bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomical variation of mesophyll conductance under potassium deficiency has a vital role in determining leaf photosynthesis
Authors: Lu Zhifeng , Lu Jianwei , Pan Yonghui , Lu Piaopiao , Li Xiaokun , Cong Rihuan , Ren Tao
Published: July 2016

Leaves exposed to potassium (K) deficiency usually present decreased mesophyll conductance (gm) and photosynthesis (A). The relative contributions of leaf anatomical traits in determining gm have been quantified; however, anatomical variabilities related to low gm under K starvation remain imperfectly known. A one‐dimensional model was used to quantify anatomical controls of the entire CO2 diffusion pathway resistance within a leaf on two Brassica napus L. cultivars in response to K deficiency. Leaf photosynthesis of both cultivars was significantly decreased under K deficiency in parallel with down‐regulated gm. The mesophyll conductance limitation contributed to more than one‐half of A decline. The decreased internal air space in K‐starved leaves was associated with the increase of gas‐phase resistance. Potassium deficiency reduced liquid‐phase conductance by decreasing the exposed surface area of chloroplasts per unit leaf area (Sc/S), and enlarging the resistance of the cytoplasm that can be interpreted by the increasing distance of chloroplast from cell wall, and between adjacent chloroplasts. Additionally, the discrepancies of A between two cultivars were in part because of gm variations, ascribing to an altered Sc/S. These results emphasize the important role of K on the regulation of gm by enhancing Sc/S and reducing cytoplasm resistance.
Structural determinants of increased susceptibility to dehydration‐induced cavitation in post‐fire resprouting chaparral shrubs
Authors: Jacobsen Anna L. , Tobin Michael F. , Toschi Hayden S. , Percolla Marta I. , Pratt R. Brandon
Published: July 2016

It is well established that transpiration and photosynthetic rates generally increase in resprouting shoots after fire in chaparral shrublands. By contrast, little is known about how plant hydraulic function varies during this same recovery period. We hypothesized that vascular traits, both functional and structural, would also shift in order to support this heightened level of gas exchange and growth. We examined stem xylem‐specific hydraulic conductivity (Ks) and resistance to cavitation (P50) for eight chaparral shrub species as well as several potential xylem structural determinants of hydraulic function and compared established unburned plants and co‐occurring post‐fire resprouting plants. Unburned plants were generally more resistant to cavitation than resprouting plants, but the two groups did not differ in Ks. Resprouting plants had altered vessel structure compared with unburned plants, with resprouting plants having both wider diameter vessels and higher inter‐vessel pit density. For biomechanics, unburned plants had both stronger and denser stem xylem tissue than resprouting plants. Shifts in hydraulic structure and function resulted in resprouting plants being more vulnerable to dehydration. The interaction between time since disturbance (i.e. resprouting versus established stands) and drought may complicate attempts to predict mortality risk of resprouting plants.
New‐onset diabetes mellitus after heart transplantation in children – Incidence and risk factors
Authors: Sehgal Swati , Bock Matthew J. , Louks Palac Hannah , Brickman Wendy J. , Gossett Jeffrey G. , Marino Bradley S. , Backer Carl L. , Pahl Elfriede
Published: July 2016

Diabetes mellitus is a recognized complication of SOT in adults and is associated with decreased graft and patient survival. Little is known about NOD in pediatric HT recipients. We aimed to characterize the incidence and describe risk factors for development of NOD after HT in children. Children who developed diabetes after HT were identified from the OPTN database. Demographic and clinical data before and after transplant were compared between patients with and without NOD. A total of 2056 children were included, 56% were male, 54% were Caucasian, and 62% had cardiomyopathy prior to HT. NOD developed in 219 children (11%) after HT. The incidence of NOD was 2.4, 9.0, and 10.4% at one, five, and 10 yr after HT, respectively. Obesity (HR: 4.32), dialysis prior to transplant (HR: 2.38), African American race (HR: 1.86), transplant before year 2000 (HR: 1.82), female gender (HR: 1.68), and older age at transplant (HR: 1.28) were independent predictors of NOD. The major modifiable risk factor for NOD is obesity, imparting the maximum hazard. Improved surveillance for diabetes in high‐risk patients and specific prevention and intervention strategies are imperative in this population.
Make Short Answers Shorter: Support for the In Situ Approach
Authors: Abe Jun
Published: July 2016

The standard approach for short answers is the one, like Merchant's (2004), in which the remnant phrase undergoes focus movement to a peripheral position before deletion takes place. In this article, I argue against this approach, supporting instead what we may call the in situ approach to short answers, according to which the remnant phrase does not undergo focus movement to a peripheral position but rather simply stays in its original position. Given the inescapable problem in testing island sensitivity in awh‐movement language such as English, this article investigates short answers in Japanese, awh–in situ language. I propose that Japanese short answers are directly derived from what Hiraiwa & Ishihara (2002) call theno dain situ focus construction. This analysis immediately explains the island insensitivity of Japanese short answers. I also argue that the identification condition operative for licensing deletion in short answers is semantic in nature, hence compatible with the in situ approach that necessarily incorporates deletion of nonconstituents. Finally, I argue that the two strategies provided by Merchant (2004) for getting over the inescapable problem in testing island sensitivity in English are ill advised.
Beware the “red herring”
Authors: Zakout G.A.
Published: July 2016

A young patient with relapsed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma presented with new onset respiratory symptoms and hypereosinophilia in the early stage post high‐dose therapy/autologous stem cell rescue. Here, we present a step‐wise practical approach to this unexpected laboratory finding for a not uncommon infective complication in the immunosuppressed patient.
Acceptance of organ xenotransplantation among Latin American immigrants resident in the United States
Authors: Ríos Antonio , López‐Navas Ana Isabel , Martínez‐Alarcón Laura , Ramis Guillermo , Hernández Antonio Miguel , Ayala Marco Antonio , Garrido Gregorio , Ramírez Pablo , Parrilla Pascual
Published: July 2016

Background

Making xenotransplantation socially acceptable is the first step in working toward the promotion of this potential therapy option for providing transplant organs. Objective: To analyze the attitude toward xenotransplantation among the Latin American population resident in Florida (the USA), and to determine the variables affecting this attitude.

Methods

A sample of Latin American residents in the state of Florida was randomized and stratified according to nationality, age, and sex (n = 1524). Attitude was assessed using a validated questionnaire (PCID—XenoTx Rios) which was self‐completed anonymously. Statistical analysis: descriptive analysis, Student's t‐test, the chi‐square test, and a logistic regression analysis.

Results

The questionnaire completion rate was 95% (n = 1450). If it was assumed that xenotransplanted organs functioned as well as human ones, 10% (n = 147) would be in favor, 73% (n = 1092) against, and 17% (n = 246) undecided. If the results were worse, only 2% (n = 35) would be in favor. This favorable attitude was related to country of origin (Honduras and Guatemala; P < 0.001); age (P < 0.001); sex (women; P < 0.001); marital status (married; P < 0.001); descendents (yes; P < 0.001); level of formal education (secondary education and university; P < 0.001); participation in voluntary prosocial activities (yes; P < 0.001); having spoken about donation and transplantation within the family (yes; P < 0.001); a partner's favorable attitude toward transplantation (P = 0.040); religion (catholic; P < 0.001); knowing the attitude of one's religion toward donation (yes; P < 0.001); previous experience of donation and/or transplantation (yes; P < 0.001); a belief that one might need a transplant in the future (yes; P < 0.001); and a favorable attitude toward human donation (yes; P < 0.001). The following were associated with attitude in the multivariate analysis: age (≥40 yrs; OR = 1.152); marital status (married; OR = 500); prosocial activities (yes, I participate in them; OR = 9.196. No, but I would like to; OR = 332.538); religion (catholic; OR = 2000); attitude toward deceased organ donation (in favor; OR = 2000); and previous experience of donation and/or transplantation (yes; OR = 500).

Conclusions

The attitude of Latin Americans resident in Florida toward xenotransplantation is very negative, and is determined by many psychosocial factors, mainly related to their prior attitude toward the different kinds of human organ donation.
Quantitative analysis of the acoustic repertoire of southern right whales in New Zealand
Authors: Webster Trudi A. , Dawson Stephen M. , Rayment William J. , Parks Susan E. , Van Parijs Sofie M.
Published: July 2016

Quantitatively describing the acoustic repertoire of a species is important for establishing effective passive acoustic monitoring programs and developing automated call detectors. This process is particularly important when the study site is remote and visual surveys are not cost effective. Little is known about the vocal behavior of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in New Zealand. The aim of this study was to describe and quantify their entire vocal repertoire on calving grounds in the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands. Over three austral winters (2010–2012), 4349 calls were recorded, measured, and classified into 10 call types. The most frequently observed types were pulsive, upcall, and tonal low vocalizations. A long tonal low call (≤15.5 s duration) and a very high call (peak frequency ∼750 Hz) were described for the first time. Random Forest multivariate analysis of 28 measured variables was used to classify calls with a high degree of accuracy (82%). The most important variables for classification were maximum ceiling frequency, number of inflection points, duration, and the difference between the start and end frequency. This classification system proved to be a repeatable, fast, and objective method for categorising right whale calls and shows promise for other vocal taxa.
Longitudinal guided waves confined in radius filler regions of composite joints
Authors: Manogharan Prabhakaran , Rajagopal Prabhu , Balasubramaniam Krishnan
Published: July 2016

This paper studies the feasibility of using ultrasonic guided waves for fast inspection of conformal deltoid radius filler or “Noodle” regions of joints in stringer composite structures. Semi-analytical finite element simulations, supported by experiments and three-dimensional finite element models, are used to demonstrate the existence of a longitudinal guided ultrasonic mode confined or trapped in the Noodle regions. Studies reveal that this mode has attractive properties for rapid screening of Noodle joints, including strong energy concentration, low dispersion, and attenuation. Discussing the physics of mode confinement in light of material differences and geometry, the phenomenon is shown to be related to feature-guiding effects noted in literature recently.
3D meshes of carbon nanotubes guide functional reconnection of segregated spinal explants
Authors: Usmani Sadaf , Aurand Emily Rose , Medelin Manuela , Fabbro Alessandra , Scaini Denis , Laishram Jummi , Rosselli Federica B. , Ansuini Alessio , Zoccolan Davide , Scarselli Manuela , De Crescenzi Maurizio , Bosi Susanna , Prato Maurizio , Ballerini Laura
Published: July 2016

Three-dimensional carbon nanotube frameworks favor spinal cord explant rewiring of motor outputs.
Isoprenoid-Based Biofuels: Homologous Expression and Heterologous Expression in Prokaryotes
Authors: Phulara Suresh Chandra , Chaturvedi Preeti , Gupta Pratima
Published: July 2016

Enthusiasm for mining advanced biofuels from microbial hosts has increased remarkably in recent years. Isoprenoids are one of the highly diverse groups of secondary metabolites and are foreseen as an alternative to petroleum-based fuels. Most of the prokaryotes synthesize their isoprenoid backbone via the deoxyxylulose-5-phosphate pathway from glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate and pyruvate, whereas eukaryotes synthesize isoprenoids via the mevalonate pathway from acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). Microorganisms do not accumulate isoprenoids in large quantities naturally, which restricts their application for fuel purposes. Various metabolic engineering efforts have been utilized to overcome the limitations associated with their natural and nonnatural production. The introduction of heterologous pathways/genes and overexpression of endogenous/homologous genes have shown a remarkable increase in isoprenoid yield and substrate utilization in microbial hosts. Such modifications in the hosts' genomes have enabled researchers to develop commercially competent microbial strains for isoprenoid-based biofuel production utilizing a vast array of substrates. The present minireview briefly discusses the recent advancement in metabolic engineering efforts in prokaryotic hosts for the production of isoprenoid-based biofuels, with an emphasis on endogenous, homologous, and heterologous expression strategies.
Identification of a Halogenase Involved in the Biosynthesis of Ochratoxin A in Aspergillus carbonarius
Authors: Ferrara Massimo , Perrone Giancarlo , Gambacorta Lucia , Epifani Filomena , Solfrizzo Michele , Gallo Antonia
Published: July 2016

Aspergillus carbonarius
is the main responsible fungus of ochratoxin A (OTA) contamination of grapes and derived products. To date, the biosynthetic mechanism of this mycotoxin has been partially elucidated. Availability of genome sequence of
A. carbonarius
has allowed the identification of a putative gene cluster involved in OTA biosynthesis. This region hosts the previously characterized
AcOTAnrps
and
AcOTApks
genes encoding two key enzymes of the biosynthetic pathway. At about 4,400 nucleotides downstream of these loci, a gene encoding a putative flavin dependent-halogenase came out from the annotation data. Its proximity to OTA biosynthetic genes and its sequence analysis have suggested a role in the biosynthesis of OTA, directed to the introduction of the chlorine atom in the C-5 position of the final molecular structure of this mycotoxin. The deduced protein sequence of the halogenase gene, we designated
AcOTAhal
, shows a high similarity to a halogenase that is located in the OTA cluster of
A. niger
. The deletion of the halogenase gene completely eliminated the production of ochratoxin A in
A. carbonarius
and determined a significant increase of ochratoxin B, as confirmed by mass spectrometry analysis. Moreover, its expression profile was similar to the two biosynthetic genes previously identified,
AcOTApks
and
AcOTAnrps
, indicating a strong correlation of the
AcOTAhal
gene with the kinetics of OTA accumulation in
A. carbonarius.
Therefore, experimental evidence confirmed that the chlorination step which converts OTB in OTA represents the final stage of the biosynthetic pathway, supporting our earlier hypothesis on the order of enzymatic steps of OTA biosynthesis in
A. carbonarius
.

IMPORTANCE
Ochratoxin A is a potent mycotoxin classified as a possible carcinogen for humans, and
Aspergillus carbonarius
is the main agent responsible for OTA accumulation in grapes. We demonstrate here that a flavin-halogenase is implicated in the biosynthesis of OTA in
A. carbonarius
. The encoding gene,
AcOTAhal
, is contiguous to biosynthetic genes that we have already described (
nrps
and
pks
), resulting as part of the biosynthetic cluster. The encoded protein is responsible of the introduction of chlorine atom in the final molecular structure and acts at the last step in the pathway. This study can be considered a continuation of an earlier study wherein we started to clarify the molecular basis of OTA biosynthesis in
A. carbonarius
, which has not been completely elucidated until now. This research represents an important step forward to a better understanding of the production mechanism, which will contribute to the development of improved control strategies to reduce the risk of OTA contamination in food products.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Outcompetes Enterococcus faecium via Mucus-Binding Pili: Evidence for a Novel and Heterospecific Probiotic Mechanism
Authors: Tytgat Hanne L. P. , Douillard François P. , Reunanen Justus , Rasinkangas Pia , Hendrickx Antoni P. A. , Laine Pia K. , Paulin Lars , Satokari Reetta , de Vos Willem M.
Published: July 2016

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) have become a major nosocomial threat.
Enterococcus faecium
is of special concern, as it can easily acquire new antibiotic resistances and is an excellent colonizer of the human intestinal tract. Several clinical studies have explored the potential use of beneficial bacteria to weed out opportunistic pathogens. Specifically, the widely studied
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
strain GG has been applied successfully in the context of VRE infections. Here, we provide new insight into the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of this model probiotic on VRE decolonization. Both clinical VRE isolates and
L. rhamnosus
GG express pili on their cell walls, which are the key modulators of their highly efficient colonization of the intestinal mucosa. We found that one of the VRE pilus clusters shares considerable sequence similarity with the SpaCBA-SrtC1 pilus cluster of
L. rhamnosus
GG. Remarkable immunological and functional similarities were discovered between the mucus-binding pili of
L. rhamnosus
GG and those of the clinical
E. faecium
strain E1165, which was characterized at the genome level. Moreover,
E. faecium
strain E1165 bound efficiently to mucus, which may be prevented by the presence of the mucus-binding SpaC protein or antibodies against
L. rhamnosus
GG or SpaC. These results present experimental support for a novel probiotic mechanism, in which the mucus-binding pili of
L. rhamnosus
GG prevent the binding of a potential pathogen to the host. Hence, we provide a molecular basis for the further exploitation of
L. rhamnosus
GG and its pilins for prophylaxis and treatment of VRE infections.

IMPORTANCE
Concern about vancomycin-resistant
Enterococcus faecium
causing nosocomial infections is rising globally. The arsenal of antibiotic strategies to treat these infections is nearly exhausted, and hence, new treatment strategies are urgently needed. Here, we provide molecular evidence to underpin reports of the successful clinical application of
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
GG in VRE decolonization strategies. Our results provide support for a new molecular mechanism, in which probiotics can perform competitive exclusion and possibly immune interaction. Moreover, we spur further exploration of the potential of intact
L. rhamnosus
GG and purified SpaC pilin as prophylactic and curative agents of the VRE carrier state.
Development and Validation of Broad-Range Qualitative and Clade-Specific Quantitative Molecular Probes for Assessing Mercury Methylation in the Environment
Authors: Christensen Geoff A. , Wymore Ann M. , King Andrew J. , Podar Mircea , Hurt Richard A. , Santillan Eugenio U. , Soren Ally , Brandt Craig C. , Brown Steven D. , Palumbo Anthony V. , Wall Judy D. , Gilmour Cynthia C. , Elias Dwayne A.
Published: July 2016

Two genes,
hgcA
and
hgcB
, are essential for microbial mercury (Hg) methylation. Detection and estimation of their abundance, in conjunction with Hg concentration, bioavailability, and biogeochemistry, are critical in determining potential hot spots of methylmercury (MeHg) generation in at-risk environments. We developed broad-range degenerate PCR primers spanning known
hgcAB
genes to determine the presence of both genes in diverse environments. These primers were tested against an extensive set of pure cultures with published genomes, including 13
Deltaproteobacteria
, nine
Firmicutes
, and nine methanogenic
Archaea
genomes. A distinct PCR product at the expected size was confirmed for all
hgcAB
+
strains tested via Sanger sequencing. Additionally, we developed clade-specific degenerate quantitative PCR (qPCR) primers that targeted
hgcA
for each of the three dominant Hg-methylating clades. The clade-specific qPCR primers amplified
hgcA
from 64%, 88%, and 86% of tested pure cultures of
Deltaproteobacteria
,
Firmicutes
, and
Archaea
, respectively, and were highly specific for each clade. Amplification efficiencies and detection limits were quantified for each organism. Primer sensitivity varied among species based on sequence conservation. Finally, to begin to evaluate the utility of our primer sets in nature, we tested
hgcA
and
hgcAB
recovery from pure cultures spiked into sand and soil. These novel quantitative molecular tools designed in this study will allow for more accurate identification and quantification of the individual Hg-methylating groups of microorganisms in the environment. The resulting data will be essential in developing accurate and robust predictive models of Hg methylation potential, ideally integrating the geochemistry of Hg methylation to the microbiology and genetics of
hgcAB
.

IMPORTANCE
The neurotoxin methylmercury (MeHg) poses a serious risk to human health. MeHg production in nature is associated with anaerobic microorganisms. The recent discovery of the Hg-methylating gene pair,
hgcA
and
hgcB
, has allowed us to design and optimize molecular probes against these genes within the genomic DNA for microorganisms known to methylate Hg. The protocols designed in this study allow for both qualitative and quantitative assessments of pure-culture or environmental samples. With these protocols in hand, we can begin to study the distribution of Hg-methylating organisms in nature via a cultivation-independent strategy.
The Presence of Two Receptor-Binding Proteins Contributes to the Wide Host Range of Staphylococcal Twort-Like Phages
Authors: Takeuchi Ippei , Osada Keita , Azam Aa Haeruman , Asakawa Hiroaki , Miyanaga Kazuhiko , Tanji Yasunori
Published: July 2016

Thanks to their wide host range and virulence, staphylococcal bacteriophages (phages) belonging to the genus
Twortlikevirus
(staphylococcal Twort-like phages) are regarded as ideal candidates for clinical application for
Staphylococcus aureus
infections due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria of this species. To increase the usability of these phages, it is necessary to understand the mechanism underlying host recognition, especially the receptor-binding proteins (RBPs) that determine host range. In this study, we found that the staphylococcal Twort-like phage ΦSA012 possesses at least two RBPs. Genomic analysis of five mutant phages of ΦSA012 revealed point mutations in
orf103
, in a region unique to staphylococcal Twort-like phages. Phages harboring mutated ORF103 could not infect
S. aureus
strains in which wall teichoic acids (WTAs) are glycosylated with α-
N
-acetylglucosamine (α-GlcNAc). A polyclonal antibody against ORF103 also inhibited infection by ΦSA012 in the presence of α-GlcNAc, suggesting that ORF103 binds to α-GlcNAc. In contrast, a polyclonal antibody against ORF105, a short tail fiber component previously shown to be an RBP, inhibited phage infection irrespective of the presence of α-GlcNAc. Immunoelectron microscopy indicated that ORF103 is a tail fiber component localized at the bottom of the baseplate. From these results, we conclude that ORF103 binds α-GlcNAc in WTAs, whereas ORF105, the primary RBP, is likely to bind the WTA backbone. These findings provide insight into the infection mechanism of staphylococcal Twort-like phages.

IMPORTANCE
Staphylococcus
phages belonging to the genus
Twortlikevirus
(called staphylococcal Twort-like phages) are considered promising agents for control of
Staphylococcus aureus
due to their wide host range and highly lytic capabilities. Although staphylococcal Twort-like phages have been studied widely for therapeutic purposes, the host recognition process of staphylococcal Twort-like phages remains unclear. This work provides new findings about the mechanisms of host recognition of the staphylococcal Twort-like phage ΦSA012. The details of the host recognition mechanism of ΦSA012 will allow us to analyze the mechanisms of infection and expand the utility of staphylococcal Twort-like phages for the control of
S. aureus
.
Relevance of F-Specific RNA Bacteriophages in Assessing Human Norovirus Risk in Shellfish and Environmental Waters
Authors: Hartard C. , Banas S. , Loutreul J. , Rincé A. , Benoit F. , Boudaud N. , Gantzer C.
Published: July 2016

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) are the main cause of shellfish-borne gastroenteritis outbreaks. In the absence of routine technical approaches allowing infectious particles to be detected, this viral pathogen is currently targeted by genome research, leading to difficult interpretations. In this study, we investigated the potential of F-specific RNA bacteriophages (FRNAPH) as fecal and viral contamination indicators in shellfish and water from a local harvesting area. FRNAPH were also used as microbial source tracking tools. Constraints imposed by detection limits are illustrated here by the detection of infectious FRNAPH in several samples in the absence of FRNAPH genomes. The opposite situation was also observed, likely explained by the persistence of the genomes being greater than infectivity. Similar considerations may be applied to HuNoVs, suggesting that HuNoV genome targeting is of limited relevance in assessing infectious risks. While FRNAPH did not provide any benefits compared to
Escherichia coli
as fecal pollution indicators in water, novel observations were made in shellfish: contrary to
E. coli
, a seasonal trend of infectious FRNAPH concentrations was observed. These concentrations were higher than those found in water, confirming bioaccumulation in shellfish. This study also underlines a relationship between the presence of HuNoV genomes and those of human-specific FRNAPH subgroup II (FRNAPH-II) in shellfish collected throughout Europe. Further research should be undertaken to evaluate FRNAPH potential as an indicator of the presence of infectious HuNoVs. To this end, shellfish involved in HuNoV-caused gastroenteritis outbreaks should be analyzed for the presence of infectious FRNAPH-II.

IMPORTANCE
This work provides new data about the use of F-specific RNA phages (FRNAPH) as a tool for evaluating fecal or viral contamination, especially in shellfish. In our case study, FRNAPH did not provide any benefits compared to
E. coli
as fecal pollution indicators in water but were found to be very useful in shellfish. Their concentrations in shellfish were higher than those found in the surrounding water, confirming bioaccumulation. This study also underlines a relationship between the presence of human norovirus genomes (HuNoVs) and those of FRNAPH subgroup II (FRNAPH-II). Considering that the two virus types have similar behaviors and since FRNAPH infectivity can be investigated, the specific detection of infectious FRNAPH-II could be regarded as an indication of the presence of infectious HuNoVs. The contribution of infectious human FRNAPH targeting for assessing the viral risk associated with HuNoVs in shellfish should thus be investigated.
Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci and Bacterial Community Structure following a Sewage Spill into an Aquatic Environment
Authors: Young Suzanne , Nayak Bina , Sun Shan , Badgley Brian D. , Rohr Jason R. , Harwood Valerie J.
Published: July 2016

Sewage spills can release antibiotic-resistant bacteria into surface waters, contributing to environmental reservoirs and potentially impacting human health. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are nosocomial pathogens that have been detected in environmental habitats, including soil, water, and beach sands, as well as wildlife feces. However, VRE harboring
vanA
genes that confer high-level resistance have infrequently been found outside clinical settings in the United States. This study found culturable
Enterococcus faecium
harboring the
vanA
gene in water and sediment for up to 3 days after a sewage spill, and the quantitative PCR (qPCR) signal for
vanA
persisted for an additional week. Culturable levels of enterococci in water exceeded recreational water guidelines for 2 weeks following the spill, declining about five orders of magnitude in sediments and two orders of magnitude in the water column over 6 weeks. Analysis of bacterial taxa via 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed changes in community structure through time following the sewage spill in sediment and water. The spread of opportunistic pathogens harboring high-level vancomycin resistance genes beyond hospitals and into the broader community and associated habitats is a potential threat to public health, requiring further studies that examine the persistence, occurrence, and survival of VRE in different environmental matrices.

IMPORTANCE
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are harmful bacteria that are resistant to the powerful antibiotic vancomycin, which is used as a last resort against many infections. This study followed the release of VRE in a major sewage spill and their persistence over time. Such events can act as a means of spreading vancomycin-resistant bacteria in the environment, which can eventually impact human health.
Commissioning of self-management support for people with long-term conditions: an exploration of commissioning aspirations and processes
Authors: Reidy Claire , Kennedy Anne , Pope Catherine , Ballinger Claire , Vassilev Ivo , Rogers Anne
Published: July 2016

Objectives

To explore how self-management support (SMS) is considered and conceptualised by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and whether this is reflected in strategic planning and commissioning. SMS is an essential element of long-term condition (LTC) management and CCGs are responsible for commissioning services that are coordinated, integrated and link into patient's everyday lives. This focus provides a good test and exemplar for how commissioners communicate with their local population to find out what they need.

Design

A multisite, quasi-ethnographic exploration of 9 CCGs.

Setting

National Health Service (NHS) CCGs in southern England, representing varied socioeconomic status, practice sizes and rural and urban areas.

Data collection/analysis

Content analysis of CCG forward plans for mention of SMS. Semistructured interviews with commissioners (n=10) explored understanding of SMS and analysed thematically. The practice of commissioning explored through the observations of Service User Researchers (n=5) attending Governing Body meetings (n=10, 30 hours).

Results

Observations illuminate the relative absence of SMS and gateways to active engagement with patient and public voices. Content analysis of plans point to tensions between local aspirations and those identified by NHS England for empowering patients by enhancing SMS services (‘person-centred’, whole systems). Interview data highlight disparities in the process of translating the forward plans into practice. Commissioners reference SMS as a priority yet details of local initiatives are notably absent with austerity (cost-containment) and nationally measured biomedical outcomes taking precedence.

Conclusions

Commissioners conceptualise locally sensitive SMS as a means to improve health and reduce service use, but structural and financial constraints result in prioritisation of nationally driven outcome measures and payments relating to biomedical targets. Ultimately, there is little evidence of local needs driving SMS in CCGs. CCGs need to focus more on early strategic planning of lay involvement to provide an avenue for genuine engagement, so that support can be provided for communities and individuals in a way people will engage with.
Intrathecal drug delivery systems for the management of chronic non-cancer pain: protocol for a systematic review of economic evaluations
Authors: Duarte Rui V , Lambe Tosin , Raphael Jon H , Eldabe Sam , Andronis Lazaros
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Intrathecal drug delivery (ITDD) systems are an option for the management of patients with chronic non-cancer pain, cancer pain and spasticity. Concerns over their invasiveness and high initial costs have led National Health Service (NHS) England to decommission ITDD for patients with chronic non-cancer pain. However, the extent to which this decision is in line with existing economic evidence is unclear. To address this question, we will carry out a systematic review to identify and evaluate the existing evidence on the cost-effectiveness of ITDD for chronic non-cancer pain.

Methods and analysis

A high-sensitivity search strategy will be employed in Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, NHS EED, DARE and HTA. Database searches will be complemented by additional searching techniques. Screening of the results will be performed by 2 reviewers independently using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Full and partial economic evaluations will be included. Data extraction will be carried out using a form created for the purposes of this review. Quality assessment of all included studies will be performed using recommended checklists.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as primary data will not be collected. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42016035266.
Assessment of neighbourhood-level socioeconomic status as a modifier of air pollution–asthma associations among children in Atlanta
Authors: O'Lenick Cassandra R , Winquist Andrea , Mulholland James A , Friberg Mariel D , Chang Howard H , Kramer Michael R , Darrow Lyndsey A , Sarnat Stefanie Ebelt
Published: July 2016

Background

A broad literature base provides evidence of association between air pollution and paediatric asthma. Socioeconomic status (SES) may modify these associations; however, previous studies have found inconsistent evidence regarding the role of SES.

Methods

Effect modification of air pollution–paediatric asthma morbidity by multiple indicators of neighbourhood SES was examined in Atlanta, Georgia. Emergency department (ED) visit data were obtained for 5–18 years old with a diagnosis of asthma in 20-county Atlanta during 2002–2008. Daily ZIP Code Tabulation Area (ZCTA)-level concentrations of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, fine particulate matter and elemental carbon were estimated using ambient monitoring data and emissions-based chemical transport model simulations. Pollutant–asthma associations were estimated using a case-crossover approach, controlling for temporal trends and meteorology. Effect modification by ZCTA-level (neighbourhood) SES was examined via stratification.

Results

We observed stronger air pollution–paediatric asthma associations in ‘deprivation areas’ (eg, ≥20% of the ZCTA population living in poverty) compared with ‘non-deprivation areas’. When stratifying analyses by quartiles of neighbourhood SES, ORs indicated stronger associations in the highest and lowest SES quartiles and weaker associations among the middle quartiles.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that neighbourhood-level SES is a factor contributing vulnerability to air pollution-related paediatric asthma morbidity in Atlanta. Children living in low SES environments appear to be especially vulnerable given positive ORs and high underlying asthma ED rates. Inconsistent findings of effect modification among previous studies may be partially explained by choice of SES stratification criteria, and the use of multiplicative models combined with differing baseline risk across SES populations.
Individual schooling and women's community-level media exposure: a multilevel analysis of normative influences associated with women's justification of wife beating in Bangladesh
Authors: Krause Kathleen H , Haardörfer Regine , Yount Kathryn M
Published: July 2016

Background

Our objective was to examine the multilevel correlates of women's justification of wife beating in Bangladesh, a form of intimate partner violence (IPV). We focus on individual-level schooling, community-level media exposure among women and their interaction.

Methods

A cross-sectional study using data from the 2011 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. Our sample included 17 749 ever-married women 15–49 years in 600 communities. We fit 6 multilevel logistic regression models to examine factors associated with justifying IPV; focusing on a woman's completed grades of schooling; frequent (at least once weekly) community-level media exposure among women via newspaper/magazine, television and radio; and their cross-level interaction.

Results

At the individual level, completing more grades of schooling than the community average was negatively associated with justifying IPV (0.95, 95% CI 0.94 to 0.97). The main effects of women's community-level media exposure were not significant, but suggested that frequent exposure to newspaper/magazine or television was negatively associated with justifying IPV, while exposure to radio was positively associated. In cross-level interactions, a woman's completed grades of schooling above the community average was protective against justifying IPV, even in communities where women's exposure to radio would otherwise increase the odds of justifying IPV.

Conclusions

Different forms of media likely send different messages about gender and IPV. Girls' schooling should remain a priority, given its protective effect against justifying wife beating. Targeting girls and women who do not receive any schooling for intervention may yield the most benefit in terms of normative change regarding IPV against women.
Impact of socioeconomic position on frailty trajectories in 10 European countries: evidence from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (2004–2013)
Authors: Stolz Erwin , Mayerl Hannes , Waxenegger Anja , Rásky Éva , Freidl Wolfgang
Published: July 2016

Background

Whether or not, and how, health inequalities change throughout older age is currently under debate. The goal of this study was to assess the net impact of education, occupational class, income and wealth on frailty trajectories among older adults in Continental Europe.

Methods

We modelled frailty index trajectories within a repeated cohort design among the community-dwelling population (50+) in 10 countries, using growth curve models based on 54 036 observations from 20 965 respondents in 4 waves (2004–2013) of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe.

Results

Gaps in frailty due to education, occupational class and wealth continued throughout old age, while the gap due to income, smaller in comparison, converged. Frailty levels were higher and trajectories steeper in later birth cohorts, and the impact of education increased over time. Frailty levels and growth curves were higher in Southern European countries, and results were consistent across countries regarding the continuous effect of education and occupation and more mixed regarding wealth and income.

Conclusions

Health inequalities due to education, occupational class and wealth tend to persist throughout old age, whereas the negligible effect of income declines with age, which, substantially, highlights the importance of social conditions on the pace of physiological decline in older Europeans and, methodologically, highlights the need to assess multiple measures of socioeconomic position.
Endovascular treatment in the acute and non-acute phases of carotid dissection: a therapeutic approach
Authors: Delgado Fernando , Bravo Isabel , Jiménez Elvira , Murías Eduardo , Saiz Antonio , Vega Pedro , López-Rueda Antonio , Blasco Jordi , Macho Juan , González Alejandro
Published: July 2016

Background

Carotid dissection (CD) may, in certain cases, lead to significant stenosis, occlusion, or pseudoaneurysm formation, causing embolic stroke or hemodynamic failure, despite medical therapy.

Objective

To evaluate the results of endovascular treatment and clinical outcomes of patients with CD.

Methods

A four-hospital retrospective study of endovascular treatment of extracranial CD in which medical treatment had failed or patients presented with a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥8.

Results

Thirty-eight patients (mean age 46.6±13.5 years, 78.9% male, 84.2% spontaneous CD, 44.7% left CD and 26.3% bilateral CD) were analyzed. In 24 patients (63.2%) treatment was undertaken in the acute-phase CD (APCD). IV recombinant tissue plasminogen activator was administered in 7 (29.2%) APCD cases. The patients with APCD exhibited a high rate of successful revascularization (Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction ≥2b; 19 patients (79.2%)), a low risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (n=2 (8.3%)), and good global functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≤2; n=17 (70.8%)). Good recanalization correlated (p=0.001) with good clinical evolution (mRS ≤2) in the patients with APCD. Of the 14 patients with non-acute phase CD (NAPCD), seven were treated for pseudoaneurysm with multiple stents (six patients) or covered prostheses, with stenosis being treated in the remaining seven patients.

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment of selected cases of patients with CD associated with thromboembolic events and hemodynamic failure after unsuccessful medical therapy is a safe and effective method of restoring vessel lumen integrity, with good short-term clinical evolution.
Paradoxical reactions under TNF-α blocking agents and other biological agents given for chronic immune-mediated diseases: an analytical and comprehensive overview
Authors: Toussirot Éric , Aubin François
Published: July 2016

Paradoxical adverse events (PAEs) have been reported during biological treatment for chronic immune-mediated diseases. PAEs are defined as the occurrence during biological agent therapy of a pathological condition that usually responds to this class of drug. A wide range of PAEs have been reported including dermatological, intestinal and ophthalmic conditions, mainly with antitumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) agents. True PAEs include psoriasis, Crohn's disease and hidradenitis suppurativa. Other PAEs may be qualified as borderline and include uveitis, scleritis, sarcoidosis and other granulomatous diseases (granuloma annulare, interstitial granulomatous dermatitis), vasculitis, vitiligo and alopecia areata. Proposed hypotheses to explain these PAEs include an imbalance in cytokine production, the differential immunological properties between the monoclonal antibodies and TNF-α soluble receptor, an unopposed type I interferon production and a shift towards a Th1/Th2 profile. Data from registries suggest that the risk for paradoxical psoriasis is low and non-significant. We discuss management of these PAEs, which depends on the type and severity of the adverse events, pre-existing treated conditions and the possibility of alternative therapeutic options for the underlying disease. Paradoxical adverse events are not restricted to anti-TNF-α agents and close surveillance of new available biological drugs (anti-interleukin-17/23, anti-integrin) is warranted in order to detect the occurrence of new or as yet undescribed events.
Accelerator considerations of large circular colliders
Authors: Chao Alex
Published: July 2016

As we consider the tremendous physics reaches of the big future circular electron–positron and proton–proton colliders, it might be advisable to keep a close track of what accelerator challenges they face. Good progresses are being made, and yet it is reported here that substantial investments in funding, manpower, as well as a long sustained time to the R&D efforts will be required in preparation to realize these dream colliders.
Geographical and geological explorations of the La Plata Museum 1884–1905
Authors: Riccardi Alberto C.
Published: July 2016

The contributions of the La Plata Museum to the geology of Argentina began following the exploratory trips of its founder, F.P. Moreno, in the 1870s. The geological expeditions of the La Plata Museum started in the 1880s and covered the Andean region, although they were focused in the Patagonian Andes. They became more important from 1893 when they were related to explorations aimed at fixing the boundary between Argentina and Chile. Within 10 years the geographical and geological bases of large and almost unknown regions were established. R. Hauthal studied the area between the Last Hope Inlet and Lake Belgrano, defining its stratigraphy and publishing the first geological map of the Cordilleran region between
c.
49° 30′ and 52° S. The geology between Lake Buenos Aires and the Rio Negro (41–47° S) was established by Santiago Roth. The stratigraphic succession, facies and structural changes through the Argentine–Chilean Cordillera at the latitude of Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Lacar were studied by L. Wehrli, while studies at the latitude of Neuquén and Mendoza (36–39° S) were carried out by C. Burckhardt. Mesozoic and Cenozoic fossils were studied either in the Museum or abroad.

Supplementary material:
Map of southern South America (Argentina and Chile) showing the distribution of towns in 1870 is available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3283385.v1
Review of the history of higher education in geology during the past 100 years in China
Authors: Zhou Yufeng
Published: July 2016

Higher education in geology has been available for more than 100 years in China and many scholars have researched the history of geological education. This paper considers the development of geological education in China, reviews the research and summarizes the characteristics of various studies.

H.T. Chang (1877–1951), one of the founders of Chinese geology, once said:

Education is the foundation for the development of all the fields. The reason for past failures is due to the fact that the government has not placed enough emphasis on education. The achievements of geological work after 1912, the year the Republic of China was founded, are the result of education. If we want to achieve more, we need to place more emphasis on education. (
Chang 1937, pp. 41–42)

Over much of this time, scholars have reviewed its history. This period can be broadly divided into three stages: from the 1920s to 1949; from 1949 to 1976; and from the 1980s to the present day.
INHIGEO in recent times
Authors: Bork Kennard B. , Cooper Barry J.
Published: July 2016

David Oldroyd served a double term (1996–2004) as Secretary-General of INHIGEO, working with Hugh Torrens (1996–2000) and Manuel Pinto (2000–04) as Presidents. Meeting sites during this time included Beijing (1996), Liège (1997), Neuchâtel (1998), Freiberg (1999), Rio de Janeiro (2000), Lisbon and Aveiro (2001), Paris (2002), Dublin (2003) and Florence (2004). Minor changes in the Terms of Reference and By-Laws aided the mission of INHIGEO. Continuity was a key aspect of Kennard Bork's term (2004–08). President Philippe Taquet (2004–08) and the INHIGEO Board were responsive to resolving operational issues. Annual meetings were held in Italy (2004), the Czech Republic (2005), the Baltic States (2006), Germany (2007) and Norway (2008). In the period since 2008, INHIGEO has continued its success while undergoing constructive changes. The
INHIGEO Newsletter
has been transformed into the
INHIGEO Annual Record
, which is publicly available on the internet. The longstanding limit on membership numbers per country has been abandoned, a category of Associate Membership has been introduced and a quarterly
INHIGEO Circular
was introduced in 2012. An Affiliated Association category was created in 2014. This contribution focuses on the progress of INHIGEO in the years 1996 to the present day. It has been prepared by Kennard B. Bork, INHIGEO Secretary-General (2004–08) and Barry J. Cooper Secretary-General (2008–16). Tragically, David Oldroyd passed away on 7 November 2014 and could not contribute to this paper. In his place, one of us (KBB) discusses David's major contributions.