bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Temperature on Fimbrial Gene Expression and Adherence of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli
Authors: Hinthong Woranich , Indrawattana Nitaya , Pitaksajjakul Pannamthip , Pipattanaboon Chonlatip , Kongngoen Thida , Tharnpoophasiam Prapin , Worakhunpiset Suwalee
Published: July 2015

The influence of temperature on bacterial virulence has been studied worldwide from the viewpoint of climate change and global warming. The bacterium enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) is the causative agent of watery diarrhea and shows an increasing incidence worldwide. Its pathogenicity is associated with the virulence factors aggregative adherence fimbria type I and II (AAFI and AAFII), encoded by aggA and aafA in EAEC strains 17-2 and 042, respectively. This study focused on the effect of temperature increases from 29 °C to 40 °C on fimbrial gene expression using real-time PCR, and on its virulence using an aggregative adherence assay and biofilm formation assay. Incubation at 32 °C caused an up-regulation in both EAEC strains 17-2 and strain 042 virulence gene expression. EAEC strain 042 cultured at temperature above 32 °C showed down-regulation of aafA expression except at 38 °C. Interestingly, EAEC cultured at a high temperature showed a reduced adherence to cells and an uneven biofilm formation. These results provide evidence that increases in temperature potentially affect the virulence of pathogenic EAEC, although the response varies in each strain.
Evaluation of Combined Disinfection Methods for Reducing Escherichia coli O157:H7 Population on Fresh-Cut Vegetables
Authors: Petri Eva , Rodríguez Mariola , García Silvia
Published: July 2015

Most current disinfection strategies for fresh-cut industry are focused on the use of different chemical agents; however, very little has been reported on the effectiveness of the hurdle technology. The effect of combined decontamination methods based on the use of different sanitizers (peroxyacetic acid and chlorine dioxide) and the application of pressure (vacuum/positive pressure) on the inactivation of the foodborne pathogen E. coli O157:H7 on fresh-cut lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and carrots (Daucus carota) was studied. Fresh produce, inoculated with E. coli O157:H7, was immersed (4 °C, 2 min) in tap water (W), chlorine water (CW), chlorine dioxide (ClO2: 2 mg/L) and peroxyacetic acid (PAA: 100 mg/L) in combination with: (a) vacuum (V: 10 mbar) or (b) positive pressure application (P: 3 bar). The product quality and antimicrobial effects of the treatment on bacterial counts were determined both in process washing water and on fresh-cut produce. Evidence obtained in this study, suggests that the use of combined methods (P/V + sanitizers) results in a reduction on the microorganism population on produce similar to that found at atmospheric pressure. Moreover, the application of physical methods led to a significant detrimental effect on the visual quality of lettuce regardless of the solution used. Concerning the process water, PAA proved to be an effective alternative to chlorine for the avoidance of cross-contamination.
Systemic Risk in the European Union: A Network Approach to Banks’ Sovereign Debt Exposures
Authors: Westphal Annika
Published: July 2015

This paper draws on network theory to investigate European banks’ sovereign debt exposures. Banks’ holdings of sovereign debt build a network of financial linkages with European countries that exhibits a long-tail distribution of node degrees. A highly connected network core of 15 banks is identified. These banks accounted for the majority of sovereign debt investments between December 2010 and December 2013 but exhibited only average and sometimes even below average capitalizations. Consequently, they constituted a potential source and transmission channel of systemic risk, especially due to their proneness to portfolio contagion. In a complementary regression analysis, the effect of counterparty risk on Credit Default Swap (CDS) spreads of 15 EU sovereigns is investigated. Among the banks exposed to the debt of a particular issuer, the biggest institutions in terms of their own asset sizes are identified and some of their balance sheet characteristics included into the regression. The analysis finds that the banks’ implied volatilities had a significant and increasing effect on CDS spreads during the recent crisis years, providing evidence of the presence of counterparty risk and its effect on EU sovereign debt pricing. Furthermore, the role of the domestic financial sectors is assessed and found to have affected the CDS spreads.
Diurnal Expression of the Per2 Gene and Protein in the Lateral Habenular Nucleus
Authors: Zhao Zhigong , Xu Haiyan , Liu Yongmao , Mu Li , Xiao Jinyu , Zhao Hua
Published: July 2015

The suprachiasmatic nucleus plays an important role in generating circadian rhythms in mammals. The lateral habenular nucleus (LHb) is closely linked to this structure. Interestingly, the LHb shows a rhythmic firing rate in vivo and in vitro, and sustained oscillation of rhythmic genes in vitro. However, under the in vivo condition, whether rhythmic gene expression in the LHb has circadian rhythms remains unknown. In this study, we examined LHb tissue in rats to determine Period2 (Per2) gene and protein expression at six zeitgeber time points (ZT2, ZT6, ZT10, ZT14, ZT18, and ZT22) in a 12-h light and 12-h dark (LD) environment. We found that in the LD environment, Per2 gene expression and PER2 protein levels in the LHb were higher in the day and lower in the night, showing periodic oscillation, with a peak at ZT10 and a trough at ZT22 (Per2 mRNA) and ZT18 (PER2 protein). We conclude that Per2 expression and PER2 protein levels in the LHb have rhythmic oscillation in vivo. This study provides a basis for further study on the role of the LHb in the circadian rhythm system.
Get to Understand More from Single-Cells: Current Studies of Microfluidic-Based Techniques for Single-Cell Analysis
Authors: Lo Shih-Jie , Yao Da-Jeng
Published: July 2015

This review describes the microfluidic techniques developed for the analysis of a single cell. The characteristics of microfluidic (e.g., little sample amount required, high-throughput performance) make this tool suitable to answer and to solve biological questions of interest about a single cell. This review aims to introduce microfluidic related techniques for the isolation, trapping and manipulation of a single cell. The major approaches for detection in single-cell analysis are introduced; the applications of single-cell analysis are then summarized. The review concludes with discussions of the future directions and opportunities of microfluidic systems applied in analysis of a single cell.
Evaluation of Wood and Cellulosic Materials as Fillers in Artificial Diets for Lyctus africanus Lesne (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae)
Authors: Kartika Titik , Yoshimura Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2015

We studied the usefulness of wood- and cellulose-based diets for L. africanus Lesne. Three diets were prepared which differed on the base ingredients; wood particles (Diet 1), cellulose powder (Diet 2), and alpha-cellulose (Diet 3). The diets were provided to adult L. africanus and the number of larvae, as well as the number of adults that emerged sex ratio, and body weight of the progeny was determined. Findings indicated similar results for the number of larvae, sex ratio and body weight of the emerged L. africanus fed on each diet. However, the number of adult produced by L. africanus on Diet 3 was significantly lower. The results indicate that the amount of vital nutrients is not the only important factor in selecting a suitable diet for L. africanus because the filler used in artificial diets influences the beetles overall population growth. For the population upon which the diets were tested, Diet 1 and Diet 2 could be utilized to rear beetles in the laboratory.
Context-Aware Local Optimization of Sensor Network Deployment
Authors: Argany Meysam , Mostafavi Mir , Gagné Christian
Published: July 2015

Wireless sensor networks are increasingly used for tracking and monitoring dynamic phenomena in urban and natural areas. Spatial coverage is an important issue in sensor networks in order to fulfill the needs of sensing applications. Optimization methods are widely used to efficiently distribute sensor nodes in the network to achieve a desired level of coverage. Most of the existing algorithms do not consider the characteristics of the real environment in the optimization process. In this paper, we propose the integration of contextual information in optimization algorithms to improve sensor network coverage. First, we investigate the implication of contextual information in sensor networks. Then, a conceptual framework for local context-aware sensor network deployment optimization method is introduced and related algorithms are presented in detail. Finally, several experiments are carried out to evaluate the validity of the proposed method. The results obtained from these experiments show the effectiveness of our approach in different contextual situations.
Chitinolytic Bacteria-Assisted Conversion of Squid Pen and Its Effect on Dyes and Pigments Adsorption
Authors: Liang Tzu-Wen , Lo Bo-Chang , Wang San-Lang
Published: July 2015

The aim of this work was to produce chitosanase by fermenting from squid pen, and recover the fermented squid pen for dye removal by adsorption. One chitosanase induced from squid pen powder (SPP)-containing medium by Bacillus cereus TKU034 was purified in high purification fold (441) and high yield of activity recovery (51%) by ammonium sulfate precipitation and combined column chromatography. The SDS-PAGE results showed its molecular mass to be around 43 kDa. The TKU034 chitosanase used for the chitooligomers preparation was studied. The enzyme products revealed that the chitosanase could degrade chitosan with various degrees of polymerization, ranging from 3 to 9, as well as the chitosanase in an endolytic manner. Besides, the fermented SPP was recovered and displayed a better adsorption rate (up to 99.5%) for the disperse dyes (red, yellow, blue, and black) than the water-soluble food colorants, Allura Red AC (R40) and Tartrazine (Y4). The adsorbed R40 on the unfermented SPP and the fermented SPP was eluted by distilled water and 1 M NaOH to confirm the dye adsorption mechanism. The fermented SPP had a slightly higher adsorption capacity than the unfermented, and elution of the dye from the fermented SPP was easier than from the unfermented. The main dye adsorption mechanism of fermented SPP was physical adsorption, while the adsorption mechanism of unfermented SPP was chemical adsorption.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation Research on Micro-Gears Fabrication by Laser Shock Punching Process
Authors: Liu Huixia , Li Jianwen , Shen Zongbao , Qian Qing , Zhang Hongfeng , Wang Xiao
Published: July 2015

The aim of this paper is to fabricate micro-gears via laser shock punching with Spitlight 2000 Nd-YAG Laser, and to discuss effects of process parameters namely laser energy, soft punch properties and blank-holder on the quality of micro-gears deeply. Results show that dimensional accuracy is the best shocked at 1690 mJ. Tensile fracture instead of shear fracture is the main fracture mode under low laser energy. The soft punch might cause damage to punching quality when too high energy is employed. Appropriate thickness and hardness of soft punch is necessary. Silica gel with 200 µm in thickness is beneficial to not only homogenize energy but also propagate the shock wave. Polyurethane films need more energy than silica gel with the same thickness. In addition, blank-holders with different weight levels are used. A heavier blank-holder is more beneficial to improve the cutting quality. Furthermore, the simulation is conducted to reveal typical stages and the different deformation behavior under high and low pulse energy. The simulation results show that the fracture mode changes under lower energy.
Screening of mRNA Chemical Modification to Maximize Protein Expression with Reduced Immunogenicity
Authors: Uchida Satoshi , Kataoka Kazunori , Itaka Keiji
Published: July 2015

Chemical modification of nucleosides in mRNA is an important technology to regulate the immunogenicity of mRNA. In this study, various previously reported mRNA formulations were evaluated by analyzing in vitro protein expression and immunogenicity in multiple cell lines. For the macrophage-derived cell line, RAW 264.7, modified mRNA tended to have reduced immunogenicity and increased protein expression compared to the unmodified mRNA. In contrast, in some cell types, such as hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HuH-7) and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), protein expression was decreased by mRNA modification. Further analyses revealed that mRNA modifications decreased translation efficiency but increased nuclease stability. Thus, mRNA modification is likely to exert both positive and negative effects on the efficiency of protein expression in transfected cells and optimal mRNA formulation should be determined based on target cell types and transfection purposes.
Effects of Irregular Bimetallic Nanostructures on the Optical Properties of Photosystem I from Thermosynechococcus elongatus
Authors: Ashraf Imran , Skandary Sepideh , Khaywah Mohammad , Metzger Michael , Meixner Alfred , Adam Pierre , Brecht Marc
Published: July 2015

The fluorescence of photosystem I (PSI) trimers in proximity to bimetallic plasmonic nanostructures have been explored by single-molecule spectroscopy (SMS) at cryogenic temperature (1.6 K). PSI serves as a model for biological multichromophore-coupled systems with high potential for biotechnological applications. Plasmonic nanostructures are fabricated by thermal annealing of thin metallic films. The fluorescence of PSI has been intensified due to the coupling with plasmonic nanostructures. Enhancement factors up to 22.9 and 5.1 are observed for individual PSI complexes coupled to Au/Au and Ag/Au samples, respectively. Additionally, a wavelength dependence of fluorescence enhancement is observed, which can be explained by the multichromophoric composition of PSI.
An Autonomous Satellite Time Synchronization System Using Remotely Disciplined VC-OCXOs
Authors: Gu Xiaobo , Chang Qing , Glennon Eamonn , Xu Baoda , Dempster Andrew , Wang Dun , Wu Jiapeng
Published: July 2015

An autonomous remote clock control system is proposed to provide time synchronization and frequency syntonization for satellite to satellite or ground to satellite time transfer, with the system comprising on-board voltage controlled oven controlled crystal oscillators (VC-OCXOs) that are disciplined to a remote master atomic clock or oscillator. The synchronization loop aims to provide autonomous operation over extended periods, be widely applicable to a variety of scenarios and robust. A new architecture comprising the use of frequency division duplex (FDD), synchronous time division (STDD) duplex and code division multiple access (CDMA) with a centralized topology is employed. This new design utilizes dual one-way ranging methods to precisely measure the clock error, adopts least square (LS) methods to predict the clock error and employs a third-order phase lock loop (PLL) to generate the voltage control signal. A general functional model for this system is proposed and the error sources and delays that affect the time synchronization are discussed. Related algorithms for estimating and correcting these errors are also proposed. The performance of the proposed system is simulated and guidance for selecting the clock is provided.
Towards Semi-Automatic Artifact Rejection for the Improvement of Alzheimer’s Disease Screening from EEG Signals
Authors: Solé-Casals Jordi , Vialatte François-Benoît
Published: July 2015

A large number of studies have analyzed measurable changes that Alzheimer’s disease causes on electroencephalography (EEG). Despite being easily reproducible, those markers have limited sensitivity, which reduces the interest of EEG as a screening tool for this pathology. This is for a large part due to the poor signal-to-noise ratio of EEG signals: EEG recordings are indeed usually corrupted by spurious extra-cerebral artifacts. These artifacts are responsible for a consequent degradation of the signal quality. We investigate the possibility to automatically clean a database of EEG recordings taken from patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and healthy age-matched controls. We present here an investigation of commonly used markers of EEG artifacts: kurtosis, sample entropy, zero-crossing rate and fractal dimension. We investigate the reliability of the markers, by comparison with human labeling of sources. Our results show significant differences with the sample entropy marker. We present a strategy for semi-automatic cleaning based on blind source separation, which may improve the specificity of Alzheimer screening using EEG signals.
Hyperspectral Analysis of Soil Total Nitrogen in Subsided Land Using the Local Correlation Maximization-Complementary Superiority (LCMCS) Method
Authors: Lin Lixin , Wang Yunjia , Teng Jiyao , Xi Xiuxiu
Published: July 2015

The measurement of soil total nitrogen (TN) by hyperspectral remote sensing provides an important tool for soil restoration programs in areas with subsided land caused by the extraction of natural resources. This study used the local correlation maximization-complementary superiority method (LCMCS) to establish TN prediction models by considering the relationship between spectral reflectance (measured by an ASD FieldSpec 3 spectroradiometer) and TN based on spectral reflectance curves of soil samples collected from subsided land which is determined by synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technology. Based on the 1655 selected effective bands of the optimal spectrum (OSP) of the first derivate differential of reciprocal logarithm ([log{1/R}]′), (correlation coefficients, p < 0.01), the optimal model of LCMCS method was obtained to determine the final model, which produced lower prediction errors (root mean square error of validation [RMSEV] = 0.89, mean relative error of validation [MREV] = 5.93%) when compared with models built by the local correlation maximization (LCM), complementary superiority (CS) and partial least squares regression (PLS) methods. The predictive effect of LCMCS model was optional in Cangzhou, Renqiu and Fengfeng District. Results indicate that the LCMCS method has great potential to monitor TN in subsided lands caused by the extraction of natural resources including groundwater, oil and coal.
Water Scarcity Footprints by Considering the Differences in Water Sources
Authors: Yano Shinjiro , Hanasaki Naota , Itsubo Norihiro , Oki Taikan
Published: July 2015

Water resources have uneven distributions over time, space, and source; thus, potential impacts related to water use should be evaluated by determining the differences in water resources rather than by simply summing water use. We propose a model for weighting renewable water resources and present a case study assessing water scarcity footprints as indicators of the potential impacts of water use based on a life cycle impact assessment (LCIA). We assumed that the potential impact of a unit amount of water used is proportional to the land area or time required to obtain a unit of water from each water source. The water unavailability factor (fwua) was defined using a global hydrological modeling system with a global resolution of 0.5 × 0.5 degrees. This model can address the differences in water sources using an adjustable reference volume and temporal and spatial resolutions based on the flexible demands of users. The global virtual water flows were characterized using the fwua for each water source. Although nonrenewable and nonlocal blue water constituted only 3.8% of the total flow of the water footprint inventory, this increased to 29.7% of the total flow of the water scarcity footprint. We can estimate the potential impacts of water use that can be instinctively understood using fwua.
Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Phase Change Materials on Compressed Air Expansion in CAES Plants
Authors: Castellani Beatrice , Presciutti Andrea , Filipponi Mirko , Nicolini Andrea , Rossi Federico
Published: July 2015

The integration of renewable energy in the electrical grid is challenging due to the intermittent and non-programmable generated electric power and to the transmission of peak power levels. Several energy storage technologies have been studied to find a solution to these issues. In particular, compressed air energy storage (CAES) plants work by pumping and storing air into a vessel or in an underground cavern; then when energy is needed, the pressurized air is expanded in an expansion turbine. Several CAES configurations have been proposed: diabatic, adiabatic and isothermal. The isothermal process seems to be the most promising to improve the overall efficiency. It differs from conventional CAES approaches as it employs near-isothermal compression and expansion. Currently, there are no commercial isothermal CAES implementations worldwide, but several methods are under investigation. In this paper, the use of phase change materials (PCM) for isothermal air expansion is discussed. Air expansion tests in presence of PCM were carried out in a high-pressure vessel in order to analyze the effect of PCM on the process. Results show that in presence of PCM near isothermal expansion conditions occur and therefore they affect positively the value of the obtainable expansion work.
The Toledo Drinking Water Advisory: Suggested Application of the Water Safety Planning Approach
Authors: Jetoo Savitri , Grover Velma , Krantzberg Gail
Published: July 2015

On 2 August 2014 the city of Toledo, in Ohio USA issued a “do not drink” water advisory and declared a state of emergency. This was as a result of elevated levels of the toxin microcystin in the final treated water, a dangerous toxin produced by the algae cyanobacteria. The Toledo water crisis is a key focusing event that can advance dialogue on eutrophication governance in the context of public health. This paper examines the Toledo water ban with the aim of determining whether this crisis could have been averted. Further, we explore how this event can be used to stimulate action on eutrophication governance, to motivate action to protect water at its source. We use the World Health Organization’s Water Safety Planning Methodology to show that the crisis could have been averted with some simple risk management actions. We also show that a water safety planning approach could lead to well developed operational and maintenance planning resulting in a higher probability of safe drinking water.
Planning an Agricultural Water Resources Management System: A Two-Stage Stochastic Fractional Programming Model
Authors: Cui Liang , Li Yongping , Huang Guohe
Published: July 2015

Irrigation water management is crucial for agricultural production and livelihood security in many regions and countries throughout the world. In this study, a two-stage stochastic fractional programming (TSFP) method is developed for planning an agricultural water resources management system under uncertainty. TSFP can provide an effective linkage between conflicting economic benefits and the associated penalties; it can also balance conflicting objectives and maximize the system marginal benefit with per unit of input under uncertainty. The developed TSFP method is applied to a real case of agricultural water resources management of the Zhangweinan River Basin China, which is one of the main food and cotton producing regions in north China and faces serious water shortage. The results demonstrate that the TSFP model is advantageous in balancing conflicting objectives and reflecting complicated relationships among multiple system factors. Results also indicate that, under the optimized irrigation target, the optimized water allocation rate of Minyou Channel and Zhangnan Channel are 57.3% and 42.7%, respectively, which adapts the changes in the actual agricultural water resources management problem. Compared with the inexact two-stage water management (ITSP) method, TSFP could more effectively address the sustainable water management problem, provide more information regarding tradeoffs between multiple input factors and system benefits, and help the water managers maintain sustainable water resources development of the Zhangweinan River Basin.
Understanding Global Systems Today—A Calibration of the World3-03 Model between 1995 and 2012
Authors: Pasqualino Roberto , Jones Aled , Monasterolo Irene , Phillips Alexander
Published: July 2015

In 1972 the Limits to Growth report was published. It used the World3 model to better understand the dynamics of global systems and their relationship to finite resource availability, land use, and persistent pollution accumulation. The trends of resource depletion and degradation of physical systems which were identified by Limits to Growth have continued. Although World3 forecast scenarios are based on key measures and assumptions that cannot be easily assessed using available data (i.e., non-renewable resources, persistent pollution), the dynamics of growth components of the model can be compared with publicly available global data trends. Based on Scenario 2 of the Limits to Growth study, we present a calibration of the updated World3-03 model using historical data from 1995 to 2012 to better understand the dynamics of today’s economic and resource system. Given that accurate data on physical limits does not currently exist, the dynamics of overshoot to global limits are not assessed. In this paper we offer a new interpretation of the parametrisation of World3-03 using these data to explore how its assumptions on global dynamics, environmental footprints and responses have changed over the past 40 years. The results show that human society has invested more to abate persistent pollution, to increase food productivity and have a more productive service sector.
Spatiotemporal Correlations between Water Footprint and Agricultural Inputs: A Case Study of Maize Production in Northeast China
Authors: Duan Peili , Qin Lijie , Wang Yeqiao , He Hongshi
Published: July 2015

To effectively manage water resources in agricultural production, it is necessary to understand the spatiotemporal variation of the water footprint (WF) and the influences of agricultural inputs. Employing spatial autocorrelation analysis and a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model, we explored the spatial variations of the WF and their relationships with agricultural inputs from 1998 to 2012 in Northeast China. The results indicated that: (1) the spatial distribution of WFs for the 36 major maize production prefectures was heterogeneous in Northeast China; (2) a cluster of high WFs was found in southeast Liaoning Province, while a cluster of low WFs was found in central Jilin Province, and (3) spatial and temporal differentiation in the correlations between the WF of maize production and agricultural inputs existed according to the GWR model. These correlations increased over time. Our results suggested that localized strategies for reducing the WF should be formulated based on specific relationships between the WF and agricultural inputs.
Development of variously functionalized nitrile oxides
Authors: Asahara Haruyasu , Arikiyo Keita , Nishiwaki Nagatoshi
Published: July 2015

N-Methylated amides (N,4-dimethylbenzamide and N-methylcyclohexanecarboxamide) were systematically subjected to chemical transformations, namely, N-tosylation followed by nucleophilic substitution. The amide function was converted to the corresponding carboxylic acid, esters, amides, aldehyde, and ketone upon treatment with hydroxide, alkoxide, amine, diisobutylaluminium hydride and Grignard reagent, respectively. In these transformations, N-methyl-N-tosylcarboxamides behave like a Weinreb amide. Similarly, N-methyl-5-phenylisoxazole-3-carboxamide was converted into 3-functionalized isoxazole derivatives. Since the amide was prepared by the cycloaddition reaction of ethynylbenzene and N-methylcarbamoylnitrile oxide, the nitrile oxide served as the equivalent of the nitrile oxides bearing a variety of functional groups such as carboxy, alkoxycarbonyl, carbamoyl, acyl and formyl moieties.
Defining a Role for Nursing Education in Staff Nurse Participation in Antimicrobial Stewardship
Authors: Olans Rita Drummond , Nicholas Patrice K. , Hanley Diane , DeMaria Alfred
Published: July 2015

The role of the staff nurse in antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) is not clearly defined. This study explored the ASP educational needs of staff nurses, using survey, focus group, and Delphi methods of engaging nurse educators. Low awareness of components of ASPs and areas of educational need were identified.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(7):318–321.
Advanced Practice Nursing Simulation for Neonatal Skill Competency: A Pilot Study for Successful Continuing Education
Authors: Stephenson Evelyn , Salih Zeynep , Cullen Deborah L.
Published: July 2015

Background:

Skill readiness remains a challenge for all health care professionals who are involved in direct patient care. Researchers suggest that skill retention may decrease within 6 months of an educational session. The purpose of this study was to explore competency retention for high-risk, low-frequency procedures, specifically, managing a difficult airway and placing a laryngeal mask airway, using a web-based content refresher.

Method:

The pilot study was conducted in two sessions. Session one established clinical skill competency. Six months later, the advanced practice RNs were randomized into two groups. Group 1 reviewed didactic content and participated in a complex airway management simulation. Group 2 participated only in a complex airway management simulation.

Results:

This study showed a positive trend in maintaining competency for a low-frequency procedure for which complex airway management was given, using web-based content review. It is feasible to maintain competency for low-frequency procedures using web-based content refreshers.

Conclusion:

This pilot study benefited advanced practice nurses by providing them with the potential to maintain competency in this high-risk, low-frequency procedure. Continuing education is an important consideration for health care organizations.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(7):322–325.
Implementing a Pain Care Toolkit to Improve Patient Perception of Pain Care
Authors: Martin Laura K.
Published: July 2015

As a result of the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program, hospitals are now faced with reimbursement for quality of care, including patient perception of care, as measured by the Hospital Compare Assessment of Health Plans Survey, which includes the patient experience with pain care. Through the implementation of a Pain Care Quality Toolkit, patient perception of pain care can be improved, thus increasing the possibility of maximum reimbursement through the VBP.

J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2015;46(7):295–296.
Geriatric Psychopharmacology: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Considerations
Authors: Carlo Andrew D. , Alpert Jonathan E.
Published: July 2015

Older adults represent the fastest growing demographic in both developing and developed countries. Understanding pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles relevant to psychopharmacology in geriatric patients is increasingly important to optimize psychiatric treatment. This review discusses the four pharmacokinetic processes (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) with regard to age-related changes. These include a generally slower rate of absorption, increases in the ratio of adipose to lean body mass and volume of distribution of medications, reductions in phase I metabolism, and decreases in renal function. In addition, this review discusses pharmacodynamic factors relevant to pharmacotherapy in older age, such as changes in receptor density and homeostatic and regulatory mechanisms. Geriatric psychopharmacology will benefit from an expanding evidence base as research on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics increasingly includes older individuals.

[
Psychiatr Ann.
2015;45(7):336–341.]
The Use of Hypnotics to Treat Sleep Problems in the Elderly
Authors: McCall Catherine , Winkelman John W.
Published: July 2015

Sleep problems are common in the elderly, with a prevalence of close to 50% in those older than age 65 years. Older adults may suffer from disturbances of sleep that are related to medical problems, to psychiatric illness, to primary sleep disorders, to use or withdrawal from drugs/medications, and/or to poor sleep habits. Loss of sleep in older adults is associated with significant morbidity, low quality of life, and mortality. When approaching the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders in elderly patients, it is important to evaluate and treat comorbid conditions. Pharmacologic treatments for sleep, although increasingly common, present significant challenges due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and clearance, side effects, and drug-drug interactions. When possible, it is preferable to manage sleep problems with nonpharmacologic approaches. This review discusses current pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments for sleep problems in the elderly.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(7):342–347.]
Antipsychotics for Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia—Safety and Efficacy in the Context of Informed Consent
Authors: Rothenberg Kasia Gustaw , Wiechers Ilse R.
Published: July 2015

Appropriate use of antipsychotic medications in older adults with dementia can be challenging due to several important safety concerns. This article reviews the risks and benefits of using antipsychotic medications in the treatment of patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia through the framework of an informed-consent conversation. Informed-consent discussions help provide patients, surrogate decision-makers, and caregivers with the essential data necessary to make informed treatment choices.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(7):348–353.]
Food Allergies and Eczema
Authors: Santiago Sabrina
Published: July 2015

Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions of childhood. Patients with eczema suffer in a chronic cycle of itch, scratch, and inflammation. For children with severe eczema, constant itching and scratching can have many consequences including skin infections, behavioral issues, and sleep problems. Parents often find themselves searching for a trigger for their child’s eczema flare, and after they have switched detergents, applied a thick moisturizer and topical steroids, and removed all wool clothing from their child’s wardrobe, they wonder, “Could food allergies be playing a role?”

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(7):265–267.]
Anemia in the Neonate: The Differential Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Nassin Michele L. , Lapping-Carr Gabrielle , de Jong Jill L. O.
Published: July 2015

Anemia is a common problem in the neonatal period. Presenting symptoms may suggest numerous possible diagnoses ranging from anemia seen as a normal part of development to anemia due to critical pathology. An illustrative case is presented to highlight the appropriate evaluation of the neonate with significant anemia. Several important features of the evaluation of neonatal anemia are highlighted. The constellation of signs and symptoms that occur in conjunction with the anemia are critical for the evaluation. The evaluation should be performed in a step-wise process that starts by eliminating common causes of anemia. Manual review of the peripheral blood smear with a hematologist can be helpful.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(7):e159–e163.]
Causes and Diagnosis of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
Authors: Sokol Elizabeth , Peddinti Radhika
Published: July 2015

Abnormal vaginal bleeding in a postmenarchal adolescent patient is most often related to dysfunctional uterine bleeding. However, there are other potential etiologies, including hematologic disorders, infections, and oncologic problems. We present a 12-year-old girl who presented with prolonged vaginal bleeding and was ultimately diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma. In this article, we discuss the approach to a patient with vaginal bleeding along with a more in-depth review of risk stratification in rhabdomyosarcoma, including treatment options such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

[
Pediatr Ann.

2015;44(7):e164–e167.]
Neonatal Thrombocytopenia: Etiology and Diagnosis
Authors: Sillers Laura , Van Slambrouck Charles , Lapping-Carr Gabrielle
Published: July 2015

Neonatal thrombocytopenia has a broad range of possible etiologies. In this review, an asymptomatic newborn infant was found to have severe thrombocytopenia on laboratory testing for limited sepsis evaluation. The differential diagnosis for thrombocytopenia in the newborn period is discussed, along with recommendations for initial evaluation and follow up of isolated thrombocytopenia in an otherwise well-appearing infant. The clinician should be aware of findings associated with unusual causes of thrombocytopenia that should prompt additional evaluation in the nursery or in the general pediatrician’s office. In this illustrative case, a high index of suspicion allowed early diagnosis of Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome and prompt curative therapy by stem cell transplant.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(7):e175–e180.]
A Semi-Fragile Reversible Watermarking for 2D CAD Engineering Graphics with Accurate Tampering Localization
Authors: Long Min , Liu Yan , Peng Fei
Published: July 2015

A semi-fragile reversible watermarking algorithm for 2D CAD engineering graphics with accurate tampering localization is proposed. Firstly, all vertices in the 2D CAD engineering graphics are extracted and partitioned into groups. After that, the relative distance of these vertices are calculated, and the assigned group number is used as watermark. Finally, the watermark is embedded into the factor of relative distance by using an improved difference expansion. Experimental results and analysis show that the proposed algorithm can obtain a large capacity, good invisibility, and robust against translation, rotation, and uniform scaling. At the same time, it can detect malicious attacks such as entity modification, addition and deletion, and can locate the tampering areas with a high precision. As for the watermarked 2D CAD engineering graphics passing authentication, the original 2D CAD engineering graphics can be completely recovered. It has great potential in the application of integrity protection and content authentication of 2D CAD engineering graphics.
Consumers' Awareness of the Value of e-Government in Zambia
Authors: Joseph Bwalya Kelvin , du Plessis Tanya
Published: July 2015

This study investigates whether e-Government consumers (citizens and businesses) in selected towns in Zambia are aware of the anticipated benefits of e-Government. Awareness translates into recognition of the perceived benefits and may influence adoption as posited in Davis' 1989 technology acceptance model. Using the mixed methods research approach, an investigation follows of consumers' awareness, or lack of awareness, of e-Government benefits in three Zambian towns. To date, no significant empirical study has been done investigating e-Government penetration in Zambia evidenced by consumers' awareness. This article contributes to the current debate on e-Government in Sub-Saharan Africa by means of regression modeling which shows that apart from the traditional factors, namely 'perceived ease of use' and 'perceived usefulness' that influence adoption, the Zambian context also presents additional factors that influence adoption such as culture, cost, trust, and other social dimensions or beliefs.
Nine Challenges for e-Government Action Researchers
Authors: Berger Jesper B. , Rose Jeremy
Published: July 2015

Action research is widespread in many of the background disciplines that underpin the e-Government field and is beginning to take root as a legitimate e-Government research method. Canonical Action Research (CAR) is the most widely used form of action research; however it relies on premises that can be problematic in the e-Government context. This article details some of those underlying assumptions, and shows the difficulties that result when applied to a relatively typical e-Government case study: the implementation of an advanced email system in Danish public administration. The empirical experience calls many of the standard premises into question, and these are categorised. The authors summarize the resulting experience as nine challenges for action researchers working in the e-Government field, and investigate some possible responses.
Exercise Intensity Forecasting
Authors: Billis Antonis S. , Konstantinidis Evdokimos I. , Spyrou Ioanna-Maria , Antoniou Panagiotis , Bamidis Panagiotis D.
Published: July 2015

Heart rate monitoring in physical exercise regimens is the key indicator of the workout intensity level. Day-to-day exercise variation of the heart rate reflects any progress achieved by the trainee and helps the trainer or the trainee himself to adjust the exercise work plan accordingly. However, timely decision upon changing intensity level of exercise is of crucial importance so as to maximize the health outcomes. Prediction of future heart rate values based on the trainee's history profile may prove to be a useful decision making tool in that case. The minimum set of available heart rate measurements in combination with the existence of outliers pose restrictions so to achieve reliable predictions. Time-series forecasting state-of-the-art algorithms such as Support Vector Regression and Gaussian Processes have been used in order to extract the best forecaster for these data. Heart rate data during and at the end of an exergaming intervention of 90 seniors were analyzed and compared in different cases. No single method outperformed the others. However, forecasting error was considered acceptable and all algorithms proved to be robust enough, even in the presence of outliers and irrespective the forecasting horizon, be it short or long term.
Towards Multi-Agent Health Information Systems
Authors: Claudi Andrea , Sernani Paolo , Dragoni Aldo Franco
Published: July 2015

One of the key challenges in the healthcare sector is to adapt Health Information Systems to requirements coming from changing societies. In recent years, governments and international healthcare organizations defined a series of requirements for new generation Health Information Systems: they have to preserve past investments on legacy systems, but must also integrate new technologies, include the patient among their users, and ensure that clinical information are available at all times, even in places far from where information are physically stored. This paper proposes a multi agent-oriented architecture for Health Information Systems, which uses international standards for communication and management of clinical documents. The architecture tries to effectively model a generic healthcare organization, and aims at being easily extensible and adaptable to the particularities of specific healthcare systems. The authors present two experimental scenarios to test the proposed multi-agent health information system. In the first, they show how to model a specific use case, a radiology workflow, using agents and well-known standards; in the second one the authors demonstrate how a mobile application can use the services provided by the agents to support the medical staff in an emergency situation.
Exergaming Theories
Authors: Kooiman Brian , Sheehan Dwayne D.
Published: July 2015

Until recently exergaming was seldom a topic of research. The technology that makes exergaming possible was not available to consumers. In 2006, Nintendo released the Wii gaming system. This new system allowed for interactive physical movement beyond simple hand held play. The Wii system contained hardware and software that responded to movements of the player's body through the tracking of hand held controllers and movements of the lower extremities using floor based hardware. Exergaming appears poised to continue its foray into popular culture for better or worse. After nearly a decade of research a single theory for exergames has not been suggested. Previous researchers have relied on existing theories to guide them. Over a dozen theories have been used by authors of research into exergaming. With all of this research and the many theories that have been used it is time for an examination of these theories as to their relevance for exergaming. This paper endeavors to review the existing literature to identify what theories are being used in research and to delineate what the components of each theory are. A literature review was conducted using the Trident International University online library. This library allowed access to the ProQuest Summon® Service search engine which allowed for a search of multiple libraries including Blackwell, Gale, LexisNexis, Academic, Sage, Springer, Emerald, ProQuest, Taylor & Francis, IEEE, and Project Muse resulting in a search of more than 6,800 publishers and 94,000 journal and periodical titles. There are over a dozen theories found in the literature on exergaming. This paper endeavors to examine how often each theory appears in the literature while providing a brief overview of each theory. In the final analysis, the theory chosen for exergame research will be determined by the type of study undertaken.
Mental Rotation Ability and Computer Game Experience
Authors: Gecu Zeynep , Cagiltay Kursat
Published: July 2015

Computer games, which are currently very popular among students, can affect different cognitive abilities. The purpose of the present study is to examine undergraduate students' experiences and preferences in playing computer games as well as their mental rotation abilities. A total of 163 undergraduate students participated. The results showed a significant difference between students' mental rotation abilities in terms of their experiences and preferences in playing computer games. Moreover, 2D or 3D computer game preference was shown to be dependent on gender. This study also explores the quantity of time spent by undergraduate students playing computer games.
Game Mastering in Collaborative Serious Games
Authors: Wendel Viktor , Krepp Stefan , Gutjahr Michael Oliver , Göbel Stefan , Steinmetz Ralf
Published: July 2015

In collaborative learning scenarios, the role of the instructor is vital. This aspect directly carries over to the concept of collaborative multiplayer Serious Games, where a group of players is learning together using a Serious Game. In this paper, the authors propose a novel approach for integration and support of instructors in collaborative multiplayer Serious Game scenarios. Their approach considers instructor tasks and responsibilities. It defines an interface for 3D action adventure-like games, defining relevant game information and adaptation access. It further includes a Game Mastering framework for orchestrating and adapting such games at runtime via an instructor. The concept was implemented on top of an existing Serious Game (Escape from Wilson Island) and evaluated in a user-centric study with N=40 participants (age m=23.39; SD=3.05). Results show that an instructor using our framework in a collaborative learning scenario can positively influence players' game experience (p<.05) and success towards the intended goals, as well as recognize and counteract problems at runtime.
Acceptance and Use of Game-Based Learning in Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Schmitz Birgit , Felicia Patrick , Bignami Filippo
Published: July 2015

This paper presents findings from a study carried out between May and October 2013. Based on a survey, which was developed by the MoGaBa VET project partners, the study aimed at understanding the factors that influence the way vocational instructors perceive and use game-based learning. A total of 267 trainers from eight European countries took part in the survey. Results indicated that even though educational games were regarded effective and useful with regard to motivational aspects or learning to use ICT; however, it also revealed that the integration and widespread use of mobile GBL solutions faced several challenges linked to technical, institutional and also organizational aspects.