bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Could Emotions Be Modelled through Information Processing?
Authors: Alvandi Ebrahim Oshni
Published: April 2015

One way to evaluate cognitive processes in living or nonliving systems is by using the notion of “information processing”. Emotions as cognitive processes orient human beings to recognize, express and display themselves or their wellbeing through dynamical and adaptive form of information processing. In addition, humans behave or act emotionally in an embodied environment. The brain embeds symbols, meaning and purposes for emotions as well. So any model of natural or autonomous emotional agents/systems needs to consider the embodied features of emotions that are processed in an informational channel of the brain or a processing system. This analytical and explanatory study described in this chapter uses the pragmatic notion of information to develop a theoretical model for emotions that attempts to synthesize some essential aspects of human emotional processing. The model holds context-sensitive and purpose-based features of emotional pattering in the brain. The role of memory is discussed and an idea of control parameters that have roles in processing environmental variables in emotional patterning is introduced.
Emotions and Social Evolution
Authors: Casacuberta D. , Vallverdú J.
Published: April 2015

Emotion and social processes are evolutionarily intertwined. In this chapter, the authors present their TPR, TPR 2.0 and The Game of Emotions simulations along with the justification of necessary ideas in order to achieve the next level of research. This chapter describes a defense of the epistemological value of computer simulations for the analysis of emotions and social interactions. Finally, the elements of the model are described and defined with a sketch of the basic control algorithm.
On Realizing Emotional Memories
Authors: Singh Saurabh K. , Jha Shashi Shekhar , Nair Shivashankar B.
Published: April 2015

Emotion and memory have been two intermingled areas in psychological research. Although researchers are still fairly clueless on how human emotions or memory work, several attempts have been made to copy the dynamics of these two entities in the realm of robotics. This chapter describes one such attempt to capture the dynamics of human emotional memories and model the same for use in a real robot. Emotional memories are created at extreme emotional states, namely, very positive or happy events or very negative ones. The positive ones result in the formation of positive memories while the negative ones form the negative counterparts. The robotic system seeks the positive ones while it tries to avoid the negative ones. Such memories aid the system in making the right decisions, especially when situations similar to the one which caused their generation, repeat in the future. This chapter introduces the manner in which a multi-agent emotion engine churns out the emotions which in turn generate emotional memories. Results obtained from simulations and those from using a real situated robot described herein, validate the working of these memories.
The Exploitation of Models in Artificial Emotions
Authors: Sánchez-Escribano M.G. , Herrera Carlos , Sanz Ricardo
Published: April 2015

Cognitive processes might be seen as reciprocal items and they are usually characterized by multiple feedback cycles. Emotions constitute one major source of feedback loops to assure the maintenance of well-being, providing cognitive processes with quantifiable meaning. This suggests the exploitation of models to improve the adaptation under value-based protocols. Emotion is not an isolated effect of stimuli, but it is the set of several effects of the stimuli and the relationships among them. This chapter proposes a study of the exploitation of models in artificial emotions, pointing out relationships as part of the model as well as the model exploitation method.
Socially Embodied Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: Lindblom J. , Alenljung B.
Published: April 2015

A fundamental challenge of human interaction with socially interactive robots, compared to other interactive products, comes from them being embodied. The embodied nature of social robots questions to what degree humans can interact ‘naturally' with robots, and what impact the interaction quality has on the user experience (UX). UX is fundamentally about emotions that arise and form in humans through the use of technology in a particular situation. This chapter aims to contribute to the field of human-robot interaction (HRI) by addressing, in further detail, the role and relevance of embodied cognition for human social interaction, and consequently what role embodiment can play in HRI, especially for socially interactive robots. Furthermore, some challenges for socially embodied interaction between humans and socially interactive robots are outlined and possible directions for future research are presented. It is concluded that the body is of crucial importance in understanding emotion and cognition in general, and, in particular, for a positive user experience to emerge when interacting with socially interactive robots.
Qualia Learning?
Authors: Vallverdú J.
Published: April 2015

Humans perform acts and imitate other humans' actions by innate mechanisms that imply the unconscious notion of innerbodiment. In this chapter, the author suggests a mechanistic method to capture, discretize and understand human actions, following a semi-supervised WOZ system that could allow robotic learning by imitation or even self-learning. A syntax and semantics basic model of human actions guide is provided as well as a philosophical analysis of the notion of action.
Intention and Body-Mood Engineering via Proactive Robot Moves in HRI
Authors: Görür O. Can , Erkmen Aydan M.
Published: April 2015

This chapter focuses on emotion and intention engineering by socially interacting robots that induce desired emotions/intentions in humans. The authors provide all phases that pave this road, supported by overviews of leading works in the literature. The chapter is partitioned into intention estimation, human body-mood detection through external-focused attention, path planning through mood induction and reshaping intention. Moreover, the authors present their novel concept, with implementation, of reshaping current human intention into a desired one, using contextual motions of mobile robots. Current human intention has to be deviated towards the new desired one by destabilizing the obstinance of human intention, inducing positive mood and making the “robot gain curiosity of human”. Deviations are generated as sequences of transient intentions tracing intention trajectories. The authors use elastic networks to generate, in two modes of body mood: “confident” and “suspicious”, transient intentions directed towards the desired one, choosing among intentional robot moves previously learned by HMM.
Automated Recognition of Emotion Appraisals
Authors: Mortillaro Marcello , Meuleman Ben , Scherer Klaus R.
Published: April 2015

Most computer models for the automatic recognition of emotion from nonverbal signals (e.g., facial or vocal expression) have adopted a discrete emotion perspective, i.e., they output a categorical emotion from a limited pool of candidate labels. The discrete perspective suffers from practical and theoretical drawbacks that limit the generalizability of such systems. The authors of this chapter propose instead to adopt an appraisal perspective in modeling emotion recognition, i.e., to infer the subjective cognitive evaluations that underlie both the nonverbal cues and the overall emotion states. In a first step, expressive features would be used to infer appraisals; in a second step, the inferred appraisals would be used to predict an emotion label. The first step is practically unexplored in emotion literature. Such a system would allow to (a) link models of emotion recognition and production, (b) add contextual information to the inference algorithm, and (c) allow detection of subtle emotion states.
Emotional Context? Or Contextual Emotions?
Authors: Arellano Diana , Varona Javier , Perales Francisco J.
Published: April 2015

The question “What is the meaning of a smile?” could be easily answered with the sentence “it means happiness”. But we can see in our daily lives that it is not always true. We also recognize that there is the context the one that makes us differentiate a happy smile from an embarrassed smile. The context is the framework that gives emotions a reason for happening because it describes what occurs around a person. Therefore, to create virtual characters, or agents that express emotions in a believable way it is necessary to simulate the context around them. The novelty of this chapter is the representation of context using ontologies, where context is seen not only as the events in the world, but also as that part of the character which allows them to react in one way or another, resulting in more believable emotional responses.
The Impact of Sovereign Debt Crisis on the EU Economy
Authors: Cura Serkan
Published: April 2015

The subprime mortgage crisis, which started in the United States in 2008, turned into a global crisis in a short time. Following the policies to reduce and mitigate the impacts of the global crisis, a sovereign debt crisis began that led to tremendous increases in government deficits and debt stock in the European Union region and made government financial systems unsustainable. This debt crisis, which started in the second half of 2009 in Greece, has resulted in a spillover effect for every EU member country. The ongoing crisis has rendered the future of Economic and Monetary Union uncertain. This chapter aims to determine the root causes of sovereign debt crisis in the EU and the economic and financial effects of and precautions for the crisis. This study also discusses the degradation of the EU's economic and political integration as a result of the sovereign debt crisis.
The Weakening of the Franco-German Tandem in Light of the Eurozone Crisis
Authors: Gözkaman Armağan
Published: April 2015

Since the inception of the European integration process, the Franco-German axis is considered to be a major driving force. Even today, Europe moves faster in the presence of an entente between France and Germany. However, the harmonization of German and French positions is not quasi-automatic as it used to be. The desynchronization that occurred over time is based on various factors such as the German unification, the EU's enlargements, and the change in German self-perception. One of the contexts in which the divergences between Paris and Berlin can be seen is related to the Euro zone rescue operations. Germany came to the fore in the resolution process and made clear her preferences, which are not always truly supported by France. The drifting-apart that started after the end of the Cold War thus continues.
Does the Regional Economic Integration Lead to Banking Union?
Authors: Schalck Christophe
Published: April 2015

In 2012, the European Commission created a roadmap towards a European Banking Union. The aim of this EBU is to ensure financial stability in Europe. The proposed framework by the European Commission is based on three pillars: a Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM), a Single Resolution Mechanism (SRM), and a single deposit guarantee mechanism. The EBU project is a step towards a better functioning EMU in the future. However, there are several controversies on this project. The main concerns are conflicts of interest between monetary policy and banking supervision, and cooperation between ECB and other banking authorities. If the EBU is a necessary step, it is not a sufficient one to resolve all financial issues in the EMU and in Europe.
The European Union
Authors: Sonmez Yontem
Published: April 2015

In spite of the recent rise in Euroscepticism across most of Europe, owing to the recent Eurozone crisis and reflected by the European Parliament elections of May 2014 where far-right parties gained strength, there is little evidence to suggest that the enlargement of the EU will soon stop. The membership negotiations have started with Turkey, Iceland, Serbia, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. In terms of both economic and physical size, Turkey is more influential than the rest of the candidate countries. Therefore, the purpose of this chapter is to provide some background information on the progress of each candidate and potential candidate country on the way to EU accession and compare them with the current EU28 members in order to emphasize the main similarities and the differences. Finally, a literature survey of the economic implications of a potential Turkish EU membership is also provided as a case study.
The Impact of Trade Openness on Environmental Pollution
Authors: Cetin Murat , Seker Fahri , Cavlak Hakan
Published: April 2015

This chapter analyzes the impact of trade openness on environmental pollution in the newly industrialized countries that have focused on trade over the period 1971-2010 by using recently developed panel unit root, cointegration, and causality tests. The results indicate a cointegration relationship between the variables. The results also show that trade openness increases carbon dioxide emissions with the elasticity of 0.53 and there is a Granger causality running from trade openness to carbon dioxide emissions in the long run. These findings may provide some policy implications. Without taking into account impact of trade on pollutions, optimistic environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis would be invalid. Therefore, policymakers who decide on environment policies should pay attention to not only growth effects but also trade effects on pollutions. Future empirical analysis would expose the new evidences for governmental policies and environmental regulations to change these effects positively.
EDMS Use in Local E-Government
Authors: Afonso Carlos M. , Schwarz Andrew , Roldán José L. , Franco Manuel J. Sánchez-
Published: April 2015

This study analyzes the effects of several post-adoption behaviors (extent of use, routinization and infusion) on overall performance in using an Electronic Document Management System (EDMS). Furthermore, the authors test whether the routinization and infusion variables mediate the influence of the extent of use on overall performance. This research collects data from a survey answered by 2,175 employees (EDMS users) of Portuguese municipalities. The Partial Least Squares technique is applied to test the model. The results showed that routinization is directly predicted by the extent of use, whereas infusion is directly affected by the extent of use and also by routinization. Consequently, such post-adoptive behaviors are interrelated not only in a sequential process, but also in parallel, meaning that the infusion state of EDMS use is achieved from the evolutionary process of EDMS use and also directly from each of the prior stages of EDMS use. In addition, overall performance is directly influenced by routinization and infusion, signifying that the more employees use the EDMS to its fullest extent, the more likely it is for the overall performance to improve. Finally, an indirect effects analysis shows that routinization and infusion mediate the relationship between extent of use and overall performance.
An Effective Assessment of Knowledge Sharing and E-Learning Portals
Authors: Subramanian D. Venkata , Geetha Angelina , Shankar P.
Published: April 2015

In recent years, most of the companies have increasingly realized the importance of the knowledge sharing portal and E-Learning portals to provide competitive knowledge for their employees. The knowledge stored in these portals varies from technical, process and project knowledge functional or domain specific knowledge to face the competitiveness among other companies or organizations, especially in industrialized countries. More than three-fourths of organizations have focused on their investment in technology and process trends that encourage user collaboration through Knowledge sharing and e-Learning Portals. There are many number of challenges in evaluating the effectiveness of the E-Learning Portals and Knowledge Portals. The primary goal of this paper is to illustrate how a domain independent multi-dimensional metric model and metric database can be built to assess the effectiveness of the Web Based Knowledge and E-Learning Portals.
Providing Personalized Services to Users in a Recommender System
Authors: Oduwobi Olukunle , Ojokoh Bolanle Adefowoke
Published: April 2015

Instructors recommend learning materials to a class of students not minding the learning ability and reading habit of each student. Learners are finding it problematic to make a decision about which available learning materials best meet their situation and will be beneficial to their course of study. In order to address this challenge, a new e-learning material recommender system that is able to recommend quality items to learners individually is required. The aim of this work is to develop a Personalized Recommender System that switches between Content-based and Collaborative filtering techniques, with an objective to design an algorithm to recommend electronic library materials, as well as personalize recommendations to both new and existing users. Experiments were conducted with evaluations showing that the recommender system was most effective when content-based filtering and collaborative filtering were used to recommend items for new users and existing users respectively, and still achieve personalization.
Dimensions of Business-to-Consumer (B2C) Systems Success in Kuwait
Authors: Rouibah Kamel , Lowry Paul Benjamin , Almutairi Laila
Published: April 2015

An extensive body of research has tested the information systems success model in many contexts. Surprisingly, few of these studies have applied it to e-commerce. A study by represents one such initiative, but it is crucial to address several remaining gaps associated with that study. Moreover, no e-commerce success model has considered the Arab world, which exhibits unique cultural factors influencing e-commerce. The authors' study proposes an improved IS success model for e-commerce in the Arab world. This model, based on that of , adds several enhancements to the validity and generalisability of his efforts, uses the latest SEM techniques, including both monetary and nonmonetary value conceptualisations, uses a multidimensional conceptualisation of system quality, and proposes specific factors of e-commerce service quality. The authors tested the proposed research model with a truly randomised sampling approach using 288 experienced business-to-consumer (B2C) consumers in the Arab world. The results largely support our hypothesised model. The most important difference between our results and those of previous studies is our finding that although service quality influences value, it has no bearing on user satisfaction in an Arab context. This study will be useful for practitioners and researchers seeking to improve the understanding of B2C e-commerce success in the Arab world.
Prostaglandin E2 Inhibits NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation through EP4 Receptor and Intracellular Cyclic AMP in Human Macrophages
Authors: Sokolowska Milena , Chen Li-Yuan , Liu Yueqin , Martinez-Anton Asuncion , Qi Hai-Yan , Logun Carolea , Alsaaty Sara , Park Yong Hwan , Kastner Daniel L. , Chae Jae Jin , Shelhamer James H.
Published: April 2015

PGE2 is a potent lipid mediator involved in maintaining homeostasis but also promotion of acute inflammation or immune suppression in chronic inflammation and cancer. Nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat–containing protein (NLR)P3 inflammasome plays an important role in host defense. Uncontrolled activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, owing to mutations in the NLRP3 gene, causes cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes. In this study, we showed that NLRP3 inflammasome activation is inhibited by PGE2 in human primary monocyte-derived macrophages. This effect was mediated through PGE2 receptor subtype 4 (EP4) and an increase in intracellular cAMP, independently of protein kinase A or exchange protein directly activated by cAMP. A specific agonist of EP4 mimicked, whereas its antagonist or EP4 knockdown reversed, PGE2-mediated NLRP3 inhibition. PGE2 caused an increase in intracellular cAMP. Blockade of adenylate cyclase by its inhibitor reversed PGE2-mediated NLRP3 inhibition. Increase of intracellular cAMP by an activator of adenylate cyclase or an analog of cAMP, or a blockade of cAMP degradation by phosphodiesterase inhibitor decreased NLRP3 activation. Protein kinase A or exchange protein directly activated by cAMP agonists did not mimic, and their antagonists did not reverse, PGE2-mediated NLRP3 inhibition. Additionally, constitutive IL-1β secretion from LPS-primed PBMCs of cryopyrin-associated periodic fever syndromes patients was substantially reduced by high doses of PGE2. Moreover, blocking cytosolic phospholipase A2α by its inhibitor or small interfering RNA or inhibiting cyclooxygenase 2, resulting in inhibition of endogenous PGE2 production, caused an increase in NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Our results suggest that PGE2 might play a role in maintaining homeostasis during the resolution phase of inflammation and might serve as an autocrine and paracrine regulator.
Anti–Factor H Autoantibodies in C3 Glomerulopathies and in Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: One Target, Two Diseases
Authors: Blanc Caroline , Togarsimalemath Shambhuprasad Kotresh , Chauvet Sophie , Le Quintrec Moglie , Moulin Bruno , Buchler Matthias , Jokiranta T. Sakari , Roumenina Lubka T. , Fremeaux-Bacchi Véronique , Dragon-Durey Marie-Agnès
Published: April 2015

Autoantibodies targeting factor H (FH), which is a main alternative complement pathway regulatory protein, have been well characterized in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) but have been less well described in association with alternative pathway–mediated glomerulopathies (GP). In this study, we studied 17 patients presenting with GP who were positive for anti-FH IgG. Clinical data were collected and biological characteristics were compared with those of patients presenting with anti-FH Ab-associated aHUS. In contrast to the aHUS patients, the GP patients had no circulating FH-containing immune complexes, and their anti-FH IgG had a weaker affinity for FH. Functional studies demonstrated that these Abs induced no perturbations in FH cell surface protection or the binding of FH to its ligand. However, anti-FH IgG samples isolated from three patients were able to affect the factor I cofactor activity of FH. Epitope mapping identified the N-terminal domain of FH as the major binding site for GP patient IgG. No homozygous deletions of the CFHR1 and CFHR3 genes, which are frequently associated with the anti-FH Ab in aHUS patients, were found in the GP patients. Finally, anti-FH Abs were frequently associated with the presence of C3 nephritic factor in child GP patients and with monoclonal gammopathy in adult GP patients, who frequently showed Ig Lchain restriction during reactivity against factor H. These data provide deeper insights into the pathophysiological differences between aHUS and GP, demonstrating heterogeneity of anti-FH IgG.
Collecting Lymphatic Vessel Permeability Facilitates Adipose Tissue Inflammation and Distribution of Antigen to Lymph Node–Homing Adipose Tissue Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kuan Emma L. , Ivanov Stoyan , Bridenbaugh Eric A. , Victora Gabriel , Wang Wei , Childs Ed W. , Platt Andrew M. , Jakubzick Claudia V. , Mason Robert J. , Gashev Anatoliy A. , Nussenzweig Michel , Swartz Melody A. , Dustin Michael L. , Zawieja David C. , Randolph Gwendalyn J.
Published: April 2015

Collecting lymphatic vessels (CLVs), surrounded by fat and endowed with contractile muscle and valves, transport lymph from tissues after it is absorbed into lymphatic capillaries. CLVs are not known to participate in immune responses. In this study, we observed that the inherent permeability of CLVs allowed broad distribution of lymph components within surrounding fat for uptake by adjacent macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) that actively interacted with CLVs. Endocytosis of lymph-derived Ags by these cells supported recall T cell responses in the fat and also generated Ag-bearing DCs for emigration into adjacent lymph nodes (LNs). Enhanced recruitment of DCs to inflammation-reactive LNs significantly relied on adipose tissue DCs to maintain sufficient numbers of Ag-bearing DCs as the LN expanded. Thus, CLVs coordinate inflammation and immunity within adipose depots and foster the generation of an unexpected pool of APCs for Ag transport into the adjacent LN.
Chronic kidney disease in disadvantaged populations: The case of Africa
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Guillermo , Jha Vivekanand
Published: April 2015

No abstract available
Involvement of Iron-Containing Proteins in Genome Integrity in Arabidopsis Thaliana
Authors: Zhang Caiguo
Published: April 2015

The Arabidopsis genome encodes numerous iron-containing proteins such as iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cluster proteins and hemoproteins. These proteins generally utilize iron as a cofactor, and they perform critical roles in photosynthesis, genome stability, electron transfer, and oxidation-reduction reactions. Plants have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to maintain iron homeostasis for the assembly of functional iron-containing proteins, thereby ensuring genome stability, cell development, and plant growth. Over the past few years, our understanding of iron-containing proteins and their functions involved in genome stability has expanded enormously. In this review, I provide the current perspectives on iron homeostasis in Arabidopsis, followed by a summary of iron-containing protein functions involved in genome stability maintenance and a discussion of their possible molecular mechanisms.
Arrangements of hypersurfaces and Bestvina–Brady groups
Authors: Artal Bartolo Enrique , Cogolludo-Agustín José Ignacio , Matei Daniel
Published: April 2015

We show that quasi-projective Bestvina–Brady groups are fundamental groups of complements to hyperplane arrangements. Furthermore we relate other normal subgroups of right-angled Artin groups to complements to arrangements of hypersurfaces. We thus obtain examples of hypersurface complements whose fundamental groups satisfy various niteness properties.
Dynamics on PSL(2, $\mathbb C$)-character varieties: 3-manifolds with toroidal boundary components
Authors: Canary Richard D. , Magid Aaron D.
Published: April 2015

Let

M

be a compact, orientable, hyperbolizable 3-manifold with incompressible boundary which is not an interval bundle. We study the dynamics of the action of Out(

\pi_1(M

)) on the relative PSL(2,

\mathbb C

)-character variety

X_T (M)

.
Dengue in Adults Admitted to a Referral Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Taylor Walter R. , Fox Annette , Pham Khuong Thi , Le Hoa Nguyen Minh , Tran Ninh Thi Hai , Tran Giang Van , Nguyen Binh Thanh , Nguyen My Van , Nguyen Lien Thi , Yacoub Sophie , Nguyen Hoai Thi Thu , Nguyen Ha Hong , Nguyen Hien Duc , Wertheim Heiman , Horby Peter , Farrar Jeremy , Trinh Lien Thi Minh , Nguyen Kinh Van
Published: April 2015

Knowledge of adult dengue virus (DENV) infection from Hanoi, Vietnam, is limited. In 2008, we prospectively studied 143 (77 male) confirmed (nonstructural 1 antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], DENV polymerase chain reaction, paired serology) adult dengue patients of median age 23.5 (range 16–72) years. They were admitted to the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Hanoi, on median illness day (D) 5 (range 1–8). By D8, 141 (98.6%) were afebrile. Platelet counts and hematocrit (median, interquartile range [IQR]) nadired and peaked on D5 and D4, respectively: 40,000/μL (10,000–109,000/μL), 43.4% (34.9–49.7%). Four (2.8%) patients had severe dengue: 1) D10 shock (N = 1) and 2) aspartate aminotransferase (AST) ≥ 1,000 IU/L (N = 3, D5 and D7). Of 143 patients, 118 (82.5%) had ≥ 1 warning sign (World Health Organization [WHO] 2009 criteria): mucosal bleeding 66/143 (46.1%), soft tissue edema 54/143 (37.7%), and ultrasound detected plasma leakage (pleural effusions/ascites) 30/129 (23.25%). 138 (96.5%) patients received intravenous (IV) fluids: 3 L (IQR: 0.5–8.5 L). Most patients had non-severe dengue with warning signs. High rates of edema and plasma leakage may be explained partly by liberal use of IV fluids. Studies are needed on optimizing fluid management in non-severe adult dengue.
Differential Recognition of Terminal Extracellular Plasmodium falciparum VAR2CSA Domains by Sera from Multigravid, Malaria-Exposed Malian Women
Authors: Travassos Mark A. , Coulibaly Drissa , Bailey Jason A. , Niangaly Amadou , Adams Matthew , Nyunt Myaing M. , Ouattara Amed , Lyke Kirsten E. , Laurens Matthew B. , Pablo Jozelyn , Jasinskas Algis , Nakajima Rie , Berry Andrea A. , Takala-Harrison Shannon , Kone Abdoulaye K. , Kouriba Bourema , Rowe J. Alexandra , Doumbo Ogobara K. , Thera Mahamadou A. , Laufer Miriam K. , Felgner Philip L. , Plowe Christopher V.
Published: April 2015

The Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) family mediates parasite sequestration in small capillaries through tissue-specific cytoadherence. The best characterized of these proteins is VAR2CSA, which is expressed on the surface of infected erythrocytes that bind to chondroitin sulfate in the placental matrix. Antibodies to VAR2CSA prevent placental cytoadherence and protect against placental malaria. The size and complexity of the VAR2CSA protein pose challenges for vaccine development, but smaller constitutive domains may be suitable for subunit vaccine development. A protein microarray was printed to include five overlapping fragments of the 3D7 VAR2CSA extracellular region. Malian women with a history of at least one pregnancy had antibody recognition of four of these fragments and had stronger reactivity against the two distal fragments than did nulliparous women, children, and men from Mali, suggesting that the C-terminal extracellular VAR2CSA domains are a potential focus of protective immunity. With carefully chosen sera from longitudinal studies of pregnant women, this approach has the potential to identify seroreactive VAR2CSA domains associated with protective immunity against pregnancy-associated malaria.
High-Throughput Multiplex Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Method for Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium Species Detection in Stool Samples
Authors: Nurminen Noora , Juuti Rosa , Oikarinen Sami , Fan Yue-Mei , Lehto Kirsi-Maarit , Mangani Charles , Maleta Kenneth , Ashorn Per , Hyöty Heikki
Published: April 2015

Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium species belong to a complex group of pathogens that cause diseases hampering development and socioeconomic improvements in the developing countries. Both pathogens are recognized as significant causes of diarrhea and nutritional disorders. However, further studies are needed to clarify the role of parasitic infections, especially asymptomatic infections in malnutrition and stunting. We developed a high-throughput multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method for G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp. detection in stool samples. The sensitivity and specificity of the method were ensured by analyzing confirmed positive samples acquired from diagnostics laboratories and participating in an external quality control round. Its capability to detect asymptomatic G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp. infections was confirmed by analyzing stool samples collected from 44 asymptomatic 6-month-old infants living in an endemic region in Malawi. Of these, five samples were found to be positive for G. lamblia and two for Cryptosporidium spp. In conclusion, the developed method is suitable for large-scale studies evaluating the occurrence of G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp. in endemic regions and for clinical diagnostics of these infections.
The First Step Toward Diagnosing Female Genital Schistosomiasis by Computer Image Analysis
Authors: Holmen Sigve Dhondup , Kleppa Elisabeth , Lillebø Kristine , Pillay Pavitra , van Lieshout Lisette , Taylor Myra , Albregtsen Fritz , Vennervald Birgitte Jyding , Onsrud Mathias , Kjetland Eyrun Floerecke
Published: April 2015

Schistosoma haematobium causes female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), which is a poverty-related disease in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, it is co-endemic with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and biopsies from genital lesions may expose the individual to increased risk of HIV infection. However, microscopy of urine and hematuria are nonspecific and insensitive predictors of FGS and gynecological investigation requires extensive training. Safe and affordable diagnostic methods are needed. We explore a novel method of diagnosing FGS using computer color analysis of colposcopic images. In a cross-sectional study on young women in an endemic area, we found strong associations between the output from the computer color analysis and both clinical diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 5.97, P < 0.001) and urine microscopy for schistosomiasis (OR = 3.52, P = 0.004). Finally, using latent class statistics, we estimate that the computer color analysis yields a sensitivity of 80.5% and a specificity of 66.2% for the diagnosis of FGS.
Failure of Ivermectin per Rectum to Achieve Clinically Meaningful Serum Levels in Two Cases of Strongyloides Hyperinfection
Authors: Bogoch Isaac I. , Khan Kamran , Abrams Howard , Nott Caroline , Leung Elizabeth , Fleckenstein Lawrence , Keystone Jay S.
Published: April 2015

Two cases of Strongyloides hyperinfection are presented. Ivermectin was initially administered orally and per rectum pending the availability of subcutaneous (SC) preparations. In neither case did rectal suppositories of ivermectin achieve clinically meaningful serum values. Clinicians should use SC preparations of ivermectin as early as possible in Strongyloides hyperinfection and dissemination.
Location of Parathyroid Adenomas in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Where to look?
Authors: Uludag Mehmet , Yazici Pinar , Mihmanli Mehmet , Bozdag Emre , Aygun Nurcihan
Published: April 2015

Purpose

Preoperative localization studies for parathyroid adenomas are very essential to perform minimal invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) with decreased operative time and potential complications. Although most of these studies based on radiological imaging, intraoperative assessment provides the most accurate anatomical description of the location of parathyroid adenomas. In this study, we aim to evaluate the surgical variations of locations of parathyroid adenomas in patients performed parathyroid surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).

Materials and methods

Between January 2010 and December 2013, 243 patients (201 women/42 men) who underwent parathyroid surgery due to phPT were included. A total of 254 parathyroid adenomas were detected. Demographic features, preoperative work-up, surgical approach, types of procedures and postoperative complications were noted. Locations of parathyroid adenomas were recorded from operative notes. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test and chi-square. continuous data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

With regard to the most frequently observed, location of adenomas were as follows; right inferior (n = 89, 37.7%), left inferior (n = 78, 33%), right superior (n = 44, 18.6%), left superior (n = 25, 10.5%) and ectopic locations (n = 18). Ectopic adenomas were mostly located in the thymus (n = 9) and intrathyroidal tissue (n = 6) at a rate of 83%. Postoperative hypocalcemia (11%) was mostly seen in those with parathyroid adenoma located around the inferior lobes of the thyroid (86%) and undergoing bilateral neck exploration (75%).

Conclusion

The most of the parathyroid adenomas were found in orthotopic position and located around the lower pole of the thyroid gland. Ectopic adenomas were mostly located in thymus or intrathyroidal. Postoperative hypocalcemia was also higher in those with parathyroid adenoma located around the inferior lobe of the thyroid.

How to cite this article

Yazici P, Mihmanli M, Bozdag E, Aygun N, Uludag M. Location of Parathyroid Adenomas in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Where to look? World J Endoc Surg 2015;7(1):1-5.
Statistical Methods in Endocrine Surgery Journal Club
Authors: Mishra Prabhaker
Published: April 2015

Endocrine surgery is a relatively newer surgical subspecialty with few dedicated endocrine surgery departments and journals. To understand the published literature, knowledge of some common statistical methods are not only useful but also significant to publish own research successfully. This paper present a brief review of common statistical methods, used for data analysis in conducting medical research.

How to cite this article

Mishra P, Mayilvaganan S, Agarwal A. Statistical Methods in Endocrine Surgery Journal Club. World J Endoc Surg 2015;7(1):21-23.
Identification of Fetal Growth Patterns with Customized Growth Charts: A prospective study in South India
Authors: Radhika Badanahatti , Suseela Vavilala , Nirmalan Praveen Kumar
Published: April 2015

Aim

To determine the diagnostic effectiveness of symphysis fundus height (SFH) measures plotted on customized growth charts for the identification of fetal growth patterns in a tertiary care perinatal center in south India.

Materials and methods

Serial SFH of pregnant women with singleton babies booked for antenatal care up to 22 weeks was measured from 24 weeks of gestation and plotted on customized growth charts that were developed using the gestation related optimal weight (GROW) software downloaded from www.gestation.net to identify fetal growth patterns. Fetal growth patterns were also ascertainedusing ultrasound in the antenatal period and confirmed at birth using a neonatal growth classification. The diagnostic effectiveness of SFH was compared with ultrasound and neonatal classifications using sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve and likelihood ratio tests

Results

The study included 666 pregnant women who presented at the antenatal clinics from January 2010 to October 2010. On ultrasound examination, 564 (84.6%) fetuses were AGA, 78 (11.7%) fetuses were LGA and 19 (2.9%) were SGA and 5 (0.8%) showed crossing centile from higher to lower pattern. On serial SFH measures, 426 (64.0%) of the fetuses were normal growth, 180 (27.0%) were excessive growth and 40 (6.0%) were slow growth. Serial SFH measures had a positive likelihood ratio of 4.7 (8.5 for USG) for the identification of SGA and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.06 for the detection of LGA.

Conclusion

The SFH measures plotted on a customized GROW curve have the potential to develop into a low cost screening tool to identify fetuses with altered growth. The diagnostic effectiveness of SFH plotted on customized growth charts has to be improved further through the development of appropriate customized growth charts for India before application on a larger scale.

How to cite this article

Radhika B, Suseela V, Nirmalan PK. Identification of Fetal Growth Patterns with Customized Growth Charts: A prospective study in South India. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(1):30-34.
Trust, Ethics and Human Reason
Authors: Lagerspetz Olli
Published: April 2015

The central aims of this book are (1) to present an overview of the philosophical debate on trust in the last three decades; (2) to address a central issue in that debate, namely, the presumed prima facie conflict between trust and rationality; and (3) in the course of the analysis, to apply a non-essentialist understanding of psychological concepts, as developed in Wittgenstein’s philosophical psychology. The task is not to judge between different definitions of trust. Instead we need awareness of what is implied in a given case when behaviour is singled out as an instance of trust. To invoke the vocabulary of trust and distrust in human interaction is both to describe it, to take a certain perspective on it and to influence it. This is also true in the philosophical debate itself. The issue of trust has been taken up in response to various theoretical conundrums. A dominant theme is the need to refute scepticism and show why trust can be embraced as a rationally justified pursuit. The author argues that this approach must in the end be self-refuting because it would lose the phenomenon it wants to justify. What emerges is instead a conception of rationality that includes the entire web of practices and ways of thinking that constitute human agency, including our ways of speaking about them. We are always already embedded in relations of dependence, we are ethically committed to each other as beings that trust and receive trust.
Nations and Citizens in Yugoslavia and the Post-Yugoslav States
Authors: Štiks Igor
Published: April 2015

Between 1914 and the present day the political makeup of the Balkans has relentlessly changed, following unpredictable shifts of international and internal borders. Between and across these borders various political communities were formed, co-existed and (dis)integrated.

By analysing one hundred years of modern citizenship in Yugoslavia and post-Yugoslav states, Igor Štiks shows that the concept and practice of citizenship is necessary to understand how political communities are made, un-made and re-made. He argues that modern citizenship is a tool that can be used for different and opposing goals, from integration and re-unification to fragmentation and ethnic engineering.

The study of citizenship in the ‘laboratory’ of the Balkands offers not only an original angle to narrate an alternative political history, but also an insight into the fine mechanics and repeating glitches of modern politics, applicable to multinational states in the European Union and beyond.
Humanism
Authors: Pinn Anthony B.
Published: April 2015

Who are the “Nones”? What does humanism say about race, religion and popular culture? How do race, religion and popular culture inform and affect humanism?

The demographics of the United States are changing, marked most profoundly by the religiously unaffiliated, or what we have to come to call the “Nones”. Spread across generations in the United States, this group encompasses a wide range of philosophical and ideological perspectives, from some in line with various forms of theism to those who are atheistic, and all sorts of combinations in between. Similar changes to demographics are taking place in Europe and elsewhere.

Humanism: Essays on Race, Religion and Popular Culture provides a much-needed humanities-based analysis and description of humanism in relation to these cultural markers. Whereas most existing analysis attempts to explain humanism through the natural and social sciences (the “what” of life), Anthony B. Pinn explores humanism in relation to “how” life is arranged, socialized, ritualized, and framed. This ground-breaking publication brings together old and new essays on a wide range of topics and themes, from the African-American experience, to the development of humanist churches, and the lyrics of Jay Z.
Does the description of a root system matter for sustainable use and conservation? A case study in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kaboré Sibiry Albert , Hahn Karen , Hien Mipro , Nacro Hassan Bismarck
Published: April 2015

Sarcocephalus latifolius (Sm.) E. A. Bruce is one of the most useful medicinal plants in many African countries. The root being the part generally used for this purpose. In the context of land degradation and overexploitation of biological resources in many parts of Burkina Faso, a good description of the root system is necessary to better plan for sustainable use and conservation. We aim to answer the following: i) What is the root system architecture of S. latifolius in the Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso? ii) What amount of root biomass is produced by the species? iii) Can we use a semi-destructive method to establish a model for root biomass prediction?

Forty plants were randomly selected and their dendrometric parameters were measured. For each sampled tree, the quarter of the roots were harvested and weighed. Results show the species has a superficial lateral root system. The roots grow towards other species, but do not form anatomical links with roots of other species. An allometric equation for root biomass prediction was developed through a multiple linear model. As a practical use of the present study, we propose, that people using this plant to treat illness should search for roots at approximately 10m between the trunk of mature individuals of S. latifolius and another species, instead of using roots near the trunk. Thus, only the ends of roots would be cut. Using this method could limit tree mortalities due to root harvesting and contribute to the preservation of this important species.
The Map of True Places: Moving Onward in Artist-Teacher Preparation
Authors: Hofsess Brooke Anne
Published: April 2015

How might we move onward in art teacher education toward a more fluid sense of possibility in preparing teachers for careers in schools, community arts settings, and beyond-- into livelihoods and vocations we have yet to imagine? This paper contemplates such a question by dwelling in the pages of a visual verbal journal kept by a pre-service artistteacher during an introductory art education methods course. The author, an art teacher educator, follows a curatorial impulse, thus creating a series of rhizomatic maps. Through this arts-based methodological approach, these maps generate an assemblage of true places, or lines of resonance and connection educators create between themselves and their anticipated vocation. These mappings seek to invite others to wonder how the journal keeper’s insights and reflections might offer new directions and possibilities for art teacher preparation.
Museums as Alternative Settings for Initial Teacher Education: Implications of and Beyond the “Take One Picture” Program for Primary Art Education
Authors: Yuan Yanyue , Stephenson Philip , Hickman Richard
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we discuss the rationale for using museums as alternative settings for initial teacher education in the primary sector by identifying the significance of transferring the pedagogical strategies characteristic of museum settings to primary art education. To illustrate our points, we examine the case of the "Take One Picture" initiative (hereafter as TOP) by drawing upon evidence from the TOP Cultural Placement pilot project in Cambridge. We call attention to "dialogic teaching" as a valuable pedagogical principle that trainee teachers can take away and build upon to inform their day-to-day practice. Our reflections on the TOP project reaffirm the distinctive role of the museum context in teacher training and the importance of dialogue in engagement with art. In addition, the TOP project showcases how fine arts can be taught from a Visual Culture Art Education (VCAE) perspective that incorporates socio-cultural contexts. We also put forward a "repertoire" approach that connects the various dimensions in art education, including appreciating, making and displaying art. This small case study enriches the current literature by highlighting that museums can be turned into exemplary settings for raising awareness of dialogic teaching and for teachers and educators to practice, design, and improve their own strategies of dialogic teaching. In response to the limitations of the TOP program, we propose that trainee teachers could be encouraged to make art works during their training and that future practices can incorporate a "Take One Object" (TOO) approach to complement the employment of visual stimulus in art education with material objects.