bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing the Insufficiencies of the Traditional Development Aid Model by Utilizing the One Belt, One Road Initiative to Sustain Development in Afghanistan
Authors: Zhang Yanzhe , Yu Xiao , Zhang Huizhi
Published: January 2019

This paper investigated the use of the One Belt One Road initiative (BRI) as a policy model that might address the insufficiencies of the traditional development aid model in reconstructing and developing Afghanistan. Afghanistan has emerged as one of the world’s most fragile and conflict-affected countries, and it has gained the attention of both academic and political communities since the early 2000s. The materials for this article are based partly on a thorough analysis of the available documentation. The authors also conducted interviews with high-ranking political elites and policy officials in the Afghan government and international organizations. The study employed a purposive sampling method to identify people with firsthand information on how to sustain economic development in Afghanistan. This paper provides new insights by comparing the traditional development aid model and the BRI in terms of social economy, local security and regional economic development. The aim of this research is to evaluate whether the BRI can remedy the insufficiencies of the traditional development aid model in order to sustain development in Afghanistan. The findings provide a better understanding of the BRI in promoting the internal dynamism required to develop the regional economy, and fill a gap in the literature with regard to the applied and theoretical economic growth models for stabilizing and sustaining the development of fragile and conflict-affected states.
Reducing the Risks during the Purchase of Five-Axis CNC Machining Centers Using AHP Method and Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Cioca Lucian-Ionel , Breaz Radu-Eugen , Racz Sever-Gabriel
Published: January 2019

Nowadays, companies are in the process of renewing their manufacturing lines by equipping them with modern five-axis CNC (computer numerical control) machining centers. The decision to select between different five-axis CNC machining centers, with similar technological capabilities is a difficult process, so the main goal of this work was to develop a method for assisting it. The proposed approach relies on seven technical criteria, four quantitative ones (traverse speed, thrust, spindle power, and spindle speed) which can be expressed by crisp numerical values, while the other three (flexibility, operation easiness, and setup time) are qualitative ones. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used for ordering four variants of five-axis CNC milling machining centers. The qualitative criteria were processed using fuzzy systems to be expressed by crisp numerical values, suitable for AHP. Finally, the four variants of five-axis CNC milling machining centers were hierarchized and the best one was chosen. A sensitivity analysis was also unfolded to certify the robustness of the AHP.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Toxics in 2018
Authors:   Toxics Editorial Office
Published: January 2019

Rigorous peer-review is the corner-stone of high-quality academic publishing [...]
WIPO Re:Search—A Platform for Product-Centered Cross-Sector Partnerships for the Elimination of Schistosomiasis
Authors: Weber Callie J. , Hargan-Calvopiña Joseph , Graef Katy M. , Manner Cathyryne K. , Dent Jennifer
Published: January 2019

Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic disease that affects over 200 million people worldwide, and with over 700 million people estimated to be at risk of contracting this disease, it is a pressing issue in global health. However, research and development (R&D) to develop new approaches to preventing, diagnosing, and treating schistosomiasis has been relatively limited. Praziquantel, a drug developed in the 1970s, is the only agent used in schistosomiasis mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns, indicating a critical need for a diversified therapeutic pipeline. Further, gaps in the vaccine and diagnostic pipelines demonstrate a need for early-stage innovation in all areas of schistosomiasis product R&D. As a platform for public-private partnerships (PPPs), the WIPO Re:Search consortium engages the private sector in early-stage R&D for neglected diseases by forging mutually beneficial collaborations and facilitating the sharing of intellectual property (IP) assets between the for-profit and academic/non-profit sectors. The Consortium connects people, resources, and ideas to fill gaps in neglected disease product development pipelines by leveraging the strengths of these two sectors. Using WIPO Re:Search as an example, this article highlights the opportunities for the PPP model to play a key role in the elimination of schistosomiasis.
Complement Receptor C5aR1 Inhibition Reduces Pyroptosis in hDPP4-Transgenic Mice Infected with MERS-CoV
Authors: Jiang Yuting , Li Junfeng , Teng Yue , Sun Hong , Tian Guang , He Lei , Li Pei , Chen Yuehong , Guo Yan , Li Jiangfan , Zhao Guangyu , Zhou Yusen , Sun Shihui
Published: January 2019

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a highly pathogenic virus with a crude mortality rate of ~35%. Previously, we established a human DPP4 transgenic (hDPP4-Tg) mouse model in which we studied complement overactivation-induced immunopathogenesis. Here, to better understand the pathogenesis of MERS-CoV, we studied the role of pyroptosis in THP-1 cells and hDPP4 Tg mice with MERS-CoV infection. We found that MERS-CoV infection induced pyroptosis and over-activation of complement in human macrophages. The hDPP4-Tg mice infected with MERS-CoV overexpressed caspase-1 in the spleen and showed high IL-1β levels in serum, suggesting that pyroptosis occurred after infection. However, when the C5a-C5aR1 axis was blocked by an anti-C5aR1 antibody (Ab), expression of caspase-1 and IL-1β fell. These data indicate that MERS-CoV infection induces overactivation of complement, which may contribute to pyroptosis and inflammation. Pyroptosis and inflammation were suppressed by inhibiting C5aR1. These results will further our understanding of the pathogenesis of MERS-CoV infection.
Development of a Whole-Virus ELISA for Serological Evaluation of Domestic Livestock as Possible Hosts of Human Coronavirus NL63
Authors: El-Duah Philip , Meyer Benjamin , Sylverken Augustina , Owusu Michael , Gottula Lina Theresa , Yeboah Richmond , Lamptey Jones , Frimpong Yaw Oppong , Burimuah Vitus , Folitse Raphael , Agbenyega Olivia , Oppong Samuel , Adu-Sarkodie Yaw , Drosten Christian
Published: January 2019

Known human coronaviruses are believed to have originated in animals and made use of intermediate hosts for transmission to humans. The intermediate hosts of most of the human coronaviruses are known, but not for HCoV-NL63. This study aims to assess the possible role of some major domestic livestock species as intermediate hosts of HCoV-NL63. We developed a testing algorithm for high throughput screening of livestock sera with ELISA and confirmation with recombinant immunofluorescence assay testing for antibodies against HCoV-NL63 in livestock. Optimization of the ELISA showed a capability of the assay to significantly distinguish HCoV-NL63 from HCoV-229E (U = 27.50, p < 0.001) and HCoV-OC43 (U = 55.50, p < 0.001) in coronavirus-characterized sera. Evaluation of the assay with collected human samples showed no significant difference in mean optical density values of immunofluorescence-classified HCoV-NL63-positive and HCoV-NL63-negative samples (F (1, 215) = 0.437, p = 0.509). All the top 5% (n = 8) most reactive human samples tested by ELISA were HCoV-NL63 positive by immunofluorescence testing. In comparison, only a proportion (84%, n = 42) of the top 25% were positive by immunofluorescence testing, indicating an increased probability of the highly ELISA reactive samples testing positive by the immunofluorescence assay. None of the top 5% most ELISA reactive livestock samples were positive for HCoV-NL63-related viruses by immunofluorescence confirmation. Ghanaian domestic livestock are not likely intermediate hosts of HCoV-NL63-related coronaviruses.
Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Sardinia Virus, a Begomovirus Species Evolving by Mutation and Recombination: A Challenge for Virus Control
Authors: Díaz-Pendón Juan A. , Sánchez-Campos Sonia , Fortes Isabel María , Moriones Enrique
Published: January 2019

The tomato leaf curl disease (TYLCD) is associated with infections of several species of begomoviruses (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) and causes severe damage to tomatoes throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Among others, the Tomato yellow leaf curl Sardinia virus (TYLCSV) species causes damage in the Mediterranean Basin since early outbreaks occurred. Nevertheless, scarce information is available about the diversity of TYLCSV. Here, we study this aspect based on the sequence information accessible in databases. Isolates of two taxonomically differentiated TYLCSV strains can be found in natural epidemics. Their evolution is mostly associated with mutation combined with selection and random genetic drift and also with inter-species recombination which is frequent in begomoviruses. Moreover, a novel putative inter-strain recombinant is reported. Although no significantly new biological behaviour was observed for this latter recombinant, its occurrence supports that as shown for other related begomoviruses, recombination continues to play a central role in the evolution of TYLCD-associated viruses and the dynamism of their populations. The confrontation of resistant tomatoes with isolates of different TYLCD-associated viruses including the novel recombinant demonstrates the existence of a variable virus x plant genotype interaction. This has already been observed for other TYLCD-associated viruses and is a challenge for the control of their impact on tomato production.
Evaluation of Design Flow Rate of Water Supply Systems with Low Flow Showering Appliances
Authors: Zhou Yang , Mui Kwok-wai , Wong Ling-tim
Published: January 2019

The installation of water efficient appliances is an efficient demand-side water management measure favored by policymakers and water providers nowadays. The adoption of low flow showerheads in large and complex plumbing systems will not only contribute to a great reduction of shower water use in the whole water system, but also further influence the water supply system design. Hence, it is necessary to justify the redesign of existing water supply systems (such as the pipe size, storage tank volume, pumping arrangement etc.) in terms of the use of low flow showerheads. This study uses Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the design flow rate for a typical high-rise roof tank water supply system in Hong Kong with the installation of low flow showerheads. The simulation results indicate that a full installation of low flow showerheads can decrease the design flow rate by 15%, corresponding to an energy efficiency improvement of 1.5%. The potential for water savings and associated energy savings can be significantly higher when all installed appliances in homes are water efficient (e.g., showerheads, water taps, washing machines). Further work is required to evaluate the redesign of existing water supply systems for a sustainable future.
Treatment of Liquid Phase of Digestate from Agricultural Biogas Plant in a System with Aerobic Granules and Ultrafiltration
Authors: Świątczak Piotr , Cydzik-Kwiatkowska Agnieszka , Zielińska Magdalena
Published: January 2019

Management of digestate from manure co-digestion with a very high chemical oxygen demand (COD) to nitrogen ratio and high nitrogen loads are a major bottleneck in the development of agricultural biogas plants. The liquid phase of digestate mixed with municipal wastewater was treated in aerobic granular sludge batch reactors at cycle lengths (t) of 6 h (GSBR6h), 8 h (GSBR8h), and 12 h (GSBR12h), corresponding to nitrogen loads of 1.6, 1.2, and 0.8 g/(L·d). Thauera sp., Lacibacter sp., Thermanaerothrix sp., and Planctomyces sp. predominated in granules favoring effective granule formation and nitrogen removal. Increasing cycle lengths (t) significantly decreased proteins in soluble fraction of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in granules and increased polysaccharides in tightly bound EPS that resulted in higher granule diameters and higher COD removal. In GSBR6h, heterotrophic nitrification/denitrification was very efficient, but ammonium was fully oxidized in the last hour of the cycle. So in further studies, the effluent from GSBR8h was subjected to ultrafiltration (UF) at transmembrane pressures (TMPs) of 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 MPa. A GSBR8h-UF system (TMP of 0.4 MPa) ensured full removal of total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), suspended solids, and substantial reduction of COD and color with good permeate flux. The NOx-rich (about 250 mg/L), clear permeate can be reused in line with assumptions of modern circular economy.
Projected Climate Could Increase Water Yield and Cotton Yield but Decrease Winter Wheat and Sorghum Yield in an Agricultural Watershed in Oklahoma
Authors: Rasoulzadeh Gharibdousti Solmaz , Kharel Gehendra , Miller Ronald B. , Linde Evan , Stoecker Art
Published: January 2019

Climate change impacts on agricultural watersheds are highly variable and uncertain across regions. This study estimated the potential impacts of the projected precipitation and temperature based on the downscaled Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP-5) on hydrology and crop yield of a rural watershed in Oklahoma, USA. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool was used to model the watershed with 43 sub-basins and 15,217 combinations of land use, land cover, soil, and slope. The model was driven by the observed climate in the watershed and was first calibrated and validated against the monthly observed streamflow. Three statistical matrices, coefficient of determination (R2), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and percentage bias (PB), were used to gauge the model performance with satisfactory values of R2 = 0.64, NS = 0.61, and PB = +5% in the calibration period, and R2 = 0.79, NSE = 0.62, and PB = −15% in the validation period for streamflow. The model parameterization for the yields of cotton (PB = −4.5%), grain sorghum (PB = −27.3%), and winter wheat (PB = −6.0%) resulted in an acceptable model performance. The CMIP-5 ensemble of three General Circulation Models under three Representative Concentration Pathways for the 2016–2040 period indicated an increase in both precipitation (+1.5%) and temperature (+1.8 °C) in the study area. This changed climate resulted in decreased evapotranspiration (−3.7%), increased water yield (23.9%), decreased wheat yield (−5.2%), decreased grain sorghum yield (−9.9%), and increased cotton yield (+54.2%) compared to the historical climate. The projected increase in water yield might provide opportunities for groundwater recharge and additional water to meet future water demand in the region. The projected decrease in winter wheat yield—the major crop in the state—due to climate change, may require attention for ways to mitigate these effects.
Plankton Taxonomic and Size Diversity of Mediterranean Brackish Ponds in Spring: Influence of Abiotic and Biotic Factors
Authors: Sgarzi Serena , Badosa Anna , Leiva-Presa Àngels , Benejam Lluís , López-Flores Rocío , Brucet Sandra
Published: January 2019

In this study, performed in Mediterranean brackish ponds during spring season, we assessed the effects of biotic interactions and abiotic factors on the size and taxonomic structure of the phytoplankton and zooplankton. We used a taxonomic and a size diversity index as a descriptor of the community structure. We predicted that the size diversity of each trophic level would be mainly related to biotic interactions, such as size-based fish predation (in the case of zooplankton) and food resource availability (in the case of phytoplankton), whereas taxonomic diversity would be more affected by abiotic variables (e.g., conductivity, pond morphology). Our results showed a negative relationship between phytoplankton size diversity and food resource availability leading to low size diversities under food scarcity due to dominance of small species. Conductivity also negatively affected the phytoplankton size diversity, although slightly. Regarding zooplankton size diversity, none of predictors tested seemed to influence this index. Similar fish size diversities among ponds may prevent a significant effect of fish predation on size diversity of zooplankton. As expected, taxonomic diversity of phytoplankton and zooplankton was related to abiotic variables (specifically pond morphometry) rather than biotic interactions, which are usually body size dependent, especially in these species-poor brackish environments.
Assessing Managed Aquifer Recharge Processes under Three Physical Model Concepts
Authors: Fichtner Thomas , Barquero Felix , Sallwey Jana , Stefan Catalin
Published: January 2019

Physical models such as surface infiltration experiments in the lab and field are an approach to understand processes in the unsaturated soil zone. In the case of mapping processes influencing the operation of real-world managed aquifer recharge schemes they are helpful tools to determine interactions between processes in the unsaturated soil zone, and site-specific as well as operational parameters. However, the multitude of assumptions and scale-related limitations of downscale investigations often lead to over- or underestimations, rendering their results useless when translated to field-like conditions. Various real-world managed aquifer recharge operational scenarios were simulated in three physical models, a 1D-lab column, a rectangular shaped stainless steel 3D-lab infiltration tank and a rectangular shaped 3D-field unit, to understand the impact of the experimental set-up on the assessment of processes and to identify the experimental set-up which is most-suitable to describe these processes. Results indicate that water flow velocity, water saturation and oxygen consumption are often overestimated in 1D-column experiments due to sidewall effects and no existing lateral flow. For precise analysis of infiltration processes in general as well as during operation of managed aquifer recharge, 3D experiments are recommended due to their more realistic representation of flow processes.
Interpreting Farmers’ Perceptions of Risks and Benefits Concerning Wastewater Reuse for Irrigation: A Case Study in Emilia-Romagna (Italy)
Authors: Michetti Melania , Raggi Meri , Guerra Elisa , Viaggi Davide
Published: January 2019

Water recycling is becoming progressively more important as the need for Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) is increasing to ensure a transition towards a more sustainable use for water. Perceptions and public acceptance of water reuse are recognised as paramount factors for the successful introduction of wastewater reuse projects, regardless of the strength of scientific evidence in their favour. This article analyses perceptions of risks and benefits of using treated wastewater for irrigation purposes in agriculture when dealing with different crops. Data from an original farmer survey are analysed through descriptive statistics and a classification tree approach. The study reveals limited knowledge of wastewater treatment, yet a good level of openness towards the reuse of wastewater for irrigation. A lower risk perception and a higher acceptance level are mainly explained by positive expectations with regard to the environmental characteristics of effluent water, higher education, and specific cropping choices. Enhancing information availability is also found to positively affect social acceptance. The ease of converting current water-management practices to the new water source explains the perceived benefits of reusing water.
[C ii] 158 μm Emission from z ∼ 4 H i Absorption-selected Galaxies
Authors: Neeleman Marcel , Kanekar Nissim , Xavier Prochaska J. , Rafelski Marc A. , Carilli Chris L.
Published: January 2019

We report on a search for the [C ii] 158 μm emission line from galaxies associated with four high-metallicity damped Lyα absorbers (DLAs) at z ∼ 4 using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). We detect [C ii] 158 μm emission from galaxies at the DLA redshift in three fields, with one field showing two [C ii] 158 μm emitters. Combined with previous results, we now have detected [C ii] 158 μm emission from five of six galaxies associated with targeted high-metallicity DLAs at z ∼ 4. The galaxies have relatively large impact parameters, ≈16–45 kpc, [C ii] 158 μm line luminosities of (0.36–30) × 108
L
⊙, and rest-frame far-infrared properties similar to those of luminous Lyman-break galaxies, with star formation rates of ≈7–110 M
⊙ yr−1. Comparing the absorption and emission line profiles yields a remarkable agreement between the line centroids, indicating that the DLA traces gas at velocities similar to that of the [C ii] 158 μm emission. This disfavors a scenario where the DLA arises from gas in a companion galaxy. These observations highlight ALMA’s unique ability to uncover a high-redshift galaxy population that has largely eluded detection for decades.
On the Origin of Black Hole Spin in High-mass X-Ray Binaries
Authors: Qin Ying , Marchant Pablo , Fragos Tassos , Meynet Georges , Kalogera Vicky
Published: January 2019

Black hole (BH) spins in low-mass X-ray binaries cover a range of values that can be explained by accretion after BH birth. In contrast, the three BH spin measurements in high-mass X-ray binaries (HMXBs) show only values near the maximum and likely have a different origin connected to the BH stellar progenitor. We explore here two possible scenarios to explain the high spins of BHs in HMXBs: formation in binaries that undergo mass transfer (MT) during the main sequence (MS; Case-A MT), and very close binaries undergoing chemically homogeneous evolution (CHE). We find that both scenarios are able to produce high-spin BHs if internal angular momentum (AM) transport in the progenitor star after its MS evolution is not too strong (i.e., weak coupling between the stellar core and its envelope). If instead efficient AM transport is assumed, we find that the resulting BH spins are always too low with respect to observations. The Case-A MT model provides a good fit for the BH spins, the masses of the two components, and the final orbital periods for two of the three BHs in HMXBs with measured spins. For one of them, the mass predicted for the BH companion is significantly lower than observed, but this depends strongly on the assumed efficiency of MT. The CHE models predict orbital periods that are too large for all three cases considered here. We expect the Case-A MT to be much more frequent at the metallicities involved, so we conclude that the Case-A MT scenario is preferred. Finally, we predict that the stellar companions of HMXBs formed through the Case-A MT have enhanced nitrogen surface abundances, which can be tested by future observations.
Behaviour of Occult HBV Infection in HCV-Infected Patients under Treatment with Direct-Acting Antivirals
Authors: Musolino Cristina , Cacciola Irene , Tripodi Gianluca , Lombardo Daniele , Raffa Giuseppina , Alibrandi Angela , Squadrito Giovanni , Raimondo Giovanni , Pollicino Teresa
Published: January 2019

Background

There is controversial data on possible occult HBV reactivation in HCV patients successfully treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAA). However, diagnosis of occult HBV infection (OBI) was not performed by gold standard procedures in any study.

Methods

By using several highly sensitive assays, we examined serially collected serum samples from 40 HBV-surface-negative DAA-treated HCV patients with OBI identified by testing liver biopsy specimens through nested-PCR technique. Serum samples were obtained at four time points from each patient (at baseline, at 4 weeks after starting, at the end and 12 weeks after stopping therapy) and tested for HBV DNA by nested-PCR and real-time PCR techniques.

Results

All tested serum samples were negative by both quantitative HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV core-related antigen assays. 26/40 patients were anti-HBs-positive and in all of them, the amount of this antibody was stable at the four time points evaluated. Serum HBV DNA was detected in 10 samples at baseline, in 6 samples 4 weeks after starting therapy, in 11 samples at the end of therapy and in 21 samples 12 weeks after stopping treatment ( P=0.001). Aminotransferase values dropped within the normal levels at week 4 of therapy and persisted normal over time in all cases.

Conclusions

A slight increase in the amount of HBV DNA 3 months after stopping DAA therapy was the only parameter showing a possible reappearance of HBV activity in OBI patients cured for a concomitant HCV infection, but it was insufficient to lead toward a virological reactivation capable of inducing liver injury.
Immunophenotyping of circulating mononuclear cells in active pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Elkholy Amany , El Anany Mirvat , Ezzat Ghada Mohamed , Abd El Reheem Fadwa , Elessawy Assem Fouad
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Interpreting the interactions between M. tuberculosis and the host innate and adaptive immune defense mechanisms is mandatory for understanding the pathogenesis of active pulmonary TB (APTB). The aim was to describe the distribution of mononuclear cells in APTB and their relation to disease severity.

Methodology: A case-control study of peripheral blood CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, B-lymphocytes, NK cells, T regulatory lymphocytes (Tregs) and monocytes by flow cytometry. The patients had clinical presentations of APTB, positive tuberculin skin tests, acid-fast bacilli smears and sputum cultures using BACTEC 960.

Results: There was a significant decrease in the haemoglobin level and the absolute lymphocytic count (p < 0.01), while both the neutrophil count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate showed significant increase in the APTB patients compared to HC with p-values < 0.001 and < 0.0001 respectively. Both the CD4+/CD8+ ratio and the percentages of CD3−CD19+ cells were significantly lower in APTB patients (p = 0.03 and p = 0.005 respectively). The percentages of CD4+, CD8+, CD3−CD19+, CD14+, and CD3−CD (16+56)+ cells showed no significant differences, when comparing either disease severity groups, or cavitated and non-cavitated groups of APTB patients. There was significant increase in the CD4+25+ lymphocytes in the advanced APTB patients than in the mild disease group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: B-lymphocytes and CD4/CD8 ratios were significantly lower in the APTB patients than controls with no association with disease severity. CD4+ CD25+hi Tregs were significantly higher in the advanced versus mild groups.
Are physicians aware of current HIV / AIDS diagnostic practices? A study from a tertiary centre in Turkey
Authors: Akduman Alasehir Elcin , Yesilbag Zuhal , Karadeniz Asli , Yaman Gorkem
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Early diagnosis of HIV infection is essential for the reduction of morbidity/mortality rates, health expenditures and the prevention of infection spread. In this study we aimed to test the knowledge of physicians regarding HIV risk groups, AIDS indicator diseases and their current practices about screening.

Methodology: A questionnaire was used to collect data from physicians working in a multidisciplinary 170-bed tertiary university hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. The questionnaire measured physician knowledge of the above-mentioned points.

Results: Ninety-six physicians replied to the questionnaire. "Preoperative screening" was found to be the most common (65.6%) indication for HIV testing. A large portion of physicians (72.9%) felt comfortable with an HIV test and 71.9% of the physicians had no impeding condition for HIV testing. Physicians were mostly (67.7%) unaware of the current guidelines for HIV testing.

Conclusions: Teaching programs are essential to increase knowledge of HIV screening for physicians as this is an essential part of early diagnosis and therefore important for decreasing morbidity and mortality.
Pulmonary tuberculosis screening and quality of life among migrant workers, Northern Thailand
Authors: Charoensook Palita , Upala Panupong , Anuwatnonthakate Amornrat , Ruanjai Thapakorn , Apidechkul Tawatchai
Published: January 2019

Introduction: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) and to assess the quality of life and depression among the migrant workers in northern Thailand.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted to elicit information among migrant workers in Chiang Rai and Pha Yao provinces, northern Thailand. Several standard forms including GeneXpert were used for data collection. A simple random sampling was used to select the companies and the study sample. Interview was conducted in a confidential room. Chi-square was used to detect the association between variables at the significant level α = 0.05.

Results: Totally 467 migrant workers were recruited into the study, 97.9% were Myanmar national, 55.7% were males, and 51.4% were aged > 32 years. Only 2.1% were living in Thailand illegally, 23.8% had no health insurance, and 92.1% had monthly income at < 20,000 baht. Eight cases (1.71%) were at risk of TB disease from the screening, only one case was positive for TB disease from GeneXpert, and no multi-drug resistant detected. 47.5% had a low level of knowledge and 28.7% had a negative attitude on TB prevention and care. 10.7% were in a moderate to severe stage of depression. Six variables were found the significant associated with quality of life; ethnicity, sex, marital status, income, length of working in Thailand, and insurance.

Conclusions: Besides active TB surveillance system, inter-country public health policy should be developed to cope with depression problem and improve quality of life among the migrant in Thailand
HLA-C*18:01 and KIR2DL2+C1 genetic variants are associated with low viral load in cART naïve HIV-infected adult Zimbabweans
Authors: Mhandire Kudakwashe , Tshabalala Mqondisi , Zijenah Lynn Sodai , Mlambo Tommy , Mhandire Doreen Zvipo , Musarurwa Cuthbert , Duri Kerina , Matarira Hilda Tendisa , Dandara Collet , Rowland-Jones Sarah L , Stray-Pedersen Babill
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Polymorphisms in killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene families are implicated in differential outcomes of HIV infection. However, research findings on the influence of KIR and HLA-C polymorphism on HIV disease progression remain inconclusive. We thus investigated the association of KIR and HLA-C gene polymorphisms with plasma HIV load (VL) and CD4+ T lymphocyte (CD4) count in 183 chronically HIV-infected, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) naïve Zimbabweans of Bantu origin.

Methodology: The presence or absence of 15 KIR genes were determined using sequence specific primer polymerase chain reaction while HLA-C typing was performed using chain termination DNA sequencing. Plasma VL was determined using the Cavidi Exavir viral load version 3 assay while CD4+ T lymphocytes were enumerated using flow cytometry. VLs and CD4 counts were compared between gene/genotype carriers and non-carriers using Mann-Whitney ranksum test.

Results: HLA-C*18:01 allele carriers had a significantly lower median log10 VL (2.87copies/mL [IQR;2.3-3.2]) than the non-C*18:01 carriers (3.33copies/mL [IQR; 2.74-3.9]), p = 0.018. Further, median log10 VL was significantly lower in KIR2DL2+C1 carriers (2.745 [IQR; 2.590-2.745]) than non-KIR2DL2+C1 carriers (3.4 [IQR; 2.746-3.412]), p = 0.041. Comparison of CD4 + T lymphocyte counts between C*08:02 allele carriers and non-C*08:02 carriers showed a significantly higher median CD4 count in C*08:02 carriers (548cells/µL [IQR;410-684]) than in non-carriers (428cells/µL [IQR;388-537]), p = 0.034.

Conclusion: We conclude that the HLA-C*18:01 and KIR2DL2+C1 genetic variants are associated with low VL while the C*08:02 is associated with high CD4+ T lymphocyte count among cART naïve Zimbabwean adults with chronic HIV infection.
Neocaridina fonticulata, a new land-locked freshwater shrimp from Hengchun Peninsula, Taiwan (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae)
Authors: Shih Hsi-Te , Cai Yixiong , Chiu Yuh-Wen
Published: January 2019

A new species of land-locked freshwater shrimp, Neocaridinafonticulatasp. n. (Atyidae), is described from Kenting, Hengchun Peninsula, Pingtung County, southern Taiwan. This new species can be distinguished from its congeners by rostrum structure, pereiopods, and male first and second pleopods. The molecular evidence of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) also supports the establishment of a new species. This is the third endemic species of Neocaridina known from Taiwan.
Explorer les destins de la transmission psychique au temps du devenir parent : l’apport de la libre réalisation de l’arbre généalogique
Authors: Bourguignon Manon , Katz-Gilbert Muriel
Published: January 2019

Résumé Tout sujet est « sujet du lien » (Kaës, 2009), il est dès lors assujetti à l’héritage psychique que lui transmettent ses ancêtres au-delà du temps et des frontières. Mais quelle est la dynamique qui se joue au temps du devenir parent, temps de remaniement du lien de filiation et des contrats narcissiques ? Dans cette contribution, nous souhaitons mettre en perspective le maillage entre les alliances filiatives et affiliatives dont le sujet est porteur. C’est au travers d’une médiation projective originale, « la libre réalisation de l’arbre généalogique » (Veuillet, 2003), que nous souhaitons explorer les destins de la transmission psychique, en l’illustrant par une vignette clinique.
Vide psychique et transmissions de l’histoire familiale chez des sujets dépendants aux substances : apports des génosociogramme, Rorschach et tat
Authors: Boirin-Fargues Flora , Cohen de Lara Aline
Published: January 2019

Résumé Cet article s’intéresse au lien possible entre le sentiment de vide psychique et les transmissions transgénérationnelles chez des sujets adultes toxicomanes au regard des épreuves projectives. Ces notions théoriques, celle du vide psychique reprise à travers la pensée d’André Green et celle des transmissions d’éléments non-dits de l’histoire familiale, sont explorées à travers une étude de cas. L’analyse résulte de l’exploitation de trois épreuves projectives complémentaires, le génosociogramme, le Rorschach et le TAT.
Les transmissions du psychologue en institutions de soins. Vers une construction collective porteuse de sens dans les soins quotidiens
Authors: Fourques Catherine , Costantino Charlotte
Published: January 2019

Résumé En institution de soin, les transmissions font partie intégrante du travail de tout professionnel, le psychologue ne faisant pas exception. Véritable injonction paradoxale, ce dernier a fort à faire pour réussir à transmettre une information à ses collègues qui soit respectueuse de l’intimité et du secret propre à sa fonction, mais également porteuse de sens et alimentant le travail de réflexion commune à l’équipe. Après avoir proposé une réflexion sur le cadre des transmissions, les auteures s’intéressent aux enjeux identitaires et identificatoires que revêt la question des transmissions.
Incorporating Educational Theory Into Critical Care Orientation
Authors: Rashotte Judy , Thomas Margot
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

This article describes the development and implementation of a critical care total education system, which includes an orientation program. The educational process in this unit reflects Benner's model of novice to expert integrated with Schon's theory of reflective practice and Cranton's transformational learning theory. This program reflects an educational philosophy that facilitates learning on entry into the new workplace, and an established continuum of expected acquisition of knowledge, practice skills, attitudes, and critical thinking abilities promoting the transition from novice to expert.
Teaching Cultural Considerations at the End of Life: End of Life Nursing Education Consortium Program Recommendations
Authors: Matzo Marianne LaPorte , Sherman Deborah Witt , Mazanec Polly , Barber Marty Ayers , Virani Rose , McLaughlin M Maureen
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

Background: The End of Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC) is an end of life care nursing education program that addresses the many dimensions of culture, including ethnic identity, gender, age, differing abilities, sexual orientation, and religion and spirituality. This article focuses on one of the program's modules entitled "Cultural Considerations in End of Life Care."

Method: The ELNEC "Cultural Considerations in End of Life Care" module, which identifies important cultural considerations as well as strategies and responses to teach cultural competence and sensitivity in undergraduate nursing curriculum, is described.

Findings: A total of 564 nursing faculty members and 707 continuing education faculty members have undergone ELNEC training. Essential module components including teaching strategies and resources are presented.

Conclusion: Comprehensive education for nurses regarding cultural considerations in end of life care results in improved care for dying patients who ultimately have a peaceful, respectful death with sensitivity to their cultural expectations and needs.
Certificate Programs in Continuing Professional Education
Authors: Craven Ruth Falk , DuHamel Martha Bassett
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

Background: Career-long learning is a concept at the heart of professional disciplines such as nursing. Nursing shortages, especially in some areas of practice, have stimulated the need for in-depth education and training in specific knowledge content areas. One approach to career-long learning is certificate programs.

Method: Factors, trends, and strategies to consider in creating certificate programs are reviewed, and guidelines for developing certificate programs are presented.

Findings: Certificate programs are increasingly in demand by both employers and nurses. Certificate programs provide individuals with a chance to refresh their study skills and raise their abilities and levels of confidence for mastering new learning. Certificate programs also serve as a recruitment and retention strategy for hospitals and agencies.

Conclusion: Certificate programs are a viable continuing professional education activity and offer opportunities for nurses to develop specific skill sets and in-depth knowledge in specialized areas of nursing practice.
Returning Nurses to the Workforce: Developing an Online Refresher Course
Authors: White Anne , Roberts Vanice W , Brannan Jane
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

The crisis of a nursing shortage is encouraging unemployed nurses to return to practice. A refresher course is needed before they return safely. Historically, schools of nursing and hospital-based continuing education departments offered refresher courses in the traditional classroom-based environments. Nurses in less populated/ geographically dispersed areas have limited access to these educational opportunities. Refresher courses, whether in an academic or a hospital-based setting/ are expensive and depend on class size to be cost-effective. An answer to the problem of cost and access is collaborative distance education using web-based instruction.
Nurses' Needs for Education on Cancer and End-of-Life Care
Authors: Meraviglia Martha G , McGuire Catherine , Chesley Dorothy A
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

Background: Changes in cancer and end-of-life care require frequent assessment of educational needs of nurses.

Methods: The Nurse Oncology Education Program surveyed a random sample of Texas registered nurses about their continuing education practices, level of knowledge, and educational needs.

Results: The 352 nurses responding to the survey primarily obtained continuing education from workshops, inservice education, and independent studies citing cost, location, content, and length of course as influencing factors. Their cancer educational needs included clinical trials, genetics, complementary therapies, and pain management. Nurses' perceptions of end-of-life needs were for physical needs, "what to expect" concerns, and transition to palliative care.

Conclusion: These findings provide specific direction for future continuing education programs about cancer and end-of-life issues for nurses.
Developing and Evaluating Patient Education Materials
Authors: Monsivais Diane , Reynolds Audree
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

Nurses should be involved in all aspects of patient education, including the development of print and web resources, but most nurses have not been educated in how to develop these resources. This article discusses the rationale for nurse involvement, describes guidelines for evaluating existing material for credibility and readability, and provides recommendations for rewriting material at an easier-to-read level.
Cultural Awareness: Bridging the Gap Between Caregivers and Hispanic Patients
Authors: Tate Denise M
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

The healthcare environment is undergoing rapid change. Healthcare settings have shifted from acute care to encompass a variety of other locations. The healthcare work force is changing from a common ethnic origin to include a multitude of ethnic and racial groups. The patient population also embraces a plethora of different cultural backgrounds. By the year 2080, an estimated 51.1% of the population will be composed mostly of Hispanics, followed by African Americans and Asians. This dynamic transformation has created a critical need for nurses to become more knowledgeable and culturally aware to care for and work with people of other cultures. This article attempts to sensitize nurses to the important roles culture and ethnicity play in the delivery of optimal nursing care. The domain of intercultural communication and its importance in providing culturally competent, patient-relevant care is discussed.
A Consensus Statement on Critical Thinking in Nursing
Authors: Scheffer Barbara K , Rubenfeld M Gaie
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to define critical thinking in nursing. A Delphi technique with 5 rounds of input was used to achieve this purpose. An international panel of expert nurses from nine countries: Brazil, Canada, England, Iceland, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Thailand, and 23 states in the U.S. participated in this study between 1995 and 1998. A consensus definition (statement) of critical thinking in nursing was achieved. The panel also identified and defined 10 habits of the mind (affective components) and 7 skills (cognitive components) of critical thinking in nursing. The habits of the mind of critical thinking in nursing included: confidence, contextual perspective, creativity, flexibility, inquisiti veness, intellectual integrity, intuition, open-mindedness, perseverance, and reflection. Skills of critical thinking in nursing included: analyzing, applying standards, discriminating, information seeking, logical reasoning, predicting and transforming knowledge. These findings can be used by practitioners, educators and researchers to advance understanding of the essential role of critical thinking in nursing.
El mapa mundial: la caída del BRICS y la llegada del grupo TICKS
Authors: Sánchez Muñoz Alfredo
Published: January 2019

El artículo examina los cambios en la configuración del mapa económico global a partir del siglo XXI, con la entrada de las economías emergentes, apoyadas por los altos precios de sus «commodities» en el mercado internacional. Los países que lideraron la presencia en el escenario global formaron el grupo BRICS (Brasil, Rusia, India, China y más tarde Sudáfrica), que recibieron importantes recursos externos para operar sus recursos básicos. Sin embargo, la crisis económica y política y las investigaciones por corrupción de sus gobiernos, en dos países líderes del grupo (Brasil y Rusia), movieron a los inversionistas a dos nuevos actores (Taiwán y Corea del Sur), que ocupan el lugar dejado por Brasil y Rusia, dando paso al nuevo grupo TICKS (Taiwán, China, Corea del Sur y Sudáfrica). El trabajo destaca también la importancia que la Geo-economía, que vine a dar respuesta las complejidades del mundo globalizado que trasciende los Estados, donde se mezclan aspectos geopolíticos, geoestratégicos y la economía globalizada. La base de su potencial de crecimiento es el fuerte desarrollo tecnológico, actividad que resulta más interesante al inversionista y que tiene un potencial de crecimiento, que puede ser determinante en conformación del mapa económico global.
La gestión del agua depurada y la conservación del territorio y la biodiversidad. El caso de las lagunas de Campotejar y las Moreras en la Región de Murcia (SE España)
Authors: Ballesteros Pelegrín Gustavo Alfonso , Belmonte Serrato Francisco , Ibarra Marinas Daniel
Published: January 2019

Algunas depuradoras de lagunaje abandonadas, se han convertido en embalses de agua para uso agrícola, facilitando, en algunos casos, su transformación en humedales en los que se ha detectado la presencia de aves acuáticas amenazadas a escala mundial. Mediante el Proyecto LIFE09/NAT/000516 de la Unión Europea (2010-2014) se actuó en la adecuación paisajística y mejora ambiental en dos de estas lagunas (Lagunas de Campotejar y Lagunas de las Moreras) con el objetivo de transformarlas en humedales de Importancia Internacional (Sitios Ramsar). Los resultados demuestran que estas «lagunas» pueden cumplir por un lado, una función social y económica al actuar como reservorios de agua para regadío y potenciar el desarrollo de actividades de turismo de la naturaleza y educación ambiental; y, por otro, una función ecológica, como humedales de agua dulce o salobre donde se desarrollan hábitats de gran interés ecológico.
A review of sulfoxaflor, a derivative of biological acting substances as a class of insecticides with a broad range of action against many insect pests
Authors: Bacci L. , Convertini S. , Rossaro B.
Published: January 2019

Sulfoxaflor is an insecticide used against sap-feeding insects (Aphididae, Aleyrodidae) belonging to the family of sulfoximine; sulfoximine is a chiral nitrogen-containing sulphur (VI) molecule; it is a sub-group of insecticides that act as nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) competitive modulators. Sulfoxaflor binds to nAChR in place of acetylcholine and acts as an allosteric activator of nAChR. Thanks to its mode of action resistance phenomena are uncommon, even few cases of resistance were reported. It binds to receptors determining uncontrolled nerve impulses followed by muscle tremors to which paralysis and death follows. Sulfoxaflor acts on the same receptors of neonicotinoids as nicotine and butenolides, but it binds differently. It binds to insects nAChRs more strongly than to mammals’ ones, so it is much less toxic for mammals and man. Sulfoxaflor is supposed to have a low environmental impact and is not much aggressive against non-target species. Unfortunately, it is toxic to impollinator insects, so it must be used only in compliance with a series of legislative norms. At present sulfoxaflor can be considered one of the most interesting products to be used in fighting against agriculture insect pests.