bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Neonatal Unit Experience with Empiric Antibiotics for Late-onset Neonatal Sepsis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Al-Mouqdad Mountasser Mohammad , Egunsola Oluwaseun , Ali Sheraz , Asfour Suzan Suahil
Published: December 2019

Background:

Neonatal sepsis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality and warrants the immediate start of appropriate empiric treatment. Thus, this study compared the effectiveness of the 2 antibiotic regimens (cloxacillin–amikacin or cefotaxime–ampicillin) among neonates with late-onset neonatal sepsis.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study comparing mortality between 2 treatment cohorts of very low birth weight neonates with late-onset sepsis, who had received amikacin–cloxacillin or cefotaxime–ampicillin between January 2014 and December 2017. There were 27 neonates in each treatment arm after 1:1 propensity score matching. Univariate analyses (Chi-square and independent t tests, where appropriate) were performed to determine the association between variables. We determined the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality using the Cox regression model.

Results:

We identified a total of 132 neonates from the hospital’s record. We included 27 neonates each in the amikacin–cloxacillin and cefotaxime–ampicillin groups. Intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, birth weight, and gestational age were significantly associated with mortality (P < 0.05). The risk of mortality was significantly higher in neonates receiving empiric cefotaxime and ampicillin than those receiving amikacin and cloxacillin (hazard ratio: 2.91, 95% confidence interval: 1.17–7.30, P = 0.023).

Conclusions:

In our center, amikacin–cloxacillin combination therapy was associated with lower mortality in very low birth weight neonates with late-onset sepsis compared with cefotaxime–ampicillin therapy.
Larval thermal characteristics of multiple ixodid ticks underlie their range dynamics
Authors: Fieler Alicia M. , Rosendale Andrew J. , Farrow David W. , Dunlevy Megan D. , Davies Benjamin , Oyen Kennan , Benoit Joshua B.
Published: December 2019

Temperature is a major factor that impacts tick populations by limiting geographic range of different species. Little is known about the thermal characteristics of these pests outside of a few studies on survival related to thermal tolerance. In this study, thermal tolerance limits, thermal preference, impact of temperature on metabolic rate, and temperature-activity dynamics were examined in larvae for six species of ixodid ticks. Tolerance of low temperatures ranged from −15 to −24°C withDermacentor andersonisurviving at the lowest temperatures. High temperature survival ranged from 41 to 47 °C, withRhipicephalus sanguineushaving the highest upper lethal limit.Ixodes scapularisshowed the lowest survival at both low and high temperatures. Thermal preference temperatures were tested from 0-41°C.D. variabilisexhibited a significant distribution of individuals in the lower temperatures, while the majority of other species gathered around 20-30°C. Activity was measured from 10-60°C, and the highest activity was observed in most species was near 30°C. Metabolic rate was the highest for most species around 40°C. Both activity and metabolic rate dropped dramatically at temperatures below 10°C and above 50°C. In summary, tick species vary greatly in their thermal characteristics, and our results will be critical to predict distribution of these ectoparasites with changing climates.
scCAT-seq:single-cell identification and quantification of mRNA isoforms by cost-effective short-read sequencing of cap and tail
Authors: Hu Youjin , Zhong Jiawei , Xiao Yuhua , Xing Zheng , Sheu Katherine , Fan Shuxin , An Qin , Qiu Yuanhui , Zheng Yingfeng , Liu Xialin , Fan Guoping , Liu Yizhi
Published: December 2019

The differences in transcription start sites (TSS) and transcription end sites (TES) among gene isoforms can affect the stability, localization, and translation efficiency of mRNA. Isoforms also allow a single gene different functions across various tissues and cells However, methods for efficient genome-wide identification and quantification of RNA isoforms in single cells are still lacking. Here, we introduce single cell Cap And Tail sequencing (scCAT-seq). In conjunction with a novel machine learning algorithm developed for TSS/TES characterization, scCAT-seq can demarcate transcript boundaries of RNA transcripts, providing an unprecedented way to identify and quantify single-cell full-length RNA isoforms based on short-read sequencing. Compared with existing long-read sequencing methods, scCAT-seq has higher efficiency with lower cost. Using scCAT-seq, we identified hundreds of previously uncharacterized full-length transcripts and thousands of alternative transcripts for known genes, quantitatively revealed cell-type specific isoforms with alternative TSSs/TESs in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, mature oocytes and ageing oocytes, and generated the first atlas of the non-human primate cornea. The approach described here can be widely adapted to other short-read or long-read methods to improve accuracy and efficiency in assessing RNA isoform dynamics among single cells.
Male accessory gland factors increased sex pheromone titres in the glands ofSpodoptera liturafemale moths by inhibiting calling behavior
Authors: Xu Jin , Shi Min-Rui , Fu Da-Ying , Yu Hong , Chen Peng , Ye Hui
Published: December 2019

Moths are the most widely studied example of pheromones in animals. However, little is known about the mechanism of intrasexual and mating-related intersexual regulation of pheromone production and release in female moths. Our previous studies inSpodoptera liturafound that mating induced a higher sex pheromone titre in the pheromone gland (PG) and mating or male accessory gland (MAG) extract suppressed female calling behavior. We therefore hypothesize that the inhibition of female calling behavior by mating or MAG factors likely suppresses the release of sex pheromones and thus results in a higher pheromone titre in the PG. To test this hypothesis, in the present study, we introduced an artificial calling behavior suppression treatment by gently knocking on and shaking the testing boxes contained moths once every 10 minutes. Results show that this treatment significantly increased pheromone titres in virgin or saline injected virgin females, and the increase rates are similar to those of mating and MAG extract treated ones. These results have suggested that the increase of sex pheromone titer in the female PG after mating inS. liturais due to the inhibition of female calling behavior by MAG factors. Moreover, results of this study also suggest that female calling behavior is positively correlated to pheromone release and likewise, the calling behavior and sex pheromone release inS. liturafemales are directly under the neural control, and modulated by molecular and environmental factors.
The data dilemma: how availability can threaten the competitive advantage of data-based firms
Authors: Tsvetkov Nikolai , Chekanov Alexander
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to expand knowledge on strategy and business model transformation by exploring how the increased data availability can threaten the competitive positioning of data-based firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses two longitudinal cases design. The data include a review of 270 business acquisitions performed by IBM and Yahoo! between 1995 and 2018 relying on publicly available documentation, corporate annual reports, shareholders presentations and press releases.

Findings

The study provides insights into how the availability of data can affect business models and the competitive advantage of data-based firms. Successful business model transformation in data-based firms appear to be contingent on dual-purpose mergers and acquisitions (M&As), oriented toward data and data-processing activities.

Research limitations/implications

Inductive case studies yield results that require quantitative validation. The insights on business model transformation and M&As from this study were obtained within the context of data-intensive firms.

Practical implications

When formulating a growth strategy through M&As, strategists need to consider whether the current state of their competitive positioning requires single purpose acquisitions (e.g. data or data-processing capabilities) or dual-purpose acquisitions.

Originality/value

As data becomes a commoditized asset, further research and guidance are needed to assess the impact of this phenomenon on data-based business models. This study fulfills an identified need to gain insights into the relationship between business model transformation and M&A activity.
Exposure to and usage of e-banking channels
Authors: Inegbedion Henry , Inegbedion Emmanuel Edo , Osifo Samuel Jesuorobo , Eze Sunday C. , Ayeni Adebanji , Akintimehin Olamide
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Emphasis of previous research on e-banking has been on factors that influence its adoption or constraints to the adoption or the extent to which customer awareness influences its adoption. This study investigated “Exposure to/usage of e-banking channels: Implications for customer awareness and attitude in Nigeria”. The purpose of this paper is to determine the extent to which consumers’ exposure to and usage of e-banking channels influence their awareness and attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the quantitative research design; specifically, the conclusive research design was used and data collection was done through the survey method. The population of the study consisted of the customers of EcoBank, First bank and Zenith bank in Edo, Kogi and Kwara states of Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit the desired data from 480 respondents selected from 30 branches of 3 banks in two states. One sample t test was used to test for significance of the usage of e-banking channels to customers’ awareness and attitude towards e-banking. Subsequently, regression analysis was performed to determine the predictive power of the e-banking channels.

Findings

Customers’ exposure to and usage of ATM, internet banking and mobile banking has significant influence on consumers’ attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria. In view of the findings, a modified model of customer usage and attitude towards e-banking in Nigeria is proposed.

Research limitations/implications

The customer’s inability to exercise absolute right on the banking option to use at all times and the non-inclusion of other channels of e-banking whose usage can influence consumers’ awareness and attitude towards e-banking.

Practical implications

The need for financial institutions, especially banks, to expose their customers to e-banking channels to demystify their fears as well as increase their awareness and thus influence their attitude to e-banking.

Social implications

Exposure of bank customers to e-banking will reduce cash transactions and thus help to significantly reduce social vices associated with physical cash, especially armed robbery.

Originality/value

The work is a departure from previous studies because it is the only one that has emphazised exposure to e-banking as a solution to awareness creation and positive attitude of customers. Its value lies in its potential to make e-banking user friendly in no distance time.
A finite‐element time‐domain forward‐modelling algorithm for transient electromagnetics excited by grounded‐wire sources
Authors: Li Jianhui , Hu Xiangyun , Cai Hongzhu , Liu Yajun
Published: December 2019

A three‐dimensional finite‐element time‐domain forward‐modelling algorithm is developed to simulate transient electromagnetics excited by grounded‐wire sources. The main advantage of this finite‐element time‐domain algorithm is that full transmitting‐current waveforms and complex‐shaped sources resulting from topography can be directly dealt with in this algorithm. The models used to test this algorithm include a homogeneous half‐space model, a stratified‐medium model, the model of a complex conductor at a vertical contact and the Ovoid Zone massive sulfide deposit at Voisey's Bay, Canada. The homogeneous half‐space model is used to determine the truncation boundary for a computational domain, and to compare with the electromagnetic responses excited by step‐off, step‐on and direct current waveforms. For the stratified‐medium model, results demonstrate that full transmitting waveforms have strong effects on the observed electromagnetic responses. The model of a complex conductor at a vertical contact is designed for the grounded electrical source airborne transient electromagnetic method and is also used to examine the effectiveness of the broadside and inline configurations for such a vertical, thin plate embedded in the subsurface. The area of the Ovoid Zone massive sulfide deposit possesses non‐negligible topography, the effects of which on the shapes of the grounded‐wire sources must be taken into account when implementing the finite‐element time‐domain solver. The results show that both the broadside and inline electromagnetic responses are strongly affected by the massive conductive ore body.
Cross‐listings and dividend size and stability: evidence from China
Authors: Cheng Zijian , Cullinan Charles P. , Liu Zhangxin (Frank) , Zhang Junrui
Published: December 2019

We investigate the relationship between cross‐listings and dividend policy. We find that Chinese cross‐listed firms have lower and more stable dividends than their non‐cross‐listed peers, and that dividends become more stable the longer a company has been cross‐listed. We also find the strength of the cross‐listing/dividend policy relationship varies based on the market where the shares are cross‐listed. The strength of the relationship varies from B‐shares (least strong) to Hong Kong shares (stronger) to American Depository Receipts (strongest). Our results indicate cross‐listings may influence both dividend size and stability, and that this influence can vary by the type of cross‐listing.
The law and economics of Canada's WTO litigation contesting U.S. country‐of‐origin labeling (COOL)
Authors: Sumner Daniel A. , Zuijdwijk Ton
Published: December 2019

We explain the interplay of law and economics in the successful WTO challenge by Canada of U.S. mandatory country‐of‐origin labeling (COOL) measures for beef and pork, which hinged on origin of livestock used in U.S. meat production. Canada mounted a successful legal and economic strategy to convince WTO adjudicating bodies that the United States had violated specific WTO provisions. Canada's economic evidence shows that through costs of segregation the COOL measure harmed the competitive position of Canadian cattle and hogs in the U.S. market. Economic evidence was built into the strategy and cited by the WTO Panels in support of their legal findings that the COOL measure violated U.S. obligations under WTO agreements. Canada was awarded rights to more than one billion Canadian dollars in retaliation and the United States responded by eliminating the offending COOL measure. The COOL case demonstrates how economic and econometric evidence can be used in complex dispute settlement proceedings dealing with technical trade barriers. Economics is especially valuable in the initial stage of framing the effects at issue, in the intermediate stages of documenting empirical causation and in the final stage of litigation, which was to calculate and defend the amount of retaliation.
Which Is in Front of Chinese People, Past or Future? The Effect of Language and Culture on Temporal Gestures and Spatial Conceptions of Time
Authors: Gu Yan , Zheng Yeqiu , Swerts Marc
Published: December 2019

Thetemporal‐focus hypothesisclaims that whether people conceptualize the past or the future as in front of them depends on their cultural attitudes toward time; such conceptualizations can be independent from the space–time metaphors expressed through language. In this paper, we study how Chinese people conceptualize time on the sagittal axis to find out the respective influences of language and culture on mental space–time mappings. An examination of Mandarin speakers' co‐speech gestures shows that some Chinese spontaneously perform past‐in‐front/future‐at‐back (besides future‐in‐front/past‐at‐back) gestures, especially when gestures are accompanying past‐in‐front/future‐at‐back space–time metaphors (Exp. 1). Using a temporal performance task, the study confirms that Chinese can conceptualize the future as behind and the past as in front of them, and that such space–time mappings are affected by the different expressions of Mandarin space–time metaphors (Exp. 2). Additionally, a survey on cultural attitudes toward time shows that Chinese tend to focus slightly more on the future than on the past (Exp. 3). Within the Chinese sample, we did not find evidence for the effect of participants' cultural temporal attitudes on space–time mappings, but a cross‐cultural comparison of space–time mappings between Chinese, Moroccans, and Spaniards provides strong support for thetemporal‐focus hypothesis. Furthermore, the results of Exp. 2 are replicated even after controlling for factors such as cultural temporal attitudes and age (Exp. 3), which implies that linguistic sagittal temporal metaphors can indeed influence Mandarin speakers' space–time mappings. The findings not only contribute to a better understanding of Chinese people's sagittal temporal orientation, but also have additional implications for theories on the mental space–time mappings and the relationship between language and thought.
Recent advances in the role of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors on cardiac allograft vasculopathy
Authors: Bellumkonda Lavanya , Patel Jignesh
Published: December 2019

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) is a progressive fibroproliferative disease, which contributes to significant morbidity and mortality during long‐term follow‐up after heart transplantation. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have favorable effects on endothelial function and reduce intimal proliferation, and their early use after transplantation has been associated with a reduction in the risk of development and progression of CAV. However, there are conflicting reports on the efficacy of these agents in treating established CAV. Most of the data until recently have been based on short‐term follow‐up, and CAV was assessed by changes in intravascular ultrasound. In this study, we review the mechanism of action of mTOR inhibitors and their protective role in CAV and summarize some of the recent literature, which include long‐term follow‐up using this class of medications.
Not all threats are taken equally: Evidence from proxy fights
Authors: Chen Fang , Du Lijing , Flaherty Susan M. V. , Huang Jian , Torna Gokhan
Published: December 2019

Previous research shows that activist threats lead to corporate policy concessions. We find that the threat of proxy fights is responded to differently based on its credibility. Decomposing proxy fight threats, we find that only credible threats are associated with more leveraged, more innovative, and less acquisitive corporate policies. Management, however, does not respond to noncredible threats. Further, for materialized fights, the market reaction at announcement is also conditional on the credibility of the threats. Overall, not all activist threats are responded to equally by management or the market, and only credible threats achieve disciplinary effects and favorable valuation.
Tunable microwave dielectric properties in SrO‐V2O5 system through compositional modulation
Authors: Li Chunchun , Yin Changzhi , Deng Ming , Shu Longlong , Khaliq Jibran
Published: December 2019

Adjustment on resonance frequency stability against the sintering temperature of Sr3V2O8 was realized by adjusting the Sr:V mole ratio. Effects of Sr:V ratio on sintering behavior and dielectric properties of Sr3V2O8 were studied. The sintering temperature was sucessfully reduced to 950°C from 1150°C. With increasing vanadium content, both relative permittivity and quality factor decreased, while the temperature coefficient of resonance frequency shifted from positive to negative values. Especially, a near‐zero τf of −1.1 ppm/°C along with a low permittivity (εr) of 9.8 and a quality factor Q × f of 24 120 GHz was successfully achieved in Sr3‐yV2O8‐y ceramic (y = 0.6, sintered at 950°C). The wide compositional and processing adjustment window, favorable dielectric performances, and good chemical compatibility with silver render Sr3‐yV2O8‐y ceramics potential candidates in multilayer electronic devices.
Problematic internet use and study motivation in higher education
Authors: Truzoli Roberto , Viganò Caterina , Galmozzi Paolo Gabriele , Reed Phil
Published: December 2019

The current study explored the relationship between problematic internet use (PIU) and motivation to learn, and examined psychological and social factors mediating this relationship. Two hundred and eighty‐five students in an Italian University were recruited for the current study. There was a negative relationship between PIU and motivation to study: a negative impact on learning strategies, meaning that the students found it harder to organize their learning productively; and PIU also positively associated with test anxiety. The current results also demonstrated that there was partial mediation of this effect of PIU on learning strategies in terms of loneliness. This suggest at those with high levels of PIU may be particularly at risk from lower motivations to study, and, hence, lower actual generalized academic performance due to a number of consequences of PIU.
Poor allocation concealment methods are associated with heterogeneity in age and statistical significance of the primary outcome: Review of recent trials published in four general medical journals
Authors: Mitchell Alex , Moe‐Byrne Thirimon , Cunningham‐Burley Rachel , Dean Alexandra , Rangan Aditi , Roche Jenny , Torgerson David J.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To assess the association of the quality of allocation concealment with heterogeneity in age, the P value of the primary outcome and statistical significance of the primary outcome.

Study design and setting

We extracted data from articles published in four major medical journals in 2017 and 2018 that reported the results of randomized controlled trials. The outcome measures were the quality of allocation concealment used in the trial, the P value of the primary outcome, whether the P value of the primary outcome was statistically significant and the level of heterogeneity in age between the treatment groups (measured using the I2 statistic). The association between the quality of allocation concealment and the P value of the primary outcome was assessed using a kernel density plot, while the association between the quality of allocation concealment and whether the P value was statistically significant was assessed using logistic regression.

Results

Trials that used inadequate concealment methods were more likely to report statistically significant findings than trials that used good or adequate methods (OR 1.90; 95% CI: 0.91 to 3.95; P = .09). The values of I2 for trials that used good, adequate, inadequate and unclear concealment methods were 0%, 1.0%, 32.6%, and 93.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

There is evidence of an association between poor allocation concealment methods and statistical significance of the primary outcome. Trials that use inadequate allocation concealment methods are more likely to have statistically significant P values compared with trials using good or adequate allocation concealment methods.
A new type of constant air‐temperature thawing system using compressor casing thermal storage
Authors: Liu Zhongbao , Zhao Banghua , Jiang Wencong , Qi Xin , Yan Jiawen , Lou Fengfei
Published: December 2019

The commonly used normal‐temperature air‐thawing method is time‐consuming and cannot achieve constant temperature thawing. Furthermore, microwave thawing consumes a considerable amount of electricity. These two common thawing methods cannot guarantee food quality. Thus, a new type of constant air‐temperature thawing system (CATT) that uses compressor casing thermal storage is designed and tested in this study. Results show that the CATT has faster speed than the air‐thawing method. Furthermore, although the thawing speed of CATT is slower than that of microwave thawing, food with 274.25 g thawing quality can save 0.2 kW h of electricity per iteration. The weight loss of CATT at 34°C was 64.6% of that of microwave thawing. The weight loss of CATT at 46°C was 40.8% of that of microwave thawing. When thawing at a constant temperature of 46°C, the thawing time required for the central temperature of chicken meat to increase from −8 to 10°C is 2 hr. The thermal storage material can decrease compressor noise effectively by 17.65%.

Practical Applications

The thawing of frozen food is a common problem. Hence, this paper proposes a new thawing method based on the residual heat of the refrigerator compressor casing. This method does not need to consume other energy and instead uses directly waste heat generated by the compressor casing to thaw frozen food. Frozen food can be thawed naturally at a constant temperature by controlling the temperature of the thawing chamber, and consequently, the disadvantages of long‐term air thawing and poor quality of microwave thawing are improved. The application of this method can increase the thawing function of the refrigerator and has considerable application prospects.
Direct observation of speed fluctuations of flagellar motor rotation at extremely low load close to zero
Authors: Nakamura Shuichi , Hanaizumi Yuta , Morimoto Yusuke V. , Inoue Yumi , Erhardt Marc , Minamino Tohru , Namba Keiichi
Published: December 2019

The bacterial flagellar motor accommodates ten stator units around the rotor to produce large torque at high load. But when external load is low, some previous studies showed that a single stator unit can spin the rotor at the maximum speed, suggesting that the maximum speed does not depend on the number of active stator units, whereas others reported that the speed is also dependent on the stator number. To clarify these two controversial observations, much more precise measurements of motor rotation would be required at external load as close to zero as possible. Here, we constructed a Salmonella filament‐less mutant that produces a rigid, straight, twice longer hook to efficiently label a 60 nm gold particle and analyzed flagellar motor dynamics at low load close to zero. The maximum motor speed was about 400 Hz. Large speed fluctuations and long pausing events were frequently observed, and they were suppressed by either over‐expression of the MotAB stator complex or increase in the external load, suggesting that the number of active stator units in the motor largely fluctuates near zero load. We conclude that the lifetime of the active stator unit becomes much shorter when the motor operates near zero load.
A PIK3CA mutation in an acquired capillary malformation
Authors: Rosenthal Jaclyn , Sibbald Cathryn , Jen Melinda , Deardorff Matthew A. , Treat James
Published: December 2019

Acquired capillary malformations are rare vascular anomalies composed of dilated capillaries in the skin. We present a pediatric case of an acquired capillary malformation as a novel presentation of the PIK3CA‐related overgrowth syndromes. Using next‐generation sequencing, we identified a PIK3CA p.Val344Met mutation within the acquired capillary malformation with possible prognostic and therapeutic significance.
Poverty
Authors: Wolff Jonathan
Published: December 2019

Poverty is often defined as lacking the financial resources to meet a set of basic needs. Here, I consider four questions. First, how is the relevant level of basic needs to be determined? Second, given that the possibility of satisfying basic needs is not solely determined by possession of financial resources, is poverty better understood or measured at least in part in non‐financial terms? Third, what, if anything, is owed to people in poverty and by whom? And finally, what social policies should be favoured in attempting to deal with poverty? The key message is that overcoming poverty is more than meeting needs for food and shelter, but also includes meeting the human need for a social life and fitting in with what is commonly expected in society (overcoming relative poverty). Out of respect for all, governments have a duty to adopt policies to bring people out of poverty.
Phylogenetic analysis of ABCG subfamily proteins in plants: functional clustering and coevolution with ABCGs of pathogens
Authors: Cho Chung Hyun , Jang Sunghoon , Choi Bae Young , Hong Daewoong , Choi Du Seok , Choi Sera , Kim Haseong , Han Seong Kyu , Kim Sanguk , Kim Min‐Sung , Palmgren Michael , Sohn Kee Hoon , Yoon Hwan Su , Lee Youngsook
Published: December 2019

ABCG subfamily proteins are highly enriched in terrestrial plants. Many of these proteins secrete secondary metabolites that repel or inhibit pathogens. To establish why the ABCG subfamily proteins proliferated extensively during evolution, we constructed phylogenetic trees from a broad range of eukaryotic organisms. ABCG proteins were massively duplicated in land plants and in oomycetes, a group of agronomically important plant pathogens, which prompted us to hypothesize that plant and pathogen ABCGs coevolved. Supporting this hypothesis, full‐size ABCGs in host plants (Arabidopsis thaliana and Glycine max) and their pathogens (Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis and Phytophthora sojae, respectively) had similar divergence times and patterns. Furthermore, generalist pathogens with broad ranges of host plants have diversified more ABCGs than their specialist counterparts. The hypothesis was further tested using an example pair of ABCGs that first diverged during multiplication in a host plant and its pathogen: AtABCG31 of A. thaliana and HpaP802307 of H. arabidopsidis. AtABCG31 expression was activated following infection with H. arabidopsidis, and disrupting AtABCG31 led to increased susceptibility to H. arabidopsidis. Together, our results suggest that ABCG genes in plants and their oomycete pathogens coevolved in an arms race, to extrude secondary metabolites involved in the plant's defense response against pathogens.
Correlations between blood lipid, serum cystatin C, and homocysteine levels in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Li Jia , Gu Chengzhi , Zhu Min , Li Dan , Chen Lan , Zhu Xiangyang
Published: December 2019

Aim

The aim was too study the correlations between blood lipid, serum cystatin C (Cys C) and homocysteine (Hcy) levels in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

A total of 322 PD patients and 214 healthy subjects were selected as case and control groups, respectively. The risk factors were explored by logistic regression analysis. The case group was subtyped according to main motor symptoms and age of onset. The correlations of significantly different indices with age, duration of disease, and equivalent dose of levodopa were studied by Spearman's correlation analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted to analyze diagnostic values.

Results

Compared to the control group, the PD group had lower serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and apolipoprotein B (Apo B) levels and higher high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), Hcy, and Cys C levels (P < 0.05). Decreased Apo B level and increased HDL‐C and Hcy levels were independent risk factors (P < 0.05). The Cys C level of early‐onset patients was lower than of late‐onset patients (P < 0.05). Hcy (r = 0.198, P < 0.05) and Cys C (r = 0.281, P < 0.05) levels were positively correlated with age. Triglyceride level was negatively correlated with age (r = −0.202, P < 0.05) and disease duration (r = −0.198, P < 0.05). Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III score was positively correlated with disease duration (r = 0.435, P < 0.05) and equivalent dose of levodopa (r = 0.423, P < 0.05). The areas under the curve for Apo B, HDL‐C, and Hcy levels were 0.341, 0.588, and 0.643, respectively (P < 0.05). The combination of Apo B, HDL‐C, and Hcy levels showed high diagnostic value, with a sensitivity of 76.4% and specificity of 69.5%.

Conclusions

Low serum levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, and Apo B, and high levels of HDL‐C, Hcy, and Cys C may be correlated with PD onset and progression. Decreased Apo B level and elevated HDL‐C and Hcy levels are independent risk factors. Early‐onset and late‐onset PD may have different progression mechanisms.
Justification VindicatedJustification: Volume One, MichaelHorton, Zondervan, 2018 (ISBN 978‐0‐310‐49160‐6), 400 pp., pb £39.99Justification: Volume Two, MichaelHorton, Zondervan, 2018 (ISBN 978‐0‐310‐57838‐3), 528 pp., pb £39.99
Authors: O'Leary Joseph S.
Published: December 2019

Writing from a classical Reformed perspective, Horton reviews the entire history of ‘Justification’ and then sharply criticizes many fashionable movements in theology that he sees as a betrayal of the doctrine. These include ‘the new perspective on Paul’, the Finnish School of Tuomo Mannermaa, Radical Orthodoxy, and even the Lutheran–Roman Catholic Joint Declaration of 1999. Writing with theological and pastoral passion, Horton is a formidable polemicist who never loses sight of his central concern, so that his book is both an exciting debate and a moving witness to the Pauline, Lutheran, and Calvinist Gospel.
Factors related to perceived caring among older people residing in long‐term care facilities: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hwang Huei‐Lih , Tu Chin‐Tang
Published: December 2019

Background

Healthcare providers who exhibit caring behaviours promote quality of care. Theoretical and empirical models have promoted a three‐dimensional paradigm of care perception. However, the perception of elderly residents in long‐term care facilities related to caring has not been investigated.

Objectives

This study explored factors related to the elderly’s perception of healthcare providers’ caring in long‐term care facilities.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 461 elderly residents living in 57 long‐term care facilities in southern Taiwan. A structured questionnaire included demographic information, facility characteristics and the 12‐item Caring Scale for Institutionalized Elders. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to determine significant factors related to the elderly residents’ caring perceptions.

Findings

A hierarchical regression model showed 49.9% of the variance in elderly’s perception of caring. Significant related factors included resident’s age, number of comorbidities, need for caring, time spent being cared for, bed‐to‐nurse staffing ratios and accreditation status.

Conclusions

Improved Registered Nurse staffing ratios with a higher level of accreditation status yield better perceptions of caring among residential elderly. Those with comorbid diseases and fewer caring needs have a higher perception of healthcare provider caring.

Implications

The related factors of elderly’s perceived caring provide long‐term care managers and nursing staff with beneficial information to develop strategies that can manage residents with high expected‐care needs. Policies to improve the accreditation standards of long‐term care facilities are needed.
Reputation in Rupture: Broken Alliances and Relational Politics in the Roosevelt‐Taft Split
Authors: Fine Gary Alan , Robertson Christopher
Published: December 2019

Under what circumstances do close allies sacrifice their unity? By what process do bonds break? Although it might be argued that political ruptures are determined by incommensurable ideas (policies, philosophies) or by contentious personalities (temperament, character), we argue that neither explanation is sociologically sufficient. Extending the theories of interpersonal ruptures of Diane Vaughan and Robert Emerson to political domains, we take a relational approach to politics by emphasizing the centrality of the availability of reputational information, networks of supporters, and public displays of antagonism in response to affronts within systems of institutional power. Our approach to public ruptures draws on a detailed case study: the broken alliance between presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, a dramatic instance of changing master‐protégé relationship. The transition from close interpersonal alliance to public distaste typically involves four stages that expand a relational breach to an irreparable rupture: (1) personal grievance, (2) substantive disagreement, (3) public awareness, and (4) network activity. While every detailed case has limits, we note comparable instances and contend that this model applies broadly to broken partnerships in politics or other public domains.
A survey investigating the current practice of French health professionals regarding infection risk after monkey bites
Authors: Gauthier Pauline , Bellanger Anne‐Pauline , Bozon Fabienne , Lepiller Quentin , Chirouze Catherine , Marguet Philippe
Published: December 2019

International tourism is steadily increasing, with 15% of travellers reporting health problems when they come back. Animal bites represent 2% of consulting causes, of which 20% are due to monkey bites. The Monkey B virus (Macacine alphaherpesvirus 1) is an alphaherpesvirus (Herpesviridae, genus Simplexvirus) enzootic in macaques (Genus Macaca). Zoonotic infections with the Monkey B virus following exposure to macaques are exceptionally rare, but can cause fatal encephalomyelitis in humans. An observational survey was undertaken in 2018 to assess the practice of French health professionals regarding infection risk after monkey bites. French health professionals practicing in vaccination and rabies centres were specifically targeted for this study. Standardized questionnaires were sent by email to a sample of French health professionals. They were asked to participate on a voluntary and anonymous basis. The questionnaires requested epidemiological details and included multiple‐choice questions about the infection management of monkey bites. The response rate was 33.5%. The frequency of monkey bites in 2017 was variable with a minority of centres managing more than 6 per year (12%), 46% managing 1–5 monkey bites and 42% none. Most of the monkey bites were described as occurring in South Asia at tourist sites, on naked upper limbs, shortly after the travellers arrived at their destination. Tetanus status verification, rabies post‐exposure prophylaxis and antibiotic therapy were said to be prescribed in most cases. Knowledge about the Monkey B virus was reported as scarce for 38% of the participants. The number of monkey bites managed per year per centre varied greatly but practices regarding infectious risk after monkey bites were generally homogeneous. The risk of Monkey B virus transmission did not readily come to mind in the differential diagnosis of infection risk for many French health professionals.
Environmental Sustainability Scale for Children 60-72 Months Old: A Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: Özkan Banu , Tuğluk Mehmet Nur , Yiğitalp Nihal
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the importance of sustainability has been realized with ever-increasing environmental issues. The preschool period is the most appropriate time for developing an awareness of sustainability as children acquire basic habits during this period and maintain these habits throughout their lives. This study was aimed at developing a scale to evaluate environmental sustainability behaviors in children aged 60-72 months. The validity and reliability study of the scale was limited to 60-72-month-old preschool children, the 2017-2018 academic year and Istanbul (Kadıkoy and Besiktas districts), Kutahya and Yalova provinces. The total number of participants was 426. The 41 scale items developed by the researchers were submitted to six field specialists for review, and the scale was finalized in accordance with the Lawshe method prior to commencing validity and reliability studies. The study data were gathered with the Environmental Sustainability Scale for Children aged 60-72 Months that comprised 2 factors and 20 items. The factor structure of the scale was determined after a theoretical literature review and peer-debriefing. First and second order confirmatory factor analyses were performed for the construct finalized after peer-debriefing. In the reliability study, internal consistency was examined, and the Cronbach’s alpha was computed as .92. In conclusion, the study results indicated that the scale was a valid and reliable evaluation instrument.
Discussion: “Simultaneous Effects of Nonlinear Mixed Convection and Radiative Flow Due to Riga-Plate With Double Stratification” (Hayat, T., Ullah, I., Alsaedi, A., Ahamad, B., 2018, ASME J. Heat Transfer, 140(10), p. 102008)
Authors: Pantokratoras Asterios
Published: December 2019

The present comment concerns some doubtful results included in the above paper.
Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detectors for Spectrometric Radon–Progeny Detection and AARST-NRPP Standard Qualification
Authors: Hemesath Mitch P. , Archambault Brian C. , Boyle Nathan M. , Taleyarkhan Rusi P.
Published: December 2019

This paper describes how the tensioned metastable fluid detector (TMFD) sensor technology was successfully configured and qualified for efficient, accurate, spectroscopic, and cost-effective radon and progeny spectroscopic detection alongside meeting/exceeding the standards set by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists-National Radon Proficiency Program (AARST-NRPP) Device Evaluation Program (DEP). The DEP represents addressing of a challenging test matrix that assesses a radon collection and measurement device's performance over a variety of functional parameters and environmental conditions. Qualification test conditions covered in this study included performance vetting of the centrifugally tensioned metastable fluid detector (CTMFD) technology under a wide range of temperatures, noncondensing relative humidity (RH) levels, condensing conditions, atmospheric pressures, background photon radiation, nonionizing external electromagnetic (EM) fields, shock and vibration, and air movement. Of all these parameters, only the ambient temperature played a first-order role on radon collection; for this reason, a dynamic compensation algorithm was developed and successfully validated. The remaining AARST-NRPP test parameters were found to have negligible affects. In comparison to state-of-art radon detector systems, the resulting radon specific CTMFD (R-CTMFD) sensor system and protocol are shown to provide for superior sensitivity along with spectroscopic identification of radon–progeny alpha emitters while remaining 100% blind to interfering gamma–beta background radiation.
Fully Developed Transport Constants of Annular Tubes, With Application to the Entrance Region
Authors: Bennett Ted D.
Published: December 2019

Description of the laminar thermal entry problem in annular tubes has historically been limited to a few geometric cases that require piecing together classical Graetz series and Lévêque series solutions to span all values of the Graetz number. The current work uses a recently developed generalized correlation to describe the full range of Graetz numbers for any annular tube geometry. However, the correlation requires fully developed Nusselt number values that have only been accurately reported in tabular and graphical forms. Exact analytic solutions for the constant wall heat flux condition are developed in this work, and simplified correlations are proposed for all wall conditions that reproduce exact Nusselt number solutions to within ± 0.4%. Using these results, a modified version of the generalized Graetz problem correlation is developed to reproduce the most published Nusselt numbers for the thermal entry problem in an annular tube to be within ± 5%.
Complete Parametric Study of Bagasse Pellets During High-Temperature Steam Gasification
Authors: Nguyen Hong Nam , Tsubota Toshiki
Published: December 2019

A complete parametric study of bagasse pellets under high-temperature steam gasification in relevant industrial operating conditions was investigated. Regarding thermal behaviors, the maximum rate of weight loss (Rmax = 0.55%/°C) occurred at the temperature Tmax = 305 °C. The final pyrolysis temperature and heating rate were proportional to the mechanical strength, the bulk density, as well as the char yield and energy yield. However, the changes were not significant after 600 °C. Regarding steam gasification kinetics, an increase from 850 to 1000 °C and from 0.1 to 0.4 atm accelerated 10 times and two times the conversion rate of bagasse pellet char, respectively. Gasification kinetics of a pellet char produced at 2000 °Cmin−1 was 1.4 higher compared with a pellet char produced at 5 °C min−1. An empirical model that takes into account all the changes in the reactive surface could successfully predict the conversion of the bagasse pellet char during high-temperature steam gasification. Experimental results and the kinetic model proposed could be useful for the calculation of industrial or academic codes, necessary for the conception of new efficient gasifiers.
Protective Efficacy of Monoclonal Antibodies Neutralizing Alpha-Hemolysin and Bicomponent Leukocidins in a Rabbit Model of Staphylococcus aureus Necrotizing Pneumonia
Authors: Vu Trang T. T. , Nguyen Nhu T. Q. , Tran Vuvi G. , Gras Emmanuelle , Mao Yanjie , Jung David H. , Tkaczyk Christine , Sellman Bret R. , Diep Binh An
Published: December 2019

Staphylococcus aureus
is a major human pathogen that causes a wide range of infections by producing an arsenal of cytotoxins.
Antibiotic prescription in the outpatient paediatric population attending emergency departments in Lombardy, Italy: a retrospective database review
Authors: Messina Francesco , Clavenna Antonio , Cartabia Massimo , Piovani Daniele , Bortolotti Angela , Fortino Ida , Merlino Luca , Bonati Maurizio
Published: December 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the appropriateness of antibiotic prescription in children seen in emergency departments (EDs) and to compare prescription profiles in ED and primary care.

Design

This is a retrospective analysis of healthcare administrative databases.

Setting

The study analysed data collected in emergency departments (EDs) and primary care practices (PCPs) in Lombardy, Italy.

Participants

Children and adolescents between 1 and 13 years old with an ED access and/or an antibiotic prescription in the first semester of 2012 participated in the study. Only those with an index event (ie, without ED access, hospital admissions or antibiotic prescriptions in the previous 60 days) were included.

Main outcome measures

The main outcomes are percentage of subjects receiving amoxicillin (first-choice antibiotic) and percentages receiving macrolides/cephalosporins (second-choice therapies).

Results

During the observation period, 133 275 children had one ED access, and 26 087 (19.6%) received an antibiotic prescription. In all, 56.1% of children seen for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) received an antibiotic, with a prevalence of 67.8% for otitis media and 56.4% for pharyngotonsillitis; 22.3% of children were given amoxicillin after a visit for URTIs, with no differences among infections, and 19.6% received macrolides and cephalosporins. Few differences were found when comparing the index antibiotic prescriptions in ED and PCP settings. A higher prescription of second-choice antibiotics was observed among children cared for by PCPs compared with children attending EDs (31.3% vs 23.4%, χ2M-H=720, p<0.001). The place of residence was the main determinant of the qualitative profile of prescriptions.

Conclusions

More must be done to improve rational use of antibiotics in the ED and PCP setting, and educational interventions including physicians in both setting are strongly needed.