bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Just Doesn’t Look Right
Authors: Carpenter Julie
Published: September 2013

This chapter provides a critical analysis of the potential short- and long-term cultural, emotional, and ethical outcomes facing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists working closely with anthropomorphic robots in daily team situations as viewed through the interdisciplinary lens of Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) research. Effective small group communication and decision-making is especially critical for EOD teams. Communication failures cause immediate safety concerns, potential physical and psychological harm to EOD team members, and similar repercussions for any individuals in close physical proximity of the Unexploded Ordnance (UXO). The complexity of EOD Team duties, coupled with the inherent limitations of human performance, make it gravely important that technicians have tools that aid rather than hamper team goals. The U.S. Military is seeking a refinement of EOD robot design, including the incorporation of some humanlike characteristics such as biped design, upright walking ability, and responsiveness to human voice and gesture commands. These characteristics can be arguably useful for robots to move in human spaces, learn in a humanlike way, dexterously disarm munitions, and communicate efficiently with human users. But while humanoid design may move the role of the robot to one that becomes potentially more effective in some environments, it may complicate emotional and ethical issues in terms of how human team members view the robot – as an extension of self, an external tool, a team member, a pet, or other entity.
Optimal Location of the Workpiece in a PKM-Based Machining Robotic Cell
Authors: Pires E.J. Solteiro , Lopes António M. , Machado J. A. Tenreiro , Oliveira P. B. de Moura
Published: September 2013

Most machining tasks require high accuracy and are carried out by dedicated machine-tools. On the other hand, traditional robots are flexible and easy to program, but they are rather inaccurate for certain tasks. Parallel kinematic robots could combine the accuracy and flexibility that are usually needed in machining operations. Achieving this goal requires proper design of the parallel robot. In this chapter, a multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to optimize the structure of a parallel robot according to specific criteria. Afterwards, for a chosen optimal structure, the best location of the workpiece with respect to the robot, in a machining robotic cell, is analyzed based on the power consumed by the manipulator during the machining process.
Information and Communication Technologies in Indian Education System
Authors: Jena Rabindra Ku , Goswami Rupashree
Published: September 2013

In this paper, the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its challenges and opportunities in Indian education sector has been highlighted. Towards the end, the paper also presents a comparative study of ICT awareness and penetration among south Asia countries. Various reports were collected from difference government and private domains and the facts are summarized in this paper. The paper has succinctly reviewed the status of ICT in Indian education system. The research is based on the compilation of information available till 2010.
Creativity and Innovation in Higher Education Research
Authors: Alfantookh Abdulkader , Bakry Saad Haj
Published: September 2013

Creativity and innovation are main sources of development leading to both: wealth generation and job creation. While creativity produces knowledge, innovation makes practical utilization of it to provide value. This paper questions the contribution of higher education (HE) research to creativity and to innovation. It provides a background that identifies the various issues concerned; and it emphasizes the different types of research versus HE research considerations. It recognises the low share of HE in funding and in performing research; and it also stresses the opportunities enjoyed by HE to do better in both: creativity and innovation. It addresses various potential considerations including: HE-government and HE-business cooperation platforms; in addition to new research degrees and other potential arrangements. In this respect, it highlights experience from Saudi Arabia. The paper hopes to activate worldwide sharing of ideas on the future role of HE research in world development.
Distribution patterns of Macrodasyceras hirsutum (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) eggs among Ilex integra (Aquifoliaceae) seeds and berries
Authors: Takagi Etsuro , Togashi Katsumi
Published: September 2013

Preference-performance hypothesis in host selection by herbivorous insects predicts selective oviposition on plant on which the offspring maximise fitness. The seed parasitoid wasp, Macrodasyceras hirsutum Kamijo (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) selectively lays the eggs into the fertilised seeds of Ilex integra Thunberg (Aquifoliaceae). Only one larva develops in a seed. Therefore, the hypothesis predicts a uniform distribution pattern of wasp eggs among fertilised seeds. Dissection of 531 berries showed that M. hirsutum deposited one to five eggs into a fertilised seed. Iwao's patchiness regression suggested a uniform distribution pattern of M. hirsutum eggs among fertilised seeds at the scales of tree and berry and their random distribution pattern among berries at the tree scale. Destroying the connection of seeds within berries revealed that female wasps randomly selected berries for oviposition in most trees. Generalised linear mixed models showed that the number of fertilised seeds in a berry could not explain the number of eggs in a seed but could explain the number of eggs in a berry. Therefore, this study shows that the wasp females do not distinguish between berries with different numbers of fertilised seeds but distinguish between seeds harbouring different numbers of eggs, which supports the hypothesis.
HLA-F and MHC Class I Open Conformers Are Ligands for NK Cell Ig-like Receptors
Authors: Goodridge Jodie P. , Burian Aura , Lee Ni , Geraghty Daniel E.
Published: September 2013

Killer Ig-like receptors (KIRs) are innate immune receptors expressed by NK and T cells classically associated with the detection of missing self through loss of their respective MHC ligand. Some KIR specificities for allelic classical class I MHC (MHC-I) have been described, whereas other KIR receptor–ligand relationships, including those associated with nonclassical MHC-I, have yet to be clearly defined. We report in this article that KIR3DL2 and KIR2DS4 and the nonclassical Ag HLA-F, expressed as a free form devoid of peptide, physically and functionally interact. These interactions extend to include classical MHC-I open conformers as ligands, defining new relationships between KIR receptors and MHC-I. The data collectively suggest a broader, previously unrecognized interaction between MHC-I open conformers—including prototypical HLA-F—and KIR receptors, acting in an immunoregulatory capacity centered on the inflammatory response.
Rapid Deletion and Inactivation of CTLs upon Recognition of a Number of Target Cells over a Critical Threshold
Authors: Prato Sandro , Zhan Yifan , Mintern Justine D. , Villadangos Jose A.
Published: September 2013

Initiation of CTL responses against foreign pathogens also primes anti-self CTLs. Mechanisms of CTL inactivation inhibit anti-self CTLs to prevent tissue damage. These mechanisms are exploited by pathogens and tumors to evade the immune response, and present a major hurdle to adoptive CTL therapies. It is unclear whether CTL inactivation is Ag specific and, if so, which APCs are involved. Potential candidates include the target cells themselves, dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and macrophages. In this study, we show that lymphoma-specific CTLs are rapidly deleted in an Ag-specific manner after adoptive transfer into lymphoma-bearing mice, and the surviving CTLs are functionally impaired. The only APCs responsible were the target cells directly presenting Ag, notwithstanding the presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and CD8+ dendritic cells cross-presenting tumor Ag. The capacity to inactivate CTLs critically depended on the number of tumor/target cells; small numbers of targets were readily killed, but a large number caused quick deletion and functional inactivation of the CTLs. Application of mild, noninflammatory, and nonlymphoablative chemotherapy to specifically reduce tumor burden before CTL injection prevented CTL deletion and inactivation and allowed eradication of tumor. Our results advocate the use of adoptive CTL therapy soon after mild chemotherapy. They also suggest a simple mechanism for Ag-specific impairment of anti-self CTLs in the face of an active anti-foreign CTL response.
Toxic Megacolon Complicating a First Course of Crohn’s Disease: About Two Cases
Authors: Hefaiedh Rania , Cheikh Mariem , Ennaifer Rym , Gharbi Lassad , Bel Hadj Najet
Published: September 2013

Toxic megacolon is a rare and serious complication of Crohn’s disease. Because of the associated high morbidity and mortality, early recognition and management of toxic megacolon is important. Through two cases of toxic megacolon complicating Crohn’s disease, we assessed the clinical, radiologic and therapeutic characteristics of this complication. A 35-year-old man presented a first course of Crohn’s disease treated with corticosteroid. He exhibited sudden severe abdominal pain and distension with shock. A plain abdominal radiography revealed toxic megacolon. He underwent medical therapy, but symptoms not relieved. The patient underwent subtotal colectomy with ileostomy. The resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis. Recovery of digestive continuity was performed. Endoscopic evaluation six months later did not shown recurrence. A 57-year-old man presented with severe acute colitis inaugurating Crohn’s disease, was treated with corticosteroid and antibiotics. He exhibited signs of general peritonitis. Computed tomographic examination revealed toxic megacolon with free perforation, showing prominent dilation of the transverse colon and linear pneumatosis. The patient underwent emergent subtotal colectomy and ileostomy. The final histological patterns were consisting with diagnosis of Crohn’s disease associated with cytomegalovirus infection. The patient underwent antiviral therapy during 15 days. Because of the high risk of postoperative recurrence, he underwent immunosuppressive therapy. Recovery of digestive continuity was performed successfully. Toxic megacolon in Crohn’s disease is a serious turning of this disease. We underscore the importance of early diagnosis of toxic megacolon and rapid surgical intervention if improvement is not observed on medical therapy.
The Utility of Cancer-Related Cultural Constructs to Understand Colorectal Cancer Screening among African Americans
Authors: Thompson Vetta L. Sanders , Bugbee Alan , Meriac John P. , Harris Jenine K.
Published: September 2013

Background

Data suggest that colorectal cancer could be cut by approximately 60% if all people aged 50 years or older received regular screening. Studies have identified socio-cultural attitudes that might inform cancer education and screening promotion campaigns. This article applies item response theory (IRT) to a set of survey items selected to assess sociocultural attitudes in order to determine how current measures may affect what we know about how these attitudes affect colorectal cancer screening (CRCS).

Design and Methods

A survey of colorectal cancer screening, screening attitudes and cultural beliefs was administered to 1021 African Americans – 683 women and 338 men, ages 50 to 75. Eligibility criteria for participation included being born in the United States, self-identified African American male or female, age 50 to 75 years. The IRT analysis was performed on 655 individuals with complete data for the 43 observed variables.

Results

Twenty-nine items comprise the Multi-construct African American Cultural Survey (MAACS) that addresses seven cultural constructs: mistrust/distrust, privacy, ethnic identity, collectivism, empowerment, and male gender roles. The items provide adequate information about the attitudes of the population across most levels of the constructs assessed. Among the sociocultural variables considered, empowerment (OR=1.078; 95% CI: 1.008, 1.151) had the strongest association with CRCS adherence and privacy showed promise.

Conclusions

The MAACS provides a fixed length questionnaire to assess African American CRCS attitudes, two new constructs that might assist in CRCS promotion, and a suggested focus for identification of additional constructs of interest.
Gender and Regional Differentials in Health Expectancy in Greece
Authors: Bagavos Christos
Published: September 2013

Background

Differentials and inequalities in heath status are closely related to the implementation and the sustainability of public health policies. The paper investigates differences in health expectancy as an indicator of population health among regions and between genders.

Design and Methods

Based on activity limitation, we compute Healthy Life Years indicator by applying the prevalence-based Sullivan method. The analysis is based on data from the National Health Survey conducted in Greece in 2009 by the Hellenic Statistical Authority, carried out on a multistage probability sample of 6172 individuals.

Results

The results show that men are more likely than women to live a greater part of their life in good health. When regions are considered (NUTS_1 and NUTS_2 levels), the resulting diversities in healthy life years are more pronounced than those in life expectancy.

Conclusions

The paper provides additional insights about health status discrepancies among Greek geographic regions and between genders. The results indicate that men are more likely to report to be in good health than women, and the differences by gender are more pronounced at regional than at national level. This empirical evidence can be used for monitoring both, the population health status and the undesired differentials in health expectancy, and may therefore be a useful tool for health policies aiming at reducing heath inequalities among individuals.
Intermittent Attendance at Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Fleming Padraic , O'Neill Sinead , Owens Miriam , Mooney Therese , Fitzpatrick Patricia
Published: September 2013

Background

To determine why women skip rounds and factors influencing return of previous non attenders (PNAs) to breast screening.

Design and methods

Retrospective, quantitative, structured questionnaire posted to 2500 women. First PNAs did not attend their first screening appointment in 2007/2008 but then attended in 2010; First Controls first attended in 2010 without missed previous appointments. Women who attended screening in 2006 or earlier then skipped a round but returned in 2010 were Subsequent PNAs; Subsequent Controls attended all appointments.

Results

More First Controls than First PNAs had family history of cancer (72.7% vs 63.2%; P=0.003); breast cancer (31.3% vs 24.8%; P=0.04). More PNAs lived rurally; more First PNAs had 3rd level education (33.2% vs 23.6%; P=0.002) and fewer had private insurance than First Controls (57.7% vs 64.8%; P=0.04). Excellent/good health was reported in First PNAs and First Controls (82.9% vs 83.2%), but fewer Subsequent PNAs than Subsequent Controls (72.7% vs 84.9%; P=0.000). Common considerations at time of missed appointment were had mammogram elsewhere (33% First PNA) and postponed to next round (16% First PNA, 18.8% Subsequent PNA). Considerations when returning to screening were similar for First PNAs and Subsequent PNAs: I am older (35.4%, 29.6%), I made sure I remembered (29%, 23.6%), could reschedule (17.6%, 20.6%), illness of more concern (16.5%, 19%). More First PNAs stated my family/friends advised (22.3% vs 15.2%) or my GP (12.6% vs 4.6%) advised me to attend, heard good things about BreastCheck (28.8% vs 13.6%).

Conclusions

Intermittent attenders do not fit socio-demographic patterns of non-attenders; GP recommendation and word of mouth were important in women's return to screening. Fear and anxiety seem to act as a screening facilitator rather than an inhibitor.
Evaluation of Knowledge and Practice Behaviours of a Group of Iranian Obstetricians, General Practitioners, and Midwives, Regarding Periodontal Disease and its Effect on the Pregnancy Outcome
Authors: Golkari Ali , Khosropanah Hengameh , Saadati Faezeh
Published: September 2013

Background

Periodontal disease is considered as a risk factor for poor pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. Only few studies have assessed the knowledge and practice behaviours of healthcare providers, concerning oral health during pregnancy, periodontal diseases and their role in adverse pregnancy outcomes. The present study aimed to compare the knowledge and practice behaviours of a group of Iranian obstetricians, general practitioners, and midwives about periodontal disease.

Design and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered, structured questionnaire that was previously used in North Carolina. The questionnaire was translated into Persian language and was randomly distributed among 200 obstetricians, general practitioners, and midwives participating in an international congress. Data were analysed by Chi-square and spearman correlation tests using SPSS statistical software (version PASW 18).

Results

A total of 150 completed the questionnaires, achieving a response rate of 75%. Totally, the knowledge of the obstetricians was more accurate compared to the two other groups and the midwives were the worst. More experienced general practitioners (P=0.002) and obstetricians (P=0.049) did less dental examinations for their patients during their first visit or periodically. More experienced obstetricians also referred their patients for dental examinations during pregnancy less than their less experienced colleagues (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Although the participants had some knowledge about periodontal disease and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes, there is much space for improvements. The participants’ attitude and knowledge were consistent.
Correlation between Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference in Nigerian Adults: Implication as Indicators of Health Status
Authors: Chinedu Shalom Nwodo , Ogunlana Olubanke O. , Azuh Dominic E. , Iweala Emeka E.J. , Afolabi Israel S. , Uhuegbu Chidi C. , Idachaba Mercy E. , Osamor Victor C.
Published: September 2013

Background

Anthropometric measures have been widely used for body weight classification in humans. Waist circumference has been advanced as a useful parameter for measuring adiposity. This study evaluated the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference and examined their significance as indicators of health status in adults.

Design and Methods

The subject included 489 healthy adults from Ota, Nigeria, aged between 20 and 75 years, grouped into early adulthood (20-39 years), middle adulthood (40-59 years) and advanced adulthood (60 years and above). Weight, height and abdominal circumference were measured. BMI was calculated as weight kg/height2 (m2) and World Health Organization cut-offs were used to categorize them into normal, underweight, overweight and obese.

Results

Abnormal weight categories accounted for 60 % of the subjects (underweight 11 %, overweight 31%, and obese 18%). The waist circumference of overweight and obese categories were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the normal weight category. There was no significant difference between waist circumference of underweight and normal subjects. The correlation coefficient values of BMI with waist circumference (r=0.63), body weight (r=0.76) and height (r=-0.31) were significant (P<0.01) for the total subjects.

Conclusions

The study indicates that waist circumference can serve as a positive indicator of overweight and obesity in the selected communities; however, it may not be used to determine underweight in adults. Regular BMI and waist circumference screening is recommended as an easy and effective means of assessing body weight and in the prevention of weight related diseases in adults.
Evolution of Public Participation in the Assessment and Management of Environmental Health Risks: A Brief History of Developments in the United States
Authors: Sexton Ken
Published: September 2013

In the United States, the risk assessment – risk management paradigm that underpins federal decisions about environmental health risks was first established in 1983. In the beginning, the importance of public participation was not explicitly recognized within the paradigm. Over time, however, it has become evident that not only must risk-based decisions be founded on the best available scientific knowledge and understanding, but also that they must take account of the knowledge, values, and preferences of interested and affected parties, including community members, business people, and environmental advocates. This article examines the gradually expanding role of public participation in risk-based decision making in the United States, and traces its evolution from a peripheral issue labeled as an external pressure to an integral element of the 21st century risk assessment – risk management paradigm. Today, and into the foreseeable future, public participation and stakeholder involvement are intrinsic features of the emerging American regulatory landscape, which emphasizes collaborative approaches for achieving cooperative and cost-effective solutions to complicated and often controversial environmental health problems.
Serological and Molecular Detection of Prune dwarf Virus Infecting Stone Fruits of Charmahal-va-Bakhtiari Province, a Central Region of Iran
Authors: Soltani Nourolah , Hayati Jamshid , Babaei Ghobad , Qomi Maryam Ebrahim
Published: September 2013

Prune dwarf virus (PDV) is one of the major positive RNA viruses which cause economical damages in stone fruit trees. The symptoms of PDV vary between different stone fruits namely sour and sweet cherry, almond, peach, apricot and plum including leaf narrowing, leaf chlorosis, vein clearing, mosaic, leaf whitening, leathery leaf, bushy branches and stunt trees. During the years 2011 and 2012, 251 leaf samples were collected for detection of PDV in stone fruit orchards of Charmahal-va-Bakhtiari province. DAS-ELISA test proved PDV presence serologically. Then, total RNA were extracted and tested by two-step RT-PCR which replicated partial and full coat protein sequence of PDV. One hundred and eighty one out of total samples (251 samples) showed PDV infection using serological and two-step RT-PCR assays, hence, incidence of PDV in Charmahal-va-Bakhtiari province was confirmed. This is the first report of PDV in stone fruit orchards of Charmahal-va-Bakhtiari province and in Iran.
Water-Use Efficiency Declines during Autumn Leaf Senescence in Three Deciduous Tree Species
Authors: Sanchez Adriana , Hughes Nicole , Smith William
Published: September 2013

During fall leaf senescence in deciduous species, photosynthesis nears completion due to chlorophyll breakdown and re-assimilation. However, several other processes such as leaf nutrient uptake, re-translocation, and storage, or tissue dehydration to avoid frost damage, may be important and dependent upon stomatal opening. We report here on measured changes in photosynthesis (A), leaf conductance to water vapor (g), and WUE (estimated by A/g) in three deciduous tree species (Acer saccharum, Cornus florida, and Ginkgo biloba) during the weeks of leaf senescence preceding abscission. Substantial decreases in A of 60 up to 80% were not matched quantitatively by similar declines in g (40 to 70%), resulting in corresponding decreases in WUE (estimated by A/g) from near 50% to over 300% among the three species. This shift to a lower WUE may reflect adaptive value in maintaining a higher g relative to A during the fall leaf senescence period.
A Collocation Method for Solving Fractional Riccati Differential Equation
Authors: Gülsu Mustafa , Öztürk Yalçın , Anapali Ayşe
Published: September 2013

In this article, we have introduced a Taylor collocation method, which is based on collocation method for solving fractional Riccati differential equation. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. This method is based on first taking the truncated Taylor expansions of the solution function in the fractional Riccati differential equation and then substituting their matrix forms into the equation. Using collocation points, the systems of nonlinear algebraic equation is derived. We further solve the system of nonlinear algebraic equation using Maple 13 and thus obtain the coefficients of the generalized Taylor expansion. Illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Conservative and Finite Volume Methods for the Convection-Dominated Pricing Problem
Authors: Ramírez-Espinoza Germán I. , Ehrhardt Matthias
Published: September 2013

This work presents a comparison study of different numerical methods to solve Black-Scholes-type partial differential equations (PDE) in the convection-dominated case, i.e., for European options, if the ratio of the risk-free interest rate and the squared volatility-known in fluid dynamics as Péclet number-is high. For Asian options, additional similar problems arise when the “spatial” variable, the stock price, is close to zero.

Here we focus on three methods: the exponentially fitted scheme, a modification of Wang’s finite volume method specially designed for the Black-Scholes equation, and the Kurganov-Tadmor scheme for a general convection-diffusion equation, that is applied for the first time to option pricing problems. Special emphasis is put in the Kurganov-Tadmor because its flexibility allows the simulation of a great variety of types of options and it exhibits quadratic convergence. For the reduction technique proposed by Wilmott, a put-call parity is presented based on the similarity reduction and the put-call parity expression for Asian options. Finally, we present experiments and comparisons with different (non)linear Black-Scholes PDEs.
Flow Characteristics of Flapping Motion of a Plane Water Jet Impinging onto Free Surface
Authors: Zhao Liqing , Sun Jianhong
Published: September 2013

A submerged turbulent plane jet in shallow water impinging vertically onto the free surface will produce a large-scale flapping motion when the jet exit velocity is larger than a critical one. The flapping phenomenon is verified in this paper through a large eddy simulation where the free surface is modeled by volume of fluid approach. The quantitative results for flapping jet are found to be in good agreement with available experimental data in terms of mean velocity, flapping-induced velocity and turbulence intensity. Results show that the flapping motion is a new flow pattern with characteristic flapping frequency for submerged turbulent plane jets, the mean centerline velocity decay is considerably faster than that of the stable impinging jet without flapping motion, and the flapping-induced velocities are as important as the turbulent fluctuations.
Constrained Large-Eddy Simulation of Compressible Flow Past a Circular Cylinder
Authors: Hong Renkai , Xia Zhenhua , Shi Yipeng , Xiao Zuoli , Chen Shiyi
Published: September 2013

Compressible flow past a circular cylinder at an inflow Reynolds number of 2x105is numerically investigated by using a constrained large-eddy simulation (CLES) technique. Numerical simulation with adiabatic wall boundary condition and at a free-stream Mach number of 0.75 is conducted to validate and verify the performance of the present CLES method in predicting separated flows. Some typical and characteristic physical quantities, such as the drag coefficient, the root-mean-square lift fluctuations, the Strouhal number, the pressure and skin friction distributions around the cylinder,etc.are calculated and compared with previously reported experimental data, finer-grid large-eddy simulation (LES) data and those obtained in the present LES and detached-eddy simulation (DES) on coarse grids. It turns out that CLES is superior to DES in predicting such separated flow and that CLES can mimic the intricate shock wave dynamics quite well. Then, the effects of Mach number on the flow patterns and parameters such as the pressure, skin friction and drag coefficients, and the cylinder surface temperature are studied, with Mach number varying from 0.1 to 0.95. Non-monotonic behaviors of the pressure and skin friction distributions are observed with increasing Mach number and the minimum mean separation angle occurs at a subcritical Mach number of between 0.3 and 0.5. Additionally, the wall temperature effects on the thermodynamic and aerodynamic quantities are explored in a series of simulations using isothermal wall boundary conditions at three different wall temperatures. It is found that the flow separates earlier from the cylinder surface with a longer recirculation length in the wake and a higher pressure coefficient at the rear stagnation point for higher wall temperature. Moreover, the influences of different thermal wall boundary conditions on the flow field are gradually magnified from the front stagnation point to the rear stagnation point. Moreover, the influences of different thermal wall boundary conditions on the flow field are graduallymagnified from the front stagnation point to the rear stagnation point. It is inferred that the CLES approach in its current version is a useful and effective tool for simulating wall-bounded compressible turbulent flows with massive separations.
Fecal Indicator Bacteria Contamination of Fomites and Household Demand for Surface Disinfection Products: A Case Study from Peru
Authors: Julian Timothy R. , MacDonald Luke H. , Guo Yayi , Marks Sara J. , Kosek Margaret , Yori Pablo P. , Pinedo Silvia Rengifo , Schwab Kellogg J.
Published: September 2013

Surface-mediated disease transmission is understudied in developing countries, particularly in light of the evidence that surface concentrations of fecal bacteria typically exceed concentrations in developed countries by 10- to 100-fold. In this study, we examined fecal indicator bacterial contamination of dinner plates at 21 households in four peri-urban communities in the Peruvian Amazon. We also used surveys to estimate household use of and demand for surface disinfectants at 280 households. Despite detecting total coliform, enterococci, and Escherichia coli on 86%, 43%, and 24% of plates sampled, respectively, less than one-third of households were regularly using bleach to disinfect surfaces. Among non-users of bleach, only 3.2% of respondents reported a new demand for bleach, defined as a high likelihood of using bleach within the next year. This study highlights the potential for marketing approaches to increase use of and demand for surface disinfectants to improve domestic hygiene.
Association between Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome Epidemic and Climate Factors in Heilongjiang Province, China
Authors: Li Chang-Ping , Cui Zhuang , Li Shen-Long , Magalhaes Ricardo J. Soares , Wang Bao-Long , Zhang Cui , Sun Hai-Long , Li Cheng-Yi , Huang Liu-Yu , Ma Jun , Zhang Wen-Yi
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to quantify the relationship between climate variation and transmission of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Heilongjiang Province, a highly endemic area for HFRS in China. Monthly notified HFRS cases and climatic data for 2001–2009 in Heilongjiang Province were collected. Using a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model, we found that relative humidity with a one-month lag (β = −0.010, P = 0.003) and a three-month lag (β = 0.008, P = 0.003), maximum temperature with a two-month lag (β = 0.082, P = 0.028), and southern oscillation index with a two-month lag (β = −0.048, P = 0.019) were significantly associated with HFRS transmission. Our study also showed that predicted values expected under the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model were highly consistent with observed values (Adjusted R2 = 83%, root mean squared error = 108). Thus, findings may help add to the knowledge gap of the role of climate factors in HFRS transmission in China and also assist national local health authorities in the development/refinement of a better strategy to prevent HFRS transmission.
Weight Gain and Response to Treatment for Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Gler Ma Tarcela , Guilatco Ruffy , Caoili Janice C. , Ershova Julia , Cegielski Peter , Johnson John L.
Published: September 2013

Alternatives to culture are needed in high burden countries to assess whether response to treatment of multidrug-resistant-tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is satisfactory. The objective was to assess the association of weight gain and treatment outcome. The methods included analysis of clinical, bacteriologic, and weight from 439 MDR-TB patients in the Philippines. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to determine whether 5% weight gain during the first 6 months of treatment was associated with outcome. Three hundred and ten (71%) patients were cured and 129 (29%) had poor outcomes (death, defaulted, or failed treatment). Fifty-three percent were underweight (body mass index [BMI] < 18.5 kg/m2) before treatment. Five percent weight gain after completing 3 months of treatment was associated with good outcome among patients who were underweight before treatment (OR 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05 to 4.4). Baseline weight and degree of weight change during the first 6 months of treatment can help identify persons who are more likely to have poor outcomes and require other interventions.
Application of a qPCR Assay with Melting Curve Analysis for Detection and Differentiation of Protozoan Oocysts in Human Fecal Samples from Dominican Republic
Authors: Lalonde Laura F. , Reyes Julissa , Gajadhar Alvin A.
Published: September 2013

A quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay with melt curve analysis (qPCR-MCA) was applied for the detection of protozoan oocysts in 501 human fecal samples collected in Dominican Republic. Samples were subjected to qPCR using universal coccidia primers targeting 18S rDNA to detect oocysts followed by MCA to identify oocyst species based on amplicon melting temperature. Putative positive samples were also tested by conventional PCR and microscopy. Cystoisospora belli (×3), Cryptosporidium parvum (×3), Cryptosporidium hominis (×5), Cryptosporidium meleagridis (×1), Cryptosporidium canis (×1), and Cyclospora cayetanensis (×9) were detected by qPCR-MCA and confirmed by sequencing. This assay consistently detected 10 copies of the cloned target fragment and can be considered more efficient and sensitive than microscopy flotation methods for detecting multiple species of oocysts in human feces. The qPCR-MCA is a reliable protozoan oocyst screening assay for use on clinical and environmental samples in public health, food safety and veterinary programs.
Rapid Detection of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Blood Cultures Using a Monoclonal Antibody-Based Immunofluorescent Assay
Authors: Chantratita Narisara , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Wongsuvan Gumphol , Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Teerawattanasook Nittaya , Day Nicholas P. J. , Limmathurotsakul Direk , Peacock Sharon J.
Published: September 2013

Melioidosis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. Rapid antimicrobial therapy is necessary to improve patient outcome, which is aided by direct detection of B. pseudomallei in clinical samples. A drawback for all antigen assays is that the number of B. pseudomallei in blood usually falls below the achievable level of detection. We performed a prospective cohort study of 461 patients with 541 blood cultures to evaluate the utility of a pre-incubation step prior to detection of B. pseudomallei using a monoclonal antibody-based immunofluorescent assay (Mab-IFA). The Mab-IFA was positive in 74 of 76 patients with melioidosis (sensitivity = 97.4%), and negative in 385 patients who did not have blood cultures containing B. pseudomallei (specificity = 100%). The Mab-IFA could be a valuable supplementary tool for rapid detection. We recommend the use of the Mab-IFA to test blood cultures that flag positive in regions where melioidosis is endemic.
Semi-Quantitative Scoring of an Immunochromatographic Test for Circulating Filarial Antigen
Authors: Chesnais Cédric B. , Missamou François , Pion Sébastien D. S. , Bopda Jean , Louya Frédéric , Majewski Andrew C. , Weil Gary J. , Boussinesq Michel
Published: September 2013

The value of a semi-quantitative scoring of the filarial antigen test (Binax Now Filariasis card test, ICT) results was evaluated during a field survey in the Republic of Congo. One hundred and thirty-four (134) of 774 tests (17.3%) were clearly positive and were scored 1, 2, or 3; and 11 (1.4%) had questionable results. Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae (mf) were detected in 41 of those 133 individuals with an ICT test score ≥ 1 who also had a night blood smear; none of the 11 individuals with questionable ICT results harbored night mf. Cuzick's test showed a significant trend for higher microfilarial densities in groups with higher ICT scores (P < 0.001). The ICT scores were also significantly correlated with blood mf counts. Because filarial antigen levels provide an indication of adult worm infection intensity, our results suggest that semi-quantitative reading of the ICT may be useful for grading the intensity of filarial infections in individuals and populations.
Prevalence and Implications of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leukocytosis in Papua New Guinean Children Hospitalized with Severe Malaria
Authors: Laman Moses , Manning Laurens , Siba Peter M. , Davis Timothy M. E.
Published: September 2013

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leukocytosis in severe malaria was assessed in 87 children in Papua New Guinea participating in a detailed longitudinal observational study who had undergone lumbar puncture for further investigation of altered consciousness and/or convulsions. After rigorous exclusion of non-malarial infection, 16 (20.5%) of 78 children with Plasmodium falciparum monoinfection but 0 of 9 with P. vivax/mixed-species malaria had a detectable CSF leukocytosis, which was unrelated to prior, including complex, seizures. There were eight children with a CSF leukocyte density > 10 cells/μL (9.2% of the total sample), half of whom had cerebral malaria (4 of 22, 18.1%). Cerebrospinal fluid leukocytosis is infrequent in severe pediatric malaria, especially in children with P. vivax infections, and it is generally mild. Its presence in a blood slide–positive child should prompt consideration of alternative diagnoses and empiric antibiotic therapy.
Austerity in the euro area: the sad state of economic policy in Germany and the EU
Authors: Truger Achim
Published: September 2013

The euro area is currently going through its worst period of recession and economic stagnation since the Great Depression and World War II. The article tries to give an impression of the extraordinary degree of fiscal austerity and the devastating economic effects it has already had and must be expected to have in the near future. In addition it is argued that both the lack of economic justification and the devastating consequences of the fiscal policies currently executed should have been absolutely obvious even from a mainstream perspective. Therefore the sad state of economic policies in the euro area is that it did not even follow moderate mainstream proposals but instead seemed to rely on radical and outdated theoretical or purely ideological foundations. Germany as the most economically and politically influential member state of the euro area seems to be most infected with such radical ideas.
Present and future nitrogen deposition to national parks in the United States: critical load exceedances
Authors: Ellis R. A. , Jacob D. J. , Sulprizio M. P. , Zhang L. , Holmes C. D. , Schichtel B. A. , Blett T. , Porter E. , Pardo L. H. , Lynch J. A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. National parks in the United States are protected areas wherein the natural habitat is to be conserved for future generations. Deposition of anthropogenic nitrogen (N) transported from areas of human activity (fuel combustion, agriculture) may affect these natural habitats if it exceeds an ecosystem-dependent critical load (CL). We quantify and interpret the deposition to Class I US national parks for present-day and future (2050) conditions using the GEOS-Chem global chemical transport model with 1/2° × 2/3° horizontal resolution over North America. We estimate CL values in the range 2.5–5 kg N ha−1 yr−1 for the different parks to protect the most sensitive ecosystem receptors. For present-day conditions, we find 24 out of 45 parks to be in CL exceedance and 14 more to be marginally so. Many of these are in remote areas of the West. Most (40–85%) of the deposition originates from NOx emissions (fuel combustion). We project future changes in N deposition using representative concentration pathway (RCP) anthropogenic emission scenarios for 2050. These feature 52–73% declines in US NOx emissions relative to present but 19–50% increases in US ammonia (NH3) emissions. Nitrogen deposition at US national parks then becomes dominated by domestic NH3 emissions. While deposition decreases in the East relative to present, there is little progress in the West and increases in some regions. We find that 17–25 US national parks will have CL exceedances in 2050 based on the RCP8.5 and RCP2.6 scenarios. Even in total absence of anthropogenic NOx emissions, 14–18 parks would still have a CL exceedance. Returning all parks to N deposition below CL by 2050 would require at least a 50% decrease in US anthropogenic NH3 emissions relative to RCP-projected 2050 levels.
Study of the unknown HONO daytime source at an European suburban site during the MEGAPOLI summer and winter field campaigns
Authors: Michoud V. , Colomb A. , Borbon A. , Miet K. , Beekmann M. , Camredon M. , Aumont B. , Perrier S. , Zapf P. , Siour G. , Ait-Helal W. , Afif C. , Kukui A. , Furger M. , Dupont J. C. , Haeffelin M. , Doussin J. F.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Nitrous acid measurements were carried out during the MEGAPOLI summer and winter field campaigns at SIRTA observatory in Paris surroundings. Highly variable HONO levels were observed during the campaigns, ranging from 10 ppt to 500 ppt in summer and from 10 ppt to 1.7 ppb in winter. Significant HONO mixing ratios have also been measured during daytime hours, comprised between some tenth of ppt and 200 ppt for the summer campaign and between few ppt and 1 ppb for the winter campaign. Ancillary measurements, such as NOx, O3, photolysis frequencies, meteorological parameters (pressure, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction), black carbon concentration, total aerosol surface area, boundary layer height and soil moisture, were conducted during both campaigns. In addition, for the summer period, OH radical measurements were made with a CIMS (Chemical Ionisation Mass Spectrometer). This large dataset has been used to investigate the HONO budget in a suburban environment. To do so, calculations of HONO concentrations using PhotoStationary State (PSS) approach have been performed, for daytime hours. The comparison of these calculations with measured HONO concentrations revealed an underestimation of the calculations making evident a missing source term for both campaigns. This unknown HONO source exhibits a bell shaped like average diurnal profile with a maximum around noon of approximately 0.7 ppb h−1 and 0.25 ppb h−1, during summer and winter respectively. This source is the main HONO source during daytime hours for both campaigns. In both cases, this source shows a slight positive correlation with J(NO2) and the product between J(NO2) and soil moisture. This original approach had, thus, indicated that this missing source is photolytic and might be heterogeneous occurring on ground surface and involving water content available at the ground.
The sensitivity of global climate to the episodicity of fire aerosol emissions
Authors: Clark S. K. , Ward D. S. , Mahowald N. M.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. One of the major ways in which forest and grass fires have an impact on global climate is through the release of aerosols. Most studies focusing on calculating the radiative forcing and other climate impacts of fire aerosols use monthly mean emissions derived from the Global Fire Emissions Database that captures only the seasonal cycle of fire aerosol emissions. Here we present the results of a sensitivity study that investigates the climate response to the episodicity of the fires, based on the standard approach which releases emissions every day, and contrasts that to the response when fires are represented as intense pulses of emissions that occur only over 1–2 days on a monthly, yearly, or five-yearly basis. Overall we find that in the modified cases with increased levels of episodicity, the all sky direct effect radiative forcing increases, the clear sky direct effect radiative forcing remains relatively constant, and the magnitude of the indirect effect radiative forcing decreases by about 1 W m−2 (from −1.6 to −0.6 W m−2). In the long term, we find that an increase in aerosol emission episodicity leads to an asymmetric change in indirect radiative forcing in the Northern Hemisphere compared to the Southern Hemisphere contributes to a slight shift in the annual average position of the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). This shift is found to have a mixed effect on the overall performance of the model at predicting precipitation rates in the tropics. Given these results we conclude that future studies that look to assess the present day global climate impacts of fire aerosols should consider the need to accurately represent fire episodicity.