Improving the classification of multiple disorders with problem decomposition

Differential diagnosis of multiple disorders is a challenging problem in clinical medicine. According to the divide-and-conquer principle, this problem can be handled more effectively through decomposing it into a number of simpler sub-problems, each solved separately. We demonstrate the advantages of this approach using abductive network classifiers on the 6-class standard dermatology dataset. Three problem decomposition scenarios are investigated, including class decomposition and two hierarchical approaches based on clinical practice and class separability properties. Two-stage classification schemes based on hierarchical decomposition boost the classification accuracy from 91% for the single-classifier monolithic approach to 99%, matching the theoretical upper limit reported in the literature for the accuracy of classifying the dataset. Such models are also simpler, achieving up to 47% reduction in the number of input variables required, thus reducing the cost and improving the convenience of performing the medical diagnostic tests required. Automatic selection of only relevant inputs by the simpler abductive network models synthesized provides greater insight into the diagnosis problem and the diagnostic value of various disease markers. The problem decomposition approach helps plan more efficient diagnostic tests and provides improved support for the decision-making process. Findings are compared with established guidelines of clinical practice, results of data analysis, and outcomes of previous informatics-based studies on the dataset.     

Pigmentary disorders in the Mediterranean area

The Mediterranean area represents the area of land that borders the Mediterranean basin. It is composed of several countries that share many geographic and racial characteristics. Although Mediterraneans seem to share common skin type and are subjected to similar enviromental factors, they still represent a genetic and socioeconomic diversity. True prevalence of pigmentary disorders in this area depends on large epidemiologic studies, including countries that are not available. This article, however, highlights and classifies the most important developmental (heritable-genetic) and acquired pigmentary disorders seen and reported in this important area of the world.     

Parentage analysis by endonuclease shattering of hypervariable DNA

Single-locus DNA probes for tandem repeat sequences are now used in conjunction with particular endonucleases to characterize heritable restriction fragment lengths in parentage tests. Southern blots of this type, however, demonstrate only two attributes of an allele: its length and the presence of nucleotide sequences that are complementary to the probe. Not all restriction fragments of the same apparent length that react with the same probe are identical. Differences between comigrating fragments can be detected by the selection of a restriction enzyme that recognizes sites in a subset of the repeat sequences, and the information content of these loci is therefore increased. This report describes a paternity case in which two brothers appeared, after DNA phenotyping using Hinf I, to be the father. A second phenotyping using Hae III excluded one of the brothers.     

Effects of medium- and long-chain triglycerides on sleep and thermoregulatory processes in neonates

Sleep processes and body temperature regulation of neonates are never taken into account in the evaluation of nutrients, although these functions are implicated in the regulation of energy metabolism and are influenced by the nutritional state and its metabolic consequences. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are currently used in paediatric units during the first weeks of because they are considered to be a rapid source of energy, easy to assimilate for growing premature infants, whose digestive function is immature. However, no study has described the thermic effect of these nutrients on body temperature regulation and sleep. The present study aimed at analysing the influence of three feeding formulas with different content of MCT on sleep processes and on thermoregulation of neonates fed until desired intake was reached. Whatever the thermal conditions (thermal equilibrium or cool environment), the MCT-fed groups had higher body temperatures and than groups fed without MCT, for whom total sleep time was reduced at thermal equilibrium. In this group, the large amount of quiet sleep seems to favour a strategy of conserving energy . Higher energy expenditure in MCT-fed groups is not harmful to growth rate since nutritional efficiency is even better reflected by a larger body mass gain. The thermic effect of MCT contributes to lessening the vulnerability of neonates exposed to low incubator temperatures.