bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using the Robson 10‐Group Classification System to Compare Cesarean Birth Utilization Between US Centers With and Without Midwives
Authors: Smith Denise Colter , Phillippi Julia C. , Lowe Nancy K , Breman Rachel Blankstein , Carlson Nicole S. , Neal Jeremy L. , Gutierrez Eric , Tilden Ellen L.
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The Robson 10‐group classification system stratifies cesarean birth rates using maternal characteristics. Our aim was to compare cesarean birth utilization in US centers with and without midwifery care using the Robson classification.

Methods

We used National Institute of Child and Human Development Consortium on Safe Labor data from 2002 to 2008. Births to women in centers with interprofessional care that included midwives (n = 48,857) were compared with births in non‐interprofessional centers (n = 47,935). To compare cesarean utilization, births were classified into the Robson categories. Cesarean birth rates within each category and the contribution to the overall rate were calculated. Maternal demographics, labor and birth outcomes, and neonatal outcomes were described. Logistic regression was used to adjust for maternal comorbidities.

Results

Women were less likely to have a cesarean birth (26.1% vs 33.5%, P < .001) in centers with interprofessional care. Nulliparous women with singleton, cephalic, term fetuses (category 2) were less likely to have labor induced (11.1% vs 23.4%, P < .001), and women with a prior uterine scar (category 5) had lower cesarean birth rates (73.8% vs 85.1%, P < .001) in centers with midwives. In centers without midwives, nulliparous women with singleton, cephalic, term fetuses with induction of labor (category 2a) were less likely to have a cesarean birth compared with those in interprofessional care centers in unadjusted comparison (30.3% vs 35.8%, P < .001), but this was reversed after adjustment for maternal comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.12‐1.32; P < .001). Cesarean birth rates among women at risk for complications (eg, breech) were similar between groups.

Discussion

Interprofessional care teams were associated with lower rates of labor induction and overall cesarean utilization as well as higher rates of vaginal birth after cesarean. There was consistency in cesarean rates among women with higher risk for complications.
Microstructure of the small intestine in broiler chickens fed a diet with probiotic or synbiotic supplementation
Authors: Bogucka Joanna , Ribeiro David Miguel , Bogusławska‐Tryk Monika , Dankowiakowska Agata , da Costa Rosário Plácido Roberto , Bednarczyk Marek
Published: September 2019

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of a probiotic and a synbiotic on the morphometric parameters of the small intestine of broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted on three hundred sixty, one‐day‐old female Ross 308 chicks, which were randomly selected from 20,000 birds and divided into three treatment groups (n = 120) with ten replicates per treatment. The control group (C) was fed a commercial diet, the probiotic group (PRO) was fed the same diet with an added 1% of the probiotic Lavipan® (Lactococcus lactis, Carnobacterium divergens, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and the synbiotic group (SYN) was fed the commercial diet with an added synbiotic: 0.8% of the prebiotic RFO (extracted from lupin seeds) and 1% Lavipan®. According to the manufacturer's data, apart from the typical probiotic action,microorganisms contained in the preparation release anti‐bacterial substances (hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins) and, therefore, are antagonistic towards pathogenic bacteria present in the gut of animals. Supplementation took place in the first seven days of rearing, and all birds had ad libitum access to water and feed during the 42 days of the experiment. On the last day, all birds were slaughtered and samples from three segments of the small intestine were taken. Villi area, height, width and crypt depth ratios were read using Multiscan software. Synbiotic supplementation increased the BWG of broilers from first to tenth day of rearing, compared to the control group. The PRO group had improved villi morphometric parameters of the duodenum. In the jejunum and ileum, both bioactive substances improved villus width and villus surface area. Crypts were deeper in the small intestine of birds supplemented with bioactive substances, which allows greater renewal of the villi. As expected, the intestinal morphometric parameters of broiler chickens benefited from bioactive substance supplementation.
Photosynthetic Responses of Turf‐forming Red Macroalgae to High CO2 Conditions
Authors: McCoy Sophie J. , Santillán‐Sarmiento Alex , Brown Murray T. , Widdicombe Stephen , Wheeler Glen L.
Published: September 2019

Seaweeds are important components of near‐shore ecosystems as primary producers, foundation species, and biogeochemical engineers. Seaweed communities are likely to alter under predicted climate change scenarios. We tested the physiological responses of three perennial, turf‐building, intertidal rhodophytes, Mastocarpus stellatus, Osmundea pinnatifida, and the calcified Ellisolandia elongata, to elevated pCO2 over 6 weeks. Responses varied between these three species. E. elongata was strongly affected by high pCO2, whereas non‐calcified species were not. Elevated pCO2 did not induce consistent responses of photosynthesis and respiration across these three species. While baseline photophysiology differed significantly between species, we found few clear effects of elevated pCO2 on this aspect of macroalgal physiology. We found effects of within‐species variation in elevated pCO2 response in M. stellatus, but not in the other species. Overall, our data confirm the sensitivity of calcified macroalgae to elevated pCO2, but we found no evidence suggesting that elevated pCO2 conditions will have a strong positive or negative impact on photosynthetic parameters in non‐calcified macroalgae.
C‐terminal phosphorylation of latrophilin‐1/ADGRL1 affects the interaction between its fragments
Authors: Rahman M. Atiqur , Manser Catherine , Benlaouer Ouafa , Suckling Jason , Blackburn Jennifer K. , Silva John‐Paul , Ushkaryov Yuri A.
Published: September 2019

Latrophilin‐1 is an adhesion G protein–coupled receptor that mediates the effect of α‐latrotoxin, causing massive release of neurotransmitters from nerve terminals and endocrine cells. Autoproteolysis cleaves latrophilin‐1 into two parts: the extracellular N‐terminal fragment (NTF) and the heptahelical C‐terminal fragment (CTF). NTF and CTF can exist as independent proteins in the plasma membrane, but α‐latrotoxin binding to NTF induces their association and G protein–mediated signaling. We demonstrate here that CTF in synapses is phosphorylated on multiple sites. Phosphorylated CTF has a high affinity for NTF and copurifies with it on affinity columns and sucrose density gradients. Dephosphorylated CTF has a lower affinity for NTF and can behave as a separate protein. α‐Latrotoxin (and possibly other ligands of latrophilin‐1) binds both to the NTF–CTF complex and receptor‐like protein tyrosine phosphatase σ, bringing them together. This leads to CTF dephosphorylation and facilitates CTF release from the complex. We propose that ligand‐dependent phosphorylation‐dephosphorylation of latrophilin‐1 could affect the interaction between its fragments and functions as a G protein–coupled receptor.
Changes or Cross‐National Differences? Effects of Economic Inequality on Protest Participation
Authors: Kołczyńska Marta
Published: September 2019

Objective

The association between economic inequality and protest participation has attracted much scholarly attention, and yet empirical tests of this association remain unsatisfactory.

Methods

Applying a multilevel model to the eight‐wave repeated cross‐sectional data set from the European Social Survey, analyses presented in this article distinguish between cross‐national and longitudinal differences in economic inequality to investigate their effects on protest participation.

Results

Most of the observed effect of economic inequality on participation is due to between‐country differences rather than within‐country changes in inequality.

Conclusion

The results do not support theories according to which protest participation is causally related to economic inequality.
Environmental Sustainability of Metal-Assisted Chemical Etching of Silicon Nanowires for Lithium-Ion Battery Anode
Authors: Wang Fenfen , Gao Xianfeng , Ma Lulu , Yuan Chris
Published: September 2019

Silicon nanowires (SiNWs) with three different average diameters of 90, 120, and 140 nm were synthesized by a metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) method. Environmental sustainability of the MACE process was studied by investigating material consumptions, gas emissions, and silver nanoparticle concentrations in nitric acid solutions for 1 g of SiNWs and 1 kW h of lithium-ion battery (LIB) electrodes. It was found that the process for 90 nm SiNWs has the best sustainability performance compared with the other two processes. Specifically, in this study for 1 g of 90 nm SiNWs, 8.845 g of Si wafer is consumed, 1.09 g of H2 and 1.04 g of NO are produced, and 54.807 mg of Ag nanoparticles are found in the HNO3 solution. Additionally, for 1 kW h of LIB electrodes, the process for 90 nm SiNWs results in 1.943 kg of Si wafer consumption, 239.455 g of H2 and 239.455 g of NO emissions, and 12.040 g of Ag nanoparticles concentrations. By quantitatively investigating the material consumptions and emissions, this study assesses the sustainability performance of the MACE process for synthesizing SiNWs for use in LIBs, and thus it provides process data for the analysis and the development of sustainable production methods for SiNWs and similar anode materials for next-generation LIBs.
Modeling Renewable Energy Integration in the 2030 Portuguese Power System: The Role of Energy Storage
Authors: Ramos Ricardo , Castro Rui
Published: September 2019

The main goal of this work is to study the role of energy storage in the context of the Portuguese power system by the year 2030. Portugal is one of the countries in the world with more installed energy storage capacity, namely pumped hydro storage (PHS). The simulations are performed with energyplan tool and allow us to predict the energy mix in Portugal by the year 2030; to forecast the utilization of the storage capacity, namely projections for the energy produced by PHS; to estimate CO2 emissions and percentage of renewable energy sources (RES) utilization; to assess the necessary storage capacity to avoid renewable curtailment; and to evaluate the future needs of installing further storage capacity, either with more PHS capacity or with the introduction of batteries. PHS revealed that it is important to avoid the curtailment of renewable energy, especially in a scenario of higher RES shares. It is shown that the increase in RES contribution would decrease the overall costs of the system, leading to thinking that further efforts should be made to increase the RES installed capacity and go beyond the official RES predictions for 2030. It is also concluded that the predicted storage capacity for 2030 can accommodate the expected increase in variable renewable generation without any further need for investments in PHS or battery solutions.
Effect of Three-Dimensional Printing With Nanotubes on Impact and Fatigue Resistance
Authors: Schmitz Anne
Published: September 2019

The types of biomedical devices that can be three-dimensional printed (3DP) are limited by the mechanical properties of the resulting materials. As a result, much research has been focused on adding carbon nanotubes (CNT) to these photocurable polymers to make them stronger. The objective of this study was to expand the use of 3DP to prosthetics by testing the hypothesis that adding CNTs to a stereolithographic (SLA) photocurable resin will result in a cured polymer with increased impact and fatigue resistance. For impact testing, twenty-six total specimens, 13 with nanotubes and 13 without nanotubes, were printed on a Form2 SLA printer. Once all the specimens were printed, washed, and cured, the impact resistance was quantified using a pendulum impact tester using a notched Izod configuration. Similarly, twelve R. R. Moore fatigue specimens were printed, washed, and cured. The specimens with SWCNTs (0.312 ± 0.036 ft lb/in.) had a significantly lower impact resistance compared to the non-SWCNT specimens (0.364 ± 0.055 ft lb/in.), U = 34.0, p = 0.004. Adding SWCNTs also reduced the short cycle fatigue life (i.e., 103) from 3.1 × 5 to 8.8 × 3 psi and increased the endurance limit from 0.4 to 3.0 × 3 psi. If used for creating a foot prosthetic, the non-SWCNT polymer would last 2919 cycles while the SWCNT mixture would last <1 cycle. Therefore, SLA polymers do not yet have the impact and fatigue resistance capabilities to be used for prosthetic feet.
New and interesting galumnoid mites (Acari, Oribatida, Galumnoidea) from Malaysia

Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Kaluz Stanislav
Published: September 2019

This work includes taxonomic and faunistic data on oribatid mites (Oribatida) of the superfamily Galumnoidea which were collected in Malaysia. Two new species are described. Galumna perakensis sp. nov. differs from Galumna alata, G. cavernalis and G. tokyoensis by the costate prodorsum and reticulate pteromorphs. Pergalumna titiwangsaensis sp. nov. differs from Pergalumna paraindistincta by the pointed rostrum and relatively long anal setae. Five species (Allogalumna dilatata, A. indonesiensis, Carinogalumna philippinensis, Galumna granalata, Pergalumna paraindistincta), one subgenus (Flagellozetes (Cosmogalumna)) and one genus (Carinogalumna) are recorded in Malaysia for the first time.
Investigation of ma-N 2400 series photoresist as an electron-beam resist for superconducting nanoscale devices
Authors: Toomey Emily , Colangelo Marco , Berggren Karl K.
Published: September 2019

Superconducting nanowire-based devices are increasingly being used in complex circuits for applications such as photon detection and amplification. To keep up with the growing circuit complexity, nanowire processing is moving from single layer fabrication to heterogeneous multilayer processes. Hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) is the most common choice of negative-tone electron-beam resist for patterning superconducting nanowires. However, HSQ has several limitations, including an inability to be removed without a strong reagent that damages the superconducting film, making it unsuitable for multilayer fabrication. As a result, it is vital to consider alternative resists that can be removed through less harmful solvents. Here, the authors explore the use of ma-N 2400 series deep ultraviolet photoresist as an electron-beam resist for fabricating superconducting nanowire devices. They demonstrate that ma-N can be used to pattern dense lines as narrow as 30 nm and isolated features below 20 nm in width. They also examine the reproducibility of 36 identical superconducting devices by comparing their minimum dimensions and switching currents. Through this analysis, they conclude that ma-N 2400 is a suitable electron-beam resist for fabricating nanoscale devices and has the potential to expand the use of nanowire-based technologies into more advanced applications.
A Methodological Approach to Retaining Accelerometers and Associated Data in Community-Based Studies
Authors: Knell Gregory , Salvo Deborah , Shuval Kerem , Durand Casey , Kohl Harold W. , Gabriel Kelley P.
Published: September 2019

Recent technological advances allow for field-based data collection of accelerometers in community-based studies. Mail-based administration can markedly reduce the cost and logistic challenges and burden associated with in-person data collection. It necessitates, however, other resources, such as phone calls and mailed reminder prompts, to increase protocol compliance and data recovery. Additionally, lost accelerometers can impact the study’s budget and its internal validity due to missing data. In this article, we present an applied methodological approach used to define thresholds (or cutoff points) at which pursuing unreturned accelerometers is a worthwhile versus futile pursuit. This methodological approach was designed, specifically, to maximize scalability across multiple sectors. We used data from an on-going study that administered accelerometers through the mail to illustrate and encourage investigators to replicate the approach for use in their own studies. In heterogeneous study samples, investigators might consider repeating this approach by study-relevant strata to refine thresholds and improve the return percentages of data collection instruments, minimize the potential missing data, and optimize study staff time and resources.
Using Accelerometers to Identify Regular Activity Breaks
Authors: Peddie Meredith C. , Reeves Matthew , Keown Millie K. , Perry Tracy L. , Skeaff C. Murray
Published: September 2019

Background: Regular activity breaks positively impact markers of cardiometabolic health when performed in a laboratory. However, identifying compliance to a free-living regular activity breaks intervention is challenging, particularly if intensity is prescribed. Methods: This study had two parts. In Part A, 20 participants performed activity breaks similar to those shown to impart health benefits while wearing an ActiGraph and activPAL accelerometer, and a heart rate monitor. In Part B, the threshold found to identify these activities was used to identify the activity breaks performed by 78 sedentary, university employees wearing an ActiGraph accelerometer for seven days. Results: A cut-point of 1,000 vector magnitude counts per minute accurately identified activity breaks performed in the laboratory. Applying this cut-point to data collected in free living, sedentary participants identified, on average, seven activity breaks were being performed during work-hours. Conclusions: Using a cut-point of 1,000 vector magnitude counts per minute will identify activity breaks of a similar intensity to those found to elicit acute cardiometabolic benefit. Sedentary university employees may benefit from interventions to increase the number of activity breaks performed across their entire day.
Time Drift Considerations When Using GPS and Accelerometers
Authors: Steel Chelsea , Bejarano Carolina , Carlson Jordan A.
Published: September 2019

Purpose: To investigate potential time drift between devices when using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and accelerometers in field-based research. Methods: Six Qstarz BT-Q1000XT GPS trackers, activPAL3 accelerometers, and ActiGraph GT3X+ and GT3X accelerometers were tested over 1–3 waves, each lasting 9–14 days. Once per day an event marker was created on each pair of devices concurrently. The difference in seconds between the time stamps for each event marker were calculated between each pair of GPS and activPAL devices and GPS and ActiGraph devices. Mixed-effects linear regression tested time drift across days and waves and between two rooms/locations (in an inner room vs. on a windowsill in an outer room). Results: The GPS trackers remained within one second of the computer clock across days and waves and between rooms. The activPAL devices drifted an average of 8.38 seconds behind the GPS devices over 14 days (p < .001). The ActiGraph GT3X+ devices drifted an average of 11.67 seconds ahead of the GPS devices over 14 days (p < .001). The ActiGraph GT3X devices drifted an average of 28.83 seconds behind the GPS devices over 9 days (p < .001). Time drift did not differ across waves but did differ between rooms and across devices. Conclusions: Time drift between the GPS and accelerometer models tested was minimal and is unlikely to be problematic when addressing many common research questions. However, studies that require high levels of precision when matching short (e.g., 1-second) time intervals may benefit from consideration of time drift and potential adjustments.
Initial soil microbiome composition and functioning predetermine future plant health
Authors: Wei Zhong , Gu Yian , Friman Ville-Petri , Kowalchuk George A. , Xu Yangchun , Shen Qirong , Jousset Alexandre
Published: September 2019

Soil microbiome composition and functioning determine the outcome of plant-pathogen interactions under natural field conditions.
Coupled afterslip and transient mantle flow after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake
Authors: Muto J. , Moore J. D. P. , Barbot S. , Iinuma T. , Ohta Y. , Iwamori H.
Published: September 2019

Crustal deformation after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake illuminates the complex interplay between transient mantle flow and afterslip.
Delivery of RIPK4 small interfering RNA for bladder cancer therapy using natural halloysite nanotubes
Authors: Liu Jianye , Zhang Yi , Zeng Qinghai , Zeng Hongliang , Liu Xiaoming , Wu Pei , Xie Hongyi , He Leye , Long Zhi , Lu Xiaoyong , Xiao Mengqing , Zhu Yuxing , Bo Hao , Cao Ke
Published: September 2019

HNTs/siRIPK4 nanoparticles have been shown to be an effective treatment for bladder cancer.
Ruminococcin C, a promising antibiotic produced by a human gut symbiont
Authors: Chiumento Steve , Roblin Clarisse , Kieffer-Jaquinod Sylvie , Tachon Sybille , Leprètre Chloé , Basset Christian , Aditiyarini Dwi , Olleik Hamza , Nicoletti Cendrine , Bornet Olivier , Iranzo Olga , Maresca Marc , Hardré Renaud , Fons Michel , Giardina Thierry , Devillard Estelle , Guerlesquin Françoise , Couté Yohann , Atta Mohamed , Perrier Josette , Lafond Mickael , Duarte Victor
Published: September 2019

A human-bacterium symbiosis leads to the production of an antipathogenic and safe RiPP with a novel thioether network.
Disruptive variants of
CSDE1
associate with autism and interfere with neuronal development and synaptic transmission
Authors: Guo Hui , Li Ying , Shen Lu , Wang Tianyun , Jia Xiangbin , Liu Lijuan , Xu Tao , Ou Mengzhu , Hoekzema Kendra , Wu Huidan , Gillentine Madelyn A. , Liu Cenying , Ni Hailun , Peng Pengwei , Zhao Rongjuan , Zhang Yu , Phornphutkul Chanika , Stegmann Alexander P. A. , Prada Carlos E. , Hopkin Robert J. , Shieh Joseph T. , McWalter Kirsty , Monaghan Kristin G. , van Hasselt Peter M. , van Gassen Koen , Bai Ting , Long Min , Han Lin , Quan Yingting , Chen Meilin , Zhang Yaowen , Li Kuokuo , Zhang Qiumeng , Tan Jieqiong , Zhu Tengfei , Liu Yaning , Pang Nan , Peng Jing , Scott Daryl A. , Lalani Seema R. , Azamian Mahshid , Mancini Grazia M. S. , Adams Darius J. , Kvarnung Malin , Lindstrand Anna , Nordgren Ann , Pevsner Jonathan , Osei-Owusu Ikeoluwa A. , Romano Corrado , Calabrese Giuseppe , Galesi Ornella , Gecz Jozef , Haan Eric , Ranells Judith , Racobaldo Melissa , Nordenskjold Magnus , Madan-Khetarpal Suneeta , Sebastian Jessica , Ball Susie , Zou Xiaobing , Zhao Jingping , Hu Zhengmao , Xia Fan , Liu Pengfei , Rosenfeld Jill A. , de Vries Bert B. A. , Bernier Raphael A. , Xu Zhi-Qing David , Li Honghui , Xie Wei , Hufnagel Robert B. , Eichler Evan E. , Xia Kun
Published: September 2019

CSDE1 disruptive mutations are associated with autism.
Floating magnetic microrobots for fiber functionalization
Authors: Barbot Antoine , Tan Haijie , Power Maura , Seichepine Florent , Yang Guang-Zhong
Published: September 2019

Pairs of magnetic microrobots accurately transfer floating microelectronic circuits to the tips of optical fibers.
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor regulates self-renewal of early erythroid progenitors
Authors: Trivedi Gaurang , Inoue Daichi , Chen Cynthia , Bitner Lillian , Chung Young Rock , Taylor Justin , Gönen Mithat , Wess Jürgen , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Zhang Lingbo
Published: September 2019

The muscarinic acetylcholine receptor CHRM4 is a druggable target regulating the self-renewal of early erythroid progenitors.
Spore Germination as a Target for Antifungal Therapeutics
Authors: Ortiz Sébastien C. , Huang Mingwei , Hull Christina M.
Published: September 2019

Spores are required for long-term survival of many organisms, including most fungi. For the majority of fatal human fungal pathogens, spore germination is the key process required to initiate vegetative growth and ultimately cause disease. Because germination is required for pathogenesis, the process could hold fungus-specific targets for new antifungal drug development.
Roles of Lytic Transglycosylases in Biofilm Formation and β-Lactam Resistance in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Lopes Anne-Aurelie , Yoshii Yutaka , Yamada Satomi , Nagakura Mari , Kinjo Yuki , Mizunoe Yoshimitsu , Okuda Ken-ichi
Published: September 2019

Staphylococcus aureus
is responsible for numerous community outbreaks and is one of the most frequent causes of nosocomial infections with significant morbidity and mortality. While the function of lytic transglycosylases (LTs) in relation to cell division, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance has been determined for several bacteria, their role in
S. aureus
remains largely unknown. The only known LTs in
S. aureus
are immunodominant staphylococcal antigen A (IsaA) and
Staphylococcus epidermidis
D protein (SceD).
The Distinct Immune-Stimulatory Capacities of Porphyromonas gingivalis Strains 381 and ATCC 33277 Are Determined by the
fimB
Allele and Gingipain Activity
Authors: Coats Stephen R. , Kantrong Nutthapong , To Thao T. , Jain Sumita , Genco Caroline A. , McLean Jeffrey S. , Darveau Richard P.
Published: September 2019

The
Porphyromonas gingivalis
strain ATCC 33277 (33277) and 381 genomes are nearly identical. However, strain 33277 displays a significantly diminished capacity to stimulate host cell Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)-dependent signaling and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) production relative to 381, suggesting that there are strain-specific differences in one or more bacterial immune-modulatory factors.
Complete Genome Sequences of Lytic Polysaccharide-Degrading Klebsiella pneumoniae Bacteriophages vB_KpnS_FZ10, vB_KpnP_FZ12, vB_KpnM_FZ14, and vB_KpnS_FZ41
Authors: Zurabov Fedor , Zhilenkov Evgeniy
Published: September 2019

Members of the genus
Klebsiella
are among the leading microbial pathogens associated with nosocomial infection. At the same time, most nosocomial infections are caused by strains resistant to antibiotics. Here, we announce the complete genome sequences of four lytic polysaccharide-degrading bacteriophages, which will be used in complex therapeutic preparations.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Novel Acinetobacter Isolates from an Irish Commercial Pig Farm
Authors: Pereira do Vale Ana , Anes João , Fanning Séamus , Leonard Finola , Farrell Damien
Published: September 2019

Acinetobacter
species are important in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which threatens human and animal health worldwide. Here, we present the draft genome sequences of three
Acinetobacter
species strains (RF14B, RF15A, and RF15B) isolated from pig feces and the floor of a pig hospital pen in Ireland.
Genome Sequence of
Mariprofundus
sp. Strain EBB-1, a Novel Marine Autotroph Isolated from an Iron-Sulfur Mineral
Authors: Lopez Areli , Albino Daniel , Beraki Senay , Broomell Sondra , Canela Ricardo , Dingmon Theadora , Estrada Sabrina , Fernandez Marwin , Savalia Pratixaben , Nealson Kenneth , Emerson David , Barco Roman , Tully Benjamin J. , Amend Jan P.
Published: September 2019

Mariprofundus
sp. strain EBB-1 was isolated from a pyrrhotite biofilm incubated in seawater from East Boothbay (ME, USA). Strain EBB-1 is an autotrophic member of the class
Zetaproteobacteria
with the ability to form iron oxide biominerals. Here, we present the 2.88-Mb genome sequence of EBB-1, which contains 2,656 putative protein-coding sequences.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Xanthomonas
Phage Pagan
Authors: Russo Marielle , Le Tram , Moreland Russell , Gonzalez Carlos F. , Liu Mei , Ramsey Jolene
Published: September 2019

The T7-like podophage Pagan infects
Xanthomonas
sp. strain ATCC PTA-13101, which was isolated from rice. The 44-kbp Pagan genome contains direct terminal repeats and contains 59 genes, 27 of which have a predicted function. Pagan is most closely related to
Xanthomonas
phage phi Xc10 and
Xylella
phage Prado.
Complete Genome Sequence of Sin4, a Siphophage Infecting Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Castillo Micah , Tran Rainie , Newkirk Heather , Liu Mei , Gill Jason J. , Ramsey Jolene
Published: September 2019

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a commonly antibiotic-resistant human pathogen. This report describes the complete genome sequence and important features of Sin4, a siphophage infecting carbapenemase-producing
K. pneumoniae
. By its genome size, predicted packaging mechanism, protein similarity, and classification given to its closest relatives, Sin4 was determined to be a T1-like phage.
Should antidepressants be used for major depressive disorder?
Authors: Jakobsen Janus Christian , Gluud Christian , Kirsch Irving
Published: September 2019

Background

Major depressive disorder is estimated by the WHO to affect more than 300 million people globally, making depression the leading cause of disability worldwide. Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression.

Objective

The study aimed to provide an update on the evidence on the effects of antidepressants compared with placebo. Should antidepressants be used for adults with major depressive disorder?

Study selection

We searched the Cochrane Library, BMJ Best Practice and PubMed up to June 2019 with the search terms ‘depression’ and ‘antidepressants’ targeting reviews published in English since 1990.

Findings

Several reviews have assessed the effects of antidepressants compared with placebo for depression. Generally, all the previous reviews show that antidepressants seem to have statistically significant effects on depressive symptoms, but the size of the effect has questionable importance to most patients. Antidepressants seem to have minimal beneficial effects on depressive symptoms and increase the risk of both serious and non-serious adverse events.

Conclusions

The benefits of antidepressants seem to be minimal and possibly without any importance to the average patient with major depressive disorder. Antidepressants should not be used for adults with major depressive disorder before valid evidence has shown that the potential beneficial effects outweigh the harmful effects.
Urinary tract infections in children: an overview of diagnosis and management
Authors: Kaufman Jonathan , Temple-Smith Meredith , Sanci Lena
Published: September 2019

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and potentially serious bacterial infection of childhood. History and examination findings can be non-specific, so a urine sample is required to diagnose UTI. Sample collection in young precontinent children can be challenging. Bedside dipstick tests are useful for screening, but urine culture is required for diagnostic confirmation. Antibiotic therapy must be guided by local guidelines due to increasing antibiotic resistance. Duration of therapy and indications for imaging remain controversial topics and guidelines lack consensus. This article presents an overview of paediatric UTI diagnosis and management, with highlights of recent advances and evidence updates.
Neonatal mortality and child health in a remote rural area in Nepal: a mixed methods study
Authors: Karki Bindu Kumari , Kittel Guenter
Published: September 2019

Objective

To assess neonatal and under-five mortality and the health situation for children in Dolpa, a remote rural area of Nepal.

Study design

Mixed methods: quantitative (retrospective cross sectional) and qualitative (semistructured interviews).

Rationale

Progress in reducing child and newborn mortality in Nepal has reached the remote areas to a limited extent. Furthermore, there may be substantial under-reporting and data may be unreliable.

Setting and participants

The population of Dolpa district is approximately 35 000. We visited 10 randomly selected villages (plus one settlement) with approximately 12 000 inhabitants.

Methodology

Records of the number of deliveries, neonatal and under-five deaths were collected. 100 children (10 different villages) were evaluated for common diseases present during the month prior to the investigation. 20 interviews were conducted about the cultural perceptions of neonatal death and morbidity; in each village at least one interview was undertaken.

Results

The population of the 10 villages (plus one settlement) under investigation was 12 287. 300 deliveries have taken place during the last 12 months before the study. There were 30 children reported to have died; out of those 20 were in the neonatal period. This reflects an estimated neonatal mortality rate in Dolpa district of 67/1000 live births (95% CI 41-101/1000) and an estimated under-five mortality rate of 100/1000 (95% CI 70-140/1000). In the previous month, out of 100 children surveyed there had been 11 cases of acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI), 7 cases of diarrhoea, 3 cases of isolated malnutrition and 5 cases of malnutrition combined with ALRI or diarrhoea.

Based on qualitative interviews traditional beliefs still play a major role, and are partly a hindrance to progress in health. There is also mistrust in the health services and misconceptions about ‘modern’ medicine and treatment facilities.

Conclusion

Despite progress in child morbidity and mortality in Nepal, some areas remain underserved by health services and neonatal mortality is far above the Nepalese average, which is 29/1000 live births. There is a substantial need to increase and train health staff. Health promotion should be encouraged but cultural perceptions have to be understood if positive behavioural change is to be achieved.
Sex disparities in the assessment and outcomes of chest pain presentations in emergency departments
Authors: Mnatzaganian George , Hiller Janet E , Braitberg George , Kingsley Michael , Putland Mark , Bish Melanie , Tori Kathleen , Huxley Rachel
Published: September 2019

Objective

To determine whether sex differences exist in the triage, management and outcomes associated with non-traumatic chest pain presentations in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

All adults (≥18 years) with non-traumatic chest pain presentations to three EDs in Melbourne, Australia between 2009 and 2013 were retrospectively analysed. Data sources included routinely collected hospital databases. Triage scoring of the urgency of presentation, time to medical examination, cardiac troponin testing, admission to specialised care units, and in-ED and in-hospital mortality were each modelled using the generalised estimating equations approach.

Results

Overall 54 138 patients (48.7% women) presented with chest pain, contributing to 76 216 presentations, of which 26 282 (34.5%) were cardiac. In multivariable analyses, compared with men, women were 18% less likely to be allocated an urgency of ‘immediate review’ or ‘within 10 min review’ (OR=0.82, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.85), 16% less likely to be examined within the first hour of arrival to the ED by an emergency physician (0.84, 0.81 to 0.87), 20% less likely to have a troponin test performed (0.80, 0.77 to 0.83), 36% less likely to be admitted to a specialised care unit (0.64, 0.61 to 0.68), and 35% (p=0.039) and 36% (p=0.002) more likely to die in the ED and in the hospital, respectively.

Conclusions

In the ED, systemic sex bias, to the detriment of women, exists in the early management and treatment of non-traumatic chest pain. Future studies that identify the drivers explaining why women presenting with chest pain are disadvantaged in terms of care, relative to men, are warranted.
Behavioural changes in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Watson Fraje , Packer Rowena Mary Anne , Rusbridge Clare , Volk Holger Andreas
Published: September 2019

Background

Breed‐specific and broader cohort studies have shown behavioural changes in dogs following the onset of idiopathic epilepsy (IE).

Methods

A cross‐sectional, case–control questionnaire study was carried out to strengthen this body of evidence. Owners of eight breeds of dog completed an online questionnaire about their dogs’ behaviour; once for control dogs and twice for dogs with IE, for both pre‐IE and post‐IE onset behaviour.

Results

Ninety‐six (24.74 per cent) dogs with IE and 292 (75.26 per cent) age and breed‐matched control dogs met the inclusion criteria. Control dogs had significantly higher ‘Trainability’ scores than dogs with IE (P=0.04). After IE, dogs had significantly higher ‘Dog‐Directed Fear or Aggression’ (P=0.02), ‘Non‐Social Fear’ (P=0.01), ‘Attachment/Attention‐Seeking Behaviour’ (P=0.04), ‘Attention‐Deficit’ (P=0.02) and significantly lower ‘Trainability’ (P=0.02) than prior to the onset of IE. Medication status did not significantly affect any behavioural factor, but drug‐resistant dogs had significantly less ‘Trainability’ than drug‐responsive (P=0.04) and partially drug‐responsive dogs (P=0.03).

Conclusion

Behavioural differences related to cognitive function are seen between dogs with IE and controls. Behavioural changes related to anxiety, attention and cognition are seen in dogs following the onset of IE. The ability to clinically define and diagnose behavioural comorbidities in dogs is much needed from both a clinical and research perspective.
Retrospective review of neoplasms of captive lizards in the United Kingdom
Authors: Kubiak Marie , Denk Daniela , Stidworthy Mark Frederick
Published: September 2019

Background

Neoplasia has historically been regarded as an unusual occurrence in reptiles. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of neoplasms in routine diagnostic samples submitted to a specialist exotic animal laboratory.

Methods

Over a 10‐year period, 690 lizard samples were submitted for histopathological or cytopathological examination by Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons specialists in Veterinary Pathology (Zoo and Wildlife). Records were reviewed retrospectively and non‐neoplastic diagnoses excluded from further analysis.

Results

158 neoplasms were diagnosed in 149 lizards, with 22.9% of submissions resulting in a diagnosis of neoplasia. The skin was the most commonly affected organ, and squamous cell carcinomas were the most common neoplasms identified (17.7% of all neoplastic diagnoses).

Bearded dragons and panther chameleons had a statistically significant higher proportion of neoplasia diagnosis than the lizard population as a whole, and geckos had a statistically significantly lower proportion.

Several neoplasms identified in this study have not been previously reported in lizards, including a testicular Sertoli cell tumour, testicular granulosa cell tumour, splenic haemangiosarcoma, gastric adenocarcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the prevalence of neoplasia in captive lizards may be higher than previously reported, and that there is variation in prevalence between different lizard species and families. It is unclear whether these differences relate to genetic or management factors.
Association between results of diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis and Johne's disease in cattle
Authors: Picasso‐Risso Catalina , Grau Ana , Bakker Douwe , Nacar Jesus , Mínguez Olga , Perez Andres , Alvarez Julio
Published: September 2019

Background

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) diagnosis is impaired by numerous factors including cross‐reactivity with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, which causes Johne's disease (JD). In addition, the effect of repeated bTB‐intradermal testing on the performance of JD diagnostic tests is not fully understood. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of repeated bTB‐intradermal tests under field conditions in Spain on the JD serological status of cattle.

Methods

bTB‐positive herds (n=264) from Castilla‐y‐Leon region were selected and matched with officially tuberculosis‐free control herds. The association between JD and bTB status at the herd level was assessed using conditional logistic regression and, in herds with both JD‐positive and bTB‐positive animals, a Bayesian hierarchical mixed‐effect model was used for individual‐level analysis.

Results

A significantly higher risk of being JD positive (OR: 1.48; 95 per cent CI: 1.01 to 2.15) was found for bTB‐positive herds compared with controls. Individual results indicated that cattle tested more than three times per year, within the last 90 days and more than 12 months were more likely to be JD positive. A skin test‐related boost in antibody response could be the cause of an apparent increase of the sensitivity of the JD‐absorbed ELISA.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the interaction between bTB repeated testing and JD individual and herd‐level results and this improved knowledge will facilitate the design of more effective control programmes in herds coinfected with two of the most important endemic diseases affecting cattle in Spain.
Evaluation of lameness detection using radar sensing in ruminants
Authors: Busin Valentina , Viora Lorenzo , King George , Tomlinson Martin , LeKernec Julien , Jonsson Nicholas , Fioranelli Francesco
Published: September 2019

Background

Lameness is a major health, welfare and production‐limiting condition for the livestock industries. The current ‘gold‐standard’ method of assessing lameness by visual locomotion scoring is subjective and time consuming, whereas recent technological advancements have enabled the development of alternative and more objective methods for its detection.

Methods

This study evaluated a novel lameness detection method using micro‐Doppler radar signatures to categorise animals as lame or non‐lame. Animals were visually scored by veterinarian and radar data were collected for the same animals.

Results

A machine learning algorithm was developed to interpret the radar signatures and provide automatic classification of the animals. Using veterinary scoring as a standard method, the classification by radar signature provided 85 per cent sensitivity and 81 per cent specificity for cattle and 96 per cent sensitivity and 94 per cent specificity for sheep.

Conclusion

This radar sensing method shows promise for the development of a highly functional, rapid and reliable recognition tool of lame animals, which could be integrated into automatic, on‐farm systems for sheep and cattle.
Data‐driven approach to using individual cattle weights to estimate mean adult dairy cattle weight
Authors: Schubert Hannah , Wood Sarah , Reyher Kristen , Mills Harriet
Published: September 2019

Background

Knowledge of accurate weights of cattle is crucial for effective dosing of individual animals and for reporting antimicrobial usage. For the first time, we provide an evidence‐based estimate of the average weight of UK dairy cattle to better inform farmers, veterinarians and the scientific community.

Methods

Data were collected for 2747 lactating dairy cattle from 20 farms in the UK. Data were used to calculate a mean weight for lactating dairy cattle by breed and a UK‐specific mean weight. Trends in weight by lactation number and production level were also explored.

Results

Mean weight for adult dairy cattle in this study was 617 kg (sd=85.6 kg). Mean weight varied across breeds, with a range of 466 kg (sd=56.0 kg, Jersey) to 636 kg (sd=84.1, Holsteins). When scaled to UK breed proportions, the estimated UK‐specific mean weight was 620 kg.

Conclusion

This study is the first to calculate a mean weight of adult dairy cattle in the UK based on on‐farm data. Overall mean weight was higher than that most often proposed in the literature (600 kg). Evidence‐informed weights are crucial as the UK works to better monitor and report metrics to measure antimicrobial use and are useful to farmers and veterinarians to inform dosing decisions.
Changes in rhizosphere bacterial communities associated with tree decline: grapevine esca syndrome case study
Authors: Saccà Maria Ludovica , Manici Luisa Maria , Caputo Francesco , Frisullo Salvatore
Published: September 2019

An investigation was carried out on rhizosphere bacteria to determine if they may be associated with perennial crops affected by nonspecific decline, a phenomenon that is difficult to diagnose and prevent. Esca disease of grapevine was chosen for this case study because of its easy foliar symptom identification. Ribosomal DNA fingerprint analysis by polymerase chain reaction – denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR–DGGE), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and rDNA amplicon sequencing by next-generation sequencing (NGS) were adopted to investigate the bacterial communities associated with grapevines, which were selected for the presence and absence of external foliar symptoms in 11 vineyards. According to PCR–DGGE and qPCR, bacterial communities differed in site of origin (vineyards), but not between symptomatic and asymptomatic plants, whereas qPCR gave a significantly higher presence of total bacteria and Pseudomonas spp. in asymptomatic plants. NGS confirmed no difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic plants, apart from a few minor genera (<0.5%) such as Salinibacterium, Flavobacterium, Nocardia, and Janthinobacterium, which were, in all cases, higher in asymptomatic plants and whose functional role should be the object of further investigation. The fact that total bacteria and Pseudomonas were more abundant in the rhizosphere of asymptomatic grapevines and that some bacterial genera were associated with the latter, represents a new element when investigating the multiple-origin phenomenon such as esca disease of grapevine.
Particle-antiparticle duality from an extra timelike dimension
Authors: Arcodía Marcos R. A. , Bellini Mauricio
Published: September 2019

It is a well known fact that the usual complex structure on the real Clifford Algebra (CA) of Minkowski spacetime can be obtained by adding an extra time-like dimension, instead of the usual complexification of the algebra. In this article we explore the consequences of this approach and reinterpret known results in this new context. We observe that Dirac particles and antiparticles at rest can be interpreted as eigenstates of the generator of rotations in the plane formed by the two time-like coordinates and find an effective finite scale for the extra dimension when no EM fields are present (without postulating compactness). In the case of non-vanishing EM fields, we find a gauge condition to preserve such a scale.
Long term measurements from the Mátra Gravitational and Geophysical Laboratory
Authors: Ván P. , Barnaföldi G. G. , Bulik T. , Biró T. , Czellár S. , Cieślar M. , Czanik Cs. , Dávid E. , Debreceni E. , Denys M. , Dobróka M. , Fenyvesi E. , Gondek-Rosińska D. , Gráczer Z. , Hamar G. , Huba G. , Kacskovics B. , Kis Á. , Kovács I. , Kovács R. , Lemperger I. , Lévai P. , Lökös S. , Mlynarczyk J. , Molnár J. , Singh N. , Novák A. , Oláh L. , Starecki T. , Suchenek M. , Surányi G. , Szalai S. , Tringali M. C. , Varga D. , Vasúth M. , Vásárhelyi B. , Wesztergom V. , Wéber Z. , Zimborás Z. , Somlai L.
Published: September 2019

Summary of the long term data taking, related to one of the proposed next generation ground-based gravitational detector’s location is presented here. Results of seismic and infrasound noise, electromagnetic attenuation and cosmic muon radiation measurements are reported in the underground Matra Gravitational and Geophysical Laboratory near Gyöngyösoroszi, Hungary. The collected seismic data of more than two years is evaluated from the point of view of the Einstein Telescope, a proposed third generation underground gravitational wave observatory. Applying our results for the site selection will significantly improve the signal to noise ratio of the multi-messenger astrophysics era, especially at the low frequency regime.