bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMISSION REDUCTION TARGETS TOWARD INDC IMPLEMENTATION IN MALAYSIA, INDONESIA AND THAILAND BY 2050
Authors: AL-AMIN ABUL QUASEM , KABIR SARKAR MD. SUJAHANGIR , AHMED ADEEL , DOBERSTEIN BRENT
Published: June 2020

Global warming is becoming increasingly evident as greenhouse gas emissions increase worldwide and affect the environment, health and economy. Many Southeast Asian countries face this reality and hence they are concerned about setting and achieving an effective emission reduction strategy. As such, this study analyzes and compares emission reduction targets on selected Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, by using a long-run Regional Dynamic Integrated Model of the Climate and Economy (RdICME). This study considers the comparative outcomes of BAU (Business as Usual: base case) and INDC (Intended Nationally Determined Contributions) scenarios for the 40-year period from 2010 to 2050. According to BAU scenario, carbon emissions are projected to gradually increase in all countries; however, if Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand apply their INDC targets as agreed upon in the 2015 Paris Agreement, all three countries will experience significant emissions reductions after 2030. Specifically, by 2050, total emissions will be reduced by 33.88%, 42.50% and 41.68% in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, respectively, if the countries implement their INDCs. According to the INDC targets, all three countries will experience a net reduction of per capita emission intensity by 2030 and onwards; however, Malaysia is projected to face lower marginal damage costs whereas Indonesia and Thailand will face higher marginal damage costs for 2010–2050. This study also finds that the amount of planned investment for INDC emissions reduction is currently insufficient to achieve planned targets. The findings from this study would help country-specific policymakers to oversee the likely gaps to be fulfilled within 2030–2050.
Aspirations and Economic Behavior
Authors: Genicot Garance , Ray Debraj
Published: June 2020

This article reviews the literature on aspirations in economics, with a particular focus on socially determined aspirations. The core theory builds on two fundamental principles: ( a) Aspirations can serve to inspire, but still higher aspirations can lead to frustration and resentment; and ( b) aspirations are largely determined by an individual's social environment. Using the structure of this core theory, we discuss the implications of our framework for the study of interpersonal inequality, social conflict, fertility choices, risk taking, and goal setting.
Effects of LiFSi and LMO-Coated NCM on Capacity and Cycle Characteristics of All-Solid Lithium Batteries
Authors: Park Sang-Jun , Kim Min Young , Lim Jin-Sub , Kang Byeong-Su , Kim Yoong-Ahm , Hong Young Sun , Kim Hyung Chan , Kim Ho-Sung
Published: June 2020

The initial capacity and cycle retention properties of all-solid lithium batteries (ASLBs) were greatly improved by utilizing polyethylene oxide (PEO)/lithium salts in conjunction with LiFSi, and coating the nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NCM) cathode component with lithium manganese oxide (LMO). That is, composite cathodes for ASLBs were fabricated by using lithium salts (LiClO4/LiFSi (8:2)) with PEO, Al-LLZO powder, Super-P, and LMO-coated NCM-424/622, respectively (Al-LLZO = Li6.25Al0.25La3Zr2O12). LiFSi was added to a solution of PEO/LiClO4([EO]:[Li] = 13:1) to generate a composite cathode and composite solid electrolyte (CSE) sheet. The initial capacity and cycle retention of the resulting cells were improved by controlling the side reactions and the improving kinetic characteristics. Moreover, NCM-424 and NCM-622 were coated with LMO; the optimum LMO coating amount (1 wt%) and NCM-424/622 ratio (9:1) for simultaneously improving the capacity and cycle retention were explored. Overall, the initial capacity of the ASLBs reached 152 mAh g−1, with a capacity retention rate of 92% at the 100th cycle.
Tidal expiratory flow limitation induces expiratory looping of the alveolar pressure-flow relation in COPD patients
Authors: Pecchiari Matteo , Radovanovic Dejan , Zilianti Camilla , Saderi Laura , Sotgiu Giovanni , D’Angelo Edgardo , Santus Pierachille
Published: June 2020

In stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients spontaneously breathing at rest, tidal expiratory flow limitation is the major determinant of the occurrence of expiratory looping in the plethysmographic flow-alveolar pressure diagram. In these patients the magnitude and the characteristics of the loop can be used as predictors of the presence of tidal expiratory flow limitation.
Identification of Functional Interactome of Gastric Cancer Cells with Helicobacter pylori Outer Membrane Protein HpaA by HPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Fan Ruyue , Han Xiurui , Xiao Di , He Lihua , Gong Yanan , Sun Lu , Fan Dongjie , You Yuanhai , Wang Tong , Yan Xiaomei , Zhang Maojun , Zhang Jianzhong
Published: June 2020

HpaA as an outer membrane protein of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) plays a significant role in the adhesion to the human stomach, but the functional relation between HpaA and gastric epithelial cells is still not clear. To screen the interaction between HpaA and cellular proteins in gastric epithelial cells, the HpaA protein from H. pylori 26695 fused with a tag (6× His) was expressed and purified successfully, the secondary structure was estimated by the Circular Dichroism (CD) spectrum, and the purified recombinant protein was used to perform the pull‐down assays with gastric cancer cell lines (AGS and SGC‐7901) lysates, respectively. The pull‐down proteins were identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry system (HPLC‐MS/MS). A total of 9 and 13 proteins related were analyzed from AGS and SGC‐7901 cell lysates, respectively. ANXA2 was considered as putative HpaA functional partner discovered from lysates of both cell lines with high score and coverage. It is hypothesized that HpaA may be involved in the biological process of regulation of transcription and nucleic acid metabolism during the adhesion of H. pylori to human gastric epithelial cells, and HpaA‐binding proteins also be used as targets for the development of antiadhesion drugs against H. pylori.
Identification of Key Genes and Long Noncoding RNA‐Associated Competing Endogenous RNA (ceRNA) Networks in Early‐Onset Preeclampsia
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Wang Ping , Zhang Linlin , Huang Chenxi , Gao Junjun , Li Yingying , Yang Bo
Published: June 2020

Background. Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy‐specific hypertension syndrome and is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be abnormally expressed in many diseases, including preeclampsia. The present study is aimed at identifying the key genes and lncRNA‐associated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks in early‐onset preeclampsia (EOPE). Methods. We investigated expression profiles of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and genes (DEGs) in placental tissues of EOPE and healthy controls with Human LncRNA Array v4. The potential functions of DEGs and DElncRNAs were predicted using the clusterProfiler package. The lncRNA‐mRNA coexpression network was constructed via Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs was constructed, and the hub genes were obtained using the STRING database and Cytoscape. The ceRNA networks were constructed based on miRWalk and LncBase v2. qRT‐PCR was performed to confirm the expression of lncRNA MIR193BHG, PROX1‐AS1, and GATA3‐AS1. ROC curves were performed to assess the clinical value of lncRNA MIR193BHG, PROX1‐AS1, and GATA3‐AS1 in the diagnosis of EOPE. Results. We found 6 hub genes (SPP1, CCR2, KIT, ENG, ACKR1, and FLT1) altered in placental tissues of EOPE and constructed a ceRNA network, including 21 lncRNAs, 3 mRNAs, and 69 miRNAs. The expression of lncRNA MIR193BHG and GATA3‐AS1 were elevated and showed good clinical values for diagnosing EOPE. Conclusion. This study provides novel insights into the lncRNA‐related ceRNA network in EOPE and identified two lncRNAs as potential prognostic biomarkers in EOPE.
RCAN1 Inhibits BACE2 Turnover by Attenuating Proteasome‐Mediated BACE2 Degradation
Authors: Qiu Kaixin , Wang Shuai , Wang Xin , Wang Fengting , Wu Yili
Published: June 2020

Amyloid‐β protein (Aβ) is the main component of neuritic plaques, the pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). β‐site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is a major β‐secretase contributing to Aβ generation. β‐site APP cleaving enzyme 2 (BACE2), the homolog of BACE1, is not only a θ‐secretase but also a conditional β‐secretase. Previous studies showed that regulator of calcineurin 1 (RCAN1) is markedly increased by AD and promotes BACE1 expression. However, the role of RCAN1 in BACE2 regulation remains elusive. Here, we showed that RCAN1 increases BACE2 protein levels. Moreover, RCAN1 inhibits the turnover of BACE2 protein. Furthermore, RCAN1 attenuates proteasome‐mediated BACE2 degradation, but not lysosome‐mediated BACE2 degradation. Taken together, our work indicates that RCAN1 inhibits BACE2 turnover by attenuating proteasome‐mediated BACE2 degradation. It advances our understanding of BACE2 regulation and provides a potential mechanism of BACE2 dysregulation in AD.
Adherence to Iron-Folic Acid Supplementation and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women in Kasulu Communities in North-Western Tanzania
Authors: Lyoba Winfrida B. , Mwakatoga Joyce D. , Festo Charles , Mrema Jackline , Elisaria Ester
Published: June 2020

Introduction. Pregnant women are at a high risk of anaemia, with iron-folate deficiency being the most common cause of anaemia among pregnant women. Despite the well-known importance of iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) during pregnancy, adherence to these supplements is relatively low and associated factors were not well identified in the study area. This study is aimed at investigating adherence to IFAS and associated factors among pregnant women in Kasulu district, north-western Tanzania. Methods. A health facility cross-sectional survey with a mixed-method approach was conducted in Kasulu district from March to April 2019. A structured questionnaire was given to 320 women with children aged 0-6 months to assess factors associated with adherence to IFAS among pregnant women. Data were entered into SPSS version 22.0 for analysis. Binary logistic regression was further employed to determine the factors associated with adherence to IFAS. Focus group discussions were done with 19 pregnant women and 15 mothers of children aged 0-6 months to obtain more clarifications on the factors associated with adherence to IFAS. Furthermore, in-depth interviews were done with six health care providers to explore their perceptions of IFAS. Results. Out of the 320 respondents of the survey, 20.3% (n=65) adhered to IFAS. Factors associated with adherence to IFAS among pregnant women included time to start ANC (AOR=3.72, 95% CI: 1.42, 9.79), knowledge of anaemia (AOR=3.84, 95% CI: 1.335, 10.66), counseling on the importance of the iron-folic acid (AOR=3.86, 95% CI: 1.42, 10.50), IFAS given during clinical visit (AOR=15.72, 95% CI: 5.34, 46.31), number of meals consumed (AOR=3.44, 95% CI: 1.28, 9.21), number of children (AOR=3.462, 95% CI: 1.035, 11.58), and distance to health facility (AOR=0.34, 95% CI: 0.131, 0.886). Qualitative findings revealed that delayed first ANC visit, lack of remainder for pregnant women to take IFAS, low awareness about the negative effects of anaemia, low of knowledge of IFAS and management of side effects, negative beliefs about the use of IFAS, and follow-up mechanism were major reasons for poor adherence. Conclusion. Adherence to iron-folic acid supplementation during pregnancy was low. Strengthening systems for creating reminding mechanism, raising community awareness through educational programs to pregnant women and health providers could improve adherence to IFAS.
Different Development Forms of Local Allergic Rhinitis towards Birch
Authors: Bozek Andrzej , Winterstein Janne , Galuszka Beata , Jarzab Jerzy
Published: June 2020

Background. Efficacy of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) in local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is a new subject of research. The presence of asthmatic symptoms in patients with LAR in the context of AIT is unexplored. Objective. The efficacy and safety of AIT in patients with LAR towards birch pollen were investigated. The possibility of concomitant local allergic asthma in studied patients and the impact of AIT on it were examined. Methods. 36 patients with LAR towards birch were included in three years of AIT in a double‐blind, placebo‐control study. Primary outcome measurement was the mean changes in the combined symptom and medication scores (CSMSs) after AIT, and the second is the changes in the quality of life (QoL). Skin prick tests, serum, nasal allergen‐specific IgE to birch, nasal and bronchial provocation challenge tests with birch allergen, methacholine tests, and spirometry were carried out at baseline and after AIT. Results. Mean CSMSs of three years of AIT were significantly decreased in the active group from 5.88 (range: 4.11‐9.01) to 1.98 (range: 1.22‐4.51; p < 0.05). After three years of AIT, there was a significant increase of toleration for birch allergen from the mean concentration of 6250 ± 1200 SQ‐U/ml up to 45000 ± 2500 SQ‐U/ml (p = 0.02) during repeated nasal challenges. 16 patients with LAR had the positive results of methacholine tests, and 11 of them had a positive bronchial challenge to birch allergen. After AIT, the significant decrease of bronchial responsiveness to birch allergen in 5 from 7 patients was confirmed (p = 0.03). QoL assessed by the use of the RQLQ score was improved after AIT from 1.84 (95% CI: 1.53‐1.97) to 1.45 (95% CI: 1.32‐1.62) score in the active group after three years of AIT therapy (p = 0.03). Conclusion. AIT to birch can be useful and safe in a patient with local allergic rhinitis and also with concomitant asthmatic symptoms. Further studies are needed.
Role of Neutrophils in Psoriasis
Authors: Wang Wen-Ming , Jin Hong-Zhong
Published: June 2020

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disease that can involve the skin, joints, or both. The abnormalities of innate immunity play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes in the circulation. Emerging evidences have demonstrated that neutrophils may play a role in autoimmune diseases. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the activity of neutrophils, and the number of NETotic cells were significantly higher in psoriasis patients compared to healthy controls. The number of low-density granulocytes (LDGs) in the blood of psoriasis patients was significantly higher than those in the control blood. Furthermore, neutrophils may play important roles in the cardiovascular risk in psoriasis. However, the exact role of neutrophils in psoriasis remains unclear. In this review, we highlight the role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
The Relationship between Calcaneal Spur Type and Plantar Fasciitis in Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Lei , Cheng Han-wen , Xiong Lu-jing , Xia Zhang-rong , Zhang Meng-yao , Fu Shi-jie , Wang Guo-you
Published: June 2020

Plantar heel pain is a common disease with a high incidence in different races. It significantly reduced the quality of life of patients. However, the cause of PHP is still controversial and there were varieties of physiological factors associated with PHP. The most common pathological factor in the population was plantar fasciitis. Some existing research studies had found a correlation between calcaneal spurs and plantar fasciitis, and this study had found the correlation in Chinese population. It is invaluable not only to understand the relationship between different types of plantar calcaneal spurs and plantar fasciitis but also to identify the most appropriate treatment strategies. A total of 71 patients with calcaneal spurs were chosen from the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University. All 71 patients had completed X‐rays and MRI scans; then, surgeons had removed their plantar calcaneal spurs. After surgery, all patients were followed up for 12 months; their prognosis was tested by the VAS and AOFAS scores. Type II (29, 40.8%) had the highest incidence in Chinese population, followed with type I (24, 33.8%) and type III (18, 25.4%). Preoperative VAS scores showed that type II (7.72 ± 1.10) was significantly higher than the other two types (P < 0.001). Postoperative VAS scores of type II were higher than those of type I and type III (P < 0.001). Postoperative AOFAS scores of type II were the lowest (P < 0.001). Researchers had proved that type II was more likely to cause PF.
Iodine Content of Salt in Retail Shops and Retailers’ Knowledge on Iodized Salt in Wa East District, Upper West Region, Ghana
Authors: Appiah Prince Kubi , Fenu Georgina Agartha , Yankey Francis Wadga-Mieza
Published: June 2020

Background. There are laws to enforce the universal iodization of salt to check the consequences of iodine deficiency in Ghana. These laws are to ensure that there are production and sales of iodized salt in the country. Yet, the availability of iodized salt in the county's households is still not encouraging, with data indicating that 93.8% of children have urine iodine <100 μg/dl. Hence, the study investigated the iodine content of salt in retail shops and knowledge of iodized salt among retailers in the Wa East District. The study will help the informed decision on strengthening and enforcing laws to achieve the universal salt iodization and the consumption of adequate iodized salt.Method. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey. We used a questionnaire to collect quantitative data from participants and a rapid field test kits to determine the iodine content of salt. STATA version 14.2 was used to analyse data. Chi-squared and logistic regression models were used to examine the association between the dependent and independent variables and consideredpvalue <0.05 as statistically significant.Findings. The retailers’ primary source of information about iodized salt was health workers (46.2%), with the majority (52.8%) of them having low knowledge of iodized salt. Notwithstanding the high knowledge of iodized salt, as high as 53.8% of the salts do not have adequate iodine (<15 ppm). Retailer’s sex (p=0.014), educational level (p=0.006), primary source of information about iodized salt (p=0.012), texture of salt being sold (p=0.023), and mode of displaying salt in the shop (p=0.003) were associated with knowledge of iodised salt. Again, retailer’s educational level (p=0.036), knowledge of iodized salt (p=0.034), texture of salt being sold (p=0.021), and method of displaying the salt being sold (p=0.004) were associated with an iodine content of the salt in the shop.Conclusions. Though policies have been implemented to promote production and consumption of iodized salt, the iodine content of salt in retail shops in the Wa East are not encouraging. We recommend the establishment of checkpoints along the production and distribution chain to ensure salt with adequate iodine reaches the consumer. Again, traders of iodized salt should have regular training on ways to preserve salt to maintain its iodine content.
Demand-Side Management of Solar Microgrid Operation: Effect of Time-of-Use Pricing and Incentives
Authors: Philipo Godiana Hagile , Chande Jande Yusufu Abeid , Kivevele Thomas
Published: June 2020

Over 17% of the world’s population lack access to electricity, the majority being in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Microgrid technologies are a promising solution towards rural and remote area electrification; however, ever-increasing electricity demand remains a big challenge leading to pronounced power outages. Demand-side management is an indispensable tool towards addressing the challenges. This paper employs a mathematical model based on incentives and time-of-use rates to simulate daily power usage pattern of residential customers using data collected from an isolated village Ngurdoto solar microgrid, Arusha, Tanzania. Customer responsiveness on the increase in price was evaluated based on the concept of price elasticity of demand. Using two demand response strategies, namely, load shifting (LS) and scheduled load reduction (SLR), the results reveal that LS can achieve up to 4.87% energy-saving, 19.23% cost-saving, and about 31% and 19% peak reduction and power factor improvement, respectively. SLR method resulted in about 19% energy-saving, 49% cost-saving, and 24% power factor improvement. Thus, the results presented in this study may lead to a more efficient and stable system than the current state in developing countries’ utility.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-Like 5 (CDKL5): Possible Cellular Signalling Targets and Involvement in CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder
Authors: Katayama Syouichi , Sueyoshi Noriyuki , Inazu Tetsuya , Kameshita Isamu
Published: June 2020

Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5, also known as STK9) is a serine/threonine protein kinase originally identified in 1998 during a transcriptional mapping project of the human X chromosome. Thereafter, a mutation inCDKL5was reported in individuals with the atypical Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder, suggesting that CDKL5 plays an important regulatory role in neuronal function. The disease associated withCDKL5mutation has recently been recognised as CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) and has been distinguished from the Rett syndrome owing to its symptomatic manifestation. BecauseCDKL5mutations identified in patients with CDD cause enzymatic loss of function, CDKL5 catalytic activity is likely strongly associated with the disease. Consequently, the exploration of CDKL5 substrate characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of its catalytic activity are important for identifying therapeutic target molecules and developing new treatment. In this review, we summarise recent findings on the phosphorylation of CDKL5 substrates and the mechanisms of CDKL5 phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. We also discuss the relationship between changes in the phosphorylation signalling pathways and theCdkl5knockout mouse phenotype and consider future prospects for the treatment of mental and neurological disease associated withCDKL5mutations.
Classification and Analysis of Security Techniques for the User Terminal Area in the Internet Banking Service
Authors: Lee Kyungroul , Lee Sun-Young , Yim Kangbin
Published: June 2020

As the Internet banking service has become popular, many users have been able to exchange goods online. Even though this offers advantage, there are cases of incidents in the Internet banking service arising from security threats. In order to counteract this problem, various security techniques have been applied over the whole area of the Internet banking service. In this paper, we analyze the results of security techniques applied in the user terminal area. In detail, we classify the existing security technologies into network domain, financial institution domain, and user terminal domain, to ensure the security of the Internet banking service. This paper focuses on security techniques in the user terminal domain. Specifically, we classify the security technologies in the user terminal domain into secure keyboard program, PKI applications, E2E encryption, antihacking program, personal firewall, removable media security, and antireverse engineering technique and describe detailed and key techniques of each security technology. For easy understanding and security analysis of security technologies, we describe each security technology in detail and explain each technology by way of example. We consider that this paper will provide criteria for evaluating the security of Internet banking services.
Fear of Falling, Lower Extremity Strength, and Physical and Balance Performance in Older Adults with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Vongsirinavarat Mantana , Mathiyakom Witaya , Kraiwong Ratchanok , Hiengkaew Vimonwan
Published: June 2020

Fear of falling (FoF) is known to affect the physical activities and quality of life of older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Many complications of DM, especially ones distressing lower extremity (LE), could lead to increased fall risk and FoF. This study aimed to explore the relationship between FoF, LE muscle strength, and physical performance in older adults without diabetes mellitus (ONDM) and with DM (ODM) with varying degrees of balance impairment. The participants comprised 20 ONDM and 110 ODM. The ODM was grouped by the number of failed performances of the modified clinical test of sensory interaction and balance (mCTSIB). The scores of FoF, balance performance of mCTSIB, physical performance of TUG, and LE muscle strength were compared between groups. The results showed that FoF was present in 30% and 60% of the ONDM and ODM, respectively. Forty percent of the ODM failed one condition of the mCTSIB, while 18% and 16% failed two and three conditions, respectively. As the number of failed performances on the mCTSIB increased, the proportions of participants with FoF significantly increased. The psychosocial domain of FoF, LE muscle strength, and TUG score was significantly different between groups and more affected in the ODM with a greater number of failed performances on the mCTSIB. In conclusion, the mCTSIB can differentiate the varying degrees of balance impairment among ODM. FoF, LE muscle strength, and physical performance are more affected as the degree of balance impairment increases. Comprehensive management related to balance and falls in the ODM should include a regular evaluation and monitoring of standing balance, LE muscle strength, physical performance, and FoF.
Characteristics of Biohydrogen Production and Performance of Hydrogen-Producing Acetogen by Increasing Normal Molasses Wastewater Proportion in Anaerobic Baffled Reactor
Authors: Gu Xuejia , Wang Yufeng , Li Huaibo , Li Ji , Wang Shuo
Published: June 2020

The biohydrogen production efficiency and performance of hydrogen-producing acetogen in a four-compartment anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR) were studied by gradually increasing the influent normal molasses wastewater (NMWW) proportion. When the influent NMWW proportion increased to 55%, ABR could develop microbial community with methanogenic function in 63 days and reach a stable operation. When the influent NMWW proportion increased to 80% and reached a stable state, ethanol fermentation was established from butyric acid fermentation in the first three compartments, whereas butyric acid fermentation in the fourth compartment was strengthened. The average biohydrogen production yield and biohydrogen production capacity by COD removal increased to as high as 12.85 L/day and 360.22 L/kg COD when the influent NMWW proportion increased from 55% to 80%, respectively. Although the biogas yield and the specific biogas production rate reached 61.54 L/day and 232 L/kg MLVSS·day, the biohydrogen production yield and specific biohydrogen production rate were only 12.85 L/day and 48 L/kg MLVSS·day, which results in hydrogen consumption by homoacetogenesis and methanogenesis.
Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Construct Validity of the Generic KINDL-A(dult)B(rief) Questionnaire in Adults with Thrombophilia or with Hereditary and Acquired Bleeding Disorders
Authors: Neuner Bruno , von Mackensen Sylvia , Kiesau Bettina , Krampe Henning , McCarthy William J. , Reinke Sarah , Kowalski Dorothee , Shneyder Maria , Clausnizer Hartmut , Rocke Angela , Junker Ralf , Nowak-Göttl Ulrike
Published: June 2020

Background/Aims: The newly adapted generic KINDL-A(dult)B(rief) questionnaire showed satisfactory cross-sectional psychometric properties in adults with bleeding disorders or thrombophilia. This investigation aimed to evaluate its cross-sectional and longitudinal construct validity. Methods: After ethical committee approval and written informed consent, 335 patients (mean age 51.8 ± 16.6 years, 60% women) with either predominant thrombophilia (n = 260) or predominant bleeding disorders (n = 75) participated. At baseline, patients answered the KINDL-AB, the MOS 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the EQ-5D-3L. A subgroup of 117 patients repeated the questionnaire after a median follow-up of 2.6 years (range: 0.4–3.5). A priori hypotheses were evaluated regarding convergent correlations between KINDL-AB overall well-being and specific subscales, EQ-5D-3L index values (EQ-IV), EQ-5D visual analog scale (EQ-VAS), and SF-36 subscales. Results: Contrary to hypothesis, baseline correlations between the KINDL-AB and EQ-IV/EQ-VAS were all moderate while, as hypothesized, several KINDL-AB subscales and SF-36 subscales correlated strongly. At follow-up, no significant changes in all three instruments occurred. Correlations between instruments over the follow-up were mostly moderate and partially strong. Contrary to hypothesis but consistent with no significant changes in health-related quality of life, convergent correlations between changes in KINDL-AB overall well-being, physical and psychological well-being, and EQ-IV/EQ-VAS were all weak. Conclusions: While repeated measures of KINDL-AB showed moderate to strong correlations, changes in KINDL-AB overall well-being and subscales correlated more weakly than expected with changes involving two established instruments of generic health status.
Imaginação e servidão no Tratado Teológico-Político de Espinosa
Authors: Felizardo Marcus Vinicius
Published: June 2020

Passando pelo preconceito finalista, pelas superstições, pela manipulação do sentido das escrituras e pela imaginação e suas consequências no interior da experiência política, pretendemos evidenciar, com base no Tratado Teológico-Político de Espinosa, como a experiência comum de aumento de potência é inacessível aos indivíduos, pois, por meio de um sistema de implicações imaginativas, e da impossibilidade de expressão dos conflitos sociais imanentes à sociedade, são alvejados pela colonização de preconceitos e afetos passivos que os fazem voluntariamente obedecer a um regime de opressão
Hermenêutica, arte e monumento arquitetônico no pensamento de Gadamer
Authors: Jesus Katharynne Norrana Damasceno de
Published: June 2020

Este estudo investiga o conceito gadameriano de monumento arquitetônico, apresentado em Verdade e método. Apesar de se referir ao monumento arquitetônico apenas em trechos de sua obra, Gadamer insere a arquitetura no contexto das obras de arte, situando-a em uma posição exemplar dentre as outras expressões artísticas no processo de compreensão da verdade. Sendo assim, a pesquisa objetivou traçar um estudo da noção gadameriana de monumento arquitetônico e, consequentemente, inserir a problemática hermenêutica no estudo da arquitetura. A metodologia se caracterizou por ser essencialmente bibliográfica. Percebeu-se que a visão de Gadamer sobre a arquitetura é como local de abrigo de todas as artes. Esta, quando consegue suprir seu aspecto funcional e artístico, pode ser denominada de monumento arquitetônico: a arquitetura como obra de arte. Almeja-se portanto, estreitar o vínculo existente entre filosofia e arquitetura, a fim de indicar novas perspectivas para a compreensão da arte da construção.
Sobre a crítica radical de Ser e tempo à noção metafísica de consciência
Authors: Almeida Rafael Ribeiro de
Published: June 2020

O texto desenvolvido pretende examinar a forma originária de Martin Heidegger de abordar o fenômeno da consciência, em contraponto a esta noção segundo o paradigma da metafísica moderna. Para tanto, investiga-se o pensamento heideggeriano em sua primeira fase, especialmente Ser e tempo, de 1927. Na obra, o filósofo alemão situa a consciência, em primeiro lugar, como fenômeno existencial que, enquanto tal, enraíza-se no ser-no-mundo. Desse modo, nota-se explícita contraposição ao modelo paradigmático que fundamenta a separação sujeito-objeto ou consciência-mundo, cujo filósofo emblemático está René Descartes. Ao cabo, o fenômeno da consciência que, por excelência, é existencial, encontra-se radicado na própria constituição fundamental do Dasein de ser-no-mundo, na medida em que visa recuperar o seu poder-ser-si-mesmo, isto é: existência autêntica.
Os paradigmas de Thomas Kuhn
Authors: Costa Ana Clarice Rodrigues
Published: June 2020

O caráter polissêmico do termo “paradigma” tornou-se uma das questões mais obscuras dentro da imagem da ciência de Thomas Kuhn. Em A estrutura das revoluções científicas (1962) foi possível identificar pelo menos 21 sentidos diferentes para o vocábulo. Trata-se de questão intrigante, ao se constatar a centralidade do termo na estruturação de uma imagem cíclica e episódica para ciência. À vista disso, este trabalho apresenta uma investigação sobre as diferentes concepções do termo em alguns momentos da obra kuhniana. A primeira parte explicita como ocorre a expansão semântica do vocábulo entre dois ensaios, A tensão essencial: tradição e Inovação na Investigação científica (1959) e A função do dogma na pesquisa científica (1963). Na segunda parte discorre-se sobre o uso do termo especificamente em A estrutura das revoluções científicas, considerando duas críticas endereçadas a Kuhn, a saber, A natureza do paradigma (1970), de Margareth Masterman, e o ensaio homônimo A estrutura das revoluções científicas (1964), de Dudley Shapere. Por fim, a terceira parte apresenta as respostas de Kuhn a tais críticas a partir da análise de “Posfácio” e das Reconsiderações acerca dos paradigmas, ambos de 1969.
Cost-Effectiveness of Extended Electrocardiogram Monitoring for Atrial Fibrillation After Stroke
Authors: Chew Derek S. , Rennert-May Elissa , Spackman Eldon , Mark Daniel B. , Exner Derek V.
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose:

Management of cryptogenic stroke involves the identification of modifiable risk factors, such as atrial fibrillation (AF). Extended rhythm monitoring increases AF detection rates but at an increased device cost compared with conventional Holter monitoring. The objective of the study was to identify and synthesize the existing literature on the cost-effectiveness of prolonged rhythm monitoring devices for AF detection in cryptogenic stroke.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of available economic evaluations of prolonged ECG monitoring for AF detection following cryptogenic stroke compared with standard care.

Results:

Of the 530 unique citations, 8 studies assessed the cost-utility of prolonged ECG monitoring compared with standard care following cryptogenic stroke. The prolonged ECG monitoring strategies included 7-day ambulatory monitoring, 30-day external loop recorders or intermittent ECG monitoring, and implantable loop recorders. The majority of cost-utility analyses reported incremental cost-effectiveness ratios below $50 000 per QALY gained; and two studies reported a cost-savings.

Conclusions:

There is limited economic literature on the cost-effectiveness of extended ECG monitoring devices for detection of atrial fibrillation in cryptogenic stroke. In patients with cryptogenic stroke, extended ECG monitoring for AF detection may be economically attractive when traditional willingness-to-pay thresholds are adopted. However, there was substantial variation in the reported ICERs. The direct comparison of cost-effectiveness across technologies is limited by heterogeneity in modeling assumptions.
Neural Representation of Articulable and Inarticulable Novel Sound Contrasts: The Role of the Dorsal Stream
Authors: Saltzman David I. , Myers Emily B.
Published: June 2020

The extent that articulatory information embedded in incoming speech contributes to the formation of new perceptual categories for speech sounds has been a matter of discourse for decades. It has been theorized that the acquisition of new speech sound categories requires a network of sensory and speech motor cortical areas (the “dorsal stream”) to successfully integrate auditory and articulatory information. However, it is possible that these brain regions are not sensitive specifically to articulatory information, but instead are sensitive to the abstract phonological categories being learned. We tested this hypothesis by training participants over the course of several days on an articulable non-native speech contrast and acoustically matched inarticulable nonspeech analogues. After reaching comparable levels of proficiency with the two sets of stimuli, activation was measured in fMRI as participants passively listened to both sound types. Decoding of category membership for the articulable speech contrast alone revealed a series of left and right hemisphere regions outside of the dorsal stream that have previously been implicated in the emergence of non-native speech sound categories, while no regions could successfully decode the inarticulable nonspeech contrast. Although activation patterns in the left inferior frontal gyrus, the middle temporal gyrus, and the supplementary motor area provided better information for decoding articulable (speech) sounds compared to the inarticulable (sine wave) sounds, the finding that dorsal stream regions do not emerge as good decoders of the articulable contrast alone suggests that other factors, including the strength and structure of the emerging speech categories are more likely drivers of dorsal stream activation for novel sound learning.
The Prosecutor v. Vojislav Šešelj: A Symptom of the Fragmented International Criminalisation of Hate and Fear Propaganda
Authors: Badar Mohamed Elewa , Florijančič Polona
Published: June 2020

In 2016, the icty Trial Chamber found one of the greatest hate and fear propagandists of the Yugoslav wars, Dr Vojislav Šešelj, not guilty on all counts of the indictment. A full comprehension of the role the propaganda played was lost and the partial reversal of the judgment at the Appeals Chamber provided little improvement in this regard. Yet the blame does not solely rest with the Chambers but also with the Prosecution and an utterly fragmented law applicable to hate and fear propaganda. This article looks in depth at the Šešelj case in order to highlight the many hurdles to effective prosecution, some specific to the case and others symptomatic generally of propaganda trials. It then takes a multi-disciplinary approach in presenting the nature of hate and fear propaganda to suggest a broader way of looking at causality as well as to argue for reform of the current applicable law.
Insect evolution toward aquatic habitats; reassessment of antennal sensilla in the water bug families Ochteridae, Gelastocoridae and Aphelocheiridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha)
Authors: Nowińska Agnieszka , Brożek Jolanta
Published: June 2020

The first comparative morphology study on antennal sensilla of Ochteridae, Gelastocoridae and Aphelocheiridae, carried out with the use of a scanning electron microscope, is provided. Our research hypothesis was: the antennal sensilla of the studied families reflect their different adaptations for use in aquatic habitats, while maintaining a common set of sensilla similar to other water bugs (Nepomorpha). Therefore, the number and placement of antennal sensilla of several species in the mentioned families were studied using scanning electron microscopy. Nine main types of mechano- chemo- and thermo-hygroreceptive sensilla were confirmed on their surface, including sensilla trichodea, chaetica, club-like, campaniformia, basiconica, coeloconica, plate-like, ampullacea and sensilla placodea multilobated. While seven of these were already documented in other species, two of them (sensilla plate-like and placodea multilobated) were yet to be documented on the antennae of Nepomorpha. All families display differences in the shape and length of antennae as well as among sensilla types. These findings support our hypothesis regarding differences in sensillar structures among families adapted differently to suitable niches. Differences between these families and previously studied nepomorphan taxa (Nepoidea) were also documented. However, the general set of sensilla observed on the antennae of the studied species is very similar to the one documented in Nepoidea. Therefore, we confirmed our assumptions regarding similarities in antennal sensilla between the studied families and other nepomorphan insects.
A review of information literacy programmes in higher education
Authors: Morris Delyth
Published: June 2020

This review will aim to establish if there is strong evidence to suggest a student preference for delivery format within information literacy teaching. This research supports and builds on research previously undertaken by Cardiff University (Weightman et al., 2017). Weightman et al (2017) addressed the effect of face-to-face or online learning specifically on learning outcomes. This review specifically focuses on the effects of these methods, and blended formats, on student preference. This research informs teaching practice specifically within Cardiff University’s library service but also teaching practice generally. A comprehensive systematic literature search was undertaken in four databases: Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA), British Education Index, ERIC and Scopus. Seven new papers were identified to update the previous discussions on student preference of information literacy teaching format (Weightman et al., 2017). Critical appraisal was undertaken of these newly identified papers. Weightman et al.’s (2017) systematic review suggested that there was no student preference in relation to delivery format. Of the seven new papers identified in this review, two (DaCosta, 2007; Gorman & Staley, 2018) show a slight preference for format; one for online and one for face-to-face although there are limitations to the studies. Of the five remaining studies (Craig & Friehs, 2013; Kelly, 2017; Lag, 2016; Lapidus et al., 2012; Matlin & Lantzy, 2017) all showed a comparable experience between formats, although limitations of these studies are also acknowledged. The update search and appraisal of the literature concurs with previous conclusions (Weightman et al., 2017) that experiences are comparable and student preference is generally neutral in relation to delivery format. Student learning outcomes and student preference are comparable regardless of format (Weightman et al., 2017).
Sensitivity of Convective Cell Dynamics and Microphysics to Model Resolution for the OWLeS IOP2b Lake-Effect Snowband
Authors: Jensen Anders A. , Bergmaier Philip T. , Geerts Bart , Morrison Hugh , Campbell Leah S.
Published: June 2020

The OWLeS IOP2b lake-effect case is simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with a horizontal grid spacing of 148 m (WRF-LES mode). The dynamics and microphysics of the simulated high-resolution snowband and a coarser-resolution band from the parent nest (1.33-km horizontal grid spacing) are compared to radar and aircraft observations. The Ice Spheroids Habit Model with Aspect-ratio Evolution (ISHMAEL) microphysics is used, which predicts the evolution of ice particle properties including shape, maximum diameter, density, and fall speed. The microphysical changes within the band that occur when going from 1.33-km to 148-m grid spacing are explored. Improved representation of the dynamics at higher resolution leads to a better representation of the microphysics of the snowband compared to radar and aircraft observations. Stronger updrafts in the high-resolution grid produce higher ice number concentrations and produce ice particles that are more heavily rimed and thus more spherical, smaller (in terms of mean maximum diameter), and faster falling. These changes to the ice particle properties in the high-resolution grid limit the production of aggregates and improve reflectivity compared to observations. Graupel, observed in the band at the surface, is simulated in the strongest convective updrafts, but only at the higher resolution. Ultimately, the duration of heavy precipitation just onshore from the collapse of convection is better predicted in the high-resolution domain compared to surface and radar observations.
Pluralistic Collapse: The “Oil Spill” Model of Mass Opinion Polarization
Authors: DellaPosta Daniel
Published: June 2020

Despite widespread feeling that public opinion in the United States has become dramatically polarized along political lines, empirical support for such a pattern is surprisingly elusive. Reporting little evidence of mass polarization, previous studies assume polarization is evidenced via the amplification of existing political alignments. This article considers a different pathway: polarization occurring via social, cultural, and political alignments coming to encompass an increasingly diverse array of opinions and attitudes. The study uses 44 years of data from the General Social Survey representing opinions and attitudes across a wide array of domains as elements in an evolving belief network. Analyses of this network produce evidence that mass polarization has increased via a process of belief consolidation, entailing the collapse of previously cross-cutting alignments, thus creating increasingly broad and encompassing clusters organized around cohesive packages of beliefs. Further, the increasing salience of political ideology and partisanship only partly explains this trend. The structure of U.S. opinion has shifted in ways suggesting troubling implications for proponents of political and social pluralism.
Fluoroscopic Swallowing Abnormalities in Dysphagic Patients Following Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Authors: Ian Dhar Shumon , Wegner Adam M. , Rodnoi Pope , Wuellner John C. , Mehdizadeh Omid Benjamin , Shen Shih C. , Nachalon Yuval , Nativ-Zeltzer Nogah , Belafsky Peter C. , Klineberg Eric O.
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

To evaluate the precise objective fluoroscopic abnormalities in persons with dysphagia following anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS).

Methods:

129 patients with dysphagia after ACSS were age and sex matched to 129 healthy controls. All individuals underwent videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS). VFSS parameters abstracted included upper esophageal sphincter (UES) opening, penetration aspiration scale (PAS), and pharyngeal constriction ratio (PCR). Other data collected included patient-reported outcome measures of voice and swallowing, number of levels fused, type of plate, vocal fold immobility, time from surgery to VFSS, and revision surgery status.

Results:

The mean age of the entire cohort was 63 (SD ± 11) years. The mean number of levels fused was 2.2 (±0.9). 11.6% (15/129) were revision surgeries. The mean time from ACSS to VFSS was 58.3 months (±63.2). The majority of patients (72.9%) had anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). For persons with dysphagia after ACSS, 7.8% (10/129) had endoscopic evidence of vocal fold immobility. The mean UES opening was 0.84 (±0.23) cm for patients after ACSS and 0.86 (±0.22) cm for controls ( P > .0125). Mean PCR was 0.12 (±0.12) for persons after ACSS and 0.08 (±0.08) for controls, indicating significant post-surgical pharyngeal weakness ( P < .0125). The median PAS was 1 (IQR 1) for persons after ACSS as well as for controls. For ACSS patients, PCR had a weak correlation with EAT-10 ( P < .0125).

Conclusion:

Chronic swallowing dysfunction after ACSS appears to be secondary to pharyngeal weakness and not diminished UES opening, the presence of aspiration, vocal fold immobility, or ACSS instrumentation factors. Level of Evidence: 3b