bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Targeted screening for third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae carriage among patients admitted to intensive care units: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Dananché Cédric , Bénet Thomas , Allaouchiche Bernard , Hernu Romain , Argaud Laurent , Dauwalder Olivier , Vandenesch François , Vanhems Philippe 
Published: January 2015

Abstract
Introduction
Identification of third-generation, cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (3GC-RE) carriers by rectal screening at admission seems to be an important step in the prevention of transmission and outbreaks; however, little is known about its effectiveness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of ‘targeted screening’ at patient admission to intensive care units (ICUs) on the incidence of 3GC-RE hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and compare it to ‘universal screening’.

Methods
We undertook a quasi-experimental study of two ICUs (unit A: intervention group; unit B: control group) at a university-affiliated hospital between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2011. In unit A, patients were screened universally for 3GC-RE at admission during period 1 (1 January 2008 through 30 September 2010). During period 2 (2011 calendar year), the intervention was implemented in unit A; patients transferred from another unit or hospital were screened selectively. In unit B, all patients were screened throughout periods 1 and 2. 3GC-RE-related HAI incidence rates were expressed per 1,000 patient-days. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were examined by multivariate Poisson regression modelling.

Results
In unit A, 3GC-RE-related HAI incidence rates decreased from 5.4 (95% confidence interval (CI), 4.1 to 7.0) during period 1 to 1.3 (95% CI, 0.5 to 2.9) during period 2 (P < 0.001). No changes were observed in unit B between periods 1 and 2 (P = 0.5). In unit A, the adjusted incidence of 3GC-RE-related HAIs decreased in period 2 compared with period 1 (adjusted IRR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.9; P = 0.03) independently of temporal trend, trauma and age. No changes were seen in unit B (P = 0.4). The total number of rectal swabs taken showed an 85% decrease in unit A between period 1 and 2 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions
Targeted screening of 3GC-RE carriers at ICU admission was not associated with an increase in 3GC-RE-related HAI incidence compared with universal screening. Total number of rectal swabs decreased significantly. These findings suggest that targeted screening may be worth assessing as an alternative to universal screening.
A whole-genome shotgun approach for assembling and anchoring the hexaploid bread wheat genome
Authors: Chapman Jarrod A , Mascher Martin , Buluç Aydın , Barry Kerrie , Georganas Evangelos , Session Adam , Strnadova Veronika , Jenkins Jerry , Sehgal Sunish , Oliker Leonid , Schmutz Jeremy , Yelick Katherine A , Scholz Uwe , Waugh Robbie , Poland Jesse A , Muehlbauer Gary J , Stein Nils , Rokhsar Daniel S 
Published: January 2015

AbstractPolyploid species have long been thought to be recalcitrant to whole-genome assembly. By combining high-throughput sequencing, recent developments in parallel computing, and genetic mapping, we derive, de novo, a sequence assembly representing 9.1 Gbp of the highly repetitive 16 Gbp genome of hexaploid wheat, Triticum aestivum, and assign 7.1 Gb of this assembly to chromosomal locations. The genome representation and accuracy of our assembly is comparable or even exceeds that of a chromosome-by-chromosome shotgun assembly. Our assembly and mapping strategy uses only short read sequencing technology and is applicable to any species where it is possible to construct a mapping population.
Probabilistic constrained multicast beamforming in cognitive relay systems
Authors: Li Shengyu , Xu Wenjun , Lu Xiaomei , Lin Jiaru 
Published: January 2015

AbstractIn this paper, multicast beamforming in cognitive relay systems is investigated with the consideration of imperfect channel state information at the transmitter (CSIT). We focus at the design of the optimal signal forwarding matrix at the cognitive relay in both centralized relay mode (CRM) and distributed relay mode (DRM). The problem is formulated aiming at minimizing the total consumed power at the relay node with suitable QoS guarantee for secondary users and strict interference control for primary users. Due to the uncertainty of transmission channel gains, constraints for QoS guarantee and interference control cannot be expressed in closed forms, making it extremely difficult to solve the problem directly. To circumvent this, we first employ the Bernstein-type inequality to convert the probabilistic constraints into closed-form expressions and then present both the semi-definite relaxation (SDR) algorithm and the penalty function (PenFun) algorithm to accomplish the non-convex problem optimization. Simulation results show that CRM is more resource efficient than DRM, and the PenFun algorithm can achieve a much better solution than the SDR algorithm at the cost of complexity. Meanwhile, compared with existing schemes which do not consider the CSIT error, the proposed schemes can support a much lower outage probability and enjoy perfect interference control for primary users.
Removal of crystal violet from water by magnetically modified activated carbon and nanomagnetic iron oxide
Authors: Hamidzadeh Soheila , Torabbeigi Marzieh , Shahtaheri Seyed Jamaleddin 
Published: January 2015

Abstract
Magnetically modified activated carbon, which synthesized by nanomagnetic iron oxide, was used for fast and effective removal of Crystal Violet from aqueous solutions. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of nano-adsorbent showed that the average sizes of adsorbent are less than 100 nm. The various parameters, affecting on adsorption process, were examined including pH and temperature of dye solution, dose of adsorbent, and contact time. Then, thermodynamic parameters of sorption were calculated. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to fit the resulting data. Adsorption kinetics was consistent with a pseudo second order equation. Thermodynamic parameters of adsorption, ∆H0, and ∆S0 were calculated. Also, for further investigations, nano magnetic iron oxides was synthesized and used as adsorbent. Sorption capacities were depending on the temperature varied from 44.7 to 67.1 mg/g and from 12.7 to 16.5 mg/g for magnetically modified activated carbon and nanomagnetic iron oxide, respectively.
Cytocam-IDF (incident dark field illumination) imaging for bedside monitoring of the microcirculation
Authors: Aykut Guclu , Veenstra Gerke , Scorcella Claudia , Ince Can , Boerma Christiaan 
Published: January 2015

Abstract

Background
Orthogonal polarized spectral (OPS) and sidestream dark field (SDF) imaging video microscope devices were introduced for observation of the microcirculation but, due to technical limitations, have remained as research tools. Recently, a novel handheld microscope based on incident dark field illumination (IDF) has been introduced for clinical use. The Cytocam-IDF imaging device consists of a pen-like probe incorporating IDF illumination with a set of high-resolution lenses projecting images on to a computer controlled image sensor synchronized with very short pulsed illumination light. This study was performed to validate Cytocam-IDF imaging by comparison to SDF imaging in volunteers.

Methods
This study is a prospective, observational study. The subjects consist of 25 volunteers.

Results
Sublingual microcirculation was evaluated using both techniques. The main result was that Cytocam-IDF imaging provided better quality images and was able to detect 30% more capillaries than SDF imaging (total vessels density Cytocam-IDF: 21.60 ± 4.30 mm/mm2 vs SDF: 16.35 ± 2.78 mm/mm2, p < 0.0001). Comparison of the images showed increased contrast, sharpness, and image quality of both venules and capillaries.

Conclusions
Cytocam-IDF imaging detected more capillaries and provided better image quality than SDF imaging. It is concluded that Cytocam-IDF imaging may provide a new improved imaging modality for clinical assessment of microcirculatory alterations.
Associations Between Sex Steroids and the Development of Metabolic Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study in European Men
Authors: Antonio Leen , Wu Frederick C. W. , O'Neill Terence W. , Pye Stephen R. , Carter Emma L. , Finn Joseph D. , Rutter Martin K. , Laurent Michaël R. , Huhtaniemi Ilpo T. , Han Thang S. , Lean Michael E. J. , Keevil Brian G. , Pendleton Neil , Rastrelli Giulia , Forti Gianni , Bartfai Gyorgy , Casanueva Felipe F. , Kula Krzysztof , Punab Margus , Giwercman Aleksander , Claessens Frank , Decallonne Brigitte , Vanderschueren Dirk ,   The EMAS Study Group
Published: January 2015

Context:
Low testosterone (T) has been associated with incident metabolic syndrome (MetS), but it remains unclear if this association is independent of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Estradiol (E2) may also be associated with MetS, but few studies have investigated this.

Objective:
To study the association between baseline sex steroids and the development of incident MetS and to investigate the influence of SHBG, body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance on this risk.

Methods:
Three thousand three hundred sixty nine community-dwelling men aged 40–79 years were recruited for participation in EMAS. MetS was defined by the updated NCEP ATP III criteria. Testosterone and E2 levels were measured by liquid and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, respectively. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between sex steroids and incident MetS.

Results:
One thousand six hundred fifty one men without MetS at baseline were identified. During follow-up, 289 men developed incident MetS, while 1362 men did not develop MetS. Men with lower baseline total T levels were at higher risk for developing MetS [odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, P &lt; .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 1.43, P = .001), BMI (OR = 1.44, P &lt; .001) or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (OR = 1.64, P &lt; .001). E2 was not associated with development of MetS (OR = 1.04; P = .56). However, a lower E2/T ratio was associated with a lower risk of incident MetS (OR = 0.38; P &lt; .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 0.48; P &lt; .001), BMI (OR = 0.60; P = .001) or HOMA-IR (OR = 0.41; P &lt; .001).

Conclusions:
In men, lower T levels, but not E2, are linked with an increased risk of developing MetS, independent of SHBG, BMI or insulin resistance. A lower E2/T ratio may be protective against developing MetS.
Cell-based therapies for experimental chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papazova Diana A. , Oosterhuis Nynke R. , Gremmels Hendrik , van Koppen Arianne , Joles Jaap A. , Verhaar Marianne C. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractCell-based therapy is a promising strategy for treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) and currently the focus of preclinical studies. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate efficacy of cell-based therapy in preclinical (animal) studies of CKD, and determined factors affecting cell-based therapy efficacy in order to guide future clinical trials. 71 articles met inclusion criteria. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for outcome parameters including plasma urea, plasma creatinine, urinary protein, blood pressure, glomerular filtration rate, glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Sub-analysis for each outcome measure was performed for model-related (species, gender, model and timing of therapy) and cell-related (cell type, -condition, -origin, administration route and regime of therapy) factors. Overall, meta-analysis showed that cell-based therapy reduced development and progression of CKD. This was most prominent for urinary protein (SMD 1.34 95% CI [1.00-1.68]) and urea (1.09, 0.66-1.51), both p&lt;0.001. Changes in plasma urea associated with changes in both glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Sub-analysis showed that cell type (bone marrow derived progenitors and mesenchymal stromal cells being most effective) and administration route (intravenous or renal artery injection) were significant predictors of therapeutic efficacy. Timing of therapy in relation to clinical manifestation of disease, and cell-origin and -dose, were not associated with efficacy. Our meta-analysis confirms that cell-based therapies improve impaired renal function and morphology in preclinical models of CKD. Our analyses can be used to optimize experimental interventions and thus support both improved preclinical research and development of cell-based therapeutic interventions in clinical setting.
Connections matter − how viruses use cell–cell adhesion components
Authors: Mateo Mathieu , Generous Alex , Sinn Patrick L. , Cattaneo Roberto 
Published: January 2015

ABSTRACT
The epithelium is a highly organized type of animal tissue. Except for blood and lymph vessels, epithelial cells cover the body, line its cavities in single or stratified layers and support exchange between compartments. In addition, epithelia offer to the body a barrier to pathogen invasion. To transit through or to replicate in epithelia, viruses have to face several obstacles, starting from cilia and glycocalyx where they can be neutralized by secreted immunoglobulins. Tight junctions and adherens junctions also prevent viruses to cross the epithelial barrier. However, viruses have developed multiple strategies to blaze their path through the epithelium by utilizing components of cell–cell adhesion structures as receptors. In this Commentary, we discuss how viruses take advantage of the apical junction complex to spread. Whereas some viruses quickly disrupt epithelium integrity, others carefully preserve it and use cell adhesion proteins and their cytoskeletal connections to rapidly spread laterally. This is exemplified by the hidden transmission of enveloped viruses that use nectins as receptors. Finally, several viruses that replicate preferentially in cancer cells are currently used as experimental cancer therapeutics. Remarkably, these viruses use cell adhesion molecules as receptors, probably because – to reach tumors and metastases – oncolytic viruses must efficiently traverse or break epithelia.
Project method as an innovative technology for teaching a professional foreign language in the non-linguistic university
Authors: Костоварова Валентина , Kostovarova Valentina 
Published: January 2015

The article is devoted to the value and role of project method in teaching a foreign language in non-language higher educational institutions specializing in tourism and services. Particular attention is paid to the fact that the method of educational projects with a professional orientation is necessitated by the new social order - to turn a foreign language from a passive object into an active action. It’s also noteworthy that foreign language becomes necessary for professional growth and is an indispensable condition for Russia&#180;s participation in the Bologna process, so at the present stage the basic direction in teaching foreign languages is based on using the competency approach. The author, like many others, relates the method of projects to gaming methods, and results obtained in the course of collective action, and the final product are developed collectively and publicly defended. The article notes that it is important to teach students to think and apply their theoretical knowledge in practice. Students are happy to participate in collaborative business discussions, role-playing games and in various projects, which are determined by the types of communicative tasks.
The author seeks to trace the history of occurrence of the method of projects and its application in the practice of teaching foreign languages.
Particular attention is paid to the stages of the project, and the article provides instructional techniques of work in the development of communicative skills. The article traces the activities of the teacher and students at various stages of the project with the help of the table, which shows that each student must present their work and be responsible for its implementation. Based on the analysis of joint activity it is established that there is an interaction of students with each other and the teacher who becomes an equal partner and consultant.
The author concludes that, in contrast to traditional approaches, the use of active methods leads to the development of communicative competence and aims to create a sustainable motivation to learn a foreign language.
Organizational culture and cultural organization: the formation of new social spaces
Authors: Новичков Николай , Novichkov Nikolay 
Published: January 2015

The article discusses the features of social systems in terms of their cultural manifestations. In particular, it is noted that the most social organization is a culture with a respective structure and cultural manifestations. Also, social organization is living within different cultural environments.
An organization&#180;s culture is manifested through its mission, human relations, organizational culture, culture medium, the message the organization to external environment, cultural footprint of social organization.
The article defines the notion of a cultural organization and indicated that the image of a cultural organization should strive to all organizations in the conditions of increasing competition and the growing importance of the economy of experiences.
The human world consists of a set of relations, organizations and various values. Over the entire period of human history has been created and tested a number of different organizational forms of human coexistence and joint activities, starting from the community and the army and ending with corporations and virtual organizations.
Culture as a basic sphere of human activity, which determines not only the principles of attitudes and behavior, but also the development of society, has the most significant influence on the formation and development of all forms of organization of human relations.
Interpretation of social organization as a culture determines the emergence of new organizational forms. One such form is a cluster.
Contemporary social organization should strive to become an essential element of the culture area, community or audience, which is manifested in the cultural formation of social organization, from the behaviors associated with its people, and helping to shape the image of the future, not only the organization but also all related cultural community .
The paper also notes in particular the role and place of cultural organizations in modern Russian tourism sector as an industry, directly generating impressions and forming appropriate cultural community.
Parent‐Based Adolescent Sexual Health Interventions And Effect on Communication Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses
Authors: Santa Maria Diane , Markham Christine , Bluethmann Shirley , Mullen Patricia Dolan 
Published: January 2015

CONTEXTParent‐based adolescent sexual health interventions aim to reduce sexual risk behaviors by bolstering parental protective behaviors. Few studies of theory use, methods, applications, delivery and outcomes of parent‐based interventions have been conducted.METHODSA systematic search of databases for the period 1998–2013 identified 28 published trials of U.S. parent‐based interventions to examine theory use, setting, reach, delivery mode, dose and effects on parent–child communication. Established coding schemes were used to assess use of theory and describe methods employed to achieve behavioral change; intervention effects were explored in meta‐analyses.RESULTSMost interventions were conducted with minority parents in group sessions or via self‐paced activities; interventions averaged seven hours, and most used theory extensively. Meta‐analyses found improvements in sexual health communication: Analysis of 11 controlled trials indicated a medium effect on increasing communication (Cohen's d, 0.5), and analysis of nine trials found a large effect on increasing parental comfort with communication (0.7); effects were positive regardless of delivery mode or intervention dose. Intervention participants were 68% more likely than controls to report increased communication and 75% more likely to report increased comfort.CONCLUSIONSThese findings point to gaps in the range of programs examined in published trials—for example, interventions for parents of sexual minority youth, programs for custodial grandparents and faith‐based services. Yet they provide support for the effectiveness of parent‐based interventions in improving communication. Innovative delivery approaches could extend programs’ reach, and further research on sexual health outcomes would facilitate the meta‐analysis of intervention effectiveness in improving adolescent sexual health behaviors.
Meaningful Learning in a New Paradigm for Educational Accountability: An Introduction
Authors: Darling-Hammond Linda , Snyder Jon 
Published: January 2015

This special issue furthers the conversation begun in the August 2014 of edition of Education Policy Analysis Archives in the article Accountability for College and Career Readiness: Developing a New Paradigm by Linda Darling-Hammond, Gene Wilhoit and Linda Pittenger. That paper posits that as schools across the country take on the challenge of preparing all children for success in college, career, and life, states must in turn move toward creating more aligned systems of assessment and accountability. The authors recommend “an accountability approach that focuses on meaningful learning, enabled by professionally skilled and committed educators, and supported by adequate and appropriate resources, so that all students regardless of background are prepared for both college and career when they graduate from high school” (p. 1). This issue focuses particularly upon accountability for meaningful learning with subsequent issues focusing on professional accountability and resource accountability.
Assessment and Accountability to Support Meaningful Learning
Authors: Marion Scott , Leather Paul 
Published: January 2015

This paper presents an overview of New Hampshire’s efforts to implement a pilot accountability system designed to support deeper learning for students and powerful organization change for schools and districts. The accountability pilot, referred to as Performance Assessment of Competency Education or PACE, is grounded in a competency- based educational approach designed to ensure that students have meaningful opportunities to achieve critical knowledge and skills. These opportunities are judged by the outcomes students achieve and not by inputs such as seat time. Therefore, students must achieve these competencies before moving on to the next major learning targets and/or graduating from high school. High quality performance assessments play a crucial role in the PACE system because of the need to have assessments that measure the depths of student understanding of these complex learning targets. Performance assessments are used as both summative and interim measures in the PACE system as a way to document student learning of the competencies and to support remediation or extension interventions. The paper describes the system of assessments being implemented as part of the PACE pilot as well as providing a discussion of the technical quality issues the state is working to address as part of this accountability pilot. For example, being able to produce valid and comparable annual determinations for all students each year is a considerable technical challenge as well as documenting the degree to which all students are held to the same threshold expectations (equity). The paper concludes by relating the PACE initiative to the push for deeper and more meaningful learning for students.