the two strains were investigated. Firstly, we demonstrated that liveL. pentosusB281 andL. plantarumB282 significantly inhibited the growth of human colon cancer cells (Caco-2) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. By employing the air pouch system in mice, we showed that administration of both strains led to a rapid and statistically significant infiltration of leukocytes in the air pouch exudates. The phenotypical characterisation of the recruited immune cells was performed by flow cytometry analysis. We demonstrated that the majority of the infiltrated leukocytes were neutrophils. Finally by using the Mouse Cytokine Array Panel A Detection Antibody cocktail, we showed that both strains induced the expression of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)-1, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)-3, CCL-4, and CXCL-2 and diminished the expression levels of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule, macrophage colony-stimulating factor and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1. Our results showed that both strains display anti-proliferative and immunostimulatory properties equal or even better in some cases than those of established and commonly used probiotic strains. These findings further support the probiotic character of the two strains.
Protein Structure Prediction
Authors: Chakraborty Hirak Jyoti , Gangopadhyay Aditi , Ganguli Sayak , Datta Abhijit
Published: June 2017

The great disagreement between the number of known protein sequences and the number of experimentally determined protein structures indicate an enormous necessity of rapid and accurate protein structure prediction methods. Computational techniques such as comparative modeling, threading and ab initio modelling allow swift protein structure prediction with sufficient accuracy. The three phases of computational protein structure prediction comprise: the pre-modelling analysis phase, model construction and post-modelling refinement. Protein modelling is primarily comparative or ab initio. Comparative or template-based methods such as homology and threading-based modelling require structural templates for constructing the structure of a target sequence. The ab initio is a template-free modelling approach which proceeds by satisfying various physics-based and knowledge-based parameters. The chapter will elaborate on the three phases of modelling, the programs available for performing each, issues, possible solutions and future research areas.
The Much Needed Security and Data Reforms of Cloud Computing in Medical Data Storage
Authors: Munugala Sushma , Brar Gagandeep K. , Syed Ali , Mohammad Azeem , Halgamuge Malka N.
Published: June 2017

Cloud computing has shifted our old documents up into the clouds, with the advancement of technology. Fast-growing virtual document storage platforms provide amenities with minimal expense in the corporate society. Despite living in the 20th century, even the first world countries have issues with the maintenance of document storage. Cloud computing resolves this issue for business and clinic owners as it banishes the requirement of planning, provisioning, and allows corporations to advance their filling system according to service demands. Medical practices heavily, rely on document storage as; almost all information contained in medical files is stored in a printed format. Medical practices urgently need to revolutionize their storage standards, to keep up with the growing population. The traditional method of paper storage in medical practice has completely been obsolete and needs to improve in order to assist patients with faster diagnosis in critical situations. Obtaining Knowledge and sharing it is an important part of medical practice, so it needs immediate attention to reach its full service potential. This chapter has analyzed content from literature that highlights issues regarding data storage and recommends solution. This inquiry has found a useful tool that can be beneficial for the development of this problem which is, ‘data mining' as it gives the option of predictive, and preventative health care options, when medical data is searched. The functionality and worthiness of each algorithm and methods are also determined in this study. By using cloud and big data services to improve the analysis of medical data in network of regional health information system, has huge advancements that assure convenient management, easy extension, flexible investment, and low requirements for low technical based private medical units.
Predicting Patterns in Hospital Admission Data
Authors: Gutiérrez Jesús Manuel Puentes , Sánchez-Alonso Salvador , Sicilia Miguel-Angel , Barriocanal Elena García
Published: June 2017

Predicting patterns to extract knowledge can be a tough task but it is worth. When you want to accomplish that task you have to take your time analysing all the data you have and you have to adapt it to the algorithms and technologies you are going to use after analysing. So you need to know the type of data that you own. When you have finished making the analysis, you also need to know what you want to find out and, therefore, which methodologies you are going to use to accomplish your objectives. At the end of this chapter you can see a real case making all that process. In particular, a Classification problem is shown as an example when using machine learning methodologies to find out if a hospital patient should be admitted or not in Cardiology department.
Image Processing Including Medical Liver Imaging
Authors: Ramamoorthy Suganya , Sivasubramaniam Rajaram
Published: June 2017

Medical diagnosis has been gaining importance in everyday life. The diseases and their symptoms are highly varying and there is always a need for a continuous update of knowledge needed for the doctors. The diseases fall into different categories and a small variation of symptoms may leave to different categories of diseases. This is further supplemented by the medical analysts for a continuous treatment process. The treatment generally starts with a diagnosis and further goes through a set of procedures including X-ray, CT-scans, ultrasound imaging for qualitative analysis and diagnosis by doctors. A small level of error in disease identification introduces overhead in diagnosis and difficult in treatment. In such cases, an automated system that could retrieve medical images based on user's interest. This chapter deals with various techniques, methodologies that correspond to the classification problem in data analysis process and its methodological impacts to big data.
Video Feedback on Practicum
Authors: O'Neill Shirley , Dann Christopher
Published: June 2017

This chapter highlights how the use of video feedback can support preservice teachers' understanding of how to improve the ways in which they scaffold and monitor students' literacy learning, gather formative assessment data in relation to set goals and make connections between educational theory and practice. It examines the contemporary shift towards democratic pedagogies in the context of learning in social constructivist environments and the need for preservice teachers to be aware of the impact of the teacher/student dialogues they create on the quality of pedagogy and students' learning. Preservice teachers' analysis of their pedagogical dialogue not only raises their awareness of the quality of dialogic turn-taking and questioning strategies but makes their associated ‘cognitive moves' explicit for their critical reflection, along with their use of the underpinning metalanguage. The chapter acknowledges the importance of preservice teachers' compilation of rich pedagogical data during practicums and shows how this contributes to deepening their learning. Similarly, it argues that emergent data are central to creating a dialogic community of inquiry where all practicum stakeholders are drawn into a process of learning and knowledge building.
Fostering Engagement in Educational Technologies Through Developmental Theory and Program Data
Authors: Kazakoff Elizabeth R. , Orkin Melissa , Bundschuh Kristine , Schechter Rachel L.
Published: June 2017

This chapter provides theoretical and practical insights for integrating and improving motivation in the design of educational technologies and enhancement of student engagement. While the number of new products available to support differentiated learning is great news for students, the rapid development of products may mean quantity over quality. Schools may end up purchasing educational technology tools that may not necessarily be user-friendly, developmentally appropriate, or built with the student end-user in mind, especially for elementary school students. Ideas from popular and well research motivational theories—self-determination theory, attribution theory, and goal orientation theory/mindsets—are discussed in terms of their integration in the design of educational technologies. The blended learning literacy program, Lexia Reading Core5® (Core5), is used as an example of how to iteratively redesign educational technologies taking motivational theories into account. The specific theories and examples presented are then summarized as for practical application.
Assessing User Experience via Biometric Sensor Affect Detection
Authors: Kula Irfan , Branaghan Russell J. , Atkinson Robert K. , Roscoe Rod D.
Published: June 2017

Traditional user experience assessments rely on self-report, human-system performance, and observational data that incompletely capture users' psychological demands, processing, or affect. Specifically, self-report measures require users to identify and articulate subjective responses to product features, yet users may not possess accurate awareness or may be unwilling or unable to express themselves. Similarly, human-system performance and observational measures require analysts to make inferences about hidden psychological states based on observed external patterns. This chapter discusses how biometric sensor-based affect detection technologies (e.g., eye tracking and EEG) may supplement traditional methods. By measuring biometric indicators of psychological states, researchers can gain potentially richer and more accurate insights into user experience. These technologies are gaining traction in educational technology development and functionality, and thus the extension of these tools for usability and user experience evaluation is highly feasible.
Balancing Student Needs and Learning Theory in a Social Interactive Postdigital Textbook
Authors: Walker Erin , Wylie Ruth , Danielescu Andreea , Rodriguez III James P. , Finn Ed
Published: June 2017

Digital technologies are revolutionizing many aspects of contemporary education. Nevertheless, the bulk of formal learning still takes place in classrooms and despite several decades of computers in classrooms, the textbook is often the primary instructional resource. This chapter will explore how user-centered design can define a future for the digital textbook in ways that incorporate emerging learning technologies but preserve the traditional functions of textbooks in classroom communities. The authors describe the methods and results of three separate user-centered design pilots we conducted to understand user needs: a diary study, a creative writing exercise, and a participatory prototyping activity. Results from each exploration are integrated to highlight commonalities and differences. The chapter closes with a reflection on the overall strengths and limitations of this approach.
A Critical Investigation of Quality Assurance in Open Distance E-Learning
Authors: Pitsoe Victor Justice , Letseka Moeketsi
Published: June 2017

Quality assurance has become critical to Open Distance Learning (ODL) worldwide. Yet the ODL environment is marked by cultural hegemony. An elite group of individuals strategically dominate the educational arena in order to advance the supremacy of gender, race and socioeconomic status. This chapter highlights a divide between theory and practice. The e-learning paradigm, known as Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) creates opportunities for practitioners and students with respect to accessibility, flexibility, and cost. But it also creates challenges for quality assurance. Most ODeL texts do not treat quality assurance as discourse, power and cultural hegemony. Policymakers tend to assume that students have similar learning needs. This chapter (1) explores quality assurance; (2) it sketches Unisa's shift to ODeL; (3) argues a case for quality assurance as a practice of hegemony; (4) critiques quality assurance as an Ideological State Apparatus; and (5) proposes a reengineering of quality assurance within alternative frameworks.
Affiliate Marketing Strategy of Amazon India
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Wadera Deepti
Published: June 2017

Affiliate marketing is one of the oldest forms of marketing in which one refers someone to any online product (Open Topic, n.d.). When the consumer buys this product on the basis of the given recommendation, then the person who has referred him receives a commission. This commission could vary from $1 to $10000, on the basis of the type of product which has been referred (Open Topic, n.d.). The rapid development of the term “Affiliate marketing” which is a performance based internet marketing practice, has made the online selling market even more competitive. Many companies are now venturing into the forming or improving their affiliate programs and giving higher incentives to keep the affiliates loyal. This study is a qualitative study about the Affiliate program presently run by Amazon Company.
Student's Perception Towards Digital Learning for Skill Enhancement Programs
Authors: Singh Surabhi
Published: June 2017

Integrating digital activities into the broader strategy can be challenging for institutions providing online education they don't have yet strong digital capabilities. Indian educational institutes and universities lack in digital strategy skills to conceive a comprehensive plan for responding quickly to customer queries. Digital activities are an increasingly important part of any marketing and sales strategy. The ability to harness the power of digital platforms in delivery of educational courses cannot be denied. The organization should no longer be only concerned with simple act of providing digital course, but also with the innovative strategies through which they interact with students and create learning environment that is innovative, active, and challenging. Digital learning plays a vital role in the skills landscape.
IMPORTÂNCIA DO CONHECIMENTO DO CIRURGIÃO DENTISTA SOBRE PRESSÃO ARTERIAL, FATORES MODIFICADORES E COMPLICAÇÕES SISTÊMICAS DURANTE ATENDIMENTO CIRÚRGICO
Authors: Schueroff Edgar De Souza , De Oliveira Peres Marcos Vinicius , Barbosa Carmem Patrícia
Published: June 2017

O sistema circulatório é um sistema fechado de tubos onde circulam o sangue e a linfa. A ação de bomba do coração faz com que a pressão arterial (PA) aumente e diminua à medida que o sangue circula. A PA pode sofrer descompensações manifestando um quadro de hipertensão arterial (HA), desenvolvendo possíveis doenças cardiovasculares podendo ser diagnosticada por meio da aferição dos níveis pressóricos, pelo método indireto ou técnica auscultatória. Esse estudo teve como objetivo esclarecer o nível de conhecimento de alguns profissionais que atuam na cidade de Maringá-PR nas áreas de Implantodontia e Cirurgia e Traumatologia Buco-Maxilo-Facial sobre PA. Após um levantamento realizado junto ao Conselho Regional de Odontologia, a amostra foi submetida ao questionário contendo 12 questões objetivas e discursivas. Os resultados indicaram que a maioria dos cirurgiões avaliados aferem a pressão arterial antes de procedimentos cirúrgicos e utilizam anestésicos como mepivacaína 3% sem vasoconstritor e prilocaína + felipressina 3% com vasoconstritor. Além disso, os participantes restringem o atendimento odontológico em pacientes com PA acima de 140 x 90 mmHg. Conclui-se que os profissionais avaliados apresentaram nível razoável de conhecimento a cerca do atendimento ao paciente hipertenso.  Palavras-chave: Odontólogo; hipertensão; cirurgia; pressão sanguínea; implantodontia.
Residual Dizziness after Successful Repositioning Maneuver for Idiopathic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A Review
Authors: Giommetti Giorgia , Lapenna Ruggero , Panichi Roberto , Dehgani Mobaraki Puya , Longari Fabrizio , Ricci Giampietro , Faralli Mario
Published: June 2017

The benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a vestibular disorder cause of vertigo. The BPPV may be corrected mechanically by repositioning maneuvers but even after successful maneuvers, some patients report residual dizziness for a certain period afterward. Early recognition and treatment might decrease the incidence of residual dizziness in patients with BPPV, especially in those patients with psychiatric comorbidities and in the elderly, lowering the risk of falling. Many pathogenetic hypotheses for residual dizziness are under debate. The purpose of this review was to identify, evaluate and review recent researches about possible causal factors involved in residual dizziness and the implications on clinical practice. A literature search was performed using different databases such as Pubmed and Scopus. The following search terms were used: residual dizziness, otolithic membrane and BPPV. The search found a total of 1192 titles, which were reduced to 963 after a procedure of de-duplication of the found titles. The research was then restricted to an interval of time comprised between 2000 and 2016 for a total of 800 titles. Among these titles, only those including the terms benign paroxysmal positional vertigo were considered eligible for this review. Only publications in English language were taken into consideration and we excluded those with not available abstract. Finally, 90 abstracts were obtained and critically evaluated by two different Authors, and additional studies were identified by hand searching from the references of artiche of interest. Only 53 were included in this work.
Results of prospective multicenter study on heart failure on Campania Internal Medicine wards: the FASHION study
Authors: Gallucci Fernando , Ronga Ilaria , Fontanella Andrea , Uomo Generoso , Study Group And the FASHION
Published: June 2017

Heart failure (HF) is characterized by a high prevalence and hospitalization rate with considerable health and social impact; the knowledge of its epidemiological features remains the mainstay to assess adequacy of the health care needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of HF in Internal Medicine Units of the Campania region (Italy) and patients’ characteristics. We recruited all patients with HF admitted between April 1 and June 30, 2014, in 23 Units of Internal Medicine: 975 patients (19.5% of 5000 admissions), 518 women and 457 men, mean age 76.9±9.9 (range 34-100) with 741 (76%) older than 70 years. The mean age was higher in women than men; 35.8% of patients had atrial fibrillation, with higher prevalence in women than in men. Coronary artery disease represented the leading etiology while prevalence of non-ischemic heart failure was higher in women. New York Heart Association class was indicated in 926 patients. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was measured in 503 patients; 18.4% of patients had a severely reduced LVEF<35%, mostly men (P=0.0001) and 67.4% presented a LVEF>40%. At least one hospital admission in the previous 12 months was registered in 39.6% of patients. One, two and more than two relevant comorbidities were present in 8.6%, 24.7% and 64.8% of patients, respectively. Arterial hypertension and coronary artery disease were more frequent in female. In conclusion, advanced age and clinical complexity were the main characteristics of HF patients hospitalized in the Internal Medicine Units in Campania. Gender differences also emerged from the analysis of demographic parameters and etiopathogenetic features. Some diagnostic and therapeutic aspects not in line with that recommended by the most recent HF international guidelines were registered.
Acute pancreatitis: confronting to improve
Authors: Tirotta Daniela , Franco Alessandro , Talarico Francesca
Published: June 2017

Our study is a benchmarking on acute pancreatitis, managed in three different Medical Units. The aim of benchmarking is to optimize time and resources by comparing sufficiently homogeneous reality, to identify areas for improvement and to plan appropriate strategies correction. The observation of heterogeneity in terms of clinical aspects and costs in our hospitals, performed through benchmarking, despite our limited case histories, might provide new ideas for future implementation.
Clinical Laboratory Automation: A Case Study
Authors: Archetti Claudia , Montanelli Alessandro , Finazzi Dario , Caimi Luigi , Garrafa Emirena
Published: June 2017

Background

This paper presents a case study of an automated clinical laboratory in a large urban academic teaching hospital in the North of Italy, the Spedali Civili in Brescia, where four laboratories were merged in a unique laboratory through the introduction of laboratory automation.

Materials and Methods

The analysis compares the preautomation situation and the new setting from a cost perspective, by considering direct and indirect costs. It also presents an analysis of the turnaround time (TAT). The study considers equipment, staff and indirect costs.

Results

The introduction of automation led to a slight increase in equipment costs which is highly compensated by a remarkable decrease in staff costs. Consequently, total costs decreased by 12.55%. The analysis of the TAT shows an improvement of nonemergency exams while emergency exams are still validated within the maximum time imposed by the hospital.

Conclusions

The strategy adopted by the management, which was based on re-using the available equipment and staff when merging the pre-existing laboratories, has reached its goal: introducing automation while minimizing the costs.
Current management options in metastatic renal cell cancer
Authors: Gangadaran Sittu Govindasamy Dinakaran
Published: June 2017

Renal cancer accounts for 2.4% of all cancers. Localised disease accounts for the majority of renal cancers (70-75%), however 20-25% of these ultimately develop distant metastasis. The median overall survival of un treated metastatic disease is 5 months with 1-year survival of only 29%. The management of metastatic renal cell cancers traditionally relied on systemic immunotherapy with attendant high morbidity but after the year 2005 the use of effective targeted therapy with tolerable side effect profile has improved the survival from 10.2 months in the cytokine era to 17.7 months. This article reviews the past, present and future options in the management of metastatic renal cancer.
Perceptions, attitudes and challenges about obesity and adopting a healthy lifestyle among health workers in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal province
Authors: Simfukwe Patrick , Van Wyk Brian , Swart Charl
Published: June 2017

Background: The prevalence of obesity is reported to be high and increasing among health workers, in both high-income and low-income countries, which in turn is a common risk factor for all non-communicable diseases. This is alarming, as health workers not only serve the community’s health needs but should also serve as role models for a healthy lifestyle. It is therefore important that obesity among health workers is addressed and prevented.Objective: The aim of the study was to explore perceptions and attitudes about obesity among health workers in three selected hospitals in Pietermaritzburg, and to identify the barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle.Methods: An explorative and descriptive qualitative study design was used, utilising in-depth interviews for data collection. A total of 18 health workers from the three selected hospitals in the metropolitan were individually interviewed. Thematic analysis was done, using a priori themes that were derived from the Health Belief Model.Results: All health workers were aware of the negative consequences of being overweight or obese. However, only a few of the participants chose to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle included institutional as well as attitudinal factors.Conclusion: Public healthcare facilities need to invest in their work force by giving health workers access to physical exercise facilities and affordable healthy food within the hospital. Health organisations should introduce health behaviour change programmes to combat negative established cultural norms among health staff.
Proximal epithelioid sarcomatous dedifferentiation in secondary chondrosarcoma in a known case of multiple osteochondromatosis
Authors: Dey Biswajit , Chikhale Mangesh , Pradhan Prita , Barwad Adarsh , Badhe Bhawana Ashok
Published: June 2017

Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumor. Approximately 15% of osteochondromas occur as multiple lesions. Multiple osteochondromatosis has a higher risk of developing chondrosarcomas, which are of low grade with good prognosis. About 10% of all chondrosarcomas may undergo dedifferentiated change, which has a poorer prognosis. Dedifferentiated peripheral chondrosarcoma developing within an osteochondroma is extremely rare. Dedifferentiation usually occurs in the form of osteosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, fibrosarcoma, or rhabdomyosarcoma. We report a case of proximal epithelioid sarcomatous dedifferentiation in secondary chondrosarcoma in a 39-year-old male with multiple osteochondromatosis in bilateral arm. To the best of our knowledge, epithelioid sarcomatous dedifferentiation has not been described in the literature.
Utility of a novel chromogenic medium as a screening method in the detection of carbapenemase producing Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Chaturvedi Anusha , Banashankari Gunjiganur Shankarappa
Published: June 2017

INTRODUCTION: With the emergence of multidrug resistant Gram-negative bugs, there is an urgent need for rapid detection of these resistant organisms.

AIM: This study was performed to assess the utility of a novel chromogenic medium in the detection of carbapenemase producing Enterobacteriaceae from various clinical specimens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 202 isolates of Enterobacteriaceae, which were resistant to meropenem (10 μg) disc by standard disc diffusion method, were analyzed over a period of 6 months. These isolates were subjected to the modified Hodge test (MHT) and inoculated onto the chromogenic medium. Following which the results were analyzed.

RESULTS: It was observed that 76.73% of the Enterobacteriaceae gave a positive result on the MHT, 18.31% were negative and 4.95% gave indeterminate result. While 88.11% produced growth on the chromogenic medium, 6.93% yielded no growth and 4.95% gave variable results. Concordance in the results of the two tests was found to be 65.34%.

CONCLUSION: Enterobacteriaceae are emerging to be carbapenem resistant and are responsible for the soaring rates of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs), especially among critically ill patients. Hence, early detection of the same is important in controlling HAIs.
Alarming emergence, molecular characterization, and outcome of blaNDM-1 in patients infected with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Naim Huma , Rizvi Meher , Azam Mohd , Gupta Richa , Taneja Neelam , Shukla Indu , Khan Haris M.
Published: June 2017

INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) in general and blaNDM-1 in particular. It also aimed at evaluating clinical characteristics and outcome in patients infected with MBLs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 116 carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (CRGNB) were evaluated in the study. These CRGNB were tested for MBL production both phenotypically for MBLs and genotypically for blaNDM-1 gene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Representative stains of NDM-1 isolates were further sequenced by Triyat Scientific Co., (Nagpur, India).

RESULTS: Among 116 CRGNB Citrobacter species 28 (24.13%) was the most common pathogen. Phenotypically, MHT, imipenem-EDTA (IPM-EDTA) double‑disk synergy test and IPM-EDTA combined disk synergy test (CDST) detected MBL production in 105 (90.51%), 96 (81.03%), and 87 (75%) CRGNB, respectively. However, blaNDM-1 genes were detected in 66 (56.89%) isolates. The prevalence of blaNDM-1 gene was highest among Escherichia coli 26 (100%). Considering PCR as gold standard, it was observed that IMP-EDTA CDST was most specific (78.38%) while MHT was most sensitive (97.47%). Results of blaNDM-1 gene by PCR were further confirmed by sequencing (Triyat genomics, Nagpur). All the 11 representative strains were confirmed to be an NDM-1 gene. The presence of MBLs in our group of patients (non-Intensive Care Unit patients) is a cause for concern. However, on tracing their outcome, it was interesting to note that while the duration of stay lengthened in a large number of patients 112 (96.5%), mortality was relatively low 5 (4.31%).

CONCLUSION: The results of this study provide insight into the prevalence of MBLs, including blaNDM-1, in a tertiary care hospital. Antibiotic stewardship implemented in all seriousness may to a great extent stave off the impending pan-drug resistance. The surprising outcome of our patients suggests either that the bacteria trade off virulence for drug resistance or the relatively robust immune response of non ICU patients fights back.
Traumatic dental injury during yoga practice
Authors: Deshpande Anjali , Chaudhari Purva
Published: June 2017

With increasing popularity of yoga as a preventive health practice and therapeutic modality, issues regarding its safety have been analyzed in the scientific literature. Overuse, injury or strain, and sprain are some adverse effects that may be attributed to faulty yoga practice. However, traumatic dental injury as a result of fall during yoga practice is rare and unusual. This article presents a case of an 11-year-old female who fractured her permanent central incisor while practicing yoga posture Kukkutasana (cockerel pose), the arm-balancing posture. She underwent root canal treatment for the fractured tooth followed by restoration with post and core crown buildup. Yoga is known as a source of healing since ancient time, which should not cause any harm. It is recommended to adopt appropriate safety measures while performing yoga practices so that the detrimental physical, psychological, and financial consequences of preventable traumatic injuries can be avoided.