bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Experience at BIRDEM, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Rouf Rozana , Ahmed Ashraf Uddin , Mitra Palash , Zaman Shahana , Uddin Khwaja Nazim , Latif Zafar Ahmed
Published: September 2015

Background: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a medical emergency. It may be the presenting feature of diabetes mellitus, but more commonly DKA complicates diabetic patients during inter-current acute illness or if they become non-compliant to anti-diabetic medications. Early detection and treatment of DKA including underlying cause is important in determining outcome.Objectives: To describe the demographic characteristics, presentations, precipitating factors and outcome of DKA.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at BIRDEM General Hospital from January 2008 to December 2011.Results: Total patients were 200 with female predominance (56%). Mean age of the study population was 37.6 years. Incidence of DKA was more in known diabetic patients (71%) than in new cases (29%), more among rural population (53%) and low income group (76.5%). Common presentations included nausea (63%), vomiting (61%), polyuria (43%), polydypsia (42.5%), fever (29%), abdominal pain (28%), shortness of breath (28%), drowsiness (20%), blurred vision (13%), leg cramps (6.5%) and coma (7%). Infection (45.5%) was the commonest precipitating cause of DKA followed by non-adherence to insulin therapy (31%). Acute pancreatitis (5%), myocardial infarction (2%), stroke (1%) and surgery (1.5%) were less common precipitating factors. Aetiology of DKA could not be identified in 14% cases. Mean random blood glucose during admission was 27.1mmol/L and mean HbA1c was 11.3%. Severe acidosis (pH<7) was less common (8.5%). Neutrophil leukocytosis was present in 87% cases, irrespective of infection. In-hospital mortality was 6.5%.Conclusion: DKA occurred in diabetic patients in over two-third of the cases. In over two-third of the study population, DKA was precipitated by infection and non-adherence to insulin treatment. So, patient education regarding treatment compliance and sick days management are important and may prevent many cases of DKABangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 53-56
Evaluation of Patients with Unexplained Anaemia and Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Authors: Aftab H , Raihan ASMA , Roy PK , Rahman MT , Hasan M
Published: September 2015

Background and Aims: A number of patients presenting with anaemia are referred to gastroenterologist for evaluation. Literal sense of unexplained anaemia is anemia of unknown origin, which is widely used by the clinicians. Aims of this study were to determine the underlying cause of unexplained anemia and to identify clinical features that may point to primary gastrointestinal diseases.Methods: All the patients presenting with anaemia admitted in the department of Gastroenterology from January 1990 to July 2001 were enrolled for this study.Results: Sixty two patients were included in this study, twenty two were Collected retrospectively and forty were collected prospectively. The mean Age was 43 years (SD ± 14.8, range 1572 years). Twenty eight of the Patients were male, remaining thirty four were female. The mean duration of the illness was 26.3 months (SD ± 41.8, range 1240 months) and the Mean haemoglobin was 6.4 gm/ dl (SD ± 1.2, range 3.59 gm/dl). Among 62 patients, gastrointestinal causes for anaemia were found in 32 (51.62%) patients. Seventeen (27.41%) patients had a disease outside gastrointestinal tract; in thirteen (20.96%) patients no cause for anaemia could be established. Gastrointestinal malignancy was the most common finding, Gastrointestinal tuberculosis was the next. Symptoms had a sensitivity and Specificity of upper gastrointestinal disease of 64% and 36% respectively, and 30% and 82% for colonic disease.Conclusions: Gastrointestinal malignancy frequently presents with unexplained anaemia. Symptoms are poor predictors for site specific lesion. The standard evaluation of a patient with unexplained anaemia includes a complete evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract. However, even after extensive investigations many patients may remain without a diagnosis.Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2014; 25 (1) : 3-7
Relationship Between Homocysteine and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Rahman Aminur , Gupta Ratan Das , Quraishi Firoz Ahmed , Saha Uttam Kumar , Miah Md Nurul Amin , Ali Zahed
Published: September 2015

Background: Epidemiologic studies have identified hyper-homocysteinemia as a possible risk factor for atherosclerosis. The aim of the study was based on evaluation of relationship between homocysteinemia with ischemic stroke patients.Methods and materials: It was a prospective observational study conducted in the Department of Neurology, Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford hospital, Dhaka. Thirty six consecutive patients with ischemic stroke were analyzed by serum total homocysteine, total cholesterol, HDLcholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglyceride and Equal number of of controls same ages were compared with the case group.Result: Mean Fasting blood sugar, serum fasting total cholesterol (TC), serum fasting Low density lipoprotein (LDL) were significantly higher in case group (p=0.001). Serum TC and LDL had a positive correlation with serum homocystine a (p=0.001). Serum High density lipoprotein (HDL) had a negative correlation (p=0.718) and serum triglyceride (TG) had a negative correlation (p = 0.182). Total plasma fasting homocysteine level in case group was 21.89 ± 9.38 ìmol/l and control group was 12.31 ± 3.27 ìmol/l, (p=0.001). Elevated fasting homocystein level was found in 75.0% of ischemic stroke patient and in 16.67% of healthy controls (p=0.001). The incidence of hyperhomocysteinemia is higher in ischaemic stroke cases than that in age-sex matched healthy controls. Hyperhomocysteinemia in ischaemic stroke patients has as been determined as vascular risk factor in our study. Significant correlation has been found between homocysteine concentration and ischaemic stroke.Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2014; 25 (1) : 8-12
Prevalence of Iron Deficiency in Thalassemia Trait: A study in BSMMU, Dhaka
Authors: Rahman Mujahida , Irshadullah Naseeb Muhammad , Ahmed Munim , Kabir Amin Lutful , Begum Masuda , Mostafa ABM Golam , Khan Abed Hussain
Published: September 2015

Background: Thalassemia is considered the most common genetic disorder worldwide and about 7% of world populations are carriers. A vast majority of such cases have iron deficiency.Objective: This study was undertaken to find out the pattern of iron status in thalassemia traits and thus to determine co-existing iron deficiency in them.Method: This cross sectional study was carried out in the Department of Hematology, BSMMU, Dhaka from January 2007 to December 2007. Adult anemic patients of hypochromic microcytic blood film attending outpatient department were screened for thalassemia on the basis of clinical history, physical findings and hemoglobin electrophoresis. A total of 50 anemic patients with carrier state of thalassemia was detected and selected for evaluation of iron profile.Results: Patients having iron deficiency detected by serum iron profile were compared with those without iron deficiency. The mean age in years of study subjects were 30.38 ± 9.79 years. Among the study population, 50% were male and 50% were female. Highest frequency of co-existent iron deficiency was found among the age of 21-30 years. Prevalence of iron deficiency was 30.2% among b-thalassemia trait. A statistically significant mean difference of Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC, serum iron, TIBC, S. Ferritin, transferring saturation was found indicating study subjects without iron deficiency had higher level than with iron deficiency (p<0.05).Conclusion: Clinical iron deficiency may occur in thalassemia trait/carriers of inherited hemoglobin disorders. The combined state should always be suspected and iron supplements are often needed to improve the status of anemia.Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2014; 25 (1) : 13-16
Estimation of Recirculation in Arterio-Venous Fistula among Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Mahbub Tania , Chowdhur Md Nizam Uddin , Jahan Ferdous , Noman Mesbah Uddin , Rahman Motlabur , Khan Md Firoz , Islam Md Nazrul , Bheuyan Ferdous Kamal
Published: September 2015

Recirculation in haemodialysis patients is an important factor as it is a correctable cause of under dialysis. This study was a cross sectional study done in the department of Nephrology Dhaka Medical College and hospital during the period Sept 2010 to Oct 2011 with a view to estimate recirculation in AV fistula among the Haemodialysis patients. This study used two needle urea based method for estimation of recirculation. Total 118 patients were included in this study.Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2014; 25 (1) : 17-20
An Elderly Thyrotoxic Patient presented with anorexia complicated to cardiac arrest
Authors: Chowdhury Fazle Rabbi , Ruhan Abdul Mumith , Hassan Nazia , Rahman Md Mujibur , Islam Quazi Tarikul , Ahasan HAM Nazmul
Published: September 2015

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder. Earlier this disorder had been found in the young to middle age group, whereas it is now well recognized in elderly. Young patients generally presented with typical symptoms and signs where it can be diagnosed easily. But in elderly the presentation is varied and often atypical. Among the older adults the diagnosis is often overlooked or missed as many patients presented with uncommon symptoms. Here an elderly presented with anorexia that subsequently developed thyrotoxic crisis followed by cardiac arrest (due to hypokalaemia) and multi-organ dysfunction syndrome in the background of urinary tract infection.Bangladesh J Medicine Jan 2014; 25 (1) : 29-30
‘Blurring the lines between fact and fiction’: Ken Russell, the BBC and ‘Television Biography’
Authors: Hill John
Published: September 2015

Working for the BBC arts programmes Monitor and Omnibus during the 1960s, Ken Russell was responsible for a series of biographical films based on the lives of painters and composers. Tracing the development of Russell's work from Prokofiev (1961) and Elgar (1962) through to Bela Bartok (1964) and The Debussy Film (1965), the article examines how Russell's incorporation of elements of drama into the arts documentary generated arguments, both within the BBC and beyond, about the legitimacy of mixing ‘fact’ and ‘fiction’ in such works. These debates focused, in particular, on the use of ‘dramatic reconstruction’ and subjective ‘interpretation’ and the ‘fairness’ of the films’ treatment of the artists and composers with which they dealt. As a result of its unusually explicit representations of sex and violence, Russell's film about the composer Richard Strauss, Dance of the Seven Veils (1970), took these arguments to a new level. Through an examination of the responses that the film generated, the article concludes that, due to the degree to which the programme departed from BBC norms of documentary practice and the related values of ‘impartiality’ and ‘good taste’, it became a work that tested the very limits of what the BBC then considered it possible to transmit.
Ken Russell's Wartime Imagery
Authors: Flanagan Kevin M.
Published: September 2015

This article traces Ken Russell's explorations of war and wartime experience over the course of his career. In particular, it argues that Russell's scattered attempts at coming to terms with war, the rise of fascism and memorialisation are best understood in terms of a combination of Russell's own tastes and personal style, wider stylistic and thematic trends in Euro-American cinema during the 1960s and 1970s, and discourses of collective national experience. In addition to identifying Russell's recurrent techniques, this article focuses on how the residual impacts of the First and Second World Wars appear in his favoured genres: literary adaptations and composer biopics. Although the article looks for patterns and similarities in Russell's war output, it differentiates between his First and Second World War films by indicating how he engages with, and temporarily inhabits, the stylistic regime of the enemy within the latter group.
A Family of Newton Type Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Qin Yuping , Qian Weiyi , Zhang Sheng , Fan Xiaodong
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a general family of n-point Newton type iterative methods for solving nonlinear equations is constructed by using direct Hermite interpolation. The order of convergence of the new n-point iterative methods without memory is 2n requiring the evaluations of n functions and one first-order derivative in per full iteration, which implies that this family is optimal according to Kung and Traub’s conjecture (1974). Its error equations and asymptotic convergence constants are obtained. The n-point iterative methods with memory are obtained by using a self-accelerating parameter, which achieve much faster convergence than the corresponding n-point methods without memory. The increase of convergence order is attained without any additional calculations so that the n-point Newton type iterative methods with memory possess a very high computational efficiency. Numerical examples are demonstrated to confirm theoretical results.
Thermodynamic Metrics and Black Hole Physics
Authors: Åman Jan , Bengtsson Ingemar , Pidokrajt Narit
Published: September 2015

We give a brief survey of thermodynamic metrics, in particular the Hessian of the entropy function, and how they apply to black hole thermodynamics. We then provide a detailed discussion of the Gibbs surface of Kerr black holes. In particular, we analyze its global properties and extend it to take the entropy of the inner horizon into account. A brief discussion of Kerr–Newman black holes is included.
Classification of Household Appliance Operation Cycles: A Case-Study Approach
Authors: Wang Zeyu , Srinivasan Ravi
Published: September 2015

In recent years, a new generation of power grid system, referred to as the Smart Grid, with an aim of managing electricity demand in a sustainable, reliable, and economical manner has emerged. With greater knowledge of operational characteristics of individual appliances, necessary automation control strategies can be developed in the Smart Grid to operate appliances in an efficient manner. This paper provides a way of classifying different operational cycles of a household appliance by introducing an unsupervised learning algorithm called k-means clustering. An intrinsic method known as silhouette coefficient was used to measure the classification quality. An identification process is also discussed in this paper to help users identify the operation mode each types of operation cycle stands for. A case study using a typical household refrigerator is presented to validate the proposed method. Results show that the proposed the classification and identification method can partition and identify different operation cycles adequately. Classification of operation cycles for such appliances is beneficial for Smart Grid as it provides a clear and convincing understanding of the operation modes for effective power management.
Carbon Dioxide and Methane Formation in Norway Spruce Stems Infected by White-Rot Fungi
Authors: Hietala Ari , Dörsch Peter , Kvaalen Harald , Solheim Halvor
Published: September 2015

Globally, billions of tons of carbon sequestered in trees are annually recycled back to the atmosphere through wood decomposition by microbes. In Norway, every fifth Norway spruce shows at final harvest infection by pathogenic white-rot fungi in the genera Heterobasidion and Armillaria. As these fungi can mineralize all components of wood, we predicted that they have a significant carbon footprint. Gas samples taken from infected stems were analyzed for CO2 and CH4 concentrations, and wood samples from different parts of the decay columns were incubated under hypoxic (4% O2) and anoxic laboratory conditions. In spring and summer the stem concentrations of CO2 were generally two times higher in trees with heartwood decay than in healthy trees. For most of the healthy trees and trees with heartwood decay, mean stem concentrations of CH4 were comparable to ambient air, and only some Armillaria infected trees showed moderately elevated CH4. Consistently, low CH4 production potentials were recorded in the laboratory experiment. Up-scaling of CO2 efflux due to wood decay in living trees suggests that the balance between carbon sequestration and emission may be substantially influenced in stands with high frequency of advanced root and stem heartwood decay.
Targeting Glutamine Induces Apoptosis: A Cancer Therapy Approach
Authors: Chen Lian , Cui Hengmin
Published: September 2015

Glutamine metabolism has been proved to be dysregulated in many cancer cells, and is essential for proliferation of most cancer cells, which makes glutamine an appealing target for cancer therapy. In order to be well used by cells, glutamine must be transported to cells by specific transporters and converted to glutamate by glutaminase. There are currently several drugs that target glutaminase under development or clinical trials. Also, glutamine metabolism restriction has been proved to be effective in inhibiting tumor growth both in vivo and vitro through inducing apoptosis, growth arrest and/or autophagy. Here, we review recent researches about glutamine metabolism in cancer, and cell death induced by targeting glutamine, and their potential roles in cancer therapy.
Transcriptome Analysis and Identification of Differentially Expressed Transcripts of Immune-Related Genes in Spleen of Gosling and Adult Goose
Authors: Wang Anqi , Liu Fei , Chen Shun , Wang Mingshu , Jia Renyong , Zhu Dekang , Liu Mafeng , Sun Kunfeng , Wu Ying , Chen Xiaoyue , Cheng Anchun
Published: September 2015

The goose (Anser cygnoides), having high nutritional value, high-quality feathers and high economic benefit, is an economically important poultry species. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the higher susceptibility to pathogens in goslings than in adult geese remains poorly understood. In this study, the histological sections of spleen tissue from a two-week-old gosling and an adult goose, respectively, were subjected to comparative analysis. The spleen of gosling was mainly composed of mesenchyma, accompanied by scattered lymphocytes, whereas the spleen parenchyma was well developed in the adult goose. To investigate goose immune-related genes, we performed deep transcriptome and gene expression analyses of the spleen samples using paired-end sequencing technology (Illumina). In total, 50,390 unigenes were assembled using Trinity software and TGICL software. Moreover, these assembled unigenes were annotated with gene descriptions and gene ontology (GO) analysis was performed. Through Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis, we investigated 558 important immune-relevant unigenes and 23 predicted cytokines. In addition, 22 immune-related genes with differential expression between gosling and adult goose were identified, among which the three genes showing largest differences in expression were immunoglobulin alpha heavy chain (IgH), mannan-binding lectin serine protease 1 isoform X1 (MASP1) and C–X–C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4). Finally, of these 22 differentially expressed immune-related genes, seven genes, including tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 13B (TNFRSF13B), C-C motif chemokine 4-like (CCL4), CXCR4, interleukin 2 receptor alpha (IL2RA), MHC class I heavy chain (MHCIα), transporter of antigen processing 2 (TAP2), IgH, were confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The expression levels of all the candidate unigenes were up-regulated in adult geese other than that of TNFRSF13B. The comparative analysis of the spleen transcriptomes of gosling and adult goose may promote better understanding of immune molecular development in goose.
Multi-Fraction Bayesian Sediment Transport Model
Authors: Schmelter Mark , Wilcock Peter , Hooten Mevin , Stevens David
Published: September 2015

A Bayesian approach to sediment transport modeling can provide a strong basis for evaluating and propagating model uncertainty, which can be useful in transport applications. Previous work in developing and applying Bayesian sediment transport models used a single grain size fraction or characterized the transport of mixed-size sediment with a single characteristic grain size. Although this approach is common in sediment transport modeling, it precludes the possibility of capturing processes that cause mixed-size sediments to sort and, thereby, alter the grain size available for transport and the transport rates themselves. This paper extends development of a Bayesian transport model from one to k fractional dimensions. The model uses an existing transport function as its deterministic core and is applied to the dataset used to originally develop the function. The Bayesian multi-fraction model is able to infer the posterior distributions for essential model parameters and replicates predictive distributions of both bulk and fractional transport. Further, the inferred posterior distributions are used to evaluate parametric and other sources of variability in relations representing mixed-size interactions in the original model. Successful OPEN ACCESS J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2015, 3 1067 development of the model demonstrates that Bayesian methods can be used to provide a robust and rigorous basis for quantifying uncertainty in mixed-size sediment transport. Such a method has heretofore been unavailable and allows for the propagation of uncertainty in sediment transport applications.
A Flood Risk Assessment of the LaHave River Watershed, Canada Using GIS Techniques and an Unstructured Grid Combined River-Coastal Hydrodynamic Model
Authors: McGuigan Kevin , Webster Tim , Collins Kate
Published: September 2015

A flexible mesh hydrodynamic model was developed to simulate flooding of the LaHave River watershed in Nova Scotia, Canada, from the combined effects of fluvial discharge and ocean tide and surge conditions. The analysis incorporated high-resolution lidar elevation data, bathymetric river and coastal chart data, and river cross-section information. These data were merged to generate a seamless digital elevation model which was used, along with river discharge and tidal elevation data, to run a two-dimensional hydrodynamic model to produce flood risk predictions for the watershed. Fine resolution topography data were integrated seamlessly with coarse resolution bathymetry using a series of GIS tools. Model simulations were carried out using DHI Mike 21 Flexible Mesh under a variety of combinations of discharge events and storm surge levels. Discharge events were simulated for events that represent a typical annual maximum runoff and extreme events, while tide and storm surge events were simulated by using the predicted tidal time series and adding 2 and 3 m storm surge events to the ocean level seaward of the mouth of the river. Model output was examined and the maximum water level for the duration of each simulation was extracted and merged into one file that was used in a GIS to map the maximum flood extent and water depth. Upstream areas were most vulnerable to fluvial discharge events, the lower estuary was most vulnerable to the effect of storm surge and sea-level rise, and the Town of Bridgewater was influenced by the combined effects of discharge and storm surge. To facilitate the use of the results for planning officials, GIS flood risk layers were intersected with critical infrastructure, identifying the roads, buildings, and municipal sewage infrastructure at risk under each flood scenario. Roads were converted to points at 10 m spacing for inundated areas and appended with the flood depth calculated from the maximum water level subtracted from the lidar digital elevation model.
Access to Minerals: WTO Export Restrictions and Climate Change Considerations
Authors: Switzer Stephanie , Gerber Leonardus , Sindico Francesco
Published: September 2015

In the past few years, the Chinese government opted to restrict the export of selected minerals on environmental and health grounds, subsequently leading to an uproar in countries and regions that rely heavily on imports from China to develop their renewable industry sector. This paper places the focus on the law and policy of the Chinese export restrictions of critical minerals, and its implications for the global renewables energy industry. The paper critically assesses how such export restrictions have been dealt with under the dispute settlement system of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Drawing on this WTO jurisprudence, we posit that litigation on export restrictions of the kind imposed by China poses a threat to the legitimacy of the WTO. We therefore conclude by exploring whether there are any alternatives to litigation as a means to deal with countries choosing to impose mineral export restrictions.
Engineered Heusler Ferrimagnets with a Large Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Ranjbar Reza , Suzuki Kazuya , Sugihara Atsushi , Miyazaki Terunobu , Ando Yasuo , Mizukami Shigemi
Published: September 2015

Synthetic perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) ferrimagnets consisting of 30-nm-thick D022-MnGa and Co2MnSi (CMS) cubic Heusler alloys with different thicknesses of 1, 3, 5, 10 and 20 nm, buffered and capped with a Cr film, are successfully grown epitaxially on MgO substrate. Two series samples with and without post annealing at 400 °C are fabricated. The (002) peak of the cubic L21 structure of CMS films on the MnGa layer is observed, even for the 3-nm-thick CMS film for both un-annealed and annealed samples. The smaller remnant magnetization and larger switching field values of CMS (1–20 nm)/MnGa (30 nm) bilayers compared with 30-nm-thick MnGa indicates antiferromagnetic (AFM) interfacial exchange coupling (Jex) between MnGa and CMS films for both un-annealed and annealed samples. The critical thickness of the CMS film for observing PMA with AFM coupling in the CMS/MnGa bilayer is less than 10 nm, which is relatively large compared to previous studies.
The Non-Coding RNA Journal Club: Highlights on Recent Papers—2
Authors: Francastel Claire , Hubé Florent , Mani Sendurai , Santulli Gaetano , Taube Joseph , Szweykowska-Kulinska Zofia
Published: September 2015

We are glad to share with you our second Journal Club and to highlight some of the most interesting papers published recently. [...]
Microwave-Absorbing Properties of Rice Starch
Authors: Fan Daming , Shen Huijie , Huang Luelue , Gao Yishu , Lian Huizhang , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: September 2015

In the food industry, research into the characteristics of microwave-heated materials has focused on dielectric properties. However, the lack of studies on microwave-absorbing properties has hindered the application of microwave technology. The aim of the present study was to investigate the microwave-absorbing properties of rice starch. It should be noted that this was the first time that the improved arch method was used to measure the microwave reflection loss (RL) of the starch dispersion. The results showed that the microwave absorption of the liquid system corresponded to the classical quarter-wavelength resonator model. When the concentration of the native starch was increased from 1% to 30%, the RL decreased from −5.1 dB to −1.2 dB at 2.45 GHz. Therefore, the absorption rate of microwave, γab, decreased from 69.1% to 24.1%. At 1.7 to 2.6 GHz, the interference effect of pregelatinization rice starch in an aqueous system on the microwave absorption properties became weak compared to native starch.
Mapping Impervious Surface Distribution with Integration of SNNP VIIRS-DNB and MODIS NDVI Data
Authors: Guo Wei , Lu Dengsheng , Wu Yanlan , Zhang Jixian
Published: September 2015

Data from the U.S. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Line-scan System are often used to map impervious surface area (ISA) distribution at regional and global scales, but its coarse spatial resolution and data saturation produce high inaccuracy in ISA estimation. Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (SNPP) Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite’s Day/Night Band (VIIRS-DNB) with its high spatial resolution and dynamic data range may provide new insights but has not been fully examined in mapping ISA distribution. In this paper, a new variable—Large-scale Impervious Surface Index (LISI)—is proposed to integrate VIIRS-DNB and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data for mapping ISA distribution. A regression model was established, in which LISI was used as an independent variable and the reference ISA from Landsat images was a dependent variable. The results indicated a better estimation performance using LISI than using a single VIIRS-DNB or MODIS NDVI variable. The LISI-based approach provides accurate spatial patterns from high values in core urban areas to low values in rural areas, with an overall root mean squared error of 0.11. The LISI-based approach is recommended for fractional ISA estimation in a large area.
Toward Epileptic Brain Region Detection Based on Magnetic Nanoparticle Patterning
Authors: Pedram Maysam , Shamloo Amir , Alasty Aria , Ghafar-Zadeh Ebrahim
Published: September 2015

Resection of the epilepsy foci is the best treatment for more than 15% of epileptic patients or 50% of patients who are refractory to all forms of medical treatment. Accurate mapping of the locations of epileptic neuronal networks can result in the complete resection of epileptic foci. Even though currently electroencephalography is the best technique for mapping the epileptic focus, it cannot define the boundary of epilepsy that accurately. Herein we put forward a new accurate brain mapping technique using superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SPMNs). The main hypothesis in this new approach is the creation of super-paramagnetic aggregates in the epileptic foci due to high electrical and magnetic activities. These aggregates may improve tissue contrast of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that results in improving the resection of epileptic foci. In this paper, we present the mathematical models before discussing the simulation results. Furthermore, we mimic the aggregation of SPMNs in a weak magnetic field using a low-cost microfabricated device. Based on these results, the SPMNs may play a crucial role in diagnostic epilepsy and the subsequent treatment of this disease.
Using LDR as Sensing Element for an External Fuzzy Controller Applied in Photovoltaic Pumping Systems with Variable-Speed Drives
Authors: Maranhão Geraldo , Brito Alaan , Leal Anderson , Fonseca Jéssica , Macêdo Wilson
Published: September 2015

In the present paper, a fuzzy controller applied to a Variable-Speed Drive (VSD) for use in Photovoltaic Pumping Systems (PVPS) is proposed. The fuzzy logic system (FLS) used is embedded in a microcontroller and corresponds to a proportional-derivative controller. A Light-Dependent Resistor (LDR) is used to measure, approximately, the irradiance incident on the PV array. Experimental tests are executed using an Arduino board. The experimental results show that the fuzzy controller is capable of operating the system continuously throughout the day and controlling the direct current (DC) voltage level in the VSD with a good performance.
Risk Assessment of Regional Irrigation Water Demand and Supply in an Arid Inland River Basin of Northwestern China
Authors: Guo Bin , Li Weihong , Guo Jinyun , Chen Chuanfa
Published: September 2015

Irrigation water demand accounts for more than 95% of the total water use in the Kaidu-kongqi River Basin. Determination of the spatial and temporal trends in irrigation water demand is important for making sustainable and wise water management strategies in this highly water deficit region. In this study, the spatial and temporal trends in irrigation water demand as well as net crop irrigation water requirements for nine major crops during 1985–2009 were analyzed by combining the Penman-Monteith equation recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and GIS technology. The regional water stress was also evaluated based on the total irrigation water demand and river discharge at the annual and monthly scales. The results indicated that the annual irrigation water demand in this arid region showed a significant increasing trend during the past 25 years. Total irrigation water demand increased from 14.68 × 108 m3 in 1985 to 34.15 × 108 m3 in 2009. The spatial pattern of total irrigation water demand was significantly affected by the changes in cotton growing area. Due to differences in crop planting structure, the monthly average irrigation water demands in Korla City and Yuli County amounted to the peak in July, while those in other regions reached the maximum in June. Although the annual river runoff was much larger than the irrigation water demand, there was serious water deficit during the critical water use period in May and June in some dry years. The presented study provides important information for managers and planners on sustainable use of water resources in this arid region.
A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating the Most Efficacious Dose of Botulinum Toxin-A for Sialorrhea Treatment in Asian Adults with Neurological Diseases
Authors: Mazlan Mazlina , Rajasegaran Shivani , Engkasan Julia , Nawawi Ouzreiah , Goh Khean-Jin , Freddy Saini
Published: September 2015

This study aims to determine the most efficacious dose of Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A) in reducing sialorrhea in Asian adults with neurological diseases. A prospective, double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted over 24 weeks. Thirty patients with significant sialorrhea were randomly assigned to receive a BoNT-A (Dysport®) injection into the submandibular and the parotid glands bilaterally via an ultrasound guidance. The total dose given per patient was either BoNT-A injection of (i) 50 U; (ii) 100 U; or (iii) 200 U. The primary outcome was the amount of saliva reduction, measured by the differential weight (wet versus dry) of intraoral dental gauze at baseline and at 2, 6, 12, and 24 weeks after injection. The secondary outcome was the subjective report of drooling using the Drooling Frequency and Severity Scale (DFS). Saliva reduction was observed in response to all BoNT-A doses in 17 patients who completed the assessments. Although no statistically significant difference among the doses was found, the measured reduction was greater in groups that received higher doses (100 U and 200 U). The group receiving 200 U of Dysport® showed the greatest reduction of saliva until 24 weeks and reported the most significant improvement in the DFS score.
The Probability Density Evolution Method for Flood Frequency Analysis: A Case Study of the Nen River in China
Authors: Wang Xueni , Zhou Jing , Zhang Leike
Published: September 2015

A new approach for flood frequency analysis based on the probability density evolution method (PDEM) is proposed. It can avoid the problem of linear limitation for flood frequency analysis in a parametric method and avoid the complex process for choosing the kernel function and window width in the nonparametric method. Based on the annual maximum peak discharge (AMPD) in 54 years from the Dalai hydrologic station which is located on the downstream of Nen River in Heilongjiang Province of China, a joint probability density function (PDF) model about AMPD is built by the PDEM. Then, the numerical simulation results of the joint PDF model are given by adopting the one-sided difference scheme which has the property of direction self-adaptive. After that, according to the relationship between the marginal function and joint PDF, the PDF of AMPD can be obtained. Finally, the PDF is integrated and the frequency curve could be achieved. The results indicate that the flood frequency curve obtained by the PDEM has a better agreement with the empirical frequency than that of the parametric method widely used at present. The method based on PDEM is an effective way for hydrologic frequency analysis.
Yaya-Beas, R.-E., et al. Helminth Egg Removal Capacity of UASB Reactors under Subtropical Conditions. Water 2015, 7, 2402–2421
Authors: Yaya-Beas Rosa-Elena , Ayala-Limaylla Christian , Kujawa-Roeleveld Katarzyna , Van Lier Jules , Zeeman Grietje
Published: September 2015

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [1]: [...]
Understanding the Relationship between Social Cognition and Word Difficulty
Authors: Shikata S. , Miyabe M. , Usuda Y. , Asada K. , Ayaya S. , Kumagaya S. , Aramaki E.
Published: September 2015

Background: Few quantitative studies have been conducted on the relationship between society and its languages. Individuals with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) are known to experience social hardships, and a wide range of clinical information about their quality of life has been provided through numerous narrative analyses. However, the narratives of ASD patients have thus far been examined mainly through qualitative approaches.

Objectives: In this study, we analyzed adults with ASD to quantitatively examine the relationship between language abilities and ASD severity scores.

Methods: We generated phonetic transcriptions of speeches by 16 ASD adults at an ASD workshop, and divided the participants into 2 groups according to their Social Responsiveness ScaleTM, 2nd Edition (SRSTM-2) scores (where higher scores represent more severe ASD): Group A comprised high-scoring ASD adults (SRSTM-2 score: 76) and Group B comprised low- and intermediate-scoring ASD adults (SRSTM-2 score: < 76). Using natural language processing (NLP)-based analytical methods, the narratives were converted into numerical data according to four language ability indicators, and the relationships between the language ability scores and ASD severity scores were compared.

Results and Discussion: Group A showed a marginally negative correlation with the level of Japanese word difficulty (p < .10), while the “social cognition” subscale of the SRSTM-2 score showed a significantly negative correlation (p < .05) with word difficulty. When comparing only male participants, Group A demonstrated a significantly lower correlation with word difficulty level than Group B (p < .10).

Conclusion: Social communication was found to be strongly associated with the level of word difficulty in speech. The clinical applications of these findings may be available in the near future, and there is a need for further detailed study on language metrics designed for ASD adults.
Modelling Ecological Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapies for Building Virtual Environments in Brain Injury
Authors: Sánchez-González P. , Luna M. , Roig T. , Tormos J. M. , Gómez E. J. , Martínez-Moreno J. M.
Published: September 2015

Background: Brain Injury (BI) has become one of the most common causes of neurological disability in developed countries. Cognitive disorders result in a loss of independence and patients’ quality of life. Cognitive rehabilitation aims to promote patients’ skills to achieve their highest degree of personal autonomy. New technologies such as virtual reality or interactive video allow developing rehabilitation therapies based on reproducible Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), increasing the ecological validity of the therapy. However, the lack of frameworks to formalize and represent the definition of this kind of therapies can be a barrier for widespread use of interactive virtual environments in clinical routine. Objectives: To provide neuropsychologists with a methodology and an instrument to design and evaluate cognitive rehabilitation therapeutic interventions strategies based on ADLs performed in interactive virtual environments. Methods: The proposed methodology is used to model therapeutic interventions during virtual ADLs considering cognitive deficit, expected abnormal interactions and therapeutic hypotheses. It allows identifying abnormal behavioural patterns and designing interventions strategies in order to achieve errorless-based rehabilitation. Results: An ADL case study (’buying bread’) is defined according to the guidelines established by the ADL intervention model. This case study is developed, as a proof of principle, using interactive video technology and is used to assess the feasibility of the proposed methodology in the definition of therapeutic intervention procedures. Conclusions: The proposed methodology provides neuropsychologists with an instrument to design and evaluate ADL-based therapeutic intervention strategies, attending to solve actual limitation of virtual scenarios, to be use for ecological rehabilitation of cognitive deficit in daily clinical practice. The developed case study proves the potential of the methodology to design therapeutic interventions strategies; however our current work is devoted to designing more experiments in order to present more evidence about its values.
AN EXTENSION OF THE RATIO SYSTEM APPROACH OF MOORA METHOD FOR GROUP DECISION-MAKING BASED ON INTERVAL-VALUED TRIANGULAR FUZZY NUMBERS
Authors: STANUJKIC Dragisa
Published: September 2015

Decision-making in fuzzy environment is often a very complex, especially when related to predictions and assessments. The Ratio system approach of the MOORA method and Intervalvalued fuzzy numbers have already proved themselves as the effective tools for solving complex decision-making problems. Therefore, in this paper an extension of the Ratio system approach of the MOORA method, which allows a group decision-making as well as the use of interval-valued triangular fuzzy numbers, is proposed. Interval-fuzzy numbers are rather complex, and therefore, they are not practical for direct assigning performance ratings. For this reason, in this paper it has also been suggested the approach which allows the expression of individual performance ratings using crisp, interval or fuzzy numbers, and their further transformation into the group performance ratings, expressed in the form of interval-valued triangular fuzzy numbers, which provide greater flexibility and reality compared to the use of linguistic variables. Finally, in this paper the weighted averaging operator was proposed for defuzzification of interval-valued triangular fuzzy numbers.
Les difficultés d’accès à l’environnement
Authors: Dejoux Virginie
Published: September 2015

À partir du volet Ménages de l’enquête Handicap-santé, cet article s’attache aux jeunes de 15 à 24 ans reconnus handicapés en France en 2008. Après avoir dressé un portrait de ces jeunes, l’auteure analyse les difficultés d’accessibilité qui pourraient avoir une influence sur les différentes étapes de leur passage à la vie adulte. Ces difficultés, rencontrées sur l’ensemble de la chaîne du déplacement, sont ainsi abordées et mises en lien avec les écarts observées entre ces jeunes et ceux sans reconnaissance officielle de handicap, en termes principalement de mise en couple et d’entrée dans la vie active.
L’inclusion : approche socio-sémantique
Authors: Bouquet Brigitte
Published: September 2015

Le terme « inclusion » est de plus en plus utilisé dans les médias, par les politiques, et s’inscrit dans le milieu associatif et le travail social. Il est rarement utilisé seul et comporte de multiples déclinaisons d’ordre économique, social, culturel et professionnel. Cet article montre la conception, l’évolution et l’extension de ce terme et comment il est devenu un nouveau concept. L’inclusion est non seulement une politique, mais est perçue aussi comme une valeur, comme une éthique prônant la justice sociale et la cohésion de la communauté.
What’s Normal? Accurately and Efficiently Assessing Menstrual Function
Authors: Takemoto Darcie M. , Beharry Meera S.
Published: September 2015

Many young women are unsure of what constitutes normal menses. By asking focused questions, pediatric providers can quickly and accurately assess menstrual function and dispel anxiety and myths. In this article, we review signs and symptoms of normal versus pathologic menstrual functioning and provide suggestions to improve menstrual history taking.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(9):e213–e217.]
Evaluation and Management of Adolescents with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Authors: Mullins Tanya L. Kowalczyk , Miller Rachel J. , Mullins Eric S.
Published: September 2015

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists support the use of new terminology for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) to consistently categorize AUB by etiology. The term AUB can be further classified as AUB/heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) (replacing the term “menorrhagia”) or AUB/intermenstrual bleeding (replacing the term “metrorrhagia”). Although many cases of AUB in adolescent women are attributable to immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, underlying bleeding disorders should be considered in women with AUB/HMB. This article reviews the new terminology for AUB, discusses important relevant features of history and examination, presents the laboratory evaluation of HMB, and describes hormonal (oral contraceptive pills, progestin-only methods, long-acting reversible contraceptives including intrauterine systems), hematologic (tranexamic acid and desmopresin), and surgical management options for AUB/HMB.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(9):e218–e222.]
Adolescent Girls and Abortion
Authors: Wellisch Lawren , Chor Julie
Published: September 2015

Abortion is an extremely common procedure in the United States, with approximately 2% of women having an abortion before age 19 years. Although most pediatricians do not provide abortions, many will care for a young woman who is either considering an abortion or has already had one; therefore, the pediatrician should be able to provide accurate and appropriate counseling about this option. To provide the best care for adolescent patients considering abortion, pediatricians must be knowledgeable of aspects of abortion that are universal to all women and have an understanding of considerations specific to the adolescent patient. The purpose of this article is to (1) review recent statistics about teenagers and abortion, (2) explain the different types of abortion available to teenagers who desire to terminate an unwanted pregnancy, (3) discuss aspects of abortion unique to the adolescent population, such as insurance coverage and parental involvement laws, and (4) address common misconceptions about abortion.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(9):384–385,388,390,392.]
Qualitative Analysis of Student Perceptions of Bachelor of Science-to-Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Programs
Authors: Peterson Neil E. , Moss Karen O. , Milbrath Gwyneth R. , von Gaudecker Jane R. , Park Eunhee , Chung Mihee
Published: September 2015

Background:

To address the shortage of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)-prepared nursing faculty, universities in the United States offer direct-entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)-to-PhD nursing programs. Little research has been conducted to explore students’ perceptions of these programs and to formally evaluate the successes and opportunities for growth of this academic track.

Method:

Focusing on the perceptions and experiential reflection of BSN-to-PhD education, a survey with open-ended questions was distributed among voluntary participants who are current BSN-to-PhD students or recent graduates (within 5 years) from various universities in the United States. Textual data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach with thematic analysis.

Results:

This article elaborates on opportunities, challenges, and suggestions related to this educational route, as recognized by 21 participants from seven universities.

Conclusion:

The study findings may facilitate discussion among nurse educators to revise programs to be congruent with the needs of current students while paving the way for future scholars. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2015;54(10):542–549.]