bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Primer on Temperature-Controlled Entangled-Photon Virtual-State Spectroscopy
Authors: León-Montiel R de J
Published: June 2020

Entangled two-photon absorption spectroscopy has been widely recognized as a promising tool for revealing important information about the structure and dynamics of complex molecular systems. In this contribution, we present the basics of the theory behind this technique and describe a novel experimental scheme known as temperature-controlled entangled-photon absorption spectroscopy, which constitutes the first, realistic proposal for the experimental implementation of nonlinear spectroscopy with quantum light.
On the Calculation of the Spectral Bands of One-Dimensional Photonic Crystals
Authors: Barrera-Figueroa V
Published: June 2020

In this work we consider the propagation of transverse electromagnetic waves in one-dimensional photonic crystals consisting of periodic arrays of slabs. On the basis of the Floquet theory we obtain the characteristic function of the periodic medium, which defines the photonic bands of the crystal. The characteristic function is constructed from the monodromy matrices of the slabs. Entries of monodromy matrices are explicitly given as power series of the spectral parameter. The present analysis can be applied not only to homogeneous slabs, but also to slabs with varying refractive indexes. The power series representation of the entries of monodromy matrices leads to an effective numerical method for the calculation of the spectral bands of one-dimensional photonic crystals.
Using the Energy Distribution as a Benchmarking Among Models for Adiabatic Quantum Processing in the Protein Folding Problem
Authors: Anaya A , Delgado F
Published: June 2020

Determining the tertiary complexity of proteins using ab-initio algorithms is a hard problem. Adiabatic Quantum Computing allows to construct simple Ising-like Hamiltonians in order to elucidate the aminoacid interactions minimizing the conformation energy of the protein. Exploring the energy distribution of the Hamiltonian allows to compare the efficiency of different models there proposed. This article compare the efficiency of two algorithms through the conformation energy of a protein stating a benchmark through the energy distributions of the conformation states.
Multichannel fiber sensor for time delay and optical pulse form measuring
Authors: Arapov Y D , Turkin V N
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a description of engineering solutions and physical diagram of a device meant to measure spatially resolved time form of optical signals with detection accuracy up to 0.1 ns and a scalable number of monitoring points. It has been demonstrated that the number of simultaneously detected optical signals within the limit is up to one million. There are no moving mechanical units in the device design. A method for reducing the total length of the optical fiber based on the principle of the cascade optical delay is proposed for the multichannel sensor of diversification. The number of measured signals reaches a million. The capabilities and constraints of the described engineering solution for measuring the pulse form and monitoring the diversification of the multicomponent optical signals have been demonstrated. The principle of calculating a multichannel fiber device for recording optical pulses is presented and shown that the fiber length is up to 15 km for the detection system of 128 optical signals 100 ns long each. Generally, the number of measured signals may reach a million.
Tuneable liquid crystal asymmetric dual-core photonic crystal fiber mode converter
Authors: Montoya-Cardona J , Gomez-Cardona N , Gonzalez-Valencia E , Torres P , Reyes-Vera E
Published: June 2020

In this work, a novel and compact mode selective coupler based on an asymmetric dual core photonic crystal fiber with a thermo-responsive core is proposed and numerically studied. Simulation results show that high conversion efficiencies are achieved between LP01 and LP11 modes in the O-band with a wide bandwidth of 24.55 nm and a mode conversion efficiency over 60% when it has a total length of 3.15 mm and the operating wavelength is 1310 nm. In addition, the thermally tuneability was evaluated when this device was submitted to thermal changes from 15°C to 35°C. The results evidence that thermal effect allows to control the operating wavelength and the mode coupling efficiency of the mode converter when it is used to couple energy from the LP01 mode to the LP11 mode. Therefore, the proposed device could be useful in high-bandwidth mode division multiplexed communication systems.
Detection of effects of three different plant pests for chrysanthemum flowers by using image processing and spectral imaging
Authors: Sánchez-Ríos C A , Cardona A M , Echavarría A , Herrera-Ramírez J
Published: June 2020

Ornamental floriculture is one of the main economic activities in different regions of Colombia. Different flowers have a great success, but its industry faces some challenges on phytosanitary controls caused mainly by the dependence on human monitors and the expertise in the detection of diseases throughout the crop fields. This paper focuses on the detection of the affection patterns caused by tomato spotted wilt virus, puncture leaf miner, and leaf miner larvae on chrysanthemum flowers (Dendrathema grandiflorum). A spectral imaging system was with 11 spectral channels was implemented which were generated by the same number of light emitting diodes groups. By using these images, there were carried out different image processing techniques and the combination of different linear relations among the spectral images were tested to enhance, isolate and quantify the affected area on the leaves. The results show that our system has more selective spectral width than common artificial vision systems and the effects of the diseases can be effectively detected.
Mobility of localized beams in non-homogeneous photonic lattices
Authors: Sabogal M A , Parra I C , Bandera M , Gallardo J , Mejía-Cortés C
Published: June 2020

Waveguide arrays offer enormous potential to design circuit elements essential to fabricate optical devices capable to processing information codified by light. In this work we study the existence and stability of localized beams in one dimensional photonic lattices composed by a Kerr type waveguide array. We analyzed the case where discrete translation symmetry is broken in as much as one of the waveguides lacks a nonlinear response. Specifically, we determined the space of parameters where a coherent and robust mobility across the lattice is achieved. Moreover, we calculate the reflection and transmission coefficients when localized beams interact directly with the impurity, finding that it behaves as a variable filter depending of system parameters. Our results would shed light on develop solutions to keep unaltered information during its transmission within future optical devices.
Recombination effects in the ionization chambers dose delivery monitor of the TOP-IMPLART proton beam
Authors: Ampollini A. , Basile E. , Bazzano G. , Cisbani E. , De Angelis C. , Della Monaca S. , Ghio F. , Giuliani F. , Lucentini M. , Nenzi P. , Placido C. , Picardi L. , Ronsivalle C. , Santavenere F. , Spurio A. , Surrenti V. , Vadrucci M.
Published: June 2020

The Intensity Modulated Proton Linear Accelerator for Cancer Therapy (TOP-IMPLART) is under development and construction by ENEA in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Health (ISS) and the Oncological Hospital Regina Elena-IFO with financial support of Regione Lazio.

Its peculiar time structure (few microseconds pulse width) and very high peak intensity (≍ 109 proton/pulse) demand for ad hoc dose delivery monitors (DDM). The TOP-IMPLART DDM is based on ionization gas chambers. One segmented chamber prototype uses Micro Pattern Gaseous Detector technology for the 2-dimensional simultaneous x/y readout; the charge collected from each active segment (strips with pad-like shape) is readout by a dedicated gain-adaptable electronics. Two small, highly sensitive, integral ionization chambers, using the same electronics, complement the 2D chamber for the monitor of the single pulse beam charge, down to 1 pC/pulse.

While under development and deployment of its accelerating modular cavities, the linear TOP-IMPLART beam is improved thanks also to the continuous monitoring and characterization by these devices, whose responses are periodically compared to calibrated dosimetric detectors such as real-time active microDiamond sensor, passive Alanine pellets, intrinsically stable integral Faraday Cup.

Different calibration campaigns have been recently conducted to measure the recombination and dose-rate effects on the above ionization chambers. The outcome of these measurements shows clear electron-ion recombination in the chamber active volume, largely related to the high beam intensity and its small transverse cross section. Those effects can be taken into account and used to correct the actual measurement of the DDM.

In this paper, the TOP-IMPLART project and the DDM devices are shortly presented and details of the above experimental studies are discussed.
An overview of OSCAR: a new hodoscope of silicon detectors for low energy charged particles
Authors: Dell’Aquila D.
Published: June 2020

Modern nuclear physics experiments demand for new high-resolution and high-versatility detectors for the reconstruction of collision events. In this framework, we have developed a new hodoscope of silicon detectors for charged particles called OSCAR. This new device consists of individual modules with partially embedded electronics capable to identify low energy particles down to about 1 MeV/u. OSCAR is a particularly suitable detector to be used as a standalone detector or as ancillary system for large acceptance devices. This paper presents an overview of the layout and capabilities of the detector.
Energy response and identification efficiency of CsI(Tl) crystals irradiated with energetic protons
Authors: Frosin C , Barlini S , Poggi G , Casini G , Bini M , Stefanini A A , Valdré S , Gruyer D , Ciemala M , Maj A , Ziebliński M , Sowicki B , Mazurek K , Cieplicka-Oryńczak N , Matejska-Minda M , Bonnet E , Borderie B , Bougault R , Bruno M , Buccola A , Camaiani A , Chibhi A , Cinausero M , Cicerchia M , Dueñs J , Fabris D , Frankland J , Gramegna F , Henri M , Kordyasz A , Le Neindre N , Lombardo I , Lopez O , Mantovani G , Marchi T , Olmi A , Ottanelli P , Parlog M , Piantelli S , Pasquali G , Upadhyahya S , Verde G , Vient E
Published: June 2020

Proton energy calibration and identification efficiency of few Thallium activated Cesium Iodide (CsI(Tl)) crystals of the FAZIA detection system, have been studied in the range 59-180 MeV by using the proton beam delivered by the cyclotron of the CCB (Cyclotron Center Bronowice) facility. We observe that the light output versus energy is linear in the lower investigated energy range while showing a deviation from linearity above 140 MeV. The effects of proton induced nuclear reactions and multiple scattering causing incomplete energy deposition (IED) events have been identified and estimated via Pulse Shape Analysis in CsI(Tl) crystals. The measured experimental efficiency for proton identification in the examined energy range is then compared with GEANT4 simulations. For a centered collimated irradiation on the crystal, and at the highest measured energy, the resulting experimental efficiency value is about 70%.
3D Detectors on Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon for particle tracking in high radiation environment
Authors: Menichelli M , Boscardin M , Crivellari M , Davis J , Dunand S , Fanò L , Moscatelli F , Movileanu-Ionica M , Petasecca M , Piccini M , Rossi A , Scorzoni A , Verzellesi G , Wyrsch N
Published: June 2020

The vertex detectors for the future hadronic colliders will operate under proton fluencies above 1016 p/cm2. Crystalline Silicon detector technology, up to now, has kept the pace of the increasing fluencies in the LHC era and it is still the prevalent vertex detector material for the present and for the immediate future. Looking ahead in time, an alternative solution for such a detector has to be found because for the future there is no guarantee that Crystalline Silicon will hold this challenge. For this reason the development of hydrogenated amorphous silicon vertex detectors based on 3D-technology have been proposed and the technological solutions in order to build these detectors are described in this paper.
On the Causal Interpretation of Rate-Change Methods: The Prior Event Rate Ratio and Rate Difference
Authors: van Aalst Robertus , Thommes Edward , Postma Maarten , Chit Ayman , Dahabreh Issa J
Published: June 2020

A growing number of studies use data before and after treatment initiation in groups exposed to different treatment strategies to estimate “causal effects” using a ratio measure called the prior event rate ratio (PERR). Here, we offer a causal interpretation for PERR and its additive scale analog, the prior event rate difference (PERD). We show that causal interpretation of these measures requires untestable rate-change assumptions about the relationship between 1) the change of the counterfactual rate before and after treatment initiation in the treated group under hypothetical intervention to implement the control strategy; and 2) the change of the factual rate before and after treatment initiation in the control group. The rate-change assumption is on the multiplicative scale for PERR but on the additive scale for PERD; the 2 assumptions hold simultaneously under testable, but unlikely, conditions. Even if investigators can pick the most appropriate scale, the relevant rate-change assumption might not hold exactly, so we describe sensitivity analysis methods to examine how assumption violations of different magnitudes would affect study results. We illustrate the methods using data from a published study of proton pump inhibitors and pneumonia.
Optogenetic Activation of Type III Taste Cells Modulates Taste Responses
Authors: Vandenbeuch Aurelie , Wilson Courtney E , Kinnamon Sue C
Published: June 2020

Studies have suggested that communication between taste cells shapes the gustatory signal before transmission to the brain. To further explore the possibility of intragemmal signal modulation, we adopted an optogenetic approach to stimulate sour-sensitive (Type III) taste cells using mice expressing Cre recombinase under a specific Type III cell promoter, Pkd2l1 (polycystic kidney disease-2-like 1), crossed with mice expressing Cre-dependent channelrhodopsin (ChR2). The application of blue light onto the tongue allowed for the specific stimulation of Type III cells and circumvented the nonspecific effects of chemical stimulation. To understand whether taste modality information is preprocessed in the taste bud before transmission to the sensory nerves, we recorded chorda tympani nerve activity during light and/or chemical tastant application to the tongue. To assess intragemmal modulation, we compared nerve responses to various tastants with or without concurrent light-induced activation of the Type III cells. Our results show that light significantly decreased taste responses to sweet, bitter, salty, and acidic stimuli. On the contrary, the light response was not consistently affected by sweet or bitter stimuli, suggesting that activation of Type II cells does not affect nerve responses to stimuli that activate Type III cells.
Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy in the Hospital Is Associated With Linkage to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Care for Persons Living With HIV and Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Jacobs Petra , Feaster Daniel J , Pan Yue , Gooden Lauren K , Daar Eric S , Lucas Gregory M , Jain Mamta K , Marsh Eliza L , Armstrong Wendy S , Rodriguez Allan , del Rio Carlos , Metsch Lisa R
Published: June 2020

Background

Studies have demonstrated benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation on the day of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing or at first clinical visit. The hospital setting is understudied for immediate ART initiation.

Methods

CTN0049, a linkage-to-care randomized clinical trial, enrolled 801 persons living with HIV (PLWH) and substance use disorder (SUD) from 11 hospitals across the United States. This secondary analysis examined factors related to initiating (including reinitiating) ART in the hospital and its association with linkage to HIV care, frequency of outpatient care visits, retention, and viral suppression.

Results

Of 801 participants, 124 (15%) initiated ART in the hospital, with more than two-thirds of these participants (80/124) initiating ART for the first time. Time to first HIV care visit among those who initiated ART in the hospital and those who did not was 29 and 54 days, respectively (P = .0145). Hospital initiation of ART was associated with increased frequency of HIV outpatient care visits at 6 and 12 months. There was no association with ART initiation in the hospital and retention and viral suppression over a 12-month period. Participants recruited in Southern hospitals were less likely to initiate ART in the hospital (P < .001).

Conclusions

Previous research demonstrated benefits of immediate ART initiation, yet this approach is not widely implemented. Research findings suggest that starting ART in the hospital is beneficial for increasing linkage to HIV care and frequency of visits for PLWH and SUD. Implementation research should address barriers to early ART initiation in the hospital.
Prospective Validation of PREDICT and Its Impact on the Transesophageal Echocardiography Use in Management of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Abu Saleh Omar , Fida Madiha , Asbury Kara , Narichania Aalap , Sotello David , Bosch Wendelyn , Vikram Holenarasipur R , Palraj Raj , Lahr Brian , Baddour Larry M , Sohail M Rizwan
Published: June 2020

Background

Infective endocarditis (IE) is the most feared complication of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB). Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is generally recommended for all patients with SAB; however, supporting data for this are limited. We previously developed a scoring system, “PREDICT,” that quantifies the risk of IE and identifies patients who would most benefit most from undergoing TEE. The current prospective investigation aims to validate this score.

Methods

We prospectively screened all consecutive adults (≥18 years) hospitalized with SAB at 3 Mayo Clinic sites between January 2015 and March 2017.

Results

Of 220 patients screened, 199 with SAB met study criteria and were included in the investigation. Of them, 23 (11.6%) patients were diagnosed with definite IE within 12 weeks of initial presentation based on modified Duke’s criteria. Using the previously derived PREDICT model, the day 1 score of ≥4 had a sensitivity of 30.4% and a specificity of 93.8%, whereas a day 5 score of ≤2 had a sensitivity and negative-predictive value of 100%. Additional factors including surgery or invasive procedure in the past 30 days, prosthetic heart valve, and higher number of positive blood culture bottles in the first set of cultures were associated with increased risk of IE independent of the day 5 risk score.

Conclusions

We validated the previously developed PREDICT scoring tools for stratifying risk of IE, and the need for undergoing a TEE, among cases of SAB. We also identified other factors with predictive potential, although larger prospective studies are needed to further evaluate possible enhancements to the current scoring system.
Estimation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Fatality Rate by Real-time Antibody Screening of Blood Donors
Authors: Erikstrup Christian , Hother Christoffer Egeberg , Pedersen Ole Birger Vestager , Mølbak Kåre , Skov Robert Leo , Holm Dorte Kinggaard , Sækmose Susanne Gjørup , Nilsson Anna Christine , Brooks Patrick Terrence , Boldsen Jens Kjærgaard , Mikkelsen Christina , Gybel-Brask Mikkel , Sørensen Erik , Dinh Khoa Manh , Mikkelsen Susan , Møller Bjarne Kuno , Haunstrup Thure , Harritshøj Lene , Jensen Bitten Aagaard , Hjalgrim Henrik , Lillevang Søren Thue , Ullum Henrik
Published: June 2020

Background

The pandemic due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has tremendous consequences for our societies. Knowledge of the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 is needed to accurately monitor the spread of the epidemic and to calculate the infection fatality rate (IFR). These measures may help the authorities make informed decisions and adjust the current societal interventions. The objective was to perform nationwide real-time seroprevalence surveying among blood donors as a tool to estimate previous SARS-CoV-2 infections and the population-based IFR.

Methods

Danish blood donors aged 17–69 years giving blood 6 April to 3 May were tested for SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin M and G antibodies using a commercial lateral flow test. Antibody status was compared between geographical areas, and an estimate of the IFR was calculated. Seroprevalence was adjusted for assay sensitivity and specificity taking the uncertainties of the test validation into account when reporting the 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The first 20 640 blood donors were tested, and a combined adjusted seroprevalence of 1.9% (95% CI, .8–2.3) was calculated. The seroprevalence differed across areas. Using available data on fatalities and population numbers, a combined IFR in patients <70 years is estimated at 89 per 100 000 (95% CI, 72–211) infections.

Conclusions

The IFR was estimated to be slightly lower than previously reported from other countries not using seroprevalence data. The IFR is likely severalfold lower than the current estimate. We have initiated real-time nationwide anti–SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence surveying of blood donations as a tool in monitoring the epidemic.
Asymptomatic Transmission and the Infection Fatality Risk for COVID-19: Implications for School Reopening
Authors: Vermund Sten H , Pitzer Virginia E
Published: June 2020

Asymptomatic infection occurs for numerous respiratory viral diseases, including influenza and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We seek to clarify confusion in 3 areas: age-specific risks of transmission and/or disease; various definitions for the COVID-19 “mortality rate,” each useful for specific purposes; and implications for student return strategies from preschool through university settings.
Managing Coronavirus Disease 2019 Spread With Voluntary Public Health Measures: Sweden as a Case Study for Pandemic Control
Authors: Kamerlin Shina C L , Kasson Peter M
Published: June 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has spread globally, causing extensive illness and mortality. In advance of effective antiviral therapies, countries have applied different public health strategies to control spread and manage healthcare need. Sweden has taken a unique approach of not implementing strict closures, instead urging personal responsibility. We analyze the results of this and other potential strategies for pandemic control in Sweden.

Methods

We implemented individual-based modeling of COVID-19 spread in Sweden using population, employment, and household data. Epidemiological parameters for COVID-19 were validated on a limited date range; where substantial uncertainties remained, multiple parameters were tested. The effects of different public health strategies were tested over a 160-day period, analyzed for their effects on intensive care unit (ICU) demand and death rate, and compared with Swedish data for April 2020.

Results

Swedish mortality rates are intermediate between rates for European countries that quickly imposed stringent public health controls and those for countries that acted later. Models most closely reproducing reported mortality data suggest that large portions of the population voluntarily self-isolate. Swedish ICU use rates remained lower than predicted, but a large fraction of deaths occurred in non-ICU patients. This suggests that patient prognosis was considered in ICU admission, reducing healthcare load at a cost of decreased survival in patients not admitted.

Conclusions

The Swedish COVID-19 strategy has thus far yielded a striking result: mild mandates overlaid with voluntary measures can achieve results highly similar to late-onset stringent mandates. However, this policy causes more healthcare demand and more deaths than early stringent control and depends on continued public will.
Frequency and Predictors of Suboptimal Prescribing Among a Cohort of Older Male Residents with Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Appaneal Haley J , Caffrey Aisling R , Lopes Vrishali V , Dosa David M , Shireman Theresa I , LaPlante Kerry L
Published: June 2020

Background

Unnecessary antibiotic treatment of suspected urinary tract infections (UTI) is common in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). However, less is known about the extent of suboptimal treatment, in terms of antibiotic choice, dose, and duration, after the decision to use antibiotics has been made.

Methods

We described the frequency of potentially suboptimal treatment among residents with an incident UTI (the first during the study with none in the year prior) in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community living centers (CLCs; 2013–2018). Time trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression. Residents with UTIs receiving potentially suboptimal treatment were compared with those receiving optimal treatment, to identify resident characteristics predictive of suboptimal antibiotic treatment, using multivariable unconditional logistic regression models.

Results

We identified 21 938 residents with an incident UTI treated in 120 VA CLCs, of whom 96.0% were male. Potentially suboptimal antibiotic treatment was identified in 65.0% of residents and decreased 1.8% annually (P < .05). Potentially suboptimal initial drug choice was identified in 45.6% of residents, suboptimal dose frequency in 28.6%, and longer than recommended duration in 12.7%. Predictors of suboptimal antibiotic treatment included prior fluoroquinolone exposure (adjusted odds ratio, 1.38), chronic renal disease (1.19), age ≥85 years (1.17), prior skin infection (1.14), recent high white blood cell count (1.08), and genitourinary disorder (1.08).

Conclusion

Similar to findings in non-VA facilities, potentially suboptimal treatment was common but improving in CLC residents with an incident UTI. Predictors of suboptimal antibiotic treatment should be targeted with antibiotic stewardship interventions to improve UTI treatment.
Epidemiology of Invasive Haemophilus influenzae Serotype a Disease—United States, 2008–2017
Authors: Soeters Heidi M , Oliver Sara E , Plumb Ian D , Blain Amy E , Zulz Tammy , Simons Brenna C , Barnes Meghan , Farley Monica M , Harrison Lee H , Lynfield Ruth , Massay Stephanie , McLaughlin Joseph , Muse Alison G , Petit Susan , Schaffner William , Thomas Ann , Torres Salina , Watt James , Pondo Tracy , Whaley Melissa J , Hu Fang , Wang Xin , Briere Elizabeth C , Bruce Michael G
Published: June 2020

Background

Haemophilus influenzae serotype a (Hia) can cause invasive disease similar to serotype b; no Hia vaccine is available. We describe the epidemiology of invasive Hia disease in the United States overall and specifically in Alaska during 2008–2017.

Methods

Active population- and laboratory-based surveillance for invasive Hia disease was conducted through Active Bacterial Core surveillance sites and from Alaska statewide invasive bacterial disease surveillance. Sterile-site isolates were serotyped via slide agglutination or real-time polymerase chain reaction. Incidences in cases per 100 000 were calculated.

Results

From 2008 to 2017, an estimated average of 306 invasive Hia disease cases occurred annually in the United States (estimated annual incidence: 0.10); incidence increased by an average of 11.1% annually. Overall, 42.7% of cases were in children aged <5 years (incidence: 0.64), with highest incidence among children aged <1 year (1.60). Case fatality was 7.8% overall and was highest among adults aged ≥65 years (15.1%). Among children aged <5 years, the incidence was 17 times higher among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) children (8.29) than among children of all other races combined (0.49). In Alaska, incidences among all ages (0.68) and among children aged <1 year (24.73) were nearly 6 and 14 times higher, respectively, than corresponding US incidences. Case fatality in Alaska was 10.2%, and the vast majority (93.9%) of cases occurred among AI/AN.

Conclusions

Incidence of invasive Hia disease has increased since 2008, with the highest burden among AI/AN children. These data can inform prevention strategies, including Hia vaccine development.
The impossibility of a Rawlsian liberal
Authors: Judge Brian
Published: June 2020

This article critically examines the role of the neoclassical model of the market within Rawlsian liberalism. Although Rawls claims agnosticism towards particular economic theories, I show how the neoclassical model anchors Rawls’s approach of transmuting distributive efficiency into distributive justice. However, the assumptions underlying the neoclassical model are not descriptively accurate as Rawls’s key construct of pure procedural justice requires. Without the neoclassical model and the pure procedural approach to distribution it uniquely enables, Rawlsian liberalism recreates the very problem of pluralism it is premised on resolving. This article surfaces this paradox for Rawlsian liberalism: it relies essentially on market distribution yet cannot justify these arrangements within the confines of the theory.
Great Recession, great regression? The welfare state in the twenty-first century
Authors: Lessa Kerstenetzky Celia , Pereira Guedes Graciele
Published: June 2020

Has the welfare state undergone significant retrenchment in the aftermath of the 2007–08 crackdown? In the literature, two contrasting views can be found. Some commentators argue that expansions that would otherwise be observed during crises have been suffocated due to the imperative of austerity. Other more optimistic assessments see social investment policies as having been experimented with in various places, alongside widespread retrenchment. In this paper, using an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) database for 35 countries, we check these assessments by examining aggregate figures, such as the evolution—over the 2007–13 period—of social spending and its composition, the participation of social spending in public expenditure, the tax burden and tax composition and welfare state effectiveness. We document expansion in the OECD area alongside stable performance. However, important challenges persist.
Acute kidney injury pathology and pathophysiology: a retrospective review
Authors: Gaut Joseph P , Liapis Helen
Published: June 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the clinical term used for decline or loss of renal function. It is associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and high morbidity and mortality. However, not all causes of AKI lead to severe consequences and some are reversible. The underlying pathology can be a guide for treatment and assessment of prognosis. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes guidelines recommend that the cause of AKI should be identified if possible. Renal biopsy can distinguish specific AKI entities and assist in patient management. This review aims to show the pathology of AKI, including glomerular and tubular diseases.
A Multilinguistic Spelling Analysis of Children who are Hard of Hearing
Authors: Quick Nancy A , Harrison Melody , Erickson Karen
Published: June 2020

Spelling in writing samples was compared between children who are hard of hearing (HH) (n = 142) and their peers with typical hearing (TH) (n = 72) in second and fourth grade. The same analyses were then conducted comparing groups of children who are HH with different levels of aided audibility. Compared to children with TH, children who are HH produced fewer misspelled words (p = .041, d = .42) at second grade but performed similarly in fourth grade (p = .943, d = .02). Compared to peers with TH, children who are HH demonstrated similar distributions of errors in roots but some differences in the distribution of errors for affixes. Different levels of aided audibility among children who are HH were not associated with significant differences in spelling accuracy at both grades. However, second-grade children with poorer aided audibility produced significantly more phonological omissions (p = .005, r = .32) and orthographic consonant errors for monomorphemic words (p = .001, r = .37), as well as more orthographic consonant errors for and affixes (p = .015, r = .28).
Wealth Inequality in the Long Run: A Schumpeterian Growth Perspective
Authors: Madsen Jakob B , Minniti Antonio , Venturini Francesco
Published: June 2020

This paper extends the analysis of the wealth–income ratio based on the neoclassical model in a Schumpeterian growth framework in which savings are channelled to both tangible and intangible capital investment. Using historical data for 21 OECD countries over the period 1860–2015, we find that the wealth–income ratio and, hence, wealth inequality, is negatively related to the rate of economic growth and positively related to the rates of investment in intangible and tangible assets, as predicted by the theory. Accounting for the innovation-induced counteracting growth effect on the wealth–income ratio, we show that the net effect of investment in intangibles on wealth inequality is positive. Our estimates suggest that intangibles have been a contributing factor in wealth inequality since 1860 and that the marked increase in the investment in intangible assets in the post–WWII period has been a significant driver of wealth inequality since the 1970s.
The ‘double transition’: a novel electrocardiogram sign to discriminate posteroseptal accessory pathways ablated from the right endocardium from those requiring a left-sided or epicardial coronary venous approach
Authors: Pascale Patrizio , Hunziker Samuel , Denis Arnaud , Gómez Flores Jorge Rafael , Roten Laurent , Shah Ashok J , Scherr Daniel , Komatsu Yuki , Ramoul Khaled , Daly Matthew , LeBloa Mathieu , Pruvot Etienne , Derval Nicolas , Sacher Frédéric , Hocini Mélèze , Jaïs Pierre , Haïssaguerre Michel
Published: June 2020

Aims

The precise localization of manifest posteroseptal accessory pathways (APs) often poses diagnostic challenges considering that a small area may encompass AP that may be ablated from the right or left endocardium, or epicardially within the coronary sinus (CS). We sought to explore whether the QRS transition pattern in the precordial lead may help to discriminate the necessary ablation approach.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients who underwent a successful ablation of a single manifest AP over a 5-year period were included. Standard 12-lead electrocardiograms were reviewed. A total of 273 patients were identified. Mean age was 31 ± 15 years and 62% were male. Of the 110 identified posteroseptal AP, 64 were ablated from the right endocardium, 33 from the left endocardium, and 13 inside the CS. While a normal precordial QRS transition was most often observed, a subset of 33 patients presented an atypical ‘double transition’ pattern which specifically identified right endocardial AP. The combination of a q wave in V1 with a proportion of the positive QRS component in V1 < V2 > V3, predicted a right endocardial AP with a 100% specificity. In case of a positive QRS sum in V2, this ‘double transition’ pattern predicted a posteroseptal right endocardial AP with 99.5% specificity and 44% sensitivity. The positive predictive value was 97%. The only false positive was a midseptal AP. In the case of a negative or isoelectric QRS sum in V2, APs were located more laterally on the tricuspid annulus.

Conclusion

The combination of a q wave in V1 with a double QRS transition pattern in the precordial leads is highly specific of a right endocardial AP and rules out the need for CS or left-sided mapping.
Laparoscopic gastrectomy for elderly gastric-cancer patients: comparisons with laparoscopic gastrectomy in non-elderly patients and open gastrectomy in the elderly
Authors: Li Zheng-Yan , Chen Jie , Bai Bin , Xu Shuai , Song Dan , Lian Bo , Li Ji-Peng , Ji Gang , Zhao Qing-Chuan
Published: June 2020

Background

The benefits of laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) in elderly gastric-cancer patients still remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of LG in elderly gastric-cancer patients.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent LG or open gastrectomy (OG) between June 2009 and July 2015 in a single high-volume center. We compared surgical, short-term, and long-term survival outcomes among an elderly (≥70 years old) LG (ELG) group (n = 114), a non-elderly (<70 years old) LG (NLG) group (n = 740), and an elderly OG (EOG) group (n = 383).

Results

Except for extended time to first flatus, the surgical and short-term outcomes of the ELG group were similar to those of the NLG group. The ELG group revealed comparable disease-specific survival (DSS) rates to the NLG group (64.9% vs 66.2%, P = 0.476), although the overall survival (OS) rate was lower (57.0% vs 65.5%, P < 0.001) in the ELG group than in the NLG group. The ELG group showed longer operation time than the EOG group (236.4 ± 77.3 vs 179 ± 52.2 min, P < 0.001). The ELG group had less estimated blood loss (174.0 ± 88.4 vs 209.3 ± 133.8, P = 0.008) and shorter post-operative hospital stay (8.3 ± 2.5 vs 9.2 ± 4.5, P = 0.048) than the EOG group. The severity of complications was similar between the ELG and NLG groups. Multivariate analysis confirmed that LG was not a risk factor for post-operative complications.

Conclusions

LG is a feasible and safe procedure for elderly patients with acceptable short- and long-term survival outcomes.
Bilateral thoracic duct ligation for persisting postoperative chylothorax
Authors: Rouiller Benoît , Lutz Jon A , Kocher Gregor J , Magnusson Lennart
Published: June 2020

Herein, we report the case of a patient with persistent postoperative chylothorax despite right supradiaphragmal ligation of the thoracic duct. Computed tomography lymphangiography after lipiodol injection demonstrated a correctly ligated right thoracic duct but an anatomical variation with patent left-sided thoracic duct, which was successfully ligated afterwards by video-assisted thoracic surgery.
Investigating the transformation efficiency of scientific and technological achievements in China’s equipment manufacturing industry under the low-carbon economy
Authors: Li Weijuan , Zhang Pengcheng
Published: June 2020

The development of a low-carbon economy is an inevitable choice for the world to coordinate industrial economic growth and environmental issues actively. At the same time, science and technology are the cornerstones for the development of a low-carbon economy. The equipment manufacturing industry (EMI) in China is known as the base of the low-carbon sector. Still, the research of coordinating industry carbon emission and economic growth from the perspective of science and technology is insufficient. For this reason, this work comprehensively analyzed the economic development and carbon emission of China’s EMI. The DEA (data envelopment analysis) Malmquist method was used to measure the transformation efficiency of scientific and technological achievements of the EMI from 2009 to 2017. The results can show that: (1) the economic benefits of China’s EMI were increasing year by year, but the growth rate is declining. With the optimization of industrial structure, the energy consumption and carbon emission of the industry have improved, but there is still a large gap between different sectors; (2) the achievement transformation of EMI decreases by year due to the influence of technological progress efficiency; and (3) in terms of sector data efficiency in 2017, there is redundancy in the investment of general EMI (B2) and special EMI (B3). This work can provide a reference for the development of countries dominated by industry and to jointly realize the sustainable development of the world economy.
Serum Cytokine and Chemokine Profile in Relation to the Severity of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in China
Authors: Chi Ying , Ge Yiyue , Wu Bin , Zhang Wenshuai , Wu Tao , Wen Tian , Liu Jingxian , Guo Xiling , Huang Chao , Jiao Yongjun , Zhu Fengcai , Zhu Baoli , Cui Lunbiao
Published: June 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We investigated the serum cytokine and chemokine levels in asymptomatic, mild, moderate, severe, and convalescent SARS-CoV-2–infected cases. Proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine production induced by SARS-CoV-2 were observed not only in symptomatic patients but also in asymptomatic cases, and returned to normal after recovery. IL-6, IL-7, IL-10, IL-18, G-CSF, M-CSF, MCP-1, MCP-3, IP-10, MIG, and MIP-1α were found to be associated with the severity of COVID-19. Moreover, a set of cytokine and chemokine profiles were significantly higher in SARS-CoV-2–infected male than female patients. The serum levels of MCP-1, G-CSF, and VEGF were weakly and positively correlated with viral titers. We suggest that combinatorial analysis of serum cytokines and chemokines with clinical classification may contribute to evaluation of the severity of COVID-19 and optimize the therapeutic strategies.
Association of Genetic Polymorphisms in DC-SIGN, Toll-Like Receptor 3, and Tumor Necrosis Factor α Genes and the Lewis-Negative Phenotype With Chikungunya Infection and Disease in Nicaragua
Authors: Bucardo Filemón , Reyes Yaoska , Morales Marlen , Briceño Rafaela , González Fredman , Lundkvist Åke , Svensson Lennart , Nordgren Johan
Published: June 2020

Background

Chikungunya infections range from subclinical infection to debilitating arthralgia and to chronic inflammatory rheumatism. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, DC-SIGN (dendritic cell–specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3–grabbing nonintegrin), Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3, and blood groups have been directly or indirectly implicated in the susceptibility and pathogenesis of chikungunya.

Methods

To test the hypothesis that polymorphisms in genes coding for these molecules determine clinical outcomes of chikungunya infection, a retrospective case-control study was performed in León, Nicaragua. The study included 132 case patients and 132 controls, matched for age, sex and neighborhood. Case patients had clinical symptoms of chikungunya, which was diagnosed by means of polymerase chain reaction. Controls were individuals not reporting abrupt presentation of clinical chikungunya-like symptoms. Polymorphisms were identified by TaqMan single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping assays.

Results

After adjustment for sociodemographic risk factors, chikungunya disease was associated with polymorphism in DC-SIGN and TLR3 genes (odds ratios, 5.2 and 3.3, respectively), and TNF-α with reduced persistent joint pain (0.24). Persistent joint pain was also associated with age, female sex and other comorbid conditions. Most interestingly, the Lewis-negative phenotype was strongly associated with both symptomatic chikungunya and immunoglobulin G seropositivity (odds ratios, 2.7, and 3.3, respectively).

Conclusion

This study identified polymorphisms in DC-SIGN, TLR3, and TNF-α genes as well as Lewis-negative phenotype as risk factors for chikungunya infection and disease progression.
Clindamycin Protects Nonhuman Primates Against Inhalational Anthrax But Does Not Enhance Reduction of Circulating Toxin Levels When Combined With Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Vietri Nicholas J , Tobery Steven A , Chabot Donald J , Ingavale Susham , Somerville Brandon C , Miller Jeremy A , Schellhase Chris W , Twenhafel Nancy A , Fetterer David P , Cote Christopher K , Klimko Christopher P , Boyer Anne E , Woolfitt Adrian R , Barr John R , Wright Mary E , Friedlander Arthur M
Published: June 2020

Background

Inhalational anthrax is rare and clinical experience limited. Expert guidelines recommend treatment with combination antibiotics including protein synthesis-inhibitors to decrease toxin production and increase survival, although evidence is lacking.

Methods

Rhesus macaques exposed to an aerosol of Bacillus anthracis spores were treated with ciprofloxacin, clindamycin, or ciprofloxacin + clindamycin after becoming bacteremic. Circulating anthrax lethal factor and protective antigen were quantitated pretreatment and 1.5 and 12 hours after beginning antibiotics.

Results

In the clindamycin group, 8 of 11 (73%) survived demonstrating its efficacy for the first time in inhalational anthrax, compared to 9 of 9 (100%) with ciprofloxacin, and 8 of 11 (73%) with ciprofloxacin + clindamycin. These differences were not statistically significant. There were no significant differences between groups in lethal factor or protective antigen levels from pretreatment to 12 hours after starting antibiotics. Animals that died after clindamycin had a greater incidence of meningitis compared to those given ciprofloxacin or ciprofloxacin + clindamycin, but numbers of animals were very low and no definitive conclusion could be reached.

Conclusion

Treatment of inhalational anthrax with clindamycin was as effective as ciprofloxacin in the nonhuman primate. Addition of clindamycin to ciprofloxacin did not enhance reduction of circulating toxin levels.
A Role for Taok2 in Listeria monocytogenes Vacuolar Escape
Authors: Quereda Juan J , Morel Camille , Lopez-Montero Noelia , Ziveri Jason , Rolland Steven , Grenier Théodore , Aulner Nathalie , Danckaert Anne , Charbit Alain , Enninga Jost , Cossart Pascale , Pizarro-Cerdá Javier
Published: June 2020

The bacterial pathogen Listeria monocytogenes invades host cells, ruptures the internalization vacuole, and reaches the cytosol for replication. A high-content small interfering RNA (siRNA) microscopy screen allowed us to identify epithelial cell factors involved in L. monocytogenes vacuolar rupture, including the serine/threonine kinase Taok2. Kinase activity inhibition using a specific drug validated a role for Taok2 in favoring L. monocytogenes cytoplasmic access. Furthermore, we showed that Taok2 recruitment to L. monocytogenes vacuoles requires the presence of pore-forming toxin listeriolysin O. Overall, our study identified the first set of host factors modulating L. monocytogenes vacuolar rupture and cytoplasmic access in epithelial cells.
The ethical case for global measles eradication—justice and the Rule of Rescue
Authors: Durrheim David N , Andrus Jon K
Published: June 2020

Measles causes a substantial disease burden for all countries, while mortality is greatest in underserved, marginalized populations. Global measles eradication is feasible and the strategies critically rely upon well-functioning national immunisation programs and surveillance systems. All six regions of the World Health Organisation have adopted measles elimination targets. The Rule of Rescue and the principle of justice leave no ethical place for health programs, governments, global public health bodies or donors to hide if they impede efforts to eradicate measles globally by not taking all necessary actions to establish a global eradication target and committing the resources essential to achieve this goal.
The Practitioner’s Bookshelf: In Praise of the Human Rights Textbook
Authors: Phillips Brian
Published: June 2020

This instalment of ‘The Practitioner’s Bookshelf’ makes the case for the human rights textbook as an appealing option for human rights practitioners needing to refresh and extend their knowledge and understanding of recent developments in our field. The author assesses a quartet of new human rights textbooks with particular reference to their discussion of contemporary thinking and debate among scholars and practitioners about the definition of torture in international law.