bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making the Case for “Architectural Informatics”
Authors: Wiberg Mikael
Published: July 2014

Society is undergoing a major digitalization - not at least in the field of architecture. The digitalization of our built environment has also begun to reflect itself in research (see e.g., Cai & Abascal, 2006; Margolis & Robinson, 2007; Greenfield, 2006). At the cross point in-between architecture, urban development, and the digitalization of modern society, there is a major research potential – untapped and ready to be explored. This paper initiates an “architectural informatics” perspective and outlines a research agenda as to address questions of how to better integrate our built environment and digital world. This paper outlines three research themes including: 1) Architectural composition with digital materials (theory development), 2) Architecture for sustainable digitization (development of value ground), and 3) Digitization processes & architecture as social intervention processes (methodology development). Common to these three areas is the overall aim to develop architectural and computational concepts and theories as to address this common area, to find new practice based methods to facilitate new forms of cooperation between engineers, architects and the inhabitants of our built environment, as well as to explore architectural informatics as a phenomenon and opportunity.
Display Content Adaptation Using a Force Sensitive Office Chair
Authors: Riener Andreas
Published: July 2014

In this paper, the author introduces a novel method for non-invasive, implicit human-computer interaction based on dynamically evaluated sitting postures. The research question addressed is whether or not the proposed system is able to allow for non-obtrusive screen content adaptation in a reading situation. To this end, the author has integrated force sensor array mats into a traditional office chair, providing sitting postures/gestures of the person seated in real time. In detail, variations in the center of pressure were used for application control, starting more generally with usability assessment of cursor control, breaking them down to simple(r) pan and zoom of screen content. Preliminary studies have indicated that such a system cannot get close to the performance/accuracy of keyboard or mouse, however its general usability, e.g., for handicapped persons or for less dynamic screen content adaptation, has been demonstrated and some future potential has been recognized.
An Abstract User Interface Framework for Mobile and Wearable Devices
Authors: Ahlrichs Claas , Lawo Michael , Iben Hendrik
Published: July 2014

In the future, mobile and wearable devices will increasingly be used for interaction with surrounding technologies. When developing applications for those devices, one usually has to implement the same application for each individual device. Thus a unified framework could drastically reduce development efforts. This paper presents a framework that facilitates the development of context-aware user interfaces (UIs) with reusable components for those devices. It is based on an abstract description of an envisioned UI which is used to generate a context- and device-specific representation at run-time. Rendition in various modalities and adaption of the generated representation are also supported.
Ambient Assisted Living and Care in The Netherlands
Authors: van Hoof J. , Wouters E. J. M. , Marston H. R. , Vanrumste B. , Overdiep R. A.
Published: July 2014

Technology can assist older adults to remain living in the community. Within the realm of information and communication technologies, smart homes are drifting toward the concept of ambient assisted living (AAL). AAL-systems are more responsive to user needs and patterns of living, fostering physical activity for a healthier lifestyle, and capturing behaviours for prevention and future assistance. This study provides an overview of the design-requirements and expectations towards AAL-technologies that are formulated by the end-users, their relatives and health care workers, with a primary focus on health care in The Netherlands. The results concern the motivation for use of technology, requirements to the design, implementation, privacy and ethics. More research is required in terms of the actual needs of older users without dementia and their carers, and on AAL in general as some of the work included concerns less sophisticated smart home technology.
Knowledge Management Model for Electronic Textbook Design
Authors: Railean Elena
Published: July 2014

This chapter aims to describe a new knowledge management (KM) model, which can be considered an enterprise resources planning model proved in Electronic Textbook in Electronic Portfolio technology. The model comprises a dynamic and flexible instructional strategy which allows constructing the personalized digital content through development of core structure of competence. This strategy allows bidirectional transitions from tacit to explicit knowledge and hermeneutic dialogues. The KM model can be described using adjacency matrix and optimized knowledge graphs techniques. The target audience of this chapter is expected to be consisted of educational management students, professionals and researchers working in the field of education including policy makers, consultants, and agencies. Applications and methodologies validate the educational efficiency of KM model for electronic textbook design. The affordance of the KM model for education relies on informational / communicational processes, cognitive processes, and computerized assessment processes.
Learn to Learn to Integrate ERP-Systems and Content Knowledge Using Problem Based Learning and Cases
Authors: Andersson Annika
Published: July 2014

Research in the integration of technology and content knowledge using problem-based learning (PBL) is a challenge. Thus, the aim of this chapter is to describe experiences and lessons learned from integrating ERP-systems (enterprise resource planning systems) into economic topics course using PBL and cases created for the integration of technology and content knowledge in a business school setting. The mission was to develop the economic students’ analyzing abilities using a ERP-system as a pedagogical tool. A summary table describes how problem-based learning and cases were developed and used within collaboration among universities, colleagues, businesses, and students to accomplish integration of both technology and content knowledge. The experience was that students developed abilities to analyze technology from both theory and a deeper understanding of theory by analyzing technology. The lessons learned were that integration of technology and content knowledge using problem based learning and cases is a never-ending cooperative and learning process.
Business Process Simulation in Academia
Authors: Callero Y. , Aguilar M. , Muñoz V.
Published: July 2014

In light of the proliferation of information technology in every area of society/business, its adoption by academia seems like a natural extension of this trend. What the authors find, however, is that few examples exist of the use of Business Process Management to improve processes in academia. This chapter presents simulations as a necessary mechanism for understanding and overseeing organizations as they undergo a continuous process of change. Enterprises, their organization, business processes, and supporting information technology must be understood as socio-technical systems that consist of people (human actors) and technical subsystems and their complicated relationships. In designing, redesigning, and improving such systems, modeling and simulation methods are not only relevant, but essential.
CRM for Academic Institution and Universities
Authors: Nagori Viral
Published: July 2014

“Keep your customers happy and satisfied to create value in the long run for the firm.” The statement is the motto of all business organisations to become a successful enterprise. Customer relationship management is mainly used to identify the buying habits of the customers, analyse trends and patterns, and market the product to the targeted customers. Academic institutions and universities are considered as a service industry, so the scope and role of CRM would be drastically different compared to manufacturing industries. In the Indian context, the main customers of the institutions or universities are parents of the students who spend significant amount on their children’s education. The companies that recruit graduate students are also considered as the customer for academic institutions and universities. The chapter discusses the fundamentals of CRM, its uses and application in academic environment, and technology supporting CRM. The major emphasis of the chapter is on how to automate communication among the students, parents, and faculties. The chapter also focuses on streamlining and providing the details of the performance of students for the campus interview and final placements to the companies. The chapter also throws light on the role of technology in CRM implementation in academic institutions and universities. Advantages offered by CRM in academic environment are also discussed. The chapter provides guidelines for successful implementations of CRM in academic environment. To narrow down the scope of the study, it is confined to CRM for academic institutions universities offering higher education (graduate/post graduate courses) in Indian environment.
ERP Modules for Industry-Institute Interaction, Training and Placement, and Alumni Management
Authors: Khatwani P. A. , Desai K. S.
Published: July 2014

Industry-institute interaction, training, and placement are very important aspects to be considered while designing any system to improve the methodologies for the education sector. This chapter deals with the different modules related to industry institute management, training and placement, alumni database, and management to be covered while designing an erp system for improving these most important areas for any academic institution. Some of the modules to be covered in industry-institute management are as follows: database of industries, industrial visits for enhancing knowledge of students as well as faculty, regular lectures from speakers from industry, providing technical training to staff from industry by means of workshop/seminar/small term courses, and providing technical/consultancy services to industry. Some of the modules to be covered in training and placement management are as follows: database of industries, vocational training to students for enhancing their knowledge, database of students and their academic performance, arrangement of programmes for soft skill development, guidance to students for written exam, group discussions, and personal interviews. Some of the modules to be covered in alumni management are as follows: database of alumni, networking of alumni, interaction with alumni for different issues like industrial visits, placement, guest lectures, institutional developments, et cetera.
University of Ottawa Department of Family Medicine Faculty Development Curriculum Framework
Authors: MacDonald Colla J. , McKeen Martha , Leith-Gudbranson Donna , Montpetit Madeleine , Archibald Douglas , Rivet Christine , Hogue Rebecca , Hirsh Mike
Published: July 2014

In response to the challenges faced by rapid expansion and curriculum reform, the Department of Family Medicine (DFM) at the University of Ottawa (U of O) developed a Faculty Development Conceptual Framework (FDCF) and companion plan as a first step toward meeting the challenges of providing quality opportunities for the continuing professional development of preceptors in Family Medicine. The FDCF outlines the processes, opportunities and support structures needed to improve preceptors’ teaching skills and effectively deliver a newly revised “Triple C” competency-based curriculum. The FDCF acts as a quality standard to guide the design, delivery, and evaluation of a vibrant Faculty Development (FD) Program. It further provides a structure for implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) web applications to facilitate the flow of information between seven teaching sites, provide consistency among programs, and play a tactical role in the sharing of academic resources. This chapter introduces the DFM’s FDCF so other medical departments may benefit from the authors’ experiences and adapt or adopt the framework applications and methodologies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of FD products and processes. Modifications to the framework are expected as this program continues to evolve.
REDUCTION OF INTRAMEDULLARY APOPTOSIS AFTER STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION IN BLACK AFRICAN VARIANT OF PEDIATRIC SICKLE CELL ANEMIA.
Authors: Isgrò Antonella , Sodani Pietro , Marziali Marco , Gaziev Javid , Fraboni Daniela , Paciaroni Katia , Gallucci Cristiano , De Angelis Gioia , Alfieri Cecilia , Ribersani Michela , Armiento Daniele , Roveda Andrea , Andreani Marco , Testi Manuela , Lucarelli Guido
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment for sickle cell anemia (SCA). We report our experience with transplantation in children with the Black African variant of SCA and the effects of transplant on erythroid compartment in bone marrow (BM).  Patients and Methods: Twenty-seven consecutive patients who underwent BM transplantation from HLA-identical donors following a myeloablative conditioning regimen were included. Using both CD71 and FSC parameters, we obtained three erythroid populations: EryA–C. Ery A (CD71high FSChigh) are basophilic; Ery B (CD71high FSClow) are late basophilic and polychromatic; and Ery C (CD71low FSClow) are orthochromatic erythroblasts and reticulocytes. To analyze the effect of transplantation on intramedullary apoptosis, we studied Fas (CD95+) and caspase-3 expression in erythroblast subpopulations. Results: All patients experienced sustained engraftment, and all surviving patients remained free of SCA-related events after transplantation. The erythroid population showed expansion in the BM at baseline. After transplant, levels decreased, especially of Ery C, in parallel to reduced Fas expression and an initial caspase 3 increase in erythroid population, similar to reported later steps of “normal” erythroid maturation. Conclusions: The results suggest a good chance of cure for children with SCA, with an excellent survival rate. We also observed “normalization” of erythroid populations in parallel with a decreased intramedullary apoptosis rate, suggesting normal erythroid maturation in ex-SCA patients after HSCT.
A novel nitrous oxide mitigation strategy: expressing nitrous oxide reductase fromPseudomonas stutzeriin transgenic plants
Authors: Wan Shen , Greenham Trevor , Goto Kagami , Mottiar Yaseen , Johnson Amanda M. , Staebler Julianne M. , Zaidi Mohsin A. , Shu Qingyao , Altosaar Illimar
Published: July 2014

Wan, S., Greenham, T., Goto, K., Mottiar, Y., Johnson, A. M., Staebler, J. M., Zaidi, M. A., Shu, Q. and Altosaar, I. 2014. A novel nitrous oxide mitigation strategy: expressing nitrous oxide reductase from Pseudomonas stutzeri in transgenic plants. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1013–1025. As a stable greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide (N2O) plays a significant role in stratospheric ozone destruction. The primary anthropogenic N2O source is the use of nitrogen in agriculture. Currently, the annual N2O emissions from this soil–plant–microbial system is more than 2.6 Tg (1 Tg=1 million metric tonnes) of N2O-N globally. So it is important to explore some innovative and effective biology-based strategies for N2O mitigation. If shown to be effective in field trails as well as laboratory-scale experiments, such GMO plants could help guide international policies on adaptation to climate change. The bacterial enzyme nitrous oxide reductase (N2OR) is the only known enzyme capable of catalyzing the final step of the denitrification pathway, conversion of N2O to N2. To “scrub” the N2O emissions, bacterial N2OR was heterologously expressed in plants. Structurally, the enzyme N2OR is encoded by nosZ, but its biosynthesis and assembly in prokaryotes require the products of several nos genes, including a putative ABC-type transporter encoded by nosDFY, and the copper chaperone NosL for biogenesis of the metal centre. We have generated transgenic tobacco plants expressing the nosZ gene, as well as tobacco plants in which the other nos genes were co-expressed under the control of a root-specific promoter (rolD) and a constitutive promoter (d35S). The nosZ gene from Pseudomonas stutzeri heterologously expressed in tobacco produced active recombinant N2OR. The positive results in the preliminary proof-of-principle experiments indicated that plants heterologously expressing N2OR could mitigate emissions at the source before N2O reaches the stratosphere or troposphere.
Modeling Stem Diameter Increment in Individual Pinus occidentalis Sw. trees in La Sierra, Dominican Republic
Authors: Bueno S. , Bevilacqua E.
Published: July 2014

One of the most common and important tree characteristics used in forest management decision-making is tree diameter-at-breast height (DBH). This paper presents results on an evaluation of two growth functions developed to model stem diameter increases in individual Pinus occidentalis Sw. trees in La Sierra, Dominican Republic. The first model was developed in order to predict future DBH (FDM) at different intervals of time and the other for predicting growth, that is, periodic annual diameter increment (PADIM). Each model employed two statistical techniques for fitting model parameters: stepwise ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, and mixed models. The two statistical approaches varied in how they accounted for the repeated measurements on individual trees over time, affecting standard error estimates and statistical inference of model parameters. Each approach was evaluated based on six goodnessof-fit statistics, using both calibration and validation data sets. The objectives were 1) to determine the best model for predicting future tree DBH; 2) to determine the best model for predicting periodic annual diameter increment, both models using tree size, age, site index and different indices of competitive status; and 3) compare which of these two modeling approaches predicts better the future DBH. OLS provided a better fit for both of the growth functions, especially in regards to bias. Both models showed advantages and disadvantages when they were used to predict growth and future diameter. For the prediction of future diameter with FDM, accuracy of predictions were within one centimeter for a five-year projection interval. The PADIM presented negligible bias in estimating future diameter, although there was a small increase in bias as time of prediction increased. As expected, each model was the best in estimating the response variable it was developed for.. However, a closer examination of the distribution of errors showed a slight advantage of the FDM against the PADIM. Based on this, it is proposed that the FDM model is used to estimate future diameter and periodic diameter increment (growth) of P. occidentalis.
A climatic potentiality model for black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) in Teruel (Spain)
Authors: Alonso Ponce R. , Águeda B. , Ágreda T. , Modrego M. P. , Aldea J. , Martínez-Peña F.
Published: July 2014

Black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) is an edible ectomycorrhizal mushroom whose cultivation is an economically-viable alternative in rural areas affected by depopulation. In the province of Teruel (Spain), truffle plantations occupy nowadays more than 4,500 ha, but no land use planning guidelines have been available. Species distribution models are tools that allow managers, farmers and foresters to plan ahead and make decisions with a scientific basis. The territory climatically suitable for T. melanosporum in Teruel has been predicted using a method based on the ecology field theory, previously tested in the development of distribution models for forest species. A dataset of 924 locations where black truffle has been collected in the Catalano-Aragonesa ecoregion and eight climatic parameters deeply influencing the presence and fructification of the black truffle have been considered and their corresponding habitats have been built. The distribution model, corrected under lithological criteria, has identified more than 8,000 km² as suitable for black truffle fructification in Teruel, almost 55% of the province, belonging 3,000 of them to the optimal class. This land is mainly distributed over the regions of Gúdar-Javalambre, Comunidad de Teruel and Maestrazgo. A further correction based on land-use criteria has identified more than 4,000 km² as suitable for truffle plantations, being 1,150 of them optimal. The model here presented will help to a proper planning for truffle cultivation in the province of Teruel.
Use of Guadua angustifolia stems in the particleboard production
Authors: Moreno P. A. , Garay D. A. , Durán J. A. , Styles V. W. , Trejo S. S.
Published: July 2014

The industry agglomerated panels incorporated into its manufacturing process tree species of both conifers and hardwoods, today, many companies operate at half of its production capacity for the continued lack of raw material due to depletion of main species or operational restriction. The main objective of this paper was to determine the technological feasibility of Guadua angustifolia as raw material for the production of particleboard at two levels of theoretical density (nominal) of 600 kg/m3 and 800 kg/m3 with urea formaldehyde resin content of 12%. The physical and mechanical properties of the boards were determined according to German Norms DIN 52361, 52362, 52364 and 52365, and Venezuelan Covenin Norm 847-91 for flat platen-pressed particleboard. The mechanical properties were static bending (MOR), and tension perpendicular to the board surface (internal adhesion); the physical properties were water absorption and thickness variation by water soaking absorption tests at 2 and 24 hours. The results of this study indicated that the boards manufactured with this species showed values in the physical and mechanical properties that comply with the ones specified by the norms. The presence of the stem external cuticle negatively influenced the water absorption and the tension perpendicular to the board surface of the boards with a density of 600 kg/m3.
The efforts for cork oak forest management and their effects on soil conservation
Authors: Laouina A. , Aderghal M. , Al Karkouri J. , Antari M. , Chaker M. , Laghazi Y. , Machmachi I. , Machouri N. , Nafaa R. , Naïmi K. , Nouira A. , Sfa M.
Published: July 2014

The Shoul oak grove is a forested ecosystem inherited from a Holocene phase of ecological optimum; its evolution, through the double geologic and human temporality, and in relation with several processes of degradation, led to the progressive loss of its environmental equilibrium and further to the reduction of its economic contributions. The fragility of these forests is the consequence of the convergence of two main factors, i) the intrinsic fragility of the forested environment based on an unstable balance between the tree, the leached soils and their moisture content ; ii) the anthropological action on the forest environment and its degradation with the change of its floristic composition. During the colonization the new context was at the origin of the new social and economic relation between the forest and the surrounding populations. The current use of this oak grove is in a classic scheme of the reports society / forest in Morocco. The population is especially of pastoral main activity in the bordering communes. But the oak groves of Mamora-Sehoul are integrated into the area of influence of several cities, what exposes the forest to the risks of uncontrolled urbanization. These oak groves are thus in the centre of interest of several stakeholders with opposite behaviour and a new paradigm of relation rural/urban. Through a double approach, environmental and socio-economic, this paper will try to bring elements of answer by analyzing the interactions between a forest which reached an alarming threshold of degradation and a society affected by important changes in its modes of intervention and exploitation.
Comparison of 3 Body Size Descriptors in Critically Ill Obese Children and Adolescents: Implications for Medication Dosing
Authors: Ross Emma L. , Jorgensen Jennifer , DeWitt Peter E. , Okada Carol , Porter Renee , Haemer Matthew , Reiter Pamela D.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: To compare 3 methods of weight determination for medication dose calculations in obese children and to discuss feasibility for use in routine care.

METHODS: This was a patient safety and quality improvement study evaluating patients (2–19 years old) admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit during a 13-month period (July 2010–July 2011). Patients identified as obese (≥95th percentile body mass index [BMI] for age), including severely obese (≥99th percentile BMI for age), were included in the weight method comparison portion of this study. Lean body mass estimations, using equations derived by the Peters and Foster methods, were compared to ideal body weight estimates by using the BMI method. Absolute differences between values generated by the 3 methods, intraclass correlation (ICC), and Bland-Altman plots were calculated.

RESULTS: A total of 1369 patients met initial criteria; 176 met criteria for the dosing weight comparison (age ± SD = 9.28 ± 5 years; actual weight ± SD = 55.5 ± 33.9 kg; 46% female). Sixty were severely obese and 116 were obese. Mean ICC between methods was 0.968 (95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.959, 0.975). The Peters method estimated higher weights than the Foster or BMI method. Bland-Altman plots illustrated good agreement between methods in children with weight below 50 kg, but decreased agreement above 50 kg, which was influenced by sex.

CONCLUSIONS: All methods demonstrated strong correlation and acceptable agreement in children below 50 kg. Systematic biases were identified in children above 50 kg where variance was higher. The BMI method was least complex to calculate and the most feasible method for daily use.
Medication Waste Reduction in Pediatric Pharmacy Batch Processes
Authors: Toerper Matthew F. , Veltri Michael A. , Hamrock Eric , Mollenkopf Nicole L. , Holt Kristen , Levin Scott
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVES: To inform pediatric cart-fill batch scheduling for reductions in pharmaceutical waste using a case study and simulation analysis.

METHODS: A pre and post intervention and simulation analysis was conducted during 3 months at a 205-bed children's center. An algorithm was developed to detect wasted medication based on time-stamped computerized provider order entry information. The algorithm was used to quantify pharmaceutical waste and associated costs for both preintervention (1 batch per day) and postintervention (3 batches per day) schedules. Further, simulation was used to systematically test 108 batch schedules outlining general characteristics that have an impact on the likelihood for waste.

RESULTS: Switching from a 1-batch-per-day to a 3-batch-per-day schedule resulted in a 31.3% decrease in pharmaceutical waste (28.7% to 19.7%) and annual cost savings of $183,380. Simulation results demonstrate how increasing batch frequency facilitates a more just-in-time process that reduces waste. The most substantial gains are realized by shifting from a schedule of 1 batch per day to at least 2 batches per day. The simulation exhibits how waste reduction is also achievable by avoiding batch preparation during daily time periods where medication administration or medication discontinuations are frequent. Last, the simulation was used to show how reducing batch preparation time per batch provides some, albeit minimal, opportunity to decrease waste.

CONCLUSIONS: The case study and simulation analysis demonstrate characteristics of batch scheduling that may support pediatric pharmacy managers in redesign toward minimizing pharmaceutical waste.
Aprepitant and Fosaprepitant Use in Children and Adolescents at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Shillingburg Alexandra , Biondo Lisa
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of aprepitant and fosaprepitant, a neurokinin 1 (NK-1) receptor inhibitor, in children and adolescents at a large academic medical center, for the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).

METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted using an electronic medical record system to evaluate the use of aprepitant and fosaprepitant in all pediatric patients that were discharged from a single academic medical center between February 25, 2009 and May 25, 2012.

RESULTS: Twenty-six patients were included in this review and received a total of 287 doses over the span of 114 cycles. Mean age was 10.1 years, with a range of 11 months to 17 years old. In 16 of 26 patients, aprepitant was used as the primary prophylaxis. Of those patients who received primary prophylaxis, 6 of 16 received it for highly emetogenic chemotherapy, and 10 of 16 received it for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy. Intravenous fosaprepitant was used in 7 of 26 patients, ages 13 to 17 (median 14) years old. No adverse effects attributable to aprepitant were reported.

CONCLUSIONS: Use of aprepitant and fosaprepitant in pediatric patients appeared to be well tolerated. No currently published reports data using aprepitant in a patient younger than 32 months old, whereas we reported its use in patients as young as 11 months old.
Neonatal Inflammatory Submandibular Sialadenitis Associated with Prenatal Methyldopa Exposure
Authors: Cizmeci Mehmet Nevzat , Kanburoglu Mehmet Kenan , Akelma Ahmet Zulfikar , Malli Dilara Dilsad , Akin Kayihan , Tatli Mustafa Mansur
Published: July 2014

Inflammation of a salivary gland is an uncommon condition in the neonatal period, and an isolated form of submandibular acute inflammatory sialadenitis is an exceptionally rare phenomenon. Among various conditions that might lead to submandibular acute inflammatory sialadenitis, maternal use of drugs during pregnancy should be questioned as there may be possible associations. Herein, we describe a late preterm infant who presented with a large submandibular mass. After excluding possible pathogenic causes, maternal use of methyldopa was believed to be the only factor associated with this condition. To the best of our knowledge, no such relationship has been documented in previously published literature.
Epidemiology of Infections Due to Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase–Producing Bacteria in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Benner Kim W. , Prabhakaran Priya , Lowros Autumn S.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVES: To determine the proportion of infections caused by extended-spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL)–producing Klebsiella or Escherichia coli Gram-negative organisms in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and to identify risk factors for these infections.

METHODS: A retrospective, single-center chart review of patients admitted to a PICU in a 5-year period with infections caused by Klebsiella species or E coli was completed.

Data collected include demographics, length of stay, outcome, and relevant risk factors previously defined in the literature.

RESULTS: A total of 110 isolates were cultured from 94 patients. A total of 53% of the isolates were E coli, and the remainder were Klebsiella subspecies. Of the 110 isolates, 13 isolates (11.8%) in 7 patients were ESBL positive. The ESBL-producing isolates were equally distributed amongE coli and Klebsiella and were primarily cultured from tracheal aspirates. Most of the ESBL-positive isolates (9 of 13; 69%) were cultured from patients who received ceftazidime and/or cefotaxime in the preceding 30 days. Patients infected with E coli had higher PRISM 1 scores and were more likely to have a Foley catheter, whereas infections with Klebsiella were more common in mechanically ventilated males. Although not statistically significant, 80% of patients who were infected with non–ESBL-producing organisms survived to hospital discharge versus 57% of those infected with ESBL-producing E coli and Klebsiella.

CONCLUSIONS: Almost 12% of E coli and Klebsiella isolates in this patient population tested positive for ESBL production. ESBL production was equally distributed between E coli and Klebsiella species. These organisms were cultured from 7% of the study patients. As reported in previous studies, patients infected with ESBL-producing organisms most often had received prior cephalosporins and had a longer length of stay in the PICU.
Establishment and Evaluation of Pharmacist-Managed Admission Medication History and Reconciliation Process for Pediatric Patients
Authors: Provine Allison D. , Simmons Elisabeth M. , Bhagat Palak H.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: This was a single-center, prospective, pilot study aiming to evaluate the impact of pharmacist involvement in the admission medication history and reconciliation process and to quantify discrepancies found by pharmacists when compared to information collected by other health care providers at a pediatric institution.

METHODS: A pharmacist completed a thorough medication history and reconciled discrepancies with the medical team. Discrepancies included incorrect medication, dose, route, frequency; omitted information; missing medications; or any other inconsistencies outside of these categories. Information was documented in the electronic medical record via a standardized template, and pertinent discrepancies were communicated with the medical team.

RESULTS: Of the 100 medication histories included in the study, a total of 309 discrepancies were identified and corrected in the electronic medical record. The median length of time it took pharmacists to complete the medication history process was 15 minutes per patient (interquartile range, 10–20 minutes). Thirty discrepancies were determined as pertinent and were reported as intervened on and communicated to the medical team.

CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence that pharmacist-obtained admission medication histories and reconciliation have the potential to prevent potentially significant adverse drug reactions and have a positive impact on patient care.Index terms admission, history, medication, pharmacist, reconciliation
Who Lost Opioids?
Authors: Pitts Peter J.
Published: July 2014

Google â€œopioid abuse deterrenceâ€ and youâ€™ll find a lot of hits from lawyers and elected officials. What you wonâ€™t find is a lot of expert thinking from the FDA.That needs to change. FDA Commissioner Hamburgâ€™s March 13, 2014 testimony in front of the Senate HELP Committee) hopefully represent a more aggressive stance by the agency. Thatâ€™s good. But there needs to be more. The FDA must be the leading voice on the issue of abuse deterrence and the safe use of opioids.At present, politicians and pundits (not to mention trial lawyers) own the conversation. They're the ones talking about it. They're the ones the media goes to when they write about it. Have a look at a sampling of the press coverage surrounding Zohydro and see who's quoted and what they're saying. The struggle over control of the opioid abuse deterrence story is, shall say, not going the right way for the FDA.
Ethical, Legal, and Regulatory Issues Regarding the Study and Use of Medications in Pregnant Women
Authors: Pham Diana
Published: July 2014

Despite the prevalence of off-label drug prescriptions for pregnant women, little attention is paid to the ethical, legal, and regulatory issues regarding this practice. This paper discusses some of these key issues relevant to the practice of off-label medication use by women during pregnancy.
Avatars du pouvoir en pays de chirurgie
Authors: Pouchelle Marie-Christine
Published: July 2014

Le désenchantement actuellement ressenti par les chirurgiens tient en partie au brouillage de leurs modèles identitaires, particulièrement sensible dans l’hôpital public. En dépit d’un statut socioprofessionnel globalement dévalorisé du XVeau XVIIIe siècle, la nature de l’activité chirurgicale a donné à ces hommes de métier un sentiment de toute-puissance et un goût du miracle qui ne sont pas nécessairement en rapport avec leur compétence ou l’état de l’art à l’époque où ils vivent. D’emblée confrontée à la question du pouvoir à son arrivée sur le terrain, l’auteure s’attache à l’enchevêtrement des représentations et des comportements caractéristiques de cette corporation qui dorénavant s’interroge sur son destin.
« On ne s’occupe pas assez d’eux »
Authors: Jaffré Yannick , Guindo Abdoulaye
Published: July 2014

En Afrique, les enfants représentent la part plus importante des patients des hôpitaux. Pourtant très peu d’études ont été consacrées aux interactions entre les soignants et ces jeunes malades. Mêlant des perspectives d’anthropologie de la santé et d’anthropologie de l’enfance, notre enquête, réalisée dans un service de pédiatrie d’Afrique de l’Ouest, souligne la complexité de l’accès aux soins de ces jeunes patients et décrit un ensemble de dysfonctionnements dans la prise en charge des malades. Trois dimensions – la routine des pratiques, une mise en oeuvre d’éthiques sélectives et le statut de l’enfant – sont étudiées pour rendre compte des pratiques des professionnels de santé et des interactions observées.
Diversité du représentationnalisme de la conscience
Authors: Bernier Paul
Published: July 2014

Cet article discute de diverses versions du représentationnalisme de la conscience. L’objectif principal est de défendre une interprétation de la théorie auto-représentationnelle de la conscience (TARC) selon laquelle le contenu d’un état mental conscient serait une propositionde requi est constituée, en partie, par l’état mental conscient lui-même. Je souligne d’abord certains problèmes importants auxquels est confrontée une des théories de la conscience les plus influentes, soit la théorie représentationnelle de la conscience (TRC) et soutiens que la principale théorie rivale, soit la théorie de la conscience d’ordre supérieur (TCOS) doit lui être préférée. Je montre que les versions standards de la TCOS sont confrontées à un problème de régression à l’infini intolérable, et je propose la TARC comme une version non standard de la TCOS.
La cause de l’individuation selon les philosophes de l’Université de Paris entre 1230 et 1260
Authors: Piché David
Published: July 2014

Problème majeur dans l’histoire de l’ontologie, la question de la cause de l’individuation se pose, notamment, à tout lecteur de l’Isagoge de Porphyre. En dépit de son importance historique, aucune étude n’a été consacrée spécifiquement au traitement que ce problème a reçu de la part de ceux qui furent à l’avant-garde de la réception du péripatétisme gréco-arabe dans l’Occident latin, à savoir les philosophes qui oeuvrèrent à la Faculté des arts de l’Université de Paris entre 1230 et 1260. Cet article entend remédier à cette lacune en offrant la première traduction en langue moderne — elle-même réalisée principalement à partir des manuscrits des originaux latins — d’extraits pertinents de Commentaires isagogiques émanant de figures significatives de ce milieu. Ces textes traduits et annotés sont précédés d’une étude qui en dégage les thèses essentielles après avoir posé les termes du problème de l’individuation tel qu’il se pose dans le cadre épistémique que dessine l’opuscule de Porphyre.
John Dewey, Lloyd Morgan et l’avènement d’un nouveau naturalisme pragmatico-émergentiste
Authors: Doat David , Sartenaer Olivier
Published: July 2014

Peut-on raisonnablement penser qu’un même phénomène naturel, comme l’esprit par exemple, puisse en même temps être continu et discontinu avec les processus physico-chimiques qui conditionnent son advenue au monde ? Autrement dit, est-il possible de construire une philosophie de la nature qui rejette simultanément la dichotomie métaphysique et la pure identité, c’est-à-dire qui se situe sans contradiction sur la ligne de séparation entre le dualisme et le matérialisme ? En y répondant par l’affirmative, John Dewey et Lloyd Morgan, deux pionniers respectifs du pragmatisme et de l’émergentisme au siècle dernier, ouvrirent la voie d’un nouveau naturalisme antiréductionniste. L’objectif de cet article est, d’une part, de montrer comment ces deux auteurs cherchèrent à relever ce défi en mobilisant le concept d’émergence ; d’autre part de préciser la nature des divergences d’interprétation et d’usage du concept chez Morgan et Dewey.
Communication between HIV‐infected children and their caregivers about HIV medicines: a cross‐sectional study in Jinja district, Uganda
Authors: Kajubi Phoebe , Whyte Susan , Muhumuza Simon , Kyaddondo David , Katahoire Anne R
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Knowledge of antiretroviral therapy (ART) among children with HIV depends on open communication with them about their health and medicines. Guidelines assign responsibility for communication to children's home caregivers. Other research suggests that communication is poor and knowledge about ART is low among children on treatment in low‐income countries. This study sought to describe communication about medicine for HIV in quantitative terms from the perspectives of both children and caregivers. Thereafter, it established the factors associated with this communication and with children's knowledge about their HIV medicines.

Methods

We undertook a cross‐sectional survey of a random sample of 394 children with HIV on treatment and their caregivers at nine health facilities in Jinja District, Uganda. We assessed reported frequency and content of communication regarding their medicines as well as knowledge of what the medicines were for. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with communication patterns and children's knowledge of HIV medicines.

Results

Although 79.6% of the caregivers reported that they explained to the children about the medicines, only half (50.8%) of the children said they knew that they were taking medicines for HIV. Older children aged 15–17 years were less likely to communicate with a caregiver about the HIV medicines in the preceding month (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3–0.7, p=0.002). Children aged 11–14 years (OR 6.1, 95% CI 2.8–13.7, p<0.001) and 15–17 years (OR 12.6, 95% CI 4.6–34.3, p<0.001) were more likely to know they were taking medicines for HIV compared to the younger ones. The least common reported topic of discussion between children and caregivers was “what the medicines are for” while “the time to take medicines” was by far the most mentioned by children.

Conclusions

Communication about, and knowledge of, HIV medicines among children with HIV is low. Young age (less than 15 years) was associated with more frequent communication. Caregivers should be supported to communicate diagnosis and treatment to children with HIV. Age‐sensitive guidelines about the nature and content of communication should be developed.
Mechanistic models of biofilm growth in porous media
Authors: Jaiswal Priyank , Al‐Hadrami Fathiya , Atekwana Estella A. , Atekwana Eliot A.
Published: July 2014

Nondestructive acoustics methods can be used to monitor in situ biofilm growth in porous media. In practice, however, acoustic methods remain underutilized due to the lack of models that can translate acoustic data into rock properties in the context of biofilm. In this paper we present mechanistic models of biofilm growth in porous media. The models are used to quantitatively interpret arrival times and amplitudes recorded in the 29 day long Davis et al. (2010) physical scale biostimulation experiment in terms of biofilm morphologies and saturation. The model pivots on addressing the sediment elastic behavior using the lower Hashin‐Shtrikman bounds for grain mixing and Gassmann substitution for fluid saturation. The time‐lapse P wave velocity (VP; a function of arrival times) is explained by a combination of two rock models (morphologies); “load bearing” which assumes the biofilm as an additional mineral in the rock matrix and “pore filling” which assumes the biofilm as an additional fluid phase in the pores. The time‐lapse attenuation (QP−1; a function of amplitudes), on the other hand, can be explained adequately in two ways; first, through squirt flow where energy is lost from relative motion between rock matrix and pore fluid, and second, through an empirical function of porosity (φ), permeability (κ), and grain size. The squirt flow model‐fitting results in higher internal φ (7% versus 5%) and more oblate pores (0.33 versus 0.67 aspect ratio) for the load‐bearing morphology versus the pore‐filling morphology. The empirical model‐fitting results in up to 10% increase in κ at the initial stages of the load‐bearing morphology. The two morphologies which exhibit distinct mechanical and hydraulic behavior could be a function of pore throat size. The biofilm mechanistic models developed in this study can be used for the interpretation of seismic data critical for the evaluation of biobarriers in bioremediation, microbial enhanced oil recovery, and CO2 sequestration.
A two‐leaf rectangular hyperbolic model for estimating GPP across vegetation types and climate conditions
Authors: Wang Fumin , Chen Jing M. , Gonsamo Alemu , Zhou Bin , Cao Feifeng , Yi Qiuxiang
Published: July 2014

There are mainly three types of gross primary production (GPP), including light use efficiency (LUE) model, rectangular hyperbolic model (RHM), and process‐based model (PBM). RHM is not widely used because its parameters, namely, quantum yield (α) and maximum photosynthetic rate (Pm), vary temporally with temperature and spatially with vegetation type under natural conditions. In the study, we present a temperature‐ and vegetation‐type‐adapted RHM by linking it to the Baldocchi's model to obtain the relationship between α‐Pm and Vcmax,25‐temperature to overcome the shortcomings of traditional RHM. The modified RHM (MRHM) coupled with a two‐leaf upscaling strategy makes it possible to accurate and fast estimation of GPP at large scale. Twenty‐two CO2 eddy‐covariance sites with different vegetation types, including evergreen needleleaf forest, deciduous broadleaf forest, grassland, and evergreen broadleaf forest, are used to evaluate the performance of MRHM for GPP estimation. The comparisons of the simulated GPP using MRHM with measured and Boreal Ecosystem Productivity Simulator‐simulated GPP demonstrate that the MRHM can simulate GPP as accurately as PBM and in the meantime with the advantage of simplicity as LUE model. These results show the promising potential of MRHM for accurately simulating GPP with relative high computational efficiency, providing an ideal alternative tool for large‐scale and long time series GPP simulations.