bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traumatic haemothorax in a dog managed without surgery using a guidewire‐inserted chest tube and a single closed system for collection and administration of autotransfusion
Authors: Miller Victoria , Pigott Armi
Published: July 2020

A dog with multiple stab wounds to the chest presented with haemorrhagic shock and respiratory compromise secondary to traumatic haemothorax. A kit to rapidly evacuate the pleural space and subsequently administer autotransfusion was devised with readily available supplies. The dog was managed successfully with wire‐inserted chest tubes and autotransfusion, did not proceed to surgery and had a rapid full recovery. The kit described creates a single closed collection and administration system for autotransfusion, is simple, inexpensive, made from readily available supplies and permits large volume effusions to be evacuated rapidly with fewer staff involved.
Hyperbolic ring based formulation for thermo field dynamics, quantum dissipation, entanglement, and holography
Authors: Cartas-Fuentevilla R. , Berra-Montiel J. , Meza-Aldama O.
Published: July 2020

The classical and quantum formulations for open systems related to dissipative dynamics are constructed on a complex hyperbolic ring, following universal symmetry principles, and considering the double thermal fields approach for modeling the system of interest, and the environment. The hyperbolic rotations are revealed as an underlying internal symmetry for the dissipative dynamics, and a chemical potential is identified as conjugate variable to the charge operator, and thus a grand partition function is constructed. As opposed to the standard scheme, there are not patologies associated with the existence of many unitarity inequivalent representations on the hyperbolic ring, since the whole of the dissipative quantum dynamics is realized by choosing only one representation of the field commutation relations. Entanglement entropy operators for the subsystem of interest and the environment, are constructed as a tool for study the entanglement generated from the dissipation. The holographic perspectives of our results are discussed.
Two tales of complex system analysis: MaxEnt and agent-based modeling
Authors: Yang Jangho , Carro Adrián
Published: July 2020

Over the recent four decades, agent-based modeling and maximum entropy modeling have provided some of the most notable contributions applying concepts from complexity science to a broad range of problems in economics. In this paper, we argue that these two seemingly unrelated approaches can actually complement each other, providing a powerful conceptual/empirical tool for the analysis of complex economic problems. The maximum entropy approach is particularly well suited for an analytically rigorous study of the qualitative properties of systems in quasi-equilibrium. Agent-based modeling, unconstrained by either equilibrium or analytical tractability considerations, can provide a richer picture of the system under study by allowing for a wider choice of behavioral assumptions. In order to demonstrate the complementarity of these approaches, we use here two simple economic models based on maximum entropy principles – a quantal response social interaction model and a market feedback model –, for which we develop agent-based equivalent models. On the one hand, this allows us to highlight the potential of maximum entropy models for guiding the development of well-grounded, first-approximation agent-based models. On the other hand, we are also able to demonstrate the capabilities of agent-based models for tracking irreversible and out-of-equilibrium dynamics as well as for exploring the consequences of agent heterogeneity, thus fundamentally improving on the original maximum entropy model and potentially guiding its further extension.
Entropy driven transformations of statistical hypersurfaces
Authors: Angelelli Mario , Konopelchenko Boris
Published: July 2020

Deformations of geometric characteristics of statistical hypersurfaces governed by the law of growth of entropy are studied. Both general and special cases of deformations are considered. The basic structure of the statistical hypersurface is explored through a differential relation for the variables, and connections with the replicator dynamics for Gibbs’ weights are highlighted. Ideal and super-ideal cases are analyzed, while considering their integral characteristics.
Progesterone promotes endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression through enhancing nuclear progesterone receptor-SP-1 formation
Authors: You Yuehua , Tan Wanying , Guo Yongzheng , Luo Minghao , Shang Fei-fei , Xia Yong , Luo Suxin
Published: July 2020

Progesterone directly upregulated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in human endothelial cells. Progesterone augmented eNOS promoter activity through a progesterone receptor A- and specificity protein-1-dependent manner. Antagonism of the progesterone receptor reduced eNOS expression and impaired vasodilation in rats.
Chronic stress and endothelial dysfunction: mechanisms, experimental challenges, and the way ahead
Authors: Sher Lucien Derek , Geddie Hannah , Olivier Lukas , Cairns Megan , Truter Nina , Beselaar Leandrie , Essop M. Faadiel
Published: July 2020

Although chronic stress is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) onset, the underlying mechanisms driving such pathophysiological complications remain relatively unknown. Here, dysregulation of innate stress response systems and the effects of downstream mediators are strongly implicated, with the vascular endothelium emerging as a primary target of excessive glucocorticoid and catecholamine action. Therefore, this review article explores the development of stress-related endothelial dysfunction by focusing on the following: 1) assessing the phenomenon of stress and complexities surrounding this notion, 2) discussing mechanistic links between chronic stress and endothelial dysfunction, and 3) evaluating the utility of various preclinical models currently employed to study mechanisms underlying the onset of stress-mediated complications such as endothelial dysfunction. The data reveal that preclinical models play an important role in our efforts to gain an increased understanding of mechanisms underlying stress-mediated endothelial dysfunction. It is our understanding that this provides a good foundation going forward, and we propose that further efforts should be made to 1) more clearly define the concept of stress and 2) standardize protocols of animal models with specific guidelines to better indicate the mental complications that are simulated.
The Effect of Selected Exercise Programs on the Quality of Life in Women with Grade 1 Stress Urinary Incontinence and Its Relationship with Various Body Mass Indices: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Ptak Magdalena , Ciećwież Sylwester , Brodowska Agnieszka , Szylińska Aleksandra , Starczewski Andrzej , Rotter Iwona
Published: July 2020

Aims. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence gymnastics has on the quality of life (QOL) in women with grade 1 stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and to determine the relationship between the outcome and selected body weight indices: body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR). Methods. A randomized study of 140 women (45‐60 years) with grade 1 SUI. The subjects were randomly assigned to a 3‐month training for pelvic floor muscles and a transverse abdominal muscle (PFM + TrA, n = 70) or PFM alone (n = 70). The QOL was determined with the questionnaire International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire–Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Quality of Life (ICIQ LUTS QOL), before and after the program. Results. Women with BMI < 30 kg/m2 benefited more from the PFM + TrA program with respect to physical limitations and embarrassment domains, whereas patients with a gynoid body type (WHR < 0.8) benefited more in terms of physical and social limitations, SUI‐evoked emotions, severity measures, and embarrassment domains. Conclusions. After the PFM + TrA training, women with WHR < 0.8 had a better QOL than those with WHR > 0.8.
A Comprehensive Optimization Control Method for Hybrid Excitation Synchronous Motor
Authors: Huang Mingming , Huang Quanzhen , Zhang Yang , Guo Xinjun
Published: July 2020

Hybrid excitation synchronous motor (HESM) offers the advantages of a convenient flux regulation and a wide range of available speeds. As such, it may be conveniently employed in the fields of electric vehicle and aerospace. In this paper, based on a suitable control strategy for vector and speed partition, we put forward a speed control method for HESM which shows optimal efficiency. On the one hand, our method aims at minimizing the copper loss by an optimal configuration of theq-axis current, thed-axis current, and the excitation current under the constraint voltage at the armature end. On the other hand, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of the effects of the flux-weakening speed coefficient on the operating performance of the motors and suggest a self-adaptive control method to regulate that coefficient and further improve the overall performance of the motors, including their speed-range regulation, their efficiency, and their dynamical properties. The proposed flux-weakening control method has been assessed by simulations and HESM-driven experiments. Results have confirmed the feasibility and optimality of our method.
Safety of Intravitreal Injection of Biosimilar of Aflibercept in Rabbit Eyes
Authors: Lashay Alireza , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Faghihi Hooshang , Mirshahi Ahmad , Khojasteh Hassan , Khodabande Alireza , Amoli Fahimeh Asadi , Ghassemi Fariba , Bazvand Fatemeh , Khalili Pour Elias , Ebrahimiadib Nazanin , Torkashvand Ali , Delrish Elham
Published: July 2020

Purpose. To assess the safety of biosimilar intravitreal aflibercept (CinnaGen Co., Iran) compared to the reference product (Eylea®; Bayer Schweiz AG, Zurich, Switzerland) in rabbit eyes through functional and histologic studies. Methods. Forty New Zealand albino rabbits were recruited to the study and were divided into four groups to be sacrificed at 48 hours, one, two, and four weeks after injections. In each group, five rabbits received 0.05 mL (2 mg) biosimilar aflibercept in the right eye and 0.05 mL saline in the left eye as the control, and in a similar manner, the remaining five rabbits received the reference drug in the right eye and saline in the left eye. All the rabbits underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination and electroretinography (ERG) tests at baseline and also just before enucleation at the specific predefined time points. The enucleated eyes were prepared for retinal toxicity histological examination. Results. No retinal toxicity was observed based on histologic and ERG findings in all groups. Choroidal congestion was revealed after 1 week in an eye that was injected with biosimilar aflibercept, although the similar finding was detected in the contralateral eye which received saline. Also, one subject which received the reference drug showed chronic vitritis and lymphoplasmocytic reaction of the optic disc at week 4. The remaining subjects showed no histologic changes. Conclusion. The 2 mg intravitreal injection of biosimilar aflibercept (CinnaGen Co., Iran) was found to be nontoxic in rabbit eyes in the short-term period. Further studies are required to warrant the efficacy and safety profile of the drug in human subjects.
Dynamical Modeling, Analysis, and Control of Information Diffusion over Social Networks: A Deep Learning-Based Recommendation Algorithm in Social Network
Authors: Cheng Kefei , Guo Xiaoyong , Cui Xiaotong , Shan Fengchi
Published: July 2020

The recommendation algorithm can break the restriction of the topological structure of social networks, enhance the communication power of information (positive or negative) on social networks, and guide the information transmission way of the news in social networks to a certain extent. In order to solve the problem of data sparsity in news recommendation for social networks, this paper proposes a deep learning-based recommendation algorithm in social network (DLRASN). First, the algorithm is used to process behavioral data in a serializable way when users in the same social network browse information. Then, global variables are introduced to optimize the encoding way of the central sequence of Skip-gram, in which way online users’ browsing behavior habits can be learned. Finally, the information that the target users’ have interests in can be calculated by the similarity formula and the information is recommended in social networks. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can improve the recommendation accuracy.
Primary Investigation on Equivalent Anchoring Method of Jointed Rock Mass Tunnel and Its Engineering Application
Authors: Gao Min , Jia Shanpo
Published: July 2020

Rock bolts, one of the main support structures of the tunnel, can improve the stress state and mechanical properties of the surrounding rocks. The rock bolts are simulated by bar or beam elements in present numerical calculations for most 2D tunnel models. However, the methods of simulating rock bolt in three‐dimensional models are rarely studied. Moreover, there are too many rock bolts in the long‐span tunnel, which are hardly applied in the 3D numerical model. Therefore, an equivalent anchoring method for bolted rock masses needs to be further investigated. First, the jointed material model is modified to simulate the anisotropic properties of surrounding rock masses. Then, based on the theoretical analysis of rock bolts in reinforcing mechanical properties of the surrounding rock masses, the equivalent anchoring method of the jointed rock mass tunnel is numerically studied. The equivalent anchoring method is applied to the stability analysis of a diversion tunnel in Western China. From the calculation results, it could be found that the reinforcement effect of rock bolts could be equivalently simulated by increasing the mechanical parameter value of surrounding rocks. For the jointed rock mass tunnel, the cohesion and internal friction angle of the surrounding rocks are improved as 1.7 times and 1.2 times of the initial value, which can simulate the reinforcement effect of rock bolts. Comparing with analytical results, the improved internal friction angle is nearly consistent with analytical result. The reinforcement effect of rock bolts is simulated obviously when the mechanical parameters of surrounding rocks are increased simultaneously. The engineering application shows that the equivalent anchoring method can reasonably simulate the effect of rock bolts, which can provide reference for stability analysis of three‐dimensional tunnel simulations.
A New Faster Iterative Scheme for Numerical Fixed Points Estimation of Suzuki’s Generalized Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Hassan Shanza , De la Sen Manuel , Agarwal Praveen , Ali Qasim , Hussain Azhar
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new four-step iteration scheme for approximation of fixed point of the nonexpansive mappings named as S∗-iteration scheme which is faster than Picard, Mann, Ishikawa, Noor, Agarwal, Abbas, Thakur, and Ullah iteration schemes. We show the stability of our proposed scheme. We present a numerical example to show that our iteration scheme is faster than the aforementioned schemes. Moreover, we present some weak and strong convergence theorems for Suzuki’s generalized nonexpansive mappings in the framework of uniformly convex Banach spaces. Our results extend, improve, and unify many existing results in the literature.
Oxidative Stress-Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Disruption in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Song Ke , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Hanlai , An Na , Wei Yufei , Wang Liqin , Tian Chao , Yuan Mengchen , Sun Yikun , Xing Yanwei , Gao Yonghong
Published: July 2020

The blood-brain barrier (BBB), as a crucial gate of brain-blood molecular exchange, is involved in the pathogenesis of multiple neurological diseases. Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the scavenger system. Since oxidative stress plays a significant role in the production and maintenance of the BBB, the cerebrovascular system is especially vulnerable to it. The pathways that initiate BBB dysfunction include, but are not limited to, mitochondrial dysfunction, excitotoxicity, iron metabolism, cytokines, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, all converging on the generation of ROS. Interestingly, ROS also provide common triggers that directly regulate BBB damage, parameters including tight junction (TJ) modifications, transporters, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation, inflammatory responses, and autophagy. We will discuss the role of oxidative stress-mediated BBB disruption in neurological diseases, such as hemorrhagic stroke, ischemic stroke (IS), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). This review will also discuss the latest clinical evidence of potential biomarkers and antioxidant drugs towards oxidative stress in neurological diseases. A deeper understanding of how oxidative stress damages BBB may open up more therapeutic options for the treatment of neurological diseases.
Estimates of Upper Bound for Differentiable Functions Associated with k-Fractional Integrals and Higher Order Strongly s-Convex Functions
Authors: Wu Shanhe , Awan Muhammad Uzair , Javed Zakria
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we establish two integral identities associated with differentiable functions and the k-Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals. The results are then used to derive the estimates of upper bound for functions whose first or second derivatives absolute values are higher order strongly s-convex functions.
Multitarget Therapeutic Strategies for Alzheimer’s Disease: Review on Emerging Target Combinations
Authors: Maramai Samuele , Benchekroun Mohamed , Gabr Moustafa T. , Yahiaoui Samir
Published: July 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases represent nowadays one of the major health problems. Despite the efforts made to unveil the mechanism leading to neurodegeneration, it is still not entirely clear what triggers this phenomenon and what allows its progression. Nevertheless, it is accepted that neurodegeneration is a consequence of several detrimental processes, such as protein aggregation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, finally resulting in the loss of neuronal functions. Starting from these evidences, there has been a wide search for novel agents able to address more than a single event at the same time, the so‐called multitarget‐directed ligands (MTDLs). These compounds originated from the combination of different pharmacophoric elements which endowed them with the ability to interfere with different enzymatic and/or receptor systems, or to exert neuroprotective effects by modulating proteins and metal homeostasis. MTDLs have been the focus of the latest strategies to discover a new treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is considered the most common form of dementia characterized by neurodegeneration and cognitive dysfunctions. This review is aimed at collecting the latest and most interesting target combinations for the treatment of AD, with a detailed discussion on new agents with favorable in vitro properties and on optimized structures that have already been assessed in vivo in animal models of dementia.
Compound Danshen Dripping Pills Prevented Leptin Deficiency‐Induced Hepatic ER Stress, Stimulated Autophagy, and Improved Insulin Resistance of ob/ob Mice
Authors: Shi Yanan , Liu Dan , Yuan Jihong , Yan Lihui , Zhan Zhenfeng , Pan Da , Lin Laixiang , Mu Biao
Published: July 2020

Compound Danshen dripping pills (CDDP) is widely used for the treatment of coronary arteriosclerosis and ischemic heart diseases for decades of years. In our study, we interestingly discovered the effects and mechanism of CDDP on insulin resistance that increase the risk factor of cardiovascular diseases. Effects of CDDP on fasting blood glucose, the insulin tolerance test (ITT), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), hepatic function, and underlying mechanism were analyzed in ob/ob mice. CDDP was found improving the impaired insulin signal sensitivity of ob/ob mice by ameliorating insulin and glucose tolerance, improving hepatic phosphorylation of the insulin receptor substrate‐1 on Ser 307 (pIRS1) of ob/ob mice, and restoring hepatic function by decreasing serum ALT and AST, which increased in ob/ob mice serum. Decreasing hepatic phosphorylation of pancreatic ER kinase (PERK) and inositol‐requiring enzyme‐1 (IRE1) regulating hepatic ER stress in the liver of ob/ob mice were increased by CDDP. Furthermore, CDDP was also found stimulating ob/ob mice hepatic autophagy by increasing the expression of Beclin1 and LC3B, while decreasing P62 expression. Our study discovered an important role of CDDP on improving ob/ob mice insulin resistance and liver function probably through relieving hepatic ER stress and stimulating hepatic autophagy, which would broaden the application value and provide more benefits for treating cardiovascular patients. This trial is registered with NCT01659580.
Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Originating from Transverse Colon Mucinous Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gong Yingbo , Wang Xin , Zhu Zhi
Published: July 2020

Background. Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare neoplasm involving the peritoneum. Most PMPs are low-grade appendicular mucinous neoplasms (LAMNs). There have been no reports of PMP originating from a transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma and causing metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma. Case Presentation. We report a 46-year-old woman who presented with a right abdominal mass of more than 4-month duration. Transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma, PMP, and ovarian metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma were diagnosed. The patient’s diet was normal, and she had no abdominal pain or bloating. The abdomen mass increased in the month before treatment. After chemotherapy, the transverse colon mass and ovarian giant cyst were resected and about 2000 mL of gelatinous tumor tissue was removed. Postoperative histology confirmed PMP from the transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma, ovarian metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma, and mesocolon metastatic cancer. Multiple lung metastases appeared 8 months after surgery. The patient died 29 months after surgery because of an inability to eat and poor nutrition. A systematic literature review of the management and outcome of all known similar cases is also presented. Conclusions. This is the first report of PMP originating from a transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma. It was diagnosed during resective surgery, involved ovarian metastasis, and survival was short. We did an extensive literature review in order to describe the clinical characteristics, histopathological findings, genetic profile, and potential treatments of PMP caused by nonappendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma.
Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation Potentiate Each Other to Promote Progression of Dopamine Neurodegeneration
Authors: He Jingyi , Zhu Guofu , Wang Guoqing , Zhang Feng
Published: July 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and complex disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Progressive loss of dopamine (DA) neurons in midbrain substantia nigra is considered to be the main cause of PD. The hallmark of PD pathology is the formation of Lewy bodies and the deposition of α-synuclein (α-syn). The mechanisms responsible for the progressive feature of DA neurodegeneration are not fully illustrated. Recently, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation have received extensive attention as two important entry points in the pathogenesis of PD. The occurrence of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation is usually derived from external influences or changes in internal environment, such as the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, exposure to a toxic environment, and the transformation of systemic inflammation. However, PD never results from a single independent factor and the simultaneous participation of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation contributed to PD development. Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation could potentiate each other to promote progression of PD. In this review, we briefly summarized the conditions of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation and the crosstalk between oxidative stress and neuroinflammation on the development of PD.
Potential of Using Cell‐Free DNA and miRNA in Breast Milk to Screen Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Song Qinghe , Zhang Yingying , Liu Hongtao , Du Yuguang
Published: July 2020

Objective. An ideal sample source is critical for more reliable and sensitive early detection of nucleic acid changes associated with breast cancer. Breast milk (BM) is a good noninvasive origin for genetic testing of early breast cancer, but cells in BM are easily disintegrated. So we investigate here whether cell‐free nucleic acid (cfNA) exists in BM in a more stable form and whether the quality of BM cfNA is good enough for genetic testing. Methods. A self‐designed qRT‐PCR method was used to measure the existence and abundance of cfDNA. Quality of cfDNA and cfRNA were detected by capillary electrophoresis. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing and miRNA sequencing were used to explore the sources of cfDNA and cell‐free miRNA in BM. The copy number analysis and z‐test based on whole genome sequencing data were used to determine the integrity of genetic information in BM cfNA. Results. We found that cell‐free DNA and miRNA exist in the studied breast milk samples in a stable form that can tolerate incubation of BM at room temperature for at least 7 days. These cell‐free nucleic acids come mainly from breast‐derived cells and contain genetic information as good integrity as in BM cells. We further listed some candidate miRNAs as potential biomarkers for research of early breast cancer screening by analysis of previous reports and our data. Conclusions. Our results suggest that cfDNA and cell‐free miRNA in BM might be new noninvasive sample sources for finding early alterations of nucleic acid associated with the initiation and progression of breast cancer.
Progresses in Synthesis of Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer
Authors: Xiang Shuncheng , Gao Yingli , Shi Caijun
Published: July 2020

The prerequisite to synthesize PCE was to prepare new macromonomers with controlled molecular mass, adjustable hydrophilic‐lipophilic groups, long‐chain alkyl groups, and large terminal hydroxyl groups as well. Structural modifications in the molecular scale of polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE) would lead to changes in properties of dispersion and water retention as well as enhancement in the compatibility of Portland cement and so on. This paper reviewed recent developments from synthetic methods of macromonomers as the initial step of production of PCE, PCE at room and elevated temperatures, and relationships between structure and properties of PCE. Through the analysis of references, it was found that PCE synthesized at room temperature had the same performance with PCE synthesized at elevated temperature in terms of conversion rate and initial dispersion in cement but broader molecular weight distribution. Conclusively, the dispersion of PCE in cement might be explained by multiple theories rather than a single one based on development trends as discussed in this paper.
Occurrence of Enteric Viruses in Surface Water and the Relationship with Changes in Season and Physical Water Quality Dynamics
Authors: Opere Wasonga Michael , John Maingi , Ombori Omwoyo
Published: July 2020

Environmental water quality issues have dominated global discourse and studies over the past five decades. Significant parameters of environmental water quality include changes in biological and physical parameters. Some of the biological parameters of significance include occurrence of enteric viruses. Enteric viruses can affect both human and animal’s health by causing diseases such as gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. In this study, the relationship between the occurrence of enteric viruses with reference to adenoviruses and enteroviruses and the physical water quality characteristics was assessed from water samples collected from Lake Victoria (LV) in Kenya. In order to understand the dynamics of season driven enteric viruses’ contamination of the lake waters, we additionally analysed seasonal behavior of the lake’s catchment area in terms of rainfall effects. Physical quality parameters were measured on-site while viral analysis was carried out by molecular methods using the nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR). From 216 samples that were analysed for viral contamination, enteric viral genomes were discovered in 18 (8.3%) of the samples. Out of half of the samples (108) collected during the rainy season, enteric viral genomes were detected in 9.26% (10) while 8 (7.41%) samples tested positive from the other half of the samples (108) collected during the dry season. There was, however, no significant correlation noted between the physical water quality characteristics and the enteric viruses’ occurrence. Neither wet season nor dry season was significantly associated with the prevalence of the viruses. In Lake Victoria waters, most of the samples had an average of physical water quality parameters that were within the range accepted by the World Health Organization (WHO) for surface waters with exemption of turbidity which was above the recommended 5 NTU as recorded from some sampling sites. Continuous and long-term surveillance of the lake water to accurately monitor the contaminants and possible correlation between chemical, physical, and biological characteristics is recommended. This would be important in continuous understanding of the hydrological characteristics changes of the lake for proper management of its quality with reference to the WHO standards. A multiple varied-sampling approach in different geographical regions during different seasons is recommended to establish the geographical distribution and relatedness to seasonal distribution patterns of the viruses. The data generated from this study will be useful in providing a basis for assessment of seasonally driven fecal pollution load of the lake and enteric virus contamination for proper management of the sanitary situation around the lake.
First Recognized Patient with Genetic Vitamin E Deficiency Stable after 36 Years of Controlled Supplement Therapy
Authors: Kohlschütter Alfried , Finckh Barbara , Nickel Miriam , Bley Annette , Hübner Christoph
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Familial isolated deficiency of vitamin E (VED or AVED; MIM #277460) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resembling Friedreich ataxia. It is caused by the deficiency of α-tocopherol transfer protein that prevents patients from retaining vitamin E. Oral vitamin E supplements are an accepted treatment, but detailed dosage recommendations and reports on long-term therapeutic results are scarce. Methods: The first patient with VED was discovered at our institution at the age of 12 years and has since been followed with clinical, neurophysiological, neuroradiological, and biochemical investigations to his present age of 52 years. For the last 36 years, the patient has scrupulously followed a custom-made high-dose vitamin E supplement regimen that we devised on the basis of studies of his metabolism of vitamin E. Results: Over the long period of observation, the patient has remained in good general health and has not shown progression of neurological symptoms and signs. His vitamin E plasma levels were always moderately above the normal range. During short interruptions of vitamin E supplements, vitamin E levels fell rapidly, even after years of massive supplementation. Discussion: In this VED patient, a specified and carefully controlled high-dose vitamin E therapy has prevented any recognizable progression of the neurodegenerative process over more than 3 decades of observation.
Patients with Head-and-Neck Cancer: Dysphagia and Affective Symptoms
Authors: Krebbers Iris , Simon Sorina R. , Pilz Walmari , Kremer Bernd , Winkens Bjorn , Baijens Laura W.J.
Published: July 2020

Objective: Affective symptoms are common in patients with head-and-neck cancer. This study determined the association between the presence of aspiration and symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as patient characteristics in patients with head-and-neck cancer and dysphagia. Methods: Eighty-four patients with head-and-neck cancer and dysphagia completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and underwent a standardized fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. Linear regression analysis was performed to explore the associations. Results:Fifty-two (61.9%) patients presented clinically relevant symptoms of anxiety or depression. Forty-eight (57.1%) patients presented with aspiration during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. A significant negative association was found between the presence of aspiration and affective (anxiety and depression) symptoms (p = 0.04). Male patients presented significantly lower symptom scores of anxiety compared to females (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Clinically relevant affective symptoms were present in more than half of all patients with head-and-neck cancer and dysphagia. Surprisingly, a significant negative association was found between the presence of aspiration and these affective symptoms. Gender was also significantly associated with affective symptoms. These results suggest that there is a need for further investigation into the impact of psychological distress on patients with head-and-neck cancer and dysphagia.
The Effect of Internal Limiting Membrane Cleaning on Epiretinal Membrane Formation after Vitrectomy for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Mehta Alexander , Rana-Rahman Romeela , Klaassen Ingeborg , Rees Jon , Steel David H.
Published: July 2020

Purpose: We hypothesised that cleaning the internal limiting membrane (ILM) with a flexible nitinol loop following diabetic vitrectomy without peeling may reduce the common occurrence of postoperative epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy by one surgeon from 2015 to 2019 were studied and divided into 2 cohorts: the control group underwent standard surgery, and the ILM clean group underwent additional cleaning of the macular retina using a flexible nitinol loop after vitrectomy. Masked comparison of ERM on optical coherence tomography was performed at 3 months, and visual acuity (VA) was measured until 12 months postoperatively. Results: Baseline demographics, clinical features, and protein levels were similar between cohorts. The ILM clean group (n = 56) had fewer clinically significant ERM than the control group (n = 50; 4 vs. 20%; p = 0.01), and a significantly lower proportion of the ILM clean group required revision surgery (2 vs. 14%; p = 0.02). VA in the ILM clean group was significantly better than in the control group at 3 months (0.35 vs. 0.50 logMAR; p = 0.02) but not at 12 months (0.34 vs. 0.43 logMAR; p = 0.17). Conclusion: ILM cleaning with a flexible nitinol loop following diabetic vitrectomy resulted in significant reduction in ERM formation and reduced necessity for revision surgery. There was significant improvement in VA at 3 months but not over a longer follow-up.
O problema da coesão na sociedade comercial
Authors: Berry Christopher J.
Published: July 2020

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Diferença e vantagem da sedução cética
Authors: Kiraly Cesar
Published: July 2020

Trata-se de apresentar os caminhos de uma abordagem, cética em relação à política e seus mecanismos de sedução, bem como a sua imprevisibilidade.
Dualidades e tensões no Fausto de Goethe. Um ensaio
Authors: Galé Pedro Fernandes
Published: July 2020

Esse ensaio busca apresentar as dualidades presentes nos primeiros movimentos da edição de Fausto como elementos constituintes da formação do todo da obra. É a própria caracterização dual que garante à obra o estatuto de tragédia. Buscando estabelecer relações com as polaridades abordadas por Goethe essa leitura dual se faz de acordo com alguns postulados teóricos do próprio autor e é uma ferramenta que auxilia a compreensão dessa obra.
Os cursos de geografia física de Kant
Authors: Conceição Jorge
Published: July 2020

Neste artigo indicaremos que a proposição fundamental dos cursos de Geografia física de Kant é: o homem é habitante da Terra. Para validar essa tese, alinharemos a metodologia utilizada por Kant nos cursos de Antropologia e de Geografia física, a fim de evidenciar as convergências e divergências desses cursos. Além disso, também compararemos a metodologia empregada por Kant na História natural e na Geografia física, porque a distinção entre essas ciências nos permitirá ratificar a tese aqui defendida e delimitar os critérios de validade da proposição acima indicada. Em Physische Geographie, Kant diferencia as proposições dessas disciplinas da seguinte maneira: as proposições geográficas se referem aos homens como habitantes da Terra, mas os investiga sem nenhuma perspectiva histórica, ou seja, os investiga no tempo presente. Ao contrário disso, as proposições naturalistas investigam os seres humanos em uma linha temporal sucessiva, a fim de demonstrar o que natureza fez deles. Dito isso, o problema central da história natural é demonstrar que os diferentes povos possuem uma origem comum e o problema central da geografia física é demonstrar de que maneira o habitat influencia no processo civilizador, moralizador, político e religioso dos diferentes povos.
Ruy Fausto (1935–2020)
Authors: Fausto Ruy
Published: July 2020

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José Cavalcante de Souza (1935–2020)
Authors: Souza José Cavalcante de
Published: July 2020

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The Rolling Corpus
Authors: Nati James
Published: July 2020

Drawing on insights from the field of Book History, the article draws out connections between the material aspects of the Qumran corpus on the one hand and textual pluriformity on the other, paying particular attention to the Serekh ha-Yaḥad. The article suggests that the large-scale pluriformity exhibited by texts such as the Serekh is best understood in light of certain material features particular to skin scrolls, and that opisthographs ought to be integrated into discussions of textual pluriformity. The article concludes by offering more general comments about the effects of the scroll on writing and reading practices in early Judaism.
The imf and Protection of Vulnerable Groups
Authors: Engström Viljam
Published: July 2020

The concept of vulnerability serves to focus protection on those most in need. While prominent in human rights law, protection of vulnerable groups is also increasingly invoked by international economic/financial actors such as the International Monetary Fund (imf). The present article explores how vulnerability enters imf policymaking. The article looks for points of contact of imf practice, with a human rights-based conception of vulnerability. The aim of the article is not to revisit the discussion on human rights accountability of the imf. Instead, the article seeks to identify and analyse the function of vulnerability in the policy-making of the Fund. The protection of vulnerable groups, the article claims, is gradually constituted as part of the law of the imf. For this reason alone, it is of importance to know how vulnerability enters imf policy-making and whom the imf considers vulnerable. Moreover, the imf also becomes a source for the identification of vulnerable groups.
Vitoria, Suárez, and Grotius: James Brown Scott’s Enduring Revival
Authors: Somos Mark , Smeltzer Joshua
Published: July 2020

This article recovers James Brown Scott’s conviction in American exceptionalism, a belief that underlay both his institutional work as well as his understanding of the origins and trajectory of international law. In the first section, we discuss Scott’s interpretation of Hugo Grotius as part of his tactic to make US foreign affairs policies and perspectives more compelling by presenting them as universal. In the second section, we argue that Scott’s writings on the Spanish origins of international law were in fact meant to protect Anglo-American hegemony and US influence in the Americas in the face of rapidly changing geopolitical pressures. In the final section we suggest that Scott’s US exceptionalism is reflected in his use of the United States Constitution and Supreme Court as a model for key international organizations. We conclude that Scott reframed Vitoria not to redress American bias but to enshrine it.
L’actualité de Condorcet en Hongrie, 1986-2020. Témoignage d’une dix-huitiémiste fidèle aux Lumières
Authors: Ludassy Maria
Published: July 2020

Cette contribution est le témoignage d’une universitaire qui s’est appuyée dans ses cours comme dans ses publications sur les Lumières pour contester le bien-fondé du régime communiste en Hongrie. Elle analyse le sort fait à la philosophie du XVIIIe siècle dans la transition qui voit son pays basculer d’un régime communiste à un régime nationaliste fondé sur une mythologie hun-magyar, utilisée traditionnellement par l’extrême-droite hongroise. La pensée de Condorcet sert de repère pour s’orienter dans ces bouleversements et pour en faire émerger le sens politique.
Jovan Deretic lecteur de Dositej Obradovic : du marxisme au structuralisme. Un historien de la littérature en Serbie (1960-1970)1
Authors: Nikolić Nenad
Published: July 2020

Le présent travail retrace le parcours intellectuel, dans la Serbie communiste, de Jovan Deretic, grand historien de la littérature serbe. L’analyse se fonde sur ses diverses lectures de l’œuvre de Dositej Obradovic. Elle présente d’abord l’importance de ce dernier pour la culture serbe à l’époque des Lumières. Elle montre ensuite que les premières analyses de son œuvre par Deretic sont ancrées principalement dans le matérialisme dialectique. Dans une deuxième étape, Deretic se tourne vers le structuralisme néo-positiviste pour offrir une approche plus immanente de l’œuvre d’Obradovic. Il aboutit finalement à une prise de conscience des contradictions et des limites de l’analyse immanente tout autant que de l’interprétation idéologique d’une œuvre.
A Conceptual Framework for Regulating Customary Law within Pluralistic African States: Reassessing Justice Sector Reforms for Reconciling Legal Traditions
Authors: Tchoukou Julie Ynès Ada
Published: July 2020

Customary law and traditional institutions once constituted the comprehensive legal system regulating a wide spectrum of activities within African states. However, colonialism created a framework for the politics of legal dualism, which led to a process of transformation and shift in the nature of structures and practices of states. As such, now independent states are constantly trying to identify ways to sustain the cultural heritage reflected in customary laws and institutions, as they attempt to also function as modern democratic states. Scholars have highlighted the practical and structural changes that need to be made to ensure effective regulation of customary law. To this work, my paper provides a framework to supplement current judicial reforms within African states. I argue that for customary law to be effectively used as a mechanism for legal regulation within cultural communities, the current legal framework within African states needs to move beyond the idea of legal recognition and tolerance, to one that reconciles the complexities of different legal traditions.
Mixing up the Senses: Sensory Substitution Is Not a Form of Artificially Induced Synaesthesia
Authors: Kirsch Louise P. , Job Xavier , Auvray Malika
Published: July 2020

Sensory Substitution Devices (SSDs) are typically used to restore functionality of a sensory modality that has been lost, like vision for the blind, by recruiting another sensory modality such as touch or audition. Sensory substitution has given rise to many debates in psychology, neuroscience and philosophy regarding the nature of experience when using SSDs. Questions first arose as to whether the experience of sensory substitution is represented by the substituted information, the substituting information, or a multisensory combination of the two. More recently, parallels have been drawn between sensory substitution and synaesthesia, a rare condition in which individuals involuntarily experience a percept in one sensory or cognitive pathway when another one is stimulated. Here, we explore the efficacy of understanding sensory substitution as a form of ‘artificial synaesthesia’. We identify several problems with previous suggestions for a link between these two phenomena. Furthermore, we find that sensory substitution does not fulfil the essential criteria that characterise synaesthesia. We conclude that sensory substitution and synaesthesia are independent of each other and thus, the ‘artificial synaesthesia’ view of sensory substitution should be rejected.
Legal Structures of Marine Protected Areas in Japan
Authors: Kojima Chie
Published: July 2020

This paper aims to explain how Japanese MPAs are established, managed, and implemented based on different laws. It introduces the definition of MPAs adopted within the governmental agencies and the relevant policy documents that describe the government's intention to expand MPAs in Japan. It then discusses the first and second largest types of MPAs in Japan, which represent centralized and community-based types of MPAs, respectively. It also touches upon the 2019 amendment to Japan’s Nature Conservation Act, which enables the government to designate MPAs in the offshore seabed area to protect its ecosystems.
Marine Protected Areas in South Korea
Authors: Park Young Kil , Lee Seokwoo
Published: July 2020

South Korea has taken steps to achieve the Aichi Target 11 and several pieces of South Korean legislation require the government to make every effort to protect the ocean from pollution and manage conservation consistently. However, protected area coverage is recognized to be well short of target and recent assessment reports reveal that most MPAs are not managed well. The reasons for mismanagement are complex: lack of budget, lack of understanding among local residents and communities, vague jurisdictional boundaries between the regional office of the central government and the local governments, shortage of experts, etc. Therefore, the immediate and primary task for the government is to establish more effective management systems rather than increase the number and areas of the MPAs.
Area-Based Marine Protection in the Philippines
Authors: Espenilla Jacqueline Joyce F.
Published: July 2020

The Philippines has had a long history of using marine protected areas (mpas) to achieve fishery and biodiversity conservation goals. mpas are “clearly defined geographical spaces, recognized, dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values.” Within the scope of these definitions, Philippine mpas have taken the form of “no-take” marine sanctuaries, marine reserves where both extractive and non-extractive activities are allowed but regulated, and marine parks and protected seascapes, where various uses are relegated to defined zones. Interestingly, the country was able to develop a unique legal framework that took into consideration both national and local contexts for marine environmental governance. This article thus aims to shed some light on the Philippine experience, emphasizing the various issues and concerns caused by the unique regulatory and governance set up of the country’s mpas.