bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Partial Proteome of the Corynetoxin‐Producing Gram‐Positive Bacterium, Rathayibacter toxicus
Authors: Fennessey Christine M. , McMahon Michael B. , Sechler Aaron J. , Kaiser Jaclyn , Garrett Wesley M. , Tancos Matthew A. , Luster Douglas G. , Rogers Elizabeth E. , Schneider William L. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractRathayibacter toxicus is a Gram‐positive bacterium that is the causative agent of annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT), a disease that causes devastating losses in the Australian livestock industry. R. toxicus exhibits a complex life cycle, using the nematode Anguina funesta as a physical vector to carry it up to the seed head of the host plant. ARGT is caused by a tunicamycin‐like corynetoxin that is produced in R. toxicus‐infected seed galls. We analyzed protein expression in R. toxicus under stationary growth phase conditions to obtain a more complete understanding of the biology of this organism and identify potential targets for immunoassay development. A total of 323 unique proteins were identified, including those with putative roles in secondary metabolism and pathogenicity. The proteome analysis for this complex phytopathogenic Gram‐positive bacterium will facilitate in the characterization of proteins necessary for host colonization and toxin production, and assist in the development of diagnostic assays. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD004238.
Effect of long‐term exposure to aluminum and high‐fat diet on NTPDase and 5′‐nucleotidase activities in lymphocytes and platelets of rats
Authors: Kaizer Rosilene Rodrigues , Costa Eduarda , de Andrade Cínthia Melazzo , Schmatz Roberta , Gutierres Jessié Martins , Martins Danieli Brolo , Morsch Vera Maria , Schetinger Maria Rosa Chitolina 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAluminum is one of the most abundant metals in the earth's crust. Although it shows no known biological function, it is recognized as an adjuvant in vaccines for human and veterinary uses. This study aims to evaluate the role of lifestyle and environment in the promotion of chronic disease. In it, we associated two factors: chronic exposure to aluminum and high‐fat diets. Thus, we aimed to determine whether the association of long‐term exposure to aluminum and high‐fat diets affects the NTPDase and 5′‐nucleotidase activities in the blood platelets and lymphocytes obtained from the mesenteric lymph nodes of young rats. In fact, the ectonucleotidase activities were shown to be upregulated upon exposure to aluminum plus high‐fat diets. As a result, we can suggest that the progressive upregulation of ectonucleotidase activities that we observed could be controlling the extent of inflammation and immune response.
Assessing the current practice and policy with recommendations for emission control strategy for coal‐fired thermal power plants under Indian regulatory framework emphasizing the roles of R&D
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Amitava 
Published: January 2018

AbstractOn December 7, 2015, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India (GoI), promulgated stack emission standards for sulfur dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and mercury (Hg) from coal‐fired thermal power plants (TPPs). These standards were promulgated in addition to tightening the emission standard for particulate matter. Thus far, the GoI and a non‐governmental organization (NGO) have recommended the use of limestone‐based flue‐gas desulfurization (FGD) technology for removing only SO2 emissions, which would then require the application of additional technologies to remove the other regulated pollutants. A single technology, such as the Multi‐pollutants Control Technology (MPCT), which was recently developed elsewhere in the world and can remove all of the pollutants from the TPP, could be more economical than introducing separate technologies for the removal of each pollutant. Furthermore, unlike the limestone‐based FGD technology, which generates carbon dioxide (CO2) during the desulfurization process, the MPCT does not increase power plant CO2 emissions. Water consumption is also lower in MPCT than with the limestone‐based FGD technology. Thus, MPCT offers a lower carbon footprint as well as a lower water footprint than the limestone‐based FGD technology in accordance with the United Nations Environmental Programme's Sustainable Development Goals. In light of these observations, this article aims to assess current practices and policies and offers policy recommendations for Indian TPPs with the goal of providing a cogent technological solution that also strengthens the Decision Support System for the holistic protection of the Indian environment.
Life cycle assessment of clinker production using refuse‐derived fuel: A case study using refuse‐derived fuel from Tehran municipal solid waste
Authors: Panahandeh Azadeh , Asadollahfardi Gholamreza , Mirmohammadi Mohsen 
Published: January 2018

AbstractOne of the techniques used to dispose of 4,000 tons per day (TPD) of non‐recyclable waste from Tehran is to burn it as an alternative fuel in cement kilns. This practice reduces emissions from landfills, prevents the loss of waste energy, and conserves fossil fuel resources. The aim of our study was to conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA) of clinker production in cement kilns using a combination of natural gas, mazut, a form of heavy, low‐quality fuel oil, and refuse‐derived fuel (RDF) from Tehran. We used SimaPro 7.1 software to perform an LCA of 1 kilogram (kg) of clinker produced using the following fuel combinations: the first scenario involved natural gas consumption alone, the second scenario involved a combination of natural gas and mazut, with the mazut providing 5% to 30% of the heating value needed to produce cement clinker in the kiln, and the third scenario involved a combination of natural gas and RDF (providing 5% to 30% of the heating needed in the kiln). The impact categories in the LCA of global warming, eutrophication, and acidification were assessed by the Center of Environmental Science of Leiden University (Centrum voor Milieukunde Leiden—CML) CML 2000 method. The results indicated that the third scenario, involving natural gas and RDF, reduced acidification by 2.14–11.5% and global warming by 0–1.3% relative to the first scenario involving the use of only natural gas. In addition, we observed a 0.65–3.81% reduction in acidification and a 0.9–3.8% reduction in global warming under the third scenario compared with the second scenario (co‐firing of natural gas and mazut). The amount of nitrogen oxides (NOX) emitted from the combustion of the Tehran RDF was greater than that was emitted when burning mazut. Therefore, reduction of nitrogen from the RDF composition is necessary. This study indicates that the use of Tehran RDF (with reduced nitrogen) in Tehran cement kilns does not increase cement kiln NOX, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions; however, we need to conduct additional investigation into the chemical composition of the Tehran waste before using solid waste in place of fossil fuels.
Effects of halothane on the electroencephalogram of the chicken
Authors: McIlhone Amanda E. , Beausoleil Ngaio J. , Kells Nikki J. , Johnson Craig B. , Mellor David J. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractLittle is known about the effects of inhalant anaesthetics on the avian electroencephalogram (EEG). The effects of halothane on the avian EEG are of interest, as this agent has been widely used to study nociception and analgesia in mammals. The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of halothane anaesthesia on the EEG of the chicken. Twelve female Hyline Brown chickens aged 8–10 weeks were anaesthetized with halothane in oxygen. For each bird, anaesthesia was progressively increased from 1–1.5 to 2 times the Minimum Anesthetic Concentration (MAC), then progressively decreased again. At each concentration, a sample of EEG was recorded after a 10‐min stabilization period. The mean Total Power (PTOT), Median Frequency (F50) and 95% Spectral Edge Frequency (F95) were calculated at each halothane MAC, along with the Burst Suppression Ratio (BSR). Burst suppression was rare and BSR did not differ between halothane concentrations. Increasing halothane concentration from 1 to 2 MAC resulted in a decrease in F50 and increase in PTOT, while F95 increased when MAC was reduced from 1.5 to 1. The results indicate dose‐dependent spectral EEG changes consistent with deepening anaesthesia in response to increasing halothane MAC. As burst suppression was rare, even at 1.5 or 2 times MAC, halothane may be a suitable anaesthetic agent for use in future studies exploring EEG activity in anaesthetized birds.
Transformation from Below in Bangladesh: Decentralization, local governance, and systemic change
Authors: FAGUET JEAN-PAUL 
Published: January 2018

AbstractI examine decentralization through the lens of the local dynamics it unleashed in Bangladesh. I argue that the national effects of decentralization are largely the sum of its local-level effects. Hence, to understand decentralization, we must first understand how local government works. This implies analysing not only decentralization, but also democracy, from the bottom up. I present a model of local government responsiveness as the product of political openness and substantive competition. The quality of politics, in turn, emerges endogenously as a joint product of the lobbying and political engagement of local firms/interests, and the organizational density and ability of civil society. I then test these ideas using qualitative data from Bangladesh. The evidence shows that civic organizations worked with non-governmental organizations and local governments to effect transformative change from the grass roots upwards—not just to public budgets and outputs, but to the underlying behaviours and ideas that underpin social development. In the aggregate, these effects were powerful. The result, key development indicators show, is Bangladesh leap-frogging past much wealthier India between 1990 and 2015.
Privatization in the Land of Believers: The political economy of privatization in Pakistan
Authors: MUNIR KAMAL , NAQVI NATALYA 
Published: January 2018

AbstractDespite theoretical justifications and empirical evidence that state-owned enterprises have played an important role in late development, as well as over three decades of evidence that privatization programmes since the 1980s have had mixed results at best, international financial institutions continue prescribing privatization as a panacea for developing countries. Pakistan is an interesting case to understand why privatization is still considered desirable, because it is one of a set of developing countries that have whole-heartedly implemented Washington Consensus policies. In this context, we analyse privatization in two key economic sectors in Pakistan: energy and banking. Using qualitative and quantitative data, we describe the motivations behind these privatizations, the process by which they were carried out, and analyse the post-privatization performance of these organizations and sectors. We find that in both cases (a) the privatizations failed not only with respect to their stated aims, leading to a decline in national productive capabilities, but also had adverse distributional consequences, shifting the rewards to the buyers while the risks and costs remained with the public sector, and (b) the suboptimal outcomes of the privatizations went largely unchallenged aided by a prevalent neoliberal view amongst the country's economic policy makers and intelligentsia. Our analysis sheds new light on the process by which privatization in the absence of a state with the capacity to discipline business interests has enabled these interests to obtain state-sponsored rents without bringing any of the associated benefits for economic development.
OP19 Unlocking The Potential Of Established Products: Need For Incentives
Authors: Nayroles Gabrielle , Gabriel Sylvie , Toumi Mondher , Kornfeld Åsa , Jaros Patrycja , Frybourg Sandrine , Antoñanzas Fernando , Espín Jaime , Jommi Claudio , Martini Nello , de Pouvourville Gérard , Tolley Keith , Wasem Jürgen 
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:Re-purposing of established products (EPs) – defined as marketed for 8 years or more – may represent a high value for patients and society. It has been recognized by the European Commission as an important factor contributing to greater access to new therapies. Due to a lower development cost, it could also represent a cost-effective alternative and help to reduce pressure on healthcare budgets. However, it is perceived that no financial incentives exist for the pharmaceutical industry to invest in new indications for EPs. The objective of this research was to review current European regulations and propose strategies stimulating development in this field.METHODS:We performed a targeted literature review and held two international expert panel workshops to discuss current policies and their implications, and issue recommendations for changes.RESULTS:Within the current regulatory framework EPs face price cuts due to generic competition, reference pricing (RP), price re-negotiations or systematic price cuts, after a period of marketing presence. Extension of indications does not permit to increase or maintain the price. Generic substitution regardless of indication poses another challenge. Limited incentives in the form of an additional year of market protection exists only for new indication(s) registered within the first 8 years following initial approval. The expert panel proposed several strategies to stimulate development in this field, including: (i) extending the period in which registering a new indication results in additional market protection beyond 8 years and extending the duration of additional market protection; (ii) delaying inclusion in RP for EPs with a new value adding indication; (iii) establishing a differential pricing by indication; (iv) preventing temporarily generic substitution when an EP is prescribed for a new indication.CONCLUSIONS:Current regulations represent a serious disincentive to develop new indications for EPs. Regulatory and pricing policy changes are needed to stimulate development in this important field.
OP24 A Framework For Improved Systems Of Care In Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lambert Laurie , Azzi Leila , Boothroyd Lucy , Brière Anabèle , Désy François , Vutcovici Maria , Bogaty Peter , de Guise Michèle 
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:In the past decade numerous efforts have been made to enhance quality of care in the province of Québec for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Despite two prior field evaluations and diffusion of a systematic review as well as recommendations, a third audit revealed persistent gaps in care, specifically excessive treatment delays. Our cardiovascular evaluation unit thus aimed to develop a more comprehensive quality improvement framework that further engaged healthcare professionals.METHODS:A literature update identified best practices and ways to reduce treatment delays and improve outcomes. This review, combined with the latest evaluation results, was used to establish structural and process quality standards adapted to the Québec context, via a consensus process with a panel of clinical experts. The standards identified quality-of-care targets and key elements of a governance structure to guide the improvement process. Quality indicators to monitor change were also developed. An implementation plan was then created, likewise based on literature and evaluation results.RESULTS:For the first time, the unit publicly disseminated the results of the third evaluation according to region, in addition to standard individual hospital “report cards”. A summit conference was held during which the standards and indicators were presented to clinicians and other stakeholders, in collaboration with the health ministry and a panel of cardiovascular experts. Site visits are planned to facilitate change and establishment of local improvement plans and committees. A “tool kit” was developed containing a treatment algorithm, a drug protocol, five quality indicators each for processes and care networks, and measurement tools for indicators. A 75 percent minimal achievement target was set for treatment times.CONCLUSIONS:A comprehensive framework aimed at improving quality of care for STEMI patients and monitoring change was created by combining evidence from the literature and “real world” data and mobilizing key stakeholders.
OP35 Involving Members Of The Public In A National Screening Programme Health Technology Assessment
Authors: Cockcroft Emma , Long Linda , Hyde Christopher , Liabo Kristin 
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:Involving members of the public in the development of Health Technology Assessments (HTAs) has scientific and public value (1) but the most common form of involvement in HTA remains collection of people's views in the form of data (2). Involving members of the public in shaping the research is rare due to perceived time or resource constraints (3). Our research aimed to; (i) develop tailored meeting formats for public involvement in a lung cancer screening HTA, (ii) capture views on lung cancer screening using a community drop in format (iii) explore how different groups of public contributors, with various prior experience of involvement, participated in the HTA consultation process.METHODS:The involvement included three separate public meetings and a drop-in session at a community centre. Meeting formats were specifically tailored to meet the needs of the lung cancer screening HTA while drawing on previous patient and public involvement (PPI) work in relevant disciplines. All meetings were audio recorded and observed using a structured form. This data is currently being analysed using a combination of inductive and thematic analysis.RESULTS:The qualitative research data on PPI processes was collected in November 2016. The paper will present results from our full analysis. At present, we note that while limited time was available to explain HTA to participants, this did not hamper the discussions’ relevance to the HTA work. Participants shared personal stories irrespective of whether they knew each other from before. People drew on own and others’ experiences when discussing outcomes of importance to this HTA.CONCLUSIONS:Prior involvement in research or specific research methods training may not be necessary for public involvement in HTA. This has implications for involving diverse or “hard to reach” groups, without high levels of associated cost.
OP49 Restrictive Versus Non-Restrictive Drug Reimbursement Systems
Authors: Maynou Laia 
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:Existing literature shows evidence on the differences in drug reimbursement decisions across countries. These differences are the reason for this study. The main aim of this research is to model the impact of drug reimbursement decisions on health outcomes (that is, life expectancy, healthy life years and mortality rates). In particular, this study is looking at countries that have different acceptance, restriction and rejection rates for drug reimbursement decisions.METHODS:The current study is based on a longitudinal dataset with data from nine European countries from 2002 to 2014. This dataset is formed of primary data on drug reimbursement decisions (that is, cancer drugs) collected in the Advancing and strengthening the methodological tools and practices relating to the application and implementation of Health Technology Assessment (ADVANCE-HTA) project and secondary data on life tables and indicators of health and socioeconomic status (from Eurostat and World Bank). Following the longevity model defined by Lichtenberg (1), a panel data model with country and year fixed-effects is run on this dataset in order to model the impact of the level of access to drugs on health outcomes.RESULTS:The results show that the rate of adoption of new drugs into a national health system does not have any significant effect on life expectancy. However, more restrictive systems are positively and significantly related with healthy life years. Finally, for mortality rates, higher rejection rates are associated with lower deaths.CONCLUSIONS:To conclude, contrary to the public opinion, results show that a more restrictive drug reimbursement system is not related with a worse health outcome, it is either associated with a positive outcome or it is not related.
OP64 Economic Impact Of Cardiac Device Remote Monitoring In South Korea
Authors: Ahn Jeonghoon , Ju Kim Eung , Yoo Justin , Colangelo Irene , Morichelli Loredana , Ricci Renato Pietro 
Published: January 2018

INTRODUCTION:The reduction of healthcare costs and societal cost due to remote monitoring (RM) of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has been demonstrated in several countries; however, to the best of our knowledge it does not exist for South Korea. This work aims at providing an estimation of the potential benefit of RM versus standard care (SC) of CIEDs in term of healthcare costs in South Korea, in order to provide additional substance to the currently ongoing societal debate about the value of telemedicine.METHODS:Healthcare resource consumption was taken from the results of the TARIFF study, a prospective, non-randomized, multicenter clinical trial designed in Italy to assess the economic benefits of RM follow-up in comparison with standard follow-up in 209 patients (107 SC, 102 RM). The main results demonstrated that RM reduced healthcare resource consumption by 54 percent from a healthcare services perspective (SC: EUR1,044.89±1,990.47 versus RM: EUR482.87±2488.10, p<.0001 (1).In order to perform a cost analysis from the perspective of the South Korean healthcare payer, the following unit costs were assigned to resources collected in TARIFF (hospitalizations, visits, examinations): fee-for-service tariffs, emergency tariffs and outpatient tariffs. Remote follow-up costs were considered as zero.RESULTS:From the perspective of the South Korean healthcare payer, the overall mean annual cost/patient in the RM group is 53 percent lower than in SC group (SC: EUR405,439±40,135 versus RM: EUR189,96±725,52, p<.0001) (SC: KRW 497,145±49,2137 versus RM: KRW 232,936±890,181, p<.0001). This is mainly due to a significant cost reduction in device-related hospitalizations, examination tests and visits in the follow-up period.CONCLUSIONS:RM of CIED patients is cost-saving from the perspective of the South Korean healthcare system. Introducing appropriate reimbursement for remote monitoring of CIED is not likely to change this result and should make RM sustainable for the provider and encourage widespread adoption of RM.