bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Line-Shape Code Comparison through Modeling and Fitting of Experimental Spectra of the C ii 723-nm Line Emitted by the Ablation Cloud of a Carbon Pellet
Authors: Koubiti Mohammed , Goto Motoshi , Ferri Sandrine , Hansen Stephanie , Stambulchik Evgeny
Published: July 2014

Various codes of line-shape modeling are compared to each other through the profile of the C ii 723-nm line for typical plasma conditions encountered in the ablation clouds of carbon pellets, injected in magnetic fusion devices. Calculations were performed for a single electron density of 1017 cm−3 and two plasma temperatures (T = 2 and 4 eV). Ion and electron temperatures were assumed to be equal (Te = Ti = T). The magnetic field, B, was set equal to either to zero or 4 T. Comparisons between the line-shape modeling codes and two experimental spectra of the C ii 723-nm line, measured perpendicularly to the B-field in the Large Helical Device (LHD) using linear polarizers, are also discussed.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Phototoxicity Assessment of Acylglutamate Surfactants Using a Human Keratinocyte Cell Line
Authors: Kyadarkunte Abhay , Patole Milind , Pokharkar Varsha
Published: July 2014

In the current study, human keratinocyte cell line was used as in vitro cell culture model to elucidate the effects of the fatty acid chain length of acylglutamate (amino acid-based surfactant) namely, sodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium lauroyl glutamate, and sodium myristoyl glutamate on their cytotoxicity and the ultraviolet B induced phototoxicity. The endpoint used to assess toxicity was a tetrazolium-based assay whereas, the phototoxic potential of acylglutamate surfactants was predicted using two models namely, the Photo-Irritation Factor and Mean Photo Effect. The results of this study showed that the fatty acid chain length of acylglutamate greatly influences toxic effects on human keratinocyte cells. In addition, all the acylglutamate surfactants tested on human keratinocyte cells demonstrated significantly less cytotoxicity (when irradiated and non-irradiated with ultraviolet B light; p < 0.05) and no phototoxic potential was observed in any of the acylglutamate surfactants, when compared with the positive control chlorpromazine. In conclusion, the in vitro studies confirm the suitability of sodium lauroyl glutamate destined for the synthesis and stabilization of lipid nanoparticles.
Monolithic View of Galaxy Formation and Evolution
Authors: Chiosi Cesare , Merlin Emiliano , Piovan Lorenzo , Tantalo Rosaria
Published: July 2014

We review and critically discuss the current understanding of galaxy formation and evolution limited to Early Type Galaxies (ETGs) as inferred from the observational data and briefly contrast the hierarchical and quasi-monolithic paradigms of formation and evolution. Since in Cold Dark Matter (CDM) cosmogony small scale structures typically collapse early and form low-mass haloes that subsequently can merge to assembly larger haloes, galaxies formed in the gravitational potential well of a halo are also expected to merge thus assembling their mass hierarchically. Mergers should occur all over the Hubble time and large mass galaxies should be in place only recently. However, recent observations of high redshift galaxies tell a different story: massive ETGs are already in place at high redshift. To this aim, we propose here a revision of the quasi-monolithic scenario as an alternative to the hierarchical one, in which mass assembling should occur in early stages of a galaxy lifetime and present recent models of ETGs made of Dark and Baryonic Matter in a Λ-CDM Universe that obey the latter scheme. The galaxies are followed from the detachment from the linear regime and Hubble flow at z ≥ 20 down to the stage of nearly complete assembly of the stellar content (z ∼ 2 − 1) and beyond. It is found that the total mass (Mh = MDM + MBM ) and/or initial over-density of the proto-galaxy drive the subsequent star formation histories (SFH). Massive galaxies (Mh ~ _1012M⊙) experience a single, intense burst of star formation (with rates ≥ 103M⊙/yr) at early epochs, consistently with observations, with a weak dependence on the initial over-density; intermediate mass haloes (Mh~_ 1010 − 1011M⊙) have star formation histories that strongly depend on their initial over-density; finally, low mass haloes (Mh ~_ 109M⊙) always have erratic, burst-like star forming histories. The present-day properties (morphology, structure, chemistry and photometry) of the model galaxies closely resemble those of the real galaxies. In this context, we also try to cast light on the physical causes of the Stellar Mass-Radius Relation (MRR) of galaxies. The MRR is the result of two complementary mechanisms: i.e., local physical processes that fix the stellar mass and the radius of each galaxy and cosmological global, statistical principles, which shape the distribution of galaxies in the MR-plane. Finally, we also briefly comment on the spectro-photometric properties of the model galaxies and how nicely they match the observational data. The picture emerging from this analysis is that the initial physical conditions of a proto-galaxy, i.e., nature, seem to play the dominant role in building up the ETGs we see today, whereas nurture by recurrent captures of small objects is a secondary actor of the fascinating and intriguing story of galaxy formation and evolution.
Vertical Measurements in Oblique Aerial Imagery
Authors: Molinari Massimiliano , Medda Stefano , Villani Samir
Published: July 2014

This article first introduces oblique aerial imagery, then describes how vertical distances can be measured once the pixel distances of the original pictures are known. The calculations require that, not only all camera settings be known, but also that one relies on the availability of detailed digital terrain and digital surface models (DSM and DTM), in order to provide the necessary ground level for calculating vertical distances. The algorithm is finally implemented in an online viewer.
Exploring Neighborhoods in the Metagenome Universe
Authors: Aßhauer Kathrin , Klingenberg Heiner , Lingner Thomas , Meinicke Peter
Published: July 2014

The variety of metagenomes in current databases provides a rapidly growing source of information for comparative studies. However, the quantity and quality of supplementary metadata is still lagging behind. It is therefore important to be able to identify related metagenomes by means of the available sequence data alone. We have studied efficient sequence-based methods for large-scale identification of similar metagenomes within a database retrieval context. In a broad comparison of different profiling methods we found that vector-based distance measures are well-suitable for the detection of metagenomic neighbors. Our evaluation on more than 1700 publicly available metagenomes indicates that for a query metagenome from a particular habitat on average nine out of ten nearest neighbors represent the same habitat category independent of the utilized profiling method or distance measure. While for well-defined labels a neighborhood accuracy of 100% can be achieved, in general the neighbor detection is severely affected by a natural overlap of manually annotated categories. In addition, we present results of a novel visualization method that is able to reflect the similarity of metagenomes in a 2D scatter plot. The visualization method shows a similarly high accuracy in the reduced space as compared with the high-dimensional profile space. Our study suggests that for inspection of metagenome neighborhoods the profiling methods and distance measures can be chosen to provide a convenient interpretation of results in terms of the underlying features. Furthermore, supplementary metadata of metagenome samples in the future needs to comply with readily available ontologies for fine-grained and standardized annotation. To make profile-based k-nearest-neighbor search and the 2D-visualization of the metagenome universe available to the research community, we included the proposed methods in our CoMet-Universe server for comparative metagenome analysis.
Ficus carica Polysaccharides Promote the Maturation and Function of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Tian Jie , Zhang Yue , Yang Xiaomin , Rui Ke , Tang Xinyi , Ma Jie , Chen Jianguo , Xu Huaxi , Lu Liwei , Wang Shengjun
Published: July 2014

Various polysaccharides purified from plants are considered to be biological response modifiers and have been shown to enhance immune responses. Ficus carica L. is a Chinese traditional plant and has been widely used in Asian countries for its anti-tumor properties. Ficus carica polysaccharides (FCPS), one of the most essential and effective components in Ficus carica L., have been considered to be a beneficial immunomodulator and may be used in immunotherapy. However, the immunologic mechanism of FCPS is still unclear. Dectin-1 is a non-toll-like pattern recognition receptor, predominately expressed on dendritic cells (DCs). Activation of DCs through dectin-1 signaling can lead to the maturation of DC, thus inducing both innate and adaptive immune responses against tumor development and microbial infection. In our study, we found that FCPS could effectively stimulate DCs, partially through the dectin-1/Syk pathway, and promote their maturation, as shown by the up-regulation of CD40, CD80, CD86, and major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII). FCPS also enhanced the production of cytokines by DCs, including IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-23. Moreover, FCPS-treated DCs showed an enhanced capability to stimulate T cells and promote T cell proliferation. Altogether, these results demonstrate that FCPS are able to activate and maturate DCs, thereby up-regulating the immunostimulatory capacity of DCs, which leads to enhanced T cell responses.
Ascophyllan Purified from Ascophyllum nodosum Induces Th1 and Tc1 Immune Responses by Promoting Dendritic Cell Maturation
Authors: Zhang Wei , Du Jiang-Yuan , Jiang Zedong , Okimura Takasi , Oda Tatsuya , Yu Qing , Jin Jun-O
Published: July 2014

Marine-derived sulfated polysaccharides have been shown to possess certain anti-virus, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant activities. However, the in vivo immunomodulatory effects of marine-derived pure compounds have been less well characterized. In this study, we investigated the effect of ascophyllan, a sulfated polysaccharide purified from Ascophyllum nodosum, on the maturation of mouse dendritic cells (DCs) in vitro and in vivo. Ascophyllan induced up-regulation of co-stimulatory molecules and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs). Moreover, in vivo administration of ascophyllan promotes up-regulation of CD40, CD80, CD86, MHC class I and MHC class II and production of IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α in spleen cDCs. Interestingly, ascophyllan induced a higher degree of co-stimulatory molecule up-regulation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production than fucoidan, a marine-derived polysaccharide with well-defined effect for promoting DC maturation. Ascophyllan also promoted the generation of IFN-γ-producing Th1 and Tc1 cells in the presence of DCs in an IL-12-dependent manner. Finally, myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) signaling pathway was essential for DC maturation induced by ascophyllan. Taken together, these results demonstrate that ascophyllan induces DC maturation, and consequently enhances Th1 and Tc1 responses in vivo. This knowledge could facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat infectious diseases and cancer.
Identification of Catechol as a New Marker for Detecting Propolis Adulteration
Authors: Huang Shuai , Zhang Cui-Ping , Li George , Sun Yue-Yi , Wang Kai , Hu Fu-Liang
Published: July 2014

Adulteration of propolis with poplar extract is a serious issue in the bee products market. The aim of this study was to identify marker compounds in adulterated propolis, and examine the transformation of chemical components from poplar buds to propolis. The chemical profiles of poplar extracts and propolis were compared, and a new marker compound, catechol, was isolated and identified from the extracts of poplar buds. The polyphenol oxidase, catechol oxidase, responsible for catalyzing oxidation of catechol was detected in poplar buds and propolis. The results indicate catechol can be used as a marker to detect propolis adulterated with poplar extract.
Determinants of Early Introduction of Solid, Semi-Solid or Soft Foods among Infants Aged 3–5 Months in Four Anglophone West African Countries
Authors: Issaka Abukari , Agho Kingsley , Page Andrew , Burns Penelope , Stevens Garry , Dibley Michael
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to explore and identify factors associated with the practice of early introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods among infants aged 3–5 months in four Anglophone West African countries. Data sources for the analyses were the latest Demographic and Health Survey datasets of the 4 countries, namely Ghana (GDHS, 2008), Liberia (LDHS, 2007), Nigeria (NDHS, 2013) and Sierra Leone (SLDHS, 2008). Multiple logistic regression methods were used to analyze the factors associated with early introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods among infants aged 3–5 months, using individual-, household- and community-level determinants. The sample consisted of 2447 infants aged 3–5 months from four Anglophone West African countries: 166 in Ghana, 263 in Liberia, 1658 in Nigeria and 360 in Sierra Leone. Multivariable analyses revealed the individual factors associated with early introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods in these countries. These included increased infant’s age, diarrhea, acute respiratory infection and newborns perceived to be small by their mothers. Other predictors of early introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods were: mothers with no schooling, young mothers and fathers who worked in an agricultural industry. Public health interventions to improve exclusive breastfeeding practices by discouraging early introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods are needed in all 4 countries, targeting especially mothers at risk of introducing solid foods to their infants early.
Casein Films: The Effects of Formulation, Environmental Conditions and the Addition of Citric Pectin on the Structure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Bonnaillie Laetitia , Zhang Han , Akkurt Serife , Yam Kit , Tomasula Peggy
Published: July 2014

Thin casein films for food packaging applications reportedly possess good strength and low oxygen permeability, but low elasticity and high sensitivity to moisture. Modifying the films to target specific behaviors depending on environmental conditions can enable a variety of commercial applications for casein-based films. The mechanical properties of solvent-cast (15% solids) calcium-caseinate/glycerol films (CaCas:Gly ratio of 3:1) were characterized as a function of processing and environmental conditions, including film thickness, solution formulation and ambient humidity (from 22% to 70% relative humidity (RH) at ~20 °C). At constant RH, the elongation at break (EAB) had a strong positive dependence on the film thickness. When RH increased, the tensile strength (TS) and modulus (E) decreased approximately linearly, while EAB increased. From 0.05% to 1% (w/w) of citric pectin (CP) was then incorporated into CaCas/Gly films following seven different formulations (mixing sequences), to alter the protein network and to evaluate the effects of CP on the tensile properties of CaCas/Gly/CP films. At constant film thickness and ~60% RH, the addition of 0.1% or 1.0% CP to the films considerably increased or decreased EAB, TS and E in different directions and to different extents, depending on the formulation, while optical micrographs also showed vastly differing network configurations, suggesting complex formulation- and stoichiometry-dependent casein-pectin interactions within the dried films. Depending on the desired film properties and utilization conditions, pectin may be a useful addition to casein film formulations for food packaging applications.
A Solitary Wave-Based Sensor to Monitor the Setting of Fresh Concrete
Authors: Rizzo Piervincenzo , Ni Xianglei , Nassiri Somayeh , Vandenbossche Julie
Published: July 2014

We present a proof-of-principle study about the use of a sensor for the nondestructive monitoring of strength development in hydrating concrete. The nondestructive evaluation technique is based on the propagation of highly nonlinear solitary waves (HNSWs), which are non-dispersive mechanical waves that can form and travel in highly nonlinear systems, such as one-dimensional particle chains. A built-in transducer is adopted to excite and detect the HNSWs. The waves are partially reflected at the transducer/concrete interface and partially transmitted into the concrete. The time-of-flight and the amplitude of the waves reflected at the interface are measured and analyzed with respect to the hydration time, and correlated to the initial and final set times established by the penetration test (ASTM C 403). The results show that certain features of the HNSWs change as the concrete curing progresses indicating that it has the potential of being an efficient, cost-effective tool for monitoring strengths/stiffness development.
The Effectiveness of FES-Evoked EMG Potentials to Assess Muscle Force and Fatigue in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Ibitoye Morufu , Estigoni Eduardo , Hamzaid Nur , Wahab Ahmad , Davis Glen
Published: July 2014

The evoked electromyographic signal (eEMG) potential is the standard index used to monitor both electrical changes within the motor unit during muscular activity and the electrical patterns during evoked contraction. However, technical and physiological limitations often preclude the acquisition and analysis of the signal especially during functional electrical stimulation (FES)-evoked contractions. Hence, an accurate quantification of the relationship between the eEMG potential and FES-evoked muscle response remains elusive and continues to attract the attention of researchers due to its potential application in the fields of biomechanics, muscle physiology, and rehabilitation science. We conducted a systematic review to examine the effectiveness of eEMG potentials to assess muscle force and fatigue, particularly as a biofeedback descriptor of FES-evoked contractions in individuals with spinal cord injury. At the outset, 2867 citations were identified and, finally, fifty-nine trials met the inclusion criteria. Four hypotheses were proposed and evaluated to inform this review. The results showed that eEMG is effective at quantifying muscle force and fatigue during isometric contraction, but may not be effective during dynamic contractions including cycling and stepping. Positive correlation of up to r = 0.90 (p < 0.05) between the decline in the peak-to-peak amplitude of the eEMG and the decline in the force output during fatiguing isometric contractions has been reported. In the available prediction models, the performance index of the eEMG signal to estimate the generated muscle force ranged from 3.8% to 34% for 18 s to 70 s ahead of the actual muscle force generation. The strength and inherent limitations of the eEMG signal to assess muscle force and fatigue were evident from our findings with implications in clinical management of spinal cord injury (SCI) population.
Ascaris lumbricoides infection and parasite load are associated with asthma in children
Authors: Bragagnoli Gerson , Silva Maria Teresa Nascimento
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Association between Ascaris lumbricoides infection and asthma is a controversial subject that has been studied by several authors based on the hygiene theory. This work contributes to better understanding this issue. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study involving 1,004 children from a neighborhood of low socioeconomic status in Campina Grande, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Asthma was diagnosed using the International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire. Intestinal parasitosis was diagnosed by parasitological examination (the Ritchie technique), and parasite load determined by the Kato-Katz technique. The statistical analysis was descriptive, and hypotheses were tested according to odds ratios. Results: A total of 260 children were infected with A. lumbricoides, and 233 had asthma. Light parasite loads were significantly associated with asthma (wheezing more than three times per year); p = 0.003, OR = 0.41(IC 0.22 – 0.75), while the heavy parasite loads were not; p = 0.002, OR = 2.37(IC 1.35 – 4.18). Similar results were observed in almost all the symptoms of asthma. No association was found with maternal educational level. Conclusion: In children living in urban areas of low socioeconomic status, a light parasite load of A. lumbricoides is a protective factor against asthma and its symptoms. Meanwhile, heavy parasite load is a risk factor and contributes to the high prevalence of asthma and its symptoms among these children.
An eight-year study of Shigella species in Beijing, China: serodiversity, virulence genes, and antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Qu Mei , Zhang Xin , Liu Guirong , Huang Ying , Jia Lei , Liang Weili , Li Xitai , Wu Xiaona , Li Jie , Yan Hanqiu , Kan Biao , Wang Quanyi
Published: July 2014

Introduction: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of serotypes, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Shigella spp. in Beijing, China, from 2004 to 2011. Methodology: Real-time PCR assays were used to detect virulent genes, and the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used to evaluate antimicrobial resistance. Results: Among the total of 1,652 Shigella isolates, S. sonnei (57.1%) was the predominant species, followed by S. flexneri (42.3%), S. dysenteriae (0.4%), and S. boydii (0.2%). Nineteen serotypes were discovered among S. flexneri strains. The virulence gene ipaH was the most frequent, followed by sen and set. The presence of set showed significant difference in two dominant serogroups, S. flexneri and S. sonnei. Over 90% of Shigella isolates showed resistance to at least three drugs with widened spectrum. High-level antimicrobial resistance to single and multiple antibiotics was more common among S. sonnei than S. flexneri. Conclusion: There was an obvious serotype change and a dramatic increase of antibiotic resistance in Shigella prevalence in Beijing.
An unusual cause of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients: Pantoea agglomerans
Authors: Kazancioglu Rumeyza , Buyukaydin Banu , Iraz Meryem , Alay Murat , Erkoc Reha
Published: July 2014

Peritonitis is a serious infection and early diagnosis and treatment is mandatory. A variety of microorganisms are identified in these cases and during recent years a new one was included, Pantoea agglomerans. In this case report, a female patient on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis therapy with a peritonitis episode caused by this organism is described. The source of infection was thought to be due to contact of catheter with non-sterile surfaces. In microbiologic culture, this organism was identified and the patient successfully treated with a three week course of gentamicin therapy. The number of reported cases with this organism has increased in last years and various infection localizations and clinical progress patterns have been identified. In peritoneal dialysis patients presenting with peritonitis, this organism must be kept in mind.
Clinical and virological response to antiretroviral drugs among HIV patients on first-line treatment in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mosha Fausta , Ledwaba Johanna , Ndugulile Faustine , Ng’ang’a Zipora , Nsubuga Peter , Morris Lynn , Kasubi Mabula , Swai Andrew , Vercauteren Jurgen , Vandamme Anne-Mieke
Published: July 2014

Introduction: In Tanzania, the follow-up on antiretroviral therapy (ART) response is based on clinical outcomes. We investigated virological response and ARV resistance mutations in relation to clinical response in ARV-treated patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional study of a cohort of 150 patients taking first-line ART in Dar-es-Salaam was conducted. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires and patients’ blood samples. HIV viral load testing and genotyping was performed on all viremic samples. Statistical analyses compared clinical responders and non-responders. Results: The median time on ART was 20 months; 71 (47%) patients were ART clinical responders. Clinical non-responders were more likely to have started ART with advanced disease with significantly lower median percentage weight gain (6% versus 20%) with respect to pre-treatment levels. Sixty-one (86%) and 64 (81%) of clinical responders and non-responders, respectively, had undetectable viral loads. Genotyping was successful in 24 (96%) virologically failing patients, among whom 83% had resistance mutations; 67% had dual nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)/non-NRTI (NNRTI) resistance mutations. Seventeen (71%) and 19 (79%) patients had NRTI and NNRTI resistance mutations, respectively, which were related to the ART in use, with no difference between clinical responders and non-responders. The most prevalent subtypes were A and C, found in 9 (38%) and 7 (29%) patients, respectively. Conclusions: The observed virological response was high and did not correlate with clinical response. The prevalence of ARV resistance mutations was high in viraemic patients and was related to the ARV prescribed. We recommend use of viral load monitoring during ART in Tanzania.
Serological evidence of West Nile virus infection in the horse population of northern Serbia
Authors: Medić Strahinja , Van den Hoven Rene , Petrović Tamaš , Lupulović Diana , Nowotny Norbert
Published: July 2014

Introduction: This study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence of West Nile virus (WNV) in the horse population of northern Serbia. Furthermore, it aimed to provide insight and an updated overview on the circulation of this re-emerging pathogen in this part of southeastern Europe. At the time of manuscript preparation, no clinical cases of WNV infection in horses were reported in this area. Methodology: Between 2007 and 2011, a total of 252 equine serum samples were collected from seven different locations in northern Serbia. The presence of WNV-reactive IgG antibodies was examined by using commercial and in-house ELISAs. Selected ELISA-positive samples were re-tested by a WNV lineage 2 plaque reduction neutralization test 90% (PRNT-90). Results: In 28.6% of the 252 tested equine serum samples antibodies against WNV were detected. The results obtained with the in-house ELISA corresponded to the outcome of the commercial kit in 90% of the samples. All selected WNV antibody ELISA-positive samples were confirmed by PRNT-90 with neutralizing antibody titers of 1:23 to > 1:512. Conclusion: This study confirms the circulation of WNV in northern Serbia. No striking regional differences in seroprevalences were identified suggesting WNV circulation also in other parts of Serbia. Distances between wetlands or forests and stud farms do not appear to have an influence on WNV seroprevalence.
An evaluation of the World Health Organization’s 1997 and 2009 dengue classifications in hospitalized dengue patients in Malaysia
Authors: Zakaria Zuraihan , Zainordin Nur A , Sim Benedict LH , Zaid Masliza , Haridan Umi S , Aziz Abu TA , Shueb Rafidah H , Mustafa Mahiran , Yusoff Nik KN , Malik Alam S , Lee Christopher KC , Abubakar Sazaly , Hoh Boon Peng
Published: July 2014

Introduction: The latest revised version of the World Health Organization’s dengue classification was released in 2009. A handful of studies have taken initiatives to evaluate the old and revised guidelines to determine early signs and symptoms of severe dengue. This retrospective study aimed to compare the classification of dengue using both the 1997 and 2009 guidelines in a selected cohort of dengue patients from Peninsular Malaysia between 2008 and 2012. Methodology: Adult dengue patients were recruited from tertiary hospitals in two different states, Selangor and Kelantan, in Peninsular Malaysia. Their clinical manifestations were assessed. Results: A total of 281 confirmed dengue patients were enrolled; the mean duration of illness at admission was five days. Of these, 88.6%, 10.7%, and 0.7% were classified according to the 1997 guidelines as having dengue fever (DF), dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), and dengue shock syndrome (DSS), respectively. When the WHO 2009 guidelines were applied, 17.1%, 78.3%, and 4.6% were classified as dengue without warning signs, dengue with warning signs, and severe dengue, respectively. Conclusions: Our data suggests that the revised WHO 2009 guidelines stratify a much larger proportion of patients into a category that requires a higher level of medical and nursing care.
Molecular characterization of influenza A viruses circulating in Cuba between April 2009 and August 2010
Authors: Arencibia García Amely , Piñon Ramos Alexander , Muné Jiménez Mayra , Acosta Herrera Belsy , Valdés Ramirez Odalys , Savón Valdés Clara , Oropesa Fernandez Susel , Gonzalez Muñoz Grehete , Soto Brito Yudira , Guilarte García Elias , Gonzalez Baez Guelsys , Hernández Bárbara , Goyenechea Fernández Angel
Published: July 2014

This item has no abstract. Follow the links below to access the full text.
Expanding Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies Across the Academic–Practice Transition: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fater Kerry H. , Weatherford Barbara , Ready Robert W. , Finn Kathy , Tangney Betty
Published: July 2014

Background:

A regional state university and three health care organizations formed a regional education-service partnership to expand the implementation of the Massachusetts Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies (NOFNCC) across the academic–practice transition.

Method:

Using a convenience sample in a one-group pretest–posttest design, the study examined the extent to which transitioning new licensed nurses and their preceptors were knowledgeable regarding NOFNCC as a basis for practice, and assessed changes following an educational intervention. A newly developed instrument based on NOFNCC, the Nurse Competency Assessment Tool (NCAT), served as the measurement tool.

Results:

Findings indicate knowledge gaps in system-based practice, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice among both transitioning newly licensed nurses and preceptor groups in need of improvement.

Conclusion:

NOFNCC identify essential knowledge, attitudes, and skills integral to providing safe quality nursing care not only in Massachusetts but also nationally and globally. Need for continued refinement of the NCAT was also apparent.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2014;45(8):366–372.
Limited Ocular Motility in a Child With 3q23 Microdeletion (“Blepharophimosis Syndrome Plus”)
Authors: Khan Arif O. , Nagl Sandra , Bergmann Carsten , Bolz Hanno J.
Published: July 2014

Blepharophimosis syndrome is a recognizable ocular phenotype (blepharophimosis, telecanthus, ptosis, and epicanthus inversus) caused by heterozygous (dominant) intragenic mutation in
FOXL2
(chromosome 3q23), which can also cause premature ovarian failure. A deletion that involves not only
FOXL2
but also adjacent genes can result in additional clinical features (“blepharophimosis syndrome plus”). Studies of such patients are useful because observed additional clinical features suggest potential functions of genes adjacent to
FOXL2
. The authors describe a boy with blepharophimosis syndrome plus from a
de novo
heterozygous 3q22.3-q24 11.2 Mb microdeletion. Among his additional clinical features was bilateral limitation of abduction and supraduction, which suggests that the deleted area includes a gene responsible for ocular motility.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
2014;51:e51–e54.]
Cecilia Böhl de Faber entre los románticos
Authors: Arroyo Almaraz Antonio
Published: July 2014

Cecilia Böhl de Faber y Francisca Ruiz de Larrea participan en la edición del cuento La madre o El combate de Trafalgar publicado en la revista ilustrada El Artista, de gran trascendencia en la defensa del Romanticismo. El relato fue escrito por la primera y enviado a la revista por la segunda, una vez que lo tradujo del francés modificando en parte el mismo. A partir de este hecho aparece Cecilia como la única escritora que publicó en la revista romántica defendiendo a su vez principios estéticos que veremos posteriormente en su obra.
Misiones del racionalismo: Rosario de Acuña en la prensa librepensadora
Authors: Díaz-Marcos Ana María
Published: July 2014

La colaboración de Rosario de Acuña en la prensa librepensadora define su escritura radical, heterodoxa y crítica con el catolicismo. La autora apoyó la causa del librepensamiento recalcando que la mujer debía ser participar activamente en el debate. Este matiz de género permite unir dos de las preocupaciones básicas de una escritora que consideraba que la emancipación de la mujer y la libertad religiosa eran las dos cuestiones palpitantes de ese contexto histórico. Acuña escribió numerosos ensayos y artículos apoyando activamente la necesidad de anular las barreras entre los sexos para aspirar a ideales de igualdad y fraternidad universal.
Faustina Sáez de Melgar: liberación sin rupturas
Authors: Dorado Carlos
Published: July 2014

Con documentación hemerográfica como fuente principal, el artículo pretende poner de manifiesto la estrecha relación que con la prensa tuvo la extensa obra y la biografía de Faustina Sáez de Melgar (1833?). Creadora de varias revistas dirigidas a la mujer, vio en ellas un medio de fomentar la lectura en los hogares. Afirma que la educación es el medio por el que la mujer puede liberarse de la marginación social que padece y que ella denuncia como esclavitud. Autora del drama La cadena rota, comprometida con el abolicionismo, considera sin embargo innecesario romper ninguna: esa liberación llega además por el matrimonio y la práctica de las virtudes en una sociedad patriarcal cristiana. Sus opiniones parecen en ocasiones contradictorias y oportunistas. Posiblemente subyace una cautelosa estrategia en aplicación del “posibilismo”.
A Measure Optimized Cost-Sensitive Learning Framework for Imbalanced Data Classification
Authors: Cao Peng , Zaiane Osmar , Zhao Dazhe
Published: July 2014

Class imbalance is one of the challenging problems for machine-learning in many real-world applications. Many methods have been proposed to address and attempt to solve the problem, including sampling and cost-sensitive learning. The latter has attracted significant attention in recent years to solve the problem, but it is difficult to determine the precise misclassification costs in practice. There are also other factors that influence the performance of the classification including the input feature subset and the intrinsic parameters of the classifier. This chapter presents an effective wrapper framework incorporating the evaluation measure (AUC and G-mean) into the objective function of cost sensitive learning directly to improve the performance of classification by simultaneously optimizing the best pair of feature subset, intrinsic parameters, and misclassification cost parameter. The optimization is based on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The authors use two different common methods, support vector machine and feed forward neural networks, to evaluate the proposed framework. Experimental results on various standard benchmark datasets with different ratios of imbalance and a real-world problem show that the proposed method is effective in comparison with commonly used sampling techniques.
Ant Programming Algorithms for Classification
Authors: Olmo Juan Luis , Romero José Raúl , Ventura Sebastián
Published: July 2014

Ant programming is a kind of automatic programming that generates computer programs by using the ant colony metaheuristic as the search technique. It has demonstrated good generalization ability for the extraction of comprehensible classifiers. To date, three ant programming algorithms for classification rule mining have been proposed in the literature: two of them are devoted to regular classification, differing mainly in the optimization approach, single-objective or multi-objective, while the third one is focused on imbalanced domains. This chapter collects these algorithms, presenting different experimental studies that confirm the aptitude of this metaheuristic to address this data-mining task.
Comparison of Linguistic Summaries and Fuzzy Functional Dependencies Related to Data Mining
Authors: Hudec Miroslav , Vučetić Miljan , Vujošević Mirko
Published: July 2014

Data mining methods based on fuzzy logic have been developed recently and have become an increasingly important research area. In this chapter, the authors examine possibilities for discovering potentially useful knowledge from relational database by integrating fuzzy functional dependencies and linguistic summaries. Both methods use fuzzy logic tools for data analysis, acquiring, and representation of expert knowledge. Fuzzy functional dependencies could detect whether dependency between two examined attributes in the whole database exists. If dependency exists only between parts of examined attributes' domains, fuzzy functional dependencies cannot detect its characters. Linguistic summaries are a convenient method for revealing this kind of dependency. Using fuzzy functional dependencies and linguistic summaries in a complementary way could mine valuable information from relational databases. Mining intensities of dependencies between database attributes could support decision making, reduce the number of attributes in databases, and estimate missing values. The proposed approach is evaluated with case studies using real data from the official statistics. Strengths and weaknesses of the described methods are discussed. At the end of the chapter, topics for further research activities are outlined.
Application of Artificial Neural Network and Genetic Programming in Civil Engineering
Authors: Samui Pijush , Choubisa Dhruvan , Sharda Akash
Published: July 2014

This chapter examines the capability of Genetic Programming (GP) and different Artificial Neural Network (ANN) (Backpropagation [BP] and Generalized Regression Neural Network [GRNN]) models for prediction of air entrainment rate (QA) of triangular sharp-crested weir. The basic principal of GP has been taken from the concept of Genetic Algorithm (GA). Discharge (Q), drop height (h), and angle in triangular sharp-crested weir (?) are considered as inputs of BP, GRNN, and GP. Coefficient of Correlation (R) has been used to assess the performance of developed GP, BP, and GRNN models. For a perfect model, the value of R should be close to one. A sensitivity analysis has been carried out to determine the effect of each input parameter. This chapter presents a comparative study between the developed BP, GRNN, and GP models.
Adaptive Scheduling for Real-Time Distributed Systems
Authors: Shah Apurva
Published: July 2014

Biologically inspired data mining techniques have been intensively used in different data mining applications. Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) has been applied for scheduling real-time distributed systems in the recent time. Real-time processing requires both parallel activities and fast response. It is required to complete the work and deliver services on a timely basis. In the presence of timing, a real-time system's performance does not always improve as processor and speed increases. ACO performs quite well for scheduling real-time distributed systems during overloaded conditions. Earliest Deadline First (EDF) is the optimal scheduling algorithm for single processor real-time systems during under-loaded conditions. This chapter proposes an adaptive algorithm that takes advantage of EDF- and ACO-based algorithms and overcomes their limitations.
Application of Biologically Inspired Techniques for Industrial and Environmental Research via Air Quality Monitoring Network
Authors: Cai Tianxing
Published: July 2014

Industrial and environmental research will always involve the study of the cause-effect relationship between the emissions and the surrounding environment. Qualitative and mixed methods researchers have employed a variety of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools, simulated or virtual environments, information systems, information devices, and data analysis tools in this field. Machine-enhanced analytics has enabled the identification of aspects of interest such as correlations and anomalies from large datasets. Chemical facilities have high risks to originate air emission events. Based on an available air-quality monitoring network, the data integration technologies are applied to identify the scenarios of the possible emission source and the dynamic pollutant monitor result, so as to timely and effectively support diagnostic and prognostic decisions. In this chapter, the application of artificial neural networks for such applications have been developed according to the real application purpose. It includes two stages of modeling and optimization work: 1) the determination of background normal emission rates from multiple emission sources and 2) single-objective or multi-objective optimization for impact scenario identification and quantification. They have the capability to identify the potential emission profile and spatial-temporal characterization of pollutant dispersion for a specific region, including reverse estimation of the air quality issues. The methodology provides valuable information for accidental investigations and root cause analysis for an emission event; meanwhile, it helps evaluate the regional air quality impact caused by such an emission event as well. Case studies are employed to demonstrate the efficacy of the developed methodology.
Online Prediction of Blood Glucose Levels using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Eskaf Khaled , Ritchings Tim , Bedawy Osama
Published: July 2014

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases. The number of cases of diabetes in the world is likely to increase more than two fold in the next 30 years: from 115 million in 2000 to 284 million in 2030. This chapter is concerned with helping diabetic patients to manage themselves by developing a computer system that predicts their Blood Glucose Level (BGL) after 30 minutes on the basis of their current levels, so that they can administer insulin. This will enable the diabetic patient to continue living a normal daily life, as much as is possible. The prediction of BGLs based on the current levels BGLs become feasible through the advent of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, which are able to sample patients' BGLs, typically 5 minutes, and computer systems that can process and analyse these samples. The approach taken in this chapter uses machine-learning techniques, specifically Genetic Algorithms (GA), to learn BGL patterns over an hour and the resulting value 30 minutes later, without questioning the patients about their food intake and activities. The GAs were invested using the raw BGLs as input and metadata derived from a Diabetic Dynamic Model of BGLs supplemented by the changes in patients' BGLs over the previous hour. The results obtained in a preliminary study including 4 virtual patients taken from the AIDA diabetes simulation software and 3 volunteers using the DexCom SEVEN system, show that the metadata approach gives more accurate predictions. Online learning, whereby new BGL patterns were incorporated into the prediction system as they were encountered, improved the results further.
Not Just Meaningful Data but Coordinated Data!
Authors: Kazandjian Vahé A.
Published: July 2014

The era of data collection about health systems' performance is entering the new phase of timely and simultaneous access to diverse data sources in a systematic and coordinated approach. The concepts of harmonization and the measurement of the continuum of care have laid the ground for the pursuit of collecting, organizing, accessing, and sharing treatment and outcomes results. Service industries, faced with the need for access to multiple data sources, have adopted Information Technologies ranging from localized measurement of performance to regional monitoring of services, and finally into global networking via Cloud Computing. This chapter explores the benefits and challenges of Cloud Computing to the amelioration of medical and healthcare services given the idiosyncrasies of medicine and healthcare. A special focus is given to the extent of readiness healthcare systems manifest to measuring their performance, sharing the findings with patients and communities, and the accountability these systems demonstrate for the promises, implicitly or explicitly, they made about quality and safety of care. The implications of these promises in shaping patient expectations leading to patient and community evaluation of the healthcare services is a central theme running through this chapter.
Interoperability in Healthcare
Authors: Cardoso Luciana , Marins Fernando , Quintas César , Portela Filipe , Santos Manuel , Abelha António , Machado José
Published: July 2014

With the advancement of technology, patient information has been being computerized in order to facilitate the work of healthcare professionals and improve the quality of healthcare delivery. However, there are many heterogeneous information systems that need to communicate, sharing information and making it available when and where it is needed. To respond to this requirement the Agency for Integration, Diffusion, and Archiving of medical information (AIDA) was created, a multi-agent and service-based platform that ensures interoperability among healthcare information systems. In order to improve the performance of the platform, beyond the SWOT analysis performed, a system to prevent failures that may occur in the platform database and also in machines where the agents are executed was created. The system has been implemented in the Centro Hospitalar do Porto (one of the major Portuguese hospitals), and it is now possible to define critical workload periods of AIDA, improving high availability and load balancing. This is explored in this chapter.
Cloud Computing Location-Based Services for Quality Health Care Services Delivery
Authors: Akaichi Jalel
Published: July 2014

This chapter proposes a cloud computing location-based services system able to query points of interest, according to mobile users' preferences and contexts, under dynamic changes of locations. The contribution consists of providing software as a service based on Delaunay Triangulation on road (DTr) able to establish the Continuous k-Nearest Neighbors (CkNNs) on road, while taking into account the dynamic changes of locations from which queries, enhanced by users' preferences and contexts, are issued. The proposed software, implemented on a mobile cloud and exploited by mobile physicians for healthcare institutions localization and selection, considerably improves the quality of services provided for patients in critical situations by permitting real time localization of adequate resources that may contribute to save patients' lives.
A Case Study of the Health Cloud
Authors: Chauhan Roma
Published: July 2014

Initiatives have recently been taken to facilitate effective sharing and collaboration of healthcare information. The process undertaken to manage healthcare data is always in debate. The healthcare industry is encouraged to leverage technology solution for providing improved services to patients and doctors. The chapter explains the need of the healthcare process re-engineering through the implementation of Software as a Service (SaaS). It also highlights the potential and challenges of integrating SaaS-based health cloud in the healthcare industry. This chapter explores the exciting journey of the Indian healthcare transformation through technology implementation. Moreover, the chapter discusses the different healthcare clouds and deployment models. It illustrates SaaS-based solutions for the healthcare segment and argues that cloud-based healthcare and mobile healthcare by use of portable devices can make health consultation convenient for patients across the world.