bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypertension prevalence and its trend in Bangladesh: evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammad Ziaul Islam , Rahman Meshbahur , Akter Tanjila , Akhter Tania , Ahmed Arifa , Shovon Minhajul Arifin , Farhana Zaki , Chowdhury Nashit , Turin Tanvir C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Hypertension, itself being a major chronic condition, is one of the most significant risk factors for premature cardiovascular diseases and mortality. Hypertension is responsible for 13% of global deaths and three-quarters of the world’s hypertensive population reside in low- and middle-income countries. Bangladesh is one of those countries that experiencing an epidemiological transition from communicable to non-communicable diseases, a nutritional transition from a traditional diet to process and fast food, and an increase in a sedentary lifestyle, resulting in increased hypertension prevalence. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify existing research on hypertension prevalence in Bangladesh, summarize findings and assess its temporal change.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed and relevant references to identify studies on the prevalence of hypertension in Bangladesh. We used Random-effects meta-analysis to pool the prevalence estimates and performed subgroup analyses. We assessed heterogeneity, a trend in prevalence of hypertension and publication bias in selected studies.

Results

Our search initially identified 735 articles and after removing duplicates, reviewing titles and abstracts, and screening full texts, 53 studies were finally selected. The studies comprised 305,432 subjects and reported overall, gender-specific, geographical location specific and criteria specific prevalence of hypertension. We identified the range of hypertension prevalence is from 1.10% to 75.0% and the overall weighted pooled prevalence of hypertension is 20.0%. An extremely high heterogeneity (I2 = 99.53%; Cochran Q-statistic p < 0.001) was observed in the prevalence of hypertension. Consequently, we performed subgroup analysis based on gender, age group and geographical location of the study participants, the cut-off level used to define hypertension, and the types of hypertension reported and presented our findings accordingly. An overall increasing trend of hypertension prevalence is also observed.

Conclusions

The prevalence of hypertension is high and rising in Bangladesh. Strategies targeting prevention are required to mitigate a further increase in the prevalence and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with it.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Setaria equina in donkeys
Authors: Abdel Rahman Mona Mohammed I.
Published: June 2020

Background

Adult worms of Setaria equina mainly found in the peritoneal cavity of equine. They were nonpathogenic but might induce varied degrees of peritonitis and might migrate to the eye, brain, lung, and scrotum causing lacrimation, blindness, paraplegia, locomotor, and neurological disturbances. Identification by light microscopy is insufficient to differentiate Setaria species, and so scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is required to observe their ultrastructures. The study was performed on 80 donkeys from May 2018 to January 2019 for the detection of microfilaria in blood and the adult worms in the peritoneal cavity. The blood samples were either stained with Giemsa stain or examined by modified Knott’s technique for the detection of microfilariae. Adult worms were morphologically characterized based on light microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). PCR was performed targeting the 12S rRNA gene followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.

Results

The current study recorded 21.6% and 16.2% prevalence rates for adult worms and microfilariae, respectively. By using SEM, this study was able to clarify the detailed structure of amphids, predeirids, vulva, arrangement, and number of male caudal papillae. PCR amplified products for 12S rRNA gene (408 bp) for adult worm and microfilaria. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis revealed that S. equina isolated in the current study from donkeys in Egypt (accession no., MH345965) shared 100% identity with isolates from horse and man in Italy and Iran, respectively and clustered in the same clade with S. digitata, S. tundra and S. labiatopapillosa.

Conclusions

Identification with light microscopy lacked the ability to characterize different Setaria species, and so using scanning electron microscopy is considered a good choice to distinguish the ultrastructures. In addition, performing the phylogenetic analysis was necessary to detect relationships between different filarial worms, which could not detect by the morphological characterization of adult worms.
Annual Meeting Update
Authors: Esmersoy Cengiz , Koehr John
Published: June 2020

Our industry is changing rapidly. From technologies and tools becoming available, to the business and social environment, we are in the middle of a transformation. It is rare to hear any CEO interview without “machine learning,” “digital,” or similar words describing the Industry 4.0. Companies are establishing data science groups to take advantage of these changes. They are specialized groups, mostly in research and development, looking for applications, but will they become mainstream? How much of the human hands-on work will they replace? What will an earth scientist in our industry look like, and what talents will they need to have five to ten years from now?
Transmission-based surface-consistent framework for residual statics, deconvolution, and FWI: A new paradigm for near-surface analysis
Authors: Colombo Daniele , Rovetta Diego , Sandoval Ernesto , Kontakis Apostolos
Published: June 2020

We developed a novel surface-consistent processing framework that applies to transmitted wavefields (e.g., diving waves/refracted waves). Automatic velocity estimation from traveltime and full-waveform inversion, residual time shift corrections, and near-surface amplitude deconvolution are performed on the raw seismic gathers with minimal data preconditioning. In this implementation of the transmission-based surface-consistent analysis, we introduce a complete prestack and preprocessing workflow to fully analyze the near surface and enable highly specialized processes for what concerns land data imaging and reservoir characterization. Billions of traveltimes and traces can be analyzed automatically, providing enormous benefits in the execution time and in the accuracy and robustness of obtained results. The new paradigm for near-surface analysis opens the door to a better utilization of land seismic data for reservoir imaging and characterization.
Geophysicists meet in Muscat to discuss advancements in land geophysical acquisition technologies
Authors: Somali Fuad , El-Taha Yasin Charles
Published: June 2020

In recent years, technological advancements have paved the way to acquire seismic data in innovative ways. Adopting these technologies led to increased trace densities and increased data volume. In the past, conventional acquisition with low trace densities and limited offset and azimuth distribution served well to image simple geologic targets. This led to the discovery of currently producing fields. However, exploration strategies have changed by focusing on more complex geology (e.g., unconventional reservoirs and stratigraphic traps). High density and broadband acquisition are therefore essential to map subtle and complex targets. Advancements in equipment manufacturing and survey design have made this possible.
Emerging Subtypes and New Treatments for Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Carneiro Benedito A. , Lotan Tamara L. , de Souza Andre , Aggarwal Rahul
Published: June 2020

Genomic characterization of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) has been remodeling the treatment landscape of this disease in the past decade. The emergence of molecularly defined subsets of mCRPC is altering the treatment paradigm from therapeutics with nonspecific activity across the spectrum, including androgen receptor (AR)-directed treatments, docetaxel, and cabazitaxel, to targeted approaches directed at molecular subsets of disease. The meaningful benefit of PARP inhibitors in mCRPC carrying mutations in DNA repair genes demonstrated in a phase III trial epitomizes this transition in the treatment paradigm of mCRPC and brings new challenges related to how to sequence and integrate the targeted therapies on top of the treatments with broad activity in all mCRPC. To enable and sustain the advance of precision oncology in the management of mCRPC, genomic characterization is required, including somatic and germline testing, for all patients with the ultimate goal of longitudinal molecular profiling guiding treatment decisions and sequential treatments of this lethal disease. This article reviews the emerging molecular subtypes of mCRPC that are driving the evolution of mCRPC treatment.
Safety and Efficacy of Pembrolizumab With Chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Phase IB Study
Authors: Powell Steven F. , Gold Kathryn A. , Gitau Mark M. , Sumey Christopher J. , Lohr Michele M. , McGraw Steven C. , Nowak Ryan K. , Jensen Ashley W. , Blanchard Miran J. , Fischer Christopher D. , Bykowski Julie , Ellison Christie A. , Black Lora J. , Thompson Paul A. , Callejas-Valera Juan L. , Lee John H. , Cohen Ezra E. W. , Spanos William C.
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE

Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks interaction between programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) and its ligands (PD-L1, PD-L2). Although pembrolizumab is approved for recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), its role in the management of locally advanced (LA) disease is not defined. We report a phase IB study evaluating the safety and efficacy of adding pembrolizumab to cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy in patients with LA HNSCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients included those with oral cavity (excluding lip), oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, or laryngeal stage III to IVB HNSCC (according to American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition, staging system) eligible for cisplatin-based, standard-dose (70 Gy) chemoradiotherapy. Pembrolizumab was administered concurrently with and after chemoradiotherapy with weekly cisplatin. Safety was the primary end point and was determined by incidence of chemoradiotherapy adverse events (AEs) and immune-related AEs (irAEs). Efficacy was defined as complete response (CR) rate on end-of-treatment (EOT) imaging or with pathologic confirmation at 100 days postradiotherapy completion. Key secondary end points included overall (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS

The study accrued 59 patients (human papillomavirus [HPV] positive, n = 34; HPV negative, n = 25) from November 2015 to October 2018. Five patients (8.8%) required discontinuation of pembrolizumab because of irAEs, all of which occurred during concurrent chemoradiotherapy; 98.3% of patients completed the full planned treatment dose (70 Gy) of radiotherapy without any delays ≥ 5 days; 88.1% of patients completed the goal cisplatin dose of ≥ 200 mg/m2. EOT CR rates were 85.3% and 78.3% for those with HPV-positive and -negative HNSCC, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Pembrolizumab in combination with weekly cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy is safe and does not impair delivery of curative radiotherapy or chemotherapy in HNSCC. Early efficacy data support further investigation of this approach.
Role of HLA-DP Expression in Graft-Versus-Host Disease After Unrelated Donor Transplantation
Authors: Petersdorf Effie W. , Bengtsson Mats , De Santis Dianne , Dubois Valerie , Fleischhauer Katharina , Gooley Ted , Horowitz Mary , Madrigal J. Alejandro , Malkki Mari , McKallor Caroline , Morishima Yasuo , Oudshoorn Machteld , Spellman Stephen R. , Villard Jean , Stevenson Phil , Carrington Mary ,   on behalf of the,   International Histocompatibility Working Group in Hematopoietic-Cell Transplantation
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE

The main aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of HLA-DPB1 expression in acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) from HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQB1–matched and –mismatched unrelated donors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1, 2017, and January 10, 2019, we assessed 19,136 patients who received HCT from an HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQB1–matched or –mismatched unrelated donor performed in Australia, the European Union, Japan, North America, and the United Kingdom between 1988 and 2016. Among transplant recipients with one HLA-DPB1 mismatch, the patient’s mismatched HLA-DPB1 allotype was defined as low or high expression. Multivariable regression models were used to assess risks of GVHD associated with high expression relative to low expression HLA-DPB1 mismatches. The effect of increasing numbers of HLA-DPB1 mismatches on clinical outcome was assessed in HLA-mismatched transplant recipients.

RESULTS

In HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1,-DQB1–matched transplant recipients, donor mismatching against one high-expression patient HLA-DPB1 increased moderate (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; P = .001) and severe acute GVHD (OR, 1.32; P = .0016) relative to low-expression patient mismatches, regardless of the expression level of the donor’s mismatched HLA-DPB1. Among transplant recipients with one HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, or -DQB1 mismatch, the odds of acute GVHD increased with increasing numbers of HLA-DPB1 mismatches (OR, 1.23 for one; OR, 1.40 for two mismatches relative to zero mismatches for moderate GVHD; OR, 1.19 for one; OR, 1.40 for two mismatches relative to zero for severe GVHD), but not with the level of expression of the patient’s mismatched HLA-DPB1 allotype.

CONCLUSION

The level of expression of patient HLA-DPB1 mismatches informs the risk of GVHD after HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DQB1–matched unrelated HCT, and the total number of HLA-DPB1 mismatches informs the risk of GVHD after HLA-mismatched unrelated HCT. Prospective consideration of HLA-DPB1 may help to lower GVHD risks after transplantation.
Carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (KRd) versus bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (VRd) for initial therapy of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM): Results of ENDURANCE (E1A11) phase III trial.
Authors: Kumar Shaji , Jacobus Susanna J. , Cohen Adam D. , Weiss Matthias , Callander Natalie Scott , Singh Avina A. , Parker Terri L. , Menter Alex R. , Yang Xuezhong , Parsons Benjamin Marshall , Kumar Pankaj , Kapoor Prashant , Rosenberg Aaron Seth , Zonder Jeffrey A. , Faber Edward Anthony , Lonial Sagar , Richardson Paul G. , Orlowski Robert Z. , Wagner Lynne I. , Rajkumar S. Vincent
Published: June 2020

LBA3

Background: Bortezomib (btz) combined with lenalidomide (len) and dexamethasone (dex) (VRd) is a standard initial therapy for NDMM. Carfilzomib (cfz), a next-generation proteasome inhibitor, in combination with len-dex (KRd) has shown higher efficacy in phase II trials. This randomized phase III trial was designed to examine if KRd improves progression free survival (PFS) compared to VRd in NDMM (current results), and whether indefinite maintenance with len improves OS compared with two-year maintenance (to be analyzed once data matures). Methods: Patients (Pts) with NDMM, were randomized to receive VRd or KRd in a 1:1 fashion for 36 weeks followed by a second randomization (1:1) to indefinite versus two years of len maintenance. Pts without del17p, t (14;16), t(14;20), plasma cell leukemia or high-risk GEP70 profile, were enrolled. VRd arm included btz 1.3 mg/m2 on days(d) 1, 4, 8, and 11 (d 1, 8 for cycles 9-12), len 25 mg d 1-14, and dex 40 mg d 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12 of a 3-week (wk) cycle for 12 cycles, while pts in the KRd arm received cfz 36 mg/m2 d 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 with len 25 mg daily on d 1-21 and dex 40 mg wkly, in 4 wk cycles for 9 cycles. Maintenance included len 15mg d 1-21 every 4 wks. The study was designed to detect a hazard ratio (HR)=0.75 with 80% power at 1-sided 2.5% alpha and 399 PFS events (progression or death regardless of intervening therapy). Results: The study accrued 1087 pts (VRd=542, KRd=545). The median age was 65y. Treatment, efficacy, and toxicity data are in the table. At the second of 3 planned interim analyses, with PFS HR=1.04 (95% CI, 0.8 to 1.3, p=0.74), futility was met. Median PFS was VRd=34.4m and KRd=34.6m; no differences were seen based on age (<65 or ≥65), presence or absence of t(4;14) or ISS stage. The three-year OS (95% CI) was similar: VRd 84% (80 to 88) and KRd 86% (82 to 89). Conclusions: In this randomized phase 3 trial, KRd did not improve PFS compared with VRd in NDMM. A significantly higher rate of cardio-pulmonary and renal toxicity was observed with KRd, while neuropathy rates were higher with VRd. VRd remains the standard triplet induction regimen in standard and intermediate risk NDMM, and a suitable backbone for 4 drug combinations. Clinical trial information: NCT01863550 . [Table: see text]
Dark energy from Higgs potential
Authors: Trinhammer Ole L.
Published: June 2020

We derive the ratio of dark energy to baryon matter content in the universe from a Higgs potential matching a description of baryon matter on an intrinsic configuration space. The match determines the Higgs mass and self-coupling parameters and introduces a constant term in the Higgs potential. The constant term is taken to give dark energy contributions from detained neutrons, both primordial and piled-up neutrons from nuclear processes in stars. This corresponds to the dark energy content increasing with time. The two contributions possibly give rise to the primordial inflation and the later accelerated recession, respectively. The ensuing inflation during nucleosynthesis may explain the primordial lithium-seven deficit relative to the standard Big Bang nucleosynthesis model predictions. From the observed helium and stellar metallicity contents, we get a dark energy to baryon matter ratio of 14.5(0.7) to compare with the observed value of 13.9(0.2).
Sarcoidosis and the Nervous System
Authors: Pawate Siddharama
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides an overview and update on the neurologic manifestations of sarcoidosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

The 2018 Neurosarcoidosis Consortium diagnostic criteria emphasize that biopsy is key for diagnosis and determines the level of diagnostic certainty. Thus, definite neurosarcoidosis requires nervous system biopsy and probable neurosarcoidosis requires biopsy from extraneural tissue. Without biopsy, possible neurosarcoidosis can be diagnosed if the clinical, imaging, and laboratory picture is compatible and other causes are ruled out. Recent large retrospective studies from the United States and France established that infliximab appears to be efficacious when other treatments are inadequate.

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem noninfectious granulomatous disorder that is immune mediated, reflecting the response to an as-yet unidentified antigen or antigens. Neurosarcoidosis refers to neurologic involvement due to sarcoidosis that clinically manifests in 5% of cases of sarcoidosis, with asymptomatic involvement in as many as another one in five patients with sarcoidosis. Sarcoid granulomas can occur in any anatomic substrate in the nervous system, causing protean manifestations that have earned neurosarcoidosis the sobriquet the great mimic. Nevertheless, central nervous system sarcoidosis occurs in well-defined presentations that can be classified as cranial neuropathies, meningeal disease, brain parenchymal (including pituitary-hypothalamic) disease, and spinal cord disease. In addition, the peripheral nervous system is affected in the form of peripheral neuropathy and myopathy. Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone of treatment, especially in the acute stage, whereas steroid-sparing agents such as methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, and azathioprine are used for prolonged therapy to minimize steroid toxicity. Anti–tumor necrosis factor agents may help in refractory cases.
Electrolyte Disorders and the Nervous System
Authors: Jacoby Nuri
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides an overview of the major electrolyte disorders and discusses in detail the homeostasis, etiologies, neurologic manifestations, and treatment of these disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

The diagnosis and management of hyponatremia continue to evolve. Diagnostic accuracy is improved by assessing serum and urine osmolality as well as urinary sodium. Avoiding overcorrection of hyponatremia is crucial to avoid osmotic demyelination syndrome, although even careful correction can cause osmotic demyelination syndrome in patients who have other risk factors. The clinical presentation of osmotic demyelination syndrome has expanded, with many patients presenting with extrapontine myelinolysis in addition to central pontine myelinolysis.

Electrolyte disorders often present with neurologic manifestations. Whereas disorders of some electrolytes, such as sodium, preferentially affect the central nervous system, disorders of others, such as potassium and calcium, have significant neuromuscular manifestations. An understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders and recognition of these manifestations are crucial for the practicing neurologist as the symptoms are reversible with correct management.
Anticancer Drugs and the Nervous System
Authors: Santomasso Bianca D.
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the clinical features, prognosis, and treatment of neurotoxicity from anticancer drugs, including conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy, biologics, and targeted therapies, with a focus on the newer immunotherapies (immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T cells).

RECENT FINDINGS

Whereas neurologic complications from traditional chemotherapy are widely recognized, newer cancer therapies, in particular immunotherapies, have unique and distinct patterns of neurologic adverse effects. Anticancer drugs may cause central or peripheral nervous system complications. Neurologic complications of therapy are being seen with increasing frequency as patients with cancer are living longer and receiving multiple courses of anticancer regimens, with novel agents, combinations, and longer duration. Neurologists must know how to recognize treatment-related neurologic toxicity since discontinuation of the offending agent or dose adjustment may prevent further or permanent neurologic injury. It is also imperative to differentiate neurologic complications of therapy from cancer progression into the nervous system and from comorbid neurologic disorders that do not require treatment dose reduction or discontinuation.

Neurotoxicity from cancer therapy is common, with effects seen on both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy are new cancer treatments with distinct patterns of neurologic complications. Early recognition and appropriate management are essential to help prevent further neurologic injury and optimize oncologic management.
Preoperative Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Alternative Scoring Models of the Sleep Tiredness Observed Pressure-Body Mass Index Age Neck Circumference Gender Questionnaire: An External Validation
Authors: Seguin Ludovic , Tamisier Renaud , Deletombe Baptiste , Lopez Mélanie , Pepin Jean-Louis , Payen Jean-François
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND:

The Sleep Tiredness Observed Pressure-Body mass index Age Neck circumference Gender (STOP-Bang) questionnaire is a validated preoperative screening tool for identifying patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although it has a high sensitivity at scores ≥3, its specificity is moderate, particularly for scores of 3–4. This study aimed to externally validate the STOP-Bang questionnaire and the alternative scoring models that have been proposed to improve its predictive performance.

METHODS:

This prospective cohort study included 115 surgical patients with preoperative STOP-Bang scores of 3–8. Type 3 sleep recordings identified moderate-to-severe OSA, reflected by an apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) of >15. Patients were categorized into 2 subgroups: patients with an intermediate (STOP-Bang 3–4) or a high risk of OSA (STOP-Bang 5–8). For patients with scores of 3–4, we tested approaches identified in previous studies: stepwise stratification of the STOP-Bang questionnaire and additional preoperative measurement of serum bicarbonate concentrations.

RESULTS:

The incidence of moderate-to-severe OSA was significantly higher in patients with STOP-Bang scores of 5–8 than in patients with scores of 3–4: 45 of 58 patients (78%) versus 30 of 57 patients (53%), respectively (P < .01). For patients with STOP-Bang scores of 3–4, we found no differences regarding their OSA diagnosis between patients included in the alternative scoring models and those not included.

CONCLUSIONS:

The STOP-Bang questionnaire detected moderate-to-severe OSA patients when scores reached 5–8. However, its performance was altered in patients with STOP-Bang scores of 3–4, and alternative scoring models with specific combinations of factors failed to improve the screening of these patients.
Repairing Police Action after the Korean War in Toni Morrison’s Home
Authors: Lee A. J. Yumi
Published: June 2020

Narrating the fictional story of an African American veteran of the desegregated Korean War, Toni Morrison’s 2012 novel Home links the violence of US military “police action” in Korea to the long history of police violence at home. This article argues that Home’s critical portrayal of the Korean War punctures two enduring 1950s myths: the myth of a peaceful domestic “color-blind” society and the myth of heroic US military intervention abroad. The article reads Home as an allegory that invites readers to imagine forms of justice outside of a policing framework, both globally and domestically, through its narrative of repairing trauma and harm through community care rather than punishment or retribution. This reading shows that Morrison’s rewriting of the 1950s in Home places the contemporary idioms of police and prison abolition and transformative justice in a broader historical and global imaginative frame.
From Graduate Practicum to Activist Research Collective
Authors: Muñiz Michael De Anda , Bonsu Janaé , Dana Lydia , Ravichandran Sangeetha , Volpintesta Haley , Clarno Andy , Anzures-Oyorzabal Rodrigo , Carrasco Rosi , Carrasco Tania Unzueta , Wences Rey
Published: June 2020

The Policing in Chicago Research Group (PCRG) is an activist research collective composed of faculty and graduate students at the University of Illinois at Chicago. We conduct useful and accessible research on policing in support of campaigns organized by abolitionist social movements in Chicago. Beginning as a two-semester graduate research practicum, the PCRG has transitioned to an activist research collective. In this roundtable discussion, six members of the PCRG and four of our community partners reflect on the project’s challenges and successes. We consider the pedagogical power and limitations of an activist research practicum, the power dynamics within the research group and between the PCRG and our community partners, and the ability of the PCRG to remain accountable to our partners and the communities they represent.
Policing and the Limits of the Political Imagination in Postcolonial Nigeria
Authors: Daly Samuel Fury Childs
Published: June 2020

Nigeria’s police forces are famously ineffective and unpopular. Police agencies carry the dual stigma of having colonial origins and close connections to the military dictatorships that ruled Nigeria in its first forty years of independence. Despite their poor reputation, there is little political will to reform policing and virtually none to abolish it. This piece traces how the police are embedded in Nigerian society and politics, in order to understand why widespread dislike of a police force does not necessarily lead to calls for its dissolution.
“We Are Safer without the Police”
Authors: Li Cho-kiu , Tong Kin-long
Published: June 2020

This article examines the ways in which particular notions of safety have become central to political protests in Hong Kong. It follows the development of the methods protesters have used to establish a sense of safety as a core part of movement organizing, by focusing on the Umbrella Movement of 2014 and the building of its focal point, Harcourt Village.
The DISC1–Girdin complex – a missing link in signaling to the T cell cytoskeleton
Authors: Maskalenko Nicholas , Nath Shubhankar , Ramakrishnan Adarsh , Anikeeva Nadia , Sykulev Yuri , Poenie Martin
Published: June 2020

In this study, using Jurkat cells, we show that DISC1 (disrupted in schizophrenia 1) and Girdin (girders of actin filament) are essential for typical actin accumulation at the immunological synapse. Furthermore, DISC1, Girdin and dynein are bound in a complex. Although this complex initially forms as a central patch at the synapse, it relocates to a peripheral ring corresponding to the peripheral supramolecular activation cluster (pSMAC). In the absence of DISC1, the classic actin ring does not form, cell spreading is blocked, and the dynein complex fails to relocate to the pSMAC. A similar effect is seen when Girdin is deleted. When cells are treated with inhibitors of actin polymerization, the dynein–NDE1 complex is lost from the synapse and the microtubule-organizing center fails to translocate, suggesting that actin and dynein might be linked. Upon stimulation of T cell receptors, DISC1 becomes associated with talin, which likely explains why the dynein complex colocalizes with the pSMAC. These results show that the DISC1–Girdin complex regulates actin accumulation, cell spreading and distribution of the dynein complex at the synapse.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Differential diagnosis of <3 cm renal tumors by ultrasonography: a rapid, quantitative, elastography self-corrected contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging mode beyond screening
Authors: Sun Di , Lu Qijie , Wei Cong , Li Yi , Zheng Yuanyi , Hu Bing
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

To assess the combined diagnostic strategy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) in the precise differential diagnosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) and urothelium carcinoma of the renal pelvis (UCRP) with other small renal tumors (SRTs) ＜3 cm in size.

Methods:

The elastography self-corrected CEUS (ESC) mode was established to perform the quantitative differential diagnosis of SRTs (<3 cm). The kidney shear wave velocity (SWV) value recorded by ARFI showed substantial variability in patients with CCRCC (high elasticity value) and UCRP (low elasticity value) compared with other renal masses, thus providing critical self-correction information for the ultrasound differential diagnosis of SRTs.

Results:

In this work, the ESC observations and the corresponding ESC criteria show a remarkable 94.6% accuracy in reference to the gold standards, thus allowing the quantitative, early triple distinction of CCRCC with UCRP and other SRTs in patients with suspicious SRTs.

Conclusions:

This ARFI self-corrected CEUS diagnostic strategy is far beyond a screening method and may have the potential to identify a window of therapeutic opportunity in which emerging therapies might be applied to patients with CCRCC and UCRP, reducing overtreatment and medical costs.

Advances in knowledge:

In our study, a new rapid and non-invasive elastography self-corrected CEUS (ESC) ultrasound imaging mode was developed, which was useful in the triple distinction of CCRCC, UCRP, and other SRTs with 94.6% accuracy. ESC is a promising method in the differential diagnosis of SRTs with accuracy and practicability far beyond a single screening model.
The need of information in clinical settings
Authors: Dalageorgou Christina
Published: June 2020

No abstract available
Depression in heart failure
Authors: Iordani Moschoula-Mina
Published: June 2020

No abstract available
Concerns of hemodialysis patients
Authors: Benetou Sofia , Tsirigotis Stavros , Dousis Evangelos , Alikari Victoria , Evangelou Eleni , Koutelekos Ioannis , Zartaloudi Afroditi , Gerogianni Georgia
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Hemodialysis, which is the most common treatment in individuals with end stage renal disease, includes a series of limitations and modifications in daily life that adversely affect patients' physical and psychological state. Eliciting and addressing patients’ concerns is a key aspect of patient-centered treatment.  Unaddressed concerns may lead to lower satisfaction and   lower quality of medical care.Aim: To explore  concerns of hemodialysis patients. Method and material: A Descriptive study on a convenience sample of  patients undergoing hemodialysis in dialysis centers in Athens. Data was collected by the completion of a questionnaire which included the patients' concerns. Categorical variables are presented by absolute and relative frequencies (percentages).Results: In the present study were enrolled 100 patients, of whom 73% were male, 55% were>60 years old, 66% were married and 30% of primary level of education. Regarding patients' concerns, 36% of participants were bothered to spend time on dialysis center, 65% and 49% were concerned about a possible discontinue of fistula and hemodialysis machine respectively, while 59% were concerned about restrictions  in social life, 39% in their role as a spouse,  71% about fluid restrictions, 55% about diet restrictions and  53% were concerned about transport "to and from" hemodialysis unit. In terms of limitations due to hemodialysis,  30% reported limitation in clothes, 69% in going for holidays and 67% in sexual life.Conclusions: Expanding nurses knowledge about patients' concerns  is essential to implement individualized effective therapeutic strategies.
Good news on the active management of pregnant cancer patients
Authors: Folsom Susan , Woodruff Teresa
Published: June 2020

Cancer occurs in approximately 1/1000 to 1/2000 pregnancies and presents complex medical and ethical dilemmas for patients and providers. The most common cancers diagnosed in the gestational period include breast, cervical, melanoma, and lymphomas. The majority of existing evidence regarding the treatment of cancer during pregnancy is derived from experiences with breast cancer. Other cancers often pose unique challenges given the location of the tumors and their traditional mode of treatment with pelvic surgery and radiation. Additionally, many emerging therapies for cancer target mechanisms that are necessary for fetal development, such as angiogenesis, and are contraindicated in pregnant women. Although limitations on the treatment of cancer during pregnancy currently exist, increasing evidence shows that many surgical and systemic therapies can be effective for a mother’s oncologic outcomes without significant detriment to the developing fetus. Traditional perspectives of cancer during gestation may sway providers to encourage pregnancy termination, delays in therapy, or early delivery. However, recent studies and reviews discourage such practices. Although every cancer diagnosis in pregnancy requires an individualized approach and should use the multidisciplinary perspectives of maternal–fetal medicine specialists as well as medical and surgical oncologists, providers should feel empowered to safely employ systemic, surgical, and even reserved cases of radiation therapies for their pregnant patients with cancer. The aim of this review is to highlight some of the recent advances in cancer therapies for common cancer subtypes and encourage providers to use this growing body of evidence to employ treatments with curative intent while continuing to evaluate the long-term effects of these therapies on mothers and their children.
The use of essential oils as a growth promoter for small ruminants: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Andri Faizal , Huda Asri Nurul , Marjuki Marjuki
Published: June 2020

Background: Due to their antimicrobial properties and safety, essential oils are currently proposed as a sustainable option for antibiotic alternatives in the livestock sector. This current systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of dietary essential oil supplements on growth response of small ruminants.

Methods: A total of 12 studies (338 small ruminants) were included in this meta-analysis. The overall effect size was quantified using Hedges’ g with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a fixed-effect model. Publication bias was inspected using Begg’s and Egger’s tests, followed by trim and fill method to detect the number of potential missing studies.

Results: Insignificant heterogeneity among studies was detected both on dry matter intake (DMI; P of Q = 0.810; I-square = 0.00%), average daily gain (ADG; P of Q = 0.286; I-square = 17.61%), and feed conversion ratio (FCR; P of Q = 0.650; I-square = 0.00%). The overall effect size showed that essential oils supplementation had no significant impact on DMI (Hedges’ g = -0.12; 95% CI = -0.50 to 0.26; P = 0.429) and FCR (Hedges’ g = -0.17; 95% CI = -0.55 to 0.22; P = 0.284), but had a significant positive impact on ADG (Hedges’ g = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.12 to 0.76; P = 0.002). The result of publication bias analysis showed that DMI, ADG, and FCR did not present any significant biases (P > 0.10), and no potential missing studies detected.

Conclusions: Dietary essential oil could improve ADG of small ruminants, without any alteration on DMI and FCR. Further research in this topic is still required to provide stronger evidence of the potency of essential oil as a growth promoter for small ruminants.
A blueprint for the implementation of a validated approach for the detection of SARS-Cov2 in clinical samples in academic facilities
Authors: Sridhar Sushmita , Forrest Sally , Kean Iain , Young Jamie , Bartholdson Scott Josefin , Maes Mailis , Pereira-Dias Joana , Parmar Surendra , Routledge Matthew , Sparkes Dominic , Rivett Lucy , Dougan Gordon , Weekes Michael , Curran Martin , Goodfellow Ian , Baker Stephen
Published: June 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is expanding at an unprecedented rate. As a result, diagnostic services are stretched to their limit, and there is a clear need for the provision of additional diagnostic capacity. Academic laboratories, many of which are closed due to governmental lockdowns, may be in a position to support local screening capacity by adapting their current laboratory practices. Here, we describe the process of developing a SARS-Cov2 diagnostic workflow in a conventional academic Containment Level 2 laboratory. Our outline includes simple SARS-Cov2 deactivation upon contact, the method for a quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR detecting SARS-Cov2, a description of process establishment and validation, and some considerations for establishing a similar workflow elsewhere. This was achieved under challenging circumstances through the collaborative efforts of scientists, clinical staff, and diagnostic staff to mitigate to the ongoing crisis. Within 14 days, we created a validated COVID-19 diagnostics service for healthcare workers in our local hospital. The described methods are not exhaustive, but we hope may offer support to other academic groups aiming to set up something comparable in a short time frame.
Theoretical Aspects of the Toolkit Analysis Effective Use of Energy in an Industrial Enterprise
Authors: Koksharov V. , Kirshina I.
Published: June 2020

At present, there are no methodological approaches that make it possible to comprehensively use a fairly extensive methodological tool for analyzing the efficient use of energy resources at an industrial enterprise, which significantly affects the effectiveness of the energy-efficient strategy of the enterprise. In this regard, the need to use such an extensive analysis toolkit has become relevant. The article used materials of foreign and domestic research. The authors' research was based on a systematic approach, methods of analysis and synthesis of indicators of the organization of energy economics by an industrial enterprise at the present stage. The authors proposed a set of tools for analyzing the efficient use of energy in an industrial enterprise, which is based on the theory of production, with the help of which the production functions of energy consumption are considered allowing to use the «field of interchangeability» of energy resources, the change in the volume of output depending on changes in the volume of use of one energy resource (function income), various functions of energy consumption in production equipment, as well as economic mathematical assessment of energy while optimizing the fuel and energy balance of the enterprise. The proposed conceptual approach to the use of the proposed tools for the analysis of the efficient use of energy resources makes it possible to formulate an energy-efficient enterprise strategy on the basis of a sustainable organization of enterprise production.
Current Problems of the Consumer Credit market in Russia
Authors: Rezepin Anatoliy , Fayzulin M.
Published: June 2020

The analysis of the development of the consumer credit market has shown that there are a number of problems associated with the growth of borrowers debt among the population. Accelerated growth in lending and reduced solvency of borrowers led to a steady decline in real incomes of citizens and the development of the non-banking financial sector. The authors set a goal to conduct a study of the relationship between the development of the consumer banking lending market and the solvency of the population. Based on the conducted research, the main factors influencing the growth of retail consumer lending and the solvency of citizens were identified. These factors include the development of the MFI market, the lack of credit monitoring by the banking sector, inappropriate provision of credit resources, and a steady decline in real incomes of the population. On the basis of comparative analysis, statistical, economic and mathematical methods, the dependencies between the current macroeconomic indicators were determined, which confirmed the assumptions about the falling solvency of Russian citizens and the unstable state of the banking sector. Applying the results of the current study will be effective for carrying out reforms in the field of monetary policy of the state and changes in the legislation regulating the activities of commercial banks and microfinance organization.
Atenção nutricional e práticas alimentares na perspectiva de gestantes com excesso de peso
Authors: Pires Carolina Da Costa , Rodrigues Mariana Leal , Capelli Jane De Carlos Santana , Santos Marta Maria Antonieta de Souza , Baião Mirian Ribeiro
Published: June 2020

Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar a atenção nutricional e as práticas alimentares, na perspectiva de gestantes com excesso de peso assistidas na Atenção Básica de Macaé, Rio de Janeiro. Métodos: Trata-se de pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa, fundamentada no paradigma interpretativista. Realizaram-se entrevistas em profundidade, cujos dados foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo temática adaptada de Bardin. Foram entrevistadas 12 gestantes com excesso de peso, maiores de 20 anos, residentes em Macaé-RJ. Resultados: O estudo verificou o estabelecimento de relações verticalizadas entre o profissional de saúde-usuário, descontinuidade do atendimento nutricional e a não adesão às orientações dietéticas por algumas participantes. Houve maior aceitação do ganho de peso gestacional excessivo e adoção de práticas alimentares ambíguas, permeadas tanto pelo consumo exagerado de alimentos quanto pela retirada de alimentos considerados “ruins e/ou besteiras”. O discurso verticalizado do profissional de saúde, frequentemente autoritário, e a anulação da mulher enquanto sujeito ativo na construção do cuidado se manifestaram, de forma implícita, nas narrativas. Conclusão: A naturalização do excesso de peso gestacional, concepções construídas no imaginário social como o “comer por dois” e “desejos” durante a gestação, o conjunto das práticas alimentares nesse período e o suporte familiar constituem elementos relevantes a serem considerados pelas equipes de saúde para a organização da atenção nutricional.
Nunca sabemos o que esperar das viagens: Performance em trens urbanos e diálogos nos espaços públicos em In_Trânsito com Cia. Marginal
Authors: Ribeiro Ana Paula Alves
Published: June 2020

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma reflexão sobre a peça In_Trânsito, encenada pela Cia. Marginal, com direção de Isabel Penoni e Joana Levi. In_Trânsito configura-se como uma performance site-specific (encenada em espaços originalmente não dedicados a ela) desenvolvida durante viagens nos vagões do ramal Saracuruna, com início na Central do Brasil, estação ferroviária localizada no Rio de Janeiro. Por meio de um diálogo sobre circulação e direito à cidade e de um olhar para performances que tenham a cidade como palco ou personagem e que sejam localizadas em um território, procuramos entender, utilizando um relato etnográfico da peça, os dilemas pelos quais a cidade passa e como movimentos sociais e artísticos são perpassados pelo que acontece nesta mesma cidade.
Leadership in the medical profession – it’s not rocket science
Authors: Morrey Bernard
Published: June 2020

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:354-360. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.200299
CAMBIO DE PERSPECTIVA EN EL APRENDIZAJE DE LENGUAS EXTRANJERAS: HACIA LA AUTONOMÍA CON EL e-PEL (PORTFOLIO EUROPEO DE LAS LENGUAS ELECTRÓNICO)
Authors: Mira Giménez Mario Jesús
Published: June 2020

INTRODUCCIÓN. El cambio de enfoque propugnado por el Marco Común Europeo de Referencia para las Lenguas (MERCL), implementado mediante las TIC, ha dado lugar al e-PEL (Portfolio Europeo de las Lenguas Electrónico). Este nuevo modelo implica un cambio en la metodología, que se beneficia de las nuevas formas de gestionar la información e interactuar con el Entorno Personal de Aprendizaje. MÉTODO. Este artículo analiza el fomento de la autonomía a través del e-PEL mediante los datos recopilados en un estudio cualitativo llevado a cabo en un grupo de alumnos de alemán (nivel A2.1) de la Escuela Oficial de Idiomas de Alicante entre octubre de 2016 y febrero de 2017. El propósito de este estudio radica en analizar la progresión de los alumnos en tres subsecciones del apartado “Aprender a aprender del e-PEL: Reflexión y organización”, “Aprender lo nuevo” y “Fijar lo aprendido”. RESULTADOS. Si se analizan los resultados, se llega a la conclusión de que el e-PEL ha fomentado el cambio del centro de atención desde el docente al estudiante. Asimismo, el aprendizaje significativo ha implicado que las actividades se han tenido que adaptar al alumno en lo que respecta a objetivos, contenidos y tareas, respondiendo así a las necesidades del aprendiz, de tal manera que se han podido integrar y reestructurar en su mundo de experiencias. DISCUSIÓN. La motivación de todos los alumnos ha aumentado y han desarrollado confianza en sí mismos gracias a la formulación positiva de sus capacidades mediante rúbricas. A pesar del progreso en la autonomía, el tiempo de aplicación ha sido insuficiente para implementar todas las capacidades que integran el aprendizaje autónomo.
On transience and other hatreds
Authors: Crociani-Windland Lita
Published: June 2020

This article originates in a free associative extended reflection on what the author sees as the many faces of our relationship to transience in Western culture. It begins with the image of plastic flowers in graveyards, wild flowers pushed to verges and marginal spaces, women, migrants and transient communities. Our relation to life, death and their relation to movement and limitation are key aspects being reflected on and taken up for further analysis. The result of the free associative experiment is to invite reflections on the Freudian concepts of Eros and Thanatos and revisit the highly controversial question of whether these should be viewed in terms of a dualist or a monistic understanding. What is being presented here is a way of working with free associations outside the consulting room and group processes, using free associations as a reflexive research tool within a psychosocial hermeneutic approach.