bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EU constitutional limits to the Europeanization of punishment: A case study on offenders’ rehabilitation
Authors: Wieczorek Irene
Published: February 2019

This article contributes to the debate on the functions and limits of cross-border punishment. It uses two existing Framework Decisions as case studies, namely on Transfer of Prisoners (2008/909) and on Transfer of Probationers (2008/947). These texts include promoting the rehabilitative function of punishment in cross-border cases among their objectives. However, they have been criticized for not being fit for their purpose and being just an instrument for ‘covert’ deportation of foreign offenders. This article argues that European Union norms on punishment should be assessed considering the broader EU constitutional law framework, which requires EU norms not to compress disproportionately national regulatory autonomy (Article 5 Treaty on European Union). Against this background, it submits that some of the criticisable features of these Framework Decisions are not a neglect of the core objective of offenders’ rehabilitation but, in fact, the result of a legitimate balance with the interest of national regulatory autonomy. In broader terms, this illustrates that the Europeanization of criminal justice can help to ensure the certainty of punishment in transnational cases. Yet, due to some institutional limits, it can also compromise the effective achievement of all its functions.
Effective Mathematics Instruction for Students With Moderate and Severe Disabilities: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Bowman Jessica A. , McDonnell John , Ryan Joanna H. , Fudge-Coleman Olivia
Published: February 2019

Educational programs for students with moderate and severe disabilities (MSD) have undergone drastic changes since the mandate for access to the general curriculum was provided by Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. Since then, educators have struggled to find methods to use to promote optimal learning, including in the area of mathematics. The purpose of this systematic literature review was to provide an update on research related to teaching mathematics to students with MSD published from 2005 to 2017. Results from the included studies indicated that mathematics research has started to diversify in the skills that are being taught to this population. In addition to skills taught, current research has continued to inform the field on some promising methods that can be used to teach a broader range of mathematics skills. Emerging strategies that were identified included the use of concrete representations, anchored instruction, and instructional technology. Suggestions for future research are discussed.
Feeling Hopeful Motivates Change: Emotional Responses to Messages Communicating Comparative Risk of Electronic Cigarettes and Combusted Cigarettes
Authors: Yang Bo , Liu Jiaying , Popova Lucy
Published: February 2019

Background. Emotions are important in smoking-related communications, but the role of discrete positive and negative emotions in comparative risk messages about combusted and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is unclear. Method. In an online experiment, 1,202 U.S. adult current smokers or recent quitters were randomized to view one of six messages about comparative risk of e-cigarettes and cigarettes. Participants reported their feelings of hope, happiness, fear, guilt, disgust, and anger and risk perceptions and behavioral intentions about e-cigarettes and cigarettes. Results. Hope was associated with higher perceived absolute cigarette risk, lower perceived absolute and comparative e-cigarette risk, and stronger intentions to quit smoking, seek quit help, use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), switch to e-cigarettes, and use e-cigarettes exclusively versus dual use. Happiness was related to stronger intentions to seek quit help, use NRT, and switch to e-cigarettes but higher perceived comparative risk of e-cigarettes. Fear was associated with stronger intentions to quit smoking, seek quit help, use NRT, and switch to e-cigarettes. Guilt was related to higher perceived absolute cigarette risk, lower perceived comparative e-cigarette risk, and stronger intentions to use NRT. Disgust was associated with higher absolute and comparative e-cigarette risk and stronger intentions to quit smoking, seek quit help, and use e-cigarettes exclusively versus dual use. Anger was related to lower perceived absolute cigarette risk, higher perceived comparative e-cigarette risk, and weaker intentions to quit smoking. Conclusion. Comparative risk messages about e-cigarettes that arouse hope, fear, and guilt and avoid anger might be particularly likely to have positive impact on smokers.
Comparison of visual and optical quality of monofocal versus multifocal intraocular lenses
Authors: Altemir-Gomez Irene , Millan Maria S , Vega Fidel , Bartol-Puyal Francisco , Gimenez-Calvo Galadriel , Larrosa Jose M , Polo Vicente , Pablo Luis E , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: February 2019

Objective:

To compare visual quality in patients implanted with Tecnis® monofocal (ZCB00) and multifocal (ZMB00) intraocular lenses taking into account their optical quality measured in vitro with an eye model.

Methods:

In total, 122 patients participated in this study: 44 implanted with monofocal and 78 with multifocal intraocular lenses. Measurements of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were performed. The optical quality of the intraocular lenses was evaluated in three image planes (distance, intermediate and near) using an eye model on a test bench. The metric considered was the area under the curve of the modulation transfer function.

Results:

Optical quality at the far focus of the monofocal intraocular lens (area under the curve of the modulation transfer function = 66.97) was considerably better than that with the multifocal lens (area under the curve of the modulation transfer function = 32.54). However, no significant differences were observed between groups at the distance-corrected visual acuity. Distance-corrected near vision was better in the multifocal (0.15 ± 0.20 logMAR) than that in the monofocal group (0.43 ± 0.21 logMAR, p < 0.001), which correlated with the better optical quality at near reached by the multifocal intraocular lens (area under the curve of the modulation transfer function = 29.11) in comparison with the monofocal intraocular lens (area under the curve of the modulation transfer function = 5.0). In intermediate vision, visual acuity was 0.28 ± 0.16 logMAR (multifocal) and 0.36 ± 0.14 logMAR (monofocal) with p = 0.014, also in good agreement with the values measured in the optical quality (area under the curve of the modulation transfer function = 10.69 (multifocal) and 8.86 (monofocal)). The contrast sensitivity was similar in almost all frequencies. Pelli–Robson was slightly better in the monofocal (1.73) than in the multifocal group (1.64; p = 0.023).

Conclusion:

Patients implanted with multifocal ZMB00 achieved a distance visual acuity similar to those implanted with monofocal ZCB00, but showed significantly better intermediate and near visual acuity. A correlation was found between intraocular lenses’ optical quality and patients’ visual acuity. Contrast sensitivity was very similar between the multifocal and monofocal groups.
Formability of AA6061 alloy sheets in warm forming temperature range
Authors: Raja Satish D , Ravi Kumar D
Published: February 2019

Significant improvement in formability of aluminum alloys can be obtained when these materials are formed in the warm working temperature range (below recrystallization temperature). In the present work, an experimental set up is designed and developed to determine formability of Al–Mg–Si alloy (AA 6061) sheets of different thickness in the temperature range of 200–300 ℃. It consists of lower and upper dies with casing heaters, a hemispherical bottom punch with heating element, controls for punch displacement and speed of the 60-ton double action hydraulic press used in the experiments. An attempt has been made to experimentally determine the influence of punch speed, temperature, and sheet thickness on the limiting dome height and forming limit diagram in the warm working temperature range. The effect of temperature and strain rate on tensile properties of the alloy has also been studied. The plane strain intercept values of forming limit diagram (FLD0 which is the major strain value at zero minor strain), determined experimentally at different conditions and thicknesses, have been used to develop a correlation for FLD0 with temperature, punch speed and thickness. The FLD0 values obtained from the developed correlation agreed well with the experimental values with the difference less than 10% in most cases. The confirmatory experiments at an intermediate punch speed showed an error of just 8%. The effect of temperature and punch speed on strain distribution in the forming limit diagram samples and the load–displacement curves has also been analyzed.
Toward a New Measure of State-Level LGBT Interest Group Strength
Authors: Taylor Jami K. , Haider-Markel Donald P. , Rogers Benjamin
Published: February 2019

Attempts to assess the influence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) groups on LGBT-related policy are hampered by imprecise measurement of LGBT group strength and activity. This research note examines the problems with existing measures of state-level LGBT advocacy strength and it develops an alternative measure of LGBT advocacy group strength. We utilize revenue and asset data available from the National Center for Charitable Statistics to develop better and reproducible state-level measures of LGBT interest group strength on an annual basis. We compare our measures to existing measures and demonstrate their utility for the ongoing study of LGBT politics. The approach used in construction of our measure can be extended over time, is replicable in other issue areas, and thus has broad utility for the study of interest groups at the subnational level.
Preparation and characteristics of an advanced polyester tire cord with hybrid effect
Authors: Tian Liyong , Lv Pengfei , Zhuo Jianrui , Wei Qufu
Published: February 2019

Many efforts have been made to study new reinforced materials to meet the increasing demands of various products. Hybrid cords have attracted a great deal of attention due to low cost and incomparable properties. Nylon and polyester are currently two of the most prevalent materials used as tire cords, while how to incorporate both of their desirable properties into one cord has been a meaningful scientific research. In this study, a new advanced polyester tire cord was developed by adopting the design of experiment. Its stress–strain curve demonstrated a high modulus typical for the standard polyester thus improving tire dimensional stability and handling performance and high breaking elongation up to 21.7% that was a favorable characteristic of nylon cord creating a hybrid effect. H-adhesion experiment showed that this advanced cord had comparable adhesion to rubber as the standard polyester tire cord and could be used for production of tires.
Mutual Profiteering: Sensational Journalism, Society Columns, and Mrs James Brown Potter’s Theatrical Debuts
Authors: Curley Eileen
Published: February 2019

In 1887, amateur theatrical performer Cora Urquhart Brown Potter turned professional amid a maelstrom of international newspaper coverage. Newspapers picked up the story of her career, feeding a desire for salacious gossip at the expense of the elite celebrity cast as a fallen woman. Yet, Potter and the press developed a symbiotic relationship, as her non-traditional path to the stage required that she transform her personal celebrity into a professional one in order to attract audiences and bookings. The papers obliged and, as the story developed and her celebrity transformed, they shifted their coverage of Potter’s journey from society columns, to theatrical columns, to sensational front-page spreads. Potter’s early career paralleled and capitalised on such new developments in the newspaper industry and its messaging. While the press continued to sell her scandal, Potter used the papers to profit from her society past while forging her future as a theatre professional.
Systematic review on outcome of free functioning muscle transfers for elbow flexion in brachial plexus injuries
Authors: Yi Lee Tina Munn , Sechachalam Sreedharan , Satkunanantham Mala
Published: February 2019

Elbow flexion is widely regarded as the most important function to restore in brachial plexus injuries. Free functioning muscle transfer surgery is indicated in patients with delayed presentation or failure of other primary procedures. Results of the transfer surgeries have been reported in the form of case series, but no further studies are available. This systematic review aims to provide a deeper understanding of this complex surgery and consists of 19 articles that include 364 patients. Data on injury characteristics, surgical techniques, complications as well as outcome measures were analysed. Our results show that functional muscle transfer for elbow flexion enables 87% and 65% of patients to achieve a useful power grade of ≥ 3 and ≥ 4, respectively, although other important outcome factors should be considered.
A Validation Study of Administrative Health Care Data to Detect Acute Kidney Injury in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: D’Arienzo David , Hessey Erin , Ali Rami , Perreault Sylvie , Samuel Susan , Roy Louise , Lacroix Jacques , Jouvet Philippe , Morissette Genevieve , Dorais Marc , Lafrance Jean-Philippe , Phan Veronique , Pizzi Michael , Chanchlani Rahul , Zappitelli Michael
Published: February 2019

Background:

Large studies evaluating pediatric acute kidney injury (AKI) epidemiology and outcomes are lacking, partially due to underuse of large administrative health care data.

Objective:

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of administrative health care data-defined AKI in children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Design:

Retrospective cohort study utilizing chart and administrative data.

Setting:

Children admitted to the PICU at 2 centers in Montreal, QC.

Patients:

Patients between 0 and 18 years old with a provincial health insurance number, without end-stage renal disease and admitted to the PICU between January 1, 2003, and March 31, 2005, were included.

Measurements:

The AKI was defined from chart data using the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) definition (Chart-AKI). The AKI defined using administrative health data (Admin-AKI) was based on International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision ( ICD-9) AKI codes.

Methods:

Data available from retrospective chart review, including baseline and PICU patient characteristics, and serum creatinine (SCr) and urine output (UO) values during PICU admission, were merged with provincial administrative health care data containing diagnostic and procedure codes used for ascertaining Admin-AKI. Sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive value of Admin-AKI compared with Chart-AKI (reference standard) were calculated. Univariable associations between Admin-AKI and hospital mortality were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 2051 patients (55% male, mean age at admission 6.1 ± 5.8 years, 355 cardiac surgery, 1696 noncardiac surgery) were included. The AKI defined by SCr or UO criteria occurred in 52% of cardiac surgery patients and 24% of noncardiac surgery patients. Overall, Admin-AKI detected Chart-AKI with low sensitivity, but high specificity in cardiac and noncardiac surgery patients. Sensitivity increased by 1.5 to 2 fold with each increase in AKI severity stage. Admin-AKI was associated with hospital mortality (13% in Admin-AKI vs 2% in non-AKI, P < .001).

Limitations:

These data were generated in a PICU population; future research should study non-PICU populations.

Conclusions:

Use of administrative health care data to define AKI in children leads to AKI incidence underestimation. However, for detecting more severe AKI, sensitivity is higher, while maintaining high specificity.
Effect of Lower Limb Alignment in Medial Meniscus–Deficient Knees on Tibiofemoral Contact Pressure
Authors: Willinger Lukas , Foehr Peter , Achtnich Andrea , Forkel Philipp , Voss Andreas , Liska Franz , Lacheta Lucca , Imhoff Andreas B. , Burgkart Rainer
Published: February 2019

Background:

Degenerative medial meniscal tears and subsequent partial meniscal resection compromise meniscal function and lead to an overload of the medial compartment. In addition, lower limb alignment plays a key role in load distribution between the medial and lateral knee compartments, and varus alignment is a potential risk factor for medial osteoarthritis.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this biomechanical study was to investigate the effect of valgus and varus alignment on peak pressure and contact area in knees with concomitant horizontal medial meniscal tears and subsequent leaflet resection. It was hypothesized that varus alignment in combination with meniscal loss leads to the highest peak pressure within the medial compartment.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Six fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees were axially loaded using a 1000-N compressive load in full extension with the mechanical axis rotated to intersect the tibial plateau at 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, and 60% of its width (TPW) to simulate varus and valgus alignment. Tibiofemoral peak contact pressure and contact area of the medial and lateral compartments were determined using pressure-sensitive foils in each of 4 different meniscal conditions: intact, 15-mm horizontal tear of the posterior horn, inferior leaflet resection, and resection of both leaflets.

Results:

The effect of alignment on peak pressure (normalized to the neutral axis) within the medial compartment in cases of an intact meniscus was measured as follows: varus shift resulted in a mean increase in peak pressure of 18.5% at 45% of the TPW and 37.4% at 40% of the TPW, whereas valgus shift led to a mean decrease in peak pressure of 8.7% at 55% of the TPW and 23.1% at 60% of the TPW. Peak pressure changes between the intact meniscus and resection within the medial compartment was less in valgus-aligned knees (0.21 MPa at 60% TPW, 0.59 MPa at 50% TPW, and 0.76 MPa at 40% TPW). Contact area was significantly reduced after partial meniscal resection in the neutral axis (intact, 553.5 ± 87.6 mm2; resection of both leaflets, 323.3 ± 84.2 mm2; P < .001). This finding was consistent in any alignment.

Conclusion:

Both partial medial meniscal resection and varus alignment led to an increase in medial compartment peak pressure. Valgus alignment prevented medial overloading by decreasing contact pressure even after partial meniscal resection. A horizontal meniscal tear did not influence peak pressure and contact area even in varus alignment.

Clinical Relevance:

As a clinical consequence, partial meniscal resection should be avoided to maintain the original biomechanical behavior, and the mechanical axis should be taken into account if partial meniscectomy is necessary.
The Middle and Distal Aspects of the Ulnar Footprint of the Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament of the Elbow Do Not Provide Significant Resistance to Valgus Stress: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Erickson Brandon J. , Fu Michael , Meyers Kate , Camp Christopher L. , Altchek David W. , Coleman Struan H. , Dines Joshua S.
Published: February 2019

Background:

The medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) insertion of the elbow has been shown to extend distally beyond the sublime tubercle. The contribution to valgus stability of the distal aspect of the footprint is unknown.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of each part of the UCL footprint to the elbow valgus stability provided by the UCL. It was hypothesized that the distal two-thirds of the ulnar UCL footprint would not contribute significantly to valgus stability provided by the UCL.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Fifteen cadaveric arms were dissected to the capsuloligamentous elbow structures and potted. A servohydraulic load frame was used to place 5 N·m of valgus stress on the intact elbow at 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° of flexion. The UCL insertional footprint was measured and divided into thirds (proximal, middle, and distal). One-third of the UCL footprint was elevated off the bone (leaving the ligament in continuity), and the elbow was retested at the same degrees of flexion. This was repeated until the entire UCL footprint on the ulna was sectioned. Each elbow was randomized for how the UCL would be sectioned (sectioning the proximal, then middle, and then distal third or sectioning the distal, then middle, and then proximal third). Ulnohumeral joint gapping (millimeters) was recorded with a 3-dimensional motion capture system using physical and virtual markers. Two-group comparisons were made between each sectioned status versus the intact condition for each flexion angle.

Results:

When the UCL was sectioned from distal to proximal, none of the ligaments failed prior to complete sectioning. When the UCL was sectioned from proximal to distal, 3 of the 6 ligaments failed after sectioning of the proximal third, while 2 more failed after the proximal and middle thirds were sectioned. Of the specimens with the distal third of the ligament sectioned first, no significant differences were found between intact, distal third cut, and distal plus middle thirds cut at all flexion angles.

Conclusion:

The middle and distal thirds of the insertional footprint of the UCL on the ulna did not significantly contribute to gap resistance at 5 N·m of valgus load. The proximal third of the footprint is the primary resistor of valgus load.

Clinical Relevance:

This cadaveric biomechanical study demonstrated that the middle and distal thirds of the native UCL insertion onto the ulna did not significantly contribute to valgus resistance at the elbow. When a UCL reconstruction is performed, the proximal third of the UCL insertion may be the most clinically important portion of the ligament to reconstruct.
Myelofibrosis osteoclasts are clonal and functionally impaired
Authors: Veletic Ivo , Manshouri Taghi , Multani Asha S. , Yin C. Cameron , Chen Lei , Verstovsek Srdan , Estrov Zeev
Published: February 2019

Bone marrow (BM) sclerosis is commonly found in patients with late-stage myelofibrosis (MF). Because osteoclasts (OCs) and osteoblasts play a key role in bone remodeling, and MF monocytes, the OC precursors, are derived from the neoplastic clone, we wondered whether decreased OC numbers or impairment in their osteolytic function affects the development of osteosclerosis. Analysis of BM biopsies from 50 MF patients showed increased numbers of multinucleated tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)/cathepsin K+ OCs expressing phosphorylated Janus kinase 2 (JAK2). Randomly microdissected TRAP+ OCs from 16 MF patients harbored JAK2 or calreticulin (CALR) mutations, confirming MF OCs are clonal. To study OC function, CD14+ monocytes from MF patients and healthy individuals were cultured and differentiated into OCs. Unlike normal OCs, MF OCs appeared small and round, with few protrusions, and carried the mutations and chromosomal abnormalities of neoplastic clones. In addition, MF OCs lacked F-actin–rich ring-like structures and had fewer nuclei and reduced colocalization signals, compatible with decreased fusion events, and their mineral resorption capacity was significantly reduced, indicating impaired osteolytic function. Taken together, our data suggest that, although the numbers of MF OCs are increased, their impaired osteolytic activity distorts bone remodeling and contributes to the induction of osteosclerosis.
European Respiratory Society International Congress, Paris, 2018: highlights from the Clinical Assembly
Authors: Vanfleteren Lowie E.G.W. , Ojanguren Iñigo , Nolan Claire M. , Franssen Frits M.E. , Andrianopoulos Vasileios , Grgic Aleksandar , van Dijk Marlies , Slebos Dirk Jan , Daines Luke , Kocks Janwillem W.H. , Kahn Nicolas
Published: February 2019

This article contains highlights and a selection of the scientific advances from the European Respiratory Society's Clinical Assembly (Assembly 1 and its five respective groups) that were presented at the 2018 European Respiratory Society International Congress in Paris, France. The most relevant topics from each of the groups will be discussed, covering a wide range of areas including clinical problems, rehabilitation and chronic care, thoracic imaging, interventional pulmonology, and general practice and primary care. The newest research, actual data and highlight sessions will be discussed.
Expression of Concern to: Clinical study of Gene‐Eden‐VIR/Novirin in genital herpes: suppressive treatment safely decreases the duration of outbreaks in both severe and mild cases
Authors: Polansky Hanan , Itzkovitz Edan , Javaherian Adrian
Published: February 2019

The Editor of this journal has published this Expression of Concern to alert readers that, following publication of the article [1], it came to light that there were undeclared competing interests that have a direct impact on the article and the strength of its findings. In addition, post publication peer review has indicated that the conclusions may not be supported by the results due to methodological flaws in the study. Pending further investigation of these concerns, further editorial action may be taken. The authors have not responded to any correspondence about this Expression of Concern.
A new strategy of crosswell correlation for channel sandstone reservoirs — An example from Daqing oilfield, China
Authors: Li Shengli , Gao Xingjun
Published: February 2019

Crosswell correlation for subsurface channel sandstone reservoirs is a difficult problem for geologists worldwide because it is hard for us to know the subsurface sand-body distribution situation. Different correlation methods or strategies result in different sand-body stacking and reservoir connecting models. Sand-body correlation for channel sandstones with only static geologic methods is prone to cause high uncertainties in the analysis for sand-body distribution and connection due to their complexity and heterogeneity. Combining outcrop images and wireline logs, we have evaluated seven channel correlation models. We developed a new channel sand-body correlation strategy with four steps with a case study, combining channel architecture patterns, different correlation models, and tracer test data. The four-step correlation method consists of channel-belt correlation, isolated channel sand-body correlation, barrier and baffle analysis, and impacts of reservoir structure. Furthermore, the channel reservoir connectivity was also analyzed in terms of connection efficiency derived from tracer test data as well as in terms of barrier and baffle obtained from channel-body correlation results. We found that the new correlation workflow integrated with our correlation models reduced the uncertainty of subsurface channel sand-body correlation in the study area. In addition, the channel correlation strategy can approach the subsurface sand-body connection reality of the reservoir distribution and reflect the real production performance in the study area. The correlation strategy and models in the paper could be applied to other analogous subsurface channel reservoirs.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: what do we know so far?
Authors: Coglan Laura , Otasowie John
Published: February 2019

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) was a new diagnosis in DSM-5 and is due to be included in ICD-11. However, confidence in making the diagnosis seems to be low among clinicians. Furthermore, there is no national consensus on care pathways for ARFID and therefore patients tend to be managed across core child and adolescent mental health services, specialist eating disorder services and paediatric services. If not adequately treated, ARFID can result in stunted growth, nutritional deficiency and impaired psychosocial functioning. Research and guidelines for managing this disorder are scarce, owing to low rates of diagnosis. This article aims to improve clinician confidence in the use of ARFID as a diagnosis and explores current consensus on treatment approaches, in order to progress future service planning for this complex and diverse patient group.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

•

Gain an improved knowledge of the diagnostic criteria for ARFID

•

Know how to distinguish ARFID from other eating disorders

•

Understand the current consensus on treatment approaches for ARFID

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

None.
Uncertainties in practice: terrorism and mental illness
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep
Published: February 2019

Ho et al (2018) tackle a controversial and sensitive issue on which clinicians and the public have strong, often irreconcilable views, fuelled by their own experiences and political positions about the causes, consequences and necessary responses to political violence. This commentary explores some of the assumptions and uncertainties they present, as well as the framing of their position.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.
Interrogating the Constructions of Masculinist Protection and Militarism in the Syrian Constitution of 1973
Authors: Aldoughli Rahaf
Published: February 2019

This is a revisionist study of Syrian Baʾathism. At its heart is an examination of ingrained masculinist bias. This article argues that there is a reciprocal relationship between militarism and masculinity, achieved through gratifying protection for both the nation and women. While most feminist scholarship dealing with states formation in the Arab context attributes its gendered nature to dictatorship, patriarchy, and religion, there is no debate about the development of states and their relation to militarism and masculinism. This construction of militarized masculinity in Baʾath ideology ensures the preservation of gendered laws that perceive women as less equal. While teasing out this aspect, this study seeks to explore the status of women in the Syrian Constitution (1973) and laws by investigating the role of the state as a male protector in which women’s rights become challenged by the state’s paternalistic perceptions.
Cell-autonomous and redundant roles of Hey1 and HeyL in muscle stem cells: HeyL requires Hes1 to bind diverse DNA sites
Authors: Noguchi Yu-taro , Nakamura Miki , Hino Nobumasa , Nogami Jumpei , Tsuji Sayaka , Sato Takahiko , Zhang Lidan , Tsujikawa Kazutake , Tanaka Toru , Izawa Kohei , Okada Yoshiaki , Doi Takefumi , Kokubo Hiroki , Harada Akihito , Uezumi Akiyoshi , Gessler Manfred , Ohkawa Yasuyuki , Fukada So-ichiro
Published: February 2019

The undifferentiated state of muscle stem (satellite) cells (MuSCs) is maintained by the canonical Notch pathway. Although three bHLH transcriptional factors, Hey1, HeyL and Hes1, are considered to be potential effectors of the Notch pathway exerting anti-myogenic effects, neither HeyL nor Hes1 inhibits myogenic differentiation of myogenic cell lines. Furthermore, whether these factors work redundantly or cooperatively is unknown. Here, we showed cell-autonomous functions of Hey1 and HeyL in MuSCs using conditional and genetic null mice. Analysis of cultured MuSCs revealed anti-myogenic activity of both HeyL and Hes1. We found that HeyL forms heterodimeric complexes with Hes1 in living cells. Moreover, our ChIP-seq experiments demonstrated that, compared with HeyL alone, the HeyL-Hes1 heterodimer binds with high affinity to specific sites in the chromatin, including the binding sites of Hey1. Finally, analyses of myogenin promoter activity showed that HeyL and Hes1 act synergistically to suppress myogenic differentiation. Collectively, these results suggest that HeyL and Hey1 function redundantly in MuSCs, and that HeyL requires Hes1 for effective DNA binding and biological activity.
Atrophy, oxidative switching and ultrastructural defects in skeletal muscle of Ataxia Telangiectasia mouse model
Authors: Tassinari Valentina , De Gennaro Vincenzo , La Sala Gina , Marazziti Daniela , Bolasco Giulia , Aguanno Salvatore , De Angelis Luciana , Naro Fabio , Pellegrini Manuela
Published: February 2019

Ataxia Telangiectasia is a rare, multi system disease caused by ATM kinase deficiency. Atm knockout mice recapitulate premature aging, immunodeficiency, cancer predisposition, growth retardation and motor defects but not cerebellar neurodegeneration and ataxia. We explored if Atm loss is responsible of skeletal muscle defects by investigating myofiber morphology, oxidative/glycolytic activity, myocyte ultrastructural architecture and neuromuscular junctions.

Atm knockout mice showed reduced muscle and fiber size. Atrophy, protein synthesis impairment and switch from glycolytic to oxidative fibers were detected along with an increase of slow and fast myosin expression levels in tibialis anterior and solei muscles isolated from Atm knockout mice. Transmission electron microscopy of tibialis anterior revealed misalignments of z-lines and sarcomeres and mitochondria abnormalities, that were associated with increase of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, neuromuscular junctions appeared larger and more complex compared to Atm wild-type mice, but with preserved presynaptic terminals.

In conclusion, we report for the first time that Atm knockout mice have clear morphological skeletal muscle defects that will be relevant to investigate oxidative stress response, motor alteration and the interplay with peripheral nervous system in Ataxia Telangiectasia.
Tibiofemoral Joint Forces in Female Recreational Runners Vary with Step Frequency
Authors: THAKKAR BHUSHAN , WILLSON JOHN D. , HARRISON KATHRYN , TICKES ROBERT , BLAISE WILLIAMS D. S.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Elevated tibiofemoral joint (TFJ) contact forces have been linked to the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis. The primary objective of this study was to determine the association between peak TFJ shear and compression forces during running at different self-selected step frequencies (SF) in female recreational runners.

Methods

Fifty-five healthy female recreational runners ran at 2.98 m·s−1 on an instrumented treadmill. Peak TFJ anterior shear force, peak axial TFJ compression force, and peak medial compartment TFJ compression force were estimated using a musculoskeletal model with inputs from 3D joint kinematics and inverse dynamics calculations. Three SF groups were generated using tertiles, and differences between the groups were compared using one-way ANOVA (α = 0.05).

Results

Runners with an SF of ≥178 steps per minute demonstrated the lowest peak TFJ anterior shear force (P = 0.04), peak axial TFJ compression force (P = 0.01), and peak TFJ medial compartment compression forces (P = 0.01) compared with runners using lower SF.

Conclusion

Female recreational runners with low SF of ≤166 steps per minute experience greater TFJ contact forces. This study provides evidence of an association between SF and both shear and axial peak TFJ contact forces during running.
Clinical importance of lipid profile in neonatal calves with sepsis
Authors: Aydogdu Ugur , Coskun A. , Yildiz R. , Guzelbektes H. , Sen I.
Published: February 2019

In this study, it was aimed to determine of diagnostic importance blood lipid levels in neonatal calves with sepsis. The study was carried out on a total of 70 calves, 60 with sepsis and 10 healthy calves. The calves with sepsis were included in the study, according to clinical and hematological findings.  After routine clinical examinations of all the calves, blood samples were taken from the V. jugularis for hematological, lipid profile and biochemical analyzes. There were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in body temperature, increased in respiration rate and capillary refill time in the calves with sepsis, compared to control group calves. The levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine concentrations of calves with sepsis were significantly higher (P < 0.05), however, levels of total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and albumin concentrations were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than control group. In addition, blood triglyceride and VLDL concentrations of calves with sepsis were higher than control group, however there was no statistical difference.In conclusion, serum total cholesterol, HDL and LDL in neonatal calves with sepsis could be used in evaluation of the sepsis.
The effect of intrastromal PRP and oral doxycycline in corneal wound healing after alkali burn
Authors: Charalambidou Glykeria , Kofidou Evangelia , Papaioannou Nikolaos , Karampatakis Vasileios , Komnenou Anastasia
Published: February 2019

Ocular chemical burns are among the most critical and true ocular emergencies in dogs and cats, with destructive consequences on the ocular surface and intraocular tissues. Platelet alpha granules are an important reservoir of growth factors that can stimulate chemotaxis of inflammatory cells, mitosis, migration and differentiation of cells. On the other hand, tetracyclines and their derivatives exhibit non-antimicrobial properties, such as affecting inflammation, immunomodulation, cell proliferation and angiogenesis. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of intrastromal platelet rich plasma (PRP) in combination with oral doxycycline in the healing process of the cornea. Thirty six New Zealand rabbits were used in this experimental study. Alkali burns were created by applying a round filter paper soaked in NaOH. PRP was prepared by centrifugation of autologous blood. The rabbits were allocated to four groups (9 animals each). Group 1 served as the control group without any treatment. Group 2 received doxycycline (5mg/kg b.w.) orally once a day throughout the study. Group 3 received an intrastromal injection of PRP (0.5ml) in the cornea, and group 4 received intrastromal PRP combined with oral doxycycline. Treatments had varied levels of success, with PRP combined with oral doxycycline producing the best results regarding corneal healing. Animals in the control group had epithelial defects for the whole duration of the study, and 3 animals presented corneal perforation. Groups 3 and 4 had smaller mean defect area, compared to groups 1 and 2. On the 7th day, neovascularisation was lower in treatment groups compared to the control group. Groups 3 and 4 also had less corneal oedema compared to the control group on day 3 and 7. Group 4 exhibited the best wound healing, with less neovascularization and better collagen arrangement, as shown by the histopathological evaluation. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first experimental study that intrastromal PRP is combined with oral doxycycline for the management of corneal chemical burns. This combination is a simple, safe and economical therapeutic approach that promotes corneal healing.
Assessing the quality of biogeochemical coastal data: a step-wise procedure
Authors: SABIA LUCIANA , COSTANZO ANTONELLA , D’ALCALÀ MAURIZIO RIBERA , SAGGIOMO VINCENZO , ZINGONE ADRIANA , MARGIOTTA FRANCESCA
Published: February 2019

Coastal areas host valuable but vulnerable marine ecosystems subjected to increasing anthropogenic pressure and climate change consequences. To assess the impact of these pressures, monitoring programs have proliferated in coastal areas, but most of them follow locally established procedures for quality control (QC). The well-established QC procedure of open ocean data cannot simply be extended to the highly variable coastal area, for which there is the need to develop ad hoc QC approaches. This is particularly crucial for long-term time series, where different instrumentation and analytical methods have been applied over time. This study, based on the biogeochemical dataset collected over 30 years at the LTER MareChiara station (LTER-MC, Gulf of Naples, Mediterranean Sea), addresses potential discrepancies in a long-term dataset, identifying criteria and methods that could also be applied to other coastal datasets. We developed a serial step-wise procedure to characterize the quality of ~ 84,000 data-points, merging statistical tests and expert knowledge. The procedure included nine tests, each addressing potential problems in data generation and management, some of which of general application and others tailored to specific subsets of data. Based on these test, quality flags were assigned to individual data. Critical tests applied to two other independent datasets, showed that the procedure is not dataset dependent. These results contribute to bridge the gap between the need of objective QC criteria and the intrinsic noise of coastal datasets, promoting the discussion on this topic, and improving a proper management and sharing of coastal data.
Precision in pediatric epilepsy
Authors: Sharma Priya , Hussain Ammar , Greenwood Robert
Published: February 2019

Epilepsy in infants and children is one of the most common and devastating neurological disorders. In the past, we had a limited understanding of the causes of epilepsy in pediatric patients, so we treated pediatric epilepsy according to seizure type. Now with new tools and tests, we are entering the age of precision medicine in pediatric epilepsy. In this review, we use the new etiological classification system proposed by the International League Against Epilepsy to review the advances in the diagnosis of pediatric epilepsy, describe new tools to identify seizure foci for epilepsy surgery, and define treatable epilepsy syndromes.
Screening is not associated with reduced incidence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in men who have sex with men (MSM); an ecological study of 23 European countries
Authors: Kenyon Chris
Published: February 2019

Background:Increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance has motivated a reassessment of if intensive screening for gonorrhoea and chlamydia is associated with a reduction in the prevalence of these infections in men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods:Spearman’s correlation was used to evaluate the country-level correlation between the intensity of self-reported sexual transmitted infection (STI) screening in MSM (both anal and urethral screening, taken from a large internet survey of MSM) and the incidence (taken from ECDC surveillance figures) and prevalence (taken from a literature review of studies estimating prevalence in MSM attending STI clinics) of gonorrhoea and chlamydia.

Results:The intensity of both anal and genital screening was found to be positively associated with country level gonorrhoea incidence rates (rho 0.74; p=0.0004; rho=0.73; p=0.0004, respectively) and Ct incidence rates (rho 0.71; p=0.001; rho=0.78; p=0.0001, respectively). No associations were found between anal or genital screening intensity and Ng prevalence in clinic populations (Table 2).

Conclusions:We found no evidence of a negative association between screening intensity and the prevalence of gonorrhoea or chlamydia in MSM. Randomized controlled trials are urgently required to evaluate if the high antimicrobial exposure resulting from intensive screening programmes is justified.
Continuous Storage Root Formation and Bulking in Sweetpotato
Authors: Bararyenya Astere , Tukamuhabwa Phinehas , Gibson Paul , Gruneberg Wolfgang , Ssali Reuben , Low Jan , Odong Thomas , Ochwo-Ssemakula Mildred , Talwana Herbert , Mwila Natasha , Mwanga Robert
Published: February 2019

This study investigated the phenotypic variation of continuous storage root formation and bulking (CSRFAB) growth patterns underlying the development of sweetpotato genotypes for identification of potential varieties adapted to piecemeal harvesting for small scale farmers. The research was conducted between September 2016 and August 2017 in Uganda. Genotypes from two distinct sweetpotato genepool populations (Population Uganda A and Population Uganda B) comprising 130 genotypes, previously separated using 18 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used. Repeated measurements (4 harvest times with 4 plants each) on genotypes in a randomized complete block design with 2 replications in 2 locations for 2 seasons were used. We developed a scoring scale of 1 to 9 and used it to compare growth changes between consecutive harvests. Data analysis was done using residual or restricted maximum likelihood (REML) in GenStat 18th Edition. There were strong linear and quadratic trends over time (P<0.001) indicating a non-linear growth pattern within and between locations, seasons, and genotypes for most traits. Some genotypes displayed early initiation and a determinate linear increase of bulking, while others showed late initiation following a quadratic growth pattern. Broad sense heritability of CSRFAB would be low due to large GxE interactions, however, it was relatively high (50.5%) compared to other yield related traits indicating high genetic influence and accuracy of the developed method to quantify yield overtime. High level of reproducibility (89%) was observed comparing 2017A and 2017B seasons at Namulonge (NaCRRI). Choosing CSRFAB genotype can more than double the sweetpotato production (average maximum yield of 13.1 t/ha for discontinuous storage root formation and bulking (DSRFAB) versus 28.6 t/ha for CSRFAB demonstrating the importance of this under researched component of storage root yield.
A systematic review of criminal recidivism rates worldwide: 3-year update
Authors: Yukhnenko Denis , Sridhar Shivpriya , Fazel Seena
Published: February 2019

Background: Comparing recidivism rates between countries may provide useful information about the relative effectiveness of different criminal justice policies. A previous 2015 review identified criminal recidivism data for 18 countries and found little consistency in outcome definitions and time periods. We aimed to update recidivism rates in prisoners internationally.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of criminal recidivism rates in prisoners and followed PRISMA guidelines. Using three bibliographic indexes, we carried out non-country-specific and targeted searches for 50 countries with the largest total prison populations. We included reports and studies of released prisoners that reported re-arrest, reconviction and reincarceration rates. Meta-analysis was not possible due to multiple sources of heterogeneity.

Results: We identified criminal recidivism information for 23 countries. Of the 50 countries with the largest prison populations, 10 reported recidivism rates for prisoners. The most commonly reported outcome was the 2-year reconviction rate. We were able to examine recidivism over different time periods for 11 countries and found that most reported small changes in official recidivism rates. Overall, for 2-year follow-up period, reported re-arrest rates were between 26% and 60%, reconviction rates ranged from 20% to 63%, and reimprisonment rates varied from 14 to 45%.

Conclusions: Although some countries made efforts to improve reporting, recidivism rates are not comparable between countries. Criminal justice agencies should consider using reporting guidelines described here to update their data.