bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative leaf blade anatomy and micromorphology in the systematics and phylogeny of Bambusoideae (Poaceae: Poales)
Authors: Leandro Thales D , Scatena Vera L , Clark Lynn G
Published: August 2019

Leaf blade anatomical and micromorphological data have increasingly proved to be useful in the systematics and phylogeny of Bambusoideae. The presence of well-developed, asymmetrically strongly infolded mesophyll cells (arm cells) as seen in cross-section is regarded a synapomorphy for bamboos, whereas many well-known, widely used features for diagnosing groups remain to be formally tested in a comprehensive phylogenetic framework. In this review, we investigate the use of anatomical and micromorphological features in defining and delimiting minor and major groups in Bambusoideae. A general description of the leaf blade as seen in cross-section and surface view is provided for the subfamily, as well as features commonly found in the three currently recognized tribes (Arundinarieae, Bambuseae and Olyreae) and their subtribes. Some features, including midrib vasculature, fusoid cells and stomatal apparatus, are discussed in the light of systematic and phylogenetic perspectives, along with a clarification of terminology. Illustrations of relevant features are also provided. This review allowed us to elucidate anatomical and micromorphological features useful in defining and delimiting lineages but also to highlight some research priorities in Bambusoideae.
The bivariate distribution of amyloid-β and tau: relationship with established neurocognitive clinical syndromes
Authors: Jack Clifford R , Wiste Heather J , Botha Hugo , Weigand Stephen D , Therneau Terry M , Knopman David S , Graff-Radford Jonathan , Jones David T , Ferman Tanis J , Boeve Bradley F , Kantarci Kejal , Lowe Val J , Vemuri Prashanthi , Mielke Michelle M , Fields Julie A , Machulda Mary M , Schwarz Christopher G , Senjem Matthew L , Gunter Jeffrey L , Petersen Ronald C
Published: August 2019

See Gordon and Tijms (doi:10.1093/brain/awz278) for a scientific commentary on this article.

Jack et al. examine relationships between the bivariate distribution of β-amyloid and tau on PET and established neurocognitive clinical syndromes. Amyloidosis appears to be required for high levels of 3R/4R tau deposition. Whereas abnormal amyloid PET is compatible with normal cognition, highly abnormal tau PET is not.
Declines in Lung Function After Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation in Adults With Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Tuberculosis: A Potential Manifestation of Respiratory Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: Auld Sara C , Maenetje Pholo , Ravimohan Shruthi , Weissman Drew , Ncube Itai , Mlotshwa Mandla , Ratsela Nelly , Chase William , Vangu Mboyo-Di-Tamba , Wallis Robert , Churchyard Gavin , Kornfeld Hardy , Bisson Gregory P
Published: August 2019

End-organ impairment has received relatively little research attention as a possible manifestation of tuberculosis immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS). In this prospective cohort study, one-half of adults with human immunodeficiency virus and pulmonary tuberculosis experienced meaningful declines in lung function on antiretroviral therapy, suggesting a role for lung function in TB-IRIS definitions.
Ceftaroline-associated Encephalopathy in Patients With Severe Renal Impairment
Authors: Martin Thomas C S , Chow Sean , Johns Scott T , Mehta Sanjay R
Published: August 2019

Encephalopathy complicates beta-lactam therapy, particularly with impaired renal function, though no studies have reported ceftaroline-associated encephalopathy. Among 28 patients with estimated glomerular filtration rates <30 mL/min who received ≥5 days of ceftaroline, 3 developed encephalopathy. Ceftaroline, when dosed supra-therapeutically for serious infections, may be a cause of antibiotic-associated encephalopathy.
How Testing Drives Treatment in Asymptomatic Patients: Level of Pyuria Directly Predicts Probability of Antimicrobial Prescribing
Authors: Gupta Kalpana , O’Brien William , Gallegos-Salazar Jaime , Strymish Judith , Branch-Elliman Westyn
Published: August 2019

Background

Urinalysis is a readily available test often used for screening. Pyuria is a common finding in asymptomatic patients; however, it is unknown how often identification of pyuria in the absence of confirmatory cultures leads to antimicrobial prescribing. The objective of this study was to measure the association between pyuria and antimicrobial initiation during the perioperative period and assess harms versus benefits of treatment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of preoperative patients within the national healthcare system during the period 1 October 2008–30 September 2013 who had a urinalysis performed during the 30-day preoperative period was created; patients with positive urine cultures were excluded. The primary exposure was pyuria on preoperative urinalysis. The primary outcome was antimicrobial initiation. Secondary outcomes included postoperative surgical site (SSI), urinary tract (UTI), and Clostridioides difficile infections. Trend and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Among 41 373 patients, 3617 had pyuria. 887 (24.5%) patients with pyuria received antimicrobials versus 1918 (5.1%) patients without pyuria. As the degree of pyuria increased, the odds of receiving antimicrobials also increased linearly (low, 14.7%; moderate, 24.0%; high pyuria, 37.4%). Preoperative pyuria was associated with postoperative C. difficile infections (aOR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.2–2.4); risk was higher in patients who received antimicrobials (aOR, 2.4; 1.7–3.4). Pyuria was not associated with SSI but was associated with increases in UTI after orthopedic and vascular procedures; this risk was not mitigated by antimicrobial therapy.

Conclusions

Urine screening during the preoperative period is a low-value intervention that increases antimicrobial exposure but does not improve postoperative outcomes.
Homeobox B9 integrates bone morphogenic protein 4 with inflammation at atheroprone sites
Authors: Souilhol Celine , Gauci Ismael , Feng Shuang , Tardajos Ayllon Blanca , Mahmoud Marwa , Canham Lindsay , Fragiadaki Maria , Serbanovic-Canic Jovana , Ridger Victoria , Evans Paul Charles
Published: August 2019

Aims

Atherosclerosis develops near branches and bends of arteries that are exposed to disturbed blood flow which exerts low wall shear stress (WSS). These mechanical conditions alter endothelial cells (EC) by priming them for inflammation and by inducing turnover. Homeobox (Hox) genes are developmental genes involved in the patterning of embryos along their anterior–posterior and proximal–distal axes. Here we identified Hox genes that are regulated by WSS and investigated their functions in adult arteries.

Methods and results

EC were isolated from inner (low WSS) and outer (high WSS) regions of the porcine aorta and the expression of Hox genes was analysed by quantitative real-time PCR. Several Hox genes (HoxA10, HoxB4, HoxB7, HoxB9, HoxD8, HoxD9) were significantly enriched at the low WSS compared to the high WSS region. Similarly, studies of cultured human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC) or porcine aortic EC revealed that the expression of multiple Hox genes (HoxA10, HoxB9, HoxD8, HoxD9) was enhanced under low (4 dyn/cm2) compared to high (13 dyn/cm2) WSS conditions. Gene silencing studies identified Hox genes (HoxB9, HoxD8, HoxD9) that are positive regulators of inflammatory molecule expression in EC exposed to low WSS, and others (HoxB9, HoxB7, HoxB4) that regulated EC turnover. We subsequently focused on HoxB9 because it was strongly up-regulated by low WSS and, uniquely, was a driver of both inflammation and proliferation. At a mechanistic level, we demonstrate using cultured EC and murine models that bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) is an upstream regulator of HoxB9 which elicits inflammation via induction of numerous inflammatory mediators including TNF and downstream NF-κB activation. Moreover, the BMP4-HoxB9-TNF pathway was potentiated by hypercholesterolaemic conditions.

Conclusions

Low WSS induces multiple Hox genes that control the activation state and turnover of EC. Notably, low WSS activates a BMP4-HoxB9-TNF signalling pathway to initiate focal arterial inflammation, thereby demonstrating integration of the BMP and Hox systems in vascular pathophysiology.
Why I never worked on anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) beyond the unsuccessful attempts of my NRC postdoc at NASA Ames Research Center (Sept. 1976–Sept. 1977)
Authors: Oremland Ronald S
Published: August 2019

Anaeobes that consumed methane (and me).
Understory Vegetation Richness and Diversity of Eucalyptus benthamii and Pinus elliottii Plantations in the Midsouth US
Authors: De Stefano Andrea , Blazier Michael A , Comer Christopher E , Dean Thomas J , Wigley T Bently
Published: August 2019

In the Western Gulf region of the United States cold-tolerant eucalyptus have been explored as pulpwood feedstock. However, non-native plantations may alter understory species diversity, modifying environmental conditions and soil characteristics. Few studies have compared eucalyptus plantations with native ecosystems to understand the impact on understory vegetation in the United States. In this study, we compared understory plant species richness and diversity during 2014–2016 in (1) slash pine (Pinus elliottii) established in 2008, (2) slash pine established in 2013, and (3) and Camden white gum (Eucalyptus benthamii) established in 2013. Overstory characteristics, soil pH, and soil nutrient concentrations were measured to understand factors that affected understory species richness and diversity. Results indicated a decline in understory species richness over time, with Camden white gum in an intermediate condition between same-age slash pine (highest richness) and older slash pine (lowest richness). Leaf area index, soil pH and K, and tree height were the most important factors influencing understory species richness and diversity. The adoption of fast-growing eucalyptus on these sites will probably accelerate the deterioration of natural habitats and reduce open-condition species in favor of shade-tolerant species, overturning the conservation efforts already put in place by governmental agencies and conservation groups.
The Genomic Substrate for Adaptive Radiation: Copy Number Variation across 12 Tribes of African Cichlid Species
Authors: Faber-Hammond Joshua J , Bezault Etienne , Lunt David H , Joyce Domino A , Renn Suzy C P
Published: August 2019

The initial sequencing of five cichlid genomes revealed an accumulation of genetic variation, including extensive copy number variation in cichlid lineages particularly those that have undergone dramatic evolutionary radiation. Gene duplication has the potential to generate substantial molecular substrate for the origin of evolutionary novelty. We use array-based comparative heterologous genomic hybridization to identify copy number variation events (CNVEs) for 168 samples representing 53 cichlid species including the 5 species for which full genome sequence is available. We identify an average of 50–100 CNVEs per individual. For those species represented by multiple samples, we identify 150–200 total CNVEs suggesting a substantial amount of intraspecific variation. For these species, only ∼10% of the detected CNVEs are fixed. Hierarchical clustering of species according to CNVE data recapitulates phylogenetic relationships fairly well at both the tribe and radiation level. Although CNVEs are detected on all linkage groups, they tend to cluster in “hotspots” and are likely to contain and be flanked by transposable elements. Furthermore, we show that CNVEs impact functional categories of genes with potential roles in adaptive phenotypes that could reasonably promote divergence and speciation in the cichlid clade. These data contribute to a more complete understanding of the molecular basis for adaptive natural selection, speciation, and evolutionary radiation.
Allele-Specific Transcript Abundance: A Pilot Study in Healthy Centenarians
Authors: Tindale Lauren C , Thiessen Nina , Leach Stephen , Brooks-Wilson Angela R
Published: August 2019

The genetic basis of healthy aging and longevity remains largely unexplained. One hypothesis as to why long-lived individuals do not appear to have a lower number of common-complex disease variants, is that despite carrying risk variants, they express disease-linked alleles at a lower level than the wild-type alleles. Allele-specific abundance (ASA) is the different transcript abundance of the two haplotypes of a diploid individual. We sequenced the transcriptomes of four healthy centenarians and four mid-life controls. CIBERSORT was used to estimate blood cell fractions: neutrophils were the most abundant source of RNA, followed by CD8+ T cells, resting NK cells, and monocytes. ASA variants were more common in noncoding than coding regions. Centenarians and controls had a comparable distribution of ASA variants by predicted effect, and we did not observe an overall bias in expression toward major or minor alleles. Immune pathways were most highly represented among the gene set that showed ASA. Although we found evidence of ASA in disease-associated genes and transcription factors, we did not observe any differences in the pattern of expression between centenarians and controls in this small pilot study.
The Predictive Performance of Objective Measures of Physical Activity Derived From Accelerometry Data for 5-Year All-Cause Mortality in Older Adults: National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2003–2006
Authors: Smirnova Ekaterina , Leroux Andrew , Cao Quy , Tabacu Lucia , Zipunnikov Vadim , Crainiceanu Ciprian , Urbanek Jacek K
Published: August 2019

Background

Declining physical activity (PA) is a hallmark of aging. Wearable technology provides reliable measures of the frequency, duration, intensity, and timing of PA. Accelerometry-derived measures of PA are compared with established predictors of 5-year all-cause mortality in older adults in terms of individual, relative, and combined predictive performance.

Methods

Participants aged between 50 and 85 years from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES, n = 2,978) wore a hip-worn accelerometer in the free-living environment for up to 7 days. A total of 33 predictors of 5-year all-cause mortality (number of events = 297), including 20 measures of objective PA, were compared using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

In univariate logistic regression, the total activity count was the best predictor of 5-year mortality (Area under the Curve (AUC) = 0.771) followed by age (AUC = 0.758). Overall, 9 of the top 10 predictors were objective PA measures (AUC from 0.771 to 0.692). In multivariate regression, the 10-fold cross-validated AUC was 0.798 for the model without objective PA variables (9 predictors) and 0.838 for the forward selection model with objective PA variables (13 predictors). The Net Reclassification Index was substantially improved by adding objective PA variables (p < .001).

Conclusions

Objective accelerometry-derived PA measures outperform traditional predictors of 5-year mortality, including age. This highlights the importance of wearable technology for providing reproducible, unbiased, and prognostic biomarkers of health.
Mineral exploration with 3-D controlled-source electromagnetic method: a synthetic study of Sukhoi Log gold deposit
Authors: Malovichko M , Tarasov A V , Yavich N , Zhdanov M S
Published: August 2019

This paper presents a feasibility study of using the controlled-source frequency-domain electromagnetic (CSEM) method in mineral exploration. The method has been widely applied for offshore hydrocarbon exploration; however, nowadays this method is rarely used on land. In order to conduct this study, we have developed a fully parallelized forward modelling finite-difference (FD) code based on the iterative solver with contraction-operator preconditioner. The regularized inversion algorithm uses the Gauss–Newton method to minimize the Tikhonov parametric functional with the Laplacian-type stabilizer. A 3-D parallel inversion code, based on the iterative finite-difference solver with the contraction-operator preconditioner, has been evaluated for the solution of the large-scale inverse problems. Using the computer simulation for a synthetic model of Sukhoi Log gold deposit, we have compared the CSEM method with the conventional direct current sounding and the CSEM survey with a single remote transmitter. Our results suggest that, a properly designed electromagnetic survey together with modern 3-D inversion could provide detailed information about the geoelectrical structure of the mineral deposit.
A point dislocation in a layered, transversely isotropic and self-gravitating Earth — Part II: accurate Green's functions
Authors: Zhou J , Pan E , Bevis M
Published: August 2019

We present an accurate approach for calculating the point-dislocation Green's functions (GFs) for a layered, spherical, transversely-isotropic and self-gravitating Earth. The formalism is based on the approach recently used to find analytical solutions for the dislocation Love numbers (DLNs). However, in order to make use of the DLNs, we first analyse their asymptotic behaviour, and then the behaviour of the GFs computed from the DLNs. We note that the summations used for different GF components evolve at different rates towards asymptotic convergence, requiring us to use two new and different truncation values for the harmonic degree (i.e. the index of summation). We exploit this knowledge to design a Kummer transformation that allows us to reduce the computation required to evaluate the GFs at the desired level of accuracy. Numerical examples are presented to clarify these issues and demonstrate the advantages of our approach. Even with the Kummer transformation, DLNs of high degree are still needed when the earth model contains very fine layers, so computational efficiency is important. The effect of anisotropy is assessed by comparing GFs for isotropic and transversely isotropic media. It is shown that this effect, though normally modest, can be significant in certain contexts, even in the far field.
Education inequalities in adult all-cause mortality: first national data for Australia using linked census and mortality data
Authors: Korda Rosemary J , Biddle Nicholas , Lynch John , Eynstone-Hinkins James , Soga Kay , Banks Emily , Priest Naomi , Moon Lynelle , Blakely Tony
Published: August 2019

Background

National linked mortality and census data have not previously been available for Australia. We estimated education-based mortality inequalities from linked census and mortality data that are suitable for international comparisons.

Methods

We used the Australian Bureau of Statistics Death Registrations to Census file, with data on deaths (2011–2012) linked probabilistically to census data (linkage rate 81%). To assess validity, we compared mortality rates by age group (25–44, 45–64, 65–84 years), sex and area-inequality measures to those based on complete death registration data. We used negative binomial regression to quantify inequalities in all-cause mortality in relation to five levels of education [‘Bachelor degree or higher’ (highest) to ‘no Year 12 and no post-secondary qualification’ (lowest)], separately by sex and age group, adjusting for single year of age and correcting for linkage bias and missing education data.

Results

Mortality rates and area-based inequality estimates were comparable to published national estimates. Men aged 25–84 years with the lowest education had age-adjusted mortality rates 2.20 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.08‒2.33] times those of men with the highest education. Among women, the rate ratio was 1.64 (1.55‒1.74). Rate ratios were 3.87 (3.38‒4.44) in men and 2.57 (2.15‒3.07) in women aged 25–44 years, decreasing to 1.68 (1.60‒1.76) in men and 1.44 (1.36‒1.53) in women aged 65–84 years. Absolute education inequalities increased with age. One in three to four deaths (31%) was associated with less than Bachelor level education.

Conclusions

These linked national data enabled valid estimates of education inequality in mortality suitable for international comparisons. The magnitude of relative inequality is substantial and similar to that reported for other high-income countries.
Effectiveness of BCG Vaccination Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection in Adults: A Cross-sectional Analysis of a UK-Based Cohort
Authors: Katelaris Anthea L , Jackson Charlotte , Southern Jo , Gupta Rishi K , Drobniewski Francis , Lalvani Ajit , Lipman Marc , Mangtani Punam , Abubakar Ibrahim
Published: August 2019

Background

BCG appears to reduce acquisition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in children, measured using interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs). We explored whether BCG vaccination continues to be associated with decreased prevalence of M. tuberculosis infection in adults.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from adult contacts of tuberculosis cases participating in a UK cohort study. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) of BCG, ascertained based on presence of a scar or vaccination history, against latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), measured via IGRA, was assessed using multivariable logistic regression. The effects of age at BCG and time since vaccination were also explored.

Results

Of 3453 recent tuberculosis contacts, 27.5% had LTBI. There was strong evidence of an association between BCG and LTBI (adjusted odds ratio = 0.70; 95% confidence interval, .56–.87; P = .0017) yielding a VE of 30%. VE declined with time since vaccination but there was evidence that LTBI prevalence was lower amongst vaccinated individuals even >20 years after vaccination, compared with nonvaccinated participants.

Conclusions

BCG is associated with lower prevalence of LTBI in adult contacts of tuberculosis. These results contribute to growing evidence that suggests BCG may protect against M. tuberculosis infection as well as disease. This has implications for immunization programs, vaccine development, and tuberculosis control efforts worldwide.

Clinical trials registration

NCT01162265.
Drug-Drug Interactions of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir Coadministered With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antiretrovirals
Authors: Kosloski Matthew P , Oberoi Rajneet , Wang Stanley , Viani Rolando M , Asatryan Armen , Hu Beibei , Ding Bifeng , Qi Xin , Kim Elaine J , Mensa Federico , Kort Jens , Liu Wei
Published: August 2019

Background

Treatment of patients coinfected with hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency viruses (HCV; HIV) requires careful consideration of potential drug-drug interactions between HCV direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) and HIV antiretrovirals. Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir is a fixed-dose combination of an NS3/4A protease inhibitor and an NS5A inhibitor approved for the treatment of chronic HCV genotype 1–6 infection, including patients with HIV coinfection.

Methods

A series of phase 1 studies was conducted to evaluate potential interactions of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir with elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide, abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine, raltegravir, rilpivirine, atazanavir/ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, or efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Pharmacokinetics of the antiretrovirals and DAAs were characterized when administered alone and in combination to quantify changes in systemic drug exposure.

Results

Glecaprevir area under the curve increased >4-fold in the presence of ritonavir-boosted HIV protease inhibitors, while pibrentasvir concentrations were not significantly affected; elevations in alanine transaminase occurred in combination with atazanavir/ritonavir only. Exposures of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir may be significantly decreased by efavirenz. Coadministration with glecaprevir and pibrentasvir did not result in clinically significant changes in the exposure of any antiretroviral agents.

Conclusions

Atazanavir is contraindicated with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir and use of boosted protease inhibitors or efavirenz is not recommended. No clinically significant interactions were observed with other studied antiretrovirals.
Investigating the prevalence of and factors associated with depressive symptoms among urban and semi-urban school adolescents in Bangladesh: a pilot study
Authors: Anjum Afifa , Hossain Sahadat , Sikder Tajuddin , Uddin Md Elias , Rahim Dewan Abdur
Published: August 2019

Background

Adolescent depression is an alarming issue for Bangladesh since a large number of Bangladeshi adolescents suffer from depression but cannot get proper treatment. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression and factors associated with this psychological health hazard among urban and semi-urban adolescents of the Dhaka region in Bangladesh.

Methods

A cross-sectional pilot study was performed among 311 adolescents, grades 8–10, in Dhaka city and Savar Upazila, adjacent to the city, in 2018. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of items on sociodemographics, lifestyle information, screen-based sedentary behaviour (SBSB) and mental health.

Results

A total of 36.6% of the adolescents reported depressive symptoms, with a greater prevalence among females (42.9%) than males (25.7%). Sociodemographic factors including being female, residence and grade in school were significantly associated with depression. Logistic regression analysis showed that SBSBs, such as the use of social media (odds ratio [OR] 2.06 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.27–3.35]), high screen time (>120 min/day; OR 2.35 [95% CI 1.30–4.25]) and sleep disturbance (OR 3.93 [95% CI 2.37–6.50]) were significantly linked with depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms are prevalent among urban and semi-urban adolescents of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Therefore, urgent initiatives should be taken to curb the spread of depression among Bangladeshi adolescents.
Short-course antibiotic treatment of bone and joint infections in children: a retrospective study at Montpellier University Hospital from 2009 to 2013
Authors: Filleron A , Laurens M E , Marin G , Marchandin H , Prodhomme O , Alkar F , Godreuil S , Nagot N , Cottalorda J , L’Kaissi M , Rodiere M , Vigue M G , Didelot M N , Michon A L , Delpont M , Louahem D , Jeziorski E
Published: August 2019

Background

Acute haematogenous bone and joint infections (AHBJI) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency in children, with significant potential sequelae in the case of delayed treatment. Although historically the recommendations for treatment have been based on surgery and prolonged antibiotic therapy, recent studies have demonstrated that short-course antibiotic therapy is also effective.

Objectives

We evaluated a short-term antibiotic protocol for both osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in a 6 year retrospective study at the University Hospital of Montpellier.

Methods

This protocol was based on an initial intravenous treatment with a re-evaluation after 48 h and an early switch to oral therapy in the case of a favourable clinical course for a minimum total duration of 15 days. Antibiotics were selected based on local microbiological epidemiology and systematically adapted to bacteriological results.

Results

One hundred and seventy-six cases of AHBJI were included, comprising 56 patients with osteomyelitis, 95 with septic arthritis and 25 who had both of these. The aetiological agent was identified in 42% of the cases, with the main pathogens being Staphylococcus aureus (39%) and Kingella kingae (27%). The mean intravenous treatment duration was 4 days, while the total treatment duration was 15 days. There were no treatment failures, mild sequelae occurred in 1% of the cases and the secondary surgical revision rate was 7%.

Conclusions

The results of this study are comparable to those reported for evaluations of prolonged antibiotic therapy protocols, thus indicating that a common short-term antimicrobial therapy for the management of both osteomyelitis and septic arthritis (minimum of 15 days) is a viable option for treating AHBJI in children. Further prospective studies to confirm these findings are hence warranted.
The fifth vital sign? Nurse worry predicts inpatient deterioration within 24 hours
Authors: Romero-Brufau Santiago , Gaines Kim , Nicolas Clara T , Johnson Matthew G , Hickman Joel , Huddleston Jeanne M
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Identification of hospitalized patients with suddenly unfavorable clinical course remains challenging. Models using objective data elements from the electronic health record may miss important sources of information available to nurses.

Methods

We recorded nurses’ perception of patient potential for deterioration in 2 medical and 2 surgical adult hospital units using a 5-point score at the start of the shift (the Worry Factor [WF]), and any time a change or an increase was noted by the nurse. Cases were evaluated by three reviewers. Intensive care unit (ICU) transfers were also tracked.

Results

31 159 patient-shifts were recorded for 3185 unique patients during 3551 hospitalizations, with 169 total outcome events. Out of 492 potential deterioration events identified, 380 (77%) were confirmed by reviewers as true deterioration events. Likelihood ratios for ICU transfer were 17.8 (15.2–20.9) in the 24 hours following a WF > 2, and 40.4 (27.1–60.1) following a WF > 3. Accuracy rates were significantly higher in nurses with over a year of experience (68% vs 79%, P = 0.04). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) was 0.92 for the prediction of ICU transfer within 24 hours.

Discussion

This is a higher accuracy than most published early warning scores.

Conclusion

Nurses’ pattern recognition and sense of worry can provide important information for the detection of acute physiological deterioration and should be included in the electronic medical record.
Are Current Seedling Demographics Poised to Regenerate Northern US Forests?
Authors: Vickers Lance A , McWilliams William H , Knapp Benjamin O , D’Amato Anthony W , Dey Daniel C , Dickinson Yvette L , Kabrick John M , Kenefic Laura S , Kern Christel C , Larsen David R , Royo Alejandro A , Saunders Michael R , Shifley Stephen R , Westfall James A
Published: August 2019

Securing desirable regeneration is essential to sustainable forest management, yet failures are common. Detailed seedling measurements from a forest inventory across 24 northern US states were examined for plausible regeneration outcomes following overstory removal. The examination included two fundamental regeneration objectives: 1) stand replacement- securing future forest and 2) species maintenance- securing upper canopy species. Almost half the plots lacked adequate seedlings to regenerate a stand after canopy removal and over half risked compositional shifts. Based on those advance reproduction demographics, regeneration difficulties could occur on two-thirds of the plots examined. The remaining one-third were regeneration-ready. However, compared to historical norms, increased small-tree mortality rates reduces that proportion. Not all forest types rely on advance reproduction and results varied among the forest types examined. Some variability was associated with browsing intensity, as areas of high deer browsing had a lower proportion of regeneration-ready plots.
Reoperative mitral valve replacement via right mini-thoracotomy with ventricular fibrillatory arrest for a patient with severely calcified aortic homograft
Authors: Kawamura Masashi , Finkbinder Patricia J , Morris Rohinton J
Published: August 2019

We successfully performed reoperative mitral valve replacement (MVR) for a patient with a previous extensive cardiac surgery that included aortic homograft replacement for aortic and mitral valve endocarditis complicated with aortic root abscess. The aortic homograft function was well preserved without aortic insufficiency, although the homograft was highly calcified. We used a right mini-thoracotomy approach and ventricular fibrillatory arrest to avoid an aortic cross-clamping. Only minimal dissection was needed to obtain enough exposure to perform the redo MVR. The reduction in invasiveness helped to prevent major injury during the surgery, shortened the cardiopulmonary bypass and operation time, and facilitated the patient’s recovery. Right mini-thoracotomy with ventricular fibrillatory arrest is a viable option for reoperative MVR in patients with previous sternotomy and unclampable aorta.
The making of a new 1000 km Vaca Muerta trunk gas transport pipeline to market destination points: Decree 465/19 and its bidding terms
Authors: Erize Luis A
Published: August 2019

This article refers to the extraordinary circumstance of Argentina's holding the second largest shale gas resources in the world, at a time it has been proven that they can be rapidly exploited commercially. The sweeping changes brought by this change of paradigm for a country with declining conventional natural gas reserves in a gas dependent domestic economy require urgent infrastructure expansion to solve bottlenecks to reach domestic and international, markets, to be achieved only through stable market rules and a robust framework for a further trunk pipeline. The incoming bidding for such pipeline and its insertion in the current legal framework is described in detail, regardless of the fact that current government elections may defer the outcome, but not stop this essential infrastructure for the country's development.
Model-independent constraints on the hydrogen-ionizing emissivity at z > 6
Authors: Mason Charlotte A , Naidu Rohan P , Tacchella Sandro , Leja Joel
Published: August 2019

Modelling reionization often requires significant assumptions about the properties of ionizing sources. Here, we infer the total output of hydrogen-ionizing photons (the ionizing emissivity, $\dot{N}_\textrm {ion}$) at z = 4–14 from current reionization constraints, being maximally agnostic to the properties of ionizing sources. We use a Bayesian analysis to fit for a non-parametric form of $\dot{N}_\textrm {ion}$, allowing us to flexibly explore the entire prior volume. We infer a declining $\dot{N}_\textrm {ion}$ with redshift at z > 6, which can be used as a benchmark for reionization models. Model-independent reionization constraints from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) optical depth and Ly α and Ly β forest dark pixel fraction produce $\dot{N}_\textrm {ion}$ evolution ($\mathrm{ d}\log _{10}\dot{\mathbf {N}}_{\bf ion}/\mathrm{ d}z|_{z=6\rightarrow 8} = -0.31\pm 0.35$ dex) consistent with the declining UV luminosity density of galaxies, assuming constant ionizing photon escape fraction and efficiency. Including measurements from Ly α damping of galaxies and quasars produces a more rapid decline: $\mathrm{ d}\log _{10}\dot{\mathbf {N}}_{\bf ion}/\mathrm{ d}z|_{z=6\rightarrow 8} =-0.44\pm 0.22$ dex, steeper than the declining galaxy luminosity density (if extrapolated beyond $M_\rm{\small UV}\gtrsim -13$), and constrains the mid-point of reionization to z = 6.93 ± 0.14.
First results from the TNG50 simulation: galactic outflows driven by supernovae and black hole feedback
Authors: Nelson Dylan , Pillepich Annalisa , Springel Volker , Pakmor Rüdiger , Weinberger Rainer , Genel Shy , Torrey Paul , Vogelsberger Mark , Marinacci Federico , Hernquist Lars
Published: August 2019

We present the new TNG50 cosmological, magnetohydrodynamical simulation – the third and final volume of the IllustrisTNG project. This simulation occupies a unique combination of large volume and high resolution, with a 50 Mpc box sampled by 21603 gas cells (baryon mass of 8 × 104 M⊙). The median spatial resolution of star-forming interstellar medium gas is ∼100−140 pc. This resolution approaches or exceeds that of modern ‘zoom’ simulations of individual massive galaxies, while the volume contains ∼20 000 resolved galaxies with $M_\star \gtrsim 10^7$ M⊙. Herein we show first results from TNG50, focusing on galactic outflows driven by supernovae as well as supermassive black hole feedback. We find that the outflow mass loading is a non-monotonic function of galaxy stellar mass, turning over and rising rapidly above 1010.5 M⊙ due to the action of the central black hole (BH). The outflow velocity increases with stellar mass, and at fixed mass it is faster at higher redshift. The TNG model can produce high-velocity, multiphase outflows that include cool, dense components. These outflows reach speeds in excess of 3000 km s−1 out to 20 kpc with an ejective, BH-driven origin. Critically, we show how the relative simplicity of model inputs (and scalings) at the injection scale produces complex behaviour at galactic and halo scales. For example, despite isotropic wind launching, outflows exhibit natural collimation and an emergent bipolarity. Furthermore, galaxies above the star-forming main sequence drive faster outflows, although this correlation inverts at high mass with the onset of quenching, whereby low-luminosity, slowly accreting, massive BHs drive the strongest outflows.
An equatorial outflow in the black hole optical dipper Swift J1357.2−0933
Authors: Jiménez-Ibarra F , Muñoz-Darias T , Casares J , Armas Padilla M , Corral-Santana J M
Published: August 2019

We present high time resolution optical spectroscopy and imaging of the black hole transient Swift J1357.2−0933 during its 2017 outburst. The light curves show recurrent dips resembling those discovered during the 2011 outburst. The dip properties (e.g. duration and depth) as well as the evolution of their recurrence time are similar to those seen in 2011. Spectra obtained during the dips are characterized by broad and blueshifted absorptions in Balmer and He ii. The absorptions show core velocities of ∼−800 km s−1 and terminal velocities approaching ∼3000 km s−1 i.e. in the upper end of wind velocities measured in other black hole transients (both at optical and X-ray wavelengths). Our observations suggest that the dips are formed in a dense and clumpy outflow, produced near the disc equatorial plane and seen at high inclination. We also study the colour evolution and observe that, as it has been previously reported, the source turns bluer during dips. We show that this is due to a gradual change in the slope of the optical continuum and discuss possible implications of this behaviour.
Integrated models incorporating radiologic and radiomic features predict meningioma grade, local failure, and overall survival
Authors: Morin Olivier , Chen William C , Nassiri Farshad , Susko Matthew , Magill Stephen T , Vasudevan Harish N , Wu Ashley , Vallières Martin , Gennatas Efstathios D , Valdes Gilmer , Pekmezci Melike , Alcaide-Leon Paula , Choudhury Abrar , Interian Yannet , Mortezavi Siavash , Turgutlu Kerem , Bush Nancy Ann Oberheim , Solberg Timothy D , Braunstein Steve E , Sneed Penny K , Perry Arie , Zadeh Gelareh , McDermott Michael W , Villanueva-Meyer Javier E , Raleigh David R
Published: August 2019

Background

We investigated prognostic models based on clinical, radiologic, and radiomic feature to preoperatively identify meningiomas at risk for poor outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed for 303 patients who underwent resection of 314 meningiomas (57% World Health Organization grade I, 35% grade II, and 8% grade III) at two independent institutions, which comprised primary and external datasets. For each patient in the primary dataset, 16 radiologic and 172 radiomic features were extracted from preoperative magnetic resonance images, and prognostic features for grade, local failure (LF) or overall survival (OS) were identified using the Kaplan–Meier method, log-rank tests and recursive partitioning analysis. Regressions and random forests were used to generate and test prognostic models, which were validated using the external dataset.

Results

Multivariate analysis revealed that apparent diffusion coefficient hypointensity (HR 5.56, 95% CI 2.01–16.7, P = .002) was associated with high grade meningioma, and low sphericity was associated both with increased LF (HR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.5, P = .02) and worse OS (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.47–5.56, P = .002). Both radiologic and radiomic predictors of adverse meningioma outcomes were significantly associated with molecular markers of aggressive meningioma biology, such as somatic mutation burden, DNA methylation status, and FOXM1 expression. Integrated prognostic models combining clinical, radiologic, and radiomic features demonstrated improved accuracy for meningioma grade, LF, and OS (area under the curve 0.78, 0.75, and 0.78, respectively) compared to models based on clinical features alone.

Conclusions

Preoperative radiologic and radiomic features such as apparent diffusion coefficient and sphericity can predict tumor grade, LF, and OS in patients with meningioma.
Sounds and Auditory Perception
Authors: Di Bona Elvira
Published: August 2019

What makes sounds intriguing items to investigate from a philosophical perspective is their double nature: on the one hand, they are produced by activities involving material objects, which are their sources and are able to carry information about them; on the other hand, they seem to be “disembodied,” detached from their sources, as having an existence of their own and specific audible properties, which are usually considered to be pitch, loudness, and timbre, regardless of the material objects whose activities produced them or to which they are connected. This ambiguous nature of sounds is mirrored by the way in which we define them and explains also why there are such diverse views on their metaphysics. These views are organized in two groups and are discussed in Metaphysics of Sound and its subsections, the Source-Based Approach group and the Wave-Based Approach group. Furthermore, the puzzling double nature of sound is also exemplified by the way we speak when describing what we hear. That is, we often say we listen to a loud or low sound and thus refer to sound and its audible properties, but we also say we hear a dog barking or a baby crying, in which case we mention sound sources. The relationship between sound and sound sources, and the question of whether we hear either the former or the latter have been some of the central issues on which scholars of the philosophy of sound have focused, especially when facing the challenge of understanding what it is that we hear when having an auditory experience. The different answers to this matter provided within the recent debate in analytic philosophy are reviewed in Auditory Perception in Philosophy and its subsequent subsections: Hearing Sounds, Hearing Sources, and Hearing beyond Sounds and Sources. The answers that research in psychoacoustics and neuroscience has given to the same question occupy, instead, Auditory Perception in Psychoacoustics and Neuroscience. When talking about sounds and how we perceive them, researchers often refer to their spatial location. Spatial Hearing is, then, about the spatiality of audition. Musical Sound is discussed as well because of its connections to the issues of auditory perception and the metaphysics of sound. Aesthetic reflections on musical sound are marginal here (for substantial bibliographical suggestions on musical aesthetics, see also the Oxford Bibliographies articles in Music “Philosophy of Music” and Philosophy “Analytic Philosophy of Music”). In the last section, Speech Sound is examined in relationship to the possibility of hearing either meanings, phonological features, or audible features such as pitch, loudness, and timbre. This bibliography begins with an introduction on the General Overviews on sounds and auditory perception.
Greek Crisis
Authors: Ladi Stella , Spyropoulou Vivian
Published: August 2019

The Greek crisis started in 2009 as a result of the global financial crisis of 2008, and it officially ended in August 2018 when Greece exited the Third Economic Adjustment Programme that it had signed with its international lenders to avoid default. Greece had to seek help from international lenders, including the European Commission (EC), European Central Bank (ECB), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and, in the last program, the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), three times (2010, 2012, and 2015). The crisis soon spread to other European Monetary Union (EMU) countries—namely Portugal, Ireland, Spain, and Cyprus—and it was transformed into a Eurozone crisis, with some commonalities but with different characteristics in each case. The Greek crisis was a sovereign debt crisis that resulted from a continuous aggravation of the national economic indicators, such as growth, inflation, and unemployment, serious long term structural shortcomings, and the pressure from the global financial crisis. The economic crisis was soon translated into a political crisis that shook the Greek party system and strengthened more radical parties such as the left-wing Syriza and the neo-fascist Golden Dawn. Strong one-party governments became a memory of the past and were replaced by short-lived coalition governments. The economic pressure also led to a serious social crisis with rising poverty levels, unprecedented numbers of homeless, and a welfare system unable to cope with the increasing demands. It posed questions about the shape of Greece’s political and social institutions, its legal system and Constitution, and its public administration’s capability to cope with the crisis and implement the conditionality attached to the three economic adjustment programs. Last but not least, the Greek crisis brought into fore the weaknesses and discrepancies of the EMU and was the motive behind important structural reforms, such as the creation of new financial assistance and surveillance mechanisms, including the ESM, as well as the strengthening of informal institutions such as the Euro summits. The discussion was soon extended to a questioning of the viability of the European Union (EU) project, the role of Germany, and the changing Europeanization mechanisms. The bibliography about the Greek crisis developed quickly and covers economic, political, social, and legal issues concerning not only Greece, but also the EU as a whole, taking the case of Greece as a starting point.