bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging critical institutionalism and fragmented authoritarianism in China: An analysis of centralized water policies and their local implementation in semi‐arid irrigation districts
Authors: Wang Raymond Yu , Liu Tao , Dang Heping
Published: June 2018

This paper attempts to bridge critical institutionalism and fragmented authoritarianism in China. Moving beyond the predictive functionalist perspective and the overemphasis on state primacy, the paper focuses on how top‐down water policies are exercised by local agencies, collective communities, and individuals at the county level and below. Through a case of irrigation management in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, this paper posits that institutional bricolage and fragmentation are prevalent despite the imposition of the authoritarian state. Moreover, it shows that local water policy implementation is reshaped by various contested discourse, the pursuit of different interests, social relations, and broad transformative forces. This high degree of diversity not only manifests an increasing institutional flexibility, as water policies are operated outside China's hierarchical bureaucratic system, but also is embedded in an era of socio‐economic transformation where the processes of industrialization, urbanization, and neo‐liberalization have changed the dynamics of rural governance.
Variations in nuclear localization strategies among pol X family enzymes
Authors: Kirby Thomas W. , Pedersen Lars C. , Gabel Scott A. , Gassman Natalie R. , London Robert E.
Published: June 2018

Despite the essential roles of pol X family enzymes in DNA repair, information about the structural basis of their nuclear import is limited. Recent studies revealed the unexpected presence of a functional nuclear localization signal (NLS) in DNA polymerase β, indicating the importance of active nuclear targeting, even for enzymes likely to leak into and out of the nucleus. The current studies further explore the active nuclear transport of these enzymes by identifying and structurally characterizing the functional NLS sequences in the three remaining human pol X enzymes: terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT), DNA polymerase mu (pol μ) and DNA polymerase lambda (pol λ). NLS identifications are based on Importin α (Impα) binding affinity determined by fluorescence polarization of fluorescein‐labeled NLS peptides, X‐ray crystallographic analysis of the Impα∆IBB•NLS complexes and fluorescence‐based subcellular localization studies. All three polymerases use NLS sequences located near their N‐terminus; TdT and pol μ utilize monopartite NLS sequences, while pol λ utilizes a bipartite sequence, unique among the pol X family members. The pol μ NLS has relatively weak measured affinity for Impα, due in part to its proximity to the N‐terminus that limits non‐specific interactions of flanking residues preceding the NLS. However, this effect is partially mitigated by an N‐terminal sequence unsupportive of Met1 removal by methionine aminopeptidase, leading to a 3‐fold increase in affinity when the N‐terminal methionine is present. Nuclear targeting is unique to each pol X family enzyme with variations dependent on the structure and unique functional role of each polymerase.
Can tariffs be used to enforce Paris climate commitments?
Authors: Winchester Niven
Published: June 2018

We evaluate the potential of border carbon adjustments (BCAs) and strategic tariffs to compel noncompliant countries to meet emission reduction targets pledged under the Paris Climate Agreement. Our analysis employs a numerical economy‐wide model with energy sector detail and, given recent actions by the US administration, considers BCAs on US exports. We find that when the US does not restrict emissions and faces BCAs on its exports, US welfare losses are smaller than when the US meets its Paris commitments. Hence, BCAs are preferable for the US and cannot be used to enforce Paris climate commitments. The use of strategic tariffs, on the contrary, would result in a trade war and a larger welfare decrease in US welfare than when it meets its Paris commitments. Strategic tariffs also decrease welfare in countries that meet their Paris pledges. Accordingly, strategic tariffs, which are much higher than BCA rates, can be used to enforce Paris climate commitments if compliant countries are willing to incur welfare losses to punish non‐compliant countries.
Ultrasonic backscatter difference measurements of cancellous bone from the human femur: Relation to bone mineral density and microstructure
Authors: Hoffmeister Brent K. , Viano Ann M. , Huang Jinsong , Fairbanks Luke C. , Ebron Sheldon C. , Moore Joshua T. , Ankersen Jordan P. , Huber Matthew T. , Diaz Abel A.
Published: June 2018

Ultrasonic backscatter techniques are being developed to detect changes in cancellous bone caused by osteoporosis. One technique, called the backscatter difference technique, measures the power difference between two portions of a backscatter signal. The goal of the present study is to investigate how bone mineral density (BMD) and the microstructure of human cancellous bone influence four backscatter difference parameters: the normalized mean of the backscatter difference (nMBD) spectrum, the normalized slope of the backscatter difference spectrum, the normalized intercept of the backscatter difference spectrum, and the normalized backscatter amplitude ratio (nBAR). Ultrasonic measurements were performed with a 3.5 MHz broadband transducer on 54 specimens of human cancellous bone from the proximal femur. Volumetric BMD and the microstructural characteristics of the specimens were measured using x-ray micro-computed tomography. Of the four ultrasonic parameters studied, nMBD and nBAR demonstrated the strongest univariate correlations with density and microstructure. Multivariate analyses indicated that nMBD and nBAR depended on trabecular separation and possibly other microstructural characteristics of the specimens independently of BMD. These findings suggest that nMBD and nBAR may be sensitive to changes in the density and microstructure of bone caused by osteoporosis.
Materials for lithium-ion battery safety
Authors: Liu Kai , Liu Yayuan , Lin Dingchang , Pei Allen , Cui Yi
Published: June 2018

We summarize the origins of lithium-ion battery safety issues and discuss recent progress in materials design to improve safety.
Constraint of a ruthenium-carbon triple bond to a five-membered ring
Authors: Zhuo Qingde , Zhang Hong , Hua Yuhui , Kang Huijun , Zhou Xiaoxi , Lin Xinlei , Chen Zhixin , Lin Jianfeng , Zhuo Kaiyue , Xia Haiping
Published: June 2018

The first incorporation of a second-row transition metal carbyne unit into a ring is realized by virtue of aromaticity.
Mycobacterium bovis Persistence in Two Different Captive Wild Animal Populations in Germany: a Longitudinal Molecular Epidemiological Study Revealing Pathogen Transmission by Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Kohl Thomas A. , Utpatel Christian , Niemann Stefan , Moser Irmgard
Published: June 2018

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) caused by
Mycobacterium bovis
is a transmissible disease notifiable to the World Organization for Animal Health and to the European Union, with ongoing efforts of surveillance and eradication in every EU member state. In Germany, a country which has been declared officially free from bovine tuberculosis since 1997 by the EU,
M. bovis
infections still occur sporadically in cattle and other mammals, including humans.
Ongoing Transposon-Mediated Genome Reduction in the Luminous Bacterial Symbionts of Deep-Sea Ceratioid Anglerfishes
Authors: Hendry Tory A. , Freed Lindsay L. , Fader Dana , Fenolio Danté , Sutton Tracey T. , Lopez Jose V.
Published: June 2018

Diverse marine fish and squid form symbiotic associations with extracellular bioluminescent bacteria. These symbionts are typically free-living bacteria with large genomes, but one known lineage of symbionts has undergone genomic reduction and evolution of host dependence. It is not known why distinct evolutionary trajectories have occurred among different luminous symbionts, and not all known lineages previously had genome sequences available. In order to better understand patterns of evolution across diverse bioluminescent symbionts, we
de novo
sequenced the genomes of bacteria from a poorly studied interaction, the extracellular symbionts from the “lures” of deep-sea ceratioid anglerfishes. Deep-sea anglerfish symbiont genomes are reduced in size by about 50% compared to free-living relatives. They show a striking convergence of genome reduction and loss of metabolic capabilities with a distinct lineage of obligately host-dependent luminous symbionts. These losses include reductions in amino acid synthesis pathways and abilities to utilize diverse sugars. However, the symbiont genomes have retained a number of categories of genes predicted to be useful only outside the host, such as those involved in chemotaxis and motility, suggesting that they may persist in the environment. These genomes contain very high numbers of pseudogenes and show massive expansions of transposable elements, with transposases accounting for 28 and 31% of coding sequences in the symbiont genomes. Transposon expansions appear to have occurred at different times in each symbiont lineage, indicating either independent evolutions of reduction or symbiont replacement. These results suggest ongoing genomic reduction in extracellular luminous symbionts that is facilitated by transposon proliferations.

IMPORTANCE
Many female deep-sea anglerfishes possess a “lure” containing luminous bacterial symbionts. Here we show that unlike most luminous symbionts, these bacteria are undergoing an evolutionary transition toward small genomes with limited metabolic capabilities. Comparative analyses of the symbiont genomes indicate that this transition is ongoing and facilitated by transposon expansions. This transition may have occurred independently in different symbiont lineages, although it is unclear why. Genomic reduction is common in bacteria that only live within host cells but less common in bacteria that, like anglerfish symbionts, live outside host cells. Since multiple evolutions of genomic reduction have occurred convergently in luminous bacteria, they make a useful system with which to understand patterns of genome evolution in extracellular symbionts. This work demonstrates that ecological factors other than an intracellular lifestyle can lead to dramatic gene loss and evolutionary changes and that transposon expansions may play important roles in this process.
Barriers and facilitators to knowledge transfer and exchange in palliative care research
Authors: Kernohan William George , Brown Mary Jane , Payne Cathy , Guerin Suzanne
Published: June 2018

In order to ensure the effective transfer of research knowledge to those who can effect positive changes in practice, models of knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) are required. Limited evidence exists as to how palliative care researchers use existing models to support their practice and to what extent they are perceived as effective. We set out to identify factors that influence KTE planning and implementation through semistructured interviews with experienced palliative care researchers in Ireland. Issues around KTE were drawn out through thematic analysis. Nine interviews were held with investigators on eight research projects. Ten themes were identified and categorised as either barriers or facilitators to KTE. Perceived barriers included inadequate time and funding, limited institutional capacity, competing priorities, weak communication channels and negative perceptions of palliative care. Perceived facilitators included dedicated time and resources, aligned priorities, strong professional networks, multipronged approach and KTE experience. In order to improve the quality, acceptability and reach of palliative research, it is vital that researchers improve their understanding of KTE within the context of palliative care, moving beyond academic dissemination to achieve research-informed practice by overcoming barriers to KTE through facilitated action. This study provides an overview of factors that influence KTE planning and implementation among palliative care researchers.
Is water carriage associated with the water carrier’s health? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative evidence
Authors: Geere Jo-Anne Lee , Cortobius Moa , Geere Jonathan Harold , Hammer Charlotte Christiane , Hunter Paul R
Published: June 2018

Introduction

The work of carrying water falls mainly on women and children, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and rural areas. While concerns have been raised, how water carriage is associated with health of the water carrier is not clear. The aim of this review is to summarise evidence on whether, and how, water carriage is associated with the water carrier’s health.

Methods

A systematic review of literature was conducted, searching Embase; Medline; Web of Science Social Sciences Citation Index; Web of Science Arts and Humanities Citation Index; International Initiative for Impact Evaluation website; WHO Virtual Health Sciences Library and WHO African index medicus, from inception to 8 November 2017.

Results

Forty-two studies were included. Their ability to demonstrate cause and effect relationships was limited by study design and fair or poor methodological quality. Overall, the studies suggest that water carriage is associated with negative aspects of the water carriers’ health. There is moderate quantitative and strong qualitative evidence that water carriage is associated with pain, fatigue, perinatal health problems and violence against vulnerable people, and inconclusive evidence of an association with stress or self-reported mental health and general health status.

Conclusion

In many circumstances, water carriage is a potential barrier to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 target ‘universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all’ and SDG 3 ‘ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’. Efforts should focus on providing water on premises, and where this is not possible, providing water close to home and reducing risk of gender-based violence.
Equity in access to non-communicable disease medicines: a cross-sectional study in Kenya
Authors: Rockers Peter C , Laing Richard O , Wirtz Veronika J
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Wealth-based inequity in access to medicines is an impediment to achieving universal health coverage in many low-income and middle-income countries. We explored the relationship between household wealth and access to medicines for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya.

Methods

We administered a cross-sectional survey to a sample of patients prescribed medicines for hypertension, diabetes or asthma. Data were collected on medicines available in the home, including the location and cost of purchase. Household asset information was used to construct an indicator of wealth. We analysed the relationship between household wealth and various aspects of access, including the probability of having NCD medicines at home and price paid.

Results

Among 639 patients interviewed, hypertension was the most prevalent NCD (69.6%), followed by diabetes (22.2%) and asthma (20.2%). There was a positive and statistically significant association between wealth and having medicines for patients with hypertension (p=0.020) and asthma (p=0.016), but not for diabetes (p=0.160). Poorer patients lived farther from their nearest health facility (p=0.050). There was no relationship between household wealth and the probability that the nearest public or non-profit health facility had key NCD medicines in stock, though less poor patients were significantly more likely to purchase medicines at better stocked private outlets. The relationship between wealth and median price paid for metformin by patients with diabetes was strongly u-shaped, with the middle quintile paying the lowest prices and the poorest and least poor paying higher prices. Patients with asthma in the poorest wealth quintile paid more for salbutamol than those in all other quintiles.

Conclusion

The poorest in Kenya appear to face increased barriers to accessing NCD medicines as compared with the less poor. To achieve universal health coverage, the country will need to consider pro-poor policies for improving equity in access.
Quantifying intervals to diagnosis in myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Koshiaris Constantinos , Oke Jason , Abel Lucy , Nicholson Brian D , Ramasamy Karthik , Van den Bruel Ann
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To quantify the duration of each step of the diagnostic pathway for patients with multiple myeloma from symptom onset to confirmation of diagnosis.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources and selection criteria

The MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched up until January 2018 to identify articles that reported time intervals from onset of symptoms to diagnosis. Articles focusing on children or adolescents and on the asymptomatic form of the disease (monoclonal gammopathies and smouldering myeloma) were excluded.

Data collection and data analysis

Data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Weighted estimates of the median and IQR were calculated. Risk of bias was assessed using the Aarhus checklist.

Main results

Nine studies were included. The patient interval (first symptom to first presentation) had a median of 26.3 days (IQR: 1–98, n=465, two studies). Subsequently, the primary care interval (first presentation to first referral) was 21.6 days (IQR: 4.6–55.8, n=326, two studies), the diagnostic interval (first presentation to diagnosis) was 108.6 days (IQR: 33.3–241.7, n=5395, seven studies) and the time to diagnosis (first symptom to diagnosis) interval was 163 days (IQR: 84–306, n=341, one study). No studies reported data for the referral to diagnosis interval.

Conclusion

The review demonstrates that there is scope for significant reductions in the time to myeloma diagnosis. At present, many patients experience a diagnostic interval longer than 3 months until diagnosis is confirmed.

Review registration

Not available. Protocol available in the appendix.
Young man presenting with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Huang Hans David , Lombardi William L , Steinberg Zachary Louis
Published: June 2018

Clinical introduction

A man in his early 30s with remote history of a febrile rash as a toddler presented to the emergency room following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest while riding his bicycle. He received bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and one shock from an automatic external defibrillator, successfully restoring sinus rhythm. On arrival, he was haemodynamically stable without ECG evidence of ST segment changes to suggest active ischaemia, and an initial troponin I was mildly elevated at 0.10 ng/mL (normal <0.04 ng/mL). A CT angiogram (CTA) was obtained showing a normal-appearing aorta and no abnormal extracardiac findings. Urgent coronary angiography was performed; images are shown in figure 1A–C. Echocardiogram revealed a mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (45%) with a hypokinetic inferior wall.

Figure 1

(A) Right coronary artery angiogram in the left anterior oblique cranial projection. (B) Left coronary artery angiogram in the right anterior oblique caudal projection. (C) Left coronary artery angiogram in the right anterior oblique cranial projection. CAUD, caudal; CRAN, cranial; LAO, left anterior oblique; RAO, right anterior oblique.

Question

What is the next best step in the management of this patient at this time?

Complete revascularisation via percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Referral for coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG).

Initiation of high-dose steroids.

Initiation of dual-antiplatelet therapy without planned revascularisation.
Factors associated with anal cancer screening follow-up by high-resolution anoscopy
Authors: Apaydin Kaan Z , Nguyen Andy , Borba Christina P C , Shtasel Derri L , Ulery Sharon , Mayer Kenneth H , Keuroghlian Alex S
Published: June 2018

Objectives

High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) is a potential screening method for detection of anal cancer precursors. We evaluated factors associated with adherence to recommended HRA follow-up time intervals among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods

We employed a retrospective, observational cohort study with 155 MSM screened by HRA between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2016 at a Federally Qualified Health Centre in Boston, Massachusetts.

Results

The sample was 80% white, with a median age of 48 (non-normal distribution, IQR 15). All patients were assigned male sex at birth and none identified as transgender. Fifty patients (32%) followed up with a HRA appointment within 6 months of previous HRA detection of anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). Among patients, 112 (72%) were HIV infected, 56 (36%) had a syphilis diagnosis during the study period, 89 (57.4%) had initiated Hepatitis A or B vaccination series, 70 (45.2%) accessed case management services and 19 (12.3%) utilised pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In bivariate analysis, patients who underwent recommended follow-up HRA within 6 months of HSIL diagnosis were less likely to report: case management utilisation (p=0.023), initiation of Hepatitis A or B vaccination (p=0.047), HIV diagnosis (p<0.001) and syphilis diagnosis (p=0.001), but were more likely to use HIV PrEP (p<0.001). In binomial logistic regression modelling after adjusting for age and race/ethnicity, patients who had follow-up with HRA within a recommended period of 6 months after HSIL diagnosis were less likely to have initiated Hepatitis A or B vaccination (adjusted OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.94), more likely to use PrEP (adjusted OR 4.47, 95% CI 1.30 to 15.49) and less likely to have a syphilis diagnosis (adjusted OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.86).

Conclusions

Three-quarters of patients with HSIL did not have follow-up HRA within the clinic’s recommended follow-up period of 6 months following HSIL diagnosis by HRA. Future studies ought to explore whether addressing anal health during other STI-related care helps improve adherence to recommended time intervals for follow-up HRA. Given the high prevalence of STI and PrEP use, studies might also evaluate whether integrating HRA follow-up with other sexual health screenings helps improve adherence to recommended HRA follow-up.
Nutritional recovery with a soybean diet impaired the glucagon response but did not alter liver gluconeogenesis in the adult offspring of rats deprived of protein during pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Pacheco Nelma Cristina Silva , de Almeida Ana Paula Carli , de Siqueira Kariny Cássia , de Lima Faena Moura , Reis Sílvia Regina de Lima , Latorraca Márcia Queiroz , Stoppiglia Luiz Fabrizio
Published: June 2018

Nutritional recovery of early malnutrition with a soybean diet reduces liver glycogen stores in the fed state and produces liver insulin resistance. We investigated whether nutritional recovery on a soybean flour diet alters hepatic gluconeogenesis in the adult offspring of rats deprived of protein during pregnancy and lactation. Male rats from mothers that were fed either 17% (C) or 6% (L) protein during pregnancy and lactation were maintained on a 17% casein (CC, n = 16 and LC, n = 17), 17% soybean flour (CS, n = 10 and LS, n = 10), or 6% casein (LL, n = 10) diet after weaning. The soybean diet reduced basal serum glucose (soybean diet, 5.6 ± 0.6 mmol/L vs. casein diet, 6.2 ± 0.6 mmol/L; p < 0.05) but increased alanine aminotransferase mRNA/GAPDH (soybean diet, 0.062 ± 0.038 vs. casein diet, 0.024 ± 0.011; p < 0.01), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA/GAPDH (soybean diet, 1.53 ± 0.52 vs. casein diet, 0.95 ± 0.43; p < 0.05), and glycerokinase protein content (soybean diet, 0.86 ± 0.08 vs. casein diet, 0.75 ± 0.11; p < 0.05). The serum glucose concentration (recovered groups, 5.6 ± 0.5 mmol/L vs. control groups, 6.2 ± 0.7 mmol/L; p < 0.05) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase activity (recovered groups, 2.8 ± 0.6 μU/mg vs. control groups, 3.6 ± 0.6 μU/mg; p < 0.05) were decreased in rats subjected to protein restriction in early life. The glucose area under the curve during the pyruvate tolerance test did not differ among groups, whereas glucose area under the curve after glucagon infusion was reduced by early malnutrition (recovered groups, 4210 ± 572 mg/dL·40 min vs. control groups, 4493 ± 688 mg/dL·40 min; p < 0.001) and by the soybean diet (soybean diet, 3995 ± 500 mg/dL·40 min vs. casein diet, 4686 ± 576 mg/dL·40 min; p < 0.05). Thus, the soybean diet impaired the response to glucagon but did not alter gluconeogenesis.
Cardioprotection by ginseng: experimental and clinical evidence and underlying mechanisms
Authors: Gan Xiaohong Tracey , Karmazyn Morris
Published: June 2018

Protection of the ischemic and reperfused myocardium represents a major therapeutic challenge. Translating results from animal studies to the clinical setting has been disappointing, yet the need for effective intervention, particularly to limit heart damage following infarction or surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting, is substantial. Among the many compounds touted as cardioprotective agents is ginseng, a medicinal herb belonging to the genus Panax, which has been used as a medicinal agent for thousands of years, particularly in Asian societies. The biological actions of ginseng are very complex and reflect composition of many bioactive components, although many of the biological and therapeutic effects of ginseng have been attributed to the presence of steroid-like saponins termed ginsenosides. Both ginseng and many ginsenosides have been shown to exert cardioprotective properties in experimental models. There is also clinical evidence that traditional Chinese medications containing ginseng exert cardioprotective properties, although such clinical evidence is less robust primarily owing to the paucity of large-scale clinical trials. Here, we discuss the experimental and clinical evidence for ginseng, ginsenosides, and ginseng-containing formulations as cardioprotective agents against ischemic and reperfusion injury. We further discuss potential mechanisms, particularly as these relate to antioxidant properties.
Metamorphic processes preserved in early Archean supracrustal rocks of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa
Authors: Grosch Eugene G.
Published: June 2018

The Palaeoarchean supracrustal rocks of the Barberton Greenstone Belt (BGB) consist of hydrothermally altered volcanic and silicified sedimentary rocks that form the dramatic topography in the Barberton Mountain Land of Mphumalanga Province in South Africa and Swaziland. Previous metamorphic studies are limited and used mainly empirical chlorite geothermometry in the BGB sequence regionally, or Raman thermometry, both proposing a narrow range in metamorphic conditions of around 320°C regional for the BGB. This study demonstrates that a range of petrological and thermodynamic modelling techniques are required in an integrated approach to unravel the very low- to medium-grade metamorphic conditions preserved in the oldest part of the BGB. The study investigates low-temperature metamorphic processes in the Komati, Hooggenoeg, Kromberg and Mendon formations of the
c.
3530–3298 Ma Onverwacht Group. Chlorite thermodynamic modelling indicates metamorphic conditions of between 250 and 445°C, in the
c.
3482 Ma Komati Formation, but uncertainties on these conditions are large (
c.
80 and 100°C) due to the protoliths being mostly ultramafic in composition with uncertainty in XFe
3+
estimates. Raman thermometry on carbonaceous material in the
c.
3472 Ma volcano-sedimentary Middle Marker chert (HC1) at the base of the Hooggenoeg Formation indicates metamorphic conditions of between 281 and 301°C, lower than in previous studies. Raman thermometry on a carbonaceous chert (HC5) in the 3472–3432 Ma Hooggenoeg Formation in conjunction with δ
18
O oxygen isotope values on underlying metabasalts, indicate metamorphic temperature conditions of less than 340°C, preserved in the Hooggenoeg Formation. Application and critical evaluation of chlorite thermodynamic modelling results confirm the presence of an inverted metamorphic field gradient beneath a fuchsite–chlorite–quartz shear zone in the
c.
3334 Ma Kromberg Formation. Thermodynamic modelling using a di-octahedral mica model indicates that retrograde metamorphism in the Kromberg ultramafic shear zone occurred along a kyanite-type geothermal gradient, providing evidence in support of tectonic thrusting at
c.
3227–3223 Ma. In the
c.
3298 Ma Mendon Formation seawater alteration involving metasomatism occurred at conditions of
T
= 150°C with log
a
CO
2
(aq) of −2.74. This study sheds new light on the metamorphic history of the BGB supracrustal sequence and early Earth metamorphic processes. It also demonstrates that combining different petrological and thermodynamic methods across the BGB supracrustal stratigraphy allows a robust critical assessment of metamorphic conditions for the first time, with implications for the early Archean geodynamic evolution of the BGB.
Association between the Hypertriglyceridemic Waist Phenotype and Prediabetes in Chinese Adults Aged 40 Years and Older
Authors: Zhao Kun , Yang Shan-Shan , Wang Hai-Bin , Chen Kang , Lu Zhao-Hui , Mu Yi-Ming
Published: June 2018

Objective. To investigate the association between the hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype and prediabetes in Chinese adults aged 40 years and older. Methods. 12757 adults (4101 men and 8656 women) without diabetes or cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, free of using lipid-modified agents, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The HTGW phenotype was defined as elevated serum triglyceride concentrations and enlarged waist circumference. A two-hour post 75 g oral glucose tolerance test was performed in all participants. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship of the HTGW phenotype with prediabetes. Results. Individuals with the HTGW phenotype had a higher adjusted odds ratio (OR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.48–1.95) of prediabetes than those without the phenotype. There existed a strong relationship of the HTGW phenotype with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (OR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.57–2.13), but not with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) (OR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.65–1.17). Only women with the HTGW phenotype are significantly associated with the combined IFG and IGT (OR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.28–2.62). Conclusions. The HTGW phenotype was a useful risk indicator and a practical screening tool to benefit in the early diagnosis and intervention for prediabetes, particularly for IGT and the combined IFG and IGT.
Impact of Experimentally Induced Cognitive Dietary Restraint on Eating Behavior Traits, Appetite Sensations, and Markers of Stress during Energy Restriction in Overweight/Obese Women
Authors: Morin Isabelle , Bégin Catherine , Maltais-Giguère Julie , Bédard Alexandra , Tchernof André , Lemieux Simone
Published: June 2018

Weight loss has been associated with changes in eating behaviors and appetite sensations that favor a regain in body weight. Since traditional weight loss approaches emphasize the importance of increasing cognitive dietary restraint (CDR) to achieve negative energy imbalance, it is difficult to untangle the respective contributions of energy restriction and increases in CDR on factors that can eventually lead to body weight regain. The present study aimed at comparing the effects of energy restriction alone or in combination with experimentally induced CDR on eating behavior traits, appetite sensations, and markers of stress in overweight and obese women. We hypothesized that the combination of energy restriction and induced CDR would lead to more prevalent food cravings, increased appetite sensations, and higher cortisol concentrations than when energy restriction is not coupled with induced CDR. A total of 60 premenopausal women (mean BMI: 32.0 kg/m2; mean age: 39.4 y) were provided with a low energy density diet corresponding to 85% of their energy needs during a 4-week fully controlled period. At the same time, women were randomized to either a condition inducing an increase in CDR (CDR+ group) or a condition in which CDR was not induced (CRD− group). Eating behavior traits (Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire and Food Craving Questionnaire), appetite sensations (after standardized breakfast), and markers of stress (Perceived Stress Scale; postawakening salivary cortisol) were measured before (T = 0 week) and after (T = 4 weeks) the 4-week energy restriction, as well as 3 months later. There was an increase in CDR in the CDR+ group while no such change was observed in the CDR− group (p=0.0037). No between-group differences were observed for disinhibition, hunger, cravings, appetite sensations, perceived stress, and cortisol concentrations. These results suggest that a slight increase in CDR has no negative impact on factors regulating energy balance in the context of energy restriction.
COGEVIS: A New Scale to Evaluate Cognition in Patients with Visual Deficiency
Authors: Meyniel Claire , Samri Dalila , Stefano Farah , Crevoisier Joel , Bonté Florence , Migliaccio Raffaella , Delaby Laure , Bertrand Anne , Habert Marie Odile , Dubois Bruno , Bodaghi Bahram , Epelbaum Stéphane
Published: June 2018

We evaluated the cognitive status of visually impaired patients referred to low vision rehabilitation (LVR) based on a standard cognitive battery and a new evaluation tool, named the COGEVIS, which can be used to assess patients with severe visual deficits. We studied patients aged 60 and above, referred to the LVR Hospital in Paris. Neurological and cognitive evaluations were performed in an expert memory center. Thirty-eight individuals, 17 women and 21 men with a mean age of 70.3 ± 1.3 years and a mean visual acuity of 0.12 ± 0.02, were recruited over a one-year period. Sixty-three percent of participants had normal cognitive status. Cognitive impairment was diagnosed in 37.5% of participants. The COGEVIS score cutoff point to screen for cognitive impairment was 24 (maximum score of 30) with a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 95%. Evaluation following 4 months of visual rehabilitation showed an improvement of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (p=0.004), National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (p=0.035), and Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (p=0.037). This study introduces a new short test to screen for cognitive impairment in visually impaired patients.
Light-Triggered Radiochemical Synthesis: A Novel 18F-Labelling Strategy Using Photoinducible Click Reaction to Prepare PET Imaging Probes
Authors: Choi Ji Hae , Oh Doori , Kim In Sun , Kim Hyeon-Soo , Kim Minjoo , Kim Eun-Mi , Lim Seok Tae , Sohn Myung-Hee , Kim Dong Hyun , Jeong Hwan-Jeong
Published: June 2018

Novel probe development for positron emission tomography (PET) is leading to expanding the scope of molecular imaging. To begin responding to challenges, several biomaterials such as natural products and small molecules, peptides, engineered proteins including affibodies, and antibodies have been used in the development of targeted molecular imaging probes. To prepare radiotracers, a few bioactive materials are unique challenges to radiolabelling because of their complex structure, poor stability, poor solubility in aqueous or chemical organic solutions, and sensitivity to temperature and nonphysiological pH. To overcome these challenges, we developed a new radiolabelling strategy based on photoactivated 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between alkene dipolarophile and tetrazole moiety containing compounds. Herein, we describe a light-triggered radiochemical synthesis via photoactivated click reaction to prepare 18F-radiolabelled PET tracers using small molecular and RGD peptide.
Circulating miRNA-155 as a Potential Biomarker for Coronary Slow Flow
Authors: Su Qiang , Yang Huafeng , Li Lang
Published: June 2018

Objective. Recent studies have demonstrated that miRNA-155 is involved in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, miRNA-155 has emerged as a new indirect marker for inflammation associated with adverse outcomes in oncology and cardiovascular diseases. This study investigated the correlation between the levels of miRNA-155 and coronary slow flow (CSF). Methods. A total of 66 patients with CSF and 66 patients with normal coronary flow were enrolled in this study. Coronary flow velocity was determined using the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction frame count (TFC) method. The plasma levels of miRNA-155 were quantified using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results. The plasma levels of miRNA-155 were significantly higher in the CSF group compared to the control group (P<0.05). In addition, miRNA-155 levels were positively correlated with TFC and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels (P<0.05 for both parameters). Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that plasma miRNA-155 (OR = 2.384, 95% confidence interval 1.847–3.273, P=0.032) and hs-CRP (OR = 1.273, 95% confidence interval 1.036–2.253, P=0.013) were independent predictors for CSF. Using plasma miRNA-155 levels as the test variable, ROC curve analysis indicated that the area under the curve was 0.782 (P<0.05). Conclusion. Patients with CSF have higher plasma levels of miRNA-155, and this may play an important role in the pathogenesis of CSF, and an elevated plasma miRNA-155 level may be a predictor for CSF. A large-scale and multicenter study is required to elucidate the role of miRNA-155 as a potential biomarker for patients with CSF.
Influence of Infill Wall Configuration on Failure Modes of RC Frames
Authors: Zhou Xiaojie , Kou Xiaoyuan , Peng Quanmin , Cui Jintao
Published: June 2018

An improper configuration of masonry infill walls in RC frame may lead to short column effect on the columns, which is harmful to the seismic behavior of the structure. In this study, a bare frame and two single‐story, single‐bay RC frames, partially infilled with masonry, were tested under cyclic loading. The failure mechanism and seismic performance of these partially infilled RC frames (with an infill height of 600 mm) with different types of connections were analysed. Based on the experiment, nonlinear finite element simulation and analysis were conducted to study the effects of the infill walls and connections. The results show that both mechanical performance and failure mode are affected by the infill height, the type of connection between the frame and the infill, and the ratio of shear bearing capacity of the frame column to that of the infill. For the masonry‐infilled frame with rigid connection, the higher the infill wall is, the lower the shear bearing capacity ratio will be. Thus, the effect of the lateral constraint of the infill wall on the column increases, and the shear span ratio of the free segment of the column decreases, resulting in the short column effect. Based on the analysis results, a value of 2.0 is suggested for the critical shear bearing capacity ratio of the frame column to the infill wall. If the shear bearing capacity ratio is less than 2.0 and the shear span ratio of the column free segment is not more than 2.0, the short column effect will occur. For the infilled frame with flexible connection, both the lateral constraint from the wall to the column and the wall‐frame interaction decrease; this reduces or prevents the short column effect. The conclusion can present guidance for the design and construction of masonry‐infilled RC frame structure.
f(T) Corrected Instability of Cylindrical Collapsing Object with Harrison-Wheeler Equation of State
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Azam M.
Published: June 2018

We study the dynamical instability of a collapsing object in the framework of generalized teleparallel gravity. We assume a cylindrical object with a specific matter distribution. This distribution contains energy density and isotropic pressure component with heat conduction. We take oscillating states scheme up to first order to check the instable behavior of the object. We construct a general collapse equation for underlying case with nondiagonal tetrad depending on the matter, metric functions, heat conducting term, and torsional terms. The Harrison-Wheeler equation of state which contains adiabatic index is used to explore the dynamical instability ranges for Newtonian and post-Newtonian constraints. These ranges depend on perturbed part of metric coefficients, matter parts, and torsion.
Comparison of 25- and 27-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy in Repairing Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Otsuka Keiko , Imai Hisanori , Fujii Ayaka , Miki Akiko , Tagami Mizuki , Azumi Atsushi , Nakamura Makoto
Published: June 2018

Aim. To compare the anatomic and visual outcomes of 25-gauge (25G), and 27-gauge (27G) transconjunctival sutureless pars plana vitrectomy (TSV) for the management of primary rhegmatogeneous retinal detachment (RRD).Design. A retrospective nonrandomized clinical trial.Methods. A retrospective comparative analysis of 62 consecutive eyes from 62 patients with 6 months of follow-up was performed.Results. Thirty-two patients underwent 25G TSV, and 30 patients underwent 27G TSV for the treatment of primary RRD. There was no significant difference in baseline demographic and preoperative ocular characteristics between the two groups. The initial and final anatomical success rates were 93.8% and 100% in 25G TSV and 96.7% and 100% in 27G TSV, respectively (p=1andp=1, resp.). Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logMAR) was 0.44 ± 0.69 and 0.38 ± 0.61 for 25G and 27G TSV, respectively (p=0.73). The final follow-up BCVA was 0.07 ± 0.25 and −0.02 ± 0.17 for 25G and 27G TSV, respectively (p=0.16). The final BCVA was significantly better than the preoperative BCVA in both groups (p=0.02andp=0.002, resp.). Preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) was 13.0 ± 3.5 in 25G TSV and 14.3 ± 2.8 in 27G TSV (p=0.11). IOP did not statistically significantly change in both groups during the follow-up period (p=0.63andp=0.21, resp.).Conclusion. The 27G TSV system is safe and useful for RRD treatment as 25G TSV.
Trial Characteristics and Appropriateness of Statistical Methods Applied for Design and Analysis of Randomized School-Based Studies Addressing Weight-Related Issues: A Literature Review
Authors: Heo Moonseong , Nair Singh R. , Wylie-Rosett Judith , Faith Myles S. , Pietrobelli Angelo , Glassman Nancy R. , Martin Sarah N. , Dickinson Stephanie , Allison David B.
Published: June 2018

Objective. To evaluate whether clustering effects, often quantified by the intracluster correlation coefficient (ICC), were appropriately accounted for in design and analysis of school-based trials. Methods. We searched PubMed and extracted variables concerning study characteristics, power analysis, ICC use for power analysis, applied statistical models, and the report of the ICC estimated from the observed data. Results. N=263 papers were identified, and N=121 papers were included for evaluation. Overall, only a minority (21.5%) of studies incorporated ICC values for power analysis, fewer studies (8.3%) reported the estimated ICC, and 68.6% of studies applied appropriate multilevel models. A greater proportion of studies applied the appropriate models during the past five years (2013–2017) compared to the prior years (74.1% versus 63.5%, p=0.176). Significantly associated with application of appropriate models were a larger number of schools (p=0.030), a larger sample size (p=0.002), longer follow-up (p=0.014), and randomization at a cluster level (p<0.001) and so were studies that incorporated the ICC into power analysis (p=0.016) and reported the estimated ICC (p=0.030). Conclusion. Although application of appropriate models has increased over the years, consideration of clustering effects in power analysis has been inadequate, as has report of estimated ICC. To increase rigor, future school-based trials should address these issues at both the design and analysis stages.
Mechanical Properties of Na2CO3‐Activated High‐Volume GGBFS Cement Paste
Authors: Kim Taewan , Jun Yubin
Published: June 2018

The use of Na2CO3 to improve the mechanical properties of high‐volume slag cement (HVSC) is experimentally investigated in this study. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) was replaced with 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90% ground‐granulated blast‐furnace slag (GGBFS) by weight. Na2CO3 was added at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt.% of HVSC (OPC + GGBFS). The compressive strength, water absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity, dry shrinkage, and X‐ray diffraction spectra of the Na2CO3‐activated HVSC pastes were analyzed. The results indicate that Na2CO3 was effective for improving the strength of HVSC samples at both early and later ages. There was a trend of increasing HVSC sample strength with increasing Na2CO3 content. The 5% Na2CO3‐activated HVSC (50% OPC + 50% GGBFS) paste had the best combination of early to later‐age strength development and exhibited the highest UPV and the lowest water absorption among the Na2CO3‐activated HVSC samples at later age.
Intravenous Fosfomycin: An Assessment of Its Potential for Use in the Treatment of Systemic Infections in Canada
Authors: Zhanel George G. , Zhanel Michael A. , Karlowsky James A.
Published: June 2018

Fosfomycin is a bactericidal agent that inhibits cell wall synthesis using a mechanism of action distinct from β-lactams or other antimicrobial agents. It is a broad-spectrum agent that is frequently active against antimicrobial-resistant bacterial pathogens including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacteriaceae, and some isolates of MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Intravenous fosfomycin has been prescribed for a wide variety of infections in many countries for >40 years. It is most frequently used in combination with other antimicrobial agents (e.g., β-lactams, carbapenems, and aminoglycosides) and has an excellent safety profile, including in neonates and children, even with long-term administration (weeks). Fosfomycin achieves extensive tissue distribution including difficult to reach compartments such as aqueous humor, vitreous humor, abscess fluid, and CSF. Available data, to date, suggest no clinically relevant pharmacological interactions between fosfomycin and other agents, including drugs, stimulants, or food. Intravenous fosfomycin’s role in therapy in Canada is likely as an agent used alone or in combination for complicated urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients as well as hospitalized patients with MDR infections who have not responded to first-, and potentially, second-line antimicrobials or in patients who cannot tolerate (due to adverse effects) first- and second-line antimicrobials.