bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulation of modern methane emissions and their influence on climate variability and gas composition of the Arctic atmosphere
Authors: Cherepova Maria , Smyshlyaev Sergei
Published: December 2019

The impact of Arctic methane hydrate emissions on the gas composition and climate is studied by using a chemistry-climate model. Model runs are carried out using two methane emission scenarios (with Arctic methane emissions increased by 5 and 10 times, respectively, relative to the reference level of emissions of 10 Tg/year). The methane hydrate emissions have a strong impact on the concentrations of methane and other gases. Temperature distributions in the polar and nonpolar regions in the troposphere and stratosphere are obtained. The influence on the climate variability and gas composition of the atmosphere is estimated.
A simulated distribution of Siberian river runoff in the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Golubeva E , Platov G , Iakshina D , Kraineva M
Published: December 2019

Continental runoff is one of the major sources of the Arctic freshwater budget. As is generally known, it influences water column stratification and maintains Arctic halocline, which isolates the sea ice and the cold, fresh upper layer from the warmer, saltier Atlantic waters of the Arctic Ocean. An increase in river runoff was observed in recent years. It is suggested that this will have an impact on Arctic water mass transformations. However, few details are known regarding river freshwater export to the Central Arctic Basin. It is assumed that river water pathways in vast shelf seas and deep basins are closely related to atmospheric variability. In this study, we use three-dimensional coupled regional ocean-ice model simulations forced by atmospheric reanalysis data to investigate the change in Siberian rivers freshwater pathways in the Arctic Ocean due to the variability of atmospheric dynamics. A numerical experiment with an increasing runoff of the largest Siberian rivers is carried out. The consequences of adding freshwater to particular regions of the Arctic Ocean are analysed.
Simplified method for monitoring of cumulus clouds by using global horizontal irradiance
Authors: Zuev S V , Krasnenko N P
Published: December 2019

A simplified method for monitoring of cumulus clouds which is based on a variational analysis of a time series of measured global horizontal irradiance is proposed. A distinctive feature of the technique is that it does not use an amplitude analysis of the time series and, as a result, there is no need to use any clear-sky model.
Real-time microscale modeling of thermal comfort conditions in Moscow region
Authors: Perkhurova A A , Konstantinov P I , Varentsov M I , Shartova N I , Samsonov T E , Krainov V N
Published: December 2019

Urban climate comfort is an indicator of a set of parameters, such as temperature, humidity, and solar radiation for a person’s sensation of being favorable to being outdoors or indoors. In this study, an attempt to develop a technology of real-time prediction of thermal comfort conditions in urban landscape is described (based on the example of Moscow State University campus). For this, the authors used a RayMan model-based algorithm for calculating three most popular worldwide comfort indexes. In the scripting method, predictive data of the Canadian global model meteorological parameters are automatically transferred to the RayMan-model (with an implementation of the unique thermal and radiation properties of the Moscow State University campus landscape) by using an autoclicker software. For the convenience of perception of the information, the results of calculations are visualized on the basis of a free web mapping service. Thus, the main idea of the work is that any user with minimum expenditure of his time resource and without knowledge of the model’s work can launch the program and receive an individual forecast of comfort conditions for the next few hours in a visually understandable format. It is suggested that the developed methodology will be used for calculations on projected areas to identify the safest construction option. Such realtime forecasting will continue to be of particular importance for urban infrastructure.
Effect of shear rate in high shear mixing process on the structure of cassava starch granule and reducing sugar product
Authors: Puspasari F , Airlangga B , Trisanti P N , Sumarno
Published: December 2019

Cassava starch is one of the biopolymers which can be degraded to many useful products such as reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and modified starch. However, it has a solid granule structure that can inhibit its degradation process. High shear mixing (HSM) is a well-known method for dissolving biopolymers. Shear effect of HSM created by a narrow slit between rotor and stator which can be increased by the increase of rotational speed. By increasing its shear effect, HSM is able to cut the glycosidic bond of starch to produce reducing sugar. Therefore, this study aims to study the effect of high shear rate to granule structure and reducing sugar product. The HSM process was carried out on the suspension of cassava starch with a concentration of 1/20 (g/mL) for 15 min at various stirring speeds (5000-15000 RPM). Products produced from the process are separated between solid and liquid for analysis. Solid products were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Particle Size Analysis (PSA), and Viscometer Ubbelohde. While liquid products were analyzed using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry with the DNS method. Based on the experimental results, HSM produced reducing sugar up to 0.1972 mg/mL. Granule breakage was also observed by SEM and increasing of the nanoscale granule.
Research on Maneuvering Trajectory Tracking Accuracy of Target Missile Based on Feedback Linearization
Authors: Yu Jifeng , Yang Suochang , Zhang Yunwei
Published: December 2019

Aiming at the trajectory tracking accuracy of missile target, a trajectory tracking guidance law is designed based on feedback linearization theory and linear quadratic optimal control theory, and the tracking accuracy of the designed trajectory tracking guidance law under different maneuvering trajectories is tested. The motion equations of missiles are typical non-linear motion models, so feedback linearization is introduced as an exact linearization method, and the definition and necessary and sufficient conditions of feedback linearization theory are listed. Firstly, the non-linear equations of the longitudinal motion of target missile are established, and the feedback linearization method is used to linearize the non-linear model accurately. Then, the linearized model is designed by using the linear quadratic optimal control theory, and a target trajectory tracking guidance law is obtained. Finally, given gust disturbance and different maneuvering trajectories, the designed trajectory tracking guidance law is simulated, and the tracking accuracy of the guidance law is studied by changing the control coefficient. The results show that the trajectory tracking guidance law based on feedback linearization has excellent trajectory tracking ability, good tracking accuracy and strong anti-jamming ability under different maneuvering trajectories.
Research Progress in the Chemical Modification of Eucalyptus
Authors: Qin Yinluan , Long Dajun , Li Jianzhang
Published: December 2019

Eucalyptus, a main fast-growing tree species for plantation in southern China, has remarkably contributed to balance the supply and demand of wood in the country. Eucalyptus is mainly used for processing wood-based panels, including fiberboards, plywoods, and chipboards, with low added value because of its poor dimensional stability and susceptibility to cracking and deformation. In this paper, the mechanisms, merits, and demerits of wood acetylation, furfurylation, and resin-related and thermal modifications were summarized.The research status of the chemical modification of eucalyptus was analyzed, and existing problems and future research directions of eucalyptus modification were stated briefly.
Research on Green Transition Development of China’s Electric Vehicle Industry in the New Era Guided by Low Carbon Economic Theory
Authors: Song Shuang , Liu Shude , Chen Zhongyou , Guo Cunzhen
Published: December 2019

The shortage of petroleum resources and the aggravation of environmental pollution at present. There is no doubt that China’s automotive industry has put forward higher requirements for energy conservation and environmental protection. How should China base itself on its own situation? To formulate a reasonable technological development route and industrialization strategy to stimulate the development of electric vehicle industry. It is an urgent problem to be solved at present.
Acoustic Diagnosis Method for Engine Failure
Authors: Hu Ziyang
Published: December 2019

The engine is an important equipment in modern society, and its failure diagnosis method has always been valued and continuously developed. As a non-contact method, the failure acoustic diagnosis method has advantages that are unmatched by other methods. This thesis introduces the current development of acoustic diagnosis technology for engine failure, and introduces the commonly used methods: wavelet analysis, empirical mode decomposition and acoustic imaging, and summarizes the development trend of future engine failure acoustic diagnosis technology.
Research on Intelligent Diagnosis Technology of Emergency Diesel Generator in Nuclear Power Plant Based on New Monitoring Method
Authors: Zhou Yong , Liang Yongfei , Li Rui
Published: December 2019

As the emergency power source of nuclear power plant, the emergency diesel generator sets need to provide power for the safety system of nuclear power plant after all external power sources of nuclear power plant are lost, to ensure the safe shutdown of nuclear power plant and prevent the leakage of radioactive materials to the environment. In view of the critical role of emergency diesel generator sets in ensuring the safe operation of the power station, high reliability is needed. Therefore, how to accurately monitor the state of diesel engine and how to diagnose the faults has become an urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, status monitoring system for diesel engine is designed and developed based on LabVIEW and new monitoring method to realize real-time and continuous collection during the operation of the diesel engine, intensive collection during the alarm process, and data display and storage. It can provide data support for fault diagnosis. The operation results show that the system has high reliability and meets the requirements of field inspection, regular test and fault analysis.
From spacetime to space and time: a reply to Markosian
Authors: Le Bihan Baptiste
Published: December 2019

In a recent article, Ned Markosian gives an argument against four-dimensionalism understood as the view that time is one of four similar dimensions that constitute a single four-dimensional manifold. In this paper, I show that Markosian attacks a straw man as his argument targets a theory known to be false on empirical grounds. Four-dimensionalism rightly conceived in no way entails that time is identical to space. I then address two objections raised by Markosian against four-dimensionalism rightly conceived.
HaploTypo: a variant-calling pipeline for phased genomes
Authors: Pegueroles Cinta , Mixão Verónica , Carreté Laia , Molina Manu , Gabaldón Toni
Published: December 2019

An increasing number of phased (i.e. with resolved haplotypes) reference genomes are available. However, the most genetic variant calling tools do not explicitly account for haplotype structure. Here, we present HaploTypo, a pipeline tailored to resolve haplotypes in genetic variation analyses. HaploTypo infers the haplotype correspondence for each heterozygous variant called on a phased reference genome.

Availability and implementation

HaploTypo is implemented in Python 2.7 and Python 3.5, and is freely available at https://github.com/gabaldonlab/haplotypo, and as a Docker image.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Subthalamic Nucleus Activity Influences Sensory and Motor Cortex during Force Transduction
Authors: Alhourani Ahmad , Korzeniewska Anna , Wozny Thomas A , Lipski Witold J , Kondylis Efstathios D , Ghuman Avniel S , Crone Nathan E , Crammond Donald J , Turner Robert S , Richardson R Mark
Published: December 2019

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) is proposed to participate in pausing, or alternately, in dynamic scaling of behavioral responses, roles that have conflicting implications for understanding STN function in the context of deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy. To examine the nature of event-related STN activity and subthalamic-cortical dynamics, we performed primary motor and somatosensory electrocorticography while subjects (n = 10) performed a grip force task during DBS implantation surgery. Phase-locking analyses demonstrated periods of STN-cortical coherence that bracketed force transduction, in both beta and gamma ranges. Event-related causality measures demonstrated that both STN beta and gamma activity predicted motor cortical beta and gamma activity not only during force generation but also prior to movement onset. These findings are consistent with the idea that the STN participates in motor planning, in addition to the modulation of ongoing movement. We also demonstrated bidirectional information flow between the STN and somatosensory cortex in both beta and gamma range frequencies, suggesting robust STN participation in somatosensory integration. In fact, interactions in beta activity between the STN and somatosensory cortex, and not between STN and motor cortex, predicted PD symptom severity. Thus, the STN contributes to multiple aspects of sensorimotor behavior dynamically across time.
Lipoprotein receptor signalling in atherosclerosis
Authors: Mineo Chieko
Published: December 2019

The founding member of the lipoprotein receptor family, low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) plays a major role in the atherogenesis through the receptor-mediated endocytosis of LDL particles and regulation of cholesterol homeostasis. Since the discovery of the LDLR, many other structurally and functionally related receptors have been identified, which include low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP)1, LRP5, LRP6, very low-density lipoprotein receptor, and apolipoprotein E receptor 2. The scavenger receptor family members, on the other hand, constitute a family of pattern recognition proteins that are structurally diverse and recognize a wide array of ligands, including oxidized LDL. Among these are cluster of differentiation 36, scavenger receptor class B type I and lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1. In addition to the initially assigned role as a mediator of the uptake of macromolecules into the cell, a large number of studies in cultured cells and in in vivo animal models have revealed that these lipoprotein receptors participate in signal transduction to modulate cellular functions. This review highlights the signalling pathways by which these receptors influence the process of atherosclerosis development, focusing on their roles in the vascular cells, such as macrophages, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and platelets. Human genetics of the receptors is also discussed to further provide the relevance to cardiovascular disease risks in humans. Further knowledge of the vascular biology of the lipoprotein receptors and their ligands will potentially enhance our ability to harness the mechanism to develop novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against cardiovascular diseases.
Safety and outcome of very high-power short-duration ablation using 70 W for pulmonary vein isolation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kottmaier Marc , Popa Miruna , Bourier Felix , Reents Tilko , Cifuentes Jairo , Semmler Verena , Telishevska Martha , Otgonbayar Ulamnemekh , Koch-Büttner Katharina , Lennerz Carsten , Bartkowiak Marcin , Kornmayer Marielouise , Rousseva Elena , Brkic Amir , Grebmer Christian , Kolb Christoph , Hessling Gabriele , Deisenhofer Isabel
Published: December 2019

Aims

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is effective but hampered by pulmonary vein reconnection due to insufficient ablation lesions. High-power delivery over a short period of time (HPSD) in RFA is stated to create more efficient lesions. The aim of this study was to compare intraprocedural safety and outcome of HPSD ablation to conventional power settings in patients undergoing PVI for PAF.

Methods and results

We included 197 patients with PAF that were scheduled for PVI. An ablation protocol with 70 W and a duration cut-off of 7 s at the anterior left atrium (LA) and 5 s at the posterior LA (HPSD group; n = 97) was compared to a conventional power protocol with 30–40 W for 20–40 s (standard group; n = 100) in terms of periprocedural complications and a 1-year outcome. The HPSD group showed significantly less arrhythmia recurrence during 1-year follow-up with 83.1% of patients free from atrial fibrillation compared to 65.1% in the standard group (P < 0.013). No pericardial tamponade, periprocedural thromboembolic complications, or atrio-oesophageal fistula occurred in either group. Mean radiofrequency time (12.4 ± 3.4 min vs. 35.6 ± 12.1 min) and procedural time (89.5 ± 23.9 min vs. 111.15 ± 27.9 min) were significantly shorter in the HPSD group compared to the standard group (both P < 0.001).

Conclusion

High-power short-duration ablation demonstrated a comparable safety profile to conventional ablation. High-power short-duration ablation using 70 W for 5–7 s leads to significantly less arrhythmia recurrences after 1 year. Radiofrequency and procedural time were significantly shortened.
Weight gain in early years and subsequent body mass index trajectories across birth weight groups: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Lu Yi , Pearce Anna , Li Leah
Published: December 2019

Background

Rapid weight gain (RWG) in early-life is associated with increased risk of childhood obesity and is common among low-birth weight infants. Few studies have compared body mass index (BMI) trajectories of children experienced RWG to those who did not, across birth weight groups. We investigated the association between RWG in early-life and subsequent BMI trajectory and whether the association differs by birth weight.

Methods

We included term singletons from the UK Millennium Cohort Study (n = 10 637). RWG was defined as an increase in weight z-scores (derived using UK–WHO growth reference) between birth and 3 years >0.67. Mixed-effect fractional polynomial models were applied to examine the association between RWG and BMI trajectories (5–14 years). Models were further adjusted for confounders and stratified by birth weight-for-gestational-age group.

Results

Mean BMI trajectories were higher in children who experienced RWG in early-life, compared with their non-RWG counterparts. RWG was associated with higher BMI at five years [by 0.76 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.67–0.85) in boys and 0.87 kg/m2 (0.76–0.97) in girls]; the difference persisted into adolescence [1.37 kg/m2 (1.17–1.58) and 1.75 kg/m2 (1.52–1.99) at 14 years, respectively]. Differences remained after adjustment and were particularly greater for children born large-for-gestational-age than those born small- and appropriate-for-gestational-age. Mean BMI trajectories for large-for-gestational-age children with RWG exceeded international reference curves for overweight (for obesity at some ages in girls).

Conclusions

RWG was associated with higher BMI trajectories throughout childhood and adolescence, especially in large-for-gestational-age children. Strategies for obesity prevention need to address factors during and before infancy and preventing excessive weight gain among infants who have already had adequate growth in utero.
Genomic and gene expression evidence of nonribosomal peptide and polyketide production among ruminal bacteria: a potential role in niche colonization?
Authors: Moreira Sofia Magalhães , de Oliveira Mendes Tiago Antônio , Santanta Mateus Ferreira , Huws Sharon A , Creevey Christopher J , Mantovani Hilário C
Published: December 2019

Genomic and transcriptomic analyses were performed to investigate nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and polyketide synthases (PKS) in 310 genomes of ruminal/fecal microorganisms. A total of 119 biosynthetic genes potentially encoding distinct nonribosomal peptides (NRPs) and polyketides (PKs) were predicted in the ruminal microbial genomes and functional annotation separated these genes into 19 functional categories. The phylogenetic reconstruction of the 16S rRNA sequences coupled to the distribution of the three ‘backbone’ genes involved in NRPS and PKS biosyntheses suggested that these genes were not acquired through horizontal gene transfer. Metatranscriptomic analyses revealed that the predominant genes involved in the synthesis of NRPs and PKs were more abundant in sheep rumen datasets. Reads mapping to the NRPS and PKS biosynthetic genes were represented in the active ruminal microbial community, with transcripts being highly expressed in the bacterial community attached to perennial ryegrass, and following the main changes occurring between primary and secondary colonization of the forage incubated with ruminal fluid. This study is the first comprehensive characterization demonstrating the rich genetic capacity for NRPS and PKS biosyntheses within rumen bacterial genomes, which highlights the potential functional roles of secondary metabolites in the rumen ecosystem.
Transnationalism, Subjectivities and Spatial Relations in Jane Katjavivi’s Undisciplined Heart
Authors: Mlambo Nelson
Published: December 2019

This article explores the literary representations of the ‘unsaid’ and intangible connections of humanity across cultures as represented in Undisciplined Heart (2010), the memoir of the Namibian writer Jane Katjavivi. The central concerns are to examine how the author, through the act of writing, ascertains a new female identity within a culturally transforming Africa; how the fictionalization of her life is a revolutionary way of abdicating the role of silent white-female spectator in Africa; and how her story is a voice that matters in as much as it demonstrates the salient cultural relatedness and connectedness in Africa. The issues and concerns around transnational families, transculturalism, female subjectivity, agency, transnationality and multiculturalism are therefore central in this article.

The guiding principles of this essay are Ubuntu (ubuntuism) and Afro-transnationalism in order to explore the sense of ‘rainbowism’ as articulated within a transnational, multiracial and multicultural literary text, Undisciplined Heart. The article brings to the fore the often overlooked presence of ‘white’ writing in postcolonial and post-independence Africa and provides some nuanced insights into the racial and cultural patterns of connectedness – the harmonious cross-cultural sense of being in an Africa that is both culturally and spatially diverse. The article also interrogates as well as problematizes the elusive and constantly changing issues of identity and belonging.
Class Analysis and the Killing of the Newborn Child: Manchester, 1790–1860
Authors: Beattie Ian
Published: December 2019

This article explores the practice of neonaticide – the killing of an infant at the moment of birth – in Manchester during the first decades of the industrial revolution. Using a set of previously unexamined pre-trial witness statements, the author makes the case that newborn-killing was practised by working-class women in the town as a known and even accepted form of birth control. There is quite suggestive evidence that women had a language for this practice, shielded other women from having it reported, and in certain circumstances, assisted one another in carrying it out. This finding resonates with similar moral frameworks that have been studied from high-medieval England to early colonial Mexico. Nonetheless, it has also been well established that middle-class people throughout the nineteenth century in Britain abhorred infant killing, associated it strongly with stigmatized stereotypes of working-class maternity, and sought to suppress it using the punitive weight of the law. Period diaries and publications show that this ‘moral panic’ was as potent in Manchester as anywhere else. Taking these contrary patterns together, the author suggests that neonaticide and practices like it allow historians to observe the profound cultural divisions and frictions along class lines which structured life in the early industrial city.
Early Induction of Cross-Reactive CD8+ T-Cell Responses in Tonsils After Live-Attenuated Influenza Vaccination in Children
Authors: Mohn K G-I , Brokstad K A , Islam S , Oftung F , Tøndel C , Aarstad H J , Cox R J
Published: December 2019

Background

Live-attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) was licensed for prophylaxis of children 2–17 years old in Europe in 2012 and is administered as a nasal spray. Live-attenuated influenza vaccine induces both mucosal and systemic antibodies and systemic T-cell responses. Tonsils are the lymph nodes serving the upper respiratory tract, acting as both induction and effector site for mucosal immunity.

Methods

Here, we have studied the early tonsillar T-cell responses induced in children after LAIV. Thirty-nine children were immunized with trivalent LAIV (containing A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B viruses) at days 3, 7, and 14 before tonsillectomy. Nonvaccinated controls were included for comparison. Tonsils and peripheral blood (pre- and postvaccination) were collected to study T-cell responses.

Results

Tonsillar and systemic T-cell responses differed between influenza strains, and both were found against H3N2 and B viruses, whereas only systemic responses were observed against A/H1N1. A significant increase in cross-reactive tonsillar CD8+ T cells recognizing conserved epitopes from a broad range of seasonal and pandemic viruses occurred at day 14. Tonsillar T cells showed significant cytokine responses (Th1, Th2, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor).

Conclusions

Our findings support the use of LAIV in children to elicit broadly cross-reactive T cells, which are not induced by traditional inactivated influenza vaccines and may provide protection to novel virus strains.
Case-Control Study of the Immune Status of Humans Infected With Zoonotic Gorilla Simian Foamy Viruses
Authors: Gessain Antoine , Montange Thomas , Betsem Edouard , Bilounga Ndongo Chanceline , Njouom Richard , Buseyne Florence
Published: December 2019

Background

Zoonotic simian foamy viruses (SFVs) establish persistent infections in humans, for whom the long-term consequences for health are poorly described. In this study, we aimed to characterize blood-cell phenotypes and plasma biomarkers associated with gorilla SFV infection in humans.

Methods

We used a case-control design to compare 15 Cameroonian hunters infected with gorilla SFV (cases) to 15 controls matched for age and ethnicity. A flow cytometry-based phenotypic study and quantification of plasma immune biomarkers were carried out on blood samples from all participants. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare cases and controls.

Results

Cases had a significantly higher percentage of CD8 T lymphocytes than controls (median, 17.6% vs 13.7%; P = .03) but similar levels of B, natural killer, and CD4 T lymphocytes. Cases also had a lower proportion of recent CD4 thymic emigrants (10.9% vs 18.6%, P = .05), a higher proportion of programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) expressing memory CD4 T lymphocytes (31.7% vs 24.7%, P = .01), and higher plasma levels of the soluble CD163 scavenger receptor (0.84 vs .59 µg/mL, P = .003) than controls.

Conclusions

We show, for the first time, that chronic infection with SFV is associated with T lymphocyte differentiation and monocyte activation.
Study reporting quality among interventions to reduce antibiotic use is a barrier to evidence-informed policymaking on antimicrobial resistance: systematic review
Authors: Rogers Van Katwyk S , Grimshaw J M , Nkangu M , Mendelson M , Taljaard M , Hoffman S J
Published: December 2019

Background

Countries are currently seeking evidence-informed policy options to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR). While rigorous evaluations of AMR interventions are the ideal, they are far from the current reality. Additionally, poor reporting and documentation of AMR interventions impede efforts to use evidence to inform future evaluations and policy interventions.

Objectives

To critically evaluate reporting quality gaps in AMR intervention research.

Methods

To evaluate the reporting quality of studies, we conducted a descriptive synthesis and comparative analysis of studies that were included in a recent systematic review of government policy interventions aiming to reduce human antimicrobial use. Reporting quality was assessed using the SQUIRE 2.0 checklist of 18 items for reporting system-level interventions to improve healthcare. Two reviewers independently applied the checklist to 66 studies identified in the systematic review.

Results

None of the studies included complete information on all 18 SQUIRE items (median score = 10, IQR = 8–11). Reporting quality varied across SQUIRE items, with 3% to 100% of studies reporting the recommended information for each SQUIRE item. Only 20% of studies reported the elements of the intervention in sufficient detail for replication and only 24% reported the mechanism through which the intervention was expected to work.

Conclusions

Gaps in the reporting of impact evaluations pose challenges for interpreting and replicating study results. Failure to improve reporting practice of policy evaluations is likely to impede efforts to tackle the growing health, social and economic threats posed by AMR.
#1forEquality: The Story of an Unlikely Victorious Campaign in the Making
Authors: Casla Koldo
Published: December 2019

The UK government proudly affirms that the country has some of the strongest equalities legislation in the world, including the Equality Act 2010. For it to be true, however, the government should implement the legislation in its entirety, including the socio-economic duty (section 1 of the Act). That duty would require public authorities to actively consider how their decisions and policies of the highest strategic importance can increase or decrease inequalities of outcome. Regrettably, successive governments have failed to commence the duty, and therefore it is not technically binding on public authorities. It is encouraging that the duty was brought to life in Scotland in 2018 and the Welsh Government has announced they will follow suit in 2020. The socio-economic duty is potentially a useful lever to understand and address the structural causes of material inequalities and their negative effects on human rights and well-being. This article presents and draws conclusions from the strategic choices made by the people running #1forEquality, the national campaign to bring the socio-economic duty to life. The article introduces four key factors that contributed to making progress between 2017 and 2019, despite the limited resources available: a) the added value of merging advocacy and epistemic communities working on equality and on human rights; b) the engagement with political actors at key stages of the process; c) the combination of ‘naming and shaming’ and best practice; and d) the celebration of smaller victories along the way.
A new genus of vespertilionid bat: the end of a long journey for Joffre’s Pipistrelle (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Görföl Tamás , Kruskop Sergei V , Tu Vuong Tan , Estók Péter , Son Nguyen Truong , Csorba Gábor
Published: December 2019

Knowledge as to the taxonomic status of enigmatic bat species often is hindered by limited availability of specimens. This is particularly true for aerial-hawking bats that are difficult to catch. One such species, “Hypsugo” joffrei, was originally described in Nyctalus due to its long and slender wings, but subsequently transferred to Pipistrellus, and most recently to Hypsugo, on the basis of morphology. Analysis of newly available material, which more than doubles the known specimens of this taxon, demonstrates that it is morphologically and genetically distinct from all other bat genera. We accordingly describe it as belonging to a new, monotypic genus. We provide a detailed description of its external and craniodental traits, measurements, and assessment of genetic relationships, including barcode sequences to facilitate its rapid identification in future. The new genus belongs to a group that includes the recently described Cassistrellus, as well as Tylonycteris, and its closest relative, Philetor. We also describe the echolocation calls emitted by members of the taxon in different situations, which may facilitate finding them in previously unsampled locations. Based on the new data, the species occurs from Nepal to North Vietnam and China, which suggests that it could be more widespread than previously thought.
Lack of Availability and Efficacy of Phase I and Basket Trials for Patients With Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv , Cangemi Nicholas A , Epstein Andrew S , Harding James , Reidy-Lagunes Diane , Saltz Leonard B
Published: December 2019

In the modern era of targeted and immune-based therapies, investigator and patient expectations of availability and efficacy in phase I trials have increased. We assessed availability of, and benefit from, early drug development trials, specifically in patients with gastrointestinal cancers. We reviewed computerized referral records of the Early Drug Development Service at our institution to identify patients internally referred from our Gastrointestinal Oncology Service in calendar year 2018. End points were treatment on a trial, 3- and 6-month progression-free survival (PFS), and any tumor shrinkage. Of 394 gastrointestinal cancer patients referred in 2018, 54 enrolled on a trial and 53 (13.5%) were treated (1 withdrew before treatment): 34 on immune-based and 19 on targeted (3 to phase II basket) studies. None of the 52 patients who had exhausted standard therapy achieved 6-month PFS, two (3.8%) met 3-month PFS with tumor growth below Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors progression at 3 months, and both came off study for progression at 4 months. One patient who was to receive an irinotecan-based regimen as standard therapy instead received irinotecan plus an investigational targeted agent and remained stable for 8 months. No patients achieved any degree of tumor shrinkage. The most common reasons for nonaccrual were lack of available protocol treatment openings and failure to meet eligibility criteria for specific trials. Thus, availability and benefit from investigational treatment in this treatment-refractory gastrointestinal cancer patient population was extremely modest. Expectations regarding both availability and efficacy of phase I investigational therapy in gastrointestinal cancer patients likely exceed what our experience suggests.
TRANSACTION VERSUS NON-TRANSACTION PLATFORMS: A FALSE DICHOTOMY IN TWO-SIDED MARKET DEFINITION
Authors: Niels Gunnar
Published: December 2019

When it comes to market definition in two-sided markets, an idea that has gained traction—among academics, competition authorities and even the US Supreme Court—is the distinction between transaction and non-transaction platforms. However, this distinction has no theoretical underpinning in the context of the hypothetical monopolist test (HMT). The hypothetical monopolist sets profit-maximising prices on both sides, as a function of own-price elasticities and externalities between the sides, regardless of whether the platform is transaction or non-transaction. I address the various theoretical and practical arguments put forward in support of the distinction between transaction and non-transaction and explain why none of these justify a different approach to market definition. I also discuss why some of the policy suggestions made by proponents of the distinction—for example, that a single market should be defined for transaction platforms but separate markets for non-transaction platforms—reflect some confusion about how the HMT works.
Retroperitoneal perforation of a duodenal diverticulum containing a large enterolith after Roux-en-Y bypass and cholecystectomy
Authors: Kabelitz Nina , Brinken Berit , Bumm Rudolf
Published: December 2019

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most frequently performed bariatric procedures worldwide. The postoperative incidence of cholelithiasis after RYGB is higher than in the general population (30% vs. 2–5%), because the altered anatomy may lead to impaired gallbladder motility and biliary stasis. We report the case of a 47-year-old female who presented 9 years after RYGB and cholecystectomy with acute pain in the upper abdomen because of a retroperitoneal perforation of a duodenal diverticulum. Intraoperatively, a huge enterolith was found in the diverticulum and removed via duodenotomy. We claim that the stone grew during the sober states as the bile accumulated locally, because the gall bladder has already been removed and no duodenal food passage remained. This acute and life-threatening situation was successfully managed by operation. Consequently, a duodenal diverticulum has to be considered as a possible but very rare complication after RYGB and cholecystectomy.
Guinea pig seborrheic dermatitis model of Malassezia restricta and the utility of luliconazole
Authors: Koga Hiroyasu , Munechika Yukimi , Matsumoto Hiroko , Nanjoh Yasuko , Harada Kazutoshi , Makimura Koichi , Tsuboi Ryoji
Published: December 2019

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a multifactorial disease in which Malassezia restricta has been proposed as the predominant pathogenic factor. However, experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis is limited. A guinea pig SD model using a clinical isolate of M. restricta was used to elucidate the pathogenicity of M. restricta. Also, the efficacy of 1% luliconazole (LLCZ) cream, a topical imidazole derivative, against M. restricta was compared with that of a 2% ketoconazole (KCZ) cream in the same guinea pig model. Dorsal skin hairs of guinea pig were clipped and treated with M. restricta by single or repeated inoculations without occlusion. Skin manifestations were examined macroscopically and histologically. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was also performed for mycological evaluation. An inflammatory response mimicking SD occurred after repeated as well as single inoculation but not in abraded skin. The inflammation score attained its maximum on day 11 and persisted until day 52. The yeast form of the fungal elements was distributed on the surface of stratum corneum and around the follicular orifices, and an epidermal and dermal histological reaction was observed. Application of 1% LLCZ or 2% KCZ cream significantly improved the skin manifestations and decreased the quantity of M. restricta rDNA in the skin lesions. The efficacy of topical antifungal drugs suggested that M. restricta is a pathogenic factor contributing to SD.
Dynamic changes in intron retention are tightly associated with regulation of splicing factors and proliferative activity during B-cell development
Authors: Ullrich Sebastian , Guigó Roderic
Published: December 2019

Intron retention (IR) has been proposed to modulate the delay between transcription and translation. Here, we provide an exhaustive characterization of IR in differentiated white blood cells from both the myeloid and lymphoid lineage where we observed highest levels of IR in monocytes and B-cells, in addition to previously reported granulocytes. During B-cell differentiation, we found an increase in IR from the bone marrow precursors to cells residing in secondary lymphoid organs. B-cells that undergo affinity maturation to become antibody producing plasma cells steadily decrease retention. In general, we found an inverse relationship between global IR levels and both the proliferative state of cells, and the global levels of expression of splicing factors. IR dynamics during B-cell differentiation appear to be conserved between human and mouse, suggesting that IR plays an important biological role, evolutionary conserved, during blood cell differentiation. By correlating the expression of non-core splicing factors with global IR levels, and analyzing RNA binding protein knockdown and eCLIP data, we identify a few splicing factors likely playing an evolutionary conserved role in IR regulation. Our work provides new insights into the role of IR during hematopoiesis, and on the main factors involved in regulating IR.
Non-medical barriers reported by nephrologists when providing renal replacement therapy or comprehensive conservative management to end-stage kidney disease patients: a systematic review
Authors: de Jong Rianne W , Stel Vianda S , Heaf James G , Murphy Mark , Massy Ziad A , Jager Kitty J
Published: December 2019

Background

Large international differences exist in access to renal replacement therapy (RRT) modalities and comprehensive conservative management (CCM) for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), suggesting that some patients are not receiving the most appropriate treatment. Previous studies mainly focused on barriers reported by patients or medical barriers (e.g. comorbidities) reported by nephrologists. An overview of the non-medical barriers reported by nephrologists when providing the most appropriate form of RRT (other than conventional in-centre haemodialysis) or CCM is lacking.

Methods

We searched in EMBASE and PubMed for original articles with a cross-sectional design (surveys, interviews or focus groups) published between January 2010 and September 2018. We included studies in which nephrologists reported barriers when providing RRT or CCM to adult patients with ESKD. We used the barriers and facilitators survey by Peters et al. [Ruimte Voor Verandering? Knelpunten en Mogelijkheden Voor Verbeteringen in de Patiëntenzorg. Nijmegen: Afdeling Kwaliteit van zorg (WOK), 2003] as preliminary framework to create our own model and performed meta-ethnographic analysis of non-medical barriers in text, tables and figures.

Results

Of the 5973 articles screened, 16 articles were included using surveys (n = 10), interviews (n = 5) and focus groups (n = 1). We categorized the barriers into three levels: patient level (e.g. attitude, role perception, motivation, knowledge and socio-cultural background), level of the healthcare professional (e.g. fears and concerns, working style, communication skills) and level of the healthcare system (e.g. financial barriers, supportive staff and practice organization).

Conclusions

Our systematic review has identified a number of modifiable, non-medical barriers that could be targeted by, for example, education and optimizing financing structure to improve access to RRT modalities and CCM.
An unusual case of steroid responsive idiopathic ectopic calcification
Authors: Tsoi Kevin , Hughes Rod
Published: December 2019

This case explores an unusual calcified lesion of the hand and its dramatic response to steroids. A 30-year-old lady presented to rheumatology with a 1-year history of swelling on the radial side of her right middle metacarpophalangeal joint. Over a 2-week period, she had developed swelling throughout her right hand. She was treated with intramuscular methylprednisolone injection and a weaning course of prednisolone. A series of photos and X-rays demonstrates the resolution of swelling and calcification after steroid treatment. This case reports a chronic calcified mass associated with an acute inflammatory episode in the hand. This is likely to represent rupture of a calcific deposit with the release of crystals into the soft tissue. While there is prior literature on treatment with bisphosphonates or surgery, a fast and complete response to modest dose steroids suggests that this would be the first treatment to try in such a case.
Disseminated hematogenous tuberculosis in puerperium—case report
Authors: Barbosa Orivaldo Alves , Teles Felipe Morais , Maia Allan Carlos Costa , Pessoa Gabriel Melo Ferraz , de Alencar Isabele Moreno , de Sousa Emília Tomé , Jorge Bezerra Simão Sâmia Duarte
Published: December 2019

Although tuberculosis (TB) is relatively common in pregnancy and puerperium, its disseminated form is a rare event, with potential lethal maternal and fetal outcomes. Due to the infrequency and lack of knowledge of most physicians about the various manifestations of the disease, the diagnosis is often overlooked, and treatment postponed, resulting in a high death rate. We report a fatal case of disseminated tuberculosis in the puerperium, with lung, brain, liver and uterine involvement. After, we briefly review the clinical manifestations of TB in the gestational period.
The dilemma in a case of immune thrombocytopenia in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus on antituberculosis treatment for miliary pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Lugito Nata Pratama Hardjo , Lorens Jane Olivia , Kwenandar Jessica , Kurniawan Andree
Published: December 2019

The multifactorial mechanisms of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) could be caused by HIV, TB or anti-TB drugs. No patients with HIV and opportunistic infection of miliary pulmonary TB who developed thrombocytopenia after treatment with anti-TB drugs have been reported. A 47-year-old woman with HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and miliary TB with normal platelet count (229 000/μL) started anti-TB drugs (rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol). After 10 days of treatment, her platelet count was low (17 000/μL). As rifampicin and isoniazid were stopped and intravenous methylprednisolone was given, her platelet count began to increase. After more than a month, her platelet count was normal (192 000/μL) and she started antiretrovirals. This improved platelet count after high-dose methylprednisolone is suggestive of ITP; however, the dilemma is whether it was rifampicin alone that caused ITP or did HIV and disseminated TB infection also play a role?
The Phenomenon Of Members Parliament Absence In Iraq
Authors: Alsamee Esraa Mahmood
Published: December 2019

The member of parliament has an important role in legislative authority, whether through the member’s main role at the national level as being considered a representative of the nation, or through the local role in the constituency which elected the member to parliament, in order to concretize a parliamentary duty that pushes the legislative authority forward to achieve its independence at work. However, there is a prevailing phenomenon of absence in the legislative enterprise, whereby the seats of the parliament become empty during the discussions, and there is also a lack of legal regulations that oblige parliamentarians to be present during sessions of parliament and committee meetings. This study will be conducted through a doctrinal approach; data was collected through secondary sources by examining the contribution of scholars in this field, and in addition, a series of semi-structured interview was conducted through the use of email. This research will help the governments with a parliament suffering from this phenomenon in general and the Iraqi government especially, to address the absence of members and reduce this problem.