bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid of Modified PSO and Local Search on a Multi-Robot Search System
Authors: Rastgoo Mohammad Naim , Nakisa Bahareh , Ahmad Nazri Mohd Zakree
Published: July 2015

Particle swarm optimization (PSO), a new population-based algorithm, has recently been used on multi-robot systems. Although this algorithm is applied to solve many optimization problems as well as multi-robot systems, it has some drawbacks when it is applied on multi-robot search systems to find a target in a search space containing big static obstacles. One of these defects is premature convergence. This means that one of the properties of basic PSO is that when particles are spread in a search space, as time increases they tend to converge in a small area. This shortcoming is also evident on a multi-robot search system, particularly when there are big static obstacles in the search space that prevent the robots from finding the target easily; therefore, as time increases, based on this property they converge to a small area that may not contain the target and become entrapped in that area. Another shortcoming is that basic PSO cannot guarantee the global convergence of the algorithm. In other words, initially particles explore different areas, but in some cases they are not good at exploiting promising areas, which will increase the search time.

This study proposes a method based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique on a multi-robot system to find a target in a search space containing big static obstacles. This method is not only able to overcome the premature convergence problem but also establishes an efficient balance between exploration and exploitation and guarantees global convergence, reducing the search time by combining with a local search method, such as A-star.

To validate the effectiveness and usefulness of algorithms, a simulation environment has been developed for conducting simulation-based experiments in different scenarios and for reporting experimental results. These experimental results have demonstrated that the proposed method is able to overcome the premature convergence problem and guarantee global convergence.
In Vitro AuNPs' Cytotoxicity and Their Effect on Wound Healing
Authors: Pivodová Veronika , Franková Jana , Galandáková Adéla , Ulrichová Jitka
Published: July 2015

Recently, due to their unique properties, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been used in many biological applications. However, little is known about their toxicity when they come into contact with a biological system. Based on the proposal that AuNPs can have a positive effect on wound healing, the present study investigated the influence of negatively-charged-surface AuNPs (average diameter 25–50 nm) on the viability of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK). Moreover, we evaluated the effect of AuNPs on the secretion of proteins involved in wound healing, such as interleukin-8 and – 12 (IL-8, IL-12), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast grow factor (bFGF), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The results showed that AuNPs were not toxic to NHDF and NHEK. They showed a decrease in AuNPs' production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α, as well as proteins involved in angiogenesis such as VEGF and bFGF. Thus, we suggest that AuNPs could have anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activity.
Recorregut de recerca geològica i mineralògica per la comarca de la Cerdanya: des de Puigcerdà cap a La Tor de Querol, Porte i cap a les mines de Pimorent
Authors: Mata Perelló Josep Maria , Sanz Balagué Joaquim
Published: July 2015

Recorregut realitzat el 3 d juliol del 2013. En aquesta ocasió, el recorregut de l’itinerari discorrerà, en la seva totalitat pel Sistema Pirinenc. I més concretament ho farà per tres sectors diferenciats: per una banda per l’extrem septentrional del Mantell del Cadí, (prop del seu contacte amb la Depressió de la Cerdanya); per d’altra, a través d’aquesta depressió acabada d’esmentar; i finalment, a través dels denominats Apilaments Antiformes de la Zona Axial Pirinenca (i més concretament pels sectors corresponents al Massís dels Tres Senhors). Així, el recorregut s’iniciarà dintre de la Depressió de la Cerdanya, per la qual es transitarà en el primer tram del recorregut, entre les localitats de Puigcerdà i  Enveig. Per d’altra banda, el recorregut entre la població d’Enveig i les Mines de Ferro de Pimorent (situades prop del port del mateix nom), s’endinsarà pels Apilaments Antiformes de la Zona Axial Pirinenca, els quals es troben situats al Nord de la Depressió de la Cerdanya. També cal dir que la totalitat del recorregut es farà dintre de la comarca de la Cerdanya, començant a la Baixa Cerdanya i finalitzant a l´Alta, però prop de la seva frontera amb Andorra i amb el País de Foix.
Local Application of Gentamicin in the Prophylaxis of Perineal Wound Infection After Abdominoperineal Resection: A Systematic Review
Authors: Musters G. D. , Burger J. W. A. , Buskens C. J. , Bemelman W. A. , Tanis P. J.
Published: July 2015

Background

Use of topical antibiotics to improve perineal wound healing after abdominoperineal resection (APR) is controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the impact of local application of gentamicin on perineal wound healing after APR.

Methods

The electronic databases Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library were searched in January 2015. Perineal wound outcome was categorized as infectious complications, non‐infectious complications, and primary perineal wound healing.

Results

From a total of 582 articles, eight studies published between 1988 and 2012 were included: four randomized controlled trials (RCTs), three comparative cohort studies, and one cohort study without control group. Gentamicin was administered using sponges (n = 3), beads (n = 4), and by local injection (n = 1). There was substantial heterogeneity regarding underlying disease, definition of outcome parameters and timing of perineal wound evaluation among the included studies, which precluded meta‐analysis with pooling. Regarding infectious complications, three of six evaluable studies demonstrated a positive effect of local application of gentamicin: one of four RCTs and both comparative cohort studies. Only two RCTs reported on non‐infectious complications, showing no significant impact of gentamicin sponge. All three comparative cohort studies demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of primary perineal wound healing after local application of gentamicin beads, but only one out of three evaluable RCTs did show a positive effect of gentamicin sponges.

Conclusion

Currently available evidence does not support perineal gentamicin application after APR.
Determinants of the re‐occupation and size of Grey HeronArdea cinereabreeding colonies in northern Poland
Authors: Manikowska‐Ślepowrońska Brygida , Lazarus Magdalena , Żółkoś Katarzyna , Jakubas Dariusz
Published: July 2015

Birds select habitats on the basis of structural characteristics, food and nest‐site availability or other features that affect survival and reproduction. This study investigates factors influencing colony re‐occupation, the number of nests in 2013 and changes in the numbers of nest between 2004 and 2013 in re‐occupied colonies of Grey HeronsArdea cinereain northern Poland. The effects of following features around every colony were analysed: area of hydrographic and habitat features, habitat patchiness and microscale features. Among 28 colonies occupied in 2004, 43 % were re‐occupied in 2013. Logistic regression models revealed that models with greater area of the sea coastline zone and lower area of the water body shoreline zone and also small number of pastures determined the best colony re‐occupation. Only models with an area of water bodies and a number of pastures were significant, suggesting the important influence of other non‐habitat factors on colony re‐occupation. Ordinary least square (OLS) regression analysis revealed that in re‐occupied colonies the number of nests in 2013 was higher in heronries with greater area of sea coastline zone, smaller number of forest patches and shorter distance to the nearest road. OLS regression analysis revealed that the number of nests increased between 2004 and 2013 in the colonies with greater areas covered by forests, greater number of water bodies, shorter distance to the rivers and longer distance to the sea. Our study revealed the importance of wetland habitat features to colony re‐occupation, its size and changes in size.
Understanding the impact of fire on termites in degraded tropical peatlands and the mechanisms for their ecological success: current knowledge and research needs
Authors: Neoh Kok‐Boon , Bong Lee‐Jin , Muhammad Ahmad , Itoh Masayuki , Kozan Osamu , Takematsu Yoko , Yoshimura Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2015

Peatlands have experienced large scale changes due to extensive deforestation for logging, conversion to agro‐industrial plantations, and frequent peat fires. The adverse effects of peat fires can lead to long‐term impacts on invertebrate biodiversity in the peatland ecosystem. Although the impact of fire on termite diversity in tropical grasslands and savannas has been the focus of increased attention in recent years, little is known about the effects of peat fires on termite assemblages. In this review, we present available information about the impact of human use of peatlands on termite assemblages in the Indo‐Malayan region. By synthesizing the currently available studies conducted in temperate and tropical savanna systems, we highlight the need for studies of the relationship between termites and fire‐impacted tropical peatlands. We consider the ecological and biological scenarios in fire‐impacted peatland that are likely to shape termite assemblages, and we discuss traits of the surviving genera (i.e., Coptotermes, Schedorhinotermes, and Parrhinotermes) that may contribute to their success in the harsh post‐fire peatland environment (e.g., colony fusion, colony breeding structure, subsidiary nests, and colony migration). Knowledge of these strategies is crucial for understanding the evolutionary adaptation process of termites. This review also aims to stimulate further research in using termite ecosystem services to restore the fertility of degraded fire‐impacted peatlands.
Platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome, an underdiagnosed cause of hypoxaemia: four cases and the possible underlying mechanisms
Authors: Nassif M. , Lu H. , Konings T.C. , Bouma B.J. , Vonk Noordegraaf A. , Straver B. , Blom N.A. , Clur S.A. , Backx A.P.C.M. , Groenink M. , Boekholdt S.M. , Koolbergen D.R. , Hazekamp M.G. , Mulder B.J.M. , de Winter R.J.
Published: July 2015

Cardiac platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is a position-dependent condition of dyspnoea and hypoxaemia due to right-to-left shunting. It often remains unrecognised in clinical practice, possibly because of its complex underlying pathophysiology. We present four consecutive patients with POS and patent foramen ovale (PFO) who underwent a successful percutaneous PFO closure, describe the mechanism of their POS and provide a review of the literature.
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis/screening by comprehensive molecular testing
Authors: Kurahashi Hiroki , Kato Takema , Miyazaki Jun , Nishizawa Haruki , Nishio Eiji , Furukawa Hiroshi , Miyamura Hironori , Ito Mayuko , Endo Toshiaki , Ouchi Yuya , Inagaki Hidehito , Fujii Takuma
Published: July 2015

Although embryo screening by preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) has become the standard technique for the treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss in couples with a balanced gross chromosomal rearrangement, the implantation and pregnancy rates of PGD using conventional fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) remain suboptimal. Comprehensive molecular testing, such as array comparative genomic hybridization and next‐generation sequencing, can improve these rates, but amplification bias in the whole genome amplification method remains an obstacle to accurate diagnosis. Recent advances in amplification procedures combined with improvements in the microarray platform and analytical method have overcome the amplification bias, and the data accuracy of the comprehensive PGD method has reached the level of clinical laboratory testing. Currently, comprehensive PGD is also applied to recurrent pregnancy loss due to recurrent fetal aneuploidy or infertility with recurrent implantation failure, known as preimplantation genetic screening. However, there are still numerous problems to be solved, including misdiagnosis due to somatic mosaicism, cell cycle‐related background noise, and difficulty in diagnosis of polyploidy. The technology for comprehensive PGD also requires further improvement.
Metagenomic Surveys of Gut Microbiota
Authors: Mandal Rahul Shubhra , Saha Sudipto , Das Santasabuj
Published: July 2015

Gut microbiota of higher vertebrates is host-specific. The number and diversity of the organisms residing within the gut ecosystem are defined by physiological and environmental factors, such as host genotype, habitat, and diet. Recently, culture-independent sequencing techniques have added a new dimension to the study of gut microbiota and the challenge to analyze the large volume of sequencing data is increasingly addressed by the development of novel computational tools and methods. Interestingly, gut microbiota maintains a constant relative abundance at operational taxonomic unit (OTU) levels and altered bacterial abundance has been associated with complex diseases such as symptomatic atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and colorectal cancer. Therefore, the study of gut microbial population has emerged as an important field of research in order to ultimately achieve better health. In addition, there is a spontaneous, non-linear, and dynamic interaction among different bacterial species residing in the gut. Thus, predicting the influence of perturbed microbe–microbe interaction network on health can aid in developing novel therapeutics. Here, we summarize the population abundance of gut microbiota and its variation in different clinical states, computational tools available to analyze the pyrosequencing data, and gut microbe–microbe interaction networks.
Relationship between Driving-Violation Behaviours and Risk Perception in Motorcycle Accidents
Authors: Cheng Andy S.K. , Liu Karen P.Y. , Tulliani Nikki
Published: July 2015

Objective/Background

Riding motorcycles is a popular means of community mobility in many Asian and developing countries. However, the potential harm associated with accidents is greater for motorcyclists and their passengers than for other vehicle users. The primary aims of this study were to explore the relationship between driving-violation behaviours and perceptions of the risk associated with potential accident causes, and to assess the contribution of these factors to active involvement in accidents among Chinese motorcyclists.

Methods

A total of 621 Chinese motorcyclists were recruited. All were asked to fill in a specially developed questionnaire to assess their driving-violation behaviours and perceptions of potential causes of motorcycle accidents.

Results

A relationship was identified between driving-violation behaviours and risk perceptions. Furthermore, both were significant predictors of involvement in motorcycle accidents. The motorcyclists involved in accidents demonstrated more aggressive and ordinary driving-violation behaviours. In addition, these motorcyclists exhibited lower perceptions of risk from both driving and environmental factors. Instead, these motorcyclists were more likely to identify risk in terms of belief-related causes.

Conclusion

This study could assist occupational-therapy practitioners involved in driving rehabilitation and training to identify strategies to deal with drivers’ violation behaviours and risk perception. It could also provide evidence-based recommendations for drivers’ education, driving-safety campaigns, or even licensing policies.
Bilateral facial nerve palsy as the sole initial symptom of syphilis: a case report
Authors: Ting Chi-Hsin , Wang Chih-Wei , Lee Jiunn-Tay , Peng Giia-Sheun , Yang Fu-Chi
Published: July 2015

Bilateral facial nerve palsy is an exceedingly rare condition and presents a diagnostic challenge. Bilateral facial nerve palsy may result from cranial trauma, congenital abnormalities, inflammation, infiltration, or infection, but is rarely associated with syphilis. Here, we report a case of syphilis in which bilateral facial nerve palsy was the only initial symptom.

A 22-year-old man presented at our emergency department with isolated bilateral facial nerve palsy. Results for initial serum and cerebrospinal fluid examinations were normal, including the rapid plasma reagin titer. One week later, the patient developed rashes on the torso, palms, and soles. At this time, a high serum rapid plasma reagin titer was detected, and the Treponema pallidum particle agglutination test was positive. Once the tests were confirmed, the patient admitted to a history of unprotected sexual behavior. Penicillin G treatment was effective, and a 3-month follow-up examination demonstrated a complete recovery.

We recommend that syphilis be considered when diagnosing sexually experienced young men presenting with bilateral facial nerve palsy, even in the absence of skin manifestations. Failure to recognize facial signs of syphilis could result in inappropriate management, affecting the patient’s clinical outcome.
Developing a Revised Typology of Child Homicide
Authors: Biron Dean , Reynald Danielle
Published: July 2015

The problem of child homicide continues to be of major concern to researchers, policy makers and child welfare advocates everywhere. In particular, there is debate around the fundamental issues of defining and classifying such deaths. Here, a revised typology of child homicide is developed, by way of an update of the categories of fatal assault first delineated in Lawrence (2004). Taking into consideration significant advances in the field over the past decade, the typology is based primarily upon the developmental stages of the child, with the concept of homicide as the extreme manifestation of aggregate violence and maltreatment also central. The problem is further placed into the context of (1) child death research and review, it being argued that child homicide should ideally be studied as a sub-set of the entire cohort of child deaths for a particular jurisdiction, and (2) child maltreatment generally, in that wherever practicable child homicide research should consider fatalities in conjunction with other serious or near-fatal cases of abuse and neglect.
Use of Digital Pens for Rapid Epidemiologic Data Collection During a Foodborne Outbreak Investigation
Authors: Mathewson Abigail A. , Daly Elizabeth R. , Cavallo Steffany J. , Alic Adnela
Published: July 2015

Objective

Public health investigations require rapid assessment, response, and initiation of control measures. In 2012, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services used digital pens to rapidly acquire epidemiologic data during a gastrointestinal illness outbreak.

Methods

Menus were obtained and a standard questionnaire was administered to exposed persons using digital pens. Questionnaire data were downloaded into an electronic file for analysis.

Results

Sixty-nine (74%) of 93 exposed persons completed a questionnaire. Of 6389 data entries made on digital paper, 218 (3%) required correction; of these, 201 (92%) involved a free-form variable and 17 (8%) involved a check-box variable. Digital pens saved an estimated 5 to 6 hours of data-entry time.

Conclusions

This outbreak provided an opportunity to assess the value of digital pens for decreasing data-entry burden and allowing more timely data analysis in an emergent setting. Depending on the size of the outbreak and complexity of the survey, there is likely a threshold when use of digital pens would provide a clear benefit to outbreak response. As new technology becomes available for use in emergency preparedness settings, public health agencies must continuously review and update response plans and evaluate investigation tools to ensure timely disease control and response activities. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:349–353)
SIGNS, CLUES AND TRACES: ANTICIPATION IN ANCIENT CHINESE POLITICAL AND MILITARY TEXTS
Authors: Galvany Albert
Published: July 2015

In a considerable number of the military texts of ancient China the success of any manoeuvre demands adaptation to constantly changing circumstances and anticipation of the enemy's moves. Hence, idealized descriptions of the figures of the commander and the sage frequently overlap. In both cases, these are individuals who are able to move forward in time and predict the nature of events before they take definitive form. However, these skills of prognostication are the result of attentive scrutiny of the most inconspicuous aspects of reality. By analyzing military episodes and biographical material referring to some of the strategists of the time, this article attempts to demonstrate that the military commander can be seen as a master of signs and that, accordingly, the art of warfare can also be represented as requiring semiotic aptitudes and techniques which enable accurate interpretation of hints that will determine the outcome of the battle.
TAOTIE, DRAGON, PHOENIX, AND FARMER: A HIGHLY DECORATEDQINEXCAVATED FROM JIULIANDUN
Authors: Yang Yuanzheng
Published: July 2015

The mythical origins of the Chineseqinhave been forged by ancient literature ever since the age of Confucius, nevertheless, very little is known about the morphology of the ancientqinand its embodied symbolism. This article, by analyzing a most recently discovered ancientqinfound in a fourth-centuryb.c.e.tomb in Jiuliandun, Zaoyang city, Hubei province, in 2002, will explore the relief carving and lacquered drawings found on the instrument itself and their symbolic significance as a representation of the worldview and philosophical state of mind of the Warring States period. I will suggest that aqincontemporaneous to Confucius and played by him looks distinctly different from the version produced by the fertile imagination of the medieval Chinese; instead, it was divided into five registers, and it is this segmented subdivision which defines the ancientqinand differentiates it fundamentally from its classical counterpart. Strikingly, the symbolic depictions in which it was clad represent not only the fertile imagination of the Chu aristocracy, but also include portrayal of the more menial tasks of the ordinary Chu farmer and herdsman as he proceeds through the cycle of the agricultural year, and thus provide the modern scholar with an extraordinarily vivid insight into contemporary Chu life.
A Golden Combination: The Formation of Monetary Policy in Sweden after World War I
Authors: ERIKSSON MARTIN
Published: July 2015

From a European perspective, what sets apart the Swedish return to the gold standard at prewar parity in 1924 is not only that it occurred before that of every other nation, including the United Kingdom, but also that it could be made by politicians without interference from the central bank. Against this background, it is argued that this decision may be related to the combined impact of two political positions that affected policy making in a crucial way. In a domestic policy context in which minority governments needed support from other parties to realize their political ambitions, the Social Democrats and Conservatives both developed separate positions in favor of an early return of the gold standard during the first part of the 1920s. Because these parties together formed a majority in both chambers of Parliament, a stable political support for a return of the gold standard could thereby emerge.
Mixing sets, positive entropy homeomorphisms and non-Suslinean continua
Authors: MOURON CHRISTOPHER
Published: July 2015

Let $\{h_{n}\}_{n\in \mathbb{N}}$ be a sequence of self maps on a metric space $X$. We say that $Q\subset X$ is a mixing set on $\{h_{n}\}_{n\in \mathbb{N}}$ if for every $V\subset Q$ such that $\text{int}_{Q}(V)\not =\emptyset$ and every $\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}>0$ there exists $N=N(V,\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})$ such that $\text{d}_{H}(Q,h_{n}(V))<\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}$ for all $n\geq N$, where $\text{d}_{H}$ is the Hausdorff metric. It is shown that if $Q$ is a non-degenerate mixing set for a sequence of homeomorphisms on a continuum, then the continuum must be non-Suslinean. This is generalized to the notion of a $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}$-mixing set. As a corollary, it is shown that a continuum must be non-Suslinean in order to admit a positive entropy homeomorphism.
Convergence of ergodic averages for many group rotations
Authors: BUCZOLICH ZOLTÁN , KESZTHELYI GABRIELLA
Published: July 2015

Suppose that$G$is a compact Abelian topological group,$m$is the Haar measure on$G$and$f:G\rightarrow \mathbb{R}$is a measurable function. Given$(n_{k})$, a strictly monotone increasing sequence of integers, we consider the non-conventional ergodic/Birkhoff averages$$\begin{eqnarray}M_{N}^{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}}f(x)=\frac{1}{N+1}\mathop{\sum }_{k=0}^{N}f(x+n_{k}\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}).\end{eqnarray}$$The$f$-rotation set is$$\begin{eqnarray}\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}_{f}=\{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}\in G:M_{N}^{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}}f(x)\text{ converges for }m\text{ almost every }x\text{ as }N\rightarrow \infty \}.\end{eqnarray}$$

We prove that if$G$is a compact locally connected Abelian group and$f:G\rightarrow \mathbb{R}$is a measurable function then from$m(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}_{f})>0$it follows that$f\in L^{1}(G)$. A similar result is established for ordinary Birkhoff averages if$G=Z_{p}$, the group of$p$-adic integers. However, if the dual group,$\widehat{G}$, contains ‘infinitely many multiple torsion’ then such results do not hold if one considers non-conventional Birkhoff averages along ergodic sequences. What really matters in our results is the boundedness of the tail,$f(x+n_{k}\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC})/k$,$k=1,\ldots ,$for almost every$x$for many$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}$; hence, some of our theorems are stated by using instead of$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}_{f}$slightly larger sets, denoted by$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}_{f,b}$.
Weak mixing properties for non-singular actions
Authors: GLASNER ELI , WEISS BENJAMIN
Published: July 2015

For a general group$G$we consider various weak mixing properties of non-singular actions. In the case where the action is actually measure preserving all these properties coincide, and our purpose here is to check which implications persist in the non-singular case.
(Uniform) convergence of twisted ergodic averages
Authors: EISNER TANJA , KRAUSE BEN
Published: July 2015

Let$T$be an ergodic measure-preserving transformation on a non-atomic probability space$(X,\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F4},\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$. We prove uniform extensions of the Wiener–Wintner theorem in two settings: for averages involving weights coming from Hardy field functions $p$,$$\begin{eqnarray}\displaystyle \bigg\{\frac{1}{N}\mathop{\sum }_{n\leq N}e(p(n))T^{n}f(x)\bigg\}; & & \displaystyle \nonumber\end{eqnarray}$$and for ‘twisted’ polynomial ergodic averages,$$\begin{eqnarray}\displaystyle \bigg\{\frac{1}{N}\mathop{\sum }_{n\leq N}e(n\unicode[STIX]{x1D703})T^{P(n)}f(x)\bigg\} & & \displaystyle \nonumber\end{eqnarray}$$for certain classes of badly approximable$\unicode[STIX]{x1D703}\in [0,1]$. We also give an elementary proof that the above twisted polynomial averages converge pointwise$\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}$-almost everywhere for$f\in L^{p}(X),p>1,$and arbitrary$\unicode[STIX]{x1D703}\in [0,1]$.
Nilpotent dynamics in dimension one: structure and smoothness
Authors: PARKHE KIRAN
Published: July 2015

Let $M$ be a connected $1$-manifold, and let $G$ be a finitely-generated nilpotent group of homeomorphisms of $M$. Our main result is that one can find a collection $\{I_{i,j},M_{i,j}\}$ of open disjoint intervals with dense union in $M$, such that the intervals are permuted by the action of $G$, and the restriction of the action to any $I_{i,j}$ is trivial, while the restriction of the action to any $M_{i,j}$ is minimal and abelian. It is a classical result that if $G$ is a finitely-generated, torsion-free nilpotent group, then there exist faithful continuous actions of $G$ on $M$. Farb and Franks [Groups of homeomorphisms of one-manifolds, III: Nilpotent subgroups. Ergod. Th. & Dynam. Sys.23 (2003), 1467–1484] showed that for such $G$, there always exists a faithful $C^{1}$ action on $M$. As an application of our main result, we show that every continuous action of $G$ on $M$ can be conjugated to a $C^{1+\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}}$ action for any $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}<1/d(G)$, where $d(G)$ is the degree of polynomial growth of $G$.
Impact of Mandatory Public Reporting of Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections on Blood Culture and Antibiotic Utilization in Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: Flett Kelly B. , Ozonoff Al , Graham Dionne A. , Sandora Thomas J. , Priebe Gregory P.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

As mandatory public reporting of healthcare-associated infections increases, there is concern that clinicians could attempt to decrease rates by avoiding the diagnosis of reportable infections.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether blood culture and antibiotic utilization changed after mandatory public reporting of central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).

DESIGN

Interrupted time-series of blood culture and antibiotic rates before and after state-specific implementation of mandatory public reporting. We analyzed data from pediatric and neonatal intensive care units (ICUs) at 17 children’s hospitals that contributed to the Pediatric Health Information System administrative database. We used multivariable regression with generalized linear mixed-effects models to determine adjusted rate ratios (ARRs) after implementation of mandatory public reporting. We conducted subgroup analysis on patients with central venous catheters. To assess temporal trends, we separately analyzed data from 4 pediatric hospitals in states without mandatory public reporting.

RESULTS

There was no significant effect of mandatory public reporting on rates of blood culture (pediatric ICU ARR, 1.03 [95% CI, 0.82–1.28]; neonatal ICU ARR, 1.06 [0.85–1.33]) or antibiotic utilization (pediatric ICU ARR, 0.86 [0.72–1.04]; neonatal ICU ARR, 1.09 [0.87–1.35]). Results were similar in the subgroup of patients with central venous catheter codes. Hospitals with and without mandatory public reporting experienced small decreases in blood culture and antibiotic use across the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Mandatory public reporting of central line–associated bloodstream infection did not impact blood culture and antibiotic utilization, suggesting that clinicians have not shifted their practice in an attempt to detect fewer infections.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;36(8):878–885
Sharp Decrease of Reported Occupational Blood and Body Fluid Exposures in French Hospitals, 2003–2012: Results of the French National Network Survey, AES-RAISIN
Authors: Floret N. , Ali-Brandmeyer O. , L’Hériteau F. , Bervas C. , Barquins-Guichard S. , Pelissier G. , Abiteboul D. , Parneix P. , Bouvet E. , Rabaud C. ,   Working Group AES-RAISIN
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE

To assess the temporal trend of reported occupational blood and body fluid exposures (BBFE) in French healthcare facilities.

METHOD

Retrospective follow-up of reported BBFE in French healthcare facilities on a voluntary basis from 2003 to 2012 with a focus on those enrolled every year from 2008 to 2012 (stable cohort 2008–12).

FINDINGS

Reported BBFE incidence rate per 100 beds decreased from 7.5% in 2003 to 6.3% in 2012 (minus 16%). Percutaneous injuries were the most frequent reported BBFE (84.0% in 2003 and 79.1% in 2012). Compliance with glove use (59.1% in 2003 to 67.0% in 2012) and sharps-disposal container accessibility (68.1% in 2003 to 73.4% in 2012) have both increased. A significant drop in preventable BBFE was observed (48.3% in 2003 to 30.9% in 2012). Finally, the use of safety-engineered devices increased from 2008 to 2012.

CONCLUSION

Of the 415,209 hospital beds in France, 26,158 BBFE could have occurred in France in 2012, compared with 35,364 BBFE in 2003. Healthcare personnel safety has been sharply improved during the past 10 years in France.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(8):963–968
Risk Factors for Recurrence of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Carriage: Case-Control Study
Authors: Bart Yossi , Paul Mical , Eluk Orna , Geffen Yuval , Rabino Galit , Hussein Khetam
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

The natural history of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) carriage and the timing and procedures required to safely presume a CRE-free status are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To determine risk factors for recurrence of CRE among presumed CRE-free patients.

METHODS

Case-control study including CRE carriers in whom CRE carriage presumably ended, following at least 2 negative screening samples on separate days. Recurrence of CRE carriage was identified through clinical samples and repeated rectal screening in subsequent admissions to any healthcare facility in Israel. Patients with CRE recurrence (cases) were compared with recurrence-free patients (controls). The duration of follow-up was 1 year for all surviving patients.

RESULTS

Included were 276 prior CRE carriers who were declared CRE-free. Thirty-six persons (13%) experienced recurrence of CRE carriage within a year after presumed eradication. Factors significantly associated with CRE recurrence on multivariable analysis were the time in months between the last positive CRE sample and presumed eradication (odds ratio, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.89–0.99] per month), presence of foreign bodies at the time of presumed eradication (4.6 [1.64–12.85]), and recurrent admissions to healthcare facilities during follow-up (3.15 [1.05–9.47]). The rate of CRE recurrence was 25% (11/44) when the carrier status was presumed to be eradicated 6 months after the last known CRE-positive sample, compared with 7.5% (10/134) if presumed to be eradicated after 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that the CRE-carrier status be maintained for at least 1 year following the last positive sample. Screening of all prior CRE carriers regardless of current carriage status is advised.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(8):936–941
Visual hallucinations in the elderly: a case series and discussion of aetiology and treatment
Authors: Concannon C. , Reynolds P. , Meaney A. M.
Published: July 2015

Background

Visual hallucinations are a common phenomenon, among the older adult population. They can be functional or organic in aetiology. However, new onset visual hallucinations in this population are strongly suggestive of organic brain disease. Visual impairment, cerebrovascular disease and Parkinson’s disease are three causes of visual hallucinations, considered in this case series. The evidence in the literature, for the treatment of these conditions is scant at best. There is a paucity of randomised controlled trials available concerning possible therapeutic options.

Aims/Methods

We describe three case reports of visual hallucinations due to diverse underlying aetiologies. We then discuss the aetiologies of visual hallucinations in general and then in these particular cases and finally include results of a literature search examining the available evidence for any therapeutic options proposed.

Results

Our three cases have different, underlying aetiologies. One case is of Charles Bonnet syndrome. The next is of visual hallucinations associated with vascular dementia. The final case is of visual hallucinations associated with Parkinson’s disease. The first two cases are of particular interest due to the efficacy of Amisulpride in both clinical scenarios.

Conclusions

Visual hallucinations are a common phenomenon in the elderly population

They can be due to a myriad of underlying causes. There are a number of neurochemical factors and neuroanatomical structures implicated. The evidence for psychopharmacological interventions is scanty. Randomised controlled trials are lacking in the area. An interesting finding in this case series, was of the clinical utility of Amisulpiride. Given this agent’s unique psychopharmacological profile it is possible that it may be efficacious in other cases of visual hallucinations associated with particular neurochemical factors.
Asymmetries in the wake of a submarine model in pitch
Authors: Ashok A. , Van Buren T. , Smits A. J.
Published: July 2015

Detailed velocity measurements in the wake of a body of revolution are reported for pitch angles up to $12^{\circ }$, over an unprecedented range of Reynolds numbers ($2.4\times 10^{6}\leqslant \mathit{Re}_{L}\leqslant 30\times 10^{6}$). The body of revolution, an idealized submarine shape (DARPA SUBOFF), is mounted using a support that mimics a semi-infinite sail. The wake measurements at all pitch angles and Reynolds numbers reveal the presence of a pair of streamwise vortices of unequal strengths which tend to rotate around each other as they evolve downstream. Various attempts to perturb the upstream conditions on the body had no significant impact on the relative strength of the vortices. In addition, two different models, tested in two different wind tunnels, show similar asymmetries, and we propose that wake asymmetry appears to be a robust feature of this flow, a result previously only seen for sharp-nosed bodies at high angles of attack. It is also shown that the wake behaviour for $x/D>5$, in terms of the streamwise mean velocity and turbulence intensity distributions, appears to become invariant with Reynolds number for $\mathit{Re}_{L}>4.8\times 10^{6}$.
A numerical study of a weakly stratified turbulent wake
Authors: Redford J. A. , Lund T. S. , Coleman G. N.
Published: July 2015

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) of a time-developing turbulent wake evolving in a stably stratified background is presented. A large initial Froude number is chosen to allow the wake to become fully turbulent and axisymmetric before stratification affects the spreading rate of the mean defect. Turbulence statistics are formed by averaging over the homogeneous streamwise direction of a domain that is larger than earlier stratified-wake simulations in order to reduce the statistical uncertainty. The DNS results are used to cast light on the mechanisms that lead to the various states of this flow – namely the three-dimensional (essentially unstratified), non-equilibrium (or ‘wake-collapse’) and quasi-two-dimensional (or ‘two-component’) regimes, previously observed for wakes embedded in both weakly and strongly stratified backgrounds. For this relatively high-initial-Reynolds- and Froude-number simulation, we find that the signature reduction in the rate of decay of the maximum mean defect velocity during the wake-collapse regime is due to buoyancy-induced alterations of the turbulence structure, which weaken and redistribute the Reynolds shear stresses whose gradients appear in the streamwise mean momentum equation. The change in the rate of decay of the turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) observed during the wake-collapse regime (which occurs well after the mean velocity decay reduction begins) is not caused by transfer of turbulent gravitational potential energy to TKE, as has been previously suggested. The results instead reveal that the reduction in TKE decay – which for this flow, with its relatively weak internal waves, eventually leads to TKE growth, heralding the arrival of the two-component regime – is caused by an increase in the rate of TKE production associated with the wake structure becoming increasingly two-dimensional, such that the lateral Reynolds shear stress,$-\overline{u^{\prime }v^{\prime }}$, becomes dominant. The present results are also compared with those of previous simulations at different Froude and Reynolds numbers, and whose initial conditions contain different turbulence structures. This comparison confirms a strong degree  of commonality in the late-wake behaviour, which lends support to the hypothesis that all wakes in stably stratified environments achieve a universal state in the final stages of decay.
Further insights into the interareal connectivity of a cortical network
Authors: DYBALLA LUCIANO , BARBOSA VALMIR C.
Published: July 2015

Over the past years, network science has proven invaluable as a means to better understand many of the processes taking place in the brain. Recently, interareal connectivity data of the macaque cortex was made available with great richness of detail. We explore new aspects of this dataset, such as a correlation between connection weights and cortical hierarchy. We also look at the link-community structure that emerges from the data to uncover the major communication pathways in the network, and moreover investigate its reciprocal connections, showing that they share similar properties. A question arising from these analyses is that of determining the role of weak connections in the unfolding of cortical processes. Though we leave this question largely unanswered, we have found that weak connections pervade the entire cortex while giving rise to no community-like structure. We conjecture that whatever function they come to be found to perform will likely involve some form of cortex-wide communication or control.
Symmetry of Lie algebras associated with (ε, δ)-Freudenthal-Kantor triple system
Authors: Kamiya Noriaki , Okubo Susumu
Published: July 2015

Symmetry groups of Lie algebras and superalgebras constructed from (∈, δ)-Freudenthal-Kantor triple systems have been studied. In particular, for a special (ε, ε)-Freudenthal–Kantor triple, it is the SL(2) group. Also, the relationship between two constructions of Lie algebras from structurable algebras has been investigated.
On the Canonical Ideals of One-Dimensional Cohen–Macaulay Local Rings
Authors: Elias Juan
Published: July 2015

In this paper we consider the problem of explicitly finding canonical ideals of one-dimensional Cohen–Macaulay local rings. We show that Gorenstein ideals contained in a high power of the maximal ideal are canonical ideals. In the codimension 2 case, from a Hilbert–Burch resolution, we show how to construct canonical ideals of curve singularities. Finally, we translate the problem of the analytic classification of curve singularities to the classification of local Artin Gorenstein rings with suitable length.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CHILDREN’S HEIGHT AND BODY MASS INDEX IN LITHUANIA, 1990–2008
Authors: Suchomlinov Andrej , Tutkuviene Janina
Published: July 2015

The aim of the study was to reveal the ethnic and socioeconomic factors associated with height and body mass index (BMI) of children during the period of political and social transition in Lithuania in 1990–2008. Data were derived from the personal health records of 1491 children (762 boys and 729 girls) born in 1990 in Vilnius city and region. Height and BMI from birth up to the age of 18 years were investigated. Children were divided into groups according to their ethnicity, place of residence, father’s and mother’s occupation and birth order. Height and BMI were compared between the groups; a Bonferroni correction was applied. A multiple linear regression model was used to measure the effects of the independent variables on height and BMI. Girls living in Vilnius city were significantly taller in later life at the ages of 8 and 11 years. Sons of mothers employed as office workers appeared to be significantly taller at the ages of 7, 12, 14 and 15 years compared with the sons of labourers. First-born girls were taller at the age of 7 years than later-born girls of the same age (124.48±5.11 cm and 122.92±5.14 cm, respectively,p<0.001). Later-born children of both sexes had higher BMIs at birth compared with first-borns; however, first-born girls had higher BMIs at the age of 11 years compared with their later-born peers (17.78±2.87 kg/m² and 16.79±2.14 kg/m² respectively,p<0.001). In the multiple linear regression model, the five tested independent variables explained only up to 18% of total variability. Boys were more sensitive to ethnic and socioeconomic factors: ethnicity appeared to be a significant predictor of boys’ height at the age of 5 years (p<0.001), while birth order (p<0.001) predicted boys’ BMI at birth. In general, ethnicity, place of residence, father’s and mother’s occupation and birth order were not associated with children’s height and BMI in most age groups.
Technical nuances of commonly used vascularised flaps for skull base reconstruction
Authors: Tang I P , Carrau R L , Otto B A , Prevedello D M , Kasemsiri P , Ditzel L , Muto J , Kapucu B , Kirsch C
Published: July 2015

Background and Methods:

Reconstruction with a vascularised flap provides the most reliable outcome, with post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak rates of less than 5 per cent. This article aims to review and summarise the critical technical aspects of the vascularised flaps most commonly used for skull base reconstruction.

Results:

Vascularised flaps are classified as intranasal or extranasal. The intranasal group includes the Hadad–Bassagaisteguy nasoseptal flap, the Caicedo reverse nasoseptal flap, the nasoseptal rescue flap, the posteriorly or anteriorly based lateral wall flaps, and the middle turbinate flap. Extranasal flaps include the transfrontal pericranial and transpterygoid temporoparietal flaps.

Conclusion:

The Hadad–Bassagaisteguy nasoseptal flap is overwhelmingly favoured for reconstructing extensive defects of anterior, middle and posterior cranial base. Its pertinent technical features are described. However, it is essential to master the skills required for the various extranasal or regional vascularised flaps because each can offer a reconstructive alternative for specific patients, especially when open approaches are needed and/or intranasal vascularised flaps are not feasible.
Stranding and mortality of pelagic crustaceans in the western Indian Ocean
Authors: Romanov Evgeny V. , Potier Michel , Anderson R. Charles , Quod Jean Pascal , Ménard Frédéric , Sattar Shahaama A. , Hogarth Peter
Published: July 2015

Recent observations of unusual mass stranding and mortality of two Indian Ocean crustacean species, the swimming crabCharybdis smithiiand the mantis shrimpNatosquilla investigatoris, are documented and analysed. Strandings ofC. smithiiwere observed for the first time in the equatorial Indian Ocean, the main area of its pelagic distribution. Strandings of mantis shrimps are reported from throughout the western Indian Ocean; occurrences of mass stranding in the Maldives Archipelago mark an extension of the known range ofN. investigatorisinto the central Indian Ocean. Mortality of crabs probably represents a ‘catastrophic event’. In contrast, mantis shrimp strandings, which were always associated with a sudden increase of its biomass (‘blooms’), are apparently post-reproduction mortalities indicating potential semelparity for this species.