bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in understanding and managing mitral valve disease
Authors: Tsang Wendy
Published: September 2019

Interest in the mitral valve has increased over the past few years with the development of new technologies that allow intervention in patients previously deemed too ill for treatment. This increased attention has resulted in a significant increase in publications on the mitral valve, the majority of which focus on mitral regurgitation and mitral valve surgery/intervention. The focus of this review is on publications in the past few years that offer additional insights into our understanding and management of mitral valve disease and specifically mitral regurgitation. It will discuss mitral valve anatomy, epidemiology of mitral valve disease, changes in the 2017 management guidelines, management of mitral bioprosthetic valves, transcatheter mitral valve procedures and the repair of rheumatic valves.
Vaccine impact on antimicrobial resistance to inform Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance’s 2018 Vaccine Investment Strategy: report from an expert survey
Authors: Malarski Maya , Hasso-Agopsowicz Mateusz , Soble Adam , Mok Wilson , Mathewson Sophie , Vekemans Johan
Published: September 2019

Background: While the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been recognised as a major public health problem, the value of vaccines to control AMR is poorly defined. This expert survey was launched with the aim of informing the 2018 Vaccine Investment Strategy through which Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance prioritises future vaccine funding. This exercise focused on both vaccines currently supported by Gavi and under consideration for future funding.

Methods: The relative importance of pre-defined criteria as drivers of overall value of vaccines as a tool/ intervention to control AMR was assessed by 18 experts: prevention of mortality and morbidity due to resistant pathogens, antibiotic use prevented, societal impact, ethical importance and sense of urgency. For each vaccine, experts attributed scores reflecting the estimated value for each criterion, and overall value relative to AMR was derived from the value assigned to each criterion and their relative importance for each vaccine.

Results: Mortality, morbidity due to targeted resistant pathogens, and antibiotic use prevented were considered the most important determinants of overall value. Pneumococcal, typhoid and malaria vaccines were assigned highest value relative to antimicrobial resistance. Intermediate value was estimated for specific rotavirus, cholera, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, dengue, measles, meningitis and Haemophilus influenza type b- (Hib-) containing pentavalent vaccines. Lowest value relative to AMR was estimated for Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis A, yellow fever, rabies and human papilloma virus vaccine.

Conclusions: In the future, more evidence-based, data-driven, robust methodologies should be developed to guide coordinated, rational decision making on priority actions aimed at strengthening the use of vaccines against AMR.
Quantitative Profiling of Platelet-Rich Plasma Indole Markers by Direct-Matrix Derivatization Combined with LC-MS/MS in Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: van Faassen Martijn , Bouma Grytsje , de Hosson Lotte D , Peters Marloes A M , Kats-Ugurlu Gursah , de Vries Elisabeth G E , Walenkamp Annemiek M E , Kema Ido P
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Currently, several indole markers are measured separately to support diagnosis and follow-up of patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). We have developed a sensitive mass spectrometry method that simultaneously quantifies all relevant tryptophan-related indoles (tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan, serotonin, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid) in platelet-rich plasma. Direct-matrix derivatization was used to make the chemical properties of the indoles uniform and to improve the analytical sensitivity and specificity of the assay.

METHODS

In situ derivatization was performed directly in platelet-rich plasma with propionic anhydride at an ambient temperature. The derivatized indoles were extracted by online solid-phase extraction and eluted to the analytical column for separation followed by mass spectrometric detection. The method was validated according to international guidelines. Platelet-rich plasma samples from 68 healthy individuals and 40 NET patients were analyzed for tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan, serotonin, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid.

RESULTS

The method reproducibly quantified relevant indoles in 8.5 min, including online sample cleanup. Intra- and interassay imprecision, evaluated at 3 different concentrations, ranged from 2.0% to 12% and 1.9% to 13%, respectively. The limit of quantification was sufficient to measure endogenous concentrations of all 4 indoles. Healthy individuals and NET patients had different concentrations of 5-hydroxytryptophan, serotonin, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, but tryptophan concentrations were the same.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct-matrix derivatization in combination with LC-MS/MS is a powerful tool for the simultaneous quantification of all tryptophan-related indoles in platelet-rich plasma. Simultaneous profiling of relevant indoles improves the biochemical characterization and follow-up of NETs.
Comparison of BEAMing and Droplet Digital PCR for Circulating Tumor DNA Analysis
Authors: O'Leary Ben , Hrebien Sarah , Beaney Matthew , Fribbens Charlotte , Garcia-Murillas Isaac , Jiang John , Li Yuan , Huang Bartlett Cynthia , André Fabrice , Loibl Sibylle , Loi Sherene , Cristofanilli Massimo , Turner Nicholas C
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assays are increasingly used for clinical decision-making, but it is unknown how well different assays agree. We aimed to assess the agreement in ctDNA mutation calling between BEAMing (beads, emulsion, amplification, and magnetics) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), 2 of the most commonly used digital PCR techniques for detecting mutations in ctDNA.

METHODS

Baseline plasma samples from patients with advanced breast cancer enrolled in the phase 3 PALOMA-3 trial were assessed for ESR1 and PIK3CA mutations in ctDNA with both BEAMing and ddPCR. Concordance between the 2 approaches was assessed, with exploratory analyses to estimate the importance of sampling effects.

RESULTS

Of the 521 patients enrolled, 363 had paired baseline ctDNA analysis. ESR1 mutation detection was 24.2% (88/363) for BEAMing and 25.3% (92/363) for ddPCR, with good agreement between the 2 techniques (κ = 0.9l; 95% CI, 0.85–0.95). PIK3CA mutation detection rates were 26.2% (95/363) for BEAMing and 22.9% (83/363) for ddPCR, with good agreement (κ = 0.87; 95% CI, 0.81–0.93). Discordancy was observed for 3.9% patients with ESR1 mutations and 5.0% with PIK3CA mutations. Assessment of individual mutations suggested higher rates of discordancy for less common mutations (P = 0.019). The majority of discordant calls occurred at allele frequency <1%, predominantly resulting from stochastic sampling effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This large, clinically relevant comparison showed good agreement between BEAMing and ddPCR, suggesting sufficient reproducibility for clinical use. Much of the observed discordancy may be related to sampling effects, potentially explaining many of the differences in the currently available ctDNA literature.
Oficina de horta comunitária do projeto DIST Shopping Park como aliada na geração de renda, segurança alimentar e educação ambiental para a comunidade
Authors: Tedde Lais Abreu , Lima Geovana Rodrigues de , Galante Giovana Velloso
Published: September 2019

As hortas comunitárias são criadas com o propósito de oferecer uma melhor qualidade no alimento oferecido para a população envolvida, assim como desenvolver o empoderamento das comunidades para a criação de laços de solidariedade e de cooperação entre os indivíduos e para a potencialização de estratégias de inclusão social e produtiva. Nesse contexto, a oficina de horta comunitária foi criada no projeto DIST-Shopping Park com o objetivo de realizar a inserção da educação ambiental a partir de assessorias domésticas e reabilitações de terrenos, oferecendo uma possibilidade de renda e de reinserção na sociedade para pessoas em situação de risco. Foi instalada uma horta mandala na Escola Municipal de Educação Infantil – EMEI “Maria Euvira Sabbag”, em Uberlândia-MG, utilizando a metodologia desenvolvida pela ministrante e os alunos da oficina, juntando os conhecimentos científicos e empíricos. Com a instalação e consequente produção da horta foi possível realizar a proximidade dos alunos da educação infantil com a produção orgânica dos alimentos, proporcionando atividades didáticas, permitindo ampliar o conhecimento sobre o cultivo e manejo das hortas, alcançando o objetivo de estabelecer uma nova relação ser humano-natureza, revelando formas criativas de observação, interação com meio e formando opinião e posturas próprias que levam à ação.
Sexual behavioral pattern, consequences and adopted solutions among senior secondary schools students in a military barracks in Nigeria
Authors: Chimah Uzoh C. , Nnebue Chinomnso C. , Ilika Amobi L. , Lawoyin Taiwo O.
Published: September 2019

Purpose:To determine the sexual behavioral pattern, consequences, and adopted solutions among senior secondary schools students in Ojo military barracks, Lagos.

Materials and methods:This was a cross-sectional study of 400 senior secondary schools students in Ojo military barracks, Lagos, selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using pre-tested, self-administered semi-structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using statistical package for social sciences version 17. Tests of statistical significance were carried out using χ2-test, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The majority of them 391 (97.8%), were in the age group (10–19 years) while the mean age was 15±2.4 for males and 15±2.2 for females, respectively. One hundred and fifty four (38.5%) of the respondents have had penetrative sexual intercourse and were influenced mainly by peer pressure (p=0.0000). Their age at first sexual intercourse ranged between 10–19 years. Ten (6.5%) of the respondents (all males) had their sexual debut with a commercial sex worker. More girls 41 (56.2%) than boys 12 (14.8%), were forced into sexual intercourse (p=0.0000). Over half of the sexually active respondents had at least two sexual partners for either sex.

Conclusion:Findings from this study have shown that young people living in the barracks indulged in sexual activity at very early ages and engaged in risky sexual behavior. We therefore recommend an improved multi-sectoral approach in reproductive health and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS education.
Thermally Intensification of Steam Reforming Process by Use of Methane Tri-Reforming: A Review
Authors: Arab Aboosadi Z. , Farhadi Yadecoury M.
Published: September 2019

Tri- reforming is the main key for thermal intensification of hydrogen production based process. The arrangement of dry reforming, endothermic steam reforming, and exothermic partial oxidation make up a tri-reforming procedure. The benefit of the tri-reforming procedure is that it can be practical for energy supply for the dry and steam reforming reactions from the production of heat from the exothermic oxidation reaction. Some scientists have reviewed its usage with biogas feedstock to generate synthesis gas because the tri-reforming procedure employs CO2. Furthermore, the tri-reforming procedure is a technique to cut CO2 emissions in flue stack gases. In yielding synthesis gas from biological gas, two chief functioning issues give the anticipated H2/CO ratio that consists of the extreme conversion of methane and also prevents coke deposition. The wanted H2/ CO ratio differs with the wanted usage for the synthesis gas. In the present paper, the published studies from 2001 until now in three classifications have been chosen for further discussion. Finally, various suggestions have been proposed to escape catalyst deactivation due to the high-temperature nature of tri-reforming as a guideline for further investigations.
Über die Wirkungsform der p-Amino-benzoesäure als Wuchsstoff
Authors: Wagner-Jauregg Theodor , Wagner Wolf-Helmut
Published: September 2019

1. Es wurde festgestellt, daß die wachstumshemmende Wirkung von p-Amino- und p-Nitro-benzolsulfonyl-l-glutaminsäure sowie von p-Nitro-benzoyl-glutaminsäure gegenüber Streptobacterium plantarum sehr gering, und zwar noch geringer ist, als diejenige der p-Amino-benzolsulfonsäure (Sulfanilsäure).

2. Entgegen dem Befund von Auhagen erwies sich die sulfonamid-antagonistisehe (Wachstums-) Wirkung der p-Amino-benzoesäure derjenigen der p-Amino-benzoyl-l-glutaminsäure als weit überlegen. Letzterer dürfte daher eine allgemeine Bedeutung als Wirkungsgruppe eines Wachstumsfaktors nicht zukommen
Neutronen-Durchleuchtung
Authors: Peter Otto
Published: September 2019

Abstrakt

Erstmalig werden Durchleuchtungsaufnahmen mit langsamen Neutronen gemacht. Zur photographischen Wirksamkeit braucht man einen „Strahlenwandler". Die Bilder zeigen infolge der größeren Strahlenquelle nicht die Schärfe der y-Strahl-Durchleuchtungen, erlauben jedoch neue Anwendungen
Der Tritiumgehalt der Atmosphäre
Authors: Faltings V. , Harteck P.
Published: September 2019

Tritium konnte im freien Wasserstoff der Atmosphäre, welcher zu Wasser verbrannt worden war und elektrolytisch eingeengt wurde, an seiner β-Aktivität nachgewiesen werden. In 10 cm3 Luft ist etwa 1 Tritium-Atom vorhanden, in der ganzen Atmosphäre 1 Mol.
Vibrational Spectra and Force Constants of Symmetric Tops, IL[1]
Authors: Bürger Hans , Betzel Martina
Published: September 2019

Fourier Transform far infrared spectra of unstable stannyl chloride, bromide and iodide have been measured in the gas phase with a resolution of 0.04 cm-1. At pressures below 10 mbar, their lifetimes at 0 °C in preconditioned cells were found to be 10-30 min. The v3 fundamentals and hot bands of the series (n + 1)v3 - nv3 have been observed. Rotational J structure has been resolved for monoisotopic samples, and band origins v3
0, anharmonicity constants x33, ɑ3
B and DJ
0 values have been determined from the rovibrational analyses. The following v3
0 values were obtained: H3
116Sn35Cl 375.470 (5), H3
116Sn37Cl 367.689 (6), H3
116Sn79Br 263.566 (5) and H3
116SnI 209.759 (6) cm-1.
Molecular Shape Descriptors. 1. Three-Dimensional Molecular Shape Descriptor
Authors: Motoc I. , Marshall G. R. , Dammkoehler R. A. , Labanowski J.
Published: September 2019

The paper presents and illustrates a method which uses numerical integration of the van der Waals envelope(s) to calculate with desired accuracy the molecular van der Waals volume and the three-dimensional molecular shape descriptor defined as the twin-number [OV(α, β); NOV(β, α), where OV and NOV represent the overlapping and, respectively, the nonoverlapping van der Waals volumes of the molecules α and ß superimposed according to appropriate criteria.
Molecular Shape Descriptors. 3. Steric Mapping of Biological Receptor
Authors: Motoc I. , Marshall G. R. , Labanowski J.
Published: September 2019

The paper presents and illustrates and improved version of the SIBIS algorithm. SIBIS is a self-consistent type algorithm which is well suited to delineate the main steric features of biological receptor, identify missing relevant atoms and/or presence of superfluous atoms in the molecules studied, and to provide an approximate estimate for the receptor bulk tolerance. SIBIS calculations for a set of substituted benzoates in the anti-p-(p'-azophenylazo)benzoate system yield an excellent QSAR (n = 18, r = 0.989, s = 0.192, F= 20S.16) which is further supported by the information correlation coefficients, R (/?'s express quantitatively the pairwise degree of the molecular shape relatedness); the optimal receptor steric map is in agreement with experimental evidences.
A split-mouth clinico-radiographic comparative study for evaluation of crestal bone and peri-implant soft tissues in immediately loaded implants with and without platelet-rich plasma bioactivation
Authors: Vishnu Vande Aaditee , Sanyal Pronob Kumar , Tewary Shivsagar , Nilesh Kumar , Suresh Prasad Roy Malvika , Pawashe Karuna
Published: September 2019

Background. This study evaluated the viability of platelet-rich plasma for enhancement of osseous and associated soft tissue healing around single-piece implants, subjected to immediate loading and to compare it with a control site not treated with PRP. Methods. Twenty completely edentulous patients were selected and 2 one-piece implants with O-ball head were placed for mandibular overdenture. The implant on the right side was treated with PRP whereas the left side implant served as a control. All the cases were immediately loaded and marginal bone loss, probing depth, percussion, implant mobility and peri-implantitis were assessed and compared at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Results. Overall analysis of the results showed less marginal bone loss, probing depth, percussion, implant mobility and periimplantitis around implants treated with PRP; however, the results were insignificant statistically. Conclusion. PRP can be used as a viable treatment adjunct in immediately loaded one-piece implants.
Quantitation and Simulation of Single Action Potential-Evoked Ca2+Signals in CA1 Pyramidal Neuron Presynaptic Terminals
Authors: Hamid Edaeni , Church Emily , Alford Simon
Published: September 2019

Presynaptic Ca2+evokes exocytosis, endocytosis, and synaptic plasticity. However, Ca2+flux and interactions at presynaptic molecular targets are difficult to quantify because fluorescence imaging has limited resolution. In rats of either sex, we measured single varicosity presynaptic Ca2+using Ca2+dyes as buffers, and constructed models of Ca2+dispersal. Action potentials evoked Ca2+transients with little variation when measured with low-affinity dye (peak amplitude 789 ± 39 nM, within 2 ms of stimulation; decay times, 119 ± 10 ms). Endogenous Ca2+buffering capacity, action potential-evoked free [Ca2+]i, and total Ca2+amounts entering terminals were determined using Ca2+dyes as buffers. These data constrained Monte Carlo (MCell) simulations of Ca2+entry, buffering, and removal. Simulations of experimentally-determined Ca2+fluxes, buffered by simulated calbindin28Kwell fit data, and were consistent with clustered Ca2+entry followed within 4 ms by diffusion throughout the varicosity. Repetitive stimulation caused free varicosity Ca2+to sum. However, simulated in nanometer domains, its removal by pumps and buffering was negligible, while local diffusion dominated. Thus, Ca2+within tens of nanometers of entry, did not accumulate. A model of synaptotagmin1 (syt1)-Ca2+binding indicates that even with 10 µM free varicosity evoked Ca2+, syt1 must be within tens of nanometers of channels to ensure occupation of all its Ca2+-binding sites. Repetitive stimulation, evoking short-term synaptic enhancement, does not modify probabilities of Ca2+fully occupying syt1’s C2 domains, suggesting that enhancement is not mediated by Ca2+-syt1 interactions. We conclude that at spatiotemporal scales of fusion machines, Ca2+necessary for their activation is diffusion dominated.
Affectively Biased Competition: Sustained Attention is Tuned to Rewarding Expressions and is Not Modulated by Norepinephrine Receptor Gene Variant
Authors: Roberts Kevin H. , Manaligod Maria G. M. , Ross Colin J. D. , Müller Daniel J. , Wieser Matthias J. , Todd Rebecca M.
Published: September 2019

It is well established that emotionally salient stimuli evoke greater visual cortex activation than neutral ones, and can distract attention from competing tasks. Yet less is known about underlying neurobiological processes. As a proxy of population level biased competition, EEG steady-state visual evoked potentials are sensitive to competition effects from salient stimuli. Here we wished to examine whether individual differences in norepinephrine activity play a role in emotionally-biased competition.

Our previous research has found robust effects of a common variation in the ADRA2B gene, coding for alpha2B norepinephrine (NE) receptors, on emotional modulation of attention and memory. In the present study, EEG was collected while 87 carriers of the ADRA2B deletion variant and 95 non-carriers (final sample) performed a change detection task in which target gratings (gabor patches) were superimposed directly over angry, happy, and neutral faces. Participants indicated the number of phase changes (0–3) in the target. Overlapping targets and distractors were flickered at a distinct driving frequencies. Relative EEG power for faces vs. targets at the driving frequency served as an index of cortical resources allocated to each of the competing stimuli. Deletion carriers and non-carriers were randomly assigned to Discovery and Replication samples and reliability of results across samples was assessed before the groups were combined for greater power.

Overall happy faces evoked higher competition than angry or neutral faces; however, we observed no hypothesized effects of ADRA2B. Increased competition from happy faces was not due to the effect of low-level visual features or individuals low in social anxiety. Our results indicate that emotionally biased competition during sustained attention, while reliably observed in young adults, is not influenced by commonly observed individual differences linked to NE receptor function. They further indicate an overall pattern of affectively-biased competition for happy faces, which we interpret in relation to previously observed boundary conditions.
Effects of the Rulings of Constitutional Court in Time
Authors: Pūraitė-Andrikienė Dovilė
Published: September 2019

The article analyzes the temporal effects of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Lithuania’s rulings, i.e., ex tunc, ex nunc, and pro futuro elements of judicial decisions in the constitutional justice model of Lithuania. This article aims to reveal the development of the doctrine of exceptions of the constitutionaly established rule, that the force of the decisions of the Constitutional Court is directed to the future, in the jurisprudence of a Constitutional Court and further development of this institute inter alia in light of the 2019 amendment to the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, which introduced a mechanism for lodging an individual constitutional complaint.
Report Of A Project Illustrating The Feasibility Of Video/Computer Interface For Use In ESL
Authors: Stevens Vance
Published: September 2019

This report describes a project whose purpose was to write a brief demonstration lesson in listening comprehension and then deliver that lesson using and Apple II+ computer interfaced with a Sony SL-323 Betamax video cassette recorder (VCR) using a Gentech ETS-2000 controller. The listening comprehension lesson and hardware configuration were demonstrated as part of the Rap Session on The Latest Developments in Video ESL/EFL Materials at the TESOL Convention in Honolulu, May, 1982. The report is in three parts: (1) a brief survey of video tape vs. videodisc technology, (2) a rationale for the use of interactive video in ESL, and (3) a description of the project itself. It is intended in this report to provide some background in computer interfaced video and then to give insights into some difficulties that may be encountered by computer-naïve ESL instructors wishing to prepare interactive video lessons.There are many who believe that computers will soon alter on a major scale ways that people will be able to learn. However, existing educational and media design systems may be inadequate in dealing with the demands of technologically enhanced education. Therefore, new approaches to lesson design will have to be considered. It is believed that interactive video, insofar as it is highly compatible with recent theories of learning, will be able to play a dominant role in these new approaches. However, there are technical limitations on video tape equipment which, fortunately, have been largely overcome with the development of videodisc systems. Thus, although the present project deals with video tape, both systems are compared and discussed in this article.
Foreign Language Instructional Technology
Authors: Putnam Constance E.
Published: September 2019

This is a good news, bad news story, which — as is to be expected — makes the telling of it a bit awkward. Furthermore, there is a common-sense quality to much of what needs to be said, which may make some of it seem self-evident. Nonetheless, some benefit may well emerge from an overview, an attempt to assess both where we are and whither we might go in the use of computers and other products of modern technology for foreign language instruction.
A New Method to Calculate Power of International Actors
Authors:   Başkent University (Turkey), Metin Durmuş Abdullah
Published: September 2019

This article is based on the idea that it is necessary to develop a quantitative method to calculate power of international actors, which will enable scholars to analyse international conflicts. The Global Potential Power Distribution Chart, which is calculated based on three main characteristics of international actors, namely population, territory and economic power, shows “potential power of states and international organisations”. It may be called “Durmuş Scale of Power (DSoP)”. The chart is a comprehensive indicator with considerable accuracy and 100 % objectivity. In this article, potential powers of international actors have been calculated for years 1987, 2004 and 2015, which gives a clear overview of the potential power distribution (balance of power) of the World regarding states and as well as international organisations. Potential military powers of some states and international organisation in year 2015 have also been calculated. This research proves by means of a contemporary approach applied and a quantitative method developed that, the World is multipolar since 2004, and China is, potentially, the most powerful state of the World since 2015. The method introduced in this article were sufficient enough to explain the effects of the enlargement of NATO and EU, EU after BREXIT, reform of the Security Council of the United Nations and instrumental enough to provide a peaceful understanding for the self-determination issue of Kosova. There are three conclusions to this research: 1) The method “Durmuş Scale of Power” is calculated is reliable because everybody with a scientific calculator or a computer can easily calculate potential power of a state provided that he or she has reliable data for territory, population and GDP. 2) “Global Potential Power Distribution Chart” is a comprehensive Chart which shows “balance of power” at a specific year. It enables us to compare power of states and international organisations in different years. 3) It is convenient to use “Durmuş Scale of Power” while analysing issues of international relations.
Subverting the Idea(l) of Equal Opportunity in Global Trade: The Paradoxes of Differentiation for Peripheral States
Authors:   Central European University, M. Alcazar III Antonio Salvador
Published: September 2019

The existing multilateral trade regime is often beleaguered for unfairly privileging its Western guarantors. Since not all countries command the same opportunity sets to compete in global markets, world trade rules sanction über-rich markets to extend autonomous trade concessions to capital-poor countries without demanding any reciprocal treatment. Given the entanglements of trade in the thorny issues of international development and distributive justice, this paper joins a crowded trade as/and fairness debate by judging how the present global economic order (dis)favors developing and least developed countries on the basis of equal opportunity. In a Roemerian-Rawlsian reading of economic fairness, I start by elevating the demands of diffuse reciprocity over the misguided minimalism of mutual reciprocity in a twin attempt to morally defend asymmetric exchanges between asymmetric trading partners and to redress background inequalities in access to the merits of commerce. While the notion and praxis of altruism in international trade generally allude to northern democracies in modern political thought, this article also unmasks parallel models of special and differential treatment projects lorded over by two seemingly unusual suspects: the Eurasian Economic Union and the People’s Republic of China. In juxtaposing weak and strong conceptions of equal opportunity vis-à-vis leading compensatory measures presently open to needy nations, I articulate how the strong standard of equal opportunity is partially cantilevered by existing level-playing-field structures and yet brutally bulldozed at once by the politics of donor discretion. Finally, although a diluted form of diffuse reciprocity grows more fashionable among affluent and emerging economies, unlocking the strong standard of equal opportunity still insists on a solidaristic system of preferences to diffuse both opportunities and obligations arising from a less tilted trading order as widely and deeply as possible.
Behavioral Insights as a New Generation of Public Service Delivery
Authors:   WSB University in Toruń, Gawłowski Robert
Published: September 2019

For many years behavioral insights has been on the top of political agenda. The aim of this article it to examine how the most innovative countries use this public management tool into public administration realm. In pursuit of this, behavioral insights units have been research in six countries. In conclusion author figure out that there is still a huge room for development and looking a new strategy to implement nudging in a larger scale.
Ocorrência de Ceratocystis fimbriata Eli & Halst. na Amazônia Brasileira
Authors: Bastos Cleber Novais , Evans Harry Charles
Published: September 2019

Resumo Relata-se a ocorrência do fungo Ceratocystis fimbriata Eli & Halst. em plantações de cacau localizadas no Território Federal de Rondônia. De partes afetadas da planta foram feitos isolamentos e comprovada a patogenicidade em testes de inoculação.
AS CIÊNCIAS SOCIAIS NO BRASIL: ESTUDO REALIZADO PARA A CAPES POR L. A. COSTA PINTO E EDISON CARNEIRO
Authors: Brasil Jr. Antonio
Published: September 2019

Resumo: Este texto serve como introdução a "Os estudos sociais e a mudança social no Brasil", primeiro capítulo do relatório enviado à CAPES por Luiz de Aguiar Costa Pinto em 1955 a respeito da situação da sociologia no Brasil. A fim de situar o leitor, além de reconstituir brevemente alguns aspectos da trajetória de Costa Pinto, também sugiro algumas chaves de leitura que permitam dar conta das especificidades deste texto em relação aos demais "balanços" da sociologia realizados na década de 1950. Neste sentido, assinalo como a experiência do Estado Novo, que impactou fortemente nos rumos da vida universitária do Rio de Janeiro, torna-se uma componente central dos argumentos desenvolvidos por Costa Pinto, que a analisa através da noção de "marginalidade estrutural".
Measurements of permeability of saturated and unsaturated soils
Authors: Pandey Pratiksha , Lynch Kaine , Sivakumar Vinayagamoorthy , Solan Brian , Tripathy Snehasis , Nanda Satyajeet , Donohue Shane
Published: September 2019

The management and engineering assessments of geotechnical assets within the national transportation inventory require an appropriate knowledge of permeability of saturated and unsaturated soils. Determination of the permeability of saturated soils can be carried out using direct measurements, whereas that of unsaturated soils is often made using indirect methods based on the soil water retention curve. In this study an attempt was made to develop a novel approach for measuring the saturated and unsaturated permeability of soils. The tests were conducted on 100 mm dia. reconstituted and compacted samples of glacial till. Suctions were generated by circulating low-humidity air through a slender sand column located at the centre of the samples. Measurements of suction were made by two tensiometers located radially at the base of the samples. The drying process was terminated when the observed suctions reached or approached the limiting capacity of the tensiometers (1500 kPa). Combinations of suction measurements and volumetric strains during the drying process were used to determine the permeability by adopting analytical solutions as applicable to a radial flow condition.
Influence of fibre type on the shear behaviour of engineered cementitious composite beams
Authors: Ismail Mohamed K. , Hassan Assem A. A.
Published: September 2019

The shear behaviour of large-scale engineered cementitious composite (ECC) beams reinforced with different types of fibre was evaluated. Four types of fibre were used: 8 and 12 mm long polyvinyl alcohol fibres (PVA8 and PVA12), 19 mm long polypropylene fibres (PP19) and 13 mm long steel fibres (SF13). An additional normal concrete (NC) beam of comparable compressive strength was cast and tested for comparison. The performance of all the test beams was evaluated through their load–deflection curves, cracking behaviour, first crack load, diagonal crack load, ultimate load, ductility and energy absorption capacity. The ultimate capacity and cracking moment of all the test beams were also compared with theoretical values estimated by some design code equations. The results indicated that, compared with the NC beam, all the ECC beams showed better performance in terms of cracking behaviour, shear capacity, ductility and energy absorption. The ECC beam reinforced with PVA8 fibres showed the highest shear strength and ductility of all the ECC beams with other polymeric fibres. Longer PVA fibres appeared to be less efficient than shorter ones. The beam reinforced with PP19 showed the lowest performance, while the use of SF13 proved to be the most effective in improving the first crack load, ultimate load, ductility and energy absorption capacity.
Loop L2 (even level) type IIS cloning - pCs-ye vectors v1
Authors: Frangedakis Eftychis , Sauret-Gueto Susana , West Anthony , Tomaselli Marta , Patron Nicola , Rebmann Marius , Haseloff Jim
Published: September 2019

Protocol based on Pollak B, Cerda A, Delmans M, et al (2019) Loop assembly: a simple and open system for recursive fabrication of DNA circuits. New Phytol 222:628–640 https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.15625
Marchantia chloroplast isolation v1
Authors: Frangedakis Eftychis
Published: September 2019

This protocol is a modifiction of the ISOLATION OF MAIZE CHLOROPLASTS FOR PROTEIN IMPORT STUDIES protocl from Mark Settles (modified from Ken Cline).
Claims of Misrepresentation: A Comparison of Germany and Brazil
Authors: Guasti Petra , Almeida Debora Rezende de
Published: September 2019

The system of representative democracy is under considerable strain. Its institutions are struggling to maintain legitimacy, and its elected representatives are failing to keep their monopoly on (formal) political representation. An emerging multitude of (new) claim makers contests the authority of elected representatives as well as the functioning of the existing system of representative democracy by alleging misrepresentation. In this article, we identify a significant shortcoming in Saward’s claims-making approach; specifically, we argue that it offers little direction in addressing misrepresentation. We distinguish between claims of representation and claims of misrepresentation, and show how the latter can fulfill one, two or all three of the following functions: (1) they appeal to an enemy/antagonist (strategy), (2) identify causes of misrepresentation related to policies, politics, and polity (persuasion), and (3) claim to create a new linkage to “the people”, sometimes present themselves as new representatives (reframing). To test this proposed framework, we compare claims of misrepresentation in Brazil made by civil society groups (before and during the presidential impeachment between 2014 and 2016) and in Germany (focusing on the parliamentarians of the Alternative for Germany during the first six months of mandate). Our results suggest that claims of misrepresentation are not intrinsically democratic or undemocratic, but are instead ambiguous, have different manifestations and disparate impacts on the representative system. Our article contributes to the conceptual development of the claims approach and to further understanding several critical and current challenges to representative democracy.
An observational study from a new tertiary care hospital in North Odisha: clinical and etiological profile of acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Behera Bibhu P. , Mohanty Partha S.
Published: September 2019

Background: Worldwide, cerebrovascular accidents (stroke) are the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability. According to WHO estimation, by 2050 nearly 80% of stroke cases may occur in low and middle-income countries like China and India. It is critical that we understand the etiology causing the stroke so that appropriate treatment can be initiated in a timely fashion. Furthermore, understanding the risk factors associated with stroke is important before primary and secondary preventive measures can be prescribed to the patient.Methods: This observational study was carried out amongst 481 acute ischemic stroke patients that fulfils the inclusion and exclusion criteria and admitted in medicine ward of Pandit Raghunath Murmu Medical College and Hospital, Baripada, Dist. Mayurbhanj, Odisha, India from June 2018 to January 2019. Results: In our study, 481(60.43%) patients had ischemic stroke and 315 (39.57%) patients had hemorrhagic stroke. The incidence of stroke is maximum in 51-70 years of age group which comprises of 59.46% of total patients. The average age + SD were 61.4±13.1 in our study. The most common risk factor was hypertension with 69.85% followed by dyslipidemia 51.77%. Most common clinical presentation was hemiplegia (72.35%) followed by speech involvement (59.46%). Most common site of infarct was parietal (22.25%), followed by periventricular (12.68%).Conclusions: Most of the patients had ischemic stroke as compared to hemorrhagic stroke. It was more common in males. The study contributes to understanding of demographic characteristics, risk factors, and stroke subtypes in acute ischemic stroke. The importance of various risk factors among ischemic stroke subtypes should be stressed for prompt preventive strategies and treatment.
IDENTITAS GAY KULIT HITAM DI AMERIKA SERIKAT DALAM FILM MOONLIGHT
Authors: Fatmawati Fatmawati
Published: September 2019

This article aims to examine the identity of a gay African American in the United States portrayed in the Moonlight movie. It uses representation about identity theory which reading Judith Butler's queer approach. The results show the transformation of main character's identity reflected througout his life and his reflectivity to face and overcome any circumtances. He slowly fights back again discrimination and becomes a strong man as well as free from discrimination.
High-throughput microfluidic cell sorting platform (MICS)
Authors: Philpott David , Aldridge Peter , Mair Barbara , Atwal Randy , Masud Sanna , Zhang Meng , Tong Amy H. Y. , Sargent Edward H. , Angers Stéphane , Moffat Jason , Kelley Shana
Published: September 2019

Genome-scale functional genetic screens can be used to interrogate determinants of protein expression modulation of a target of interest. Such phenotypic screening approaches typically require sorting of large numbers of cells (>108). In conventional cell sorting techniques (i.e. fluorescence-activated cell sorting), sorting time, associated with high instrument and operating costs and loss of cell viability, are limiting to the scalability and throughput of these screens. We recently established a rapid and scalable high-throughput microfluidic cell sorting platform (MICS) using immunomagnetic nanoparticles to sort cells in parallel capable of sorting more than 108 HAP1 cells in under one hour while maintaining high levels of cell viability (Ref. 1). This protocol outlines how to set-up MICS for large-scale phenotypic screens in mammalian cells. We anticipate this platform being used for genome-wide functional genetic screens as well as other applications requiring the sorting of large numbers of cells based on protein expression.
PET-CT Standard uptake value predict bevacizumab-containing chemotherapy response and prognosis for unresectable colorectal cancer liver-limited metastasis
Authors: Lv Yang , Feng QingYang , Tang WenTao , Xu YuQiu , Lin SongBin , Mao YiHao , Zheng Peng , Yang LiangLiang , He GuoDong , Xu JianMin
Published: September 2019

Background: Standard uptake value (SUV) is an indicator of tumor metabolic response. In this paper, we aim to explore the value of SUV on unresectable colorectal cancer liver-limitedmetastasis (CRLM) patients receiving bevacizumab-containing chemotherapy.
Method: This study was performed retrospectively. A total of 185 CRLM patients between April 2011 to December 2015 with complete clinical data were included in this study. All enrolled patients were assigned into two treatment cohorts (bevacizumab plus chemotherapy cohort and chemotherapy only cohort). All clinical variables, and various PET/CT parameters were statistically compared with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Primary and Metastatic tumor SUV were selected for analysis.
Results: Among the 185 patients, 101 patients received chemotherapy plus bevacizumab ( beva cohort ), 84 patients only received chemotherapy ( CMT cohort ). Baseline characteristics of two cohorts showed no statistical difference (P>0.05). Primary SUV level was correlated with primary tumor size, while metastatic SUV was statistically correlated with metastatic tumor number and tumor size (P=0.000). Primary lesion, metastatic lesion SUV and elevation of SUV demonstrated prognostic role for OS (P<0.05). SUV gap were statistically associated with optimal response in beva cohort (P=0.03) and no-PD status in CMT cohort (P=0.019), respectively. After multivariate analysis, elevated SUV is an independent risk factor for OS (P=0.000). Besides, elevation of SUV between metastatic and primary lesion can be a predictive factor for bevacizumab survival benefit.
Conclusion: PET-CT scan is important for CRLM patients. Our study demonstrated that an elevation of SUV was a better prognostic and predictive marker for CRLM patients.
Hematological profile derangement in newborns as an outcome of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Authors: Mtali Yohana Silas , Chamba Clara Claudius , Lyimo Magdalena Amani , Massawe Siriel Nanzia
Published: September 2019

Objectives This study aimed at determining the changes of hematological parameters in newborns of mothers with HDP compared to normotensive mothers.Results This was a hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study conducted from December 2017 to May 2018. The study groups consisted of 70 normotensives and 73 hypertensive pregnant women as a comparison and index group respectively. The male to female ratio for the newborns was 1:1. Newborns of the hypertensive mothers had a lower birth weight, lower APGAR score and had a lower median gestation age at the time of birth compared to the newborns of normotensive mothers (P < 0001). White blood cell and differential counts were lower in cord blood of the newborns of HDP group than in the normotensive group (P≤0.001). Approximately 50% of newborns of hypertensive mothers had thrombocytopenia. Furthermore, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were found to independently predict neutropenia [OR=6 (2.1 – 19.4), p<0.05] and thrombocytopenia [OR=4.3(1.7 – 11.1), p<0.001] in the newborns.
Inhibition of miR-499-5p expression improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Hanyun , Wang Ting , Chen Xi , Jiang Jing , Song Nianhua , Li Ran , Xin Yongning , Xuan Shiying
Published: September 2019

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver diseases. However, the pathogenesis of NAFLD is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the specific role of miR-499-5p in NAFLD.
Method: Free fatty acid (FFA) was used to induce HL-7702 cell line to establish a NAFLD cell model, and animal models of NAFLD were constructed by feeding C57BL/6 mice with high fat diet (HFD). Expression levels of miR-499-5p in the HL-7702 cells and C57BL/6 mice were determined by RT-qPCR. In addition, functional experiments were carried out through transfecting miR-499-5p inhibitor into NAFLD cells, and injecting NAFLD mice with a lentiviral vector with knock down the miR-499-5p . Furthermore, the effects of miR-499-5p inhibition on lipidation and inflammation were investigated by oil red O staining, HE staining, and biochemical analysis.
Results: Compared with normal controls, the expression of miR-499-5p was significantly up-regulated in NAFLD cells and tissues in mouse (P < 0.05). After NAFLD cells transfected by miR-499-5p inhibitor, the expression of miR-499-5p was inhibited, the lipid deposition and content of TG were reduced, and the lipidation was improved (P < 0.05). Simultaneously, after NAFLD mice were injected with knocked down the miR-499-5p lentiviral vector, the degree of lipid droplet deposition and content of TG were also reduced. Besides, it also decreased the levels of TC and AST in serum, and improved hepatic lipid metabolism (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Inhibition of miR-499-5p expression improved NAFLD in mice, which provided a new direction for the treatment of NAFLD.
Lumbar Tuberculosis Treatment with Cortical Bone Trajectory Screw Fixation
Authors: Shi Shiyuan , Ying Xiaozhang , Zheng Qi , Fei Jun , Shen Jian , Zhu Bo , Jin Yanghui , Hu Shunping
Published: September 2019

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of a cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screw technique combined with an anterior small incision lesion removal and bone grafting for the treatment of single-segment lumbar spinal tuberculosis. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 42 patients with lumbar tuberculosis was performed. The patients were divided into two groups: intervertebral CBT screw fixation group (CBT group) and posterior pedicle screw fixation group (traditional group). Then the surgery time, bleeding volume, postoperative drainage volume, postoperative hospital stay, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Cobb angle, neurological function (Frankel grading), and bone graft fusion time were compared between the two groups. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the operation times, bleeding volumes, drainage volumes, hospital stays, VAS scores, and Frankel grading. VAS scores, Cobb angles, and Frankel grading improved significantly after surgeries, without a significant difference between the two groups. At the final follow-up, no significant loss of the Cobb angle was found. All of the patients were followed up for 14 to 30 months, with a mean time of 20.8 months. The bone graft fusion time ranged from 3 to 8 months, with a mean time of 5.1 months. There were no serious complications. Conclusions: The CBT screw technique combined with an anterior small incision lesion removal and bone grafting is an effective and safe method for the treatment of lumbar tuberculosis.