bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability of nutrients intake, lipid profile and cardiovascular mortality among geographical areas in Spain: The DRECE study
Authors: Gómez de la Cámara Agustín , De Andrés Esteban Eva , Urrútia Cuchí Gerard , Calderón Sandubete Enrique , Rubio Herrera Miguel Ángel , Menéndez Orenga Miguel , Lora Pablos David
Published: April 2020

It has often been suggested that cardiovascular mortality and their geographical heterogeneity are associated with nutrients intake patterns and also lipid profile. The large Spanish study Dieta y Riesgo de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares en España (DRECE) investigated this theory from 1991 to 2010. Out of the 4,783 Spanish individuals making up the DRECE cohort, 220 subjects (148 men and 72 women) died (4.62%) during the course of the study. The mean age of patients who died from cardiovascular causes (32 in all) was 61.08 years 95% CI (57.47-64.69) and 70.91% of them were males. The consumption of nutrients and the lipid profile by geographical area, studied by geospatial models, showed that the east and southern area of the country had the highest fat intake coupled to a high rate of unhealthy lipid profile. It was concluded that the spatial geographical analysis showed a relationship between high fat intake, unhealthy lipid profile and cardiovascular mortality in the different geographical areas, with a high variability within the country.
Spatial analysis of the prevalence of schistosomiasis in an endemic coastal area in north-eastern Brazil
Authors: Santos Allan D. , Silva Jonhnatas , Lima Ana Caroline , Santos Márcio , Lima Shirley , Amor Monalisa , Santos Carlos , Vasconcelos Arthur , Dolabella Silvio , Araújo Karina C.G.M.
Published: April 2020

Due to contact and misuse of water drainage channels, schistosomiasis has spread and become a constant concern in northeastern Brazil. The aim of this study was to monitor human cases of Schistosomiasis mansoni and the breeding areas of the snail intermediate host Biomphalaria glabrata through spatial analysis in a community named Invasão do Canal do Guaxinim, located in Barra dos Coqueiros City in an endemic coastal part of the state of Sergipe, Brazil. This research was performed as a cross-sectional epidemiological study conducted with parasitological and malacological surveys. To verify the spatial analysis, a two-year spatial point pattern analysis was performed by means of Kernel intensity estimation using TerraView software 4.2.2. A schistosomiasis prevalence reduction from 8.1% (2013) to 4.9% (2014) was observed but mild infection prevailed in adolescents and/or young adults during the two-year study. In malacological research, 387 specimens of snails of the genus B. glabrata were collected and all were negative with regard to schistosomiasis. Spatial analysis showed a strong, spatial trend of increased transmission risk areas north and south of the community, both in 2013 and 2014. In Invasão do Canal do Guaxinim itself, the increased risk was only seen in the northern part. When combined, the human and the malacological spatial analyses constituted an important methodological approach for monitoring and controlling this parasitic disease.
Spatial analysis of cutaneous leishmaniasis in an endemic area of Iran based on environmental factors
Authors: Ramezankhani Roghieh , Sajjadi Nooshin , Nezakati Esmaeilzadeh Roya , Jozi Seyed Ali , Shirzadi Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2020

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by different species of protozoan parasites. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is still a great public health problem in Iran, especially in Isfahan Province. Distribution and abundance of vectors and reservoirs of this disease is affected by different factors such as climatic, socioeconomic and cultural. This study aimed to identify the hotspot areas for CL in Isfahan and assess the relations between the climatic and topographic factors with CL incidence using spatial analysis. We collected data on the total number of CL cases, population at risk, vegetation coverage, altitude and climatic data for each district of the province from 2011 to 2015. Global Moran’s Index was used to map clustering of CL cases across districts and the Getis-Ord (Gi*) statistics was used to determine hotspots areas of the disease in Isfahan. We applied overlay analysis to assess the correlation between the climatic and topographic factors with CL incidence. We found the CL distribution significantly clustered (Moran’s Index=0.17, P<0.001) with the Ardestan and Aran va Bidgol (P<0.01) districts along with the Naein and Natanz districts (P<0.05) to be strong hotspot areas. Overlay analysis revealed a high incidence of CL in areas with relative humidity of 27-30%, mean temperature of 15-19°C, mean precipitation of 5-20 mm, maximum wind speed about 12-16 m/s and an altitude of 600-1,800 m. Our study showed that spatial analysis is a feasible approach for identifying spatial disease pattern and detecting hotspots of this infectious disease.
The influence of socioeconomic deprivation, access to healthcare and physical environment on old-age survival in Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Ana Isabel , Krainski Elias Teixeira , Carvalho Marilia Sá , De Fátima de Pina Maria
Published: April 2020

Spatial inequalities in old-age survival exist in Portugal and might be associated with factors pertaining to three distinct domains: socioeconomic, physical environmental and healthcare. We evaluated the contribution of these factors on the old-age survival across Portuguese municipalities deriving a surrogate measure of life expectancy, a 10-year survival rate that expresses the proportion of the population aged 75-84 years old who reached 85-94. As covariates we used two internationally comparable multivariate indexes: the European deprivation index and the multiple physical environmental deprivation index. A national index was developed to evaluate the access to healthcare. Smoothed rates and odds ratios (OR) were estimated using Bayesian spatial models. Socioeconomic deprivation was found to be the most relevant factor influencing old-age survival in Portugal [women: least deprived areas OR=1.132(1.064-1.207); men OR=1.044(1.001- 1.094)] and explained a sizable amount of the spatial variance in survival, especially among women. Access to healthcare was associated with old-age survival in the univariable model only; results lost significance after adjustment for socioeconomic circumstances [women: higher access to healthcare OR=1.020(0.973- 1.072); men OR=1.021(0.989-1.060)]. Physical environmental deprivation was unrelated with old-age survival. In conclusion, socioeconomic deprivation was the most important determinant in explaining spatial disparities in old-age survival in Portugal, which indicates that policy makers should direct their efforts to tackle socioeconomic differentials between regions.
Revealed access to haemodialysis facilities in northeastern Iran: Factors that matter in rural and urban areas
Authors: Kiani Behzad , Bagheri Nasser , Tara Ahmad , Hoseini Benyamin , Tabesh Hamed , Tara Mahmood
Published: April 2020

Poor access to haemodialysis facilities is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. This study investigated factors affecting revealed access to the haemodialysis facilities considering patients living in rural and urban areas without any haemodialysis facility (Group A) and those living urban areas with haemodialysis facilities (Group B). This study is based on selfreported Actual Access Time (AAT) to referred haemodialysis facilities and other information regarding travel to haemodialysis facilities from patients. All significant variables on univariate analysis were entered into a univariate general linear model in order to identify factors associated with AAT. Both spatial (driving time and distance) and non-spatial factors (sex, income level, caregivers, transportation mode, education level, ethnicity and personal vehicle ownership) influenced the revealed access identified in Group A. The non-spatial factors for Group B patients were the same as for Group A, but no spatial factor was identified in Group B. It was found that accessibility is strongly underestimated when driving time is chosen as accessibility measure to haemodialysis facilities. Analysis of revealed access determinants provides policymakers with an appropriate decision base for making appropriate decisions and finding solutions to decrease the access time for patients under haemodialysis therapy. Driving time alone is not a good proxy for measuring access to haemodialysis facilities as there are many other potential obstacles, such as women's special travel problems, poor other transportation possibilities, ethnicity disparities, low education levels, low caregiver status and low-income.
OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF VERTICAL UPFLOW ROUGHING FILTER FOR PRE-TREATMENT OF LEACHATE USING LIMESTONE FILTER MEDIA
Authors: Affam Augustine Chioma
Published: April 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the removal of COD, BOD, turbidity and colour from leachate using vertical upflow filtration technique. Limestone media with a density of 2554kg/m3 was crushed and graded in sizes of 4-8 mm, 8-12 mm and 12-18 mm. Trial runs were done before the main experiment at an interval of 24 h analysis. Leachate was between pH 7.94 to 8.12 before experiments but increased to pH 8.42 after the filtration process. Maximum headloss at steady flow rate 20mL/min was 0.5 cm. The optimum treatment was achieved with 4 – 8 mm, 8 – 12 mm & 12 – 18 mm media size in combination and removal efficiency was 22 to 81 %, 22 to 75 %, 32 to 86 %, and 36 to 62 % for BOD, COD, turbidity and colour respectively. Vertical upflow roughing filter can be used for pre-treatment of leachate before further treatment.
Penobarbitone and feeding in dogs
Authors: Thurman G. D. , Miller R. , McFadyen L.
Published: April 2020

No abstract available.
Envisaging patient safety in health-care settings
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: April 2020

The concept of patient safety came into existence owing to the complexity attributed to the health systems and the rising incidence of patient harms in health care facilities. It won't be wrong to say that patient harm in healthcare is intolerable, especially the ones resulting because of the error in the diagnosis, prescription or the use of medicines. The need of the hour is to establish a culture that fosters linkage with patients, boosts reporting and learning from mistakes and establishes a safe environment wherein health professionals are empowered and well-trained to minimize their errors. In conclusion, patient safety during health care delivery is an essential prerequisite to accomplish health system strengthening and move forward towards the attainment of universal health coverage. The time has come when patient safety has to be regarded as one of the global health priorities and focused actions are taken to achieve improved health outcomes.
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Wilms Tumor
Authors: Yadav Devendra Kumar , Jain Vishesh , Dinda Amit Kumar , Agarwala Sandeep
Published: April 2020

Purpose: T-lymphocytes-infiltrating tumors (TILs) are white blood cells (CD3+) found within the tumor and are thought to indicate a T-cell-mediated specific immune response. The purpose was to evaluate the presence and the subtypes of TILs in Wilms tumor (WT) specimens. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted, and consecutive cases of WT registered and treated at our center were included in the study. The resected tumor was processed by taking multiple sections from the tumor and the peritumoral area. The sections were then processed for evaluating TILs and their subtypes (CD4 + and CD8+). TILs were assessed as a percentage of the total mononuclear cell infiltration in both these areas in all specimens. Results: Twenty-four consecutive specimens of WT were studied. The mean TILs (CD3+) counts was significantly higher (P = 0.001) in the peritumoral area (22.64 ± 1.42; range 20.2%–25%) as compared to the tumor (21.08 ± 2.42; range 14.6%–23.1%). The mean T-Helper (CD4+) counts was also significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the peritumoral area (13.04 ± 1.79; range 10.5%–16.5%) than in the tumor (7.30 ± 1.81; range 4.2%–10.1%). The mean cytolytic T-lymphocytes (CTLs-CD8+) counts in peritumoral area were 6.64 ± 1.09 (range 4.2%–9.2%), while in the tumor, it was 11.96 ± 3.09 (range 3.6%–16.4%). Two patients died on follow-up due to recurrence. These patients showed a markedly lower CD8+ cell count and higher CD4+/CD8+ ratio in the tumor. Conclusion: T-cells infiltration takes place in WT, and most of the patients demonstrate a higher concentration of CTL (CD8+) in the tumor as compared to the peritumoral area.
Analysis of Dedifferentiated Liposarcomas Emphasizing the Diagnostic Dilemmas
Authors: Lali Bhagat Singh , Kini Hema , Chakraborti Shrijeet , Kini Jyoti , Suresh Pooja K
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is defined as a progression of well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS) to another nonlipogenic sarcoma. Since a variety of heterologous sarcomas can be encountered in dedifferentiation, clinical dilemmas arise. The present study analyzed the role of clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical (IHC) features in the diagnosis of DDLPS and its differentiation from mimics. Materials and Methods: A retrospective and prospective study was conducted wherein all cases of liposarcoma from 2012 to 2017 were reviewed. DDLPS cases were identified among pleomorphic lesions. Clinical and histopathological details for these cases were retrieved from medical records section and department archives. Histomorphology and immunohistochemistry (MDM2, S100, and Ki-67) were analyzed for these cases. Results: Among 37 cases of liposarcomas reviewed, DDLPS was diagnosed in 12 cases (32.4%). Mean age of the patients was 54.3 years with equal gender distribution (M:F =1:1.2). Two patients had recurrent tumors. Most were retroperitoneal (58.3%) with mean duration of symptoms being 8.7 months. Mean tumor dimension was 17.5 cm. High-grade dedifferentiated component was most common (83.3%) with only one case each (8.3%) of low-grade and homologous dedifferentiation. Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma was the frequent nonlipogenic sarcoma. MDM2 overexpression was detected in 100%, focal S100 positivity seen in 66.6%, and mean Ki-67 labeling index was 24. Conclusion: DDLPS exhibits aggressive clinical behavior. Adequate sampling, correlation to clinical details, demonstration of transition from WDLPS to DDLPS aid in narrowing the differentials. Immunostaining with MDM2 helps in definite categorization and S100 highlights lipoblasts, when they are not easily identifiable. MDM2, CDK4, and p16 IHC panel is recommended in all cases and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis where IHC is noncontributory.
Cervical Hibernoma: A Very Rare Tumor of Childhood – Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Prakash Advait , Singh Sangram , Dhull Kshiteej , Sharma Sankalp , Vyas Tanmay , Jain Anvesh
Published: April 2020

Hibernomas are uncommon benign soft-tissue tumors which are composed of brown fat. They are usually seen in adults in the fourth and fifth decades and the common locations are thigh, shoulder, and back. Only few cases in the posterior neck region have been reported in literature. Hibernoma is very uncommon in the pediatric age group and those in the neck region are extremely rare. We present a hibernoma presenting as a swelling on the posterior aspect of base of the neck in a 5-month-old male infant. Considering the rare occurrence in the pediatric age group and difficulty in diagnosis, the clinical features, radiological features, pathological characteristics, differential diagnosis, and management of this rare tumor of childhood are discussed herewith.
Analysis of Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated with Autologous Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Kulkarni Vishal , Sapkota Sulav , Badarkhe Girish V , Srinivas BJ , Naik Radheshyam
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is one of the common lymphomas with high cure rate. Aims: The aim was to study the outcome of relapsed/refractory HL treated with autologous transplantation. Objectives: The objective was to study the overall survival, overall response, and disease-free survival of the relapsed/refractory HL after autologous transplantation. Methods: It was a retrospective study conducted over a period of 8 years in our center using computer-based database and medical records as the data source. Results: A total of 22 patients were diagnosed with relapsed/refractory HL of which majority of cases were male patients (59%) with a mean age of 29 years (range: 15–57 years) and were Stage 4A (40.9%), with nodular sclerosis (54.5%). The overall response rate was 81.8% with 9.1% complete response, 72.7% partial response, and 4.5% stable disease; the overall survival was 77.92 ± 6.65 months, and disease-free survival was 69.66 ± 8.13 months. Conclusion: Autologous stem cell transplant plays an integral role in the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma.
An Energy Efficient Health Monitoring System using Relay Node in Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Bilandi Naveen , K Verma Harsh , Dhir Renu
Published: April 2020

INTRODUCTION: In today's world, Wireless Body Area Networks (WBAN) has emanated as a budding field within the healthcare scenario for monitoring, detecting, predicting, and diagnosing various fatal diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular, diabetes and other infectious diseases such as tuberclosis, pneumonia and ebola. It is an assemblage of bio-sensors which could be put on or embedded in a patient's body to surveil the functionality of various body organs.OBJECTIVES: The purpose of that proposed protocol is to select the relay node and record the various physiological parameters like body temperature, blood pressure, rate of blood sugar of human being. Energy consumption is a major hurdle in WBAN as replacing as well as recharging the nodes pinioned to human body may bring about discomfort to the patient. Therefore, in this work, the emphasis is given to improve the performance of WBAN i.e. network lifetime, greater mobility, stability and energy efficiency.METHODS: To find the shortest energy-efficient route and avoid any kind of relay node failure, a novel routing scheme called Enhanced Opportunistic Protocol using Relay nodes (E-OPR) is proposed for data routing.CONCLUSION: Finally, an enhanced opportunistic protocol using relay node in WBAN has been proposed for cost effective real time health monitoring system. The proposed solution seems to give better results as compare single-hop, multi-hop routing protocols in terms of throughput, network lifetime, energy consumption and path loss.
Toward greener membranes with 3D printing technology
Authors: Yanar Numan , Son Moon , Park Hosik , Choi Heechul
Published: April 2020

3D printing has recently influenced membrane science. As a green alternative to current membrane fabrication methods, 3D printing prevents the mixing of highly toxic chemicals into water through its sustainable production. Furthermore, the risk of exposure to these toxic materials and of mechanical accidents during the fabrication is also attenuated. This type of in-situ fabrication eliminates logistic-based problems caused by transportation and packaging. Eliminating packaging and reducing transportation and precision-based waste also reduces CO2 emissions. The advantages of 3D-printed membranes are correlated with each other and promote a greener environment. In this article, we collect their contributions under the sub-titles of sustainability, risk reduction, cost-effectiveness, precision and mobility.
Provisão para créditos de liquidação duvidosa e controles de limites de solvência em instituições bancárias no Brasil
Authors: Martinez Antonio Lopo , Loose Acione De Souza
Published: April 2020

Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar como a Provisão para Créditos de Liquidação Duvidosa pode ser influenciada pelo nível de capital regulatório nas instituições bancárias no Brasil para manter seu limite de solvência, o Índice de Basiléia. E ainda, verificar se existe uma motivação para Income Smoothing, Gerenciamento de Resultado. Foram utilizados os dados de 115 instituições financeiras bancárias situadas no Brasil divulgado pelo Banco Central do Brasil (BACEN) nos anos de 2010 a 2016. De maneira geral, as análises ilustram que, o Resultado das operações de crédito explica uma elevação nas provisões para créditos de liquidação duvidosa, porém a análise não apontou que a Provisão de Crédito para Liquidação Duvidosa esteja sendo gerenciada em função dos níveis de capital regulatório. O modelo não evidenciou que o volume de Provisão de Crédito para Liquidação Duvidosa esteja relacionado ao montante de capital das instituições financeiras bancárias do Brasil.
Conflito entre acionistas, governança corporativa e valor da empresa: uma análise em empresas brasileiras
Authors: Pinheiro Laura Edith Taboada , Neves Patrícia Antonacci , Souza Rafael Morais de , Casabianca María Luz
Published: April 2020

Os objetivos desta pesquisa consistiram em analisar a relação de concentração acionária e governança corporativa com as variáveis conflito de acionistas e valor de empresa; e explorar a associação entre conflito de acionistas e valor da empresa. Para a criação dos indicadores para conflito entre acionistas, concentração acionária e governança corporativa utilizou-se a análise de componentes principais. Através da análise de regressão com dados em painel foi verificada uma relação significativa e positiva de concentração acionária e conflito e uma relação significativa e negativa de governança corporativa e conflito. Adicionalmente, por meio da análise de agrupamento foi observado que a amostra utilizada apresenta relação inversa entre conflito e valor da empresa. Conclui-se que a melhora na qualidade da governança corporativa tende a diminuir a possibilidade de conflito entre acionistas. O estudo contribui com a literatura de governança no ambiente brasileiro e suas evidências podem contribuir para mudanças no ambiente regulatório.
A sustentabilidade na perspectiva de discentes de graduação em Ciências Contábeis: prevalece a lógica oportunista e utilitarista
Authors: Silva Junior Annor Da , Vasconcelos Katia Cyrlene de Araújo , Silva Vitor Correa da , Campos Gabriel Moreira
Published: April 2020

Investigou-se o ponto de vista de discentes de graduação em ciências contábeis acerca da noção de sustentabilidade. Teoricamente, articulou-se os conceitos de sustentabilidade, de moral e de ética e de formação educacional e profissional do contador. Realizou-se uma pesquisa survey, cuja coleta envolveu a triangulação de dados por meio da aplicação de questionários e pesquisa documental. A amostra contou com 285 discentes (36,12% do tamanho da população) de todos os períodos e turnos do curso. Os resultados revelam que a noção de sustentabilidade predominante na literatura, que pressupõe o tratamento equitativo das dimensões econômica, social e ambiental, não é compartilhada pelos respondentes. Pelo contrário, observou-se a prevalência da dimensão econômica frente as demais. Em parte, esta prevalência está ancorada na lógica oportunista e utilitarista que permeia a formação do contador. Os resultados remetem para a necessidade de se repensar no modelo de educação vigente, rumo a uma lógica sustentável.
Meditation-Based Interventions for Adults With Dementia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hoffman Lindsey , Hutt Rebecca , Yi Tsui Celine Kin , Zorokong Kim , Marfeo Elizabeth
Published: April 2020

Importance: With the high prevalence and cost of dementia care worldwide, a need exists to develop cost-effective and evidence-based treatment for people with dementia. Meditation, which has been demonstrated to have positive effects on brain health, may be a viable intervention option.

Objective: To investigate how meditation-based interventions affect health and quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes for adults with dementia.

Data Sources: Articles were located by using the keywords meditation, mindfulness, mind–body, dementia, and Alzheimer’s to search the following electronic databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane, and JumboSearch at Tufts University.

Study Selection and Data Collection: Using Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology, a scoping review was conducted to examine scientific and gray literature published between 1997 and 2018. Data were abstracted and assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Only articles that included a meditation-based intervention and at least 1 participant with dementia were included.

Findings: Nineteen articles met inclusion criteria. The four main outcomes that emerged from the literature were improvement in QOL, mental health, cognition, and functional abilities after participation in a meditation-based intervention. The outcome with the strongest support was the effectiveness of meditation-based interventions in maintaining cognitive function in people living with dementia. Significant gaps in the research were identified, including weak research design, inconsistency in measurement of outcomes, small sample sizes, and a lack of standardized meditation protocols for people with dementia.

Conclusions and Relevance: Our findings suggest that incorporating meditation into interventions for clients with dementia can have beneficial results. Opportunities exist for occupational therapy practitioners to advocate for the continuation of research in this field. Notable gaps in the literature highlight the need for randomized controlled trials and the development of standardized meditation protocols for people with dementia.

What This Article Adds: Meditation-based interventions for people with dementia are associated with improved quality of life and cognition and may be viable treatment options for occupational therapists to implement in their practice.
A Toolkit to Assess the Consistency Between Real Sector and Financial Sector Forecasts
Authors: Chen Sophia , Ganum Paola , Rabanal Pau
Published: April 2020

e develop a toolkit to assess the consistency between real sector and financial sector forecasts. The toolkit draws upon empirical regularities on real sector and financial sector outcomes for 182 economies from 1980 to 2015. We show that credit growth is positively correlated with real sector performance, in particular when credit growth is unusually high or low. However, the relationship between credit growth and inflation is weak. These results hold for different country groups, including advanced economies, emerging markets and low-income countries. Combining credit growth with other variables such as house prices and the output gap helps to understand real sector outcomes. But including the financial account balance does not make a difference.
Finance & Development, December 2019
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. Communications Department
Published: April 2020

Finance & Development, December 2019
Markups, Quality, and Trade Costs
Authors: Chen Natalie , Juvenal Luciana
Published: April 2020

We investigate theoretically and empirically how exporters adjust their markups across destinations depending on bilateral distance, tariffs, and the quality of their exports. Under the assumption that trade costs are both ad valorem and per unit, our model predicts that markups rise with distance and fall with tariffs, but these effects are heterogeneous and are smaller in magnitude for higher quality exports. We find strong support for the predictions of the model using a unique data set of Argentinean firm-level wine exports combined with experts wine ratings as a measure of quality.
Republic of Moldova
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. European Dept.
Published: April 2020

This paper presents 2019 Article IV Consultation with the Republic of Moldova and its Sixth Reviews Under the Extended Credit Facility and Extended Fund Facility Arrangements. Moldova’s economic growth remained solid in the first three quarters of 2019, with output expanding nearly 5 percent, supported by strong domestic demand. The three-year program has been broadly successful in achieving its objectives. Comprehensive reforms have rehabilitated the banking system and strengthened financial sector governance, entrenching macrofinancial stability. Prudent and well-coordinated policies are needed to safeguard the progress achieved. Decisive governance and institutional reforms are necessary for faster, sustainable, and inclusive growth. Safeguarding central bank independence is a priority. The inflation-targeting (IT) regime remains appropriate, but additional efforts are needed to improve policy credibility, promote exchange rate flexibility, and disincentivize foreign currency intermediation. Widespread governance and institutional vulnerabilities are major impediments to accelerating income convergence. Addressing these could have significant growth dividends through faster capital accumulation, reduced labor and human capital headwinds from emigration, and higher productivity.
Somalia
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. Middle East and Central Asia Dept.
Published: April 2020

This paper presents an assessment of Somalia’s eligibility for assistance under the enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. The macroeconomic framework reflects the policy framework underlying the proposed three-year Fund-supported program. The debt relief analysis (DRA) remains largely unchanged, but some of the underlying debt data has been updated to reflect new information from creditors. In addition, this paper presents an assessment of debt management capacity in Somalia and a full Debt Sustainability Analysis under the Debt Sustainability Framework for Low-Income Countries. The DRA reveals that, after traditional debt relief mechanisms are applied, Somalia’s debt burden expressed as the net present value of debt-to-exports ratio is 344.2 percent at the end of December 2018—significantly above the HIPC Initiative threshold. Despite the challenging environment, progress on reform and policy implementation has been good and sustained reforms have translated into economic results. In addition to the coordinated support from the World Bank and the IMF, reforms have been supported by other development partners.
Somalia
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. Middle East and Central Asia Dept.
Published: April 2020

This Joint Staff Advisory Note on the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper discusses that Somalia has made noteworthy progress since 2012 to recover from decades of conflict and state fragmentation. The country has succeeded in rebuilding core state capabilities and organized two democratic national elections in 2012 and 2017. Somalia has now reached the stage where it seeks to fully reengage the international community and is requesting debt relief through the heavily indebted poor countries initiative. The authorities developed the Ninth National Development Plan (NPD9) through a highly consultative, participatory process that ensured full country ownership. The macroeconomic policy objectives of NDP9 are to promote economic growth in an environment of low inflation, sustainable fiscal and current account balances, and healthy foreign exchange reserves. The IMF staff recommends updating framework to incorporate greater support for poverty reduction and additional financing from development partners during the interim period. The IMF staff supports the authorities’ commitment to issuing new Somali shilling banknotes, while maintaining de facto dollarization.
Malta
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. European Dept.
Published: April 2020

Since the beginning of March, when the first COVID-19 case was identified in Malta, the number of infected people has increased rapidly. As of April 1, 188 people have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in Malta. Contagion is not anymore limited to Maltese citizens who have travelled abroad or been in contact with foreign travelers in recent past. Two patients have already recovered and none has died. The authorities have responded swiftly with containment measures and early actions to mobilize the healthcare system. Before the first case was diagnosed in Malta, on March 7, the authorities dedicated facilities within hospitals and accelerated purchases of protective and respiratory equipment while training care workers. As the first cases were reported, travel restrictions were put in place. They were gradually tightened from a partial ban to a full suspension of inbound flights to Malta starting March 21. Social distancing measures have also gradually been stepped up, from partial quarantine measures for travelers to the cancelation of all mass activities, the shutdown of all schools, childcare centers, bars, restaurants, sport centers, non-essential shops and services and, since March 28, the full lockdown of the most vulnerable population.
Streamlining Procedures for Board Consideration of The Fund’s Emergency Financing During Exceptional Circumstances Involving A Pandemic
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted an unprecedented shock on the global economy and created an enormous demand for Fund resources. To accelerate processing and approval of members’ requests in such circumstances, the paper proposes measures to expedite Board consideration and approval of requests for purchases and/or disbursements under the Rapid Financing Instrument and/or the Rapid Credit Facility, respectively, completion of reviews and requests for changes in access in existing arrangements, and requests for assistance under the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT), by shortening the circulation period for Board documents. The paper also proposes extending the use of the shortened circulation period to selected Article IV consultations necessary for use of Fund resources during a global pandemic. Management will also streamline internal procedures to accelerate program processing and reduce the burden on the Fund’s administrative capacity, and will seek the support of creditors to expedite the processing of financial transactions under COVID-19 emergency financing.
The Managing Director’s Global Policy Agenda, Spring Meetings 2020
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: April 2020

Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s Global Policy Agenda, Exceptional Times, Exceptional Action, highlights three priorities for policymakers around the world: protect lives, protect livelihoods, and plan for the recovery. She Says “The reality is that anyone’s fight against the #COVID-19 virus is everyone’s fight. More than ever we need global solidarity, a common resolve, and coordinated international efforts. And with so many countries short on resources, we need to give more support to those most in need,”.
Mind-the-gap Part II: Improving quantitative estimates of cloud and rain water path in oceanic warm rain using spaceborne radars
Authors: Battaglia Alessandro , Kollias Pavlos , Dhillon Ranvir , Lamer Katia , Khairoutdinov Marat , Watters Daniel
Published: April 2020

Abstract. The intrinsic small spatial scales and low reflectivity structure of oceanic warm precipitating clouds suggest that millimeter spaceborne radars are best suited to provide quantitative estimates of cloud and rain liquid water path (LWP). This assertion is based on their smaller horizontal footprint, high sensitivities, and a wide dynamic range of path integrated attenuations associated to warm rain cells across the millimeter wavelength spectrum, with diverse spectral responses to rain and cloud partitioning. State-of-the-art single-frequency radar profiling algorithms of warm rain seem to be inadequate because of their dependence on uncertain assumptions on the rain/cloud partitioning and of the rain microphysics. Here, high resolution cloud resolving model simulations for the Rain in Cumulus over the Ocean field study and a spaceborne forward radar simulator are exploited to assess the potential of existing and future spaceborne radar system for quantitative warm rain microphysical retrievals. Specifically, the detrimental effects of non-uniform beam filling on path integrated attenuation (PIA) estimates, the added value of brightness temperatures (TBs) derived adopting radiometric radar modes, and the performances of multi-frequency PIA and/or TB combinations when retrieving liquid water path partitioning into cloud (c-LWP) and rain (r-LWP) are assessed. Results show that (1) Ka and W-band TBs add useful constraints and are effective at lower LWPs than the same frequency PIAs; (2) matched-beam combined TBs and PIAs from single/multi-frequency radars can significantly narrow down uncertainties in retrieved cloud and rain liquid water paths; (3) the configuration including PIAs, TBs and near surface reflectivities for the Ka-W band pairs in our synthetic retrieval can achieve rmse better than 30 % for c-LWPs and r-LWPs exceeding 100 g/m2.
Fatty acid carbon isotopes: a new indicator of marine Antarctic paleoproductivity?
Authors: Ashley Kate , Bendle James , Crosta Xavier , Etourneau Johan , Campagne Philippine , Gilchrist Harry , Ibraheem Uthmaan , Greene Sarah , Schmidt Sabine , Eley Yvette , Massé Guillaume
Published: April 2020

Abstract. The Antarctic coastal zone is an area of high primary productivity, particularly within coastal polynyas where large phytoplankton blooms and drawdown of CO2 occur. Reconstruction of historical primary productivity changes, and the associated driving factors, could provide baseline insights on the role of these areas as sinks for atmospheric CO2, especially in the context of projected changes in coastal Antarctic sea ice. Here we investigate the potential for using carbon isotopes (δ13C) of fatty acids in marine sediments as a proxy for primary productivity. We use a highly resolved sediment core from off the coast of Adélie Land spanning the last ~ 400 years and monitor changes in the concentrations and δ13C of fatty acids along with other proxy data from the same core. We discuss the different possible drivers of their variability and argue that C24 fatty acid δ13C predominantly reflects phytoplankton productivity in open water environments, while C18 fatty acid δ13C reflects productivity in the marginal ice zone. These new proxies have implications for better understanding carbon cycle dynamics in the Antarctica coastal zone in future paleoclimate studies.
Impacts of future agricultural change on ecosystem service indicators
Authors: Rabin Sam S. , Alexander Peter , Henry Roslyn , Anthoni Peter , Pugh Thomas A. M. , Rounsevell Mark , Arneth Almut
Published: April 2020

Abstract. A future of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations,
changing climate, growing human populations, and shifting
socioeconomic conditions means that the global agricultural system
will need to adapt in order to feed the world. These changes will
affect not only agricultural land but terrestrial ecosystems in
general. Here, we use the coupled land use and vegetation model LandSyMM (Land System Modular Model) to quantify future land use change (LUC) and resulting
impacts on ecosystem service indicators relating to carbon
sequestration, runoff, biodiversity, and nitrogen pollution. We
additionally hold certain variables, such as climate or land use,
constant to assess the relative contribution of different drivers to
the projected impacts. Some ecosystem services depend critically on
land use and management: for example, carbon storage, the gain in
which is more than 2.5 times higher in a low-LUC scenario (Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 4 and Representative Concentration Pathway 6.0; SSP4-60)
than a high-LUC one with the same carbon dioxide and climate
trajectory (SSP3-60). Other trends are mostly dominated by the
direct effects of climate change and carbon dioxide increase. For
example, in those two scenarios, extreme high monthly runoff
increases across 54 % and 53 % of land,
respectively, with a mean increase of 23 % in
both. Scenarios in which climate change mitigation is more difficult
(SSPs 3 and 5) have the strongest impacts
on ecosystem service indicators, such as a loss of 13 %–19 %
of land in biodiversity hotspots and a 28 % increase in
nitrogen pollution. Evaluating a suite of ecosystem service
indicators across scenarios enables the identification of tradeoffs
and co-benefits associated with different climate change mitigation
and adaptation strategies and socioeconomic developments.
Technical note: Nikon–TRACKFlow, a new versatile microscope system for fission track analysis
Authors: Van Ranst Gerben , Baert Philippe , Fernandes Ana Clara , De Grave Johan
Published: April 2020

Abstract. We present Nikon–TRACKFlow, a new system with dedicated modules for automated
microscope control and imaging for the fission track laboratory. It serves
as a Nikon alternative for the Zeiss-based TrackWorks package from Autoscan
Systems. Nikon–TRACKFlow is based on the Nikon Eclipse Ni-E motorised upright
microscope and is embedded within Nikon NIS-Elements software. The system
decouples image acquisition from analysis to decrease schedule stress of the
microscope based on a number of automated user-friendly designs and
protocols: (1) the well plate design that allows sequential scanning of
multiple samples without the need of replacing the slide on the stage; (2) two protocols that are designed for the external detector method and the
LA–ICP–MS fission track approach with tools for repositioning and
calibration of the external detector; and (3) two other tools that are designed for
automated point selection and scanning of large crystals, such as the
Durango age standard and U-doped glass external detectors. In future
versions, Nikon–TRACKFlow aims to step away from the dedicated system for
fission track imaging towards a general high-throughput imaging system for
Earth Sciences and other material-oriented sciences.
Complicated Fusobacterium necrophorum mastoiditis – More than meets the eye
Authors: Fuller Katherine , Kaddour Mohammad , Phuong Linny , Lawrence Joanna
Published: April 2020

Otitis media is common in children and Fusobacterium species are an emerging causative pathogen. These species have virulence factors which increase the risk of complicated otitis media. We discuss a case of F. necrophorum infection resulting in significant intracranial disease to highlight the epidemiology of these infections, risk factors for complicated disease and signs and symptoms to guide diagnosis and investigation.
Research on English Situational Teaching in Primary Schools in China-Based on the Statistics and Analysis of CNKI Journals and Theses from 2014 to 2019
Authors: Li Xi-ping
Published: April 2020

Situational Teaching plays a crucial role in English classroom teaching in Chinese Primary Schools; hence the relevant research prospers simultaneously. This study is devoted to reveal the research characteristic on English Situational Teaching in Primary Schools in the past 6 years. Result of contrastive analysis and survey of the essays published on CNKI Journals and Theses from year 2014 to 2019 reveals: 1) In terms of the whole field, it develops steadily in spite of lack of wide coverage and depth. 2) In regarding to the research content in whole, it is relatively disproportionate, identical and superficial with too much perceptual thinking and the micro aspect of specific application and promotion but far less scientific, empirical and experimental research. Moreover, there are too many nonstandard essays and few outstanding ones. 3) As to the research method, the distribution of the employment of the 3 methods is imbalance with too little use of the experimental and quantitative ones. Furthermore, the journal authors are unskilled in employment of multiple methods. 4) With respect to the research team, it is unstable, low productive and too centralized with primary school teachers.
PRODUCTION AND ECONOMICAL RESULTS OF FARMS WITH APPLE
PRODUCTION IN POLAND AND IN GERMANY IN THE YEARS 2000-2014
Authors: Brzozowski Piotr , Zmarlicki Krzysztof
Published: April 2020

The purpose of the study was the comparison of production costs and profitability of dessert apple production between
Poland and Germany in the years 2000-2014. To accomplish this data from farms located at Niederelbe region in Germany
published yearly in one of local trade journals for growers, were used. In Poland the data were taken from, commercial apple
farms located in Grójec region, which were purposively selected from bigger set of farms investigated previously by authors. The
farms from Niederelbe region turned out to be more profitable than Polish ones. The biggest comparative advantage of lower
human labour costs on the site of Polish farms seem to be not threatened in the coming years. To strengthen their competitive
position, the Polish apple producers should seek to increase the orchard area in holdings.
The UK homelessness epidemic – radical roots needing radical solutions
Authors: Shrubb Richard
Published: April 2020

Using newspaper articles, government and charity reports and other secondary sources, this paper looks at the new problem of widespread homelessness brought about by the UK austerity economic policy after 2010. It assesse the growth of the problem due in particular to the re-engineering of welfare benefits.
Looking at those who have fallen through the net, the paper focuses on the ability of local authorities to use the law to decline to support those presenting as homeless, including those released from prison. Addressing punitive measures taken by local authorities and law enforcement agencies, it highlights the difficulties faced by those targeted by such agencies. In the final section I look at two contrasting models of policy vis-à-vis homeless people – those in use in the United States and in Finland. The UK neither officially countenances homeless camps, as in the US, nor offers housing as a right, as in Finland. Drawing on an accusation made by Chris Glover in a December 2018 academic paper, I conclude that Friedrich Engels 1844 concept of social murder has been committed against thousands of people in an act of a term I coin as
‘Classism’. This act of class war against the most vulnerable has made many thousands more homeless and in precarious housing.
Derivas subnacionales de la Multipartidaria: activación política y consensos sociales en la transición a la democracia (La Pampa, Argentina, 1981-1983)
Authors: Moroni Marisa Alejandra
Published: April 2020

En un clima de cuestionamientos internos y frágiles acuerdos sectoriales en las Fuerzas Armadas, a fines de marzo de 1981, asumía el segundo presidente de facto en Argentina, el general Roberto Viola, representante del Ejército en la sucesión política del régimen militar. Su gestión prefiguraba el ascenso de la denominada “línea política”, sin embargo, su breve estancia al frente del Poder Ejecutivo adelantaba la complejidad para debatir acerca del statu quo del Estado autoritario sin confrontar con los sectores militares ortodoxos que, finalmente, provocarían su alejamiento del poder. Durante el mandato de Viola, se ensayaron una serie de estrategias destinadas a controlar el proceso de deslegitimación de la dictadura y contener las expectativas de distintos sectores sobre el futuro escenario político nacional. En esa línea, se incrementó la inclusión de actores civiles en los elencos de gobierno nacional y provincial, sin que ello implicara ceder el control del juego político o establecer plazos electorales. En contrapartida, la dirigencia política se reunía en una Comisión Multipartidaria para negociar el levantamiento de la veda política y definir el carácter que adoptaría la normalización institucional. En este artículo, examinamos las características del proceso de activación política desde un escenario subnacional, con el objetivo de identificar la modalidad de intervención de los actores políticos civiles en los encuentros multipartidarios durante la transición a la democracia en Argentina.Palabras clave: Historia Reciente. Dictadura. Militares. Partidos Políticos. Democracia.