bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Daclatasvir Plasma Levels in a Cohort of Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Infection Taking Methadone: A Prospective Analysis
Authors: Boglione Lucio , De Nicolò Amedeo , Mornese Pinna Simone , Cusato Jessica , Cariti Giuseppe , Di Perri Giovanni , D’Avolio Antonio 
Published: August 2018

<b><i>Backround:</i></b> The effect of methadone (MET) during therapy with novel direct-acting antiviral agents is still not fully understood. Currently, no data are available about the influence of MET on daclatasvir (DCV) plasma levels in patients affected by chronic hepatitis C (CHC). The aim of this study was to assess the DCV plasma concentrations in patients treated with sofosbuvir (SOF) plus DCV, with or without ribavirin (RBV) and with or without MET. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> In this analysis, 47 patients were included, treated consecutively with SOF + DCV ± RBV for 24 weeks, from May to October 2015; 22 (46.8%) received MET substitutive therapy. <b><i>Results and Conclusion:</i></b> We found a significant difference in DCV levels at 2 weeks and 1 month: 150 ng/mL in patients without MET and 313 ng/mL with MET at 2 weeks (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001), 149 and 279 ng/mL at 1 month (<i>p</i> = 0.006). DCV levels were lower in cirrhotic patients (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001); among cirrhotic patients we also evidenced higher DCV concentrations in patients receiving MET at 2 weeks, 1 and 2 months (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001, <i>p</i> = 0.005, and <i>p</i> = 0.031, respectively). In multivariate analysis, the only predictive factor associated with DCV plasma levels was the presence of MET. The reason for this increased DCV exposure is unclear; on the clinical side, we have not observed significant adverse events related to the reduction or increase of MET plasma levels. The administration of MET in patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis leads to an early increase of DCV plasma level without significant clinical effects or toxicity.
Developing Powers in Multilateral Regimes: Brazil’s Foreign Policy in the Climate Change and Peace and Security Regimes
Authors: Albuquerque Felipe Leal 
Published: August 2018

AbstractDeveloping powers are able to influence the evolution of the liberal order. In their multilateral engagements, they can employ a variety of foreign policy and negotiation strategies, voice their preferences and strengthen their bargaining power. This study examines how developing powers interact with the principles and norms of multilateral regimes. It analyzes Brazil’s behavior and negotiation power in the climate change and peace and security regimes. More specifically, it focuses on two concepts recently asserted by Brazil: ‘concentric circles’ and ‘responsibility while protecting.’ While the former addresses the division of responsibilities in the climate change realm, the latter approaches the norm of responsibility to protect. A comparative analysis is conducted with respect to three explanatory indicators, two domestic and one structural. One of the conclusions is that Brazil has behaved in such a way as to uphold a legalistic stance towards the global order.
Introduction to Interdisciplinary Forum: The Emotional Lives of Constitutional Patriotism
Authors: Temple Kathryn , Lemmings David 
Published: August 2018

Abstract
This introduction discusses the interdisciplinary nature of the forum, the history and theory of constitutional patriotism, and the various critiques that have been applied to it. It explains how the essays in the forum advance theories of constitutional patriotism by considering it in particular historical contexts and by examining specific emotions such as love, resentment and sympathy that may be associated with it. It also discusses the methods by which emotions important to constitutional patriotism can be modelled and evoked through an understanding of various types of performance and their relationship to public understandings of patriotism. It concludes with a discussion of the ways the essays advance our understanding of constitutional patriotism and its value for solving both local and global problems involving diverse and divided populations.
‘Feelings Like the Women in Books’: Declarations of Love in Australian Romance Novels, 1859–1891
Authors: McAlister Jodi 
Published: August 2018

Abstract
This essay analyses the declarations of love in six popular romantic novels written by female Australian writers published in the latter half of the nineteenth century. By doing so, it seeks to explore the effect of the colonial Australian setting on the ways in which romantic love is imagined and constructed in the texts. Drawing on the work of Monique Scheer, who argues that emotions are practised as well as experienced, and that fictional representations can operate as templates for these practices, this essay sheds light on the emotional and romantic history and culture of colonial Australia.
High-Wind Drag Coefficient and Whitecap Coverage Derived from Microwave Radiometer Observations in Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Hwang Paul A. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractOcean surface roughness and whitecaps are driven by the ocean surface wind stress; thus, their values calculated from the wind speed input may vary significantly depending on the drag coefficient formula applied. Because roughness and whitecaps are critical elements of the ocean surface response in microwave remote sensing, the extensive microwave remote sensing measurements contain the information of the drag coefficient, surface roughness, and whitecap coverage. The scattering radar cross sections from global measurements under calm to tropical cyclone conditions have been used effectively to improve the formulation of the surface roughness spectrum. In this paper, the microwave radiometer measurements in tropical cyclones are exploited to extract information of the drag coefficient and whitecap coverage in high winds. The results show that when expressed as a wind speed power function, the exponent in high winds (greater than about 35 m s−1) is about −1 for the drag coefficient, 0.5 for the wind friction velocity, and 1.25 for the whitecap coverage.
Nutrient composition and dietary diversity of on-site lunch meals, and anthropometry of beneficiary children in private and public primary schools in Ghana
Authors: Agbozo Faith , Atitto Prosper , Jahn Albrecht , Abubakari Abdulai 
Published: August 2018

Background: On-site lunch provided through the Ghana School Feeding Programme is expected to be nutritionally adequate thereby contributing to reducing hunger and malnutrition. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the dietary diversity and nutrient composition of on-site school lunch and estimate the extent to which it met the Food and Agriculture Organization Reference Nutrient Intakes for children aged 3–12 years. Methods: In this cross-sectional food consumption survey, on-site lunch menus were reviewed, dietary diversity assessed and meal preparation/serving observed during a typical school week. Three randomly selected portion sizes were weighed and the average weight (grams) entered into the RIING nutrient software to estimate the nutrient composition. Anthropometry of participants enrolled in seven public ( n = 113) and six private ( n = 216) primary schools in Hohoe municipality, Ghana was analysed using World Health Organization Anthroplus software. Results: The menu consisted largely of energy-dense staples, some vegetables and fish. Eggs, dairy and fruits were never served. Meals served in the public and private schools were statistically similar. Fat (23.8 vs. 27.7 g), iron (3.0 vs. 2.8 mg), vitamins A (417.3 vs. 280.8 µg retinol equivalent) and C (25.1 vs. 16.5 mg) requirements were fully met. Energy (420.6 vs. 462.2 kcal), protein (6.8 vs. 6.8 g), thiamin (0.18 vs. 0.17 mg) and zinc (1.3 vs. 1.2 mg) were 50–75% met. Calcium (62.6 vs. 61.4 mg), riboflavin (0.09 vs. 0.07 mg) and niacin (1.6 vs. 1.3 mg) were 26–37% met. Concerning nutritional status, prevalence of stunting (8.9% vs. 7.9%), underweight (3.6% vs. 5.7%), thinness (1.8% vs. 3.7%) and overweight/obesity (3.5% vs. 4.2%) were also statistically similar. Conclusion: Enhancing dietary diversity is crucial to achieving nutrient-dense school meals.
Development and Acceptability of Locally Made Fish-Based, Ready-to-Use Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Malnutrition in Cambodia
Authors: Sigh Sanne , Roos Nanna , Sok Daream , Borg Bindi , Chamnan Chhoun , Laillou Arnaud , Dijkhuizen Marjoleine A. , Wieringa Frank T. 
Published: August 2018

Background: Cambodia has a high prevalence of moderate acute malnutrition and severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The SAM treatment requires ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTFs), whereas ready-to-use supplementary foods (RUSFs) are used for prevention of acute malnutrition. Three locally produced fish-based products were developed: an RUTF paste (NumTrey-Paste) for treatment and 2 wafer versions, one for prevention (NumTrey-RUSF) and one for treatment (NumTrey-RUTF). Objective: To assess the acceptability of NumTrey-Paste and NumTrey-RUSF in comparison to a standard biscuit product (BP-100) used for the treatment of SAM. Methods: Acceptability of NumTrey-RUSF and NumTrey-Paste was tested in a nonblinded crossover taste trial among children (n = 52), aged ≥ 6 months to 18 years, and their caregivers. Eight organoleptic qualities were assessed on a 5-point hedonic scale, as well as a ranking test. A score of 1 to 3 was categorized as acceptable. The acceptability of NumTrey-RUTF was assessed using the caregivers’ perception during an SAM treatment intervention. Results: Taste trial: The proportion of children categorizing products as overall acceptable was lowest for NumTrey-Paste compared to for BP-100 and NumTrey-RUSF (21% vs 43% [BP-100] and 36% [NumTrey-RUSF]). No difference was found in the proportion of children who ranked BP-100 or NumTrey-RUSF as “liked most” ( P > .05). Acceptability of NumTrey-RUSF ranked highest in appearance and taste (caregiver), whereas acceptability of NumTrey-Paste was ranked lowest in appearance and smell among the products. Intervention trial: The acceptability of NumTrey-RUTF increased from 72% to 86%. Conclusions: The overall acceptability was ranked lowest for a pure paste product. However, filling the paste into a wafer made the product more acceptable.
Clinical signs of trachoma are prevalent among Solomon Islanders who have no persistent markers of prior infection with Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Butcher Robert , Sokana Oliver , Jack Kelvin , Sui Leslie , Russell Charles , Last Anna , Martin Diana L. , Burton Matthew J. , Solomon Anthony W. , Mabey David C.W. , Roberts Chrissy h. 
Published: August 2018

Background: The low population prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis and high prevalence of trachomatous inflammation–follicular (TF) provide contradictory estimates of the magnitude of the public health threat from trachoma in the Solomon Islands. Improved characterisation of the biology of trachoma in the region may support policy makers as they decide what interventions are required. Here, age-specific profiles of anti-Pgp3 antibodies and conjunctival scarring were examined to determine whether there is evidence of ongoing transmission and pathology from ocular Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infection. Methods: A total of 1511 individuals aged ≥1 year were enrolled from randomly selected households in 13 villages in which >10% of children aged 1–9 years had TF prior to a single round of azithromycin mass drug administration undertaken six months previously. Blood was collected to be screened for antibodies to the Ct antigen Pgp3. Tarsal conjunctival photographs were collected for analysis of scarring severity. Results: Anti-Pgp3 seropositivity was 18% in 1–9 year olds, sharply increasing around the age of sexual debut to reach 69% in those over 25 years. Anti-Pgp3 seropositivity did not increase significantly between the ages of 1–9 years and was not associated with TF (p=0.581) or scarring in children (p=0.472). Conjunctival scars were visible in 13.1% of photographs. Mild (p<0.0001) but not severe (p=0.149) scars increased in prevalence with age. Conclusions: Neither conjunctival scars nor lymphoid follicles were associated with antibodies to Ct, suggesting that they are unlikely to be a direct result of ocular Ct infection. Clinical signs of trachoma were prevalent in this population but were not indicative of the underlying rates of Ct infection. The current World Health Organization guidelines for trachoma elimination indicated that this population should receive intervention with mass distribution of antibiotics, but the data presented here suggest that this may not have been appropriate.
Bank Lending Standards and Borrower Accounting Conservatism
Authors: Khan Urooj , Lo Alvis K. 
Published: August 2018

Bank lending standards vary over time. Periods in which firms find it relatively easy to borrow are followed by periods in which banks scrutinize borrowers more and tighten lending. We predict that changes in lending standards affect the accounting conservatism of bank-dependent firms. Using (i) a natural experiment that leads to certain banks tightening lending standards for plausibly exogenous reasons and (ii) time series variation in economy-wide bank lending standards, we find that borrowers increase their asymmetric timely loss recognition in response to the tightening of lending standards. Further, riskier borrowers, borrowers less likely to violate loan covenants, and borrowers whose banks tighten lending standards to a greater extent display larger increases in conservatism following the tightening of lending standards. These results suggest that borrowers internalize the costs and benefits of increasing conservatism. Finally, borrowers do not seem to decrease conservatism immediately after the lending standards are loosened. Overall, our results illuminate a commonly observed banking phenomenon that can influence firms’ incentives to recognize losses, suggesting that developments in the banking sector can shape the information produced by firms in the real sector. This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.
Back to basics: Accurate weight measurements—a key to obesity research in Cameroon
Authors: Gobte Nkwan Jacob , Meyer Dorothy J 
Published: August 2018

Background: Overweight and obesity have emerged as a worldwide epidemic resulting in an increase in non-communicable diseases. The rate of overweight and obesity is estimated to be 39.1% in Cameroon. In women, excessive weight is linked to infertility, pregnancy complications, and increased rates of prematurity, stillbirths and neonatal deaths. Accurate weight measurements are required to evaluate a patient's health, manage conditions and to establish reliability and validity in research. Multiple studies have identified concerns about the accuracy of weight measurements in hospitals and clinics. Aims: To identify what scales were available in two hospitals and to evaluate the accuracy and sensitivity of each scale. Methods: A study was performed in two hospitals with a large outpatient caseload, and where recent overweight and obesity studies were performed. Findings: Three types of scales were in use: 68 clinical floor scales, 13 balance beam scales, and 8 digital scales (7 paediatric and 1 adult). All beam scales and 7 of the digital scales were found to be accurate; however, only 60% of floor scales were accurate. The digital and beam scales were the most sensitive. Incidental findings included a deficiency in basic knowledge regarding weight measurements and maintaining scales. Conclusions: Accurate weights are important in providing safe patient care, diagnosis, management, and treatment. Policies are required to ensure that weighing equipment is properly used and maintained. Further studies should be conducted, with special attention to assuring that valid and reliable tools are used.
Technology’s role for achieving creativity, diversity and integration in the American undergraduate music curriculum: Some theoretical, historical and practical perspectives
Authors: Webster Peter R. , Williams David Brian 
Published: August 2018

Abstract
This article provides an overview of six years of research with the goal of identifying key music technology competencies seen as essential for the undergraduate music major by tertiary music professors largely in North America. The results of the research are viewed from multiple dimensions: ‘pillars’ of curriculum as defined by a recent College Music Society (CMS) (United States) task force report, the diffusion of innovative technology historically within music instruction and general categories of music study within the tertiary curriculum. The authors share the results of five separate studies over a six-year period beginning in 2011 dedicated to the identification of core technology competencies for all undergraduate music students. Total responses included 772 returned questionnaires across the five studies that probed key competencies and their role in the instructional process. Consistent support for eleven key competencies was identified. The article concludes by offering a number of creative teaching scenarios across the tertiary curriculum for supporting the eleven competencies identified by participants in the research studies. The results from the research along with the overarching curricular issues presented may apply not only to tertiary music study in North America, but to the broader, international landscape of music curriculum innovation and reform.
Inner loop program construct: A faster way for program execution
Authors: Adewumi Tosin P. 
Published: August 2018

Abstract
Loops are repetitive control structures in programming languages. They are used extensively in many algorithms. The for-loop and while-loop exist, where the former is repeated a number of times while the latter is repeated until a condition is met. Some have asked if re-arranging loops in certain ways can change a program’s speed to produce machine-independent optimisation. Therefore, this research sought to find out if there is any speed difference in a single loop of computations and a loop with an inner loop of same computations. Greater focus is on inner for-loop. The research used a comparative study method in order to evaluate the primary data obtained from running several tests in four popular programming languages: C, C#, Python and R. The Python implementations were further tested on Ubuntu 16 for comparison with results from Windows 10. Results established that, across all languages, there were more computations performed per unit time with an inner for-loop than no inner loop, meaning, given the same number of computations to perform, a loop with an inner for-loop will finish faster. The inner while-loop didn’t perform so well, though. This study will help developers in making better choices with programming language and style.
Validation of blood counters for quality control of platelet concentrates with high platelet counts
Authors: Arlt Nicole , Rothe Remo , Moog Rainer 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundBlood counters are primarily used to measure peripheral blood cells including platelets (PLTs). In routine quality control of platelet concentrates (PCs), counters are also used to analyze very high PLT counts. To meet the requirements of national and European guidelines for quality assurance, the accuracy of counting very high PLT counts has to be validated. The aim of the present study was to validate four blood counters (one of which has two detection methods) focusing on the PLT count.MethodsThe comparison was performed with PCs using the blood counter devices CELL-DYN Ruby (optical count) and CELL-DYN Emerald (impedance count), Sysmex K-4500 (impedance count), Sysmex XN-550 (impedance count) and Sysmex XN-550 (optical count). For precision performances, samples were measured serially 5 times and the coefficients of variation were calculated and compared with manufacturers’ requirements. Additionally, 50 peripheral blood samples were analyzed and standard hemogram parameters (red blood cells [RBC], white blood cells [WBC], hemoglobin [HGB], hematocrit [HCT], PLTs) were compared.ResultsThe comparison showed significant differences between the studied blood counter devices in measuring high PLT counts. The CELL-DYN-Emerald, the Sysmex K-4500 and Sysmex XN-500 with the optical counting method measured significantly higher PLT counts compared to the CELL-DYN-Ruby and the Sysmex XN-500 with the impedance counting technology (p<0.0001) independent of their principle of measurement. The manufacturers provide comparable coefficients of variation. We achieved similar results for all counters. All results of the peripheral blood count parameters were comparable.ConclusionsOur study showed the importance of blood counter validations focusing on PCs with high PLT counts before routine use. Not only the generally fundamental method, but also the manufacturers’ peculiarities seem to play an important role.
Structural aspects of heterotrinuclear Pt2M, PtM2, and PtMM′ complexes – distortion isomers
Authors: Melnik Milan , Mikus Peter , Forgacsova Andrea , Mikulova Maria Bodnar 
Published: August 2018

Abstract
In this review, the structural parameters of 18 heterotrinuclear Pt2M (M=Hg, Zn, Cd, Au, Mn, Ag, Pd), PtM2 (M=Al, Ga, Sb, In, Mo, Fe), PtFeMn, PtHgMn, and PtFeOs types are summarized and analyzed. The Pt atoms are four-, five-, and even six-coordinated, among which the four-coordinated ones are the most common. The M atoms are found to be two- (Hg), three- (Hg), four- (Hg, Sb, In, Ag, Au), and six- (Ga, In, Al, Mo, Mn, Fe, Pd) coordinated and even sandwiched (FeC10). There is a wide variety of donor atoms (ligands) (O+NL, N+CL, NL, CO, CN, CL, Cl, SL, PL, I), which build up the respective inner coordination spheres about the metal atoms. The 17 complexes contain two crystallographically independent molecules within the same crystal, and 1 complex contains four such molecules. In each complex, the respective molecules are differing mostly by the degree of distortion in metal-metal and metal-ligand bond distances and ligand-metal-ligand bond angles, and are examples of distortion isomerism.