bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensuring Competition in the Telecommunication Business Environment in Ghana
Authors: Armah Stephen E.
Published: April 2014

This chapter investigates the possibility of anti-competitive behavior in the Ghana telecommunication sector and determines exploratorily if there is a need for the enactment of anti-trust laws to protect social welfare. The chapter first evaluates the available relevant literature on the subject, assesses the current situation, evaluates the current market structure, and identifies how market power is affecting consumer welfare. Reviews of available literature and secondary data were conducted to establish the relevant conditions for the applicability of such a law. Next, primary data was collected from stakeholders to solicit views on the impact of market structure on pricing and the need for anti-trust laws. Results suggest the Ghana telecommunication sector is open to “cartelization,” which can result in different forms of price collusion despite the existence of a state regulatory body (The National Communications Authority, NCA). The study highlights the Ghanaian consumers' susceptibility to unfair marketing practices due to the possible absence of pertinent anti-trust legislation.
Knowledge Sharing between Local Government and Rural Remote Communities in Tanzania
Authors: Philips Chantal , Mtega Wulystan P. , Vainio-Mattila Arja
Published: April 2014

Social, economic, and cultural factors are known to influence the knowledge sharing process between governments and rural communities. There is evidence that the success of ICT for development partnerships depends on a broadly identified “local context” and involvement of local communities. This chapter describes a survey of citizens about their information needs and modes of reception as well as a pilot study of Village Information Officers. Utilizing new technologies such as mobile phone communication and community radio broadcasting in local languages is identified by remote and rural study and survey participants as a valuable alternative to traditional government methods for communicating with citizens. Rural people identified gaps in knowledge related to health, education, and economic activities. These three broad categories of knowledge are important for effective poverty reduction efforts of government. Due to the poor reach of newspapers or other forms of print and broadcast media, face-to-face communication and cell phones were mentioned by more than 60% of the respondents in Kilosa district as techniques used in accessing government information. The positive results achieved by Village Information Officers in responding to gaps in knowledge regarding government services and support for development efforts has led to further demand for replication of the pilot study to support pastoralists, emergency preparedness, and wildlife conservation.
Robotics Education in Africa
Authors: Soudi Marwa
Published: April 2014

The world is approaching a third industrial revolution. This is forcefully reflected in the phenomenal advancement in the robotics field. In order for Africa to compete in this new era, a change in education policies must take place in the African educational system. In this chapter, African initiatives in science, technology, and innovation are presented as initial core projects. International initiatives as well Egypt's experiences in the robotics field are presented for benchmarking for interested African countries. The focus of the chapter is how to build a knowledge-based society supporting educational ecosystem.
Constructing the Knowledge Society
Authors: Wengang Li , Yulai Chen , Jia Guo
Published: April 2014

Since the Reform and Opening up in the late 1970s, China has been seeking an innovation-driven knowledge society. In the past decade, the central government and local governments took effective measures to quicken China's steps towards a knowledge society. In the recent 18th National Congress of the CPC, reform and innovation was highly emphasized to give fresh impetus to knowledge society building. Within the context of increasing globalization and Africa-China long-lasting friendship and cooperation, China and African countries can learn from each other in knowledge society construction. As the second largest economy in the world, China is playing an increasing role in knowledge society construction in Africa. Can Africa learn from China's experiences? This chapter provides some answers to this query.
A subelliptic Bourgain–Brezis inequality
Authors: Wang Yi , Yung Po-Lam
Published: April 2014

We prove an approximation lemma on (stratified) homogeneous groups that allows one to approximate a function in the non-isotropic Sobolev space

\dot{NL}^{1,Q}

by

L^{\infty}

functions, generalizing a result of Bourgain–Brezis. We then use this to obtain a Gagliardo–Nirenberg inequality for

\bar \partial_b

on the Heisenberg group

\mathbb{H}^n

.
The abelianization of the Johnson kernel
Authors: Dimca Alexandru , Hain Richard , Papadima Stefan
Published: April 2014

We prove that the first complex homology of the Johnson subgroup of the Torelli group

T_g

is a non-trivial, unipotent

T_g

-module for all

g\ge 4

and give an explicit presentation of it as a

\operatorname{Sym}_\bullet H_1(T_g,\mathbb C)

-module when

g\ge 6

. We do this by proving that, for a finitely generated group

G

satisfying an assumption close to formality, the triviality of the restricted characteristic variety implies that the first homology of its Johnson kernel is a nilpotent module over the corresponding Laurent polynomial ring, isomorphic to the infinitesimal Alexander invariant of the associated graded Lie algebra of

G

. In this setup, we also obtain a precise nilpotence test.
Isolated Itching of the Genitals
Authors: Pomares Christelle , Marty Pierre , Delaunay Pascal
Published: April 2014

A 38-year-old man, returned from Ivory Coast 2 months ago and presented with a 3-month history of pruritus exclusively on the scrotum. Itching was continuous during the day and no pruritus was described in his wife and son. Clinical examination of the genitals revealed several nodules on the scrotum, a chancrous lesion was seen on the penis, and multiple excoriations were noted. Dermoscopy exam with a dermatoscope of the whole body was performed and no papules, nodules, or burrow were found. Microscopic examination of several superficial skin samples obtained by scraping in the peri-genital area revealed one adult of Sarcoptes scabiei. The patient and his relatives were successfully treated with Ivermectin 200 μg/kg with a second dose 2 weeks later. Very rare cases are described on localized scabies (scalp, feet) and they mainly occurred in an immunocompromised patient unlike this patient who does not have any immunosuppression.
Promoting Quality Care for Recently Resettled Populations: Curriculum Development for Internal Medicine Residents
Authors: MacNamara Marina , Wilhelm April , Dy Geolani , Andiman Sarah , Landau Carol , Poshkus Michael , Feller Edward
Published: April 2014

Background

Residents report they lack preparation for caring for an increasingly diverse US population. In response, a variety of curricula have been developed to integrate cultural competency into medical training programs. To date, none of these curricula has specifically addressed members of recently resettled populations.

Methods

A preliminary assessment was conducted among internal medicine (IM) residents at 1 program (N  =  147). Based on 2 conceptual frameworks and the survey results, a pilot curriculum was developed and integrated into the interns' ambulatory block education within the general IM track (n  =  9). It included (1) online information made available to all hospital staff; (2) 4 interactive didactic sessions; and (3) increased exposure to newly arrived patients. The curriculum was qualitatively evaluated through 2 focus groups.

Results

The preliminary assessment was completed by 101 of 147 residents (69%), with 61% of respondents indicating they felt that they received less than adequate education in this area. Eight of the 9 interns exposed to the new curriculum participated in the focus groups. Overall, respondents reported they thought patient care had improved for recently resettled populations and across their patient panels after exposure to the curriculum.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that an intervention that included didactics and enhanced exposure to a diverse population improved IM interns' perceptions of care for all patients, including recently settled individuals.
Use of Health Care Services by Pediatrics Residents: A CORNET Study
Authors: Simeonsson Kristina , Olsson John , Dhepyasuwan Nui , Drutz Jan , Benun Jacques , Serwint Janet R.
Published: April 2014

Background

The personal health practices of residents and their access to health care has not been well explored. Suboptimal personal health care habits and practices among many physicians may evolve during residency.

Objective

To identify the nature and extent of pediatrics resident health care use and the factors that restrict or facilitate use.

Methods

A web-based survey was sent to pediatrics residents from 19 continuity practice sites enrolled in the nationwide Continuity Research Network (CORNET) during April through June 2010. Outcome measures included self-report of health care use, involvement in an established care relationship with a primary care provider, and barriers residents encountered in receiving care.

Results

Of 1210 eligible residents, 766 (63%) completed the survey. Respondents were 73% women; each postgraduate training year was equally represented. More than one-half of residents (54%) stated they had an established care relationship (ECR) with a primary care provider. Interns were less likely to have an ECR when compared with upper level residents; female residents were twice as likely to have an ECR compared with male residents. Although 22% (172 of 766) of the respondents reported they had a chronic health condition, only 69% (118 of 172) of those individuals had an established care provider. The most significant barrier to obtaining health care was resident concern for time away from work and the potential increased workload for colleagues.

Conclusions

A slight majority of pediatrics residents stated they had an established relationship with a primary care provider. The most common barriers to seeking routine and acute care were work related.
Presenting Multiple Drug Alerts in an Ambulatory Electronic Prescribing System
Authors: Weinger M.B. , Gregg W.M. , Johnson K.B. , Xie M.
Published: April 2014

Objective: This study explores alternative approaches to the display of drug alerts, and examines whether and how human-factors based interface design can be used to improve the prescriber’s perception about drug alert presentation, signal detection from noisy alert data, and their comprehension of clinical decision support during electronic prescribing.

Methods: We reviewed issues with presenting multiple drug alerts in electronic prescribing systems. User-centered design, consisting of iterative usability and prototype testing was applied. After an iterative design phase, we proposed several novel drug alert presentation interfaces; expert evaluation and formal usability testing were applied to access physician prescribers’ perceptions of the tools. We mapped drug alert attributes to different interface constructs. We examined four different interfaces for presenting multiple drug alerts.

Results: A TreeDashboard View was better perceived than a text-based ScrollText View with respect to the ability to detect critical information, the ability to accomplish tasks, and the perceptional efficacy of finding information.

Conclusion: A robust model for studying multiple drug-alert presentations was developed. Several drug alert presentation interfaces were proposed. The TreeDashboard View was better perceived than the text-based ScrollText View in delivering multiple drug alerts during a simulation of electronic prescribing.

Citation: Xie M, Weinger MB, Gregg WM, Johnson KB. Presenting multiple drug alerts in an ambulatory electronic prescribing system: A usability study of novel prototypes. Appl Clin Inf 2014; 5: 334–348 http://dx.doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2013-10-RA-0092
A Comparative Evaluation of the Shear Bond Strength of Three Different Fifth Generation Dentin Bonding Agents: An in vitro Study
Authors: Gangurde Lata B , Pawar Mansing G , Margasahayam Sumanthini V
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To compare and evaluate the shear bond strength of three different fifth generation dentin bonding agents used with composite resin and to determine the mode of bond failure in each case.

Materials and Methods

Forty-five freshly extracted human permanent molars were used and the specimens were divided into three test groups (N = 15) namely group A = Excite, group B = single bond, group C = Prime and Bond NT. The occlusal surfaces of the specimens were ground to expose the superficial dentin and mounted in self cure acrylic resin. The surface was etched with 37% phosphoric acid gel and bonding agents were applied to etched surface. A composite button of 5.3 × 3 mm (Z 100) was bonded to the test specimens and subjected to shear load using United Universal Testing Machine at the cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/min. The nature of bond failure was determined using a stereomicroscope at ×8 magnification.

Results

Mean shear bond strength values in MPa of groups A, B, C were 21.483, 16.881 and 14.116 respectively. Group A showed 73.3% cohesive and 26.6% adhesive, Group B showed 66.6% adhesive, 20% cohesive and 13.33% mixed, group C showed 73.3% adhesive 6.6% cohesive and 20% mixed bond failures.

Conclusion

Excite dentin bonding agent exhibited highest shear bond strength values as compared to Single Bond and Prime and Bond NT, this difference was statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference between the shear bond strength values of Single Bond and Prime and Bond NT. Maximum number of cohesive bond failure were observed in dentin with Excite. Single Bond and Prime and Bond NT exhibited maximum number of adhesive bond failure.

How to cite this article

Gangurde LB, Pawar MG, Shenoy VU, Margasahayam SV. A Comparative Evaluation of the Shear Bond Strength of Three Different Fifth Generation Dentin Bonding Agents: Anin vitroStudy. J Contemp Dent 2014;4(1):1-5.
Trabecular Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma of the Craniofacial Skeleton: Etiopathogenesis and a Case Report of the Rare Entity
Authors: Kumar Shwetha , Kadam Rahul
Published: April 2014

The term, fibro-osseous lesions, is used for a group of pathological disturbances encompassing developmental, reactive or dysplastic lesions and neoplasms characterized by replacement of normal bone architecture by tissue composed of collagen fibers and fibroblasts containing various amount of calcified tissue. The groups of the fibro-osseous lesions are best considered as a spectrum of processes arising from cells in the periodontal ligament. Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a benign, but potentially aggressive, fibro-osseous tumor of the craniofacial bones. This uncommon neoplasm is distinguished from other fibro-osseous lesions primarily by its age of onset, clinical presentation, potential behavior and the high tendency to recur. Clinically presenting as an actively growing lesion. Histopathologically consists cell rich fibrous stroma containing bands of cellular osteoid without osteoblastic lining together with trabeculae of more typical woven bone. Pathogenesis of JOF may be related to mutations of HRPT2 gene which may arises due to haploinsufficiency of the HRPT2 gene.

Here, we reported a case of trabecular JOF (TJOF) which had variations in clinical, radiographic features and histopathological characteristics and it's etiopathogenesis in detail.

How to cite this article

Kadam R, Patel S, Pathak J, Swain N, Kumar S. Trabecular Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma of the Craniofacial Skeleton: Etiopathogenesis and a Case Report of the Rare Entity. J Contemp Dent 2014;4(1):51-55.
To fight or not to fight? - De representatie van vrouwelijke judoka’s in de Verenigde Staten tijdens de periode 1965 – 1979
Authors: Kerckhofs Stephanie
Published: April 2014

This article discusses the way in which female judokas were depicted in the United States of America during the period 1965 – 1979 by means of articles from the American magazine Black Belt. By investigating this formative period in women’s judo this article provides information about the historical processes of gender exclusion in sports and how this was handled. Three time periods were distinguished that witnessed a correlation between sports journalism and the reality on the field. On the one hand the articles in Black Belt emphasized the female appearances of the judokas during the entire time period. This indicates that the traditional stereotypes were not breached, despite the changing reality on the field. On the other hand the contributions demonstrated the athletic talents of the female judokas and some clearly supported the emancipation of women in judo. Consequently this article shows how at the same time Black Belt functioned as a channel that supported and questioned the perception of sports as a ‘masculine’ domain..
Men’s antiviolence activism - The case of two men’s networks in contemporary Italy and Spain
Authors: Nardini Krizia
Published: April 2014

This article focuses on the phenomenon of men’s engagement with gender equality and what scholars in the field of critical studies of men and masculinities (CSMM) have called profeminist antiviolence activism. The main aim of profeminist antiviolence men’s groups is to raise gender awareness among men in order to involve them in the making of a more egalitarian society. Their primary action is aimed at eradicating male violence against women. This article presents how this type of collective engagement is emerging in the contexts of contemporary Italy and Spain, and draws upon research conducted by the author among the members of the Italian men’s network Maschile Plurale http://www. maschileplurale.it/ and the Spanish men’s Asociación de Hombres por la Igualdad de Género (AHIGE) http://www.ahige.org/.
Numerical simulation of "an American haboob"
Authors: Vukovic A. , Vujadinovic M. , Pejanovic G. , Andric J. , Kumjian M. R. , Djurdjevic V. , Dacic M. , Prasad A. K. , El-Askary H. M. , Paris B. C. , Petkovic S. , Nickovic S. , Sprigg W. A.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. A dust storm of fearful proportions hit Phoenix in the early evening hours of 5 July 2011. This storm, an American haboob, was predicted hours in advance because numerical, land–atmosphere modeling, computing power and remote sensing of dust events have improved greatly over the past decade. High-resolution numerical models are required for accurate simulation of the small scales of the haboob process, with high velocity surface winds produced by strong convection and severe downbursts. Dust productive areas in this region consist mainly of agricultural fields, with soil surfaces disturbed by plowing and tracks of land in the high Sonoran Desert laid barren by ongoing draught. Model simulation of the 5 July 2011 dust storm uses the coupled atmospheric-dust model NMME–DREAM (Non-hydrostatic Mesoscale Model on E grid, Janjic et al., 2001; Dust REgional Atmospheric Model, Nickovic et al., 2001; Pérez et al., 2006) with 4 km horizontal resolution. A mask of the potentially dust productive regions is obtained from the land cover and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). The scope of this paper is validation of the dust model performance, and not use of the model as a tool to investigate mechanisms related to the storm. Results demonstrate the potential technical capacity and availability of the relevant data to build an operational system for dust storm forecasting as a part of a warning system. Model results are compared with radar and other satellite-based images and surface meteorological and PM10 observations. The atmospheric model successfully hindcasted the position of the front in space and time, with about 1 h late arrival in Phoenix. The dust model predicted the rapid uptake of dust and high values of dust concentration in the ensuing storm. South of Phoenix, over the closest source regions (~25 km), the model PM10 surface dust concentration reached ~2500 μg m−3, but underestimated the values measured by the PM10 stations within the city. Model results are also validated by the MODIS aerosol optical depth (AOD), employing deep blue (DB) algorithms for aerosol loadings. Model validation included Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO), equipped with the lidar instrument, to disclose the vertical structure of dust aerosols as well as aerosol subtypes. Promising results encourage further research and application of high-resolution modeling and satellite-based remote sensing to warn of approaching severe dust events and reduce risks for safety and health.
Provisional Measures With Regard to El Salvador in the Matter of B (INTER-AM. CT. H.R.)
Authors: Brunner Lisl
Published: April 2014

On May 29, 2013, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (Court) issued its first pronouncement on abortion in the context of an order for provisional measures against El Salvador. The beneficiary was a young woman known as “B,” who suffered from lupus and whose fetus was determined to have anencephaly, a condition in which a major part of the brain is absent. The absolute criminalization of abortion in El Salvador prevented her doctors from terminating the pregnancy in order to protect her health, leading the Court to require the State to adopt the necessary measures in order for B’s doctors to perform the procedures they considered “opportune and desirable” to avoid irreparable harm to her rights to life, personal integrity and health.
Tanganyika Law Society and the Legal and Human Rights Centre V. Tanzania and rev. Christopher R. Mtikila V. Tanzania (Afr. CT. H.R.)
Authors: Makulilo Alexander B
Published: April 2014

On June 14, 2013, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Court), in the consolidated matter of Tanganyika Law Society and the Legal and Human Rights Centre v. Tanzania and Rev. Christopher R. Mtikila v. Tanzania, found that the government of Tanzania violated the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Charter) when it prohibited independent candidates from contesting presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections. The case provides insight into the trajectory of the Court and its approach towards the jurisprudence of other international and regional human rights organs.
Speciation of Selenium in Environmental Samples by Solid-Phase Spectrophotometry Using 2,3-Dichloro-6-(2,7-dihydroxy-naphthylazo)quinoxaline
Authors: Amin Alaa S
Published: April 2014

Solid-phase spectrophotometry was applied to determination of trace amounts of selenium (Se) in water, soil, plant materials, human hair, and a cosmetic preparation (lipstick). Se(IV) was sorbed in a dextran type lipophilic gel as a complex with 2,3-dichloro-6-(2,7-dihydroxy-naphthylazo)quinoxaline (DCDHNAQ), whereas Se(VI) was determined after boiling in HCl for 10 min to convert Se(VI) to Se(IV). Resin phase absorbances at 588 and 800 nm were measured directly, which allowed the determination of Se in the range of 0.2–3.3 μg/L with an RSD of 1.22%. The influences of analytical parameters including pH of the aqueous solution, amounts of DCDHNAQ, and sample volume were investigated. The molar absorptivities were found to be 1.09 × 106, 4.60 × 106, and 1.23 × 107 L/mol cm for 100, 500, and 1000 mL, respectively. The LOD and LOQ of the 500 mL sample method were 110 and 360 ng/L, respectively, when using 50 mg dextran type lipophilic gel. For a 1000 mL sample, the LOD and LOQ were 60 and 200 ng/L, respectively, using 50 mg of the exchanger. Increasing the sample volume enhanced the sensitivity. No considerable interferences were observed from other investigated anions and cations on the Se determination.
Simultaneous Determination of Psychoactive Compounds in Foodstuffs Using Micellar Liquid Chromatography with Direct Injection
Authors: Subhra Hoonka , Prakash Dubey-Neeti , Abhilasha Durgbanshi , Josep Esteve-Romero , Devasish Bose
Published: April 2014

A micellar liquid chromatographic procedure was developed for the simultaneous determination of threecommonly used stupefacients, lidocaine, ketamine and diazepam, using a C18 reversed-phase column. A micellar mobile phase 0.15 M sodium dodecyl sulfate and 6% (v/v) pentanol, pH 7, and UV detection at 230 nm were used to determine the three stupefacients in food samples. Using the selected mobile phase, the stupefacients were eluted in less than 10 min with linearity (r = 0.998), LOD (range: 0.004–0.03 ppm), LOQ (range: 0.004–0.03 ppm), intraday and interday precision (below 2.84%), and mean recoveries (range: 79.11–110.16%) in the different foodstuffs were in accordance with the internationally established acceptance criteria. Validation of the developed method was performed on the basis of International Conference on Harmonization validation guidelines. The optimized and validated micellar liquid chromatographic method was successfully applied in the determination of lidocaine, diazepam, and ketaminein a real food sample (mango drink) and in spiked food samples (banana, ladoo, soft drink, tea). The developed method could also be easily used by law enforcement laboratories and hospitals for routine analysis.
Determination and Confirmation of Nicarbazin, Measured as 4,4-Dinitrocarbanilide (DNC), in Chicken Tissues by Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry: First Action 2013.07
Authors: Coleman Mark R , Rodewald John M , Brunelle Sharon L , Nelson Maria , Bailey Lauryn , Burnett Thomas J
Published: April 2014

A single-laboratory validation (SLV) study was conducted on an LC/MS/MS method for the determination and confirmation of nicarbazin, expressed as 4,4-dinitrocarbanilide (DNC), in chicken tissues, including liver, kidney, muscle, skin with adhering fat, and eggs. Linearity was demonstrated with DNC standard curve solutions using a weighted (1/x) regression and confirmed with matrix-matched standards. Intertrial repeatability precision (relative standard deviation of repeatability; RSDr) was from 2.5 to 11.3%, as determined in fortified tissues. The precision was verified with incurred tissue, and varied from 0.53 to 2.5%. Average recoveries ranged from 82% in egg to 98% in kidney. Although the average recoveries across all concentrations were within the acceptable range, the method was improved with the inclusion of an internal standard and the use of matrix-matched standards. Accuracy for the improved method in chicken liver varied from 93 to 99% across all concentrations (100–8000 ng/g) compared to recoveries below 80% at concentrations between 100–400 ng/g in chicken liver for the original method. The limit of detection was estimated to be less than 3.0 ng/g in all tissue types, and the limit of quantitation was validated at 20 ng/g. Based on confirmatory ion ratios and peak retention times, the false-negative rate was estimated as 0.00% (95% confidence limits 0.00, 0.74%) from 484 fortified samples and 12 incurred residue samples analyzed using the U.S. and EU confirmation criteria. Small variations to the method parameters, with the exception of injection volume, did not have a significant effect on recoveries. Stability was determined for fortified tissues, extracts, and standard curve solutions. The data collected in this study satisfy the requirements of SLV studies established by the AOAC Stakeholder Panel for Veterinary Drug Residue and the method was awarded First Action Official MethodSM status by the Expert Review Panel for Veterinary Drug Residues on May 7, 2013.
Use of Accuracy Profile Procedure to Validate a Real-Time PCR Method to Quantify Bacteria in Feces
Authors: Saint-Cyr Manuel J , Perrin-Guyomard Agnès , Houée Paméla , Vasseur Malek V , Laurentie Michel
Published: April 2014

This study describes a novel validation procedure of real-time PCR based on accuracy profile to estimate bacterial concentrations in fecal samples. To assess the performance of the method, measurements of axenic fecal samples spiked with a measured quantity of known bacterial species (Bacteroides fragilis, Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Enterococcus faecium, and Escherichia coli) were performed under repeatability and intermediate precision conditions. Data collected were used to compute a tolerance interval that was compared to a defined acceptance interval. It is concluded that the method is valid and relevant for the studied validation range of 8.20–10.24 and 7.43–9.47 log10 CFU/g of feces to ensure proper measurement of B. fragilis and E. coli, respectively. The LOQ is 8.20 and 7.43 log10 CFU/g of feces. In contrast, the method is not valid for the quantification of E. faecium and B. adolescentis, but by applying a correction factor of +0.63 log10 CFU/g, it can be considered valid for E. faecium. This correction is included in the final results. In conclusion, the accuracy profile is a statistical tool that is easy to use and totally adapted to validate real-time PCR.
Evaluation of the Thermo Scientific™ SureTect™ Listeria species Assay
Authors: Cloke Jonathan , Evans Katharine , Crabtree David , Hughes Annette , Simpson Helen , Holopainen Jani , Wickstrand Nina , Kauppinen Mikko
Published: April 2014

The Thermo Scientific™ SureTect™ Listeria species Assay is a new real-time PCR assay for the detection of all species of Listeria in food and environmental samples. This validation study was conducted using the AOAC Research Institute (RI) Performance Tested MethodsSM program to validate the SureTect Listeria species Assay in comparison to the reference method detailed in International Organization for Standardization 11290-1:1996 including amendment 1:2004 in a variety of foods plus plastic and stainlesssteel. The food matrixes validated were smoked salmon, processed cheese, fresh bagged spinach, cantaloupe, cooked prawns, cooked sliced turkey meat, cooked sliced ham, salami, pork frankfurters, and raw ground beef. All matrixes were tested by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Microbiology Division, Basingstoke, UK. Inaddition, three matrixes (pork frankfurters, fresh bagged spinach, and stainless steel surface samples) were analyzed independently as part of the AOAC-RI-controlled independent laboratory study by the University of Guelph, Canada. Using probability of detection statistical analysis, a significant difference infavour of the SureTect assay was demonstrated between the SureTect and reference method for high level spiked samples of pork frankfurters, smoked salmon, cooked prawns, stainless steel, and low-spiked samples of salami. For all other matrixes, no significant difference was seen between the two methods during the study. Inclusivity testing was conducted with 68 different isolates of Listeria species, all of which were detected by the SureTect Listeria species Assay. None of the 33 exclusivity isolates were detected by the SureTect Listeria species Assay. Ruggedness testing was conducted to evaluate the performance of the assay with specific method deviations outside of the recommended parameters open to variation, which demonstrated that the assay gave reliable performance. Accelerated stability testing was additionally conducted, validating the assay shelf life.
Intralaboratory Validation of a Fast and Sensitive UHPLC/MS/MS Method with Fast Polarity Switching for the Analysis of Lipophilic Shellfish Toxins
Authors: Braña-Magdalena Ana , Leão-Martins José Manuel , Glauner Thomas , Gago-Martínez Ana
Published: April 2014

This paper shows the results of an intralaboratory validation of a fast method for the determination of lipophilic shellfish toxins working under acidic conditions using ultra-high performance LC (UHPLC) with MS/MS. Fourteen lipophilic marine toxins and domoic acid were acquired with fast polarity switching.Whereas azaspiracids (AZAs), pecenotoxins, 13-desmethyl spirolide C (SPX1), and gymnodimine were analyzed in the positive mode, yessotoxins (YTXs) were measured in negative mode. The okadaic acid (OA) group compounds were analyzed in both positive and negativeionization modes, and the accuracy of the results for both were compared. When using dynamic multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) in fast polarity switching, LODs were lower and reproducibility and linearity were better compared to static MRM. The UHPLC separation allowed for higher sample throughput in routineuse. Compared to the previously used HPLC/MS/MS method, LODs were improved up to a factor of 10 in mussel extract. Matrix effects were evaluated by comparing standards prepared in solvent with matrix-matchedcalibrations in blank mussel extract. For accurate quantification matrix-matched calibrations were used when analyzing reference mussel materials, providingrecoveries for OA, Dynophysis toxins (DTX)1, DTX2, YTX,AZA1, and SPX1 between 80 and 120% with RSDs below 8% over a 3-day validation procedure.
Flow Cytometric-Membrane Potential Detection of Sodium Channel Active Marine Toxins: Application to Ciguatoxins in Fish Muscle and Feasibility of Automating Saxitoxin Detection
Authors: Manger Ronald , Woodle Doug , Berger Andrew , Dickey Robert W , Jester Edward , Yasumoto Takeshi , Lewis Richard , Hawryluk Timothy , Hungerford James
Published: April 2014

Ciguatoxins are potent neurotoxins with a significant public health impact. Cytotoxicity assays have allowed the most sensitive means of detection of ciguatoxin-like activity without reliance on mouse bioassays and have been invaluable in studying outbreaks. An improvement of these cell-based assays is presented here in which rapid flow cytometric detection of ciguatoxins and saxitoxins is demonstrated using fluorescent voltage sensitive dyes. A depolarization response can be detected directly due to ciguatoxin alone; however, an approximate 1000-fold increase insensitivity is observed in the presence of veratridine. These results demonstrate that flow cytometric assessment of ciguatoxins is possible at levels approaching the trace detection limits of our earlier cytotoxicity assays, however, with a significant reduction in analysis time. Preliminary results are also presented for detection of brevetoxins and for automation and throughput improvements to a previously described method for detecting saxitoxins in shellfish extracts.
Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry of Domoic Acid and Lipophilic Shellfish Toxins with Selected Reaction Monitoring and Optional Confirmation by Library Searching of Product Ion Spectra
Authors: McCarron Pearse , Wright Elliott , Quilliam Michael A
Published: April 2014

LC/MS methodology for the analysis of domoic acidand lipophilic toxins in shellfish was developed using a hybrid triple quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer. For routine quantitation a scheduled selected reaction monitoring (SRM) method for the analysis of domoic acid, okadaic acid, dinophysistoxins,azaspiracids, pectenotoxins, yessotoxins, gymnodimines, spirolides, and pinnatoxins was developed and validated. The method performed well in terms of LOD, linearity, precision, and trueness. Taking advantageof the high instrument sensitivity, matrix effects were mitigated by reducing the amount of sample introduced to the mass spectrometer. Optionally, samples can be analyzed using information dependent acquisition (IDA) methods, either in positive or negative mode, which can provide an extra level of confirmationby matching the full product ion spectra acquired for a sample with those from a specially constructedspectral library. Methods were applied to the analysisof a new certified reference material and Canadian mussels (Mytilus edulis) implicated in a 2011 diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) incident. The scheduled SRM method enabled the screening and quantitation of multiple phycotoxins. As DSPhad not previously been observed in this area of Canada,positive identification of putative toxins was accomplished using the IDA and spectral search method. Analysis of the 2011 toxic mussel samples revealed thepresence of high levels of dinophysistoxin-1, which explained the DSP symptoms, as well as pectenotoxins, yessotoxins, and variety of cyclic imines.
Añagazas de la fachada ventilada: ¿pluvial o revestida?
Authors: Paricio Ansuátegui Ignacio , Pardal March Cristina
Published: April 2014

The double skin facade system, known in english-speaking countries as “rain screen”, has been imported to our country under the term “ventilated facade”. Maybe in order to assert the possibility that the ventilation of condensation inside the cavity might benefit summer comfort in our climate. This insistence in ventilation has caused a serious confusion regarding the role of the cavity. Its original purpose was to prevent water from passing through, but its popularity, due to the liberty of exterior finishing, is blurring that original role. Consequently, the prevention of water passing through to the interior is often not guaranteed.

The purpose of these lines is to make evident that what we know today as “ventilated facade” includes double skin facade systems where the role of the air gap is diverse; and, in an attempt to bring order to this reality, we suggest to make a distinction between: rain screen, ventilated facade and facade cladding.
Vivre sa vie
Authors: Felip Olga
Published: April 2014

During the summer of my first year of college I did an internship at an architecture firm in Paris, where I happened to discover Vivre sa vie, a 1962 film in which the director, Jean-Luc Godard, develops essentially two themes: the relationship established with the viewer, and the editing technique.

In a similar way, at our office we have approached architecture in the fashion of craftsmen, focusing in two subjects: the technique or design process, and the users. Within this design process there are three themes that we especially value: collecting (as the act of taking out of context an object and assigning a new value to it), reversibility (the recognition of interior and exterior spaces, noncontinuous but reversible) and permeable materiality (through the choice of a specific material and the exploration of it possibilities).
Solve It!: Parts of a Parallelogram
Authors: Bair Sherry L. , Cady JoAnn
Published: April 2014

To elicit creative student thinking, this open-ended problem asks solvers to calculate the ratio of areas of a parallelogram.
Quick Reads: Teaching Perseverance through Differentiated Homework
Authors: Manninen Janine L.
Published: April 2014

Students' preferences when working with particular representations are explored.
Short Laminin Peptide for Improved Neural Stem Cell Growth
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Liu Xiaoyan , Josey Benjamin , Chou C. James , Tan Yu , Zhang Ning , Wen Xuejun
Published: April 2014

Human neural stem/progenitor cells (hNSCs) are very difficult to culture and require human or animal source extracellular matrix molecules, such as laminin or collagen type IV, to support attachment and to regulate their survival and proliferation. These extracellular matrix molecules are difficult to purify from human or animal tissues, have high batch-to-batch variability, and may cause an immune response if used in clinical applications. Although several laminin- and collagen IV-derived peptides are commercially available, they do not support long-term hNSC attachment and growth. To solve this problem, we developed a novel peptide sequence with only 12 amino acids based on the Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val, or IKVAV, sequence: Ac-Cys-Cys-Arg-Arg-Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val-Trp-Leu-Cys. This short peptide sequence, similar to tissue-derived full laminin molecules, supported hNSCs to attach and proliferate to confluence for continuous passage and subculture. This short peptide also directed hNSCs to differentiate into neurons. When conjugated to poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels, this short peptide benefited hNSC attachment and proliferation on the surface of hydrogels and promoted cell migration inside the hydrogels with maximum enhancement at a peptide density of 10 μM. This novel short peptide shows great promise in artificial niche development for supporting hNSC culture in vitro and in vivo and for promoting hNSC transplantation in future clinical therapy.
Human Papillomavirus Types 2, 27, and 57 Identified in Plantar Verrucae from HIV-Positive and HIV-Negative Individuals
Authors: King Christy M. , Johnston James S. , Ofili Kene , Tam Maylynn , Palefsky Joel , Da Costa Maria , Mathur Yasha , Barbosa Peter
Published: April 2014

Background

Although an increased prevalence of plantar verrucae has been associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, human papillomavirus (HPV) typing studies have not been published about this patient population. We sought to determine the prevalence of HPV types in plantar verrucae of HIV-positive (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV–) individuals.

Methods

Thirty-nine plantar verruca lesions in 17 individuals were examined. Nine participants were HIV+ and eight were HIV–. Detection of HPV was performed by polymerase chain reaction using two sets of primers: MY09/MY11. The type of HPV was determined by hybridization to 38 different HPV types. Clinical types of verrucae were correlated to the HPV strain identified in each lesion.

Results

Of the 39 plantar verruca samples, 38 typed to HPV-2, HPV-27, and HPV-57 strains in HIV+ and HIV– individuals. Specifically, a large proportion of the samples from HIV– individuals typed as HPV-27 (87.5%), and HPV-2 was the predominant type identified in HIV+ individuals (50%). No rare or atypical HPV types were found in either group. We identified HPV-2 and HPV-27 in 96% of verruca plantaris clinical type. Mosaic warts typed to HPV-27 and HPV-57, and 80% of punctate verrucae typed to HPV-57.

Conclusions

This study presents an increased prevalence of HPV-2, HPV-27, and HPV-57 in plantar verrucae in this study population and provides insight into the occurrence of these types in HIV+ and HIV– individuals.
Pitted Keratolysis
Authors: Bristow Ivan R. , Lee Yong Leng H.
Published: April 2014

Background

Pitted keratolysis is a bacterial infection that affects the plantar epidermis. Despite the condition being reported in many countries affecting both shod and unshod populations, there is little guidance for clinicians providing evidence or best practice guidelines on the management of this often stubborn infection.

Methods

Using a structured search of a range of databases, papers were identified that reported treatments tested on patients with the condition.

Results

Most of the literature uncovered was generally of a low level, such as case-based reporting or small case series. Studies were focused mainly on the use of topical antibiotic agents, such as clindamycin, erythromycin, fusidic acid, and mupirocin, often in combination with other measures, such as hygiene advice and the use of antiperspirants. From the limited evidence available, the use of topical antibiotic agents shows some efficacy in the treatment of pitted keratolysis. However, there is currently no suggestion that oral antibiotic drug therapy alone is effective in managing the condition.

Conclusions

Currently, there is no consensus on the most effective approach to managing pitted keratolysis, but a combination of antimicrobial agents and adjunctive measures, such as antiperspirants, seems to demonstrate the most effective approach from the current literature available.
Using Amniotic Membrane Allografts in the Treatment of Neuropathic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Shah Alap P.
Published: April 2014

Neuropathic foot ulcers are a common complication in patients with diabetes. These ulcers are often slow to heal and can lead to infection, further tissue destruction, osteomyelitis, and amputation. These patients pose a challenge to clinicians who must determine the best treatment options while balancing the risks, benefits, and costs. Conservative therapies often present disappointing results, and a number of newer “biologic bandages” have been developed to better assist the healing process. We describe results from diabetic patients with neuropathic foot ulcers treated with a new amniotic membrane–based allograft.
A Theoretical Perspective on Running-Related Injuries
Authors: Gallant Jodi Lynn , Pierrynowski Michael Raymond
Published: April 2014

The etiology of running-related injuries remains unknown; however, an implicit theory underlies much of the conventional research and practice in the prevention of these injuries. This theory posits that the cause of running-related injuries lies in the high-impact forces experienced when the foot contacts the ground and the subsequent abnormal movement of the subtalar joint. The application of this theory is seen in the design of the modern running shoe, with cushioning, support, and motion control. However, a new theory is emerging that suggests that it is the use of these modern running shoes that has caused a maladaptive running style, which contributes to a high incidence of injury among runners. The suggested application of this theory is to cease use of the modern running shoe and transition to barefoot or minimalist running. This new running paradigm, which is at present inadequately defined, is proposed to avoid the adverse biomechanical effects of the modern running shoe. Future research should rigorously define and then test both theories regarding their ability to discover the etiology of running-related injury. Once discovered, the putative cause of running-related injury will then provide an evidence-based rationale for clinical prevention and treatment.
Immunologic Applications of Conditional Gene Modification Technology in the Mouse
Authors: Sharma Suveena , Zhu Jinfang
Published: April 2014

Since the success of homologous recombination in altering mouse genome and the discovery of Cre‐loxP system, the combination of these two breakthroughs has created important applications for studying the immune system in the mouse. Here, we briefly summarize the general principles of this technology and its applications in studying immune cell development and responses; such implications include conditional gene knockout and inducible and/or tissue‐specific gene over‐expression, as well as lineage fate mapping. We then discuss the pros and cons of a few commonly used Cre‐expressing mouse lines for studying lymphocyte development and functions. We also raise several general issues, such as efficiency of gene deletion, leaky activity of Cre, and Cre toxicity, all of which may have profound impacts on data interpretation. Finally, we selectively list some useful links to the Web sites as valuable mouse resources. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 105:10.34.1‐10.34.13. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.