bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Potential Distribution of Gold Mineralization Zone of High Sulfidation Epithermal System using Time-Domain Induced Polarization (TDIP) and Magnetic Method at “N” Mountain Qrea
Authors: Khoir M F , Rosid M S
Published: July 2020

The high gold commodity as well as the Pongkor production field that has existed since decades ago made it necessary to find a new potential zone for gold mining production. To find out the zone of gold mineralization and its continuity, geophysical studies then conducted by using the methods of Time-Domain Induced Polarization (TDIP) and magnetic. TDIP data consisting of resistivity and chargeability data are interpreted to determine alteration zones and subsurface mineralization that are correlated with magnetic data that has been inversed in 3D to obtain susceptibility parameters. Based on the value of resistivity in the study area, the argillic alteration zones are thought to has a value of < 50 Ohm.m. Silicification alteration zones supposedly have the value > 50 Ohm.m. The value of the chargeability at the mineralized zone indicated has a value of 100-810 msec. Also, study in the area of the mineralized zone have a susceptibility value in the range of -0.073 to -0.021 cgs. From that parameter of the mineralized zone, it is assumed that the mineralization zone is in the eastern part of the study area and oriented North-South direction with the orientation of the main fault.
Mapping of basement layer in field “X” petroleum system using ESA – MWT technique gravity data
Authors: Rosid M S , Andrian J
Published: July 2020

Land gravity data acquired over part of North Sumatera Basin, Indonesia, was used to estimate depth to multiple horizons of density interface. Recently, gravitational data has difficulty to map the depth of subsurface layer structure except by using modeling. Here, we apply the energy spectral analysis-multi window test (ESA–MWT) technique to map the subsurface horizons. The estimated depth was computed from energy spectral analysis as the transformation of the gridded gravity data to 2D Fourier transform (Fast Fourier Transform). The energy spectrum analysis is performed at a test point by windowing the gridded complete Bouguer anomaly (CBA) at that test point with the square window size constantly increasing 1 km width from the previous window size. The distance between the test points is about 2 km on each of the gravity measurement lines. Plateau depths are then obtained which represents the density interfaces of the plot result between the depths of the anomaly to the window size. The results of the mapping of density interfaces correspond to sedimentary interfaces, those are the economic basement as Top Tampur Formation (Horizon 1), the top of several other sedimentary interfaces (Horizon 2-6), one of them is Top Belumai Formation (Horizon 2).
Simulation of proppant flowback from hydraulic fractures
Authors: Verisokin A E , Yu Serdyukov D , Vasil’yev V A , Gun’kina T A , Shesterikova R E
Published: July 2020

Hydraulic fracturing has become one of the main and most effective methods of intensifying oil production. A method of bench-scale study with the use of modern measuring equipment, automation of experimental variable measurements according to specified algorithms ensuring high-level works was developed in order to obtain reliable data on proppant migration in a fracture. The laboratory facility makes it possible to determine the speed of proppant flowback from a fracture, proppant permeability depending on layer elevation. The tests show the nature of permeability change as the pressure increases. The conditions under which the height of a filling layer varies depending on pressure were identified. The test bench greatly facilitates and accelerates the experiments. The use of modern information and measurement systems makes it possible to significantly increase the volume of received information and improve its quality. The use of experimental results obtained through hydraulic fracturing will allow for additional increase in hydrocarbon production.
Energy-efficiency measures of oil and gas industry building using optimum conditions of faltering heating
Authors: Osintsev K V , Korabelnikova D P , Pshenitsyna T A
Published: July 2020

Nowadays the problem of use of energy resources is the most relevant. The actions directed to increase in energy efficiency of use of energy resources at the mining utilities should be developed and introduce to solve this problem. The refusal of the systems of the centralized heat supply and transition to the decentralized systems is offered as the solution of an objective. In the centralized systems, development of warmth is carried out in separate sources. The giving of the heating agent in the systems of heat consumption is taken place through thermal networks. Thermal networks have the considerable extent and diameters at the same time. They are also equipped with thermal points, pump stations, automatic equipment and a control system.
Compensator-vibration isolator
Authors: Vakhitova R I , Saracheva D A , Zaripova Z F
Published: July 2020

Nowadays electrical submersible pump (ESP) units remain the main type of formation fluid production equipment. There may be complicating factors during the operation of oil production wells equipped with such units. Complicating factors include the fall of the submersible unit downhole to the bottom of the production well. The damage from such falls is great. Despite the accumulated experience in this area, effective solutions need to be developed. In the work, the sources of vibration in the ESP are noted, and the places of breaks in the unit are indicated. The reasons for the occurrence of vibration processes in a submersible unit are summarized. The authors propose a design of a compensator intended for quenching vibration energy in a submersible unit. To evaluate the effectiveness of the compensator as part of an ESP unit, tests on industrial sites were conducted. At Open Joint-Stock Company Alnas, the test stand was a vertical well. Tests in Almetyevsk Central Base of Electric Submersible Production Service were carried out on a horizontal test stand section by section. Analysis of the results of the tests showed that the use of a compensator can reduce vibration levels.
IoT-Based Smart Home Controller Using NodeMCU Lua V3 Microcontroller and Telegram Chat Application
Authors: Findawati Yulian , Idris Achmad , Suprianto  , Rachmawati Yunianita , Suprayitno Eko Agus
Published: July 2020

The house is a valuable asset that needs to be guarded, not infrequently some people experience undesirable things happening in the home environment, these things include fires and theft. Anticipation is not just enough by manually such as locking the door, or preparing fire extinguishers, in addition to the manual way of anticipation can be added by automation, namely by installing devices that can monitor the condition of the house and also can control electrical equipment in the house. The automation tool intended in this study is an IoT-Based Smart Home Controller Using the NodeMCU Lua V3 Microcontroller and Telegram Chatting Application. The use of automation systems like this is an option to be implemented because it saves power and the price is relatively cheap. This device / system uses 2 NodeMCU Lua V3 microcontrollers and several sensors (fire sensors, motion sensors, temperature and humidity sensors) and also this role utilizes the 4 Chanel Relay Module which functions as a switch to turn off or turn on electrical equipment in the home. The control function of the smart home controller device also utilizes the Telegram chat application bot that is planted on an IoT-based system device with the function of receiving commands from users through the Telegram chat application to monitor the condition of the house and also controls the relay module used as a switch of equipment.
Smart Home Integrated With Internet Of Things (Iot) In The Digital Era Of Industry 4.0
Authors: Suprayitno Eko Agus , Anshory Izza , Jamaaluddin
Published: July 2020

Smart Home is one form of technological progress in the Industrial Revolution Era 4.0 that facilitates human activities in controlling and monitoring the condition of the home that is not limited to distance by utilizing electronic equipment, the internet, and smart phones[1]. In this research, a prototype of Smart Home with Internet of Things (IoT) which is equipped with a proximity sensor (HC-SRF04) to open and close the door of the house automatically, a temperature sensor (LM35) in detecting the integrated room temperature on and off based on the fan room temperature, and lights and fans that can be controlled remotely by using the internet and smartphones. Android application to control and monitor homes in Create by using the Blynk application. The Temperature Sensor and Proximity Sensor on Smart Home are tested using Industry standard distance and temperature measuring devices (digital thermometers). The accuracy value of the device reaches 98.22% for distance measurement, and 98.50% for room temperature when compared with industry standard tools. Android applications have been successfully tested in several types of smartphones with different brands and specifications. The distance of the smartphone to the Smart Home location in monitoring and control was successfully tested and worked well at the closest distance of 5 meters to the farthest distance of 17,466 km (State of Mexico), all of which use the Internet.
Analysis of Groundwater Contamination Level in Residential Areas Around Cipayung Landfill Using Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Maryadi Maryadi , Supriyanto  , Champai Fira Mariah Sausan , Triananda I Nyoman , Fitriana Desi Nur
Published: July 2020

Cipayung Landfill is the last disposal location of waste processing in Depok City, West Java. In a day, approximately 800 tons of garbage is dumped, which is then processed by being burned and left to decompose for inorganic and organic waste, respectively. However, poor waste management has resulted in an accumulation that continues to this day. This creates a variety of problems, especially leachate contamination that infiltrates to the groundwater, flows along and threaten the health of residents who live in the vicinity. This liquid contains toxins and hazardous materials. Therefore, it is essential for residents to know the level of contamination occurred and its dispersion, along with actions that must be taken to reduce the impact of pollution. In this study, we map the distribution of contaminated groundwater using the geophysical ground penetrating radar method, together with the chemical analysis of water samples. Ground penetrating radar has been useful to detect the change of permittivity and conductivity of layers below the surface. It is possible to mark off the contaminated groundwater to the fresh one indicated from an extensive amount of electromagnetic signal attenuation. This study suggests that there is contamination occurred in radius up to hundreds of meters from the landfill site. The result of this community-based research gives an advisable policy regarding waste management and groundwater usage in this area.
Data Mining Optimization uses C4.5 Classification and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) in the location selection of Student Boardinghouses
Authors: Waluyo Ari , Jatnika Hendra , Permatasari Marlina Rahmi Shinta , Tuslaela T , Purnamasari Indah , Windarto Agus Perdana
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study is to select the location of student boarding houses using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and C4.5 optimization techniques. The source of the data was obtained by observing and giving questionnaires to 150 respondents who were lodging in the Pematangsiantar-Simalungun area. from the data set of 81 records and using 5 parameters of assessment ((C1) water cleanliness, (C2) Facilities, (C3) Transportation, (C4) Security, and (C5) Conditions) obtained the results of modeling using the C4.5 + PSO algorithm has better accuracy is 97.78% compared to the C4.5 model whose accuracy is 97.53%. Thus, it is evident that the PSO applied to the weighting of the C4.5 attribute increases the value of accuracy..
The Rubber Compound Combination To Strenghthen Tire Valve of 80/90 R-14
Authors: Widodo Edi , Suhami Hani , Firdaus Rachmad , Mulyadi  , Fahruddin A’rasy
Published: July 2020

Tires are part of the wheel of the vehicle in direct contact with the road surface. Tires are the basis for supporting vehicle loads. The basic material of the tire is rubber so it has elastic and soft properties, strong but yet susceptible to taper and sharp objects. Minor damage to the tire will cause air leakage, and its can occur in all parts of the tire. This study discusses tire leakage caused by valve damage. Valve damage is caused by high pressure, lack of pressure, inner tire leakage or shock load collision which causes the tire valve to release. Reused tire damaged in the valve section can be repaired with modifications of the worn and damaged valve. The addition of plastic-coated compound to add strength and toughness of the valve, was applied to get the benefits of tire recycling. The added layer includes a plastic layer, compound and balloon layer. The three layers are tested to find out the layer that is able to increase the strength of the valve more significantly. Tire valve pressure testing which is coated with plastic can have greater strength than other composites.
Experimental Study of Blade Angle Effect on Two-Stage Vertical Shaft Hydrofoil Water Turbines on Power and Efficiency
Authors: Santoso A N E B , Fahruddin A , Iswanto
Published: July 2020

The limitations of fossil energy sources are one of the most fundamental energy problems. Therefore, it is necessary to make power plants with alternative sources that are environmentally friendly and affordable. One effort that can be done is using water energy to drive turbines. This study aims to determine the effect of blade angle on the total power and efficiency produced by the hydrofoil water turbine. In this study using a two-stage hydrofoil turbine with NACA 64-212 standard blade. The turbine blade angle is varied by 4, 6, and 8 degrees. Water discharge is varied by 40, 50, and 60 L/s. The results show that the largest total power is 3.046 Watt, achieved at a 4-degree blade angle with a water discharge of 60 L/s. And the highest efficiency is 11.22%, achieved at a 4-degree blade angle with a water discharge of 40 L/s.
Geometric Waldspurger periods II
Authors: Lysenko Sergey
Published: July 2020

In this paper we extend the calculation of the geometric Waldspurger periods from our paper [Compos. Math. 144 (2008), no. 2, 377–438] to the case of ramified coverings. We give some applications to the study of Whittaker coeffcients of the theta-lifting of automorphic sheaves from

PGL
2

\operatorname {PGL}_2

to the metaplectic group

SL
~

2

\widetilde {\operatorname {SL}}_2

; they agree with our conjectures from [Geometric Whittaker models and Eisenstein series for

M
p

2

\mathrm {Mp}_2

, arXiv:1221.1596]. In the process of the proof, we construct some new automorphic sheaves for

GL
2

{\operatorname {GL}_2}

in the ramified setting. We also formulate stronger conjectures about Waldspurger periods and geometric theta-lifting for the dual pair

(

SL
~

2

,

PGL
2

)

(\widetilde {\operatorname {SL}}_2, \operatorname {PGL}_2)

.
The Origin of Specious: misunderstandings about Patrick Matthew’s evolutionary thinking
Authors: Derry J F , Dagg Joachim L
Published: July 2020

Many ambiguities in Patrick Matthew’s evolutionary ideas can be resolved upon rejecting the presumption that his mechanism was identical to Darwin’s. This presumption has led to two ingrained interpretations which we show are false. First, competitive natural selection plays no role in Matthew’s lineage splitting. On the contrary, it is absent during his comparably short phases of adaptive radiation occurring after catastrophes. Catastrophes eliminate competition, and the competitive vacuum pulls the surviving species apart and unleashes their indwelling variational force. Separate populations adapt to new circumstances through variation and non-competitive survival. Second, competitive natural selection does not drive Matthew’s lineage adaptation either. When it is active, during the comparably long phases of conformity that follow adaptive radiation, the environment directly leads the system towards adaptation. Lineages adapt to changing circumstances but do not split. Interpreting Matthew’s statements accordingly makes sense of his evolutionary thinking that seemed obscure for over a century, especially his statements about the fixity of species and the species problem.
Why Agential Realism Matters to Social Work
Authors: Webb Stephen A
Published: July 2020

This article is a theory-building exercise, which focusses on Baradian agential realism to build a framework of key concepts and their interrelationships to show how and why this perspective matters to social work. It makes a statement about the relevance of agential realism, in the writings of Karen Barad and other feminist post-humanist thinkers, to rethink fundamental concepts, which are embedded in social work discourse, especially those humanist notions that relate to agency, subjectivity and reflection. It charts how agential realism can become foundational for social work knowledge. The article is intended both as an introduction to the thought of Barad and as a mapping of current agential realist scholarly trajectories. It guides the reader through the conceptual terrain of agential realist thought by explicating the key concepts of intra-action, entanglement, diffraction and agential cuts. In order to furnish an accessible engagement with Baradian theory, the article marshals case studies and references, drawing on ethnographic and qualitative research, which relate to social work. It concludes by showing how agential realism can provide a rich ontological framework for social work and highlights how it disrupts some of our long-held cherished beliefs about what it means to do social work.
A Validated Stability-Indicating Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Determination of Lorcaserin and Related Impurities in DRUG Substance Supported by Quality by Design
Authors: Wani Dattatraya V , Mokale Santosh N
Published: July 2020

Lorcaserin (LOR) is selective and potent antiobesity drug that targets the activation of the serotonin 5HT2C receptor. Here a novel, specific, sensitive stability indicating method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of LOR and its process-related impurities using quality by design principles. By applying experimental design, the authors examine the multifactorial effect of parameters on the critical resolution pair and generated design space representing the robust design. LOR was subjected to stress condition and found stable at all condition, only found significant degradation at oxidative stress condition. The chromatographic separation of degradation product and its process-related impurities were achieved on a Phenomenox Luna phenyl-hexyl column (150 × 4.6 mm × 5 μm), with mobile phase consisting of 10 mM ammonium formate containing 0.1% ammonia solution; pH adjusted to 2.8 with trifluoroacetic acid as solvent A and methanol/acetonitrile (5/95) as solvent B delivered with gradient program at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, column temperature was maintained at 25°C and analytes were monitored at 220 nm. The injection volume was 5 μL. The developed RP-LC method was validated and found linear, accurate, specific, selective, precise and robust. The structure of impurities was confirmed by direct mass analysis.
Evaluating Use Cases for Human Challenge Trials in Accelerating SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Development
Authors: Nguyen Linh Chi , Bakerlee Christopher W , McKelvey T Greg , Rose Sophie M , Norman Alexander J , Joseph Nicholas , Manheim David , McLaren Michael R , Jiang Steven , Barnes Conor F , Kinniment Megan , Foster Derek , Darton Thomas C , Morrison Josh
Published: July 2020

Human challenge trials (HCTs) have been proposed as a means to accelerate SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development. We identify and discuss 3 potential use cases of HCTs in the current pandemic: evaluating efficacy, converging on correlates of protection, and improving understanding of pathogenesis and the human immune response. We outline the limitations of HCTs and find that HCTs are likely to be most useful for vaccine candidates currently in preclinical stages of development. We conclude that, while currently limited in their application, there are scenarios in which HCTs would be extremely beneficial. Therefore, the option of conducting HCTs to accelerate SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development should be preserved. As HCTs require many months of preparation, we recommend an immediate effort to (1) establish guidelines for HCTs for COVID-19; (2) take the first steps toward HCTs, including preparing challenge virus and making preliminary logistical arrangements; and (3) commit to periodically re-evaluating the utility of HCTs.
Physicians’ empathy levels in a primary care setting: perceptions of patients and their physicians, a qualitative study
Authors: Al-Habbal Khairat , Arawi Thalia
Published: July 2020

Background

The physician–patient relationship is a crucial element in successful medical care. Empathy is the ability to understand an individual’s subjective experience yet remain as an observer. It plays a major role in establishing a good physician–patient relationship.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the perspectives of patients and their corresponding emergency physicians regarding physicians’ empathy levels and to extract themes that both patients and their doctors considered as important for an empathic encounter.

Methods

This is a qualitative study conducted at a Middle Eastern tertiary care centre Emergency Department (ED) using in-depth semi-structured interviews administered to each participating patient and his/her corresponding ED physician. Empathy-related themes were identified using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

This study shows that both patients and physicians believe in the importance of empathy in the ED based on four major themes: emotions, interpersonal skills, time and chief complaint. Time and the chief complaint were perceived as barriers by physicians, but not by their patients.

Conclusions

A gap lies in the expressive communication phase of empathy between the two groups. The four major themes retrieved could form the basis of an empathy measure in the medical encounter in Lebanese and similar settings.
It Is Not Just Mortality: A Call From Chile for Comprehensive COVID-19 Policy Responses Among Older People
Authors: Villalobos Dintrans Pablo , Browne Jorge , Madero-Cabib Ignacio
Published: July 2020

Objective

Provide a synthesis of the COVID-19 policies targeting older people in Chile, stressing their short- and long-term challenges.

Method

Critical analysis of the current legal and policy measures, based on national-level data and international experiences.

Results

Although several policies have been enacted to protect older people from COVID-19, these measures could have important unintended negative consequences in this group’s mental and physical health, as well as financial aspects.

Discussion

A wider perspective is needed to include a broader definition of health—considering financial scarcity, access to health services, mental health issues, and long-term care—in the policy responses to COVID-19 targeted to older people in Chile.
Tourniquet fixing prior to knot tying reduces forces during aortic valve replacement: experimental results from 18 surgeons
Authors: Hartrumpf Martin , Sterner Josephine , Schroeter Filip , Kuehnel Ralf-Uwe , Laux Magdalena L , Braun Christian , Albes Johannes M
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVES

To increase the safety of aortic valve replacement, we developed the ‘Caput medusae’ method, where the prosthesis is prefixed with circumferential tourniquets prior to knot tying. We assumed that an even distribution of forces may help reduce tissue damage. To confirm this theoretically, we compared forces between knots and tourniquets.

METHODS

The experimental set-up included a device with movable acrylic plates, a mounted valve and a set of sutures. Traction forces were measured with a luggage scale. Two different tourniquets were compared individually and as bundles of 15. Force–path curves were generated. Knotting and tourniquet forces of 18 staff surgeons were then compared. Both modalities were measured 10 times on 2 days, resulting in 40 observations per surgeon, or 360 observations per modality.

RESULTS

Polyvinyl chloride tourniquets were stiffer than silicone, expressed by a 1.5- to 1.7-fold higher regression-line slope. Fifteen simultaneous tubes produced force increments 7.9–8.9 times higher than their single counterparts. Overall knotting force was 13.64 ± 5.76 vs tourniquet 1.08 ± 0.48 N. Male surgeons’ knotting forces were higher compared to female staff (14.76 ± 6.01 vs 10.73 ± 3.74 N; P < 0.001) while tourniquet forces did not differ (1.09 ± 0.47 vs 1.05 ± 0.49 N; P = 0.459). Dedicated valve surgeons (n = 10) tightened the tourniquets more strongly than inexperienced surgeons (1.20 ± 0.52 vs 0.94 ± 0.37 N; P < 0.001); knotting was similar. Multivariable analysis confirmed only valve experience as a predictor of tourniquet strength (experienced surgeons exerted higher force).

CONCLUSIONS

Tourniquets exert less force on the tissue than knots. When distributed over the circumference, they can reduce local tension and avoid potential paravalvular leakage. Complete or partial use of tourniquets may thus be an additional option to enhance surgical safety.
Reflection on modern methods: Statistics education beyond ‘significance’: novel plain English interpretations to deepen understanding of statistics and to steer away from misinterpretations
Authors: Watt Hilary C
Published: July 2020

Concerns have been expressed over standards of statistical interpretation. Results with P <0.05 are often referred to as ‘significant’ which, in plain English, implies important. This leads some people directly into the misconception that this provides proof that associations are clinically relevant. There are calls for statistics educators to respond to these concerns. This article provides novel plain English interpretations that are designed to deepen understanding. Experience teaching postgraduates at Imperial College is discussed. A key issue with focusing on ‘significance’ is the common inappropriate practice of implying no association exists, simply because P >0.05. Referring to strengths of association in ‘study participants’ gives them gravitas, which may help to avoid this. This contrasts with the common practice of focusing on imprecision, by referring to the ‘sample’ and to ‘point estimates’. Unlike formal statistical definitions, interpretations developed and presented here are rooted in the application of statistics. They are based on one set of study participants (not many random samples). Precision of strengths of association are based on using strengths in study participants to estimate strengths of association in the population (from which participants were selected by probability random sampling). Reference to ‘compatibility with study data, dependent on statistical modelling assumptions’ reminds us of the importance of data quality and modelling assumptions. A straightforward graph shows the relationship between P-values and test statistics. This figure and associated interpretations were developed to illuminate the continuous nature of P-values. This is designed to discourage focus on whether P <0.05, and encourage interpretation of exact P-values.
Susceptibility of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus to Inactivation by Heat, Acidic pH, Chemical, or UV Treatment
Authors: Wiesner Laura , Schmutte Carla , Steffen Imke
Published: July 2020

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus in the family Flaviviridae that is endemic in parts of Europe and Asia and can cause meningitis or encephalitis. Due to the disease severity, TBEV requires handling under heightened biosafety measures. The establishment and validation of inactivation procedures is a prerequisite for downstream analyses and management of occupational exposure. Therefore, different procedures for TBEV inactivation were tested. Our results suggest that TBEV is susceptible to inactivation by heat, acidic pH, different concentrations of alcohol, formaldehyde, or detergents, and exposure to UV irradiation, which may depend on sample size and composition.
Assessing the accuracy of two Bayesian forecasting programs in estimating vancomycin drug exposure
Authors: Shingde Rashmi V , Reuter Stephanie E , Graham Garry G , Carland Jane E , Williams Kenneth M , Day Richard O , Stocker Sophie L
Published: July 2020

Background

Current guidelines for intravenous vancomycin identify drug exposure (as indicated by the AUC) as the best pharmacokinetic (PK) indicator of therapeutic outcome.

Objectives

To assess the accuracy of two Bayesian forecasting programs in estimating vancomycin AUC0–∞ in adults with limited blood concentration sampling.

Methods

The application of seven vancomycin population PK models in two Bayesian forecasting programs was examined in non-obese adults (n = 22) with stable renal function. Patients were intensively sampled following a single (1000 mg or 15 mg/kg) dose. For each patient, AUC was calculated by fitting all vancomycin concentrations to a two-compartment model (defined as AUCTRUE). AUCTRUE was then compared with the Bayesian-estimated AUC0–∞ values using a single vancomycin concentration sampled at various times post-infusion.

Results

Optimal sampling times varied across different models. AUCTRUE was generally overestimated at earlier sampling times and underestimated at sampling times after 4 h post-infusion. The models by Goti et al. (Ther Drug Monit 2018;

40

212–21) and Thomson et al. (J Antimicrob Chemother 2009;

63

1050–7) had precise and unbiased sampling times (defined as mean imprecision <25% and <38 mg·h/L, with 95% CI for mean bias containing zero) between 1.5 and 6 h and between 0.75 and 2 h post-infusion, respectively. Precise but biased sampling times for Thomson et al. were between 4 and 6 h post-infusion.

Conclusions

When using a single vancomycin concentration for Bayesian estimation of vancomycin drug exposure (AUC), the predictive performance was generally most accurate with sample collection between 1.5 and 6 h after infusion, though optimal sampling times varied across different population PK models.
Consequences of the misidentification of museum specimens: the taxonomic status of Canis lupaster soudanicus
Authors: Kitchener Andrew C , Machado Fabio A , Hayssen Virginia , Moehlman Patricia D , Viranta Suvi
Published: July 2020

Researchers are increasingly using museum collections for taxonomy, systematics, phylogenetics, and faunal analyses, and they assume that taxonomic identifications on museum labels are correct. However, identifications may be incorrect or out of date, which could result in false conclusions from subsequent research. A recent geometric morphometrics analysis of skulls of African canids by Machado and Teta (2020) suggested that Canis lupaster soudanicus is a junior synonym of Lupulella adusta. However, the holotype of soudanicus was not measured and further investigation of the putative soudanicus specimens used in this study showed that these originally were identified as L. adusta. This original identification was confirmed by dental measurements, which also confirm that the holotype of soudanicus is Canis lupaster. Hence, soudanicus should not be synonymized with L. adusta. This example highlights the importance of careful checking of species identifications of museum specimens prior to research and, where possible, including (holo)types of taxa, before making taxonomic changes that could have important consequences for species conservation and management.
Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) Reduces the Survival Time of Lutzomyia longipalpis (Diptera: Psychodidae), the Main Vector of the Visceral Leishmaniasis Agent in the Americas
Authors: Figueredo Luciana Aguiar , Luna Rafaela Lira Nogueira , Miranda Débora Elienai de Oliveira , Silva Fernando José , Otranto Domenico , Cafarchia Claudia , Figueiredo Regina Célia Bressan Queiroz , Dantas-Torres Filipe , Brandão-Filho Sinval Pinto
Published: July 2020

Visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) is a major neglected tropical disease and Brazil is the responsible for most cases reported in the Americas. In this region, L. infantum is primarily transmitted by Lutzomyia longipalpis and Migonemyia migonei (França) (Diptera: Psychodidae) is considered a permissive vector. We evaluated the susceptibility of Lu. longipalpis and Mg. migonei to Beauveria bassiana and to Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) essential oil. A spore suspension of B. bassiana was prepared and sand flies divided into five groups: test 1 (107 spores/ml of B. bassiana with E. globulus essential oil at 4 mg/ml), test 2 (107 spores/ml of B. bassiana), test 3 (E. globulus essential oil at 4 mg/ml), positive control (cypermethrin 0.1%), and negative control (sterile distilled water). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed on specimens from each group. A 50% reduction was recorded in the survival time of Lu. longipalpis in test 1 and 2, where hyphal adhesion and cuticle damage were observed by SEM. No significant differences in the survival time of Mg. migonei were found, probable due to the high mortality rate observed in the negative control group, which may be a result of the greater sensitivity of this species to laboratory conditions. The results obtained herein suggest that B. bassiana may be a potential biological control agent against Lu. longipalpis, the main vector of L. infantum in the Americas.
IMPLICON: an ultra-deep sequencing method to uncover DNA methylation at imprinted regions
Authors: Klobučar Tajda , Kreibich Elisa , Krueger Felix , Arez Maria , Pólvora-Brandão Duarte , von Meyenn Ferdinand , da Rocha Simão Teixeira , Eckersley-Maslin Melanie
Published: July 2020

Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon leading to parental allele-specific expression. Dosage of imprinted genes is crucial for normal development and its dysregulation accounts for several human disorders. This unusual expression pattern is mostly dictated by differences in DNA methylation between parental alleles at specific regulatory elements known as imprinting control regions (ICRs). Although several approaches can be used for methylation inspection, we lack an easy and cost-effective method to simultaneously measure DNA methylation at multiple imprinted regions. Here, we present IMPLICON, a high-throughput method measuring DNA methylation levels at imprinted regions with base-pair resolution and over 1000-fold coverage. We adapted amplicon bisulfite-sequencing protocols to design IMPLICON for ICRs in adult tissues of inbred mice, validating it in hybrid mice from reciprocal crosses for which we could discriminate methylation profiles in the two parental alleles. Lastly, we developed a human version of IMPLICON and detected imprinting errors in embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells. We also provide rules and guidelines to adapt this method for investigating the DNA methylation landscape of any set of genomic regions. In summary, IMPLICON is a rapid, cost-effective and scalable method, which could become the gold standard in both imprinting research and diagnostics.
New insights into Arabidopsis transcriptome complexity revealed by direct sequencing of native RNAs
Authors: Zhang Shoudong , Li Runsheng , Zhang Li , Chen Shengjie , Xie Min , Yang Liu , Xia Yiji , Foyer Christine H , Zhao Zhongying , Lam Hon-Ming
Published: July 2020

Arabidopsis thaliana transcriptomes have been extensively studied and characterized under different conditions. However, most of the current ‘RNA-sequencing’ technologies produce a relatively short read length and demand a reverse-transcription step, preventing effective characterization of transcriptome complexity. Here, we performed Direct RNA Sequencing (DRS) using the latest Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) with exceptional read length. We demonstrate that the complexity of the A. thaliana transcriptomes has been substantially under-estimated. The ONT direct RNA sequencing identified novel transcript isoforms at both the vegetative (14-day old seedlings, stage 1.04) and reproductive stages (stage 6.00–6.10) of development. Using in-house software called TrackCluster, we determined alternative transcription initiation (ATI), alternative polyadenylation (APA), alternative splicing (AS), and fusion transcripts. More than 38 500 novel transcript isoforms were identified, including six categories of fusion-transcripts that may result from differential RNA processing mechanisms. Aided by the Tombo algorithm, we found an enrichment of m5C modifications in the mobile mRNAs, consistent with a recent finding that m5C modification in mRNAs is crucial for their long-distance movement. In summary, ONT DRS offers an advantage in the identification and functional characterization of novel RNA isoforms and RNA base modifications, significantly improving annotation of the A. thaliana genome.
Public behavior change, perceptions, depression, and anxiety in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Huang Jing , Liu Fangkun , Teng Ziwei , Chen Jindong , Zhao Jingping , Wang Xiaoping , Wu Ying , Xiao Jingmei , Wang Ying , Wu Renrong
Published: July 2020

Background

The COVID-19 has spread rapidly and world-widely, which elicits public panic and psychological problems. Public protective behaviors and perception play crucial roles in controlling the spread of illness and psychological status.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional online survey in the hardest-hit Hubei province and other areas in China affected by COVID-19 outbreak. Questions about their basic information, the perception of the COVID-19 outbreak, recent preventive or avoidance behaviors, and self-reported mental health scales including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) were included. Binary logistic regressions were used to investigate the association between personal variables/perceptions and psychological distress.

Results

6,261 people were included for analysis, with 3,613 (57.7%) in Hubei province (1,743 in Wuhan). A majority of people have adopted preventive and avoidance behaviors. People from Hubei, with contact history, and people who or whose family members were infected had much higher depression or anxiety prevalence. Providing truthful and sufficient information, informing the public about the severity of the disease, and perceptions that the outbreak will be control by protective behaviors were associated with lower depression and anxiety prevalence.

Conclusions

Assessing the public response, perception, and psychological burden during the outbreak may help improve public health recommendations and deliver timely psychological intervention. Further researches can focus on the psychological status of a specialized group to identify ways for better support based on public response and psychological demand.
Office Espionage: A Synthesis of Legal, Ethical, and Professional Standards Considerations Regarding Unauthorized Covert Recording Within the Policing Workplace
Authors: Paine Colin
Published: July 2020

Is it illegal, unethical, or even misconduct for police officers to covertly record conversations with colleagues and managers? Non-consensual recordings of meetings and conversations are becoming increasingly prevalent within policing owing to the ubiquity of smartphones. Whilst there is little in the way of legislative restraint, nevertheless, it is capable of causing serious harm and should not be considered a morally neutral act. It is possible for surreptitious recordings to be ethically justified, but the threshold for such justification is high and requires an exceptional set of circumstances. The article goes on to present a tripartite typology of the behaviour and from this to develop a misconduct framework for assessing the seriousness of the behaviour and making a number of recommendations to reduce the incidence of covert recording.
Prior Exposure to Ortho-Phthalaldehyde Augments IgE-Mediated Immune Responses to Didecyldimethylammonium Chloride: Potential for 2 Commonly Used Antimicrobials to Synergistically Enhance Allergic Disease
Authors: Shane Hillary L , Lukomska Ewa , Weatherly Lisa , Baur Rachel , Anderson Stacey E
Published: July 2020

Health-care workers have an increased incidence of allergic disease compared with the general public and are exposed to a variety of high-level disinfectants. Although exposure to these agents has been associated with allergic disease, findings between epidemiology and animal studies often conflict respecting immunological mechanisms. Therefore, we hypothesized that previous exposure to a representative IgE-mediated sensitizer (ortho-phthalaldehyde [OPA]) alters immune responses to a representative T-cell-mediated sensitizer (didecyldimethlyammonium chloride [DDAC]). Here, BALB/c mice were topically exposed to OPA (0.5%) for 3 days, rested, then topically exposed to DDAC (0.0625%, 0.125%, and 0.25%) for 14 days. Coexposure resulted in phenotypic changes in draining lymph node (dLN) cells, including a decreased frequency of CD8+ T cells and increased frequency and number of B cells compared with DDAC-only treated mice. The coexposed mice also had enhanced Th2 responses, including significant alterations in: dLN Il4 (increased), B-cell activation (increased), CD8+ T-cell activation (decreased), and local and systemic IgE production (increased). These changes were not observed if mice were exposed to DDAC prior to OPA. Exposure to OPA alone shows Th2 skewing, indicated by increased activation of skin type 2 innate lymphoid cells, increased frequency and activation of draining lymph node B cells, and increased levels of type 2 cytokines. These findings suggest that the OPA-induced immune environment may alter the response to DDAC, resulting in increased IgE-mediated immune responses. This data may partially explain the discordance between epidemiological and laboratory studies regarding disinfectants and provide insight into the potential immunological implications of mixed chemical exposures.
Energy storage devices in electrified railway systems: A review
Authors: Liu Xuan , Li Kang
Published: July 2020

As a large energy consumer, the railway systems in many countries have been electrified gradually for the purposes of performance improvement and emission reduction. With the widespread utilization of energy-saving technologies such as regenerative braking techniques, and in support of the full electrification of railway systems in a wide range of application conditions, energy storage systems (ESSes) have come to play an essential role. In this paper, some recent developments in railway ESSes are reviewed and a comprehensive comparison is presented for various ESS technologies. The foremost functionalities of the railway ESSes are presented together with possible solutions proposed from the academic arena and current practice in the railway industry. In addition, the challenges and future trends of ESSes in the railway industry are briefly discussed.
Indicator Species Analysis: A Useful Tool for Plant Disease Studies
Authors: Severns Paul M. , Sykes Emily M.
Published: July 2020

Indicator species analysis (ISA) uses indices of an organism’s relative abundance and occurrence to estimate the strength of its associations with a priori groups of interest and a simple randomization test to evaluate the probability of association. Because ISA values tend to be greatest when a species is both relatively more abundant than other species in a particular group and it occurs more frequently in that same group (the expectations of a causal agent in diseased plants), ISA should be useful for identifying and narrowing the list of potential causal agents from a pool of pathogens in both emerging plant diseases and when the causal agent is unclear. Recent ISA plant disease applications suggests it may either directly identify a single causal agent from a pool of potential pathogens or narrow the pool of pathogens as candidates for pathogenicity tests in the process of fulfilling Koch’s postulates. In this letter, we explain the underpinnings of ISA, summarize the known applications to plant pathosystems, offer caveats about the analysis, and suggest scenarios where ISA may be broadly applicable for plant disease studies.
Prevalence and Course of Frailty in Survivors of Critical Illness*
Authors: Brummel Nathan E. , Girard Timothy D. , Pandharipande Pratik P. , Thompson Jennifer L. , Jarrett Ryan T. , Raman Rameela , Hughes Christopher G. , Patel Mayur B. , Morandi Alessandro , Gill Thomas M. , Ely E. Wesley
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

Little is known about frailty that develops following critical illness. We sought to describe the prevalence of newly acquired frailty, its clinical course, and the co-occurrence of frailty with disability and cognitive impairment in survivors of critical illness.

Design:

Longitudinal prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Medical and surgical ICUs at five U.S. centers.

Patients:

Adult patients treated for respiratory failure and/or shock.

Measurements and Main Results:

We measured frailty with the Clinical Frailty Scale at baseline (i.e., study enrollment) and at 3 and 12 months postdischarge. We constructed alluvial diagrams to describe the course of frailty and Venn diagrams to describe the overlap of frailty with disability in activities of daily living and cognitive impairment. We included 567 participants a median (interquartile range) of 61 years old (51–70 yr old) with a high severity of illness (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II of 23). Frailty (Clinical Frailty Scale scores ≥ 5) was present in 135 of 567 (24%) at baseline, 239 of 530 (45%) at 3 months, and 163 of 445 (37%) at 12 months. Of those with frailty at 3- or 12-month follow-up, 61% were not frail at baseline. Transition to a worse frailty state occurred in 242 of 530 of patients (46%) between baseline and 3 months and in 179 of 445 of patients (40%) between baseline and 12 months. There were 376 patients with frailty, disability, or cognitive impairment at 3-month follow-up. Of these, 53 (14%) had frailty alone. At 12 months, 276 patients had frailty, disability, or cognitive impairment, 37 (13%) of whom had frailty alone.

Conclusions:

Frailty is common among survivors of critical illness. In the majority, frailty is newly acquired. Roughly one in seven had frailty without co-occurring disability or cognitive impairment. Studies to understand outcomes of frailty that develops as the result of a critical illness and to identify modifiable risk factors for this potentially reversible syndrome are needed.