bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insights from 180 years of mitochondrial variability in the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus)
Authors: Gaubert Philippe , Justy Fabienne , Mo Giulia , Aguilar Alex , Danyer Erdem , Borrell Asunción , Dendrinos Panagiotis , Öztürk Bayram , Improta Roberta , Tonay Arda M. , Karamanlidis Alexandros A. 
Published: April 2019

AbstractMediterranean monk seals (MMS) are among the most endangered marine mammals on Earth. We screened mitochondrial variability (control region [CR1] and mitogenomes) of the species through a 180‐yr timeframe and extended by 20% (n = 205) the number of samples from a previous investigation, including historical specimens from 1833 to 1975. Although we detected two new, rare CR1 haplotypes, genetic diversity remained extremely low. Fully resolved haplotype median network and rarefaction analysis both suggested low probability for further unscreened haplotypes. There was no clear phylogeographic structure across the 12 marine subdivisions covered by the species’ range. Haplotypes previously considered diagnostic of the extant North Atlantic and eastern Mediterranean populations had their distributions extended into the western Mediterranean and the North Atlantic, respectively, by both historical and recent samples. Our study suggests that MMS have been genetically depauperate since at least the mid‐19th century, and that the massive 1997 die‐off in Western Sahara (North Atlantic) could have caused local haplotype extinctions. Our results support the hypothesis of past metapopulation dynamics across the species range, where the current segregation into geographically distant and genetically depauperate breeding populations (i.e., North Atlantic and eastern Mediterranean Sea) derives from the combined effects of historical extinctions, genetic drift on small breeding groups, and persistently low levels of genetic diversity.
Neurological autoimmune disorders with prominent gastrointestinal manifestations: A review of presentation, evaluation, and treatment
Authors: Blackburn Kyle M. , Kubiliun Maddie , Harris Samar , Vernino Steven 
Published: April 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe identification of autoantibodies directed against neuronal antigens has led to the recognition of a wide spectrum of neurological autoimmune disorders (NAD). With timely recognition and treatment, many patients with NAD see rapid improvement. Symptoms associated with NAD can be diverse and are determined by the regions of the nervous system affected. In addition to neurological symptoms, a number of these disorders present with prominent gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations such as nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, and gastroparesis prompting an initial evaluation by gastroenterologists.PurposeThis review provides a general overview of autoantibodies within the nervous system, focusing on three scenarios in which nervous system autoimmunity may initially present with gut symptoms. A general approach to evaluation and treatment, including antibody testing, will be reviewed.
The Austrian UVA‐Network
Authors: Schmalwieser Alois W. , Klotz Barbara , Schwarzmann Michael , Baumgartner Dietmar J. , Schreder Josef , Schauberger Günther , Blumthaler Mario 
Published: April 2019

AbstractThe ultraviolet‐A (UVA) part of the solar spectrum at the Earth's surface is an essential environmental factor but continuous long‐time monitoring of UVA radiation is rarely done. In Austria, three existing stations of the UV monitoring network have been upgraded with UVA broadband instruments. At each station, one instrument measures global UVA irradiance and—in parallel—a second instrument measures diffuse irradiance. Recent and past measurements are available via a web page. This paper describes the used instruments, calibration and quality assurance and control procedures. Global and diffuse UVA measurements during a period of up to 5 years are presented. Data indicate clear annual courses and an increase of UVA with altitude by 8–9% per 1000 m. In the first half of the year, UVA radiation is higher than in the second half, due to less cloudiness. In Vienna (153 m asl), the mean daily global UVA radiant exposure in summer is almost as high as at Mt. Gerlitzen (1540 m asl), equalizing the altitude effect, due to less cloudiness. However, in winter, the UVA radiant exposure at Mt. Gerlitzen is double as high, as in Vienna.
Growing up Without Status: The Integration of Children in Mixed‐Status Families
Authors: Hamilton Erin R. , Patler Caitlin C. , Hale Jo Mhairi 
Published: April 2019

AbstractOver the past three decades, a central new challenge confronting millions of children of immigrants has emerged: growing up in a mixed‐status family in which at least one member lacks legal authorization to live and work in the United States. A body of recent research argues that unauthorized immigrant status is thefundamentaldeterminant of integration for unauthorized immigrants, with intergenerational consequences for their U.S.‐born children. We discuss the immigration and other policies that create the particular social context within which unauthorized immigration status becomes so detrimental for integration. Specifically, we focus on federal and state policies that undermine the very factors thought to protect children and support the integration of new generations of Americans: families and social networks, economic resources and opportunities, and health. We conclude with recommendations for future research.
Self‐Reported Understanding of Ranked‐Choice Voting
Authors: Donovan Todd , Tolbert Caroline , Gracey Kellen 
Published: April 2019

ObjectivesRanked‐choice voting (RCV) is relatively complex compared to plurality voting. We test if some voters find it more challenging.MethodsWe conducted surveys in RCV cities and plurality cities to assess how voters reported understanding voting instructions, and how they reported understanding election systems.ResultsFewer voters reported instructions were easy to understand in RCV cities. Within RCV cities, we found little evidence of race/ethnic differences in reported understanding, but older voters reported less understanding of instructions in RCV cities and less understanding of RCV elections. Across all cities, Asians and women reported less understanding of elections generally, and education correlated with greater reported understanding.ConclusionsOur evidence is not consistent with concerns about a racial/ethnic bias specific to RCV, but suggests a need for additional voter education.
ABSCESO PROSTATICO: DIAGNÓSTICO Y MANEJO
Authors: Patiño Germán , Peña Murcia Paula Andrea 
Published: April 2019

Resumen El absceso prostático es una entidad urológica con poca evidencia estadísticamente significativa y pocos estudios que permitan realizar una guía de manejo estandarizada. Se define como la presencia de una o varias colecciones purulentas en la próstata (1), que con un diagnóstico temprano y adecuado manejo médico y/o quirúrgico, tiene una baja morbimortalidad. La presente revisión de tema, reúne los estudios más recientes y sobresalientes en el diagnóstico y manejo de esta patología, de modo que en un futuro se pueda estandarizar el manejo entre los especialistas en esta área. Abstract Prostatic abscess is an urological entity with few statistical significant evidence that allows us to stablish a standardized management guide. It is defined as one or multiple supurative collections in the prostate, which has a low morbidity and mortality with early diagnosis and appropriate management. The next review, group the most important and recent studies in this pathology, so that in the future we could stablish a standardized managent among tthe urologists.
PO 8608 ESTABLISHED PARTNERSHIPS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE VERDE WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER, UK AND THE INSTITUTE OF HYGIENE AND TROPICAL MEDICINE, PORTUGAL
Authors: Araújo Isabel I , Beleza Sandra , Martins Maria Do Rosário 
Published: April 2019

BackgroundThe University of Cape Verde (Uni-CV) was founded in 2006 and since then has developed an effective international strategy that is enhancing the teaching and research culture of the university. To build capacity in the public health field, Uni-CV has established collaborations with the University of Leicester (UoL), UK, and with the Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHTM – NOVA University), Portugal. These follow different approaches.MethodsDifferent type of capacity building initiatives focused on researchers and postgraduate students.ResultsThe collaboration with UoL was established in 2016 and builds on funded research programmes in infectious disease and evolution of antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR). These programmes have allowed technology development and transfer, which offer the opportunity for undergraduate students to lead laboratory–based research projects at Uni-CV. In these two years, we have successfully characterised the epidemiology and patterns of AMR underlyingHelicobacter pyloriinfections in Cape Verde. Beyond the research outputs, we have trained four undergraduates in laboratory-based microbiology at Uni-CV. From this experience, we are currently designing new sustainable higher education programmes aligned with the MSc in Public health at Uni-CV that aim to support Uni-CV lecturers in the supervision of postgraduate students, either independently or in collaboration with UoL researchers.The collaboration with IHTM was established in 2008 with the main aim of developing the research capacity of Cape Verde researchers and health professionals in infection and vector-born diseases and in bioethics. These activities have also led to collaborative research in these areas. Since then, six training courses were taught that benefited ∼20 Uni-CV lecturers and ∼100 government professionals.ConclusionAlthough these collaborative approaches are different in nature, they have been successful in the training of health professionals, researchers and technicians in Cape Verde and have contributed to the establishment of mutually beneficial research programmes.
PO 8411 MOLECULAR CHARACTERISATION OF GP41 AND GP120 V3 LOOP IN HIV-1C PATIENTS FAILING SALVAGE THERAPY IN BOTSWANA
Authors: Ndlovu Nokuthula S , Seatla Kaelo 
Published: April 2019

BackgroundTriple class drug-resistant HIV-1 infection remains a global challenge in individuals with extensive antiretroviral treatment (ART) experience, in terms of high mortality and probability of onward transmission. New therapeutic options within old and new drug classes are therefore essential. We determined if patients failing salvage therapy in Botswana are eligible for maraviroc (MVC) and enfuvirtide (T20) viral entry inhibitors based on the coreceptor usage and drug-resistant mutations in envelope gp120 and gp41.MethodsA total of 38 deep salvage patients were included in the analysis. We amplified and sequenced gp41 and V3 regions of HIV-1 envelope. Drug resistance mutations were analysed according to the IAS-USA 2017 reference mutation lists. Coreceptor usage was determined using PSSM and Geno2Pheno using a false-positive rate (FPR) of 10%.ResultsAmong 38 participants, 34 (89%) were successfully sequenced and amplified gp41 and 26 (68%) gp120 V3 loop sequences were obtained. Major T20 mutation G36S was obtained in 1/34 samples (5.8%) within the study population. Polymorphisms I169V(97%), I135L(100%), E151A(70.6%) and N42S(70.6%) were detected in HR1 and HR2 of gp41. CXCR4 coreceptor associated use, mutation L34M in gp41 HR1 was detected in 2 samples (5%). Analysis of coreceptor usage showed (17/26) 65.4% use of CCR5, and a (9/26) 34.6% use of the CXCR4 coreceptor.ConclusionA moderately high proportion of treatment-experienced (deep salvage) participants had CXCR4 coreceptor using strains. The use of maraviroc in Botswana would require coreceptor tropism testing. Non-T20 treatment experience in Botswana reduces the prevalence of the major mutations that confer resistance to the drug. T20 is therefore a potential alternative drug for patients failing salvage therapy in Botswana.
OC 8391 AFREENET (AFRICA ETHICS EXCELLENCE NETWORK): A NETWORK OF NATIONAL RESEARCH ETHICS COMMITTEES ENGAGED IN THE REINFORCEMENT OF THEIR CAPACITIES
Authors: Pirard Virginie , Penali Louis , Gangbo Armande , Sow Oumou Younoussa , Ouchhi Samira 
Published: April 2019

BackgroundThe establishment of research ethics committees (RECs) in charge of reviewing research protocols answers the need to regulate with an ethical framework the development of clinical trials, biomedical research and technologies affecting human health. The first RECs were instituted at the national level in the 60 s, and were gradually put in place in Africa as a result of research projects development in the area of epidemics such as HIV infection, and to meet one of the major requirements of the Helsinki Declaration and the international ethical Guidelines CIOMS: ‘each research protocol involving humans has to be reviewed by an independent ethics committee’.However, RECs in Africa are still facing various challenges in the accomplishment of their missions. Among them, RECs located in the West-African French speaking area are reporting an urgent need for networking and coordinating their effort.Supported by EDCTP, AFREENET (AFRica Ethics Excellence NETwork) is a 3 year collaborative project between three RECs, respectively in Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea and Benin, and coordinated by the Ethics Unit of Institut Pasteur (France), which aims to reinforce RECs capacities.The project will lead to reinforcement of training capacities through a long-term strategy to establish mechanisms to ensure and update members’ training, and to develop a pool of ethics trainers. Based on RECs experiences, network activities will permit to share and identify valuable practices on global ethics oversight, such as monitoring, SOPs, regulatory issues and sensitisation. The preparation of Ethics Committees for the potential occurrence of outbreaks will be specifically addressed through an Outbreak preparation plan built upon lessons learnt from the Ebola crisis.Creating synergies and mutual empowerment between African RECs will increase their visibility, their capacity for advocacy and their recognition as key actors of a responsible ethics research framework at the national, regional and international level.
PO 8419 SPATIO-TEMPORAL MAPPING OF ASYMPTOMATIC AND CLINICAL MALARIA INFECTIONS REVEALS FOCI OF MALARIA TRANSMISSION FOR TARGETED CONTROL INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Niang Makhtar , Talla Cheikh , Diagne Nafissatou , Diene-Sarr Fatoutama , Sokhna Cheikh 
Published: April 2019

BackgroundThe global decline of malaria incidence over the past decade has led to the thought that elimination could be achieved. This has resulted in an increased interest to design strategies to target the hidden reservoir of asymptomatic infections among populations and interrupt on-going residual local malaria transmission. This study explored the reservoir of asymptomaticPlasmodiuminfections and its relationship with subsequent clinical malaria infections in low-transmission areas in Senegal.MethodsCross-sectional surveys were carried out in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 and combined with longitudinal follow-up to determine and geolocalise both asymptomatic and clinical malaria episodes in Dielmo and Ndiop, Senegal. The prevalence of asymptomaticPlasmodiumcarriage in the community was investigated by real-time PCR while clinical malaria attacks were identified at health facilities during the transmission season. All households were georeferenced to spatially map asymptomatic and clinical infections.ResultsThe study revealed substantial asymptomatic infections with average parasite carriage of 8.11% and 7% in Dielmo and Ndiop, respectively.P. falciparumaccounted for most asymptomatic infections (more than 90%). In Dielmo, 95% of asymptomatic infections clustered within the same geographical areas while infections were disparate in Ndiop. Preliminary fine-scale mapping of asymptomatic and clinical malaria infections identified clusters of higher malaria incidence interpreted as foci of transmission across the four-year study period with 95%–98% of clinical infections occurring in households where an asymptomatic malaria infection existed.ConclusionThis study revealed substantial asymptomaticPlasmodiuminfections in both settings throughout the four-year study period and spatial clusters of malaria infections at the microepidemiological level. Together, these findings could offer a feasible approach for a rational targeting of malaria control interventions to achieve elimination.
PO 8425 THE DIAGNOSTIC AND PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF NEW URINE-BASEDLEISHMANIAANTIGEN DETECTION TESTS
Authors: Boshara Salah 
Published: April 2019

BackgroundVisceral leishmaniasis (VL) also known as kala-azar, is a protozoan infection caused by theL. donovanicomplex and transmitted by sandflies. Early detection of leishmaniasis is critical in management of patients and for successful control and elimination of the disease. Definitive diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis is by parasitological demonstration of parasites in splenic, lymph node or bone marrow aspirates, which are collected using invasive methods that are unsuitable in the field. This study aimed to evaluate new less invasive urine-based ELISA and rapid diagnostic test (RDT) assays for diagnosis of VL.MethodsThe newly developed urine ELISA test was evaluated using archived and fresh urine samples collected from parasitologically confirmed VL patients and non-VL cases. Lateral flow assay (LFA) using the ELISA reagents were conducted for day0 samples. Serological tests (DAT, rk28 ICT) were conducted for every patient in the study.ResultsIn 198 patients with suspected VL, urine rapid test had a sensitivity of 72.2% and exhibited a specificity of 93.42%. Leishmania antigen ELISA had a sensitivity of 83.33% and a specificity of 95.05%. All VL-confirmed cases were followed up during the treatment period, theLeishmaniaantigen ELISA became negative 2 months after completion of treatment in most patients.ConclusionUrine lateral flow assay is a simple addition to the diagnostics of VL particularly at field level and as a complementary test for the diagnosis of VL in smear-negative cases. Further enhancement of the test will define its performance in monitoring treatment. Further studies are recommended to evaluate the performance of both tests in the diagnosis of HIV-co-infected cases.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use in acute myopericarditis: 12-month clinical follow-up
Authors: Berg Jan , Lovrinovic Marina , Baltensperger Nora , Kissel Christine K , Kottwitz Jan , Manka Robert , Patriki Dimitri , Scherff Frank , Schmied Christian , Landmesser Ulf , Lüscher Thomas F , Heidecker Bettina 
Published: April 2019

ObjectiveClinical data on the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in myopericarditis are limited. Since NSAIDs are standard therapy in pericarditis, we retrospectively investigated their safety in myopericarditis.MethodsIn a retrospective case-control study, we identified 60 patients with myopericarditis from September 2010 to August 2017. Diagnosis was based on clinical criteria, elevated high-sensitivity troponin T and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). All patients received standard heart failure therapy if indicated. Twenty-nine patients (62%) received NSAIDs (acetylsalicylic acid: n=7, average daily dose =1300 mg or ibuprofen: n=22, average daily dose =1500 mg) for an average duration of 4 weeks. To create two cohorts with similar baseline conditions, 15 patients were excluded. Three months after diagnosis, 29 patients were re-evaluated by CMR to measure late gadolinium enhancement (LGE).ResultsBaseline characteristics of those treated with or without NSAIDs were similar. Mean age was 34 (±13) years, 6 (13%) were women. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 56% (±5). 82 % of the patients (14 of 17) treated with NSAIDs experienced a decrease in LGE at 3 months, while it was only 58 % (7 of 12) of those without NSAIDs (p=0.15). At 12-month follow-up, one of the patients treated without NSAIDs experienced polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) with cardiac arrest, while one of the patients with NSAIDs experienced non-sustained VT.ConclusionsThis is the first case-control study demonstrating that NSAIDs are safe in patients with myopericarditis and preserved LVEF. Our data suggest that this drug class should be tested prospectively in a large randomised clinical trial.
Particle identification in the Belle II experiment
Authors: Hartbrich Oskar 
Published: April 2019

The Belle II experiment integrates two dedicated particle identification (PID) subdetectors for pion/kaon separation. The Aerogel Ring Image Cherenkov (ARICH) detector is a forward region PID detector based on two layers of aerogel read out by hybrid avalanche photo detectors. The Time of Propagation (TOP) detector is a novel Cherenkov barrel PID system built for the Belle II detector upgrade based on quartz radiator bars read out by Micro-Channel Plate PMTs. The readout electronics of the TOP system are built around a switched capacitor array waveform sampling ASIC operating at 2.7 GSa/s. Acquired waveforms are processed in real time in the front-end electronics, extracting the individual timing of detected photons to better than 100 ps. This contribution presents the concept of the Belle II particle identification systems with a focus on the current status of commissioning, calibration and operation of the Belle II TOP detector.
PASER: A Pattern-Based Approach to Service Requirements Analysis
Authors: Wang Ye , Wang Ting , Sun Jie 
Published: April 2019

Inconsistent specification are an inevitable intermediate product of a service requirements engineering process. In order to reduce requirements inconsistencies, we propose PASER, a Pattern-based Approach to Service Requirements analysis. The PASER approach first extracts the process information from service documents via natural language processing (NLP) techniques, then uses a requirements modeling language – Workflow-Patterns-based Process Language (WPPL) — to build the process model. Finally, through matching with workflow patterns, the inconsistencies in service requirements are identified and resolved by checking against a set of checking rules. We have conducted a preliminary experiment to evaluate it. An ATM service case study is presented as a running example to illustrate our approach.