bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence of antibodies to poliovirus in individuals living in Portugal, 2002
Authors: Pires de Miranda Marta , Carmo Gomes M , Rebelo de Andrade H
Published: October 2017

The last case of poliomyelitis in Portugal caused by indigenous wild poliovirus occurred in 1986 and the country was declared polio-free in 2002. High levels of immunity must be maintained to prevent the importation of wild poliovirus. In this study, we determined the immunity against poliomyelitis of the Portuguese population in order to identify possible immunity gaps. A representative sample of 1,133 individuals older than two years residing in mainland Portugal was studied. Logistical difficulties regarding quick sample transportation precluded the Portuguese islands (Madeira and the Azores) from this study. Sera were collected in 2002 from individuals attending health clinics throughout the 18 districts of Portugal. Levels of neutralizing antibodies against poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3 were determined and a titre of >= 1:8 was defined as indicative of protected immunity. Results were expressed in international units. The antibody prevalence and the geometric mean antibody concentration (GMAC) was 91.6% (GMAC: 2.96 IU/ml), 94.2% (GMAC: 5.03 IU/ml) and 75% (GMAC: 0.53 IU/ml) for poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3, respectively. For poliovirus types 1 and 2, antibody prevalence was close to or above 90% in the majority of age groups. For poliovirus type 3, antibody prevalence was below 80% in teenagers and young adults. Our study shows that the Portuguese are well protected against poliovirus types 1 and 2. For poliovirus type 3, the suboptimal antibody levels observed in teenagers and young adults suggest the need for a booster dose to minimise the risk of wild poliovirus importation.
Cluster of Salmonella Enteritidis in Sweden 2005-2006 – suspected source: almonds
Authors: Ledet Muller L , Hjertqvist M , Payne Lara , Pettersson H , Olsson A , Plym-Forshell L , Andersson Y
Published: October 2017

Previous outbreaks of Salmonella Enteritidis in Canada and the United States have been associated with the consumption of almonds. From December 2005 to August 2006 a cluster of 15 cases of Salmonella Enteritidis NST 3+ was reported in Sweden. A case-control study was performed to identify the source of transmission. Three controls per case were randomly selected, matched on sex, age and place of residence. Cases and controls were interviewed by telephone and data were analysed with a conditional logistic model. The results showed that eating almonds was a risk factor for infection with Salmonella Enteritidis NST3+ (unmatched odds ratio 45.0, 95% confidence interval: 4.8-421.8). No Salmonella was isolated from almonds tested in the study. In conclusion, almonds could be the source of the outbreak and should be considered when investigating outbreaks as well as sporadic cases of Salmonella Enteritidis.
Pertussis: A cluster of linked cases in the United Kingdom, 2006
Authors: Weerasinghe C , Fernandes A , Bagaria J
Published: October 2017

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Tuberculosis in a Yorkshire prison: case report
Authors: Ahmed S , Newton Autilia , Allison T
Published: October 2017

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Monitoring the potential introduction of the Swedish Chlamydia trachomatis variant (swCT) in the Netherlands
Authors: Morré S A , Catsburg A , de Boer I M , Spaargaren J , de Vries H JC , Schirm J , Savelkoul P HM , van Steenbergen J , Swaan C M
Published: October 2017

This report describes the actions of public health experts in cooperation with specialists in sexually transmitted diseases (STD), epidemiologists and (molecular) microbiologists to investigate the possible introduction of the swCT variant in the Netherlands:
Clusters of travel-associated Legionnaires’ disease in Italy, Spain and France, July 2002 - June 2006
Authors: Rota M C , Cano Portero R , Che D , Caporali M R , Hernando V , Campese C
Published: October 2017

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Why a burden of disease study?
Authors: Jakab Z
Published: October 2017

From the time I was appointed as Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in 2005, I and the ECDC Governing and Advisory Bodies faced the task of tackling the 46 diseases under mandatory notification in the European Union (EU), as well as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), avian influenza and West Nile virus.
The burden of infectious diseases in Europe: a pilot study
Authors: van Lier E A , Havelaar A H , Nanda A
Published: October 2017

The main objectives of this pilot study were to test the potential use of the disease burden concept in the field of infectious diseases, including data quality and availability; to recommend future studies; and to stimulate a debate. The disease burden of seven infectious diseases (influenza, measles, HIV, campylobacteriosis, infection with enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli, salmonellosis and tuberculosis) in Europe was estimated by calculating Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), a composite measure that attempts to combine mortality, incidence and sequelae, taking duration and severity into account. The results show that the relative burden of diseases as measured by DALYs differs from that only measured by incidence or mortality. Several limitations regarding data availability and quality have been identified, resulting in an underestimation of the true burden of disease in this pilot. Notwithstanding these, HIV-infection, tuberculosis (TB) and influenza are estimated to cause the highest burden in Europe among the selected diseases. The burden of foodborne diseases (campylobacteriosis, infection with enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli and salmonellosis) and in particular of measles is lower. A consideration of the relative comparison of burden between diseases can be useful when tackling the difficult, sensitive but necessary task of identifying priority actions. A low burden stresses the need for continued support for prevention and control whereas a high burden indicates the need for additional interventions. Following this pilot project, a generalised burden of disease study for infectious diseases in Europe is recommended. Such a study would benefit from an approach that identifies and combines several methods of investigation, including epidemiological modelling, and it should be done in collaboration with other international efforts in this field.
DIPNET – establishment of a dedicated surveillance network for diphtheria in Europe
Authors: Neal S , Efstratiou A , on behalf of DIPNET
Published: October 2017

The ninth international meeting of the European Laboratory Working Group on Diphtheria (ELWGD) and the first annual meeting of the Diphtheria Surveillance Network (DIPNET) was held in Vouliagmeni, Greece, in November 2006. The recognition of DIPNET as an established Dedicated Surveillance Network (DSN) by the European Commission (EC) was announced, with the specific objective ""to establish a Pan-European network of expertise for the prevention of diphtheria and other related infections"". At the meeting, DIPNET participants from the European Union (EU) Member States and associated countries as well as collaborators from countries beyond EU presented the current situation concerning the clinical, epidemiological and microbiological aspects of diphtheria and related infections. Issues highlighted included the need for improving surveillance systems, supporting laboratory diagnostics globally, and undertaking screening and seroepidemiological studies to sustain diphtheria control in the WHO European Region and beyond.
International outbreak of Salmonella Oranienburg, October-December 2001, Part 1: Germany
Authors: Werber D , Ammon A , Dreesman J , Feil F , van Treeck U , Fell G , Hauri A M , Tschäpe H , Roggentin Peter , Weise E , Bräunig J
Published: October 2017

In mid October 2001, the Nationales Referenzzentrum für Salmonellen und andere bakterielle Enteritiserreger (national reference laboratory (NRL) for salmonella and other bacterial pathogens) in Hamburg, Germany, informed the Robert Koch-Institut (RKI) about an increase of Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serotype Oranienburg isolates received in October
International outbreak of Salmonella Oranienburg, October-December 2001, Part 2: Denmark
Authors: Ethelberg S
Published: October 2017

Between 18 October and the end of 2001, 16 cases of Salmonella Oranienburg were reported in Denmark. One patient probably acquired the infection in Africa; the remaining 15 had not been travelling before onset of disease. The patients were mostly elderly; several of them had a serious underlying illness. In contrast, only two cases had been reported in 2001 before 18 October.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – update
Authors: de Benoist A  C , Boccia D
Published: October 2017

On 15 March 2003, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), an atypical pneumonia of unknown aetiology, is now “a worldwide health threat” (1). As of 19 March, 264 suspect and probable cases have been reported to WHO since 1 February 2003 (2). The surveillance case definitions have been modified (table).
Compulsory notification of HIV infection within a new system for anonymous reporting of notifiable diseases in France
Authors: Semaille C
Published: October 2017

The implementation of compulsory notification of HIV in France has been the subject of debate for many years, mainly due to concern for the human rights of patients with HIV, with only AIDS cases being notified. An anonymous reporting system for HIV infection was scheduled to begin in 1999, but this was delayed due to opposition from organisations demanding measures to strengthen patient anonymity and data protection. The new system is the product of extensive collaboration between the Institut de Veille Sanitaire (InVS), patient associations, civil rights groups, health care professionals (microbiologists, clinicians, epidemiologists), the ministry of health, and expert committees (on safety, ethics), all of whom are represented on a steering committee. The new arrangements, which reinforce patient anonymity and data protection, meets the requirements of the parties involved, and has been authorised by the National Commission for data processing and liberty (CNIL), the national authority for the protection of personal data collected on individuals.
Dengue fever in Cairns, Australia – update
Authors: Lawrence J
Published: October 2017

There are now 85 confirmed cases of dengue fever in Cairns as of 19 March 2003. No cases have been reported outside of Cairns in this outbreak. [Rosalie Spencer, Queensland Health – personal communication, 19 March 2003] The areas currently affected are Parramatta Park, Manunda, Cairns North, Yorkeys Knob, and Trinity Beach (1).
European Food Safety Agency proposes increase in cattle age for removal of SRM
Authors: Editorial team Collective
Published: October 2017

The age at which specified risk materials are removed from cattle slaughtered for food was set at 12 months in all European Union member states (except for the United Kingdom) in 2000
Resurgence of pertussis in northern Portugal: two severe cases in very young children
Authors: Gonçalves G , Machado E , Gouveia E , Santos M. A. , Castro L , Ricardo A , Gomes G
Published: October 2017

Between December 2004 and March 2005, two cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in unvaccinated infants, both under two months of age
Outbreak of rubella in the Madrid region, Spain, 2005
Authors: Red de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de la Comunidad de Madrid Collective
Published: October 2017

There was an unexpected increase in the number of confirmed rubella cases notified in the autonomous region of Madrid during the first weeks of 2005.
Young people’s knowledge of sexually transmitted infections and condom use surveyed in England
Authors: Editorial team Collective
Published: October 2017

Many young people in England are not using condoms consistently or correctly during sexual encounters. This is a result of a survey of 1373 young people aged 16-21 at 21 schools and colleges at four sites in England
ECDC invites applications for further positions
Authors: Editorial team Collective
Published: October 2017

A further position is being advertised at the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in Stockholm.
Increase in viral meningitis cases reported in France, summer 2005
Authors: Antona D , Chomel J  J , Enterovirus Surveillance Laboratory Network Collective
Published: October 2017

Since the end of May 2005, an increase in the number of viral meningitis cases has been observed, unevenly distributed throughout mainland France
Large E. coli O157 outbreak in Ireland, October-November 2005
Authors: Multi-agency Outbreak Control Team Collective
Published: October 2017

Between 15 October and 30 November 2005, 18 cases of Escherichia coli O157, phage type 32, verotoxin 2 positive were identified in a small rural area of midwest Ireland.
HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in the United Kingdom: An update 2005
Authors: De Souza-Thomas L , Dougan S , Emmett L , James L , UK collaborative group for HIV and STI surveillance Collective
Published: October 2017

The overall picture for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United Kingdom
What is epidemic intelligence, and how is it being improved in Europe?
Authors: Kaiser R , Coulombier D , Baldari M , Morgan D , Paquet C
Published: October 2017

‘Epidemic intelligence’ can be defined as all the activities related to early identification of potential health threats, their verification, assessment and investigation in order to recommend public health measures to control them.
E-alert 27 January: Chikungunya outbreak in Réunion, a French ‘overseas département’
Authors: Quatresous I , the Investigation Group Collective
Published: October 2017

The island of Réunion (population 750 000) in the Indian Ocean is experiencing an extensive outbreak of Chikungunya fever,
Measles outbreak in Germany: over 1000 cases now reported in Nordrhein Westfalen
Authors: van Treeck U
Published: October 2017

The reported number of measles cases linked to the current outbreak in the federal state (Land) of Nordrhein Westfalen, in the west of Germany, has now risen to over 1000
Human salmonellosis in travellers is highly correlated to the prevalence of salmonella in laying hen flocks
Authors: de Jong B , Ekdahl K
Published: October 2017

Comparison of the recent European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) report on the prevalence of salmonella in laying hen flocks
Outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease among soldiers in Skwierzyna, Poland, March 2006
Authors: Grecki M , Bienias M
Published: October 2017

Four cases of invasive meningococcal disease were reported between 22 and 24 March
Human trichinellosis acquired from wild boar meat: a continuing parasitic risk in France
Authors: De Bruyne A , Ancelle T , Vallée I , Boireau P , Dupouy-Camet J
Published: October 2017

Since the beginning of 2006, the French Trichinella National Reference Centre has been notified of three incidents of trichinellosis due to the consumption of wild boar meat
Avian influenza A/(H7N2) outbreak in the United Kingdom
Authors: Editorial team Collective
Published: October 2017

Several cases of influenza-like-illness (ILI) and/or conjunctivitis in humans have been linked to an outbreak of avian influenza in poultry at a smallholding near Corwen in northern Wales in the United Kingdom (UK).
An outbreak of Verocytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O26:H11 caused by beef sausage, Denmark 2007
Authors: Ethelberg S , Smith B , Torpdahl M , Lisby M , Boel J , Jensen T , Mølbak K
Published: October 2017

An outbreak of Verocytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) O26:H11 occurred in Denmark from February to April 2007. The outbreak was detected at Statens Serum Institut (Danish National Institute of Health, SSI) on 9 March by routine PFGE typing of VTEC isolates collected as part of the laboratory surveillance system.
Case report on fatal human rabies infection in Hamburg, Germany, March 2007
Authors: Schmiedel S , Panning M , Lohse A , Kreymann K G , Gerloff C , Burchard G , Drosten C
Published: October 2017

In this article we describe the clinical presentation of a fatal case of rabies in a German tourist returning from Morocco.
Rabies is an acute viral encephalomyelitis that is almost invariably fatal.
Recent changes in tuberculosis control and BCG vaccination policy in France
Authors: Lévy-Bruhl D , Paty M  C , Antoine D , Bessette D
Published: October 2017

On 11 July 2007, the French Minister of Health launched the National Tuberculosis Control Program and a new policy on Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination.
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction annual report 2007: positive assessment of HIV in IDUs though hepatitis C still very high
Authors: Vicente J , Wiessing L
Published: October 2017

The 2007 annual report of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) highlights an encouraging development in the reported numbers of newly diagnosed HIV infections among injecting drug users (IDUs) in the European Union (EU), but still very high levels of hepatitis C infection.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Ogundare Ezra Olatunde , Olatunya Oladele Simeon , Ajite Adebukola Abidemi , Oluwayemi Isaac Oludare , Fatunla Odunayo Adebukola , Omoniyi Evelyn Omosede , Odiase Oboite , Ige Joshua Taye
Published: October 2017

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) refers to a diaphragmatic defect that allows herniation of some abdominal viscera into the thoracic cavity. We present a male neonate with CDH and bilateral cryptorchidism managed in our facility with limited expertise for cardiothoracic surgery. We highlight some of the challenges in the management.
Neurodevelopmental Outcome of High Risk Babies at One Year of Age Born in a Tertiary Centre
Authors: Shrestha Merina , Bajracharya Luna , Shrestha Laxman
Published: October 2017

Introduction: With increasing survival of high risk babies, children with different developmental disabilities have emerged as a challenge for the baby, family as well as for physicians. With limited awareness and resources, follow-up and interventions for these babies are difficult. The study was carried out to find out the development of high risk babies in different developmental domains at one year of age.Material and Methods: NICU graduates who visited high risk clinic at one year of age were assessed. ASQ-3 was used to screen development. Children with major congenital anomalies and syndromes were excluded from the study.Results: Out of 28 high risk babies, about 29% had global delay. Those babies who had seizure during neonatal period could not score even in single item of ASQ-3. Conclusion: All high risk babies are at risk of developing delay hence should be followed up regularly. Timely early intervention needs to be started to minimize delay.
Neonatal Outcome in Early and Late Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Misra Saheli , Das Niloy Kumar
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus in pregnancy is quite common and the prevalence is higher in ethnic communities. This study aims to look at neonatal complications and NICU admissions occurring in early and late onset gestational diabetes for better monitoring and management of neonatal complications.Material and Methods: This is a prospective observational study in a neonatal intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in Kolkata over a year. Neonates born to mothers with gestational diabetes were admitted for observation in NICU. Their demographics and complications were noted. Maternal details were collected from maternal records.Results: Gestational diabetes was noted in 45.8% in early pregnancy. 33.3% mothers were managed with insulin. 75% delivered by Ceasarean section. Preterm delivery noted in 23.6%. Complication were 60.60% in early onset gestational diabetes which was significantly greater (p<0.05). Hyperbilirubinaemia and hypoglycaemia were the commonest complication. Macrosomia and congenital complications were seen in early onset GDM.Conclusion: Strict monitoring and intervention is necessary in early gestational diabetes to prevent neonatal complications.
Effect of Helminth Infestationin Children Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Authors: Orji Maria-Lauretta Chito , Onyire Nnamdi Benson , Ibe Bede C. , Ibekwe Roland
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Infection by human immunodeficiency virus results in immune destruction, while studies among the Ethiopian immigrants in Israel showed that chronic helminthiasis induces immune dysregulation. With destruction of CD4+ cell and consequently progression to AIDS, the host may be more susceptible to invading organisms such as helminths. This study was aimed at determining the effect of immune state on the prevalence and intensity of helminth infection in HIV infected children in two hospitals in Abakaliki.Material and Methods: It was a cross sectional study that involved consecutive recruitment of 84 confirmed HIV infected children attending the ART clinic. Stool analysis for subjects was done, using the Kato-Katz technique. Blood sample for estimation of CD4 cell count was carried outusing flow cytometer from the HIV positive subjects.Results: A total of 84 subjects were recruited during the study period, majority were males (58.3%). Male to female ratio was 1.4:1. The age range of participants was 2-17 years, while mean age of subjects infected with helminthiasis was 6.10± 3.34 year. A significant number of subjects in advanced and severe immunological stages had helminthiasis (χ2 =12.49, p=0.001). There was however no significant relationship between intensity of helminthiasis and immunologic stages of subjects.Conclusion: The study suggests that immunodeficiency state may increase the susceptibility of helminth infection in HIV infected children. Hence children with HIV/AIDS may benefit from routine testing and/or de-worming of helminth infection.
Tonsillectomy as Treatment for Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, and Cervical Adenitis Syndrome
Authors: Taniguchi Kazuto , Sakai Tatsuya , Ichiyama Yasunobu , Yamamoto Hirokazu , Uemichi Kazuyasu
Published: October 2017

Although the etiology of periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome remain unclear, various treatments have been reported. We here describe two thought-provoking cases. Our experience suggests that tonsillectomy is effective against PFAPA syndrome, and can safely be performed in patients three years and older. We recommend that tonsillectomy be considered as early as possible in patients with PFAPA syndrome.
Parental Perceptions Influencing the Utilization of Early Intervention Services in Children with Developmental Delay
Authors: Chauhan Sandhya , Prasad Prem Lochan , Rai Preeti Lata , Khurana Bhawana
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Early intervention services play a pivotal role in the management of children with developmental delays but the utilization of these is quite low. This study aims to explore the influence of parental perceptions on the utilization of these services.Material and Methods: This is a hospital based qualitative study of 31 parents having children with developmental delay in 2 or more domains who presented for the first time for diagnostic evaluation. A semi-structured questionnaire was used in the interviews, exploring various aspects of parental perceptions regarding the child’s disability and the services required for them.Results: Apart from factors like educational and socioeconomic status of parents, accessibility of the services there are other factors involved at the level of parents which influence their readiness and motivation to utilize a service, viz understanding of the total spectrum of a child’s disability by parents and how well their child care needs are fulfilled.Conclusion: The parents’ long term motivation for utilizing the services depends upon how well their idea of a futuristic goal for their child is being addressed.
Parametric Study on the Element Size Effect for Optimal Topologies
Authors: Tauzowski Piotr , Lógó János , Pintér Erika
Published: October 2017

Topology optimization is complex engineering design tool. It needs intensive mathematical, mechanical and computing tools to perform the required design. During its hundred years of history it has become clear that the non-unique solution property of the method is affected by the material parameters (Poisson ratio) and the ways of the discretization. The aim of the paper is to investigate the influence of parameter changes to optimal design property in tasks with great number of degrees of freedom. The parametric study includes influence of material parameter (Poisson ratio) as well as the size of the ground elements which are commonly applied during the discretization. Increasing the size of the ground elements while the total number of the finite elements is constant, the computational time is significantly reduced. Therefore the study on changing accuracy versus ground element resolution may be important factor in choosing ground element size. In addition to it the effective properties of arrangements of the strong and weak materials (black and white elements) in a checkerboard fashion are also investigated. The Michell-type problem is investigated by the minimization of the weight of the structure subjected to a compliance constraint.
Support Vector Machine with Wavelet Decomposition Method for Fault Diagnosis of Tapered Roller Bearings by Modelling Manufacturing Defects
Authors: Deák Krisztián , Kocsis Imre
Published: October 2017

Tapered roller element bearings are generally applied in machines and transmission gearboxes. In manufacturing outer ring, inner ring and the rollers usually suffer damages. It is a challenging task to reveal and classify the defects. This paper presents an efficient method for fault classification by support vector machines. The faults on the bearing parts created by laser beam machine have similar shape and surface topography as the grinding faults from the manufacturing process. Vibration signature is collected by sensitive transducer and high resolution data acquisition unit. A test-rig is constructed to model the circumstances of the operation of the built-in tapered roller bearings. Moreover, test-rig is planned with the aim to mitigate the harmful vibration components from the environment that influence the precision of the vibration measurement. Feature extraction is executed by wavelet decomposition. Decomposition level is determined by FFT considering the structural frequencies of the bearing elements. The proper wavelet is selected by the Energy-to-Shannon Entropy criteria from Daubechies and Symlet wavelet families. The fault classification is done by R Cran software using support vector machine classifiers. Time domain parameters of the vibration signature such as kurtosis, skewness, crest factor and range are provided to the classifier. Classification rates are high enough to ensure the efficiency of the method in all cases in the study.
Molecular Serotype-Specific Identification of Non-type b Haemophilus influenzae by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Takano Chika , Seki Mitsuko , Kim Dong Wook , Kilgore Paul E. , Fuwa Kazumasa , Takahashi Koji , Inazaki Toshiaki , Hayakawa Satoshi
Published: October 2017

Over the past four decades, the incidence of meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae in children has decreased due to widespread vaccination against H. influenzae type b (Hib). The incidence of invasive diseases due to H. influenzae types not included in the vaccines, however, has increased. At present, there are a limited number of diagnostics available to detect non-type b H. influenzae. To address this issue, we developed a rapid, simple, and cost-effective method for detecting serotypes of H. influenzae. We designed LAMP primer sets based on published sequences for H. influenzae capsular types a, c, d, e, and f. The assay was evaluated to determine test reactivity, specificity, and sensitivity. To support its use in patients with suspected meningitis, we evaluated the detection limit of the non-Hib serotype specific LAMP assay using bacterial genomic DNA-spiked cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens. The reactivity and specificity of the LAMP assays were confirmed using six serotypes and non-typeable H. influenzae strains, plus eight strains of other Haemophilus species and non-Haemophilus genera. The detection limits of the LAMP assay for capsular types a, c, d, e, and f were 102, 102, 102, 103, and 10 copies per reaction, while those of the PCR assay were 104, 104, 103, 103, and 104 genome copies per reaction, respectively. Using DNA-spiked CSF specimens, the detection limit of the LAMP assay was equivalent to that using purified DNA as the template. However, the detection limit of the PCR was reduced from 103 to 104 genome copies per reaction for serotype d and from 103 to 105 genome copies per reaction for serotype e. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a serotype-specific identification assay for H. influenzae using the LAMP method. Our results suggest the potential of LAMP methods for patients with suspected meningitis in resource-limited laboratories or public health surveillance systems.
Variable Selection in Time Series Forecasting Using Random Forests
Authors: Tyralis Hristos , Papacharalampous Georgia
Published: October 2017

Time series forecasting using machine learning algorithms has gained popularity recently. Random forest is a machine learning algorithm implemented in time series forecasting; however, most of its forecasting properties have remained unexplored. Here we focus on assessing the performance of random forests in one-step forecasting using two large datasets of short time series with the aim to suggest an optimal set of predictor variables. Furthermore, we compare its performance to benchmarking methods. The first dataset is composed by 16,000 simulated time series from a variety of Autoregressive Fractionally Integrated Moving Average (ARFIMA) models. The second dataset consists of 135 mean annual temperature time series. The highest predictive performance of RF is observed when using a low number of recent lagged predictor variables. This outcome could be useful in relevant future applications, with the prospect to achieve higher predictive accuracy.
Application of Improved Hilbert–Huang Transform to Partial Discharge Defect Model Recognition of Power Cables
Authors: Gu FengChang , Chen HungCheng , Chao MengHung
Published: October 2017

As a key concern in a power system, a deteriorated insulation is likely to bring about a partial discharge phenomenon and hence degrades the power supply quality. Thus, a partial discharge test has been turned into an approach of significance to protect a power system from an unexpected malfunction. An improved Hilbert–Huang Transformation (HHT) is proposed in this work as an effective way to address the issues of an optimal shifting number and illusive components, both suffered in a conventional HHT approach, and is then applied to a defect mode recognition for a partial discharge signal analysis in the case of a cross-linked polyethylene insulated power cable. As the first step, the partial discharge signal detected is converted through the proposed improved HHT to a time-frequency-energy 3D spectrum. Then as the second step, the fractal features contained therein are extracted by way of a fractal theory, and in the end the defect modes are recognized as intended by use of an extension method.
Development of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for the Measurement of Turbulence in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer
Authors: Witte Brandon , Singler Robert , Bailey Sean
Published: October 2017

This paper describes the components and usage of an unmanned aerial vehicle developed for measuring turbulence in the atmospheric boundary layer. A method of computing the time-dependent wind speed from a moving velocity sensor data is provided. The physical system built to implement this method using a five-hole probe velocity sensor is described along with the approach used to combine data from the different on-board sensors to allow for extraction of the wind speed as a function of time and position. The approach is demonstrated using data from three flights of two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) measuring the lower atmospheric boundary layer during transition from a stable to convective state. Several quantities are presented and show the potential for extracting a range of atmospheric boundary layer statistics.
Restoration of DAP Kinase Tumor Suppressor Function: A Therapeutic Strategy to Selectively Induce Apoptosis in Cancer Cells Using Immunokinase Fusion Proteins
Authors: Tur Mehmet , Daramola Adebukola , Gattenlöhner Stefan , Herling Marco , Chetty Shivan , Barth Stefan
Published: October 2017

Targeted cancer immunotherapy is designed to selectively eliminate tumor cells without harming the surrounding healthy tissues. The death-associated protein kinases (DAPk) are a family of proapoptotic proteins that play a vital role in the regulation of cellular process and have been identified as positive mediators of apoptosis via extrinsic and intrinsic death-regulating signaling pathways. Tumor suppressor activities have been shown for DAPk1 and DAPk2 and they are downregulated in e.g., Hodgkin’s (HL) and B cell lymphoma (CLL), respectively. Here, we review a targeted therapeutic approach which involves reconstitution of DAPks by the generation of immunokinase fusion proteins. These recombinant proteins consist of a disease-specific ligand fused to a modified version of DAPk1 or DAPk2. HL was targeted via CD30 and B-CLL via CD22 cell surface antigens.
Variations of Climate-Growth Response of Major Conifers at Upper Distributional Limits in Shika Snow Mountain, Northwestern Yunnan Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Yun , Yin Dingcai , Sun Mei , Wang Hang , Tian Kun , Xiao Derong , Zhang Weiguo
Published: October 2017

Improved understanding of climate-growth relationships of multiple species is fundamental to understanding and predicting the response of forest growth to future climate change. Forests are mainly composed of conifers in Northwestern Yunnan Plateau, but variations of growth response to climate conditions among the species are not well understood. To detect the growth response of multiple species to climate change, we developed residual chronologies of four major conifers, i.e., George’s fir (Abies georgei Orr), Likiang spruce (Picea likiangensis (Franch.) E.Pritz.), Gaoshan pine (Pinus densata Mast.) and Chinese larch (Larix potaninii Batalin) at the upper distributional limits in Shika Snow Mountain. Using the dendroclimatology method, we analyzed correlations between the residual chronologies and climate variables. The results showed that conifer radial growth was influenced by both temperature and precipitation in Shika Snow Mountain. Previous November temperature, previous July temperature, and current May precipitation were the common climatic factors that had consistent influences on radial growth of the four species. Temperature in the previous post-growing season (September–October) and moisture conditions in the current growing season (June–August) were the common climatic factors that had divergent impacts on the radial growth of the four species. Based on the predictions of climate models and our understanding of the growth response of four species to climate variables, we may understand the growth response to climate change at the species level. It is difficult to predict future forest growth in the study area, since future climate change might cause both increases and decreases for the four species and indirect effects of climate change on forests should be considered.
Carbon Dioxide Fluxes and Their Environmental Controls in a Riparian Forest within the Hyper-Arid Region of Northwest China
Authors: Ma Xiaohong , Feng Qi , Yu Tengfei , Su Yonghong , Deo Ravinesh
Published: October 2017

Hyper-arid regions are expected to undergo climatic change, but only a few research works have so far been conducted on the dynamics of carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes and their consequent responses to various bioclimatic factors, which is mainly attributable to a limited set of flux observations. In this study, the CO2 fluxes exchanged between the forest and the atmosphere have been measured continuously by the eddy covariance approach from June 2013 to December 2016 in a riparian forest, which is a primary body of natural oases located within the lower reaches of inland rivers in China. The present results revealed that the climatic conditions characterized by relatively high mean air temperatures (Ta) with fluctuating annual precipitation (P) during the prescribed study periods were comparable to the historical mean value. The annual net ecosystem productivity (NEP) ranged from approximately 278 g C m−2 year−1 to 427 g C m−2 year−1, with a mean value of 334 g C m−2 year−1. The mean annual ecosystem respiration (Re) and the gross primary productivity (GPP) were found to be 558 and 892 g C m−2 year−1, respectively. The results also ascertained that the high inter-annual variations in NEP were attributable to Re rather than to GPP, and this result was driven primarily by Ta and the groundwater depth under similar eco-physiological processes. In addition, the CO2 fluxes were also strongly correlated with the soil temperature and photosynthetically active radiation for the present study site. In conclusion, the desert riparian forest is a considerably significant carbon sink, particularly in the hyper-arid regions.
Housing as a Determinant of Tongan Children’s Health: Innovative Methodology Using Wearable Cameras
Authors: Robinson Andrew , Hulme-Moir Sarah , Puloka Viliami , Smith Moira , Stanley James , Signal Louise
Published: October 2017

Housing is a significant determinant of health, particularly in developing countries such as Tonga. Currently, very little is known about the quality of the housing in Tonga, as is the case with many developing countries, nor about the interaction between children and the home environment. This study aimed to identify the nature and extent of health risk factors and behaviours in Tongan houses from a child’s perspective. An innovative methodology was used, Kids’Cam Tonga. Seventy-two Class 6 children (10 to 13-year-olds) were randomly selected from 12 randomly selected schools in Tongatapu, the main island. Each participating child wore a wearable camera on lanyards around their neck. The device automatically took wide-angled, 136° images of the child’s perspective every seven seconds. The children were instructed to wear the camera all day from Friday morning to Sunday evening, inclusive. The analysis showed that the majority of Tongan children in the study live in houses that have structural deficiencies and hazards, including water damage (42%), mould (36%), and electrical (89%) and burn risk factors (28%). The findings suggest that improvements to the housing stock may reduce the associated health burden and increase buildings’ resilience to natural hazards. A collaborative approach between communities, community leaders, government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is urgently needed. This research methodology may be of value to other developing countries.
Survey on Tuberculosis Patients in Rural Areas in China: Tracing the Role of Stigma in Psychological Distress
Authors: Xu Minlan , Markström Urban , Lyu Juncheng , Xu Lingzhong
Published: October 2017

Depressed patients had risks of non-adherence to medication, which brought a big challenge for the control of tuberculosis (TB). The stigma associated with TB may be the reason for distress. This study aimed to assess the psychological distress among TB patients living in rural areas in China and to further explore the relation of experienced stigma to distress. This study was a cross-sectional study with multi-stage randomized sampling for recruiting TB patients. Data was collected by the use of interviewer-led questionnaires. A total of 342 eligible and accessible TB patients being treated at home were included in the survey. Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Experienced stigma was measured using a developed nine-item stigma questionnaire. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to analyze the variables related to distress, respectively. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to present the strength of the associations. Finally, the prediction of logistic model was assessed in form of the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the ROC curve (AUC). According to the referred cut-off point from K10, this study revealed that 65.2% (223/342) of the participants were categorized as having psychological distress. Both the stigma questionnaire and the K10 were proven to be reliable and valid in measurement. Further analysis found that experienced stigma and illness severity were significant variables to psychological distress in the model of logistic regression. The model was assessed well in predicting distress by use of experienced stigma and illness severity in form of ROC and AUC. Rural TB patients had a high prevalence of psychological distress. Experience of stigma played a significant role in psychological distress. To move the barrier of stigma from the surroundings could be a good strategy in reducing distress for the patients and TB controlling for public health management.
Environmental Influences on Physical Activity among Rural Adults in Montana, United States: Views from Built Environment Audits, Resident Focus Groups, and Key Informant Interviews
Authors: Lo Brian , Morgan Emily , Folta Sara , Graham Meredith , Paul Lynn , Nelson Miriam , Jew Nicolette , Moffat Laurel , Seguin Rebecca
Published: October 2017

Rural populations in the United States have lower physical activity levels and are at a higher risk of being overweight and suffering from obesity than their urban counterparts. This paper aimed to understand the environmental factors that influence physical activity among rural adults in Montana. Eight built environment audits, 15 resident focus groups, and 24 key informant interviews were conducted between August and December 2014. Themes were triangulated and summarized into five categories of environmental factors: built, social, organizational, policy, and natural environments. Although the existence of active living features was documented by environmental audits, residents and key informants agreed that additional indoor recreation facilities and more well-maintained and conveniently located options were needed. Residents and key informants also agreed on the importance of age-specific, well-promoted, and structured physical activity programs, offered in socially supportive environments, as facilitators to physical activity. Key informants, however, noted that funding constraints and limited political will were barriers to developing these opportunities. Since building new recreational facilities and structures to support active transportation pose resource challenges, especially for rural communities, our results suggest that enhancing existing features, making small improvements, and involving stakeholders in the city planning process would be more fruitful to build momentum towards larger changes.
Spot-Bonding and Full-Bonding Techniques for Fiber Reinforced Composite (FRC) and Metallic Retainers
Authors: Scribante Andrea , Gandini Paola , Tessera Paola , Vallittu Pekka , Lassila Lippo , Sfondrini Maria
Published: October 2017

Fiber reinforced Composite (FRC) retainers have been introduced as an aesthetic alternative to conventional metallic splints, but present high rigidity. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate bending and fracture loads of FRC splints bonded with conventional full-coverage of the FRC with a composite compared with an experimental bonding technique with a partial (spot-) resin composite cover. Stainless steel rectangular flat, stainless steel round, and FRC retainers were tested at 0.2 and 0.3 mm deflections and at a maximum load. Both at 0.2 and 0.3 mm deflections, the lowest load required to bend the retainer was recorded for spot-bonded stainless steel flat and round wires and for spot-bonded FRCs, and no significant differences were identified among them. Higher force levels were reported for full-bonded metallic flat and round splints and the highest loads were recorded for full-bonded FRCs. At the maximum load, no significant differences were reported among spot- and full-bonded metallic splints and spot-bonded FRCs. The highest loads were reported for full bonded FRCs. The significant decrease in the rigidity of spot-bonded FRC splints if compared with full-bonded retainers suggests further tests in order to propose this technique for clinical use, as they allow physiologic tooth movement, thus presumably reducing the risk of ankylosis.
Global Hotspots of Conflict Risk between Food Security and Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: Molotoks Amy , Kuhnert Matthias , Dawson Terence , Smith Pete
Published: October 2017

The global challenges of food security and biodiversity are rarely addressed together, though recently there has been an increasing awareness that the two issues are closely related. The majority of land available for agriculture is already used for food production, but despite the productivity gains, one in nine people worldwide are classified as food insecure. There is an increasing risk that addressing food insecurity through methods such as agricultural expansion or intensification could lead to biodiversity loss through destruction of habitats important for conservation. This analysis uses various indicators of biodiversity at a global scale, including biodiversity hotspots, total species richness, and threatened and endemic species richness. Areas where high biodiversity coexists with high food insecurity or a high risk of agricultural expansion, were examined and found to mainly occur in the tropics, with Madagascar standing out in particular. The areas identified are especially at risk of biodiversity loss, and so are global priorities for further research and for policy development to address food insecurity and biodiversity loss together.
Study on the Shielding Effectiveness of an Arc Thermal Metal Spraying Method against an Electromagnetic Pulse
Authors: Lee Han-Seung , Choe Hong-Bok , Baek In-Young , Singh Jitendra , Ismail Mohamed
Published: October 2017

An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) explodes in real-time and causes critical damage within a short period to not only electric devices, but also to national infrastructures. In terms of EMP shielding rooms, metal plate has been used due to its excellent shielding effectiveness (SE). However, it has difficulties in manufacturing, as the fabrication of welded parts of metal plates and the cost of construction are non-economical. The objective of this study is to examine the applicability of the arc thermal metal spraying (ATMS) method as a new EMP shielding method to replace metal plate. The experimental parameters, metal types (Cu, Zn-Al), and coating thickness (100–700 μm) used for the ATMS method were considered. As an experiment, a SE test against an EMP in the range of 103 to 1010 Hz was conducted. Results showed that the ATMS coating with Zn-Al had similar shielding performance in comparison with metal plate. In conclusion, the ATMS method is judged to have a high possibility of actual application as a new EMP shielding material.